It’s been months since the last time I wrote about the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises act otherwise referred to as the CREATE Law. For the newcomers reading this, the CREATE Law was designed to cut down corporate income tax which should lead to the creation of new jobs and the attraction of investment in mind. The said law is really crucial in this COVID-19 crisis we are all still living with.
Recently, the Philippine News Agency (PNA) published an article stating that a huge rise of foreign direct investments (FDIs) in the country was realized this past April and the CREATE Law was one of the factors behind it.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the PNA article. Some parts in boldface…
An economist has attributed the rise of foreign direct investments (FDIs) in the country in April 2021 to the implementation of the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) law and the opening of the economy.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on Monday reported the 114.4-percent year-on-year jump of net FDI inflows to USD679 million last April from USD317 million in the same period last year.
In a report, Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) chief economist Michael Ricafort said lower interest rates and lower cost of some inputs like real estate property and leases are plus factors that enticed higher FDIs.
“Some foreign investors may have started to come in view of the progress made on the CREATE law, which was finally signed on March 26, 2021 and reduces corporate income tax rates to 25 percent for large corporations (from 30 percent) retroactive July 1, 2020, thereby narrowing the gap with the tax rates in other Asean/Asian countries, and also provides greater certainty on investment incentives, thereby helping attract more FDIs and making some foreign investors on the sidelines in recent months/years to become more decisive and finally bring in more FDIs into the country,” he said.
Ricafort said positive credit rating actions on the Philippines, which even got its first-ever A-level credit rating, A-, from the Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) in June 2020, also boosted investors’ sentiment on the domestic economy.
The positive credit rating actions, he said, “reflect improved international investor confidence in the country, manifesting the country’s improved economic fundamentals, as well as the country’s attractive demographics.”
These factors are, however, expected to be countered by the still high number of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) cases, aggravated by new variants that are reported to be more contagious.
Ricafort believes that higher government spending, especially on infrastructure, and the accommodative monetary policy by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) are seen to further support the rise in net FDIs.
The above article is indeed filled with good news that our nation badly needs, especially since there are still many millions more people around the country who have yet to get vaccinated and the fact that lots of businesses are still struggling. In recent times, patients under the A4 category have been gradually vaccinated for COVID-19 and that is a very good thing because it under that very category where the nation’s laborers are listed. There are still lots of unemployed workers out there who badly need vaccines and jobs, and it does not help that certain local government units (LGUs) had to temporarily suspend their local vaccination operations due to a lack of supply of vaccines. There are supposed to be around 13 million doses of vaccines to come into the Philippines this month, and so far some of that have arrived (click here, here and here).
More on economics, apart from the rise of FDIs last April, it was reported that the local demand for office space nationwide grew by 38% rising from 122,000 square meters (sqm) in the first quarter of 2021 to 169,00 sqm. in the second quarter. It was described to be the strongest office demand since the start of the pandemic.
Let me end this piece by asking you readers: Does the recent news about the sharp rise of FDIs in our country make you confident about your economic prospects? How much do you know about the CREATE Law and what further positive effects it can generate for the country? If you have been unemployed, how long have you been out of work?
Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com
Yesterday the first dose vaccination officially resumed in Muntinlupa City as a result of the new supply of vaccines that the City Government received.
The Muntinlupa City COVID-19 Vaccination Program (MunCoVac) has announced the resumption of 1st dose vaccination in the city’s vaccination sites after the City Health Office received new supply of Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccines from the national government.
“Natanggap ng Pamahalaang Lungsod, sa pamamagitan ng City Health Office, ang 22,780 doses ng ASTRAZENECA vaccine. Dahil dito, magbabakuna muli ng FIRST DOSE simula ngayong araw, July 13,” MunCoVac posted in its Facebook page.
