Need to go? Traffic aides get diapers
By | Jan. 08, 2015 at 12:01amThe Metro Manila Development Authority on Wednesday bought 2,000 adult diapers to be given to its personnel assigned to secure traffic during the Feast of the Black Nazarene this Friday.
The 2,000 men from the agency’s Traffic Management Unit and Metro Parkways Clearing Group will be wearing the disposable underwear if they need “to answer the call of nature” without having to leave their posts.
“They (traffic constables) must wear it. If you leave your post and look for portalets, you will encounter a long line there because of the huge number of people during the event and you will not be able to return,” said MMDA chairman Francis Tolentino.
The MMDA traffic constables will start guarding the devotees Thursday evening during the vigil at the Quirino Grandstand in Luneta Park. They will also supervise vehicular and pedestrian traffic to avoid accidents or any untoward incident particularly along the route of the procession.
Tolentino said the disposable diapers can absorb up to four rounds of urination. “Hindi talaga kakayanin ng portalets kasi Pista ito ng Nazareno. Isang drum lang ang kaya ng portalet. Kung sabay sabay lahat ji-jingle, wala ng tatao doon sa pwesto.”
Tolentino said his agency is also considering implementing the “diaper scheme” for the five-day Papal Visit in Manila and in the province of Leyte next week.
“The agency have to do this for the Feast of the (Black) Nazarene. This is a dry run for the Papal Visit,” said the MMDA chief.
MMDA ambulances, tow trucks, and personnel from the Rescue Unit will also be on standby to provide assistance in case of emergencies.
The MMDA, meanwhile, advised motorists to take alternate routes, saying motorists and commuters will expect traffic gridlock along major thoroughfares in Manila, paricularly along Taft Avenue and Roxas Boulevard.
“Bringing cars going to the event is not advisable,” said Tolentino.
On the day of the procession, the following roads will be closed starting at 3 a.m. – McArthur Bridge, Jones Bridge, Quezon Bridge, Roxas Boulevard (from Katigbak Drive to T.M Kalaw Avenue), both lanes of Quezon Boulevard from Andalucia/Fugoso to España/P. Campa southbound and Taft Avenue northbound.
A traffic re-routing scheme will be implemented effective midnight of Jan. 8.
The agency also issued the following traffic guidelines.
1. All vehicles coming from Quezon City using the stretch og Espana shall turn right P. Campa, left Andalucia, right Fugoso, left T. Mapua to point of destination.
2. All Public Utility Jeeps/light vehicles coming from Espana intending to proceed to South Pier Zone, turn left Nicanor Reyes, right Recto, straight to R-10, then left at R-10 to Delpan Bridge to destination.
3. All vehicles coming from northern part of Manila intending to utilize the stretch of Bonifacio Drive southbound shall turn right Roberto S. Oca St., left Delgado, left Bonifacio Drive (for Port Area Offices) or right to A. Soriano to Magallanes Drive, right P. Burgos, go straight to Lagusnilad to Taft Avenue.
4. All vehicles coming from the southern part of Manila intending to utilize the stretch of P. Burgos shall take T.M. Kalaw, left Taft Avenue, right Ayala to Ayala Bridge to point of destination.
5. Private vehicles coming from southern part of Manila intending to utilize the northbound of Roxas Blvd., shall turn right Quirino Avenue, and take Nagtahan Bridge to their destination.
6. All PUJs plying Monumento-Gasak-Recto intending to utilize Andalucia thru Recto shall turn right Fugoso, right Oroquieta to point of Origin.
7. All vehicles coming from Legarda shall turn right Recto or left Mendiola to point of destination.
8. All vehicles/cargo trucks coming from the south shall take Pres. Osmena, right Pres Quirino to Nagtahan via AH Lacson to Capulong (vice versa).
9. Other motorists intending to proceed to North of Manila or South of Manila are advised to utilize the stretch of Lacson to Nagtahan (vice versa) or to utilize the stretch of Road 10 to Roxas Boulevard (vice versa) to point of destination.
10. All buses coming from the eastern part of Manila particularly G-Liner/RRCG utilizing Legarda shall turn right at Recto Ave, right at Morayta, right at Espana, right Lacson Avenue, right Earnshaw then left at Legarda to point of origin.
11. All buses coming from Taft Ave going to Fairview shall turn right United Nations Avenue up to Otis, left Nagtahan to straight Lacson, right Espana to point of origin.
