Inclusion – Page 81 – Author Carlo Carrasco

COVID-19 Crisis: Las Piñas City Mayor orders information campaign emphasizing booster shots

April 25, 2022April 21, 2022carlocarrasco

There is no denying the fact that the number of fully vaccinated COVID-19 patients here in the Philippines who successfully got boosted is growing at a sluggish pace. As of April 19, 2022, less than 13 million patients received their booster shots and there are tens of millions of fully vaccinated patients who still have not been boosted.

Knowing the sluggish pace of new booster recipients and the possibility of a surge of new COVID-19 cases, the City Government of Muntinlupa emphasized the important of booster shots to its constituents. More recently in the City of Las Piñas, a new information campaign designed to enlighten locals about the importance of getting boosted was launched as ordered by Mayor Imelda Aguilar, the Manila Bulletin reported.

To put things in perspective, posted below are selected excerpts from the Manila Bulletin article. Some parts in boldface…

Las Piñas City Mayor Imelda Aguilar has ordered for a massive information campaign through social media on the importance of getting booster shots now the the city was identified as among the six cities in the National Capital Region (NCR) registering positive Covid-19 growth rate.

According to Paul San Miguel, head of the Public Information Office, Aguilar told the City Health Office (CHO) to continue the community vaccination through house-to-house, administering booster shots at the city’s barangay health centers, and by placing posts in each barangay where residents can easily receive their vaccines.

Aguilar said the city government also placed swabbing microscopy centers in six barangays, namely, Almanza Uno, Aldana, Pulanglupa Dos, CAA, Pamplona Uno, and Talon Uno.

She said CHO medical technologists at the microscopy center will conduct the antigen and RT-PCR testings.

Aguilar also reminded residents to always strictly observe the public health protocols like the wearing of face mask and observing physical distancing.

Before this renewed vaccination/booster effort happened, take note that as of March 24, less than 200,000 people in the city got boosted. Also the City Government launched a vaccination bus and earned praise from the Department of Health (DOH) and the Metro Manila Center for Health Development (MMCHD).

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a Las Piñas City resident, have you been fully vaccinated already? Are there many fully vaccinated patients among the members of your local community who still have not availed of their respective booster shots?

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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Preparations of the 31st SEA Games reviewed

April 25, 2022April 23, 2022carlocarrasco

The 31^st Southeast Asian Games (AKA the 31^st SEA Games, SEA Games 31 and Hanoi 2021) in Vietnam is just weeks away from formally opening (for references, click here and here). The City of Hanoi is the host city supported by the nearby localities of Bac Ninh, Bac Giang, Nam Dinh, Ha Nam, Hoa Binh, Hai Phong, Phu Tho, Hai Duong, Quang Ninh, Ninh Binh, and Vinh Phuc which will host certain SEA Games events. Hanoi will host 18 sports as well as the opening and closing ceremonies.

As this is the 2^nd time the nation is hosting the region’s biggest sports event (which will attract thousands of athletes and officials) while struggling to recover from the 2-year-old COVID-19 crisis, the national authorities recently conducted a review of the preparations of the SEA Games, according to a report by VietnamPlus.vn.

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

Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam, head of the national steering committee for organising the 31st Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games 31), chaired a meeting with ministries and sectors on April 22 to review preparations for the region’s biggest sport event.

The Deputy PM requested ministries, sectors and localities to continue working closely and effectively with one another to address problems and ensure a successful Games.

Tran Duc Phan, Deputy General Director of the Vietnam Sports Administration, reported that preparations for SEA Games 31 have been basically completed, and the country is now ready for the event.

The organising committee has ordered plans to be carried out to guarantee security, health care, pandemic safety, logistics, public services and transport. It has also publicised competition regulations, guidebooks and competition schedules.

So far, it has received registrations from over 7,800 delegates, coaches and athletes from 11 Southeast Asian countries, as well as more than 2,500 domestic and foreign reporters. It has also invited nearly 1,300 international referees, supervisors and technical officials for the Games, Phan noted.

The localities hosting competitions have also been working hard to gear up for the Games.

The official added from now to the opening ceremony, the organising committee will continue examining preparations, training volunteers, and implementing plans to ensure security and order.

The 31st SEA Games is slated for May 12 – 23, featuring 40 sports with 526 categories.

