COVID-19 Crisis: Trade Secretary Lopez proposes allowing vaccinated people to dine in food-and-beverage joints, and enter personal care service joints during MECQ

Nothing changes the fact that the restrictions imposed on businesses as a result of lockdown or the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) or the modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) caused damage on the national economy in the forms of rising unemployment, added business hardship and the loss of income for the affected employees as the national authorities struggle with the COVID-19 pandemic. The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) declared that the nation’s economy would lose at least P150 billion per week in relation to Metro Manila and other areas being placed under the most restrictive quarantine measure while the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) announced that the economy should be reopened to prevent any more economic damage. ECOP already stated that lockdown is no remedy.

For the newcomers reading this, under ECQ and MECQ, dining inside food-and-beverage joints and availing of indoor services of personal care service businesses are forbidden. Restaurants, coffee shops and related food-and-beverage joints are limited to take-out and deliveries. Very recently, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez has a proposal to help the food-and-beverage joints and personal care service providers and literally give more breathing room to consumers who have already been vaccinated. Take note that already the government announced that more than 50 million new COVID-19 vaccines will come into the country in September and October.

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

Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez is proposing to allow vaccinated people to dine-in in restaurants and enter personal care services establishments in areas under stricter quarantine measures.

In a Viber message to reporters, Lopez said this will help spur employment in those sectors.

Same MECQ (modified enhanced community quarantine) but [I] am pushing for allowing vaccinated to [be] allowed only in these restricted sectors like dine-in and personal care. Because we are saying that in these restricted sectors, those who are vaccinated are safer. So, we don’t expect an increase in severe critical (cases) and should not worsen ICU (intensive care unit) cases,” Lopez told reporters in a Viber message.

We pity the dine-in workers. About one million jobs and P1.5 billion revenues gone per week in the National Capital Region (NCR),” he added.

Lopez said that on top of these, 200,000 jobs in the personal care services sector in NCR were also affected.

“For other sectors, no need for distinguishing because both the vaccinated and unvaccinated are allowed. For example, both vaccinated and unvaccinated are allowed to go to malls or ride public transport,” he said.

“Again to clarify, [vaccinated should be allowed] only in restricted sectors during lockdowns like dine-in, personal care services, and meetings, incentives, conferencing, exhibitions. If it’s not locked down, all vaccine status should be allowed subject to operating capacity,” he added.

Lopez, however, clarified that these should be allowed to operate at a maximum of 20- percent capacity.

“We believe in the vaccine. So, we should believe in the vaccinated. This should also serve as an incentive to those who are vaccinated and to encourage vaccination. With this, we help bring back jobs, open up these sectors,” said Lopez.

He said that once approved, this will be part of the new Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) guidelines.

Metro Manila and other Covid-19 critical areas were earlier placed under enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) until August 20.

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) disclosed that the two-week ECQ will cost the Philippine economy P120 billion and aggravate poverty.

In relation to the details emphasized by Trade Secretary Lopez, the affected businesses within the restricted sectors can be relieved economically and already there are millions of vaccinated consumers available in Metro Manila to come in and support these businesses even though the maximum capacity is fixed at 20% under MECQ. The unemployed and the under-employed impacted by the ECQ/MECQ will finally get the opportunities to be hired and be able to earn much-needed income. That being said, it is a must that we pray in supporting Lopez’s proposal to get approved so that our nation as whole can recover better and that MECQ won’t be too damaging for businesses and workers anymore.  

Speaking of the National Capital Region (NCR), pay close attention as to how Metropolitan Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Benhur Abalos and the members of the Metro Manila Council (MMC) will perceive and react to Lopez’s proposal of allowing food-and-beverage joints and personal care businesses to cater to vaccinated customers at limited capacity during MECQ. Take note that during the last ECQ, it was the MMDA and MMC who approved the restriction on outdoor exercise while businesses and their employees kept losing! Think about how these Metro Manila authorities think. That being said, it is essential to pray to our Lord to enlighten and guide all the government officials so they can do their jobs better and correctly.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: Do you agree with Trade Secretary Lopez’s proposal to help the affected businesses during MECQ? If you are still unvaccinated, does this recent development encourage you at all to get vaccinated? If you are an owner of a food-and-beverage joint or a personal care services joint, what do you think about Lopez’s proposal in helping you and your employees?