First dose vaccination using AstraZeneca vaccines will commence at the following sites: Sucat Covered Court, New Cupang Health Center, Biazon Covered Court in NHA-Southville 3, De La Salle Santiago Zobel School (No Walk-in), Festival Mall Upper Ground Floor Parking (July 13 only), and SM Center Muntinlupa (July 13 only).
Further, the second dose vaccination of Pfizer-BioNTech recipients will continue in SM Center Muntinlupa, Ayala Malls South Park, and Festival UG Floor Parking with adjusted schedules. Second dose recipients of Pfizer-BioNTech are advised to follow their updated schedules and instructions indicated in the text message from MunCoVac.
Earlier, the City Government has announced the suspension of 2nd dose vaccination using Sinovac Life Sciences’ CoronaVac vaccine due to the limited new supply. The City Government made the decision following the issuance of National Task Force Against COVID-19 Advisory No. 62 regarding the delay in the arrival of new Sinovac vaccines in the country.
MunCoVac further explained that as per NTF Advisory No. 62, DOH All Experts Group on Vaccines assures that prolonging the interval period between the first and second dose for three (3) to six (6) months is acceptable if delivery of COVID-19 vaccines is affected by the global vaccine supply.
As of July 12, there are 223,436 vaccines deployed in Muntinlupa, of which 152,900 are first dose (39.6% of the target) and 70,536 are second dose. While, there are 282,726 registered individuals in MunCoVac, translating to 73.3% of the target population to be vaccinated.
Muntinlupa targets to inoculate 385,725 residents which is 70% of 551,036, the city’s estimated population for 2020.
The above information was sourced from the official press release of the Muntinlupa PIO. Some parts were changed for this website.
Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me 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, 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
You heard about the Safety Seal that has been posted on offices and establishments that met the criteria for approval and certification? For the newcomers reading this, the Safety Seal is an indication that the establishment is compliant in terms of the standard safety protocols, including the use of StaySafe.ph app. In recent times, offices at Las Piñas City Hall, the Alabang Town Center (ATC) in Muntinlupa and SM Southmall in Las Piñas were certified safe and respectively each had Safety Seals posted. This is all related to the current pandemic caused by COVID-19.
Over at City Hall (specifically at the Legislative building) in Parañaque City, the Office of the Vice Mayor obtained the Safety Seal as revealed in the July 12, 2021 picture post of the official Facebook page titled Rico Golez. As seen in the picture below, Vice Mayor Rico Golez was present with officials of the local DILG (Department of the Interior and Local Government), the BFP (Bureau of Fire Protection) and the PNP (Philippine National Police) when the Safety Seal was formally posted at the office. This means that it is safe for taxpayers, local residents, senior citizens and other guests to visit the Office of the Vice Mayor for their respective needs and appointments.
Parañaque City Vice Mayor Rico Golez (2nd from right) and officials of DILG, PNP and BFP show the Safety Seal posted at the front door of the Office of the Vice Mayor. (source – Rico Golez Facebook page)
The FB post has text addressed to readers written as follows:
Today, Dilg Parañaque BFP and PNP gave the office of the Vice Mayor a SAFETY SEAL…
This was obtained by the office for following all health protocols…
I was especially happy to learn that we were one of the first offices in the city hall to be awarded a SEAL…
Thank you very much and we will all stay safe.
As for the newly posted Safety Seal at the Office of the Vice Mayor, it is written as valid until January 5, 2022. The safety seal number is listed as NCR-2021-0001806.
Let me end this piece by asking you readers: With this latest development, do you residents of Parañaque feel more confident about visiting the Vice Mayor’s office? If yes, how about visiting the other offices of City Hall that have the Safety Seal posted?
Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me 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, 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
The crime wave involving illegal substances continued in Parañaque City (for past reports click here, here, here, here and here) as the Manila Bulletin recently reported the successful buy-bust operation of the local police, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) which resulted the confiscation of more than P3 million worth of illegal drugs and the arrest of one suspect.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Manila Bulletin news report. Some parts in boldface…
A drug suspect was arrested in possession of P3.4 million worth of shabu (methamphetamine hydrochloride) during a buy-bust operation by combined operatives from the Parañaque police, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Saturday.
