Tsunami prank caused public panic in Cebu

When an earthquake with 6.9 magnitude hit Cebu around 11:49 a.m. today, I wasn't shaken. 

In fact, I managed to post "Earthquake!!!" in my Facebook and Twitter accounts while the rest of my colleagues are already under their tables.

The earthquake only rocked our building for less than a minute. Everyone was told to leave right after the floor stopped shaking. 

Upon reaching the safe ground, I immediately called my mom at home, where she and my one-year-old son were left alone. I wanted to check if she and Lance felt the earthquake, too. 

"O uy! (Oh yes!)" she confirmed, "Kusog kaayo ang uyog sa balay pero okay ra mi  (The earthquake shook the house hard but we're okay)." 

She added that Lance didn't even cry. To be honest, I was less worried knowing that my mom hurdled many earthquakes in her lifetime.The worst was in 1990 at 7.8 magnitude. For sure, she knows what to do.

At around 1:00 p.m., we were told to just go home. I found out that there was a tsunami alert raised.

"Is it really possible for a tsunami to hit Cebu?" I asked myself.

Though skeptical, I was happy that we were made to go home. I can't wait to check on Lance.

While on the cab with some of my colleagues, everyone including the cab driver shared the panic they felt during that short ground shaking experience. I just kept quiet then hesitantly told them that I didn't panic. 

When we were crossing the old Mactan bridge, we saw the super low tide sea. They jokingly said, it can be sign of an upcoming tsunami. We even teased the old driver to drive in super high speed should a tsunami attack us. We later on shove the idea of a tsunami given Cebu's geographical location and divine protection from the Holy Child, Señor Sto. Niño.

At past 2:00 p.m., my colleagues dropped me off at Jollibee-Gorordo where I can take a 13C jeep going downtown to get home. While I was aboard the jeep, my mind reeled over the miracles of Señor Sto. Niño especially on how he answered all my prayers for me and Lance. I always believe that my child has a special purpose here on earth. Then, a disturbing scream broke my deep thoughts.

"Tsunami!!! Naa na ang tsunami! (The tsunami is here!)" a woman back riding a running motorcycle shouted.

I was sitting at the jeep's front seat and saw the heavy traffic ahead of us along the two-way Echavez St. The motorcycle was going the opposite direction. 

"Buang! (Crazy!)" I said. The driver must have heard me and answered, "Dili imposible kay sa amoa gani sa Toledo taas na daw ang tubig (It's not impossible because water level is already high in our hometown in Toledo)."

Before I can retort, a horde of people was already frantically going to our direction loudly and repeatedly screaming, "Naa na ang tubig! (The water is here!)"

Everyone immediately got off the jeep including the driver and run along with the crowd. Private car owners did the same and even left their vehicles on the road. 

I, on the other hand, ran against the crowd who were pulling me to go with them and warning me about the water, which they said is already in Colon St. 

I cried I told them I can't because my mom and son is at home, which is just blocks away from Colon St. Worst, one guy said that the water is already in Gaisano-Main mall and it would be crazy to go there. That mall is just two blocks away from our house! 

So I scampered to the direction of our house, which is 10 to 15 blocks away from where the jeep stopped. I know I'm already in panic mode. If the water is already in Gaisamo Main, for sure I won't be able to come on time. This made me cry harder while forcing myself to run faster. 

Scenes of dead children as casualties of the last typhoon Sendong flashed my mind. I feared for Lance. I ran even faster.

Further fueling my fear are the worried faces of the people coming toward me while running with their children and some small belongings and momentarily looking behind their back to check if the water is already coming.

While running really fast, I tried to send a text message to my mom, "Ma, wer u? On my way home now." There was no reply. I only have P2 left on my cellphone load so the second and last text message was sent to my news reporter friend, "Dale, tawagi ko pls, wa koy load (please call me, I don't have load)." I was hoping that he'd tell me that there was no tsunami.

When I passed by our barangay hall, I heard a big man on motorbike shout, "It's false alarm." But it didn't stop the people nor I. It only made me run faster. 

Thank God! There was no tsunami water whatsoever when I got home. I, however, found my mom, brother, and Lance at our rooftop I immediately took my son and hugged him really tight. I was crying really hard, too.

Later on I realized that we are joined by strangers who requested to stay on our rooftop, where they felt safe should the giant wave arrive.

Our neighbors are also on their respective rooftops preparing for the big splash. 

I received a reply from Dale, who I guess sensed what I needed from him, "Tsunami not true."

Somehow it was a relief. I told my family to go back inside our house to further monitor the news.

A police car later on roved around our area announcing that tsunami alert was cancelled and for everyone to stay calm.

The announcement came in too late. The damage has already been done.

