Category: Blog

COVID-19 Crisis: Rise of cases in Muntinlupa City not a cause for alarm yet

COVID-19 Crisis: Rise of cases in Muntinlupa City not a cause for alarm yet

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Today, Muntinlupa City Mayor Ruffy Biazon gave an important update about the rising number of COVID-19 cases in the city and specified that it is not a cause for alarm yet, the Manila Bulletin reported.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the Manila Bulletin news report. Some parts in boldface…

Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon reminded the public to follow health protocols such as wearing of face masks as the number of Covid-19 cases in the city is rising although not a cause for alarm yet.

“This morning I would like to emphasize the reminder on health protocols. Cases are rising although it is not a cause for alarm,” said Biazon during the weekly flag-raising ceremony at the Muntinlupa City hall quadrangle on July 11.

Based on data from the City Health Office (CHO), Muntinlupa added 29 new Covid-19 cases on July 10 to bring the total active cases to 125. There were also 11 patients who recovered and one who died.

The mayor said based on health care utilization rate in Muntinlupa, the Covid-19 situation is not yet a cause for alarm.

“So far our health facilities are not overwhelmed, we do not feel that there is a crisis. Cases are rising but we will not be overwhelmed based on the report that was given to me. But that is a reason for us to be on alert. We should never let our guard down,” said Biazon.

He added, “Let us remind everyone to follow protocols, here at work, at home, within the community just to stop the spread. We don’t want that to spread to the point that it will be a concern.”

“As of now, nothing to be alarmed about but we should be alert,” he said.

The above article ended stating that of the 125 COVID-19 cases in Muntinlupa City, 27 of that were in Barangay Cupang, 23 in Barangay Tunasan, 19 in Barangay Alabang and 16 in Barangay Ayala Alabang to name some.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a Muntinlupa City resident, what is your reaction to this recent development? Are you feeling uneasy about the rising number of COVID-19 cases in the city? What can you say about the reported statements of Mayor Biazon? Were there any anti-vaccine fanatics out there who approached you with their campaign of distorted information? Do you think the anti-vaccine fanatics will organizing something sinister to undermine the City Government of Muntinlupa?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

A Look Back at Harbinger #3 (1992)

A Look Back at Harbinger #3 (1992)

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Disclaimer: This is my original work with details sourced from reading the comic book and doing personal research. Anyone who wants to use this article, in part or in whole, needs to secure first my permission and agree to cite me as the source and author. Let it be known that any unauthorized use of this article will constrain the author to pursue the remedies under R.A. No. 8293, the Revised Penal Code, and/or all applicable legal actions under the laws of the Philippines.

Welcome back superhero enthusiasts, 1990s culture enthusiasts and comic book collectors! Today we go back to the early 1990s and explore a part of the Valiant Comics shared universe through the Harbinger monthly series.

In my previous retro review, Peter/Sting, Kris, Faith/Zephyr, Charlene/Flamingo and John/Torque not only found a place to stay in thanks to a really generous doctor, they went ahead infiltrating the top secret facility of the Harbinger foundation which also brought them face-to-face with the leader. At this stage, Sting and his team have established their purpose not just for survival but to achieve something they believe is right.

With those details laid down, here is a look back at Harbinger #3, published in 1992 by Valiant Comics with a story written by Jim Shooter and drawn by David Lapham.

The cover.

Early story

The story begins at 9:20 AM of July 6, 1991 inside the fine summer home of Dr. Heyward. As Sting tells his teammates that they have to move to catch a flight, Faith (wearing her superhero costume) flies through to find Kris and Torque. She finds the two of them seated next together with Kris having her two hands on Torque.

Meanwhile, Flamingo fixes her face as Sting talks to her. She rejects his declaration that she is a part of their team and reveals that Torque does not care about her. Flamingo considers herself as just another hosebag. Sting then tries to lift her up by telling her that she has to take care of herself and that she is part of their team.

Sting, Faith, Flamingo, Kris and Torque then leave for the airport in a brand new vehicle they just bought (having used the money they stole from Harbinger). Their vehicle flies off to the airport with Sting on the driver’s seat…

Quality

Sting, his teammates and newcomer Ax in the heat of action.

