Muntinlupa City Government Eyes Extension of RPT, business tax payment due to COVID-19 Crisis

Muntinlupa City Government Eyes Extension of RPT, business tax payment due to COVID-19 Crisis

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Muntinlupa City Hall.

In light of the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) crisis, the City Government of Muntinlupa announced today it is set to extend the payment period on real property tax and business tax for locals who are already experiencing inconveniences on moving around and doing transactions.

Mayor Jaime Fresnedi announced that the Muntinlupa City Council will convene to pass an ordinance for the extension of payment deadlines on taxes given the strict measures implemented during the enhanced community quarantine.

Fresnedi said RPT deadline of payment will be extended until April 30, while the business tax payment deadline shall be extended to the next quarter upon the approval of the City Council. The local exec added that the interest incurred on penalty for traffic violators is also being reviewed to be waived through an ordinance.

On Monday, President Rodrigo Duterte declared an enhanced community quarantine over the entire Luzon as part of a continuous measure to prevent the large-scale spread of COVID-19.

In response to the suspension of mass public transport facilities, the City Government will provide shuttle for the mobility of front liners providing essential services such as healthcare workers and those in the BPO industry.

Muntinlupa Traffic Management Bureau noted that six (6) e-Jeepneys will be available for deployment in National Road routes including Muntinlupa City Public Market going to Tunasan (Muntinlupa – San Pedro Boundary) and Muntinlupa National High School to Plaza Central (vice versa).

“We commit to support our front line workers in our fight against COVID-19 by providing them free shuttle service in the city. In addition, the local government will also boost our social service programs for our city residents,” Fresnedi noted.

The PNP, with the assistance of barangay security force, continues to be on full alert in the borders and checkpoints installed across the city.

Muntinlupa City announced its second confirmed case of COVID-19 as of March 17. Muntinlupa CHO also recorded 46 Persons Under Monitoring (PUM), 43 Persons Under Investigation (PUI), and two confirmed cases to date.

The field hospital installed in Ospital ng Muntinlupa is now operational to treat patients with flu-like symptoms. Isolation areas in barangays are also in place for residents suspected to have contracted with the virus for monitoring by the local health office.

Mayor Jaime Fresnedi urged the city residents to be vigilant and follow health protocols in the ongoing emergency health situation. The local exec encouraged the public to refrain from sharing unverified news but follow official sources such as the City Government of Muntinlupa and DOH’s social media accounts.

For concerns related to community quarantine and COVID-19 testing, Muntinlupa City residents may reach hotline nos. 0977-240-5217 or 0977-240-5218.


This is an official Press Release issued by the City Government of Muntinlupa. Some parts were edited for this website.

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 and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments.

 

Muntinlupa City Now in a State of Calamity due to COVID-19 Crisis

Muntinlupa City Now in a State of Calamity due to COVID-19 Crisis

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Muntinlupa City Hall.

Today the City Government of Muntinlupa declared a state of calamity in response to the increasing number of cases of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the country.

Mayor Jaime Fresnedi announced the declaration following the passing of an ordinance to enable the city’s emergency response team to speedily access the local calamity fund.

“The move to place the city under the State of Calamity will allow us to purchase PPE for frontliners, medicine, food, supplies and other equipment to prevent the further spread of COVID-19 in Muntinlupa,” Fresnedi said.

Following the declaration, the Muntinlupa City Council also approved the anti-hoarding ordinance that restrict bulk-buying of basic commodities to address the public’s panic buying.

Further, the City Council approved a liquor ban to prevent gathering opportunities for city residents in the duration of the community quarantine. Ordinances on the temporary closure of malls, except for stores providing essential services, and closure of public and private recreational facilities such as gyms, beauty parlors, spas, and the like, were approved in a special council session on Monday.

The City Government eyes to provide relief goods for informal settlers and displaced workers affected by the temporary closure of establishments. The public has been advised to stay indoors and consider cancelling non-essential travels as Muntinlupa also imposes curfew from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. starting March 16 until April 14.

Muntinlupa City announced its first confirmed case (PH139) as per update of DOH on March 15. The patient is a 44-year-old female and is currently monitored and being treated at Research Institute for Tropical Medicine.

Muntinlupa City Health Officer Dra. Teresa Tuliao said the City Government with the DOH has been conducting contact tracing for persons who came in contact with PH139 who tested positive for COVID-19.

As of March 16, Muntinlupa CHO recorded 33 Persons Under Monitoring (PUM) and 38 Persons Under Investigation (PUI) in the city.

The City Government already installed designated triage areas to serve as quarantine rooms in Ospital ng Muntinlupa. Barangays were also instructed to install isolation areas for residents suspected to have contracted with the virus for monitoring by the local health office.

Mayor Jaime Fresnedi urged the city residents to remain calm and to be vigilant in the emergency situation. The local exec encouraged the public to refrain from sharing unverified news but follow official sources such as the City Government of Muntinlupa and DOH’s social media accounts.

For concerns related to community quarantine and COVID-19 testing, Muntinlupa City residents may reach hotline nos. 0977-240-5217 or 0977-240-5218.


This is an official Press Release issued by the City Government of Muntinlupa. Some parts were edited for this website.

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 and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments.

Muntinlupa City Government installs isolation areas, to regulate hoarders under “community quarantine”

Muntinlupa City Government installs isolation areas, to regulate hoarders under “community quarantine”

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Members of Muntinlupa City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office install an isolation tent to serve as quarantine area at Ospital ng Muntinlupa grounds following the declaration of Code Red Sub-Level 2 and “community quarantine” in Metro Manila. (source – Muntinlupa PIO)

Following the declaration of Code Red Sub-Level 2 and “community quarantine” in Metro Manila, the City Government of Muntinlupa is rolling out tougher measures to combat the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), including the installation of isolation areas and regulation of hoarders.

Mayor Jaime Fresnedi called for an emergency meeting with members of the Local Disaster Risk Response and Management Council today to discuss the city action plan with barangay officials and representatives of the private sector.

Fresnedi called for the active participation of all sectors, especially the barangays, to prevent the large-scale spreading of the novel corona virus in Muntinlupa City.

“As the situation on COVID-19 develops, we all have a responsibility to ensure that the virus won’t rapidly spread in our communities,” the mayor noted.

Muntinlupa City Health Officer Dra. Teresa Tuliao said that there are now designated triage areas to serve as quarantine areas in Ospital ng Muntinlupa for suspected COVID-19 cases.

Barangays are also instructed to install isolation areas for residents suspected to have contracted with the virus for monitoring by the local health office.

“The quarantine areas in the barangays serve as an augmentation to the triaging efforts of our tertiary hospitals. Our barangays will be the frontline in our fight against the spread of the virus. The barangay health centers are equipped to handle Persons Under Investigation,” Tuliao noted.

She said that the city’s barangay health workers were given training on protocols for the transfer, referral, and management of suspected COVID-19 cases.

Request for the transport of patients in Muntinlupa is 24/7 and can be coordinated through the City Health Office at 541 4813 or Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office at 925 4382.

The Muntinlupa City Council also eyes for the passing of an ordinance regulating consumer behavior during the “community quarantine.”

Coun. Raul Corro, the city council’s majority floor leader, said that they will look into passing a local legislation to address panic buying and prohibit the hoarding of basic commodities. Corro added that the City Council will also discuss the passing of a resolution encouraging the youth to observe a time of prayer during the health event of COVID-19.

Further, the PNP Muntinlupa has identified choke points in the city’s boundaries for initial inspections while awaiting the final guidelines for the restriction of land travel to and from Metro Manila.

The mayor encouraged the public to refrain from panicking and remain calm in this difficult situation. Fresnedi urged the city residents to practice good personal hygiene, observe social distancing, and adopt healthy lifestyles to increase body resistance against infections.


This is an official Press Release issued by the City Government of Muntinlupa.

 

 

 

Schools and Government Facilities in Muntinlupa Disinfected To Prevent COVID-19 Outbreak

Schools and Government Facilities in Muntinlupa Disinfected To Prevent COVID-19 Outbreak

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A uniformed task force member on his way to disinfect a school in Muntinlupa City. (photo issued by Muntinlupa PIO) 

In its attempt to reduce the risk of ab COVID-19 outbreak in Muntinlupa City, the City Government through the City Health Office conducted a citywide disinfection of public schools and government buildings as part of its preventive measures.

Mayor Jaime Fresnedi ordered the CHO on Tuesday to intensify the cleaning and disinfecting of public schools, including the strengthening of information drive on personal hygiene and cough etiquette, to further lower the risk of spreading the novel corona virus among city residents.

“We cannot be complacent with the recent development of local transmission of COVID-19. In response to the rise of confirmed cases in the country, we have placed our City Health Office, local hospitals, and school administrators on heightened alert to prevent the possible spread of the new strain of coronavirus in Muntinlupa. We are mobilizing the city’s COVID-19 task force to implement measures to ensure the public’s safety and health,” Fresnedi said.

The mayor urged the public to be vigilant and practice proper hygiene, observe proper cough etiquette, and adopt healthy lifestyles to increase body resistance against infections.

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Roll-out of cleaning and disinfection of public schools in Muntinlupa City as preventive measure amid COVID-19 threat. (photo issued by Muntinlupa PIO)

Muntinlupa City Health Officer Dra. Teresa Tuliao said the City Government is closely coordinating with the Department of Health and Research Institute for Tropical Medicine regarding the health event and protocols for the referral and transferring of persons under investigation.

Tuliao led an emergency meeting with the City Government’s general service officers, Schools Division of Muntinlupa execs, and school principals for a briefing on COVID-19 updates and the disinfection initiative in public schools.

The city health officer also encouraged the school officials to intensify IEC campaign and reporting of community members with travel history for monitoring. To date, there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Muntinlupa City.

Recently, the City Government also called for a meeting with barangay emergency response units, barangay officials and health workers, mall owners, hoteliers, and other commercial establishment owners to discuss the latest updates on COVID-19.

Mayor Jaime Fresnedi ordered the creation of Muntinlupa COVID-19 Task Force through Executive Order 2 s. 2020 as a pro-active measure against the spread of the disease in the city. The local task force spearheads the implementation of DOH protocols and guidelines and extends full cooperation with the department and other national government agencies.

Muntinlupa City residents are highly encouraged to immediately visit local health centers or Ospital ng Muntinlupa if they are experiencing symptoms of the virus. For more information, the public may coordinate with Ospital ng Muntinlupa at 8771-0457 or with DOH at 771-1001/711-1002.


This is an official Press Release issued by the City Government of Muntinlupa.

Mayor Fresnedi envisions Muntinlupa to be a “smart city,” leads its 25th anniversary

Mayor Fresnedi envisions Muntinlupa to be a “smart city,” leads its 25th anniversary

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Muntinlupa Mayor Jaime Fresnedi with local officials in the celebration of the town’s silver anniversary last March 2. In his message, Fresnedi accounted Muntinlupa’s progress to its residents which he claimed as the city’s greatest resource. The local exec also highlighted the City Government’s sustainability initiatives in developing Muntinlupa as a “smart city” with focus on programs for education. (source – Muntinlupa PIO)

This past Sunday (March 1, 2020) was the 25th anniversary of Muntinlupa as a City highlighting the historical date of March 1, 1995 which was the day when then Philippine President Fidel V. Ramos signed into law the key legislation (Republic Act Number 7926) that converted Muntinlupa from a municipality into a city.

On the morning of March 2 at the City Hall grounds, the City Government commemorated the silver anniversary. While considered as one of the youngest cities in the Philippines, Muntinlupa has become a front runner in its class in terms of competitiveness and quality of life for its residents.

The City Government organized a simple program for the city’s 25th founding anniversary and the celebration kicked off with a Thanksgiving Mass followed by a flag raising ceremony. Those who attended the program were Congressman Ruffy Biazon, Mayor Jaime Fresnedi, Vice-mayor Temy Simundac, City Councilors, City Administrator Engr. Allan Cachuela, barangay officials, and partners from the private sector and national government agencies.

In his message, Mayor Fresnedi accounted Muntinlupa’s progress to its residents which he claimed as the city’s greatest resource. He also highlighted sustainability efforts of the City Government in developing Muntinlupa as a “smart city” with focus on programs for education.

“As we look forward to the coming years, we are certain that the direction of Muntinlupa is only geared towards development and becoming a smart city of the future. For this reason that I commit to prepare every Muntinlupeño, focusing on their education, and to construct necessary infrastructure to enable residents face new challenges and adapt to emerging trends,” Fresnedi said.

The mayor highlighted the City Government’s initiative on expanding scholarship program from elementary to graduate school. He noted the recent allowance hike, including the increase of cash gifts awarded to board topnotchers and latin honor graduates. Muntinlupa City holds the highest number of scholarship program beneficiaries in the country with over 71,000 scholars.

Further, Fresnedi highlighted the construction of four school building, Aquatic Center, Track and Field Oval, groundbreaking of engineering college Colegio de Muntinlupa’s Building 2, and among others.

It is remembered that on March 1, 1995, Muntinlupa was converted from a municipality to a highly urbanized city and became the 65th city of the Philippines by virtue of Republic Act 7926. Today, it has transformed as one of the leading investment hubs in the country with nine equally progressive barangays and a population of 504,509.

The city has been recognized as a model city in the country bench-marked by LGUs in the country and garnered several awards from various governing bodies.

Some of the citations include the Seal of Good Governance from DILG, Seal of Child-Friendly Local Governance from Regional Committee for Welfare of Children, Red Orchid Award, Jose Rizal Award for the fourth consecutive year, Gawad Bayanihan Award, Rank 1 (NCR) for Local Revenue Collection from Economic Enterprises, Rank 3 (NCR) for Manila Bay Clean-up Rehabilitation and Preservation Program, citation from National Anti-Drug Abuse Council (ADAC), Gawad Pilak from the Landbank of the Philippines, Most Business-Friendly City Award in 2018, Green Banner Award and Outstanding LGU in Nutrition Program Management in 2018, MERALCO Luminaries Award in 2018, Government Efficiency and Resilience Award (3rd Place) from National Competitiveness Council in 2017 and 2018, respectively; and Union Internationale des Transports Publics Awards in 2017, among others.


This is an official Press Release issued by the City Government of Muntinlupa.

 

 

Kong VR Now Open at Festival Mall in Alabang

Among the shopping malls of South Metro Manila (specifically Muntinlupa, Parañaque and Las Piñas), Festival Mall in Filinvest City, Alabang, has been a hot spot for people who wish to immerse themselves with virtual reality by availing the services and facilities of VR entertainment joints in the said mall.

Recently a brand new virtual reality entertainment joint opened at the 2nd level of Festival Mall and it is called Kong VR. It is located just steps away from Decathlon.

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Kong VR occupies this spacious spot of Festival Mall. Lots of high-tech, amusement equipment inside.

Kong VR describes itself as Korea’s top virtual reality theme park. Their Festival Mall branch has a lot of staffers waiting for customers to come in, pay fees and enjoy the many VR amusement experiences (including a King Kong-related game that’s supposed to test players’ balance and perception) they are offering. They also have lots of high-tech equipment inside as well as some machines that remind me of the video arcade experience.

Their featured VR experiences include Top Adventure VR, Beat Saber, Top Vulcan, Z-Town, and Arabian Nights to name some.

While I’m not much of a fan of virtual reality, I find their joint and offers interesting. Perhaps someday I’ll try one or two of their amusement experiences.

Has anyone among you, my readers, experienced any of the VR experiences there at Kong VR at Festival Mall? Please post a comment below.

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Someone playing Beat Saber.

All others reading this….if you are interested in Kong VR, visit them at Festival Mall.


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. Also my fantasy book The World of Havenor is still available in paperback and e-book format. 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 as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com

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 and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments.

 

Mindbuilders Preschool Chopin Seniors 2020 Project: Making the world a better place one small step at a time!

Mindbuilders Preschool Chopin Seniors 2020 Project: Making the world a better place one small step at a time!

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The Chopin Seniors 2020 with the children of San Roque de Alabang Parish, Rev. Fr. Rustico Cruz and the volunteers of San Roque, Mr. Nicolo Aberasturi of Down to Earth and the teachers and staff of Mindbuilders Preschool. Taken last Feb 1 during the feeding program and turnover ceremonies. (photo contributed by Mindbuilders Preschool)

Recently, Mindbuilders Preschool’s Kinder Class (Chopin Seniors 2020) organized a new project titled “Let’s Go and Grow!” which, unsurprisingly, turned out successful.

It all started in the first quarter when the children learned about food groups and the importance of eating nutritious food. They also learned that not everyone can afford it and some vegetables were sprayed with chemicals.

As such, the younglings thought of organizing a feeding program and raised funds by selling personally designed grocery bags. Along the way they also learned about urban farming (Aquaponics, Vegepod, Down to Earth Tower Garden) so people can plant their own vegetables and have regular access to organic vegetables.

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One of the three Down to Earth Tower Gardens donated by the Mindbuilders Chopin Seniors 2020 to San Roque Parish. This is located at San Roque Catholic School Annex. (photo contributed by Mindbuilders Preschool)

On February 1, 2020, they had their feeding program for the children of San Roque De Alabang Parish Zone 9 and turned over three Down to Earth tower gardens to the community.

The Mindbuilders community were thanked for their support. Their team was led by the Kindergarten teachers Teacher Merv Lugtu, Teacher Issa Menchate and Teacher Lyn Salutan

About Mindbuilders Preschool

Mindbuilders Preschool is a Multiple Intelligence school located at 168 Tropical Avenue, BF International, Las Piñas City.  It was established in 2002 and is accredited by the Department of Education.  The preschool is also an active member of the Association of Las Piñas Private Schools.  To date, Mindbuilders Preschool established itself with not only good quality education but also worked with its students on several social responsibility projects.  The schools prides itself in having strong home and school collaboration.  The bond built with families is even carried beyond the child’s preschool years – evidence that Mindbuilders Preschool is more than just a learning institution.

Visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/mindbuilderspreschool.page/ 


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. Also my fantasy book The World of Havenor is still available in paperback and e-book format. 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 as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com

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 and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments.

Muntinlupa City Health Office records Zero PUI cases for COVID-19

Muntinlupa City Health Office records Zero PUI cases for COVID-19

Yesterday, the City Government of Muntinlupa announced that there were no PUIs (Persons Under Investigation) for the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) within their jurisdiction.

Muntinlupa City Health Officer Dra. Teresa Tuliao said on February 17 that the five PUIs referred in local hospitals tested negative for COVID-19 (video focused on the virus embedded below for your learning) and were already discharged.

“We now have zero cases of PUIs in Muntinlupa City after laboratory samples of all admitted PUIs yielded negative results for COVID-19. The local government of Muntinlupa is strongly coordinating with the Department of Health and Research Institute for Tropical Medicine regarding this health event,” Tuliao added.

Mayor Jaime Fresnedi recently ordered the creation of Muntinlupa 2019-nCoV Task Force through Executive Order 2 s. 2020 as a pro-active measure against the spread of the disease in the city. The local task force spearheads the implementation of DOH protocols and guidelines and extends full cooperation with the department and other national government agencies.

Fresnedi assured the public that the City Government is undertaking actions for the prevention, containment, and control of COVID-19 in Muntinlupa. Further, the mayor advised the public to practice proper hygiene, observe proper cough etiquette, and adopt healthy lifestyles to increase body resistance against infections.

The City Government of Muntinlupa called for an emergency stakeholders meeting to discuss the latest updates on the Novel Coronavirus Acute Respiratory Disease to barangay emergency response units, barangay officials and health workers, mall owners, hoteliers, and other commercial establishment owners last February 4.

The Muntinlupa City Health Office noted that health facilities in the city are equipped to respond in emergency situations involving patients with respiratory infections. Local hospitals and medical centers were advised to observe high standard of infection prevention and control in dealing with patients suspected to have contracted with the virus.

The Ospital ng Muntinlupa has installed priority lanes for patients experiencing flu-like symptoms and is equipped to respond in emergency situations involving patients with respiratory infections.

The Muntinlupa City Health Office distributed 2,000 pieces of 100ml alcohol bottles to city residents and boosted its information drive in combatting the spread of 2019-nCov ARD through the City Government’s Public Information office. The City Government is inspecting emerging Chinese restaurants and coordinates with Chinese establishments as a precautionary measure.

Muntinlupa City residents are highly encouraged to immediately visit local health centers or Ospital ng Muntinlupa if they are experiencing symptoms of the virus. For more information, the public may coordinate with Ospital ng Muntinlupa at 8771-0457 or with DOH at 771-1001/711-1002.

