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COMELEC eyes prohibition on the use of AI and deepfake technology during 2025 election campaign period

June 5, 2024May 29, 2024carlocarrasco

With the next local and national elections set for May 2025, local authorities will have to work harder to preserve election integrity and Philippine democracy itself as more people and even companies are using artificial intelligence (AI) and deepfake technology on their projects. The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) is eyeing a ban on AI and deepfake technology, according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) news article.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the PNA news article. Some parts in boldface…

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is looking into prohibiting the use of deepfake technology and artificial Intelligence (AI) during the campaign period for the May 2025 midterm polls.

In an interview Wednesday, Comelec chairman George Garcia said the measure is timely as these technologies might create confusion among voters.

“Maganda mapag-usapan na kung dapat ipagbawal ang paggamit ng AI or deepfakes sa kampanya. Dapat ‘yung makatotohanan na kampanya. Kukumbinsihin ko ang ating Commission en banc na ipagbawal namin sa campaign ang paggamit ng deepfakes at Al sapagkat madami po ang nalilito, misrepresentation, madaming hindi makatotohanan na nangyayari kapag ginagamit po ‘yan (It would be good if we can tackle the ban on the use of AI or deepfakes in election campaign. Campaign should be realistic. I would convince our Commission en bacn to ban the use of deepfakes and AI in election campaign because many are being confused and it can cause misrepresentation. We are veering away from reality if we use these),” he said.

Deepfakes are an advanced form of digital content manipulation through generative AI, where a person in an image or video is swapped with another person’s likeness.

Garcia said personal interactions between poll bets and the electorate is much better than communicating using new techonologies.

“Alam po natin ang (We are aware of) modern technology. Bakit ba hindi? Subalit dapat po, kapag kampanya, ikaw mismo ang nakikita ng sambayanan. Ikaw mismo ang nanliligaw sa kanila. (Why not? But during campaign period, you the candidate should be visible to the people. You should court them personally),” he said.

Garcia, however, said he is open to the ideas of other members of the en banc who would like to allow AI use during campaign.

”Kaya lang sa ating palagay, masyado itong threat sa ating demokrasya, sa tunay na dapat ginagawa kapag halalan at may kampanya (But in my view, this is a big threat to our democracy, to the reality of what should be done during elections and campaign),” he said.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Are you concerned that AI and deepfake technology will be abused by people who have cruel intentions to ruin Philippine democracy as we know it? Do you think antagonistic forces like China (which has been in conflict with the Philippines on the sea west of our country) will use AI and deepfake technology to mess with future elections in our country? Are you aware that AI has no soul? Would you vote for candidates who use deepfake technology during the election campaign period?

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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Japan wins NTT Asia Triathlon ParaTriathlon Asian Championships 2024 gold medals at Subic Bay

June 4, 2024carlocarrasco

Japan won several gold medals across different contests during the NTT Asia Triathlon ParaTriathlon Asian Championships 2024 at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone this past weekend.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the official release of Triathlon Philippines. Some parts in boldface…

Japan bagged six gold medals in the 2024 NTT Asia Triathlon Para Championships at the Waterfront and Boardwalk inside the Subic Bay Freeport Zone on June 2.

Tsutomo Nagata ruled the men’s PTS5 category in 1:08:31, while compatriots Takumi Nagata (1:13:25) and Tetsuki Kaji (1:14:59) settled for second and third places, respectively.

Satoru Yoneoka claimed victory in the men’s PTVI, clocking 1:03:53 to beat compatriots Yosuke Yamada (1:04:49) and Junpei Hoshi (1:05:29).

In the women’s PTS2 category, Yukako Hata (1:24:46) defeated fellow Japanese Asumi Yasuda (1:33:58) for the gold medal.

The other gold medalists were Kimura Jumpei (men’s PTWC), Mami Tani (women’s PTS4) and Riyo Kogama (women’s PTS5).

Meanwhile, four-time Paralympian Jiachao Wang of China ruled the men’s PTS4 category in 1:06:39.

Japanese Keiya Kaneko (1:12:30) placed second followed by Filipino Alex Silverio (1:15:55) in the 750m swim (one lap), 20km bike (2 laps) and 5km run (2 laps) competition organized by Triathlon Philippines (TriPhil) in partnership with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and sanctioned by the Asia Triathlon and World Triathlon.

