Tag: economics

New gas station in Las Piñas City

New gas station in Las Piñas City

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Did you notice an eye-catching, new gas station while driving here in South Metro Manila? There is one in Las Piñas City called Cleanfuel and it sure has a notable color scheme that makes it visually stand out.

Cleanfuel’s gas station opened recently in Barangay Pamplona Tres. (source – Cleanfuel Facebook page)

What is also notable was that the brand new Cleanfuel gas station got featured in the Business Mirror. To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the article. Some parts in boldface…

The aggressive stance of leading independent oil company Cleanfuel to tap new market is being exercised anew with the recent opening of its premier station in Las Piñas City.

The inauguration of Cleanfuel Alabang-Zapote station has provided easy access to affordable yet quality fuel products to private motorists, public utility, and commercial transport.

The latest location of Cleanfuel serves as one of the gateways in the South Metro Manila, catering to the large volume of vehicles coming to and from Muntinlupa, Las Piñas and Bacoor, Cavite.

Located along the busy stretch of Alabang-Zapote Road in Barangay Pamplona Tres in Las Piñas City, this 2,400-square-meter retail station will be beneficial to all types of motorists as it offers topnotch fuel products including Clean91, Premium 95, and high-grade diesel as part of the company’s mission to offer outstanding yet affordable products.

Aside from the products at the new station, the company also prides itself with the first-class amenities offered to customers such as clean and spacious air-conditioned restrooms, commercial space leasing, air-and-water services, cashless payment options, and loyalty rewards program.

The newly-opened station in Alabang-Zapote road, which stretches for nine kilometers and connects roads towards Alabang, Muntinlupa, and Las Piñas, will include added amenities from its leasing tenants such as a carwash bay area, food store outlets, and motorcycle stores.

Providing more value to its patrons is one of Cleanfuel’s best offerings and the VIP Rewards card (which is being offered FREE in all branches) can make the most out of every top-up as customers earn points; redeem exciting items, and discounts from its establishment partners.

“This is such an important occasion for us as we open our first branch in one of the busiest commercial district in the South. We’re excited to provide motorists a new level of customer service, quality fuel, and world class facilities,” said Atty. Jesus “Bong” Suntay, president of Cleanfuel Group of Companies.

Suntay explained, “With businesses slowly opening up and our economy recovers, we at Cleanfuel, through our continuously-growing station-network will be ready to provide the most competitive pricing in the market to help motorists. Our vision is to help our customers maximize their earnings by providing quality fuel at the lowest price possible.”

While the threat of the pandemic is still within the horizon, Cleanfuel customers can expect the same safe and risk-free environment as its workforce continuously upholds safety health precautions like wearing face masks and face shields, thermal scanning of personnel, social distancing, disinfection of workstations, and hand washing. Cashless payments are also made available.

Wow! Cleanfuel and its PR department/partner really went all out with their heavy and lengthy message through Business Mirror. Their gas station did not simply open but offers a lot for customers to enjoy and that the business itself is meeting with health protocols. The company president also stated that they will open more stations, including in key areas of the National Capital Region (NCR).  

For South Metro Manila, this new business is a welcome development especially as the country is on pace for economic recovery and that means consumer spending – including buying fuel and automobile-related services or products – are gradually moving back to pre-pandemic levels. Really, when it comes to restoring prosperity, creating jobs and providing customers choices for products and services, the capitalists can make those happen. The socialists cannot do the same.

Sports cars at the newly opened Cleanfuel station! (source – Cleanfuel Facebook page)

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: Have you visited Cleanfuel in Barangay Pamplona Tres yet? If you did, were you able to buy fuel and spend time at their station? Does Cleanfuel’s claims of first-class amenities prove to be true? Are their fuel rates attractive? Do you want to see more Cleanfuel gas stations open?

