Wife of sick man, grateful for donation, goes job hunting

At 10:16 a.m., Philippine time, Jayson's family sent me messages bidding me good morning, asking how I was and hoping I would be fine.

Unfortunately I was not available online to receive the messages immediately.

I had sent a remittance. Janice thanked me very much for your helping and urged me to take care of myself.

"I go to my sister now to find some work," she added. " Love you always. Jayson, Janice and kids."

Receipt of remittance fraught with difficulties

Bern (08:48 GMT+08): Janice, please advise: have you received any message from PesoEpadala.com or Globe G-Cash yet?

Janice (08:52): Good morning, Bern.

Bern: Good morning. I trust you've received the question I just sent you.

Janice: OK! Bern.
:
Bern: Please advise: what messages, if any, have you received from PesoEpadala.com or Globe G-Cash?

Janice: I'm sorry BERN. What question BERN?

Bern: Have you received any messages from PesoEpadala.com or Globe G-Cash? And what is the result?

Janice: I receive - but I can't read bcoz my cellphone is can't open.

Bern: Please explain.

Janice: Hang I think Bern. I'm sorry for that.

Bern: I think that if you take the battery out of the cellphone then put it back in again you may find that the cellphone will work. It is possible, though, that the date and time will need to be reset. Of course, also, you need to keep the battery charged.

Janice: Yes Bern, already full charge. Bern please send it to my email.

Bern: You please try what I have requested. If you don't know how to do it, please try to get advice from someone who understands cellphones better.

Janice: OK Bern! Wait for 2 min. I try to get advice [from] someone.

Bern: You may also find that there are too many SMS text messages stored in your cellphone and that you need to delete some.

Janice: Bern, it's OK now - I can read the message from Globe G-cash already pick-up.

Bern: Are you saying that you have already picked up the money?

Janice: No, Bern, [they] said that the remittance is ready to pick-up.

Bern: I see. So I suppose you will leave immediately to go and get it?

Bern: Hello! What's the situation?

Janice: I can't receive the remittance #.

Bern: Please explain why you can't receive the remittance number.

Janice: Not in my message I receive this morning from G-cash. I receive the Yahoo message what the Yahoo message?

Bern: I suggest that you try to send a text to Globe saying you have not received the number. Then ask them to please send it again.

Janice: She saying Bern. I go to my email or what? Bern, I think to Jason's email he send. I look to Jason['s] email Bern - wait. Wait Bern. I open Jason['s] email.

Janice: From G-cash: "You have remittance ready for pick-up since yesterday afternoon: pick it up from Globe outlet where you used to pick-up your remittance. From friends@pesoepadala.com." This is the message I received.

Bern: Janice: this morning I phoned Peso Epadala in Sydney but received only a recorded message on an answering machine. Then I phoned their manager Annie on her cellphone and received only another recorded message. I'll have to go offline and try them again. But I can e-mail them.

Also you could e-mail them: I'll give you some addresses. Set the e-mails as high priority.

Janice: OK BERN, thank you.

Bern: Try anna ... That's Anna, one of the managers. There's also Annie... And Boyet, And the Processing Department ... Shirley's e-mail address ... The New South Wales office e-mail address ... You could send a single e-mail to all of those addresses simultaneously by using the CC method.

Janice: OK Bern.

Bern: I trust you are sending an e-mail or two without difficulty?

Janice (12:45:34): Yes! Bern, I send already some message of them all.

Bern (12:46:57): Good. I'll try to phone PesoEpadala.com again soon and after that I also want to send them e-mails.

Janice (152): OK, I'll will wait for her message.

Janice (21:29:09): Good evening, BERN. Thank you very much; I get money at 2 p.m. I buy Jayson vitamins and some fresh fruits - and also medicine. Thank you, Bern, and always take care. We love you. [Received at 22:10:05.]

Family cannot afford medical consultation and treatment for small injured son

Email from Tina sent on December 07 at 17:04 GMT+8

Dear Bern,

This is the x-ray plate of Kert; the doctor [is] waiting to return us on Dec. 18, to discharge the cement, at 9 a.m.

I’m worried coz I’m sure doctor required us to have x-ray again to check if the bone back to normal. X-ray cost 980.

Bern, sad to say, Roderic['s] work will be till this week, he just have work as casual for only 1 month, [this] means to say the responsibilities [come] back to me again. Bern, pls, help us again when the day came need Kert return to doctor again on Dec.18.

I pray the bone return to normal again.

Tina

Wife of sick man appeals for financial help for family

December 05

Janice (15:44:51): Bern - I'm worried too much about my situation. If Jason still have sick, how about my 2 children, also Mae Mae['s] study, Jason can't work almost 3 days from now Bern. I can't buy his medicine; he still have headache and still lay down in bed. I hope Bern, you can help me - to buy medicines and some fruits and also vitamins. I hope Bern, you can understand me - I'm hoping!!!!

Janice (21:29:33): Bern, I hope you can help me - it's very hard for me Bern! To think - I'm surfeit.

December 06

Janice (13:23:23): Good morning BERN. How are you?

Bern (13:36:05): Hello. I'm just managing. At the moment I'm supposed to be at the lunch table.

Janice (13:38:29): OK - BERN - I hope you read my message to you . . . and I hope you understand. If you are busy now I can chat [with] you later.

Janice (13:48:38): Hard to me this situation - I don't know what can I do - I know you are the one who can help me. I hope, Bern - and thank you for understanding. I'm waiting for you Bern - Bye - love you.

Poor woman cannot afford medical care for sick husband or schooling for daughter

Janice (18:35:29): Hellow Bern, how are you?

Bern (18:37:28): Hello, I'm just OK. I've been going backwards and forwards to the TV news.

Janice (18:38:20): It's OK! Bern.

Bern (18:39:47): This morning Jason sent a message saying he was feeling sick. I hope he's improved.

Janice (18:41:23): Yes! Bern, he's sleeping and I hope he's improved as soon as possible.

Bern (18:41:53): So do I. It's a real pity he can't afford to consult a doctor.

Janice (18:42:46): Not yet Bern! B-coz I don't have money.

Bern (18:43:01): Just as I thought.

Janice (18:49:17): He take tablet Bern, biogesic only.

Bern (18:51:08): I see. Do you know the ingredients? I think it probably contains only paracetamol for pain relief.

Janice (18:51:55): He feel cold.

Bern (18:52:12): Perhaps he has a fever.

Janice (18:52:28): Yes! Bern.

Bern (18:52:39): I wish there was more that could be done. Does the employer know about Jason's illness? What does he say?

Janice (18:55:18): He said rest - and get well soon!

Bern (18:55:43): Who is performing Jason's duties while he is unable to work?

Janice (18:56:20): His assistant!

Janice (18:57:01): I'm surfeit Bern! I can't help Mae Mae, to her study, I can't give money allowance.

Bern (19:01:36): Don't your relations in San Isidro try to do that?

Janice (19:04:23): Do to support my relative but Bern, I'm shy b-coz he can do every day - money allowance to Mae Mae! I'm worried also Bern!

Bern (19:05:17): I understand.

