Welcome to the Blogsite of CESDEV-Nursing
Community Extension Services & Development
University of Cebu-Banilad College of Nursing!

This blogsite shall serve as your online access for information, updates, photo displays, videos, news, relevant links and other matters related to the programs and activities of UC Nursing CESDEV as well as other features that may be of peculiar interest and value to the University of Cebu community and the multitude of blog visitors.


NO SEGREGATION, NO COLLECTION POLICY

The first month of the implementation of the new garbage policy is the crucial period for Cebu City as the city is likely to have a lot of uncollected and unprocessed trash while still adjusting to the new system.

This Friday, April 1, 2011, the city government will start implementing the “No Segregation, No Collection” policy due to the urgent closure of the Sanitary Landfill in Barangay Inayawan.

Households and barangays that will not segregate their garbage will not be served by the Department or Public Services and will be penalized under City Ordinance 2031 or the ordinance for the implementation of the Solid Waste Management Act.

City officials admit that the first days will be most difficult especially when dealing with the behavior and attitude of the people. Cabrera said that the Inayawan Landfill will be closed for dumping, but will be open for the processing of the waste generated. The new garbage system starts with the segregation at the household level.

Only segregated biodegradable waste will be collected on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday while non-biodegradable waste will be collected during Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

The trucks of barangays that will not segregate will not be allowed to enter the landfill for the processing of their garbage. Their garbage will be returned to their area until they comply with the policy. Likewise on the streets, the salary of the city’s Metro Aides will be held if they will not be able to segregate the garbage at their level.

The biodegradable waste or the ‘malata’ will be processed at the bioreactor machines being set up at an area in the landfill. Cabrera said that there are about six bioreactors that will be used in Inayawan, four of which will be leased. The bioreactors are capable of processing over 100 tons of biodegradable waste daily. Of the 400 tons of garbage generated in Cebu City, 60 percent or about 240 tons are biodegradable waste while the rest or about 160 tons are non-biodegradable.

The non-biodegradable or the ‘di malata’ will be processed at the shredding machines. There will be about six to eight shredding machines that can process over a hundred tons of garbage daily. The end product shall be mixed with cement and other construction filling materials used in maintenance operations of the Department of Engineering and Public Works.

A total of 23 barangays have their own shredding machines which they expect to reduce the garbage that has to be brought at the Inayawan landfill. The city also rented one carbonizer that can process about 20 tons of garbage per day.

Cabrera said that they are considering the use of the Sewage Treatment Plant(STP) currently located in the North Reclamation Area to decongest the bioreactors in the area. STPs are also mulled in barangays Binaliw and Kalunasan.

Cabrera said that if all people will just cooperate, the city’s garbage will be reduced by 70 percent that will make it easy for the city government to manage. Cabrera said that of the biodegradable waste generated per person, 30 percent only is disposed while the rest may be used as fertilizers.

Since Monday, all barangay officials have been going around to inform the people about the new policy and to relay the consequences they might have to face when they refuse to follow the law. All Barangay Environment Officers including tanods and police are tapped to help enforce the solid waste management ordinance.

Cabrera said that she will raise the issue on health problems that may be brought by garbage in barangays that will continue to violate the policy during their meeting today. There is public health risk from garbage that would pile up. Garbage allows disease-causing pathogens to spread through flies, cockroaches and other insects. Diseases may be dysentery, diarrhea, flu and malaria, among others.

SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM OF CESDEV-NURSING

NINE BARANGAYS IN CEBU CITY ARE NOT COMPLIANT TO RA 9003

At least nine barangays in Cebu City have not complied with the law on the handling of solid waste, according to a study conducted by law students.

Freshman law students of the University of Cebu (UC) found that only barangay Luz had fully complied with the provisions of Republic Act No. 9003, otherwise known as The Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2001. The barangays that have not complied with the law are barangays Bulacao, Mambaling, Inayawan, Apas, Kamputhaw, Ermita, Capitol Site, Guadalupe and Tisa.

The law students organized by environmentalist lawyer Gloria Ramos submitted to Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama on Friday the continuation of their study on the status of the top 10 Cebu City barangays cited by Philippine Earth Justice Center (PEJC) as having the largest volume of garbage dumped at the Inayawan landfill in the last two years.

“Based on our study, most of the barangays fell short on the material recovery facitity (MRF) and on composting,” said April Rose Yosores, 25, a first-year student of the UC. Although they found out that most of the MRFs are already under construction, the delay is already starting to become a concern.

Based on their study, the Inayawan landfill is already posing a serious threat to the health condition and safety of the people living within and around the dumpsite since it is already filled beyond its allowed capacity.

Ramos said the distribution of the waste shredders would ease the continuous rise of the waste being thrown into the landfill. Under the leadership of Councilors Nida Cabrerra and Edu Rama, the city has already distributed waste shredders to these barangays in an effort to reduce the waste thrown into the landfill.

http://globalnation.inquirer.net/cebudailynews/opinion/view/20110220-321251/9-Cebu-City-brgys-have-no-facilities-for-solid-waste

THEY TURNED THE LIGHTS OFF

THE SWITCH-OFF 2011

When the clock struck 8:30PM last night, the Philippines was again engulfed in 60 minutes of darkness. A record-breaking 1661 Filipino towns, cities and municipalities joined the rest of the world in taking a stand against climate change. Reinvigorated by its new ‘60+’ logo, Earth Hour 2011 aimed to make its effects felt not for a mere 60 minutes – but for an entire year. Organizers are elated by the immense outpouring of support from the government, private corporations and individuals.

Since 2008, Earth Hour Philippines has celebrated climate change solutions, ranking number one globally in terms of town and city participation for both 2009 and 2010. 1076 cities and municipalities switched off in 2010, while 647 population hubs did so in 2009. About 50 cities and towns switched off during the country’s inaugural Earth Hour observance in 2008.

Ten million Filipinos saved at least 611MWh of electricity during the 2009 switch-off alone – equivalent to a temporary shutdown of a dozen coal-fired power-plants. This year’s switch-off exceeded 2010 figures by 478 towns and cities. “We are elated to clinch the top spot for the third year in a row,” beams Earth Hour National Director Atty. Gia Ibay. “More than the numbers though, Earth Hour espouses the importance of our actions beyond the hour.”

“This year’s switch-off merely signifies the start of a yearlong pledge to minimize our ecological impacts and to do our bit for a more sustainable planet. These sustainable-living pledges can take many forms, from upgrading to energy-efficient appliances to choosing to bike to work every day. Pledges really depend on the individuals – who can personally assess what changes they can adopt to reduce their consumption of electricity and water.”

