Tag: disaster

What to watch on YouTube right now – Part 20

What to watch on YouTube right now – Part 20

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Welcome back, my readers, YouTube viewers and all others who followed this series of articles focused on YouTube videos worth watching. Have you been searching for something fun or interesting to watch on YouTube? Do you feel bored right now and you crave for something to see on the world’s most popular online video destination?

I recommend you check out the following topics and the related videos I found.

NHK World’s Game Planet Documentary – If you are very passionate about video games and you want to see gaming through the views of the Japanese and the Chinese, then you should see NHK World’s documentary here. This video documentary is also a must-see for those who love playing the Street Fighter video games. Lots of creative talents from Capcom and Tencent interviewed.

https://youtu.be/6joB4j6kemY?si=PvJdZiZn3YrWIx_G

Square Enix decides to drop PlayStation exclusivity and go multiplatform with their business – It was indeed bound to happen and I was not surprised about it. In case you missed the news, Square Enix announced it will drop PlayStation exclusivity in favor of going aggressive with a multiplatform strategy. This is because there was a massive 70% profit drop on the part of Square Enix and sales of the PlayStation 5-exclusive Final Fantasy VII Rebirth were undeniably disappointing. To understand the details better, posted below is one analytical video and one critical video.

Nick Anderson’s notorious 4 missed free throws and disrespect towards Michael Jordan – If you are long-time basketball fan, you would at least be aware of significant events during the NBA Playoffs and the Finals in 1995. I am talking about Nick Anderson who is still remembered as the guy who missed four free throws as his team (Orlando Magic) was already leading by three points ahead of the Houston Rockets (defending champions) during Game 1 of the 1995 NBA Finals. As history recorded, the Houston Rockets swept the Magic 4-0 to win their 2nd straight NBA championship. Going back to Anderson, he is also the same guy who disrespected Michael Jordan during the Eastern Conference semifinals. Posted below are three videos for you to watch.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZiXeSA5bIg

Reggie Miller’s 8 points in 8.9 seconds – Still with the 1995 NBA Playoffs, here is a look back at the miraculous achievement of Reggie Miller scoring eight points in less than nine seconds during a game against the New York Knicks at the Madison Square Garden. For the newcomers reading this, the playoff rivalry between the Knicks and Indiana Pacers started in 1994 and by the time their rematch in 1995 was realized, collective fan anticipation was already high. There was no better way to raise the stakes in the rematch than Miller’s unexpected 8 points in 8.9 seconds. Watch the video below.

Popcorn in Bed’s reaction video of Deep Impact – In 1998 here in the Philippines, I saw the sci-fi film Deep Impact in a cinema during its first week of release. It was entertaining to watch given the sci-fi spectacle, the concept and, of course, the wide cast of actors that includes the legendary Robert Duvall in a really solid supporting role. What is most notable about Deep Impact is the fact that it was made to spark emotion from viewers and that is most inevitable in the movie reaction video by Popcorn in Bed. With the current number of Deep Impact reaction videos available on YouTube as of this writing, the best one is viewable right below…

HolyLandSite’s video of the tour of the Oaks of Mamre in Israel – Recently HolyLandSite released their newest Holy Land video focused on the Oaks of Mamre in Israel which is the historical and biblical site where the Abrahamic Covenant was given. Oaks of Mamre is filled with evidence that it is indeed the very place where Abraham met God. God’s covenant has always been with the Jewish people (read Genesis 17:15-21 in the Holy Bible). This video also has biblical lessons for those who follow Lord Jesus and the Word of God. May this also remind you that the ties between Jews and Christians are biblical.

Retrospective video about Konami’s X-Men arcade game – Just a few years before Capcom and Marvel Comics teamed up for the production of arcade games featuring superheroes and the publisher’s own characters, Konami literally rocked the arcades with a lot of fun with the X-Men arcade game of 1992. Using the established character designs from the 1989 cartoon X-Men: Pryde of the X-Men, the arcade game allowed players to choose one of six superheroes to play as (listed were Cyclops, Wolverine, Dazzler, Storm, Colossus and Nightcrawler) and engage in side-scrolling beat-them-up action fighting the many minions of Magneto. The X-Men arcade game was undeniably successful and impacted the way people enjoyed multiplayer sessions in the arcades. You can learn more from this in-depth retro gaming video by PatmanQC.

