Pinoys in Singapore

Paki-share na lang po. Para sa mga Tatay; sa mga taong Tatay na; sa mga taong
may Tatay pa; sa mga taong wala ng Tatay; sa mga na Nanay pero Tatay pala.....
at para sa ating lahat na nagmamahal sa ating mga Tatay..

Si Tatay...: an Essay-Writing Contest Winner
1980 ako ipinanganak. Tatlong taon bago pinatay si
Ninoy Aquino at anim na taon bago ang EDSA uprising.
Taon ding ito nang nagkaroon ng malaking krisis sa
langis ang buong mundo. P24.00 ang palitan ng dolyar
sa piso at 48 milyon na ang populasyon ng Pilipinas.

Ito rin ang taong unang pumunta
ng Middle East ang tatay ko para magtrabaho.
Isang karpintero ang Tatay. Isang skilled worker.
Malaki ang pangangailangan ng bansang pupuntahan ni
Tatay sa mga katulad niya. Sabi ng Nanay mahirap daw
ang buhay noong mga panahong iyon. Inabot na raw ang
bansa ng economic depression na galing sa Europa at
Amerika. Kaya minabuti ng Tatay na mag-abroad. Anupa't
dalawa ang pinag-aaral niya at may bago na naman
siyang bibig na pakakainin.

Parating pinapaalala sa amin ng Nanay na "nagtiis
kaming magkahiwalay ng tatay ninyo para magkaroon tayo
ng maginhawang buhay." Palibhasa'y parehas galing sa
hirap, kaya siguro ganoon na lamang ang pananaw nila.
Uuwi kada dalawang taon, tapos aalis na ulit
pagkalipas ng dalawang buwan.. Ganyan ang
pattern ng buhay ng tatay ko.

Pumutok ang giyera sa Middle East noong 1989. Doon ko
unang narinig ang mga salitang Operation: Desert Storm
at Third Anti-Christ. Nandoon din si Tatay. Isang
beses lamang siya nakatawag sa loob ng tatlong taon
niyang pagkaka-stranded sa bansang iyon. Mabuti naman
daw ang lagay niya. May tirahan naman daw sila at
husto sa lahat ng pangangailangan. Hindi naman daw
sila gagalawin sa giyera sabi ng embahada ng Pilipinas
dahil hindi naman daw sila kasali sa awayan ng
dalawang bansa at ng pakialamerong Amerika. Iyon naman
pala eh, bakit ka pa rin nandyan?! Na-imagine ko na
lang tuloy ang Tatay na parang isa sa mga sibilyan na
dumadaan habang nakikipagbarilan ako sa larong
Operation: Wolf sa SM City. Nang mahawi ang mga usok
ng giyera umuwi na ang Tatay. Wala pang isang taon ay
nakita ko na naman ang aking sarili na nakasakay sa
arkiladong dyip para ihatid ang Tatay sa Airport
papuntang Middle East . Ikaw ba naman ang magkaroon ng
pinag-aaral na nurse, isang seminarista at tatlo pa sa
elementarya. Kailangang kumayod, kailangang kumita.

Kung tutuusin maraming na-miss ang Tatay sa buhay
naming magkakapatid, lalo na sa akin. Wala siya nang
una akong magtalumpati sa entablado. Wala din siya
nang grumadweyt ako ng elementarya at hayskul. Wala
siya nang una akong nakipagsuntukan sa kaklase ko nang
inasar ako nito habang binibigay ko ang libreng
plastic na singsing na galing sa cheese curls sa
kaklase kong babae. Wala din siya para turuan akong
magbasketbol tulad ng ginagawa ng mga kapitbahay ko sa
kanilang anak. Wala rin siya para panoorin si Kuya na
contestant sa Student Canteen at ako naman para
sabitan niya ng medalya para sa mga math competition
na sinalihan ko. Wala siya nang dumating ako sa punto
ng aking buhay, na siya ring kinakatakutan ng lahat ng
katulad kong nagbibinata- -ang magpatuli. Wala rin siya
para turuan akong maglanggas. Wala siya nang
kauna-unahang lumabas ang pangalan ko sa dyaryong
pang-estudyante bilang isang editor. Ipinagtabi ko
siya ng mga kopya para maipagmalaki sa kanyang
pagdating. Wala siya nang una akong tumikim ng alak
dahil binasted ako ng dinidigahan kong babae.. Wala rin
siya nang sumubok akong manigarilyo at itapon ito
pagkatapos ng dalawang hithit pa lang.