A record 134 countries and territories took part in Earth Hour 2011. Numerous global organisations joined nearly a billion people across all continents to heed the hour. “It is only through the collective action of business, organisations, individuals, communities and governments that we will be able to affect change on the scale required to address the environmental challenges we face,” says Earth Hour Global Co-Founder and Executive Director Andy Ridley.

http://www.wwf.org.ph/earthhour/

THANKS FOR JOINING, THANKS FOR CARING!



UC Nursing CESDEV
wishes to thank
all the volunteers
who joined the
Earth Hour 2011 activity
in Ayala Center Cebu.

Daghang salamat
sa inyong pagpakabana
sa kalikupan.


CESDEV JOINS EARTH HOUR 2011

DOWN BY 18 MEGAWATTS

Last night’s observance of Earth Hour saved at least 18 megawatts of power in Metro Cebu. Power demand dropped to 248.89 MW in the franchise area of the Visayan Electric Company (Veco), said Ethel Natera, Veco corporate communications officer.

At 8:30 p.m, lights were turned off for one hour in several malls, hotels and buildings in Cebu City and other parts of of Cebu and the country, where ecology-conscious citizens joined the annual international switch-off.

Regional Director Antonio Labios of the Department of Energy in Central Visayas (DOE-7) said SM, Ayala Cebu and E-Mall joined this year’s Earth Hour celebration. At SM City, at least 50 percent of the mall’s lights were turned of, said mall spokesman RJ Redula, saving 3,000 kilowatt hours.

Last year the Earth Hour activity saved 25.96 megawatts of power in 2010 and 23 megawatts in 2009. Data posted on the Veco website showed that as of 8:45 p.m., power demand in their franchise area dropped to 257.1 MW. It dropped further to 254.68 MW or about 12 megawatts as of 9 p.m. At 9:15 p.m., power demand dropped further to 249.76 MW or a savings of 17 MW in the franchise area.

Before Earth Hour ended at 9:30 p.m., Veco noted a total savings of 18 megawatts.


http://globalnation.inquirer.net/cebudailynews/news/view/20110327-327882/Cebu-demand-down-18-MW

EARTH HOUR 2011: 60+

CAMPAIGN FOR CORPORATE INVOLVEMENT

COUNTDOWN TO EARTH HOUR 2011

JOIN EARTH HOUR 2011 PHOTO CONTEST

REGISTER RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW!

UNIVERSITY OF CEBU SUPPORTS EARTH HOUR 2011

WHEN THE WORLD SWITCHED OFF

CREATE REAL LANTERNS FOR EARTH HOUR 2011

REGISTER NOW!



Whether you are an individual, an organization, a business, a school or a city, you can show your support for Earth Hour by turning off your lights at 8:30PM to 9:30PM on March 26 wherever you are on the planet. Register HERE to make your involvement for Earth Hour 2011 be known.

You can support Earth Hour by:

1. Turning off your lights at 8:30PM to 9:30PM on March 26
2. Showing your support and adding yourself to our world map
3. Adding Earth Hour widgets, logos and banners to your blog or website to help us
spread the word
4. Talking about Earth Hour in your social network by updating your Facebook
status, grabbing a Twibbon, tweeting about your support, and more
5. Get together with your friends and family, by hosting an Earth Hour party or
holding your own candlelit affair
6. Rally your local council or community group to run an Earth Hour event for your
community
7. Encourage your employer and workmates to take part in Earth Hour and make
energy savings every day
8. Make an Earth Hour Lantern, Play the Switch-Off Game, or use the Virtual Switch as a symbol of hope for the future
9. Be creative! Find a new way to mark Earth Hour!

YOUR FUTURE, YOUR SAY

TELEVISION PARTNERS OF EARTH HOUR PILIPINAS 2011



Mainstream television networks ABS-CBN, GMA, and TV5 recently inked a deal with World Wide Fund for Nature to be the media partner for the 2011 Earth Hour, a global event happening on March 26 from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. The Kapatid Network also agrees to be a partner in raising environmental awareness among the viewing public as WWF runs its Earth Hour 60+ campaign.

OTHER MEDIA PARTNERS

CESDEV-NURSING BLOGSITE IN UC WEBSITE



February 27, 2011, UC Nursing CESDEV Blog Administrator posted a link in University of Cebu Facebook Fanpage.



About 10 hours ago, the Blog Administrator received a notification from Facebook stating that University of Cebu "commented on your link". Upon checking, the comment was "
we're linking this to the quicklinks corner on the uc website, please link back. "

University of Cebu has linked UC Nursing CESDEV Blogsite to its website.


Please click on the image above to enlarge for a better view.

OUR COMMITMENT ...


THE "LINK BACK" CREATED



A Link has been created in the Main Page of UC Nursing CESDEV Blogsite as requested by the Administrator of University of Cebu Website. Upon clicking the icon, the web user will automatically be transferred to the main page of the Official Website of University of Cebu.

Similarly, an icon that would link the web user to the Facebook Fanpage of University of Cebu was also created to encourage visits from the blog readers. However, make sure that you have logged-in to your Facebook account to enable viewing of the fanpage.

EARTH HOUR 2011: GROWING BEYOND THE HOUR



Earth Hour’s global switch off to highlight momentous action for Earth

100 days out from the annual ‘lights out’ event, Earth Hour Philippines 2011 prepares to showcase a growing Filipino community committed to taking environmental actions that go beyond the hour.

From its inception as a single-city initiative in 2007, Earth Hour has grown into a global movement where hundreds of millions of people from every continent join together to acknowledge the importance of protecting our planet. Inspired by thousands of stories of people going beyond the hour, Earth Hour 2011 will ask individuals, businesses and governments the world over to add more to the annual switch off by showcasing how they are taking action to preserve their environment.

PILIPINAS, LET'S DO IT AGAIN!


The Philippines topped global Earth Hour participation levels for both 2009 and 2010. Ten million Filipinos in 647 towns, cities and municipalities switched off in 2009, while 15 million Filipinos in 1076 towns and cities joined the 2010 switch-off. Over a billion people from 128 countries participated in Earth Hour 2010 – marking it as the largest environmental event in known human history.

“Though it would be wonderful to again be number one in terms of participation, we must emphasize that Earth Hour is but 60 minutes long. If we want lasting and effective results, then we must inculcate the true spirit of the event into our lives – which is to reduce our consumption of power, water and other critical resources.

We want Filipinos to pledge to a year-long commitment to reduce their energy usage,” notes Ibay. “Pledges can take the form of biking to work, choosing to fly less, planting native trees, going on a no-meat diet and so on. It all depends on what the individual is willing to do. In the same fashion, corporations and communities can make commitments to be more resource efficient and environmentally responsive. Remember, it starts with nothing more than a conscious decision.”

