Tag: jobs

New gas station in Las Piñas City

New gas station in Las Piñas City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Official statistics as of June 10, 2021.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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In the City of Muntinlupa, the vaccination of patients under the A4 category has officially started and also the grand total number of residents who got vaccinated (both single dose and two doses) is gradually approaching the 100,000-mark (since the start of COVID-19 vaccination a few months ago).

To get more details and precises numbers, posted below is an excerpt from the Manila Bulletin news report. Some parts in boldface…

The Muntinlupa City government has started vaccinating the A4 priority group, or essential workers, Thursday.

The number of vaccines administered in the city has reached nearly 95,000 doses.

Included in A4 are workers who are residents of Muntinlupa, or non-residents who work in the city, and individuals who need to go out of their residence to work. These are private and public sector employees, self-employed, informal sector workers and workers in a private household.

Individuals belonging to the A4 category need to register with the Muntinlupa COVID-19 Vaccination Program at vaccine.muntinlupacity.gov.ph/muncovac and wait for a text message that will contain their scheduled vaccination date and time.

PMAJ Magno Belmi of Muntinlupa City Police receives his COVID-19 vaccine at SM Center Muntinlupa as the local government starts the rollout of vaccines for the A4 priority group on June 10. City residents under the priority group are encouraged to register in MunCoVac http://www.vaccine.muntinlupacity.gov.ph/muncovac. As of June 9, at least 94,805 vaccines have been deployed in Muntinlupa, of which 69,197 individuals received their first dose and 25,608 completed their second dose. (source – Muntinlupa PIO)

For A4 workers who are residents of Muntinlupa, they need to present a proof of residency like government-issued ID indicating Muntinlupa as the address, Muntinlupa Care Card, barangay certificate or village ID.

They also need to provide proof of eligibility as A4 such as company ID or certificate of employment for government and private employees; Professional Regulation Commission ID, certificate of business registration or income tax return for self-employed or freelancer; certificate of employment and proof of residency of employer for those who work in a private household; Tricycle Regulatory Unit (TRU) ID, jeepney association ID or transport network vehicle service (TNVS) ID for public transport drivers and workers; and barangay certificate for other informal sector workers.

For non-residents, they also need the same requirements as those for residents and these requirements should show that their company, business or workplace is located in Muntinlupa.

The Muntinlupa City government is adopting the Department of Health’s memorandum of age prioritization for A4 vaccination.

According to the DOH’s Memorandum 2021-0259, “In situations where there is limited supply of COVID-19 vaccines, priority may be given to eligible Filipinos within 40-59 years old, then to those 18-39 years old.”

The city government said express lanes will be set up for those who belong to the A1 (health workers), A2 (senior citizens) and A3 (persons with comorbidities).

Mayor Jaime Fresnedi has reiterated his call for residents to register with Muntinlupa’s vaccination program and get vaccinated for their protection.

As of June 9, 69,197 individuals, or 17.9 percent of the target population of 385,725, have received their first dose of the vaccine while 25,608 got their second dose for a total of 94,805 doses administered in Muntinlupa.

The vaccination organizers in Muntinlupa are doing their best to serve the registered constituents get immunized. It should be noted that the City Government’s personnel and barangay personnel have been working to vaccinate other patients (examples: bedridden, disabled) in their homes.

What could hamper the vaccination operations though is the supply of vaccines coming from abroad. Just yesterday, additional vaccines arrived and more are expected to follow. How much of that will be allocated for Muntinlupa City, we will find out soon.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: Were you able to get registered for the free vaccines under the A4 category? Are you very concerned about side effects from vaccines? Also, do you believe that local demand for vaccines will outstrip supply?

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: Vaccination of patients under A4 category ongoing

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

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

For starters, watch the GMA Network news video below…

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

Excerpt 1

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

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

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

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

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

Excerpt 2

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

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

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

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

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

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

Excerpt 3

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For your reference.

Economic significance of category A4

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Areas of concern

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

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

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

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

Implementation of stricter GCQ

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

COVID-19 Crisis: P405.6-billion Bayanihan 3 approved by House panel

COVID-19 Crisis: P405.6-billion Bayanihan 3 approved by House panel

carlocarrasco

In an attempt to boost economic recovery for the nation from the downturn caused by the COVID-19 (China Virus) pandemic, a panel of the House of Representatives approved yesterday the Bayanihan 3 (Bayanihan to Arise as One Act) stimulus package which is worth P405.6 billion.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Philippine News Agency (PNA) report. Some parts in bold…

The House Ways and Means Committee approved the substitute bill to the third Bayanihan measure, which would contain direct emergency and social amelioration to Filipinos, livelihood interventions, as well as food security and health interventions.

The bill seeks to provide funding of PHP108 billion for the implementation of a cash subsidy program of PHP1,000 for every Filipino, with another PHP108 billion in standby funds.

Around PHP12 billion shall be appropriated for Phase 1 of assistance for households in crisis situations under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Some PHP12 billion shall be appropriated for Phase 2 and PHP6 billion for Phase 3 of the AICS program.