Wala siya, wala siya parati.

Napansin ko na lamang na mas naiibuhos naming
magkakapatid ang oras naming sa labas ng bahay at sa
eskwelahan. Ang Ate ay kagawad ng Sangguniang
Kabataan, ang Kuya naman ay matagal nang kinuha ng
seminaryo, ang dalawa kong kapatid ay may mga sarili
nang kina-career at ako naman ay natutuon sa aking
pagsusulat.

Dumating ang isa sa pinakamasayang araw ng buhay ko,
ang pagdating ng Tatay at sabihing ito na ang huli
niyang uwi dahil hindi na siya babalik ulit sa abroad.
Makalipas ang ilang buwan, trinangkaso ang Tatay. Sabi
ng doktor ay overfatigue lang daw at kailangan niyang
magpahinga. Pagkaraan nang ilang buwan, na-diagnose na
may tumubong tumor sa utak ng Tatay at malignant na
ito. Minsan naitanong sa akin ng uncle kong doktor
kung nauntog ba ang Tatay o nabagsakan ng mabigat na
bagay sa ulo. Nahihiyang ngiti, kamot sa ulo at isang
"hindi ko po alam" lang ang naisagot ko.

Kung gaano kabilis na nadiskubre ang tumor niya sa
utak ay ganun din kabilis na binawi sa amin ng Diyos
ang Tatay. Habang pinagmamasdan ko ang Tatay habang
mapayapa itong nakahimlay noong
burol niya, nahihirapang tumulo ang luha ko. Kung
tutuusin, hindi ko kilala ang taong ito. Siya ang
tatay ko. Kalahati ng pagkatao ko ay galing sa kanya.
Pero kung tatanungin mo ako kung anong gusto niyang
timpla ng kape, kung allergic ba siya sa hipon na
paborito ko, kung San Miguel o Purefoods ba ang team
niya sa PBA--isang malaking EWAN lang ang maisasagot
ko sa iyo. Noong bata pa ako, nasa abroad ang Tatay.
Kapag nandito naman siya para magbakasyon, mas
malaking oras ang nagugol niya sa pag-aasikaso ng mga
papeles niya para sa susunod niyang pag-alis. Nang
tumigil na siya sa pagtatrabaho, ako naman ang abala
sa mga reports, periodical examinations at mga
research works. Nang nasa ospital na siya, kahit
makipagkuwentuhan ay mahirap nang gawin dahil halos
hindi na siya maintindihang magsalita dulot ng
chemotherapy.

Matagal nang patay ang Tatay. Minsan nabalitaan kong
dumating na ang seaman na tatay ng boss ko, pilit ko
siyang pinauuwi nang maaga. Minsan ding buong
kawilihan kong pinagmamasdan ang isang kaibigan ko na
nagmamadali dahil baka masaraduhan na siya ng grocery.
Kailangan niyang makabili ng
ingredients ng spaghetti dahil 'yun daw ang bilin ng
tatay niyang na-stroke. Minsan rin nang makainuman ko
ang matalik kong kaibigan habang binubuhos niya sa
akin ang sama ng loob niya sa pagbabalik ng tatay niya
na malupit sa kanila nang mahabang panahon at
ipinagpalit sila sa ibang babae. Sa tingin ko lang,
"Buti ka pa nga may Tatay pa." Syempre hindi ko sinabi
iyon sa kanya. Baka mamaya tanungin pa niya ako kung
kanino ako kampi, kami pa ang mag-away. Minsan din
sinamahan ko ang kababata ko nang dinalhan niya ng
pansit ang tatay niya sa City Jail. Hindi naman sila
nagtatanong kung bakit ako ganun. Wala naman silang
alam kay Tatay.

Maraming pagkakataon na nanghihinayang ako dahil
masyadong maaga ang paghihiwalay namin ng Tatay. Gusto
kong sisihin ang Pilipinas dahil napakahirap ng buhay
dito. Sa Amerika ba may tatay na nangingibang- bansa
para makapagtrabaho lang? Naisip ko tuloy na sumama na
lang sa mga nagpipiket na mga migrante dahil alam ko
tulad ko rin sila. Kadalasan rin sinisisi ko si Saddam
Hussein at ang Gulf War dahil kinuha nila ang tatlong
taon sa buhay ng Tatay. Sayang ang tatlong taong iyon.
Nakalaro ko man lang sana ang Tatay ng basketbol o di
kaya'y naturuan niya akong mag-bike. (Beinte anyos na
ko nang matuto mag-bike).