Southern Police District (SPD) Director Brig. Gen. Jimili Macaraeg commended the operatives for the arrest of suspect Nabel Sarip, 23, a resident of Parañaque.
Macaraeg said the suspect was arrested at about 3:10 p.m. in front of Raf Mansion Hotel on Service Road, Roxas Boulevard in Baclaran.
Sarip was placed under surveillance by the police after receiving several complaints on the illegal activities of the suspect.
A policeman who acted as a poseur-buyer was able to buy shabu from the suspect leading to his arrest.
Police were able to confiscate from the suspect about 500 grams of shabu placed inside two plastic bags and estimated to be worth P3.4 million.
Macaraeg said the confiscated shabu was brought to the SPD Crime Laboratory for chemical analysis.
Police filed charges of violation of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act of 2002, before the Parañaque Prosecutor’s Office against Sarip, who is now detained at the police custodial facility.
Below is a related news video by ABS-CBN…
Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are resident of Parañaque City, are you tired about your city being a hot spot for crimes related to illegal drugs? What do you think makes Parañaque an attractive place for drug pushers/smugglers/mules/traders?
Do you believe it is time for the City Government of Parañaque to become more active in making the city free of illegal drugs?
When you hear the words Parañaque Renaissance, does crime become the first thing to enter in your mind?
Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me 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, 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
Very recently, the Manila Bulletin reported that the vaccination of minors (individuals aged 17 and below) is not yet officially allowed by the City Government of Muntinlupa. The City Government had to make a statement as rumors were rife that minors can be vaccinated.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Manila Bulletin report. Some parts in boldface…
Minors, or those 17 years old and below, are not yet allowed to be vaccinated, government officials said.
This was the clarification made by the Muntinlupa City government on rumors spreading that those below 18 years old can now get their vaccine shot.
It said this is based on an advisory issued on July 11 by the National COVID-19 Vaccination Operations Center.
Advisory 65-A, signed by Health Usec. Myrna Cabotaje, stated that “as of July 11, 2021, pediatric/adolescent (17 years old and below) vaccination is not yet allowed.”
“The vaccination rollout will still focus on the eligible population (18 years old and above) under Priority Groups Al, A2. A3, and in some areas, including Priority Groups A4 and A5, as stipulated in the National Vaccine Deployment and Vaccination Plan (NDVP),” the advisory added.
“As of now, they cannot be allowed at vaccination sites as rumored. As per the National Vaccination Deployment Plan, we will still focus on the eligible population of 18 years old and above in the priority groups,” said Muntinlupa City Health Officer Dr. Juancho Bunyi.
As of July 9, 218,064 doses of the vaccines have been administered in Muntinlupa. Of the total, 152,900 individuals received their first dose, or 39.6 percent of the target population of 385,725.
Of the 152,900 first dose recipients, 10,928 are A1 (health workers), 19,319 are A2 (senior citizens), 64,975 are A3 (persons with comorbidities), 49,396 are A4 (essential workers) and 8,282 are A5 (poor population).
In addition, 65,164 individuals received their second dose, or 16.9 percent of the target population.
For Muntinlupa City residents who have not yet registered for the free COVID-19 vaccines, learn the ways to get registered right here. If you are ready to register yourself online, click https://vaccine.muntinlupacity.gov.ph/muncovac/
Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a parent of a minor living in Muntinlupa City, are you comfortable with the idea of having your child vaccinated? Do you believe it is time for the national authorities to make clear its stand on the issue of having minors vaccinated for COVID-19?
Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me 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, 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
Welcome back, my readers and fellow Christians! In this newest edition of my Christian Music Appreciation (CMA) series, we will focus on the worship song titled Mercy on Display written by Darlene Zschech and performed by the music team of Hope Unlimited Church (HopeUC).
For the newcomers reading this, HopeUC is a Christian church founded in Australia. As of this writing, it is led by Pastor Darlene Zschech and her husband Mark. According the church’s website: Ps Mark and Darlene have a strong passion for the local church that exists to see the hope of Jesus Christ reside in every heart, across the Central Coast, Hunter Region and throughout the world.
Their desire is to see people living life out of the power that God intended for each and every one of us. Healing, wholeness and victory.
They believe in, and strongly support, mission works around the world and helping the poor by using what we have in our hands to make and be the change in this world.
They believe that the Church should be a people of faith and worship, who put God at the centre of their lives and that His Word is dependable and true for living successfully everyday, in every relationship, and situation.
Going back to the worship song, HopeUC premiered the official music video of Mercy on Display on their YouTube channel on April 14, 2021.
Before analyzing the Biblical relevance of the song, posted below for your reference are the lyrics of Mercy on Display.
Verse 1
I see the cross of Calvary
I see the pain you bore for me,
Your mercy on display for all to see
–
Verse 2
The earth grew dark and held its breath
As victory over hell and death was
Finished in Your perfect sacrifice
–
Chorus 1
The cross has made the way for us
So we can come and call upon Your name (Jesus)
And now oh death, you’ve lost your sting
As love has triumphed over sin & grave
–
Verse 3
For nothing now shall separate us
From Your love and from Your presence
Forever at the table of the Lord
–
Verse 4
Where everyone is welcome here
The veil is torn, the battle has been won
We worship You our God
–
Chorus 2
You Washed me clean as white as snow
I stand in awe, Your love won’t let me go, Jesus
I’ll Praise You now and evermore
You raised me up, Forever I am Yours
–
Bridge
You rewrote my story
I will ever praise Your name
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
–
I am crowned with blessing
I will always sing Your praise
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
–
For analysis, let’s start with Verse 1’s lyrics – I see the cross of Calvary, I see the pain you bore for me, Your mercy on display for all to see. Calvary is the place where Lord Jesus got crucified at along with the criminals who were present with Him. For greater perspective and clarity, read the scripture below…
And when they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him, and the criminals, one on the right hand and the other on the left.
Luke 23:33 (NKJV)
It should be noted that Calvary is derived from the Latin term calvaria which means “a skull.” The Passion Translation of the same scripture is read as follows…
When they came to the place that is known as The Skull, the guards crucified Jesus, nailing him on the center cross between the two criminals.
Luke 23:33 (TPT)
As Lord Jesus got crucified, He endured tremendous pain and He also paid for humanity’s sins. It was also there at Calvary where His cross was set up in full view of the people. At His cross, Lord Jesus told the Heavenly Father to forgive the people (grant them mercy). Refer to the scripture below in New King James Version and The Passion Translation…
Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.”
And they divided His garments and cast lots.
Luke 23:34 (NKJV)
While they were nailing Jesus to the cross, he prayed over and over, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they’re doing.”
The soldiers, after they crucified him, gambled over his clothing.
Luke 23:34 (TPT)
With the above scriptures, it is clear that Verse 1 of the song is indeed biblically relevant in reference to the crucifixion (Lord Jesus’ paying the price for our sins) and the mercy from God (as Lord Jesus reached out to Him to forgive the people).
Moving on, Verse 2’s lyrics are as follows – The earth grew dark and held its breath, As victory over hell and death was, Finished in Your perfect sacrifice. Personally, I strongly believe that Verse 2 is directly related to the holy scripture below…
Now it was about the sixth hour, and there was darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour. Then the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was torn in two. And when Jesus had cried out with a loud voice, He said, “Father, ‘into Your hands I commit My spirit.’ ” Having said this, He breathed His last.
So when the centurion saw what had happened, he glorified God, saying, “Certainly this was a righteous Man!”
