Take the  fishermen’s belief in the “new moon rule.” Generations of coastal communities insist that fishing during a new moon is ideal, while a full moon is to be avoided. This is more than lore; it aligns with the scientific effect of moon phases on fish behavior. During a new moon, the sky is darker, which reduces fish visibility and brings them closer to the surface where light from the fishing boat is brightest, unaware of nets and bait. This is when fish are more active and aggressive, particularly during dawn and dusk. The absence of moonlight also limits predators’ visibility, encouraging fish to school closer to shore. Marine biologists confirm this, showing that fish catch rates spike during darker nights.

Consider the pamahiin about sweeping at night, thought to “sweep away” blessings or money. In pre-electricity days, sweeping in low light could lead to the accidental loss of small valuables, such as coins. Poor visibility increases the risk of unknowingly discarding such items, turning “sweeping away blessings” into a practical warning. Thus, the “malas” or bad luck in this superstition actually stems from very real material losses due to poor lighting.

The tradition of resting after meals also has a scientific rationale. Digesting food requires blood to flow to the stomach, reducing circulation in other areas. Engaging in strenuous activities too soon after eating can lead to cramps, indigestion, or fatigue as the body struggles to manage digestion and physical exertion. Although early Filipinos may not have known about blood flow, they observed the discomfort associated with exertion after a heavy meal, giving rise to this wise custom.

The “usog” belief also shows practical wisdom. Many of us, especially elders, believe that young children should not be overly admired without saying “pwera usog” to prevent sudden illness. This belief could be rooted in infants’ underdeveloped immune systems. Contact with adults—even those with mild infections—can easily overwhelm a baby’s immunity. Although “usog” may sound mystical, it reflects a precautionary attitude toward safeguarding children from potential illnesses through controlled exposure.

Cats as “lucky” charms on ships is another superstition grounded in hard science. Rats, known disease carriers, thrive on ships, where they chew ropes, contaminate food, and threaten supplies. Cats are natural hunters that keep these pests in check, preventing contamination and reducing the risk of infection. Thus, sailors believed in the “luck” brought by cats, which, in reality, acted as a form of natural pest control.

Jumping at midnight on New Year’s Eve, a custom thought to encourage growth has an interesting connection to science. Although a single midnight jump won’t boost height, regular exercise, including jumping, stimulates bone growth, especially in young people. Consistent jumping during one’s formative years contributes to overall bone health, meaning the practice may symbolize a broader commitment to physical fitness.

The practice of “Oro, Plata, Mata” (Gold, Silver, Death) when building staircases may have architectural merit. Counting steps in sets of three aligns with rhythm and symmetry, enhancing stability and consistency in movement. Ending on “oro” creates a pleasing and safer design, reducing the risk of tripping and improving the staircase’s aesthetic and functional harmony.

The pamahiin against sitting on pillows also has scientific roots. Placing pressure from one’s body on a pillow intended for the head can transfer dirt, sweat, and bacteria onto the fabric. Over time, this accumulation may lead to skin issues or irritation, which gives practical merit to the belief. Reserving pillows solely for sleeping minimizes germ transfer and supports better hygiene.

Lastly, the idea of avoiding mirrors in the dark, as they might “invite spirits,” can be explained by visual science. Mirrors reflect light, and in low lighting, shadows and reflections can distort, leading to eerie or illusory images. This belief may have emerged as a caution against provoking unnecessary fear or anxiety at night, which dim lighting can exacerbate.

Each of these examples shows that superstitions, or pamahiin, are often grounded in careful health, safety, and environment observations. We have retained these beliefs not simply out of blind adherence but because these practices often provide a structure for well-being. While science may not always be the origin of these practices, it frequently offers insights that validate them, showing respect for the wisdom passed down through generations.

So, whether or not one chooses to follow these superstitions is a personal choice, but they deserve more consideration than simple dismissal. Many have endured because they harbor practical health, safety, and social harmony insights. Rather than mere “blind” belief, pamahiin may represent a deep-seated wisdom that science is only now beginning to recognize fully. Perhaps the best kind of “luck” comes from blending tradition with reason—a balance of heritage and understanding that offers the most enduring benefits.

***

Doc H fondly describes himself as a “student of and for life” who, like many others, aspires to a life-giving and why-driven world grounded in social justice and the pursuit of happiness. His views do not necessarily reflect those of the institutions he is employed or connected with.

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Pimentel emphasized the importance of following the advisory from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC).

“Mag-ingat po tayo ngayong kapaskuhan. Maraming scammer ang naghahanap ng pagkakataon para manloko,” the lawmaker said.

“Use your KoKote always,” he added.

Pimentel stressed the NTC’s advice to avoid clicking on links in suspicious text messages, as these scams can easily compromise personal and financial security.