MORE THAN THE SWITCH-OFF



Now in its fourth year in the Philippines, Earth Hour again aims to engulf the entire country – from Batanes to Tawi-Tawi – in darkness. The hour-long event, which was birthed in Australia in 2007 and embraced by the Philippines in 2008, was created to empower people to address climate change via a 60-minute switch-off. Earth Hour 2011 differs from all previous observances by focusing on what citizens can do beyond the switch-off.

“Earth Hour is a simple act that emphasizes both the ease and importance of adopting energy-efficient practices and lifestyles,” says Earth Hour National Director Atty. Gia Ibay, who also leads the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF-Philippines) Climate Unit. “Given ever-increasing energy demands, we must be mindful of the need to control human-induced global warming by adopting smarter and more responsible energy practices.”

BE AN EARTH HOUR HERO



Earth Hour is open to everybody. We invite people, businesses, governments and organizations to switch off their lights for one hour and the chance to do their bit for the environment. People have taken Earth Hour and have put their own unique twist on it coming up with amazing and inspiring ideas and actions that have taken Earth Hour beyond one hour and have led to grand scale sustainable day-in day-out practices.

How do you take the lights out phenomenon of Earth Hour and do something with it that spreads the word to more people? Whether you develop new uses of technology, stage events, educate or change behavioural patterns and bring about the cultural change that make sustainable living all the rage. The ethos of Earth Hour is simple – keep it open source, keep it hopeful, positive, uniting and empowering. It all starts in your local community.

What will you do to become an Earth Hour Hero?

TAKE A STAND. JOIN EARTH HOUR 2011



This Earth Hour 2011: 8.30pm, Saturday 26 March, celebrate your action for the planet with the people of world, and add more to your Earth Hour.

From its inception as a single-city initiative -- Sydney, Australia - in 2007, Earth Hour has grown into a global symbol of hope and movement for change. Earth Hour 2010 created history as the world's largest ever voluntary action with people, businesses and governments in 128 countries across every continent coming together to celebrate an unambiguous commitment to the one thing that unites us all -- the planet.

Sign up to earthhour.org, switch off your lights for Earth Hour 2011, and share the positive actions you will sustain for earth beyond the hour.

EARTH HOUR: JAPAN A YEAR AGO



At 8:30 PM on Saturday 26th March 2011, lights will switch off around the globe for Earth Hour and people will commit to actions that go beyond the hour. With Earth Hour almost upon us, our thoughts are with the people of Japan during this incredibly challenging and sad time for their country.

日本の皆さん、勇気を持って頑張って下さい

SWITCH OFF: THE VIRTUAL SWITCH



In preparation for the Earth Hour event this coming Mrach 26, the Earth hour Organization has prepared some Fun Stuffs in their Official website. Along with the virtual lantern which CESDEV Nursing volunteers have created during the Earth Hour celebration last year, another feature is the Virtual Switch. Click HERE to Switch Off and Vote for Earth.

PLAY THE LIGHTS OUT GAME



The aim of the game is to turn out as many lights as possible as quickly as you can. Use the right and left arrow keys to move back and forward, and the upward arrow to jump. Make sure you take advantage of the energy boosters along the way.

Wanna play the game? Click HERE.

MAKE A VIRTUAL LANTERN



Show your support to Earth Hour 2011. Click HERE to create your own Virtual Lantern.

GO BEYOND THE HOUR

ABOUT THE EARTH HOUR

Earth Hour started in 2007 in Sydney, Australia when 2.2 million individuals and more than 2,000 businesses turned their lights off for one hour to take a stand against climate change. Only a year later and Earth Hour had become a global sustainability movement with more than 50 million people across 35 countries/territories participating. Global landmarks such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge, CN Tower in Toronto, Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, and Rome’s Colosseum, all stood in darkness, as symbols of hope for a cause that grows more urgent by the hour.

In March 2009, hundreds of millions of people took part in the third Earth Hour. Over 4000 cities in 88 countries/territories officially switched off to pledge their support for the planet, making Earth Hour 2009 the world’s largest global climate change initiative.

Last year, March 27, 2010, Earth Hour became the biggest Earth Hour ever. A record 128 countries and territories joined the global display of climate action. Iconic buildings and landmarks from Asia Pacific to Europe and Africa to the Americas switched off. People across the world from all walks of life turned off their lights and came together in celebration and contemplation of the one thing we all have in common – our planet.

Earth Hour 2011 will take place on Saturday 26 March at 8:30PM (local time). This Earth Hour we want you to go beyond the hour, so after the lights go back on think about what else you can do to make a difference. Together our actions add up.

http://www.earthhour.org/About.aspx

BE INVOLVED



Earth Hour has done a lot to raise awareness of sustainability issues. But there’s more to it than switching off lights for one hour once a year. It’s all about giving people a voice and working together to create a better future for our planet.

UC Nursing CESDEV is actively campaigning for everyone to be involved and be a part of Earth Hour 2011.

WEATHER FORECAST


IN FOCUS: GUAM CHIEF JUSTICE ROBERT J. TORRES, JR.

The Honorable Chief Justice Robert J. Torres, Jr., born and raised on Guam, was appointed by Governor Felix P. Camacho to serve as one of the three justices on the highest appellate court in Guam, the Supreme Court, on April 17, 2003.

The 27th Guam Legislature unanimously confirmed his nomination on September 18, 2003. Chief Justice Torres was sworn in on January 16, 2004 as the 7th full time Justice in the history of the Supreme Court of Guam and was installed as Chief Justice on January 15, 2008.

Chief Justice Torres was awarded his Juris Doctor degree from Harvard Law School, Cambridge, Massachusetts and received his B.B.A. in Accounting (Magna Cum Laude; Beta Gamma Sigma; Beta Alpha Psi) from the University of Notre Dame, South Bend, Indiana,


Since his appointment to the Supreme Court, his Honor has been deeply involved with issues of technology and automation in the judiciary. He chairs the Judiciary’s technology subcommittee tasked with developing long range strategy for technology and automation in Guam’s judicial system in an effort to better serve the people of the island.


Through the expertise and vision of Chief Justice Torres, the judiciary advances in technology and automation has brought the courts of Guam into the 21st century. He played a central role in instituting several projects that expanded the application of technology in the judiciary – including e-filing with the Supreme Court, employing wireless technology in the courtrooms, adopting ethical and use standards for computers in the Judicial Branch. effecting videoconferencing in initial appearances, and contemplating the design and acquisition of a modern case management system.

http://www.justice.gov.gu/Justices/torres.html

UC CONFERS DOCTOR OF LAWS, HONORIS CAUSA


A CHIEF justice known for advocating the use of technology in courts and his concern for how social networks can affect the judiciary’s image received from a Cebu university yesterday an honorary Doctor of Laws degree.

Chief Justice Emeritus Robert J. Torres Jr. called it “a wonderful and unexpected award” and congratulated the 2011 graduates of the University of Cebu for their “sacrifices and hard work.”