Janice (19:07:00): I don't know what can I do now Bern!

Bern (19:07:45): I'm so sorry, it's getting quite hard for me also.

Bern (19:09:17): I'm sorry I'm distracted right now by someone else sending Yahoo messages and the TV going. Also Alice is calling me to eat.

Janice (19:10:42): OK! Bern, thank you for chatting . . . (-_-) . . . you're my good friend. Sorry for sharing this!

Bern (19:15:09): There's no need to apologise. But I really must go now. I'll probably be online again later tonight.

Janice (19:15:34): OK Bern! I'm waiting.

Storekeeper trades satisfactorily but other families remain in crisis

Bern (11:28:21): Good morning Tina. I haven't heard from you since last Monday so I'd appreciate an update on the family situation, please.

Tina (13:16:48): Bern gud a.m., we're OK, I try to save d sale every day to buy stocks, so d stocks will be continue. I make also list of items coz I make inventory of items and sales.

Bern (13:18:03): Good. I think it really is important to keep stocks as much as possible so you don't disappoint customers, and also keep good business records.

Tina (13:21:13): Yes Bern you're right, dat why I make sure every day sale I can buy stocks.

Bern (13:23:32): Tina, Mel's upset with me again but said his number for selling loads is 0918 . . . 355. I'm wondering if there is any possibility you could load his cellphone.

Bern (13:34:20): I'm sorry if I put more stress on your financial system. I was thinking if you are able to load his cell[phone], that might confirm that he is able to sell loads.

Tina (13:39:26): Its OK Bern, I will try, but I will go first in load center, then I will pay for da load I will send for Mel, for his load wallet.

Bern (13:48:22): Thank you very much for that. If you are able to load Mel's wallet that will help him and confirm what he says. Actually I'm quite anxious about Anagel's family too.

Tina (13:54:57): Don't worry about Anagel family coz der have a sacks of charcoal to sales, I'm going to buy [from] them 5 sacks of charcoal to re-pack, so I can sale it in store.

Bern (13:56:16): Thank you for the reassurance but that's not quite clear to me. Do you mean Anagel's family will sell charcoal, wholesale, to you? I'm glad if it's so.

Tina (13:58:04): Yes, Bern, whole sale of charcoal and I'm going to retail it in store.

Bern (13:59:59): I see. I'm glad of that arrangement. Incidentally, Alice and her husband had a contract, years ago, supplying charcoal to a power station. She hated the soot.

Bern (14:21:15): Tina, I'm sorry to add another request but if it's not too difficult and you could send Ross some small Globe load that would help. He had only [load to the value of] 2.5 pesos [left].

Tina (14:22:05): Bern, what his number?

Bern (14:24:10): +6391 . . . 071. I realize you had problems with Globe load. Annie at Peso Epadala said Globe is very strict and yours wasn't registered properly. I don't know.

Bern (23:36:29): Hello Tina. May I ask: how was your day? I'm still worrying about Mel feeling aggrieved, about Anagel's family wanting help urgently, and also Ross's [problems].

Underemployed father lacks food for his family; agitated brother-in-law begs for help

Bern (16:58:11): Hello Mel.

Mel [online] (16:58:30): Hi!

Bern (16:58:48): I'm surprised you're online.

Mel (17:00:10): I'm worried about you and me!

Bern (17:00:29): Please explain.

Mel (17:02:36): I want to mention again about help, bcoz I'm worried about my sister Anagel and I'm worried about you, you might have financial problem too.

Bern (17:04:20): It's true that many people ask me for help and my funds are limited. Please tell me more about Anagel's problems.

Mel (17:06:22): Robert is no job bcoz no tourist visit here, he was boatman. [It's] hard for him to work in other place bcoz they have four children to feed.

Bern (17:06:57): Oh.

Mel (17:07:24): Sometimes we shared but not enough, shared for food.

Bern (17:07:49): I see.

Mel (17:09:38): On Monday Angelica and Gilbert go to school again. I'm afraid they don't have food, too, after and before schooling.

Bern (17:10:01): I see. I hate going to Western Union. I want to stop doing it. You must know that it costs me $25 - that's 1,000 pesos - every time I go there, just for fees. That money is totally lost. And that's not counting, of course, the money for the beneficiary.

Mel (17:14:05): I see! And do understand that!

Bern (17:14:41): For the last week Ross in Paranaque has also been begging me for help for his family.

Bern (17:15:50): But there's something else that I've been worrying about a lot. I wonder whether you have really been selling cellphone loads.

Mel (17:17:07): Yes I do! my number when I selling load is this: 0918 . . . 355.

Bern (17:17:22): I think that is not your usual number.

Mel (17:17:54): Sorry, I forgot to tell you about that. Bcoz, Bern, if you register this number my load is automatically lost 2 pesos, that's every day. Like my other number.

Bern (17:19:51): I'm sorry Mel, I don't quite understand what you are saying.

Mel (17:20:47): It's [hard] for me to explain bcoz I'm not good in English. . . . I mean hard for me to explain.

Bern (17:21:31): That really does need some explanation but perhaps there's not time now.

Mel (17:22:12): I can't force you to believe me!

Bern (17:22:40): It's not a matter of being forced to believe something. It's a matter of understanding.

Mel (17:22:58): It's up to you. I'm upset your not believed in me and trust.

Young man's honesty doubted

Bern (11:20:02): Hi Mel. From Australia I successfully loaded Tina's Smart SIM with 900 pesos worth of load she can sell. Please advise your SIM retail info[rmation] so I can do it for you.

Bern (11:21:00) [to Tina]: COPY: Hi Mel. From Australia I . . . loaded Tina's Smart SIM with 900 pesos worth of load she can sell. Please advise your SIM retail info[rmation] so I can do it for you.

Bern (11:28:50): Hi Jester, how are you? I want to load Mel's SIM with about 900 pesos worth of load so he can sell it but I need Mel's retail SIM number. I'd appreciate your help.

Bern: Hi Jomar, how are you? I want to load Mel's SIM with about 900 pesos worth of load so he can sell it but I need Mel's retail SIM number. I'd appreciate your help.

Bern (11:36:03): Hi Tina. Thanks for your texts and e-mail. I've just texted Mel requesting retail SIM details, then also Jester and Jomar, seeking help to get them.

Tina (11:39:38): Bern, according to Nanay Josie Mel have a old cellphone, which he [is] now using, dat why all of your text was receiving by Mel, just for two of us, according to Nanay Josie.

Bern (11:48:14): I'm just waiting and hoping for responses from Mel, Jomar and Jester, so I can get a better idea of what's happening. I'm not optimistic, however.

Tina (16:44:16): Mel using his old cp number +6392 . . . 321, Jomar using his own, according to Nanay Josie, Mel want I redeem d cel from Jomar and buy a brand new TV set, I'm so sorry about it.

Bern (11:46:50): Tina, if I understand correctly, then, Mel has his old cellphone and Jomar has his new one (which I paid for, about August 2007) and they are both working.

Bern (16:48:14): Hello, +6392 . . . 321 is the number Mel got in August. He was using it until he pawned the phone to Jomar. For a month, at least, Mel has wanted a new TV.