The 32-year-old Wang from Kunming, Yunnan province finished the race trouble-free. His left arm was amputated after an accident when he was five.

“I’m happy to win. This is my first time to compete here, the weather is hot and humid,” said Wang, who won medals in the pool in three Paralympic Games before shifting to triathlon nine years ago.

After making his debut in Athens (2004), he scooped one silver (200m individual medley) and one bronze (400m freestyle) medals in Beijing (2008).

Wang captured the gold medal in the men’s 4x100m medley relay and got two silvers (4x100m individual medley and 4x100m freestyle relay) at the 2012 London Paralympics.

Wang, who placed fourth at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, has completed the World Triathlon Level 2 coach certification course in South Korea last May 23.

Despite his bronze medal performance, Silverio was satisfied.

“I did not expect a podium finish because there are many good athletes in my category,” said the 34-year-old native of Compostela town in Cebu. He continued to train right after winning the gold medal at the Subic Bay International Triathlon last month.

“I am so happy that I was able to get a medal now,” said Silverio, who also joined the 2018 edition of the Asia Triathlon Para Championships in Legazpi City, Albay.

Silverio, a gold medalist at the National Age Group Triathlon last February, is a member of the Talisay Luigi Triathlon Group (TLTG) Go For Gold Philippines team.

In the men’s PTS2 category, Filipino Edison Badilla (1:35:36) defeated compatriot Jake Lacaba (1:41:18).

South Korea’s Kim Hwang Tae (1:27:13) beat Filipino Raul Angoluan (1:31:31) in the men’s PTS3), while Kyrgysztan’s Aitunuk Zhoomart Kyzy (1:21:38) prevailed over compatriot Gulnaz Zhuzbaeva (1:23:25) in the women’s PTVI category of the event sponsored by Philippine Sports Commission, Pinay in Action, Asian Center for Insulation, Gatorade (official hydration), Standard Insurance and Western Guaranty Inc., and partners Subic Bay Travelers Hotel, CM Timing of Jay Cheng and Stat Med ambulance service.

For Philippine triathlon updates, click https://www.facebook.com/TriPhil

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Very strong possibility that the Philippines and Japan will seal defense deal this July

June 4, 2024May 25, 2024carlocarrasco

As the respective foreign and defense ministers of Japan and the Philippines will formally meet this July, the signing of a defense deal will most likely happen, according to a Kyodo News report.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Kyodo News report. Some parts in boldface…

Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro said on Thursday that there is a “very strong possibility” for his country and Japan to sign an agreement allowing their defense forces to train in each other’s territories during a meeting involving the two nations’ foreign and defense ministers in July.

In an interview with Kyodo News, Teodoro stated that negotiations on a reciprocal access agreement were nearing conclusion, with no remaining contentious issues. These negotiations commenced in late November, following an agreement earlier that month between Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to initiate talks aimed at enhancing security ties.

“It will allow your maritime forces…land (forces) and your air forces to train with us in a different environment (from what) you are used to,” Teodoro said, referring to possible cooperation between Japan’s Self-Defense Forces and the Philippine military.

It will be Japan’s first RAA with a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and the third following pacts with Australia and Britain, which took effect last year.

Once both countries ratify the RAA, it will enable Japanese forces to participate in the annual large-scale Balikatan military exercise conducted by the Philippines and the United States, he said.

Teodoro, his Japanese counterpart, Minoru Kihara, Philippine Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo, and Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa will attend the bilateral security meeting scheduled for July in Manila.

Teodoro said the Philippines and Japan would eventually consider holding talks about a military intelligence-sharing accord called the General Security of Military Information Agreement, which Manila is currently negotiating with Washington.

Japan and the Philippines, both U.S. allies, have been strengthening bilateral defense ties in recent years in response to China’s intensifying provocative activities and territorial claims in the East and South China seas.

The Philippines is deepening its security ties with other like-minded countries such as Australia. In April, the Philippines, Australia, Japan, and the United States conducted a joint maritime exercise in the South China Sea, of which China claims almost the entire area as its territory.

