De-stressing at Tagaytay

Posted by wandergirl on May 20, 2012 None comments

On Friday, my husband made a hasty proposal of going to Tagaytay. And since it’s been more than three years since I had been there, I didn’t hesitate a second to agree. We packed just a few things for an overnight stay. We left Manila around 11:30 AM without making prior reservations to any hotel or inn. By 1:00 PM we’re already in Tagaytay city proper and I suggested we book at 5R Rooms because I already had an idea about their accommodation rates. But as fate would have it, we ended up booking at Keni Po which is just beside 5R Rooms.

Keni Po Tagaytay

Keni Po is hard to miss because of its conspicuous facade. The room given to us was very affordable (PHP 1,800/night), nice, and clean — complete with towels, bathroom slippers, and grooming kit. The floor is well-polished, and the pull-out bed is just right for me, my husband, my 3-year-old daughter, and her nanny. I’m very particular when it comes to bathrooms, and in my experience, I knew better than to expect a decent bathroom for a budget accommodation. But I was pleasantly surprised that Keni Po doesn’t only give a respectable lodging for a moderate price, but also a tidy, functional bathroom. I especially like the blue-colored tiles and the toilet bidet spray. The handbasin is free from grimes and toilet has no traces of stains.

The room is equipped with cable TV and DVD player. Keni Po also provides free Wi-Fi, which ironically you can only access when you’re out of your room.  So, if you have a laptop or iPhone and want to check your email or Facebook, you need to stay in the garden (they have tables around) or hallway — just not in the room. I guess my only complaint is that it takes 10-15 minutes to get hot water from the water heater to the fixture.

My daughter enjoying the pull-out bed

Bathroom

The garden pool

After we settled our things, we had lunch at Leslie’s. We ordered the Bulalo Special (PHP 599), which I thought got bigger in serving than the last time I dined at Leslie’s. We also tried the Sizzling Tanique Steak (PHP 399), Seafood Bicol Express (PHP 399), and the Ensaladang Mangga (PHP 199).

Leslie's Bulalo Special

The tasty Sizzling Tanigue Steak

Seafood Bicol Express is a must-try

I’ve tried the bulalo in Mahogany Market, Tagaytay and I personally enjoyed their version more than Leslie’s. On the other hand, I think both the Seafood Bicol Express and the Tanigue Steak are winners. The Sizzling Tanigue Steak has this flavorful, buttery-taste which I couldn’t get enough of and the Seafood Bicol Express has just the right spiciness in it that will make you appreciate the dish without gulping a glassful of soda or water.

The next day, we planned to check out Jolina Magdangal’s Memory Lane restaurant, but for some reason we missed the correct route, so we ended having breakfast as Josephine’s. When my husband and I were just dating some years ago, we’d always have buffet breakfast at Josephine’s whenever we’re in Tagaytay. The thing is, there wasn’t so much changes with their breakfast buffet menu; but if you love buffet meals, you’d still enjoy Josephine’s offerings.

Josephine's buffet table

The buffet table had the usual breakfast fanfare, such as tocino, daing na bangus, chicken and beef adobo, hotdogs, bacon, buttered vegetables, arroz caldo, champorado, etc. There were also some kakanin like kutchinta, suman, cassava cake, and more. There’s also a section for fruit desserts and I made sure I had a good portion of their sweet mangoes. I don’t remember their breakfast buffet rates years ago, but now it’s PHP 410/adult and PHP 310/child below 4 ft.

I still love the large windows of the main dining area because they give a nice view of Taal lake, not to mention the awesomeness of the high ceilings. My daughter had a good time running around the view deck, which is a nice location for wedding events.

Of course, Tagaytay is still an ideal destination if you’re thinking of a quick weekend getaway. I was just a bit disappointed, though, when I see that more condominium-type buildings are already being constructed within the vicinity because they somehow diminish the “refreshing” look of Tagaytay which I used to know.

Maryland Beach Resort in Nasugbu, Batangas

Posted by wandergirl on May 14, 2012 None comments

On saturday, my family spent a day tour at Maryland Beach Resort in Nasugbu, Batangas. Original plan was Virgin Beach Resort in Laiya, Batangas; but it was such a hassle communicating with the people from this resort, plus they do not allow to bring food on a Saturday. If you want to have a summer outing at Virgin Beach Resort and you’re bringing your own food, you’ll have to book anywhere between Sunday and Monday.