Luke 23:44-47 (NKJV)
In the above scripture, the sacrifice of Lord Jesus was completed and the victory was realized not only for that point of time but for all time which paved the way for further generations of people to find Him and decide to repent to Him, submit to Him, become faithful to Him and receive salvation. The Roman centurion who witnessed His death realized that He was God, worshiped (refer to New Living Translation) and glorified (refer to the Passion Translation) Him. As we all know, Lord Jesus returned from the dead days later.
Moving on are the lyrics from Chorus 1 – The cross has made the way for us, So we can come and call upon Your name (Jesus), And now oh death, you’ve lost your sting, As love has triumphed over sin & grave. Those words remind me that not only is our Lord our source and salvation, He is also our protector and healer which in turn should remind all of you to come to Him. In any time of darkness or trouble, the Lord is our light and we need to come to Him and be faithful to Him. Learn more about coming to Him and reaching out to Him by calling His name wholeheartedly from the scriptures below.
God, hear my prayer. Listen to my heart’s cry.
For no matter where I am, even when I’m far from home,
I will cry out to you for a father’s help.
When I’m feeble and overwhelmed by life,
guide me into your glory, where I am safe and sheltered.
Lord, you are a paradise of protection to me.
You lift me high above the fray.
None of my foes can touch me
when I’m held firmly in your wraparound presence!
Keep me in this glory.
Let me live continually under your splendor-shadow,
hiding my life in you forever.
Psalm 61:1-4 (TPT)
And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.
Acts 22:16 (NKJV)
in writing you this letter addressed to the community of God throughout the city of Corinth. For you have been made pure, set apart in the Anointed One, Jesus. And God has invited you to be his devoted and holy people, and not only you, but everyone everywhere who calls on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ as their Lord, and ours also.
1 Corinthians 1:2 (TPT)
Lord Jesus, who overcame death, is truly the ultimate and definitive savior, and anyone who seeks salvation only need to reach out to Him and be faithful to Him. The above scriptures clearly reflect that and the lyrics in Chorus 1 of the song Mercy on Display are indeed holy. You want mercy from high above? Come to the Lord and get born again (read the words of Lord Jesus in John 3:3).
Movie forward, here are the lyrics in the Bridge – You rewrote my story, I will ever praise Your name, Hallelujah, Hallelujah, I am crowned with blessing, I will always sing Your praise, Hallelujah, Hallelujah. These words are a lively reminder that once you get born again and accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you become a new creation. You also become a child of God, one who is faithful to Him, who follows His Word (the Holy Bible which is the ultimate written authority) and preach His Word to the rest of the world. It is also true that each of us has been created by God to worship Him, His Son Jesus and the Holy Spirit eternally. Learn from the holy scriptures below.
Now, if anyone is enfolded into Christ, he has become an entirely new person. All that is related to the old order has vanished. Behold, everything is fresh and new.
2 Corinthians 5:17 (TPT)
But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.
1 Peter 2:9-10 (NKJV)
Come and kneel before this Creator-God;
come and bow before the mighty God, our majestic maker!
Psalm 95:6 (TPT)
Everyone praise the Lord God of Israel, always and forever!
For he is from eternity past
and will remain for the eternity to come.
That’s the way it will be forever.
Faithful is our King! Amen!
Psalm 41:13 (TPT)
Indeed, the lyrics analyzed confirm that HopeUC’s song Mercy on Displayis holy. Mercy from the Lord is true and anyone who repents and submits to Him will gain it and move forward with the new life dedicated and filled with faith in Him. Musically, Mercy on Display is beautiful to listen to and it is a suitable song to be played at church during Sunday worship services or during church special events whenever there is a need to play something smoother or more solemn to the church attendees. Lastly, I can say that Mercy on Display was written to help deepen a person’s faith in the Lord.
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. Sharing this Christian piece means spreading the good news of the Lord to others. It can help you save the unsaved and the lost souls out there.
