Tag: National Capital Region (NCR)

COVID-19 Crisis: Las Piñas City’s vaccination count surpasses 1.3 million

COVID-19 Crisis: Las Piñas City’s vaccination count surpasses 1.3 million

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It took two weeks but Las Piñas City has finally surpassed the mark of 1,300,000 in its ongoing inoculation/vaccination count according to the most recent COVID-19 statistics the City Government announced via social media.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the latest display of data regarding Las Piñas City’s COVID-19 vaccination statistics.

The official numbers.

As seen in the above statistics accurate of as March 6, 2022, the total inoculation count of the city has been recorded at 1,314,558 (almost 26,000 higher compared to the previous count of February 20, 2022). Their vaccination count of patients who received the first dose was at 585,882 while the number of patients who received their 2nd dose (which made them fully vaccinated) has reached 560,876.

On the adult population, category A4 remains the most vaccinated with over 400,000 counted which includes the first dose, the second dose and Janssen vaccination. On the Pediatric A3 numbers, more than 100,000 patients aged 12 to 17 have been vaccinated (note: first and second dose numbers combined). Patients aged 5 to 11 who got vaccinated surpassed the mark of 20,000 (note: first and second dose numbers combined).

When it comes to the booster shots, the latest number is 182,678. That’s still a small number when compared to the city’s official count of patients who received their 2nd dose.

As reported already in the news, the urgency to get vaccinated or boosted has faded somewhat with the public, especially in Metro Manila and other areas that have been placed under Alert Level 1 status. The local government units (LGUs) and the national authorities will have to come up with ways to encourage the unvaccinated to get vaccinated, as well as encouraging the fully vaccinated patients to get their free booster shots. Think about this carefully. If not enough people get vaccinated/boosted at the vaccination sites because many are enjoying the freedom of Alert Level 1, then it can lead to the spoilage or expiration of many vaccines that end up unused.

For all the unvaccinated people reading this, 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

Meanwhile, the City Government is already handling the online registration process for COVID-19 vaccination for local minors (aged 12 to 17) which can be done at http://laspinascityonline.laspinascity.gov.ph/eCVRS/

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are  a resident of Las Piñas City, what is your reaction to this recent development? Did you notice that the lines at local vaccination sites have been shorter compared to just a few months ago? Do you think that anti-vaccination fanatics are influencing members of your local community to avoid vaccination?

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/

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

Muntinlupa City Government commends local cop

Muntinlupa City Government commends local cop

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A local police officer here in Muntinlupa City was commended by the City Government because of the good deeds she did in the line of duty which resulted in a very exceptional rescue, the Manila Bulletin reported. This is very welcome news to hear given the fact that there are too many chaotic and depressing news reports generated daily by the mainstream media.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt (note: starting today, light blue backgrounds will be used) from the Manila Bulletin news report. Some parts in boldface…

The Muntinlupa City government congratulated a female police officer in the city who was awarded by the Philippine National Police (PNP) for good deeds.

PNP chief Gen. Dionardo Carlos led the launching of the 2022 National Women’s Month Celebration on March 7 by recognizing Lt. Rizalyn Soledad, a Muntinlupa police officer, as one of the PNP Female Personnel with Good Deeds.

According to the PNP, Soledad was commended for leading the rescue of Divina “Nanay Dina” Estrada in September 2021. Estrada had been away from her family in Pangasinan for 15 years. She had been living in Muntinlupa until her rescue by the Muntinlupa police’s Intelligence Section, Community Affairs Section and Women and Children Protection Desk led by Soledad.

Muntinlupa Mayor Jaime Fresnedi praised Soledad for the PNP award and said women play a very important part in the development of the city and the country.

Manila Bulletin published the story of Nanay Dina on Sept. 20, 2021, who, through the help of the Muntinlupa police, went back to Pangasinan and was finally reunited with her family.

Estrada, 54, begged money from motorists for survival. On Sept. 17, 2021, the Muntinlupa police conducted a rescue operation and found Estrada along Daang Hari in Cavite.

Soledad said Estrada was weak and suffering from cataract. Estrada was unable to go back to Pangasinan since 2006 and lived by begging money from motorists and other people.