Why didn't the authorities announce correctly that the tsunami alert expires two hours after the earthquake? An announcement in layman's terms should have been released. I saw the official announcement online from  Philvolcs but it was only released around 2:30 p.m.?! 

Who are these inconsiderate pranksters? I think they should be held accountable for causing such unnecessary public alarm.

Tsunami Prank Victim
Please notice that this young mom no longer mind to run without slippers as long as she can bring her newborn baby away from the Tsunami. Shame on you pranksters!
(source: www.pullkicksmash.posterous.com)

I have been a reporter and was trained how to verify news but at that moment all I can think of is my son, whom I should go rush and rescue. I think all of the victims of that prank felt the same. To keep their families safe and run for their lives.

We are still experiencing several aftershocks while writing this post. We are still tuned in with the news despite the lifting of the alert. 

Amid this afternoon's turmoil, I still reaped something good.

Humanity unfolded right before my very eyes. Except for those heartless pranksters, it's good to realize that some people can actually leave material possessions, value more their families, and help others even if they are faced with the same adversity.

If only we can stay consistent with these values, I think humanity can stand prepared to any forms of tsunami. 

Happy Thought:

We are safe. Praise to you our Almighty God. 

Cebu Pacific: Budget Fares to Europe Soon!

Chatting with a friend based in London last night led to serious planning for me to fly to Europe. 

I went on searching for airfares that night to know how much I should save for that long overdue trip. 

Then, I found this today:

Please click image to enlarge.

My good friend Karen, who works as a flight attendant for Cebu Pacific, posted it on Facebook. 

What a coincidence, right?

I really look forward to this good news because for sure the money that I need to save would now be way too lower than initially planned. Hopefully. Ü

So for travel junkies out there, don't break those piggy banks yet and stay tuned for further announcement from Cebu Pacific. 

See you again in 2013, Europe. ;-)

Happy Thought:

Europe Here I Come! Ü (Thinking Positive)

A1 to visit Cebu

A1

Yes, you read it right.

British-Norwegian boy band A1 will be here in Cebu not to throw a concert though but visit their charity beneficiary in Mactan. I still have to confirm the details as I only just received this news today. A British source told me that the group will fly in first here in Cebu before their concert in Manila on February 25 at the Araneta Coliseum.

I will keep you posted. ;-)

Happy Thought:
They are coming!

New Year at the Moevenpick (Part 1)

Being a journalist has its perks. 

You can get up close and personal with your favorite celebrities, watch movies and concerts for free, go on several junkets, and stay at plush hotels free of any charge.

The perk I had at the close of 2011, however, was extra special. For the first time, I was able to let my family experience one of the perks I usually enjoy alone as a journalist. We welcomed and celebrated New Year's Eve at the upscale Moevenpick Resort and Spa Cebu in Mactan.

Follies de Mwah

Formerly known as Cebu Hilton, the hotel now carries a distinct Swiss hospitality brand under the Moevenpick Hotels and Resorts Management Group.

To boldly mark its first New Year in the Philippines under a new management, the hotel threw a night of Vegas-style musicale with the internationally-acclaimed theater performance group Follies de Mwah of the famous Club Mwah in Manila to entertain and delight guests, friends, families, and some members of the media who chose to welcome 2012 with them.

The Witty Host
Jude Bacalso, Cebu's famous multi-media personality.

Spotted
Cebu City Mayor Mike Rama and former city councilor Joy Pesquera are among the event's distinguished guests.

Pompous and glittering props and costumes conquered the stage along with the funny musical acts of gay performers.

My family, however, was more amazed with the sumptuous dinner feast we had before the show.

Dinner Buffet

Meat Lovers Station
Cebu's Lechon, Ham, and Roasted Beef.

Salad Station

French Macaron Tower

Concluding the show was a countdown to 2012, which was welcomed by a 30-minute fireworks display at the resort's beach front.

Chef Terry Styles
The down-to-earth international chef who prepared the sumptuous dinner buffet. 

Lance, who fell asleep at the middle of the show, woke up at the stroke of midnight. He was still and quiet while watching the fireworks on my lap. Though not saying a word, my little boy kept on looking at the sky until the last shot of spectacle.

The Buenaviaje Brothers
Flanking me are Pareng Edd and Andrew.

 It was a posh New Year celebration with dear friends and valued family. What else can I ask for.

Friends and Media Colleagues
Me, Niza, Jude, Adrian, Norman, Richard, Orly, Joy, and Mike.

*Photos courtesy of Mike Acebedo Lopez, marketing communications director of Moevenpick Resort and Spa Cebu.

Thanks to my editors Mimi and Niza for giving me the assignment and to Moevenpick for accommodating my whole family.

Happy Thought:

New Year. It's more fun in the Philippines! :p

New Year, New Challenge

It's been a while.

