Tag: COVID-19 Crisis

Philippine economy grew 7.6% in the 3rd quarter

Philippine economy grew 7.6% in the 3rd quarter

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You may not feel it but the economy of the Philippines grew by 7.6% in the 3rd quarter this year according to the recent announcement published by the Philippine News Agency (PNA). This is very encouraging news following the recent report of the falling unemployment in the country. Indeed, the nation continues to rise after suffering from the COVID-19 crisis’ downturn.

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

The Philippine economy grew at a faster rate in the third quarter of the year at 7.6 percent, higher than the revised gross domestic product (GDP) growth in the second quarter at 7.5 percent, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported Thursday.

In a press conference, PSA Undersecretary Dennis Mapa said this is the sixth consecutive quarter that the economy recorded expansion.

The country’s GDP growth from July to September 2022 is also higher than the 7-percent increase in the same period in 2021.

“The third quarter’s GDP exceeded the median analyst forecast of 6.3 percent,” National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said.

Balisacan said the average GDP growth for the first nine months of the year stood at 7.7 percent.

“With this, we are on track to achieving the government’s growth target of 6.5 to 7.5 percent for 2022. Given the latest GDP outturn, our economy needs to grow by 3.3 to 6.9 percent in the fourth quarter,” he said.

The PSA reported that all major industries improved their performance in the third quarter of 2022 compared to the same period last year, with agriculture, forestry and fishing growing by 2.2 percent; industry, rose to 5.8 percent; and services, up by 9.1 percent.

Services contributed 5.8 percentage points to the 7.6 percent GDP growth in the third quarter, followed by industry which shared 1.6 percentage points, and agriculture, forestry and fishing at 0.2 percentage points.

By industry, wholesale and retail trade, repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles contributed 1.9 percentage points to the GDP growth in July to September period, followed by financial and insurance services at 0.77 percentage points and construction at 0.76 percentage points.

Compared to last year, the sector of accommodation and food service activities expanded by 40.6 percent, which is the largest across industries. Transportation and storage also improved by 24.3 percent and construction increased by 12.2 percent.

“This economic performance largely benefitted from the further easing of mobility, including the resumption of face-to-face classes, which boosted consumption among Filipinos,” Balisacan said.

The NEDA chief added that the relaxation of borders and simplifying travel protocols supported the recovery and growth of local tourism and other sectors.

In terms of spending, household final consumption expenditure is the largest contributor to GDP in the previous quarter at 5.9 percentage points, exceeding the share of construction at 1.5 percent percentage points, durable equipment at 0.7 percentage points, and government final consumption expenditure at 0.1 percentage points.

In relation to the above news, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. recently visited Cambodia and there he invited the nation’s business leaders to invest in the Philippines. Posted below is an excerpt from the report of GMA Network news. Some parts in boldface…

“We would like to invite at the very least, for you, to have a look at the opportunities that are available. And finally I suppose at some point, since we are not so far away, to come and we will explain to you exactly what we have done and why we have done it and where we have arrived in that process of transforming the economy,” Marcos told business leaders during a roundtable meeting.

“I do not talk about recovery of the economy, I talk about transformation of the economy because the new economy is going to be different from everything that we did in 2019. And so this is what we are looking forward to and I hope to see you all in the Philippines soon,” he added.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent announcement about the state of the Philippine economy? Do you look forward to a more prosperous year in 2023? Are you planning to open a new business soon? If you are an investor, are you confident about investing in the stock market and in companies?

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

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

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

Unemployment in the Philippines falls down further, the lowest in more than two years

Unemployment in the Philippines falls down further, the lowest in more than two years

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As the Philippines continues to keep on recovering from the damage of COVID-19, the national authorities reported that unemployment in the country fell down further achieving a 2-year low, according to a news article published by the Philippine News Agency (PNA). This is really good news because economic growth and continued employment are very essential right now. It should also be stated that immunity from COVID-19 is better now that many millions of Filipinos have gotten vaccinated and/or boosted.

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

Unemployment rate in September 2022 stood at 5 percent, the lowest in more than two years, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported Tuesday.

