With ABS-CBN shut, Andanar hopes PTV can compete in the ratings

Now that ABS-CBN is out of the game, Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Martin Andanar hopes that state-owned People’s Television Network (PTV) could compete with other networks in the ratings.

During the House hearing on PCOO’s budget, House committee on appropriations chairperson Rep. Eric Yap asked Andanar whether PTV aims to compete with big networks, such as GMA Network when it comes to ratings since ABS-CBN is now shuttered since it was denied a franchise.

“Ngayong wala na ang ABS-CBN, mayroon ba tayong pangarap, may goals ba tayo sa PTV-4 na maging isang kalaban ng GMA, makapagcompete tayo sa kanila?” Yap asked.

(Now that ABS-CBN is out, do we have aspirations, goals for PTV-4 to compete with GMA, other networks?)

To which, Andanar answered: “Yes, we have a plan to at least be able to compete as far as ratings are concerned.”

“The PTV, being a government-owned and controlled corporation, it also has to make its own money from advertisers.”

Andanar said the PTV has likewise “beefed up” its news from morning to evening.

House appropriations panel chairperson Rep. Eric Go Yap questioned the qualifications of the current officer-in-charge of PTV, which he claimed is a production assistant “with no managerial experience.”

Yap likewise questioned the alleged poor working conditions and the wages of PTV employees.

“Ang gobyerno ngayon, natutulungan pa ‘yung employado nila. Ang sa akin, bakit natin hahayaan na yung mga cameraman P17,000 lang ang sahod tapos kulang sa PPE, kulang sa gamit?” Yap asked Andanar.

In response, Andanar said his office has been trying to address the labor issues inside PTV.

The PCOO was supposed to present its P1.59 budget for 2021, however, the hearing was suspended after lawmakers lambasted the red-tagging activities of one of its officials. [ac]

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1333349/with-abs-cbn-shut-andanar-hopes-ptv-4-can-compete-with-ratings

‘ABS-CBN Frequencies Now Open To Other Broadcast Networks’

House legislative franchises committee vice chairmen Jonathan Sy-Alvarado and Michael Defensor said Congress would not reserve the frequencies until ABS-CBN Corp. applies for a franchise again in 2022.

The frequencies left by broadcast giant ABS-CBN Corp. with the rejection by Congress of its franchise renewal application may now be given to other companies, ranking lawmakers disclosed on Tuesday, Sept. 8.

House legislative franchises committee vice chairmen Jonathan Sy-Alvarado of Bulacan’s first district and Michael Defensor of Anakalusugan party-list said the former ABS-CBN frequencies could now be given to other franchise applicants. They said Congress would not reserve the frequencies until ABS-CBN applies for a franchise again in 2022.

“It’s now open for application by other broadcast companies,” Alvarado told The Philippine STAR.

Defensor confirmed this, saying the frequencies of ABS-CBN may now be offered by the government to interested companies.

“Technically, the frequencies of ABS-CBN are returned to the state,” Defensor said.

Alvarado said their panel had received information that several companies have signified interest in applying for the frequencies.

“The challenge for them really is to match the capacity of ABS-CBN and its asset of having the most number of regional stations in the country. But I have not heard of any instance when the NTC rejected an applicant for an available frequency,” Alvarado said, referring to the National Telecommunications Commission.

ABS-CBN’s franchise covered five AM and 18 FM radio stations, 42 analog and 10 digital television stations nationwide.

Alvarado, also chairman of the committee on good government and public accountability, did not disclose which companies have expressed interest in the former ABS-CBN frequencies, saying only that it would be “best to wait.”

“It would be NTC (that) would know who these applicants are,” Defensor noted.

The STAR learned from insiders that the Manila Broadcasting Company of the Elizalde group is among the firms that have expressed interest in the franchise.

“It’s really a profitable slot. That’s why it is expected that many are interested,” explained the source, who requested anonymity for lack of authority to speak on the matter.

The development came after the proposal to temporarily use the frequencies of ABS-CBN for the distance learning program of the Department of Education (DepEd) did not push through.

Citing “numerous violations” of franchise and related laws allegedly committed by the network, the House committee on legislative franchises voted 70-11 to reject ABS-CBN’s application for a franchise last July 10.

The network’s 25-year franchise was valid only until May 4. A day after the franchise lapsed, the NTC ordered ABS-CBN to cease its television and radio operations.

President Duterte had repeatedly made public his opposition to the renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise and even advised the Lopezes to just sell their shares.

In April 2017, Duterte accused the network of “swindling” him for not airing his paid political advertisements during the 2016 presidential campaign, and airing instead a negative ad paid for by former senator Antonio Trillanes IV, one of his staunchest critics.

Last February, ABS-CBN Corp. chief executive officer Carlo Katigbak apologized during a Senate hearing, saying the network was sorry if Duterte had been offended. Katigbak denied insinuations of bias on the part of the network.

Shortly after, Duterte said he had accepted the apology, but clarified that he would leave the fate of ABS-CBN’s franchise to Congress.

Thousands of ABS-CBN workers had to be laid off following the decision of the House not to renew the network’s franchise.

The Supreme Court has dashed ABS-CBN’s last hope of getting back on air as it dismissed the network giant’s petition assailing the NTC’s May 5 cease and desist order against the network. The SC said the petition had become moot and academic.

In a statement on Aug. 25, SC Public Information Office chief Brian Keith Hosaka said the justices, sitting in full court, cited the House legislative franchises committee’s decision not to renew ABS-CBN’s franchise as the ground for dismissing the network’s petition.

Those broadcast frequencies cannot be left idle until ABS-CBN "comes back", because that would literally look like special treatment for them.

pag nakabalik na ang ABS-CBN sa airwaves Full Digital na ang broadcast nila kasi useless na mag invest pa sa analog malapit na ang ASO.

https://www.onenews.ph/abs-cbn-frequencies-now-open-to-other-broadcast-networks

4 Ways To Grow Your Faith

 Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.  Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.  Matthew 5:11-12

G.K. Chesterton told the story of a yachtsman who set sail from England, determined to reach an exotic South Sea island. But after many stormy days at sea, he sighted land. Beaching his boat, he ventured inland to find a pagan temple before him.   In the spirit of Indiana Jones, he was determined to claim it for England so he scaled the walls and bravely planted the Union Jack at its pinnacle, only to discover that what he had scaled was the Brighton Pavilion on England's south coast.  He thought he had sailed in a straight line, but in the storm he had been blown off course and had actually gone in a circle without knowing it.  As David Wells put it, "He imagined that he was the first in the land, but it turned out that he was the last."

We smile at the comedy of the error, yet more than a few people I know launch out in the venture of faith, only to hit stormy waters and find themselves going the opposite direction of heaven's shore.  Casualties of the faith.   How do you keep from being a fatality in the storms of life?  The following are guidelines that will help you when you feel tempted to retreat.

Guideline #1:  Learn about the nature and character of God.   Actually, faith rests upon the character of God.  Faith comes by hearing, says Paul, and hearing comes from the Word of God (see Romans 10:17).  What we know of God, we have gleaned from the Bible, a book that has been a map for pilgrims and travelers for centuries.  If you believe that the Bible contains God's direction for living, you then are confronted with the issue of whether or not God will keep His promise.  The more you know of the character of God, the greater will be your faith.