In his speech, Chief Justice Torres said he has a strong affinity with the country, particularly in the cooperation between the Supreme Court of the Philippines and Guam’s Supreme Court.

Two months ago in Manila, Torres spoke about how social networking sites, like Twitter and Facebook, can be used to improve the people’s access to the court’s information.

He pointed out that the rapid sharing of sensational stories or opinions about some cases can threaten the delivery of justice, and emphasized the court’s responsibility to interact with and encourage the trust of the community.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/local-news/2011/03/19/guam-s-chief-justice-awarded-cebu-145684

HONORIS CAUSA FOR GUAM CHIEF JUSTICE

THE University of Cebu (UC) will confer today an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree on Guam Chief Justice Robert J. Torres Jr.

A Mass will be held at 8 a.m., followed by conferment rites at 9 a.m. at the Cebu International Convention Center (CICC) in Mandaue City. The reception will be at noon at the Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu.

UC president Augusto Go will award the diploma. Dr. Amelia Biglete, Regional director of the Commission on Higher Education in Central Visayas, will officiate the awarding of the degree. Justice Regino Hermosisima Jr., UC chairman of the Board of Trustees, will read and present the citation. Hermosisima will do the hooding and capping together with UC Chancellor Candice Gotianuy.

The Honorable Robert J. Torres Jr., born and raised in Guam, was appointed by Guam Gov. Felix Camacho as one of the three justices on the highest appellate court on April 17, 2003. The 27th Guam Legislature unanimously confirmed his nomination on Sept. 18, 2003.

Chief Justice Torres was sworn in on Jan. 16, 2004 as the seventh full time Justice in the history of the Supreme Court of Guam and was installed as Chief Justice on Jan. 15, 2008.

http://globalnation.inquirer.net/cebudailynews/community/view/20110318-326124/UC-to-confer-honorary-degree-on-Guam-chief-justice

GANBATTE KUDASAI!

Saw this video posted in Facebook by one of our Registered Nurse volunteers Don Jade Canama. Was so moved at the spirit of loyalty exhibited by the dog. I am posting this video here for CESDEV Nursing blog readers and for the student nurses to reflect on this. It's incredibly touching. Truly, even for dogs, "No one gets left behind."



You don't have to speak Japanese to understand the sympathetic tones and be amazed at the display of loyalty and compassion by one dog who refused to leave his hurt friend's side. There is so much we don't understand about the emotional lives of animals. But we know they can suffer tremendously, and we are thrust into knowing how they care for each other.

Both dogs were found alive in Mito, Ibaraki. And thanks to the efforts of Japan Earthquake Animal Rescue and Support, the two dogs are currently in the care of a local shelter.

CNN is reporting that both dogs received medical attention. The injured dog is currently at a veteranarian getting care and the loyal dog friend is at a shelter. In summary of the mens' conversation in Japanese: at first the two thought the injured dog was dead. They immediately called a vet for assistance for both dogs. The men say they wish they had brought food to give the dogs. We will continue to follow any updates on this story and the status of the injured dog who is reportedly still weak.

We are hopeful that people from different part of the world will do their share of helping our Japanese friends and will respond like these two dog friends, never abandoning each other in this time of need. Ganbatte kudasai! ("Don't give up!")

MAY YOU REST IN PEACE EMMABELLE ...


UC Nursing CESDEV requests readers and the whole UC Community to offer prayers for the soul of Miss Emmabelle Anoba and other people who lost their lives in the Christchurch earthquake. Nurse Emmabelle Cabahug Anoba, a graduate of UC College of Nursing Batch 2006, has been confirmed as a victim of the Christchurch earthquake.

Emmabelle, 26, was one of the many students at the King's Education language school in the CTV building when the earthquake hit. One of three siblings, Emmabelle hails from Minglanilla in the Philippines.

Her younger sister Aprille has been posting on her Facebook page, encouraging her older sister to stay strong: "Wish I could hug you and tell you how much I love you. You promised that when you come back ... you'll teach me how to drive and we will have another family bonding."

FIRE DRILL


University of Cebu - Banilad Campus celebrates Fire Prevention Month this March and in line with this, UC banilad had a Fire Drill to make sure that students, faculty, non-teaching staff and everyone in the building knows where to go and what to do in case of fire.

THE SUPERMOON



On March 19, the moon will swing around Earth more closely than it has in the past 18 years, lighting up the night sky from just 221,567 miles (356,577 kilometers) away. On top of that, it will be full.

Richard Nolle, a noted astrologer who runs the website astropro.com, has famously termed the upcoming full moon at lunar perigee (the closest approach during its orbit) an "extreme supermoon."

Even under normal conditions, the moon is close enough to Earth to make its weighty presence felt: It causes the ebb and flow of the ocean tides. The moon's gravity can even cause small but measureable ebbs and flows in the continents, called "land tides" or "solid Earth tides," too. The tides are greatest during full and new moons, when the sun and moon are aligned either on the same or opposite sides of the Earth.

THE SPEAKER: DR. LORETO B. ONG


( Dr. Loreto Ong, and Mursing Education Coordinator Miss Piluchi Victorina M. Villegas)

The resource speaker for the Lay Forum on Colorectal Cancer is a Diplomate of Philippine Board of Surgery, a Fellow of the Philippine Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons and cuurently the Head of the Colorectal Section of Surgical Oncology Department of Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center.

He is no stranger to UC community because her mother used to be a clinical instructor of the College of Nursing of University of Cebu, Dr. Marilou Ong, the former Dean of the College of Nursing of Cebu Normal University.

Many thanks to you Dr. Loreto B. Ong!

SEMINAR CONTENT

Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer deaths in the Philippines. In 2005, there were 2,657 deaths due to colorectal cancer. Research has also shown that half of all colorectal cancer details could be prevented using screening, monitoring and treatment methods that are already available.

THE SEMINAR ON COLORECTAL CANCER

SEMINAR ON COLORECTAL CANCER

The Community Extension Services and Development of the College of Nursing of UC Banilad hosts a seminar on Colorectal Cancer Awareness inititated by the Philippine Society of Medical Oncology (PSMO) and Roche.

March has been designated as the colorectal cancer awareness month and this year’s theme is “Ignoring a Gut Feeling?” which centers on raising awareness that colorectal cancer is a preventable disease.

The the seminar / lay forum is intended to encourage the public to help prevent colorectal cancer through raising screening and symptom awareness, especially on understanding the physical symptoms such as abdominal pain and changes in bowel movement, which in time becomes an intuitive “gut feeling” that allows early detection.

The Seminar / Lay Forum will be at the Audio-Visual Room2 of UC Banilad from 1pm - 3 pm with Dr. Loreto Ong as the main speaker.

