Recently in the City of Las Piñas, school supplies were released by the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) to one thousand six hundred persons with disabilities (PWDs) and their families, according to the social media post of the City Government. Vice Mayor April Aguilar led the distribution of materials.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the City Government’s social media announcement. Some parts in boldface…
The City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) of Las Piñas City successfully conducted the Distribution of Educational Assistance through School Supplies for Persons with Disabilities and Their Families on Thursday, December 5, at the Verdant Covered Court in Pamplona Tres. The initiative benefited 1,600 individuals, aiming to support educational needs and promote inclusivity in the community.
The event provided essential school supplies, including backpacks and educational materials, ensuring that beneficiaries and their families have access to tools for learning. This program reflects the city’s commitment to supporting persons with disabilities through practical initiatives.
Vice Mayor April Aguilar led the distribution, joined by City Councilors Mark Anthony Santos and Henry Medina. Alelee Aguilar was also present to express her support for the welfare of marginalized sectors.
Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a resident of Las Piñas City, what is your reaction to this development? Has the CSWDO released any school supplies to the PWDs of your local community?
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 engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
As far as the analysts and tourism stakeholders are concerned, the minimum purchase requirement for non-resident tourists to qualify for the value-added tax refund is just right in relation to benefiting the small businesses, according to a BusinessWorld news report. There is, however, one dissenting opinion.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of BusinessWorld. Some parts in boldface…
THE P3,000 ($51) minimum purchase requirement for nonresident tourists to qualify for a value-added tax (VAT) refund is “just right” to ensure small businesses benefit, analysts said.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. recently signed into law Republic Act (RA) No. 12079, which allows tourists to claim VAT refunds on purchases worth at least P3,000 from government-accredited stores, in an effort to boost tourism receipts.
“The P3,000 is just right to benefit micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) retailers and local products,” Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) President Roberto S. Claudio said. He said the purchase cap is kept to a minimum to benefit locally made products.
“I think it’s a good entry and good starting point. Some countries are still higher than P3,000 as well. I think we’re above the middle, so I think that’s a good place to be,” Tourism Congress of the Philippines President James M. Montenegro said via phone call.
Under RA 12079, the value of the locally bought goods from accredited stores must reach at least P3,000 per transaction, provided these goods are taken out of the country within 60 days of purchase.
“This law is primarily designed to boost tourist arrivals and expenditure. Hopefully, it will also increase the sales revenue of retailers,” Mr. Claudio said.
Mr. Montenegro said the minimum purchase amount could be adjusted in the future.
The threshold is subject to review and adjustment every three years by the Finance secretary, upon recommendation of the Commissioner of Internal Revenue, considering the inflation data from the statistics agency.
“I think the minimum rate is at par with our ASEAN [Association of Southeast Asian Nations] neighbors. If you look at the minimum amounts in other countries, it is almost the same,” Eleanor L. Roque, a tax principal at P&A Grant Thornton, told BusinessWorld.
The Philippines has joined other ASEAN countries with a tax refund program for nonresident tourists. The scheme has increased retail activity, particularly in sectors such as fashion, electronics and souvenirs.
In Malaysia, the minimum purchase is 300 ringgit ($67). Singapore allows tourists to spend at least S$100 ($74), while in Indonesia, it starts at 500,000 rupiah ($31).
“It is good to have a minimum amount as it limits the refund claim to valuable expenses. De minimis spendings are normally not considered for VAT refund as it is not administratively practical. In some cases, the cost will be more expensive than the amount being refunded,” Ms. Roque said.
She said the government should tap accredited international firms in the VAT refund processing, adding that the “government should take advantage of the track record and best practices of these known companies.”
Ms. Roque said the government should ensure the goods bought are really brought out of the country.
“Physical inspection of the goods when exiting the country should be strict to ensure that local buyers do not use tourists for availing themselves of the VAT refund,” she added.
However, Philippine Institute for Development Studies Senior Research Fellow John Paolo R. Rivera said the P3,000 threshold “may not be enough to significantly encourage higher spending among affluent tourists,” especially compared with ASEAN counterparts.