Isa sa mga klase ko sa writing ang nagpasulat sa amin
ng kahit ano tungkol sa aming mga tatay, samahan pa ng
larawan kung maaari. Bigla tuloy akong nalito. Hindi
ko alam kung anong tungkol sa Tatay ang isusulat ko.
Ikuwento ko kaya na isang Overseas Contract Worker si
Tatay. Isang bagong bayani. Nag-aambag ng malaki sa
ekonomiya ng Pilipinas. Sabihin ko kayang may larawan
ng tatay kong may suot na hard hat na dilaw,
construction boots at may hawak na drill at kasama
niyang nakangiti ang mga kapwa niyang
Pilipino with matching background na disyerto. O kaya
ang larawan nilang magkakababayan habang pinagdiriwang
nila ang New Year at nag-iiyakan dahil tinutugtog and
Lupang Hinirang. Ang drama no?

Kuwento ko kaya na isang survivor ng Gulf War ang
Tatay. Na natutulog siya at ipinaghehele ng mga
Patriot at Scud Missiles. Pakita ko kaya ang mga
remembrance ng Tatay na mga dull na landmines.
Adventure naman ang dating nito.

Kuwento ko kaya kung paano hindi nagpabaya ang Tatay
sa pagbibigay ng pangangailangan namin. Hindi kami
sumasala sa pagkain, may magagandang damit, maayos na
tirahan at nakakapag-aral. Siya ay naging isang good
provider. Siguro isang malalim na buntong hiningang
"Haaaaaay!" ang ibibigay sa akin ng mga kaklase ko.
O di kaya'y dalhin ko ang picture ni Tatay habang
kini-chemotherapy siya. Ikwento ko din kaya na naging
mabilis ang lahat ng mga pangyayari. Na inoperahan
siya sa loob ng walong oras at binutasan ang ulo niya.
Na nakalabas pa siya ng ospital. Pagkatapos ng isang
linggo, agad siyang namatay. Tragic naman ang approach
ko nito.

Gayahin ko kaya ang kuwento sa telebisyon na tipong
galit na galit sa mundo ang anak dahil hindi ito
nabigyan ng sapat na atensyon dahil inuna ng kanilang
tatay ang pinansyal nilang pangangailangan. Teka,
hindi naman totoo yon eh! Napaka-unfair naman 'nun kay
Tatay.

Ikuwento ko na lang kaya ang isa sa mga magagandang
alaala namin kay Tatay. Apat na taon ako noon. Malinaw
na malinaw pa sa alaala ko ang pangyayari. Kadarating
lamang ng Tatay pagkaraan ng dalawang taon. Nagkaroon
ng simpleng party sa bahay. Kainuman niya ang mga
kumpare niya nang tumayo siya at binuhat ako mula sa
kuna ko habang pinaglalaruan ko ang bagong matchbox na
pasalubong niya sa akin. Inutusan niya ako na ikuha
siya ng beer sa refrigerator. Pagkakuha ko ng beer ay
kinandong niya ako at buong pagmamalaki na ibinida sa
mga kumpare niya na natanggap na raw ako sa local na
DayCareCenterdahil abot na ng kanang kamay ko ang
aking kaliwang tenga kahit idaan pa sa ibabaw ng ulo
ko at matatas na ako magsalita at madali raw akong
matuto. Matagal din akong nanatili sa pagkakandong
niya. Mistula siyang bagong dating na hari na
suot-suot ang kanyang korona. Ako ang kanyang korona.

Kapag naaalala ko ito, napapawi ang lahat ng
panghihinayang ko sa mga taong kailangan niyang
magtrabaho at mawala sa piling namin. Mga panahong
kasama ng mga tatay nila ang mga anak nila. Ito na
lang ang isusulat ko. Bago ang lahat, pupunasahan ko
muna ang mga luha ko at ang patulo ko ng sipon. Baka
mapatakan pa ang keyboard ng computer at ang hawak
kong picture. Picture ng isang paslit na may hawak na
bote ng beer habang kandong ng tatay na kitang-kita
ang kasiyahan sa mukha.

