journalism – Page 12 – Author Carlo Carrasco

Men who robbed El Grande Avenue house in Las Piñas City arrested

January 21, 2025January 21, 2025carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Las Piñas, local police officers arrested three “Akyat Bahay” gang members who broke into a house along El Grande Avenue and robbed it of valuables, according to a Manila Bulletin news report. The incident happened within the jurisdiction of Barangay BF International-CAA and the suspects were caught hiding in the house ceiling.

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

Three members of “Akyat Bahay” gang were caught by members of the Las Piñas City Police hiding in the ceiling of the house they robbed of valuable items on Jan. 7.

Las Piñas City Police chief Col. Sandro Tafalla identified the suspects as alias “Anthony,” 24; alias “Andrei,” 21; and alias “Paul,” 19, all residents of Parañaque City.

They were apprehended at around 3:00 p.m. at a house on El Grande Avenue in Barangay BF International/CAA Las Piñas City.

Tafalla said the victim, identified as alias “Ernesto,”67, visited his house and discovered that it was ransacked, prompting him to immediately report the incident to the police.

He said the suspects were found hiding in the ceiling of the house of the victim during the investigation by responding policemen, village security personnel and barangay officials.

The victim claimed that his 42-inch Sony flat-screen TV worth P60,000, a 43-inch Devant flat-screen TV worth P50,000, and a Mac computer valued at P100,000 were stolen and not recovered. Tafalla said an air conditioning unit worth P70,000 was recovered at the scene.

He said the suspects also damaged a circuit breaker worth P120,000.00, the ceiling worth P50,000, and floor tiles and sliding door each valued at P50,000.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a resident of Las Piñas City, what is your reaction to this development? Was there an Akyat Bahay incident that happened in your local community over the past six months? Do you own a home that got robbed?

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

+++++

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

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

P500 million investment coming into Las Piñas City IT park

January 20, 2025January 10, 2025carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Las Piñas, the newly certified IT (information technology) sector One Townsquare Place is about to receive a major investment of P500 million from an IT and business process management (IT-BPM) firm, according to a BusinessWorld news report.

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

AN information technology and business process management (IT-BPM) company is set to invest P500 million in One Townsquare Place, a recently proclaimed IT Center in Las Piñas City, the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) said.

“The fully built IT Center will host companies in various IT-BPM services, with one prospective locator expected to employ more than 500 Filipinos and invest more than P500 million,” PEZA said in a statement on Wednesday.

On Dec. 20, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. issued Proclamation No. 765, which designated around 3,729 square meters of land in barangay Almanza Uno, Las Piñas City, as an IT Center.

“The approval of this new ecozone will boost Las Piñas City’s growth and employment in the National Capital Region,” PEZA said.

According to PEZA, the construction of the IT Center cost P1 billion. It has been fully developed since 2017.

Including IT Center, 28 economic zones (ecozones) have been proclaimed during the administration of Mr. Marcos. Eleven ecozones were proclaimed in 2023, while 17 were proclaimed last year.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a resident of Las Piñas City, what is your reaction to this development? Do you think the P500 million investment into the IT center will make an impact on Las Piñas’ economy this year? Are you hoping that more IT firms will open new offices at the One Townsquare Place?

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

+++++

Young achiever congratulated by Muntinlupa City Mayor

January 17, 2025January 15, 2025carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Muntinlupa, a young achiever who brought home a lot of honors from math and science competitions overseas was congratulated by Mayor Ruffy Biazon, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon congratulated a student from San Beda College Alabang for winning medals in international math and science competitions.

Antonio Pio Vivo, a Grade 6 student, visited Biazon to present the awards he received.

“Ngayong January, bumisita siya ulit (This January, he visited again) with an impressive collection of medals and trophies from international Mathematics and Science competitions—plus a taekwondo championship title!”

