Tag: Manila Bulletin

Muntinlupa City Government Confirms P8 Million Donation To Cebu

Muntinlupa City Government Confirms P8 Million Donation To Cebu

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Recently the City Government of Muntinlupa announced that it will be donating P8 million in financial assistant to specific localities in the island province of Cebu which it still struggling to recover from a powerful earthquake, according to a Manila Bulletin news report. Around seventy people in Cebu died as a result of the earthquake.

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

The Muntinlupa City government will donate P8 million as financial assistance to Cebu, which was devastated by a 6.9 magnitude earthquake last Sept. 30.

Based on an Oct. 3 report by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), 68 people died and 559 others were injured from the earthquake.

Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon earlier endorsed to the City Council a resolution by the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (LDRRMC) requesting for the passage of an ordinance allotting funds as assistance to disaster areas in Cebu.

In an emergency special session on Oct. 3, the City Council increased the financial assistance to Cebu from P7 million to P8 million by adding the town of Tabogon as a recipient.

Majority Floor Leader Raul Corro said the grant of P8 million financial assistance to Cebu will be given to the following local government units: City of Bogo, P2 million; Municipality of Bantayan, P1 million; Municipality of San Remigio, P1 million; Municipality of Daanbantayan, , P1 million; Municipality of Tuburan, P1 million; Municipality of Medellin, P1 million; and Municipality of Tabogon, P1 million. 

The financial assistance will be taken from the 30 percent Quick Response Fund (QRF ) of the Muntinlupa City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund (MCDRRMF).

Biazon said “time is of the essence” during calamities, the reason why the LDRRMC immediately passed a resolution to help Cebu.

“Napakalaki ng iniwang damages at casualties ng lindol kaya anumang halagang maibibigay natin ay malaking tulong na talaga sa ating mga kababayan sa Cebu. Patuloy nating ipanalangin ang mabilis na pagbangon ng Cebu (The earthquake left behind huge damages and casualties, so any amount we can give will be a great help to our countrymen in Cebu. Let us continue to pray for the speedy recovery of Cebu),” the mayor added.

In a Facebook post, Corro said, “As time is of the essence, the City Council immediately acted on the letter-request of City Mayor Rozzano Rufino Biazon to pass the said ordinance which was endorsed yesterday. The City Government of Muntinlupa has granted financial assistance to many Local Government Units around the country which were hit by natural disasters.”

In addition, the Muntinlupa City government sent a team to Cebu to help in the search, rescue and retrieval operations.

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, do you agree with the City Government’s donation of P8 million to different localities in Cebu that were affected by the earthquake? Do you know anyone in Cebu who were affected by the earthquake?

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 engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

Davao del Sur’s 2nd Most Wanted Person Arrested In Las Piñas City

Davao del Sur’s 2nd Most Wanted Person Arrested In Las Piñas City

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Recently in the City of Las Piñas, local police officers apprehended a man who turned out to be the 2nd most wanted person in Davao del Sur, according to a Manila Bulletin news report. He was arrested for murder.

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

Authorities from the Las Piñas Police Warrant and Subpoena Section (WSS) arrested  Davao del Sur’s No. 2 most wanted person in the municipal level in 2022 during the conduct of a manhunt operation against wanted fugitives.

Las Piñas City Police Chief Col. Sandro Tafalla identified the suspect as Jesan, 37, a laborer wanted for the crime of murder in Davao del Sur. He was arrested along Narra Street, Barangay CAA, Las Piñas City.

Tafalla said members of the Malalag Municipal Police Station coordinated with the Southern Police District and notified members of the Las Piñas City Police WSS conducting a manhunt operation against wanted fugitives for the arrest of Jesan.

He said Jesan was arrested by virtue of a warrant of arrest issued by Judge Marivic Trabajo Daray of Digos City, Davao del Sur, Regional Trial Court Branch 18, for the crime of murder on May 31, 2022, with no bail recommended.

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 concerned that there could be wanted persons from the provinces hiding in the city?