Without spoiling the plot, I can say that the story in this comic book got even wilder than I anticipated. The high intensity of wild turnout of events in issue #2 do not even come close to what was told right here. At the same time, this particular story clearly showed this comic book series’ own place within the literary universe of Valiant Comics and anyone who read XO-Manowar comics of this particular era will instantly recognize the recurring creatures (opposition elements) from outer space.

As expected, the character development of the main characters progressed smoothly revealing some amusing character moments that I found interesting and other times amusing. As Sting continues to act with a sense of leadership as well as a false sense of maturity, you will get to see more of Kris providing him analytical and personal support.

The dialogue in this comic book was written to be more dynamic and this is highlighted in the scene in which Sting and his teammates discuss what to do with their new team objective, and what to do with the computer hacker Ax who has shown Harbinger potential. That being said, Jim Shooter carefully crafted the dialogue to reflect how American teenagers in the late 1980s and early 1990s expressed themselves.

When it comes to superhero spectacle, there is a lot to enjoy here. Action scenes and the use of special abilities or super powers were executed at a moderate pace yet they were intense to look at. Each of the main characters had his/her own share of the spotlight even as the spectacle moved.

Conclusion

Meet Ax, the guy who specializes on cracking and hacking.

Harbinger #3 (1992) is a very engaging story to read which was balanced with a good amount of spectacle, nice character moments and the wildest turn of events so far in this particular comic book series. On face value, this comic book’s core concept (which involves a lot of science fiction elements) seemed over-the-top but Jim Shooter and David Lapham succeeded in telling a story that is believable and at the same time fun. It is also within this comic book that readers will get to see more of the Valiant Comics universe elements without the need of a crossover or a cameo appearance of an established Valiant hero. This is definitely the tale of Sting and his team that was simply taken into a much higher flight of fantasy. That being said, I am looking forward to the next issue.

Overall, Harbinger #3 (1992) is highly recommended!

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/

COVID-19 Crisis: Online registration process for the first booster shot for immunocompromised minors (aged 12-17) of Las Piñas City is ongoing

COVID-19 Crisis: Online registration process for the first booster shot for immunocompromised minors (aged 12-17) of Las Piñas City is ongoing

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In relation to the increased number of COVID-19 cases happening all around Metro Manila, the City Government of Las Piñas recently launched the online registration for the first COVID-19 booster shot (or the 3rd shot following two doses of most COVID-19 vaccines) specifically for local minors aged 12 to 17-years-old, as reported in the Manila Bulletin. The registration is still ongoing.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the Manila Bulletin news report. Some parts in boldface…

The Las Piñas city government announced that the registration of minors aged 12 to 17 years old under the immunocompromised category is now open to receive their first booster shot.

Mayor Imelda Aguilar told parents or guardians of immunocompromised minors to register at https://laspinascityonline.laspinascity.gov.ph/immunocompromised for their schedule of vaccination of first booster shot.

Aguilar urges residents to answer the question properly including the sickness of the child placed under the immunocompromised category.

She said the vaccination of (first) booster shot for immunocompromised children will be conducted in hospitals.

The mayor encouraged all the parents and guardians to register their children, aged 12-17 years old, for them to get additional protection against the Covid-19 disease.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a Las Piñas City resident, what is your reaction to this recent development? If you are a parent with a child aged 12 to 17-years-old who has been vaccinated with two shots already, are you planning to help your child avail of the first booster shot?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

Star Ocean: The Divine Force all set for October 27, 2022 release on Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One plus Windows PC (via Steam)

Star Ocean: The Divine Force all set for October 27, 2022 release on Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One plus Windows PC (via Steam)

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After many months of waiting since the initial announcement of Star Ocean: The Divine Force coming to Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One and Windows PC (via Steam), Square Enix finally announced that the new sci-fi Japanese role-playing game (JRPG) is coming to the declared platforms on October 27, 2022.

To put things into perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the official announcement on Xbox.com written by Square Enix Content Communications Manager Duncan Heaney. Some parts in boldface…

Get ready for an adventure that’s out of this world… literally! Star Ocean The Divine Force launches October 27 on Xbox!