COLORECTAL CANCER SURGERY - OPEN PROCEDURE

FACTS ON COLORECTAL CANCER

Colorectal cancer is a disease in which normal cells in the lining of the colon or rectum begin to change, grow without control, and no longer die. It usually begins as a non-cancerous polyp that can, over time, become a cancerous tumour.

The Eduardo J. Aboitiz Cancer Center (EJACC) of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. is a leading advocate for cancer prevention in Cebu. As the country celebrates Colorectal Cancer Month in March, it urged the public to engage in early detection and prevention measures to fight colorectal cancer.

According to EJACC’s Metro Cebu Population-based Cancer Registry statistics, incidence rate and mortality rate of colorectal cancer among men and women aged 30 years old and above are high. Within 1993 to 2005, about 773 men and 600 women who are 30 years old and beyond were recorded to have the disease.

Within the same period, 464 men and 344 women aged 30 and above have died of the cancer. There were 47 people aged 0 to 29 who acquired colorectal cancer and 25 of them died of it from 1993 to 2005.

The most common signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer include change in bowel habits that persists for more than four days. Change in bowel habits may include diarrhea, constipation or decreased stool thickness; feeling that the bowel is not completely emptied after a bowel movement.

The presence of bright red or very dark blood in the bowel movement or on tissue paper; persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas pains, or bloating are also some of the symptoms of the disease.

It also include the feeling of a lump in the rectum; vomiting; chronic fatigue and unexplained weight loss; history of ulcerative colitis or Crohn disease; and certain hereditary conditions like familial adenomatous polyp sis and hereditary non-polyp sis colon cancer.

http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=1&t=1&id=20499

COLORECTAL CANCER LAPAROSCOPIC SURGERY

CESDEV RESEARCH - CULTURAL BELIEFS AND HEALTH PRACTICES

The Community Extesnion Services and Development of the College of Nursing engaged in Community Reseaches to provide a more scientific and factual approach in identifying problems in the adopted community and at the same time formulate ways of solving these identified problems anchored on solid facts.

The following reseraches have been conducted and will be presented during the Research Forum conducted by the Philippine Nurses Research Society this March 17, 2011.

CESDEV RESEARCH - EATING HABITS OF CHILDREN IN BARANGAY KALUNASAN

Insufficiency of nutritional intake led to malnutrition specifically under nutrition where in our body becomes weak, immuno-compromised and will sooner result to disease that would lead to death which we would not want to happen.

Such conditions on malnutrition existed in Barangay Kalunasan. Statistics shows that there are 68 undernourished children ages 0-5 years old in Barangay Kalunasan and it ranked fifth among barangays in Cebu City that have many undernourished children.

The research focused in determining the eating habits of these children under five years old at Barangay Kalunasan, Cebu City.

CESDEV RESEARCH - HEALTH PRACTICES OF THE RESIDENTS IN BARANGAY KALUNASAN

The researchers were prompted to conduct this study to enhance and increase the health practices observed in the community of Barangay Kalunasan, Cebu City which is the adopted community of University of Cebu College of Nursing for Community Extension Services and Development.

Most of the residents in Barangay Kalunasan practiced unhealthy lifestyle and behaviors such as smoking, engaging in frequent drinking sessions, inadequate sleeping hours, poor sanitation, and inadequate nutrition. Thus, the CESDEV-Nursing researchers decided to establish and further study to eventually apply different intervention plans or programs that would somehow help the residents improve their ways of maintaining their health, and gaining better health status, especially on the aspect of understanding the many factors that affect the health practices/behaviors of individuals and families alike.

CESDEV RESEARCH - FAMILY SUPPORT ON PRE-NATAL CARE

Nursing care is very much aimed at supporting the patient and her family, helping them to reach with the desired term of pregnancy and stay as well as possible. Most women especially the nulligravid may feel guilty about their pregnancy so a positive approach by the nurse is therefore needed.

Thus, this study was undertaken to determine the extent of family support on prenatal care given among women in Barangay Kalunasan, Cebu City. Results of the study will be used as basis for a proposed intervention plan.

CESDEV RESEARCH - HOME REMEDIES FOR COMMON ILLNESSES

Improving the health of children is one aspect among many, in the fight against poverty. Healthy children become healthy adults: people who create better lives for themselves, their communities and their countries. Being a mother is not an easy role. They deal with different problems with regards to family. One of which is child illness.

This study aimed to describe parent’s ways of recognizing common childhood illnesses and their ideas on the significance of treating illness at home. Thus, this study would dwalt on how mothers managed their children with common illnesses.

IN FOCUS: TSUNAMI

A tsunami is a seismic sea wave, not a tidal wave as it is sometimes mistakenly called. Various underwater disturbances- including landslides, volcanic eruptions, and meteorite landings, in addition to earthquakes- can cause a tsunami.

Characteristics of Tsunami Waves

Tsunamis are fast moving, traveling at speeds of hundreds of miles per hour. When they slam into coastal areas, they can produce waves 100 feet or higher. Tsunami waves move outward in all directions from their origination point, increasing in height as they approach the shore.

Tsunami Risks

Drowning is the number one tsunami risk but there are others. Tsunamis can induce flooding, contaminate drinking water, and rupture gas lines and tanks, causing fires.

Tsunami Safety

"If you can see the wave you are too close to escape it," according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

A noticeable recession in the water away from the shoreline is "nature's tsunami warning," FEMA says. Anyone noticing such recession should move out of the area immediately. When the tsunami subsides, flooding and contamination risks remain. Flooded and damaged areas should be avoided until emergency officials give the "all clear."

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ac/20110311/sc_ac/8041358_how_japans_tsunami_compares_to_historys_deadliest

DEADLIEST TSUNAMIS IN HISTORY



These tsunamis are among the deadliest in history:

1. Indian Ocean tsunami, 2004: 150,00 killed or missing in 11 countries. This tsunami unleashed the energy equivalent of 23,000 atomic bombs, according to the USGS.

2. Java, 1883: Krakatou volcano erupted, triggering tsunamis that killed 36,000 people.

3. Honshu, Japan, 1896: 27,000 killed.

4. Chile, 1868: 25,000 killed.

5. Mindanao, Philippines, 1976: Between 5,000 and 8,000 killed.

6. Chile, 1960: 2,300 killed.

In the U.S., the deadliest tsunami occurred in Hawaii in 1946. 165 people, including school children, were killed when a tsunami wiped out Hilo's waterfront. The government established a Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Hawaii in the aftermath of that tsunami.

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TIDAL WAVE AND TSUNAMI



Most people assume that there is no difference between a tidal wave and a tsunami, and often use the words interchangeably. This is inaccurate, and while both of the waves carry the power of destruction, the greatest difference is how each is born.

