This Week in Manila (June 27 to July 4, 2016)

President-elect Rodrigo “Rody” Duterte will take his oath as the 16th President of the Republic of the Philippines on June 30 in Malacañang Palace. As stated in his previous media interviews and promises during the campaign, Duterte’s transition would be very frugal, inviting only 150 guests including the members of the Congress and diplomats. Vice-president-elect Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo, however, will have a separate inauguration.

The Civil Aviation Authority has announced that new protocols will be implemented in order to secure the safety of President-elect Rody Duterte as he takes commercial planes from Manila to Davao and vise-versa. In previous media interviews, Duterte said that he won’t sleep in Malacañang Palace because of ghosts.Travelers coming to the Philippines are advised to watchout for new regulations that will be released by the Philippine aviation officials and other government officials.

This week will remain cloudy with a couple of thunderstorms in the afternoon. However, humid air can still be felt amidst the rainy season. Wearing comfortable clothing is advised while thick jackets and long sleeves are not yet appropriate as the rainy season starts.

Nutrition Month is observed every July in the Philippines. The National Nutrition Council (NNC) who initiates the nationwide launch of Nutrition month celebration has released the theme, “First 1000 Days ni baby pahalagahan para sa malusog na kinabukasan!” This year’s campaign aims to “create awareness on the significance of good maternal nutrition and proper infant and young child feeding practices, particularly, exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months” according to the NNC.

The business sectors are encouraged to support the Nutrition Month by establishing well-equipped lactation stations for their lactating employees and clients as well as providing paid breastfeeding breaks for working mothers in addition to regular break times.

The Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) have recently launched a shuttle service program that aims to reduce traffic in Katipunan, Quezon City. MMDA Traffic Discipline Office head Atty. Saruca said that Ateneo will provide shuttle buses for employees, students, and teachers which will be accessible via three transport hubs—Temple Drive, UP Technohub, and SM Marikina—while the drop-off point will be in Ateneo.

Although this program is primarily designed for Ateneo high school students and personnel, college students can also avail the service by presenting their Ateneo identification cards.

Filipino brands, products and crafts will be showcased in the 16th Global Pinoy Bazaar on June 30 to July 3, at Glorietta Activity Center, Makati City. This annual fund-raising event gives way to local entrepreneurs to promote local brands, products, and concepts to the public. This is also a venue for where artists, designers, entrepreneurs, musicians, and the creative minds to meet and collaborate with each other.

The second season of Manila Fun Cup is happening on June 30 to July 3 at San Andres Sports Complex. This event is open to both local and international teams who would like to play volleyball in the name of fun and sportsmanship This tournament, which aims to promote the importance of physical fitness, is divided into three classifications: Men’s Fun Cup, Women’s Fun Cup, and Co-Ed Fun Cup. Winner will take home freebies, medals, and more.

Registration fee costs PhP12,000 per (Filipino) team. More details are can be seen on http://www.boracaybeachvolleyball.com/manilafuncup2016/.