The New Year signals a new chapter in our lives—the chance to be better, kinder, and healthier versions of ourselves. But this year, we at PanahonTV suggest digging a little deeper when it comes to making resolutions. Aside from personal improvement, let’s also aim to make this world a nicer place to live in—by forming habits that address issues such as Climate Change, Disaster Preparedness, and Energy Conservation, among others.
1. Use reusable bottles for water. Plastic bottles, when not properly disposed, can cause multiple problems for the environment, such as clogging drainages. According to the EcoWaste Coalition, Metro Manila’s daily waste weighs in at an alarming 8,601 tons per day and is estimated to rise to 9,060 tons per day in 2015.
2. Bring a foldable canvas bag wherever you go. Instead of using plastic, you can put your purchases in it—and even sit on it in instances (an impromptu picnic, perhaps?) when you don’t want to dirty your clothes.
3. Have everyday-carry items that come in handy during emergencies.
4. Maximize sunlight to save on electricity. Read in natural light and use solar-powered gadgets.
5. Plant indigenous trees, which, experts say are more likely to be typhoon-resilient.
6. Reduce your carbon footprint by walking to nearby locations. This way, you don’t only help reduce carbon emission; you’re also on your way to preventing cardiovascular diseases. For more tips on going green, follow these simple tips.
7. Instead of driving, try biking like these people who do it for a living.
8. Carpool. Save the environment while making new friends!
9. Travel safe—whether you’re using public transport or your own vehicle. For destination ideas, we suggest taking a break in our star-studded beaches.
10. Finish your food. Pope Francis dishes out this wise advice, stating, “Throwing food away is like stealing from the tables of the poor, the hungry!” Remember that millions are suffering from hunger worldwide.
11. Understand the weather systems and Climate Change. Doing so can help you make more informed decisions.
12. Make your home resilient against typhoons, including the dreaded Storm Signal number 4!
13. Be fit. Now that the holidays are over, plan healthier meals that boost your immune system.
14. Sort your garbage. Better yet, make your own compost pit in your backyard.
15. Be a positive influence on others. Share your resolutions on your social networking page and spread the good vibes!
On November 8, 2013, Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) wreaked havoc in the Eastern Visayas, leaving a death toll of more than 6,000. After staying in our country for sixteen hours, last year’s strongest typhoon in the entire planet traversed the West Philippine Sea and finally exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility.
The storm surges brought by the cyclone have caused massive destruction especially in Guiuan in Eastern Samar, Tacloban in Leyte, and the seaside communities of Palawan. The National Disaster and Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC) responded by deploying 35,463 personnel, 1,351 vehicles, 163 aircraft and 118 sea vessels to the devastated areas, where power outages and breakdown of telecommunication systems were reported.
Twenty-five international humanitarian agencies arrived in Tacloban to assist the victims, and address the needs and damages brought about by the typhoon. It was said to be the biggest disaster response, relief and recovery effort in our nation’s history.
According to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), rehabilitation and reconstruction of the affected areas will need at least more than 300 billion pesos. The NDRRMC states that rebuilding the affected areas will take three to five years.
Emergency and evacuation plans were well plotted in different islands of the country, but the strength of Yolanda was more these could handle. Now, measures are being taken to ensure citizen preparedness for such calamities. In line with this, the NDRMCC recommended that Storm Surge Advisories should be raised two days before the expected onslaught of the hazard.