Recently in the City of Las Piñas, more than one thousand two hundred senior citizens of Barangay Almanza Uno, Barangay Talon Tres and Barangay Pilar Village received their pension from the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), the City Government announced via social media.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the City Government’s social media post. Some parts in boldface…
The City of Las Piñas, through the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), held a social pension pay-out on Wednesday, November 20, at the Almanza Uno Covered Court. The event catered to 1,240 senior citizens from Barangays Talon Tres, Almanza Uno, and Pilar, providing vital financial aid to support their daily needs.
Beneficiaries from Almanza Uno totaled 433, while 424 came from Talon Tres and 383 from Pilar. Each recipient received ₱6,000, representing their social pension for the second half of the year, July to December. The funds were allocated by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) as part of the national government’s efforts to assist indigent senior citizens.
City representatives ensured the smooth delivery of financial assistance, engaging with the beneficiaries to address any concerns and streamline the process. This initiative underscores the city’s commitment to recognizing the contributions of senior citizens and providing meaningful support to improve their quality of life.
Through its collaboration with the DSWD, the city government continues to implement programs focused on addressing the needs of vulnerable groups.
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? Has the CSWDO released pension funds to senior citizens of your local community already?
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Recently in the City of Las Piñas, a 24-year-old man suspected of robbery was arrested by law enforcers, according to a Manila Bulletin news report. The arrest happened in Barangay BF International-CAA.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of the Manila Bulletin. Some parts in boldface…
A robbery suspect was arrested during a manhunt operation conducted by members of the Las Piñas City Police Warrant and Subpoena Section and Station Intelligence Section against wanted persons on Monday, Nov. 18.
Las Piñas City Police chief Col. Sandro Tafalla said the suspect, identified as alias “Rodney,” 24, was arrested at around 10:40 a.m. in Barangay CAA, Las Piñas City.
Tafalla said the suspect who was placed as Top 2 wanted person under station level was arrested by virtue of a warrant of arrest issued by Judge Victor Ramirez Aguba of the Las Piñas City Regional Trial Court, Branch 197 on October 16, 2024. He said Aguba recommended a bail of P100,000.
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? Do you think that someone in your local community could have been involved in robbery? When was the last time a member of your local community got arrested by law enforcers who were armed with a warrant of arrest?
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
Recently in the City of Las Piñas, City Councilors Mark Santos and Henry Medina pushed for the establishment of a 2nd legislative district pointing to the growing population, the voice of the constituents, development of the city and other factors, according to a Manila Times news report.
For the newcomers reading this, Las Piñas City currently has one seat in the House of Representatives and its population has exceeded 600,000 since 2020.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from new report of the Manila Times. Some parts in boldface…
LAS PIÑAS City leaders are pressing for the creation of a second legislative district, citing the local government’s growing population and the need for broader representation in the House of Representatives.
City Councilors Mark Anthony Santos and Henry Medina filed a resolution urging Congress to establish an additional congressional district for Las Piñas, a city that has seen significant population growth since it became a city in 1997.
According to the 2020 census conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority, Las Piñas had a population of 606,293, way above the constitutional requirement of 250,000 residents to qualify for another legislative district.
Section 5, Article VI of the Philippine Constitution provides that each legislative district “shall comprise, as far as practicable, contiguous, compact, and adjacent territory. Each city with a population of at least two hundred fifty thousand, or each province, shall have at least one representative.“
Currently, Las Piñas is represented by a single congressional seat despite its population and administrative structure. The city has two councilor districts that are used for electing six city councilors from its 20 barangay (villages), but this bifurcation has yet to translate into additional representation in Congress.
Las Piñas’ journey to cityhood began in 1997 under then-president Fidel V. Ramos, with residents overwhelmingly supporting the change in a plebiscite.
Since then, the city has undergone rapid urbanization and population growth, further strengthening the case for additional representation.
Despite these developments, proposals for a second congressional district have not gained traction until now.
“With the creation of another congressional district representation in the House of Representatives, the voice of Las Pinyeros will be heard in a broader arena,” Santos said as he highlighted the benefits of increased representation.
Medina echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that an additional district could lead to improved public services, increased budget allocations and accelerated development for the city.
He pointed out that the establishment of a second district would allow the city’s growing population to have more direct representation in national governance.
This, in turn, could translate into better legislative focus on local issues, from infrastructure and education to health care and economic development.
Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a resident of Las Piñas City, what is your reaction to this development? Do you believe it is high-time for Las Piñas City to have a 2nd congressional seat? What do you think is the problem preventing Las Piñas City from having another seat in the House of Representatives?
