Recently in the City of Muntinlupa, a young achiever who brought home a lot of honors from math and science competitions overseas was congratulated by Mayor Ruffy Biazon, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Manila Bulletin news report. Some parts in boldface…
Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon congratulated a student from San Beda College Alabang for winning medals in international math and science competitions.
Antonio Pio Vivo, a Grade 6 student, visited Biazon to present the awards he received.
“Ngayong January, bumisita siya ulit (This January, he visited again) with an impressive collection of medals and trophies from international Mathematics and Science competitions—plus a taekwondo championship title!”
Vivo won in the following competitions:
Hong Kong International Olympiad Final Round (Singapore, June 13-17, 2024)
– Champion and merit award for Science Olympiad
– Merit award for Computing Olympiad
International Mathematics Wizard Challenge 2024 Final Round (Bogor, Indonesia, June 20-24, 2024)
– Silver medal
Siam International Math and Science Olympics (Bangkok, Thailand, August 9-12, 2024)
– Bronze medal for Science Olympics
– Bronze medal for Math Olympics
Philippine International Math and Science Olympics (Cebu, April 5-8, 2024)
– Bronze for Mathematics Category
– Bronze for Science Category
Asia International Mathematical Olympiad 2024 Final Round (South Korea, July 27-31, 2024)
– Merit award
In addition, he won a gold medal at the National Age Group Taekwondo Championship held last November at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? If you are a resident of Muntinlupa City, are you delighted to see a new local achiever getting recognized by the Mayor?
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 engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
To conclude their Health Awareness Month, which was primarily aimed to develop self-awareness in their students, Mindbuilders Preschool located in BF Homes organized a special event entitled “All my Feelings are All Me.”
Prior to this culmination, the teachers of Mindbuilders Preschool implemented activities throughout October that would encourage their pupils to identify and even discuss their feelings in class. One tool the students made and used during their daily Circle Time period was a “feelings scale”, which allowed each child to identify a specific emotion he or she was feeling at the time. The children were also taught to use a decorated paper cup nicknamed the “jellyfish”. By breathing in and out of the cup, they could use it to calm themselves down in situations that made them feel scared, nervous or anxious. Other activities promoting self-awareness, specifically in the Gross Motor domain, were also implemented.
Then, on the morning of November 15, the assembly of preschool pupils, teachers and volunteer parents witnessed two very special presentations: one by psychologist Patricia Pacheco-Beton and another by a living legend of Philippine cinema and television, Miss Gina Alajar.
Teacher Pach efficiently taught the young audience about the kind of feelings they have and how to react when they feel something. In separate turns, a few students were called to the front to answer the guest psychologist’s key questions. The answers stated amused the other children as well as the parents and teachers who were present. More importantly, the little children themselves learned a lot from Teacher Pach’s presentation.
Using a children’s picture book, Teacher Pach engaged the students with a story and how it relates with feelings.
Teacher Pach also engaged the students in a read-aloud of an illustrated children’s book about the myriad of feelings a child can have in just one day! And as the narrative went on, students were able to identify the kind of emotions that the main character displayed.
Veteran actress and director Gina Alajar facilitated an acting workshop with three alternating groups of kids in attendance. In relation to the topic of feelings, she first asked the students what kind of emotions were they able to spot in films they had watched before. Collectively, the children gave answers which proved that they had been paying attention to the cinematic emotions even while enjoying the movies.
Ms. Gina Alajar had a group sit-down with the students of Mindbuilders Preschool about their feelings in relation to the senses. (Photo credit: Richard Estuesta)
The veteran filmmaker getting feedback from one of the students. (Photo credit: Richard Estuesta)
To determine how far everyone could go with their emotions, Alajar focused on the five senses: touch, sight, hearing, smell and taste. For each sense explored, the actress used specific items to get reactions from the kids. As children would respond differently to each item, she processed valuing each one’s feelings and respecting the feelings of others as well. Having seen Gina Alajar act so dramatically in movies from long ago, I was very impressed to see how experienced and patient she was when it came to teaching the students of Mindbuilders Preschool. It was as if they were all her grandchildren!