A tidal wave is directly impacted by the atmosphere. The correlating factors between the sun, moon, and Earth cause a disturbance in the sea, and a ‘shallow water wave’ is formed. Shallow water waves imply that the development of a tidal wave ismuch closer to the shoreline of a land mass, that will ultimately be in its path. However, because of the depth relating to it origins, it is possible that a tidal wave can ‘burn itself out’ before it reaches the land.

The origin of the tsunami is much deeper. It is caused by a deep disturbance along the ocean floor. This disturbance usually comes from an underwater earthquake, or even an underwater landslide. The deeper origin of the tsunami creates a more emphatic wave. It will often carry itself across hundreds, or even thousands, of miles of ocean before making landfall.

The tidal wave has what we would call regional preferences. It is unlikely that a tidal wave would make landfall in areas of temperate climates, or northern countries. The various elements which cause its development form, in their precise manner, in lower latitudes, creating a higher possibility for landfall in places like the West Indies, for example. The tidal wave follows the currents, and therefore, is only able to strike areas within the current flow.

The tsunami has the potential to develop anywhere. The placement of the earthquake or landslide, or even the unique event of an underwater eruption, compels the start of the wave. Just like the tidal wave, the tsunami also follows the currents. Yet, since the development of the underwater event can happen within the current flow heading toward the US, Canada, or Great Britain, it could be assumed that a tsunami can hit one of these usually unaffected countries.

Most people who do understand the difference between the two waves are inclined to believe that the tsunami is more destructive than the tidal wave. While in many cases, this is a correct assumption, a blanket statement is not necessarily true. The size of the waves is determined by many varying factors, including the wind’s direction and speed.

http://ph.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20110311020839AAG4adE

JOIN US, AS WE ...



Gracious heavenly Father,
Shock and sorrow is dominating our lives
Especially with the tragedy
That befell our fellowmen in Japan
Bring your hope among all of us.

Help us as we ponder the loss of lives and property
as a result of these horendous events.
Bring comfort to those whose lives
have altered so much and those who suffer greatly.

Mercifully embrace those who are frightened.
Look with love and compassion on those who mourn.
Restrain those who seek to instigate such destruction.
And give strength to all who offer care,
support and rescue efforts during this time.

Help us and all others be your healing hands
and comforting arms during this time.
So that all in need may experience
your compassion, grace and mercy.

In Jesus Christ we pray. Amen

NEWS UPDATE ON "NUCLEAR MELTDOWN SCARE"

PLEASE READ !!!

You must have received this text message today :

“Japan govt confirms radiation leak at Fukushima nuclear plants. Asian countries should take necessary precautions. Remain indoors first 24hrs. Close doors n windows. Swab neck skin with betadine where thyroid area is, radiation hits thyroid first. Take extra precaution, radiation may hit Phil at startng 4pm 2day. Pls send to ur loved ones."

The Agence France Presse reported that United Nations atomic watchdog International Atomic Energy Agency has declared the radiation levels from the Fukushima nuclear power plant normal.

"Radiation dose rate measurements observed at four locations around the plant's perimeter over a 16-hour period on 13 March were all normal," the IAEA said in a statement.

Likewise, Pagasa forecaster Robert Sawi said the winds from Japan would not travel to the country. As of Monday, it has been moving west to east, which meant it has been traveling from Japan to the Pacific Ocean, he said.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20110314-325382/Science-officials-No-threat-of-nuclear-clouds-acid-rain-in-PH

PHILIPPINES IS SAFE FROM RADIATION



Government officials stamped down fears of acid rain and nuclear clouds resulting from a leak from one of the nuclear plants in Japan following an 8.9-magnitude earthquake last week.

The Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) and the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), sought to allay the public's fears as warnings of radioactive clouds and acid rains circulated through text messages.

The PNRI said it had been conducting tests of the air since the first explosion at the Fukushima power station on Saturday, a day after a deadly quake and tsunami struck Japan.

"Based on (our) monitoring, there has been no increase in the levels of radioactivity since the time of the Fukushima event," the agency said in an emergency response bulletin Monday. The bulletin came hours after a second explosion at the Fukushima plant.

The PNRI also allayed fears of radiation clouds coming over to the Philippines. And should there be one, "the plume from the site of the incident will not pass Philippine territory as of March 14," PNRI said.

“It does not make sense,” said weather forecaster Raymond Ordinario when asked to react to text messages warning the public of possible contaminated rainfall caused by radiation emitted from a leak inside the Fukushima plant.

In another press briefing on Monday afternoon, attended by President Aquino, Health Secretary Enrique Ona stressed that the public need not panic about suffering from radiation exposure resulting from the damages to a Fukushima nuclear power plant in Japan.

"The Philippines is safe from radiation," Ona said.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20110314-325382/Science-officials-No-threat-of-nuclear-clouds-acid-rain-in-PH

NO FILIPINO FATALITY IN JAPAN EARTHQUAKE



There are no Filipinos, so far, among the recorded fatalities in Friday’s killer quake and tsunami that devastated northeastern Japan, the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo said.

Ambassador Manuel Lopez on Monday relayed the good news to the home office, citing a report of an embassy team dispatched to Sendai city the other day. Lopez also reported that members of the more than 300,000-strong Filipino community in Japan were "reaching out" to those who were adversely affected by the natural disaster.

The envoy said an undisclosed number of Filipinos in Tokyo, Osaka and western Japan, who were "deemed relatively safe, have pooled their efforts and resources in helping those who were adversely affected by the quake."

Earlier, Lopez was able to contact Filipino community leaders in Hokkaido, who reported that "Filipinos in Kushido, Nemuro, Abashiri, and Hakodate were safe." He assured community leaders that the embassy was "on a 24-hour operation to immediately respond to the calls of Filipino nationals who are in emergency situations."

Meanwhile, the Philippine consulate in Osaka reported that "there are no reports of any casualties among Philippine nationals in the 28 prefectures under its jurisdiction."

http://globalnation.inquirer.net/news/breakingnews/view/20110314-325392/No-Filipinos-among-quake-tsunami-fatalities-says-PH-envoy-to-Japan

JAPAN: BEFORE AND AFTER (SATTELITE IMAGES)



Entire villages in parts of Japan’s Pacific coast vanished under a wall of water, and many communities were cut off, leaving the country trying to absorb the scale of the destruction.

The police chief of Miyagi prefecture, or state, told disaster relief officials that his estimate for deaths was more than 10,000, police spokesperson Go Sugawara told The Associated Press.

Miyagi has a population of 2.3 million and is one of the three prefectures hardest hit in Friday’s disaster. Only 379 people have officially been confirmed as dead in Miyagi.