“A higher or more flexible threshold might align better with international best practices and encourage larger purchases,” he said.
Mr. Rivera also urged the government to simplify the VAT refund process, rather than make it “extra bureaucratic.”
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you consider the current purchase requirement for the VAT refund for foreign tourists a proper amount? Do you think foreign tourists will be receptive to the current standard for VAT refund of their purchases here in the Philippines?
Recently in the City of Las Piñas, over five hundred residents of Barangay Pulang Lupa Dos were served when the Health and Wellness Caravan was held locally, according to the City Government’s social media announcement.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the City Government’s social media announcement. Some parts in boldface…
The Las Piñas Health and Wellness Caravan, organized by the City Health Office, brought essential medical services to the residents of Pulanglupa Dos on Tuesday, December 3, at the St. Joseph Covered Court. The event catered to over 500 beneficiaries, furthering the city’s commitment to accessible healthcare.
Attendees were provided with free medical consultations, blood sugar and cholesterol testing, dental services, chest X-rays, and ECG tests. Senior citizens availed of pneumonia vaccinations, while free medicines, PhilHealth registration, and Green Card program assistance were made available. The City Agriculture Office also distributed vegetable seedlings to encourage nutrition and urban gardening as part of the initiative.
City Vice Mayor April Aguilar led the event, accompanied by City Councilor Mark Anthony Santos and Alelee Aguilar. The City Health Office team, led by Dr. Juliana Gonzalez, ensured the seamless delivery of services to all participants.
Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a resident of Las Piñas City, what is your reaction to this development? Has the City Government’s Health and Wellness Caravan arrived at your barangay?
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 engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
Recently the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) unveiled the newest polymer bank notes which were described as crisp and capable of withstanding tough conditions, according to a news feature by the Manila Bulletin.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the article of the Manila Bulletin. Some parts in boldface…
The familiar crinkle of a crisp paper bill, the faded ink from countless transactions, the subtle tear at the edge – these are the hallmarks of the Philippine piso as many know it. But come January, Filipinos will begin to experience a currency revolution.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is ushering in a new era with the first series of polymer banknotes, a move that signifies more than just a change in material. It’s a leap towards a more secure, sustainable, and hygienic future for the nation’s currency.
Imagine pulling out a banknote that feels smoother, almost plastic-like, and noticing intricate details that shimmer under the light. This is the promise of the new polymer piso.
These banknotes, designed to last longer and withstand the rigors of daily use, are imbued with advanced security features that make counterfeiting a near impossibility. Microprinting, tactile elements, and clear windows are just some of the technologies embedded within these notes, providing a robust defense against fraudulent activities and bolstering public confidence in the currency.
“We have the mandate of issuing the currency, and we always try to look for ways to improve our currency,” explains BSP Assistant Governor Mary Anne Lim. “In improving our currency, we consider the needs of our users in utilizing it, and also advances in technology when it comes to printing and using our banknotes.”
The shift to polymer addresses a critical concern in today’s world: hygiene. Paper banknotes, passing through countless hands, can harbor bacteria and viruses. Polymer notes, on the other hand, are less hospitable to these pathogens.
Their non-porous surface makes it harder for microbes to cling and survive, contributing to a healthier and safer transaction experience in a post-pandemic world.
But the BSP’s vision goes beyond practicality. The new banknotes are also an opportunity to celebrate the Philippines’ rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.
Each denomination features a carefully chosen endangered species, a poignant reminder of the country’s unique natural treasures and the need for their conservation.
The 1,000-piso note, already in circulation since April 2022, showcases the majestic Philippine eagle soaring above the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The 500-piso note features the elusive Visayan spotted deer amidst the lush greenery of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park.
The 100-piso note highlights the vibrant Palawan peacock-pheasant against the backdrop of the iconic Mayon Volcano, while the 50-piso note presents the playful Visayan leopard cat with the serene Taal Lake in the background.
