Back

Dev Flores

Lifestyle

EXPLAINED: What to do with the damaged currency

January 1, 2026 1:13 AM
PST

“Ang ating pera ay yaman ng ating bansa,” mentioned on the uploaded video of Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

[“Our currency is the wealth of our country.”]

Money serves as the primary means to meet daily needs and expenses. Earning it requires hours of work to pay for electricity, water, internet, groceries, and other essentials, plus savings and personal expenses.

Despite careful handling, unexpected incidents can damage cash stored at home. Fire, termites, or rodents can destroy bills kept in drawers or containers. The BSP classifies such damaged cash as Mutilated Banknotes.

Under BSP Circular No. 829, series of 2014, three criteria determine whether damaged currency holds value and qualifies for replacement:

1. Size - At least 60% of the original surface area must remain intact

2. Signature - The signature of either the BSP Governor or the President of the Philippines must be visible

3. Security thread - The embedded security thread must be present (the blue strip located above the two signatures)

The BSP instructs anyone seeking replacement to visit an authorized bank. These banks transport the damaged currency to the BSP for assessment to determine value and eligibility.

Once the BSP confirms eligibility, they deposit the replacement amount to the authorized bank, which then releases it to the client. 

Otherwise, an authorized bank must inform the client regarding the ineligible replacement. 

For more information on replacing damaged currency, WATCH: https://youtu.be/NyUeU0yEblw?si=pcb2fl9sfOCUOqj5

Lifestyle

Cordillera workers get ₱35 wage hike starting today, December 30, 2025

December 30, 2025 3:21 PM
PST

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) issued an update on the wage increase in Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). 

The previous rate of ₱470.00 for workers, now rises to ₱505.00. 

Domestic workers will get a ₱600.00 hike on their monthly minimum wage which increases from ₱6,000.00 to ₱6,600.00

The wage hike is effective today in the provinces of the region such as Abra, Apayao, Benguet,Ifugao, Kalinga, and Mt. Province.

Crime & Investigation

Fire prevention tips during the holiday season

December 27, 2025 1:39 PM
PST

There have been 40 fire incidents reported as of December 24, 2025; 17 were related to the use of firecrackers.

BFP Chief, Public Information Service Spokesperson FSupt. Anthony Arroyo explained that the majority of the incidents were caused by increasing utilization of appliances, lightings, unattended open flames or LPG leaks.

“Maraming nagdagdagdag ng load sa holiday season na ito dahil nga mas maraming gumagamit ng pailaw, mas maraming nagluluto gamit ang electrical cooking appliance. At gayun din ‘yung mga additional lightings sa mga surrounding hindi lamang sa bawat bahay kahit sa mga outside properties.” he said

[“There is a significant increase in electrical load this holiday season because of the increasing use of lighting, many people are cooking through electrical appliances. And also, the additional lightings in the surroundings not only in each houses but also in outside properties."]

In light of these incidents, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) has issued safety tips to prevent fire incidents during the holiday season.

  1. Always unglug appliances that are not in use.
  2. Avoid using firecrackers or pyrotechnics and if possible use alternative noisemakers instead.
  3. Inform a trusted neighbor if you will be away from your house for a long period of time.
  4. Turn off all the lights, stove, and LPG tanks before going to sleep.
  5. Keep the firecrackers away from electrical outlets, cigarette butts or any source of ignition.
  6. Do not utilize sky lanterns.
  7. Utilization and ignition of firecrackers near residential houses and other buildings should be prevented

Arroyo reminds the public to avoid using sky lanterns and not to emulate the practices of other countries like Japan and Taiwan. Communities in the Philippines are densely populated. With a simple wind movement, if the lanterns land on residential areas, the fire could spread so fast, forming a massive destruction to the community.

Take note of these tips and have a safe and joyous holiday! 

Via Ryan Lacanlale’s report 

Lifestyle

A friendly reminder on purchasing firecrackers before the year ends

December 27, 2025 1:29 PM
PST

The end of the year 2025 is nearly approaching. As a part of tradition that passed through different generations, Filipinos welcome the new beginning with loud, bright, and lively activities. 

Firecrackers have been a part of the celebration every year.

Bocaue, Bulacan is one of the most well-known selling hubs of firecrackers, where consumers usually return before the year ends.

The Philippine Pyrotechnics Manufacturers and Dealers Association Inc. (PPMDAI) reminds the public to avoid purchasing from unauthorized and unlicensed dealers to ensure the safe celebration.

The PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) also warns to be cautious and not be tempted to buy firecrackers online. PNP-ACG Director PBGen. Wilson Asueta mentioned earlier that online selling of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices is prohibited under the law.

In the remaining days of 2025, the Bocaue PNP is prepared to execute necessary actions against the illegal sales and manufacture of firecrackers. 

Bocaue MPS Chief of Police PLtCol. Virgilio Ramirez encourages the public to report the incidents of illegal selling so that immediate actions can be taken against violators to ensure community safety.

Ramirez also added that manufacturing firecrackers is not allowed in residential areas. There are only authorized places for licensed individuals to create those items. 

Authorities have been consistently reminding us to avoid buying illegal firecrackers whether online or not. Always check if the dealer displays necessary documents on hand such as the DTI Permit, Municipal Business Permit, BFP Fire Safety Inspection, 3 years of contract with PNP Camp Crame.

Have a safe, bright and lively celebration as you welcome a new beginning of the year!

Weather & Environment

DOTr issues alternative routes on a full road closure of EDSA Kamuning from Dec. 27-28, 2025

December 27, 2025 1:20 PM
PST

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) issued an update, showing an alternative route for motorists that will pass through EDSA, particularly the area of Kamuning. 

The implementation of full road closure in EDSA Kamuning southbound will begin from December 27 to 28, 2025 (1:00 AM to 4:00 AM) to give way to the construction of the new face of Kamuning footbridge and busway. 

In a traffic advisory released by the Transportation Department, from EDSA before reaching Kamuning, motorists can turn to Sct. Borromeo, then turn to Sct. Ybardolaza or proceed to Sct. Esguerra Avenue, then proceed to Timog Avenue to get back to EDSA. 

DOTr

EDSA Kamuning busway station will be temporarily unavailable while the full road closure is effective. Commuters who usually get off in Kamuning station are advised to go to other stations like Quezon Ave or Nepa Q-Mart.

Via Benedict Samson’s report