In order to “demonstrate to the world freedom of navigation,” Teodoro said his country hopes to conduct naval activities with the three allies within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone “as often as possible.”

Beijing’s sweeping claims in the South China Sea were invalidated by a 2016 ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the anticipated defense deal between Japan and the Philippines will somehow deter China’s aggression on the sea?

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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Muntinlupa City Government receives donation of bike racks from private entities

June 4, 2024May 28, 2024carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Muntinlupa, the City Government received a donation of bike racks from the Makati Business Club (MBC) and Dow Chemical Philippines, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

The Muntinlupa City government received 25 bike racks from the Makati Business Club (MBC) and Dow Chemical Philippines.

The bike racks, produced by Envirotech Waste Recycling, are completely made from upcycled materials such as styrofoam, bubble wrap and sando bags, and non-recyclable and multi-layer packaging like sachets, candy wrappers, and foil packaging.

About 1,770 kg of plastic waste was recycled to manufacture 55 bike racks with Las Pinas as the other recipient.

Mayor Ruffy Biazon thanked the Makati Business Club and Dow Chemical Philippines for the donation, saying Muntinlupa is also advocating the use of bicycles to lessen carbon emissions as its contribution to the protection of the environment.

“MBC and Dow Chemical collaborated to turn plastic waste into bike racks because of our mutual advocacy for sustainable transport and circular economy,” said MBC chairman Edgar Chua.

“Apart from reducing plastic waste, installing secure bike parking can reduce traffic congestion and help employees bike to work, and those for whom biking is work.”

According to Dow Southeast Asia, Australia, New Zealand marketing manager Arnold Benitez, “This project reflects Dow’s commitment to sustainability and the circular economy. By transforming potential pollutants into community benefits, we are significantly reducing waste and promoting a healthier environment.”

He added, “Celebrating Dow Philippines’ 60th anniversary, our ‘Together Towards Tomorrow’ theme emphasizes our dedication to a sustainable future through collaboration and innovation. This milestone highlights our enduring commitment to the Philippines and the importance of working together to achieve our shared goals.”

The Muntinlupa City government turned over 50 kg of plastic waste to support the production of upcycled bike racks, an advocacy that was highlighted by Mayor Biazon.

“Bahagi ito ng pagsulong natin sa circular economy kung saan ang ating waste materials ay nagagamit pa rin natin for other purposes, at nababawasan ang ating pollution sa environment (This is part of our advocacy for circular economy wherein our waste materials can still be used for other purposes and it lessens pollution of the environment),” said Biazon.

The bike racks will be installed at Cupang Health Center, Poblacion Health Center, Schools Division Office, Muntinlupa Business High School, and Victoria Homes Elementary School, benefiting at least 50 cyclists at a time.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? If you are a resident of Muntinlupa City, are you concerned FLiRT variants of COVID-19 could be detected in the city soon?

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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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

Ombudsman suspends controversial Bamban mayor Alice Guo

June 4, 2024June 3, 2024carlocarrasco

Remember the raid of a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) in Bamban, Tarlac? Since that happened, the incumbent Bamban mayor Alice Guo became the subject of the senate investigation as there were documents found that linked her with the raided POGO. Now a controversial figure, Guo officially suspended by the Office of the Ombudsman for up to six months, according to a GMA Network news report. Two other local government officials were suspended as well.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from GMA news report. Some parts in boldface…

The Office of the Ombudsman has suspended Bamban, Tarlac mayor Alice Guo and two other local government officials for up to six months.

This development came after the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) filed graft complaints against Guo over her reported involvement with a raided Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) in her locality.

According to the DILG, the complaints were filed with the Office of the Ombudsman on May 24 and stemmed from the issuance of a permit to Hongsheng Gaming Technology Inc. despite the company failing to complete the requirements and having an expired license from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR).

“Given [the] respondents’ power and authority, there is a strong probability that they may influence witnesses or tamper with any evidence material to the case,” the Ombudsman said in a nine-page order.

Other than Guo, others ordered suspended were Business Permit and Licensing Officer Edwin Ocampo and Municipal Legal Officer Adenn Sigua.