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. Feel free to contact me as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com

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

COVID-19 Crisis: Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines lauds Muntinlupa City for fast vaccine rollout of its workers

COVID-19 Crisis: Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines lauds Muntinlupa City for fast vaccine rollout of its workers

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Hey everyone! Have you ordered drinks directly from Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI) online lately? In case you missed the news reported by Business Mirror, the exclusive PepsiCo beverage maker in our country admired the City of Muntinlupa for the fast vaccination rollout of its employees. Take note that there is a huge Pepsi plant in Muntinlupa and patients under category A4 (which includes workers) are being vaccinated in the same city for weeks now.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the article published by Business Mirror. Some parts in boldface…

Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines Inc. (PCPPI)—the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages in the country—hopes to speed up its employee vaccination through the City Government of Muntinlupa.

The local government unit, host to PCPPI’s headquarters and biggest manufacturing plant, has inoculated the economic frontliners under the A4 category of the Inter-Agency Task Force priority list during the LGU’s launch last June 7. PCPPI employees, being part of the essential workforce, are classified under this category.

“We laud Muntinlupa City’s fast vaccine rollout for our economic workers. We are encouraging more of our employees to get vaccinated. The sooner we get fully immunized, the safer we get, and the earlier our economy could recover,” PCPPI President and Chief Executive Officer Frederick D. Ong said.

While vaccination is underway through the local government of Muntinlupa City, PCPPI is also awaiting the delivery of 20,000 doses of AztraZeneca vaccines. This vaccination program is part of “A Dose of Hope”, an initiative led by Presidential Adviser for Entrepreneurship Joey Concepcion.

“We participated in the ‘A Dose of Hope’ initiative to help in the faster rollout of vaccines, and in support of the private sector’s goal of reviving the economy,” Ong added.

It is indeed very encouraging to see a huge business like PCPPI express its admiration to the LGU over its local vaccination program and this adds a good amount of credibility for the City Government itself. Like other corporations here in the Philippines, the maker of Pepsi-branded drinks also took part in a national-level initiative with economic revival in mind. Remember that it is the capitalists, not the socialists, who lead the momentum of the economy and creates jobs and offers consumers lots of choices for products or services.

For Muntinlupa City residents who have not yet registered for the free COVID-19 vaccines, learn the ways to get registered right here. If you are ready to register yourself online, click https://vaccine.muntinlupacity.gov.ph/muncovac/

If you are interested to order drinks from PCPPI’s online store, visit https://pepsiproducts.ph/

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: Are you a Muntinlupa City resident who has yet to get vaccinated? What exactly is keeping you from getting vaccinated?

Does the above news encourage you (unvaccinated readers in Muntinlupa) to get registered and join the line from the free COVID-19 vaccines?

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. Feel free to contact me as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com

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

COVID-19 Crisis: Major malls in Muntinlupa City granted Safety Seal Certifications, more establishments apply in LGU

COVID-19 Crisis: Major malls in Muntinlupa City granted Safety Seal Certifications, more establishments apply in LGU

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Following the launching of Safety Seal Certification Program in Muntinlupa, the City Government has granted the seal to major malls and commercial establishments who are compliant with minimum public health standards (MPHS) set by the national government amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

As of June 22, the Business Permits and Licensing Office has approved 27 Safety Seal applications from commercial establishments including major malls such as Alabang Town Center (ATC), SM Center Muntinlupa, Ayala Malls South Park, and Starmall Alabang.

Besides the four malls, other private establishments which have been granted the Safety Seal by the City Government including: 8 Cuts Burger Blends (ATC), Café Mary Grace (ATC), Shiseido at SM Center Muntinlupa, Yabu: House of Katsu at ATC, KFC at SM Center Muntinlupa, Fitness First Platinum Alabang at Filinvest Alabang and South Park Corporate Center in Alabang, Three Inihaw Place Inc./Mang Inasal, Manny and Pie Calayan Clinic, Metro Alabang, La Senza Alabang Town Center, The Palms Country Club, Slimmer’s World, Cucinamia Hospitality, Aventus Medical Care, Bench Body Alabang Town Center, Pancake House Festival Mall, Made In Candy, Pound Alabang Town Center, Cotton On and California Advance Nail & Skincare.