FilmComicsExplained’s Demolition Man video analysis – When I first saw Demolition Man (1993), I perceived it as a Sylvester Stallone action movie laced with futuristic science fiction (sci-fi) concepts. I noticed the film’s portrayal of what future society could become and what futuristic technologies could be used by people. By today’s standards, Demolition Man is perceived to be prophetic with its presentation and the video by FilmComicsExplained takes an in-depth look into it. It is a must-see!

The death of wicked Iran’s president – Since 1979, Iran became wicked and its government has officially been sponsoring terrorists and terrorism activities in the Middle East for far too long. In case you missed the news, the president of Iran died in a helicopter crash recently and there were other fatalities with him. The president of Iran not only publicly called for the destruction of Israel, he is also responsible for harming minorities and political opponents, hurting protesters in Iran and more. There are reasons why the dead president has been called the Butcher of Tehran. For a clear view and analysis over the death of the president of Iran, watch the selected videos below. Do not trust Islamo-Leftist mainstream news media as they support terrorism.

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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

DILG tells LGUs to update disaster plans and hazard maps in preparation for La Niña phenomenon

DILG tells LGUs to update disaster plans and hazard maps in preparation for La Niña phenomenon

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While the entire Philippines is sweltering under the intense summer heat, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) told the local government units (LGUs) to update their disaster plans and hazard maps in light of the looming La Niña phenomenon, according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) news article.

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

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Wednesday urged local government units (LGUs) to update their disaster action plans and hazard maps to mitigate the effects of the looming La Niña phenomenon.

In a Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon briefing, DILG Undersecretary Marlo Iringan said local officials must also regularly hold meetings with their respective disaster risk reduction management councils and conduct a La Niña pre-disaster risk assessment.

“Kinakailangan din na magkaroon ng close coordination with PAGASA (Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration) at with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) particularly iyong ating Mines and Geosciences Bureau nang sa ganoon ma-update iyong kanilang mga (There should also be a close coordination with PAGASA and with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, particularly our Mines and Geosciences Bureau to update their) local hazard maps on rain-induced landslides and floods,” Iringan added.

He also called for an aggressive clean-up of estero and other waterways to reduce flooding as part of mitigation measures under the agency’s “Operation Listo”.

The”‘Operation Listo” is an advocacy program of the DILG that aims to strengthen the disaster preparedness of LGUs using the whole-of-government approach which institutionalizes local protocols for disaster preparedness, response, and monitoring.

Iringan also cited the need to assess the structural integrity and the capacity of vital facilities such as evacuation centers.

“Kinakailangan nasusunod iyong mga specifications. At dapat ang mga ito ay hindi located doon sa (The specifications must be followed. And these should not be located in) high-risk areas as identified by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau of the DENR,” he added.

While most LGUs have already established at least one evacuation center, Iringan said the DILG is assessing the need for some areas to have around two to three evacuation centers to accommodate more evacuees.

He also said the use of schools as evacuation centers is only a last resort.

“But in extreme cases na kinakailangan pong gamitin iyong mga paaralan ay kumukuha po ng pahintulot mula sa (where we need to use the schools, we secure permission from the) Department of Education,” he added.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. earlier directed LGUs to brace for La Niña, which is expected to bring above normal rainfall conditions in the country.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think that La Niña will arrive soon? Do you think your local government has been doing its job with regards to disaster preparedness and emergency measures related to wet weather? Has your local government failed consistently when it comes to flood prevention and the cleaning of waterways?

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

Ten people hurt as a result of water tank explosion in Parañaque City

Ten people hurt as a result of water tank explosion in Parañaque City

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Recently in the City of Parañaque, ten people got hurt due to a water tank’s sudden explosion, according to a GMA Network news report. The explosion, which happened in Barangay Tambo, also caused some structural damage on a building.

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

Ten people were injured after a water tank on the roof deck of a building exploded in Parañaque City on Saturday night, according to a report on Super Radyo dzBB.

Portions of the building, located along Quirino Avenue in Barangay Tambo, were damaged due to the blast that happened past 9 p.m.

Witnesses said debris fell on the street and hit several vehicles, including a sport utility vehicle (SUV) and an e-trike, according to a report on Super Radyo dzBB. A power line was also affected.