Now until Monday, 9th Feb 2009
U.R.S & inc. is having a sale. Visit in-store for more details.
Available/spotted at:
U.R.S & inc. - Bugis Junction
U.R.S & inc. - CityLink Mall
U.R.S & inc. - Hougang Mall
U.R.S & inc. - Marina Square
U.R.S & inc. - Ngee Ann City
U.R.S & inc. - Paragon
U.R.S & inc. - Plaza Singapura
U.R.S & inc. - The Heeren Shops
U.R.S & inc. - Tiong Bahru Plaza
U.R.S & inc. - Velo City
U.R.S & inc. - Vivo City

Both teams without key players

Barangay Ginebra, the most popular pro team in Philippine basketball will be playing the Singapore Slingers in an event brought forward due to the no-show of the India team last Jan 11.

“It is a critical decision we had to make as both teams will be without key players”, said Paul Monozca, Chairman of the Monozca Foundation - the key patron of the Philippine teams playing in Singapore. “But we feel it’s a great way to end the ‘Singapore Challenge Series’ with a dream match. The fans will be happy to know there will be a re-match when the teams complete themselves in a few months. But for now, patience to hold this game has run out”.

“We welcome the decision to have this dream match earlier” said Bob Turner, Managing Director of Basketball Enterprises and owner of the Slingers. “This match is all about saying thanks to all the supporters of the ‘Challenge Series’ this year and to tell everyone to look forward to next season when the official regional pro league opens. Ticket prices remain the same at $6 to $16 and are available at all Sistic outlets”.

The Slingers will be playing without Shane McDonald and possibly Darren Ng while Ginebra is playing without JJ Helterbrand who is training with the national team and Eric Menk, who is in the United States. Mark Caguioa is also not playing and Reavis and Valenzuela are side lined due to injury.

But fans can look forward to a matchup between the bad boys Eric Sandrin and Alex Crisano and point guards Paul Artadi and Al Vergara. Veteran star point guard Jhonny Abbarientos will also be suiting up for the Singapore game. Fans will also be treated to meet veterans Jong Uichico and Allan Caidic who are both part of the coaching staff of Ginebra.

“Ginebra is the Apple Computer of the Philippines. It is not the strongest team, but the most popular”, said Noel Saavedra of the Monozca Foundation. “It is our version of the Kallang Roar”

The match will be played at the Singapore Indoor Stadium on Saturday, Jan 17, 2009 at 7:30pm.

ROSTER :

1. Joseph Uichico - Coach
2. Arturo de la Cruz
3. Alan Vito Caidic
4. Leopoldo Trillana
5. Crispin Tiamson
6. Carlo Cereno
7. Ronald Tubid
8. Sunday Salvacion
9. Jhonny Abarrientos Jr.
10. Ernani Christopher Pacana
11. John Billy Mamaril
12. Santiago Cabatu Jr.
13. William Joel Wilson
14. Mark Anthony Escalona
15. Jose Redempto Aquino
16. Alex Crisano
17. Jeff Gloger
18. Paul Anthony Artadi

PINOY NITE OUT!!!

Join us for a night of OPM, fun & party.

Who: Juggies 141, band feat BROWN INC & dj KEWL.
When: Sunday 25th Jan fm 9pm to 5am
Where: Gotham Penthouse - Clarke Quay.
How much: Tkts $15 (incl. 2 drinks b4 11pm).




More info:
Brown Inc. is a representation of art at its best form. A group with new flavor, style and attitude. Playing Rhythm Variety of Music…Some Hip-Hop, R&B, Blues, Soul, Reggae, Dance Music, Rock/Alternative & Selections of Retro Music from the 70’s to the 80’s. Brown Inc. is music that is straight up hip, pumpin’ and performance that is all out Hype, Powerful and Definitely fired up. Music is the medium of their souls…

This band has rocked and infected the country’s prime night spots, not to mention the drop-dead-great-attitude performances around Asia such as in Malaysia, China, Macau, Japan, Taiwan to name a few. Enjoying both people and places while doing the thing they love most, performing and entertaining, is what they finds truly rewarding…