For a quick glimpse at the upcoming SEA Games in Vietnam, watch these videos…

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What can you say about the combined preparations of the national and local authorities for the 31^st SEA Games? How excited are you for the SEA Games right 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.

For other SEA Games-related articles, click here, here, here, here and here.

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A Look Back at WildC.A.T.S: Covert Action Teams #13 (1994)

April 22, 2022April 20, 2022carlocarrasco

Disclaimer: This is my original work with details sourced from reading the comic book and doing personal research. Anyone who wants to use this article, in part or in whole, needs to secure first my permission and agree to cite me as the source and author. Let it be known that any unauthorized use of this article will constrain the author to pursue the remedies under R.A. No. 8293, the Revised Penal Code, and/or all applicable legal actions under the laws of the Philippines.

Welcome back superhero fans, 1990s arts and culture enthusiasts and comic book collectors! Today we continue revisiting Jim Lee’s flagship title under the Image Comics label – WildC.A.T.S: Covert Action Teams!

For the newcomers reading this, I’ve been doing retro reviews of WildC.A.T.S that had Chris Claremont and Jim Lee collaborating together during the early Image Comics years following their previous works together on X-Men comic books while they were at Marvel. Issue #10 of WildC.A.T.S saw the debut of Claremont’s very own Huntsman while Zealot became the major character among her teammates (note: Voodoo had the 2^nd most amount of page presence while the rest made very short appearances). In issue #11, the stakes were raised as most of the WildC.A.T.S got captured by the new super villainess Tapestry and Voodoo remained possessed, leaving Zealot as the only free team member who – out of fear – had to reach out for reinforcements (note: brand new characters who happened to have history with Zealot). In issue #12, Zealot and Huntsman really struggled clashing with the Troika while the reinforcements were on their way. What happened saw new revelations about Zealot and the plot expectedly built up the anticipation of the next big conflict.

The issue I am about to review is the conclusion of the current storyline Claremont wrote and Lee illustrated which, so far, expanded the lore of the WildC.A.T.S within the WildStorm universe of the time. So far, I’ve been enjoying re-reading WildC.A.T.S issues #10 to #12, seeing what kind of creative stuff Claremont and Lee could make while being free from the restrictions and limitations of Marvel Comics.

With those details laid down, here is a look back at WildC.A.T.S: Covert Action Teams #13, published by Image Comics in 1994 with a story written by Chris Claremont and drawn by Jim Lee.

Early story

The story begins with the possessed Voodoo – now looking frail and ugly as a result of Raksha’s hunger for flesh – attacking Jacob Marlowe’s two trusted assistants who arrived to help her. Deep inside her body struggling with Raksha’s possession, Pris manages to stop her attack – Voodoo’s face restored to normal – and warns Jules and Stansfield that Jacob and her teammates have been turned into evil by Tapestry and that Zealot may still be free.

Meanwhile, Grifter, Hunstman, Zealot, Savant, Soldier and Mr. Majestic fight the mind-controlled WildC.A.T.S – Spartan, Maul, Jacob Marlowe and Warblade – and Alabaster Wu who are acting under Tapestry’s evil. As Grifter shoots Maul and kicks Jacob Marlowe’s head, Huntsman reveals to him that Tapestry and Zealot have a history together while Alabaster Wu was trying to save his people…

Quality

*Chris Claremont’s Huntsman contributes solidly into the story even though he is not protagonist.*

As expected, this storyline-concluding issue delivers the natural progression of what started in issue #10 laced with lots of solidly fun action, key character interactions and more notably the further development of Zealot supported by Huntsman. To put it short, if you enjoyed the previous works of the Claremont-Lee creative team and you enjoy the early, bombastic ways of WildC.A.T.S, then this comic book should delight you.

Without spoiling the entire plot, this comic book concludes the storyline that started in issue #10 and it also marked the end of Claremont-Lee’s collaboration on this particular volume of the WildC.A.T.S comic book series. What is very notable in my view is the way Claremont emphasized the evolution of Zealot not only as a WildC.A.T.S member but also her very own personality as well as her very own spot within the WildStorm universe.

It is in this storyline where you will see Zealot being much more than just a fearless, hard-fighting warrior who lives by the strict standards of the Coda. In this particular comic book, her greater purpose is realized (and you will realize that in a particular scene with Savant late in the story) and the interactions she has with the Huntsman, her sister Savant and others really brought out more of her personality. This is clearly Zealot redefined just as Claremont expanded the lore of the WildC.A.T.S.

