This Week in Metro Manila (July 20 to 26, 2019)

Expect cloudy and grey skies in Metro Manila this week. According to weather forecasts, the weather will range from cloudy to rainy with thunderstorms in the afternoon. The temperature will be on the cooler side as it will range from 31 °C to 33 °C during the day and 24 °C to 27 °C in the evening [1]. For commuters and travelers, bring an umbrella and other rain protection during the whole week. Since the weather will be cool, wear jackets or sweaters to keep you warm.

For those living in flood-prone areas, practice good hygiene and sanitation to prevent waterborne diseases. If flying this week, be updated on flight cancellations due to bad weather by monitoring the social media page or website of your airline. For more up-to-date weather updates, check the website of DOST-PAGASA.

Good news: the Land Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) opened 5,000 taxi unit slots to balance the demand and supply for taxis. The addition of drivers aims to provide a better transportation and commute experience for the public [2].

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced an earthquake drill in various sectors of the National Capital Region (NCR) on July 27. The drill aims to prepare residents in case a strong earthquake hits the region. According to MMDA, the drill will start as early as 4:00 AM. Text alerts will be sent to residents as a signal for the start of the drill [3].

Maynilad announced a rotational water service interruption in several parts of Metro Manila starting July 15. Affected areas in Metro Manila include Caloocan, Makati City, Pasay, Muntinlupa, Quezon City, Las Pinas, Paranaque, and Manila. The duration of the interruptions vary by barangay [4], so check Maynilad’s social media account for the complete list of the schedule.

Catcalling, sexist slurs, stalking (whether in real life or online), and other unwanted and uninvited sexual remarks or actions will now be penalized after President Duterte signed the Republic Act 11313 or the “Safe Streets and Public Spaces Act.” The act aims to promote safe spaces in streets, online workplaces, and educational institutions.

Under the act, those who give hurtful and sexist remarks, harassment, unwanted comments on appearance, and transphobic, misogynistic, and homophobic slurs will be punished. Those found guilty will be fined PhP1,000 to PhP100,000 and may be imprisoned for a month. For online sexual harassment, cyberstalking, invasion of privacy and harassment in educational institutions, those guilty will be fined PhP100,000 to PhP500,000 [5].

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