In a press conference, PSA chief and national statistician Undersecretary Dennis Mapa said the number of unemployed Filipinos in September fell to 2.5 million, or 183,000 lower than the 2.68 million citizens with no jobs the previous month.

The number of jobless Filipinos during the month was also lower by 1.78 million from 4.28 million unemployed a year ago.

“This means 50 out of 1,000 individuals in the labor force have no job,” Mapa said in Filipino.

On the other hand, employment rate in September 2022 was at 95 percent, which translates to 47.58 million Filipinos who have jobs.

This is higher than the August 2022 employment rate of 94.7 percent, and also higher than the September 2021 rate of 91.1 percent.

He identified sectors with largest month-on-month increase in employment. These include manufacturing, up by 780,000 jobs; education, up by 159,000 jobs; public administration and defense, compulsory social security, up by 128,000 jobs; transportation and storage, up by 56,000 jobs; and real estate activities, up by 13,000 jobs.

Meanwhile, underemployment rate also increased to 15.4 percent in September this year from 14.7 percent in its previous month. This means 296,000 more employed Filipinos want to have additional hours of work in their present job or an additional job.

Despite challenges concerning inflation, Mapa is optimistic that the country will sustain unemployment rate near the 5-percent level for the remaining months of the year.

He added the average unemployment rate for this year is close to the pre-pandemic level, which is at 5.1 percent in 2019.

Mapa said the average unemployment rate for the first nine months of the year stood at 5.8 percent.

The above article ended stating that the Philippines had an unemployment rate of 17.6% in April 2020 or shortly after the first COVID-19 lockdown. For the year 2020, the average unemployment rate was at 10.4%

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent announcement about the state of unemployment in the country? Do you feel confident that 2023 will be a better economic year and that more of the unemployed will be able to find new jobs?

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

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

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

Noel Bazaar returns to Alabang on November 18-20 and December 16-18, 2022

Noel Bazaar returns to Alabang on November 18-20 and December 16-18, 2022

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As the nation continues to recover from the COVID-19 crisis, pre-Christmas shopping in the Alabang area of Muntinlupa City will become much more livelier this year as the famous Noel Bazaar will return on November 18 to 20 and December 16 to 18 at the Filinvest Tent in Filinvest City, according to an Inquirer.net article.

For the newcomers reading this, the Noel Bazaar has an established history as a long-running and popular holiday bazaar and also “features the best of entrepreneurs carrying the latest crafts and merchandise from clothing, Christmas and home decors, fashion accessories, novelty and gift items to food and drinks.”

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

With a wide array of merchants selling specially curated items and unique gift finds, every shopper will find what they need at Noel Bazaar: from novelty items, stylish apparel, Christmas decors and home furnishings, body and beauty products, to fashion accessories, shoes, and bags. The best part? Shoppers get to see, touch, feel, smell, and even taste all the products in person! Indulge in a variety of sumptuous and festive food choices that await visitors of Noel Bazaar so you don’t have to go shopping on an empty stomach.

Get your hands on your favorite gifts while giving back and enjoying the festivities with ease. Have a merry and extra meaningful Christmas as a portion of the bazaar’s proceeds will go to the GMA Kapuso Foundation and Inquirer Foundation. Health protocols will be strictly implemented throughout the duration of the event ensuring that merchants and shoppers can look forward to a better and safer Noel Bazaar comeback this 2022.

The Noel Bazaar 2022 series is in partnership with GMA Network, Inquirer Group of Companies, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Inquirer.Net, Pop!, Inquirer Mobile, UnionBank, and Okada Manila. Other media partners include WhenInManila.com, DiscoverMNL, Village Pipol, Buzzsetter, Our Awesome Planet, Travelokaloka, Your Tita Ja, Chinese Commercial News, and Digiboards, Inc.