Guideline #2:  Realize that winds of testing only strengthen your faith when you remain faithful and steadfast.  Some folks become Christians with the anticipation that they will never, ever again face problems.  They are the ones who become disappointed.  Remember, God never promised to exempt you from storms, but to be with you and to take you through the storm.  Literally dozens of promises in the Bible can be found to that effect.  Notice that the storm strikes both the believer and the unbeliever alike.  The one is not subjected to great force because of his wickedness, nor is the other spared because of his faith; yet God has promised to be with His children in the storm.  That's the difference.

The Bible promises a blessing for those who are tested.  James, the half-brother of Jesus, wrote that "the testing of your faith develops perseverance" (James 1:3).

Guideline #3:  Rest in the assurance that God is still in charge no matter how hard the wind blows.   Now I freely admit that sometimes when the storm is raging, you wonder.  The dog gets sick, your husband is out of town, the kids have to be taken to the doctor, the babysitter can't sit, and the car won't start.  "God," your heart cries out, "why me?"  Things must have looked pretty bad to Daniel as his eyes adjusted to the darkness and he saw the lions licking their chops at the thought of fresh meat—him.   Please remember the storm will pass, and God will be there to welcome you at the beginning of another day.  God will never leave you in the lurch.  Here's the promise: "Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus" (Philippians 1:6).

Guideline #4: (Most important!).  Realize the walk of faith is one step at a time, one day at a time, one problem at a time.  God's will is like a flashlight in a dungeon:  It doesn't shine around corners but gives you just enough light for the next step.  That's as far as you need to go for today.

Resource reading: Philippians 1:12-30.

https://www.guidelines.org/devotional/4-ways-to-grow-your-faith/

Solon seeks postponement of 2020 census to next year

A lawmaker has filed a resolution urging the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) to postpone this year's census to January 2021 because of the continuing threat of COVID-19.

In Resolution No. 1186, Rep. Rufus Rodriguez of Cagayan de Oro said risks are still present for residents and interviewers and data enumerators despite the PSA's assurance that their personnel have been trained to observe strict health protocols when conducting the census of population and housing.

"[T]here will be face to face interviews and the possibility of infection is still there," Rodriguez said.

Data enumerators must also wear face masks, face shields, and keep a safe distance while interviewing residents for some 15 to 45 minutes, national statistician Dennis Mapa said earlier. Over 120,000 data enumerators and more than 30,000 supervisors have been hired for the census, which began this September.

"[W]hile it is true that the results of the census will guide development planning at the national and local level and will be particularly useful in coming up with policies for reducing poverty, it is not really the most appropriate time right now to conduct the census," added Rodriguez.

Rodriguez also criticized the PSA for warning the public that refusal to participate in the census "bears the punishment of one-year imprisonment and fine of Php 100,000," saying some might feel threatened to participate despite the coronavirus health crisis.

"What we need now is, as far as practicable, less people on the streets and outside their homes in order to help contain the spread of COVID-19," the lawmaker added.

The Philippines now has over 238,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19.

CNN Philippines correspondent Xianne Arcangel contributed to this report.

https://cnnphilippines.com/news/2020/9/8/Rodriguez-postponement-2020-census-PSA.html

PSA urged to postpone census to January 2021

 Cagayan De Oro City Representative Rufus Rodriguez called on the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) to postpone its 2020 population and housing census to January next year amid the ongoing threat of COVID-19.

Rodriguez's proposal is covered in House Resolution 1186, which he filed on September 3 but was only released to the media on Tuesday.

According to the resolution, the PSA hired 113,364 data enumerators and 22,000 supervisors to visit houses.

“While the agency has given assurances that these personnel have been trained to follow strict health protocols like wearing masks and face shields and to keep a safe distance when interviewing residents for an estimated 15-30 minutes, there are still risks not only for the interviewees but interviewers and data enumerators as well,” Rodriguez said.

There will be face-to-face interviews “and the possibility of infection is still there,” he added.

The PSA last month appealed to the public to cooperate with the data collection for the 2020 census, as it assured that enumerators will follow physical distancing measures.

National Statistician Claire Dennis Mapa said enumerators were to start data gathering on September 1.

The PSA also urged residents of condominiums and exclusive subdivisions to participate in the 2020 census through the online portal, video calls, phone calls, or through a questionnaire that can be obtained from the barangay hall.

'Not appropriate time'

Although Rodriguez recognizes the importance of population survey results as a guide in development planning and policy making at the national and local levels, he said "this period when we are battling a pandemic is not the most appropriate time to conduct the census."

He said conducting the survey this year or while there is still a health crisis would only put people and PSA workers at risk.

"We are still getting daily positive cases in the thousands, though the Department of Health is reporting that the numbers are going down,” he added.

At the same time, Rodriguez also slammed the PSA for its statement warning those who refuse to participate in the census that they could face a penalty of one-year imprisonment and a fine of P100,000.

“Such threat amid the pandemic is uncalled for and inappropriate. What we need is, as far as practicable, fewer people in the streets and outside their homes to help contain the spread of Covid-19,” he said.

He said delaying the census for a few months or until there is a vaccine against COVID-19 would not adversely affect the development planning and policy making of national and local government agencies.

“They can in the meantime rely on historical data with some adjustments,” he added. 

The census was supposed to have been started last May, but the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) and PSA recommended it be moved back to September due to the pandemic.

In March this year, President Rodrigo Duterte asked the public to cooperate in the 2020 census of population and housing.

NEDA chief Karl Kendrick Chua said the census cannot be used for contact tracing of COVID-19 cases. —KG, GMA News

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/754671/psa-urged-to-postpone-census-to-january-2021/story/

Happy Birthday Mama Mary! - Kape't Pandasal with Cardinal Chito Tagle

PSA urged to postpone population census to January next year

 The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) should postpone its 2020 population and housing census and reschedule it in January next year as the country continues to grapple with the coronavirus pandemic, Cagayan de Oro City Rep. Rufus Rodriguez said Tuesday.

Rodriguez said that while the PSA has given assurances that its personnel have been trained to follow strict health protocols in conducting the census, there are still risks involved not only for the interviewees but interviewers and data enumerators as well.

The census began on September 1 and will last until September 30.

The lawmaker said that while the population survey results would be very useful in guiding development planning and policy making at the national and local levels, particularly in reducing poverty, the period of pandemic is “not the most appropriate time” to do it.

“This period when we are battling a pandemic is not the most appropriate time to conduct the census. We are still getting daily positive cases in the thousands, though the Department of Health is reporting that the numbers are going down,” Rodriguez said.

He added doing the survey this year or while there is a health crisis is not worth the risk people and PSA workers would be exposed to.

For now, Rodriguez said that the PSA can delay the census for a few months or even until there is a vaccine against the new coronavirus as it would not adversely affect development planning and policy making by the national government and local government units.

“They can in the meantime rely on historical data with some adjustments,” Rodriguez said.

Meanwhile, Rodriguez also said that PSA’s warning to the public that refusal to participate in the census bears the punishment of one-year imprisonment and a fine of P100,000 is “uncalled for and inappropriate” especially during the pandemic.