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
Recently in the City of Las Piñas, the Barangay Nutrition Workers (BNWs) received gifts for Christmas from the City Government during the annual gift-giving event held at Las Piñas Café, according to the social media post of the local government unit (LGU).
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the social media post of the City Government. Some parts in boldface…
The City of Las Piñas, led by Mayor Imelda Aguilar and Vice Mayor April Aguilar, conducted its annual gift-giving event for Barangay Nutrition Workers (BNWs) on Tuesday, November 12, at the Las Piñas Cafe. The initiative aimed to honor the dedication of BNWs in promoting the city’s nutrition programs.
Vice Mayor April Aguilar personally distributed Christmas food packages to the BNWs, thanking them for their tireless service to the community. The event was organized in partnership with the City Nutrition Office under the leadership of Dr. Julio P. Javier II.
The activity served as an opportunity to recognize the invaluable role of BNWs in implementing grassroots health initiatives and ensuring proper nutrition for residents across Las Piñas. It also highlighted the city’s commitment to supporting its volunteer workers.
Vice Mayor April, through the program, reaffirmed the city’s dedication to providing inclusive and progressive public service for all.
Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a resident of Las Piñas City, what is your reaction to this development? Are there many people who work as a barangay nutrition worker in the city?
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
Recently in the City of Las Piñas, Mayor Imelda Aguilar provided financial assistance to the surviving family of a woman who was stabbed to death by her ex-husband, 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…
Las Piñas City Mayor Imelda Aguilar distributed financial assistance to the family of the entertainer who was stabbed 25 times by her ex-husband on Nov. 18.
The family of the victim identified as “Janilyn” visited Aguilar on Nov. 21 to seek assistance for the release of the victim’s body from the funeral home.
Aguilar was joined by Vice Mayor April Aguilar in handling the financial aid to the family.
Police investigation showed that Janilyn had a confrontation with her ex-husband identified as “Dennis” on Monday which led to the stabbing. He was later arrested by the police during a follow-up operation.
Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a resident of Las Piñas City, what is your reaction to this development? Are you satisfied with the way the mayor reacted to the victim’s family who needed financial assistance?
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
To conclude their Health Awareness Month, which was primarily aimed to develop self-awareness in their students, Mindbuilders Preschool located in BF Homes organized a special event entitled “All my Feelings are All Me.”
Prior to this culmination, the teachers of Mindbuilders Preschool implemented activities throughout October that would encourage their pupils to identify and even discuss their feelings in class. One tool the students made and used during their daily Circle Time period was a “feelings scale”, which allowed each child to identify a specific emotion he or she was feeling at the time. The children were also taught to use a decorated paper cup nicknamed the “jellyfish”. By breathing in and out of the cup, they could use it to calm themselves down in situations that made them feel scared, nervous or anxious. Other activities promoting self-awareness, specifically in the Gross Motor domain, were also implemented.
Then, on the morning of November 15, the assembly of preschool pupils, teachers and volunteer parents witnessed two very special presentations: one by psychologist Patricia Pacheco-Beton and another by a living legend of Philippine cinema and television, Miss Gina Alajar.
Teacher Pach efficiently taught the young audience about the kind of feelings they have and how to react when they feel something. In separate turns, a few students were called to the front to answer the guest psychologist’s key questions. The answers stated amused the other children as well as the parents and teachers who were present. More importantly, the little children themselves learned a lot from Teacher Pach’s presentation.
Using a children’s picture book, Teacher Pach engaged the students with a story and how it relates with feelings.
Teacher Pach also engaged the students in a read-aloud of an illustrated children’s book about the myriad of feelings a child can have in just one day! And as the narrative went on, students were able to identify the kind of emotions that the main character displayed.
Veteran actress and director Gina Alajar facilitated an acting workshop with three alternating groups of kids in attendance. In relation to the topic of feelings, she first asked the students what kind of emotions were they able to spot in films they had watched before. Collectively, the children gave answers which proved that they had been paying attention to the cinematic emotions even while enjoying the movies.
Ms. Gina Alajar had a group sit-down with the students of Mindbuilders Preschool about their feelings in relation to the senses. (Photo credit: Richard Estuesta)
The veteran filmmaker getting feedback from one of the students. (Photo credit: Richard Estuesta)
To determine how far everyone could go with their emotions, Alajar focused on the five senses: touch, sight, hearing, smell and taste. For each sense explored, the actress used specific items to get reactions from the kids. As children would respond differently to each item, she processed valuing each one’s feelings and respecting the feelings of others as well. Having seen Gina Alajar act so dramatically in movies from long ago, I was very impressed to see how experienced and patient she was when it came to teaching the students of Mindbuilders Preschool. It was as if they were all her grandchildren!