“Huwag po tayong magpapadala sa mga mensaheng hindi natin kilala ang pinagmulan. Bago kayo mag-click, siguraduhin ninyong lehitimo ang pinagmulan ng mensahe,” according to him.

He also reiterated the NTC’s call for citizens to report suspicious messages and online scams through their website or by calling the NTC Hotline at 1682.

“Ang pag-iingat ay susi para maiwasan ang mga scam.”IMT

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Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado reported that the number of travelers processed during these two days was consistent with last year’s figures, indicating a steady recovery in international travel.

On Christmas Eve alone, the BI recorded 52,437 arrivals and 41,895 departures. Christmas Day saw 47,669 arrivals and 44,192 departures, reflecting the high volume of holiday travelers.

Viado commended the dedication of BI personnel, noting that immigration officers across the country remained on duty throughout the holidays to ensure efficient passenger processing.

“Our officers are committed to providing seamless services despite the surge in traveler numbers during this peak season,” he said.

The BI anticipates an even greater increase in passenger traffic as more travelers arrive and depart following the New Year celebrations.

To help ease the processing flow, the bureau continues to encourage travelers to arrive early at airports and complete all pre-departure and arrival requirements.IMT

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There will be no more closures of the Ungka flyover.

This was promised by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH-6) following the full reopening of the controversial flyover.

“We will not be closing the flyover anymore. It’s going to be open 24/7,” said DPWH-6 assistant regional director Jose Al Fruto.

The four-lane flyover, which straddles Iloilo City and the town of Pavia, reopened to full capacity on Monday, Dec. 23.

However, it remains off-limits to dump trucks, transit mixers, wing vans, trailer trucks, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycles.

Fruto also assured motorists and commuters that the 453.7-meter flyover is “safe” despite the ongoing installation of steel railings on the parapet.

The flyover, costing nearly P1 billion, was initially opened to traffic in September 2022, but it was closed two weeks later due to vertical displacement.

Fruto thanked the public for understanding the need to close the flyover to pave the way for repairs.

Lobbied by former Ilonggo senator Franklin Drilon, the flyover was intended to ease traffic and cut travel time from Iloilo City to the Iloilo International Airport in the town of Cabatuan.IMT

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Police stations under ICPO, in various operations on Thursday, Dec. 26, seized 34 pieces of boga as they intensified their campaign against the illegal item.

“To ensure public safety, the ICPO has deployed additional patrols in villages, coordinated with village chiefs, and established checkpoints in strategic areas across the city to monitor and apprehend violators,” the city police office said in a statement.

ICPO director Col. Kim Legada, said the boga poses risks to public safety.

“Boga has caused numerous injuries and even fatalities in the past, making its use, possession, and sale punishable under Republic Act No. 7183 (An Act Regulating the Sale, Manufacture, Distribution, and Use of Firecrackers and Other Pyrotechnic Devices) and other relevant ordinances,” he said.

Meanwhile, Iloilo City, since Dec. 21, has not recorded any case of firecracker-related incidents.

The city government, however, continues to remind the public to prioritize safety and caution as they celebrate the holidays by shying away from using illegal and dangerous firecrackers.

“This is a testament to the collective efforts of our city government, law enforcement, health workers, and most importantly, the vigilance and discipline of every Ilonggo. Let us avoid using illegal and dangerous firecrackers and instead, enjoy the season through safer, more meaningful celebrations with our families and friends,” Mayor Jerry Treñas said in a separate statement.

On the evening of Dec. 31, the public is also invited to join the New Year countdown at the Drilon Bridge, to be highlighted by a musical fireworks display.Perla Lena/PNA

The post Police warn vs ‘boga’ amid zero firecracker-related incidents first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

Jeck Conlu took his oath before Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin and Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista.

Prior to his appointment, Conlu worked for the LTO Central Office in Manila and helped fast-track the release of license plates.

In a statement, City Mayor Treñas congratulated Conlu, who also served as Public Order and Safety Management Office (POSMO) chief.

According to Treñas, Conlu’s appointment “is not only a recognition of his skills and experience but also a testament to his dedication to serving Western Visayas.”

“His years of service as the head of PSTMO and POSMO in Iloilo City, combined with his dedication to public safety and innovative leadership, have paved the way for this well-deserved achievement,” he said.

“His commitment to efficient and effective public service has always been a source of inspiration, and now, his expertise will benefit the regional level,” the mayor added.IMT

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“Mas maginhawa ang pagbiyahe kung mayroon tayong online booking system. Malaking tulong ito sa mga pasahero, lalo na sa mga panahon ng bakasyon,” said Pimentel.

He pointed out that while many bus companies have adopted online ticketing, some still rely solely on over-the-counter transactions.