“What we need is, as far as practicable, fewer people in the streets and outside their homes to help contain the spread of COVID-19,” Rodriguez said.

As of September 7, there are 238,727 COVID-19 cases in the country, with recoveries at 184,906 and death toll at 3,890.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1332662/psa-urged-to-postpone-population-census-to-january-next-year

You Can Find Meaning In The “In-Between-Times”

 In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps. Proverbs 16:9

Have you ever felt that you were stuck in an "in-between-time"?  Looking back over human history, the world has languished in the midst of pandemics, societal unrest, fires, droughts, floods, famines.  People have suffered in times of transition, leaving their old homes to seek new ones, sometimes trying to escape persecution and violence.  In times of war, no one knows what will end up being left of their personal worlds.  "In-between-times" are part of the human condition on this earth. Sometimes it can feel as if we are stuck in misery and uncertainty, unable to move forward through these present troubles.

The Bible is a book about real life, and it contains some good examples of the struggle that occurs in the "in-between-times" too. One of these "in-between-times" is found in the beginning of the Bible. In Genesis 15 God promised a man named Abraham that he would have a son, become the father of a great nation and ultimately bless all nations of the world. but then 25 years of waiting went by. It wasn't until Genesis chapter 21 when we read that a son named Isaac was born. What kind of pressure and stress do you think Abraham felt as the years went by? What were the conversations like between him and his wife, Sarah?

Or what about the interval between the time that David was anointed as King (1 Samuel 16) of Israel and the day when he actually began to reign? (2 Samuel 5) David's 15-year "in-between-time" included fighting the giant Goliath, being banished by the current king who wanted to kill him, hiding out in the desert and fighting many battles.  Don't you think he was frustrated and concerned about whatever "the plan" was?

Think, also, for a moment about the followers of Jesus. Their leader, who they had believed was their Savior, had just gone back to heaven. They huddled together in a secret upper room in Jerusalem not knowing quite what to do. They must have rehearsed His words and instructions over and over again. But still they were fixed in that room for what must have felt like an eternity.  But suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. And the Holy Spirit descended upon them! Never again would they be the same!

In each of those cases, the "in-between-times" were platforms upon which God built something new, something fresh, something wonderful!  He will do that again, if we accept His plan and His right to rule in our lives.

Yes, the "in-between-times" are uncomfortable, unnatural-feeling times that grate on our sense of independence and self-determination. We want these times over, all over, now.  Do you find yourself in an "in-between time" today?  If so, pause for a while and ask God what He wants to do with you during this time. What can be gleaned?  What part of your character needs adjusting? What attitude needs to be changed? Some of those areas are very personal. They only involve us. But then sometimes God is speaking to a collective people, a community, a nation.  Let's not be in such a hurry to get out of the "in-between times." Let's get out of the" in-between times" what He wants us to get. "See, I am doing a new thing!"  Scripture says in Isaiah 43:19. "Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?

In one of his "in-between-times," David wrote: "I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living." (Psalm 27:13). The follower of Jesus can say the same thing, as he or she continues to lean into the hope and peace we have in Christ.

Resource Reading:  Acts 2:1-47

https://www.guidelines.org/devotional/you-can-find-meaning-in-the-in-between-times/

AN ACT PROVIDING FOR STRICTER REGULATIONS IN THE PACKAGING, USE, SALE, DISTRIBUTION AND ADVERTISEMENTS OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9211, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE "TOBACCO REGULATION ACT OF 2003"

http://www.congress.gov.ph/legisdocs/first_17/CR01095.pdf

STATEMENT ON MULTIPLY WEBSITE

September 3, 2020

Multiply may currently be inaccessible to some users today due to a technical problem detected early this morning.

While we have resolved the issues and restored the site, some users may still encounter problems but should be able to access them within the next 24 hours.

We are working with our partners in investigating the cause of the incident.

We apologize for whatever inconvenience this may have caused.

Maraming salamat po.

On March 21, 2013, the Multiply International site was completely closed and inaccessible, after previously Multiply only blocked access to Multiply.com from Indonesia's IP address.

What Is The Difference Between Faith And Obedience?

Remember your leaders who spoke the word of God to you.  Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.  Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.  Hebrews 13:7-8

Why God chooses to use some individuals, and seemingly ignores those with far greater talents, is always something which defies human logic.  The fact is that God often uses those who have little to recommend them when it comes to entitlement through education, family connections, and intelligence.  Yet the biographies of those who have made a mark for God indicate that they share three common traits:  1) They immediately and without hesitation responded to the call of God in their lives.  2)  Their simple faith in God was marked by complete obedience, and 3) What they had, they gave to the Lord completely and without reservation.

Such was a man who lived centuries ago, whose name was Abraham.  Called by God, he took his family and his possessions and set out on a long trek through the wilderness to a place which God had promised.  An interesting comment found in the book of Hebrews says, "By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going" (Hebrews 11:8).  Did you notice that last phrase, "he did not know where he was going"?

For a moment consider how all of this must have looked to Abraham's friends.  Do you not suppose their conversations went like this?

"Say, Abe, we noticed that you are packing.  Where you headed?"

"I don't know.  We're just following the Lord."

"Really?  How are you going to earn a living?"

"I'm not sure of that either."

"What's your five-year plan?"

"I don't have one.  We are just following God one step at a time."

Any time someone steps out in faith to trust God, he is going to appear to have one oar out of the water.  Of course, he is out of step with the crowd.  More than one person has been called a fool when he or she walked away from the comforts of life to follow the Almighty.  When called a fool for what he was doing, Oswald Chambers responded, "I am not many kinds of fools in one; only one kind, the kind that believes and obeys God."

Have you learned that obedience does not require that you have the full knowledge of the game plan?  It only requires that you have complete confidence in Him whom you are following.  When you come to the place where you believe with all of your heart that God can be trusted, and no matter how foolish it may look to others, you make the commitment to trust Him and serve Him, you are going to hear from some who ridicule you and try to make you feel stupid.

When Mrs. Albert Einstein was asked if she understood the theory of relativity, she replied, "No, but I know my husband does, and I know that Albert can be trusted."  Faith demands commitment at the level of your heart, but obedience demands commitment at the level of your feet.  You see, there are two parts to the issue of faith.  The first is intellectual.  It concerns what you believe.  The second is trust, and that involves actions.  Of Abraham, the Bible says, "He obeyed…and he went."

For the child of God, obedience is not an option.  It is a command, and when you are confronted with a command, you have two choices:  to obey, or to disobey.  There is no third choice.

A closing thought.  Abraham was not perfect, but he was obedient, and God rewarded that obedience in a very large way.  The same God will provide for you as you trust Him and walk in simple obedience.  He's the same yet today.

Resource reading: Hebrews 13:1-8.

https://www.guidelines.org/devotional/what-is-the-difference-between-faith-and-obedience/

Palawan ready for plebiscite to create 3 provinces

PUERTO PRINCESA – Palawan Governor Jose Chaves Alvarez reiterated the readiness of the provincial government to conduct the plebiscite for the proposed creation of three provinces here.

In an online press briefing, Alvarez said that plebiscite, which was supposed to be held last May 11, will be still he held depending on the recommendation of Commission on Elections (Comelec), and based on Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) guidelines. 