According to Barangay Tambo Peace and Order officer-in-charge Denson Cano, he was in a nearby eatery when he heard an explosion, which he initially mistook as a bomb.

“Kumakain ako dito sa bulaluhan. ‘Yung putok, akala namin, akala ko may sumabog na bomba or something kasi malakas and then mga two to 10 seconds later, may second explosion which was itong, ‘yung ano, transformer,” he said Jhomer Apresto’s report on “24 Oras Weekend”

(I was eating, and we thought there was a bomb that exploded because it was powerful, and then two to 10 seconds later, there was a second explosion, which was the transformer.)

Among those injured was a 13-year-old identified as Sebseb, who was on an e-bike when the explosion happened. The rush of the water swept the e-trike away and caused him to fall into a nearby hole.

“Nakasakay po ako sa e-bike eh. Hindi ko po alam kung anong nangyari eh, basta may bumagsak po samin tapos basang basa po kami ng tubig talaga,” he said in the same report.

(I was riding an e-bike. I don’t know what happened, just that something fell on us, and we were wet.)

Also injured was a nearby shopkeeper who sustained a lump on the head after being hit by the debris that fell. Some streets had to be closed for clearing operations.

GMA Integrated News Bulletin reported that the building management has assured that it would cover the medical expenses of the injured victims.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What do you think about this recent development? If you are a resident of Parañaque, are you concerned that there could be more water tanks around the city that could explode somehow and cause damage?

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

Las Piñas City gains recognition for exceptional disaster risk management

Las Piñas City gains recognition for exceptional disaster risk management

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Recently in the City of Las Piñas, the City Government announced that it was recognized by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) for outstanding performance in local disaster risk management.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt the City Government’s social media post dated January 26. Some parts in boldface…

The City of Las Piñas has been conferred the Gawad Kalasag Seal of Excellence by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC). The award, which recognizes the city’s outstanding performance in local disaster risk reduction and management, comes after Las Piñas scored a 2.37 rating in the 23rd Gawad KALASAG Seal for Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils and Offices (LDRRMCOs) for the calendar year 2023. This honor underscores the city’s compliance with the standards set by the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010, also known as Republic Act No. 10121.

City Mayor Imelda Aguilar expressed her gratitude and pride in receiving the award, emphasizing the city’s proactive approach to disaster risk management.

Under her leadership, the city has implemented comprehensive disaster risk reduction programs, including regular drills, community awareness campaigns, and investments in infrastructure that mitigate the impact of natural calamities. These initiatives have been instrumental in preparing the city’s residents and institutions to effectively respond to emergencies.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a resident of Las Piñas City, what is your reaction to this development? Are you delighted to see your city getting recognized for disaster management excellence?

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

New Life Community Care Foundation International, Inc. (NLCOM) provides relief and meals to Barangay Alabang fire victims

New Life Community Care Foundation International, Inc. (NLCOM) provides relief and meals to Barangay Alabang fire victims

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This past November in the City of Muntinlupa, a fire broke out in Barangay Alabang which affected ten households. Local firefighters were able to put out the fire and subsequently an evacuation center was set up for affected families and other victims.

New Life Community Care Foundation International, Inc. (NLCOM), the compassion arm of New Life Philippines located inside Alabang Hills Village, sent a team to the said evacuation center to support the victims in more ways than one. NLCOM is dedicated to responding to the immediate needs of communities that got hit by disasters and the organization has a track record for all to see.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the December 6, 2023 social media post of NLCOM. Some parts in boldface…

We extended a helping hand to the resilient families impacted by the fire that razed Barangay Alabang, Muntinlupa, and affected ten households.

NLCOM visited the evacuation center on November 11, delivering not just relief bags for the 25 affected families, but also a comforting meal of lunch and heartwarming ginatasang mais. As always, we stand strong in support and compassion to communities in need.

NLCOM personnel with bags of relief goods for Barangay Alabang fire victims (photo source – NLCOM Facebook page)
NLCOM serving food to the victims. (photo source – NLCOM Facebook page)

For the newcomers reading this, I previously blogged about NLCOM back in 2020 which you can read by clicking here. As mentioned earlier, NLCOM has a history of providing relief to disaster victims and helping them rebuild their lives and communities as they recover.