To assist micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), the Small Business Wage Subsidy (SBWS) program shall be continued and expanded with direct funding of PHP8 billion, and stand-by funds worth PHP8 billion for Phase 2 and PHP4 billion for Phase 3.

To provide temporary employment to displaced workers, around PHP10 billion shall be appropriated for the implementation of the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Displaced/Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD), Covid-19 Adjustment Measures Program (CAMP), and Abot Kamay ang Pagtulong (AKAP) Program, while PHP10 billion shall be appropriated as stand-by funds for Phase 2 and PHP5 billion for Phase 3.

Assistance to the agri-fishery sector will receive a total of PHP30 billion worth of standby funds to finance programs and interventions toward food security and farmer income security and welfare.

The bill allocates PHP3 billion for medical assistance for indigent patients, and stand-by funds worth PHP3 billion each for Phases 2 and 3.

A total of PHP54.6 billion shall be allocated to the Pension and Gratuity Fund for retired military and the police, while the amount of PHP5.6 billion shall be appropriated to assist the Department of Education in the implementation of its digital education, information technology, and digital infrastructure and alternative learning modalities as part of the pandemic response and transition to a new normal.

At more than P400 billion proposed, definitely a lot of people (including the owners of struggling MSMEs) as well as government departments will be assisted. While this news is good to hear and read, it still has to be passed first through the lower and upper chambers of Congress before finally reaching the President for approval.

How fast will this proposal get cleared? We will find out soon.

Let me ask you readers – are you a potential beneficiary of the proposed Bayanihan 3 stimulus package? Do you believe that P405.6 billion is good enough to help our nation’s economic recovery? 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: MECQ for NCR Plus extended until May 14, 2021

COVID-19 Crisis: MECQ for NCR Plus extended until May 14, 2021

carlocarrasco

After weeks of anticipation by the public, President Rodrigo Duterte announced the other night the extension of modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) until May 14, 2021 for the National Capital Region (NCR) plus the bordering provinces of Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna and Rizal. In connection to this, Duterte apologized.

To put things about the extended MECQ in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Philippine News Agency (PNA) article. Some parts in bold…

“Modified enhanced community quarantine. Modified ito so medyo strict. NCR, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Rizal (Modified enhanced community quarantine – modified, meaning somehow strict – will be imposed in NCR, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal),” Duterte said in his talk to the people.

MECQ will be implemented in NCR Plus, composed of Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal, MECQ until May 14, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a separate press statement.

Quirino and Abra provinces, as well as the City of Santiago in Isabela, will also stay under MECQ for the whole month of May, Duterte said.

On the other hand, the more relaxed general community quarantine (GCQ) will be imposed in Apayao, Baguio City, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, Mountain Province, Cagayan, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, Batangas, Quezon, Tacloban City, Iligan City, Davao City, and Lanao del Sur from May 1 to 31.

The rest of the country will remain under the least restrictive modified GCQ (MGCQ).

Roque said the latest quarantine status is still “subject to the appeals of local government units.”

The government is targeting to lower health care and intensive care unit (ICU) utilization rates to ease the quarantine protocols in the country amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

In recent times, the daily count of new COVID-19 cases in the Philippines fell below 10,000. It was reported the other day that the new COVID-19 cases was at 6,895 nationwide. Still the nation has over 1,000,000 COVID-19 cases grand total (including recoveries) and the secured vaccines cannot arrive fast enough from overseas. Also, it will take a lot of time before the local production of vaccines will become a reality in the nation.

Apart from public health, more attention should be paid on the economy which has been set back a lot since the latest ECQ (enhanced community quarantine). The current MECQ meanwhile resulted 13% of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to stay closed specifically in the NCR Plus zone.

More on the economy, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez is pushing to help the economy by recommending a flexible MECQ in NCR Plus with gradual reopening of labor-intensive sectors in mind.

For perspective, posted below is an excerpt for the Philippine News Agency article. Some parts in bold…

In a radio interview Thursday, Lopez said the agency is eyeing to reopen personal care services with a limited capacity of 20 to 30 percent as well as dine-in services in food establishments by 10 to 20 percent.

“Ni-recommend ho kasi naming ‘yong MECQ with flexibility. We are just after sa pagbabalik ng trabaho, pero yung higpit naman ng mobility ay nandoon pa rin. Ang importante lang ay itong trabaho. We’re talking about opening the sectors na sarado pa rin (We recommended the MECQ with flexibility. We are just after bringing back jobs, but the strict mobility will still be there. What’s important is the jobs. We’re talking about opening the sectors that are still closed),” he said.

He added that the gradual reopening of the personal care and dine-in services was “partially discussed” with the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF).

“Iko-confirm na lang mamaya sa IATF kung ilang porsyento [The IATF will confirm later the percentage (of capacity)],” Lopez said.

An estimated 200,000 workers in personal care services and 1 million fast-food and restaurant crews were affected during the stricter community quarantine measures in National Capital Region, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal and about PHP60 billion worth of wages were lost during the two-week MECQ, Lopez said.