If you are interested to attend the Noel Bazaar in Alabang soon, visit the Filinvest Tent along Spectrum Midway in Filinvest City. The commercial or business joints located close to the Filinvest Tent are South Supermarket Alabang, Acacia Hotel Manila, Commercenter Mall, BDO Filinvest Spectrum Midway Branch and 7-Eleven along Spectrum Midway. Considering the popularity of Noel Bazaar, do not be surprised to find a huge amount of people present as well as lines of cars at the nearest parking areas. If you want covered parking, Commercenter Mall and South Supermarket Alabang have it. Better start planning where to park and how to make it to Filinvest Tent.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: Are you excited about the return of Noel Bazaar in Alabang? If you shopped at a Noel Bazaar before, when and where was the last time you did? What are you looking for at Noel Bazaar this time around?

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

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

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

COVID-19 Crisis: Go Negosyo Founder says that private hospitals can be deputized to procure and administer bivalent vaccines

COVID-19 Crisis: Go Negosyo Founder says that private hospitals can be deputized to procure and administer bivalent vaccines

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Go Negosyo founder Joey Concepcion is back in the news. This time, he emphasized that private hospitals can be helpful in the nation’s recovery from COVID-19 with regards to procuring and administering vaccines to patients who can afford them and are willing to pay for them, the Manila Bulletin reported.

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

A former presidential economic adviser on Thursday, Nov. 3, underscored the key role of private hospitals in procuring and administering bivalent Covid-19 vaccines to those who are willing to pay for them.

Amid the plans of the Marcos administration to procure a limited number of bivalent vaccines, which provide broader protection against the original Covid-19 and a component of the Omicron variant, Go Negosyo founder Joey Concepcion said that private hospitals can be deputized by the government to procure and administer the bivalent vaccines.

He stated this as he estimated that the government will bring in a limited number of vaccines considering that it is still assessing how much it can procure and how much can be delivered.

“The 10 million doses, or however much the government decides to buy, will of course be set aside for the priority sectors, namely the elderly, the immunocompromised and those with comorbidities; but there may be others outside of these priority sectors who would also want the bivalent vaccines,” Concepcion said.

Since all private hospitals are capable of handling vaccinations and all can explore agreements with the government as part of the private sector, he raised the idea of allowing private hospitals to procure the bivalent vaccines and administer them to those who want to pay for them.

Dr. Benjamin Co, chief medical officer of Metro Pacific Hospital Holdings, agreed with the ex-economic adviser’s proposal.

“I think the best option is to make it available for a fee or at cost. For those who can very well afford it, they can get it from private clinics that offer this and we can charge an administration fee plus the cost of the vaccine,” he said in a statement.

He added that bivalent vaccinations can also become part of the private hospitals’ corporate social responsibility efforts.

“The remaining free vaccines can be appropriated to the rest of the Filipinos who cannot afford this but would like to get vaccinated,” Co suggested.

Recruiting help from the private sector will also unburden the government and allow it to focus on the vulnerable sectors of society, according to Vaccine Experts Panel member Dr. Rontgene Solante, who is also the chairman of Adult Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine at San Lazaro Hospital.

“Private sector involvement is another important layer to achieve higher vaccine accessibility and coverage,” he said.

“This is critical especially with waning interest in booster doses of Covid vaccines. Government should always find ways to engage with the private sector, which has been an important partner of DOH (Department of Health) during the pandemic,” Solante added.

Bivalent Covid vaccines provide broader protection against Covid-19 and better protection against its Omicron variant.

However, all Covid-19 vaccines are still under Emergency Use Authorization, which means only the government can procure and administer the vaccines.

In order to sell the vaccines to the public, vaccine manufacturers need a Certificate of Product Registration (CPR).

As you can in the above article, key steps and legal changes are needed in order to pave the way for private hospitals to get deputized and become key players in the nation’s recovery from COVID-19.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this latest series of developments? If COVID-19 vaccines are offered by private hospitals with price tags, are you willing to pay for them? What do you think is the single biggest disadvantage of government-led handling of COVID-19 vaccines? Do you think that the anti-vaccine fanatics are planning to organize activities to disrupt COVID-19 vaccination around the country?

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

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

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

Muntinlupa City Government sets guidelines for cemetery visits

Muntinlupa City Government sets guidelines for cemetery visits

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In the progressive City of Muntinlupa, the City Government issued guidelines for the anticipated visits at the local cemeteries in relation to the “Undas” (or observation of All Saints’ Day), according to a Manila Bulletin news report. Take note that visiting cemeteries and memorial parks did not happen due to COVID-19.