Elsewhere within Mindbuilders were other activities that tapped the students’ other intelligences. These took place inside different classrooms. One classroom had each child decorate a puzzle piece and then assemble the pieces together to form one big puzzle. In another classroom nearby, students were taught to express themselves with music and movement amidst multicolored lights. Finally, a coloring session of positive quotes on affirmation stones was held in another classroom.
In this particular workshop, the students learn to express themselves with music and movement. (Photo credit: Macon Leaño)
Students putting the puzzle pieces together in another classroom. (Photo credit: Tintin L. Cabase)
A student coloring positive quotes on an affirmation stone. (photo credit: Kristine Salustiano)
The session of coloring positive quotes on affirmation stones offers students a unique opportunity to practice their analysis and creativity. (photo credit: Kristine Salustiano)
After all the workshops and sessions were completed, the students were treated to a free film viewing at the play area.
A special activity fulfilled!
According to Mindbuilders Preschool Directress Marah Estuesta, the team worked hard in preparation for their Health Awareness Month Culmination. This included making schedule adjustments due to a major weather disturbance. What transpired on November 15, however, was a huge pay-off complete with a strong reception and the fulfillment of goals on educating the children about self-awareness.
Mindbuilders Preschool’s Health Awareness Month Culmination was supported by Chef Thess Uy Catering.
Philippines film and TV living legend Gina Alajar poses with the teachers and parents of Mindbuilders Preschool. At leftmost is directress Marah Estuesta. (Photo credit: Richard Estuesta)
Words from the Directress
“This activity was one for the books! In today’s world, where mental health is increasingly prioritized, I am happy to have an activity that fosters socio-emotional development in our preschoolers. It is very relevant that children begin developing self-awareness early, as it lays the foundation for understanding and managing their emotions, as well as expressing them effectively.
From understanding their own feelings to recognizing those of others, this activity is a significant step in helping young minds navigate the complexities of emotions. By engaging in activities that promote emotional intelligence, children learn valuable skills such as empathy, emotional regulation, and healthy communication.
Our month-long activities encouraged our preschoolers to explore and express their feelings in a safe and nurturing environment. Through fun, interactive exercises, tapping their Multiple Intelligences, they begin to articulate their emotions, understand their impact, and learn appropriate ways to respond to various emotional states. This kind of early intervention is vital, as it equips children with the tools they need to grow into emotionally resilient and socially adept individuals.“
Mindbuilders Preschool is an early learning environment committed to maximizing a child’s potential by creating exciting experiences that inspire enthusiasm for learning. Founded in 2002, it has grown as the leading Multiple Intelligences Preschool in the South (BF Homes, Las Piñas & Parañaque), following Howard Gardner’s Theory. Mindbuilders Preschool offers one of the best classes in the community for preschoolers.
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
Recently in the City of Las Piñas, a woman was found dead on an open field in Barangay Manuyo Dos and the local police arrested the victim’s ex-husband in response to the claim of a witness 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…
Members of the Las Piñas City Police arrested the former husband of an entertainer who was found dead at an open field in Las Piñas City on Monday, Nov. 18.
Las Piñas City Police chief Col. Sandro Tafalla said the suspect, identified as alias “Dennis,” was arrested after he was pinpointed by a witnesses as the last person seen with the victim, identified as alias “Janilyn.”
Tafalla said Dennis was arrested at around 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 19 at the house of the victim on P. Manahan St., Pasay City.
He said a security guard of Fine Property reported to the police that he heard a commotion in an open field in Gatchalian Road, Barangay Manuyo Dos at around 12:00 noon on Monday.
The witness said a male person wearing a blue half face helmet, black jacket, and maong pants on board a blue /red motorcycle was with the victim during the commotion.
Responding police officers found the body of the victim with multiple stab wounds in the different parts of the body and rushed her to Las Piñas District Hospital for treatment but was declared dead.
The police recovered a broken cellular phone at the crime scene and discovered that the victim’s last conversation was with Dennis.
Tafalla said a Shopee delivery called up the cellular phone of the victim leading to Janilyn’s identity who was first declared as unidentified.
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? When was the last time a stabbing incident happened within your local community?