The holidays left me defeated in my 28-Day Blog Challenge. No biggie. You somehow win when you lose. Looking back at the holiday blast I had, there's really no reason to fret. Besides, I can still throw another blog challenge for 2012. :D 

This time, though, I'll make it 30! Ü

Since I am still at a looking-back-feeling-so-blessed-and-happy mode, please bear if this blog would mostly go on retrospect. 

For starters and inspiration, let me share with you our first family photo for 2012 taken at the Moevenpick Resort and Spa Cebu. 

After all, surmounting life's challenges is easier with your family around.

Happy Weekend! Ü

Happy Thought:

Starting the New Year with Laughter. Happiness All Year Round! Ü

Spongebob visits CDN

Spongebob!

We had our Christmas party at the office tonight.

Journalists, columnists, editors, and everyone who made this amazing newspaper running went to party even between deadlines.

Great food, good music, raffle prizes, and some superheroes gave our simple party at the newsroom a blast. I will be posting more photos soon.

I am not sure if Spongebob is a superhero but we're glad that he made it to our party.

He might become Lance's favorite soon so I took the chance to have a photo op with him. :D

Merry Christmas! Ü

Happy Thought:

Met Spongebob! LOL

Birthmas Wishlist

Lance was born five days before Christmas. Practically, this little fella is entitled to only one present that is good both for Christmas and his birthday. Hence, the Birthmas Wishlist.

Niza, my editor and kumare, has long requested me to post what she dubbed as Lance's registry. She said, it would make gift shopping easier for her and fellow godparents. Actually, we were afraid everyone will send pairs of socks as prompted by my Facebook wall post on Lance's new shoes. :D

The following are items in my Christmas shopping list for Lance. It would be really nice if you can cross one out for me. Ü

Clothes

Lance already outgrew almost all of his clothes. Actually, I really never bought much before thinking that he would only be staying at home anyway. Looking at his photos, however, I noticed that he has been wearing the same tee, given by one of his ninongs as Christening gift, every time we go out. The sleeveless pambahays, on the other hand, are already faded. So new clothes are very much welcome. He is size 1 if you're going to buy him some tees and Large for shorts and sandos.

Portal East is now in Cebu

Are you building your dream house?

You might want to check some high-quality uPVC windows and doors at Portal East, Inc. in A.S. Fortuna.

Mattress for Christmas, Anyone?

Lance and I live in a small apartment with his Granny and two Titos. Our humble abode is only fit for one big bed. Since we can’t fit all in the bed, some must sleep on the floor. When Lance came in, however, all of us had to take the floor. He doesn’t sleep on his crib, which is too small for a baby who moves too much while on slumber.

Currently, we only have one decent mattress at home. It’s a siesta Uratex mattress I bought at a department store last year. It’s a bit pricey but true to what the salesman prodded me to buying, the mattress is durable.

So when I received a press material from Uratex (what a coincidence!), I can’t help but go wishful thinking of getting one of these mattresses:

Purifoam

Allergy-causing microbes won’t grow on this mattress, which is great for babies and children.  It is made with first-class knitted fabric cover to create an exceptional combination of strength, comfort and long-lasting protection. (Price range Php 5,399.75 to Php 18,499.75)

Lance's New Shoes

Florsheim Shoes

A power outage on a hot mid-afternoon led me and my folks to the mall today. Our initial plan was to only stroll and have ice cream. As we did our strolling, we ended up buying this new pair of shoes for Lance.

It's his 4th pair of shoes. Too many for a little fellow who can barely walk.

Actually, I was really planning to buy him some new kickers for his upcoming birthday. His feet grow really fast, which explains the number of shoes. I was looking for comfort, style, and durability that's why I checked on Florsheim, which has a wide display of nice shoes for kids below 12 months.

The store was on sale. So what can a great mommy do? Ü

His Granny protested at first because it is still expensive despite the discount. She doesn't want me to spend so much. Good thing his Tito came to the rescue, backed me up on my choice, and donated some money so it won't appear I overspent. Wise yeah?

Anyway, we really should get a pair as we have been trying lots of shoes on Lance for over half an hour. :D

To Lance, please make these shoes last for a year. Mwah!

Happy Thought:
He's got Florsheim. Ü

The Road

Would you drive to an eerie-looking road?

I would definitely not but actress Rhian Ramos took the road less traveled breaking all hell loose both on and off the cam.

Crossroads

The day after I threw myself a challenge to blog everyday, our publisher advised me to again beef up my writing portfolio of hardcore news.

Well, I was asking her if I can do a part-time copy editing job for the editorial team but was instead offered to do in-depth news features for the paper.

It made me think. It made me ponder.

Is this destiny calling me to go back to what I do best?

I am now trying to recall why I left the news team five years ago. What I can remember so far is that I had a great time.