They have performed as front band for some TV Celebrities and Recording Artist in the Philippines. Not to mention the Major Giant Group of Companies they have been repeatedly requested to perform and execute the high standard of live band performance. Brown Inc, was also featured as the front act band in the recently conducted Grand Awards Nights, for the 2007 Cars of the Year in the Philippines. With this band accomplishments they surely will go a long long way in the music industry and certainly will make their mark and leave all there followers amaze & wanting to see more of the Brown Inc. performances

source

review for Gotham Penthouse:
Gotham Penthouse: with a name this groovy, you know it's got to be good. And it is, from the moment you walk in. Blue light bathes the space in coolness, augmented by creatively illuminated fish tanks swimming with exotic tropical fish and glowing jellyfish. Even the restrooms are amazingly decorated and lit. Bars dispense well-mixed cocktails and cold beer, and DJs spin R&B, techno and hip-hop tracks to get the crowd moving on the spacious dance floor. If you're the type that prefers to watch, you can do so from comfy couches in the elevated Liquid Loft or the VIP lounge, known as the Shag Room (named for the carpet on the floor!). Each night features different specials and events -- call ahead to see what's on.
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For inquiries call 90817758

Zara Sale

While stocks last

Enjoy up to 50% off at Zara.

Visit in-store for more details.

Available/spotted at:
Zara - Great World City
Zara - Marina Square
Zara - Ngee Ann City
Zara - Vivo City
Zara (Liat Tower)

Mango Further Reduction

While stocks last

Enjoy up to 70% off at Mango.

Visit in-store for more details.

Available/spotted at:
MANGO - Marina Square
MANGO - Ngee Ann City
MANGO - Shaw Centre
MANGO - Suntec City Mall
MANGO - The Centrepoint
MANGO - Vivo City
MANGO - Wisma Atria Shopping Centre
MANGO (Isetan Katong)
MANGO (Isetan Orchard)
MANGO (Isetan Scotts)
MANGO (Isetan Tampines)

Nine West Sale
For a limited period only.

Visit in-store for more details.

Available/spotted at:
Nine West - Raffles City Shopping Centre
Nine West - The Centrepoint
Nine West - Wisma Atria Shopping Centre

Website:http://sg.offerstation.com/c.php?i=27507&t=4&u=http://www.ninewest.com

Now until Sunday, 15th Feb 2009
Enjoy additional 20% off your final bill at Sisley with your DBS Card.

Not valid for sale items above 50% off.

Terms & conditions apply. Visit in-store for more details.

Available/spotted at:
Sisley (Takashimaya Department Store)

Website:http://www.sisley.com/Site/Index.php

Tommy Hilfiger Sale

While stocks last

What:60% off at Tommy Hilfiger. Visit in-store for more details.

Available/spotted at:

1. 
   Tommy Hilfiger - Raffles City Shopping Centre


2. 
   Tommy Hilfiger - Takashimaya S.C.


3. 
   Tommy Hilfiger - Vivo City


4. 
   Tommy Hilfiger (Isetan Scotts)

Visit in-store for more details.
spotted at:

Charles and Keith

• Anchorpoint Shopping Centre
• Bugis Junction
• Causeway Point Shopping Centre
• Central Mall
• Changi Airport Terminal 2
• Changi Airport Terminal 3
• CityLink Mall
• Clifford Centre
• Great World City
• Junction 8
• Jurong Point
• Marina Square
• Novena Square
• Parkway Parade
• Plaza Singapura
• Suntec City Mall
• Tampines Mall
• Vivo City
• Wisma Atria Shopping Centre

Naf Naf

1. NAFNAF - Takashimaya S.C.
2. NAFNAF - Vivo City

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When: 6th Jan 2009 - Sunday, 18th Jan 2009

Promo: Fly with AirAsia from Singapore to:
- Kuala Lumpur from $41 one way
- Kuching from $41 one way -
Kota Kinabalu from $61 one way
- Phuket from $69 one way
- Bangkok from $78 one way
- Pekanbaru from $41 one way

Fly from Kuala Lumpur to:
- Gold Coast from $263 one way
- London from $473 one way
- Macau from $65 one way
- Guangzhou from $97 one way
- Bali (Denpasar) from $65 one way
- Langkawi from $17 one way
- Penang from $17 one way

Booking period: 6 - 18 Jan 2009
Travel period: 9 Feb - 30 June 2009

Seats are limited and may not be available on all seats all flights, public holidays, school breaks and weekends. Seats include airport taxes and admin fees.
Flights to London commences 11 Mar 2009 and subject to regulatory approval.
Other terms & conditions apply.


Available online & via mobile.airasia.com.

John Little Lunar Expo Sale 8th Jan 2009 - Sunday, 18th Jan 2009

Time:10.30am to 10:00 pm
What:Uncle Ringo carnival rides, games, entertainment and non-stop shopping.
Promo: Spend just $8 and stand to win lucky draw prizes. Join their Mum & Daughter Cheongsam competition and walk away with $1,500 in cash and prizes.