Vivo won in the following competitions:

Hong Kong International Olympiad Final Round (Singapore, June 13-17, 2024)

– Champion and merit award for Science Olympiad

– Merit award for Computing Olympiad

International Mathematics Wizard Challenge 2024 Final Round (Bogor, Indonesia, June 20-24, 2024)

– Silver medal

Siam International Math and Science Olympics (Bangkok, Thailand, August 9-12, 2024)

– Bronze medal for Science Olympics

– Bronze medal for Math Olympics

Philippine International Math and Science Olympics (Cebu, April 5-8, 2024)

– Bronze for Mathematics Category

– Bronze for Science Category

Asia International Mathematical Olympiad 2024 Final Round (South Korea, July 27-31, 2024)

– Merit award

In addition, he won a gold medal at the National Age Group Taekwondo Championship held last November at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? If you are a resident of Muntinlupa City, are you delighted to see a new local achiever getting recognized by the Mayor?

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

+++++

Immigration operatives arrest two Chinese passengers who used fake visas

January 16, 2025January 8, 2025carlocarrasco

Recently at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1, two Chinese nationals who tried to leave the country using fake visas were intercepted by operatives of the Bureau of Immigration (BI), according to a GMA Network news report.

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

Operatives of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) arrested two Chinese passengers who attempted to leave the Philippines using counterfeit visas.

According to the BI, passengers Wang Dingku, 31, and Su Zhengkun, 25, were intercepted at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1 after trying to board a flight bound for Bangkok, Thailand, on Sunday.

The BI said the travelers presented themselves at the immigration counter for departure formalities when the immigration officers noticed discrepancies in their visas. This prompted the BI officers to refer the documents to the forensic documents laboratory for checking, which later confirmed the documents as fake.

The BI said the Chinese passengers also allegedly used the counterfeit documents to enter the country.

The two will be charged with violating the Philippine Immigration Act before the BI board of commissioners, which will issue the order for their summary deportation.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the Chinese nationals living within your local community used fake documents to enter the Philippines and will use them to go overseas?

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

+++++

Several thousands of foreign POGO workers still in the country, DOJ issues warning

January 13, 2025January 5, 2025carlocarrasco

While many Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) have already banned, there are still more than eleven thousand foreign employees of such businesses remaining in the country and the Department of Justice (DOJ) warned them to submit to authorities, according to a GMA Network news report.

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

The Department of Justice on Sunday warned foreign Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) workers to surrender to authorities or face legal consequences that include permanent blacklisting.

“The President is unequivocally clear that POGOs have no place here in the Philippines and we vow to give our all-out support for the sake and welfare of the Filipino people,” Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said in a statement.

“This Administration stands firm in its resolve to intensifying its guerilla operations against non-compliant POGOs,” he added.

In July 2024, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. banned all POGOs after several businesses were implicated in a variety (of) crimes, including human trafficking, serious illegal detention, and money scams.

According to the Bureau of Immigration, 22,609 of the 33,863 foreign POGO workers have already left the Philippines. This means around 11,000 foreign POGO workers are still in the country.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think that the authorities will be able to find the 11,000+ foreign POGO workers who are remaining in the country? Do you think that local candidates running for positions in the 2025 National and Local Elections could secretly have been funded by POGOs?

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

+++++

DILG will ask Parañaque City Government to explain scam hub operation with hundreds of workers

January 12, 2025January 10, 2025carlocarrasco

In relation to the big raid in Parañaque City that resulted hundreds of suspects arrested, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) will ask the City Government for an explanation, according to a GMA Network news report.

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

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) will ask the Parañaque government for an explanation over the raided company in the city that was allegedly involved in scam hub operations, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said Friday.

The raid took place only a few days after the December 31, 2024 deadline for Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) in the country.

“Magsusulat kami sa LGU para… manghihingi kami ng paliwanag kung ano talaga ang nangyari,” Remulla said in an ambush interview.

(We will write to the LGU so we can ask for an explanation on what really happened.)