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
Recently in the City of Las Piñas, a raid that took place at a condominium building resulted in the seizure of P34 million worth of illegal drugs and the arrest of one high-value individual, according to a Philippine Star news report.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of the Philippine Star. Some parts in boldface…
Five kilos of shabu with an estimated value of P34 million were recovered when anti-narcotics agents raided the house of a suspected drug dealer in Las Piñas City on Saturday.
Armed with a search warrant issued by a Las Piñas court, agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) raided a condominium building along Alabang-Zapote Road in Barangay Almanza Uno.
The anti-narcotics operation targeted two high-value suspects. One of them, identified as Kenneth Bandong, 30, was arrested.Bandong’s cohort, a woman, was not around during the raid.
PDEA agents said they found five kilos of shabu in the condominium unit. Bandong is facing cases for illegal drug possession under Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.
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 that someone in your local community could be secretly engaging in illegal drugs?
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
Recently in the City of Las Piñas, more than six hundred residents of Barangay Daniel Fajardo were served with varied health services provided by the Las Piñas Health and Wellness Caravan, the City Government announced via social media.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the social media post of the City Government. Some parts in boldface…
The Las Piñas Health and Wellness Caravan, organized by the City Health Office, delivered essential health services to residents of Daniel Fajardo at the Casimiro Townhomes Covered Court on Wednesday, November 6. Over 600 residents took advantage of the free services, showcasing the city’s commitment to delivering accessible healthcare.
The event provided a comprehensive range of medical services, including consultations, blood sugar and cholesterol tests, dental services, ECGs, chest X-rays, and lifestyle-related illness risk screening. Residents also availed of pneumonia vaccinations for senior citizens, free medicines at the pharmacy, and support for PhilHealth registration and the Green Card program. Mobile birth registration and a station offering massages were also available to further support community well-being.
City Vice Mayor April Aguilar was on hand to oversee the health caravan, emphasizing the local government’s dedication to health and wellness. She was joined by City Councilor Mark Anthony Santos and City Council District 1 candidates Alelee Aguilar, Atty. Zardi Abellera, Mac Mac Santos, Robert Cristobal, and Marlon Rosales. Their presence underlined the unified efforts of city leaders to prioritize public health initiatives. City Health Office head Dr. Juliana Gonzalez was also present, ensuring the smooth facilitation of services.
Dr. Juliana Gonzalez highlighted the continuous positive impact of the caravan in reaching numerous residents and addressing health concerns. She noted the program’s role in providing early detection and preventive care to the community.
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? When was the last time the City Government’s Health and Wellness Caravan was held in your local community?
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
Recently in the City of Las Piñas, business woman and candidate Alelee Aguilar-Andanar expressed her support for the P103.8 billion Las Piñas-Parañaque Coastal Bay Reclamation Project and reached out to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to support it as well so that socio-economic developments in the city will happen, according to a Manila Standard news report.
For the newcomers reading this, Aguilar-Andanar is the daughter of incumbent Mayor Imelda Aguilar and the late Mayor Vergel “Nene” Aguilar.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Manila Standard news report. Some parts in boldface…
A daughter of Las Piñas Mayor Imelda Aguilar expressed support for the resumption of the P103.8-billion Las Piñas-Parañaque Coastal Bay Reclamation Project as it would generate billion of income to the city’s coffer.
Businesswoman Alelee Aguilar-Andanar appealed to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga to sign the notice to proceed of the project as this would create thousands of local jobs, realize pro-poor projects, including socialized housing.
Aguilar-Andanar, who is running for councilor for next year’s election, is the third daughter of the late Las Pinas Mayor Vergel and incumbent Mayor Imelda. Alelle is the wife of former Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar.
Aguilar-Andanar said the reclamation project is a dream and aspiration of her late father who served as mayor of Las Piñas City from 1995 to 2004 and from 2007 to 2016.
She said (her) father’s vision is to keep pace with modern development. “If we don’t keep up or if we don’t devise a way (to generate income), it will become more difficult for the next generation,” said Aguilar-Andanar, quoting her father. She said (her) father wanted to call the reclamation project Las Piñas, Our Home 2.0.
Aguilar-Andanar said her family would join forces with incumbent councilors Mark Anthony Santos and Henry Medina in convincing their constituents on the benefits of the reclamation projects which could help restore ecosystems, create habitats for wildlife and mitigate flooding.
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 that now is the time to have the reclamation project approved so that Las Piñas will further develop economically and socially? Do you think that land reclamation only results in flooding and environmental damage? How many people in your local community are aware of the P103.8 billion Las Piñas-Paranaque Coastal Bay Reclamation Project? Will you vote Aguilar-Andanar for City Councilor in May 2025?
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
Author Carlo Carrasco 