This latest entry in the Star Ocean series features a fascinating story that fuses science fiction and fantasy, astonishingly responsive real-time combat, and an almost unparalleled level of freedom.

Add the innovative Dual Protagonist system, which lets you pick between two main characters each with their own journeys and companions, and it’s shaping up to be a stellar adventure in more ways than one – read on and I’ll tell you all about it.

What’s the story of Star Ocean The Divine Force? – The Pangalactic Federation has changed. Once it stood for peace, tranquility, and justice, but, but now it assimilates entire planets against their will.

Raymond Lawrence is the captain of the merchant vessel Ydas. One day, he departs from the nonfederated planet of Verguld on what seems like a standard transport job, but when his ship’s fired upon by the Pangalactic Federation battleship Astoria, he’s forced to crash land on the underdeveloped planet Aster IV.

Action moment from the game.

Separated from his crewmates, and under attack by vicious local wildlife, Raymond is saved by Laeticia Aucerius – the princess of the Kingdom of Aucerius: a large territory located on the underdeveloped planet of Aster IV.

The two embark on a mission to save her land from a warmongering neighbor and find his missing companion.

However, the shadow of the Pangalactic Federation looms large…

What kind of game is Star Ocean The Divine Force? – That setup paves the way for a sprawling action RPG that’s full of twists and turns, secrets to find, fast-paced, strategic combat. The dual protagonist system lets you choose between Raymond and Laeticia, and the events you experience and the allies you build will be different depending on who you play as.

Regardless of which character you pick, you’ll enjoy an amazing feeling of freedom because not only can characters traverse the vast environments of Aster IV from ground level, they can also soar up into the sky and fly around in the air!

Want to fly to the top of a cliff to see what’s there or soar between the buildings in the city like a sci-fi superhero? It’s all possible, and it’s a real thrill to be able to explore many of the nooks and crannies of this detailed world so easily.

This is Elena, the first mate of the merchant vessel Ydas.

Of course, Aster IV has plenty of dangerous areas and sooner or later you’ll run into one of the vicious beasts that prowl the wide expanses of the planet.

Combat in Star Ocean The Divine Force is incredibly fast-paced, with super high-speed movement and attacks, and some awesome skills, such as the ability to vanish for a brief moment right in front of your enemies’ eyes, or even take them out in a single hit!

The pace and fluidity of combat, combined with the glorious freedom of traversal, makes for a game that feels just wonderful to play – I can’t wait for Xbox fans to experience it yourselves!

The above article on Xbox.com mentioned that Star Ocean: The Divine Force will come out on Xbox platforms in a Digital Standard Edition ($59.99) as well as a Digital Deluxe Edition ($74.99). The more expensive edition includes a game’s official soundtrack, as well as some in-game items, including an Armor pack, and Accessory pack.

While it is a fact that Square Enix has no intention to release the Final Fantasy VII Remake and Final Fantasy XVI on Xbox, Star Ocean: The Divine Force plus The DioField Chronicle and Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII Reunion are their confirmed releases that JRPG fans and other gamers of the Xbox ecosystem can look forward to. More on JRPGs coming to Xbox that Square Enix is not involved with, there are also Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes and the Persona games to anticipate.

Star Ocean: The Divine Force on Xbox platforms is something that JRPG fans can look forward to this October.

Going to Star Ocean: The Divine Force has that recognizable action-oriented gameplay of the game franchise. Still I cannot understand why the developers went for the plastic, dolly looking aesthetic on their characters. More notably, it remains to be seen if their storytelling in the new game will be any good. Regardless, Xbox gamers and Windows PC gamers who love JRPGs should watch out for Star Ocean: The Divine Force on October 27, 2022.

In closing this piece, posted below are Xbox-related videos plus a few Star Ocean: The Divine Force videos for your enjoyment.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/

Maynilad officially launches “New Water” project

Maynilad officially launches “New Water” project

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Even though a lot of its customers in Bacoor City, Imus City, Cavite City, Las Pinas City, Muntinlupa City, Noveleta, Cavite, Paranaque City, and Rosario, Cavite are suffering from water service disruptions which will keep continuing, water concessionaire Maynilad officially launched their so-called new water project with some guests (note: I published a pre-launch article and you can read about it right here).