Bern (16:51:11): Evidently Mel was using that phone last Sunday, around 4:40 p.m., while walking to San Isidro to help Jomar campaign. None of them replied to me today.

Tina (16:51:42): According to Nanay Josie yesterday dat number using Mel in old cell, right now, Mel was now in bad mood dat why he [doesn't] want to reply, d celphone with camera was d cell pawn[ed] to Jomar.

Tina (16:57:35): When Nanay Josie was her getting groceries, she text Mel if he has still d SIM to retail Smart, sad to say he did not reply, I ask what Mel using? She told me dat number, maybe Mel just to tell you dat his cell with his SIM pawn to Jomar to force you to help him to redeem d cell right away. I'm so sorry about it.

Micro-businesses greatly handicapped by lack of capital

E-mail from Tina sent at 13:56 GMT+8

Dear Bern,

This is the reply e-mail from Joe, which I mention to you, to invest in my store. As I expected, he give his negative opinion.

What I can I do Bern, the canteen manage[d] by Sol will be close till Oct 25. Tell you the truth, she did not buy any more stock right now, coz she just want to collect for the payment on Oct 25.

The stock I buy last Saturday was almost gone, coz all security guard goes to our store. Bern I don't want to get additional capital from 5/6* just to support the needs of guard, coz I don't want to happen to my store [what] happen to the canteen manage by Sol.

I hope you understand, if you have a chance please help me to explain to Joe the situation.

Tina

-----

*5/6: a short-term monelender who charges high interest.

Mel distressed after waiting for information and assistance

Mel (18:42:41): Bern what the new's about your help, I'm very sorry for question[ing] you about that! Love.

Bern (18:45:25): On Friday I succeeded in sending money via PesoEpadala.com to Tina to be picked up through Tambunting Pawnshop in Paete. It's a Globe G-Cash outlet.

Bern (18:46:58): I also succeeded in sending Tina 900 pesos worth of Smart load. Tina says there is great demand for her to sell on credit to security guards' families.

Bern (18:47:33): I was very much hoping Tina and Jovs would be able to help you but until now this has not happened.

Mel (18:47:49): Ah! I see but Bern there's a problem of my account you cannot send money to my SIM card like Tina bcoz we're different SIM card and its available only for Smart load.

Bern (18:49:03): I succeeded in sending 900 pesos worth of Smart load to Tina. I tried to send 900 pesos worth of Globe load to her also but she hasn't received it.

Bern (18:50:26): Mel I will send load to your Smart phone if I can be sure that you will receive it. The PesoEpadala office in Sydney is not open until tomorrow, however.

Mel (18:52:09): But how can I use that, I'm not handed my phone, I pawned it.

Bern (18:54:12): Yes, Mel, I understand that, so the situation is more difficult. If I succeeded in buying load, perhaps Jomar or Jester could get the benefit.

Mel (18:56:33): No, Bern, stop trying if it's hard or difficult for you. I will stop hoping that you can help me Bern. You always take care: this is my last text for now. I love you!

Bern (19:00:10): Thank you for your love, Mel. But please don't ask me to stop trying. I'm so sorry it's your last text for now. I will find some way to contact you again soon. Love.

Mel (19:01:35): No, don't worry about me, I will be OK! Goodbye!

Ministore proprietor's request for financial help coldly rejected

October 19, 17:56 GMT+8: E-mail from Tina to Joe

Dear Joe,

I have a good news, I have a collection worth 5,337 from the other guard[s], here in NPC [National Power Corporation], it was deducted from their salary, last pay day it's only 3,000, now it's increase[d] depend[ing] on how I can have a stock from the store, like rice, can goods, household needs, cigarettes and groceries.

Joe I scan to you the list the name and my collection to prove that the store you provide for us has improvement.

Joe, Jovs now was with us, he continue his work, and serve as a messenger of order.

Joe, our problem now: it's of them ask[ing us] to provide then 25 kls of rice, and other lots of groceries:

25 kls of rice x 30 persons (8 sacks x 1,200) . . . . . . . 9,600

Cigarettes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,000

Load to sale from Globe and Smart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4,000

Groceries, soft drink etc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8,400

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25,000

Joe, can you help us to have this additional capital for the store. It's a big help for us. I hope this is the only way Jovs make busy to help me in managing the store, and he realize to stay with us.

There is no problem in collection, if I can have this capital I can earn 500 to 1,000 pesos cash daily from the store.

I hope you understand.

Tina

October 21, 20:31 GMT+10: E-mail from Joe to Tina

If you do not make enough from the shop to buy new stock and have some profit left-over, you should not have the shop.

You can NOT rely on me to keep paying for stocking up.

Joe

Impoverished young man Mel helps comrade campaign for election

Life goes on despite hunger

Mel (18:27:37): Gud p.m., Bern, it's me, Mel. I'm with Jomar now. I'm with him campaigning in their barangay. Hope you're OK. I'm worried bcoz you're not texting. Love, Mel.
 

Bern (18:29:06): Hi Mel, I'm so glad you replied. I've been worried about you. May I ask: who is the candidate for whom you are campaigning?
 

Mel (18:30:16): Jomar Yaneza for councilor!

Bern (18:32:57): Oh, so Jomar is a candidate! My best wishes to him! Unfortunately I can't vote for him also!

Mel (18:35:07): He said thank you so much, yes, me too, I can't vote for him bcoz we're different barangay: he's from Barangay Uno, San Isidro, and I'm from Magdapio.

Bern (18:37:16): So Jomar lives across the river, somewhere near the cemetery, I think! I wonder how you cross the river to see him - by boat, or via the hanging bridge?

Mel (18:38:47): Of corz by hanging bridge! And I'm just walking to get here in his place.

Bern (18:40:01): No doubt it's cheaper that way. But it's several kilometres to walk! At least the exercise will keep you fit, if you're well enough for it.

Mel (18:42:41): Yes, I don't have to use tricycle, eh! . . .

Mother and son sad and peniless, brother says

Bern (17:07:46): Hello Tina. May I ask: what is current situation of you and your family, and of Jov and his brother? I'm concerned, especially about Mel.

Jovs (17:11:15): Bern, it's me, Jov: dis morning I been in Magdapio. I visit dem and Mel ask me money but I only got 20 pesos in my pocket so I didn't give any money to Mel.

Bern (17:13:02): Jov, thank you so much for your concern and for visiting Mel. How is he managing, may I ask? What's his condition? Is there anyone with him who can help?

Jovs (17:16:45): You know, Bern, he looks sad but I can't help him dis time, my mother was der but she also asking money for me to buy food so its sad to say dat noone der who can help Mel.

Bern (17:18:59): I'm so sorry to hear that Jovs. Mel pawned his phone to Jomar so I can't contact him direct. Months ago Mel was borrowing Jester's - is Jester around?

Tina (17:22:25): I think Jester is not around, but I think you can contact it to Nanay Josie cell number if you want? Tina.

Bern (17:24:23): Yes, please. I haven't been in touch with Josie for years. I sometimes wonder why she has forgotten about me.