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 engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

Muntinlupa City Government Delivers Almost 4,700 Tables And Chairs To Public Schools

Muntinlupa City Government Delivers Almost 4,700 Tables And Chairs To Public Schools

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Recently in the progressive City of Muntinlupa, the City Government delivered almost four thousand seven hundred tables and chairs to public schools which reflects their goal to uplift the quality of local education, 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…

The Muntinlupa City government delivered a total of 4,693 tables and chairs to different public schools.

This is part of Mayor Ruffy Biazon’s 7K Agenda, aiming to uplift the quality of education for Muntinlupa students.

“Layunin nito na masigurong ang bawat estudyante ay may maayos, komportable, at conducive na learning space para sa kanilang pag-aaral. Patunay ito ng malasakit at pagtutok ng lokal na pamahalaan at ng Schools Division Office-Muntinlupa City sa pangangailangan ng mga paaralan at kabataan ng ating lungsod. (The goal is to ensure that every student has a well-organized, comfortable, and conducive learning space for their studies. This is proof of the concern and focus of the local government and the Schools Division Office-Muntinlupa City on the needs of the schools and youth of our city),” the city government posted on Facebook.

Biazon previously emphasized the need to improve the quality of education in Muntinlupa public schools.

Meanwhile, the city government congratulated Muntinlupa Science High School for being recognized as one  of the top schools for MSTR (Math, Science & Technology, and Research) Class during the 2025 STEM Enrichment Program (STEP).

“The STEP Program brings together Science and other High Schools from across NCR to competitively assess its students’ knowledge and skills in STEM,” the city government said.

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 with the delivery of so many tables and chairs to the public schools in the city? Are there lots of children in your local community who are enrolled in public schools?

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 engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

I Love Israel: Israel’s Ministry of Tourism and El Al Airlines Celebrate Ties With Filipino Partners

I Love Israel: Israel’s Ministry of Tourism and El Al Airlines Celebrate Ties With Filipino Partners

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Let me start by declaring that my native Philippines committed a major error by favoring a United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) resolution calling for the implementation of a two-state solution on Israel and the stateless Palestine. They even praised the nations who decided to recognize a so-called state of Palestine…and now they are all on the WRONG side of history. I personally strongly disagree with the move of the Filipino diplomats (under the Department of Foreign Affairs or DFA) and I want to make clear with all my friends from Israel that those diplomats do not represent the Filipinos’ love for Israel and the Lord. I should stress that any concept of multilateralism that involves supporting illegal immigrants and empowering terrorists is absolutely wrong! Regardless of what the DFA does and what they currently believe in, I urge my fellow Filipinos to keep standing united in support of Israel and never give any room to Islamic terrorists, the Islamo-Leftist mobs and their mainstream news media partners-in-crime. Let me remind you all the you cannot trust the wicked United Nations (UN) and make sure you watch the DFA’s moves much closely.

On with the news about Israel and the Philippines…

The ties between Israel and the Philippines remain strong and the new Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Dana Kursh is focused on strengthening the ties more. Recently, a major event happened that brought Israel’s Ministry of Tourism and Filipino partners together, according to a Manila Bulletin news article.

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

In a vibrant prelude to Rosh Hashana, the Jewish New Year, the Israel Ministry of Tourism (IMOT), in partnership with El Al Airlines Philippines, hosted a festive gathering for key figures in the Philippine travel industry and media. The event celebrated the deepening tourism ties between Israel and the Philippines, spotlighting Israel’s rich cultural appeal and the visa-free access now extended to Filipino travelers.

Her Excellency Dana Kursh, ambassador of Israel to the Philippines, opened the celebration with a heartfelt message: “As Israel’s Ambassador to the Philippines, my vision is for Filipinos to experience the beauty of Israel — from the Galilee of my childhood to the wonder of Jerusalem — and for Israelis to discover the Philippines, its people, its hospitality, and its 7,000 islands of paradise. This vision inspires our Embassy’s efforts to make direct flights between our countries a reality.”

The event showcased Israel not only as a spiritual haven but also as a land of striking contrasts, where golden deserts meet snowy peaks, and ancient history blends seamlessly with modern vibrancy.

Anna Oraiza Aban, marketing manager of IMOT’s Philippine office, emphasized this unique appeal: “Israel is a land of contrasts, where you can marvel at golden deserts and snowy peaks in the same journey. With the gift of visa-free entry for Filipinos, we are excited to welcome you to discover Israel’s beauty, culture, and unforgettable experiences.”