Going back to Maryland Beach Resort, I’d have to say the experience was a lot easier. I made the reservation a week prior our intended visit and luckily they still had one room remaining, which was the Bulacan room (PHP 4000 for day tour/PHP 4,500 for overnight).

Entrance fee at Maryland Beach Resort is only PHP 100/head during peak season (March to May) and children 3 years old and below are free of charge. We’re a group of 12 adults and 4 children, and when I informed the person I spoke to (Susana Guillermo), which I presumed to be the owner, I was given the package rate of PHP 5,000 (inclusive of Bulacan room rate and entrance fees). It was a steal so I immediately grabbed it. Besides, most beach resorts I called earlier, from Laiya to Nasugbu, were fully booked and we’re desperately eyeing for our final summer salvo.

We arrived before 8 A.M. and we were greeted by one of the resort’s staff. The Bulacan room we rented had a pavilion with chairs and tables. According to Maryland’s website, the room is equipped with 2 queen size beds, table, bathroom, terrace, aircon, and television. First of all, Bulacan room has no terrace since it’s located on the ground floor, with room just adjacent to the pavilion. There is no television either but we decided not to complain anymore since we’re not there to watch TV. The air conditioner is good and looks new, but the room had mosquitoes and the bathroom had a stinky smell. The two beds had thin mattresses so there’s nothing to rave about them. The pavilion, however, is okay. It had two long bamboo tables and chairs; and there were also some extra monoblock chairs. Now, if you ask me if PHP 4,000 is worth the Bulacan room, I’d say no. Of course, it wasn’t so bad since you’ll be spending most of your time on the beach or the pool, but I think the rate is just too expensive for the room.

The pavilion adjacent to the Bulacan room

Bulacan room

This is the inside of the pavilion and the white door leads to the bedroom

Maryland has a pool for children and adults, but we didn’t spend a lot of time there. The beach water isn’t clear and we’ve seen a baby diaper and a few plastics going with the wave. So, I hope people who use the beach are responsible enough to dispose their stuff properly instead of throwing things anywhere they like. Now, don’t expect the sand to be white or even closer because it’s not. Otherwise, just go to Boracay or maybe Bohol. According to the locals, the beach water in Maryland is really not clear and that’s just the way it is.

Maryland's pool

Some locals are also offering bangka ride to Kawayan Cove or Punta Fuego for PHP 1,500. We managed to ride the bangka (approximately 15-20 minutes ride) for only PHP 1,000; yes, it’s only a matter of haggling. Beware, though, because they’ll tell you it’s white sand in Kawayan Cove and they’ll even show an alluring image of the place. Of course, it’s not white sand but the water is clearer and cleaner. We spent a good hour and a half in Kawayan Cove and we loved it. Unfortunately, we failed to bring our camera so we couldn’t take pictures.

I noticed there were more people coming to Maryland for an overnight stay (most guests have started to arrive at 4 P.M.). I don’t see they have banana boat or jet ski rentals, but there are locals offering horse riding. Activities were very limited. Maryland Beach Resort is the place to go if you’re out of option for an affordable summer getaway in Batangas. If you will plan your summer outing earlier, you can find a better place in Laiya with the same price offered in Maryland. Our biggest consolation is that they have accommodating people and we were given a discount on the entrance fees.

Note: More pictures later.

Wi-Tribe Connection Problem…Again!

Posted by wandergirl on April 30, 2012 None comments

I’ve been a Wi-Tribe subscriber for 10 months now. During the first few months of my subscription, everything was okay. There were few instances of “maintenance issues” that cause intermittent Internet connection which was totally understandable given the number of Wi-Tribe subscribers. In the first 6 months there was only one instance when I lost my Internet connection for the entire day. It was okay, especially it got restored early in the morning the following day.

Lately, however, I’ve been experiencing frequent instances of intermittent connection. In the last 3 months, I  ran across four instances of intermittent connection. And last Thursday, I had no Internet connection for the entire day. I tried contacting customer service, but the hotline was busy. Instead of getting mad, I tried to be productive by doing some stuff I needed to do. I had to inform my team mate that I had no Internet connection and so I couldn’t work.