Elsewhere within Mindbuilders were other activities that tapped the students’ other intelligences. These took place inside different classrooms. One classroom had each child decorate a puzzle piece and then assemble the pieces together to form one big puzzle. In another classroom nearby, students were taught to express themselves with music and movement amidst multicolored lights. Finally, a coloring session of positive quotes on affirmation stones was held in another classroom.
In this particular workshop, the students learn to express themselves with music and movement. (Photo credit: Macon Leaño)
Students putting the puzzle pieces together in another classroom. (Photo credit: Tintin L. Cabase)
A student coloring positive quotes on an affirmation stone. (photo credit: Kristine Salustiano)
The session of coloring positive quotes on affirmation stones offers students a unique opportunity to practice their analysis and creativity. (photo credit: Kristine Salustiano)
After all the workshops and sessions were completed, the students were treated to a free film viewing at the play area.
A special activity fulfilled!
According to Mindbuilders Preschool Directress Marah Estuesta, the team worked hard in preparation for their Health Awareness Month Culmination. This included making schedule adjustments due to a major weather disturbance. What transpired on November 15, however, was a huge pay-off complete with a strong reception and the fulfillment of goals on educating the children about self-awareness.
Mindbuilders Preschool’s Health Awareness Month Culmination was supported by Chef Thess Uy Catering.
Philippines film and TV living legend Gina Alajar poses with the teachers and parents of Mindbuilders Preschool. At leftmost is directress Marah Estuesta. (Photo credit: Richard Estuesta)
Words from the Directress
“This activity was one for the books! In today’s world, where mental health is increasingly prioritized, I am happy to have an activity that fosters socio-emotional development in our preschoolers. It is very relevant that children begin developing self-awareness early, as it lays the foundation for understanding and managing their emotions, as well as expressing them effectively.
From understanding their own feelings to recognizing those of others, this activity is a significant step in helping young minds navigate the complexities of emotions. By engaging in activities that promote emotional intelligence, children learn valuable skills such as empathy, emotional regulation, and healthy communication.
Our month-long activities encouraged our preschoolers to explore and express their feelings in a safe and nurturing environment. Through fun, interactive exercises, tapping their Multiple Intelligences, they begin to articulate their emotions, understand their impact, and learn appropriate ways to respond to various emotional states. This kind of early intervention is vital, as it equips children with the tools they need to grow into emotionally resilient and socially adept individuals.“
Mindbuilders Preschool is an early learning environment committed to maximizing a child’s potential by creating exciting experiences that inspire enthusiasm for learning. Founded in 2002, it has grown as the leading Multiple Intelligences Preschool in the South (BF Homes, Las Piñas & Parañaque), following Howard Gardner’s Theory. Mindbuilders Preschool offers one of the best classes in the community for preschoolers.
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 engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
Recently in the progressive City of Muntinlupa, the City Government distributed free shoes to public school students, according to a Manila Bulletin news report. Mayor Ruffy Biazon led the distribution of the said shoes.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Manila Bulletin news report. Some parts in boldface…
The Muntinlupa City government distributed free shoes to students in public schools as part of its Balik Eskwela program.
Mayor Ruffy Biazon led the distribution of the MUNWalk sneakers to students in different schools including Muntinlupa Science High School, Muntinlupa Business High School, Lakeview Integrated High School, Muntinlupa Business High School Sucat Annex, Pedro E. Diaz High School, and Tunasan National High School and Senior High School.
“This is our assistance to students of the City of Muntinlupa,” said Biazon during the distribution at Muntinlupa Science High School.
The city government said a total of 90,000 students in Muntinlupa public schools will receive the free sneakers.
Last year, the city government gave free leather shoes to the students. This year, it decided to distribute rubber shoes.
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? If you are a resident of Muntinlupa City, are you delighted with the City Government’s release of free shoes to the public school students?
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 engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
Recently in the City of Las Piñas, more than two thousand beneficiaries of the “Tara, Basa” program received cash aid from the City Government (in tandem with the Department of Social Welfare and Development), according to a Manila Bulletin news report. The distribution was led by Vice Mayor April Aguilar.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from Manila Bulletin news report. Some parts in boldface…
The Las Piñas city government, in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), distributed cash aid to 2,119 beneficiaries of its “Tara,Basa” tutoring program on Thursday, September 12.
