Red Dot Pinoys

Airport Immigration Officers prevented Filipinos from leaving the country

2012-01-31T11:53:00.000+08:00

“Aida”, not her real name, trembled as she recalled her traumatic experience of being "offloaded" at the airport last Nov 2011.

“Nato-trauma nga ako. Pag nagising ako sa hapon o kaya umaga nanginginig ako,” said Aida, who was prevented by Philippine immigration officials from leaving the country because of suspicions she would be working abroad illegally.

Charice to perform in Singapore on March 5

2012-01-27T13:47:00.001+08:00

Watch CHARICE in her INFINITY TOUR at the Kallang Theatre on March 5, 2012.

With a No. 1 song on Billboard’s Dance Charts (‘Pyramid”), a Top Ten Pop debut last Spring – and a major role on the hit TV Show “Glee” last season, her talents are now even bigger than even she imagined.

When this barely five foot bundle of dynamite opens her mouth to sing, with a soaring voice filled with emotion and conviction, the audience literally gasps. At over 260 million hits and counting on YouTube, that audience is growing at a staggering pace.
Read more »

SEAIR offers lowest fares to Singapore

2012-01-27T13:11:00.000+08:00

Leisure airline South East Asian Airlines (SEAIR) announced "special fares" for its international flights to Singapore until February 1, 2012.

A flight from Clark to Singapore will now be P2,400 for travel period February 1 to December 31, 2012.
Read more »

Philippine chessers bag 4 golds in Singapore

2012-01-26T17:29:00.002+08:00

The Philippines struck for four gold medals on top of a silver and four bronzes in the Singapore International Chess Festival held at the Jurong East Sports Complex from 26-31 December 2011.

Winning for the PH squad were Michelle Yaon in the girls’ Under-17 division, Vince Angelo Medina in the Open Under-17, Fide Master Paulo Bersamina in the Open Under-14 and Dennis Gutierrez III in the Open Under-8.

“It’s a good sign for our young chess players,” said Prospero “Butch” Pichay Jr., president of the National Chess Federation of the Philippines. “They showed that we can compete and win in international competitions.”
Read more »

PH starts trial exports of fruits and veggies to SG

2012-01-26T17:01:00.001+08:00

Expect to see more Philippine fruits and vegetables in Singapore grocery stores. The Philippines will embark on a trial shipment of a variety of vegetables and fruits to Singapore by February, officials of the Department of Agriculture (DA) said.

Jennifer Remonquillo, officer in charge of the DA’s high value commercial crops (HVCC), said that the trial shipment will involve “a few boxes” of pineapples, bananas and squash.

“They want to see the quality of the products we will ship to them. If they approve it, then that’s the time we will finalize discussions on the volume,” said Remonquillo in an interview at the sidelines of the celebration of the 82nd anniversary of the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) held in Manila.
Read more »

Why foreigners don't invest in Philippines

2012-01-26T16:58:00.000+08:00

President Noy has been going abroad inviting foreign businessmen to invest in the country.

Only very few investors will answer P-Noy’s invitation.

Ours is not an investor-friendly government and country.

Potential investors will have to reckon with corrupt officials at the Securities and Exchange Commission, Department of Trade and Industry and the Bureau of Customs, which will assess the machinery and equipment to be brought in.

That’s not all.
Read more »

Serangoon's French invasion

2012-01-26T12:25:00.002+08:00

No narrow streets, no French bakeries and no roadside cafes. Yet this part of Singapore feels a lot like France because of all the French people living in the area.

The reason is a private school called the Lycee Francais de Singapour.

The school, which holds classes for children aged 2 to 18 from kindergarten to secondary school, opened in 1999 along Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3.

French national Delphine Desaulles, a stay-at-home mum, said that the school is primarily why she chose to live in the area. She would otherwise have stayed in the Bukit Timah area instead.

Read more »

Burger King investigates post about a Filipino manager

2012-01-19T21:06:00.000+08:00

An internet post on Jan-8 lashed out at a Filipino shift manager at one of Burger King's outlets at Tampines North Community Club.

Burger King Singapore felt there was a need to clear its name when the post went viral.

The post was about out a Filipino shift manager who alledgedly, showed his unhappiness when a crew member asked for leave to go for reservist mobilisation.
Read more »

Apply now: Foreign Service Officers wanted

2012-01-19T15:29:00.001+08:00

Attention job seekers: The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is now accepting applications for the 2012 Foreign Service Officers (FSO) Examination.

Those interested may submit their duly accomplished application forms, together with all necessary supporting documents, in person at Window 1 of the Philippine Embassy in Singapore no later than 5:00 pm on Thursday, 5 January 2012.

Application forms may also be submitted in person to the DFA Main Office (in the Philippines) until 5:00pm on Friday, 13 January 2012.
Read more »

New MRT stations along the Circle Line

2012-01-18T14:41:00.004+08:00

2 new mrt stations were opened last Jan-13. They are Marina Bay Interchange and Bayfront stations, both along the Circle (Yellow) Line.

Now we have better access to Helix Bridge and the Youth Olympic Park.

It will also boost connectivity to the Marina Bay area, linking commuters to developments such as the Marina Bay Financial Centre, the Marina Bay Sands Integrated Resorts, Gardens by the Bay, The Promontory @ Marina Bay and the Marina Bay City Gallery.
Read more »

Guidelines for OEC Processing on Jan 15 and 22

2012-01-18T02:55:00.002+08:00

Attention to OEC/OWWA applicants planning to visit the Philippine Embassy on 15 January and 22 January.
A quota will be imposed on the number of OEC applicants received at the Embassy and the Embassy’s OEC extension service at Lucky Plaza.
Read more »

Filipino's baby elephant fetched the highest price

2012-01-16T23:04:00.000+08:00

Elephant Parade is the world’s largest open-air exhibition dedicated to saving the Asian elephant from extinction. It has travelled many cities such as Amsterdam, London, Milan, and recently Singapore.

From 16th Nov 2011, 162 life-sized fibreglass baby elephants, each 1.5m tall, were on display in Singapore’s cityscape along Orchard Road, Marina Bay, VivoCity, and other venues. The elephants were painted and decorated by artists and celebrities.
And on 12th Jan 2012, the elephants were auctioned off.

Which baby elephant fetched the highest price? That would be Filipino artist Ronald Ventura’s Elephantasm which was sold for S$62,000.
Read more »

Job cuts in RBS and Morgan Stanley Singapore

2012-01-16T17:33:00.003+08:00

RBS Equities Asia Division is going downhill. To save the company, it is planning to conduct layoffs in Singapore.

Meanwhile, Morgan Stanley chops 10 fixed income jobs in Singapore and Hong Kong.

Job cuts in RBS will also happen in Hong Kong and Japan.

However, RBS may be able to spare further job losses if it can find a buyer. The bank doesn’t want to jeopardise talks with potential acquirers by listing the number of people who could lose their jobs in Asia if there is no sale.

Read more »

Plan your long leaves for 2012

2012-01-15T23:16:00.002+08:00

Plan your vacations now!!! Here's the list of long weekends for 2012:

4-day weekend on January: from 21st (Sun) to 24th (Tue)
3-day weekend on April: from 6th (Fri) to 8th (Sun)

3-day weekend on August: from 18th (Sat) to 20th (Mon)
3-day weekend on October: from 26th (Fri) to 28th (Sun)

PR converts apartment in Lucky Plaza into budget hotel

2012-01-15T17:09:00.004+08:00

Following the report on a new HDB flat in Yishun being advertised as a "budget hotel" by a Filipina, a similar story has emerged. This time in the prime shopping and entertainment district of Orchard Road. According to a source, several private apartments in Lucky Plaza are being used for cheap lodging.
Read more »

Update on: Filipina's ad caused an uproar

2012-01-14T23:16:00.000+08:00

An update on a Filipina's ad about transient rooms: Tenancy agreement was terminated, owner warned by HDB.
Read more »

Filipina's ad caused an uproar

2012-01-14T22:31:00.001+08:00

"Hi, we have transient rooms and bedspace for rent for Filipinos, located in Yishun." This is the ad that caused 800+ comments in Singapore Yahoo News this week. Apparently, it was posted by a Filipina in websites such as Facebook. The ad also stated that a night's stay only costs S$25 per head.

Read more »

Hundreds of DBS customers hit by fraud

2012-01-06T16:05:00.005+08:00

Please be aware of the current issue that hit hundreds of DBS/POSB ATM and debit card holders. There have been a lot of unauthorized withdrawals happened in Malaysia for DBS/POSB accounts even though cards were with the customers in Singapore. Please check your account balances now.
Read more »

Simbang Gabi 2011

2011-12-18T14:20:00.005+08:00

Theme for 2011: The Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Celebrate December with Psalmideo Chorale

2011-12-14T17:37:00.006+08:00

Enjoy an evening of music and merriment with PsalmiDeo Chorale in "Celebrate December" - a free year-end concert at the Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay. Each year, the Esplanade hosts a selection of artists for families and friends to come together and celebrate the holiday season.

*** ADMISSION IS FREE! ***

Let PsalmiDeo Chorale entertain you as they perform traditional and popular Christmas songs, as well as several contemporary pieces from around the world. Immerse yourself in the warmth of the holiday spirit as the choir sings carols from the Philippines, a country known for having one of the longest and most festive Christmas seasons in the world.
Read more »

Singtel and Globe Christmas Celebration 2011

2011-12-14T02:51:00.014+08:00

Free Christmas Celebration for Filipinos in Singapore!

Join Jake Cuenca and Pokwang for a joyous Christmas Celebration and gift giving.

Plus, get a chance to win air tickets and 3G mobile phones.
Read more »

Halloween 2011

2011-10-28T10:17:00.021+08:00

Scream time!!!! Our favorite time of the year is back! If you're sick and tired of spending boring weekend nights then it's time to get out and see walking deads, ghosts, and other friends of Sadako:

Halloween Horror Nights
Universal Studios Singapore®
Oct 27-30 2011

This October, come face to face with terror at the first ever Halloween Horror Nights® in Universal Studios Singapore®, Resorts World™ Sentosa. Wander around six scare-zones but beware of the Director who’s filming his latest gruesome movie – you could be his next victim! Feel what it’s like to be trapped in a horror film as you run for your life in a Carn-EVIL of crazed clowns. Step into the haunted Peranakan house where you face the Vengeance of the Matriarch as the demented Nyonya stirs her bubbling brew of black magic. Mutated zombies roam around in a Post-Apocalyptic Rage, ravenous and starving for human flesh and blood. An awful curse has befallen tormented inhabitants who are now infected by a foul toxic plague in Pestilence. Can you escape the insane clutches of the Mad Scientist as he stalks unsuspecting victims in The Void to dismember them and fasten on hideous artificial limbs? Shrivel in fear when you flee to The Edge of Darkness from hordes of rampaging mummies and mindless demons seeking fresh souls!

Fright Night
Asian Civilisations Museum
Oct 29 2011
Free admission: 5pm – 1am
Children’s activities: 5pm – 10pm
Other programmes: 7pm – 1am

Experience the museum at night as ghoulish ghosts from the Singapore Paranormal Investigators haunt the galleries. Visit the Haunted Kampung at ACM's basement and scream your lungs out! Watch free screening of Korean movie "Hansel & Gretel", and Indonesia movie "The Real Pocong (The Real Ghost)".

Escape To Helloween - Graveyard Shift
Escape @ Downtown East
Oct 28-29 2011
7pm - 11pm

Ghost and Ghouls are unleashed to raise “Horror” while roaming the grounds of Escape this Halloween. If you are lucky, you might be able to catch a glimpse of a lady spirit who is looking for her child whom was killed in Pasir Ris. Are you her child? She might just be looking for you!