Today, I can’t believe I’m having another trouble with my connection and it’s driving me crazy. I use the Internet for my work and I’m trying to be really patient here. I can’t believe what’s going on with Wi-Tribe!

What’s even worst is that most of the time when the Internet connection is down, Wi-Tribe’s customer service hotline seems down as well. I tried calling them several times today but their line seems jam packed with irate customers.

I hope anyone from Wi-Tribe gets to read this. C’mon fix your system. I am not a delinquent customer. I pay my bills on time. The last thing I’d expect is to have an unreliable ISP especially when I need to attend work-related webinar. This worries me a lot because we have yet to enter the rainy day season and I’m already getting a frustrating Internet connection experience.

Yes, I am VERY furious right now. But I’m still willing to give Wi-Tribe a chance. But in any case, I decide to terminate my subscription with the company outside the lock-in period, it’s DEFINITELY not ME to be blamed!

Jollibee Kiddie Party

Posted by wandergirl on April 29, 2012 None comments

On April 22, my daughter celebrated her 3rd birthday and we decided to give her a party at Jollibee NBS in Quezon Ave. (corner Sct. Borromeo). My daughter has grown to be so fond of Jollibee (like most other kids) and we thought that a Jollibee party will give her a memorable event.

We originally booked at Jollibee E. Rodriguez via phone two weeks ahead. However, on the day we visited the venue for confirmation and downpayment, we were left waiting for the attending party coordinator for more than 20 minutes. When we made a follow up, no one couldn’t give us a decent answer. Still, we waited and started reading some of the party brochures, until we had enough and stormed out the store.

We checked on Jollibee West Ave. and I liked their kiddie tables and chairs. Unfortunately, there was no more available slot for April 22, except 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM which is already pretty late. We made our last trip to Jollibee NBS and we were accommodated by Dennis, who happened to be the party host as well on the day of the event.

I liked Dennis, he was very lively. The Hetty room assigned to use can accommodate up to 75 people. Our initial reservation was only for 35 people, but the actual number of guests climbed to 41 on April 22. We availed of the food package 4, consisting of the following: 1-pc Chickenjoy w/rice, Jollibee spaghetti, softdrinks, chocolate sundae, and french fries. You can visit Jollibee website to plan your party – from choosing the food package to party themes and party add-ons.

The party venue’s decoration was very simple, with just a few balloons neatly decorated on the walls. The greetings tarp is pretty basic and simple, with the celebrant’s name printed on a piece of paper and attached to it. I guess if you want to have your own greeting tarp made, you’re allowed to have it posted somewhere on the venue, too.

JOLLITOWN greetings tarp

one section of the party venue

some of the Jollitown games prizes

We chose the JOLLITOWN theme and the party fee of P1,250 already included 1 Jollibee mascot appearance, 20 game prizes, 30 party balloons, 10 crayons, and a guestbook. If you want to add another Jollibee mascot, be prepared for additional fee of P1,000 (per mascot). We added Popo and Hetty because my daughter is just so into them. Jollibee mascot/s appear 30 minutes before end of the party. If you want them to join in the games, you’ll need to pay P300/mascot for the appearance. My husband and I knew our daughter would be ecstatic to have them so we decided to pay for the additional appearance.

Jollibee's entrance

Popo's entrance

Hetty's entrance

As expected, Jollibee food is for the kids and kids-at-heart. The Chickenjoy remained a standout. Most of all, the mascots are such a darling for the kids. I was a bit disappointed with the dance choreography of the mascots though. I was expecting they’d dance into the tune of a more popular music (like what I’ve seen on some youtube videos). I couldn’t remember the music they were dancing on but I think it’s still related to a Jollitown song.

my daughter with Jollibee

When it comes to booking, we had not problem booking at Jollibee NBS. I guess the only minor hassle (minor for me but not for my husband) was when Dennis (party host) had errors in the computation of the remaining balance, so we ended up going back to the venue a week after to settle the Jollibee loot bags we availed that wasn’t included in the final computation. But overall, it was a good party for the kids, and I know the adults enjoyed it, too!