These visuals are complemented by intricate designs inspired by traditional weaving patterns, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of different Filipino communities. The banknotes, therefore, become more than just a medium of exchange; they transform into miniature canvases that tell a story of the Philippines’ natural wonders and cultural heritage.
“The polymer series raises awareness of the country’s threatened species, serves as a symbol of Filipino identity, and fosters national pride,” shares BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr., highlighting the inspiration and symbolism behind the chosen themes
The environmental impact of currency production is another crucial factor considered by the BSP.
Polymer banknotes, with their longer lifespan, reduce the need for frequent replacements. This translates to less paper consumption, lower energy use in production, and a smaller carbon footprint. The BSP’s commitment to sustainability is evident in this conscious choice of material, aligning with the global push towards eco-friendly practices.
The transition to polymer banknotes is a milestone in the Philippines’ journey towards modernization. It’s a testament to the BSP’s proactive approach to currency management, ensuring that the Philippine piso remains secure, resilient, and relevant in a rapidly changing world.
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Are you receptive towards the newest polymer bank notes from the BSP? What do you think of the new P500, P100 and P50 bills? Do you have a problem about the new bills not showing historical people of the Philippines?
Happy New Year to all my readers, YouTube viewers and all others who followed this series of articles focused on YouTube videos worth watching. Have you been searching for something fun or interesting to watch on YouTube? Do you feel bored right now and you crave for something to see on the world’s most popular online video destination?
I recommend you check out the following topics and the related videos I found.
#1 You, Me and the Movies react to The Tower (2012) –The Tower (2012) is a South Korean disaster film that drew huge audiences in its country and found some success overseas. Its concept will remind long-time movie buffs about 1974’s The Towering Inferno which itself was an inspiration for director Kim Ji-hoon. If you want to discover The Tower but you are not willing to spend time and money to see it, I encourage to watch You, Me and the Movies’ reaction video.
#2Alien versus Predator games history examined by Slope’s Game Room – I really enjoy watching the retro gaming videos of YouTuber Slope’s Game Room. This time around, Slope examines the history of video games featuring one of the most memorable sci-fi crossovers ever: Alien versus Predator. For the newcomers reading this, there was a time when Alien and Predator were separate sci-fi film franchises. How a crossover between them happened and what video games were made are explained in detail in the video below.
#3 The rise of cold coffee in America – Do you like drinking coffee that is actually cold? Over the past several years in America, spending on cold coffee skyrocketed and outpaced hot coffee. To be clear, cold coffee includes iced coffee, cold brew and frozen coffee drinks. Already, cold coffee sales really grew for certain businesses that sell coffee. To find out why Americans are buying more cold coffee and what possibly started the trend, watch the video below.
#4 Changing the Middle East – There is no denying the fact that Israel will be remembered for significant gains against Iran-sponsored terrorists in 2024. They did not have much support from Biden-led America but Israel still succeeded in eliminating Yahya Sinwar (Hamas) and Hassan Nasrallah (Hezbollah). Israel also succeeded in hitting military targets in terrorist state Iran which crippled them significantly. Also the collapse of the wicked Assad regime in Syria proved to be a huge loss for Iran which had a sinister alliance with Bashar al-Assad (who abandoned Syria).
With Donald Trump set to return as United States President on January 20, 2025, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed confidence of changing the Middle East. Netanyahu talked with Trump recently and you can learn more by watching CBN News’ video.
If you have accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, I encourage you to pray to Him in support of Israel and the new Trump administration to change the Middle East in 2025. Pray to Him for the Christians in Syria who will soon be affected negatively by the new regime’s plan to impose Sharia Law. Pray to Him for the rescue or release of the hostages of the October 7, 2023 attacks.
#5 Lefties losing it – In case you did not notice, the Democrats in America don’t just have wicked and dishonest leaders. They also have Hollywood celebrities as Democrat activists who are actually phony intellectuals who love to fool their fellow Americans. A lot of Democrat leaders and activists are actually out of touch with the people and reality in general, which is what this Lefties Losing It video from Sky News Australia emphasized clearly. Watch and learn from start to finish.