Las Piñas city Vice-Mayor April Aguilar led the distribution held at the Verdant covered court in Barangay Pamplona Tres.
Aguilar said the beneficiaries who finished the 20-day tutorial session received P4,700 cash for their service as tutors or youth development workers.
The tutoring program is a new initiative by the DSWD aimed at employing college students from low-income families as tutors for elementary school children struggling with reading.
Through the 20-day tutorial sessions, the tutors not only help improve literacy among young learners but also provide training for parents or guardians, enabling them to continue the tutorial support at home.
Meanwhile, parents who attended the 20-day “Nanay-Tatay” sessions covering topics such as communication and child behavior, were also given cash aid for their active participation.
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 convinced that the “Tara, Basa” program is improving education as well as supporting low-income families?
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 engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the City Government’s announcement. Some parts in boldface…
City Vice Mayor April Aguilar, alongside City Engineer Rose Bantog, conducted a comprehensive site inspection on Thursday, August 8 to assess the location for the proposed new building at the TESDA Las Piñas campus. This new facility is intended to accommodate additional classrooms to support the growing number of students enrolled in various technical and vocational courses.
During the site visit, the officials discussed plans for the repair and repainting of existing facilities, ensuring that the campus remains conducive to learning. They also reviewed proposals for the fabrication of new classroom equipment and chairs, which will enhance the educational experience for students.
The proposed development underscores the city government’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities and improving infrastructure to meet the needs of the community.
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 many members of your local community taking courses with the local TESDA?
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 engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
Recently in the City of Las Piñas, educational assistance in the form of school supplies was released to the local students during an activity that was attended by Vice Mayor April Aguilar, the City Government confirmed via social media.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the City Government’s social media post. Some parts in boldface…
The City Social Welfare and Development Office, in partnership with the Local Youth Development Office, hosted the awarding of educational assistance on Monday, July 15 at the Mayor Vergel “Nene” Aguilar DRRMO Building in Barangay Talon Dos.
City Vice Mayor April Aguilar led the distribution, alongside City Social Welfare and Development Office OIC Lowefe Romulo. The event, attended by numerous parents, guardians, and students, emphasized the local government’s commitment to supporting the educational needs of its youth.
The distribution of school supplies, consisting of backpacks filled with essential educational materials, aimed to equip students for the upcoming school year. Vice Mayor Aguilar highlighted the importance of education in her short address, encouraging students to persevere in their studies and utilize the resources provided to them.
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 there any students within your local community who received educational assistance from the local authorities?
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 engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
Recently in the City of Muntinlupa, the opening of classes in public schools was observed by new Education Secretary Sonny Angara, Mayor Ruffy Biazon and Congressman Jaime Fresnedi, 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…
Education Sec. Sonny Angara, Mayor Ruffy Biazon and Rep. Jaime Fresnedi visited a high school in Muntinlupa on July 29 to observe the opening of classes.
Biazon and Fresnedi accompanied Angara when he visited Muntinlupa National High School Main in NBP Reservation, Barangay Poblacion.
All public schools in Muntinlupa from Kindergarten to Senior High School opened on July 29 as scheduled.
Dr. Violeta Gonzales, head of the Schools Division Office (SDO)-Muntinlupa City, said the opening of classes pushed through since schools in the city were not affected by the onslaught of Habagat (southwest monsoon) and Typhoon Carina.
Many public schools in areas in the country that were hit by heavy rains and floods delayed the opening of classes.
“Ang announcement ng DepEd ay para lamang sa mga paaralang ginagamit pa bilang evacuation centers, binaha, at napinsala. Tayo po sa Muntinlupa, kasabay ng karamihan ng mga lungsod sa NCR, ay magbubukas ng klase bukas dahil maayos na po ang kondisyon ng ating mga paaralan (The announcement by DepEd [Department of Education] is only for schools being used as evacuation centers, flooded and damaged. We in Muntinlupa, along with the majority of cities in NCR, will open classes tomorrow because our schools are in good condition),” said Gonzales on July 28.