Fans of Grifter should be happy to learn that their favorite character (who returned at the end of issue #11) joined the big battle and Claremont’s prepared dialogue of him made him more livelier than his usual portrayal in this comic book series. Huntsman, meanwhile, is his usual honorable self but gets to define his place among the WildC.A.T.S through action. His companion Miranda (now wearing armor thanks to Zealot) plays a short yet notable key role in the story.

The reinforcements composed of Mr. Majestic, Savant and Soldier each have a stronger presence in this story which is expected and they don’t just talk and do some action…they also contributed to the plot and what Savant knew emphasized the essence of the conflict between Zealot and Tapestry.

As for the super villainess herself, Tapestry is very convincingly evil and this comic book shows exactly why the fearless Zealot deeply fears her and why she is a danger to everyone. While she has a very sinister agenda, Tapestry’s confirmation of her origin (in the form of dialogue) and what her place is between the Daemonites and Kherubim will intrigue readers, most especially WildC.A.T.S fans. As for her conflict with Zealot, this comic book will show you how they are connected with each other and what elements connect them together. Their spectacle-filled duel here is a must-see and you will enjoy it a lot when you pay attention to the details (read Savant’s expository dialogue) as the action happens.

When it comes to artwork, fans of Jim Lee should know that this comic book has some of very best pieces of art the famed creator ever made during his time with Image Comics. Very clearly, Lee took his time designing the shots and when to really go out with great visual detail as the story went on.

Conclusion

*In the heat of a battle against the other WildC.A.T.S, Grifter and Huntsman still managed to talk.*

I can say that WildC.A.T.S: Covert Action Teams #13 (1994) is still a great comic book as it solidly and satisfyingly concluded the 4-part storyline that Chris Claremont came up with in this collaboration with Jim Lee. More on the storyline itself, Claremont took a really daring approach on presenting the titular team by having Zealot in the lead (with his creation Huntsman as the 2^nd major player) and then putting most of the other team members on the background which effectively emphasizes the presence of the very wicked Tapestry (truly the definitive parallel to Zealot) along with the Troika (note: this is their best and most action-packed portrayal).

While this WildStorm universe-building story concept could put off some Claremont-Lee team fans who expected to see a WildC.A.T.S story fashioned like what was seen in the creators’ past X-Men works, this particular storyline for me is still a great read and its concept is commendable.

I should also state that the themes of omnipotence, legacy and destiny are all well defined in this comic book which made the 4-part storyline make more sense to read and analyze. More on Zealot, the way Claremont developed her will make you think deeply about how you should perceive her, how you think her place within the WildC.A.T.S will affect her teammates, etc. This comic book and its three immediate predecessors all have very solid writing by Claremont!

Overall, WildC.A.T.S: Covert Action Teams #13 (1994) is highly recommended!

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COVID-19 Crisis: Pfizer, Moderna, Sinovac, AstraZeneca, Sputnik Light and Janssen approved by FDA for use as 2nd booster

April 22, 2022April 20, 2022carlocarrasco

The path for boosted patients of the Philippines towards the much-discussed 2^nd booster shot (note: the 4^th shot following the first two doses and the first booster shot) for COVID-19 is looking clearer as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the COVID-19 vaccines of Pfizer, Moderna, Sinovac, AstraZeneca, Sputnik Light and Janssen for use as 2^nd boosters, according to a report by the Philippine News Agency (PNA). Take note that the number of boosted patients nationwide is less than 13 million.

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

Pfizer, Moderna, Sinovac, AstraZeneca, Sputnik Light and Janssen Covid-19 vaccines have been approved as second booster shots by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), a health official said Tuesday.

In a televised public briefing, National Vaccination Operations Center chair Myrna Cabotaje said the FDA has issued an emergency use authorization for the six brands.

The center is still waiting for the review and final recommendations of the Health and Technology Assessment Council (HTAC).

“Ready na ang guidelines, idadagdag lang natin ‘yung provisions ng FDA EUA saka final recommendations ng (The guidelines are ready, we’ll just add the provisions of FDA EUA and final recommendations of) HTAC,” Cabotaje said.

The administration of second booster shot which was originally slated April 20 is expected to start next week.

Healthcare workers, senior citizens, and immunocompromised will be prioritized.

Cabotaje said the second booster shot may be given four months after the first booster dose.