Spooktacular
Sentosa Imbiah
Oct 28-30 2011
7pm - 11pm

Are you afraid of the dark? Spooktacular dares you to experience the horror of Asian folklore and myth at the SIX spine-chilling haunted trails contained within the spooky shores of Sentosa. The nightmare is about to begin so prepare to be driven to the brink of insanity.

Laugh Off Asia

2011-10-25T22:09:00.003+08:00

DMR Productions, Comedy Masala and Home Club, co-present

LAUGH OFF ASIA
The showdown between the best up-and-coming comedians from Asia where they battle head-to-head for your laughs!

Round 1 Comedy Masala (Singapore)
vs
Comedy Cartel (Philippines)

Laugh Off Asia is a concept comedy show that brings the best up-and-coming comics from
2 countries to perform together. The show is about showcasing the talents of comedians of
each country in a performance venue. The laugh-off will feature comedians from Singapore,
Hong Kong, Philippines and Malaysia who will face each other in a battle for comedic
supremacy. Think of it as a football competition with home and away matches but instead of
goals, expect lots and lots of laughter.

The audience would be able to experience, different styles and content of comedy in one
show. The chemistry between comedians will be interesting as there are natural rivalries and
camaraderie amongst them.

But all in all, Laugh Off Asia is about entertainment and bringing the biggest laughs from the
best young comedians in Asia.

EVENT DETAILS:
Date: 18 & 19 November 2011
Time: 8.00pm
Venue: Chambers @ The Arts House (1 Old Parliament Lane)

TICKET DETAILS:
$26* (Lower Chambers)
$14* (Upper Chambers)
*Price excludes $2 ticketing fee

Tickets are available at The Arts House Box Office, contact (65) 6332 6919.
Online at www.bytes.sg

NAIA tagged as world's worst airport, ouch!

2011-10-19T20:27:00.004+08:00

TERMINAL 1 of the Ninoy Aquino International has been voted the world’s worst airport this year 2011 by the online guide to sleeping in airports (http://sleepinginairports.net).

The online site has served as the guide and travel blog of the travel community for the last 15 years, and for sharing their airport sleeping experiences around the world. The site tells travelers on which airports they can sleep safely and comfortably, and which they should avoid altogether on their next trip. Since 1996 the online budget traveler guide has featured the best and worst airports in the world annually based on the comments posted by passengers and travelers.

Why Manila is the worst?

More from SleepingInAirports.net:

There will be numerous and long queues. Terminal is in bad shape. Earlier this year, some bad press regarding the state of the airport made airport officials promise to clean its Terminal 1 toilets and provide running water and soap. Imagine.... they actually had to "promise" to offer this! In May, a ceiling at Terminal 1 caved in, while over at Terminal 3 a report came out in early October 2011 stating that the 9 year old terminal was "structurally flawed".

We're not finished yet.....there's more.

Forget about sleeping in this airport! You will not want to even close your eyes here! Bribery and theft exists. Airport taxes are collected, but the money does not seem to go towards the betterment of the airport. Document holders have been told their papers are not correct, but a fee of x amount should clear up the matter.

In terms of facilities, visitors will have better luck at the newer Terminal 3, where it is clean, spacious and one can find an internet connection. However, one must remember that, as mentioned previously, the terminal itself has been deemed "structually flawed".

The terminals are lacking services such as left luggage and pay-in lounges for transit passengers. However, the one big plus is the Free WiFi in the "passenger movement" areas.

"I lost my cellphone between the drop-off at the entrance and the security check! The phone was in my side pocket of my handbag and this side pocket was slashed with a sharp knife! I mentioned it to the PNP officer and he referred me to an airport policeman. This guy had the guts to suggest that I go to the lost and found office and check if they found it. Long story short, he didn't even get my name and address to file a report and was just saying: ma'am there are many thieves in this airport. Just look after your belongings!"- Monette

“Several times I have seen [workers] trying to pocket trinkets and phones from bags while not allowing you anywhere near your bags.” – livingabroad

“The concession stand down at the gates was selling bottles of water that had already been opened, reused bottles with broken seals and they pretended to break the seal on the bottles when selling.” – living abroard

“Their arrival ramp is not user friendly because it slopes downward!! If you happen to be pushing your loads of baggages through this ramp watch out or your baggage might get to the bottom of the ramp before you!! “ – tiffycality

“I've travelled to many airports and have stayed overnight at some of them, but nothing compares to the experience at NAIA. In short, it's a horrible waste of time and you should all hold onto your wallets as tightly as possible. I especially advise any foreign travellers to avoid this airport, the amount of corruption and bribery is just mind blowing. “ – shizumasa

The 10 worst airports in the world (the top being that listed as No. 1):

1 Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1

2 Beauvais-Tillé Airport (85 km north of Paris)

3 Iceland’s Keflavík International Airport

4 Caravaggio Airport Bergamo Orio al Serio in Bergamo, Italy

5 Kyiv (Zhuliany) International Airport in Ukraine

6 Frankfurt-Hahn Airport (Germany)

7 Luton International Airport (England)

8 Pisa Galileo Galilei International Airport (Italy)

9 Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris

10 Los Angeles International Airport.

Filipino Folk Dance @ da:ans

2011-10-09T22:56:00.024+08:00

Tarlac State University Dance Troupe

Good news! The annual dance festival of Esplanade, da:ns, will feature Filipino folk dances by Tarlac State University Dance Troupe.

Fee:

Free!!!

Date and Time:
Oct-14 (Fri) @ 7:17-7:45 pm, 8:30-9 pm
Oct -15 (Sat) @ 6:15-6:45 pm, 7:15-7:45 pm, 8:30-9pm
Oct-16 (Sun) @ 7:17-7:45 pm, 8:30-9 pm

Venue:
Esplanade Concourse (2nd floor near Haagan Dazs)

Pasa Doble
The group will feature:

Ragragsakan - A famous Ifugao dance

Maglalatik - Male dancers who have coconut shell halves secured onto their hands and on their vests

Binoyugan - Women balancing on their heads a "banga" or clay pot

Paso Doble - A a Spanish-influenced folk dance performed to stirring marching music typically played at bullfights and fiestas.

Salawahan - Playful movements of two girls using their hats in trying to win the heart of a boy.

More details are available in the da:ns website. Please click here.

Ragragsakan

Philippine Azkals vs Singapore Lions

2011-10-09T20:08:00.015+08:00

The fight between Azkals and Lions on 07-Oct made a big news here in Singapore. Not because Azkals won, but because it felt like a home game for the Fil boys. 5000 people clad in blue shirts invaded Jalan Besar to catch Azkals in action.

More photos from The Straits Times: Article:

Arts event: Nolet Soliven

2011-10-07T15:29:00.003+08:00

A showcase of nude artworks by Filipino artist Nolet Soliven. By ArtsCura Management.

When:
Starting from Nov-12 (Thu)
2 pm - 7 pm

Where:
Jules & Jim Showroom
42 Club Street
(nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar and Outram)

Admission:
Free

Food poisoning

2009-05-13T15:12:00.023+08:00

Since last week, in PinoyITdotSG (a yahoo group of Filipino IT professionals here), there has been a series of intense posts about a recent food poisoning. A member reported an incident related to the party he held on May 2 for his child's birthday. According to him, almost 25 of his guests, allegedly, needed medical attention after consuming food that were prepared/cooked by a Filipina caterer. He posted the message to ask for anyone who knows the caterer's address.

This is the fist post (names and emails have been concealed):

"We celebrate our baby's 1st birthday party last May 2 from 2-11pm, and we ordered a catering service from ____, she was recommended by our friend and we tried her food before its good, so we decided choose her service. The menus ordered are Chicken Afritada, Pork Adobo, Pork Menudo, Beef Kare-Kare, Beef Brocolli, Lumpiang Shanghai, Pancit Bihon, Spaghetti, Chopsuey, Rellenong Bangus, Leche Flan a total to accomodate our 70 visitors. On May 3 around 2PM my wife experience a stomach cramps we just thought shes just bloated but suddenly she experience vomiting, diarrhea and fever. We didnt suspect yet if its the food that we ordered until some of our visitors sms us that it could be the food then a lot of messages came to us with the same issue that they experience, I investigated and found our that visitors who didnt ate Rellenong Bangus were not affected. I called ____ (caterer) and told about the issue

she said it is the first time happened, damn bakit pa sa amin tumama at naging napaka-memorable ng Birthday ng anak ko!. I called her once again and she said she will call back, then after that shes not answering our call anymore.

I already reported the incident to MOH and NEA but what we only got is her name and mobile number, thay said they need the address, thay did tried to call her but shes dropping the call, we got her account number but DBS cannot provide the caterers address for privacy matters. About 25+ of our guests were badly affected, went to the hospital and some are confined, Drs findings is Food Poisoning. If anyone can provide us her address will be great appreciated and reason why im posting this is I don't want this to happen again to anyone."

Lessons to be learned from this incident?

A. If you're planning to engage or already in F&B, register your business

A permit adds to your business image that you're reputable and accountable. This is not to immediately judge that one is not reputable/accountable if he/she has no business permit. Notice that the word "adds" was used. Having a license is a tangible proof that you are willing to face any consequence of doing your business. No matter if the consequence is an appraisal of superb service or product, or a complain from polite or disgruntled customers. Registering your business means you are documented.

The phrase "kind or angry customers" was used because a business person must attend to complaints no matter how unpleasant they are. We all expect the restaurant's manager to listen to our complaints if the soup has a fly in it.

B. For consumers: Only avail of products/services (especially if it concerns F&B) from registered businesses

Whether we want simple breakfast like tapsilog, meryenda, longganisa, or food for party, patronize products from licensed businesses.

Also, always:
1. Obtain a proof that you availed of the product/service (e.g. receipt or contract)
2. Ask for their contact number, business address and permit number

This is not the first case of food poisoning in Pinoy community in SG. Unfortunately, food poisoning also happens in legit establishments like the recent news about a rojak stall in Geylang Serai or the contaminated Prima Deli cakes happened on 2007 December. At least if it's legit, the matter can be addressed to by the government.

Business permit is a protection for consumer. We can also assume that the business owner is aware of the proper food preparation and handling imposed by the government because he/she will not be granted a permit if otherwise.

Street food in Manila

Father Angel Luciano

2009-01-20T15:33:00.015+08:00

Rev. Fr Angel Luciano, affectionately known as Father Angel, is the one and only Filipino priest in Singapore. His dedication, kindness and guidance gives us hope especially during this uncertain times. He is the usual "takbuhan" if we face loneliness and hopelessness. His humor especially during homily makes us feel at home again, as if we are back in the Philippines with our family and loved ones. Our Simbang Gabi will not be possible if not for Father. Thanks po! :)

Father Angel Luciano (middle)
Father Angel hold his office at the Church of St. Michael and he is also the Spirtual Director of ACMI (Archdiocesan Commision for the Pastoral Care of Migrants & Itinerant People). He was mentioned in the book "Inhuman Conditions", published on 2006 by author Pheng Cheah.

Attend Father Angel's masses at these times:

Every 1st Saturday

7.30 pm: Church of Our Lady Star of the Sea --> 10 Yishun St 22 Singapore 768579

Every 2nd Saturday

7.30 pm: Church of the Holy Trinity --> 20 Tampines St 11 Singapore 529455

Every 2nd Sunday

10.15 am: Church of St. Alphonsus (Novena Church) --> 300 Thomson Road, Singapore 307653
1:00 pm: Church of St. Bernadette --> 12 Zion Road, Singapore 247731

Every 3rd Sunday

1.30 pm: Church of St Michael --> 17 St Michael Road Singapore 327976
4.00 pm: Church of the Holy Cross --> 450 Clementi Ave 1 Singapore 129955

Every 4th Sunday

10.15 am: Church of St. Alphonsus (Novena Church) --> 300 Thomson Road, Singapore 307653
11.15 am: Cathedral of the Good Shepherd --> Queen St. Singapore 188533
2.00 pm: Church of St. Anthony --> 25 Woodlands Avenue 1 Singapore 739064

Barrage of endless fun

2008-11-08T14:52:00.004+08:00

There has never been a better time to soak up Singapore's waterfront experience - and the latest attraction there, the Marina Barrage, takes this to a whole new level.

Sure, a ride in a glass-fronted capsule on the nearby Singapore Flyer will give you a quick high, but the panoramic views at the $226-million barrage are something you can take in at your leisure, with nothing between you and the seabreeze cooling your face and it is free.

The barrage, located at Marina Channel where the Singapore and Kallang rivers meet before flowing into the sea, opened to the public last week. It separates sea water from fresh water, boosts Singapore's water supply by 10 per cent and controls floods in low-lying areas such as Chinatown by keeping out tidal waves.

But aside from those practical benefits, it is also set to be a lifestyle hot spot in the heart of the city.

Whether you want a day out with the family, a fun evening with friends or a lunch break away from the office, there is something for everyone at the barrage's dam, promenade bridge and its distinctive, building housing pumps, galleries and eateries.

For example, you can picnic on top of the spiralling building on its eye-catching 'Green Roof', which has grassy lawns to act as an insulation layer to reduce the need for air-conditioning.

The rooftop spot - the size of four football fields - offers 360-degree unblocked views of the central business district, Singapore Flyer, Benjamin Sheares Bridge and the South China Sea.

It slopes downwards in two interlocking spirals to a courtyard, which has fountains, a water play area for children and water-related art pieces.

In time, visitors can expect to attend concerts or organise private parties up on the roof, said Mr Yap Kheng Guan, director of the Public Utilities Board's 3P (people, public and private sectors) network.

Or you can dine alfresco at the building's Gallery Cafe, facing the South China Sea.

From the middle of next month, you can also enjoy a steamboat meal by the sea at the 7th Storey restaurant, which is actually on the ground floor.

Hit the roof for picnics

Pack a picnic and laze around the grassy lawns of the barrage's Green Roof, which is bound to become a red-hot destination for visitors.

You are spoilt for a backdrop - take your pick of the Singapore Flyer, city skyline or open sea: The Benjamin Sheares Bridge and Kallang River are on your right, if you are facing the Flyer, and on clear days you can also see as far as Golden Mile Complex.

The rooftop lawn sits 13m above ground, giving unblocked views of Marina Bay, and is likely to be the next hot spot for people to watch the National Day Parade fireworks.

Views to your left are obscured at the moment by the heavy construction for the upcoming Marina Bay integrated resort. But come 2010, visitors to the barrage at night will be treated to the twinkling lights of the new IR and, by 2011, by the lush gardens of Gardens by the Bay.

But be sure to slap on some sunblock if you plan to go there in the afternoon - there is no shade to take cover from the sun.

Location and how to get there

Free shuttle bus (40-seater) service from Marina Bay MRT Station to Marina Barrage at 30-minute interval.
Mondays to Fridays 8.30am to 6.30pm
Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays 9.30am to 8.30pm
For enquiry, call 6514-5959

Filipina cheated by a landlord

2008-10-17T15:43:00.003+08:00

Source: The New Paper, 10th October 2008

It looked like a happy gathering of friends of different nationalities.

Countries like Nepal, China, Myanmar, the Philippines, India and Sri Lanka - they were all well-represented:

Adelfa Abregana of the Philippines
Mr Zaw Bo from Myanmar
China national Michael Lu
and Mr Thaw Lin Tun of Myanmar

Except that the atmosphere was tense and far from pleasant.

These eight groups of people from six countries had united for a common cause - to find some form of redress against a rogue landlord.

Some were individuals while others were families or friends who had arranged to rent a place together.

The New Paper met some of these tenants on Monday night, after hearing about their encounters with the same landlord. Each had paid $1,800 to $3,600 to rent a five-room flat in Eunos last month.

The landlord had put his place up for rent in a newspaper advertisement over several days last month.

After accepting the prospective tenants' rents and deposits, he then turns off his handphone and vanishes.

He has four different handphone numbers, and all four were not in use when The New Paper tried to call him yesterday.

In all, this landlord has pocketed over $15,000 in rents for his flat.

He has since changed the padlocks to his flat, which has been left empty.

Electronic engineer Zaw Bo, who is from Myanmar, said he paid $3,400 to the landlord last month. He said the landlord disappeared almost immediately after getting the money.

Mr Bo had rented the whole flat together with his wife, brother and sister-in-law.

He said: 'I was in the flat with the landlord and he passed me a bunch of keys. Then he left after taking my money. I tried all the keys and realised that one of the rooms' door couldn't be unlocked.

'I called him (the landlord) and his handphone was already switched off. And that was just 10 minutes after I saw him.'

On the same day, he met Chinese national Michael Lu outside the unit.

Mr Lu had also gone there hoping to find the landlord. He said that he, too, had been cheated of his money.

More 'victims'

Mr Bo, 51, returned the next day - and found four groups of tenants waiting outside the unit, all with similar stories to tell.

All said they had been told by the landlord to move in that day. Most of them had their luggage with them.

Mr Bo said: 'I was shocked to see more people caught in the same situation. Some of the girls were crying because it was their hard-earned money and they lost their savings. And they had no place to sleep.'

Mr Bo, who has worked here since 2002, said he has not found a replacement unit yet. The lease on his current place will expire at the end of this month.

He added: 'This is not the first time I've been cheated this way. I lost about $1,000 three years ago to another landlord who disappeared on me. It's just my luck.'

He posted a notice outside the flat, warning other tenants to contact him. Three more groups of people did so.

Mr Bo said he made a police report about the situation. The police confirmed the report and said that investigations are ongoing.

Mr Lu felt certain he had done due checks before paying the $1,800 deposit for the flat last month.

He said, fuming: 'I wanted to make doubly sure that I won't be taken for a ride. I am an auditor. It's my job to be careful and I was. Even with all my checks, I still got cheated!'

Mr Lu, 27, had asked the landlord for a photocopy of his identity card (IC) and he also saw a HDB letter which proved that he owns the unit.

After paying the deposit, Mr Yu went one step further and asked his friend to call the landlord to check if the unit was still up for rent after he paid the deposit.

The landlord then told his friend that the unit was already taken. That reassured Mr Yu somewhat, until he tried calling the landlord a few days later, but could not contact him.

'That was when I knew that I had been cheated,' he said.

Mr Yu, who has worked here for about a year, is still looking for a replacement unit.

He said: 'I am very thorough and I expected things to run smoothly. It's disappointing considering Singapore's reputation. I thought all Singaporeans are very law-abiding.

'It's not a big amount of money and I didn't think anyone here will risk going to jail for this kind of money. I was wrong.'

Related links:
The New Paper

He collects rent, then says flat not available

2008-10-09T10:46:00.007+08:00

Over the years, I've been hearing stories from local and pinoy friends about dubious landlords. Just recently, I've spoken to a fellow pinoy who was having a problem collecting his deposit from the landlord. The following story surely tops my list, hands down.

Source: The New Paper, 8th Oct 2008
Ten angry groups confront current tenant, claiming they were cheated by landlord

Pasted on the door of a Housing Board (HDB) flat in Circuit Road were two handwritten notes.

One was by a loan shark demanding repayment of money lent.

The other, strangely enough, was written by the flat’s tenant, Ms Fong Ying.

Written in red, bold Chinese characters, her note tells prospective tenants that the landlord does not live there and that she has been renting the flat for more than a year.

What drove the Malaysian housewife to this was because, in the last three months, more than 10 groups of people had knocked on her door demanding to see her landlord, she said.

Their stories are invariably the same: They had given him money to him to rent the three-room flat. The rental rate was about $1,300.

After taking their money, he would then claim the flat was being foreclosed, or repossessed, by a bank, so he could not rent it out.

What is worse - the landlord gave some of these tenants keys to the flat, despite it being already occupied by Ms Fong.

The New Paper learnt of her situation when we visited the flat two weeks ago with one prospective tenant, Mr Surendra Utti, who claimed to have paid two months worth of rent, about $2,600, to the landlord.

We opened the main door with a key that the landlord had given Mr Surendra, only to hear a startled Ms Fong shouting that she was taking a shower.

After her shower and after regaining her composure somewhat, Ms Fong, 37, listened as Mr Surendra, 27, related his experience.

She shook her head and said in Mandarin: ‘The landlord regularly took people here to view the flat with a housing agent.

‘His excuse to me was that he was selling the place. After a while, I realised that he was trying to rent out the flat even though I am living here.

‘And every time I asked him, he would brush me aside and deny that he was renting out the place.’

She said she has changed the lock on her metal grille gate twice.

Ms Fong said that about three months ago, people visited the flat, asking for the landlord, and were surprised when she told them she had been renting the flat for about a year, and had paid more than $10,000 to extend it for another year.

Ms Fong and her husband, an engineer, pay $1,100 a month for the unit.

She said: ‘I just have to put up with this nuisance for another year because the rent is quite cheap and my husband had extended the lease. I just hope the landlord stops cheating people.’

She put up the warning note on the front door about a month ago.

She said: ‘I can’t stop him from showing tenants around. It’s his flat, after all. I have tried to speak to the potential tenants and even pass them notes to warn them.

‘Some took my warnings, but for those who don’t believe me, what can I do?’

Ms Fong claimed that about three weeks ago, her landlord was attacked by a few people outside the flat.

‘He was beaten up so badly he bled. He even tried to jump over the corridor parapet, but was dragged back. I have not seen him around since,’ she said.

She said she had told the landlord, who is divorced with a son and a daughter, to stop cheating people, but he denied doing so.

As for Mr Surendra, he thinks there is little he can do to recover his money.

The business analyst from India found the unit for rent online. He viewed the next day, signed the tenancy agreement and paid $2,600, which included a one-month deposit.

A week’s notice

Mr Surendra then left for India to get married - only to get a call from his housing agent that the unit would be foreclosed by the bank.

This happened a week before he was to move in.

Mr Surendra said: ‘It came as a rude shock because I was expecting to move into the flat with my wife when I returned from India. The agent said her hands were tied.’

He stayed with some friends and has since managed to rent another three-room HDB flat in Yishun.

Mr Surendra said the agent returned her $650 commission to him and said the landlord had promised to return the money before September.

But Mr Surendra said that he has not received any money from the landlord.

A machine operator, who wanted to be known only as Mr Tan, claimed the landlord owes him about $1,200 in rent deposit that he paid in May.

Mr Tan, who is in his 50s, said he was recommended by an agent, but decided not to take the flat at first because the rent was too high.

‘But the landlord offered to rent it for $1,200 when the agent left. I paid him the money and was supposed to move in a few weeks later.

‘Later, he said he couldn’t rent out the place as he was not eligible to do so. I asked for my money back but he said he didn’t have it,’ Mr Tan recounted.

He said he confronted the landlord once about the money, but his family told him to forget about it .

Mr Tan said: ‘It seems that he has his own family problems. But he can’t go around cheating people like this.’

Landlord in debt

When contacted, the landlord said he is working as a storeman to save money to pay his creditors.

He admitted having rented the flat to Mr Surendra and said he would return his money, but would not say when.

He claimed he owed loan sharks more than $10,000.

He said he also owed two groups of people money, but would gradually pay them back.

‘I already told him (Mr Surendra) I would return his money. The bank is going to repossess my flat, so I can’t rent it out anymore,’ he said.

‘I didn’t know my flat was going to be repossessed when I tried to rent it out.’

He claimed he did not know when his flat would be foreclosed by the bank.

HDB said that it received a complaint about the landlord last month and had advised the complainant to lodge a police report.

From Red Dot Pinoys:
If you have one, always use cheque for paying deposit or reservation. Don't be afraid to insist this to the agent or landlord.

According to SGHousing.com:

HDB ADVISES TENANTS:

Subletting is private matter

The Housing Board (HDB) said it had received occasional complaints from sublet tenants.

Its advice to these tenants: Lodge a police report if they feel they have been cheated.

Alternatively, these tenants could also claim against the owner for breach of contract in the courts or the Small Claims Tribunal, depending on the quantum of the claim, HDB said.

A HDB spokesman added: ‘As the subletting of flats or rooms is a private arrangement between the flat owners and tenants, the two parties will have to settle their differences and disputes.

‘The parties involved may wish to consult their own solicitors on their rights and liabilities under the subletting agreement with each other.’

HDB advised flat owners and tenants to check, understand and agree on the terms and conditions of the rental agreement before signing it.

Tips to potential tenants:

Ask flat owner to show you a copy of HDB’s in-principle approval letter or approval letter to sublet the flat.

Ask flat owner to show documentary proof, such as Agreement for Lease, Service & Conservancy Charges or mortgage loan instalment payment booklet/annual loan statements to further verify ownership.

Include condition in tenancy agreement stating that validity of agreement is subject to HDB’s approval.

Related links:
The New PaperSGHousing.com

Aiza Seguerra off to Singapore to promote her hit album "Open Arms"

2008-10-08T10:54:00.004+08:00

The Philippine Entertainment Portal (PEP) reports that Aiza Seguerra will be in Singapore to join the cast of Avenue Q and promote her latest album "Open Arms":

Ibinalita ni Aiza sa PEP na this month, pupunta siya sa Singapore to promote her album. Magkakaroon din siya ng mini-show sa HMV, isang chain ng record stores sa Asia, at sa isa pang big record store sa Singapore.

"Medyo magtatagal ako doon dahil ipalalabas sa Esplanade Theater ang Avenue Q na kasama ako sa cast. Nasa Singapore ako from October 31 to November 16. Except for Rachel Alejandro, buo ang cast ng Avenue Q. I'm going there for the play at isasabay na lang ang promo ng album," pagbabalita ni Aiza sa PEP.

Binalikan ni Aiza kung paano siya na-discover sa Singapore. Kuwento niya, nagpadala ng samplers ang Star Records sa iba't ibang record labels sa Asia at ang S2S ang unang nag-respond. Nagustuhan nila ang ipinadalang sampler, tumawag sa Star Records at nakipag-set ng meeting with Star Records people.

"May pumunta ritong taga-S2S at pinanood ang gig ko sa Metro Bar at yun, tuluy-tuloy na. Dito ako nag-recording at photo shoot at taga-rito rin ang band na kasama ko; si Mike Villegas ang guitarist ko, si Angelo Villegas, at Junjun Regalado.

"Nagpunta ako sa Singapore at nag-show ako for the distributors. Ako lang mag-isa. Nakakakaba dahil first time kong mag-show na ang audience ay Singaporeans, Chinese, and Japanese. I stayed there for three days at okey naman," lahad niya.

Ano ang reaction niya nang malamang malakas ang benta sa Singapore ng album niyang Open Arms?

"Nakakatuwa at nakakagulat," sagot niya. "Parang weird din dahil meron daw akong big billboard sa Orchard Road. Hindi pa rin ako makapaniwala hanggang ngayon na magugustuhan nila ang album. Hindi ko ini-expect, basta alam ko enjoy lang akong tumugtog at kumanta. Happy ang mga taga-S2S at Star Records at happy din ako."

May 12 cuts ang Open Arms, na ang carrier single ay ang "Home" ni Michael Buble. Ang ilan pa sa mga kantang nakapaloob sa album ay "Vincent;" "Time After Time;" "Journey" na kasama sa OST ng Chinovela na Dolphin Bay starring Ambrose Hsu and Angel Zhang; "At Last;" "Over The Rainbow;" ang title track, at iba pa. Kasama rin dito ang ang Tagalog song na si "Para Lang Sa ‘Yo."

Related Links:
Philippine Entertainment Portal (PEP)
Cast of Avenue Q Manila & Singapore
Avenue Q Singapore

Baybeats 2008

2008-08-11T15:48:00.015+08:00

Catch our very own Filipino bands in the upcoming Baybeats 2008!
Jam to their music for FREE!
Yes, you read it right... for FREE :D

•• Typecast (punk/indie/emo)
When & where? Aug-29 10:30 pm @ Esplanade's Nokia Powerhouse (Outdoor Theatre)

Hailed by Magmug magazine as one of Asia's 10 most influential rock bands, Typecast has staked its claim at the forefront of the scene with its unique brand of aching sincerity and arresting melodies. Through unforgettable live shows, a devoted fan base, and an unrelenting DIY ethic, the band continues to shatter preconceptions of what an underground band can offer.

Emerging from the underground music haven of Laguna, the band began as a three-piece band in 1999 when founding members Steve Badiola (guitar, vocals) and Melvin Macatiag (drums) met in high school. They later recruited Chi Resurreccion (bass) and began playing shows in their hometown in Laguna.

After establishing a local fan base, intense word-of-mouth and nonstop touring led the band to the hallowed halls of the Philippines' premier rock station, NU 107, and a guest spot on In the Raw, NU 107's landmark programme spotlighting up-and-coming local bands. The trio has since recorded the EP Last Time, the first full-length album, The Infatuation Is Always There (which despite little radio airplay and minimal promotion, managed to reach unprecedented heights) and second album Every Moss and Cobweb, featuring new member Pacoy Fletchero (guitar), as well as performed nationwide, winning over fans old and new.

Read about them in Wiki.

•• Fastpitch (rock/emo)
When & where? Aug-30 8:30 pm @ Esplanade's Nokia Powerhouse (Outdoor Theatre)

Faspitch plays hardcore and emo, driven by the desire for emotional satisfaction and inspired by bands such as Deftones, Incubus, Korn and Thursday.
The group formed in 2000 and comprising Henry (vocals), Trick (guitars), Peekaboo (drums) and Trevor (bass) makes music with def guitar and bass riffs, playful drum rolls, catchy chorus segues, short scream aggression and emo-oriented lyrics.

Faspitch's single Alone is currently enjoying radio airplay and the group is the most requested new artist on Cebu hit radio station Killer Bee 92.3FM.

Diligent, overqualified coffee servers

2008-07-31T10:15:00.002+08:00

There was a July article in Singapore's leading English newspaper that most f&b service jobs are being filled by Filipinos. Most are serving drinks and clearing tables, but they come a lot more qualified than their foreigner counterparts doing the same job on work permits. The Filipinos are here on S-passes, typically granted to those with at least a diploma, or employment passes, which are granted to graduates.

Long hours at a low salary and having only two days off a month are not a problem for Eric Dellosa, even if these are exactly the reasons many Singaporeans shun the job. Eric is an electrical engineering graduate who is serving up cups of teh-O, kopi and Milo Dinosaur at a Holland Village coffee shop.

Click here to read more.

Fold it and Ride it

2008-06-19T13:43:00.002+08:00

Good news for bike enthusiasts! LTA's six month trial to bring foldable bicycles on trains and buses has begun.

During the trial period from 24 May to 24 November 2008, foldable bicycles will be permitted on MRT / LRT trains every weekday during off-peak hours, and all day on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays. From 24 May to 24 August 2008, foldable bicycles will also be permitted on SBST and SMRT buses all day on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. The trial on buses will be reviewed after the first three months.

There is even have a spot for you to test if your bicycle fits the 114cm by 64cm by 36cm dimensions allowed. There is one at Kovan station on the NEL.

According to Mr. Brown, Dahon MuP24 fits just fine. Others chose to ride on Strida bikes.

Refer to this LTA link for more details http://app.lta.gov.sg/corp_press_content.asp?start=1933

Biennale

2008-05-04T13:31:00.004+08:00

Biennale 2008 will feature 3 Filipino artists:

Site Specific Installation
Alfredo Aquilizan and his wife Isabel's ephemeral projects have been concerned with keeping the home, finding and defining identity, dealing with hardship of journey, orienting oneself in displacement, sensing presences in absence and accumulating memory. Alfredo and Isabel make use of everyday personal objects which are both abstract and referential as a metaphor for human existence.

Photography
Lena Cobangbang work deals mainly with memory, habits, mapping, film and other local popular obsessions. Apart from making art, Lena writes, was once a vocalist of an indie-band, and is also involved with the independent film-making circle doubling as production designer.

The Singapore Biennale is an international contemporary mega visual arts exhibition. It will feature 50 renowned international and local artists, who hail from various artistic disciplinary backgrounds. Audiences will be able to feast their senses on the multitude of art works and installations around key venues in Singapore.

Visit this site again for more details about the event.

Botanic Gardens

2008-04-27T18:47:00.010+08:00

If you are looking for a simple way to spend your weekend with your family, I recommend that you go to Singapore Botanic Gardens.

Yesterday, my husband and I braved the hot burning sun to see the splendid orchids of the Gardens. While touring the National Orchid Garden, we happened to meet new friends, Robert and Monica. I think they were the kindest British couple we've ever met. Sadly, they were in Singapore just for a short vacation. I hope we could visit them when we go to UK someday:)

We were also surprised to discover that a certain orchid, Aranthera, was named after Phil. President Gloria Arroyo.

Meet my husband! Snoring under a heap of newspapers! I swear, he can sleep anywhere even while standing up!

Or meet hyperactive Mr. Squirrel:

Singapore Flyer

2008-04-21T11:30:00.004+08:00

At long last, Singapore Flyer was finally opened officially to the public!

Singapore Flyer offers a breathtaking panaroma of the shimmering Marina Bay waterfront and historical landmarks dotting the city skyline.

Standing at stunning 165m, the Flyer is the height of a 42-storey building – that’s some 30 metres taller than the famed London Eye. As the wheel turns, you’ll be treated to a visual 360° feast of iconic and historical landmarks and views from the Marina Bay to the Singapore River, Raffles Place, Merlion Park, Empress Place and the Padang. There is no other place in Singapore that offers these breathtaking, panoramic views.

Visit http://www.singaporeflyer.com/ for more information!

Watch related videos shot by tourists:
http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=singapore+flyer&search_type

Join 2008's Earth Hour

2008-03-28T10:47:00.008+08:00

On March 29, 2008 at 8pm (local time), say no to global warming.
Turn off all your lights for one hour.
Be part of Earth Hour movement and join Singapore, Manila, Melbourne, Toronto, Chicago, Copenhagen, Brisbane, and Tel Aviv. Since the beginning of 2008, we've had almost 89 days or 2131 hours of electricity --- from using TVs, computers, radios, mp3 players and mobile phones. So why not for just one hour, turn off your lights?

According to some studies, rising sea levels will have major impact on Singapore because it's a small low-lying island. Its highest point is Bukit Timah hill which is just 165 meters above sea level. Most of the business-end of Singapore - its airport, its business district and, of course, its busy container ports, are placed less than two meters above sea level. Coastal areas in the Philippines already sank by 15 centimeters in just 29 years. Every year, waters around the archipelago is constantly rising.

Fossil fuel, found within the top layer of the earth’s crust, is the one of the major ingredients for generating electricity. Burning fossil fuel is the leading cause of increase carbon dioxide (CO2) in our atmosphere. Excessive carbon dioxide results to global warming because CO2 absorbs sun's infrared. Global warming has rapidly melted parts of the Antarctic ice and resulted to increase sea levels.

Thus, the more we consume electricity, the more global warming destroys the land we live in.

In 2007's Earth Hour, Australia saw a 10% reduction in use of its power grid. In CO2 terms, that's the equivalent of taking 50,000 cars off the road for an hour!

So please for one hour, contribute to stop global warming.

The following links will take you to sites about Earth hour:

Earth Hour commercial narrated by Jeremy Priven: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9_c5K7Jdw9E
In Singapore: http://www.panda.org/about_wwf/where_we_work/asia_pacific/where/singapore/index.cfm
In Manila: http://globalnation.inquirer.net/news/news/view/20080317-125163/Join-worldwide-lights-out-Filipinos-urged
Be a part of the solution, all day, every day check out http://www.earthhour.org/earth-hour-every-day/at-home

The Papaya Dance

2008-03-25T17:05:00.007+08:00

If you have Starhub's TFC (The Filipino Channel), you're most likely familiar with "Papaya". It's the dance popularized by Edu Manzano's Game Ka Na Ba show.

There have been countless dance fads that have spread all over the country. Otso-otso and Spaghetti to name a few. But I guess, Papaya is destined to be the most popular as it has now reached the US! It was featured in the Good Morning America show:

Employment/S-Pass Self-Assessment Tool

2008-03-06T16:05:00.010+08:00

If you are a foreigner hoping to find work in Singapore, I suggest that you assess your luck first before filing your resignation and buying your plane tickets. Try the very useful Employment/S-Pass Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) provided by MOM (Ministry of Manpower).

It is a free online tool that calculates your likelihood of obtaining an Employment or S Pass. It will determine your eligibility based on the information you provide including salary, highest qualifications attained, occupation, and work experience.

The following link will take you to SAT:
http://sat.mom.gov.sg/

If you're wondering what salary to key in, check out the 2007 survey done by Kelly Services, a US company that provides staffing services in Singapore. Click this link to take you to the survey (needs a PDF reader). This link was also featured in the Tomorrow blog.

This post is dedicated to my very good friend Melissa :)

[Image via Dogs in The News.]

Human Trafficking of Filipinos

2008-02-05T17:30:00.000+08:00

According to last night's TV news, Philippine Embassy has claimed that human trafficking of Filipinos is at all-time high in Singapore.

It said the modus operandi was to attract women through promises of legitimate jobs in the services sector. But on reaching Singapore, they had ended up working in pubs and having to pay back a few thousand dollars to their handlers. The report said they got the money through sexual services to customers or commissions from alcoholic drinks.

However according Singapore's Home Affairs Ministry, there was no increase in the number of trafficking cases reported to the Police. The ministry added that it has a 3-pronged approach to combat the problem. These include prevention with tight border checks, enforcement action to protect women and help for the victims.

The Philippine embassy attributed the reported rise in human trafficking cases to four main factors: Budget airlines which have lowered the cost of travel, a network of illegal recruiters and syndicates, the large number of nighspots in Singapore's red light districts fuelling the demand for Filipino women, and poverty and joblessness in the Philippines.

To read full story, visit TODAY online.

Filipino charged with murder

2008-02-04T12:00:00.000+08:00

Here is the continuation of the Filipino Whampoa murder case:

Mark Jontongco Laguerta, 29 and Filipino, is accused of causing the death of unemployed Bernard Montemayor Alojado, 27, in a HDB flat at Jalan Tenteram in Whampoa area.

Laguerta and his wife, together with Alojado and his wife, were sharing the five-room flat with a woman. All the women are nurses. The suspect was remanded at Central police division for investigation until his next apperance on Feb 11.

Laguerta works in a shop at Changi airport. Meanwhile, the victim was staying in Singapore on a social visit pass or most likely tourist visa, while looking for work.

This latest update was posted in:

For all Red Dot Pinoys posts related to this story, click here.

Murder is a capital offense in Singapore. Which means, the suspect could face death sentence if convicted. Each execution is carried out by hanging at Changi Prison at dawn on a Friday. This is the latest case of a Filipino in Singapore facing a possible death sentence for allegedly killing a fellow Filipino.

Filipino found dead in Whampoa flat

2008-02-03T22:00:00.000+08:00

I just finished watching News 5 Tonight. One of the headlines is the case of a Filipino found dead in a flat around Whampoa:

Filojfido Bernard Montemayor, 27 year old Filipino and unemployed, was found dead in his rented Whampoa flat. He was bare-chested and wore only a pair of shorts. His body was in a sitting position on the floor, his upper torso slumped on the bed beside him. It was a dead-on-arrival case. The police declared the case a murder. There was no blood around the body and the police would not say what kind of injuries the man had sustained, save that they were to his upper body. It is understood that he had bruises on his neck. The police also did not find any weapon in the flat, and had not arrested anyone by press time.

He is believed to be here on a social visit pass.

Neighbors said he lived there with another man and two women, all Filipinos in their 20s. The two women are said to be nurses at the Tan Tock Seng Hospital, but it is not known what the other male tenant does. The four had moved in about three months ago, renting the five-room flat from a Singaporean couple.

A neighbor when interviewed said that he was sleeping when he was woken by sounds of a quarrel and furniture being hurled around in the flat just beneath his. According to him, the noise went on for about 20 minutes and he even heard a woman's faint cries for help. Some neighbors said that they often heard the occupants arguing. Aside from this noise, there were occasions that the Filipinos would jam, or play music on their drums and electric guitars, in the evening, sometimes even till past midnight.

For more details, visit http://www.straitstimes.com/Free/Story/STIStory_203017.html

For related pictures, click http://www.straitstimes.com/gallery/Free/Story/STIStory_203017.html

Cig warning

2008-01-24T11:35:00.000+08:00

Singapore's cigarettes are sold in pretty little boxes... No wonder cig cases are so popular here...

Singlish

2008-01-10T19:25:00.000+08:00

Singlish is Singapore's version of English. Though it takes after British English, Singapoareans sounds very different from Britons. You might even think that Singlish sounds not English at all if you hear it for the first time. It actually takes sometime to understand the accent.

Just after Christmas, my husband and I hopped into a tax and asked the driver to take us to the newly renovated Kallang Leisure Park mall.

So I said "Uncle, please take us to Kallang Leisure Park mall."

He asked "Where?" (It actually sound 'weh' with no r at all)

I said again "Kallang Leisure Park mall."

"Weh?"

Then it dawned on me that I forgot to speak in Singlish, so I corrected myself and replied "Kah-laang Lee-shoo Pak mall."

Then he finally got it.

But then he said next "Y goh to Kah-laang Lee-shoo Pak mall? Noh people deh! Goh to veevoh [pause] citeee." (He means Vivo City)

We said "We already been to veevoh [pause] citeee. We want to go to Kah-laang Lee-shoo Pak mall"

"Y not goh to veeloh [pause] citeee. Wannah goh deh now? Ah tek you deh now?" And he started taking a U turn.

My husband and I panicked and answered uncle "No, no, we don't want to go to Vivo City. We already know Vivo City!"

"You mean you been deh also? Dah one at Novena?"

So my husband and I look each other and said "Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh Velocity!"

However, no matter how bizarre Singlish may sound, I do understand that Singlish is a mixture of British English with Chinese (usually Hokkien) and Malay words. It's like Philippine's Taglish (Tagalog + English). So since I am the visitor here, it's just fitting that I try to speak Singlish. Anyway, even in the USA, the world's largest English-speaking country, New Yorkers sounds different from Texans, and Americans sounds different from Britons. So are the Australians and Kiwis.

This is how Singlish sounds:

For more Singlish, click here.

Happy new 2008!

2008-01-04T18:57:00.001+08:00

Manigong Bagong Taon from Red Dot Pinoys!

As most people here in Singapore, my family and I headed down Marina Bay to watch the annual New Year Countdown. We knew there will be a lot of people so we decided to be there by 8 pm even though the fireworks will start around midnight.

Watch the amazing fireworks of Marina Bay 2008 New Year Countdown:

Pasko in Singapore

2007-12-20T01:11:00.000+08:00

Are you thinking of places to check out this Christmas ("Pasko" in Tagalog)? Some tips:

>> Orchard Road and Marina Bay Light up -> My husband, brother and I were at Orchard on Dec-14 and we were definitely dazzled by the beautiful decors inspired by the The Nutcracker ballet
>> The Jewel Box at Mount Faber -> Experience snowfall, watch live musical shows & see one of the world's tallest Christmas tree. I will definitely check this out! I have never been to The Jewel Box before.

I initially planned to list 12 but so far, after spending 2 hours rummaging the net, I only found 2...sigh... Any other ideas?

Jag älska Ikea!

2007-12-13T17:38:00.000+08:00

As I've stated in my previous post, my husband and I bought a flat before the rental increase. One of the reasons why I've been enjoying our new place is that it's very near from my dear Ikea! :)

Ikea is a world renowned home products retailer that sells Swedish designed furnitures, accessories, bathrooms and kitchens. Actually, there are a lot of other shops here in Singapore that offer sophisticated stuff which echoes endless elegance but the thing that I like most about Ikea is that it offers functional yet reasonably priced furnitures. I like the idea that it has different designs to suit different tastes. So many coffee tables to choose from!.
Almost everything are flat-packed which saves me money from paying delivery charges and I can easily take my purchases home which serves me perfectly as patience is not one of my virtues...

Just one of the funny Ikea commercials floating in YouTube:

Kampong Glam

2007-11-20T14:29:00.000+08:00

Tucked away on Bussorah Street, Kampong Glam is a charming district, seemed completely different from the usual Chinese-themed shops, signboards and sounds of Singapore.

I love how the shops are nicely laid out, greeting the tourists before reaching the majestic Masjid Sultan (Sultan Mosque). And whenever the wind brings me to this place, I never fail to have my favorite Kofta Tangine, bread and tea at Deli Moroccan. The food is superb, authentic and not expensive. The owner and all the staff are very friendly, too. It's a cozy place to spend a nice quiet early dinner with your love one.

At Arab Street, I always ogle at the beautiful embroidered silks and colorful persian carpets. Although I have anosmia, I also try to smell the countless scents, from cinnamon to vanilla, from delicate pretty arabian perfume bottles in a shop at Baghdad Street. However, my mood quickly turns from jovial to despair, as I wish if I could only know the smell of lavender. Oh well, that's life. At least I have a pretty nose :) hahaha...

15 Pinoys jailed in Singapore for using fake tickets

2007-11-15T17:24:00.000+08:00

Just like in other countries, Singapore requires every tourist to present a return ticket upon arrival. However, some stubborn Pinoys chose the easy way. Instead of presenting valid return tickets, they used manufactured/edited fake electronic ones. They were sent to jail and now not allowed to enter Singapore for 2 years. Aiyoh!

