This Week in Metro Manila (August 15 to 21, 2016)

The Republic Act 10909 or the No Shortchanging Act will soon require store owners and commercial establishments to provide exact change to their customers. Non-compliance will result in a PhP500 fine for the first violation and will go as high as PhP25,000 and revocation of license to operate for the third offense. Store owners, however, are allowed to provide change more than the required amount if, necessary.

Several local governments in Luzon and Visayas have suspended classes for August 15 due to the continuous rains brought by the southwest monsoon. In Metro Manila, there are no classes in the following areas as per the notice released by the Department of Education:

ALL LEVELS

Caloocan City, Las Pinas City. Makati City, Malabon City, Mandaluyong City, Manila, Marikina City, Muntinlupa City, Navotas, Parañaque City, Pasay City, Pasig City, Pateros, Quezon City, San Juan City, Taguig City, Valenzuela City

The Ninoy Aquino Day celebrated every August 21 will fall this week on a Sunday. The special day is dedicated to the death anniversary of former senator and hero Benigno “Ninoy” S. Aquino Jr. His assassination further inspired the Filipino people to fight against the Marcos regime. The EDSA People Power Commission is expected to lead celebrations and events at the People Power Monument on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Quezon City Day is on Friday, August 19. It is a special non-working public holiday in the said city.

The month of August is yet to be over and so is the rain. Consistent rain earlier in the week is expected, so it will be best to bring along an umbrella. The other half of the week will be a little better with light showers and few thunderstorms. It is advisable for workers to arrive early at and leave from work, to avoid traffic in case of flooding along busy areas. Colder nights throughout the week can be expected as well.

The Manufacturing and Technology World trade show, now on its 23rd year will happen from August 18 to 20 at the SMX Convention Center, Manila. The event, hosted by Global-Link MP Events International Inc., aims to showcase top manufacturers and distributors of industrial equipment and technological innovation in the country. There will also be a robotics competition among students to feature their work to industry leaders. Gates will open at 10:00 AM and entrance fee will be PhP100 per day.

Huge basketball fans can look forward to Global Hoops 2016 as King Bally Events and Promotions brings Team China and Team USA to play against Team Philippines for a streetball game on August 20. Hip-hop artists will also perform for this event happening at the Mall of Asia Arena. General admission tickets starts at PhP390.

Spendthrift consumers can catch up on their shopping needs this week, as Robinsons Malls are having their Red Hot Sale until August 31. Shoppers can enjoy up to 70% off on selected items in this mall-wide event. The details of participating malls can be found at the Robinsons Mall Facebook page.

Shoppers can grab a couple of guyabano fruit and make some glasses of guyabano shake while they are still in season. Known as soursop in English, guyabano is a great refreshing fruit in the Philippines and is also packed with nutrients.

Aside from eating it raw, a popular choice for guyabano is in the form of a smoothie where the fruit is blended with some ice and milk and you’re good to go.