Philippine Natural Disaster Information
Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology
A site that lists information on earth quakes, volcano eruptions and tsunamis that impact the region.
A handy site to have access to and monitor the typhoons that blow through during the wet season. Specific to the Philippines.
ALIG has a few helpful list on how to prepare you and your family for a disaster. Here are lists from the Red Cross on how to build a Grab and Go Bag and how to prepare a Disaster Kit. There is also a list from the Philippine Red Cross on a 72 Hour Go Bag.
International Schools
International schools in Metro Manila:
Brent International School, The Beacon School, The British School Manila, European International School, Faith Academy, International School Manila, German European School Manila
Manila Online
Comprehensive guide to the art, food, movie, music and mayhem on offer in Manila. It's definitely worth bookmarking this site if only so you can see what movies are screening.
If all you do is glance at the headlines and check the weather report, then save a few trees and do it from your PC. If you want to keep up with local news then this is one of the best sites for it.
Market Manila
If you only read one blog about the Philippines, make it Market Man's. This site is a wealth of information written by a passionate foodie who delights in sourcing fresh produce and sharing his thoughts about life in the Philippines. Market Man will tell you where to buy anything from fresh mozzarella to specialist cookware. He'll share secret holiday spots and make you laugh or cringe with his "poor service" rants. With almost daily blogs since he first started writing in September 2004 and packed with photos, the archives have some of the best information about Manila you'll ever find.
In Touch
Don't be fooled by the picture on their website of people in winter jerseys gathered around roaring fire. This is a Manila based organisation. In Touch has been in operation since 1980 providing counseling and support for both Filipinos and expatriates, with particular emphasis on guidance for newcomers.
Expatriate Groups in Manila
American Women's Club of the Philippines (AWCP)
One of the largest expatriate groups in the Philippines, with membership open to American Citizens and friends. The organise the hugely popular monthly shopping bazaar at the World Trade Centre and their annual Great American Hoedown and Chili Cook Off is always a hit.
Australia & New Zealand Association (ANZA)
Organisers of one of the best annual balls in Manila, the Melbourne Cup celebration and regular Wine and Cheese evenings featuring the best from Down Under. This is another lively social group open to membership from all nationalities.
Bharati (Indian Women's Association)
The Indian women's association of the Philippines hasn't got a website yet, but you can concact them at bharatimnl@gmail.com
British Woman's Association (BWA)
The BWA has something for everyone, no matter what your age or background. They are an extremely friendly group and will cater for all your needs - whether it is to meet other like-minded folk, to take up a new hobby or to become involved in supporting local charities.
Dutch Club Manila
Enjoy the numerous events with a Dutch twist. All nationalities are welcome to join the club as a member. Since the start, the members have enjoyed parties like Sinterklaas celebrations, new years drinks, traditional Dutch food night, Queensday celebration and even replicated the tradition of a New Year dive with cold icecubes in a swimming pool!
German Club Manila
Speaking German? Meet these ladies who join every month for breakfast in their own pub in Makati.
Manila Women's Forum
Looking for a network of women professionals? MWF provides opportunities to build friendships, talk to women of various cultures and share information about recources.Their montly meetings are intented to provide intellectual stimulation and lead to personal and professional development. Bring something to share for the potluck dinner and meet them in person!
Manille Bienvenue
For any French-speakers among you, there is a great group of (mainly) women from all around the world. They have regular activites, organize excursions, etc. You can get more information from their website.
Mother and Darlings Support Group (M.A.D.S)
M.A.D.S. is designed to help parents and mothers-to-be through regular meetings, playgroups, magazines and social activities. On top of that, it's a lot of fun for both the Mothers and Darlings and a great help while settling in to life in Manila.
The Latin American Club (Las Damas Latinas)
There is a very active group of Spanish-speaking ladies here in Manila. It consists mainly of expats, many of them from Latin America. Las Damas Latinas have monthly lunches, each time hosted by the members of a certain country. They also do a lot of charity work and seem to be continually organizing some kind of social events (heavily featuring food and shopping and there's a Latin American ball).
The membership is very large and diverse (but often glamorous!). If you're interested in joining, you can contact them directly at clubdedala@hotmail. com.
Other expatriate groups
Want to immerse yourself in Filipino history, culture and arts? Then the Museum Volunteers of the Philippines or MMQ (theatre and events organisation) might be something for you.