The way Maynilad defines it, new water “involves the recycling of used water for potable application.” To see the complete announcement and see who were included in the group photo celebrating the New Water launch, click https://www.mayniladwater.com.ph/maynilad-officially-launches-new-water/

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from Maynilad’s official New Water project launch announcement. Some parts in boldface…

For its pilot implementation of the New Water project, Maynilad built a ₱450-million modular treatment plant that will collect the treated used water discharged by its Paranaque Water Reclamation Facility and convert it to drinkable water. This will yield 10 million liters of New Water per day, which will be fed into the distribution system for blending with the standard drinking water from Maynilad’s La Mesa Treatment Plants before being conveyed to Barangays San Isidro and San Dionisio in Parañaque City. The New Water that Maynilad produces has recently been given a Certificate of Potability by the Parañaque City Heath Office. The New Water project is Maynilad’s initiative to add to its alternative raw water source options so it can better augment supply during times of shortage.

The New Water project is indeed nice and a breakthrough for those who require potable water for consumption and other uses. Still, it can’t be helped that the launch happened at a time when a lot of paying customers of Maynilad went through water-less periods in recent times. Parañaque, the one city that benefits early from the New Water project, had lots of residents in six villages who endured several hours of water service interruption under Maynilad. In the nearby city of Muntinlupa, Maynilad customers there had no access to water for more than 24 hours and the water service problems will continue until the end of the month.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a Maynilad customer who recently endured several hours of having no access to water in your local area, how do you rate Maynilad’s quality of service? Do you believe Maynilad’s New Water project will benefit you soon? Do you think the New Water project will somehow solve the water supply problem of Maynilad anytime soon? Do you perceive the New Water project launch to be special or was it badly timed as it happened when so many Maynilad customers are suffering from water supply problems?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

COVID-19 Crisis: OCTA says Metro Manila’s COVID-19 cases may peak this month

COVID-19 Crisis: OCTA says Metro Manila’s COVID-19 cases may peak this month

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There is no denying that COVID-19 cases in Metro Manila have been rising which is why there are renewed efforts to encourage people to follow health protocols, wear masks and avoid becoming complacent. That being said, the OCTA Research Group stated that Metro Manila COVID-19 cases may peak this month, according to a Manila Bulletin news report. Recently, a slow down on the COVID-19 growth rate was seen.  

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Manila Bulletin. Some parts in boldface…

With the steady increase in new infections in Metro Manila, the OCTA Research Group projected that the Covid-19 cases in the region may peak between the first and second week of July.

In a televised briefing on Monday, July 4, OCTA fellow Dr. Guido David noted that Metro Manila’s Covid-19 growth rate was at 50 percent but that it has slowed down in the past week.

The region’s reproduction number was at around 1.5 to 1.6, while the positivity rate increased from 6 percent to 8.3 percent.

Reproduction number refers to the average number of secondary infections by each infected individual, while positivity rate refers to the number of individuals who yielded positive results from among those who have been tested for Covid-19.

David said that while the Covid growth rate in some areas in Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) is increasing, the growth rate in Metro Manila has slowed down but is still increasing.

“We’re hoping the peak will come within one to two weeks. From there, baka magkaroon na ng downtrend (there may already be a downtrend). But then these are just projections. Baka magbago pa ito (These may still change),” David said.

Knowing the newest details from the above news report, it is best to keep on following health protocols as well as getting vaccinated or boosted for COVID-19. Ignore all of those anti-vaccine fanatics and get vaccinated or boosted whenever you have the opportunity to do so. Call your local vaccination site or the local authorities now to find if you are eligible for a vaccine shot or a booster shot. The national authorities, meanwhile, has to move quickly to allow comorbid patients access to 2nd booster shots.