Tisha Escalona, president of APG Philippines and general sales agent of El Al Airlines, reaffirmed her commitment to expanding travel opportunities: “As the General Sales Agent of El Al in the Philippines, APG is proud to collaborate with the Israel Ministry of Tourism to inspire more Filipinos to discover Israel.”

In keeping with Rosh Hashana traditions, Ambassador Kursh led a symbolic toast with a ruby-red drink inspired by the pomegranate, a symbol of abundance, renewal and sweetness. Guests also shared apples dipped in honey, reflecting hopes for a fruitful year ahead and the belief that even life’s challenges can bring sweetness.

This newest development shows the continuing growth of Israel-Philippines ties and I am confident that eventually new breakthroughs will be realized in the years to come. The new Ambassador Dana Kursh is dedicated to strengthening ties between the Jewish state and the Philippines. I urge you readers to pray to the Lord in support of Ambassador Kursh, the Israeli embassy, the Israeli businesses in our country so that progress benefitting both Israel and the Philippines will manifest regardless of external developments. Pray also that the DFA will be enlightened so that it will stop committing diplomatic blunders.

To my fellow Filipinos reading this, I encourage you to accept the truth that Israel is the land God designated specifically for the Jewish people (read Genesis 35:10-12) and His command must be followed without hesitation. If you want to be blessed further by the Lord, do so by loving and blessing the Jewish people (Genesis 12:1-3). I did my part when I was in Israel. Also, let me remind you all that the ties between the Jews and Christians are truly biblical!

I encourage you all to pray to the Lord God in support of Israel, to love and bless the Jewish people, and pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Pray to Him so that Israel-Philippines ties and cooperation will keep growing stronger and more resilient no matter what happens around the world.

If you truly believe in Lord Jesus, the Holy Spirit and God the Heavenly Father wholeheartedly and you continue to be faithful, you should be aware that Christians are meant to stand united with Israel and love the Jewish people no matter what. You can do your part supporting Israel by donating to Christians United for Israel (CUFI). Do not forget to read the Holy Bible, then pray in tongues to the Lord in the privacy of your room with the door shut.

Always be the fearless and aggressive church of Lord Jesus! Always stand in support of Israel and its ties with the Philippines!

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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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Muntinlupa City Government’s Support For Qualified Single Parents Confirmed

Muntinlupa City Government’s Support For Qualified Single Parents Confirmed

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Recently in the progressive City of Muntinlupa, the City Government confirmed that it will provide financial support to qualified single parents so that they can handle the rising cost of goods and other expenses, according to a GMA Network news report. This is in reference to the local program called the Muntinlupa City Solo Parents Cash Subsidy.

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

Qualified single parents would get P1,000 in cash support each month to help them deal with the rising cost of commodities, according to the Muntinlupa City government.

“Alinsunod sa direktiba ni Mayor Ruffy Biazon na palakasin ang suporta sa ating indigent Solo Parents, makakatanggap na ang mga qualified beneficiaries ng P1000 monthly cash assistance sa bisa ng City Ordinance No. 2025-311 o ang Muntinlupa City Solo Parents Cash Subsidy,” the Muntinlupa City local government said in a Facebook post on Friday.

(In accordance with Mayor Ruffy Biazon’s directive to strengthen support for our indigent solo parents, qualified beneficiaries will now receive P1000 monthly cash assistance through either City Ordinance No. 2025-311 or the Muntinlupa City Solo Parents Cash Subsidy.)

“Layon nitong makatulong sa ating solo parents na ramdam ang bigat ng patuloy na pagtaas ng mga bilihin at gastusin sa araw-araw,” it added.

(This aims to help our solo parents who feel the weight of the continuing increase of daily goods and expenses.)

The Muntinlupa local government unit identified those who are qualified for the assistance: Minimum wage earner or below; Self-employed or with no regular job earning minimum wage or below; Not a 4Ps beneficiary.

Meanwhile, a solo parent is no longer qualified if all of his or her children are already over 22 years old.

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 with the local program of financial support for qualified single parents?

