This Week in Metro Manila (May 7 to 13, 2018)

Unfortunately for Manileños, the weather won’t cool down anytime soon as the blazing heat continues this week with high temperatures ranging from 34 °C to 37 °C. [1] Try to stay away from the sun as much as possible.

If heading outside, put on some sunscreen and bring water to prevent heat stroke. Dress in clothes made from light materials to lessen sweating and to let the skin breathe. For extra heat prevention, other items that can help include portable battery-operated fans, towels, hats, and shades. Eating cold foods such as ice cream can also help. If staying indoors, open all the windows to lessen the heat inside.

Last April 30, the Land Transportation and Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has accredited Micab, a taxi-hailing app which was given license to operate for two years in the country. Micab is among the few LTFRB-approved ride-hailing apps, along with Hirna, Owto, Go Lag, and Hype. [2]

Quezon City has been plagued with heavy traffic, especially since the Metro Rail Transit Line 7 (MRT-7) is currently being built. In line with some construction work, the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) advised that beginning April 30 to July 30, from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM, a one-way traffic scheme will be implemented in Regalado, starting from Mindanao Avenue to Commonwealth Avenue. The same area will also be closed to vehicles from May 6 to July 30 from 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM. The construction of Tandang Sora Station is also expected to cause traffic at the intersection of Tandang Sora Avenue and Commonwealth [3].

Got an old passport to renew or want to get one for the first time? The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) just announced that online passport slot appointments for July to September are finally open and available at any DFA consular office, excluding the DFA Aseana office in Parañaque. Senior citizens, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW), persons with disabilities, children, minors, single parents, and those with emergency travels may apply at any consular office including Aseana without an online appointment [4].