“We want to build what you have here para mas de-kalidad pa ang makukuha nyo in the coming years (We want to build what you have here so that you will get more high quality in the coming years),” said Angara.
He added, “We’re very pleasantly surprised with how smooth things run here. Sa ibang pinuntahan namin double shift. Ma-swerte po ang mga students dahil number one, unified ang political leaders dito, ang beneficiaries ng taong bayan. At secondly, very helpful ang city government and the national government to partner, dapat ganon para umunlad ang isang school district.”
Also accompanying Angara were DepEd Usec. Revsee Escubedo, Deped RD-NCR Joyce Andaya, MNHS principal Dr. Florante Marmeto and Gonzales.
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? If you are a resident of Muntinlupa City, do you think Secretary Angara’s visit adds credibility to the state of public education in the city?
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 engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
Recently in the City of Muntinlupa, the City Government formally started the distribution of free school supplies for the benefit of roughly one hundred thousand public school students, according to a Manila Bulletin news report. The school supplies include bags, notebooks, crayon sets, pencils, pens, and paper to name some.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Manila Bulletin news report. Some parts in boldface…
The Muntinlupa City government started the distribution of free school supplies to public school students on July 23 to support education and ease the financial burden of families.
Around 98,000 public school students in Muntinlupa will each receive a Balik Eskwela Package from the city government.
Each package consists of a school bag, notebooks, a set of crayons, pencils or pens, pad paper, and “MUNwalk” sneakers for Kindergarten to Grade 12 students. The sneakers will be given to the students in August.
For daycare students, the package includes a school bag, notebooks, jumbo pencils, pad paper, a box of crayons, and a water tumbler.
Mayor Ruffy Biazon visited public schools to lead the distribution of the free school supplies. .
“This distribution is more than just providing school supplies; it’s about showing our students and their families that we are here to support their educational journey every step of the way. We believe that every child deserves the tools they need to succeed, and we are committed to making that a reality,” said Biazon during the distribution at Tunasan National High School..
Parent Mylene Gratil, whose children were among the first batch to receive their free Balik Eskwela packages, expressed gratitude to the program:
“Malaking tulong po ang Balik Eskwela package para sa aking tatlong anak. Lahat po sila makatatanggap ng school supplies at sapatos (The Balik Eskwela package is a big help for my three children. They will all receive school supplies and shoes),” she said.
Biazon emphasized that education is a priority of his administration under the 7K Agenda. Besides the free school supplies, the city provides assistance through scholarships, with more than 80,000 students regularly receiving financial and educational aid.
“Lagi nating paalala sa kabataan, ‘wag sayangin ang pagkakataong ito. Sa Muntinlupa, prayoridad ang edukasyon. Naniniwala tayo na ang magandang edukasyon ay susi sa kinabukasan (We should always remind the youth not to waste this chance. In Muntinlupa, education is a priority. We believe that good education is key to the future),” the mayor said.
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? If you are a resident of Muntinlupa City, do you approve of the City Government’s distribution of free school supplies for the public school students?
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 engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
As some of you are already aware, I fully stand with Israel which is very connected with my uncompromising faith in the Lord. I keep on praying to Him for Israel to overwhelm its enemies, rescue the hostages and recover from the effects of the October 7, 2023 terrorist attacks committed by the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas. I can assure all of you that nobody from the evil Islamo-Leftist mob, nobody from the pro-Palestine radicals and nobody from any evil society would stop me from supporting and loving Israel.
Now, on with the news…
Recently, the Israeli organization ORT announced that it is eager to collaborate with the Philippines and share with local students sci-tech focused education models, 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…
Israeli organization ORT is eager to partner with the Philippines to help prepare Filipino students become part of a “technology-driven workforce”.
An ORT Israel delegation is in Manila to introduce the organization’s various science and technology-focused teaching and learning methodologies to Filipino private and public education stakeholders.
At a roundtable in Taguig City on Friday, Alona Kletsel, ORT head of International Business Development & Marketing, said her group can provide unique expertise and support in crafting an innovative curricula to keep students apace with the rapidly changing technology once they graduate.
“There was a lot of interest and there’s really a pain point here with regard to closing the gap between the industry needs and academy or vocational education institutions,” Kletsel said.