“Gagawin natin sa NCR [National Capital Region] muna, although nagre-request ang Region 3 and Region 4A na isama na sila and then expand natin pagkatapos (We’ll do it in NCR first, although Region 3 and Region 4A have requested to be included and then we’ll expand afterwards),” she added.

In another article published by PNA, Cabotaje stated that booster shots could prevent a possible surge of new COVID-19 cases in the middle of May. She also expressed concern about current low booster shot rate of the nation as a whole.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What do you think about this new development? If you have been boosted for COVID-19 already, how long has it been since you got your first booster shot? Have you contacted your local vaccination team to find out if you are cleared to avail of a 2^nd booster shot from them? Do you still remember the brand of vaccine used for your first booster shot?

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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Muntinlupa City’s state-of-the-art Track and Field Oval inaugurated

April 21, 2022April 19, 2022carlocarrasco

As part of the local sports development plan, the City Government of Muntinlupa formally inaugurated the state-of-the-art Track and Field Oval, envisioned to be the breeding ground of future world-class athletes.

Mayor Jaime Fresnedi unveiled the inaugural marker during the blessing ceremony at the Muntinlupa Sports Complex, Brgy. Tunasan on April 19 together with local officials and Long Jump Queen of the Philippines and Heptathlon Champion Elma Muros-Posadas.

*Mayor Jaime Fresnedi with Elma Muros-Posadas. (source – Muntinlupa PIO)*

*The ribbon-cutting ceremony. (source – Muntinlupa PIO)*

The local exec said that the infrastructure project will benefit local athletes and will hone their skills to be equipped for national and international competitions. Fresnedi commits to support Muntinlupeño athletes through the development of sporting facilities in the local Sports Complex and other programs.

Further, heptathlon champion Muros-Posadas lauded the City Government for constructing the Track and Field Oval as young athletes will now have an optimal place to train.

“Naoverwhelm ako…nagpapasalamat ako sa Muntinlupa dahil may ganito na (Track and Field Oval). Dati kailangan pang bumiyahe papuntang Ultra Complex o kaya delikado dahil nagpa-practice sa kalsada, pero ngayon meron na dito,” Muros-Posadas added.

The former Track and Field national athlete urged student-athletes and local coaches to persevere and do their best as form of gratitude for the efforts of the local government to construct world-class sports facilities.

Also joining the event were School Division Superintendent Carleen Sedilla (CESO V), Coun. Ivee Arciaga Tadefa, Coun. Atty. Raul Corro, Coun. Louie Arciaga, Coun. Allan Camilon, Coun. Arlene Hilapo, Coun. Metong Sevilla, Mr. Jedi Presnedi, and Ms. Rachel Arciaga.

*A drone shot of the newest sports facility in the city. (source – Muntinlupa PIO)*

Designed by City Architect Don Causapin, the Muntinlupa Track and Field has an eight-lane 400m international standard oval with a lot area of two (2) hectares. The sporting venue has a warm up lane, soccer field, provision for control room, area for long and triple jump, shotput, javelin throw, discus throw, water jump, and provision for bleacher buildings.

Recently, the City Government has also inaugurated the Muntinlupa Aquatic Center, the first indoor Olympic-size swimming pool in the country, in celebration of the city’s 27^th Founding Anniversary.

Mayor Fresnedi said the “world-class” facility is an investment of the city for the training of Muntinlupa athletes who will participate in national and international sporting events.

“We value the youth and athletes of Muntinlupa so we invest in facilities that will help them become champions in their respective fields,” Fresnedi said.

The Muntinlupa Aquatic Center is also designed by Arch. Don Causapin and caters to water sports such as Swimming, Water Polo, Artistic Swimming and others programs including Water Safety Training and Competition, Scuba Diving Pool Session, Swim and Survive Programs and PE programs.

The Aquatic Center is part of the Muntinlupa Sports Complex Development Plan. The local sports complex is envisioned to be a “sports tourism center” in the country.

Meanwhile, Muntinlupa will also host the 2022 Badminton Asia Championships at Muntinlupa Sports Complex from April 26 until May 1.

Top shuttlers from Asian countries will participate in the competition in a bid to raise their Badminton World Federation (BWF) ranking. This is the country’s third time to host the Asia Championships since 1961 and 2001.

It can be noted that Muntinlupa also hosted the Badminton event of the 2019 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games.