The current MECQ also shed PHP120 billion in gross domestic product, on top of the PHP180-billion economic losses during the two-week ECQ.

While it is essential for people and organizations to follow health protocols and avoid COVID-19 infections, the same goes with the economy. So many have been suffering from the lack of jobs, the loss of income and, in the case of businesses, the loss of customers and clients. Being in the private sector myself, I definitely want more businesses of any size to reopen, make money, hire the unemployed and contribute to the development of local society. I want to see the personal care services to resume operations, as well as the return of indoor dining for restaurants and cafes. I also want to see more of my fellow Filipinos to stay above poverty and rise higher. That being said, I say that capitalism is the way to go and the real way to restore prosperity for the Philippines even as we face varied challenges daily during this COVID-19 (China Virus) crisis.

From this point on, I encourage you to keep observing the moves of not only the national authorities but also those in your local government, your barangay and other organizations serving you. Pray that the public servants and community leaders will look up to the Lord and acknowledge His authority over them. Pray for the leaders to look up to God. Finally, no matter how good or bad your situation is, keep having strong faith in our Lord. If you are hurting and you need healing, come to Lord Jesus (read Mark 5:25-34 in the Holy Bible).

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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

COVID-19 Crisis: DTI says restaurants in MECQ areas are allowed to have outdoor dining

COVID-19 Crisis: DTI says restaurants in MECQ areas are allowed to have outdoor dining

carlocarrasco

In what is clearly a move with economic recovery in mind, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez declared that restaurants (located in places under MECQ or modified enhanced community quarantine status) with outdoor dining services and set-ups are allowed to resume but with certain limitations.

To make things clear, below is an excerpt from the Philippine News Agency (PNA) article which was published just yesterday. For greater emphasis, some parts are in bold.

In a text message to reporters Sunday night, Lopez said food establishments with alfresco dining services are only allowed up to 50 percent capacity, with diagonal seating arrangement and acrylic dividers on tables.

He added that indoor dine-in services are still not allowed in areas under MECQ, but food establishments can continue to operate with their take-out and delivery services.

From April 12 to 30, the National Capital Region, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal or the NCR Plus as well as Santiago City in Isabela, and the provinces of Quirino and Abra were also placed under MECQ.

Earlier, the DTI chief said that the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) might be sensitive in allowing indoor dine-in due to the highly contagious new variants of Covid-19.

“The IATF recommended to the President to shift to MECQ after two weeks of ECQ to restore more jobs and livelihood for the people,” Lopez said.

Clearly the local authorities are trying hard to balance themselves between economics and public health as new cases of COVID-19 (China Virus) continue to be counted in very high numbers on a daily basis in recent times. On April 2, the count of infections reached over 15,000.

Going back to the issue of allowing restaurants with outdoor dining (AKA alfresco) within the MECQ areas, it is good news that they are allowed to resume operations. It will still be a challenge for food establishments to attract enough paying customers and make their business’ financial ends meet.

On a personal experience, I love eating ramen and Tsukemen at Sigekiya Ramen in Alabang. I prefer that such meals would be cooked by the restaurant and be served to me at a table at their place. The alternative of taking the cooked ramen out and consume it at home is just not a convincing option for me because ramen is meant to be consumed quickly while it is hot. The alternative of taking home ingredients and noodles, and have them cooked at home does not appeal to me as I prefer Sigekiya’s cooks make the meal I paid for.

A delicious meal like this one is best to be eaten at the restaurant, even outdoors.

Also located in Alabang is the local branch of Akrotiri, a really fine restaurant that serves authentic Greek meals that my family and friends enjoyed. They also have meals that, in my opinion, are best consumed at their place and their Alabang branch (Commercenter to be precise) has space for outdoor dining. It was at Akrotiri Alabang where I treated 2019 SEA Games gold medalist Kim Mangrobang to a meal and organized an exclusive interview with her. They really have a fine-looking place. Visit their website at https://akrotiri.ph/

It is important to keep in mind that restaurants around the nation have struggled a lot since the pandemic started last year. These business establishments are also struggling with retaining their respective employees, notably their cooks, the baristas, waiters and waitresses. Remember that the meals and drinks you enjoy would not be the same when the people who prepared them get laid off.

With the DTI’s declaration of allowing food establishments with outdoor dining setups and services to resume, I encourage you my readers to consider supporting these businesses for your food and beverage needs. If you can’t have a meal with the family outdoors, perhaps you can push through with a business meeting with a corporate associate or reunite with your friend or relative with the outdoor setting of a restaurant while adhering to health protocols (wearing face masks, face shields, sanitizing yourselves, etc.). 

Now, let’s observe how the mayors, the barangay captains and other local authorities in MECQ areas will react to DTI’s declaration. You also might want to check with the local restaurants and coffee shops if they allow outdoor dining. Consider taking time out to call them or verify on their respective social media channels/accounts to see if outdoor dining is allowed.

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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