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: 65% of active COVID-19 cases in Muntinlupa are those of unvaccinated patients

Recently the Manila Bulletin reported that a majority of the active COVID-19 cases in the City of Muntinlupa are those who are unvaccinated. Specifically, unvaccinated patients count for 65% of the city’s active cases as of August 16, 2021.    

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

The Muntinlupa City government reported that 65 percent of active coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in the city are unvaccinated individuals.

As of Aug. 16, there are 1,756 active COVID-19 cases in Muntinlupa and of the total, 1,140 (65 percent) are unvaccinated, 160 (9 percent) are partially vaccinated, 333 (19 percent) are fully vaccinated and 123 (7 percent) are minors, who are not yet eligible to be inoculated.

All the 1,756 active COVID-19 are either asymptomatic or with mild symptoms. No case has moderate to severe symptoms.

Among the 1,140 unvaccinated positive cases, 934 (82 percent) are asymptomatic while 206 (18 percent) have mild symptoms of COVID-19.

Of the positive 160 partially vaccinated individuals, 123 (77 percent) are asymptomatic and 37 (23 percent) have mild symptoms.

Among the positive 333 fully vaccinated, 258 (77 percent) are asymptomatic and 75 (23 percent) mild symptoms. All the 123 minors who are positive for COVID-19 are asymptomatic.

By barangay, Putatan has the highest number of active COVID-19 cases with 458, or 26 percent of the 1,756 total active cases in Muntinlupa followed by Poblacion with 350 (20 percent), Tunasan with 288 (16.4 percent), Alabang with 203 (11.56 percent), Cupang with 140 (7.9 percent), Sucat with 132 (7.5 percent), Bayanan with 94 (5.35 percent), Ayala Alabang with 74 (4.2 percent) and Buli with 17 (0.96 percent).

Mayor Jaime Fresnedi urged the people to register and get vaccinated to protect them against COVID-19.

As of Aug. 13, Muntinlupa has deployed 393,769 vaccines. A total of 248,579 individuals received the first dose, including 7,160 who were vaccinated at sites in private companies, or 64.4 percent of the target population of 385,725.

The above report ended mentioning that almost 150,000 individuals in Muntinlupa have been fully vaccinated. While it is a fact that being fully vaccinated does not guarantee 100% immunity from COVID-19, it definitely still more protective than being unvaccinated. COVID-19 vaccines are essentially helpful.

Residents of Muntinlupa City who remain unregistered and unvaccinated should make a move to get registered by learning the ways to do it. Those who are prepared (with personal information available) and willing to go through online registration for the free vaccines in Muntinlupa are encouraged to click https://vaccine.muntinlupacity.gov.ph/muncovac/

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: Being aware of the current COVID-19 situation, did you do your part encouraging others to get vaccinated? If you are an unvaccinated individual who still has not yet registered for the free COVID-19 vaccines, what would it take to convince you to register yourself and join the line for the vaccine?

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: Muntinlupa logs 64% of target residents to receive 1st dose of COVID-19 jab, launches “Bakuna sa Gabi” for A4 workers

The City Gover of Muntinlupa, through the Muntinlupa City COVID-19 Vaccination Program (MunCoVac), announced recently that more than 50% of the target population has received their COVID-19 jab as the city ramps up its vaccine roll-out.

“Higit 50% ng target population na ang nakatanggap ng at least one dose ng bakuna, samantalang 149,549 naman o 38.7% ng target ang fully vaccinated na. Nagbukas ng bagong vaccination sites sa ating lungsod upang patuloy na mabigyang proteksyon ang bawat isa kontra COVID-19,” MunCoVac posted on its Facebook page.