As their website states, the organization is committed to organizing activities from disaster preparedness trainings, relief goods distribution, mobile kitchen feeding operations, Psychological First Aid to kids and adults traumatized by a disaster, and rebuilding of damaged houses. You can learn more by watching NLCOM’s official YouTube video below…

If you have decided to help potential disaster victims through NLCOM, be aware that New Life’s compassion arm is accepting donations. You may send your monetary donations to:

NEW LIFE COMMUNITY CARE FOUNDATION INT’L. INC.

PESO CHECKING ACCOUNT:

Unionbank (Richville Branch)

00-133000543-3

US DOLLAR ACCOUNT:

Unionbank (Richville Branch)

13-133000530-7

Swift Code: ubpphphmm

Via PAYPAL:

https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/nlcomPH

For more information about NLCOM, visit https://nlcom.org.ph/ or visit their office at 2 Don Manolo Boulevard, Alabang Hills Village, Barangay Cupang, Muntinlupa City, Metro Manila, Philippines. Contact them at landline 88091542 extension 426.

In ending post, let me share with you a few holy scriptures that should remind you that God is our source, our provider and the blessedness of giving is absolutely true.

And [God] Who provides seed for the sower and bread for eating will also provide and multiply your [resources for] sowing and increase the fruits of your righteousness [which manifests itself in active goodness, kindness, and charity].

Thus you will be enriched in all things and in every way, so that you can be generous, and [your generosity as it is] administered by us will bring forth thanksgiving to God.

2 Corinthians 9:10-11 (AMPC)

Those who live to bless others will have blessings heaped upon them, and the one who pours out his life to pour out blessings will be saturated with favor.

Proverbs 11:25 (TPT)

He who has pity on the poor lends to the Lord, and that which he has given He will repay to him.

Proverbs 19:17 (AMPC)

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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

Better than Streaming: Do you have Godzilla (1954) Criterion Blu-ray in your collection?

Better than Streaming: Do you have Godzilla (1954) Criterion Blu-ray in your collection?

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Welcome back, fellow geeks, Blu-ray collectors and movie buffs! Way back in 1954, the original Godzilla movie (Japanese title: Gojira) made its debut in theaters in Japan. Not only did it make a huge impact with moviegoers, it paved the way for more Godzilla movies (which compelled Hollywood players to join in), imitators and made a solid contribution to global pop culture.

Of course, the original Godzilla film was decades before I was even born and as a boy, I got to watch on home video “Godzilla 1985” which was a Westernized version of The Return of Godzilla (1984). Then in 1998, I saw Roland Emmerich’s twisted version of Japan’s giant monster.

Going back to the original film from 1954, an American version of it was released in 1956 under the title Godzilla: King of the Monsters which was a recut version that had actor Raymond Burr in it as an American journalist witnessing events. That American version, which I saw partially by chance on cable TV, only made me want to see the 1954 original Godzilla movie intact.

That being said, I acquired a copy of the Godzilla (1954) Blu-ray from Criterion Collection and I can say I am really enjoying it. It definitely is a very good addition to my collection of Blu-ray movies.

The cover of the Godzilla (1954) Blu-ray release from Criterion Collection.

To begin with, posted below are the specs from the Blu-ray.com page…

Video

Codec: MPEG-4 AVC (24.01 Mbps)

Resolution: 1080p

Aspect ratio: 1.37:1

Original aspect ratio: 1.37:1

Audio

Japanese: LPCM Mono (48kHz, 24-bit)

English: LPCM Mono (48kHz, 24-bit)

Subtitles – English, English SDH

Discs -Blu-ray Disc, Single Disc (1 BD-50)

Playback – Blu-ray: Region A

The back of the Criterion Collection Godzilla (1954) Blu-ray. Pay close attention to the details because you will get a lot of stuff to enjoy with this one added into your Blu-ray movie collection.

I really enjoyed the 1954 movie directed by Ishiro Honda and I can talk more about it in detail in a future retro movie review. Going back to Criterion’s Godzilla (1954) Blu-ray, I can say that the company did a great job not only with the restoration and audio, they also loaded the disc with a whole lot of content that will appeal strongly with dedicated Godzilla fans as well as the newcomers who wish to learn more about Japan’s giant monster, its legacy and place in global pop culture. The disc also has a restored copy of Godzilla: King of the Monsters (1956) but I strongly recommend you watch the 1954 film first and foremost.