Bern (17:27:43): Tina and Jovs, I'm sorry, I must go immediately, Alice is very impatiently calling me to eat!

Jovs (17:28:19): Dis is my mother's #: +6392 . . . .

Tina (17:29:19): Ok, take care, Tina.

Poor parents cannot afford school uniforms so uncle pawns cellphone

October 16

Mel (20:16:24): Bern my sister Anagel need help too for her son Gilbert and Angelica for their uniform in school 1500 jogging pants and t-shirt it cost 750 each.

October 17

Bern (08:59:02): Hello Mel. Are you saying that jogging pants cost 1500 each and T-shirts cost 750 each? What is the TOTAL cost for the two children, Gilbert and Angelica?

Mel (10:48:42): Yes Bern, bcoz it's not like ordinary jogging pants and t-shirt, it needed print name and print of the name of they school, that's why it's expensive: 1500 for dey both.

Mel (10:53:36): I mean to say Bern that jogging pants and t-shirt cost 750, plus Gilbert too, that's why the total is 1500 for the two children; sorry for misunderstood my texts.

Bern: (18:38:54): Mel, the Peso Epadala business has an office in Sydney. Their website indicates that I may be able to buy Smart loads for you. But exactly what kind is best?

Jomar (18:52:10) [using Mel's number]: Mel said if you text just let him know. I will told him you text, but now I'm the owner of this phone. He pawned me this bcoz he need money. I'm Jomar, Mels friend.

Bern (18:59:27): Hello Jomar. Thank you for your text. I'm extremely disappointed that Mel pawned his cellphone. May I ask when you'll see Mel again?

Bern (20:02:11): Jomar, may I ask: if Mel wants to get back the cellphone from you, how much will he need to repay you?

Jomar (20:29:45): Bernie I don't know, I text you again if he is here. He said will go here again to asked if you text. Sorry I cant text you more. I don't have more load now.

Bern (20:32:12): OK Jomar, thank you very much for that. You'd better save your load and I hope you'll be able to get more soon. I worry about Mel. Best wishes to both of you.

Jomar (20:36:00): One more thing! Mel decided to pawned this bcoz he said his sister Anagel need money for her son and daughter. That's all I knew. That's why I accept this.

Bern (20:38:58): Mel texted me this morning that they needed jogging pants and T-shirts at a total cost of 1500 for 2 children. I don't understand why so much rush suddenly.

College girl's skin lesion healed following surgery: father seeks help again

Fernando (10:38:13): Hi, how are you now? Hope you're OK. About Rhea-Fe: she is good condition and also operation is perfect. We are here in my house. I am a candidate as a councilor in our Brgy. 2 at Kalye Pogi. Thanks a lot to your help my family.

Bern (10:45:28): Fernando! It's so good to hear from you at last, and especially good to hear that Rhea-Fe is in good condition and the operation perfect!

Fernando (10:51:12): Thanks very much Bern. [I] was running a candidate as a councilor this coming Oct 29 barangay election.

Bern (10:55:40): Yes, congratulations! You have wide experience of life so I'm sure you'd make a good councilor. I hope you win and also receive a good regular salary for it.

Fernando (11:06:50): Thanks and hope you have a good health and 19 of Oct starting of campaigning so I need your help in a meantime; it's me, Poe*.

Bern (11:09:34): So it's a 10-day election campaign? I worry when you say you need my help because I suffer from great financial stresses now.

Fernando (11:16:56): It's OK, I [am] just asking to you if you give me help a good for us. I am going to Comelec** now to file my candidacy. Thanks Bern.

Bern (11:18:23): My best wishes go with you. Fernando, Jov's wife Tina from Kalayaan is begging help today. She has fever and no antibiotics.

Bern (11:19:37): Jov's younger brother Mel is also begging urgently for help from Magdapio. He has no work and no money but wants to buy cellphone loads to sell again.

Bern (11:20:50): I just spent AU$600 to pay for an elderly lady to fly to her daughter's funeral and I must spend another $700 or more to register my car immediately.

Fernando (11:28:01): Well thanks again and hope you're always in good health and condition course I knew you have given help here in Pagsanjan especially [to] Jov's family. Rubee-Fer asking when did you come back in Phil[ippines].

Bern (11:29:58): Oh, I wish I could return soon but I just don't see how it's possible for some time. My health is not bad, all things considered, but I suffer many stresses.

Fernando (11:32:44): Regards to you, Rubee-Fer say love you, ninong [godfather]. Take care of yourself. I know you're going older. Thanks, gud a.m.

Bern (11:34:37): Hey, don't remind me I'm growing older! Age is only a number (I wish!). I'm so glad that someone and especially Rubee-Fer loves me! My love to her also!

Fernando (11:39:40): Yes I know only a number getting older not in your body. Rubee getting taller and beauty. She is graduating now at her grade six elementary she wish you come back soon.

Bern (11:42:08): Well, children getting taller and more beautiful, that's a bit different! But please pardon me now, I'm being called urgently to merienda [snack] with a visitor!

---

*Poe: a nickname derived from the movie star Fernando Poe.
 

**Comelec: Comission on Elections.

Philippine president allegedly distributes huge bribes to members of congress

Image by gmaresign via Flickr

Bribe it was

By Antonio C. Abaya

IS there no end to our despair, our despondency, our humiliation over our politics and our politicians?

Some 190 congressmen were summoned to a breakfast meeting in Malacañang with President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo last Thursday, Oct 11. At the end of the meeting, envelopes were allegedly given away to the attendees, each one supposedly containing P200,000 to P500,000 in cash, as “send-off gifts” or “a remembrance” or “help” (See the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Oct. 12.)

In addition, each attending congressman was allegedly promised pork barrel allocation of up to P70 million.

The cash envelopes were given away apparently without any vouchers to be signed by the recipients, without any indication from which department the (presumably public) money was coming from, without any instructions on how or for what purpose the money was to be used and without any indication that the amounts were to be accounted for or liquidated at a certain date.

In other words, each recipient was free to use the cash, partly or fully, for the coming barangay elections or other local community project, or for his or her own personal needs. Which would be a working definition of a bribe.

* * *

Excerpted from The Manila Standard online, October 16, 2007

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Ulyot's wife gives birth to a daughter by Caesarian section

October 06

Tina (22:52:08): Ulyot now just got married a month ago, he was working [as] a salesman in Centro department store in Sta. Cruz.

Bern (22:55:46): I see. A few days ago I was looking at photographs of Ulyot, taken when he was quite a small boy, early in April 1994, I think - more than 13 years ago.

Mel (23:10:23): Good evening. Ulyot texted me his wife born a baby girl this 5 p.m., the baby is OK but his wife is not bcoz sesarian [caesarean]. Sad to say they need big money I guess. LOVE. [Text received October 07 at 09:50 GMT+10.]

October 07

Bern (09:55:00): Good morning Mel. Congratulations to Ulyot and his wife. It's good to hear they have a healthy daughter but I hope life's not too difficult for the mother and father.