To date, at least 267 private establishments in Muntinlupa have applied for Safety Seal. The City Government expects to receive more applications in the coming days.

The Safety Seal ensures the public that an establishment is strictly implementing MPHS in their stores and workplaces, such as proper wearing of face shields and face masks, and disinfection. The certification program also requires establishments to use the contact tracing system of StaySafe.ph.

Under JMC 21-01, Muntinlupa LGU can issue the Safety Seal to the following establishments: malls, wet market, other retail store, restaurant outside hotels/resorts, fast food, eateries, coffee shop, bank, money changer, remittance center, car wash, laundry service center, art gallery, library, museum, zoo, sports center, tutorial, testing and review center, gym, spa, cinema, arcade, and all other private establishments.

Private establishments in Muntinlupa may apply to the program through the city’s website https://www.muntinlupacity.gov.ph. For printed application, a scanned copy should be emailed to muntinlupacitysafetyseal@gmail.com. Upon submission of application, the City Government will schedule an inspection to the concerned establishment.

Further, DILG Muntinlupa Field Office has started to inspect government offices starting with the departments in Muntinlupa City Hall. The local Inspection and Certification Team has recently granted the Safety Seal to Office of the City Mayor and other City Government offices.

Mayor Jaime Fresnedi encourages private business owners to apply for the safety certification as it helps assure the public that their establishments are compliant with health protocols and it will be vital for the safe reopening of the economy.

For more information, owners of business establishments in the city may send an email to muntinlupacitysafetyseal@gmail.com.

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The above information was sourced from the official press release of the Muntinlupa PIO.

Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com

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

COVID-19 Crisis: 30,518 Las Piñas City residents fully vaccinated

COVID-19 Crisis: 30,518 Las Piñas City residents fully vaccinated

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How many residents in your locality successfully got vaccinated for COVID-19 with two doses? Over in Las Piñas City, it was reported by the Manila Bulletin (citing the City Government and the local health office’s COVID-19 statistics as of June 10, 2021) that 30,518 residents have been fully vaccinated (injected with two doses). Take note that it was only days ago when the grand total of city residents vaccinated exceeded the 100,000 mark.

You must be wondering – what are the breakdowns? To make things clear, here is an excerpt from the news report. Some parts in boldface…

A total of 30,518 Las Pinas City residents are now fully vaccinated against the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

The Las Pinas City government announced on its Facebook page that a total of 13,749 senior citizens and 12,803 adults with comorbidities have already been fully vaccinated.

Out of the 5,322 health care frontliners, 1,885 have yet to receive their second dose of the vaccine.

Mayor Imelda Aguilar appealed to the city residents to finish their second dose to get maximum protection against COVID-19.

Aguilar, however, said that even if they are fully vaccinated, the residents should still follow the standard health protocols.

She also asked the city residents to be part of the “Ligtas na Las Pinero, Lahat Bakunado” vaccination program.

Records show that a total of 82,234 individuals in the city have already had their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine.

The above report ended with statistics showing that 6,837 patients under the A4 category have been vaccinated and among them are 529 who have been fully vaccinated. It is good to see that the local number of A4 patients vaccinated has quickly reached in the thousands already. That’s impressive as it was only last week that A4 patients vaccination started. The A4 patients vaccination is crucial to the local and national economy as that group includes most of the workers who are essential to the many businesses already struggling during this pandemic.

Below for your reference is the city health office’s statistics and breakdowns accurate as of June 10, 2021.

Official statistics as of June 10, 2021.

Any Las Piñas resident who has yet to get registered for free COVID-19 vaccines can learn the ways (3 methods) by clicking here. Anyone who is ready and willing to register online can click bit.ly/LasPiñasVaccination

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: Are you a Las Piñas resident who got fully vaccinated? How was the local processing and waiting time during your second appointment at the local vaccination site? How long did it take for you to get vaccinated for the 2nd dose?