He said that they were waiting for the schedule that will released by the Comelec. 

“Dahil ‘yan ay batas na, walang makakapigil nyan, ang makakapigil lang dyan ay ‘yong petition ng mga taga city na dinala nila sa Supreme Court dahil unconstitutional daw pero napagpasyahan na ‘yon. Dahil may pandemic pinospostphone ng Comelec ang plebisito, but as soon as pandemic subsided, the Comelec will schedule a new date in order to do it,” he said. 

“But the Comelec have to refer this with the IATF dahil hindi lang ito bastang health emergency, hindi natin nakikita ang kalaban,” Alvarez added. 

He said other agencies concerned, such as Department of Education (DepEd), Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and Department of Health (DOH), were also prepared in case the plebiscite will be conducted amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. 

 

“Nakuha na natin ang DepEd, PNP, DILG at handa na sila. Lastly ay ‘yong DOH, they are willing to conduct  plebiscite agad nakakamask lahat. Hindi ka rin naman aabot ng matagal doon kasi yes or no lang, kunti din ang boboto siguro. Mangyayari talaga ang plebisito at COMELEC lang ang magtatakda ng petsa,” he said. 

Palawan, which is currently under modified general community quarantine (MGCQ), may also be allowed to conduct election while implementing minimum health standards, he said. 

He that voters do not need to stay long in the precinct because all they need to do is to choose between yes or no.

“In fact ngayon ay pwede na tayo dahil MGCQ na may flights na at yong covid recovery natin ay very remarkable. Sa Palawan ay walang namamatay sa COVID-19 except doon na isang may sakit na talaga. Ang sekreto lang naman sa COVID-19 ay isolation lang talaga,” Alvarez said. 

 

Comelec had earlier decided to defer the holding of the plebiscite on the division of Palawan to a later date “when the COVID-19 situation in the province improves.”

https://mb.com.ph/2020/09/04/palawan-ready-for-plebiscite-to-create-3-provinces/

Kape't Pandasal Rissa Singson-Kawpeng - Bakit Nagsasara ang Pinto?

Mevius Scratch & Draw

For every purchase of a Mevius variant or 2-pack bundle, you instantly win a Mevius premium item.

Scratch Card Mechanics

1. Only smokers, 21 years old and above, are qualified.

2. Play the Scratch Card by scratching off all three panels on the scratch card found inside the pack or 2-pack bundle. Match all three panels to win the prize shown.

3. Redeem the prize from MEVIUS SCRATCH AND DRAW booths listed below:

MEVIUS SCRATCH AND DRAW REDEMPTION BOOTHS:

a. Robinsons Malls (nationwide)

b. Sta. Lucis East Grand Mall

c. Festival Mall (Alabang)

d. Duty Free Philippines (nationwide)

e. Fuma! (nationwide)

f. Lighters Galore (nationwide)

g. Puregold (nationwide)

h. Robinsons Supermarket (nationwide)

i. 7-11 (nationwide)

Prizes:

Sony CD Walkman

Philips Ear Gear

Mevius Turbo Lighter

Mevius Cigarette Packs

4. Prizes not redeemed after August 25, 2020 may be claimed at J. Romero and Associates located at 17th Floor, The Enterprise Center, 6750 Ayala Avenue, Makati City until October 31, 2020

5. PMFTC and its judges reserve the right to verify the authenticity of winning scratch cards prior to the awarding of prizes. PMFTC and its judge's decision is final.

Raffle Draw Mechanics

1. Only smokers, 21 years old and above and residents of Metro Manila, Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao are qualified.

2. Just fill out the raffle stub portion of the scratch card with complete name, age, address, telephone number and signature. Detached the stub and drop at any MEVIUS SCRATCH AND DRAW drop box.

3. PMFTC and its agents are not responsible for lost, illegible, incomplete, mutilated or late entries.

4. If a participant's name is drawn more than once, he / she automatically gets the bigger prize and the winner of the smaller prize will be re-drawn.

Schedule of draws:

1. Preliminary raffle draw: June 13, 2020

Deadline of entries: May 30, 2020

1st Prize: Apple iBook

2nd Prize: Sony Cybershot

3rd Prize: ???

2. Grand raffle draw: September 12, 2020

Deadline of entries: August 30, 2020

1st Prize: Toyota Rav4

2nd Prize: Sony Home Theater System

3rd Prize: Sony Audio System

How to claim raffle prizes:

1. Winners' name will be published in a winners' ad in a major broadsheet. By participating, winners agree to the inclusion of their names and photo in the winners' ad.

2. Winners will be notified by registered mail that will explain how the winners can claim their respective prizes.

3. In case where the winners, for acceptable reasons, cannot personally claim his/her prize, he/she can send a proxy on his/her behalf. This should be submitted with registered mail sent to the winner and two (2) valid IDs with photo and address of the winner. The proxy should also bring two (2) original, legally acceptable documents to prove his/her identity.

4. Prizes not claimed within sixty (60) days after receiving the notification letter will be forfeited, with approval of DOH-FDA-CDRR.

5. Withholding tax for the prizes will be paid by PMFTC, Inc. All other taxes and expenses, if any, shoul be shouldered by the winners.

* Actual colors of prizes may vary.

What Do You Believe In?

 …faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.  Romans 10:17

When Allied troops went into the concentration camps of Europe at the end of World War 2, soldiers found a Star of David carved on a wall with these words beneath it: "I believe in the sun--even when it does not shine.  I believe in love--even when it is not shown.  I believe in God--even when he does not speak."   This was the commitment of faith by someone who chose to hold on to his or her faith regardless of how dark the circumstances were.

What you believe determines what you are, and it is faith in God which gives people dignity and lets them live with purpose in the darkness.  How do you have that kind of faith?

First--You must believe in the necessity of faith no matter how dark the hour.  The Bible says, "…Anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him" (Hebrews 11:6).   The only way this is possible is to get your eyes off the circumstances and refocus them on the Almighty.

Second--Belief which transforms darkness to light is belief in the simplicity of faith.   The analogy of a little child was what Jesus used to help His disciples understand this.  In Luke 18:17, Jesus said that unless his disciples accepted God's kingdom in the simplicity of a child, they'd never get in.  Friend, there will always be a tension between circumstances and faith.  It was true of Abraham centuries ago, and it is still true of us today.  Our emotions and feelings are products of our circumstances, and when they are not very pleasant, our faith begins to sag until we tell our emotions where to get off.

Dr. Guy Duffield said that in the days of the infant church, believers would greet each other asking, "How is your faith?"  But today we ask, "How are you feeling?"  And the tension between faith and feeling often leaves us with the impression that God has let us down.

One of the myths that a lot of people have bought into is the concept that if you become a believer, everything wonderful is going to happen to you.  You will be successful, healthy, and well-liked by your contemporaries.  Friend, God never made that promise, but He did categorically promise to be with you when you walk through the fire and the flood.

Third-- belief which enables you to overcome is belief in the power of faith.  But this needs clarification.  What you need is not faith in faith, but faith in the power of God.  "All things are possible to him who believes," said Jesus in Mark 9:23.  Was this merely poetic license?  Or was He saying that there is no limit to what faith can accomplish?  On two occasions, Jesus used the analogy of faith so strong that you could command a mountain to move.  Impossible, right?  Of course!  But what He was teaching very clearly (and those who heard knew this with certainty) was this: "What is impossible with men is possible with God."