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This was an official press release issued by the City Government of Muntinlupa.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A Chat with 2019 SEA Games Gold Medalist and Southeast Asia’s Triathlon King – John Chicano

Disclaimer: This is my original work with details sourced from John Chicano by means of an interview and 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.

A Chat with 2019 SEA Games Gold Medalist and Southeast Asia’s Triathlon King – John Chicano

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Southeast Asia’s best male triathlete John Leerams Chicano.

Since he first participated in the Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) in 2017, John Leerams Chicano raked in notable honors for the Philippines and took his career in the multisport of triathlon (swim-bike-run) even higher.

Today, Chicano is one of the highest-ranking members of the National Team of triathlon and this past December, he won the gold medal in the men’s triathlon event of the 2019 SEA Games that was held at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone (so close to his native Olongapo City). With that big victory, he established himself as Southeast Asia’s newest triathlon king replacing Nikko Huelgas (2015 and 2017 SEA Games gold medalist). It was also the big reward for the long road (about a decade) he literally took engaging in multisport events like triathlon and duathlon.

The glory continued the day after when Chicano, along with teammates Kim Mangrobang, Claire Adorna and Fer Casares collaborated to win another SEA Games gold for the Philippines in the Triathlon Team Mixed Relay event there at Subic Bay. That was another gold medal for Chicano making him a 3-time SEA Games medalist (two gold medals and one silver medal).

Recently I met Chicano and had a nice chat with him.

For you, my readers, here is a look at 3-time SEA Games medalist John Chicano.

A quick look at his background

John Chicano has been engaging in triathlon for many years now and has been a member of the Philippine team along the way. He represented the country in many events of the Triathlon Association of the Philippines (TRAP), most notably the annual Subic Bay International Triathlon (SUBIT). He also raced in other triathlon events organized by Bike King Philippines and other race organizers. On livelihood, he previously worked as a bike mechanic as well as a janitor. He now has his own family to support.

When it comes to triathlon at the SEA Games, he made his debut in the 2017 edition of the games held in Malaysia and won the silver medal in the individual men’s triathlon event next to teammate Nikko Huelgas who won the gold medal back then (note: Huelgas first won the SEA Games gold in 2015). His achievement was recognized by the media and the national government which in turn rewarded him (along with all other medalists) with cash incentives in accordance to Republic Act Number 10699.

Winning the SEA Games gold medal at Subic Bay

On the early morning of December 1, 2019, the SEA Games men’s triathlon event started with Chicano and Cebu-based teammate Andrew Kim Remolino representing the nation. After going through the pressure and enduring the pain of the 1.5 kilometer swim – 40 Km bike – 10 Km run event, Chicano won the gold medal in 1 hour, 53 minutes and 26 seconds. Remolino followed with 1:55:03 to win the silver medal, completing the 1-2 punch for the Philippines.

“We were confident in the sense that we prepared well for the SEA Games which includes three months of training at Clark,” Chicano said. “While I was confident to win, there were a few moments of uncertainty since the big competition (men’s triathlon) could turn out to be unpredictable.”

During the December 1 event, Chicano and Remolino raced together during the 40-kilometer bike leg and on the spot they came up with a new strategy to win gold and silver. At that particular stage, another foreign competitor biked near them. Earlier in the swim leg, Remolino was the first to emerge from the sea while Chicano was 4th (an Indonesian and a Singaporean were slightly ahead of him). During the 10-kilometer run leg, Chicano and Remolino built up their lead as a country and, ultimately, he gave it his all to win the gold, literally upgrading from silver (2017 SEA Games). The victory was witnessed by the top sports officials, the coaches, the Triathlon Association of the Philippines (TRAP), the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority officials, the spectators, corporate sponsors and, of course, Chicano’s family.

“It was a very happy moment for me to cross the finish line for the gold medal. I even felt like crying for happiness back then,” Chicano recalled the very moment he won the gold and became Southeast Asia’s best. “This was the big payback for almost ten years of effort racing in triathlon and growing to be stronger and more competitive. My triathlon effort and build-up started in 2010, preceded by biking in 2009. The feeling was so tremendous and happy.”

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Chicano and teammate Andrew Kim Remolino on the sports section of the December 2, 2019 edition of Business Mirror.