In a rare piece of good news, the defense ministry said a military helicopter on Sunday rescued a 60-year-old man floating off the coast of Fukushima on the roof of his house after being swept away in the tsunami. He was in good condition.

The US Geological Survey calculated the initial quake to have a magnitude of 8.9, while Japanese officials raised their estimate on Sunday to 9.0. Either way it was the strongest quake ever recorded in Japan. It has been followed by more than 150 powerful aftershocks.

NURSING STALWARTS: DR. HELEN C. ESTRELLA AND DR. CARMEN P. VILLARANTE



adj.
1. Having or marked by imposing physical strength.
2. Firm and resolute; stout.


n.
1. One who is physically and morally strong.
2. One who steadfastly supports an organization or cause:


[Middle English, alteration of stalworth, from Old English stlwierthe, serviceable, probably alteration of *statholwierthe, steadfast : stathol, foundation; see staddle + weorth, valuable; see wer-2 in Indo-European roots.]

BEST IN NURSING THEORY

UC Nursing CESDEV warmly congratulates Miss Nikki Sherylee Rivera for the distinction that she got as "Best in Theory" among Level 2 student nurses.

Such recognition was given to her during the Grand Nursing Day celebration at the Family Park in Talamban.

Keep it up! Your CESDEV-Nursing Family is very proud of you.

GRAND NURSING DAY 2011

D PLACE: D FAMILY PARK

D’ Family Park is situated in Talamban,Cebu City. It’s the first park of its kind in Cebu and within the MCWD 20-hectare property. It offers a different kind of recreation site for Cebuanos while also promoting the protection of flora and fauna. The person behind this project is Fr. Francisco G. Silva who is the former MCWD General Manager and funded by Congressman Raul del Mar. This recreational area was opened to public last May 8, 1999.

Within the 20-hectare property you could find a swimming pool (both for kids and for adults), picnic camp site, children’s playground, a mini zoo, multi function club house and a pavilion. And oh by the way, the children’s play ground has swings, see-saws, slides and others.

Also the park has a large stage equipped with sound system and in front of it is a huge open field big enough to hold events such as ball games. The park even has a jogger’s path along the side of concrete road from the gate of MCWD and a kiosk structured for those who enjoys watching the serenity of greeneries.

The park also has a big lake which actually is one of the main attractions on the area. Everybody just loves to sit down on the benches around, chatting and just having fun. For some, it is a complete relaxation. There is just one thing missing on a lake, small boats or swan boats.

The place is perfect for a Sunday afternoon stamping ground. You could bring blankets along with some foods and your family.

http://www.pacific-cebu.com/d-family-park-cebu-city/

THIS IS WHERE THE FUN WALK ENDS

WHAT TO DO AFTER AN EARTHQUAKE

1. Check yourself and others for injuries. Provide first aid for anyone who needs it.

2. Check water, gas, and electric lines for damage. If any are damaged, shut off the valves. Check for the smell of gas. If you smell it, open all the windows and doors, leave immediately, and report it to the authorities (use someone else's phone).

3. Turn on the radio. Don't use the phone unless it's an emergency.

4. Stay out of damaged buildings.

5. Be careful around broken glass and debris. Wear boots or sturdy shoes to keep from cutting your feet.

6. Be careful of chimneys (they may fall on you).

7. Stay away from beaches. Tsunamis and seiches sometimes hit after the ground has stopped shaking.

8. Stay away from damaged areas.

9. If you're at school or work, follow the emergency plan or the instructions of the person in charge.

10. Expect aftershocks.

24 ORAS NEWS ON EARTHQUAKE IN JAPAN

WHAT TO DO DURING AN EARTHQUAKE

1. Stay calm! If you're indoors, stay inside. If you're outside, stay outside.

2. If you're indoors, stand against a wall near the center of the building, stand in a doorway, or crawl under heavy furniture (a desk or table). Stay away from windows and outside doors.

3. If you're outdoors, stay in the open away from power lines or anything that might fall. Stay away from buildings (stuff might fall off the building or the building could fall on you).

4. Don't use matches, candles, or any flame. Broken gas lines and fire don't mix.

5. If you're in a car, stop the car and stay inside the car until the earthquake stops.

6. Don't use elevators (they'll probably get stuck anyway).

MORE NEWS ...

WHAT TO DO BEFORE AN EARTHQUAKE

1. Make sure you have a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, a battery-powered radio, a flashlight, and extra batteries at home.

2. Learn first aid.

3. Learn how to turn off the gas, water, and electricity.

4. Make up a plan of where to meet your family after an earthquake.

5. Don't leave heavy objects on shelves (they'll fall during a quake).

6. Anchor heavy furniture, cupboards, and appliances to the walls or floor.

7. Learn the earthquake plan at your school or workplace.

DROP, COVER, HOLD ON!



In MOST situations, you will reduce your chance of injury if you:
DROP down onto your hands and knees (before the earthquakes knocks you down). This position protects you from falling but allows you to still move if necessary.
COVER your head and neck (and your entire body if possible) under a sturdy table or desk. If there is no shelter nearby, only then should you get down near an interior wall (or next to low-lying furniture that won't fall on you), and cover your head and neck with your arms and hands.
HOLD ON to your shelter (or to your head and neck) until the shaking stops. Be prepared to move with your shelter if the shaking shifts it around.

BE PREPARED

DFA HOTLINES AVAILABLE

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has set up hotline numbers and an e-mail address for those who would like to inquire about the condition of their families in Japan in light of the 8.9 magnitude earthquake that hit the northeast part of that country Friday, causing damages and spawning tsunamis along its coastlines, including the capital city of Tokyo.

The hotline numbers at the DFA-OUMWA’s Crisis Management Center are 834-4646 and 834-4580. Requests for information may also be sent through e-mail address dfaoumwa.cmc@gmail.com.

The Philippine Consulate General in Osaka reported to the DFA that Consulate personnel felt the impact of the earthquake at their 24th floor office, but they were safe and there was no damage to the consulate office.

In a phone call to the DFA, consulate officials said there was not much damage to the western and southern regions of Japan, and that the focus of attention of Japanese and Filipinos in their area was Sendai, Honshu in northeast Japan which bore the brunt of the earthquake.

There are no injuries reported in Osaka, the DFA said, quoting the consulate there. There are 84,414 Filipino nationals in western and southern regions of the country, the DFA said. In a written report to the DFA, the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo said that they were exerting efforts to get in touch with Philippine Honorary Consulates in Sapporo, Morioka and Nagoya, and members of the Filipino community for initial reports of any injury or casualty.