Remember that, when the doctor says, "There is nothing more that medical science can do," or your human resources are depleted, and God is your only hope.  I'm thinking of one husband who told his wife, "All our money is gone.  From now on, we've got to trust God," and she responded, "Has it really come to that?"

Fourth--Believe in the reward of faith in response to simple obedience.   "According to your faith it will be done to you," Jesus told a blind man who recovered his sight (Matthew 9:29).  Augustine put it: "Faith is believing what we do not see, and the result of faith is seeing what we believe."  Some say that God no longer does the miraculous, and for them, nothing much ever really happens.  But for those who simply trust God, it is amazing what happens.  Faith does make the difference.

Resource reading: Hebrews 11:24-31

https://www.guidelines.org/devotional/what-do-you-believe-in/

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Wyeth "97 Years of Nurturing the Future"

With every milestone, in your child's life, Wyeth has been with you in caring for your precious one. We have been with you for 97 years, and you can count on us in the years to come. Together, let us nurture the future. Wyeth: Leading the way to a healthier world.

Original video courtesy of eatbulaga1979

© 2007 Wyeth Philippines, Inc.

Why Faith Is Essential To Life

 If you believed Moses, you would believe me, for he wrote about me.  But since you do not believe what he wrote, how are you going to believe what I say? John 5:46-47

When American first-lady, Eleanor Roosevelt was asked, "Do you think that the work of the world is carried on by faith?" she said, "Yes!"  In any great work, a certain amount of trust and faith in others we work with, is essential.  In a marriage, two people believe in each other and trust everything to each other.  They leave their families of origin and enter the great adventure of life to stand or fall together, believing that good will come of their relationship.

Without loving trust, relationship just isn't possible.  When this faith is shattered by betrayal, the pain of not being valued by another, is searing.

Eleanor Roosevelt knew how it feels when that faith is betrayed.  Although she never talked about it publicly, she knew the pain of marital betrayal when her husband was unfaithful to her.

Faith is essential to all of our relationships in life.  If you are a businessperson, you may reason that faith does not really figure in business, but reconsider: you have faith that your bank deposits will be available when you want to make a withdrawal.  You say, "This is no act of faith, since the government insures my deposit."  True.  You have faith not only in the bank, but in the government as well, believing they will stand behind the deposits they insure.

The business world may seem cold and technical but underneath all of the relationships you have with business partners is a bedrock of faith.  Why, then, should we think it unusual to exercise faith in the spiritual realm?  But, is faith in God—in the spiritual realm—any different from faith in your marriage partner or in a business relationship?  When you got married, you exchanged rings as symbols of your vows. This means that you, in all sincerity accepted and believed what your marriage partner said, and in return, you placed complete faith in that person. You had no guarantee that the future would forever be wonderful.  You believed it would be based on the character of the person you married.

When you enter into a relational or business contract you accept the word, either oral or written, of the person with whom you're contracting, right?  It is the same when you enter into a relationship with God.

In His Word, the Bible, God tells us much about our lives.  He makes agreements—covenants as they are called in Scripture—with common, ordinary men and women, whereby He promises, "if you do this, then I will respond by doing that."  While some of those agreements were made with specific individuals such as Adam, or Moses, or to ancient Israel, many of them are made to anyone who will trust God and respond in faith. They are what you might call the "if" statements of Scripture.

Surprising as it may be to you, the earliest covenants that we find recorded in the Bible are similar to ones which were made by the Hittite peoples in the ancient world.  They contain preambles, promises and agreements and lists of contracting parties. For thousands of years, men and women have found that God keeps His word, which means you can trust Him to honor His promises.  Perhaps one of the most encouraging "if" statements in the Bible is found in Deuteronomy 4:29: "And if you search for [God]… with all your heart and soul, you will find him."  He is calling you to that very search today.

In the final analysis, all of life is contingent on this thing we call faith.  It is the glue of life.  Even your spiritual salvation rests upon an act of faith as you accept what Christ has done for you and place your faith in Him as God's Son.

Resource reading: Deuteronomy 4:26-40

https://www.guidelines.org/devotional/why-faith-is-essential-to-life/

LIVE: TV Patrol livestream | September 2, 2020 Full Episode

You Can Trust God In Times Of Need

 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.  Proverbs 3:5-6

"Faith," alleged the agnostic Samuel Clemens, know as Mark Twain, "is believing what you know isn't true but wish it were."   George Mueller wouldn't have agreed.  And who was George Mueller?   In the event that this name doesn't register, let me explain briefly.  As his name suggests, Mueller was born in Kroppenstaedt, Prussia, and began his education in the classics in a German university.  Invited to the home of a friend, he heard a man drop to his knees and pray in such a way that he was deeply convicted and eventually was converted.

Mueller spent most of his life in Christian work, but unlike most people today, he never asked anyone for money—not once.  His secret was faith in God, and he believed God for the means of feeding and clothing more than 10,000 orphans.  Mueller wrote, "Faith is the assurance that the thing which God has said in His word is true, and that God will act according to what He has said in His word.  This assurance, this reliance of God's Word, this confidence, is faith."

Okay, Mueller says that faith is not walking in the dark but acting on the promises of God's Word.  But even this presents us with a problem.  How do we find the courage to act on what we already know?

For example, in this marvelous book we read dozens of promises, marvelous things which God has promised.  But for many of us, there is a gulf between what we believe, theoretically, and what we do—what we put into practice in our lives.  Part of the problem is that we tend to make the Christian life far more complex than it really is.  For the most part, it is relatively simple.  We know far more than we often do.

We soon learn that the real struggle is often a matter of our will, wanting to be completely in control of our destiny instead of trusting in the promises of God and simply doing what we know we are supposed to do.  It is little wonder that God allows our faith to be tested, for only then can we be sure that indeed God has met us at the point of our need.

We all want the blessing of God's deliverance.  Who wouldn't?  But it takes the testing to help us know that God is there and that He keeps His word.  Human nature, though, being what it is, we'd just as soon skip the challenge.  We prefer deliverance without going through the fire and flood.  We're much like the people who lived in a certain area which was flooded by a river that had overflowed its banks.  The government sent in helicopters to take out the people whose homes had been inundated by the waters.  Chopper after chopper left with full loads of people.  "How many people are there around here?" someone finally asked, and they began counting.  More than 135 people had been airlifted, but only 78 people lived in that village.  "What's going on?" asked the sergeant in charge of the evacuation.  The folks there so enjoyed the helicopter ride that they were coming back by small boats to enjoy another helicopter ride out of the area.  Right!

Okay, what's the point of today's Guidelines?  When you face periods of testing, faith is holding on to what you know is true and walking in the light which God has given to you.  This means you won't understand everything, but you keep on trusting and await God's provision and deliverance.  A closing thought:  Understand that with God's demand for simple obedience comes His promise to provide and protect.  For George Mueller it was trusting for the more than eight million nineteenth-century dollars necessary to feed the orphans of Britain.  For you, it may be trusting God for your daily bread, or the strength to get through another day.  But the good news is that Jesus Christ is the same "yesterday, today, and forever."  You can trust God.   He is honor-bound to fulfill His promises.