Let me end this by asking you readers: Does the current COVID-19 situation of Metro Manila make you feel uneasy? Have there been any anti-vaccine fanatics who tried to fool you into supporting their cause?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/

Maynilad problems for Muntinlupa-based customers to continue until July 31, 2022

Maynilad problems for Muntinlupa-based customers to continue until July 31, 2022

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If you are a Muntinlupa resident who endured more than 24 hours of having no access to water from water concessionaire Maynilad, you better brace yourselves because the company announced that water supply problems will continue until the end of this month, the Manila Bulletin reported.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the Manila Bulletin news report. Some parts in boldface…

Customers of Maynilad Water Services in Muntinlupa will suffer more daily water service interruptions (WSI) until the end of the month.

Maynilad announced on July 5 that customers in Barangays Alabang, Bayanan, Poblacion, Putatan, and Tunasan “will experience water service interruptions daily, between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. from July 6, 2022 to July 31, 2022 due to raw water quality issue from Laguna Lake entering our Putatan Treatment Plant.”

“We are continuously monitoring the water quality in Laguna Lake even as we conduct system adjustments to optimize the limited supply,” Maynilad added in its advisory to customers.

The Putatan Water Treatment Plant draws and processes water from Laguna Lake, and supplies it to customers in Muntinlupa and other areas.

It was not immediately known why the new daily WSIs only cover five of the nine barangays.

Excluded from the daily WSIs are Barangays Ayala Alabang (which covers the posh Ayala Alabang Village), Cupang, Buli and Sucat.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a Muntinlupa City resident living in one of the affected barangays, what can you say about the continuing water supply problems with Maynilad? Do you want the City Government to call Maynilad officials to explain to them why the water supply problems in the city cannot be solved? If you own a business, how much damage did the water shortage from Maynilad cause on your business?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

Xbox App now available on Samsung 2022 Smart TVs

Xbox App now available on Samsung 2022 Smart TVs

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In what is clearly an ambitious effort to make video gaming more available to users who don’t have game consoles, Team Xbox announced that its Xbox app is officially available on Samsung 2022 Smart TVs and with the power of the cloud, users will be able to play hundreds of games through Xbox Game Pass!

To begin with, watch this video below…

To put things into perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the official announcement on Xbox.com. Some parts in boldface…

Starting today in 27 countries, you can turn on your Samsung 2022 Smart TV, navigate to the Xbox App in the new Samsung Gaming Hub or Media Hub, connect your Bluetooth controller, and play. It’s as simple as using any other streaming app on your TV.

Here’s what you need to know to get started:

Getting Ready – Playing Xbox games on 2022 Samsung Smart TVs is a seamless experience. To make sure you’re ready to game, here’s what you’ll need:

  • To access the Xbox app, you’ll need one of Samsung’s 2022 Smart TVs.
  • To play the hundreds of cloud-enabled games in the Game Pass library, you’ll need an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate membership.
  • If you don’t have a membership and want to try the experience for yourself before you sign up, you can play Fortnite for free without an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate membership.
  • Almost any Bluetooth-enabled controller will work with the Xbox app, like the Xbox Wireless Controller, Xbox Adaptive Controller, Elite Series 2 Controller, or the DualSense controller.

How to Access the Xbox App – There are two ways you can access the Xbox app on a 2022 Samsung Smart TV depending on where you’re located.

  • In some countries you can access the Xbox app through Samsung’s new Gaming Hub. Simply navigate to the Gaming Hub via the user interface, launch the Xbox app, and you’re ready to go!
  • Otherwise you can navigate to the Samsung App store from the Samsung Media Hub, search for “Xbox” to download the app onto your TV, and launch it to begin playing.

As we shared earlier this month, we’re excited to take this first step with Samsung and look forward to keeping you up to date during this next evolution in our vision. With Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and a controller, you can easily jump into the world of gaming and connect with your friends and communities on Xbox.

Xbox app on Samsung 2022 Smart TV emphasized.

As I mentioned earlier, this team-up between Team Xbox and Samsung can impact people’s accessibility to playing video games at home and free them from the financial burden of acquiring a standalone gaming hardware (the video game console) which is crucial because even until now, modern game consoles like the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S are still challenging to acquire due to tight supplies. Also there are households who are already struggling with inflation and this makes buying a game console not so attractive financially.