As of August 13, there are 393,769 vaccines deployed in Muntinlupa of which 248,579 are first dose (64.4% of the target) and 149,549 are second dose (38.7% of the target). From the total number of first dose vaccinees, 7,160 were inoculated in vaccination sites of Muntinlupa private companies.

The target population to be vaccinated in Muntinlupa is 385,725 individuals or 70% of 551,036 Muntinlupa’s estimated population for 2020.

Further, MunCoVac also launched the “Bakuna sa Gabi” program or the extended hours of vaccination operations for A4 category individuals.

The Bakuna sa Gabi program was launched at the New Cupang Health Center just two days ago from 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM for economic frontliners. The public is advised that the schedule for the program is only by appointment and residents are encouraged to register online via www.vaccine.muntinlupacity.gov.ph/muncovac.

Earlier, MunCoVac announced that walk-ins will not be accommodated in the vaccination sites, except for senior citizens. The City Government urges those who do not have a confirmed vaccination schedule from MunCoVac to refrain from proceeding to the vaccination sites.

Mayor Jaime Fresnedi encouraged the public to avail the vaccination service of the City Government especially during the ECQ for them to have an added protection against the adverse effects of COVID-19. Fresnedi also urged Muntinlupeños to continue observing minimum health protocols such as wearing of face mask and face shield, physical distancing, and frequent washing of hands.

Meanwhile, the City Health Office has recorded a significant rise in the average number of daily confirmed cases for the last two weeks, while the local Ospital ng Muntinlupa has reached its full bed capacity for COVID-19 and non-COVID cases.

Muntinlupa CHO chief Dr. Juancho Bunyi reported that the average daily confirmed cases for the last two weeks is now at 118 cases per day. In the previous two-week period (July 20-Aug 2) prior to the imposition of the Enhanced Community Quarantine in Metro Manila, the city only logged an average of 47 cases per day.

Bunyi also noted that the city’s attack rate and positivity rate are at an alarming level. As of August 15, the attack rate in the city is now at 30.24 per 1,000 population and the positivity rate is at 13.16%.

The total bed occupancy rate at Ospital ng Muntinlupa has also reached 115% with 237 patients in the hospital out of 206 bed capacity. While the bed capacity rate for COVID-19 cases has rose to 103% with 106 patients admitted out of the allotted 103 beds as of August 15.

Further, the local isolation facilities in Pacwood Site, Ospital ng Muntinlupa and barangays have an occupancy rate of 102 patients, of which 95 are COVID-19 positive patients and 7 are probable cases, out of the 175-bed capacity as of the same date.

With the alarming rise in COVID-19 cases and high attack rate in certain communities, the City Government imposed the Enhanced Localized Community Quarantine in 5 areas of concern.

The areas under hard lockdown include Purok 3, Molera Compound in Barangay Sucat and Purok 7, Beatriz Compound, De Mesa L & B Street in Barangay Alabang from August 13 – 27, Block 8, Hills View and Mangga St., Lakeview Homes in Barangay Putatan from August 12 – 26 and Chico St., Laguerta in Barangay Tunasan from August 10 – 25.

Muntinlupa City has 16,548 confirmed cases with 14,596 recoveries, 1,547 active cases, 405 reported deaths, 37 suspect cases, and 2,107 probable cases as of August 15.

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The above information was sourced from the official press release of the Muntinlupa PIO. Some parts were changed for this website.

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

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

COVID-19 Crisis: Asian Hospital and Medical Center reaches full capacity, confirms most COVID-19 patients are unvaccinated

COVID-19 patients who plan to get treated at the Asian Hospital and Medical Center (AHMC) in Alabang might want to consider other options as the said hospital has reached full capacity in accommodating the infected. This was reported by the Manila Bulletin yesterday morning.