Pimentel also recommended that the Department of Transportation explore the possibility of requiring online payment for terminal fees.

“Makakatulong ito para maiwasan ang mahabang pila sa mga counter ng terminal,” according to him.

The senator from Cagayan de Oro stressed the importance of addressing commuters’ needs, particularly during peak travel seasons.

“Hangad natin na magkaroon ng mas maayos at maginhawang biyahe ang bawat Pilipino. Ang online booking ay isa sa mga paraan para makamit natin ito. Ang online booking ay nagbibigay ng katiyakan sa mga pasahero na mayroon silang tiket at siguradong upuan sa bus,” said Pimentel.IMT

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I do not know whose idea it was to transfer the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to the Office of the President (OP), but I think that it was a very good decision on your part.

Firstly, placing the NCIP under the DSWD implies that it is a “charity case”, which obviously it is not.

Secondly, the NCIP did not have the “bureaucratic clout” when it was simply “attached” to a line department, unlike now that it is directly “under” the OP.

As I see it, the NCIP should really transform into a “development” agency, from what it was before, when it was generally regarded as a “welfare” agency. I am sure Sir, that you have already been briefed about the problems besetting the NCIP but allow me to bring out some of these two you.

I am sorry if I could not present to you any actual proof of these problems that I will bring to you, but I am sure that you could validate these through your own sources.

The first problem Sir is that many of the Indigenous Tribal Peoples (ITPs) still have not acquired their Certificates of Ancestral Domain Titles (CADTs), after all those years since the Indigenous People’s Rights Act (IPRA) law was passed in 1997.

As far as I know, the problem could be the lack of money, or the lack of lawyers. However, that is not even supposed to happen, because the NCIP is supposed to have the money and the personnel for that purpose.

The second problem Sir is that some local government units (LGUs) are not recognizing the Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMRs) who are supposed to represent the local tribes in the local municipal councils, city councils and provincial boards.

As it is supposed to be, the tribes are supposed to select their own IPMRs, but in many cases, the local mayors and governors would insist on making their own choices, thus defeating the purpose of democratic representation.

The third problem Sir is that many of the tribal communities are so far away from the urban areas, such that they are often deprived of access to basic services such as health and education. It would be good if the government could bring these services closer to where they are, but that is not always the case.

There is also supposed to be an Indigenous People’s Education (IPED) program that aims to provide culturally responsive education to the ITPs, but the implementation seems to be behind its targets.

The fourth problem Sir is the lack of support not only from the NCIP itself, but also from other National Government Agencies (NGAs), for purposes of supporting the livelihoods of these ITPs.

Among others, this support should come in the form of training, financing and marketing. Since many of these ITPs have large tracks of lands, they could prospectively go into large- scale plantations, or even large-scale poultry and livestock production.

Now that the NCIP is directly under your office, I believe that it would be very easy for you to mobilize all the NGAs that are needed to provide support to all the tribal communities, regardless of whether they already have CADTS or not.

These NGAs could include the Department of Justice (DOJ) for legal support in applying for the CADTs, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to identify the technologies that they need, the Department of Agriculture (DA) to provide them with the training, supplies and equipment, Department of Finance (DOF) for financing and Department of Trade and Industry for marketing.

The post A new hope for indigenous tribal peoples first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.

“Given customers’ increasing propensity for online purchases, we need to put in place legislation that would prohibit the sale and distribution of firecrackers before this becomes a safety concern,” said Gatchalian.

His statement follows reports of widespread online sale of oversized or “killer” firecrackers. 

“The surge in online platform selling poses new challenges, which is why authorities must adopt innovative ways to address these risks. Collaboration between government agencies, online platforms, and local communities is crucial to uphold the ban and promote safer alternatives for celebrations,” the senator from Valenzuela said.

Gatchalian earlier filed Senate Bill No. 1144, known as the Firecrackers Prohibition Act, which seeks to amend Republic Act No. 7183, the law that regulates the sale, manufacture, distribution, and use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices.

He noted that Executive Order No. 28, which regulates firecracker use, has not been fully effective in preventing injuries related to firecracker use.

The proposed bill would ban the sale, distribution, possession, and use of any firecracker or pyrotechnic devices. 

However, exceptions are made for entities that need fireworks for events. They must obtain a special permit from the PNP Fire and Explosives Office, and only licensed professionals can handle the displays.IMT

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WHAT should have been a historic celebration of the “Simbang Gabi,” a nine-day series of Masses celebrated by Filipino Catholics leading up to Christmas Day, among Filipino Catholics in New York, became a hailstorm of embarrassment for the Filipino community when the Philippine Consulate General in New York was obliged to issue a statement denying it used the occasion to raise funds for a political candidate December 5.