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 engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

Las Piñas City’s Solo Parents Program Anniversary Celebrated

Las Piñas City’s Solo Parents Program Anniversary Celebrated

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Recently in the City of Las Piñas, the City Government celebrated the 10th anniversary of its local program for solo parents at the Aguilar Sports Complex and Mayor April Aguilar personally distributed rice to the participants, according to the LGU’s social media post.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the City Government’s social media post. Some parts in boldface…

Las Piñas City celebrated the 10th anniversary of its Solo Parents program with a vibrant gathering at the Aguilar Sports Complex in Barangay Pilar.

With the theme “Solo Parent na Rehistrado, sa Gobyerno Tiyak na Protektado,” the event drew 800 participants and highlighted the city’s commitment to provide care, recognition, and protection for solo parents.

A key moment was the launch of the Solo Parent Purchase Booklet. The City Social Welfare and Development Office, led by Ms. Lowefe Romulo, detailed the qualifications, registration requirements, and benefits for solo parents which include a comprehensive package of social protection services, educational support, automatic PhilHealth coverage, and a 10% discount on essential needs such as baby products and prescribed medicines for children aged 6-years and below.

Each participant also received 3 kilograms of rice personally distributed by Mayor April Aguilar.

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 solo parents in your local community 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, 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

Around 800 Las Piñas City Residents Avail Of Services From Medical Mission

Around 800 Las Piñas City Residents Avail Of Services From Medical Mission

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Recently in the City of Las Piñas, around eight hundred local residents availed of the services from a medical vision involving the Aivee Group, the City Government confirmed 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…

Mayor April Aguilar, together with Vice Mayor Mel Aguilar and The Aivee Group led by Dra. Aivee Aguilar, brought premium medical care to the community through the “Aivee Beyond Borders” free medical mission held at the Equitable Covered Court, Barangay Talon Kuatro. Around 800 Las Piñeros benefited from the activity, receiving expert consultations, treatment procedures, post-procedure medicines and creams, as well as follow-up guidance.

The event also became a celebration of community spirit, with free meals and treats shared by the City Nutrition Office and Potdog, plus giveaways from The Aivee Group and the Las Pin̈as LGU. A raffle was likewise held, made possible through the generosity of sponsors including Unilab Foundation, Omni Med Hub Corporation, Vanguard, Siklab, and Ms. Maribel Mijares.

Joining Mayor April were Congressman Mark Anthony Santos, Councilor Alelee Aguilar, and special guest Mika Salamanca, PBB Celebrity Collab Big Winner, who all came together to show support for the beneficiaries.

Mayor April reiterated her commitment to bring quality health services closer to the people.

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 wish that another medical mission involving the Aivee Group will be held again in the city 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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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

Muntinlupa City Receives 2025 CROWN Award For Nutrition Programs

Muntinlupa City Receives 2025 CROWN Award For Nutrition Programs

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Recently the City Government of Muntinlupa received a new Consistent Regional Outstanding Winner (CROWN) award for its nutrition programs, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

The National Nutrition Council-National Capital Region recognized the Muntinlupa City government for its nutrition programs.

Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon received the Second Year CROWN (Consistent Regional Outstanding Winner) Maintenance Award Contender during a ceremony on Sept. 11.

“Ang CROWN o Consistent Regional Outstanding Winner in Nutrition Award ay ibinibigay sa mga LGU na consistent na top performer sa nutrition programs matapos makuha ang Green Banner Award ng tatlong sunod-sunod na taon (The CROWN or Consistent Regional Outstanding Winner in Nutrition Award is given to LGUs that are consistent top performers in nutrition programs after winning the Green Banner Award for three consecutive years),” the mayor posted on Facebook.

In addition, the Muntinlupa City government also received the awards for Best LGU in Mandatory Food Fortification Program, Best LGU in Nutrition-Sensitive Programs and  Best LGU in Nutrition Investment.

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 with the city receiving another CROWN award? Do you think Muntinlupa has the best nutrition programs among all other cities of Metro Manila?