“We at ORT have a very practical approach towards this situation — to work closely with the industry to tailor education in line with the needs and provide practical experience through collaborative projects with the industry,” she said.
ORT is the largest education network operating in Israel and is funded by the Israel Ministry of Education, supporting 30 vocational colleges, 220 secondary schools, and more than 100,000 students, annually.
In its network of schools, it champions the use of artificial intelligence to reduce the workload of teachers.
It also uses virtual reality both for teaching and as an asset for learners — either to develop virtual reality atmospheres in their software lessons or to sharpen their English and presentation skills.
Following this visit, Israel Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss said the Israeli Embassy is willing to facilitate cooperation between the organization and the education stakeholders in the country.
“Yes we are still at war, we are living in a very challenging time but we are still committed to build partnership with the Philippines,” he said.
During her visit to Manila, Kletsel met with officials from the Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education, Technical Education Skills and Development Authority, local government units, and Philippine universities.
It is indeed a blessing to see Israel-Philippines ties grow stronger through this education and innovation development with ORT Israel. I honestly believe that the potential collaboration will benefit Filipinos as education is essential in Philippine society and there is a need to help our nation’s workforce keep up with the rest of the world using technology and varied innovations. That being said, I want to see collaborations between ORT Israel and Filipino partners happen soon with long-term development in mind..
To my fellow Filipinos reading this, I encourage you to accept the truth that Israel is the land God designated specifically for the Jewish people (read Genesis 35:10-12) and His command must be followed without hesitation. If you want to be blessed further by the Lord, do so by loving and blessing the Jewish people (Genesis 12:1-3). I did my part when I was in Israel. Also, let me remind you all that the ties between the Jews and Christians are truly biblical!
We live in a very divided world. Around the world, Leftist forces have been supporting evil forces like the current regime of Iran which is known for supplying and arming the Palestinian terrorists, Hezbollah and other terrorist groups around the Middle East. The Leftists and terrorists always go together and their anti-Semitism is clearly obvious. Hamas, which has long been supported by terrorist state Iran, is purely evil and they are being protected by not only their fellow terrorists but also by mainstream news media outlets who are linked with Leftist forces and people who hate Israel and the Jewish people. Iran even has Hezbollah in Lebanon doing their evil works for them. Beware of the evil union of the Islamo-Left which is wicked deep within.
With all that said, I encourage you all to pray to the Lord God in support of Israel and believe that He will guide the Israeli forces to another victory which means finishing off Hamas, crushing Hezbollah and forcing Iran and its terror proxies to fall down. Read Joshua 11:1-20 in the Holy Bible for relevance and truth. Pray to the Lord to support Israel, its government officials, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the citizens and other stakeholders.
Recently in the City of Las Piñas, the brand-new 4-storey building of the Dr. Filemon C. Aguilar Memorial College of Las Piñas – Main Campus in Barangay Talon Tres was formally inaugurated by Mayor Imelda Aguilar and Vice Mayor April Aguilar, the City Government revealed via social media.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the City Government’s social media post. Some parts in boldface…
City Mayor Imelda Aguilar and Vice Mayor April Aguilar led the inauguration and blessing of a new four-storey building at the Dr. Filemon C. Aguilar Memorial College of Las Piñas – Main Campus in Barangay Talon Tres on Thursday.
The ceremony saw attendance from local government officials, college administrators, and faculty members. The new building addresses the increasing need for additional facilities due to the growing number of students enrolled at the college.
The new 4-storey building of the DFCAM-CLP in Barangay Talon Tres. (photo source – Las Piñas PIO)
During the event, Mayor Imelda Aguilar emphasized the city’s commitment to enhancing educational facilities and ensuring quality education for all students. She noted that the new building symbolizes the city’s dedication to the future of its youth and community, reflecting ongoing efforts to create a supportive learning environment.
Vice Mayor April Aguilar also stressed the significance of continuous investment in education, highlighting that education is fundamental to the city’s development, and the new facility aims to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills for success.
The event concluded with the blessing of the building, followed by a tour of the new facilities.
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? Do you think the DFCAM-CLP still needs more buildings or expansion projects in the years to come?
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 engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
Author Carlo Carrasco 