The extra stuff in the disc contains a lot of content for you to enjoy. There are interviews with certain cast and crew members, an illustrated audio essay about the tragic Lucky Dragon No. 5 vessel, an audio commentary by David Kalat, and more.

When it comes to the physical aspect of Criterion’s Godzilla (1954) Blu-ray, the packaging is both nicely done and inspired. I just love it whenever I opened the set to get to the disc, an image of Godzilla folds and forms in shape for your viewing pleasure. The set also has a booklet that contains really interesting information. Very clearly, this is so much better than streaming!

I really like this excellent packaging by Criterion Collection. Very clearly better than streaming!

In case you are interested or if you have made up your mind, you can order a copy of Godzilla (1954) Blu-ray of Criterion Collection by clicking https://www.amazon.com/Godzilla-Criterion-Collection-Blu-ray-Takashi/dp/B005VU9LKE

For the dedicated Godzilla fans as well as enthusiastic film buffs and collectors of movies on physical media, Criterion’s Godzilla (1954) Blu-ray is highly recommended! This is currently the best way to enjoy the classic movie in the comfort of your home!

If you wish to join a group of movie enthusiasts and talk about cinema, visit the Movie Fans Worldwide Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/322857711779576

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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

Better than Streaming: Watch out for the newest cinematic Godzilla from Japan

Better than Streaming: Watch out for the newest cinematic Godzilla from Japan

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Welcome back, fellow geeks, Blu-ray collectors and movie buffs from around the world! If you are an enthusiast of giant monster movies and if you have gotten tired with what Hollywood has been releasing, there is a brand new Godzilla (Gojira in Japanese) movie from Japan’s Toho which will be released in cinemas before the year ends…Godzilla Minus One (Japanese title: Gojira Mainasu Wan).

The official movie poster for the Japanese market.

This newest Toho Godzilla film directed by Takashi Yamazaki (also a special effects expert) will be released in Japan in a gradual manner: as the closing feature film of the 36th Tokyo International Film Festival on November 1, 2023, and then in cinemas around the nation on November 3, 2023. Godzilla Minus One will open in cinemas in the United States and Canada on December 1, 2023.

To get started about this new Japanese Godzilla movie, I encourage you to watch the official trailer (English subtitles included) below…

The way the details and visuals were presented in the movie trailer, the filmmakers showed Godzilla as a terrifying giant whose presence brings certain death and destruction to those near it. The trailer made Godzilla looking like it intends to kill people. What I find interesting about the core concept of this upcoming movie is that the iconic monster wreaks havoc in Japan a short time after the end of World War II. This emphasizes that Japan is economically weak and struggling to recover from the tremendous losses suffered from the said war. Also spotted were efforts by the filmmakers to replicate the look of post-WWII Japan.

If you know your world history, you should be aware of the facts that America dropped atomic bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945 which compelled Japan (then a major military force with the Axis powers) to surrender unconditionally. Putting that historical context into the realm of fantasy by Toho, Godzilla Minus One shows what would happen had the giant monster invaded Japan while it was still in a very weakened state.

This is a terrifying image of people running away from Godzilla whose steps were causing destruction.

Considering the post-World War II background, it is not yet clear to me if this movie will serve as a prequel to the original Gojira movie of 1954. What is clear is that the filmmakers are daringly making something new with Japan’s icon and their creative approach looks radically different from Toho’s previous Godzilla release in 2016 (note: read my retro review of Shin Godzilla).

Considering the many Godzilla movies released – including those from Hollywood studios – being original with telling a story about the monster is indeed very hard to do. That being said, I am interested to see how the post-World War II setting, the new story and characters, and the giant monster itself will be executed on-screen. If the trailer indicates anything, it looks like Godzilla Minus One could turn out as a dramatic disaster movie (than a monster movie) and could come close to what the 1954 original movie presented.

As of this writing, there are not too many international markets for cinematic releases listed in Godzilla Minus One‘s IMDB page. Being based here in the Philippines, I can only hope that the Japan-made movie will be released in local cinemas which could be a bit tricky given the fact that Shin Godzilla had a limited release here in 2016. I really want to watch this upcoming movie in the local cinema, especially IMAX, but that would depend on how the distribution here in the Philippines will be executed. At the same time, watching a Japanese-made Godzilla movie would be a nice break from the MonsterVerse Godzilla that has been around for years now. Honestly, I’m getting tired of Hollywood’s current version of Japan’s icon.