Resource reading: Philippians 1:1-30

https://www.guidelines.org/devotional/you-can-trust-god-in-times-of-need/

Bench Universe 2012 to be broadcast on pay TV television throughout Southeast Asia

 Training the international spotlight on Filipino creativity and talent, Starworld is premiering the Bench Universe 2012 Denim and Underwear Fashion Show on December 8, 2012, making it the first entertainment production in the Philippines to be broadcast on pay TV television throughout Southeast Asia.

Bench Universe 2012 is not only a tremendous entertainment presentation but also a mind-blowing showcase of Filipino talent in high fashion, featuring the collections of Bench and renowned designers Ezra Santos, Joey Samson, Cary Santiago, Val Taguba, Rajo Laurel, Albert Andrada, Randy Ortiz, Furne One, and Michael Cinco, who have all made names for themselves in international design circles.

Starworld viewers will be treated to behind-the-scenes footage of the fantastical production, giving them backstage access to get close to the celebrity models of Bench Universe in their most unguarded moments.

To recall when Robi Domingo is no longer endorsing this clothing line and he is not participating in this denim and underwear show. This is the truth when he did not miss any annual BENCH and BENCH/Body campaign such as summer, back-to-school and holiday and biennial denim and underwear shows. Sources to newspapers, tabloids and websites when the Pinoy Big Brother: Teen Edition Plus second big placer and Ateneo de Manila University graduate is no longer renewing his contract with Bench.

He was also took part in "Uncut: A Bold Look at the Future" Denim and Underwear Show at the Araneta Coliseum when he tore his sando in the Furne One's Far East segment.

A Twitter user who said "Nakakatawa yung ginawa ni Robi Domingo sa Bench Uncut."

The loveteam of Kim Chiu and Gerald Anderson, wearing elaborate costumes, closed the segment.

Other celebrities and models such as Precious Adona, Asia Agcaoili, Carlene Aguilar, Marco Alcaraz, Gerald Anderson, Antonio Aquitania, Jon Avila, Phoemela Baranda, Benj Basa, Hermes Bautista, James Blanco, Kris Bernal, Chad Burden, Gian Carlos, Albie Casiño, Nancy Castiglione, Rainier Castillo, David Chua, Carlos Concepcion, Geneva Cruz, John Lloyd Cruz, Rodjun Cruz, Janvier Daily, Franco Daza, Alessandra de Rossi, JC de Vera, AJ Dee, Jenine Desiderio, Wilma Doesnt, Lalaine Edson-Forgham, Ryan Eigenmann, John Estrada, Ejay Falcon, Frencheska Farr, Eric Fructuoso, Tanya Garcia-Lapid, Sarah Geronimo, Rachelle Ann Go, Edgar Allan Guzman, Katrina Halili, Jon Hall, Kristine Hermosa-Sotto, Agot Isidro, Brent Javier, Luke Jickain, Tibo Jumalon, Kian Kazemi, Bianca King, Doug Kramer, Maureen Larrazabal, Mikee Lee, Xian Lim, Ehra Madrigal, Michelle Madrigal, Rissa Mananquil-Trillo, Robby Mananquil, Zanjoe Marudo, Alicia Mayer, Priscilla Meirelles-Estrada, Don Mendoza, Sam Milby, Carlos Morales, Ron Morales, Iwa Moto, Marc Nelson, Kristine Joy Nieto, Juliana Palermo, Angelica Panganiban, Bubbles Paraiso, Rica Peralejo-Bonifacio, Tyrone Perez, Sam Pinto, Cassandra Ponti, Camille Prats, John Prats, Francine Prieto, Bruce Quebral, Dex Quindoza, Rufa Mae Quinto, Wendell Ramos, Iago Raterta, Keanna Reeves, Tom Rodriguez, Rafael Rosell, Johan Santos, Kenji Shirakawa, Victor Silayan, Jay-R Siliona, Prince Stefan, Geoff Taylor, John James Uy, Nicole Uysiuseng, Alfred Vargas, Iya Villania, Corey Wills, Maggie Wilson, Valerie Weigmann, AJ Winkler, Jomari Yllana, Kevin Zaldarriaga and Kerbie Zamora are almost absent during the event.

The Philippines’ biggest entertainment production is set to wow audiences in the country and throughout Southeast Asia when Bench Universe 2012 premieres on December 8 at 9:00 p.m. on StarWorld.

StarWorld is seen on Sky Cable channel 48 or channel 172 on HD, Cignal channel 50 or channel 100 on HD, Cable Link channel 28 or channel 310 on HD, Dream channel 16, and almost 400 cable operators nationwide.

Also available on YouTube is the full shows of Bench Uncut: A Bold Look at the Future (2010 Denim and Underwear Show) held last July 2, 2010 at the Araneta Coliseum and aired last October 24, 2010 on Sunday's Best, ABS-CBN, Bench The Naked Truth (2014 Denim and Underwear Show) held last September 20, 2014 at the Mall of Asia Arena and aired on November 16, 2014 on Sunday's Best, ABS-CBN and Bench Under the Stars: 30th Anniversary Denim and Underwear Show held last November 18, 2017 at the Mall of Asia Arena and aired from June 1 to 30, 2018 on Cignal Pay-per-View.

3 Steps To Becoming A Helpful Friend

Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone... Galatians 6:10

Being a helpful friend is different than simply being a nice person. If you are on the side of the road in a broken-down car, would you rather someone drive by and shout, "I'm sorry that happened to you!" or pull over and help you fix it? Which one is helpful? Help is often the physical form of encouragement. To be helpful to one another, we must get into the habit of putting actions behind even our kindest words. James, in the Bible, put it this way:  Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?” (James 2:15,16)

To become more helpful, first establish yourself as someone who is reliable. If you get a group text saying that your friend needs help moving, don't assume the others will do it and avoid replying. Give a reason you won't be available or agree to be there. Put it on your calendar so you won't accidentally schedule something on top of it and be tempted to back out later. Initiate a call to your friend in the next few days to confirm the time you should arrive on moving day. If you offer help, make sure you provide help.

Second, being helpful is about becoming observant because asking for help, even when they really need it, is difficult for many people. Have you noticed that when you ask, "Is there anything you need?" most people will say no, even if you know them very well? This question is too broad. Notice that if someone asks you, what the best thing is that you've ever eaten, you may struggle to find an answer! But most of us can remember the best thing we've eaten in the past month. Also, some people are embarrassed to state specific needs they have because they worry that they're imposing on their friends or that they’ll appear incapable of providing for themselves.

We can spare a friend from feeling overwhelmed or embarrassed by identifying their specific needs on our own and simply meeting those needs.  Instead of saying, "is there anything you need", try saying, "I am bringing you dinner. Is 6pm a good time?" Or, "Can I babysit your kids on Friday evening?" If you see that a friend could use help, but you don't know how you can help them, stay as specific as possible. "It sounds like you have a big job to do on Wednesday afternoon. I have an hour of free time. What could I do that would be useful to you?"

Third, being helpful is about using your resources creatively. Once you've practiced being reliable and observant, you'll never run out of opportunities to help. If you can't give money, give your time. If you can't move heavy furniture, wash the windows. If you can't offer someone a job, be proactive about sending links to job listings you come across. If you can't be personally helpful, do whatever you can to connect your friend with someone who can help.