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

The Muntinlupa City government released rules for the observance of All Saints’ Day or “Undas” this year.

Last year, the city government banned visits to cemeteries, memorial parks and columbaria due to the Covid-19 situation but relaxed the rules this year as health protocols were eased.

According to the city government, cleaning, painting and renovation of niches will be allowed until Oct. 28.

All private and public cemeteries will be open from Oct. 31 to Nov. 1 from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Visitors are allowed to stay for three hours per tomb.

No funeral or cremation will be allowed from Oct. 31 to Nov. 1.

”Hindi lubos na ligtas na isama pa ang mga may edad 12 pababa at 60 pataas (It is not safe to bring those 12 years old and below, and 60 years old and above),” the city government said.

It added that overnight stay and selling in cemeteries are not allowed.

Minimum health protocols will be strictly implemented such as wearing of face masks, physical distancing and handwashing or use of alcohol.

The above article ended stating that the following items are banned in cemeteries: alcoholic beverages, flammable materials, firearms and any pointed items such as knives or cutters, and sound systems that emit loud sounds.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a Muntinlupa City resident, what is your reaction to this latest development? Are you confident that it is safe to visit the cemeteries this year? Has everyone in your household been fully vaccinated or boosted for COVID-19?

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

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

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

COVID-19 Crisis: President Marcos declares it is time to return to pre-pandemic life

COVID-19 Crisis: President Marcos declares it is time to return to pre-pandemic life

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Life in the Philippines continues to move back to normal even though new COVID-19 cases are being recorded in the thousands daily in recent times. Still, it is notable that many millions of Filipinos have gotten fully vaccinated or boosted for COVID-19 (note: around 3.5 million received their 1st booster shots recently) and even though the past summer saw lots of election campaign events that had many, many political supporters gathered in high numbers, no new outbreak of COVID-19 happened. There is also the growing confidence about organizing events that attract customers, sports participants and spectators and more.

In relation to what I stated above, it is significant that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr., declared to the people it is time to return to pre-pandemic life which the Philippine News Agency (PNA) reported. Take note that under Marcos, the use of face masks outdoors is now optional.

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

President Ferdinand R. Marcos on Sunday enjoined Filipinos to get back to their normal lives before the Covid-19 pandemic hit, stressing that it is crucial to show the world that the Philippines is slowly getting back on its feet.

“It is a good thing to remind people that the pandemic may have been difficult, the pandemic really put us through the wringer. But we are back,” Marcos said in a speech in Bacolod City during a luncheon just before he graced the culminating activity of the 43rd MassKara Festival.

“The pandemic is fading away. We are learning to manage it and now it is time for us to all go back to work, to all go back to our normal lives, to remind ourselves of all the opportunities that were before us before the pandemic…It is time for us to go back to all of those endeavors that we were undertaking before Covid hit,” he added.

Marcos said the MassKara Festival signaled not just the opening of Bacolod City to tourists, but also the entire country.

“It is time for us to go back and exercise once again, show once again the Filipino resilience, the Filipino resourcefulness, the Filipino industry, the Filipino talent, ipakita naman natin sa buong mundo dahil nagbubukas ang mundo, dahil nagbubukas ang Pilipinas, ito ngayon ang MassKara Festival ay isang pagdiriwang hindi lamang sa pagbubukas ng Bacolod kung hindi sa buong Pilipinas (let us show the world because the Philippines is now open, this is the MassKara festival which is a celebration of the opening of Bacolod but of the entire Philippines),” he said.

Despite the festival being borne out of “a very sad period in the history of Bacolod”, the President said it also symbolizes Filipinos’ “reemergence from a crisis.”

“..That is what we celebrate today and that is what we see that people are feeling and that is the feeling that we want to continue to encourage within our people because that is what’s going to lead us to success,” he said.

Marcos also congratulated Bacolod City Mayor Albee Benitez and event organizers for a successful holding of the festival.

Founded in October 1980 by the late Bacolod City Mayor Jose “Digoy” Montalvo Jr., the MassKara Festival was first held following two major tragedies that befell Negrenses– the collapse of sugar prices in the international market and the sinking of the Negros Navigation ship M/V Don Juan.

During the sugar crisis, artists thought of promoting mask-making as an alternative source of income for the locals.

Montalvo likewise suggested holding a mask festival to lift the spirits of the locals after the maritime accident that killed his wife, two daughters, and hundreds of Bacolod residents.

MassKara is derived from the words “mass” meaning “many” and “kara” meaning “faces,” thus calling it the Festival of Many Faces.

This year’s festival will be the first face-to-face event after two years of being suspended due to the pandemic.

The MassKara festival’s revival is significant not only with the people of Bacolod City and the province of Negros Occidental but for the nation as well. Here in the Alabang area of Muntinlupa City, the Megarahe Sale and the COPIX both attracted lots of people who searched and bought items. Still in Alabang, it was recently announced by Zonta Club of Alabang that they will be reviving their popular Christmas Carnivale Bazaar on November 25, 2022 at the Filinvest Tent. I myself attended that bazaar back in 2017 and 2018 at the said venue and it is really encouraging that it will be revived next month. These are just a few of the many signs that the Philippines is recovering from the pandemic and can move forward and progress more. Pre-pandemic economic strength will be regained eventually.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you feel encouraged by the statement of President Marcos that the pandemic is fading away and that the country can more forward more?

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

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

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

COPIX at Festival Mall

COPIX at Festival Mall

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This past weekend, I took time out to visit the COPIX (Collectors & Pickers Xchange) inside Festival Mall in Filinvest City, Alabang to check out what items were offered and how entertaining or interesting the items were collectively.

The COPIX occupied some spaces on the 2nd level of the mall located close to the eye-catching huge Christmas tree. What I saw was a wide variety of collectibles that appeal to geeks, nerds and other collectors. I’m talking about toys, action figures, original art pieces, music records, shirts, posters, stickers, old magazines, comic books, accessories, bags, and more. Check out the pics below.

A look at the floor with sellers on both sides.
Comic books for sale.
Music in old formats on display.
Original art works for sale.
Pop culture figures on display.

To put things in perspective, the COPIX at Festival Mall which lasted four days is proof that life is normalizing and people are indeed gradually moving forward after the setback of the COVID-19 crisis. Just a few weeks ago, the Megarahe Sale inside Alabang Hills was revived and it attracted a lot of customers. To see the COPIX happen gives me confidence that the Philippines will not only recover from COVID-19 and all of the harmful restrictions, but also emerge stronger socially and economically.

With many more Filipinos already vaccinated/boosted for COVID-19 and are already used to following health protocols, it is safer to move around, participate in bazaars and local community events, organize or join in outdoor sports events, attend indoor worship services of churches with higher numbers, participate in a pop culture convention, etc. Indeed, the Philippines can live with COVID-19 and move forward without the need for those harmful community/regional restrictions. Achieving normalcy and pre-pandemic economic strength can be done.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a Muntinlupa City resident, what is your reaction to the COPIX that took place inside Festival Mall? Were you able to pass by and see what were on display? Do you want to see another COPIX held in Alabang? On the aspect of pop culture, do you think Alabang is ready to host a comic convention with cosplayers, entertainers and entertainment-related businesses?

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

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

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

I Love Israel: Israel confirms support for Ilocos Region’s mango farmers

I Love Israel: Israel confirms support for Ilocos Region’s mango farmers

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The Philippines has very delicious mangoes which can be availed in their basic fruit forms as well as other forms such as dried mango snacks, candies, juices and shakes. For mangoes to remain available for domestic and overseas consumption, the farming and production of the fruits must be maintained in good conditions in the long run and this is where the State of Israel comes in.

This past September, the State of Israel confirmed its support for farmers in the Ilocos Region as Ambassador Ilan Fluss formally visited the province of Ilocos Norte and stated they are looking forward to more cooperation specifically on mangoes, as reported by the Philippine News Agency (PNA). To say the least, mango farmers in the Ilocos Region need Israel’s expertise as they have been dealing with problems for some time now. The Ilocos Region itself is a major source of mangoes here in the Philippines.

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

The Israel government has vowed to assist Ilocos farmers to boost their productivity by sharing their innovative solutions to modern agriculture.

In his first visit to Ilocos Norte province, Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss said one of the big areas they are looking at for stronger support and longer cooperation is battling emerging diseases in mangoes and other promising crops in the region by tapping mango experts from Israel.

“We have lots of expertise in the approach. See what we can offer if I can identify good experts that can come and help in identifying the disease and solution which is not always on more and more pesticides but try different approaches to look into it and come back to the governor,” he said.

As a junior diplomat to the Philippines back in the 90s, Fluss recalled that the Israel government had introduced a training program in Guimaras then to help in exporting its mangoes to Japan.

Since 2012, the mango industry in the province has been suffering from low yield due to erratic weather patterns and disease infestation.

Ricardo Tolentino, president of the Mango Growers Association in Ilocos Norte, said a lot of mango growers continue to suffer losses due to the El Niño or the prolonged dry spell and the oversupply from other mango-producing provinces that drove prices down.

As a high-value commercial crop in the province, the Ilocos Norte government has been helping farmers rehabilitate their fruit-bearing trees and apply organic conditioners to give time for the soil to “heal.”

Grafted mango seedlings, organic fertilizers, and fruit-fly attractants are, likewise, being distributed to farmers to help boost the industry.

Based on the quarterly bulletin report of the Philippine Statistics Authority from April to June 2022, the Philippines’ mango production decreased by 3.8 percent, from 556,820 metric tons in the same quarter of 2021 to 535,430 metric tons this period.

The above article ended stating that the Ilocos Region contributed 22.5% to the total production and was the top mango producer during the 2nd quarter with more than 120 metric tons registered.

Be thankful to the Lord for this recent development of the strong ties between the Philippines and Israel. Israel itself is a world leader on agriculture and their assistance for mango farmers in Ilocos Norte comes at a very crucial time as the entire Philippines  continues to gradually recover economically and socially from the COVID-19 crisis. What is at stake here are livelihood, food production, food supply and the maintenance of mangoes in the country. Mangoes are a major product of export of the Philippines and we should be thankful to the State of Israel for their attention and support.

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.

Always be the fearless and aggressive church of Lord Jesus! Always stand in support of Israel!

In ending this I Love Israel piece, posted below are Israel-related videos for your viewing pleasure and enlightenment.

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

I Love Israel: Thousands of Christians celebrate with Israelis in this year’s Feast of Tabernacles

I Love Israel: Thousands of Christians celebrate with Israelis in this year’s Feast of Tabernacles

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Something significant happened in Israel recently. This year’s Feast of Tabernacles was celebrated big-time as thousands of Christians from around the world joined the Jewish people and Israelis in the event which itself is a comeback from the 2-year-old COVID-19 crisis that affected everyone, according to a Christian Broadcasting Network News (CBN News) report. The revival of the Feast of Tabernacles as well as Israel’s gradual return to normalcy prove that the Lord God is at work and watching over.

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

This week, Israelis and Jews around the world are celebrating the Feast of Tabernacles – or “Sukkot” in Hebrew.

Thousands of Christians have come up to Jerusalem to join the gathering of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem (ICEJ).

After two years of limited tourism to Israel because of the COVID pandemic, over 2,000 Christian pilgrims from more than 70 nations came here to take part in the Feast of Tabernacles.

THE ICEJ has celebrated the feast for more than 40 years.

“The Feast of Tabernacles is a fall harvest feast on the biblical calendar that also has a prophetic purpose hidden within it and that is the second coming of the Lord. So, we are here celebrating every year in anticipation of the coming of Jesus here to Jerusalem and it’s always this glorious celebration of Christians, the Body of Christ from all over the world,” ICEJ VP David Parsons told CBN News.

Sharren Haskel, a member of Israel’s parliament, came to welcome the pilgrims and why their presence means so much.

“The Jewish people throughout history didn’t have many friends,” said Haskel. “They had a few but not many. And to see thousands of people, Christian leaders and believers that are coming here to celebrate with us – people who are advocating for Israel – who are bringing that message that Israel is a light in the Middle East. How we bring those shared Judeo-Christian values of freedom and liberty and equality. And it’s important to me to show them that it’s not taken for granted.”

Haskel also mentioned in her message the prophetic fulfillment of the Feast.

“The prophet Zechariah spoke of a future time when all the nations would come to Jerusalem to celebrate the holiday of Sukkot,” Haskel told attendees. “Look around you now. We are the living proof of the accuracy of the Bible and the truth of the Word of God.”

She continued: “The prophecy speaks about bringing people from all around countries, all around the globe from different nations, from different religions and celebrate here in Jerusalem. You can feel it in the air. You can see those people, how important it is for them, and how important it is for us to fulfill it, to celebrate it.

For many pilgrims, the feast is a time of joy.

Andrea from Bolivia told CBN News it’s a “miracle” to be here.

“It’s the Promised Land. I’m so happy to be here,” she said.

“It’s hard to describe. It’s really something you have to experience and to be here in person in the eternal capital of the nation is just profound,” said Ashely from Zimbabwe.

Jenni, who is also from Zimbabwe, said it is a “privilege to come and take part in worshipping the King at the Feast of Tabernacles.”

One of the highlights of the Feast of Tabernacles is when Christians from around the world join Israelis for the annual Jerusalem March.

“What a joy to be here in Jerusalem. I’m telling you to see the nations going up is a fulfillment of prophecy and I just love it every time and it’s amazing to be here after two years,” Adam, a parade attendee, told CBN News.

For Israelis, the Christian presence touches their hearts.

“They came here to support us. I don’t have words to bring my happiness,” said Gershon.

Haddasha Sharoni described the feeling as “amazing.”

“The vision is coming true. The vision that we read just now in Shabbis Zechariah is coming true that all the countries are coming to Israel and Sukkot,” she said.

For added insight, posted below are two related news videos of CBN News’ YouTube channel. Watch them and pay close attention to the details.

The revival of the Feast of Tabernacles this year was not only expected in relation to the recovery from COVID-19, it is also biblical. Learn from the following holy scriptures below…

And it shall come to pass that everyone who is left of all the nations which came against Jerusalem shall go up from year to year to worship the King, the Lord of hosts, and to keep the Feast of Tabernacles.

Zechariah 14:16 (NKJV)

Then the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, “Speak to the children of Israel, saying: ‘The fifteenth day of this seventh month shall be the Feast of Tabernacles for seven days to the Lord.’

Leviticus 23:33-34 (NKJV)

Then Solomon offered burnt offerings to the Lord on the Lord’s altar which he had built before the [temple] porch or vestibule,

A certain number every day, offering as Moses commanded for the Sabbaths, the New Moons, and the solemn feast days three times in the year—the Feasts of Unleavened Bread, of Weeks, and of Tabernacles.

2 Chronicles 8:12-13 (AMPC)

Now the Jews’ Feast of Tabernacles was at hand. His brothers therefore said to Him, “Depart from here and go into Judea, that Your disciples also may see the works that You are doing.”

John 7:2-3 (NKJV)

Along the way, it is essential for us Christians to love and bless the Jewish people in accordance to our Heavenly Father’s declarations. Learn from the following holy scriptures below…

And I will bless those who bless you [who confer prosperity or happiness upon you] and curse him who curses or uses insolent language toward you; in you will all the families and kindred of the earth be blessed [and by you they will bless themselves].

Genesis 12:3 (AMPC)

The Lord spoke to Moses, saying, “Speak to Aaron and his sons, saying, Thus you shall bless the people of Israel: you shall say to them,

The Lord bless you and keep you;

the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you;

the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.

“So shall they put my name upon the people of Israel, and I will bless them.”

Numbers 6:22-27 (ESV)

The Lord will never forget us in our need; he will bless us indeed! He will bless the house of Israel; he will bless the house of Aaron, his priest.

Psalms 115:12 (TPT)

Pray and seek for Jerusalem’s peace, for all who love her will prosper! O Jerusalem, may there be peace for those who dwell inside your walls and prosperity in your every palace. I intercede for the sake of my family and friends who dwell there, that they may all live in peace. For the sake of your house, Yahweh our God, I will seek the welfare and prosperity of Jerusalem.

Psalms 122:6-9 (TPT)

Be thankful to the Lord for the revival of the Feast of Tabernacles, for the gradual recovery from COVID-19 and for Israel and the Jews. Thank the Lord also for the return of Christians to the Holy Land and the new opportunities for them to deepen their faith in Him even further! Thank the Lord also for the new and upcoming bible experience tours! Be thankful as well for the enduring and strengthening Israel-Philippines ties!

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.

Always be the fearless and aggressive church of Lord Jesus! Always stand in support of Israel!

In ending this I Love Israel piece, posted below are Israel-related videos for your viewing pleasure and enlightenment.

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

Muntinlupa City Mayor Biazon’s first 100 days report delivered

Muntinlupa City Mayor Biazon’s first 100 days report delivered

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Recently in the progressive City of Muntinlupa, Mayor Ruffy Biazon delivered his highly anticipated first 100 days report which the Manila Bulletin reported. His report presented the achievements and developments in a categorized manner. Subsequently, the City Government posted on its official Facebook page digital copies of the mayor’s speech.

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

Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon reported what his administration has accomplished in the first 100 days in office.

“It’s hard to believe that it has been 100 days since I took my oath of office and talked about my vision and aspirations for Muntinlupa,” he said in a speech on Oct. 14.

Since assuming office on July 1, Biazon said he has signed 37 executive orders.

Biazon came up with 7K Agenda (Kabuhayan, Kalusugan, Karunungan, Kapayapaan at Kaayusan, Kaunlaran, Kalikasan at Katarungan), the priority areas of his administration.

“Among the seven K, our priorities are Kabuhayan [Livelihood], Kalusugan [Health], and Karunungan [Education] that are important parts in bouncing back from the crisis brought about by the pandemic. Those three agendas are what we call the Pandemic Recovery Program,” he said.

Health

Biazon said under his administration, he stepped up the Covid-19 vaccination campaign in Muntinlupa.

As of Oct. 5, Muntinlupa 125.2 percent of the target population have been fully vaccinated and 49.35 percent of them have received at least one booster shot. In total, 1.24 million vaccines have been administered in the city, he said.

Under the PinasLakas vaccination campaign, the Muntinlupa City government has reached out to 20 private companies, eight private schools and 21 homeowners associations.

Biazon also focused on improving services and facilities at the city-run Ospital ng Muntinlupa. A waiting area was built for the companions of patients, who are currently not allowed to stay in rooms due to Covid-19 protocols. An urban garden was also built at the hospital for frontline healthcare workers. He said the new building at the hospital, constructed through the cooperation between him and Rep. Jaime Fresnedi, will soon be opened.

A “Super Health Center” will be established at the Barangay Putatan Main Health Center that will offer more services and longer operating hours.

Livelihood

Under Biazon’s administration, 172 micro-entrepreneurs have availed of P3.89 million zero percent interest loans through the Tulong Negosyo-Dagdag Puhunan Program.

Through online and Mega Job Fairs, the city government has offered 9,373 job vacancies and given referrals to 3,317 applicants.

A total of 1,468 disadvantaged workers were given temporary employment under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program.

In addition, the SMILE Munti or Support Muntinlupa Industries and Local Entrepreneurs was launched to help promote small and new businesses in the city.

Education

The national government ordered the return of face-to-face classes. Biazon said in Muntinlupa, the “Ready & Safe” face-to-face classes in public and private schools were implemented ensuring that schools were ready to accept students.

The city government currently has 82,442 scholars and educational assistance beneficiaries.

Recently, the College of Medicine of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Muntinlupa and Ospital ng Muntinlupa was opened to become the first medical school in the city. The mayor said a scholarship grant of P100,000 per year will be given to each qualified beneficiary of the College of Medicine.

To see the entire report of Manila Bulletin, click https://mb.com.ph/2022/10/15/muntinlupa-mayor-biazon-cites-accomplishments-in-first-100-days-in-office/

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a Muntinlupa City resident, what is your reaction to the mayor’s first 100 days report? Do you think the city is headed towards the right direction? Under the new administration, do you think the City Government’s services have improved?

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

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

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