On March 13, authorities raided a 10-hectare area operated by Zun Yuan Technology Inc. and found several devices said to be linked to POGO operations. Over 600 Filipinos and foreigners were rescued during the raid.

The complex was previously raided in 2023 when it was operated by Hongsheng Technology Inc., which is now being linked to Guo as she applied for the letter of no objection for the complex’s license to operate.

“The foregoing considered, this Office finds sufficient grounds to preventively suspend Alice Guo, Edwin Ocampo and Adenn Sigua considering: that, there is strong evidence showing their guilt; that the charges against them involves grave misconduct, conduct prejudicial to the best Interest of the service, and gross neglect of duty which may warrant their removal from the service,” the Ombudsman said.

“Their continued stay in office may prejudice the investigation of the case filed against them,” the Ombudsman added.

Guo, whose nationality as a Filipino is being questioned by lawmakers, was also found to be the incorporator of Baofu Land Development Inc., which owns the land where the complex — home to over 36 buildings, a swimming pool, and luxury cars — is located.

Guo has denied links to the POGO operation.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the suspension of mayor Guo will turn out helpful as the quest for answers continues? Do you think the national government will make adjustments that will restrict POGOs? Do you think mayor Guo is a spy of mainland China? Do you think that the scam hub in Parañaque is linked with the controversial Bamban POGO?

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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China tops PTS4 contest of NTT Asia Triathlon ParaTriathlon Asian Championships 2024 at Subic Bay Freeport Zone

June 3, 2024carlocarrasco

This past weekend at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Jiachao Wang of China won the gold in the men’s PTS4 contest of the NTT Asia Triathlon ParaTriathlon Asian Championships 2024, according to a sports news release published through the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the PNA sports news story. Some parts in boldface…

China’s Jiachao Wang displayed his awesome form to claim victory in the men’s PTS4 category of the 2024 NTT Asia Triathlon Para Championships in Subic Bay Freeport on Sunday.

Wang clocked one hour, 06 minutes, and 39 seconds to beat Japanese Keiya Kaneko (1:12:30) and Filipino Alex Silverio (1:15:55) in the 750m swim, 20.26km bike and 5km run event.

“I’m happy to win,” said the 32-year-old Wang, who was born and raised in Kunming, Yunnan province. He lost his left arm in an accident when he was five years old.

“This is my first time to compete here, the weather is hot and humid,” added Wang, who won medals as a swimmer in three Paralympic Games before shifting to triathlon nine years ago.

After making his debut in Athens (2004), he bagged one silver (200m individual medley) and one bronze (400m freestyle) at the 2008 Beijing Games.

Wang pocketed one gold (men’s 4x100m medley relay) and two silvers (4x100m individual medley and 4x100m freestyle relay) in London (2012).

Wang, who placed fourth at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics, has completed the World Triathlon Level 2 coach certification course in South Korea last May 23.

Silverio, who hails from Compostela town in Cebu, was satisfied with his performance.

“I did not expect a podium finish because there are many good athletes in my category. I am so happy that I was able to get a medal,” said the 34-year-old member of the Talisay Luigi Triathlon Group (TLTG) Go For Gold Philippines team.

Meanwhile, Filipino Edison Badilla (1:35:36) beat compatriot Jake Lacaba (1:41:18) in the men’s PTS2 category where they were the only entries.

Japan had the most number of gold medals at six, coming from Kimura Jumpei (men’s PTWC), Tsutomo Nagata (men’s PTS5), Satoru Yoneoka (men’s PTVI), Yukako Hata (women’s PTS2), Mami Tani (women’s PTS4), and Riyo Kogama (women’s PTS5).

The NTT Asia Triathlon ParaTriathlon Asian Championships 2024 was organized by organized by Triathlon Philippines (TriPhil) in partnership with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) with the support of Philippine Sports Commission, Pinay in Action, Asian Center for Insulation, Gatorade – the official hydration partner, Standard Insurance and Western Guaranty Inc, plus Subic Bay Travelers Hotel (hotel partner), CM Timing of Jay Cheng (timing partner) and Statmed (EMS partner).