Tokyo Café @ SM The Block

Posted by wandergirl on April 29, 2012 None comments

My husband and I were at SM The Block last week and we ended up having lunch at Tokyo Café. It was our second time to eat at the place; on our first we tried one of their burger steaks served with steamed rice.

On our second visit, I decided to try their Katsu-Ju (PHP 250), served atop steamed rice and with a side salad. I liked the presentation. The salad was okay and since it’s a side dish I could understand the small portion. The deep fried breaded pork was crispy and generously served. However, it somehow tasted like fried chicken. I’m not sure if they deep fried the pork on the same oil used for deep frying their Japanese version of fried chicken, but I was sure there’s the aftertaste of a fried chicken.

Katsu-Ju served with side salad

Katsu-Ju (deep fried breaded pork served w/tempura sauce, onion, leeks, and scrambled egg

My husband ordered Oyako-Ju (PHP 248). We also ordered their creamy corn soup which tasted really good. I like the creamy texture and of course the taste.

Oyako-Ju (sliced chicken braised in tempura sauce w/onions and leeks mixed in egg)

Creamy Corn Soup

For drinks, my husband had iced tea which tasted more like a gulaman, while I went for the Ice Cafe Au Lait (PHP 107). I loved the fact that they served the iced cafe latté with caramelized sugar on a separate glass, which allows you to adjust according to your preferred sweetness.

Iced Cafe Au Lait and Tokyo Ice tea

Food price is very reasonable and their taste wasn’t bad. I really liked the creamy corn soup and the Iced Cafe Au Lait. I’m sure I’d still be back in Tokyo Café but it won’t be something I’d probably do so anytime soon.

UPDATE (05/11/2012): I knew I said I wouldn’t be back in Tokyo Café anytime soon, but guess what, I just did today at SM Southmall branch. This time, I ordered the the Teriyaki Chicken Sandwich (PHP 197) — strips of teriyaki chicken in toasted English bread — and it’s super fantastic. My husband had the Napolitan pasts (PHP 232) — pasta dish tossed in ketchup sauce w/mushroom, green pepper, onions, ham and bacon — and I’d say it’s good, though I just can’t understand the ketchup sauce. If you love sweet-tasting pasta, the Napolitan is for you. I know kids love sweet spaghetti, but this isn’t something that’s gonna win their heart.

Aside from SM The Block and SM Southmall Las Piñas, Tokyo Café also has branches at SM Megamall, SM Mall of Asia, NAIA 3, and GO Hotel.

Miss Universe New Policy Allows Transgenders

Posted by wandergirl on April 16, 2012 None comments

Last week, I run across a very disheartening news, Miss Universe had revised its policy to welcome transgender candidates. I read the news from Yahoo! and I was utterly disappointed. I have always loved watching Miss Universe since I was 9 years old. I loved seeing these beautiful women from all over the world competing for the highly coveted title. I loved how they’d sashay with their evening gown and swimsuit. And I always get excited when it’s time for the Q & A portion. At a certain point, I wished I had the height and the body to parade with the girls. But of course, I have long given up that hope because I knew Miss Universe has a very stringent policy. However, when it was recently announced that the Miss Universe organization is allowing transgenders to join the pageant, my dismay had gone uphill.

I have nothing against transgenders. I have gay friends who are intelligent and beautiful people. I know that gays are putting so much effort to gain acceptance in our society. And even if there are people who still look down on them, I don’t.

However, when the news about Jenna Talackova came out, I thought it was ridiculous of her to challenge the standards of Miss Universe. And then a few days later, the Miss Universe organization had confirmed changing its rules to allow transgenders starting 2013. What the heck just happened??!!!

Yes, I do respect the gay community, but where’s the respect for the REAL born women at this point? I know that not all gays are in favor of the new policy and it is not fair to direct anger to all gays and transgenders.

I am not certain about Jenna Talackova’s motive, so I am not going to go in that direction. To quote a statement by Paula Shugart, president of the Miss Universe Organization, “the decision to include transgender women Miss Universe is a result of the organization’s ongoing discussions with Gay and Lesbian Alliance against Defamation (GLAAD) and not Talackova’s legal representation, which if anything, delayed the process.”