The beauty about Xbox app on Samsung Smart TV with cloud power and Xbox Game Pass (XGP) is that the users can play established blockbuster games like Halo Infinite, Forza Horizon 5 and Flight Simulator without an Xbox console. Users also have lots of very promising games to play in the near future via XGP such as Starfield, Senua’s Sage: Hellblade II, Forza Motorsport (2023), Redfall, Pentiment, As Dusk Falls, Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes and more! Once the Xbox acquisition of Activision-Blizzard gets completed, even more games will be added into XGP!

Once this move by Team Xbox and Samsung succeeds, it will mean more new users coming into the Xbox ecosystem which will benefit game publishers eventually. To put it clearly, the old strategy of selling game consoles to connect with TVs in households is no longer the only way to enjoy video games in the comfort of home. This is something that Sony and Nintendo have not embraced because it goes against their old console-focused business nature.

In ending this piece, posted below are some Xbox-related videos for your enjoyment…

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/

COVID-19 Crisis: Muntinlupa City Mayor Biazon issues orders to deal with rising COVID-19 cases

COVID-19 Crisis: Muntinlupa City Mayor Biazon issues orders to deal with rising COVID-19 cases

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In the progressive City of Muntinlupa, local cases of COVID-19 have been rising similar to that of the entire Metro Manila. In response, the new city Mayor Ruffy Biazon ordered the departments of the City Government to tackle the COVID-19 problem, according to a Manila Bulletin report.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the Manila Bulletin report. Some parts in boldface…

Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon has ordered city government department heads to address the rising number of Covid-19 cases in the city.

This, after the City Health Office (CHO) reported on July 3 that the number of active Covid-19 cases in Muntinlupa rose to 96 from 45 a week ago.

Muntinlupa’s weekly new Covid-19 cases totaled 164 from June 27 to July 3, an increase of 103 new cases or 168.8 percent from 61 cases tallied from June 20 to 26.

On July 3, the CHO recorded 41 new Covid-19 cases in Muntinlupa from 23 the previous day on July 2 to bring the total active cases to 96.

“Immediate concern natin is rising cases of Covid-19 (Our immediate concern is the rising cases of Covid-19),” said Biazon during the flag-raising ceremony at the Muntinlupa City hall quadrangle on July 4.

He said the rising number of Covid-19 cases “has become a concern” especially if the total breaches the 100 mark.

“I think we really definitely have to take action,” he said.

Biazon said he asked City Administrator Allan Cachuela to convene an emergency briefing about the Covid-19 situation in Muntinlupa.

“Let us take this seriously. Ayaw natin na mag-run away yung problema ng Covid sa Muntinlupa especially that we are still coping with yung recovery from the initial surge and yung epekto ng international situation natin. (We don’t want the problem of Covid in Muntinlupa to run away especially that we are still coping with the recovery from the initial surge and the effects of the international situation),” he said.

The mayor said health protocols should be implemented.

“Let us all be advocates of following health protocols. Let us make sure everyone is well informed of these protocols na dapat nating gawin (Let us make sure everyone is well informed of these protocols that we should do),” he said.

Muntinlupa CHO chief Dr. Juancho Bunyi told Manila Bulletin that the “new cases are close contacts who had their test done in private and tested positive.”

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a Muntinlupa City resident, what is your reaction to this development? Do you think that people in the city have gotten complacent with following health protocols? Do you think that the City Government should set up more new vaccination sites? Do you want to see the Department of Health (DOH) declare more people from the general population to become eligible for the 2nd booster shot? Do you think that the anti-vaccine fanatics and activists will come to Muntinlupa to spread fear and misinformation?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/

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A Look Back at Jurassic Park #3 (1993)

A Look Back at Jurassic Park #3 (1993)

carlocarrasco

Disclaimer: This is my original work with details sourced from reading the comic book and doing personal research. Anyone who wants to use this article, in part or in whole, needs to secure first my permission and agree to cite me as the source and author. Let it be known that any unauthorized use of this article will constrain the author to pursue the remedies under R.A. No. 8293, the Revised Penal Code, and/or all applicable legal actions under the laws of the Philippines.

Welcome back superhero enthusiasts, 1990s culture enthusiasts and comic book collectors! Today we go back to the year 1993 for another look at Steven Spielberg’s Jurassic Park in the form of licensed comic books published by Topps Comics.

In my previous retro review, the comic book still had the creative issues of heavy exposition and being very word-heavy to read as the creators focused on adapting the movie’s story closely (from the iconic brachiosaurus scene up to the encounter with the triceratops). Compared to issue #1, the comic book’s narrative improved temporarily as it closely adapted the lunch-and-talk scene between John Hammond, Donald Gennaro, Ellie Sattler, Alan Grant and Ian Malcolm whose dialogue was easily the most engaging in both film and in literary format.

With those details laid down, here is a look back at Jurassic Park #3, published in 1993 by Topps Comics with a story written by Walter Simonson and drawn by Gil Kane with ink work done by the late George Perez. This comic book was the third of a 4-issue mini-series based on the Spielberg-directed movie.

The cover.

Early story

The story begins with the group of Alan Grant, Ellie Sattler, Ian Malcolm, Donald Gennaro and the two kids Lex and Tim who are shocked to see a living triceratops. The large dinosaur, however, falls down on its side causing Ellie Sattler to go near and examine it. Gerry Harding, a Jurassic Park employee, suddenly appears and explains that the triceratops was tranquilized by Robert Muldoon and has been sick. After examining the dinosaur further, Ellie wants to have its droppings examined.

Back in the control room of Jurassic Park, Ray Arnold explains to John Hammond that the center of an approaching story has not changed course and states that he likes to cut the current tour and resume the next day. He emphasized to Hammond that the storm is risky to those on tour.

Just across the room, Dennis Nedry (who secretly cut a deal with a business rival of inGen’s and has been frustrated working for John Hammond) carefully communicates with the captain of the ship that will depart once all the workers have boarded. Knowing he is running out of time to steal the dinosaur embryos and send it to Biosyn, he starts his move with Jurassic Park’s main system…

Quality

While the sequences of the T.Rex going after Ian Malcolm are not the same as those in the movie, the dinosaur itself really looks creepy.

When it comes to entertainment value related to spectacle, I can say clearly that this issue really marked the beginning of fun in this 4-issue mini-series. This is because this comic book includes the appearance of the Tyrannosaurus Rex (T.Rex) which arrived just when Alan Grant, Ian Malcolm, Lex, Tim and Donald Gennaro are helpless sitting inside vehicles that stopped by the said dinosaur’s paddock with the fences no longer electrified.

Of course, the minutes-long T. Rex scene in the movie remains memorable as it had a well-blended mix of suspense, action and some horror directed by Steven Spielberg. This comic book’s creators did their best to replicate the experience in illustrated literature format. While it’s not surprising that the essence of the T.Rex paddock scenes in movie were not perfectly captured, this comic book’s adaptation still managed to be entertaining to read showing suspense, horror and some thrills plus Gil Kane managed to even make the infamous dinosaur look frightening. Very clearly, Kane went all-out in presenting the T.Rex as the main dinosaur not only in this comic book but for the whole mini-series.

While the T.Rex paddock scene is the highlight of this comic book, the scene with the triceratops proved to be another exposition-heavy presentation laced with pretentious science and technical explanations dealing with plants, animal health and the like. Meanwhile, the scenes about John Hammond, Robert Muldoon and Ray Arnold struggling with the failures of the park systems while Nedry betrays them secretly were pretty intense to read.

Conclusion

Lots of exposition and creative explanations in this scene about the sick triceratops.

So far, I find Jurassic Park #3 (1993) to be the most entertaining issue so far thanks to the way the comic book creators adapted the Tyrannosaurus Rex paddock scene from the movie. While the narrative still had lots of exposition and creative explanations that started since issue #1, the consequential events of Dennis Nedry’s acts intensified the reading experience and the T.Rex scenes really ramped up the fun factor.

Overall, Jurassic Park #3 (1993) is recommended.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/