This makes me feel sad and embarrassed at the same time. I know how expensive tickets are to most Filipinos. Even the cheapest Tiger Airways or Cebu Pacific ticket can mean a lot for someone looking for a job and whose family depends to no one but him/her. It could mean meals for weeks or tuition for a son or medicine for an ailing mother. However, I feel embarrassed and can only hope that Singaporeans will not think that all Filipinos are dishonest.

Click here to read the full report.

Araw ng mga Patay (Day of the Dead)

2007-11-01T03:28:00.000+08:00

The Philippine way of celebrating Halloween is unique. It can start a week before Nov-01 as most Pinoys start cleaning graves of their relatives during the last week of Oct. Cleaning includes removing dirt and painting the tombs. On the eve of the Nov-01 (so Oct-31), people go to cemeteries (again) to light candles, bring flowers and meet other relatives who are also there to visit the tombs. This family reunion actually involves food and drinks, and for most Filipinos, are attended not just by the living but also by the dead.

From Oct-26 to Nov-01, Red Dot Pinoys has given you tales about the "other" world and the undead. Thanks to all who have read our posts. Special thanks to those who have commented: Jio, Riza, and Mя Đo™ јuŝт ғøя ғци.

Click here to read all CREEPY posts.

Tabi po

2007-10-31T23:32:00.000+08:00

Filipinos belief in mysticism is so deep that when knocking on a door of somebody's house, we don't say "Hello" --- we say "Tao po" which means "I'm human." It's like saying "I'm not a ghost, aswang, tikbalang, nuno or any other creature. I'm human and I come in peace so please let me in."

You see, nobody wants to see an aswang, a tikbalang, or a nuno knocking on his door.

Aswang is a reclusive person who transforms into a flesh-eating ghoul at night to eat cadavers and small children. A dish prepared by an aswang should never be eaten else you'll turn into one. In case an aswang give it to you as a gift, you must politely accept to avoid offending the aswang and get attack by night. Never consume the dish no matter how tempting it can be... it's of human meat.

Meanwhile, tikbalang has a head of a horse and a body of a man. It lives on mountains and in forests, and often play tricks to travelers. It is said that when you get lost in a forest, wear your shirt inside out to dismiss the tikbalang's spell.

When we also walk through a forest or in any area with lots of trees, we say "Tabi po" which means "Excuse me, old one. I'm just passing by." Its our way of greeting the "nuno" and asking his permission if we can pass. Nuno is a dwarf who lives in an anthill or termite mound around trees. Also when we are in such areas, we avoid pointing our fingers toward the trees or to the ground due to our elders insistent warning of "Huwag kang manuro, baka manuno ka" which means "Do not point your fingers, the nuno might get offended."

I've been living in Singapore for six years but it hasn't erased my belief in Philippine folklore. Once my husband and I got so lost when we were at Sentosa's Dragon Trail. We were walking around for hours, trying to find the way out but we were always coming to a same spot. It was getting dark and we were already so spooked so we decided to wear our shirts inside out then continued our walk while saying "tabi po." And you know what happened next? In just a few minutes we met somebody (a local) who knew the way out.

Singapore's Chinese Opera

2007-10-30T23:23:00.000+08:00

Back in 2003, when my husband and I used to live in a studio at Beach Road, we often saw night street Chinese Operas held on a patch of land between the said road & Tan Quee Lan Street. The first time we saw one, we wanted to watch and took some pictures. But we changed our minds. Something was odd. The opera's stage was about 20 feet from the audience who were having dinner inside a huge tent. While these people were seated far from the opera, there were about 10 unoccupied chairs right in front of the stage. We did not know what was the occasion. Someone's birthday perhaps? Were they supposed to sit on the empty chairs after the dinner?

On other nights, the audience were seated in front of the stage but behind a row of empty chairs. Didn't they want to have a better view of the opera?

Then we noticed a pattern: empty chairs were always present in every opera.

So years passed since then but whenever we remember those encounters we were still baffled. Our puzzle was only solved when we saw "The Maid", a movie. (Warning: spoiler ahead) The empty chairs were for the "other" audience... ghosts! Whew! Thank goodness we changed our minds! Imagine the look on their faces when they see two sillies taking pictures of the dead people...

Warning: Don't play this video to avoid spoiler

More about "The Maid":

It was a 2005 Singaporean movie that broke the country's box office record for the horror genre. It tells the story of a Filipina maid's (played by Philippine's Alessandra de Rossi) recent arrival to Singapore during the Hungry Ghost. Most Singaporean Chinese believe that during this 30-day period, the gates of hell open and spirits are let loose. For 30 days, the dead walk among the living. It is a time when, in the words of one author, ghosts get a vacation from purgatory.
Official website
Trailer
At Wikipedia
Review

Corregidor

2007-10-29T23:32:00.000+08:00

Corregidor is said to be one of the most haunted places in the Philippines. Some people reported of hearing moaning, footsteps, and other noises inside the hospital ruins and old bunkers.

Perhaps, these "experiences" can be attributed to the fact that several men died in Corregidor when it became the headquarters of Gen. Douglas MacArthur's Allied Forces during the Battle of the Philippines (1941–42) under WWII.

Its Malinta Tunnel was initially used as a bomb-proof storage and personnel bunker but later served as a 1,000-bed underground hospital during the said war.

But beyond these ghostly tales, one cannot argue the beauty of Corregidor and its importance to the country's history.

It is just 1 & 1/2 hour boat trip from Manila and the largest of four islands protecting the mouth of Manila Bay, the finest natural harbor in the Orient. American servicemen dubbed it as "The Rock" or the "Gibraltar of the East", in comparison to the peninsular fortress that guards the main entrance to the Mediterranean Sea between Europe and Africa.

During the above mentioned war, the Japanese had to take Corregidor because as long as the island remained in American hands, they would be denied the use of the Manila Bay, thus failure to conquer the Philippines.The fall of Corregidor to the Japanese forces was instrumental in the subsequent capture of the Philippines and the retreat of the United States in the early stages of the war. It was from Corregidor that MacArthur left for Australia where he subsequently said his famous speech, in which he said "...I shall return."

So in your next trip to Manila, spend a day or two in Corregidor. Tours from Manila include boat transfers, an island tour, admission and terminal fee. Enjoy a jeepney guided tour of the devastated military buildings, cannons, and numerous war monuments. The island also offers a good view of the Manila Bay. Stay overnight at Corregidor Hotel or Lodging Row House.

Of course, my most favorite part, try the Malinta Tunnel Night Tour which is only available to overnight tourists. Explore every inch of the tunnel and switch off your flashlight (the guide will actually ask you to, :D bwahahaha) to “feel” the moments that happened inside the tunnel during the war.

More about Corregidor:

Some travelogs:

Books on Corregidor:

Corregidor: The American Alamo of World War II: by Eric Morris
Ghost Soldiers: The Forgotten Epic Story of World War II's Most Dramatic Mission

Aerial view of Corregidor

Changi Beach

2007-10-28T13:28:00.000+08:00

This area is believed to be haunted by ghosts of the executed Chinese during the Japanese occupation. Passersby often report hearing strange crying and screaming. The heads of the dead bodies are sometimes seen flying everywhere. Headless bodies walk around the beach as well. More scary cases include a passerby witnessing a ghostly execution leaving blood stains.

During the Japanese occupation of Singapore in WWII, Sook Ching (a purge through cleansing) massacre was carried out to kill perceived hostile elements among the Chinese in Singapore by the Japanese military during the Japanese Occupation. This was after the colony was surrendered by the British empire. The current site of the popular Changi Beach Park was the site of one of the most brutal killings in Singapore's history. On 20 Feb 1942, Chinese males were lined up along the edge of the sea and shot by the military police.

Naturally, people started telling tales of ghosts that linger around Changi Beach. However, when I camped there in 2005, I was not able to sleep... not because of any paranormal activity but due to some @!#* noisy teenagers who decided to skateboard in the wee hours of the night. Aside from this, I was constantly awaken by the sound of airplanes taking off from the nearby airport. So if you're planning to camp at Changi Beach.... DON'T! The beach is better than Sentosa but it is not for camping.

For ghost stories about Changi, please click here.

Ghoulish Trail

2007-10-27T03:33:00.000+08:00

Tired of eating, shopping and clubbing? Then consider a whole new form of excitement – ghost hunting! Sign up for a ghoulish trail with the Singapore Paranormal Investigators (SPI), touted as Singapore’s own version of Ghostbusters.

It will take you to Singapore mysterious urban legend landscape where you won't find on usual tourist maps. Discover remarkable journal down the Singapore unbeaten paths, with intriguing accounts of paranormal sightings and haunting, legends, mysteries, historical wonders, and gruesome stories of murder, suicide and violent deaths.

For more information, click here.

Manananggal vs. Penanggal

2007-10-27T00:06:00.001+08:00

Of all the characters in the rich Philippine folklore, I find Manananggal to be the most terrifying. It is a beautiful woman capable of severing its upper torso in order to fly into the night with huge bat-like wings to prey on unsuspecting, pregnant women in their homes; using an elongated proboscis-like tongue, it sucks the hearts of fetuses or blood of an unsuspecting, sleeping victim. The severed lower torso is left standing and it is said to be the more vulnerable of the two halves. Sprinkling salt or smearing crushed garlic or ash on top of the standing torso is fatal to the creature. The upper torso then would not be able to rejoin and will die at daybreak. The term manananggal comes from the Tagalog, "tanggal" which means to remove/separate, thus "manananggal" means the one who separates itself from its lower body.

In Malaysian, Indonesian & Singaporean folklore, a similar creature exists and it's called Penanggal or penanggalan.

A notable difference between a Penanggal and Manananggal is that a Penanggal detaches only her head with her lungs, stomach and intestines attached while leaving the body in a pre-prepared container filled with vinegar to preserve the body against rapid decomposition. Also, unlike the Manananggal which uses a proboscis-like tongue, a Penanggal is commonly depicted as having fangs.

Irma Alegre's (one of Philippine cinema's great actresses during the '80s) manananggal in the 1st "Shake, Rattle & Roll" movie scared the hell out of me when I was a kid. I think I was not able to sleep that night.

White lady at UST Hospital

2007-10-26T15:48:00.000+08:00

Philippine's University of Santo Tomas or UST is one of the world's largest Catholic universities in terms of population, it was founded on April 28, 1611 by the Spanish Reverend Miguel de Benavides. Growing up, I heard a lot of stories about ghosts that haunt the campus and hospital. I remember a story about a headless padre (priest) who was often seen by students peeking through a window in one of the buildings.

Recently, I stumbled upon this video about a white lady captured on camera at a ward in UST hospital...

Old Malay Cemetery at Kampong Glam

2007-10-26T04:30:00.000+08:00

For me, this is the scariest place in Singapore. It never fails to send chills down my spine everytime I pass by Victoria Street. It's so creepy...

Situated at the junction of Victoria Street and Jalan Sultan, founded between 1819-1820, it is the earliest Malay cemetery in Singapore. When Sultan Hussein and his followers settled in the area between Arab Street and Jalan Sultan, there was already a sea gypsy's village occupied by the Glam tribe. The Cemetery had probably been used prior to this period. The Sultan himself died in Malacca on 5th September 1835, but some of his relatives were buried in Kampong Glam. Mr. Tassim labeled this place 'Tombs of the Malayan Princes' in a map he drew in 1936.

Pupung's aswang

2007-10-26T00:22:00.000+08:00

Click image to enlarge

Most OFW families are just waiting for remittances

2007-10-18T13:13:00.000+08:00

According to a recent survey, majority of OFW families just sit back and wait for remittances. These families are apparently already contented with this way of life and do not mind that their only source of money are the hard earned "padala."