During the medal awarding ceremony, Chicano thought deeply about his SEA Games achievement and that he could bring further honors to the nation (plus his locality) in the years to come. The day after that, Chicano and teammates Remolino, Kim Mangrobang and Kim Kilgroe got tremendous spotlight together in the national newspapers which was expected considering their victorious achievements.

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Chicano (3rd from right) with his teammates who won medals in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games – (from L to R) Claire Adorna, Kim Kilgroe, Kim Mangrobang, Andrew Kim Remolino and Fer Casares. (photo source – Kim Mangrobang Facebook page) 

His SEA Games gold medal achievement not only raked in praise from many, financial rewards also came in from the national government (RA 10699), the City Government of Olongapo, corporate sponsors and other generous parties. Chicano even got to visit the Philippine Senate and met with Senator Richard Gordon.

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Chicano and Kim Mangrobang on the front page of the December 2, 2019 edition of the Manila Times.
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Chicano with coach Melvin Fausto and Senator Richard Gordon. (photo source – Subic Bay Community Center Facebook page)

As of this writing, Chicano is strongly focused on triathlon and he believes that what he achieved so far as a triathlete, and also as Southeast Asia’s best male triathlete, will be remembered for a long time and perhaps inspire the next generation of Filipinos to excel in sports.

When it comes to the near future, Chicano will go to Australia very soon to attend the Annual General Meeting and Awards Night of the FilOz Triathlon Club as their Guest Speaker. After that, he will undergo triathlon training for a few more weeks there in Australia.

From this point on, I recommend you all to take a close look at Chicano in triathlon events both local and overseas. He is, after all, Southeast Asia’s reigning triathlon king.


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. Also my fantasy book The World of Havenor is still available in paperback and e-book format. 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 as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com

Muntinlupa City Government tells motorists to brace for heavy traffic as Skyway begins construction in West Service Road

Muntinlupa City Government tells motorists to brace for heavy traffic as Skyway begins construction in West Service Road

Traffic along the highway will only get heavier soon as the City Government of Muntinlupa advised motorists and commuters to get ready for worse traffic as the construction of Skyway Extension Project in West Service Road takes full swing.

Specifically, starting February 16, operator Skyway O&M Corp. and project contractors EEI Corp. and Cadcor Builders and Trading Corp. will break ground in West Service Road from southbound Alabang At-grade Toll Exit to Alabang Hills Subdivision.

“We are scheduled to drill 38 bored piles for eight weeks. Target timetable involves six weeks of construction from Alabang Toll Exit to Alabang Hills and two weeks for the remaining areas up to Sucat Interchange,” Cadcor representative Joselito Fajardo said.

With the construction of Skyway Extension Project, Skyway’s Lane 3 southbound and the northbound lane of West Service Road will be closed.

Muntinlupa Traffic Management Bureau chief Danidon Nolasco said upon coordination with Skyway, one-way traffic will be implemented from South Station to Alabang Hills Subdivision for southbound while traffic up to Sucat Interchange will remain two-way.

He added that Skyway is set to open a temporary opening near the South Station Exit to allow vehicles to pass through from West Service Road to Alabang Viaduct.

With the anticipated heavy traffic in Muntinlupa, Nolasco asked Skyway executives to augment the City Government’s traffic management efforts especially in choke points including East Service Road, Sucat Interchange, and Alabang Viaduct.

This past January 23, the City Government organized a stakeholders meeting with Skyway execs and representatives of commercial establishments and homeowners associations (HOAs) situated in West Service Road to discuss traffic advisories and construction updates.

Skyway Traffic Operations head Jerry Torres said that southbound Alabang At-grade and Bunye South Station Exits will also be closed starting February 16 until completion of the project. Torres said motorists may take the SLEX Filinvest or Susana Exit Toll Plaza.

For Class 1 and 2 vehicles from Makati headed to Alabang or Alabang-Zapote Road, motorists may take the Filinvest Exit then turn right at Corporate Ave, then right Civic Drive, and right again to Corporate Ave, then turn right to Alabang-Zapote Road towards destination.

For Class 1, 2, and 3 vehicles headed to Alabang, Putatan, and National Road, motorists may take the Susana Exit then turn right at Susana Heights Ave, and turn either left or right on National Road to destination.

The Skyway Extension Project is expected to be completed on December 2020.