This came after authorities raided a company in the city on Wednesday and arrested 400 foreigners.

Remulla, however, said he believes that the local government was unaware of the presence of the company as it has yet to inspect the area where the raid took place.

“Hindi pa alam ng Parañaque ‘yan kasi hindi pa nag re-renew ng business permit. Doon lang naman pumapasok ‘yan, basta nag re-renew ng business permit ‘yan,” he said.

(Parañaque does not know about that because they have yet to renew their business permit. That’s the only way they can inspect, as long as they renew their business permit.)

The official said it seems that the hub was previously operating as a POGO under the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation.

“They supposedly shut down [on] December 15 pero nag resume kaagad sila right after ng December 31. Chineck natin ‘yung mga buildings na ‘yun wala na sila doon pero bumalik at bumalik sila,” Remulla said.

(They supposedly shut down on December 15 but resumed immediately after December 31. We checked those buildings and they were no longer there, but they went back.)

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What do you think about this recent development? If you are a resident of Parañaque, are you concerned that there could still be a lot more POGOs or scam hubs secretly operating? Do you think the City Government could be aware of such illegal operations happening within their jurisdiction?

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

+++++

Local authorities raid facility in Parañaque City, hundreds of suspects arrested

January 11, 2025January 10, 2025carlocarrasco

Very recently in the city of Parañaque, local law enforcers composed of the police, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) raided a corporate facility and arrested hundreds of people suspected of engaging in online scams and violating immigration laws, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

More than 400 individuals allegedly engaged in online scams were arrested by law enforcement agencies in Parañaque City on Wednesday, Jan. 8.

Southern Police District director Brig. Gen. Manuel Abrugena said the Parañaque City Police rendered assistance to the joint operation conducted by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).

Abrugena said the 400 individuals, composed of foreign nationals and Filipinos, were arrested at around 4:00 p.m. in two units of a corporate center on Asiana Avenue in Barangay Tambo, Parañaque City.

He said the operation was conducted as part of a BI mission order targeting foreign nationals involved in illegal activities in the country.

The SPD chief said the arrested persons were engaged in various unlawful activities, including operating online scams and violating immigration laws.

Abrugena said the arrested persons, including one alias “Liang,” are now (under) investigation. They were brought to the BI facility for documentation and legal action.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What do you think about this recent development? If you are a resident of Parañaque, are you convinced that a lot of foreigners who were previously employed by POGOs (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators) are secretly hiding in your city doing further illegal activities like online scamming?

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

+++++

Two men apprehended in Muntinlupa City for violating City Ordinance No. 14-092

January 7, 2025December 30, 2024carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Muntinlupa, the local police apprehended a tricycle driver and a machine operator who were caught possessing firecrackers which was a violation of City Ordinance No. 14-092, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

Police arrested a tricycle driver and a machine operator who were caught in possession of firecrackers in Muntinlupa.

The two were arrested for violation of City Ordinance No. 14-092, which prohibits “the manufacture, display, sale, distribution, possession or use of firecrackers or pyrotechnic devices and such other similar devices and the exploding of firecrackers or other similar explosives within the territorial jurisdiction of Muntinlupa City.”

The suspects were identified as Vince, 26, a tricycle driver and Marvin, 30, a machine operator, who were caught by the Muntinlupa Police during an anti-criminality operation in Block 47, Soldiers Hills Village, Barangay Putatan, Muntinlupa.

During the operation, the police confiscated 100 pieces of Kwitis, seven bundles of small luces, 20 pieces of whistle bomb, three small Batibot fountains, five small silver fountains, two bell orchid fountains, and three small fountains. The total estimated value of the seized items is P3,830.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? If you are a resident of Muntinlupa City, are you happy that the police apprehended the violators of the local ordinance? Do you consider firecrackers dangerous and a waste of money? Do you think the City Government and the police did a good job making the Christmas and New Year celebrations in the city peaceful?