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

The Asian Hospital and Medical Center in Muntinlupa has reached full bed capacity amid the surge in the number of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases in the National Capital Region (NCR), its medical chief said Tuesday, Aug. 17.

“The occupancy of our COVID-19 beds, both the regular rooms and critical beds, is already at 100 percent. It has been like that for more than a week, no movement,” Dr. Jose Acuin said in an interview with TeleRadyo.

Those who need to be admitted in our intensive care unit are staying in our ER,” he added.

Acuin noted that COVID-19 patients who only manifest mild and moderate symptoms are instead advised to isolate and recuperate at home.

We no longer accept mild and moderate cases, we instead offer home care for them. Those with severe symptoms and critical patients are advised to go to other hospitals if we no longer have rooms for them anymore,” he said.

Around 84 percent of the hospital’s COVID-19 patients are unvaccinated, according to Acuin.

“We’ve had seven deaths and all of them are unvaccinated. The other one who was vaccinated, unfortunately, less than two weeks after his second dose, had COVID, so you would presume that the protection was not that much.”

About Asian Hospital and Medical Center

Asian Hospital and Medical Center (AHMC) was founded on a vision to provide the Filipino people top notch medical service that is at par with international standards. This idea was translated into reality through the passion and dedication of its people who are burning with fervor to give more of themselves and stay true to its commitment of providing “Innovations in Healthcare for an Unforgettable Healing Experience”.

Established on May 11, 2002, AHMC is a premiere tertiary hospital accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI) as one of the most advanced healthcare institutions in the Philippines dedicated to providing value healthcare for patients and their families. It is a member of the Metro Pacific Hospital Group, the largest Philippine-based private hospital group managed by the Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC), the local unit of the First Pacific Group headed by Mr. Manuel V. Pangilinan.

The first hospital in the Philippines designed with a hotel-like ambiance, AHMC believes in creating an environment which ultimately promotes healing, comfort, and care for the patient and their family. AHMC boasts a 296-bed capacity on a 17,250-square meter, carefully planned and specially designed to provide a sanctuary that ensures the safety of every patient, guest, and staff. With over 1,000 doctors trained in various specialties at the world’s top institutions, more than 400 highly skilled nurses, and 1,000 employees and staff, AHMC continuously provides high quality patient care.

As one of the country’s most advanced healthcare institutions, AHMC is guided by the values of fairness, integrity, teamwork, excellence, and respect that have served as the hospital’s foundation since its establishment.

Residents of Muntinlupa City who remain unregistered and unvaccinated should make a move to get registered by learning the ways to do it. Those who are prepared (with personal information available) and willing to go through online registration for the free vaccines in Muntinlupa are encouraged to click https://vaccine.muntinlupacity.gov.ph/muncovac/

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: Do you know someone infected with COVID-19 looking a hospital willing to accept him/her for treatment? Does he or she have mild to moderate symptoms of 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

COVID-19 Crisis: Las Piñas City Mayor Aguilar appeals to constituents for their full cooperation in relation to the Delta variant

Just as the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) for Metro Manila is about to take effect for two weeks, the Manila Bulletin reported recently that Las Piñas City Mayor Imelda Aguilar asked the local residents for their full cooperation in the fight against the highly infectious Delta variant which has been confirmed by the Department of Health (DOH) previously. Already there are thirteen Delta variant cases in the city according to another report by the Manila Bulletin.

Official Delta variant notice by the City Government.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Las Piñas City constituents report of the Manila Bulletin. Some parts in boldface…

Las Piñas City Mayor Imelda Aguilar has appealed for full cooperation of the residents in the implementation of health and safety measures against the spread of COVID-19 Delta variant.

Aguilar is also reminding the residents to report immediately to the City Health Office (CHO) once they have symptoms of COVID-19 so they could be given proper attention.

She said the city government is also constantly posting in its official Facebook page the health protocols that should be followed to prevent the spread of the virus.