#6 PatmanQC examines Gun.Smoke – Developed by Capcom, Gun.Smoke debuted in the arcades in 1985 and eventually got ported to different platforms. I never played the arcade version but I had fun with Gun.Smoke on the Nintendo Family Computer (Famicom) Disk System. It was a run-and-gun shooter with an Old West setting and its designer was Yoshiki Okamoto (1942, Street Fighter II and Resident Evil). The production history of the game is quite interesting and you can find out more in PatmanQC’s video.
#7 Ashleigh Burton reacts to The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear – I love watching Ashleigh Burton’s movie reaction videos, especially the ones that has her laughing a lot. She’s a jolly YouTuber and often entertaining. That being said, you have to watch her reaction to 1991’s The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear.
#8 Popcorn in Bed reacts to Star Trek: Nemesis – Were you able to watch the entire Star Trek: The Next Generation (Star Trek: TNG) series from 1987 to 1994? I never had the privilege to watch all seven seasons but I managed to watch several random episodes of it and got to know the characters enough before proceeding to watch all four Star Trek: TNG movies from 1994 to 2002. Star Trek: Nemesis (2002) was released in American theaters right in the middle of intense box office competition with a Harry Potter movie, a James Bond movie and a Lord of the Rings movie. Apart from its box office failure, there was something wrong that happened behind the scenes during Star Trek: Nemesis’ production which explains its disappointing quality. If you want to discover the movie but you don’t want to spend too much time nor money on it, I encourage you to watch Popcorn in Bed’s reaction video.
Recently in the City of Las Piñas, twenty barangay associations of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) received desktop computers from the City Government and Vice Mayor April Aguilar witnessed the distribution, according to the social media announcement of the local government unit (LGU).
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the City Government’s social media announcement. Some parts in boldface…
The City of Las Piñas, through the City Social Welfare and Development Office, distributed desktop computers to 20 Barangay Associations of Persons with Disabilities on Monday, December 2, at the Verdant Covered Court in Pamplona Tres to enhance the operational capabilities of these associations.
Each barangay association received a desktop computer to support their programs and improve their administrative processes. This effort underscores the city government’s commitment to empowering PWD groups through the provision of essential resources.
Vice Mayor April Aguilar, CSWDO head Lowefe Romulo, and Alelee Aguilar attended the event, personally handing over the computers to the beneficiaries. Their participation highlights the local government’s dedication to inclusivity and community development.
Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a resident of Las Piñas City, what is your reaction to this development? Is the PWD association of your barangay actively working? Are there many PWDs in your local community?
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 engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
To keep on strengthening the drive of tourism all over the Philippines, the Department of Tourism (DOT) recently unveiled its plans for 2025, according to a Manila Times news report.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of the Manila Times. Some parts in boldface…
The Department of Tourism (DOT) unveiled its plans for 2025 to propel Philippine tourism to new heights and give travelers more reason to love the Philippines.
“Tourism will be a cornerstone of our nation’s recovery. We embraced the challenge—not just to rebuild but to innovate, not just to promote, but to develop, to transform, to lead,” Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco said at the DOT’s year-end press briefing on Tuesday.
The DOT has formed a partnership with the Department of Health (DOH) to develop Tourist First Aid Facilities and is in talks with key government agencies to establish tourist courts that will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to “resolve tourist-related crimes.”
Tourist First Aid Facilities will be established in tourist-heavy locations such as La Union, Boracay Island in Aklan, Siargao Island in Surigao del Norte, Panglao Island in Bohol, Palawan, and Puerto Galera.
The department will also soon initiate “Layover Tours” as part of the Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours program, which Frasco said “would make layovers more enjoyable and provide seamless access to our iconic attractions.”
The Philippines Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours program, which started in 2023, allows solo and group tourists to plan fast, self-guided trips using an advanced bus network and a specific smartphone app.
The DOT also plans to establish the “Golf Experience” initiative, which Frasco described as “geared to enthusiasts motivated to discover the world-class golf destinations.”