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. Feel free to contact me as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com

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

COVID-19 Crisis: Las Piñas City Government team formed for local implementation of safety seal certification (SSC)

COVID-19 Crisis: Las Piñas City Government team formed for local implementation of safety seal certification (SSC)

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Have you heard about the words safety seal certificate or safety seal certification circulating in the local news and social media lately? In connection to this ongoing COVID-19 Crisis we are all living with, businesses are being compelled to get certified that they have met the safety and health-related requirements. The safety seal certificates are supposed to ensure the public that the business establishments they intend to enter are safe for their health.

To put things in perspective, over thirty companies have applied for the safety seal certificate according to a Philippine News Agency report. In Imus, Cavite province, certain businesses their now have the certificates according to a Manila Times report.

Now here is the latest. The City Government of Las Piñas announced that it has formed a new team designed to do inspections in relation to the local implementation of the safety seal certification which local businesses in their jurisdiction should have qualified for.

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

Las Pinas City Mayor Imelda Aguilar issued an executive order creating an inspection team for the implementation of the safety seal certification.

The team created by Aguilar are composed of city administrator Reynaldo Balagulan, City Health Office head Dr. Ferdinand Eusebio, city director of Risk Reduction and Management Office Alejandro dela Merced, Public Information chief Paul San Miguel, chief legal officer Atty. Glenda Lucena, City Engineer Rosabella Bantog, Public Employment Services Office head Redante Garcia, Engineer Cesar Perillo of the City Environment and Natural Resources Office, and city police chief Col. Rodel Pasator.

Aguilar ordered the team to immediately start inspecting business establishments around the city on June 11 for the issuance of the safety seal certification.

She said the inspection was in line with the joint memorandum circular issued by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Tourism (DOT), and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to ensure that all business establishment in the city will follow minimum public health standard as imposed by the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Management of Emerging Infectious Disease.

The mayor said the inspection and certification team was created to ensure that businesses around the city were following the minimum health standard to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and future surge.

Aguilar ordered the team to conduct inspections in malls, wet markets, retail stores, restaurants outside hotels or resorts, fastfood, eateries, coffee shops, car wash, laundry shops, banks, among others.

The above report ended stating that Mayor Aguilar wants the new team to regularly monitor the establishments using the checklist related to the safety seal certification. In a sense, this a new wave of regulation by the City Government on businesses and I should state that Las Piñas City has many businesses of all sizes all throughout its jurisdiction. Just drive along Alabang-Zapote Road coming from Alabang to SM Southmall and you will see so many commercial joints all the way between. And then there is the rest of Las Piñas where businesses are scattered at (examples: Marcos Alvarez Avenue, CAA Road, Tropical Avenue, BF Resort Drive, Gloria Diaz street).

To put things in perspective, the safety seal certification was emphasized in a ceremony in SM City Sucat in Parañaque City this past May which was attended by  Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez and Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya.

Businesses aside, people still need to do their part in overcoming the pandemic by getting vaccinated. To get vaccinated, registering with the local authorities goes first. Already over 100,000 Las Piñas residents of have been vaccinated.

Any Las Piñas resident who has yet to get registered for free COVID-19 vaccines can learn the ways (3 methods) by clicking here. Anyone who is ready and willing to register online can click bit.ly/LasPiñasVaccination

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a business owner in Las Piñas, have you applied for the safety seal certification program already? Does the new team formed by the City Government for inspection sound challenging to your business? Also, are all of your employees been vaccinated 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. Feel free to contact me as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com

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

Safety Seal Certification Program launched at Alabang Town Center

Safety Seal Certification Program launched at Alabang Town Center

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Yesterday, the City Government of Muntinlupa along with their strategic partners Ayala Malls, Inc., Ayala Land, Inc. (ALI) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) formally launched at Alabang Town Center the Safety Seal Certification Program which is an attempt to ensure the compliance of private business establishments with the minimum public health standards set by the national government.