12. All buses coming from southern part of Manila (Laguna and Cavite) utilizing Taft Ave. are not allowed to enter from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. and allowed only up to Remedios St, right San Marcelino, back to point of origin.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2015/01/08/need-to-go-traffic-aides-get-diapers/
MMDA enforcers to wear diapers for Nazarene procession
MMDA enforcers to wear diapers for Nazarene procession
Metro Manila Development Authority Chairman Francis Tolentino has asked the public to respect the agency’s traffic constables, yet he plans to subject them to the bizarre measure of wearing diapers while on duty–and announcing the measure, to boot.
MMDA chair Francis Tolentino on Wednesday said the 2,000 traffic constables to be deployed for the procession for the feast of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo, Manila, on Friday would be provided with adult diapers so that they won’t have to leave their posts in case they really need to go. It’s a precautionary measure never before considered in any traffic management operation.
The Black Nazarene procession is one of the country’s biggest religious gatherings seems to get more challenging each year for authorities.
“Because if you leave your spot and join the queue to the portalets, it might take you more than hour to get back,” Tolentino explained to reporters. “That’s why they really have to wear something.”
He said diapers would also be handed out when the MMDA mobilizes personnel for the visit of Pope Francis next week.
But some traffic marshals approached by the Inquirer were embarrassed by the mere mention of Tolentino’s idea. “I don’t mind the tough assignment. But being asked to wear diapers? I don’t know. I would rather wait in line,” said one constable.
Another enforcer said he wouldn’t feel comfortable at all —especially now that Tolentino had announced it and all eyes would be on the MMDA constables on the day of the procession. With a report from Tina Santos, Annelle Tayao-Juego and Jocelyn R. Uy, Kristine Felisse Mangunay- See more at: http://motioncars.inquirer.net/34206/mmda-enforcers-to-wear-diapers-for-nazarene-procession#sthash.YNovRD1g.dpuf
http://motioncars.inquirer.net/34206/mmda-enforcers-to-wear-diapers-for-nazarene-procession
Airlines cancel total of 102 flights for Papal visit
Local airlines have cancelled some 102 flights for the Papal visit.
Philippine Airlines (PAL) cancelled a total of 71 flights on January 15 and 19, 2015 to give way for the arrival and departure ceremonies of Pope Francis at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).
The 31 cancelled domestic flights on Jan. 15 include Manila-Bacolod-Manila (2P2907/2908); Manila-Busuanga-Manila (2P2033/2034); 2 Manila-Cagayan de Oro-Manila flights (2P2527/2528 and 2P2525/2526); 4 Manila-Caticlan-Manila (2P2057/2058, 2P2049/2050, 2P2063/2064, 2P2053/2054); 3 Manila-Davao-Manila (2P2817/2818, 2P2819/2820, 2P2823/2824) and 1 Manila-Dumaguete-Manila (2P2543/2544).
Also included are Manila-Laoag-Manila flight (2P2196/2197); Manila-Legazpi-Manila (2P2927/2928); Manila-Puerto Princesa-Manila (2P2787/2788); Manila-Surigao-Manila (2P2095/2096); 2 Manila-Tacloban-Manila flights (2P2985/2986 and 2P2987/2988); Manila-Tagbilaran-Manila (2P2777/2778); Manila-Tuguegarao-Manila (2P2014/2015) and Manila-Zamboanga-Manila (2P2997/2998).
For January 16, PAL cancelled one Davao-Manila flight (2P2808); one Cebu-Manila (PR2860); Manila-Cebu-Manila (PR2861/2862) and Manila-Cebu (PR2863).
International flights cancelled for January 16 cover: Manila-Singapore-Manila (PR511/502); two
Manila-Hong Kong-Manila (PR318/319 and PR312/313); Manila-Kansai (PR408); Manila-Bangkok-Manila (PR736/737) and Manila-Honolulu-Manila (PR100/101).
Local flights cancelled on Jan. 19 are: Manila-Bacolod-Manila (2P2903/2914); Manila-Basco-Manila (2P2084/2085); Manila-Busuanga-Manila (2P2031/2032); Manila-Butuan-Manila (2P2967/2968); Manila-Cagayan de Oro-Manila (PR1519/1520); Manila-Calbayog-Manila (2P2071/2072) and Manila-Catarman-Manila (2P2079/2080).
On the same date, PAL cancelled 6 Manila-Caticlan-Manila flights (2P2039/2040, 2P2045/2046, 2P2043/2044, 2P2051/2052, 2P2059/2060,2P2041/2042); 2 Manila-Davao-Manila flights (2P2811/2810 and 2P2813/2814).