As of this writing, there is no suggested retail price yet. Still, here are the product descriptions and specs from Blu-ray.com’s articles about The Thing 4K Blu-ray. Some parts in boldface…
SPECS
Video
Codec: HEVC / H.265
Resolution: Native 4K (2160p)
HDR: HDR10
Aspect ratio: 2.35:1
Original aspect ratio: 2.39:1
Audio
English: DTS:X
English: DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1
Subtitles
English, English SDH, French, Spanish
Discs
4K Ultra HD
Blu-ray Disc
Two-disc set (1 BD-100, 1 BD-50)
Digital
Digital 4K
Digital copy included
Playback
4K Blu-ray: Region free
2K Blu-ray: Region A
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
DISC ONE – 4K BLU-RAY
4K RESTORATION OF THE FILM FROM THE ORIGINAL CAMERA NEGATIVE
HDR PRESENTATION OF THE FILM
DTS:X AUDIO TRACK
Audio Commentary with Director John Carpenter and Kurt Russell
John Carpenter’s The Thing: Terror Takes Shape
Outtakes
Theatrical Trailer
Optional English SDH, Spanish, and French subtitles for the main feature
DISC TWO – BLU-RAY
Main feature
Audio Commentary with Director John Carpenter and Kurt Russell
U-Control: Picture in Picture
Optional English SDH, Spanish, and French subtitles for the main feature
For those who are not too aware about this old sci-fi horror movie, The Thing tells the story of an American research team stationed in Antarctica whose lives turn upside-down after a sled dog comes to them after being hunted by a helicopter from the Norwegian research team.
Historically speaking, The Thing was released in cinemas in the United States just two weeks after Steven Spielberg’s E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. The Carpenter-directed space alien monster film was trashed by movie critics of the time and in the American box office, Spielberg’s movie about a friendly alien creature from outer space was simply unbeatable. As time passed by, The Thing found its audience on TV and home video and its critical reception turned from negative to positive overall. In the awards circuit, The Thing was nominated for Best Horror Film and Best Special Effects (credit to Rob Bottin who went on to work on effects for RoboCop and Total Recall) in the 10th annual Saturn Awards given by the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror Films. Fans of actor Keith David will want to see his performance in this particular film. David also went on to work again with John Carpenter years later.
To get to know more about John Carpenter’s The Thing through trivia, watch the video posted below from Minty Comedic Arts. Be warned of potential spoilers…
Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com
To put things in perspective about the Israel-Philippines exchange of scientists, posted below is an excerpt from the PNA article. Some parts in boldface…
Israel and the Philippines will be sending scientists to each other’s countries as part of capacity building and trainings, an official of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) said on Tuesday.
“The specifics such as the number of the experts, duration and date of the visit will still have to be further discussed. While we want to proceed with the activity as soon as possible, we also need to consider the current situation, including travel advisories both in the Philippines and Israel,” DOST Assistant Secretary for International Cooperation Leah Buendia told the Philippine News Agency.
She said the Filipino experts going to Israel will be trained on drip irrigation, medicinal chemistry, Israel’s drug discovery, and artificial intelligence (AI).
On the other hand, the Israeli scientists going to the Philippines will meet with Filipino researchers.
“One of the agreements during the (Philippines-Israel joint committee meeting on science and technology) is to conduct a workshop which will serve as a platform for Filipino and Israeli experts to discuss their works, and identify potential collaboration. During the meeting, our Israeli counterparts said that they want to visit the Philippines,” she said.
DOST Secretary Fortunato de la Peña said the meeting with Israel’s Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) chief scientist, Avi Domb, and other officials of both agencies was held virtually last June 30.
He said they talked about the potential joint initiatives to be implemented on the identified priority areas that include agriculture (water management); AI (robotics); and health (biomedical engineering and drug discovery).