In attendance were Mayor Jaime Fresnedi, Ayala Malls, Inc.’s President Christopher Maglanoc, Ayala Land’s VP & Head of External Affairs Dindo Fernando, Ayala Land Malls’ Area Head for South Malls Veronica Arcenas, DILG-Muntinlupa director Bernadette Ferino, DILG Plans and Assistance Programs Assistant Secretary Francisco Cruz and Muntinlupa Congressman Ruffy Biazon.

The ceremonial handover of the safety seal by Muntinlupa City Mayor Jaime Fresnedi to Ayala Land Malls, Inc. President, Mr. Christopher Maglanoc.

To put things in perspective, the Safety Seal is an indication that the establishment is compliant in terms of the standard safety protocols including the use of StaySafe.ph app. This is a voluntary inspection coordinated with the LGU or DTI. In essence, the Alabang Town Center has been recognized as a safe place for customers and visitors.

Standing (L to R) were Director Bernadette Ferino of DILG, Muntinlupa; Ayala Malls, Inc. president Christopher Maglanoc; Francisco Cruz, Assistant Secretary for DILG Plans and Programs; Muntinlupa City Mayor Jaime Fresnedi; Congressman Ruffy Biazon; Dindo Fernando, VP & Head of External Affairs, Ayala Land Inc.; and Veronica Arcenas, Ayala Land Malls, Inc. Area Head for South Malls.
The Safety Inspection Team lead by Gary Llamas of the Muntinlupa City Local Economic & Investment Promotions Office.
Ayala Land Malls, Inc. Area Head for South Malls Veronica Arcenas with Congressman Ruffy Biazon.

Visit the Alabang Town Center soon. It is safe for you and your family.

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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. Feel free to contact me as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com

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

COVID-19 Crisis: Vaccination of patients under A4 category ongoing

COVID-19 Crisis: Vaccination of patients under A4 category ongoing

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Vaccination for COVID-19 has entered a new stage with the inoculation of the many registered patients who are under the category of A4 (to be done in two phases). To be clear, the Department of Health (DOH) describes A4 as the category pertaining to frontline personnel in essential sectors, including uniformed personnel.

For starters, watch the GMA Network news video below…

To put things in perspective even more, posted below are selected excerpts from the Philippine News Agency’s (PNA) article. Some parts in boldface…

Excerpt 1

Some 50 workers from various sectors received their first dose of vaccine against the dreaded Covid-19 as the government kicked off the mass vaccination of the economic front-liners under the A4 priority group at the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City on Monday.

Christopher Molo, a 28-year-old Angkas rider, said getting vaccinated would lessen his fear to get infected with the disease and have serious illness conditions due to the virus.

He said he decided to get vaccinated to also protect his family against the risk of transmission.

“May takot at kaba dahil bukod sa panganib ng kalsada, may takot na rin sa virus kasi may posibilidad kami na mahawa rin na mas nakakatakot (There is fear and nervousness because apart from the danger of the road, there is also fear that we might get infected with the virus — that is more worrisome),” Molo said during the symbolic vaccination attended by officials from public and private sectors.

Molo said he always keeps the health protocols in mind during his work hours. But he is more feeling safe now that he is vaccinated.

Excerpt 2

TV host Iya Villania-Arellano said she decided to get vaccinated to become safe from the risks of getting infected.

“I wanna feel safe and I wanna contribute to taking that one step towards that achieving of herd immunity. That’s why we decide to get vaccinated. I wanna be one with everyone else in being able to give way the life that we had,” Iya said.

Iya and her husband Drew Arellano were both vaccinated with Sinovac vaccines, encouraging more Filipinos to avail themselves of the Covid-19 jabs.