Also cancelled were Manila-Iloilo-Manila (2P2931/2940); Manila-Kalibo-Manila (2P2969/2970);
Manila-Legazpi-Manila (2P2925/2926); Manila-Naga-Manila (2P2265/2266); Manila-Ozamiz-Manila (2P2889/2890); Manila-Puerto Princesa-Manila (2P2781/2782); Manila-Roxas-Manila (2P2201/2202); Manila-Surigao-Manila (2P2095/2096); Manila-Tacloban-Manila (2P2981/2982);
Manila-Tagbilaran-Manila (2P2773/2774) and two Manila-Zamboanga-Manila (2P2993/2994 and 2P2991/2992) plus Zamboanga-Jolo-Zamboanga (2P2245/2246).
Manila-Cebu-Manila (PR2841/2842) was likewise cancelled with Cebu-Manila (PR2846) and Manila-Cebu (PR2849).
PAL cancelled one international flight on January 19 – Manila-Hong Kong-Manila (PR300/301) and 8 international flights on January 18 – Manila-Hong Kong (PR312); Hong Kong-Manila (PR313); Manila-Singapore (PR509); Singapore-Manila (PR510); two Manila-Haneda-Manila (PR422/421 and PR424/423); Manila-Bangkok-Manila (PR730/731); Manila-Jakarta-Manila (PR539/540); Manila-Fukuoka-Manila (PR426/425) and Manila-Singapore-Manila (PR507/508)..
PAL will fly the Pope to Tacloban on Jan. 17, leaving Manila at 8:15 AM, returning at 5:00 PM.
PAL has been tagged official Papal carrier of Pope Francis’ first pastoral visit to the Philippines, after past experience of flying now Saint John Paul II in February 1981 and January 1995.
On the other hand, Cebu Pacific (CEB) has cancelled 7 domestic flights for January 17 – 4 Manila – Tacloban – Manila flights (5J 651 / 652, 5J 653 / 654, 5J 657 / 658, 5J 659 / 660 ) and three Cebu – Tacloban – Cebu flights (5J 424 / 425, 5J 426 / 427, 5J 428 / 429)
Air Asia cancelled a total of 24 local and international flights for January 15, 17 and 19.
http://www.mb.com.ph/airlines-cancel-total-of-102-flights-for-papal-visit/Palace: No backpacks at Pope's Luneta mass
Malacañang gives important reminders to those planning to attend the papal mass and appeals for full public cooperation throughout the Pope's visit
Natashya Gutierrez
Published 3:30 PM, Jan 08, 2015
Updated 3:30 PM, Jan 08, 2015
Exactly a week before the arrival of Pope Francis to the country, Malacañang issued some guidelines to those who are planning to participate in related events, and urged their full cooperation with authorities to ensure the papal visit will be smooth-sailing.
Palace Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr provided the guidelines in a news briefing after President Benigno Aquino III led a meeting with members of the Cabinet, Manila Archbishop Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, and other church leaders on the papal visit on Thursday, January 8.
Coloma said the meeting, where the group discussed security preparations, will ensure “coordination of the government and the church for the successful state and apostolic visit of Pope Francis” from January 15-19.
At the news briefing, Coloma gave some reminders and ground rules for those attending the Pope's Luneta mass on January 18:
Rizal Park and the Quirino Grandstand will be open on Saturday at 6 am until 1 pm
Backpacks or bags would not be allowed into the site
Snacks and drinks are allowed but must be placed in transparent containers
Bring fans and hats, and raincoats rather than umbrellas to provide others an unobstructed view
Coloma appealed to the public to cooperate with authorities and said security measures will be “strictly followed.”
“The government and the Church are united in appealing for public cooperation in following all our guidelines which seek to ensure the smooth flow of events, and the safety of all participants,” Coloma said in Filipino.
He said the appeal extends to those who will attend the Tacloban mass, and those who will witness the motorcade of the Pope.
Around 1.2 million people are expected to mass at Rizal Park, but the number could swell up to 5 million. Organizers have said 20 first aid stations and 400 portalets will be set up in areas around the park.
During the Palace meeting, the itinerary of Francis was discussed as well as the movements of the Pope in Manila and Leyte.
'Review of past lessons'
As for the traffic rerouting plan, Coloma said the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will announce details after the January 9 Feast of the Black Nazarene, the biggest religious gathering in the country held annually in Manila. The plan will include drop-off points and designated parking areas.
He also called attention to announced flight changes during the Pope’s trip.
Coloma gave assurances the administration is ready for the visit, adding lessons from past incidents were reviewed and considered.
He cited the past visits of Pope Paul VI, Pope John Paul II, and the crowd surge at the motorcade of other relevant antecedents such as the Feast of the Black Nazarene procession.
"If you remember from last year, the mass didn't finish because the crowd surged into the Quirino Grandstand and demanded the procession begin," he said.
Coloma said authorities and Church leaders also reviewed the "Wowowee" stampede at the Ultra in 2006 which killed over 70 people and injured hundreds of others.
"All relevant antecedents were considered in determining the security that would be followed," he said.
The briefing was presented by Undersecretary Emmanuel Bautista, the designated point person for security preparations, as well as Armed Forces Chief General Gregorio Pio Catapang and Philippine National Police officer-in-charge Deputy Director General Leonardo Espina.
Aside from Tagle, Church representatives included Papal Nuncio Archbishop Giuseppe Pinto, Deputy Head of Mission Reverend Monsignor Chibuike Onyeaghala, Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) president Archbishop Socrates Villegas, and CBCP Secretary Fr Rufino Cescon Jr.
The Cabinet officials at the meeting were led by Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, Jr, and included Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Interior Secretary Manuel Roxas II, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima, Public Works Secretary Rogelio Singson, and Transportation Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya.
The others are Science Secretary Mario Montejo, Secretary to the Cabinet Rene Almendras, Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez, MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda, National Security Adviser Cesar Garcia, Presidential Management Staff Secretary Julia Abad, and Health Secretary Janette Garin.
Here are ways to stay in peak physical and mental condition as you wait among the crowd for that first glimpse of Pope Francis
Pia Ranada
Published 3:58 PM, Jan 08, 2015
Updated 4:26 PM, Jan 08, 2015
Are you ready for Pope Francis' visit to the Philippines?
If you're planning to attend his public events – such as the mass at the Quirino Grandstand and the papal motorcade – know that there are health and safety risks wherever large, eager crowds gather.
Here are tips from the Department of Health (DOH) and the Philippine Medical Association (PMA) on how to keep in good physical and mental condition as you wait to catch that first glimpse of the Pope.
1. Beware of stampedes.
At rare events like this with possibly millions of people in attendance and palpable excitement in the air, stampedes are known to happen. Keep a close eye on the crowd around you.
You may have to make a quick decision on whether staying where you are is safe. Have an exit plan. If people start getting too rough or uncontrollable, extricate yourself from the crowd.
2. Bring enough food and water.
The large crowds will likely make street vendors and restaurants inaccessible for a long period of time. You're also not likely to want to leave your place if you already have a good vantage point.
So pack enough food and water to last you the entire day. Limit food to sandwiches, candies or other food that won't make a mess and are easy to eat. Water will prevent against dehydration and heat stroke. (Read other Palace guidelines here)
3. Bring your medication.
Bring the medicines you are required to take, as well as pills to cure a bad stomach or dizziness.
4. Keep cool.
Expect the sun to be out and prepare accordingly. Wear light, loose clothes that ensure maximum comfort. Since shade may be hard to come by and umbrellas will block the view of other people, wear a hat with a visor instead.
5. Identify the nearest health station.
DOH Spokesman Dr Lyndon Lee Suy said there will be more than 20 health stations strategically placed all over Quirino Granstand and surrounding areas. These stations will be staffed with 5 to 8 health workers equipped with first aid tools. There will also be ambulances on standby.
Once you've positioned yourself, look for the nearest health station and keep in mind how to get there in case of emergencies.
6. Have a buddy system.
Make sure you have someone who can help you if you start feeling unwell. If this happens, tell your buddy right away instead of holding it in. This way, your buddy can bring you to the nearest health station before your condition worsens.
7. Be ready to walk.
Cars will be prohibited from accessing many areas around the venue which means you may have to walk more than you are used to.
Make sure you are fit to take the strain. Wear the right shoes and clothes and don't burden yourself with a heavy bag, which Malacañang says you would not be allowed to bring in anyway.
If you have cardiovascular problems which may be triggered by the strain, consider staying home or watching from an area that is easier to get to, said PMA president Dr Minerva Calimag.
8. Be prepared for potty problems.
When you've found a great spot and the Pope is only a few feet away, you might not want to leave your place even if your kidneys are full to bursting. The best way to prevent this from happening is to make sure you've gone to the bathroom before the program starts.
You can also consider wearing adult diapers. As Lee Suy says, "It may sound funny but that would help."
The point is to not hold in if you really need to go. That may cause more health problems later on, such as Urinary Tract Infection (UTI).
9. In some cases, it may be best to stay home.
If you are already sick with a cold, fever or other health conditions, it may be best to stay at home and watch the events unfold from there, said Calimag.
The same goes for pregnant women who will have to put up with the jostling and pushing of an excited crowd.
10. Make it easy to find your child.
If you plan to bring your kids, put your address or contact information in their bag or clothes. If they get lost in the crowd, whoever finds them knows where to bring them.
– Rappler.com
Airlines cancel total of 102 flights for Papal visit
Local airlines have cancelled some 102 flights for the Papal visit.
Philippine Airlines (PAL) cancelled a total of 71 flights on January 15 and 19, 2015 to give way for the arrival and departure ceremonies of Pope Francis at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).
The 31 cancelled domestic flights on Jan. 15 include Manila-Bacolod-Manila (2P2907/2908); Manila-Busuanga-Manila (2P2033/2034); 2 Manila-Cagayan de Oro-Manila flights (2P2527/2528 and 2P2525/2526); 4 Manila-Caticlan-Manila (2P2057/2058, 2P2049/2050, 2P2063/2064, 2P2053/2054); 3 Manila-Davao-Manila (2P2817/2818, 2P2819/2820, 2P2823/2824) and 1 Manila-Dumaguete-Manila (2P2543/2544).
Also included are Manila-Laoag-Manila flight (2P2196/2197); Manila-Legazpi-Manila (2P2927/2928); Manila-Puerto Princesa-Manila (2P2787/2788); Manila-Surigao-Manila (2P2095/2096); 2 Manila-Tacloban-Manila flights (2P2985/2986 and 2P2987/2988); Manila-Tagbilaran-Manila (2P2777/2778); Manila-Tuguegarao-Manila (2P2014/2015) and Manila-Zamboanga-Manila (2P2997/2998).
For January 16, PAL cancelled one Davao-Manila flight (2P2808); one Cebu-Manila (PR2860); Manila-Cebu-Manila (PR2861/2862) and Manila-Cebu (PR2863).
International flights cancelled for January 16 cover: Manila-Singapore-Manila (PR511/502); two
Manila-Hong Kong-Manila (PR318/319 and PR312/313); Manila-Kansai (PR408); Manila-Bangkok-Manila (PR736/737) and Manila-Honolulu-Manila (PR100/101).
Local flights cancelled on Jan. 19 are: Manila-Bacolod-Manila (2P2903/2914); Manila-Basco-Manila (2P2084/2085); Manila-Busuanga-Manila (2P2031/2032); Manila-Butuan-Manila (2P2967/2968); Manila-Cagayan de Oro-Manila (PR1519/1520); Manila-Calbayog-Manila (2P2071/2072) and Manila-Catarman-Manila (2P2079/2080).
On the same date, PAL cancelled 6 Manila-Caticlan-Manila flights (2P2039/2040, 2P2045/2046, 2P2043/2044, 2P2051/2052, 2P2059/2060,2P2041/2042); 2 Manila-Davao-Manila flights (2P2811/2810 and 2P2813/2814).
Also cancelled were Manila-Iloilo-Manila (2P2931/2940); Manila-Kalibo-Manila (2P2969/2970);
Manila-Legazpi-Manila (2P2925/2926); Manila-Naga-Manila (2P2265/2266); Manila-Ozamiz-Manila (2P2889/2890); Manila-Puerto Princesa-Manila (2P2781/2782); Manila-Roxas-Manila (2P2201/2202); Manila-Surigao-Manila (2P2095/2096); Manila-Tacloban-Manila (2P2981/2982);
Manila-Tagbilaran-Manila (2P2773/2774) and two Manila-Zamboanga-Manila (2P2993/2994 and 2P2991/2992) plus Zamboanga-Jolo-Zamboanga (2P2245/2246).
Manila-Cebu-Manila (PR2841/2842) was likewise cancelled with Cebu-Manila (PR2846) and Manila-Cebu (PR2849).
PAL cancelled one international flight on January 19 – Manila-Hong Kong-Manila (PR300/301) and 8 international flights on January 18 – Manila-Hong Kong (PR312); Hong Kong-Manila (PR313); Manila-Singapore (PR509); Singapore-Manila (PR510); two Manila-Haneda-Manila (PR422/421 and PR424/423); Manila-Bangkok-Manila (PR730/731); Manila-Jakarta-Manila (PR539/540); Manila-Fukuoka-Manila (PR426/425) and Manila-Singapore-Manila (PR507/508)..