A very menacing Gojira image from Toho promoting Godzilla Minus One. If you look very closely, you can see some of the giant monster’s teeth red with blood.

If Godzilla Minus One does not get screened locally for some reason, its potential Blu-ray (and possibly 4K Blu-ray) release in the future would be the next option to watch it. Regardless, watch out for this new movie in cinemas in a few months’ time.

If you wish to join a group of movie enthusiasts and talk about cinema, visit the Movie Fans Worldwide Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/322857711779576

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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

Better than Streaming: Deep Impact 25th Anniversary 4K Blu-ray set for May 2, 2023 release!

Better than Streaming: Deep Impact 25th Anniversary 4K Blu-ray set for May 2, 2023 release!

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Welcome back, fellow geeks, Blu-ray collectors and movie buffs! If you enjoy disaster movies mixed with science fiction concepts, or if you enjoy Hollywood flicks of the 1990s, then you might want to consider Deep Impact 25th Annniversary 4 Blu-ray which is scheduled for release on May 2, 2023. For the eager fans of Deep Impact reading this, 4K Blu-ray is now available for pre-ordering online and it will come with native 4K visuals.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt and key details from the 4K Blu-ray announcement at Blu-ray.com. Some parts in boldface…

The 4K Blu-ray cover.

Paramount Home Media Distribution will celebrate the 25th anniversary of Mimi Leder’s Deep Impact (1998) with a brand new 4K Blu-ray edition of the film, which will be available for purchase on May 2.

Description: What would you do if you knew that in a handful of days an enormous comet would collide with Earth and all humanity could be annihilated?

The countdown to doomsday is underway in this “gut-wrenching, eye-popping blast of a movie experience” (Jeff Craig, Sixty Second Preview). Mimi Leder (The Peacemaker) directs, guiding an all-star cast featuring Robert Duvall, Tea Leoni, Elijah Wood, Vanessa Redgrave, Maximillian Schell and Morgan Freeman. With the film’s dynamic fusion of large-scale excitement and touching, human-scale storylines, Deep Impact makes its impact felt in a big and unforgettable way.

Originally released on May 8, 1998, Deep Impact grossed nearly $350 million worldwide on an $80 million budget.

Special Features and Technical Specs:

NEW 4K RESTORATION OF THE FILM

DOLBY VISION/HDR PRESENTATION OF THE FILM

Audio Commentary by director Mimi Leder and visual effects supervisor Scott Farrar

Preparing For The End

Making An Impact

Creating The Perfect Traffic Jam

For additional insight, posted below are the details from the Blu-ray.com page of Deep Impact 4K Blu-ray.

Video

Codec: HEVC / H.265

Resolution: Native 4K (2160p)

HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10

Aspect ratio: 2.35:1

Original aspect ratio: 2.39:1

Audio

English: Dolby TrueHD 5.1 (48kHz, 24-bit)

French: Dolby Digital 5.1 (448 kbps)

Spanish: Dolby Digital 5.1 (448 kbps)

Subtitles – English, English SDH, French, Spanish

Discs – 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray Disc, Two-disc set (1 BD-100, 1 BD-50)

Digital – Digital copy included

Packaging – Slipcover in original pressing

Playback – 4K Blu-ray: Region free, 2K Blu-ray: Region A

Way back in 1998, I saw Deep Impact in the local cinema. The movie had an ensemble cast showcasing veteran Morgan Freeman as the United States President, Robert Duvall as the veteran astronaut, Téa Leoni as the troubled TV journalist, as well as the very young Elijah Wood and Leelee Sobieski as the teenage love team. With its pending disaster approach to storytelling, the movie had lots of drama occasionally mixed in with sci-fi spectacle and suspense to keep moviegoers entertained. The movie was entertaining enough for me, I got to replay it on cable TV a few times and even bought myself a DVD copy of it.

Deep Impact was released at a time when Hollywood was modernizing disaster movies using the latest in computer-generated imagery (CGI) of the time and along the way, their production team also had some practical effects.

I can only wonder how good and detailed the 4K visuals of Deep Impact 25th Anniversary 4K Blu-ray will turn out. Based on the details of the announcement, there is no indication if director Mimi Leder will be involved in the 4K restoration of the movie. If you look at Leder’s record, you will realize she has been much more involved in TV than in movies.

