governance – Page 35 – Author Carlo Carrasco

The newest polymer bank notes from the BSP

January 2, 2025January 2, 2025carlocarrasco

Recently the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) unveiled the newest polymer bank notes which were described as crisp and capable of withstanding tough conditions, according to a news feature by the Manila Bulletin.

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

The familiar crinkle of a crisp paper bill, the faded ink from countless transactions, the subtle tear at the edge – these are the hallmarks of the Philippine piso as many know it. But come January, Filipinos will begin to experience a currency revolution.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is ushering in a new era with the first series of polymer banknotes, a move that signifies more than just a change in material. It’s a leap towards a more secure, sustainable, and hygienic future for the nation’s currency.

Imagine pulling out a banknote that feels smoother, almost plastic-like, and noticing intricate details that shimmer under the light. This is the promise of the new polymer piso.

These banknotes, designed to last longer and withstand the rigors of daily use, are imbued with advanced security features that make counterfeiting a near impossibility. Microprinting, tactile elements, and clear windows are just some of the technologies embedded within these notes, providing a robust defense against fraudulent activities and bolstering public confidence in the currency.

“We have the mandate of issuing the currency, and we always try to look for ways to improve our currency,” explains BSP Assistant Governor Mary Anne Lim. “In improving our currency, we consider the needs of our users in utilizing it, and also advances in technology when it comes to printing and using our banknotes.”

The shift to polymer addresses a critical concern in today’s world: hygiene. Paper banknotes, passing through countless hands, can harbor bacteria and viruses. Polymer notes, on the other hand, are less hospitable to these pathogens.

Their non-porous surface makes it harder for microbes to cling and survive, contributing to a healthier and safer transaction experience in a post-pandemic world.

But the BSP’s vision goes beyond practicality. The new banknotes are also an opportunity to celebrate the Philippines’ rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.

Each denomination features a carefully chosen endangered species, a poignant reminder of the country’s unique natural treasures and the need for their conservation.

The 1,000-piso note, already in circulation since April 2022, showcases the majestic Philippine eagle soaring above the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The 500-piso note features the elusive Visayan spotted deer amidst the lush greenery of the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park.

The 100-piso note highlights the vibrant Palawan peacock-pheasant against the backdrop of the iconic Mayon Volcano, while the 50-piso note presents the playful Visayan leopard cat with the serene Taal Lake in the background.

These visuals are complemented by intricate designs inspired by traditional weaving patterns, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of different Filipino communities. The banknotes, therefore, become more than just a medium of exchange; they transform into miniature canvases that tell a story of the Philippines’ natural wonders and cultural heritage.

“The polymer series raises awareness of the country’s threatened species, serves as a symbol of Filipino identity, and fosters national pride,” shares BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr., highlighting the inspiration and symbolism behind the chosen themes

The environmental impact of currency production is another crucial factor considered by the BSP.

Polymer banknotes, with their longer lifespan, reduce the need for frequent replacements. This translates to less paper consumption, lower energy use in production, and a smaller carbon footprint. The BSP’s commitment to sustainability is evident in this conscious choice of material, aligning with the global push towards eco-friendly practices.

The transition to polymer banknotes is a milestone in the Philippines’ journey towards modernization. It’s a testament to the BSP’s proactive approach to currency management, ensuring that the Philippine piso remains secure, resilient, and relevant in a rapidly changing world.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Are you receptive towards the newest polymer bank notes from the BSP? What do you think of the new P500, P100 and P50 bills? Do you have a problem about the new bills not showing historical people of the Philippines?

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

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

Barangay PWD associations receive computers from Las Piñas City Government

December 31, 2024December 20, 2024carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Las Piñas, twenty barangay associations of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) received desktop computers from the City Government and Vice Mayor April Aguilar witnessed the distribution, according to the social media announcement of the local government unit (LGU).

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the City Government’s social media announcement. Some parts in boldface…

The City of Las Piñas, through the City Social Welfare and Development Office, distributed desktop computers to 20 Barangay Associations of Persons with Disabilities on Monday, December 2, at the Verdant Covered Court in Pamplona Tres to enhance the operational capabilities of these associations.

Each barangay association received a desktop computer to support their programs and improve their administrative processes. This effort underscores the city government’s commitment to empowering PWD groups through the provision of essential resources.

Vice Mayor April Aguilar, CSWDO head Lowefe Romulo, and Alelee Aguilar attended the event, personally handing over the computers to the beneficiaries. Their participation highlights the local government’s dedication to inclusivity and community development.