PAL will fly the Pope to Tacloban on Jan. 17, leaving Manila at 8:15 AM, returning at 5:00 PM.
PAL has been tagged official Papal carrier of Pope Francis’ first pastoral visit to the Philippines, after past experience of flying now Saint John Paul II in February 1981 and January 1995.
On the other hand, Cebu Pacific (CEB) has cancelled 7 domestic flights for January 17 – 4 Manila – Tacloban – Manila flights (5J 651 / 652, 5J 653 / 654, 5J 657 / 658, 5J 659 / 660 ) and three Cebu – Tacloban – Cebu flights (5J 424 / 425, 5J 426 / 427, 5J 428 / 429)
Air Asia cancelled a total of 24 local and international flights for January 15, 17 and 19.
http://www.mb.com.ph/airlines-cancel-total-of-102-flights-for-papal-visit/Palace: No backpacks at Pope's Luneta mass
Malacañang gives important reminders to those planning to attend the papal mass and appeals for full public cooperation throughout the Pope's visit
Natashya Gutierrez
Published 3:30 PM, Jan 08, 2015
Updated 3:30 PM, Jan 08, 2015
Exactly a week before the arrival of Pope Francis to the country, Malacañang issued some guidelines to those who are planning to participate in related events, and urged their full cooperation with authorities to ensure the papal visit will be smooth-sailing.
Palace Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr provided the guidelines in a news briefing after President Benigno Aquino III led a meeting with members of the Cabinet, Manila Archbishop Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, and other church leaders on the papal visit on Thursday, January 8.
Coloma said the meeting, where the group discussed security preparations, will ensure “coordination of the government and the church for the successful state and apostolic visit of Pope Francis” from January 15-19.
At the news briefing, Coloma gave some reminders and ground rules for those attending the Pope's Luneta mass on January 18:
Rizal Park and the Quirino Grandstand will be open on Saturday at 6 am until 1 pm
Backpacks or bags would not be allowed into the site
Snacks and drinks are allowed but must be placed in transparent containers
Bring fans and hats, and raincoats rather than umbrellas to provide others an unobstructed view
Coloma appealed to the public to cooperate with authorities and said security measures will be “strictly followed.”
“The government and the Church are united in appealing for public cooperation in following all our guidelines which seek to ensure the smooth flow of events, and the safety of all participants,” Coloma said in Filipino.
He said the appeal extends to those who will attend the Tacloban mass, and those who will witness the motorcade of the Pope.
Around 1.2 million people are expected to mass at Rizal Park, but the number could swell up to 5 million. Organizers have said 20 first aid stations and 400 portalets will be set up in areas around the park.
During the Palace meeting, the itinerary of Francis was discussed as well as the movements of the Pope in Manila and Leyte.
'Review of past lessons'
As for the traffic rerouting plan, Coloma said the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will announce details after the January 9 Feast of the Black Nazarene, the biggest religious gathering in the country held annually in Manila. The plan will include drop-off points and designated parking areas.
He also called attention to announced flight changes during the Pope’s trip.
Coloma gave assurances the administration is ready for the visit, adding lessons from past incidents were reviewed and considered.
He cited the past visits of Pope Paul VI, Pope John Paul II, and the crowd surge at the motorcade of other relevant antecedents such as the Feast of the Black Nazarene procession.
"If you remember from last year, the mass didn't finish because the crowd surged into the Quirino Grandstand and demanded the procession begin," he said.
Coloma said authorities and Church leaders also reviewed the "Wowowee" stampede at the Ultra in 2006 which killed over 70 people and injured hundreds of others.
"All relevant antecedents were considered in determining the security that would be followed," he said.
The briefing was presented by Undersecretary Emmanuel Bautista, the designated point person for security preparations, as well as Armed Forces Chief General Gregorio Pio Catapang and Philippine National Police officer-in-charge Deputy Director General Leonardo Espina.
Aside from Tagle, Church representatives included Papal Nuncio Archbishop Giuseppe Pinto, Deputy Head of Mission Reverend Monsignor Chibuike Onyeaghala, Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) president Archbishop Socrates Villegas, and CBCP Secretary Fr Rufino Cescon Jr.