Okay, so now this is an issue of equality. Perhaps, Jenna Talackova just wanted everyone to recognize transgenders in Miss Universe. We all know that Miss Universe is for REAL born women ever since. Is it too much to ask that it remains that way? Sure, the new policy will encourage more transgenders to show their wit and talent to the world, but it could also discourage REAL women to join the pageant and compete with transgenders. Perhaps, a few years down the road, 90% of Miss Universe candidates are transgenders and I wonder what kind of standards does Miss Universe uphold by then.

I don’t mean to generate negative comments with my opinion, but I just feel that the new policy is a bit of an insult to REAL born women. Does that make me much of a feminist? Maybe. But I hope not in a bad light. Whether we like it or not, equality is not absolute. If a transgender is not allowed in Miss Universe it shouldn’t be regarded as discrimination. There are institutions and standards that need to be respected. But I guess this is just one of those signs that the world has changed SIGNIFICANTLY!

Related Post:

Philippines Placed 3rd on the Miss Universe 2011

 

Gretchen Rubin on Happiness Project — What’s Yours?

Posted by wandergirl on April 6, 2012 None comments

A few months ago, while looking for a new paperback, I got the chance to check out Gretchen Rubin’s The Happiness Project. It looked promising so I bought a copy. Surprisingly, it’s not the kind of literary works I can finish overnight. It’s not boring. In fact, it’s too interesting that I’d want to make sure I get to digest everything I read. Seriously, I’m not yet done wit the book even as of today’s writing.

So, why the heck I’m writing about it when I’m not yet done reading? Simple, I wanted to share the few pieces of wisdom I learned from it. Gretchen Rubin put it so bluntly: not everyone has the same concept about happiness, therefore, her happiness project will not be the same to my happiness project; and my happiness project will be different from other people’s happiness project.

It’s interesting how Gretchen Rubin tackles the concept of happiness when she’s not depressed at all. I haven’t even consider creating my own happiness project at my lowest points. And I’m sure there are many people out there who never thought of creating an action plan to achieve happiness unless it’s probably become a mandatory law. So, reading about someone who spends the time and effort on a happiness project is truly something new. I especially like Gretchen Rubin’s list of Secrets of Adulthood, such as:

  • People don’t notice your mistakes as much as you do;
  • Most decisions don’t require extensive research;
  • By doing a little bit each day, you can get a lot accomplished;
  • If you can’t find something, clean up;
  • You don’t have to be good at everything; and
  • What’s fun for other people may not be fun for you — and vice versa
Some of Gretchen Rubin’s happiness strategies are not applicable to me, but I like them just the same for the simple reason that they are inspiring. Halfway through the book I started cleaning out my closet and getting rid of my things that I haven’t used for years. I also started getting 8 hours of sleep everyday and it made me feel less irritated. Unlike her though, I don’t have a complete chart of my happiness strategies. Not yet for now. But reading The Happiness Project will inspire you to re-think your priorities in life and craft your own happiness project.

My 2-Month Hiatus

Posted by wandergirl on March 23, 2012 None comments

To be honest, I almost forgot I have this blog.

Nope, I did not travel out of the country. Neither did I go on a grand escape in any of the high-end beaches of Boracay or Bohol. I wish I had that luxury, but maybe not now. The truth is I buried myself to work in the last two months that passed. I got busy but looking back all I could really remember is work, work, and more work. It’s not that I am complaining, but I am ABSOLUTELY grateful that my mind is temporarily experiencing a shut-down, and thereby giving me a good reason to start blogging again. Let’s see what I’ve done aside from work that left me no time for other things.

1. ORGANIZED MY CLOSET.This is not exactly a fun one because it meant dumping some of the clothes I bought from my hard-earned money. But some things just really have to go. Tops and dresses that I haven’t worn for two years already or at least those I-wish-I-can-still-wear items that are just making me frustrated. When I was done I couldn’t believe how spacious my part of the closet has become. Somehow it made me feel good because I only left those I know I can wear without any guilt or disappointment.