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The above information was sourced from an official press release. Some parts were changed for this website.

COVID-19 Crisis: Less than 13 million boosted in the Philippines so far

April 21, 2022April 20, 2022carlocarrasco

Recently the Philippine News Agency (PNA) reported that the number of people in the country counted as fully vaccinated for COVID-19 was approaching the 70,000,000 mark. What is disturbing, however, is that the number of people who received their booster shots (note: the 3^rd shot after two doses of most COVID-19 vaccine brands) is still low at less than 13,000,000 counted.

The anti-vaccine crazies out there can discourage people all they want but nothing changes the fact that booster shots are essential for the Philippines in order to truly emerge from the COVID-19 crisis and progress.

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

The Philippines has administered 144,781,087 doses of coronavirus vaccines, with 66,979,873 Filipinos already with the full primary series.

Of the total, only 12,687,684 have booster shots as of Tuesday.

The latest data of the National Task Force (NTF) Against Covid-19 also showed that 72,010,262 individuals, or 80.01 percent of the country’s target for population protection, have received at least one dose.

During President Rodrigo Duterte’s prerecorded “Talk to the People” aired late Monday night, NTF chief Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. acknowledged the country is still lagging in the administration of booster shots or third doses.

Among the pediatric age groups, 9,918,970 first doses have been given to the 12 to 17 bracket and 2,694,251 for 5 to 11.

“Maganda po ang coverage natin from 18 to 59 years old. Ito po ‘yung adult population at mayroon po tayong (We have a good vaccination coverage from 18 to 59 years old. This is the adult population and we have) more or less 94.28 percent (of the target), with 52 million already with the first dose,” Galvez said.

For the 60 years old above, Galvez said the country has already vaccinated 6,907,715 with at least one dose.

If you do the math, 12,687,684 patients with booster shots out of the 66,979,873 fully vaccinated people is equivalent to 18.94%. In terms of simple numbers, there are more than 54 million fully vaccinated patients who have yet to get boosted. Still a long way to go before many others get boosted.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What do you think about this new development? If you have been fully vaccinated already, how long has it been since that happened? If you have not received your booster shot yet, have you tried contacting the local vaccination team? Do you think that it is time for the local governments to start announcing incentives to convince fully vaccinated patients to get boosted at last?

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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Muntinlupa City recognizes 2020-21 Bar passers, new lawyers urged to serve with integrity

April 20, 2022April 19, 2022carlocarrasco

Recently the City Government of Muntinlupa gave recognition to city residents who have passed the r2020-2021 Bar examinations.

Mayor Jaime Fresnedi has lauded the 39 new lawyers in the city and has given them certificates of recognition during the LGU’s flag raising ceremony last this past Monday.

“We are very proud of your achievements and for the honor that you have given to Muntinlupa. We welcome our new attorneys as we serve the people,” Fresnedi said in the program.

Among the 39 Bar passers is Erika Rose Sanchez – Corro, daughter of Muntinlupa City Majority Floor Leader Coun. Atty. Raul Corro, who has given an emotional response during the ceremony.

Corro recounted the struggles that the bar takers, including herself, have experienced as they prepared for the examination such as postponed Bar exam schedules, lockdowns, health and emotional challenges brought about by pandemic.

She also extended her thanks to the City Government and the city’s frontliners for the local COVID-19 response including the extensive vaccination drive as it helped her prepare for the 2020-21 Bar exams.

Meanwhile, Corro also encouraged her fellow Bar passers to serve with integrity and serve the Filipino people.

“Passing the Bar exam is just the beginning. What matters is what we can do with the privilege and responsibility that were given to us. I hope that we will be lawyers in the service of others and with integrity,” Corro noted.

Other Muntinlupa residents who passed the Bar exam and were given recognition were: Ainah Rae Labanta – Banzon, Jasmin Dimatatac Miroy, John Titan, Perla Vito Cruz Arroyo, Isabelle Alexis Yason, Gemma Tiama, Celyn Ann Mae Palacol, Ian Benjamin Tan, Alia Jan Delgado, Antonette Arciaga, Jaypherson Navarro, Clariza Reyes, Marian Shen Petilla, Reena Therese Marquez, Cesar Jan Entilla, Therese Mary Magdaluyo, Albertito Garcia, Michael Christopher Guidote, Joaquin Oscar Go III, Valentin Eduardo Miguel Prieto, John Philip Yeung, Sharmaine Maila Pacson, Jonas Gaiser, Arlyn Jophe Perol, Katherine Vera, Ma. Rosalia Emmanuel San Pedro-Ladignon, Nina Jasmine Marie Balbanero, Dominic Paolo Marquez, Hanna Hazel Agapay, Jose Miguel Pillas, Alexander Michael Po, Ivanhoe Magpantay, Vincent Pangan, Gretel Erum, Nicolin Anne Arcenas, Arvin Stephen Gagajena, Zaira Gem Gonzales, and Atreja Alvarez.