The mayor also asked the residents to register at the city government’s “Ligtas na Las Piñero, Lahat Bakunado” vaccination program to protect themselves from any harm brought about by the virus.

Aguilar ordered the CHO to strictly implement the prevent, detect, isolate, treatment and reintegration (DPITR) plus vaccination program to keep Las Pineros free from the virus.

She said persons with symptoms of COVID-19 must give their true identities to the CHO or immediately ask the intervention of health experts once they have exposure to COVID-19 patients.

The above report ended stating that Mayor Aguilar said that city hospitals were asked to upgrade their bed capacity and increase their logistical needs at their isolation facilities in preparation for a possible Delta variant cases surge.

It should be noted that as of July 29, 2021, almost 430,000 people got vaccinated in the city. Almost 187,000 of those were fully vaccinated (2 doses). Already the national government confirmed it will supply Metro Manila local government units (LGUs) with 4,000,000 vaccine doses in connection with ECQ.

Any Las Piñas resident who has yet to get registered for the free COVID-19 vaccines can learn the ways (4 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 resident of Las Piñas, are you still moving around the city using public transportation knowing that there are already thirteen Delta variant cases? Do you think that the 2-week ECQ will disrupt your career?

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 PNP installs border controls ahead ECQ, urges public to avoid non-essential travel

Members of the Muntinlupa City Police Station have installed border controls in strategic areas in the city ahead of the imposition of the Enhanced Community Quarantine on August 6 and advised the public to avoid non-essential travels.

Muntinlupa Chief-of-Police (COP) PCol. Melencio Maddatu Buslig said that only Authorized Persons Outside of Residence (APOR) will be allowed to pass through the checkpoints while un-authorized person outside of residence (UPOR) will be asked to return to their homes.

Border quarantine control points are located at San Pedro-Tunasan Boundary, Susana Heights Exit, Sucat-Taguig Boundary, and Biazon Road – Alabang Boundary.

PCol Buslig noted that police officers inspect minimum health protocols such as wearing of face masks and face shield and observance of physical distancing for those passing the checkpoints, especially in public utility vehicles such as jeepneys, buses, and tricycles.

Essential workers residing in the province who work, or pass through, in Muntinlupa City may be allowed to pass the checkpoints provided that they present a Company ID or any document justifying that they are included in the APOR list. The local COP warned the public that starting August 6, the beginning of ECQ in Metro Manila, the local police will implement stricter inspection in border controls.

Earlier, DILG Secretary Eduardo Año directed the JTF COVID Shield to activate Quarantine Control Points along the borders of NCR Plus in Cavite, Bulacan, Laguna, and Rizal in compliance with IATF Resolution No. 130-A.

Año reminded the PNP to allow the free movement of cargo/delivery vehicles, especially those bringing food across all quarantine control points because these are important to the economy.

Mayor Jaime Fresnedi urges the public to continue observing health protocols such as frequent hand-washing, wearing of face masks and face shields, and physical distancing, especially with the rising COVID-19 cases due to the Delta variant.

The mayor encourages city residents to avail the vaccination service of the City Government for them to have an added protection against the adverse effects of COVID-19. Muntinlupa City residents may register in the city’s COVID-19 vaccination registration through www.vaccine.muntinlupacity.gov.ph/muncovac

The City Government awaits the final guidelines from the IATF on the implementation of the Enhanced Community Quarantine in Metro Manila from August 6 to August 20.

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The above information was sourced from the official press release of the Muntinlupa PIO. Some parts were changed for this website.

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

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

COVID-19 Crisis: Almost 430,000 vaccinated in Las Piñas City

Yesterday the City Government of Las Piñas announced that almost 430,000 people got vaccinated successfully as of July 29, 2021. To be very specific, the official count is at 428,208 in grand total.