There are 224,558 Filipino nationals in central and northern regions of Japan. There are a total of 305,972 Filipinos in Japan, the DFA said.

http://globalnation.inquirer.net/news/breakingnews/view/20110311-324786/24-hour-hotlines-e-mail-available-for-Filipinos-with-kin-in-JapanDFA

TSUNAMI-RISK AREAS IN THE PHILIPPINES

TSUNAMI ALERT RAISED

The quake struck at a depth of six miles (10 kilometers), about 80 miles (125 kilometers) off the eastern coast, the agency said. The area is 240 miles (380 kilometers) northeast of Tokyo. Several quakes had hit the same region in recent days, including a 7.3 magnitude one on Wednesday that caused no damage.

A tsunami warning was extended to a number of areas in the Pacific, Southeast Asian and Latin American nations, including Japan, Russia, Indonesia, New Zealand and Chile. In the Philippines, authorities ordered an evacuation of coastal communities, but no unusual waves were reported.

Thousands of people fled their homes in Indonesia after officials warned of a tsunami up to 6 feet (2 meters) high. But waves of only 4 inches (10 centimeters) were measured. No big waves came to the Northern Mariana Islands, a U.S. territory, either. The first waves hit Hawaii about 9 a.m. EST (1400 GMT) Friday. A tsunami at least 3 feet (a meter) high were recorded on Oahu and Kauai, and officials warned that the waves would continue and could become larger.

Japan's worst previous quake was in 1923 in Kanto, an 8.3-magnitude temblor that killed 143,000 people, according to USGS. A 7.2-magnitude quake in Kobe city in 1996 killed 6,400 people.

Japan lies on the "Ring of Fire" — an arc of earthquake and volcanic zones stretching around the Pacific where about 90 percent of the world's quakes occur, including the one that triggered the Dec. 26, 2004, Indian Ocean tsunami that killed an estimated 230,000 people in 12 nations. A magnitude-8.8 temblor that shook central Chile last February also generated a tsunami and killed 524 people.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/ap_on_re_as/as_japan_earthquake

NEWS UPDATE ON THE JAPAN EARTHQUAKE

MAGNITUDE 8.8 EARTHQUAKE HITS JAPAN

The most powerful earthquake to hit Japan in at least 100 years unleashed walls of water Friday that swept across rice fields, engulfing towns, dragging houses onto highways and tossing cars and boats like toys, apparently killing hundreds and forcing the evaucations of tens of thousands. Prime Minister Naoto Kan said the "enormously powerful" earthquake has caused "tremendous damage over a wide area."

The quake, which struck at 2:46 pm local time, sparked fires in at least 80 locations, Japan's Kyodo News Service reported, and prompted the U.S. National Weather Service to issue tsunami warnings for at least 50 countries and territories. Police in Miyagi Prefecture say between 200-300 have been found in the coastal city of Sendai alone, Japan's Kyodo News Agency reported late Friday. The death toll is likely to rise as there are few casualty counts yet from the worst-hit areas. Kyodo, citing Japan's defense forces, said 60,000 to 70,000 people were being evacuated to shelters in the Sendai area.

Japanese authorities ordered the precautionary evacuation of a nuclear plant affected by the earthquake, saying that while there was no immediate danger, crews were having trouble cooling the reactor. The Fukushima plant is one of four closest to the quake that the U.N. nuclear watchdog agency said were safety shut down. The epicenter was offshore 373 kilometers (231 miles) away from Tokyo, the United States Geological Survey said.

But residents there continued to feel aftershocks hours after the quake. More than 30 aftershocks followed, with the strongest measuring 7.1. The prime minister said an emergency task force has been activated, and appealed for calm. The government dispatched 8,000 troops to assist in the recovery effort and asked for U.S. military assistance, according to Kyodo.

At Tokyo Station, one of Japan's busiest subway stations, shaken commuters grabbed one another to stay steady as the ground shook. Dazed residents poured into the streets after offices and schools were closed. Children cried. Residents said though earthquakes are common in Japan, Friday's stunned most people.

Such a large earthquake at such a shallow depth -- 24.4 kilometers (15.2 miles) -- creates a lot of energy, said Shenza Chen of the U.S. Geological Survey. As the city grappled with the devastation, a massive tsunami swept across the Pacific Ocean. An earthquake of that size can generate a dangerous tsunami to coasts outside the source region, the National Weather Service said.

http://edition.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/asiapcf/03/11/japan.quake/index.html

VITAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE EARTHQUAKE

THE "BIG ONE"

Despite the scale of the disaster, Tokyo was spared the worst by the quake, which hit offshore and spawned a tsunami that devastated coastal areas. Volcano-dotted Japan is located on the "Pacific Ring of Fire", and Tokyo is situated in one of its most dangerous areas. Seismologists say that the "Big One" -- a huge quake below or near Tokyo, forecast to kill thousands -- is, statistically speaking, long overdue.

The city sits on the intersection of three continental plates -- the Eurasian, Pacific and Philippine Sea plates -- which are slowly grinding against each other, building up enormous seismic pressure.

The government's Earthquake Research Committee warns of a 70 percent chance that a magnitude-eight quake will strike within 30 years in the Kanto plain. The last "Big One" to hit Tokyo was the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake that claimed over 140,000 lives, many of them in fires that ripped through wooden buildings. In 1855 the Ansei Edo quake also devastated the city.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/world/view/20110311-324806/Millions-stuck-in-Tokyo-as-quake-shuts-down-subways

NEWS VIDEOS ABOUT THE "BIG ONE"

STRUCK AND STRANDED

Millions of people in greater Tokyo were stranded far away from home on Friday evening after Japan's biggest earthquake on record shut down the capital's massive subway system.

Sirens wailed through Tokyo, television helicopters buzzed overhead and people rushed to the city's ubiquitous 24-hour convenience stores, quickly emptying shelves of bento boxes, sandwiches and instant noodle cups.

Countless workers, who had earlier fled violently swaying office blocks, found themselves stuck far from their families -- and unable to speak to them because the overloaded mobile phone system could not carry most calls.

The government used loudspeaker alerts and television broadcasts to urge people to stay near their workplaces rather than risk long walks home, as highways leading out of the city center were choked and hotels quickly booked out.

"Please do not try to force your way home when there is no means of transportation, but stay in your offices and other safe places," said an emergency advisory carried by national public broadcaster NHK. "Night is falling," the NHK newscaster said as chilly darkness fell across the nation. "If long-distance commuters try to cross prefecture borders on foot at night, they may fall victim to secondary accidents."

The greater Tokyo region -- a sprawl that takes in Yokohama and vast suburban areas across the Kanto plain -- is the world's largest urban area, with more than 30 million people, many of whom commute for hours every day.

The spaghetti-like railway grid of the Tokyo Metro System and Japan Railway lines criss-crossing the megacity remained shut down for hours after the 8.9-magnitude monster quake violently shook buildings across the city.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/world/view/20110311-324806/Millions-stuck-in-Tokyo-as-quake-shuts-down-subways