Furthermore, just almost a third of OFW beneficiaries own a business, which tend to be sari-sari (neighborhood variety) stores, renting out apartments, operating public transportation, buying and selling, [running] a meat shop, canteen or eateries. But I think, most of the capitals used for these businesses also came from OFWs...

This is a very sad common story among us. From Singapore, Hong Kong, to Saudi Arabia, you'll hear this story over and over again: An OFW has no choice but to keep on working else his family will have nothing to eat... else his sibling will not be able to finish college...else his parents will have no medicine. So it is no surprise why there are some Filipinos working in war-torn countries...

Tsk, tsk, tsk...

Click here to read survey.

Beware of the twin coins

2007-10-13T04:38:00.001+08:00

Singapore's one dollar and Indonesia's 100 rupiah are so alike they can fool you!

As reported by a STOMPer that happened at Pioneer Mall (Jurong).

"My friend bought drinks at the foodcourt. Our drinks cost $1.40 and so she gave the stall owner $5. The drink stall gave a change of a $2 note, a $1 coin and $0.60, and she just kept it in her wallet without looking," Merlin said.

"Then, after we left the mall, she realised that the $1 that was given to her was in fact a indonesian Rupiah 100 (equivalent to only S$0.016)!"

"After comparing to our S$1, we realised that both look similar. Just want others to beware and take note when people give you coins."

Indeed, given the similar colour, shape and design, right down to the octagon within the circle, it is easy to mistake the rupiah coin for a Singapore dollar coin.

Ok, now I need to check if my wallet has all original Singapore coins.

Know the culture

2007-10-09T02:19:00.000+08:00

More jewels from YouTube! Get to know Singapore in this episode of Girls Out Loud. Do you know what "vomit blood" means? Watch this.

Part 1 of 3

Links to finish the episode.

Watch other videos of Sgbox1988.

Celebrate World Animal Day 2007

2007-10-04T17:17:00.000+08:00

Great ways to celebrate this happy occasion!

1. For your pets

buy him/her yummy treats!

Chloe was so adorable :)

a nice long massage with TLC will be very much appreciated

2. Check-out these exciting events and help to spread awareness on how to improve the lives of our furry friends

East Coast Park (area C3 near Marina Cove) on Oct 7

Suntec City on Oct 6 and 7

The Atrium @ Orchard (beside Plaza Singapura) from Oct 5 to 7

Acres will be celebrating Singaporeans' support for animal protection efforts by holding a 3-day animal-themed festival. There will be a photographic exhibition, music, dance, children's activities and a large array of educational exhibits on animal protection issues, along with the opportunity for everyone to find out how they can help make the world a better place for the animals we share it with here

The deteriorating state of Manila Zoo

2007-10-04T14:54:00.000+08:00

As the world observes Animal Day on today Oct-4, a discussion rages about the state of animals inside Manila Zoo.

“The animals at the Manila Zoo are treated like prisoners, even though they've committed no crime. These animals are bred or captured for a lifetime of loneliness and misery, and the best way to help stop the suffering is to boycott the zoo,” PETA director for Asia-Pacific Jason Baker said.“It’s really sad,” said Mona Consunji, board secretary of the Animal Welfare Coalition, of the Manila Zoo’s current state. “That elephant, I think is already going crazy,” referring to Mali, prancing about in his small pen near the gate.

“If you watch that elephant for 30 minutes, you’d see that it’s doing the same thing over and over again,” she said.

Consunji said zoo animals should just receive better care, and proper space --certainly lacking in the 5.5-hectare area along Adriatico and Mabini Streets in Malate, Manila.

Click here to read the full article in Inquirer.

Coming to Singapore

2007-10-03T03:15:00.000+08:00

I’ve already written a lot of things about being a Pinoy in this blog. It’s about time to write about the country that we now call home --- Singapore.

To tell you the truth, I knew next to nothing about Singapore prior to my coming here. I guess it was discussed when I was dozing off in my Asian History class at Torres High School. I only heard about it when I was in BPI and when most of my colleagues were resigning to go to Singapore.

Since I didn’t want to be left behind by my friends and I also didn’t see any future at BPI, I decided to follow them. Surprisingly, after one week of submitting my resume I was accepted so I filed my resignation. All the while, I was thinking that this country was near from China like Taiwan... I was surprised to know that it actually lies near from the equator and Indonesia.

So on Sept 15 2001, I finally arrived here. It was just a few days after the dreadful 9-11 so I was really uncertain on what will happen to me and whether I did the right decision.

But when I was already in a cab from Changi airport -- my jaw dropped! I was amazed by the line of trees and bougainvilleas along ECP, by the clean roads, and by the unpolluted air. There was no “alikabok.” There was no bumper-to-bumper traffic. No pesky noisy horns from vehicles. The cab was cruising smoothly that it made me enjoyed a cab ride for the very first time... without the fear of getting kidnapped or robbed.

From that very moment, I knew that the best was yet to come.

PSIA wants stricter visa requirements

2007-09-30T04:25:00.000+08:00

Is this true? That the Philippine Software Industry Association (PSIA) has requested Singapore government to impose additional requirements on Filipinos securing work visas? That a copy of the applicant's resignation letter and clearance from his or her latest employer should be required?

Click here.

Read our initial post about this issue.

Author: Celpaby

Employers to provide insurance to foreign workers

2007-09-29T05:08:00.000+08:00

Another healthcare policy will take place on January 2008. It is to require employers to purchase and maintain insurance for the medical expenses of foreign workers. The requirement will apply to:

All new and existing foreign workers on Work Permit or S Pass
All new foreign domestic workers, and existing foreign domestic workers when employers renew their Work Permits

The Manpower Ministry said the coverage must be at least S$5,000 a year for each worker's inpatient care and day surgery, while staying in Singapore. Visit MOM for details.

Author: Celpaby

Filipino prisoners dancing to MJ's Thriller

2007-09-27T16:53:00.000+08:00

I got this from Perez Hilton :D. Apparently, this video of 1,500 Cebu prisoners is now an internet sensation! Byron Garcia, who oversees the jail and introduced the dance routines last year, loaded the videos onto the internet.

"I want the prison system to learn from this," Garcia said.

"The inmates are after all human beings and the inmates after all, once inside, know that they have committed mistakes, let them enjoy their stay."

Hospitalization to cost more for non-citizens

2007-09-27T02:43:00.000+08:00

From October 2007, non-citizens will have to pay more when seeking treatment at public sector hospitals and national specialist centers. Affected are Permanent Residents, foreigners (tourists), and those that are holding Work Pass (EP, S Pass, Foreign workers & Foreign Domestic Workers), as long as you are not a citizen.

Currently all residents, regardless of citizenship status, receive the same subsidies ranging from 20 to 80 per cent:

Class of Ward	Government Subsidy
C	80%
B2	65%
B2+	50%
B1	20%
A	0%

For those who are not yet familiar, check out sample rooms in SGH. The new policy is to, let say for PRs under C wards, reduce subsidy from 80% to 75% on Oct 2007, and from 75% to 70% by Oct 2008. Therefore, by Oct 2008, PRs will be paying 10% more for C wards.

So please let's practice healthy living. If you're not feeling well, don't hesitate to see a doctor. Avoid any further complications that might require you to check-in to a hospital. Lastly, remember that emergency check-in is more expensive than the normal one. This is true even in our home country.

Author: Celpaby

Mona, Singapore Escort

2007-09-25T18:51:00.000+08:00

"Mona, Singapore Escort" [?]

is a movie about a Filipina prostitute in Singapore. Click here to watch trailer. It will be shown in Philippine cinemas on Oct 2007. It stars Iza Calzado known for hit GMA-7 fantaseryes Encantadia (click here to watch trailer) & Atlantika (click here to watch teaser).

Rent increase in SG

2007-09-24T00:10:00.000+08:00

Majority of the Filipinos here are renting, thus it is no surprise that we are really affected by the increasing rental fees. Expatriates from other countries also feel the impact:

* ExpatSingapore

* Singapore Expats

When landlords were asked to give their opinions about this trend in property rentals, they replied in The Straits Times:
"...expatriates had been enjoying extremely low rents since 2003 and owners were 'subsidising' tenants before the increase in rents."
"It's not a matter of raising prices because we're greedy. We get whatever the property will fetch in the market. I wouldn't dare ask for $16,000 if the market rent is $10,000."

The article said that rents have soared by 31.2% over the past year. Thus if the average rent in Aston Mansion is used to be $1700, then it is now around $2230. A previous issue of the newspaper featured a family whose rent rose from $2,400 to $7,200.

Singapore

becoming an expensive country to live in? What are the alternatives for us? Downgrade from condo to HDB. If you’re renting a unit all by yourself, ask your landlord if it’s OK to invite others to rent vacant rooms. Move from an expensive area to more affordable ones, let's say from Tiong Bahru to Sengkang.

Luckily for me and my husband, we bought our flat before the interest rate hike. Whew! My computation said that we must stay in our flat for 4 years to take back the cash that we spent in down payment and fees. We are now in our 2^nd year.

But I don’t think that buying a unit is a good move right now since as I’ve said, loan interest rates have also increased. Anyway, if you really really really can afford it, you’ll be here longer (years), and you think it’s worth it, by all means by your own property. What do I mean by “it’s worth it”? If you’re tired of packing and unpacking your things every year, it is worth it. If you have kids affected by the constant move, buying a property is worth it.

Live the Dream's rock show

2007-09-19T20:46:00.002+08:00

Robert Sunga's performance has just ended. All I can say is.....

He gave the best solo performance of the night!

I was so excited that I immediately voted for him even before the line was opened! So atat!

The 3 stooges (l-r: Andrea Fonseka, Utt, & Michelle Chia) teased him about his goatee! BTW, do you notice how tall Andrea is? Utt and Michelle look like midgets when they stand next to her!

Robert sang Maroon 5's "Harder to Breathe". I tried to note all the comments from judges:
* Dick Lee: "...Best performance of the night..."
* Guest judge John (was not able to get his complete name, he said he's half-Filipino): "...Great singer... Consistent...Performance was neat/great..."
* Ken Lim: "...Someone that's a perfect backup..." However, he received boos from the audience after this so he insisted that it was a compliment! Duh? "...You're still very forgettable... Too cover-version like...Need to have an identity..."

Definitely he has a great voice and I hope next time, the "Mariah Carey singing" will be limited especially if it does not really fit the song. I guess he just tried to put his own touch. So give kudos to him for this effort. Actually, very few people, especially males, can sing in whistle register. So this is really really an ASSET and I think it must be limited. Listening to Mariah's high-pitched shrieks is enough to explode anyone's eardrums!

Results of the mock election held in SG

2007-09-19T02:00:00.000+08:00

COMELEC recently announced the results of the I-VOTE "election" which was held from July to August of this year. 311 votes were received and Ninoy Aquino emerged as the winner of the senatorial race.
However, a total of 4,055 "serious hacking attacks" were experienced during the voting period. Fortunately, all attempts were unsuccessful, thus proving the security and resiliency of the internet voting system.

Let's salute COMELEC’s
Committee on Overseas Absentee Voting (COAV)!!!

Visit COMELEC for the:
* full result of the senatorial election
* survey
* list of the raffle winners (laptop, i-pod!!!)