Not all needs are drastic. The apostle Paul was blunt in his letter to the Galatian church about helping others. "If you think you are too important to help someone, you are only fooling yourself. You are not that important" (Galatians 6:3). Is your host starting on a mountain of dirty dishes? Don’t ask if they want help; just start helping. You are not too important for dirty dishes. Whenever you see work to be done, don’t let someone else do it alone. Before long, you will be putting your faith into action and you will be known as a helpful friend.

Resource reading: Galatians 6:2-10

https://www.guidelines.org/devotional/3-steps-to-becoming-a-helpful-friend/

Johnson's Baby Mother's Touch

Wala nang mas mahalaga pa kay baby, kahit patak lang, kahit haplos lang, dapat masubok ko muna, Johnson's Baby! Masubok ko, masubok ng mommy ko at marami pang mommy, Clinically Proven Mildness na napatunayan ng mga doktor. Johnson's Baby: Tested by doctors, trusted by mothers.

Original video courtesy of eatbulaga1979

© 2007 Johnson & Johnson (Philippines), Inc.

How To Encourage A Friend

 Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2 There is an amazing exchange between two friends tucked into the Bible book of II Kings. Elisha, the prophet, and his ministering servant find themselves in a very bad situation. Israel’s enemy, the Arameans, have snuck up and surrounded their hometown of Dothan. The Arameans are led by Ben-hadad and he and his force intended to kill Elisha and the entire community. In the morning, the servant went outside to gather water and light the fire for breakfast. Suddenly he saw an overwhelming number of horses and chariots ringing their town. He rushed to Elisha’s side and shouted out his fear: “Oh, my lord, what shall we do?” Let’s stop the story for a moment.  We’ve all no doubt been in situations where a friend or co-worker has sought out our counsel in the midst of a very tough spot. In their fear and frustration, they likely shouted out a similar question, a question formed in their panic. And how did we respond? Maybe it wasn’t a convenient time to deal with someone else’s problem.  It’s easy to be quick to respond with a solution, to try to “fix” their problem with a Bible verse or even a Christian platitude. In a hurry to “counsel” someone, we might answer in haste, “Calm down—everything will work out!” But look at the example Elisha gives us in this story. (II Kings 6:16-17). His response to his panicked friend has three parts to it. He starts by recognizing the intense fear that his friend has, and he encourages him by reminding him “Do not be afraid.” He doesn’t ignore the intensity of the moment; he enters right into it. And then Elisha offers the servant some Godly advice out of the scriptures. He assures him that, “Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” (2 Kings 6:16) After his patient encouragement, Elisha shares some Biblical facts with his friend. And finally, he stops and prays a simple prayer for the servant, “Lord open his eyes so he may see.” (v. 17) When God did so, the servant saw the multitude of angels also surrounding the town. The hills were full of horses and chariots of fire, an incredible symbol of God’s power.  If you read the story, you’ll find that God had an incredible solution to the situation which resulted in Israel’s enemies blindly marching into captivity, getting a meal and being sent home! Even in the midst of a dire situation, Elisha took the time to console and encourage his servant.  He demonstrated the direction the Apostle Paul would later give to the Christ-followers in New Testament Galatia, saying, “Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) Elisha’s actions point forward, to Christ’s others-centered law. In the words of the great Christian reformer, Martin Luther, “The Law of Christ is the Law of love. Christ gave us no other law than this law of mutual love: “A new commandment I give unto you, that you love one another.” To love means to bear another’s burdens.”[1] What a great example Elisha gave us of how to “bear another’s burdens, through encouragement! So, this week, if a friend seeks some help or counsel, slow down and take some time to care for your friend. Acknowledge and address their need. Take time to encourage them. Then share a scripture or thought out of God’s Word. And don’t forget to pray. Pray simply and with heart. This is what it means to “bear one another’s burdens.” And then watch what happens as God lifts their burden. What Elisha told his frightened friend is true today for us in our distress: “Greater is He that is with us, than He that is in the World.” (1 John 4:4). Resource reading: 2 Kings 6:8-23 [1] Luther, Martin. “Martin Luther’s Bible Commentary New Testament Only,” 2020. https://www.christianity.com/bible/commentary.php?com=luth.

https://www.guidelines.org/devotional/how-to-encourage-a-friend/

LIVESTREAM: TV Patrol | August 28, 2020 Full Episode

Why Faith Is More Than Just Belief

 Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.  Hebrews 11:1

“What is faith?” asked the writer of the book of Hebrews in the New Testament.  Then he answered his own question, saying, “It is the confident assurance that something we want is going to happen.  It is the certainty that what we hope for is waiting for us, even though we cannot see it up ahead” (Hebrews 11:1, LB).  Two words express this reality.  The first word, translated “confident assurance,” is a very positive expression; but it is the second word which gives us a picture which enlightens us.

In the first century this Greek word elegchos was used of a title deed.  For example, you buy a piece of property which you have never seen, but when the transaction is completed you are given a title deed—a legal piece of paper that says you own the property.  “But you have never seen the property!” someone exclaims in surprise.  “True,” you say, but then you add, “I own that property; I have the title deed in my possession.”

In a very real sense that is how faith functions in relationship to God.  There are two aspects to biblical faith, and apart from both of these, faith is defective.  The first ingredient is belief which relates to knowledge; the second is trust which demands commitment and action.  Believing is important, very important; but it isn’t enough.

Let me illustrate.  Suppose you wanted to hire a person for a position in your company.  After an interview, you make a proposal.  In your letter you offer the individual a position, outlining the benefits of working for you.  But you never get a response from the individual.  Then you call asking, “Did you receive my job offer?”  Hesitantly, the person admits that he did.  “Well then,” you ask, “why haven’t you responded?”  Reluctantly, the person admits that he believes you can make good on your offer, but then adds, “But frankly, I just don’t trust you!”

How would you respond?  There is no way you would bring that person into your firm, right?  At times, we treat God the same way.  We believe He exists, and we even believe His word is true, but we don’t really trust Him enough to commit ourselves to Him and walk with Him.

Unlike employers who make promises and don’t keep them, or friends who forget what they tell you, God is never remiss on coming through with what He says He will do.  The foundation of our faith in God is His very character.  Because people fail us, we often bring God down to their level, wondering if He really can be trusted as well, forgetting the times when He has met us in the past.

The father of a little boy about five years old stood his son on a table and said, “Son, jump and I’ll catch you.”  The boy hesitated and the father repeated his command: “Jump, son, and I’ll catch you.”  Finally, the little boy leaped, and as he did so, the dad withdrew his arms and the little fellow landed in the floor.  Picking up the crying boy, the father said, “Son, I’ve just taught you a very important lesson:  Never trust anyone.   Do you hear?  Never!”

Okay, your earthly father may be untrustworthy, but our Heavenly Father isn’t like that.  The Bible puts it pointedly: “God is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act?  Does he promise and not fulfill?” (Numbers 23:19).  And the obvious answer is, “No!”

The Quaker scholar, David Elton Trueblood put it so well as he said, “Faith is not belief without proof but trust without reservation.”  Believing is important but trusting is what brings the promises into our lives and our families.   Real faith includes both.