2. REVISITED MY BOOK SHELF. Over the years, I have collected a great deal of books. I love James Patterson, Sophie Kinsella, and John Grisham. They occupy most of my collection. But I wanted to feel light so I went over my Sophie Kinsella paperback and read some of them again. I could finish one book in a day, so after re-reading some of them I felt my mind is clear again. Reading has always been a wonderful therapy for me, I just had to do it as often as I can.

3. AVAILED OF A GOOD MASSAGE PACKAGE. In the kind of work I do, I knew I needed regular body massage to soothe my aching back. I guess I should invest on a good work ergonomic chair as well to lessen my back aches from all day sitting and working. But that has to come later. In the meantime, I had the opportunity to avail of an affordable, really good massage package. The only problem is I had to find proper timing to travel from Las Piñas to Trinoma in Quezon City just to complete the remaining sessions in my membership. But that’s okay I’m sure I’ll find the time.

4. UPDATED MY RECORDS. See, being married means you’d have to update your transaction records and that includes bank information, Philhealth, SSS, TIN, etc. My bad because I didn’t take care of those until this year so I had to squeeze them in my work schedules. I still have one more left for my other bank and I’ll just have to decide doing that in the coming weeks.

5. LEARNED PILATES. I did not enroll in a Pilates class, yet. But lucky me, I run across video tutorials on the basic exercises. So every morning I had to do my own 30-minute Pilates at home. I wish there’s a Pilates class somewhere here in  Las Piñas and I swear I’ll never hesitate enrolling. The routines really sweat me out. I learned there’s yoga class nearby but I am not really fond of yoga (though it helps tone muscles and improve balance and concentration). For now, I’d have to continue doing Pilates at home. It helps rid off stress and the stretching makes me feel really great.

SSS Data Amendment Process

Posted by wandergirl on January 17, 2012 None comments

Going through SSS transactions is an entirely different, exasperating story to begin with. The Las Pinas regional office branch in Las Pinas has already been moved from the well-lighted, nicely decorated Municipal Hall to a somewhat dingy building across Las Pinas Starmall. Just like my agenda in Philhealth, I was looking forward to change my member’s data record in the SSS database.

The narrow stairs leading to the service office was filled with waiting individuals who are busy filling out their forms. I had to squeeze myself to get in and I run across the security guard who’s distributing numbers in small, rectangular card boards. I got # 41 but judging from the crowd that greeted me, I knew there’s more to it than be happy. I asked the guard where to get E-4 form and he instructed me to proceed to a table on the left, which by the way, I didn’t notice at all because it was surrounded by people.

So I went in, and again squeezed myself to get through the thick crowd. The table was manned by two interns. I asked for the form and headed back outside because the office was poorly ventilated. I don’t think there was any airconditioner but I was sure there were several electric fans around. People are seated in mono block chairs all over. You’d see people going in and out; some carrying their children. I don’t think it’s the best place to bring your children because from what I’ve seen, several of them were having tantrums. It must be because of the humidity or whatever.

There seems to be just one person serving the Status Verification, and another person for the E-1 Approval. Unlike the one in Philhealth service office, there isn’t a machine that would flash the numbers being served. What you’d see is a hook where you’d just have to hung your number when you’re called. When I was done with my form I took notice of the number being currently served in the Status Verification section; it’s number 78. So that means the official on that section had to deal with 62 people before my turn. I was already in the SSS branch office at 11:30 am. And I made sure to ask the people on the information section first before I spend my time in the queue.

It’s a good thing I had heavy breakfast so I didn’t feel famished even if I had to sacrifice lunch. I got lucky to find a seat for myself. Again, unlike the ambiance at Philhealth office, the one at the SSS office was a lot more frustrating. The space is very limited so when a bunch of people starts walking or milling around, you can expect nudging your arm or leg with someone. Even the seating arrangement was too close from each other. If you’re claustrophobic you won’t last long in the place.

Service is poor in the sense that you’d have to ask yourself how on earth they’d assign only one booth to process all Status Verification transactions. I mean, this section gets over 200 transactions daily and you just have two persons taking turns in one booth. I think the only nice part I’ve seen in the area were the CCTV cameras, which according to the guard can be viewed by the people in the main office. Well, I can only hope they’ve seen enough to transfer to a better branch office.

