This Week in Manila (May 16 to 22, 2016)

Metro Manila will continuously experience sunny days throughout the week, with periodic showers in particular areas. Warmer and more humid weather can be expected in Metro Manila and nearby provinces such as Pampanga, Zambales, and provinces in Southern Luzon.

Despite the prevailing warm weather, however, the country’s weather bureau, the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), has already issued an alert public on the possible coming of La Niña by the second half of 2016. Twelve tropical cyclones are projected to enter the country, thus travelers should check weather conditions and take precautions before proceeding with their trips.

Road repair and reblocking is still ongoing along Pres. Quirino Avenue which will take place until June 7, 2016. Traffic congestion along Katipunan Ave., in Quezon City can also be expected due to Quezon City Second Engineering District’s ongoing drainage system rehabilitation.

The National Museum of the Philippines will have free admission until May 31, 2016 in celebration of the National Heritage Month. This is in line with Presidential Proclamation No. 439 of 2003 “in recognition of the need to create among the people a consciousness, respect, and pride for the legacies of Filipino cultural history, and love of country.” [1].

Cinematheque Centre Manila is also giving free passes to historical films in line with the celebration of National Heritage Month. Film screening schedules can be seen in their Facebook page.

According to the Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines, it is “prohibited to bear, carry or transport firearms or other deadly weapons in public places.” [2].

Citizens who violate this law may face penalties of one to six years of imprisonment, permanent disqualification from public office, loss of right to vote, and cancellation and/or perpetual disqualification to secure license or permit.

The issue on the tanim-bala (bullet-planting) scheme has made a buzz in local television again. This is after a senior citizen couple has been allegedly victimized by the tanim-bala or laglag-bala scheme. Here are some tips from CNN Philippines on how to avoid falling prey to the scam:

• Use hard-case luggage bags and avoid bags that have external pockets. Luggage with zippers can be easily opened with the use of a ball pen, making it convenient for airport officials to sneak bullets into your belongings.

• Wrap the entire bag in cling wrap. Wrapping service is now available in airport terminals.

• Let the officials go through your bag, but only in the presence of witnesses, a lawyer, and the official’s supervisor. “If an airport security employee claims to have seen a bullet in the X-ray of your luggage and insists that you are carrying contraband and proceeds to open your bag, you have the right to delay the opening of your bag until your lawyer, the airport official's supervisor, or third-party witnesses arrive,” CNN advises.

• You have the right to remain silent. This applies when an airport official forces you to admit that you brought ammunition. “Any admission you might be forced to make without the presence of the lawyer is inadmissible in the court.” [3].

• Know your legal rights. Be informed that no policeman can set bail; only judges have the power to do this.