More pharmacists needed in Singapore

2007-09-18T00:44:00.000+08:00

According to Sept-17 Channel NewsAsia, Ministry of Health (MOH) is looking to recruit more pharmacists from overseas over the next five years as the supply of local graduates will not be enough to meet the demand. Like last year, the National University of Singapore's pharmacy department produced 150 graduates, up from 41 in 1996. But there should be 200 new pharmacy graduates to join the workforce every year.
So, among the amendments to the Pharmacist Registration Act, which will be debated in Parliament this week, is one to allow the conditional and temporary registration of foreign-trained pharmacists.

Comments on the Jurado article

2007-09-14T05:20:00.000+08:00

After reading all the comments on "Malu's clone...Dumadami sila" and in Slap Happy, I think that some, not all, comments can be summarized into one:

Yes, "new heroes" are noisy...but I'm not one of these "new heroes"

It saddens me because I think talking loudly is a common trait among us. Mapa sa Divisoria or Glorietta, you'll hear Filipinos talking with much gusto, giggling and laughing at the same time. The only difference is, sa Divisoria, you'll hear Tagalog or Bisaya. In Glorietta, of course, English with cono (pronounced conyo) intonation pa.

But, I'm not a hypocrite to not to admit that I get uncomfortable of the noise in Lucky Plaza on Sundays. Yes I do feel uncomfortable but I also DON'T COMPLAIN. It is definitely incorrect to say, directly or indirectly, that this trait is only possessed by "new heroes." How about those conos in Glorietta 4 on Friday gimmick nights?

So when I'm at Lucky Plaza, I don't complain. I just go on and do my errands. I also find the same noise in malls in Singapore so why should I complain sa kapwa ko Filipino? And if I'm in the office and I have colleagues na maiingay, I just put on my ever reliable headset and pump up the volume of my MP3 player. I don't complain because I know that this is Pinoy eh. And I know that definitely, there were also times na ako naman ang naging maingay and people around me were so polite that they did not complain.

As for Jurado, I think his article can be summarized into:

"New heroes" are noisy...but only them, definitely not me and my wife!

Malu's clone...Dumadami sila

2007-09-12T03:55:00.000+08:00

I really had a hard time convincing myself to believe this. But yes it's true...Seems that dumadami ang mga "Malu Fernandez"...or matagal ng madami?...

Veteran journalist Emil Jurado in his "To the Point" column in Manila Standard wrote an article about the Malu Fernandez issue. It was published on Aug-31 and titled "Educating migrants".

Excerpts:
"The Fernandez incident brings to fore the need to educate our workers how to behave, not only at work and in relating with their employers, but also when they get together or take transportation, airplanes included. Malu was not the only one complaining about the uncouth and rowdy behavior of these “new heroes.”

He even mentioned Filipinos in Singapore:
"In Singapore, Filipinos are no longer allowed to congregate at the well-known Lucky Mall along Orchard Road because of the noise and the litter they make. Filipino domestics seem to be at their loudest when they are together."

I couldn't believe kasi, of course, obvious ba? The public uproar about Malu should be a lesson to all journalists, writers and other media people: saying/writing negative or unpleasant remarks about OFWs is NOT OK! It's like putting yourself in front of a firing squad. Actually, whether you're from media or not, definitely it is wrong. "Freedom of speech" is bullsh*t if your article lacks moral and respect. Is it more important na masabi mo na ang mga OFW ay maiingay, na ganito, ganyan ang experience mo sa flight mo, KESA sa damdamin ng kapwa mo Pinoy?

Click here to read Jurado's article.

Reactions:
* Slap happy

Happiness in living a simple life in the Phils

2007-09-09T11:20:00.001+08:00

I know that this is not about Pinoys living in Singapore...but actually...it's ALL about Pinoys living in Singapore and about ALL the Pinoys who have decided to live and take citizenship in other countries to escape the extreme poverty in our "Perlas ng Silanganan".

Meet David Eric Poarch, a young man born to a Filipina mother and an American father. He was having the time of his life as one of the top students of his class and as a recipient of a scholarship in an US Ivy League college...yet he chose not to live this American dream. In 2006, to his parents disapproval, he decided to live a "probinsiyano" life in the Philippines without any financial support from his family --- only with his determination to find independence, happiness and meaning of life.

He has documented his simple Filipino life in his blog where he also explained in detail reasons for doing it. Watch ABS-CBN's interview of David:

Timothy Go

2007-09-05T21:59:00.001+08:00

I first saw Tim in 2003 (I think) when I stumbled upon Prime Time Morning while taking one of our "lutong bahay" (a.k.a. tipid meals) na breakfasts. His surname is Chinese yet I knew instantly na Filipino sya.
Why nga ba ganoon that we can easily spot a Filipino in a crowd? Anyway, that's another topic to blog about! hehehe

Timothy is a Canadian-Filipino-Chinese and has been a news anchor, host, presenter and producer for Channel NewsAsia since 2001.

Current TV shows:
* World Today
* Asia Today
* That's IT

He, who calls the world ''his home'', is no stranger to a nomadic lifestyle. He finished high school in Manila then went to Vancouver to take Broadcast Communications and Journalism at Simon Fraser University and British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT). Later, got his first job in Canada, then moved to Washington DC, then Hong Kong, now finally, in Singapore.

Now, I've been wondering why Tim was replaced in that morning show... I really think he was better than the guy that replaced him. His personality gave that much needed life for a early morning show to keep viewers from going back to their beds. Today newspaper even noticed his heavy and expressive brows.

More links about Timothy:
* His blog
* Wearing a barong Tagalog!
* Timothy's Fanclub
* Unofficial website

Nasi Lemak vs. Tapsilog

2007-09-04T11:24:00.000+08:00

Yum, yum... I haven't taken my breakfast...

Thanks Arlene for this picture!

For those new in Singapore, here is some info about Nasi Lemak in Wikipedia

What do you think of Robert's singing?

2007-09-02T12:49:00.001+08:00

Finally, I discovered a video of Robert Sunga in Live the Dream

What do you think guys? Do you think he has what it takes to be the winner?

Do you have any compliments or advice for him? Post a comment, c'mon... don't be shy...

What is it I hear? You want me to comment? Robert, is it ok? Send me an email to pinoyexpatsreddot@gmail.com.

I can give compliments, thaaaaaat's very eazeeee.

To give an advice, which I think is more valuable to Robert, yes I also can do..... because Robert, we want you to win.
I know I'm no expert, unlike Babes Conde, but a few advice will help.... especially from a frank person like me

Robert Sunga

2007-09-01T23:53:00.001+08:00

Robert is our Filipino contestant in Mediacorp Ch5's Live the Dream singing competition, like (defunct?) Singapore Idol.

Watch him on 19-Sept for
* live performance @ 8:30pm
* result show @ 10pm

Some facts about Robert:
* He is a landscape designer for residential, commercial (projects) and resorts
* Used to sing in a local variety show in PH
* In what made him join the competition: "I don’t want to miss the opportunity to be in the spot(light). Life is short and I wanna make a difference and enjoy it at the same time"

Robert on the web:
* Live the Dream
* His public Friendster profile

Filipino IT engineers flocking to Singapore

2007-08-29T02:00:00.000+08:00

Another newspaper article about Pinoys in SG. This was in Today newspaper 23-Aug.

It discussed how Philippine software companies are affected by the exodus of IT professionals to Singapore.

There was also an interview of PSIA which stands for Philippines Software Industry Association. As the name implies, it is an organization of software companies in PH.

Article's opening statements:

"THEY flock to Singapore, drawing three times what they are paid in the Philippines. They gain valuable experience here working for multi-national firms, contributing to their country's economy with their remittances to families back home. The downside: Some quit their jobs in a hurry, leaving behind unfinished projects, resulting in unhappy customers and beleaguered employers scrambling to fill the vacuum.

Such is the predicament facing the Philippines' software industry as engineers leave their jobs in haste. The aggressive tactics employed by some Singaporean recruitment agencies have worsened the situation, say members of the industry."

But what's really revolting and make me want to puke is PSIA's @$#*% suggestion of stricter visa restrictions for Pinoy IT engineers in SG!

"The Philippines Software Industry Association (PSIA) released a statement last month highlighting the problem, and called for stricter visa restrictions from the Singapore Government to address the issue."
Why suggest this?! Isn't like punishing IT professionals when instead what PSIA should do is ask software companies to provide enough and descent salaries! We, IT professionals, first of all, do not really desire to leave our families and live in a foreign country. We did not expect this to happen to us but due to the meager salaries that we receive in PH, we don't have a choice but work in other countries.

As the article mentioned, we are receiving 3 times more than we receive in PH. Imagine that! That's how low PH salary is!

Click here to read TXT version of the article

Mabuhay! Let's help S'pore get to know Pinoys

2007-08-27T18:49:00.001+08:00

I'm currently cleaning up and trying to throw my old newspapers to the recycling bin. There was an article pala, by a certain Gina Olivares-Jocson (Mar-25-2007 Sunday Times) who according to the newspaper, is of Malay, Chinese, Italian, Portuguese and Spanish descent. Whoa, so many. What I have is a plain Filipino blood, thank you very much!

I was surprised because how many times do we, Filipinos, have a chance to write for the major daily? THE major daily, THE chief general news source for the country's English-language residents? Very seldom actually...

Anyway, I can really relate to her sentiments unfortunately. Most especially in this statement nya:
"So, is it a stretch to conclude that because of our embarrassment with our country's governance and the dire economic situation that has pushed many of us to look overseas for employment, we subconsciously decided to go around with bowed heads, so to speak?"

When I was also new here, I had a pretty hard time answering the question of "What is your race"? I thought I was a Malay because di ba, iyon yung itinuro sa atin sa school? That Filipinos are of Malay race? Later on, I discovered that for Singaporeans pala, Malay are those indigenous Malays, the original residents of this country. So looking back, na I ticked the box "Malay", napapangiti n lang ako...

Haaay.... Philippines... I really wish na our country will SOMEDAY prosper, so we will not have to be away from our families....

Do you avoid OFWs like the plague?

2007-08-22T22:00:00.000+08:00

This is my maiden post. So I decided to start this blog with an infamous article that has annoyed and outraged Filipinos that are working and/or living outside of the Philippines, in other words, OFWs, Global Filipinos or OFIs (recently coined by Arroyo, it means Overseas Filipino Investors).

An entertaining, witty and frankly written article was made by a certain Malu Fernandez for People Asia magazine. But I think it was too frank and really shocked most people, including me. In that 2007 June article, she mentioned that she took a two-way economy flight to Greece with stopover at Dubai and how she wanted to slash her wrist when she discovered that she had to endure the long haul flights with Axe smelling OFWs.

"However I forgot that the hub was in Dubai and the majority of OFWs were stationed there. The duty-free shop was overrun by Filipino workers selling cell phones and perfumes. Meanwhile, I wanted to slash my wrist at the thought of being trapped in a plane with all of them."

On her flight back to the Philippines:

"... I had to bravely take the economy flight once more. This time I had already resigned myself to being trapped like a sardine in a sardine can with all these OFWs smelling of AXE and Charlie cologne...."

Click the images to read her full article:

Of course, her article has created hate mails and petitions to fire her from the magazine.

Some of the comments around the web:
"Fire Malu Fernandez, Boycott Manila Standard, and People Asia Magazine"
"Malu Fernandez: The hate continues…"
"The Bigotry of Malu Fernandez and In Defense of the Filipino Migrant Workers"
"Ang OFW at Malu Fernandez isang Elitistang manunulat!"

Are there more Filipinos who avoid OFWs like the plague? How about you? Do you like going to Lucky Plaza on Sundays? Do you think that OFWs are a unique breed of Filipinos?