At 2 PM, my number was finally called. At least, the lady who accommodated me had a nice, polite tone which I think is a rare breed in government offices. I’ve had several experiences with BIR people and they are a bunch of grouchy individuals.

Somehow I thought my record would be immediately updated. After more than 2 hours of waiting, my form was stamped with the “RECEIVED on JAN 17, 2012″ note. That’s just it. I hope they can improve the system to be more efficient. Perhaps, have additional people to man the section so they could finish more transactions. Besides it’s not as if you’d have to do fingerprinting in front of them or have an interview of some sort.

One more thing, since I had a long way to go before being called I approached the interns in the information section to ask the process of changing my status from employed to self-employed. Surprisingly, none of them was able to provide me decent information. One of them advised me to just ask the official in the Status Verification section. Really, how’s that gonna make people (who have to endure long lines) happy? I really hope we’d see some positive improvement in SSS transactions soon. After all, SSS is a very important bureau with equally important tasks.

I’m sure it’s not the last time I’d be dealing with the SSS staff and the system. I’ll be back when I apply for the new SSS ID with my updated name. Hopefully, by then the experience will be a lot better.

 

 

PhilHealth Data Amendment for Self-Employed Individuals

Posted by wandergirl on January 17, 2012 None comments

One of my key agendas for 2012 is to have my membership data amended for Philhealth and for SSS. At exactly 9 AM this morning I arrived at the Philhealth service office in Las Pinas, located at 471 Editha Bldg. Alabang Zapote Rd. Just like the rest of the government offices here in the Philippines, it’s recommended that you arrive at Philhealth’s service office early to avoid the long queue; thereby, you finish early.

My purpose is to change my civil status from single to married, as well as employment status from private employee to self-employed/individually paying. First of all, I appreciate the people at the Las Pinas service office because everyone remains polite. At least, in my experience. I asked for the PMRF form (Philhealth Member Registration Form) and asked directions from the officer in-charge in the information area.

I was told to fill-out the form and prepare the original and the duplicate copies of my NSO marriage contract. I came very well prepared so I didn’t have to find a copier to get my documents duplicated. If you’re simply changing your civil status, you’d only need to present a photocopy of your marriage contract. If you have corrections with your name, you’ll be asked to present a copy of your birth certificate and some secondary documents, such as NBI Clearance, Passport, Postal ID, or SSS/GSIS ID. For the complete requirements, you can check PhilHealth’s website.

At the time I arrived they are already serving # 1025; I’m # 1053. The queue is satisfactorily fast. After a little over 30 minutes of waiting, I was assigned to  booth # 1. I think there are about 7 or 8 booths serving the people. The staff asked if I’d be paying for the 1st quarter already which I politely obliged. I was told to proceed to the building’s 3rd floor where the cashiers are situated. Self-employed professionals/individually paying whose monthly income is Php 25,000 and below, the premium contribution is Php 300/quarter. And self-employed professionals/individually paying whose monthly income is  Php 25,000 and above, the premium contribution is Php 600/quarter.

I was informed that Philhealth will be implementing an increase beginning this year on the annual premium contributions. So that means, self-employed individuals under the Individually Paying are soon to expect an annual premium contribution from Php 1,200 to 2,400.

Well, as if there’s anything I can do about that. As long as I know that I can avail my Philhealth benefits in the future without any hassle I’m okay with that. Besides, I am already aware that freelancers like me do not get to enjoy the usual benefits offered to privately employed individuals; and the least I can do is to make voluntary payments just so I’m covered.

So, after I paid for my Jan-Mar contribution, I headed back to the man who served me and gave him my payment receipt. He handed me back the receipt along with my updated Member’s Data Record (MBR) and my new Philhealth ID. I was reminded to pay for my 2nd quarter dues before June.

That’s it, I was able to finish everything in just an hour and a half. At that point, I decided to proceed to SSS to update my data record. The experience wasn’t as breezy as Philhealth. I’ll be writing a separate post for my SSS Data Amendment transaction later.

In all, I was very satisfied with the efficiency I’ve seen at the Philhealth service office in Las Pinas. There are still room for improvement but I can say it’s the best government service experience I’ve had so far.