Last April 14, the Supreme Court released the results of the 2020-2021 Bar examinations, the first digitized and localized exam conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Supreme Court has recorded a passing rate of 72.28% with 8,155 law graduates who passed the Bar exams out of 11,402 test takers.

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The above information was sourced from an official press release. Some parts were changed for this website.

Cebu-based triathletes highlighted

April 19, 2022April 18, 2022carlocarrasco

Triathlon in the Philippines has been generating more buzz this year which is not a surprise as the next edition of the Subic Bay International Triathlon (SUBIT) and the multisports events of the delayed 31^st Southeast Asian Games (also referred to as 31^st SEA Games, SEA Games 31 and Hanoi 2021) in Vietnam will take place this May just weeks apart from each other. Already triathlon events were held at Subic Bay and in Dumaguete City which drew several participants respectively.

On April 14, the Triathlon Association of the Philippines (TRAP) posted on its official Facebook page the official list of members of the Philippine Triathlon Team (including duathlon and paratriathlon). For transparency, posted below is the list from their FB post.

The Members of the PHI Triathlon Team

The National Training Pool

Women Elite:

1. Kim Mangrobang (Laguna) 31

2. Raven Faith Alcoseba (Cebu) 20

3. Lauren Plaza (Laguna) 21

4. Karen Manayon (Cebu) 20

5. Gene Heart Quiambao (Bukidnon) 18

Men Elite:

6. John Chicano (Olongapo) 31

7. Nikko Huelgas (Las Piñas) 31

8. Fernando Jose Casares (Bulacan) 25

9. Raymund Mulano Torio (Pangasinan) 34

10. Juan Carlos Abad (La Union) 24

Men U23 Elite:

11. Andrew Remolino (Cebu) 22

12. Joshua Ramos (Baguio) 20

13. Juan Francisco Baniqued )Laguna) 20

14. Iñaki Lorbes (Las Piñas) 20

15. Matthew Justine Hermosa (Cebu) 17

16. Lorenzo Joaquin Solda (Parañaque) 18

Duathlon-

Men Elite:

17. Joey de los Reyes (Basilan) 34

18. Ephraim Inigo (Ilocos Sur) 28

19. Jarwyn Banatao (Baguio) 28

Women Elite:

20. Alexandra Ganzon (Iloilo) 36

21. Elaine Quismundo (Tarlac) 21

22. Merry Joy Trupa (Tarlac) 20

23. Jena Valdez (Pangasinan) 17

The Developmental Pool

U23/ELITE MALE: 18-23 y/o

1. Maynard Pecson – Baguio, Duathlon

2. John Ace Ventura – Pangasinan, Duathlon

U23/ELITE FEMALE: 18-23 y/o

3. Erika Burgos – QC/Laguna, Triathlon

JUNIOR ELITE MALE:6-19 y/o

4. Jacob Clint Lipura – Cebu, Triathlon

5. Jacob Kennedy Lipura – Cebu, Triathlon

6. Irienold Reig Jr – QC, Triathlon (transitioning to U23)

JUNIOR ELITE FEMALE: 16-19 y/o

7. Kira Ellis – Laguna, Triathlon

8. Moira Erediano – Cebu, Triathlon (transitioning to U23)

9. Nicole Del Rosario – Cebu, Triathlon (transitioning to U23)

YOUTH ELITE MALE: 13-15 y/o

10. Darrel Johnson Bada – Olongapo, Triathlon

11. Connor Hodges – Laguna, Triathlon

12. Carron Paulter Canas – Cebu, Triathlon

YOUTH ELITE FEMALE: 13-15 y/o

13. Erin Burgos – QC/Laguna, Triathlon

The PHI Paratriathlon Team

1. Alex Silverio- athlete (Cebu) PTri-4, 31 yrs old

2. Joshua Nelmida- athlete (Muntinlupa) PTri-VI, 20 yrs old

3. Jerome Nelmida- athlete (Muntinlupa) PTri-VI, 20 yrs old

4. Edison Badillo- athlete (Pasig City) PTri-4, 23 yrs old

5. Teodoro Diaz- Racing & Training Guide (Las Piñas) , 21yrs old)

6. Bernard Cruz- Racing & Training Guide (Las Piñas), 20 yrs old)

In relation to the posted list, the Cebu Daily News published an article highlighting the Cebu-based triathletes who made the roster. Look at the above list and take note how many are based in Cebu. To the newcomers reading this, be aware that Cebu-based Andrew Kim Remolino won the silver medal for the Philippines in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games men’s triathlon event.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Cebu Daily News article. Some parts in boldface…

Cebu is stamping its reputation as a potential breeding ground of top triathletes after sending a solid number of them to the Triathlon Association of the Philippines’ (TRAP) national training pool and developmental training pool.

A total of nine Cebuanos, headed by 2019 Southeast Asian Games (SEAG) silver medalist Andrew Kim Remolino made it to TRAP’s official list.

The 22-year-old Remolino of Talisay City finished second in the men’s elite category of the National Age Group Triathlon (NAGT) series/National Triathlon Trials in Subic Bay Freeport last February.

His second-place finish earned him a spot in the national training pool.

Joining him is none other than 18-year-old Raven Faith Alcoseba who also hails from Talisay City.

Alcoseba, a varsity swimmer of the De La Salle University Green Archers stunned the women’s elite division when she emerged champion in her first NAGT race last February.

Joining Remolino and Alcoseba in the training pool is Matthew Justine Hermosa.

The national training pool will determine the final list of triathletes and duathletes that will represent the Philippine Team in the upcoming 31st SEA Games in Hanoi, Vietnam in May.

Joining them in the national training pool are three-time SEA Games gold medalist Kim Mangrobang, two-time SEA Games gold medalist Nikko Huelgas, and 2019 SEA Games double gold medalist John Chican along with 10 other triathletes, and seven duathletes.

The developmental pool, on the other hand, serves as the farm team for TRAP to hone the skills of the potential triathletes and duathletes who can become the next stars in this sport.

Cebuanos who made it to the developmental training pool are Jacob Clint Lipura, Jacob Kennedy Lipura, Moira Frances Erediano, Nicole Marie Del Rosario, Carron Paulter Canas, and para triathlete Alex Niño Silverio.

Remolino, Alcoseba, and the rest of the Cebuano triathletes who are listed by TRAP are members of the vaunted Talisay Luigi Triathlon Group- Go For Gold team of national triathlon coach Roland Remolino based in Talisay City.

In my recent post about which Philippine Team members will participate in the triathlon and duathlon events of the 31^st SEA Games, Remolino and Raven Faith Alcoseba are the Cebuanos going to Vietnam.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: Do you think that Cebu-based multisport athletes – apart from SEA Games medalist Andrew Kim Remolino – will make an impact in future races? Are you excited about the state of triathlon, duathlon and aquathlon events around the country this year as the COVID-19-related restrictions have been eased? How excited are you about the Subic Bay International Triathlon and the 31^st SEA Games right 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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Spectators at the 31st SEA Games are not required to take COVID-19 tests

April 19, 2022April 18, 2022carlocarrasco

Are you planning to personally visit Vietnam and watch the many sports events of the delayed 31^st Southeast Asian Games (also referred to as 31^st SEA Games, SEA Games 31 and Hanoi 2021) live as a sports spectator? While it is true that Vietnam has been opened to foreign tourists for over a month now, there are still requirements that need to be fulfilled before enjoying the freedom of touring and discovering the nation.

As it is the Southeast Asian region’s biggest sports event, the SEA Games are indeed highly crucial to the tourism goals of host city Hanoi and the rest of Vietnam. Recently, the Vietnam authorities announced that spectators at the SEA Games are not required to take COVID-19 tests, according to a report by VietnamPlus.vn.

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

Spectators watching competitions in person during the 31st Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games 31) will not be required to take COVID-19 tests before enter the stadiums, according to guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health on April 16 regarding COVID-19 control measures during the regional sport event.

According to the guidelines, guests to the event at deputy ministerial level and above, as well as heads and deputy heads of sport delegations neither need to show negative COVID-19 testing results when entering Vietnam nor take testing after arrival. They also do not need to take quarantine.