It will continue to construct more Tourist Rest Areas across the country, equipped with new features such as rainwater harvesting facilities and solar panels, in addition to basic amenities such as clean and adequate restrooms, a tourism information center, and a pasalubong center.
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the DOT’s plans for the new year will create positive results for the nation’s tourism industry? Do you think the DOT should recognize special events like car shows, fashion shows, film festivals and cosplay events so that more local and foreign tourists could join them?
Welcome back readers, fellow geeks and electronic gaming fans!
In this edition of the Retro Gaming Ads Blast (RGAB) series, we will take a look at another batch of retro gaming print ads – including arcade flyers – from the 1980s and 1990s.
For the newcomers reading this, Retro Gaming Ads Blast (RGAB) looks back at the many print ads of games (console, arcade, computer and handheld) that were published in comic books, magazines, flyers, posters and newspapers long before smartphones, social media, the worldwide web and streaming became popular. To put things in perspective, people back in the 1980s and 1990s were more trusting of print media for information and images about electronic games and related products.
With those details laid down, here is the newest batch of retro gaming print ads for you to see and enjoy…
1. Defender arcade flyer
Perhaps Atari did not have enough original artwork of Defender to be used in this arcade flyer. So they ended up using footage of an astronaut on the moon.
Very long ago, I played the classic game Defender a lot on the Atari 2600. Strangely enough, I never played its arcade version as my visits to arcades were quite limited as I was so young back then. When it comes to the arcade flyer of Defender, I find the use of stock footage of an astronaut on the moon as the artistic backdrop baffling because the game’s concept was all about fighting back alien invaders and protecting the citizens. Ironically, the image blended well with the photos of two arcade machines showcased.
2. Amidar Atari 2600 print ad
Does this ad make you think about King Kong or animals?
When I was a young boy, I saw this Parker Brothers print ad of Amidar appear in many superhero comic books I read. I never played the game on the Atari 2600 nor in the arcades. Each time I saw this ad, I always wondered how the game played and what its creative concept was all about. The constant showing of a giant gorilla on the game box cover reminded me of King Kong.
3. Reactor Atari 2600 print ad
Parker Brothers made this ad imagining gamers getting very engaged with reactor once they start playing it.
Reactor was one of those video games that was somewhat influenced by the subject of nuclear technology, particularly about the nuclear reactors. This is another game I never played on console nor in the arcades. This Reactor print ad by Parker Brothers for the Atari 2600 has a visual style and creative concept that I still find fascinating to look at.
4. Punch-Out!! arcade flyer
This was years before Nintendo hired Mike Tyson to endorse the console version of Punch-Out!!
In 1984, Nintendo released the original Punch-Out!! game in the arcades and literally punched its way through to the top of American arcades that year while also scoring big in other arcades around the world. While the game proved to be very playable and a lot of fun, it could be argued that the intriguing image Nintendo used for the North American arcade flyer – a boxer down after literally getting beaten by the Punch-Out!! machine – made an impact on both gamers and arcade operators.
5. Arumana no Kiseki flyer
Is the famous Indiana Jones theme music playing inside your mind right now as you look at this art?
Released in 1987 on the Disk System of the Nintendo Family Computer (Famicom) in Japan, Arumana no Kiseki was one of the many 2D adventure games Konami released that entertained gamers. When compared to Castlevania – strongly influenced by American horror movies – this game was very influenced by the Indiana Jones movies of Steven Spielberg which is very evident in this promotional flyer.
In fact, some gamers who could not read the Japanese title actually thought this was an official Indiana Jones video game because the artwork was so suggestive. Having played and finished the game myself, I can say that Arumana no Kiseki was simply an Indiana Jones-inspired adventure game that had its own creative concept and unique settings and characters.
6. Devastators arcade flyer
The 1980s female Rambo smiling towards you.