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? Is the PWD association of your barangay actively working? Are there many PWDs in your local community?

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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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

Department of Tourism’s (DOT) 2025 plans unveiled

December 31, 2024December 20, 2024carlocarrasco

To keep on strengthening the drive of tourism all over the Philippines, the Department of Tourism (DOT) recently unveiled its plans for 2025, according to a Manila Times news report.

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

The Department of Tourism (DOT) unveiled its plans for 2025 to propel Philippine tourism to new heights and give travelers more reason to love the Philippines.

“Tourism will be a cornerstone of our nation’s recovery. We embraced the challenge—not just to rebuild but to innovate, not just to promote, but to develop, to transform, to lead,” Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco said at the DOT’s year-end press briefing on Tuesday.

The DOT has formed a partnership with the Department of Health (DOH) to develop Tourist First Aid Facilities and is in talks with key government agencies to establish tourist courts that will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to “resolve tourist-related crimes.”

Tourist First Aid Facilities will be established in tourist-heavy locations such as La Union, Boracay Island in Aklan, Siargao Island in Surigao del Norte, Panglao Island in Bohol, Palawan, and Puerto Galera.

The department will also soon initiate “Layover Tours” as part of the Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours program, which Frasco said “would make layovers more enjoyable and provide seamless access to our iconic attractions.”

The Philippines Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours program, which started in 2023, allows solo and group tourists to plan fast, self-guided trips using an advanced bus network and a specific smartphone app.

The DOT also plans to establish the “Golf Experience” initiative, which Frasco described as “geared to enthusiasts motivated to discover the world-class golf destinations.”

It will continue to construct more Tourist Rest Areas across the country, equipped with new features such as rainwater harvesting facilities and solar panels, in addition to basic amenities such as clean and adequate restrooms, a tourism information center, and a pasalubong center.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the DOT’s plans for the new year will create positive results for the nation’s tourism industry? Do you think the DOT should recognize special events like car shows, fashion shows, film festivals and cosplay events so that more local and foreign tourists could join them?

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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DTI exceeds 2024 investment approval target

December 30, 2024December 20, 2024carlocarrasco

More than P1.6 trillion in approved investments have been confirmed and this means that the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) exceeded its target for 2024, according to a news article by the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

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

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said approved investments already surpassed the 2024 target.

In a statement on Thursday, DTI said investments approved by the Board of Investments (BOI) amounted to PHP1.62 trillion, surpassing the PHP1.5 trillion target. It was also higher than the PHP1.26 trillion approved investments in 2023.

In a separate statement, the BOI said energy sector, specifically the renewable energy projects, recorded the biggest surge in approvals, totaling PHP1.38 trillion, up by 40 percent year-on-year.

Other sectors which recorded the biggest increase include air and water transport at PHP121.20 billion; real estate activities (mass housing) at PHP37.26 billion; manufacturing at PHP31.67 billion; water supply, sewerage, waste management, and remediation activities at PHP16.28 billion; agriculture, forestry, and fishing at PHP11.02 billion; wholesale and retail at PHP8.25 billion; and information technology-business process management at PHP7.34 billion.

The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), meanwhile, approved PHP214.17 billion in investments, surpassing the PHP200 billion target for the year.

“We are pleased to report significant progress in attracting investments this year. These investments will fuel job creation, drive innovation, and foster dynamic economic progress. By focusing on international trade, we are laying the foundation for sustainable and inclusive economic growth,” Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said.

“As we approach 2025, we are determined to build on this positive momentum. We will continue to refine and implement forward-looking policies that attract investments in these key industries, ensuring that the Philippines remains a prime destination for innovation and growth.”

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the P1.62 trillion in approved investments will have a big effect on the national economy in 2025?

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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More cancer, diabetes and mental illness medicines exempted by BIR from Value-Added Tax (VAT)

December 26, 2024December 16, 2024carlocarrasco

Some good news for those who need medicine but have limited financial resources. The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) announced that several more medicines for cancer, diabetes and mental illness have officially been declared exempted from the Value-Added Tax (VAT), according to a GMA Network news report.

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

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has exempted 16 more medicines for cancer, diabetes, and mental illness from value-added tax (VAT).

Under Revenue Memorandum Circular (RMC) 131-2004, the BIR updated the list of VAT-exempt medicines to include those for cancer — Degarelix freeze-dried powder with 80 milligrams (mg) and 120 mg, and Tremelimumab concentrates with 25 mg and 300 mg dosages.