Six families of National Power Station security guards lack food to eat

Tina (10:03:57): Gud am Bern, I wake up early, to open d store. Sad to say I cannot raise money for Ken['s] allowance coz I don't have stock to sale, sorry to tell you Bern we don't have food to eat today, specially d kids.

Tina (10:15:14): You know Bern, 5 guard outgoing dis 7 a.m., complaining to me dat there is no rice and food to their house. They are rely[ing] on my store for their needs. [Above texts received online at 14:53 GMT+10]

Bern (15:55): Sent 10000 Western Union 3476808634. I rely on you to take great care. Please try to help Mel also. He should sell loads and also take great care.

Tina (16:07:18): Bern I received your text thank you very much, I will invest your money to d store, and I give 2,500 to Mel to sale load, I will try my best to take care of it.

Bern (16:18:32): Tina, thank you for your confirmation of my text sent 20 minutes ago. I worry that the money isn't enough though, for elec[tricity], stock, Mel's therapy, Jayson etc.

Unemployed young man needs to work and plan for the future

October 05

Bern (16:58:28): Tina Mel contacted me from the computer store. He's very distressed and crying and has just gone offline. Please try to comfort him right now.

Bern (17:16:51): Tina, just now I tried to ring Mel but I can't get through to him. Please try to contact him and comfort him. Also, please try to reply to me soon.

Bern (17:19:04): Hi Mel, it's distressing to me that you are so sad. I tried to ring you just now but, most unfortunately, I couldn't get through. I worry about you.

Tina (17:26:05): Ok I will, I will get d money first. We're on d way to Sta. Cruz now.

Tina (17:29:45): Don't worry too much Bern, I will talk to him, and I also give d money to him, so he can start to sale load again.

Tina (17:31:37): I will text you again after I talk to Mel, we're now near in Sta. Cruz.

Bern (17:36:22): Thank you for that. Mel is very distressed at receiving 2,500 while (as he sees it) you receive 7,500. I think he feels hopeless and neglected.

Tina (17:39:16): Bern, I will pay 3,500, for elec. bill, then 1,000 for Ken['s] tuition fee, I just buy 1 sack rice, 1,200, d rest I buy stock.

Bern (17:42:45): I see. Ken's tuition fees sound high. I wonder how long that is for. Maybe you can explain a little to Mel. I hope he'll be settled enough to discuss things.

Tina (17:45:45): Bern I will buy also 500 for load Smart, 500 for load Globe, I'm so sorry. I hope Mel will understand.

Bern (17:46:51): I certainly hope he will try to. I do care about Mel. If I had money I'd help him far more than I do.

Tina (17:48:24): Don't worry Bern if I have stock in d store and he needs it, I'm wiling to give.

Bern (17:49:02): Thank you very much for that.

Bern (17:50:08): Hi Jester! Sorry it's been so long. I hope you and your family are well. Jester, Mel is very sad. I'd be grateful if you could visit and comfort him very soon. Bern. "Jester will receive your messages on a mobile device."

Bern (20:02:35): Hi Tina. I'd appreciate a report about the family situation soon, and, if possible, news about Mel especially.

Tina (20:05:33): Bern were just on da way home, we buy stock in d store while were in Sta. Cruz, when we got arrived home, we will go to Magdapio to talk and give money to Mel.

Bern (20:06:55): I see. Thank you for that information. I'll be very interested to hear more later tonight.

Tina (21:31:22): Gud evening Bern, sorry if I'm not personally give money to Mel, coz when we got home little Bern was sleeping, and we don't have food to prepared to eat so Jov decide dat he will bring 2,500 alone, coz I'm d one who will take care [of] little Bern at home, I just text Mel dat Jovs was on da way now.

Bern (22:19:57): Tina thanks for your text advising that Jovs was taking money to Mel. I'd be grateful for information about Mel's condition when it becomes available.

Tina (22:37:16): Bern Jovs has been arrived 5 mins ago. He already gave 2,500 to Mel. Nanay Josie was also there. He did not stay long der coz he knows we eat dinner when he return.

Bern (22:39:14): Oh! I hope Josie will be of some comfort to Mel but I'm not confident of that. Also: I want MEL to benefit from that money, not someone else.

Tina (22:43:45): Don't worry Bern, Mel is da one manage his money, Nanay Josie is with Mel always, she is d one carrying water used [by] Mel while taking a bath, washing cloth of Mel, Mel is like a prince in d house, Nanay Josie was just his servant, cooker, cleaning d house etc. Tina.

Bern (22:46:06): Oh. It's curious that Mel never mentions his mother. Really the prince does need to work at any job, no matter how humble.

Tina (22:51:37): I don't know why he did not mention to you Nanay Josie. But I'm so sorry I'm just saying d truth, Mel is like a prince in his way of living, dat [is] my observation.

October 06

Tina (00:20:14): But Mel need to have determination how to earn money by his own [efforts]. Sorry to tell you dis, but he need to think dat you are not always be there to help him, he was 22 yrs old, he need to be responsible [so that] sooner or later he can have his own family and kids. Sorry for telling dis. It's only my opinion. Tina.

Bern (00:21:58): Hello, I'm still here! I meant to be in bed but an American has been contacting me. I can't see how Mel can ever afford a wife and family. Sad but true.

Tina (00:26:04): Yes Bern, I believed and observed it, but Mel need to think about dat in d future.

Bern (00:26:29): Years ago in Penang, Malaysia, I met a youth aged maybe 18 who said he was unable to marry. I thought he saw no way to get out of poverty.

Bern (00:27:03): Maybe Mel feels hopeless about his life changing.

Bern (00:29:11): People say the longest journey starts with a single step. I was hoping that selling loads would at least provide Mel with a little income.

Tina (00:31:39): I observe Mel spend[s] his time with his barkada [comrades], and wait[s for] his allowance from you. I did see any effort or hear any idea to earn money.

Tina (00:33:43): I hope so, in 500 pesos he can start to sale load if he want to.

Tina (00:38:10): Bern I'm worried about you, it's been too late for you to slept, you must take a rest now.

Bern (00:48:57): Sorry, I was distracted by the American. You are right, I should be in bed. I was feeling regretful this morning after too many very late nights.

Tina (00:56:30): Take care of your health Bern, sweets dreams Bern.

Bern (00:57:11): Oh, thank you. And you'd better get some rest too. No doubt you'll be up early. Good night!

Mel feels neglected and greatly distressed

Mel (16:30:22): Bern good afternoon, hope you and Alice are OK, hope you can help me so I can start business and my therapy. LOVE Mel.

Bern (16:32:04): Hi Mel. I just sent Tina money and asked her to help you also. Her electricity was disconnected, the kids have no food and she has no rice to eat or sell.

Bern (16:34:16): Alice is OK. She's resting now. I'm very worried about you and Jayson's family and the families in Kalayaan.

Mel (16:38:07) [online]: Hello Bern!

Mel (16:38:41): I just came outside [the village store with Internet access] waiting for your text.

Bern (16:39:01): Hello Mel!

Mel (16:39:08): I'm glad you are online.

Bern (16:39:36): I am too, but I'm feeling tired and sleepy! Too many late nights!

Mel (16:39:59): Why?