By looking at the track record of Konami closely, you will notice that many of their games in the 1980s were influenced by Hollywood movies and they hired pretty or sexy models for their arcade flyers. This arcade flyer of Devastators is no exception and you can clearly see the Rambo-inspired lady smiling while carrying a weapon. Devastators itself had strong Rambo vibes for its concept.
7. S.P.Y. Special Project Y arcade flyer
Somehow the picture of this flyer reminds me of Miami Vice.
Still with Konami, S.P.Y. Special Project Y is 1989 arcade game that featured action sequences in which players fight against countless enemies in order to progress with the minimal story. This game had certain spy movie elements and to promote it, Konami came up with this arcade flyer showcasing three sexy women wearing swimwear accompanied by two men who looked more like operators or schemers. Can you imagine yourself as an arcade operator looking at this flyer trying to decide to buy the game?
This arcade flyer is still great and exciting to look at, even if your not a TMNT fan.
Now this is one of the most definitive arcade games Konami ever made. Released in late 1989, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles became a massive arcade hit in North America constantly attracting lots of fans and casual gamers to play at each machine. The demand was so great, Konami had no choice but to hire a company to manufacture more machines. When it comes to promoting the game, Konami cleverly used a mix of artworks for the TMNT characters and fantasy environment while having a hired model playing April O’Neil blending in smoothly.
Having seen the 1980s animated series myself, I can say that the ad makers struck gold when it came to making a promotional image that Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle fans can easily recognize and go to the arcade to play the game.
9. Batman arcade flyer
If you saw the 1989 movie, did you play this in the arcade?
The live-action Batman movie of 1989 was simply inescapable as there was so much hype, merchandising and promos connected with it. When it came to video games, it was not surprising that a lot of companies talked with Warner Bros. and eventually Atari made the official arcade game based on the movie (for insight on the production, watch PatmanQC’s video by clicking here). This early-1990s arcade flyer had a simplistic approach showing a few screenshots and descriptive text while having the live-action Batman (note: Michael Keaton in costume) dominating in the middle. Simplistic yet effective in telling gamers and arcade operators what to expect.
10. Xevious arcade flyer
This arcade flyer is exciting and creative to focus on.
Xevious is a long-running series of video games owned by Namco. Since the early 1980s, several Xevious video games were released on arcades, consoles and mobile devices. Believe it or not, the original Xevious game was published by Atari for North American arcades and the company came up with this dynamic looking flyer to promote it. The arcade flyer really looks dynamic due to the hand-drawn art surrounding the photo of the machine. Even by today standards, this flyer still looks modern and energetic.
11. Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves print ads
Tell me if this ad makes you want to play the game.
Original artwork here was meant to immerse viewers into the fantasy setting of the game based on the movie.
If you saw the 1991 movie Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, were you able to play the video game adaptation? Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves on the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was notable for being specially featured in the Nintendo Power magazine and its game design was truly ambitious at the time. To promote the game and take advantage of the movie’s popularity, Virgin Games came out with two print ads targeting movie fans and NES gamers.
The first print ad above had lots of selected screenshots surrounding the game’s box and crammed the descriptive text. The 2nd print ad had original artwork to emphasize the fictional setting and used only three screenshots. Looking at both print ads, it was clear that the ad makers had no permission to use the likeness of Kevin Costner as Robin Hood. The same with other actors and their characters. Regardless, the ads still reminded me enough of the movie while keeping me informed about the video game.
More than P1.6 trillion in approved investments have been confirmed and this means that the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) exceeded its target for 2024, according to a news article by the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the PNA news article. Some parts in boldface…
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said approved investments already surpassed the 2024 target.
In a statement on Thursday, DTI said investments approved by the Board of Investments (BOI) amounted to PHP1.62 trillion, surpassing the PHP1.5 trillion target. It was also higher than the PHP1.26 trillion approved investments in 2023.
In a separate statement, the BOI said energy sector, specifically the renewable energy projects, recorded the biggest surge in approvals, totaling PHP1.38 trillion, up by 40 percent year-on-year.