For Philippine triathlon updates, click https://www.facebook.com/TriPhil

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Retro Gaming Ads Blast – Part 10

June 3, 2024May 16, 2024carlocarrasco

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 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 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. Double Dragon II: The Revenge print ad

*Nice looking art used to promote the game.*

The beat-them-up sub-genre of gaming was already popular in the 1980s and one of the most defining game franchises of this type of game was the Double Dragon series which proved to be popular with Nintendo Entertainment System (NES in America) and Family Computer (Famicom in Japan) gamers. As the first game was a very big hit on Nintendo’s consoles, the sequel Double Dragon II: The Revenge was promoted in America with strong confidence on the part of publisher Acclaim that it would become another massive hit. This print ad had a very nice looking comic books-style art that not only captured the concept of the game but also visualized the heroes Billy and Jimmy with enough details to focus on. I can say this was an eye-catching ad.

2. X-Men: Children of the Atom print ad

*Great looking ad but the line “100% direct conversion” is not true at all.*

Developed by Capcom in cooperation with Marvel, X-Men: Children of the Atom was a huge hit in the video arcades and it was not surprising that it got released on the Sega Saturn by Acclaim. Acclaim organized an aggressive promotional campaign by pouncing on the fans’ love and knowledge of the X-Men and the high fun factor of Capcom’s game. What this print ad got wrong, however, was the line “100% direct conversion of the #1 arcade smash!” which was wrong and misleading. In reality, the Sega Saturn version of the game had about one-third of the animation frames cut due to the console’s smaller RAM capacity.

As the years passed by, the Sega Saturn became the more suitable console for home ports of Capcom’s further 2D fighting games as Sony’s PlayStation had even more severe limitations and a graphics processor that was not suitable for 2D graphics. By the end of 2000, Capcom’s 2D fighting games on PlayStation all were inferior to the Sega Saturn versions.

3. Sky Shark NES print ad

Released in Japan as Flying Shark, Sky Shark was released on multiple platforms in 1988 and there was an NES version of it which this particular print ad promoted. The American branch of Taito wisely used positive quotes from media outlets to promote the game while coming up with an engaging text description and displayed NES screenshots. And then there was that very engaging painted cover art that gave this print ad a lot of punch. An effective ad overall.

4. Conflict print ad

*This is a very captivating artwork for advertising.*

There is no denying the fact that the Cold War was a strong influence on arcade games and video games. Titles like Contra, Jackal, Metal Gear, Operation Wolf, Cabal and Rush’n Attack were militaristic games that entertained millions of gamers from the young adults to the little children. In 1990, Vic Tokai released the game Conflict on the NES which had a military theme but an unusual game design composed of digital maps with hexagons in which gamers will play with strategy to win battles. That being said, this print ad’s visual concept was very captivating yet also misleading. If you see how the game is played, you will know what I mean.

5. College Slam print ad

*Were you ever interested in college basketball video games?*

This is one of the more eye-catching print ads I’ve seen due to the artist’s illustration of a basketball with a mouth biting the basketball rim which dominates the space. For the newcomers reading this, College Slam was a basketball video game that was actually a repacked version of the popular NBA Jam with focus on NCAA basketball players. With the biting basketball at the center, it was easily an attraction and the screenshots implemented were larger than usual which easily gave gamers a clear look at what the game looked like. While this print ad is eye-catching, it did not help sell College Slam and there never was a follow-up.

6. Tecmo Super Baseball print ad

*From the time when Tecmo was prolific with video games about sports.*

Long before it started the Dead or Alive game franchise, Tecmo was once heavily invested in making sports video games. Tecmo Super Baseball was their first American pro baseball video game released for Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) and Sega Genesis, and it was notable that the publisher secured only the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) which resulted in the game featuring real-life players but the teams had no names and no logos. Regardless, this print ad showed how aggressive Tecmo was in trying to attract consumers’ attention by showing ten screenshots with short text descriptions each. The ad’s write-up boasted realism as well as the promise of gaming quality.

7. The Punisher print ad

In the early 1990s, Capcom and Marvel Comics started their partnership resulting in the releasing of the arcade game The Punisher. Developed by Capcom, the said arcade game became a big hit with gamers as it featured fun gameplay, multiple enemies appearing on screen simultaneously and other fun elements. Unsurprisingly, the game was ported (note: Sculptured Software was the lead developer) to the Sega Genesis with significant downgrades in terms of graphics, sound, enemy variety and other related elements due to technical limitations. That being said, this print ad used detailed art of the Punisher (with Col. Fury in the background) in a clever way to promote the Sega Genesis version while keeping their attention away from the obvious visual downgrades of the two screenshots displayed. The Punisher on Genesis was poorly received.

8. Stargate print ad

*If you did not enjoy the movie, were you able to play the video game adaptation on Sega Genesis or Super NES?*

Remember the sci-fi movie Stargate (1994)? The film was a surprise box office hit and eventually video game adaptations of it were made for the SNES, Sega Genesis, Game Gear and the GameBoy. This particular print ad, however, showed screenshots of the SNES and Genesis versions which is made obvious with the side-scrolling adventure plus 3D flying sequence (one screenshot showed it). Combined with images sourced from the movie poster plus an insert of the movie in home video format (lower-right corner), this print ad was obviously an aggressive way to promote the film with the post-theatrical business in mind. In case you are wondering, the cinematic Stargate is not related at all with the early 1980s video game (a follow-up to the classic game Defender) of the same name.

9. Aerobiz Supersonic print ad

*For a simulation game released on consoles, Aerobiz Supersonic is pretty deep and a lot of fun to play.*

The airline simulation game Aerobiz Supersonic is a highly addictive and surprisingly fun game that I enjoyed playing on the SNES (read my retro review by clicking here) and strangely enough I first learned about not through its print ad but by reading a preview published by Electronic Gaming Monthly (EGM) magazine. As for this print ad made by Koei’s American team, this is really odd to look at due to the ad makers’ choice of showing a not-so-attractive flight meal. In contrast to that, the ad makers did a good job describing the game creatively and showed three screenshots that were strategically selected in my view. Having played the game many times, I can say that this print ad is very truthful.

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Housing companies in Japan seek more workers from the Philippines and other nations

June 3, 2024May 25, 2024carlocarrasco

Housing companies located in Japan are looking towards the Philippines and other countries as sources of workers that can be hired for their services in connection with the surging local demand, according to a Nikkei Asia news report.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Nikkei Asia news report. Some parts in boldface…

Companies in Japan that offer housekeeping services such as cleaning, laundry and ironing are increasingly turning to the Philippines and other places overseas as they rush to meet surging demand from time-strapped customers.

With working from home fading in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and the number of dual-income households rising, more people in the country are willing to pay for help handling chores.

Pushing to keep pace with this growing appetite for their services, housekeeping firms are accelerating their recruitment abroad — especially as relaxed immigration rules for the sector boost the appeal of hiring beyond Japan’s borders.

Indeed, Tokyo-based housekeeping service provider Bears plans to hire an extra 150 foreign workers in 2024 to bolster the 300 it already employs, with each person offered 400 hours of training.

The overseas recruitment drive comes as crushing labor shortages threaten a range of industries in Asia’s No. 3 economy and one of the world’s fastest-aging societies.

“Let’s make sure we clean windows and mirrors evenly by wiping in one direction,” an instructor said to 33-year-old Mundacruz Lizyldeci, who came to Japan from the Philippines this year, during a training session in a living room-like space at Bear’s head office. Listening to the instructions in early May with a serious look on her face, Lizyldeci said, “I will provide the high-quality services demanded by Japanese consumers.“

Bears says it plans to hire work-ready foreign housekeepers such as those licensed by the Philippine government.

Filipino workers hired through Bears’ subsidiary in the Philippines are given Japanese language and other lessons for two months before coming to Japan. They go through a two-week training program in Japan, which includes checks on their housekeeping skills. They are paid and assessed on the same basis as Japanese workers, with help available in Tagalog.

Housekeeping services by foreign nationals without permanent residence status began in areas designated as special economic zones in 2017. The government in 2020 extended the time such people are permitted to stay in the country to five years from three, while offering an additional three-year extension in 2023 for those who meet certain conditions.

In Japan, dual-income households began to outnumber those with stay-at-home housewives in 1992. The amount of two-paycheck families had increased to nearly 13 million by 2023, a roughly 40% rise over three decades, according to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications.

Japan’s market for housekeeping services had grown to a value of 80.7 billion yen ($516 million) by fiscal 2021, more than doubling from five years earlier, according to the latest survey by Teikoku Databank. But in the research company’s 2023 consumer survey, only 1.8% of some 2,200 respondents in their 20s to 40s said they used housekeeping services. “I know of such services but have never used them” was the reply chosen by nearly 76%.

Nevertheless, potential demand for housekeeping services appears strong as roughly half of households in the survey considered home chores a burden. To convert potential demand into actual demand, fair prices for the services, as well as their quality and safety, need to be ensured.

Another driver for the rising demand is a shift from from the days of the COVID pandemic, when many people worked online from home. More employers are now telling their staff to come into the office.

A 35-year-old woman who has a job at a major financial institution in Tokyo often worked from home during the pandemic. But after restarting commuting to the office, she began using major housekeeping service provider CaSy’s so-called matching service from last November.

“I use ironing and laundry services once every two weeks,” she said. “I didn’t have much time to spare due to lots of overtime work. I can now go out on weekends.“

CaSy has some 170,000 registered customers and 15,000 housekeepers. The matching service introduces housekeepers to customers depending on the chores they need handling. But given frequent mismatches between customers and housekeepers over dates and places of work, CaSy created a program in February to complement orders, when necessary, with other housekeeping service providers. It has so far tied up with 15 companies for the program and hopes to increase the number to 100 in three years.

Before the registration of housekeepers, CaSy screens applicants’ records, including for any criminal convictions, through identity verification company Trustdock. While providing a sense of reassurance to customers, CaSy has set clear criteria for housekeepers about when and how to exit from customers’ homes to protect housekeepers from possible harassment by clients. “We must settle security-related problems while nurturing professional housekeepers,” said Yuki Shirasaka, a CaSy director.

The financial burden on customers is a major barrier to an increase in the use of housekeeping services. In France and Germany where over 10% of people use such services, financial support such as tax breaks are available to customers. Japan’s government will begin an experiment, possibly later in May, to provide subsidies to cover some costs when small and mid-size companies offer home services as a benefit for their employees.

Minimaid Service, which started housekeeping services for wealthy households back in 1983, is expanding its customer base by holding fees in check. A swift, inexpensive service introduced by Minimaid has helped stoke a threefold increase in the number of times its services have been used over the past five years. The company plans to increase its employee numbers by around 50% in two to three years.

Housekeeping services are roughly divided into three business models: the employment of housekeepers as staff, which prioritizes the quality of services through education; matching between customers and housekeepers commissioned by service providers; and websites for matching between customers and housekeepers on a person-to-person basis. Fees vary greatly.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you know anyone in your local community who is willing to work in Japan as housekeeping worker? Do you think the hiring of many Filipino workers by Japanese housekeeping companies will be economically beneficial for their families and the national economy in the long run?

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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Muntinlupa City Government to give free school supplies and sneakers to almost 100,000 students

June 2, 2024June 2, 2024carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Muntinlupa, the City Government announced that free school supplies and sneakers will be given to around 100,000 students (from daycare to Grade 12) in accordance to the ongoing local program, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon announced that public school students from daycare to Grade 12 will receive free school supplies and sneakers under the Balik Eskwela Package program in time for the opening of classes in July.

The free school supplies and shoes will benefit 98,000 students in Early Childhood Education (ECED), Kindergarten, Grades 1 to 6, and junior and senior high school in Muntinlupa.

“We are committed to supporting our students and ensuring they have the resources they need to succeed. By providing these high-quality sneakers and school supplies, we aim to ease the financial burden on families and boost student morale,” said Biazon.

For ECED students, they will receive a backpack, two notebooks, crayons, tumbler, two pencils and pad paper.

For Kindergarten, each will get a backpack, jumbo crayons, pencil sharpener, two jumbo pencils, pad paper, eight notebooks and a pair of MunWalk rubber shoes.

Students in Grades 1 to 6 will each receive a backpack, eight notebooks, three ballpens, pad paper, crayons and a pair of MunWalk rubber shoes.

Those in Grades 7 to 12 will get a backpack, spiral notebooks (eight in junior high school and 10 in senior high school), a pair of MunWalk rubber shoes and three ballpens.

Last school year, the Muntinlupa city government provided students with black leather shoes and school supplies.

Biazon explained that the switch to sneakers this year was made because many students still have usable leather shoes from last year and parents requested rubber shoes that may be used for physical education classes.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? If you are a resident of Muntinlupa City, do you find the new batch of free supplies for students sensible and useful?

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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Have you been playing Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes?

May 31, 2024May 31, 2024carlocarrasco

Welcome back Xbox fans, geeks and gamers! It has been over a month since Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes was launched on multiple platforms worldwide and like many other gamers who are currently subscribed to Xbox Game Pass (XGP), I downloaded it and played it a lot although there were a some technical setbacks that happened along the way.

For the newcomers reading this, Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is a brand new and stylized turn-based Japanese role-playing game (JRPG) developed by Rabbit & Bear studio which was led by the late Yoshitaka Murayama and involved the talents of notable creators who collectively worked on Konami’s Suikoden RPG series.

*In-game world exploration is done with a 3D polygonal environment and your character is a 2D sprite.*

*A battle against a very large monster.*

Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is a fantasy role-playing game that has a lot in common with the first two Suikoden RPGs in terms of fantasy concepts, gameplay, game design, mini-games, and the recruiting of many characters. Having finished Suikoden and Suikoden II on the PlayStation myself, I can clearly say that this new JRPG is technically a Suikoden game without the name.

As of this writing, I played Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes for over 80 hours on my Xbox Series X console. While I am at the point of moving the story forward leading the army (led by the playable protagonist Nowa) in the struggle against the empire led by Dux Aldric (who reminds me a lot of Suikoden II’s Luca Blight), I have decided to focus first on side quests, resource collecting, the mini-games and recruiting more characters. This RPG was designed to allow players to have sufficient freedom to take on side activities on the side and explore the world for recruits and resources.

*The cooking contest functions very much look those in Suikoden II.*

*Somehow General Elektra reminds me of Valeria in the first two Suikoden games.*

While this is not a game review, I can say that I am enjoying Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes with the way it was designed, how the story was written (lots of intrigue related to the in-game geopolitics which are balanced with fantasy quests), how the characters were presented and the assorted variety of gameplay content. It has been almost three years since this game (along with Rising) was first announced for Xbox Game Pass (click here and here) and considering the fun I had already, I can say the wait was worth it. The mini-games are, for the most part, fun to do and you can watch the short video clips from my progress in the game.

There were some technical setbacks along the way. Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes did not run properly on my Xbox Series X resulting in the game crashing and even sudden console shutdowns. I got these console readings of “overheating” and “insufficient ventilation” with the game and these incidents happened only with it. As such, I had to open my Xbox, cleaned up the interior and removed as much dust as I could. Since then, the game developers patched the game but still it pushed my Xbox so hard, game crashing and sudden shutdowns still occurred from time to time. I also noticed there are certain locations within the game that resulted in the sudden acceleration of the Xbox Series X internal fan. Very clearly Rabbit & Bear’s technical support team still has a lot of work to do to meet customer satisfaction.

*Each time you successfully recruit a new character, you will see this quick and flashy visual presentation.*

Along the way, I observed that other games such as Resident Evil 4 remake, Shadow of the Tomb Raider, Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla, and the most recent release Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II respectively pushed my Xbox Series X to perform hard (with the internal fan run fast) but there were no game crashes and no sudden shutdowns at all. Only Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes resulted in “overheating” and “insufficient ventilation” readings and disruptions.

Considering the hassles, I managed to get the fun and discoveries with Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes on my Xbox. Here is hoping that the game developer will soon release another patch for Xbox Series X to make the game run well while consuming less power somehow. Given the fantastic presentation of the game, technical disruptions on Xbox Series X should not have happened at all.

*There is so much to explore and discover in this game!*

So what are you waiting for? If you are already a subscriber to Xbox Game Pass, you can download Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes on your Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, or the aging Xbox One. If you have extra money and want to support Rabbit & Bear studio, buying the digital copy of the game is the recommended option. For more information about the Suikoden-inspired JRPG, visit https://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/eiyuden-chronicle

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