CDN 2006. 
My last  group photo with the editorial team.

For now, I only have one sure thing to beef up--- my blog! Ü

Happy Thought:

Journalists are only as good as their last story.

28-Day Blog Challenge

Hello December!

January is coming over pretty soon. For sure, I will be asked for some resolutions again. I know, I know. Since I won't be able to fulfil all of them, I only plan to succeed in at least one.

Blogging perhaps? Ü

I don't know really but I learned that it only takes 30 days to create a habit. Well, I only have 28 days before 2012. So let's see if we can make (a habit) and break (a record) on this challenge.

Well, one down! Ü Twenty-seven posts more to go. :p

Let's Go Blog, Mommy!

Happy Thought:

I'm excited.Ü

Forever 21 in Cebu

Crowd Frenzy

Queen City of the South's elite and fashionistas gathered Thursday night for the opening of Forever 21 outlet in SM City Cebu.

The two-level fashion store is the first F21 outside Manila further marking Cebu as the style mecca of the south.

Secrets and Fire

What is a fire award?

No, it's not an award for lazy bloggers nor a reminder that your blog should be burned for the lack of update.

Although what were mentioned can aptly apply, I'd rather want to call it as a LOVE award from one of my favorite bloggers Love2Type.

Happy Even After

Eleven days before the last decade closed, I became a mom.

I gave birth to a 7.12  lbs healthy baby boy through a successful Cesarean operation. I named the cord-coiler Lance.

One-Hour-Old Lance

I remember shedding a tear on his first sound behind surgical cover. It was meek but momentous. There were no stereotypical furious cries not even an "It's a boy!" announcement but there was the inexplicable "tear" of joy in the advent of motherhood .

For a single, who was horrified on the sight of a double-lined pee stick, such melodramatic scene was unexpected.

Two Days After
Lance was finally roomed-in with me.

When motherhood first smiled at me, I welcomed it with so much worry and disappointment. I practically panicked. I felt not ready. The only good thing I want to remember the day I peed on that test stick was  that I stood firm in keeping the baby.

God has a great reason for everything. I maybe the least pious but I am proud that I was able to do the right thing and trust in Him.

Indeed, when an angel is sent to earth, miracles happen.

Love and support incredibly rushed in from almost everyone and everywhere that, friends say, I turned out to be a blooming and happy big fat pregger.

Five Months Pregnant at MYOH 5
With CDN colleague and kumare Neris Gochoco.

You see, I had a runaway baby-daddy. I don't come from a rich family. Note that during my pregnancy I was only working as a freelance journalist, who has no regular income and savings.

Still, I was able to go to prenatal check-ups without a miss, take the required supplements and vitamins, eat and drink anything I want, and give birth to a healthy baby boy in one of the best private hospitals in Cebu. It's really costly if not expensive to be pregnant but God makes a way.

If ever one of the strangers, friends, colleagues, and family, who made my pregnancy a smooth journey, finds this blog, please know that I would be forever grateful to you. For you guys made me welcome each sunrise with so much excitement as my bulge grew bigger each day. I may not be able to return all your love and support rest assured that you made papa God smile.

First Night at Home
Lance was home in time for his Tito Ilgie's birthday.

My love tank was full when Lance made his touchdown on earth that night. What triggered the outpouring joy, however, is realizing that God's greatest gift is finally here in the flesh.

With three teeth peeping as he grins, the wide-eyed little fellow continues to unleash his super powers by giving me strength, contentment, and so much happiness.

Indeed, God has a great reason for everything.

I am blogging again, this time to chronicle and share my journey into motherhood. I may not be lucky to have  a story starting with the perfect once-upon-a-time fairy tale but somehow I am blessed to be happy even after.

Happy Thought:
I am a mommy! Ü

Sam Milby: A True Idol

The Scholars. Sam Milby with his Cebuano World Vision scholars Vivian Togonon and Gian Montealto.

ABS-CBN’s Idol star Sam Milby is living proof that big stars also have big hearts.

The celebrity hunk was recently here in Cebu to personally meet two Cebuano kids that he is sending to school.

Palawan: The Underground River

August 16, 2010

"Having black f0rest frap n palawan n0w. Ü," my facebook status reads at around the same day today last year.

My first trip to Palawan officially turns 1.

Libera in Cebu

Libera. (From Left) Ralph Skan, Ben Philipp, Joshua Madine, James Mordaunt, Liam Connery, and Kavana Crossley.

The Angelic voices of international British choral group Libera is set to enthrall Cebuano fans starting 8 p.m. tonight on their first ever concert at the Pacific Grand Ballroom of Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.

Gulp!

It's no turning back.

I am now an official blogger.

So why am I in blogosphere?

Well, why not?!