Website:http://www.johnlittle.com.sg

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Isetan Chinese New Year Sale From Friday, 9th Jan 2009 - Sunday, 25th Jan 2009
Check out the Isetan Chinese New Year Sale. Visit in-store for more details.
Available/spotted at:
Isetan - Parkway Parade
Isetan - Shaw House
Isetan - Tampines Mall
Isetan - Wisma Atria Shopping CentreWebsite:http://isetan.com.sg

BRANDS:

Paul and Shark
From 2 - 8 Jan 09
Up to 70% off
Additional less 10% for Isetan Cardholder from 2 - 4 Jan 09
Men's Apparel
Ends 6pm on last day.

Agnes B.
From 9 - 15 Jan 09
Up to 80% off
Men's & Ladies' Apparel & Accessories
Ends 6pm on last day.

DKNY
From 16 - 22 Jan 09
Up to 80% off
Men's & Ladies' Apparel & Accessories
Ends 6pm on last day.

Pepper Red
From 23 Jan - 5 Feb 09
Up to 60% off
Additional 20% off with purchase of 3 items or more
Ladies' Footwear & Handbags

Spring Cleaning

From 2 - 8 Jan 09
Up to 60% off
Ends 6pm on last day.

Intimate Fair
From 9 - 15 Jan 09
Up to 70% off
Ladies' Intimate Wear
Ends 6pm on last day.

Bedlinen and beddings Sale
From 16 - 22 Jan 09
Up to 80% off
Ends 6pm on last day.

Laura Ashley
Up to 70% off
From 23 Jan - 5 Feb 09
Up to 70% off
Ladies' Apparel
Ends 6pm on last day

Alexandre
Less 10% off on regular priced items.
Additional 10% off for Isetan Cardmembers.

Lesportsac
From 30 Jan - 5 Feb 09
Up to 80% off
Ladies' Handbags















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Watsons Promotion 07 Jan 2009 until Sunday, 25th Jan 2009
Check out these promotions at Watsons:

Gift with Purchase:

- With every $30 spend in a single receipt, receive a Free Fortune Cookie. Crack open and stand a chance to win up to $888 in cash.

- With min. $50 spend in a single receipt, receive a Free Cosmetic Pouch worth $6.95.

- With min. $80 spend in a single receipt, receive a Free Watsons Hair Curler or Watsons Hair Straightener.

Purchase with Purchase:

Spend $38 in a single receipt and get to buy a New Moon Premium Gift Set (New Zealand Abalone + Buddha Jump Over the Wall) for only $38 (U.P. $49.80). Limited to 1 per customer in a single receipt.

While stocks last.

Available from 6 Jan 2009 at selected Watsons stores: Bugis Junction, Causeway Point, Compass Point, IMM, Marina Square, Ngee Ann City, Parkway Parade, Raffles City, Tampines Mall, Tiong Bahru Plaza.

Visit in-store for more details.

Website:http://sg.offerstation.com/c.php?i=26996&t=4&u=http://www.watsons.com.sg

Ref no: SSWG 01/2009

Community Involvement Division Operations Department Police Headquarters New Phoenix Park 5 January 2009

28 Irrawaddy Road Singapore 329560

Dear members of the Safety and Security Watch Group,

CRIME ALERT: USE OF COUNTERFEIT MONEY AS MODE OF PAYMENT (FOR YOUR INFORMATION)