“Don’t be choosy. Get what is available, because it is our way of being able to get back to our lives, and be able to enjoy what we used to be able to enjoy without the mask, without the face shield. Enjoy fresh air, enjoy breathing properly, and enjoy the outside world with our families, with our loved ones. So guys, come on, let’s get vaccinated,” she said.

Maurel Magyani, a service crew for eight years with Jollibee, said getting vaccinated will save her child from the danger brought by the Covid-19 pandemic.

“I feel safe kasi nabakunahan na ako (because I already got vaccinated),” she said.

Excerpt 3

The Philippine government has decided to inoculate essential workers belonging to the A4 priority groups in areas where there is a high-risk exposure to Covid-19 infection.

The initial vaccination rollout for the A4 priority group is being carried out in the areas of Metro Manila, Rizal, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Metro Cebu, and Metro Davao, which are collectively called the National Capital Region (NCR) Plus 8.

The first phase of the inoculation covers employees in private companies who are working outside their homes; employees in government agencies and instrumentalities, including government-owned or controlled corporations (GOCCs) and local government units (LGUs); and informal sector workers and those self-employed who work outside their homes, and those working in private households.

In his taped message for the event, President Rodrigo Duterte said the arrival of Covid-19 vaccines “in bulk” and the vaccination of essential workers boost the government’s efforts to beat the pandemic.

“We can now see the light at the end of the tunnel as the vaccine shipments have arrived, have started to arrive in bulk. This development is the result of our national government’s aggressive efforts to secure sufficient doses from the different manufacturers,” Duterte said.

Duterte also reminded the public to continue to adhere to the minimum public health standards.

That’s quite a load of information above. While A4 patients are being vaccinated, it does NOT mean that vaccination for patients of A1, A2 and A3 will stop. In fact, vaccination sites and their organizers are still waiting for category A1, A2 and A3 patients to come to them (note: register first) and those who missed out on their 2nd dose will still be served. Going back to the Philippine News Agency report, Senator Bong Go stated: “We should exert all efforts to continuously prioritize A1, A2, and A3 priority groups by establishing special lanes or special vaccination centers for them.”

Going back to the above excerpts, A4 is further defined as A4 workers in NCR+8 (Phase 1) and A4 workers outside NCR+8 (Phase 2). Below is an image sourced from another Philippine News Agency article.

For your reference.

Economic significance of category A4

In another Philippines News Agency article, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez stated that vaccinating patients under category A4 is key to the nation’s economic recovery. A4 covers a wide number of employees under different sectors, most notably the private sectors who work outside their homes. Check out the excerpt below…

During the ceremonial vaccination for A4 group in Pasay City Monday, Lopez thanked the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) for expanding the definition of A4 priority group to include “almost all” workers.

“We are really giving support to the backbone of our economy, our workers. So this is really a shot in the arm to the economic front-liners, a shot in the arm to our economy. And this is really what we need as we are trying to continuously reopen,” Lopez said.

Following the vaccination of healthcare workers, senior citizens, and those with comorbidities, economic front-liners can now get the jab against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

The expanded list in the fourth priority group has included self-employed individuals, house helpers, and business process outsourcing workers, among others, who work outside their homes.

Lopez added that as vaccines provide protection and lower the risk of getting severe Covid-19 cases and death, the inoculation for the A4 group will boost confidence to reopen the economy.

“And with that, we will confidently reopen towards that path, and that’s the path towards recovery. And now we’re seeing such recovery, we will see more and better signs of that recovery moving forward,” the DTI chief said.

Once a whole lot of A4 patients get vaccinated, it will be great for the businesses who have been struggling hard to keep operating. It will also be great not only for the fortunate employees (still working daily) but also for the unemployed (including those who are afraid of daily travel, fearing possible COVID-19 infection). Of course, those who will got vaccinated are those who successfully registered in their respective cities or local communities. There are still a lot of people out there who have not registered for one reason or another.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: Does the start of vaccination of A4 patients sound encouraging to you personally? Have you registered already? Have you been unemployed for over three months now?