The discussed priorities were guided by the memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Scientific Cooperation signed by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte during his official visit to Israel in 2018, he added.
“Israel is a valuable partner for us. It is part of our 20 priority partners for STI (science, technology, innovation) international cooperation, recognizing their strengths in STI and considering the pronouncements of engaging with non-traditional partners,” Buendia said.
She added that the DOST officials are happy that they finally had the meeting to lay out their plans for the collaboration.
De la Peña earlier reported that capacity building activities include scholarships, visiting professors, and trainings.
The conduct of joint conferences to discuss the respective researches and projects of experts shall also be expected, eyeing the development of AI applications for government/public service and emergency response, among others.
And here are some videos to help you know Israel better…
The latest exchange between Israel and the Philippines regarding scientists is a reflection of the stronger ties between the two nations. We Filipinos should be grateful to the State of Israel, no matter what happens and no matter who are leading as national authorities both here and there. We Filipinos can also give back by supporting Israel in more ways than one. We can pray for Israelites and provide varied support for them (note: refer to the Christians United for Israel reference near the very end of this article below) knowing that there are still terrorists (sponsored by Iran) and other forces of evil that are obsessed in destroying Israel.
Before I end this, here is a holy scripture for you all…
Now, this is what Yahweh says:
“Listen, Jacob, to the One who created you,
Israel, to the one who shaped who you are.
Do not fear,
for I, your Kinsman-Redeemer, will rescue you.
I have called you by name, and you are mine.
When you pass through the deep, stormy sea,
you can count on me to be there with you.
When you pass through raging rivers,
You will not drown.
When you walk through persecution like fiery flames,
you will not be burned;
the flames will not harm you,
for I am your Savior, Yahweh, your mighty God,
the Holy One of Israel!
I give up Egypt as the price to set you free,
Cush and Seba in exchange to bring you back.
Since you are cherished and precious in my eyes,
and because I love you dearly and want to honor you,
I willingly give up nations in exchange for you—
a man to save your life.
I am with you now, even close to you,
so never yield to fear.
I will bring your children from the east;
from the west I will gather you.
I will say to the north, ‘Hand them over!’
and to the south, ‘Don’t hold them back!’
Bring me my sons from far away,
my daughters from the ends of the earth!
Bring me everyone who is called by my name,
the ones I created to experience my glory.
I myself formed them to be who they are
and made them for my glory.”
Isaiah 43:1-7 (TPT)
If you truly believe in Lord Jesus, the Holy Spirit and God the Heavenly Father wholeheartedly and you continue to be faithful (not religious), you should be aware that Christians are meant to stand united with Israel, love the Jewish people and pray for the peace of Jerusalem. You can do your part supporting Israel by donating to Christians United for Israel (CUFI). Do not forget to read the Holy Bible, then pray in tongues to the Lord in the privacy of your room with the door shut.
Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me 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, 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
The Department of Trade and Industry – National Capital Region Office has turned over Carinderia Kits to food retailers and other micro-entrepreneurs in Muntinlupa, dubbed as “Muntipreneurs,” in a bid to help them recover and improve their businesses amid the pandemic.
DTI-NCRO Regional Director Marcelina Alcantara, Mayor Jaime Fresnedi, and Congressman Ruffy Biazon led the Awarding Ceremony of Carinderia Kits worth P8,000 each to seventyfive beneficiaries of the Livelihood Seeding Program – Negosyo Serbisyo sa Barangay (LSP-NSB) at Muntinlupa Sports Complex, Brgy. Tunasan last July 7.
City Government officials led by Mayor Jaime Fresnedi and the 75 Muntipreneurs. (source – Muntinlupa PIO)
The LSP-NSB is a program of DTI that allows a wider reach of business development assistance by bringing government services closer to the people through partnerships between relevant local government units and DTI officials.
The program aims to provide individual package of livelihood kits that contains items that could aid in the recovery of affected individuals during catastrophic events including health disasters like epidemics and pandemics.
Other services offered by the LSP-NSB include business registration assistance, SME counseling, product development, financing facilitation, market/business matching, trade promotion, investment promotion, business information and advocacy, trainings, seminars, and workshops, among others. LSP-NSB beneficiaries will undergo monitoring and evaluation to ensure the growth of their businesses.
Other officials attending the program include LSP-NSB National Program Manager Asec. Dominic Tolentino, Muntinlupa Local Economic and Investment Promotions Department chief Gary Llamas, and City Administrator Allan Cachuela.
Mayor Jaime Fresnedi extended his thanks to DTI-NCR for providing assistance to local entrepreneurs. He hoped that programs for micro-entrepreneurs in the city will help revive the stalled local economy due to the COVID-19 pandemic. During the program, DTI-NCRO officials also conferred the Certificate of Recognition for being Rank 1 in the Resilience category (HUCs) of the recent Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index to Mayor Fresnedi.
Mayor Jaime Fresnedi (3rd from right) receives the Resilience Award from DTI-NCRO. Also present was Congressman Ruffy Biazon and other local officials. (source – Muntinlupa PIO)
For inquiries and other information, interested micro entrepreneurs may contact the local Negosyo Center at Plaza Central, Brgy. Poblacion at 0917 5120269 and look for Ms. Bea Trozado.
In a similar program, the City Government of Muntinlupa also provides financing assistance to micro-entrepreneurs and MSMEs through Tulong Negosyo Program’s zero-interest loans (formerly Dagdag Puhunan). Muntinlupa is the first LGU to introduce the micro-financing program.
Tulong Negosyo caters to MSMEs and provides micro-finance assistance ranging from P2,000 up to P150,000 depending on the business capital ceiling and payment record of beneficiaries. The program aims to provide additional capital for business expansion for aspiring and established business owners in Muntinlupa.
For more information, visit the Joint Resources Financing Program – JRF Facebook Page or visit them at 2F Plaza Central, Brgy. Poblacion with contact numbers 8772-3457and (0921) 888 6124.
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The above information was sourced from the official press release of the Muntinlupa PIO. Some parts were changed for this website.
Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me 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, 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
The Manila Bulletin reported that on July 6, 2021 (Tuesday), local police officers successfully seized P1.3 million worth of illegal substances and apprehended two persons as suspects as a result of buy-bust operation that took place in Barangay San Isidro, Parañaque City. This is the 2nd straight illegal drugs-related crime report about Parañaque following the drugs-in-DVD-cases report.
To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the Manila Bulletin report. Some parts in boldface…
Southern Police District (SPD) operatives arrested two drug suspects on Tuesday in Paranaque City and confiscated from them P1.3 million worth of shabu.
SPD Director Brig. Gen. Jimili Macaraeg, citing a report by city police chief Col. Maximo Sebastian, said the arrests were made during a buy-bust operation along San Juan Miguel St., San Antonio, Valley 6, Barangay San Isidro, Paranaque City on Tuesday.
The arrested suspects were identified as Myrna Sobinsky, 47, and Marjun Estolonio, 30, both residents of Paranaque City.
The police said the suspects were placed under surveillance by members of the Station Drug Enforcement Unit (SDEU) after receiving reports on their illegal drug activities.
Members of the SDEU immediately conducted a buy-bust operation and were able to confiscate from the suspects four pieces of medium heat sealed transparent sachet containing about 200 grams of shabu worth P1.3-million.
And now here is the related news video by GMA Network…
Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are living in Parañaque City, do you believe that the local police officers and barangay tanods are doing enough to protect your local community from criminals? Who do you think is the mastermind behind the presence of illegal drugs in Parañaque City?
Did someone promise you that Parañaque City would be a drug-free or crime-free city soon? Do you believe in the so-called Parañaque Renaissance?
Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me 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, 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
Author Carlo Carrasco 