According to Soledad, Estrada’s daughter, Mejica Estrada, narrated that her mother went to live in Muntinlupa when her partner was incarcerated at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) so she could visit him. When her partner died, Estrada decided to settle in Muntinlupa.

In August 2021, Estrada asked her neighbors in Biazon Road, Brgy. Poblacion, Muntinlupa to find her daughter on Facebook. The neighbors were able to find Mejica, who promised that she would fetch her mother in Muntinlupa after learning about her situation.

However, Mejica was not able to immediately fulfill her promise when her husband and daughter became ill, and in part due to lockdowns and quarantine restrictions in Metro Manila and provinces because of the pandemic.

The above news report ended stating that after the rescue, the police officers of Muntinlupa accompanied her all the way to Pangasinan province where she got reunited with her daughter and grandchild.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What do you think about this newest development? Does this news make you trust the local police more?

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@twitter.com as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/

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

COVID-19 Crisis: Infectious disease expert says 2nd booster shot only recommended for senior citizens and immunocompromised patients for now

COVID-19 Crisis: Infectious disease expert says 2nd booster shot only recommended for senior citizens and immunocompromised patients for now

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If you are a resident of Metro Manila, have you been enjoying the additional freedom of movement and spending more time inside commercial establishments under the Alert Level 1 status that has been in effect since March 1, 2022? Whatever you do, do not forget to follow health protocols. Equally important, you must remember your current status of vaccination and if you are due for a 2nd booster shot (or the 4th shot if you have already received three doses of COVID-19 vaccines).

Even as the Philippines has a little over 10 million people who got their booster shots (3rd shot), the 2nd booster shot (meant for those who received three doses previously) is already being talked about according to recent GMA Network news report.

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

Infectious disease expert Dr. Rontgene Solante on Monday said the second booster shot is only recommended for senior citizens and immunocompromised for now, and not yet for the younger or general population.

“For the more vulnerable population, the 60 years old and above, and immunocompromised, ito ‘yung ina-ano natin ngayon na sana mabigyan ng pangalawang booster para talaga ang protection dito is against the severe form of COVID,” Solante said in a radio interview.

[We are pushing for a second booster shot for the more vulnerable population like the 60 years old and above and the immunocompromised, so they could get protected against the severe form of COVID-19.]

Solante then explained that the health experts’ advice remains for those who have completed their primary vaccine series to get one booster shot after three to six months.

“For the younger population, ‘yung tinatawag nating immunocompetent, I don’t think we need additional booster. With the ability of this vaccine to protect us against severe infection, alam naman talaga natin na pwede rin tayong mahawahan pero ang importante nito, hindi tayo mag-severe [we know that we can still be infected but the important thing is that it’s not severe],” he said.

“So I think, the first booster for the younger population may be enough. Wala pa tayong [we don’t have yet] recommendation for a second booster,” he added.

Health Undersecretary and National Vaccination Operations Center chairperson Dr. Myrna Cabotaje said on Saturday that vaccinations at local government units nationwide slowed down the past week, with some people losing the sense of urgency when it comes to booster shots.

This is why the priority for the fourth wave of the “Bayanihan, Bakunahan” national vaccination drive will be senior citizens who have not yet completed their primary dose series and those set for booster shots.

“Napaka-importante especially with the vulnerable population na sana pupunta kayo sa vaccination centers. ‘Yung hindi pa nagpa-booster, magpa-booster na kayo. ‘Yung hindi pa nagpabakuna, ito na ‘yung panahon na talagang kailangan na tayong magpabakuna,” Solante added.

[It is very important especially for the vulnerable population to go to vaccination centers. Those who have not received their booster shots yet, get it now. Those who have not been vaccinated, this is the time when we really need to be vaccinated.]

Currently, the Philippine government is administering third doses to senior citizens and immunocompromised individuals, while booster shots are given to those who completed the primary doses–single for Johnson & Johnson’s vaccine, double for the other bands.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What do you think about this new development? If you have been boosted already, how long has it been since that happened? Do you remember the specific brands of vaccines of your first two doses and the booster dose?