The Cabinet officials at the meeting were led by Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, Jr, and included Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Interior Secretary Manuel Roxas II, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima, Public Works Secretary Rogelio Singson, and Transportation Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya.
The others are Science Secretary Mario Montejo, Secretary to the Cabinet Rene Almendras, Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez, MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda, National Security Adviser Cesar Garcia, Presidential Management Staff Secretary Julia Abad, and Health Secretary Janette Garin.
http://www.rappler.com/specials/pope-francis-ph/80149-ph-papal-visit-guidelines
Truckers push for partial travel ban during Papal visit
Truckers push for partial travel ban during Papal visit
A group of truck operators is pushing for the lifting of a blanket travel ban during the visit of Pope Francis to allow them to speed up the withdrawal of cargo containers from the country's main ports of entry.
In a statement, George Fermin, president of the Alliance of Concerned Truck Owners and Organizations (ACTOO), said the ban need not cover every hour of the Pope’s five-day trip to the Philippines.
"Alternate routes to and from the ports during holidays such as the Papal visit should be provided," he said, adding that a blanket truck ban for the duration of the Pope’s visit will slow down movement to and from the ports.
Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) general manager Juan Sta. Ana said the agency expects difficulty accessing the ports during the Papal visit, even as cargo continues to enter the country, thereby contributing to congestion.
"So we are asking the participation of each stakeholder to maintain our decongestion efforts,” Sta. Ana said.
He also asked cargo owners with cleared shipments pending at the Manila International Container Terminal (MICT) and at the Manila South Harbor to immediately pick those up soonest to vacate as much space as possible.
"We need the spaces in preparation for a worst-case scenario to accommodate the incoming import cargoes from vessels," Sta. Ana said.
Unlike the nine-day Christmas break when all roads were open, the Papal visit will close almost all major routes to and from the two Manila ports to give way to the festivities.
Latest data from port operators show that combined yard utilization climbed back to 89 percent from 79 percent last December 24, or the start of the nine-day Christmas break.
The Manila City government as well as the Metro Manila Development Authority had announced they are closing roads through which Pope Francis' motorcade will pass, including roads leading to and from the Manila Cathedral in Intramuros, the University of Santo Tomas in Espana, the Quirino Grandstand in Luneta.
When Pope John Paul II visited Manila for the World Youth Day in 1995, port operations slowed down, but did not cause congestion.
Traffic enforcers to wear diapers for procession
Because they have no portable toilets during the Black Nazarene procession and papal visit, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will distribute adult diapers to its traffic enforcers to enable them to answer nature’s call without leaving their posts.
MMDA Chairman Francis N. Tolentino said at least two diapers will be given to traffic enforcers assigned to the two major events who cannot access portalets.
“Our personnel do not have to leave posts just to take a pee when they wear adult diapers,” said Tolentino.
The lack of portable toilets is a common problem during the Feast of the Black Nazarene due to the influx of people, including local and foreign tourists.
Devotees of the Black Nazarene are expected to flock to Quiapo this week for the yearly feast of their patron, whose image is believed to have miraculous powers.
The image will be brought to Quirino Grandstand in Manila today for an overnight vigil and then returned to Quiapo Church via the yearly procession tomorrow.
“Those who would be given diapers are those front line traffic enforcers who will be deployed in Quirino Grandstand, and Quiapo Church in Manila. We expect that there will be few bathroom breaks for them,” said Tolentino.
He said adult diapers can hold up to three episodes of urine. “If this will work, we will also use diapers during the papal visit,” said Tolentino.
Meanwhile, devotees of the Black Nazarene will have an opportunity to get close and venerate the miraculous image today with the start of the “pahalik” or kissing of the image.
Based on the schedule of activities provided by Quiapo Church, the pahalik will start at 1 p.m. at the Quirino Grandstand.
Monsignor Clemente Ignacio, rector of Quiapo Church, said the pahalik is being held in order to give devotees more access to the Nazareno.
The priest, however, did not disclose the time when they will transfer the image to Luneta. Ignacio earlier revealed a slight change in the stage setup at the Quirino Grandstand for this year’s feast.
He said they adjusted the location of the altar at the main grandstand that will be set forward and away from the bleachers area due to the presence of the scaffoldings.
An old abandoned building in Escolta, Manila caught fire yesterday, prompting authorities to recommend a change in the procession route. Two firefighters were injured in the fire.
Senior Fire Officer 4 John Joseph Jalique said the fire that hit the 14-story PNB building started at about 2:30 a.m. and reached Task Force Bravo at 4:26 a.m.