In your city, has the mayor or other city government officials been posing a lot for pictures while witnessing the local vaccination processes?

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. Feel free to contact me as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com

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

Muntinlupa City extends deadline for redemption of auctioned properties to June 30, 2021

Muntinlupa City extends deadline for redemption of auctioned properties to June 30, 2021

carlocarrasco

Individuals with properties acquired by the City Government of Muntinlupa under “Public Auction Sale” have a chance to buy back their properties but only until the end of the month.

Under City Ordinance 2021-206, the redemption period for properties acquired by the City Government of Muntinlupa for want of bidders for auction years 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017 is extended until June 30, 2021.

This extension is an amendment to a former ordinance approved by the Muntinlupa City Council setting the deadline for the redemption of properties on December 31, 2020.

The City Government has approved the extension of deadline since most of the auctioned and acquired properties were small in area and a government project is not practicable to be ventured into such properties.

Further, funds collected from the auctioned properties will be used for the local COVID-19 response. In an initial report, approximately P55 million may be collected from the auctioned properties when delinquent property owners are given further extension to redeem.

The City Treasurer’s Office – Muntinlupa released an announcement in social media and posted posters and tarpaulins in conspicuous places informing the public about the deadline.

For more information, you may coordinate with the City Treasurer’s Office – Muntinlupa at 8862 2525 loc. 198 and 303.

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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. Feel free to contact me as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com

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

COVID-19 Crisis: GCQ in NCR Plus until June 15, 2021

COVID-19 Crisis: GCQ in NCR Plus until June 15, 2021

carlocarrasco

While it was announced really late in the evening of May 31, the general community quarantine (GCQ) remains in effect in the National Capital Region (NCR) and the bordering provinces of Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal from June 1 to June 15, 2021.

To put things in perspective, below is an excerpt from the article of Philippine News Agency (PNA). Some parts in boldface…

The general community quarantine (GCQ) quarantine classification in Metro Manila and other areas has been extended until June 15, President Rodrigo Duterte said on Monday night.

Duterte approved the recommendation of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) to extend the GCQ status in the National Capital Region, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal (NCR Plus) for 15 more days to prevent a surge in Covid-19 cases in the country.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque, in a press statement, said some restrictions shall remain in place in NCR Plus limiting the capacities of certain industries.

The PNA article also includes key details such the OCTA Research Group recommending the GCQ status for NCR Plus to be retained so that people won’t become very complacent. When it comes to guidelines and restrictions, read the Manila Bulletin article.

I want to add here that vaccination registration and processes are being done by the many local government units around the nation. Millions more new vaccines will arrive this month. That being said, I encourage you – those who have not yet registered for free COVID-19 vaccines – to get registered and wait for the local authorities to contact you. I just received my 2nd dose of vaccine from Russia here in Muntinlupa City. In my two appointments for vaccination, the local organizing of the processes, verification and health check were done efficiently and smoothly. Even if one gets fully vaccinated (2 doses), there is still a need to follow health protocols.

Las Piñas City residents can learn the ways to get registered vaccines right here, while those in Muntinlupa can learn about online registration here.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a business owner, what are the biggest problems you experienced during GCQ? How many more business restrictions related to GCQ do you want to see get loosened or removed? If you have not yet registered for the free COVID-19 vaccines in your locality, what is your main reason for not registering?

Is the local vaccination organizer efficient and friendly to those who arrived for inoculation?

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. Feel free to contact me as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com

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

COVID-19 Crisis: So-called stricter GCQ in NCR Plus begins today

COVID-19 Crisis: So-called stricter GCQ in NCR Plus begins today

carlocarrasco

Starting today until the 31st of May, the level of quarantine and restrictions in the National Capital Region (NCR) and the bordering provinces of Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna and Rizal – these form NCR Plus – has been lowered to the softer general community quarantine (GCQ). The period of modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) for NCR Plus (note: specific places outside of NCR Plus are still under MECQ) is over at last and the shift to GCQ was approved by President Rodrigo Duterte.