It also exempted more medicines for diabetes including Sitagliptin and Linagliptin film-coated tablets.

Also included in the VAT-free medicines are those for mental illnesses such as Clomipramine Hydrochloride tablets, and Midazolam film-coated tablets.

The BIR said the additional exemptions were made in response to the updated list of VAT-exempt products from the Food and Drug Administration.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Are you happy to hear that the BIR declared VAT-exempt more medicines of diabetes, mental illness and cancer?

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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Philippines attracted more international visitors than last year but still behind 2024 target

December 24, 2024December 18, 2024carlocarrasco

When it comes to attracting visitors from overseas, the Philippines improved over the 5.45 million international visitors of 2023 but they have yet to hit the declared 2024 target of 7.7 million international visitors and time is already running out, according to a BusinessWorld news report.

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

INTERNATIONAL visitors to the Philippines totaled 5.65 million as of Dec. 15, according to the Department of Tourism (DoT), well behind the pace needed to achieve the 7.7 million target for the year.

“South Korea remains our top source market, followed by the US and Japan,” Tourism Secretary Christina G. Frasco said at a briefing on Tuesday.

“To further expand our reach, we have intensified efforts to engage emerging opportunity markets, sharing the unique story of the Filipino and showcasing the rich array of experiences our country has to offer,” Ms. Frasco added.

The mid-December total is equivalent to 73.4% of the target for the year.

The DoT said that South Korea accounted for 1.15 million or 20.3% of the total arrivals, followed by the US with 889,489 or 15.7%, and Japan 367,747 or 6.5%.

Rounding out the top five were China, which sent 306,549 visitors or 5.4%, and Australia with 249,140 or 4.4%.

The other leading sources of visitors were Canada, Taiwan, Singapore, the UK, and Malaysia.

“We have graduated from measuring tourism merely by the number of people arriving, but rather on the more important numbers” like spending, length of stay, and return visits, she added.

Ms. Frasco said tourism receipts as of Dec. 15 amounted to P712 billion, exceeding the P697 billion booked in 2023.

“Tourists are now spending an average of over 11 nights in the country, and over 70% are repeat visitors,” she added.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think it is still possible for the Philippines to be able to attracted at least 6.5 million international tourists by December 31, 2024? Do you think the Philippines could do better or worse in 2025? What do you think is the one single issue that made it hard for the Philippines to attract more visitors from overseas? Do you think the new law of Value-Added Tax (VAT) refund for foreign tourists will make an impact by the middle of 2025?

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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10% discount for property owners in Las Piñas City in effect until March 2025

December 23, 2024December 12, 2024carlocarrasco

Good news for those who own properties in Las Piñas City! The City Government announced that property owners will be granted a 10% discount on their 2025 annual real property tax (RPT) once they pay their taxes specifically from December 1, 2024 up to March 21, 2025, according to a Manila Standard news report. Be aware that the City Government launched its official app to make payments easier to do.

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

Las Piñas City real property tax payers will get a 10-percent discount on their 2025 annual real property tax (RPT) when they pay their taxes from Dec. 1, 2024 to March 31, 2025.

Property owners can opt to pay for their real property taxes in full or through quarterly installments, the city government said.

It encourages taxpayers to take advantage of the discount by paying via Las Piñas Smart City mobile app where they can input the tax declaration number and property identification number or PIN and select the quarters that they want to pay.

The city government launched the web app to reduce the movement of taxpayers, ensuring their safety, and allowing payments to be made in the comfort of their homes.

Las Piñas Mayor Imelda Aguilar also appealed to the new real property owners in the city to put their records with city hall in order, “so that they will be able to receive official notices and pay the correct taxes on time.”

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 happy with the discount being offered for your upcoming real property tax payment?

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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Las Piñas City Councilor Mark Santos asks DHSUD to start city housing project before 2025 election campaign period begins

December 21, 2024December 11, 2024carlocarrasco

Recently, Las Piñas City Councilor Mark Santos formally requested the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) to start the housing project (under the “Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pamilyang Pilipino” program) before the 2025 election campaign begins, according to a news report by the Manila Standard.

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

Las Piñas City councilor Mark Anthony Santos asked the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) to start the “Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pamilyang Pilipino” (4PH) project in the city before the campaign period starts for the national elections in May 2025.

Santos said the city government identified at least four suitable lands in city’s different barangays that can be used for the government’s housing program including in-city relocation for informal settlers.

Santos, chairman of the informal settlers, housing and land use committee of the city council, said the memorandum of understanding with Las Piñas Mayor Imelda Aguilar and the DHSUD to begin the housing project remain unsigned by the two concerned parties.