Filipino Catholics all over the world celebrated “Simbang Gabi” believing “the parols are symbols of the Star of Bethlehem and are used to lead the processions before Mass during the celebration.”

This year, the Philippine Consulate General in New York, in partnership with 100 Filipino-American community organizations and businesses, successfully concluded the 36th Simbang Gabi sa Konsulado, held from December 5 to 13 at the Philippine Center-New York but was smeared by issues of fund-raising campaign for a certain political personality it didn’t name.

With the theme, “Liwanag at Pag-Asa: Pasko ng Bagong Pilipinas” (Light and Hope: Christmas of a Renewed Philippines), this year’s gathering welcomed over 1,000 attendees across the nine evenings, reflecting the community’s strong solidarity, shared faith, and commitment to keeping this cherished Filipino tradition alive, according to the press statement issued by the Consulate.

-o0o-

In a “Statement on unauthorized political activities at the Philippine Consulate General in New York,” the Philippine Consulate General in New York confirmed “it has come across social media posts on 3 December 2024 falsely advertising a fundraising event to be held during the Simbang Gabi sa Konsulado, scheduled for 5-13 December 2024.”

“These posts claim that the event aims to raise funds for the political campaign of a New York-based candidate,” added the statement. “The Consulate categorically denies any association with such an event and emphasizes that no such activity has been approved by its leadership nor will it be allowed to take place within the Consulate’s premises.”

It added: “As a foreign mission, the Consulate is bound by international law, including the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (VCDR) and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations (VCCR), to maintain strict neutrality and refrain from interference in the internal affairs of the host state. Any attempt to utilize the Philippine Consulate General in New York, located at the Philippine Center in New York, 556 5th Ave., New York, NY 10036, for campaigns or solicitation activities by candidates running for public office constitute a blatant violation of these principles.”

“The Consulate also condemns the spread of misleading information and the use of inflammatory language targeting the institution and its personnel purportedly because the candidate was not allowed to distribute clothes for children within the Consulate’s premises. Such activities again violate the principles of the Vienna Conventions and will never be tolerated. Such actions undermine the values of respect and professionalism that the Consulate upholds in serving the Filipino community under its jurisdiction.

“To safeguard the integrity of its premises and events, individuals attempting to misrepresent the Consulate’s actions or use its facilities for unauthorized purposes will not be allowed to participate in its activities. Neither will the Consulate allow itself to be used as a tool of parvenus with ulterior motives.

-o0o

“The Philippine Consulate General in New York remains steadfast in its mission to serve the Filipino community in the U.S. Northeast with professionalism, impartiality, and respect for its diplomatic mandate.”

The opening night on December 5, according to the Consulate’s press statement, started with the unveiling of the Christmas display at the Philippine Center’s windows led by the Philippine Department of Tourism-New York (PDOT).

The press statement dded: “The display, showcasing Filipino holiday traditions, drew admiration from locals and tourists along Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue. This was followed by the lighting of the first parol in the Philippine Center’s lobby, symbolizing Pagmamahalan (Love). Each evening thereafter featured a Parol Lighting Ceremony highlighting other Filipino core values such as Pasasalamat (Gratitude), Pamilya (Family), Kaluwalhatian (Glory), Kapayapaan (Peace), Pagkakaisa (Unity), Pakikipagkapwa-tao (Fellowship), Pananampalataya (Faith), and Pag-Asa (Hope).”

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LET’S RECYCLE APPLIANCES. If we’re not selling them on, let’s make sure we recycle our household appliances rather than throwing them away. Second-hand shops will often take them for parts, or we may ask our gov’t offices for advice on recycling program. Big terms are difficult and costly to dispose of and recycling centers will take them off our hands for free.

ELECTRIC TRANSFORMER. Much of America was still in the dark in the late 1800s. Yes, Thomas Edison had perfected his lightbulb, and power plants were being built, but there was a link missing between the two–a way to convert the higher voltages into lower ones.

Let’s also get behind glass by not throwing away glass jars–let’s use them TO STORE FOOD in our home and to keep things airtight. Let’s recycle both the glass jars and the metal lids when we can no longer use them.

FOR LADIES: HOW TO TURN DOWN YOUR GUY WHEN YOU ARE TIRED. If he’s in the mood but you’re not, let him know he still makes you hot with a sexy kiss and a straightforward “I’m so exhausted, I may conk out on top of you. Let’s do it tomorrow.” (Source: Dr. Yvonne Thomas)

(The author, who is now based in New York City, used to be the editor of two daily newspapers in Iloilo.—Ed)

The post ‘Fund-raising’ scandal smears RP consulate’s Simbang Gabi event first appeared on Iloilo Metropolitan Times.