Other sectors which recorded the biggest increase include air and water transport at PHP121.20 billion; real estate activities (mass housing) at PHP37.26 billion; manufacturing at PHP31.67 billion; water supply, sewerage, waste management, and remediation activities at PHP16.28 billion; agriculture, forestry, and fishing at PHP11.02 billion; wholesale and retail at PHP8.25 billion; and information technology-business process management at PHP7.34 billion.
The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), meanwhile, approved PHP214.17 billion in investments, surpassing the PHP200 billion target for the year.
“We are pleased to report significant progress in attracting investments this year. These investments will fuel job creation, drive innovation, and foster dynamic economic progress. By focusing on international trade, we are laying the foundation for sustainable and inclusive economic growth,” Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said.
“As we approach 2025, we are determined to build on this positive momentum. We will continue to refine and implement forward-looking policies that attract investments in these key industries, ensuring that the Philippines remains a prime destination for innovation and growth.”
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the P1.62 trillion in approved investments will have a big effect on the national economy in 2025?
Recently in the city of Parañaque, agents of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) raided a house resulting in the rescue of a helper and the apprehension of several Chinese nationals, according to a GMA Network news report.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of GMA News. Some parts in boldface…
The authorities rescued a house helper in Parañaque City after being locked in by her employer operating a (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operation) (POGO).
According to John Consulta’s report on 24 Oras, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) agents raided a house inside an exclusive subdivision in Parañaque City.
On the third floor, some Chinese nationals were caught online.
The helper said when she found out about the illegal activities happening inside the house, they locked her inside the house.
“Noong bigla ako umakyat doon at nakita ko na ganun ang trabaho nila. Noong malaman ko binabawalan na nila akong umakyat, bawal na ako lumabas kasi baka magkwento raw ako sa labas. Binabawalan nila akong maglinis sa third floor. Natatakot po ako,” she said.
(When I went up there, I saw what they were doing. When I found out what they were really doing they banned me from going upstairs, I wasn’t allowed to go out because I might tell someone about this outside. They forbid me to clean the third floor. I’m afraid.)
The NBI said she wasn’t able to go out since November.
“Nag-start ng November na ‘di na siya pinapalabas, restricted na galaw niya. Kahit sa paggamit ng cellphone, di na siya pinapagamit ng maayos,” said Terence Long-e, NBI agent.
(It started in November that she was no longer allowed to go out, her movements were restricted. Even when using a cell phone, she is not allowed to use it.)
Luckily, she was able to call a friend who then asked for help from the NBI.
The authorities discovered their scripts on the computers and the various online frauds they were into. There is also an indication that they are preying on some Filipinos.
“Nakakita kami ng mga written script which indicates social engineering scheme, may cryptocurrency scripts, may money muling, may nakita kaming romance scam script,” said NBI Cybercrime Division Chief Atty. Jeremy Lotoc.
(We have found written scripts that indicate social engineering schemes, there are cryptocurrency scripts, money muling, and we have found romance scam scripts.)
“They come from a big POGO organization, dahil sa wala na nga, pinatigil na ng pangulo ang POGO, nagdivide sila into smaller group at tinuloy nila ang mga kalokohan nila,” said NBI Director Jaime Santiago.
(They come from a big POGO organization because it’s gone, the president stopped the POGO, they divided into smaller groups, and they continued their nonsense.)
Seven Chinese nationals were arrested and are facing multiple complaints. No one among them gave a statement.
The NBI will assist the rescued helper to return home to her two children in Davao.
“Yung finile namin is at least apat na charges, merong afasa, may Kasambahay Law, may Republic Act 10175, at merong expanded Anti- Human Trafficking in Persons Act,” said Lotoc.
(Our final is at least four charges: there is a fast, there is the Maid Law, there is Republic Act 10175, and there is the expanded Anti-Human Trafficking in Persons Act.)
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What do you think about this recent development? If you are a resident of Parañaque, are you concerned that there could be small groups of POGOs secretly setting up new and illegal operations within your local community? Do you think Parañaque has something that makes it a preferable destination for Chinese nationals to set up illegal operations?
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Author Carlo Carrasco 