Of the 428,208 people who got vaccinated, 241,432 were those who got injected with their first dose. 186,776 got vaccinated with their second dose which makes them fully vaccinated patients.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the official city vaccination chart of statistics (including the breakdowns of the different categories of patients) which the City Government posted on their official Facebook page.

Any Las Piñas resident who has yet to get registered for the free COVID-19 vaccines can learn the ways (4 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 Las Piñas City resident, are you happy with the collective efforts of the City Government and its partners on vaccinating the local constituents? Are there still people in your local community who are deliberately avoiding vaccination? Have you been fully vaccinated or are you about to get vaccinated with your first dose? Is the presence of Delta variant in your city a major concern for you personally?

Do you believe that the incentive program (raffle draws) of Las Piñas City Representative Camille Villar somehow convinced locals to get registered and join the line for the free 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: Delta variant cases in Parañaque and Las Piñas reported

According to a recent news report by the Manila Bulletin, the highly infectious Delta variant has been detected in Metro Manila totaling twenty-five cases while the nation as a whole has over one hundred so far. Focusing on South Metro Manila, the cities of Parañaque and Las Piñas have one Delta variant case each. The City of Muntinlupa so far has none and the Manila Bulletin’s report reflects the Muntinlupa City Health Office’s statement.

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

Twenty-five out of the 72 local cases of the Delta variant of the COVID-19 virus were found in Metro Manila, an official of the Department of Health (DOH) said.

Of the said cases, 10 were found in the City of Manila, seven in Pasig City, two cases in San Juan, while one case each for Las Pinas, Makati, Malabon, Quezon City, Taguig, and Paranaque, said DOH-National Capital Region (NCR) Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit head Dr. Manuel Mapue II during a televised press briefing on Tuesday, July 28.

“Dito sa dalawampu’t lima na ito, walo na ang gumaling, isa ang namatay; at kasalukuyan, labing-anim ang active ang kanilang sakit (Of these 25, eight have already recovered, one has died; and currently, sixteen cases are still active),” said Mapue.

To note, the Philippines already detected 119 Delta variant cases, 72 of which were considered local cases while 47 were returning overseas Filipinos.

COVID-19 surge in NCR?

Meanwhile, there is still no definitive evidence to say that Metro Manila is currently experiencing a surge in COVID-19 cases amid the threat of the Delta variant, said Mapue.

“Batay doon sa aming tala hanggang kahapon, hindi natin na matatawag pa na surge sa ngayon. Wala tayong ebidensya pa na tawagin ito na surge, although nakikita natin na nag-uumpisa ng tumaas ang mga kaso (Based on our record until yesterday, we cannot call it a surge yet. We have no evidence yet to call it a surge, although we see that the cases are starting to rise),” he said.

“Karamihan sa ating local government units nag-uumpisa na ring tumaas although hindi pa stable ang pagtaas. May araw na mababa. Merong araw na konti lang ang nadadagdag sa kaso nila (Most of the cases in our local government units are starting to increase, although the rise is not yet stable. There are days that are low. There are days when very little is added to their respective caseload,” he added.

Mapue said that there is an uptick in COVID-19 cases in Las Pinas, Makati, Pasay, and San Juan.

To call it a surge, the DOH official said that the daily cases should have a “steady” increase.

Mapue urged the different LGUs to intensify their responses against COVID-19, particularly on the prevent, detect, isolate, treat, and reintegrate (PDITR) strategy to curb the rising number of cases.

It should be noted that in recent times, the City Government of Las Piñas made its move with the Delta variant in mind. Within the city, Barangay Talon Dos posted on July 24 via its Facebook page its confirmation that the Delta variant has been detected. The following is an excerpt from their July 24, 2021 Facebook post: Covid cases are high and the highly contagious DELTA VARIANT has entered Talon Dos. For the meantime, vaccinated or not, avoid going out unless necessary. If you experience headache, cold, cough, fever, nausea, LBM, loss of smell or appetite, fatigue please stay at home, isolate, and call your physician.