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 engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

Mandatory Trustmark for E-Commerce in the Philippines

Mandatory Trustmark for E-Commerce in the Philippines

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Business in the Philippines with established presence online will be required to get registered for E-Commerce Philippine Trustmark (Trustmark) as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) announced that digital verification system for e-commerce will be mandatory, 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…

The digital verification system in e-commerce to ensure reliability of online transactions will no longer be voluntary and instead now mandated for every merchant and platform, according to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

The DTI launched the E-Commerce Philippine Trustmark to serve as a digital badge issued to online businesses that comply with fair e-commerce practices.

In July, the department said the trustmark was only “voluntary,” with merchants only “encouraged to apply to build consumer trust.”

The trustmark is designed to help consumers identify legitimate online merchants, thereby safeguarding them from unfair trade practices and threats of scams and other fraudulent activities.

Under Department Administrative Order (DAO) No. 25-12, the DTI said the trustmark will now be mandatory and also serve as the permit for e-commerce merchants and online platforms to use the internet for conducting their business.

“Issuance of the trustmark shall signify that the products, goods, or services sold online by the holder comply with applicable standards and good e-commerce practices,” the DTI said in the order.

The DTI, headed by Secretary Cristina Roque, said the mandatory registration is a direct response to the recent surge in consumer concerns. Between January and August, the agency reported over 13,000 complaints related to online transactions.

As indicated under DAO No. 25-12, all online merchants, e-retailers, e-marketplaces, or digital platforms availing of the Philippine market over the internet shall apply for and obtain the (Trustmark) by Sept. 30

The DTI said this is to ensure that the merchant or platform is permitted to “use the internet for conducting e-commerce.”

While the order did not explicitly detail potential violations for not having a trustmark, it noted that those who have submitted an application on or before Sept. 30 must clearly state on their page that their trustmark is still pending evaluation and approval.

To apply for the trustmark, interested applicants must submit an application form accompanied by a sworn undertaking to comply with all applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

E-commerce merchants must meet key regulatory standards, including full business disclosure, protection of consumer data, and an internal redress mechanism to address consumer complaints.

As embodied under the order, the DTI emphasized that Trustmark does not exempt the holder from compliance with other applicable laws or regulations.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to the recent developments? If you are operating a local business with presence online, do you think the mandatory registration for the Trustmark is hassle?

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

HSBC Says Philippines Should Focus On Strengthening Services Sector

HSBC Says Philippines Should Focus On Strengthening Services Sector

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As far as HSBC is concerned, the Philippines would be better off strengthening its services sector instead of playing catch up with manufacturing, according to a business article published by the Manila Bulletin.

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

The Philippines should leverage its services sector to stand out in the global investment landscape, as competition with manufacturing-led economies is well out of reach, according to an HSBC economist.

The country has been lagging behind its peers in Southeast Asia in terms of attracting foreign investments.

Last year, the Philippines secured the sixth spot in the region, trailing behind Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Thailand, according to the report from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

This trend is expected to continue this year amid uncertainties in global trade and especially due to the country’s relatively low manufacturing activity.

HSBC Asia Economics Associate Director Ines Lam said the limited scale of the manufacturing sector in the Philippines hinders its ability to draw foreign capital.

Lam explained that attempting to be competitive in manufacturing at this late stage could ultimately be ineffective and counter to the government’s efforts to secure investments.

“Everyone wants to get a piece of the global supply chain. Everyone wants to be a supplier to Apple. But for the Philippines, I think the Philippines’ unique value proposition is its people and soft skills,” she said during the 23rd International CEO Conference hosted by the Management Association of the Philippines (MAP).

Instead of trying to catch up in manufacturing, Lam said the country could instead shift its focus to strengthening its services sector, in which it has an advantage compared to regional partners.

The economist said upskilling the country’s talented pool of workers is a critical component in boosting the sector. She noted that the educational proficiency and English expertise of Filipino workers are the top qualities sought by global employers and investors.

“I’m not saying that manufacturing is not important, but because the Philippines has already found its advantage, I think it’s important that the Philippines does not lose this,” said Lam.

“You provide something new and you improve your offerings in terms of BPO (business process outsourcing) and exports of services. Then, that will help the Philippines to stand out in this world,” she added.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to the recent developments? Do you agree with HSBC’s economic opinion about the Philippines? Do you think the Philippines should focus more on strengthening the services sector instead of manufacturing? What do you think makes the Philippines not so good at manufacturing when compared with its Asian neighbors?

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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