Meanwhile, sport officials, referees and athletes are required to have certified negative RT-PCR/RT-LAMP testing results taken within 72 hours or rapid antigen testing within 24 hours before entering Vietnam, but not required to take quarantine.

Coaches and athletes will need to take COVID-19 rapid tests 24 hours before each competition.

The guidelines also list COVID-19 control measures to be implemented at accommodation facilities for guests and athletes, with the setting up of SARS-CoV-2 testing areas and teams providing medical and food safety services for them. Quarantine and treatment rooms will also be arranged for COVID-19 patients with no or mild symptoms.

Athletes will travel in closed routes between their accommodation, training and competition venues.

The stadium hosting the opening and closing ceremonies will be disinfected before the events, while medical teams will stand by to give emergency aids and COVID-19 tests to persons who are suspected to infected with the disease.

Games will take place with either no spectator or with limited or unlimited number of spectators depending on COVID-19 situation at the host locality.

In case a COVID-19 patient is detected, the patient will take quarantine at their accommodation or treatment at medical centres depending on their health conditions.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: In case you will be visiting Vietnam as a tourist immediately, do you plan to watch a SEA Games event as a spectator at the sports venue? How important are the SEA Games for you personally?

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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Eiyuden Chronicle: Rising launching on Xbox consoles and through Xbox Game Pass (XGP) on May 10, 2022!

April 18, 2022April 13, 2022carlocarrasco

To the gamers who are craving for new role-playing experiences and some more action, get ready as 505 Games confirmed that Eiyuden Chronicle: Rising (the spin-off game to 2023’s Suikoden-inspired Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes) will be released on Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One and Windows PC (via Steam) on May 10, 2022, and it will also launch on both Xbox Game Pass (XGP) and PC Game Pass that same day!

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from 505 Games’ announcement. Some parts in boldface…

Global publisher 505 Games in collaboration with Rabbit & Bear Studios, headed by Yoshitaka Murayama, a creator of Suikoden, and NatsumeAtari today unveil the release date for Eiyuden Chronicle: Rising, the fast-paced 2.5D action RPG with town-upgrading elements serving as a companion prequel game to the upcoming Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes. Rising’s pre-war tales begin May 10th, 2022 on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch and PC via Steam, Epic and GOG. Eiyuden Chronicle: Rising will also be available day one via Xbox and PC Game Pass.

After a massive earthquake revealed Runebarrows deep below a town on the remote frontier of the Allraan known as New Nevaeh, fortune-seeking adventurers and merchants from across the world arrive. Among those hoping to find treasure, three star-crossed heroes come together. CJ, the Venerable Scavenger, and Garoo, the Beastman Mercenary, hope to mine the Rune Lens, a source of magic hidden underground. Isha, the Young Deputy Mayor, wants to rebuild her town.

Delve into the ruins and master Rising’s satisfying combat. Dash in quick and strike with CJ’s climbing axes, sling sorcery from afar as Isha, and punish foes with Garoo’s gigantic sword. Topple imaginative bosses by swapping between each character and unleashing devastating Link Attacks combining each hero’s specialty, all while platforming through gorgeous 2.5D environments.

Scavenge dungeons and earn materials to reconstruct New Nevaeh to its former glory and reap benefits applying to Hundred Heroes when it releases in 2023. Cross content includes special cosmetic items, valuable equipment, and trade goods. Make a personal mark on the world of Eiyuden Chronicle by naming certain weapons and delicacies in Rising that will carry over to Hundred Heroes next year.

The May 10, 2022 Xbox and XGP release of Eiyuden Chronicle: Rising is very notable as it will add depth to the number of Japanese role-playing games (JRPGs) and Japan-produced games on the Xbox platforms in this current generation. I still remember the moments of surprise and excitement I had when I saw the unexpected announcement of Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes and Eiyuden Chronicle: Rising during the Xbox-Bethesda Games Showcase of June 2021.

To those already subscribed to Xbox Game Pass, mark your calendars for May 10, 2022 as Eiyuden Chronicle: Rising will come out for your enjoyment! To learn more details about the game, click https://carlocarrasco.com/2022/03/29/watch-out-for-eiyuden-chronicle-rising-on-xbox-via-xbox-game-pass-xgp/

In closing this piece, posted below are Xbox-related videos for your viewing pleasure.

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