Considering how infectious the Delta variant is, that alone should compel any unregistered and unvaccinated Las Piñas City resident (or any resident from other cities and towns) to make the move to register themselves and join the line for vaccination once called by the local vaccination organizer.

Any Las Piñas resident who has yet to get registered for free COVID-19 vaccines can learn the ways (4 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: What do you think about the latest news? Do you believe that the slow spread of the Delta variant in Metro Manila will lead to another lockdown? Do you think that the local authorities of Parañaque and Las Piñas are capable of preventing the spread of the Delta variant among their residents?

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: Over 100,000 patients in Muntinlupa City fully vaccinated

In the City of Muntinlupa, the number of people who got fully vaccinated (injected with two doses of vaccine) has exceeded the 100,000 mark and it is further growing according to a news report by the Manila Bulletin.

To be exact, the number of fully vaccinated patients in the city is now at 114,182. Counting the fully vaccinated will be a bit tricky since Muntinlupa personnel have been vaccinating certain patients with the single-dose vaccine called Janssen produced by Johnson & Johnson. Getting vaccinated is more crucial than ever as the Delta variant is here in the Philippines and is infecting more people. Previously the City Government of Muntinlupa announced that the Delta variant has not been detected within the city. Considering how infectious the Delta variant really is, the City Government’s previous statement that minors are not to be vaccinated makes sense.

Metro Manila is currently under GCQ (general community quarantine) until July 31 at least and the curfew hours have been adjusted.

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

The Muntinlupa City government’s vaccination program has administered 288,638 doses of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccine.

Data as of July 27 showed that of the total, 174,456 individuals have received their first dose, or 45.22 percent of the target population of 385,725.

For the second dose, 114,182 individuals are now fully vaccinated, or 29.6 percent of the target population. There are also 2,293 individuals who received the single shot Janssen vaccine and if these are included, there are now 116,475 individuals who are fully vaccinated in Muntinlupa.

Among the first dose recipients, 11,429 are A1 (health workers), 22,648 are A2 (senior citizens), 68,028 are A3 (persons with comorbidities), 59,462 are A4 (essential workers), and 12,889 are A5.

By vaccine brand, 105,886 received Sinovac Life Sciences’ CoronaVac, 35,723 got AstraZeneca, 3,879 were given Sputnik V, 24,575 got Pfizer-BioNTech, 2,100 had Moderna, and 2,293 got Janssen.

Of the 114,182 second dose recipients, 7,977 are A1, 16115 are A2, 48,642 are A3, 35,191 are A4, and 6,257 are A5.

By vaccine brand, 85,614 got Sinovac, 2,458 received AstraZeneca, 2,934 were given Sputnik V, and 23,176 had Pfizer-BioNTech.

The Muntinlupa City COVID-19 Vaccination Program (MunCoVac) team is currently completing the second dose of Pfizer-BioNTech recipients whose schedules were postponed in the third week of July.

MunCoVac is also ramping up its efforts through home vaccination of bedridden individuals or those with limited mobility.

Apart from the Muntinlupa vaccination program, the OCTA Research Group urged the national government to go into a “circuit breaker” lockdown due to the spreading infection from the Delta variant according to a Manila Times news report.

With the Delta variant already infecting more people here in the Philippines, it is always best to be cautious when moving out in public while there is no lockdown in effect. Apart from wearing face masks and face shields, there is also the need to prioritize which places you need to visit and be mindful how crowded those places are. Those who have not been vaccinated should realize the tremendous risks that come with the Delta variant and they need to get registered and join the lines for vaccination. The COVID-19 vaccines are free by the way.

Residents of Muntinlupa City who remain unregistered and unvaccinated should make a move to get registered by learning the ways to do it. Those who are prepared (with personal information available) and willing to go through online registration for the free vaccines in Muntinlupa are encouraged to click https://vaccine.muntinlupacity.gov.ph/muncovac/

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: Do you believe that the City Government of Muntinlupa and its strategic partners will be able to fully vaccinate the 385,000+ they targeted before the year ends? Are there people in your local community who deliberately refrained from getting registered or vaccinated? Have you encountered someone who remains unvaccinated because he/she is very afraid of vaccines or needles or the idea of getting injected?