Bern (16:40:23): I've gotten into a bad habit, the same as you, of not going to bed until after midnight.

Mel (16:41:08): I influence you!

Bern (16:41:42): Ha ha. If I can blame you for my bad habit, that's better than having to take the blame myself.

Mel (16:42:44): Ha ha ha! Bern hope would you mind if I asked you how much you sent Tina?

Mel (16:43:26): I'm worried how much she will gave me!

Bern (16:43:50): I sent her 10,000 pesos. She said she'll give you 2,500. I guess she'll have to pay for months of electricity to get it reconnected.

Bern (16:45:09): I don't know how much that will cost. She also said the kids have no food and Ken can't go to school. Also many security guards want to buy food on credit but she can't help them. She hasn't got the stock.

Mel (16:46:50): I don't know what to say, bcoz if I say something you might be angry w/ me. So I will not tell.

Bern (16:47:11): It's probably better if you do tell me.

Mel (16:47:32): OK!

Mel (16:50:12): Last time we text, you said that if you help me I must try to have the sell loads again, but now its impossible bcoz Bern you always helped Tina a lot [more] than me: honestly Bern that's not OK with me! I'm very very jealous. Sorry to say that Bern.

Bern (16:52:31): Mel, I'm only one human being finding it very hard to help many people. It's not just helping Tina. There are 5 small children in the Kalayaan house. Tina said they have no food today. She also said there are hungry families depending on her shop but she can't help them.

Bern (16:53:00): I want to help you Mel, truly, but life is getting very hard.

Mel (16:56:18): Well maybe it's better to not helped me now, I'm crying now, I will tell to Tina that she can use my 2500, I'm OK here! Would you mind, Bern, I will go off line and I will go home. Bye bye.

Bern (16:56:53): Mel please do not say that to Tina.

"Mel has signed out. (5/10/2007 16:57)"

Laguna vice mayor gunned down

Article posted at 08:41 a.m. GMT+8 by GMANews.TV

Source: http://www.gmanews.tv/story/63036/Laguna-vice-mayor-gunned-down#

Unidentified gunmen ambushed and shot dead a municipal vice mayor in Pagsanjan town in Laguna province early Thursday morning.

Radio dzRH reported that the ambush on Lumban Vice Mayor Zaldy Raga took place at about 8 a.m., just as his service vehicle reached the bridge in Pagsanjan town.

The victim, wearing a white T-shirt and denim shorts, was clutching his cal-.45 pistol when he fell dead to the ground, indicating he tried to fire back at his assailants.

Initial investigation showed Raga was going to Pagsanjan from Lumban when he was ambushed. Police are still trying to determine the motive for the ambush.

Radio dzMM reported that police recovered 43 empty slugs at the crime scene.

Lumban is a fourth-class town with a population of 25,936 people in 5,456 households. Pagsanjan is a second-class town with a population of 32,622 people in 7,274 households. - with a report from Mark Merueñas, GMANews.TV

Desperate husband denies food to in-laws' small hungry children, wife alleges

Bern (14:03:27): Hello Tina. I'm so sorry to hear Jovs has been so angry and unfriendly to your sisters and their families. I do hope your situation has improved by now. Tina will receive your messages on a mobile device.

Bern (14:26:30): Hi Jovs, how are you? Still working hard, I guess. Mel texted me requesting financial help again but most regrettably I have very high costs to pay now.

Tina (14:33:30): Yes Bern it's impossible. Liza [did] pay d store till she cannot return to her work [i.e. until she became too ill to work], but Jovs ask me not to continue [helping her], not to give food from d store, but I did not follow, I help other people but I cannot control my self [not] to help d kids' hunger.

Bern (14:41:15): I have some idea of the harsh situation. I'll text Jovs and hope he will explain a little to me but he rarely contacts me.

Bern (14:47:30): Tina, some 50 minutes ago I texted Mel but there was no reply. Twenty minutes ago I texted Jovs, asking about himself and Mel but he didn't reply either.

Tina (14:49:04): You know Bern, it's so hard for me, Jovs continue to his work, I prepared food for him, but he did not stay d house long, his duty was 3 p.m. to 11 p.m., he slept last nite, but this a.m. he go again, I text Mel but Mel said Jovs was there this a.m. ,just eat, and left, he did not know where he goes.

Bern (14:51:34): I see. I'd like to ask Jovs gently about his own welfare and that of his brother and later, if possible, about the other children but I don't think he'd answer me.

Bern (14:53:02): You mentioned that you visited Jov's father. Would it help to talk with him again, I wonder? Also, I wonder if Liza or Laurice or Rod can work in the shop.

Tina (14:58:46): Yes day help me, but Jovs don't want them to do dat.

Bern (15:01:49): I don't know Jov's reasons for not wanting their help, but it seems good to me if they help and you can rely on them to do that.

Sick young man unable to afford therapy requests help

Texts received online at 13:47 GMT+10

Mel (12:11:10): Gud a.m. Bern, sorry I spent my money for therapy today - I can't go today, bcoz the other night and tonight I had fever flue. I buy food med and fruits, that's why!

Mel (12:13:48): Right now Bern I have phlegm and dry cough! Bern hope you can help me to my therapy and to have a load selling too my Smart load is not enough eh! Sorry but please try.

Mel (12:15:19): I hope you will get in touch soon, bcoz I will wait for your touch again Bern, hope you understand me. Ate Gelay [Aunt Anagel] is taking care of me when I'm sick. Love Mel.

Bern (13:53:23): Hello Mel. I'm sorry to hear you are sick. Also, regrettably, I can't help you today. Six days ago Tina said she would hand you 4,000 pesos [US$88.65] from me.

Bern (13:57:53): Mel it was extremely important that you spend and save with great care. Please explain what you did with the 4,000 pesos.

Angry husband allegedly denies food to children of indigent in-laws

Text received online at 09:32 GMT+10

Tina (09:02:11): Gud evening Bern, you know Bern since Sept. 14 nite I don't have slept coz of our family problem, I cannot give help for d kids in d front of Jovs coz he was angry, I can't give food from d salary of Jovs. He was angry? What I can do, I need to survive my store, think d best things to become successful, to help d kids. I hope you understand what I want to say? I really need to [have] additional capital for rice and other household need, for d sake of my customers and family.

Young man Mel suffers pain, weakness and anxiety

Text received online at 09:32

Mel (03:11:52): Hello Bern, good evening! I don't know if I will go to the specialist - the pain is still [present,] I feel [it] though I continue take the med[ications] and also I feel weak. I'm worried.

Ministore owner desperately seeks capital, citing great need

September 17

Tina (17:26:21): Bern, I and Mel decide to go home, we will return [to the Laguna Provincial Hospital] on Wed[nesday]. Some Indian (Bombay) 5/6* ask me if I want some capital from them, coz day know dat there [is] lots of demand but I don't have capital, but I think it's not good for my business. But almost of d guard force me to have extra capital to support der family needs.

September 18

Tina (10:03:21): Bern gud a.m., Jovs slept last nite with us, now little Bern and [I] was going to Magdapio but [we] will return after lunch, I don't have per kl. of rice right now, da 20 guard family rely on me including my family.