Police has recently received reports of unknown person using counterfeit money as mode of payment. To date more than 30 cases were reported and as we approach the period of festive sales, we would like to reiterate the importance for being vigilant.
Modus Operandi
Please take note that the culprit will normally use a fake currency note of S$50/note (commonly bearing the serial number: 2EY322725) at pubs, restaurants, petrol kiosks, convenient stores and 4D outlets for purchases.
The scam can also take in other forms ie culprit may also seek assistance in changing loose notes using counterfeit money, on the pretext of urgent need.
Crime Prevention Measures
Public and sole proprietors should remain alert and pay extra attention when customers pay for purchases using higher denominations of cash, e.g. S$50/-. Below are a few measures which can assist public to identify counterfeit notes and prevent you from falling victim to a similar ruse.
What to look out for?
1. Counterfeit Notes using serial number: 2EY322725; 2. Poor quality paper that has a waxy surface without the following intaglio: a. No raised printing; b. No shimmering effect on the kinegrams; c. No Security Thread; and 3. Although the counterfeit note simulated the outline of the watermark, but it does not have three-dimensional portrait of the late President Yusof Bin Ishak when examined under light. What retailers and shop owners can do to prevent falling victim?
1. While such cases are not new, cashiers should be constantly reminded to be vigilant to prevent from falling victim; 2. During peak hours, cashier should decline requests for change of larger notes politely by citing the long queue as a reason; 3. If possible, additional staff should be deployed, especially during peak operating hours; 4. CCTVs should be strategically positioned to cover the cashier counter and allow the image of customers to be captured; What you can do when you receive such notes?
1. When presented with the counterfeit note, do not return the suspected note to the suspect; 2. Delay and keep the suspect at sight and if possible contact the police immediately; 3. Take note of the description of the culprit, eg gender, age, height, built, attire, scars/tattoos, accent of language or any distinct features; 4. Note the suspect(s)’ mode of escape and take down the vehicle registration number if he/they had escaped in a vehicle; 5. Minimize the handling of the note and carefully place it in a envelope/polymer bag and hand it to the Police when they arrive. We seek your assistance to disseminate the crime alert to all your members so that they can take the necessary precaution to protect themselves against such crime. If you have any information relating to the above cases, please do not hesitate to contact Police hotline at 1800 – 255 0000 or dial ‘999’ if urgent police assistance is required.

Yours faithfully,
SHERRIN CHUA ASSISTANT DIRECTOR COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT DIVISION OPERATIONS DEPARTMENT SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
Crime Prevention -A Shared Responsibility

(pazoom na lang sa me camera hehe. posting for my officemate
Resty c#98995964)

Specs:
    - 10.1 Megapixel
    - 4x Optical
    - 3.0 LCD Touch Screen
    - ISO 3200
    - Smile Shutter
    - Face Detection
    - Intelligent Scene Recognition
    - Carl Zeiss Lens
    - Optical Steady Shot
    - Full HD 1080

Freebies:
includes 4GB mem card, stylus, screen protector, mini tripod, 1 year local
warranty + 3 months Sony warranty

Used:

MapleStory Slurpee Cup at 7-eleven

WHEN:Wednesday, 12th Nov 2008 - Tuesday, 6th Jan 2009

The MapleStory Slurpee Cup (16oz) is now available at 7-eleven for $2.

- Get a free Ez Link Sticker with every purchase from 12 Nov 2008.
- Get a free MapleStory Memo Pad with every purchase from 10 Dec 2008.

While stocks last.


For more detailed info, please visit:
http://www.MapleSEA.com

Website:
http://www.7-eleven.com.sg

source

What: Philips Fair at Takashimaya From

When:Monday, 5th Jan 2009 - Thursday, 15th Jan 2009

Check out the Philips Fair at Takashimaya Department Store, Household Department B1.

Offers include:

- Steamer for $149, comes with free Shopping Trolley with $150 purchase of Philips Kitchen Appliances

- A.I. Rice Cooker for $188, comes with free New Moon Canned Abalone

- Induction Cooker for $198, comes with free Stainless Steel Pot

- Alu Juicer for $242, comes with free Shopping Trolley with $150 purchase of Philips Kitchen Appliances and more... Visit to find out more.

Website:http://www.philips.com.sg/

Before I came to Singapore, I was more interested in Ireland. I heard from a radio announcer that Ireland is the best place to live in terms of economy, cost of living etc. I became a member of their egroup. And guess what I found on my inbox today. I am a filipino by Carlos Romulo.
Reminiscing highschool when you have to memorize and declaim this piece. what matters more then was how your facial expression can show what you think about it. Now as an OFW, I dont think I need that kind of effort. I feel the pride of coming from a Third World Country, and showing these people how strong we can be.
It gets me to thinking... what have you done for you country lately?