Resource Reading: Hebrews 11:1-7

https://www.guidelines.org/devotional/why-faith-is-more-than-just-belief/

Crispy Fry Matunog

 

May bagong matunog, sa kainang pambahay! Bagong Crispy Fry from Ajinomoto, ang breading mix na may tamang timpla ng spices at seasonings, huling-huli ang sarap at crispiness na matunog sa panlasa ng pamilya! Crispy Fry Breading Mix, Crispy Sarap with every bite! Ubos na?

Original video courtesy of Trevor Hone

© 2004 Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation

Are There Different Kinds Of Christians?

 And when the centurion, who stood there in front of Jesus, heard his cry and saw how he died, he said, “Surely this man was the Son of God!”  Mark 15:39

Is it possible for you to believe in Jesus Christ as your Savior, but without getting too radical about it?   Putting it another way:  Are there different kinds of Christians?  Can you be a Christian by degrees, believing some things but not really becoming a fanatic?

Long ago a young man struggled with this very issue.  In his youth his sexual escapades were well known.  We might have labeled him a sex addict today.  According to his own admission, he was trapped, as he put it, in "the swirling mists of lust" that thrust him into the "whirlpools of vice."   He went to church and maintained a facade of religious respectability, but as he later reflected on his behavior, he considered his life to be an intolerable moral contradiction.  The man's name?  Today we know him as St. Augustine, but a saint he was not in the early years of his life.  Eventually Augustine was attracted to a famous preacher who was the Bishop of Milan, and listening to him, Augustine began to see himself as he really was.  Eventually he was convicted and his life was changed completely.

Augustine didn't believe that you could be a Christian apart from bowing in submission and recognition of Jesus Christ’s right to rule in your life. We call this willingness discipleship.  Writing of Augustine's concept of discipleship, Richard Foster said, "Augustine did not believe, as is so common today, that one could be a convert to Christ without being a disciple of Christ.  For him, conversion and discipleship were two sides to the same door‑‑both were necessary for one to pass through the doorway.  He knew that “receiving Christ” required a radical re‑ordering of his life.  He had counted the cost and understood that conversion meant a lifestyle without his mistress and a profession other than rhetoric, which he believed taught “the arts of deception.”

"Even more, he knew that turning to Christ meant turning from the arrogance and intellectual pride that had driven him so fiercely...  For Augustine, conversion was not assenting easily to a few propositions; it was restructuring his whole life."

What does it mean to be a Christian today?  Go to church?  Watch your language?  Try not to cheat?   Before you answer, think about a few of these statements from the Bible.  "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" (2 Corinthians 5:17).  Then reflect on Jesus' uncompromising words to His disciples:  "No one can serve two masters.  Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other.  You cannot serve both God and money" (Matthew 6:24).

As you grow in your understanding of your new life in Christ and your knowledge of the Bible, your commitment and your love relationship should affect every part of your life.  But, if your attitudes and behavior show no change, your faith is only theory.    Again, Jesus challenged the disciples and He challenges us with a question:  "Why do you call Me Lord and do not the things I command you?" (Luke 6:46). “The greatest single cause of atheism in the world today,” wrote Brendon Manning, “is Christians, who acknowledge Jesus with their lips, then walk out the door, and deny Him by their lifestyle. That is what an unbelieving world simply finds unbelievable.”[1]

Surrender of your life to Jesus Christ is not a decision to make lightly.  But, in Jesus’ own words, “If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it.  And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?” (Matthew 16:25-26).

Resource reading: Luke 18:18-30.

[1] Simpson, Ben. “The Ragamuffin Legacy,” June 7, 2017. https://relevantmagazine.com/god/ragamuffin-legacy/.

https://www.guidelines.org/devotional/are-there-different-kinds-of-christians/

Move Ahead Without Fear

 Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom.  Luke 12:32

Bernadette Grey was the editor-in-chief of a women's magazine.  Her work-related responsibilities kept her in contact with some of the world's most successful businesswomen.  In one editorial she analyzed four factors which lead to success among her colleagues.  She mentioned 1) optimism, 2) uniqueness, 3) a strong work ethic, and 4) fearlessness.

While her four observations relate to successful executives who are women, they apply equally to every person who succeeds.  It was that fourth facto - fearlessness - which was especially intriguing to me.  An individual who is afraid of failure almost always fails, yet fearlessness is not bold brashness.

There are two ways you can be fearless: You can have a daring and audacious disregard for reality, or you can have a greater inner strength which assesses the failure factor yet confidently moves ahead.  Individuals who disregard reality are usually not fearless but brazen and often crash and burn, while those with inner strengths move forward with confidence.

I plowed through two biographies which consumed more than a few hours of reading on airplanes.  One was a biography of General Douglas MacArthur, the liberator of the Philippines and the man who did more to shape the future of Japan after World War 2 than any other person.  The second was on the life of the British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, a contemporary of MacArthur's.

Both of them faced tremendous dangers--both personally and collectively.  Both had the responsibilities of vast numbers of people on their shoulders, and both of them knew full well the great consequences of making wrong decisions.  Both of them, incidentally, on occasion exercised poor judgment and - yes - failed at their tasks, yet - and this is what made them successful - they had enough inner strength that when a decision had to be made, having considered all the factors, they moved ahead without fear.

Is this something which you can do, or is this a quality of only truly great men and women?  Everyday, contended William Manchester, MacArthur's biographer, he read his Bible and prayed.  As pugnacious and sometimes as belligerent as a junkyard bulldog, Churchill believed that God fought against the tyranny of Hitler and Stalin, whom he hated almost as much as Hitler.  Their fearlessness came from an inner conviction that they were instruments in God's hands.  Perfect, no.  They made mistakes and plenty of them, but confident that God would see them through.

OK, you aren't leading an army or a nation.  You, however, may be boss in your family, a single mom, or a husband who is trying to do a good job in your company.  Can you as an individual also be fearless, even when the doctor says, "You've got melanoma," or your accountant says, "If you know how to pray, you had better pray for a miracle!"  Can you be fearless when the circumstances of life seem to bully you?

Fearlessness doesn't depend on your strength.  Knowing that God is in control, that someway, somehow, He will see you through, lets you move into the future without fear.

Safety is not the absence of danger as much as it is the presence of the Lord.  In an Upper Room, Jesus told the disciples, "Stop worrying; stop being afraid."  He says the same thing to you today.  "You trust God," He told them, "Trust Me as well."

How about it?  Fearlessness always relates to the future, and when you get there God will already be there.  Make sure you acknowledge that it is He, not yourself, who brought you through the storm.  He still says, "Don't be afraid; don't worry.  Trust Me."

Resource reading: Psalm 46:1-11

https://www.guidelines.org/devotional/move-ahead-without-fear/

Stuffed Dear Daniel

Stuffed Dear Daniel

Stuffed Hello Kitty

Stuffed Hello Mimmy

Stuffed Kuririn

Stuffed Kuromi

Stuffed toy Cinnamoroll

Stuffed toy Little Twin Stars Kiki

Stuffed toy Little Twin Stars Lala

Plush My Melody

Stuffed Pochakko

Plush My Sweet Piano

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