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

+++++

Stakeholders and analysts perceive VAT refund limit for tourists just right to ensure small businesses will benefit

January 3, 2025December 27, 2024carlocarrasco

As far as the analysts and tourism stakeholders are concerned, the minimum purchase requirement for non-resident tourists to qualify for the value-added tax refund is just right in relation to benefiting the small businesses, according to a BusinessWorld news report. There is, however, one dissenting opinion.

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

THE P3,000 ($51) minimum purchase requirement for nonresident tourists to qualify for a value-added tax (VAT) refund is “just right” to ensure small businesses benefit, analysts said.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. recently signed into law Republic Act (RA) No. 12079, which allows tourists to claim VAT refunds on purchases worth at least P3,000 from government-accredited stores, in an effort to boost tourism receipts.

“The P3,000 is just right to benefit micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) retailers and local products,” Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) President Roberto S. Claudio said. He said the purchase cap is kept to a minimum to benefit locally made products.

“I think it’s a good entry and good starting point. Some countries are still higher than P3,000 as well. I think we’re above the middle, so I think that’s a good place to be,” Tourism Congress of the Philippines President James M. Montenegro said via phone call.

Under RA 12079, the value of the locally bought goods from accredited stores must reach at least P3,000 per transaction, provided these goods are taken out of the country within 60 days of purchase.

“This law is primarily designed to boost tourist arrivals and expenditure. Hopefully, it will also increase the sales revenue of retailers,” Mr. Claudio said.

Mr. Montenegro said the minimum purchase amount could be adjusted in the future.

The threshold is subject to review and adjustment every three years by the Finance secretary, upon recommendation of the Commissioner of Internal Revenue, considering the inflation data from the statistics agency.

“I think the minimum rate is at par with our ASEAN [Association of Southeast Asian Nations] neighbors. If you look at the minimum amounts in other countries, it is almost the same,” Eleanor L. Roque, a tax principal at P&A Grant Thornton, told BusinessWorld.

The Philippines has joined other ASEAN countries with a tax refund program for nonresident tourists. The scheme has increased retail activity, particularly in sectors such as fashion, electronics and souvenirs.

In Malaysia, the minimum purchase is 300 ringgit ($67). Singapore allows tourists to spend at least S$100 ($74), while in Indonesia, it starts at 500,000 rupiah ($31).

“It is good to have a minimum amount as it limits the refund claim to valuable expenses. De minimis spendings are normally not considered for VAT refund as it is not administratively practical. In some cases, the cost will be more expensive than the amount being refunded,” Ms. Roque said.

She said the government should tap accredited international firms in the VAT refund processing, adding that the “government should take advantage of the track record and best practices of these known companies.”

Ms. Roque said the government should ensure the goods bought are really brought out of the country.

“Physical inspection of the goods when exiting the country should be strict to ensure that local buyers do not use tourists for availing themselves of the VAT refund,” she added.

However, Philippine Institute for Development Studies Senior Research Fellow John Paolo R. Rivera said the P3,000 threshold “may not be enough to significantly encourage higher spending among affluent tourists,” especially compared with ASEAN counterparts.

“A higher or more flexible threshold might align better with international best practices and encourage larger purchases,” he said.

Mr. Rivera also urged the government to simplify the VAT refund process, rather than make it “extra bureaucratic.”

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you consider the current purchase requirement for the VAT refund for foreign tourists a proper amount? Do you think foreign tourists will be receptive to the current standard for VAT refund of their purchases here in the Philippines?

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

+++++

The newest polymer bank notes from the BSP

January 2, 2025January 2, 2025carlocarrasco

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

+++++

	J.A. Pipes ✅ on US Treasury Department Prevent…
	Catherine is not com… on US Treasury Department Prevent…
	Instapundit »… on Trump Administration Trashes B…
	RICK YARNELL on Japan To Raise Foreigners’ Res…
	Instapundit »… on Japan To Raise Foreigners’ Res…

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this: