Makati – Author Carlo Carrasco

PLDT Moving Headquarters to Filinvest City

July 5, 2025October 22, 2025carlocarrasco

In relation to the Filinvest Group’s strong confidence with its Alabang central business district (CBD), it has been revealed that telecommunication giant PLDT will relocate its headquarters to the Southgate District of Filinvest City in Alabang, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

For the newcomers reading this, Filinvest City is located within the Alabang area of Muntinlupa, and it is connected with both the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) and the Metro Manila Skyway (which itself is connected to the NAIA Expressway and the North Luzon Expressway) which makes travel connectivity convenient. PLDT itself has its current headquarters in Makati City which has lasted for decades. This new development with Filinvest City adds potential business value to Alabang. It should be noted that Filinvest City also has its own local residents.

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

Filinvest City, the premier township developed by the Filinvest Group, is poised for a transformation with the announcement that PLDT Inc., the nation’s largest integrated telecommunications company, will relocate its headquarters to the Southgate District of Filinvest City.

This strategic move, which involves the development of the country’s first tech campus, signals a game-changing moment for the Garden City, paving the way for a smarter, greener, and more connected urban landscape in Metro South.

The decision to move was revealed in a press statement from Filinvest City, noting that PLDT’s choice of Filinvest City followed years of careful study and strategic planning.

The planned five-hectare PLDT campus, envisioned as the future headquarters for the telecommunications group, is slated for progressive development, with initial phases expected to commence soon.

The project draws inspiration from leading global tech campuses and reflects PLDT’s long-term commitment to fostering an innovative and future-ready workplace.

This campus is part of our effort to build a healthier, more collaborative work environment, said PLDT Chairman and CEO Manuel V Pangilinan. He added that it reflects our belief that the workplace must evolve alongside the industries we serve. We hope it will inspire creativity, encourage teamwork, and support the future of PLDT.

The tech campus is designed not only as a headquarters but also as a hub for innovation, collaboration, and digital transformation, aiming to consolidate talent and technology to cultivate a culture of agility and forward-thinking.

This aligns with PLDT’s dedication to shaping the future of connectivity in the Philippines. The development is projected to create thousands of jobs during both construction and operational phases, boosting demand for residential and commercial spaces and supporting local businesses and startups.

It is also expected to attract professionals and innovators to Metro South, reinforcing Filinvest City’s role as a nexus for future-forward enterprises.

Josephine Gotianun-Yap, Vice Chairperson, Filinvest Development Corporation, noted the transformation of Filinvest City from a quiet stock farm into a vibrant garden metropolis, stating that this was achieved through vision, dedication, and a steadfast sense of purpose. She also said, Filinvest City was designed with intention: to foster an environment where businesses thrive, innovation flourishes, and people live well. We believe a great city is not simply a backdrop to success—but a catalyst for it.” She further added that Filinvest remains committed to continued growth and meaningful collaboration, especially with PLDT, as it pursues its mission to empower Filipinos through meaningful connections, digital inclusion, and sustainable progress.

This landmark project reinforces Filinvest City’s commitment to sustainable and integrated urban planning. As the country’s only central business district holding both LEED Gold and BERDE certifications, Filinvest City is recognized for its green building standards and environmentally responsible design. The city’s master plan embraces the live-work-play philosophy, ensuring a holistic urban experience for its residents, workers, and visitors.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think PLDT’s upcoming headquarters in Alabang will create many new jobs and add value to Filinvest City as business and investment destination? Do you think this new development will influence other major corporations to consider establishing new headquarters in Alabang? Do you consider Muntinlupa City a more competitive highly urbanized city (HUC) in relation with PLDT’s upcoming Alabang headquarters?

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

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram 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 engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

Man arrested in Parañaque City over multiple counts of qualified theft in another city

May 13, 2025May 9, 2025carlocarrasco

Recently in Parañaque City, a man who has been wanted in Makati for many counts of qualified theft was apprehended by the local police who were armed with an arrest warrant, 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…

A 27-year-old man wanted for 16 counts of qualified theft in Makati was arrested by members of the Parañaque City Police Warrant and Subpoena Section (WSS) on May 7.

The accused, Ryan Christian, listed by the police as the No. 8 most wanted person (station level) was arrested at around 2:40 p.m. at his residence in Sitio Sto. Nino, San Martin de Porres, Parañaque City.

Ryan Christian was arrested by virtue of a warrant of arrest issued by Judge Rainald Cajurao Paggao, of Makati Regional Trial Court Branch 142, with a recommended bail of P456,000.

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 more wanted people from other cities or provinces hiding in Parañaque’s local communities??

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

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

Small groups from POGOs moving into residential areas

October 25, 2024October 16, 2024carlocarrasco

The nationwide ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) is arguably working. That being said, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) stated that the POGOs have been forming smaller groups which have moved into residential areas to secretly operate, 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…

Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) appear to be trying to evade the authorities by forming smaller groups and setting up in residential areas, the National Bureau of Investigation said amid a raid on a group of alleged scammers.

In a report by John Consulta on 24 Oras on Tuesday, 17 foreigners were arrested in the raid on a residential unit in Makati City. They were caught at their workstations for alleged scamming activities, including love scams and crypto scams.

“Pag nakakuha sila ng pool of information, magko-conduct sila ng background investigation kung sino ang target nila. Pag nakita nila yung pattern, yung character, yung hobby, yung daily activities at the same time yung longings ng kanilang victims, ie-engage nila through social engineering,” said National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Cybercrime Division Chief Jeremy Lotoc.

(When they get a pool of information, they will conduct a background investigation on their target. When they see the pattern, the character, the hobby, the daily activities, and at the same time the longings of their victims, they will engage through social engineering.)

“Merong hacker, merong buyer ng data. May nakita kaming program-coded script na pwede magamit to access other systems without the authority nor consent of the system owner we assume meron silang activity in terms of hacking,” Lotoc added.

(There is a hacker, and there is a buyer of data. We found a program-coded script that can be used to access other systems without the authority or consent of the system owner. We assume they have activity in terms of hacking.)

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) said they are from big Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) companies.

“Yung malalaking POGO, nag-group sila into smaller group, nag-o-occupy ng residential units, apartments, para hindi mahalata na POGO, yun pa rin. To continue their scamming activities,” said NBI Director Jimmy Santiago.

(These big POGOs form smaller groups and occupy residential units so that they can’t be detected. Then they continue their scamming activities.)

The NBI is already examining the computers to obtain the details of their victims, while an inquest has already been conducted on those arrested and they are facing online fraud complaints and the violation of the Cybercrime Prevention Act.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Are you concerned that there could be these small POGO-related units secretly operating within the residential communities near you? Has there been a raid in your local community in connection with POGOs, scamming and hacking?

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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North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) promises Calamba-NCR-Pampanga travel by high-tech train in the future

July 30, 2024July 19, 2024carlocarrasco

If you are based south of Metro Manila and you intend to visit Pampanga without having to endure the stress of driving through vehicular traffic, then the high-tech train just might be the viable option as the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) promised quick travel in the future, according to a GMA Network News report.

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

The North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) promises commuters from Buendia in Makati or Alabang, Muntinlupa to reach the Clark International Airport in Pampanga in less than an hour.

In Joseph Morong’s report in 24 Oras on Thursday, the high tech train system stretches from Calamba, Laguna to Clark, Pampanga.

The West Valenzuela-Clark segment of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) will be the first to open and will operate in the first quarter of 2028, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said.

The report said that the Balagtas Station in Bulacan is 95% complete and expected to be the first one to be completed. Meanwhile, the Clark Station beside Clark International Airport is 80% done.

But the whole project itself is just 40% done, as the DOTr is facing a challenge in the right of way particularly in the Valenzuela to Sucat, Paranaque segment.

“Dadaan po tayo sa Buendia, sa EDSA (It will pass through in Buendia and in EDSA) … and then we will have to relocate 13,000 informal settlers from Manila to Calamba,” said Transportation Undersecretary for Rails Jeremy Regino. Hence, the whole NSCR project is expected to be completed by 2031.

The NSCR system boasts 51 train sets that are similar to ones operating in Japan. The train line also promises 40 minutes of travel from Buendia to Alabang. Further, the DOTr said the fare for NSCR will be affordable.

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, would you consider going all the way to Pampanga by train?

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

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

Flavors of NCR 2024 was a blast of delicacies, discoveries and fun

April 23, 2024April 22, 2024carlocarrasco

Recently Muntinlupa City hosted the 2024 edition of the Flavors of NCR food festival at the Filinvest City Central Park in Alabang and I personally witnessed the formal opening ceremony which involved many high-level officials and special guests. A lot of people visited the food festival on April 19 and 20 which added to the credibility of Filinvest City Central Park as a suitable open-air venue for special events.

For the newcomers reading this, Flavors of NCR is a special event presented by the Association of Tourism Officers – NCR which collaborated with the City Government of Muntinlupa for this year’s event. It is a showcase of unique cuisine found in the sixteen cities and one municipality of the National Capital Region (NCR). The local government units (LGUs) that participated include: Caloocan, Las Piñas, Makati, Malabon, Mandaluyong, Manila, Marikina, Muntinlupa, Navotas, Parañaque, Pasay, Pasig, Quezon City, San Juan, Taguig, Valenzuela, and the Municipality of Pateros.

Event launch

The ribbon cutting led by high officials that include Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano (3rd from left), Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon (3rd from right) and Department of Tourism-NCR Regional Director Sharlene Zabala-Batin (2nd from left) to name a few.

The opening ceremony of Flavors of NCR 2024 was attended by Muntinlupa City Mayor Ruffy Biazon, Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano, Department of Tourism-NCR Regional Director Sharlene Zabala-Batin, Association of Tourism Officers-NCR headed by Manila City Tourism chief Charlie Dungo, and Pasay City chief of staff Peter Eric Pardo. Also present were Muntinlupa Vice Mayor Temy Simundac and Muntinlupa City Council Raul Corro.

“We are delighted to host the Flavors of NCR,” Mayor Biazon stated during his welcome remarks to all the guests. “(We acknowledge) the presence of other cities here so that their products will be showcased and we are proud to have you here.”

Biazon stressed that hosting the Flavors of NCR opens up opportunities for Metro Manila’s LGUs and their respective food-and-beverage stakeholders access to the Calabarzon region composed of Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon with a collective population of over sixteen million people.

It should be noted that the Alabang area of Muntinlupa is a popular destination for Calabarzon residents as well as those from nearby cities who enjoy shopping and recreational activities during the weekend. That being said, Flavors of NCR fits nicely with the weekend vibe at Filinvest City.

After the formal ribbon-cutting was done, Flavors of NCR 2024 officially opened and a lot of people and photographers followed Biazon and the guests visit the different food booths of each city.

Each LGU and their best

I visited and explored the designated areas (also referred to as “booths”) of each LGU during the food festival. Each area had a different style of interiors and layouts of food, drinks and other products being offered to visitors. There were also chairs and tables present for those who need to seat down and eat. Check out my raw YouTube videos plus pictures below…

*Native delicacies on display for sale at the Las Piñas City booth.*

*Burger patties being cooked at the Mandaluyong City area.*

*Delicious halo-halo from Aling Consuelo Halo-Halo sa Ugbo. This was sold at P100 each.*

*Marikina City had four sellers that attracted customers during the food festival.*

*Drinks, dessert and other stuff offered to customers at the Las Piñas City booth.*

Flavors of NCR was indeed a true showcase of what local businesses per LGU has to offer. Manila had halo-halo sold by Aling Consuelo Halo-Halo Sa Ugbo, Las Piñas City had Bea’s Home of Quality Kakanin and Other Native Delicacies selling native delights, Quezon City had Papa Diddi’s Handcrafted Ice Cream for those wanting something cold and sweet, Mandaluyong City had Ben’s Burjer for customers who love hot burgers, Marikina City had Mang Ding’s BBQ and Nanay Ipang’s Everlasting, and so on.

As expected, the variety of food and drinks were really great. Offered to customers were chicken, beef, pork, siomai, barbeque, puto, bibingka, pansit, siopao, fried chicken, roasted pig, pastries, cakes, halo-halo and ice cream to name some. There were also non-food products being sold such as bags and accessories in some booths.

*Sea food and other food items being sold at the Parañaque City booth.*

*Fried chicken being prepared for customers.*

*The best of Muntinlupa City offered to customers.*

*Food and bags for sale inside the booth of Malabon City.*

It was really nice to see these small businesses represent their locality and offered their best products to visitors at Filinvest City Central Park. Adding zest to the food festival were some performances by different bands from the cities of NCR. There also was a modern dance activity that drew in lots of visitors which added to the customers at the food festival.

Conclusion

The 2024 edition of Flavors of NCR at Filinvest City Central Park was indeed a nice showcase of what each LGU had to offer for those who love food and drinks. In addition, this festival really emphasized unity between the local governments of NCR and it also promoted local tourism. The festival also attracted some residents of Filinvest City’s residential towers (plus others from Ayala Alabang, Palms Pointe Village and other residential communities) and some employees (who worked at offices near the park) whose shifts ended.

In the perspective of tourism, this event really boosted Filinvest City Central Park’s status as a venue for special events or activities. To date, the said park continues to be an attraction for visitors and already it has been used by organizers of sports events and musical events.

The successful staging of Flavors of NCR could inspire food festival organizers to have their events held within Filinvest City in the future.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: Were you able to attend Flavors of NCR at the central park in Filinvest City? If you did, how was your experience? Do you wish to see another food festival to be held at Filinvest City Central Park soon?

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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COVID-19 Crisis: Almost 60 million Filipinos fully vaccinated

January 26, 2022January 24, 2022carlocarrasco

This past weekend, the national government announced that almost sixty million Filipinos nationwide have been fully vaccinated for COVID-19, according to a report published by the Philippine News Agency (PNA). To be more precise, the official count was at 57 million.

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

The Philippines has administered 122,889,494 doses of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccines nationwide as of Saturday, with 57,095,695 Filipinos now with complete shots and better protected against the virus.

Data from the National Covid-19 vaccination dashboard showed 59,716,484 individuals have received at least the first dose of the primary series while 6,077,315 got their booster or additional doses.

The government recently launched the “Resbakuna sa Botika” program in partnership with private pharmaceutical stores and clinics to encourage more fully vaccinated Filipinos to avail of booster shots.

Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., chief of the National Task Force Against Covid-19, said “self-management and social responsibility” would greatly contribute to the country’s response to the global health crisis.

“Basically, it is not sustainable that only the national government will take care of everything. I believe the private sector, the LGUs (local government units), and also the different parts of our society want to have responsibility. And that’s the way forward to our Covid-19 pandemic response,” Galvez said in an interview at a booster vaccination event in Makati City on Friday.

Galvez said there should a policy shift from having a government-centered approach to giving pre-access to those who are willing to assist in the national vaccination program.

On face value, having 57 million fully vaccinated Filipinos nationwide sounds like good news but in reality it remains to be seen if the Omicron variant could be resisted.

More on the Omicron variant, it is crucial for the Philippines to acquire as many new doses of Sputnik vaccines from Gamaleya to really immunize and boost more Filipinos as soon as possible. Already there were studies conducted showing that Sputnik V and Sputnik Light resulted in strong resistance against the Omicron variant (for references, click here, here and here). Historically, Muntinlupa City was one of the first cities of the Philippines to receive a batch of Sputnik V vaccines.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: Does the news about our nation having almost sixty million fully vaccinated Filipinos sound encouraging to you? Are there still lots of unvaccinated people there in your local community? If you are managing a business, have you checked if your employees got fully vaccinated or even boosted? Are you still worried about the Omicron variant? If you have been fully vaccinated, when did you get your 2nd dose and when do you plan to get yourself boosted?

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 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/

FamilyMart now serving customers inside BF Homes subdivision

September 30, 2021October 25, 2021carlocarrasco

FamilyMart, a chain of convenience stores with presence in strategic locations in Metro Manila and some provinces, recently opened a brand-new branch inside BF Homes subdivision in Parañaque City. The new store is located just steps away from the corner of Aguirre Avenue and Gonzales street. Very near FamilyMart BF Homes (which is not located along Aguirre Avenue) are Vapor and the closed gate of the nearest enclave.

On the Facebook page of FamilyMart BF Homes, a picture was posted showing the ribbon-cutting ceremony that took place on the afternoon of September 28. On that same picture post, it was announced that the convenience store will operate daily from 9AM to 7PM.

Having seen that social media post, I took the opportunity to go there, see the new store and buy myself a drink. Having visited the past FamilyMart branch (opened in 2013 outside of the subdivision but still part of Barangay BF Homes) that once operated along Presidents Avenue years prior, I wondered how much interior space the new store has for its customers.

After parking my vehicle, I paid attention to the signs on the entrance. I could not just go in because I had to complete an online registration form (for COVID-19 contact tracing and referencing) in order to enter (note: it would be great if the store starts using the StaySafe.ph system as an additional contact tracing option). After submitting my details online, a store employee opened the door and near him were the temperature scanner and the sanitizer.

Family Mart BF Homes has an interior set-up that resembles a local community pharmacy. There is a counter with the store employees behind it waiting to serve customers. On the other side of the counter, there was limited space for customers to move with and there were shelves of varied products (mostly consumable goods), a freezer containing ice cream products, as well as refrigerators containing drinks and a few ready-to-cook food items. Ultimately, I bought a Milo shake from them.

*While driving along Aguirre Avenue, watch out for this corner sign to find FamilyMart BF Homes.*

Having visited FamilyMart branches in Parañaque City (two), Muntinlupa City (two) and Makati City (two), I can say that FamilyMart BF Homes is easily the smallest branch I ever visited. Not a bad thing but notable. The store is ideal if you want to stop by, buy something to enjoy and move on to your next destination.

Regardless, FamilyMart BF Homes still has a lot to offer that other convenient stores cannot. If you love chicken, FamilyMart has FamiChicky and ChickyPops. If you want something unique to eat, try their pizza bar. If you can’t afford ramen at the restaurants, FamilyMart offers ramen that is friendly to your budget. For the beverage enthusiasts, the Iced Caramel Macchiato, Sakura Ichigo, Signature Hot Matcha and Iced Creamy Matcha should be tried.

To know more about FamilyMart BF Homes (address: 75 Aguirre Avenue), visit their official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/fmbfhomes

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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: COVID-19 vaccine registration for minors ongoing in limited Metro Manila LGUs

September 14, 2021September 13, 2021carlocarrasco

The Manila Bulletin reported recently that a few of the local government units (LGUs) in Metro Manila have officially launched the registration for the vaccination of minors aged 12 to 17-years-old.

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

Six Metro Manila local government units (LGUs) have started the registration of minors, with ages 12 to 17 years, for vaccination against COVID-19.

The six local government units in Metro Manila that started the vaccination registration for minors are Pateros, Makati, Muntinlupa, Manila, Caloocan, and Las Pinas City.

The Las Pinas City government will be using the EZ consult account for the registration of minors in the city.

The EZ consult account is also the same app used by city residents in registering for their vaccination.

The Las Pinas city government said the registration is part of the preparations once the national government approves the vaccination of minors using Moderna and Pfizer vaccines as approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Pateros was the first local government unit that launched the registration of COVID-19 vaccination for minors on September 8.

Residents who are 12 to 17 years old can register using a QR code that can be found in Facebook page of the Pateros municipal government Facebook.

In the capital city of Manila, Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso said that throughwww.manilacovid-19vaccine.ph, parents can either register their children under a single account for the family or register them separately.

In Makati, the city government announced on Friday (September 10) that minors, 12 to 17 years old, may now register for vaccination against COVID-19.

In a Facebook post of the city government, it said that residents of Makati, 12 to 17 years old, can sign up at http://www.covid19vaccine.safemakati.com and a master list will be created for the vaccination of minors.

Makati COVID-19 Vaccine In Caloocan, the city government also started the profiling of minors aged 12 to 17.

Mayor Oca Malapitan said it is important that the vaccination program for minors is prepared as early as possible since they belong to the age group that needs the consent of parents or guardians.

Any Las Piñas resident who has yet to get registered for the free COVID-19 vaccines can learn the ways (4 methods) by clicking here. Anyone who is ready and willing to register online can click bit.ly/LasPiñasVaccination

Residents of Muntinlupa City who remain unregistered and unvaccinated can make a move to get registered by learning the ways to do it. Those who are prepared (with personal information available) and willing to go through online registration for the free vaccines in Muntinlupa are encouraged to click https://vaccine.muntinlupacity.gov.ph/muncovac/

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a parent of a child aged 12 to 17, what do you think about the ongoing COVID-19 vaccine registration for minors? What is the single most notable issue about vaccinating minors that concerns you the most right now?

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

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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

Skyway Stage 3 adjustments related to toll collection snags

July 16, 2021July 15, 2021carlocarrasco

Were you among the many motorists who got stuck in traffic along the Skyway as a result of snags related to toll collection payments (formally started on July 12, 2021), lack of load for payments and lack of radio frequency identification (RFID) stickers on the vehicles?

Well, you definitely are not alone and the Skyway system operator issued a press statement very recently and they will work harder to make things more convenient for those traveling along Skyway Stage 3. To put things in perspective, posted below is the statement published through the Philippine News Agency (PNA). Some parts in boldface…

Skyway O&M, operator of the Skyway system and a unit under San Miguel Corporation’s (SMC) SMC Infrastructure, expects more seamless movement along the new Skyway Stage 3 with the implementation of new measures to avoid congestion on access and exit points following the first day of toll collection on the elevated expressway.

These measures resulted in faster throughput of vehicles even at high-volume toll plazas just a day later.

“It’s unfortunate that many motorists were caught in traffic last Monday. We apologize for the inconvenience. While this was not totally unexpected on the first day of toll collection, for our part, we know we have to do better. Hopefully, with the measures we put in place, traffic conditions will continue to improve and normalize,” SMC president Ramon S. Ang said in a statement Wednesday.

Ang said that traffic throughput at toll plazas slowed down Monday primarily due to vehicles with insufficient load, as well as those availing of free radio frequency identification (RFID) sticker installation and re-loading onsite.

“Our Skyway teams are always on the ground, and we monitor our expressways via cameras 24/7. If there’s any issue, we can respond and make corrective measures very quickly,” he added.

Among the measures Skyway has since implemented are: deployment of more personnel for traffic management, toll collection, and Autosweep RFID sticker installation; opening of more lanes for Autosweep RFID installation and reloading; and installation of more signs to guide motorists who are unfamiliar with the expressway, its toll plazas, and the start of toll collection.

Motorists with no RFID stickers, who insist on paying in cash, or have insufficient balance are asked to exit the toll booth and park on the side so as not to inconvenience existing ETC users. They are given the option to have RFID tags installed or reloaded, or pay in cash.

Vehicles with no RFID or have insufficient balance are directed to Del Monte Toll Plaza B coming from Balintawak where they can have their RFID tags installed or reloaded.

Skyway O&M reported that traffic throughput at toll plazas was significantly better starting Tuesday, or the second day of toll collection.

For instance, traffic queues at the Buendia southbound exit, which only has two lanes and where there was significant buildup Monday, was considerably shorter at only up to 200 meters. This was observed only during rush hour starting at 8 am.

While the vast majority of motorists utilized electronic toll collection, a small percentage, or 4 percent, consisting of cash-paying motorists and users with insufficient load, slowed down transaction times at toll plazas.

The additional measures implemented have since addressed these issues, bringing about a smoother traffic flow.

Skyway 3 was soft-opened last December and has provided the public free unlimited use for nearly seven months, with SMC’s foregone revenues reaching PHP3 billion.

The Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) had just recently issued a notice to start collecting toll to Skyway 3.

“Before, if you were stuck on NLEX or Quezon City and you were headed to Alabang or Makati, or vice-versa, motorists simply had no choice but to endure two to three hours of traffic. Today, with Skyway Stage 3, motorists can opt to use it for convenience and faster travel times. With more vehicles diverted to Skyway 3, there will be less congestion on Edsa, C-5, and other major thoroughfares, resulting in improved travel on our public roads,” Ang said.

SMC and TRB worked together to arrive at toll rates that are much lower than the original toll fee matrix, particularly for vehicles traveling shorter distances.

Apart from foregoing revenues for seven months, SMC had also deferred recovery of a significant portion of the right-of-way costs for the project in consideration of the economic impacts of the pandemic.

With Skyway Stage 3 now operating 24/7, SMC said that Autosweep sites along the elevated expressway are also open 24/7.

“I would like to request our motorists who have not yet availed of their free RFID stickers to please do so, and make sure they are activated with sufficient credit. This measure, which was pushed by (the) government last year, is for everybody’s safety and also for your convenience,” Ang said.

He said using RFID will ensure they have better, safer, and faster trips on the expressways.

“Also, as a reminder, please be conscious of which toll lanes you are using. Do not use ETC- only lanes if you have insufficient balance, as there are penalties that come with this. If you have insufficient balance, please use the assigned lanes for RFID installation or reloading. Most of all, please always show courtesy towards fellow motorists and tollways workers,” he added.

Site locations that offer RFID installation and reloading are from the south, Zobel northbound (After Entry), Quirino northbound exit, Nagtahan northbound exit, Quezon Ave. northbound entry, and Del Monte northbound toll plaza; and from the north, Del Monte southbound toll plaza, Quezon Ave. southbound entry and Plaza Dilao southbound entry.

And here are related news videos from rival networks GMA and ABS-CBN…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ehI8ebnEEkM

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: Are you satisfied with what the Skyway operator stated and the adjustments they made? When it comes to traveling from south of Metro Manila to the north, are you willing to endure the heavy traffic along EDSA just to save money now that toll collections are in effect on Skyway Stage 3? What was it like to drive from South Metro Manila all the way to the NLEX via Skyway Stage 3 during toll collection?

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

COVID-19 Crisis: Muntinlupa and Parañaque to receive Russian vaccines

May 3, 2021May 2, 2021carlocarrasco

It has been reported by GMA News that the initial batch of COVID-19 (China Virus) vaccines from Russia called Sputnik V has finally arrived and the South Metro Manila cities of Muntinlupa and Parañaque are among the five National Capital Region (NCR) to receive them. To be clear, the said vaccines are only 15,000 doses and the five NCR cities will get an equal share of three thousand doses each.

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

In an interview on “Dobol B TV,” Health Undersecretary Myrna Cabotaje said the five cities in the National Capital Region (NCR) were chosen because they have “appropriate” cold storage facility for the Sputnik V vaccine.

She said the five cities are Makati, Taguig, Muntinlupa, Manila, and Parañaque, which will get 3,000 doses each of the vaccine.

“Mayroon silang (five chosen cities) cold-chain ready facility na mag fit (that is desirable),” said Cabotaje, adding that Sputnik V needs to be stored in a temperature of -18 degrees Celsius.

Also, Cabotaje said simulations for the vaccines will be conducted by the Parañaque City government in partnership with the private sector.

Further, she said the Makati City LGU has partnered with Makati Medical Center to deploy the vaccines.

On the other hand, Cabotaje noted that Sputnik V can be administered to Filipinos ages 18 and above. She said there were no side effects reported from other countries, so far.

Sputnik V’s second dose must be given 21 days after the first shot was injected, Cabotaje added.

Asked when the remaining 485,000 Sputnik V doses will arrive, Cabotaje said: “It will depend on the vaccine availability and shipping logistics.” The national government earlier said that it expects the remaining batches of Sputnik V to be delivered this May.

Moreover, Cabotaje said the ordered doses would be sent in batches to allow Russia to study the country’s vaccine deployment process.

“They sent small doses first because they want to know how we administer their vaccines so that the drugs won’t be wasted,” Cabotaje said in Filipino.

On Saturday, the plane carrying the trial-order doses of Russia’s Gamaleya Research Institute vaccine landed in Manila. Its arrival was delayed twice due to logistical concerns.

Meanwhile, Sputnik V’s importation has recently been flagged by a Brazilian health regulator’s technical staff over “critical issues” on its efficacy rate and safety.

But earlier, the Philippine FDA said Sputnik V has a 91% efficacy rate.

Those are very interesting details. The Russian vaccine had a high efficacy rate from the local Food and Drug Administration although the regulators of Brazil rejected it resulting a potential lawsuit. Brazil’s regulators defended their decision. The report published by Science Magazine states: A confusing and unusually nasty fight broke out this week over the safety of a Russian COVID-19 vaccine known as Sputnik V after a Brazilian health agency declined on Monday to authorize its import because of quality and safety concerns. The stakes escalated yesterday when the Twitter account officially associated with the vaccine said “Sputnik V is undertaking a legal defamation proceeding” against Brazil’s regulators.

In an online press conference several hours later, the Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (Anvisa) defended its decision, maintaining that documentation from some of the Russian facilities making Sputnik V shows that one of its two doses contains adenoviruses capable of replication, a potential danger to vaccine recipients. The vaccine uses two different adenoviruses, which cause the common cold, to deliver the gene for the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVD-19. Both are supposed to be stripped of a key gene that allows them to replicate.

The Monday announcement left many scientists and media outlets believing Anvisa had directly tested Sputnik V for replicating adenoviruses, which would be unusual for a regulatory agency. But Anvisa has since clarified—it had not and was relying on information provided by the Gamaleya National Center of Epidemiology and Microbiology, the Moscow-based developer of the vaccine.

For more information, I encourage you to read the article in full. Lots of really technical information to read and understand.

In closing this, let me ask you readers from Muntinlupa and Parañaque…if you have not been vaccinated for COVID-19 yet, are you willing to get injected with Sputnik V vaccine when your turn happens? Why?

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

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