However, the GCQ this time around will have some more restrictions of its own. To put things in perspective, read the details from this excerpt from the Philippine News Agency’s (PNA) article. Some parts in bold…

Duterte decided to ease quarantine protocols in Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal, also known as “NCR Plus,” upon the recommendation of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID).

Presidential Spokesperson Roque, who was present during a meeting with Duterte at Malacañan Palace, said NCR Plus will be placed under GCQ “with heightened restrictions” from May 15 to 31.

“President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Thursday, May 13, 2021, approved the recommendation of the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) to place the National Capital Region (NCR), Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna and Rizal under General Community Quarantine (GCQ) with heightened restrictions from May 15 to 31, 2021,” Roque said in a statement.

Apart from NCR Plus, the quarantine classification in Abra was also downgraded from MECQ to GCQ.

Areas of concern

The MECQ status was, however, retained in the City of Santiago in Isabela, Zamboanga City, Quirino, and Ifugao.

Duterte said the four areas would remain under MECQ until end of May following local governments’ concerns over the spike in the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) within their localities.

GCQ is imposed in Apayao, Baguio City, Benguet, Kalinga, Mountain Province, Cagayan, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, Batangas, Quezon, Iligan City, Davao City, Lanao del Sur, and Puerto Princesa City until May 31.

The rest of the country remains under the least restrictive modified GCQ (MGCQ) for the whole month of May.

Implementation of stricter GCQ

Once GCQ with heightened restrictions is implemented in NCR, only “essential travel into and out of the NCR Plus” will be allowed, Roque said.

Roque said interzonal travel from NCR Plus areas, except those conducted by Authorized Persons Outside Residence, will remain prohibited in GCQ areas with heightened restrictions.

“Public transportation shall remain operational at such capacities and protocols in accordance with the Department of Transportation guidelines while the use of active transportation shall be promoted,” he said.

Roque said only individuals aged 18 to 65 can leave their homes while NCR Plus is under stricter GCQ.

Entertainment venues like bars, concert halls, and theaters; recreational venues, such as internet cafes, billiards halls, and arcades; amusement parks, fairs, playgrounds, kiddie rides; indoor sports courts and venues and indoor tourist attractions; and venues for meetings, conferences, exhibitions will not be allowed in NCR Plus, Roque said.

Roque said religious gatherings and gatherings for necrological services, wakes, inurnment and funerals for those who died of causes other than Covid-19 in NCR Plus will be allowed up to 10 percent of the venue capacity.

He added that indoor and outdoor dine-in services would be allowed in Metro Manila and its four neighboring provinces.

Also, indoor dine-in services in NCR Plus shall be at 20 percent venue or seating capacity while outdoor or al fresco dining shall be at 50 percent venue or seating capacity,” he said.

Roque said outdoor tourist attractions in NCR Plus may be opened at 30 percent, with “strict” adherence to minimum public health standards.

“Also continued to be allowed in GCQ areas with heightened restrictions are non-contact sports, games, scrimmages held outdoors; and personal care services that allow for services not requiring mask removal, such as salons, parlors, [and] beauty clinics, at 30 percent capacity,” he said.

While the GCQ is stricter than its previous form, it does allow more breathing room for businesses because they are essential on providing customers the products and services needed (or wanted), and it is the businesses who provide jobs for the unemployed. Businesses, not socialists, can lift people up from poverty and prevent their employees from falling into poverty. As I mentioned previously, the more Filipinos fall into poverty due to restricted economic activities (that result job losses), the more expensive it becomes for any government unit to provide relief to the constituents.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your impression about the so-called stricter GCQ for NCR Plus? Are the restrictions of the new GCQ disturbing to you? Does the new GCQ affect your plan to travel to the provinces?

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. Feel free to contact me as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com

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