Firefighters have not yet put out the fire that originated on the second floor as of presstime. “It is very hard for us to penetrate the building because the smoke is very thick,” Jalique said.
According to Jalique, they are still investigating the cause of the fire.
Manila City Hall officials will recommend a slight change in the procession route because of the fire.
City building official Engr. Rogelio Legaspi said it is no longer safe for devotees to pass through Escolta St. because of falling debris from the burned structure.
“This is dangerous because just a little vibration or a strong wind could prompt something to fall. We will recommend a rerouting, particularly Dasmariñas St. which is quite near Escolta. It is just on the other street and it is wide enough to accommodate the number of devotees who will join the yearly procession on Friday,” Legaspi said. (Anna Liza V. Alavaren and Jenny F. Manongdo)
http://www.tempo.com.ph/2015/01/traffic-enforcers-to-wear-diapers-for-procession/10 tips: Stay healthy, safe during Pope Francis eventsHere are ways to stay in peak physical and mental condition as you wait among the crowd for that first glimpse of Pope Francis
Pia Ranada
Published 3:58 PM, Jan 08, 2015
Updated 4:26 PM, Jan 08, 2015
Are you ready for Pope Francis' visit to the Philippines?
If you're planning to attend his public events – such as the mass at the Quirino Grandstand and the papal motorcade – know that there are health and safety risks wherever large, eager crowds gather.
Here are tips from the Department of Health (DOH) and the Philippine Medical Association (PMA) on how to keep in good physical and mental condition as you wait to catch that first glimpse of the Pope.
1. Beware of stampedes.
At rare events like this with possibly millions of people in attendance and palpable excitement in the air, stampedes are known to happen. Keep a close eye on the crowd around you.
You may have to make a quick decision on whether staying where you are is safe. Have an exit plan. If people start getting too rough or uncontrollable, extricate yourself from the crowd.
2. Bring enough food and water.
The large crowds will likely make street vendors and restaurants inaccessible for a long period of time. You're also not likely to want to leave your place if you already have a good vantage point.
So pack enough food and water to last you the entire day. Limit food to sandwiches, candies or other food that won't make a mess and are easy to eat. Water will prevent against dehydration and heat stroke. (Read other Palace guidelines here)
3. Bring your medication.
Bring the medicines you are required to take, as well as pills to cure a bad stomach or dizziness.
4. Keep cool.
Expect the sun to be out and prepare accordingly. Wear light, loose clothes that ensure maximum comfort. Since shade may be hard to come by and umbrellas will block the view of other people, wear a hat with a visor instead.
5. Identify the nearest health station.
DOH Spokesman Dr Lyndon Lee Suy said there will be more than 20 health stations strategically placed all over Quirino Granstand and surrounding areas. These stations will be staffed with 5 to 8 health workers equipped with first aid tools. There will also be ambulances on standby.
Once you've positioned yourself, look for the nearest health station and keep in mind how to get there in case of emergencies.
6. Have a buddy system.
Make sure you have someone who can help you if you start feeling unwell. If this happens, tell your buddy right away instead of holding it in. This way, your buddy can bring you to the nearest health station before your condition worsens.
7. Be ready to walk.
Cars will be prohibited from accessing many areas around the venue which means you may have to walk more than you are used to.
Make sure you are fit to take the strain. Wear the right shoes and clothes and don't burden yourself with a heavy bag, which Malacañang says you would not be allowed to bring in anyway.
If you have cardiovascular problems which may be triggered by the strain, consider staying home or watching from an area that is easier to get to, said PMA president Dr Minerva Calimag.
8. Be prepared for potty problems.
When you've found a great spot and the Pope is only a few feet away, you might not want to leave your place even if your kidneys are full to bursting. The best way to prevent this from happening is to make sure you've gone to the bathroom before the program starts.
You can also consider wearing adult diapers. As Lee Suy says, "It may sound funny but that would help."
The point is to not hold in if you really need to go. That may cause more health problems later on, such as Urinary Tract Infection (UTI).
9. In some cases, it may be best to stay home.
If you are already sick with a cold, fever or other health conditions, it may be best to stay at home and watch the events unfold from there, said Calimag.
The same goes for pregnant women who will have to put up with the jostling and pushing of an excited crowd.
10. Make it easy to find your child.
If you plan to bring your kids, put your address or contact information in their bag or clothes. If they get lost in the crowd, whoever finds them knows where to bring them.
– Rappler.com
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