Tina (18/09/2007 10:12:33): You know Bern, tell you d truth, I don't want to borrow money to 5/6*, coz I really need to buy 5 sacks of rice, 1,200 each, to support d needs of d guards till payday 25th, it total cost 6,000, if ever I borrow I'm return it will be 7,200, my profit will be goes to them, if I have only a chance to have capital to support them and my family, I really need help.

* * *

* 5/6: A loan shark, so-called because one who borrows 500 pesos, for example, must repay 600 within a month. "Bombays" are moneylenders of Indian extraction, generally held in low repute by Filipinos.

Young man Mel left with little money after buying antibacterial tablets and vitamins

Mel (11:54:04): Hello Bern, good morning, I already buy Ofloxacin and vitamins. Now [I have] 500 [pesos]* left in my wallet. I'm here now in Mercury drugs in Sta. Cruz, and ready [to] ride a jeep to go home.

* * *

* About US$10.78.

Text received online at 18:12 AEST

Drunken man Jovs on violent rampage, wife says

Texts received online at 18:12 GMT+10

Tina (04:56:47): Gud a.m., how are you! If you ask me, we're now in big family problem, I cry in whole nite. I know it's not good to mention it to you, coz it [is] personal but you're part of my life, we have fight here, big scandal, Jov was drunk in Magdapio dat why I and little Bern follow him, to bring him at home, from Pagsanjan we're ride in motor [cycle] single [i.e. without a sidecar].

I thought it's our last moment, coz everyone see us, asking him to fight him, till we got home, when we got home everyone at home asking to fight him, even Lito and Roderic, even in police near da house he did not listen, dat why I call to Nanay Josie [his mother] to be here, but husband of Anagel came to bring him at home in Magdapio coz no one can stop him.

Tina (05:08:04): Jovs [is] now in da house in Magdapio with some bruises coz he hit himself, he handle a piece of iron and hit in different part of d house. We're so scare[d], also little Bern. I'm now suffer so much pain in my operation, I felt it [the incision] will be open again. Bern, please, give me your advice, I really need to continue dis relationship, he hit me in head, even I carry little Bern. He touch my head and push it [against] da wall.

Newborn infant screened for possible abnormalities

Part 1 of e-mail sent by Tina at 19:42

Dear Bern and Alice,

This is the photo of baby Kian R . . . , while doing the newborn screening in hospital, he was crying while doing it in two foot, also [his mother] Liza that time was crying too.

[Part 2 is shown below]

Storekeeper faces bankruptcy crisis despite heavy demand

E-mail sent by Tina at 19:42 GMT+10: Part 2

Bern this is the picture I send to Joe, last 1 1/2 month, while I'm starting the store, now that we're been in family crisis, is been bankrupt, and now I been stop for selling load, coz of loss of capital also selling rice which was in demand in my store. I want to continue selling Globe and Smart [cellphone credit loads]. In every 1,000 capital in Globe, and 1,000 capital in Smart I can earn profit of 120 each.

And also selling rice, 1,200 even for 1 sack only, I can sell it within 3 to 4 days only, you know Bern, I want to ask your help to return my capital for load and rice so even while I'm home I have an extra income to support for my family need.

I did not mention to Joe what happen to my store coz I don't want to lost his trust to me, I know he will [not] understand the reason why my store was going to bankrupt coz of my family problem, can you please help me to have a capital of 3,200, and extra allowance to buy nutritious food for the two mother Laurice and Liza, for the sake of two baby, next time I will sends the picture of son of Laurice.

Take care always Bern and Alice

Tina

Desperate aunt borrows money to pay for newborn screening of nephew

Tina (00:53 GMT+8): Gud a.m. Bern and Alice, we're been in Provincial dis p.m. [to] have a check up on d baby of Liza 1 week after birth, doktora required us to have new born screening, after know d history, to make sure der is no mental disorder, last chance to be done tomorrow, worth 1,500 in private hospital, I don't have money, to tell you d truth it's so hard for me support to mother while in breast feeding always hungry and want to eat, we [have a] lack of food to eat, but [I] feel OK while baby smiling at me. Liza can breast feed Laurice['s] baby when no milk. [Text received online via Yahoo Messenger at 09:18 GMT+10.]

Bern (09:22:41): Hello Mel, please advise me about the Western Union situation. [Yahoo: "Mel & Jester will receive your messages on a mobile device."]

Bern (09:25:37): Hello Tina. Sorry, I don't know what a newborn screening is and I don't know why today is the last chance to have one.

Bern (09:26:43): Yesterday I sent Mel 4,000 but Western Union refused to pay him and said the transaction has been waiting in a "security queue" until this morning.

Tina (09:33:51): Newborn screening was a test for a baby which only done in 1 week old, it will be then only in dat grace period of time, it will know if d baby have mental disorder or have a problem in early age, in dis case it will be cure in right away.

Bern (09:35:22): Thanks for that information. It's still unclear what mental condition the doktora wants to screen for though. Please try to borrow 1,500 from Mel. [Yahoo: "Tina will receive your messages on a mobile device."]

Tina (09:37:09): Der [is] no available newborn screening in Provincial [hospital] only in private in Laguna Doctors hospital.

Bern (09:37:25): Tina, despite repeated enquiries and complaints, Western Union has kept Mel waiting all night for the 4,000. Please contact him and ask his help.

Bern (09:40:35): Tina, if I understand correctly, a Provincial doktora has referred the infant to the private hospital for a screening test. Sorry, I forget the baby's name.

Western Union (09:45:29): Status [of remittance] : Available for pick up by receiver. [Online confirmation.]

Tina (09:50:15): Yes you're right, doktora gave referral, d name of baby was KIAN . . .

Bern (09:51:33): Oh, yes. Mel mentioned that Kian was the name of a singer in a group of four. I forget their name. I've just been looking up genetic screening.

Bern (09:53:29): Mel has not replied to my text this morning. Probably his load is low. Please try to get in touch with him ASAP. His WU transfer is available for pick-up.

Tina (09:58:55): OK I will try to contact him.

Tina (10:28:19): Bern we call Mel, Jovs explain d situation, Mel agree to give 1,500, we just met in Sta. Cruz near in hospital, but he said we need to return it soon.

Bern (10:29:41): Thanks to you and Mel for that. Mel told me he helped Anagel and family because they had measles so he ran out of load. I want him to keep selling loads.

Bern (10:31:45): I sent Mel 4,000 at 4:45 p.m. yesterday but Western Union refused to pay, saying the transaction was in a "security queue." I'll ring and ask the situation.

Bern (10:32:38): Evidently Mel's money is "available for pickup" now but if I had enough money and tried to send you some now, the same delay might happen again.

Tina (10:50:06): Bern maybe today was not de same as WU yesterday, Mel was now going to Sta. Cruz.

Bern (10:51:26): This morning I spent 45 minutes at the WU sending agent's shop waiting for a response from WU. They claim the money is available now.