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: Muntinlupa receives Johnson & Johnson’s single-dose vaccine for exclusive use on certain patients

Have you heard about the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine? The latest news is that the said vaccine produced by giant Johnson & Johnson is here in the Philippines and the City Government of Muntinlupa just received a supply from the national government. Also noteworthy is that Janssen is a single-dose vaccine and one particular group of patients will receive it here in Muntinlupa.

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

The Muntinlupa City government has received Johnson & Johnson’s single dose Janssen COVID-19 vaccines from the national government and it will be used exclusively for senior citizens or those belonging to the A2 priority group.


The Philippines received 3.2 million doses of Janssen vaccine last week, which were donated by the US government through the COVAX Facility, an alliance aiming to ensure access of developing countries to COVID-19 vaccines. The Philippines is one of the 92 low- and middle-income countries and economies approved to access the vaccines through COVAX.

 Senior citizens who have registered with MunCoVac but have not yet been vaccinated are priority in the sending of schedules. Based on the NVOC [National Vaccine Operations Center] Advisory, those eligible for the Janssen vaccine are A2 and A3 [persons with comorbidities]. We have decided to give priority to our senior citizens since the supply is limited and they are the sector most prone to COVID-19,” said the Muntinlupa City COVID-19 Vaccination Program (MunCoVac) team.


The country’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Janssen on April 19, which indicated that the vaccine is intended for 18 years old and above.

Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine is supplied as a suspension in multi-dose (5 doses) vials. The dosing regimen is a single dose of 0.5 mL administered as intramuscular injection,” according to the EUA.

As of July 20, the Muntinlupa City government has administered 257,633 vaccine doses. Of the total, 167,168 individuals have received their first vaccine dose, representing 43.33 percent of the target population of 385,725.


In addition, 90,465 individuals in Muntinlupa are now fully vaccinated after getting their second dose, or 23.5 percent of the target population.


Of the first dose recipients, 20,239 are senior citizens (A2) equivalent to 54.7 percent of the estimated target elderly population of 37,016 in Muntinlupa.


Other recipients of the first dose are 11,177 A1 (health workers), 66,849 A3 (persons with comorbidities), 58,382 A4 (essential workers), and 10,521 A5 (poor population).


By vaccine brand, of the 167,168 first dose recipients104,216 individuals received Sinovac Life Sciences’ CoronaVac32,406 got AstraZeneca3,879 were given Sputnik V4,196 had Pfizer-BioNTech and 260 were administered with Moderna.


Of the 90,465 individuals in Muntinlupa who are now fully vaccinated, 7,280 are A1, 14,683 are A2, 46,299 are A3, and 18,145 are A4. By vaccine brand, 63,495 got CoronaVac, 2,454 received AstraZeneca, 2,934 were given Sputnik V, and 21,582 received Pfizer-BioNTech.

In relation to the presence of the Delta variant here in the Philippines, which reportedly is more transmissible, getting vaccinated is more crucial than ever. According to the national authorities, getting fully vaccinated (2 doses) is essential for resistance against the Delta variant. As such, residents of Muntinlupa City who remain unregistered and unvaccinated should make a move to get registered by learning the ways to do it. Those who are prepared and willing to go through online registration for the free vaccines in Muntinlupa are encouraged to click https://vaccine.muntinlupacity.gov.ph/muncovac/

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: Does this latest news about Johnson & Johnson-produced vaccines sound good to you? Do you wish that more single-dose vaccines will become more available locally? Does the presence of the Delta variant in Metro Manila compel you to get registered and join the line for the free vaccine? How many people in your local community remain unregistered and unvaccinated as of now?

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