PROTECT YOURSELF AGAINST TERROR ATTACKS!

In case you missed it in the news, the US State Department has warned its citizens against terror attacks in Mindanao and even Metro Manila.

So allow me to give some suggestions on how to stay safe and to protect yourself against this threat, especially when you’re in public places.

Wherever you are, be on the lookout for people acting suspiciously no matter how insignificant it may seem, including but not limited to:

Guys who are trembling or jitttering, and oftentimes perspiring, for no clear reason;

Men who keep on looking around the area or the building if you’re in one, again for no obvious reason, and especially if holding on tightly to a bag or package;

Packages or bags which have been left unattended for at least three minutes, especially if it’s concealed or stuffed in a not-so-noticeable spot in a crowded area;

People with bags or packages who slowly walk towards the exit, then puts it down on the floor before rushing out;

Unusual odors, especially chemicals, from unlikely sources.

Once you see any of these signs, look for the nearest guard or policeman/police outpost and report it to him.

If you’re in a building, look for the nearest exit immediately and stay as close to it as possible. Whatever you’re doing, see to it that you look around once in a while so that you won’t be caught flat-footed in case of sudden trouble.

A common and favorite target of terrorists is crowded, or over-crowded, spots like LRT or MRT trains and stations or popular clubs and diners.

Avoid getting into one as much as you can. If you have no other choice, stay as near as possible at the exit.

I had also proposed before in an earlier blog that regularly publishing the photos of known terrorists would be a big help since the people will know whom to look out for and avoid.

Make it a point to have the phone numbers of ALL POLICE STATIONS or other law enforcement agencies in your destination, and your community.

And most of all, NEVER EVER FORGET TO PRAY for your safety 24 hours a day.

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Eleven of our friends on “Before we boycott Chinese goods, consider this”:

DELI FRANCE

Boycott will reduce, if not eliminate, smuggling!

MIKI LAUGHLIN

Total ban on Chinese products that are flooding our markets, mostly smuggled and did not pass quality control if it is safe to use or fit for consumption. China has no investments in the Philippines.

ROMEO SESBRENO of Sudbury, Ontario, Canada

China has its own problem! I won't go that far. Put our personal differences aside and figure out how to build a better country, with law and order. That way, we can all live in peace and prosperity..We all know what's ailing the country.

LUIS CUERVO of Lipa City, Batangas

I've got the solution...outsource our governance to CHINA! They have eradicated poverty (and have) free health, ...needs are met and then we run for the elections and a Pinoy becomes China's Prime Minister.

THOMAS BLUE of Seattle, Washington, USA

We must not even think of an economic threat against the world’s leading economic monster. No sir, it will never wor. Most of our Chinese citizens are just that, citizens.

CHI YAP of Raleigh, North Carolina

Yes, always look for the middle ground.

PILAR GILBERT

I don't think boycotting is the issue here. The general public is still patronizing goods made in China because these are cheaper. Because of the bad economy, people have to explore and be smart. Thank you for sharing all your views. Good Luck!

FREEDOM MADERAZO of Pasig City

Do we have alternatives if we are going to boycott Chinese products?

SUSAN CARO of Dammam, Saudi Arabia

Patronize our own products instead f Chinese goods.

LUIS BAYUBAY of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

And the truth is....tumpak na tumpak!

LIZA TREMOCHA

What can we get from this boycott?

Four of our friends on “Don’t expect anything from Pnoy’s new vow”

DELIA SANIDAD of Santiago, Ilocos Sur

Easier said than done.

MA. JENNAH MITRA of Quezon City

It will need a lot of effort to stop corruption and elevate the poor.

JOSE VICTORIO NICANDRO

Member kasi si Pnoy ng mga politicians na naniniwala sa kasabihan na "Nangako na nga, gusto tuparin pa .” Naglaho na lahat ang mga inaasahan kong matuwid na gagawin niya.

ALBERTO LEE oof Houston, Texas

I cannot agree with you more. Empty promises are the bread and butter of politicians. There should be a visible plan A and plan B followed by deeds in quick orders.30