Mel (10:57:06): Good morning Bern. Tina phone me 8 a.m. dis morning and she forward d text from you to me. I'm going now to Sta. Cruz to try to received the money. Love.

Hospital staff extremely busy; patient's benefactor waits for feedback

Bern (12:19:16): Hi Tina. On Thursday I requested that a doctor e-mail me urgently about your medical situation. I'm still waiting. [Yahoo Messenger: "Tina will receive your messages on a mobile device."]

Tina (13:33:23): Gud a.m., I will, sorry if dey not response on [i.e. to] you right away, coz dey was so busy in operating room, like yesterday we're been waiting from 8 a.m. till 3 p.m. Then dey [went] back right away in [to the] OR*, [they came out] just to give me discharge order [Received online via Yahoo at 15:17:41 GMT+10].

*OR: Operating Room.

Love from Mel

Mel using Jester's cellphone (14:08:47): Gud afternoon Bern! I hope everything there is fine, and you! I love you and I miss you so much. Love: Mel.

Mission Impossible: surgery scheduled but blood and money unavailable

Tina (21:59:35): Bern gud p.m., I'm now on da way going home, coz I need to [have] prepared 12 bag of blood, and my schedule of surgery will be on Thursday. I don't have enough budget, dat why we decide to go home, we will [be] admit[ted] again on Tuesday [Received online via Yahoo Messenger at 22:52:10 GMT+10].

Bern (23:00:51): Hello Tina, thanks for your texts. Please recall I want an e-mail explanation from a doctor. I have still not received one. [Yahoo Messenger: "Tina will receive your messages on a mobile device."]

Haematologist advises severely ill patient to find 12 blood donations

Tina (31/05/2007 20:00:12): Bern gud pm, HEMA doktora* visit[ed] me dis p.m., advice me to have lab. test tomorrow a.m., then [I] need to [have] prepared 12 donor, 6 bags [of blood], before operation then 6 bags after operation on Thursday next week, coz my platelet count yesterday was only 30. Tina.

*doktora: female doctor.

Five children paddle in pool

As an unusual treat, five children from Tina's Kalayaan household were able to go paddling in the baby pool at the Samonte resort in Lumban, Laguna.

Tina e-mailed me some photographs from the occasion.

I'd never been to the resort, I said: "Maybe one day."

"I'm wondering [when] and wish, too, you will be here with us," Tina replied.

Expenses overwhelm poor, pregnant, bleeding woman and relatives

E-mail from Tina sent at 14:42 GMT+8

Dear Bern,

1. This is the prescription of Dra. D . . . :

Duvadilan 1 tab, once a day, need 7 pcs, 17.20 each, total cost 119, Hemostan 500 mg 10 cap, 2 x a day 22.50 each, total cost 225, Beniforte or Hemarate 1 tab. once a day, only available in Mercury drugs was Hemarate cost 11.00 each, total cost 674.

2. Then I spend Dr. fee cost 1,500 in 2 times each, yesterday and today dra.* Fees.

3. Then after Dra.* D . . . give a request for ultrasound on May 28, to see if there [is] a development and to avoid premature labor, it will cost again 1,500.

4. I Hope you understand, I also scan the result of ultra sound before which [was] requested in doctor in Provincial hospital last April 27, 2007.

5. I almost spend 2,500 for Liza check up and medicine, then my problem was another 1,500 on May 28, for ultrasound and another dra.* fee, need another 2,500 almost.

6. The money I have was my allowance for operation maybe on the first week of June, and I don't know yet what will be the exact expenses, what I can do? I want to save the life of the baby, that why I do that, I [know] that will be my next problem soon, how I can return the money I spend for Liza, and another expenses on May 28?

7. The main problem of mine was the allowance of Liza ‘s 2 child Ken and Kert, which Ken now I need to enroll in kindergarten this coming June, it's also my responsibility, also the situation of Liza, I hope we avoid premature labor, coz we experience it before on her 2nd child Kert, [who] was [in an] incubator for 1 month, it's so hard and so expensive. The allowance for their milk, diaper, and food, that make my life harder, but what I can do, I'm the elder and my responsibility [is] to help them, specially this moment.

8. I try to open a ATM account so I did not bring cash in hospital - it was BPI Express Teller International . . .

9 I hope Bern you can help me regarding my problem about Liza and kids' situation.

[Liza's husband] Roderic was now in Alabang suffering illness in TB.

Tina.

*Dra. is an abbreviation for "Doktora", female doctor.

Pregnant woman still bleeds, sick sister uses funds set aside for own surgery

Tina (00:23:00): Gud evening Bern, how are you? I hope you're OK, if you ask me, I plan to go to PGH* on Thursday, to talk to my surgeon n private OB**, coz Liza was bleeding even [though] she was stay[ing] at home. We need to return tomorrow, I will scan prescription.

Tina (00:28:19): Sad to say, I used some of my money for my operation for Liza bleeding, coz my opinion my first priority is to save d life of d baby. I know you're so busy, I will scan.

* Philippine General Hospital.

** Obstetrician.

Texts received online at 10:20 AEST

Insufficient funds for trip to hospital

Tina (08:31:32): Gud am Bern! How are you? I hope you're OK? And Alice. I received withdrawal 5k, from Joe yesterday, I can buy [medications] on [i.e. at] PGH* on Monday, which was my schedule of my checkup in Dr. T, but sad to say I don't have allowance for d trip [Received Friday, 4 May 2007 at 15:26:15].

*Philippine General Hospital, Manila.

Sick woman worries about how family can survive

Tina (01:14:33): Bern gud evening, sorry if disturb you! It's so hard to have slept, coz of so much worried, I have now new bruises in my forearm and legs, in dis case I'm worried in platelet transfusion in my near operation.

Tina (01:17:48): I'm worried to Liza, she goes to Alabang today, to get d 2 child and bring it here. I'm worried how we can survive, if Liza don't have work and Roderic was sick, its back on my responsibility again.

Sick, worried woman seeks information

Tina (21:58:22): Gud evening Bern, how are you? I'm worried and thinking about you? I hope you're OK? Please kept in touch. Take care. [Text message received at 22:28:37.]

Venomous snakes and snakebite treatment in Asia

by Y. Sawai

Snakebite is a hazard in Asian areas. The mortality rate and morbidity rate by snakebites in these areas depend on the species and the density of venomous snakes in each area. Thus the mortality rate is higher in the Philippines, Thailand, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and India, where the bites by cobras, kraits and Russell's viper are frequent. On the other hand, lower rates of bite are recorded in Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Malaysia and Indonesia, where the bites by pit viper of Agkistrodon and Trimeresurus species are predominant. The bite by the seasnakes of Hydrophiidae is also a problem among fishermen in Malaysia and Indonesia, Environment of human life, where the snakebites occur, is also another important factor. In most of the areas, modernization of the medical treatment is delayed because of shortage of specific antivenom, lack of the experts who are able to inject antivenom intravenously soon after the bite, popularization of herbal remedies, and poor mode of transportation of patients to hospital.

Source: http://rjh.folium.ru/contents/1998/1998-02.htm. Abstract of article in Russian Journal of Herpetology 1988, Vol. 5 No. 2.