Watch out for Deep Impact 25th Anniversary 4K Blu-ray on May 2, 2023.

In ending this, posted below are YouTube clips of the movie. If you will be watching Deep Impact for the first time ever, I recommend you avoid watching anymore short clips of the movie online. Also you should avoid watching retro movie video reviews and movie reaction videos of Deep Impact.

If you wish to join a group of movie enthusiasts and talk about cinema, visit the Movie Fans Worldwide Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/322857711779576

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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 at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/.

Muntinlupa City Mayor signs resolution related to prepositioning of relief goods by DSWD

Muntinlupa City Mayor signs resolution related to prepositioning of relief goods by DSWD

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Recently in the progressive city of Muntinlupa, Mayor Ruffy Biazon signed a key resolution pertaining to the preposition of relief goods by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the Manila Bulletin reported. This is related to the DSWD’s storing of food and other items in local facilities in preparation of disasters.

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

Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon has signed a resolution for the prepositioning of relief goods in the city by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

He signed Resolution 2023-178 passed by the Muntinlupa City Council which gives him the authority as representative of the city government to enter “in a Relief Prepositioning Agreement (RPA) with the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office National Capital Region (DSWDFO-NCR) represented by its Regional Director Monina Josefina H. Romualdez.”

The prepositioning of relief goods allows the DSWD to put food and non-food items in storage facilities in Muntinlupa as preparation for any disaster.

“The City of Muntinlupa, within the period of three (3) years, supports the Prepositioning of relief goods posed by the Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD) as this would contribute in the increased preparedness for disaster of the city,” according to the resolution.

According to the Muntinlupa Legal Office, “During the disaster, the City is at the frontline of service delivery and thus, must always be prepared and equipped to take emergency action and relief measures. The prepositioning of food and non-food items from DSWD-NCR is a welcome augmentation to our disaster preparedness efforts.”

“The Muntinlupa Contingency Plans for Disasters (Flood, Earthquake and Covid-19 pandemic) has been adopted by the Sangguniang Panlungsod through various legislative measures where the policies, course of action, resources allocation aimed to build disaster resilient communities and institutionalize arrangement and measures for reducing disaster risks are underscored,” the resolution stated.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a Muntinlupa City resident, what is your reaction to this development? Do you think this development will ensure the efficient and orderly release of goods for victims of disasters within the city?

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 achieves “Beyond Compliant” award for disaster risk reduction

Muntinlupa City Government achieves “Beyond Compliant” award for disaster risk reduction

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The City Government of Muntinlupa scored another achievement, this time it is achieving the highest “Beyond Compliant” award (related to disaster risk and management) at the prestigious Gawad Kalasag Seal for Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils and Offices (LDRRMCOs), according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

The Muntinlupa City government received the highest “Beyond Compliant” award at the 22nd Gawad Kalasag Seal for Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils and Offices (LDRRMCOs) organized by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) through the Office of Civil Defense (OCD).

According to the OCD, there are 135 Beyond Compliant and 436 Fully Compliant awardees this year among local government units (LGUs) nationwide. The assessment covered 1,715 LGUs in the country.

The Muntinlupa City government, through the Muntinlupa City Department of Disaster Resilience and Management (MCDDRM) and Local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (LDRRMC), got the Beyond Compliant seal, one of the five LGUs in the National Capital Region recognized in the 22nd Gawad Kalasag.

Based on the guidelines, Beyond Compliant LGUs are those that get an assessment rating of 2.5 to 3 while Fully Compliant LGUs are those that receive a rating of 1.5 to 2.49.

Mayor Ruffy Biazon hailed the new achievement of the Muntinlupa City government.

“Congratulations, Muntinlupa City! We are recognized as Beyond Compliant LGU in the 22nd Gawad KALASAG Seal for Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils and Offices (LDRRMCOs), by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), through the Office of Civil Defense (OCD),” he posted on Facebook.

He said the Beyond Compliance Assessment or Gawad Kalasag Seal is the highest award given to an LGU in disaster resiliency.

The above article ended stating that the mayor thanked the MCDDRM and LDRRMC for their efforts, and cited former mayor and now Muntinlupa Rep. Jaime Fresnedi

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a Muntinlupa City resident, what is your reaction to this recent development? Are you happy with the newest award the City Government achieved with regards to disaster risk and management?

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 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