“Up to this date, the request from the city mayor’s office, seeking authority from the city council to approve the resolution for the MOU has not been discussed nor deliberated by my colleagues from the majority group,” the councilor said.

He said housing affordability remains a significant issue for the majority of Filipinos, particularly for low- and middle-income households. Powerful politicians opposed the project

Santos earned a wealth of experience as an elected minority leader and main author of a resolution allocating the P85-million budget for land acquisition for informal settlers. From 27, 000 informal settler families (ISFs)10 years ago in the city, there are still about 20, 000 ISFs until today.

He said the 4PH program is the government’s flagship program designed to address the need for decent housing while the city project aims to provide affordable housing to the residents.

The country faced a housing backlog of about 6.5 million units from 2017 to 2022, according to DHSUD. The backlog is most pronounced in urban centers like Metro Manila, where over 13 million people reside, leading to a high concentration of informal settlements and inadequate living conditions.

Santos said one of the pending housing projects of the city government is the proposed 12-story building under 4PH program located along DBP Subdivision in Barangay Pulanglupa Dos, Las Piñas.

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 wish to see the DHSUD start the housing project before the 2025 election campaign period starts? What do you think should be done to solve the housing problem of Las Piñas?

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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Bureau of Immigration (BI) intensifies search for foreign fugitives all over the Philippines

December 20, 2024December 11, 2024carlocarrasco

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) announced that it is intensifying its efforts to find and arrest foreigners who illegally staying in the Philippines, according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) news article. The BI also warned fugitives overseas not to attempt to enter the country.

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

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has intensified its efforts in arresting and deporting foreign fugitives.

This came after Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado ordered the bureau’s fugitive search unit (FSU) to strengthen its actions in locating and arresting foreigners who are illegally staying in the country.

He also directed the FSU to explore data sharing agreements to receive information on fugitive records in a more timely manner.

“The faster we receive critical information, the faster we can arrest and deport these fugitives. Fugitives have no place in the Philippines,” he said in a statement on Wednesday.

He also warned foreign fugitives not to attempt to enter or stay in the Philippines, following the deportation of two-high profile fugitives.

On Monday, the BI deported 36-year-old Japanese national Sasaku Yohei, a member of a Cambodia-based telecommunication syndicate engaged in kidnapping, illegal detention, extortion, and fraud.

BI officers also intercepted Australian national Rodrigo Elices, 32, last Nov. 28 at the NAIA Terminal 3 from Abu Dhabi, after he was found to be a subject of a red notice from the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol).

Viado also cited information obtained by the BI that Elices is a member of the notorious “Hells Angels” gang, an internationally outlawed club of motorcycle riders allegedly involved in organized crime, including drug trafficking.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the BI will be able to arrest and deport foreign fugitives nationwide while also preventing undesirable foreigners from entering the country?

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

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Las Piñas City to add P40 million into Green Card program

December 19, 2024December 13, 2024carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Las Piñas, Councilor Mark Santos announced that the local Green Card program will have an additional P40 million in funding in order to serve the residents who need health-related help, according to a Manila Standard news report.

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

Las Piñas City’s green card program, which provides free hospitalization and other healthcare benefits to city residents, will receive an additional P40 million in funding, according to Councilor Mark Anthony Santos.

The program, managed by the Mayor’s Office and the City Social Welfare and Development Office, is available to all bona fide Las Piñas residents. Currently, 200,000 people use the green card.

The Mayor’s Office subsidizes up to P30,000 of a patient’s hospital bill, covering minor operations and confinement at accredited hospitals. Green card holders also have free access to medical and dental services at 30 health centers in the city.

Santos, a candidate for the city’s lone congressional seat, pledged to allocate an additional P20,000 to each green card holder, increasing the total hospital bill subsidy to P50,000 per confined patient. He said every family member is eligible for the subsidy when hospitalized.

He said his office, in coordination with the Department of Health, would continue to improve healthcare services for all Las Piñas residents.

Santos also plans to expand the green card program’s benefits to include financial aid, free vitamins, medical consultations, and recreational perks for seniors, solo parents, and people with disabilities.

He said to increase healthcare accessibility, his office will prioritize medical and dental outreach programs for underserved population.

The green card program was initiated in 2000 by the late Las Piñas Mayor Vergel Aguilar. It has contributed to democratizing healthcare in the city and improving residents’ quality of life.

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 people in your local community holders of the Green Card?

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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