I AM A FILIPINO
(Carlos P. Romulo (former Secretary-General of the United Nations))
I am a Filipino - inheritor of a glorious past, hostage to the uncertain future. As such I must prove equal to a two-fold task- the task of meeting my responsibility to the past, and the task of performing my obligation to the future. I sprung from a hardy race - child of many generations removed of ancient Malayan pioneers. Across the centuries, the memory comes rushing back to me: of brown-skinned men putting out to sea in ships that were as frail as their hearts were stout. Over the sea I see them come, borne upon the billowing wave and the whistling wind, carried upon the mighty swell of hope- hope in the free abundance of new land that was to be their home and their children's forever.
This is the land they sought and found. Every inch of shore that their eyes first set upon, every hill and mountain that beckoned to them with a green and purple invitation, every mile of rolling plain that their view encompassed, every river and lake that promise a plentiful living and the fruitfulness of commerce, is a hollowed spot to me.
By the strength of their hearts and hands, by every right of law, human and divine, this land and all the appurtenances thereof - the black and fertile soil, the seas and lakes and rivers teeming with fish, the forests with their inexhaustible wealth in wild life and timber, the mountains with their bowels swollen with minerals - the whole of this rich and happy land has been, for centuries without number, the land of my fathers. This land I received in trust from them and in trust will pass it to my children, and so on until the world no more.
I am a Filipino. In my blood runs the immortal seed of heroes - seed that flowered down the centuries in deeds of courage and defiance. In my veins yet pulses the same hot blood that sent Lapulapu to battle against the alien foe that drove Diego Silang and Dagohoy into rebellion against the foreign oppressor.
That seed is immortal. It is the self-same seed that flowered in the heart of Jose Rizal that morning in Bagumbayan when a volley of shots put an end to all that was mortal of him and made his spirit deathless forever; the same that flowered in the hearts of Bonifacio in Balintawak, of Gergorio del Pilar at Tirad Pass, of Antonio Luna at Calumpit; that bloomed in flowers of frustration in the sad heart of Emilio Aguinaldo at Palanan, and yet burst fourth royally again in the proud heart of Manuel L. Quezon when he stood at last on the threshold of ancient Malacañang Palace, in the symbolic act of possession and racial vindication.
The seed I bear within me is an immortal seed. It is the mark of my manhood, the symbol of dignity as a human being. Like the seeds that were once buried in the tomb of Tutankhamen many thousand years ago, it shall grow and flower and bear fruit again. It is the insigne of my race, and my generation is but a stage in the unending search of my people for freedom and happiness.
I am a Filipino, child of the marriage of the East and the West. The East, with its languor and mysticism, its passivity and endurance, was my mother, and my sire was the West that came thundering across the seas with the Cross and Sword and the Machine. I am of the East, an eager participant in its struggles for liberation from the imperialist yoke. But I also know that the East must awake from its centuried sleep, shape of the lethargy that has bound his limbs, and start moving where destiny awaits.
For, I, too, am of the West, and the vigorous peoples of the West have destroyed forever the peace and quiet that once were ours. I can no longer live, being apart from those world now trembles to the roar of bomb and cannon shot. For no man and no nation is an island, but a part of the main, there is no longer any East and West - only individuals and nations making those momentous choices that are hinges upon which history resolves.
At the vanguard of progress in this part of the world I stand - a forlorn figure in the eyes of some, but not one defeated and lost. For through the thick, interlacing branches of habit and custom above me I have seen the light of the sun, and I know that it is good. I have seen the light of justice and equality and freedom and my heart has been lifted by the vision of democracy, and I shall not rest until my land and my people shall have been blessed by these, beyond the power of any man or nation to subvert or destroy.
I am a Filipino, and this is my inheritance. What pledge shall I give that I may prove worthy of my inheritance? I shall give the pledge that has come ringing down the corridors of the centuries, and it shall be compounded of the joyous cries of my Malayan forebears when they first saw the contours of this land loom before their eyes, of the battle cries that have resounded in every field of combat from Mactan to Tirad pass, of the voices of my people when they sing:
Land of the Morning,Child of the sun returning…Ne'er shall invadersTrample thy sacred shore.
Out of the lush green of these seven thousand isles, out of the heartstrings of sixteen million people all vibrating to one song, I shall weave the mighty fabric of my pledge. Out of the songs of the farmers at sunrise when they go to labor in the fields; out of the sweat of the hard-bitten pioneers in Mal-ig and Koronadal; out of the silent endurance of stevedores at the piers and the ominous grumbling of peasants Pampanga; out of the first cries of babies newly born and the lullabies that mothers sing; out of the crashing of gears and the whine of turbines in the factories; out of the crunch of ploughs upturning the earth; out of the limitless patience of teachers in the classrooms and doctors in the clinics; out of the tramp of soldiers marching, I shall make the pattern of my pledge:
"I am a Filipino born of freedom and I shall not rest until freedom shall have been added unto my inheritance - for myself and my children's children - forever.