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

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me 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/

Muntinlupa City Mayor clarifies issue about P1.2 billion standby loan from Landbank

Muntinlupa City Mayor clarifies issue about P1.2 billion standby loan from Landbank

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If you are a local resident of Muntinlupa City, were you a recipient of circulating text messages about a certain loan worth over a billion Pesos that was allegedly used by City Government? Recently, Muntinlupa Mayor Jaime Fresnedi clarified the issue, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

Muntinlupa Mayor Jaime Fresnedi refuted claims by his detractors that the city government already used a P1.2 billion standby loan from Landbank of the Philippines.

In March 2021, the Muntinlupa City Council passed an ordinance authorizing Fresnedi to enter into a loan agreement with Landbank in the amount of P1.2 billion to fund various projects.

During the flag raising ceremony at the Muntinlupa City hall quadrangle on March 7, Fresnedi reiterated that the city government has not availed of the standby loan.

“The Muntinlupa City government gave us the authorization to get a loan from Landbank. As of Dec. 31, our ending balance [at Landbank] is more than P2 billion. The [Landbank] manager said we have not availed of our standby loan. This means we have not taken any [amount from the standby loan],” said Fresnedi.

Fresnedi clarified the issue after text messages circulated claiming that the city government already got the loan from Landbank.

Landbank earlier issued a certification stating that the Muntinlupa City government has not availed of the loan.

“This is to certify that per records of this office, City Government of Muntinlupa has no outstanding drawdown as of December 31, 2021,” according to a certification issued by Landbank and signed by Lani Pornuevo, head of the Loan Operations Management Department.

Fresnedi said getting a loan is not a bad thing. He said when he assumed office during his first ever term as mayor, the city government took out a loan and used it to construct the Ospital ng Muntinlupa.

“Please remember, getting a loan is not bad when it is used in the right way,” he said.

The mayor said if ever the city government avails of the standby loan from Landbank, it will be used to fund ongoing projects of the city government.

In fact, he said, Landbank has sent two letters to the Muntinlupa City government to remind it about the standby loan.

According to Fresnedi, the standby loan is a program of the national government for economic recovery. The standby loan carries an interest of four percent per year.

“But what the city government needs to pay, if ever we avail of the loan, is only two percent per annum. The other two percent will be paid by the national government,” he said.

He said this is being done to help businesses to run and to help people get jobs, which are part of the national government’s national economic recovery plan.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a Muntinlupa City resident, what do you think about the mayor’s clarification? Were the details explained well by him? Do you personally believe that the LGU (local government unit) should always be scrutinized over any loan it takes?

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/

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

COVID-19 Crisis: Booster shots received by ten million people all over the Philippines

COVID-19 Crisis: Booster shots received by ten million people all over the Philippines

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As the heavily congested Metro Manila is now on its 4th day under the Alert Level 1 status, people are now enjoying more freedom of movement and the food-beverage business joints are able to accommodate more customers who physically spend time at their respective venues. Along the way, there are some noticeable positive developments about business in the Philippines getting reported. Regardless, there is still the need to keep on following health protocols and face masks are still to be used even though the national daily count of new COVID-19 cases remains relatively low.

There is, however, the need to be vaccinated as well as boosted for COVID-19. No matter how loud the anti-vaccine fanatics rant and complain, nothing changes the fact that COVID-19 vaccines are a major factor on helping the Philippines gradually recover and rise up from this pandemic. More on the topic vaccination, it was revealed that the number of fully vaccinated patients (those who received two doses of most COVID-19 vaccine brands) who got boosted (the 3rd shot/booster shot) has reached ten million, as stated in a recent report by the Manila Bulletin. The number of fully vaccinated people in the Philippines is over sixty million.

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

A total of 63 million individuals in the Philippines have been fully vaccinated against the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), but only 10 million individuals have so far received their booster jab, said National Task Force (NTF) against COVID-19 special adviser Dr. Teodoro “Ted” Herbosa on Tuesday, March 1.

Herbosa, in an ANC interview, reiterated the importance of a booster jab despite having been “fully immunized” against the disease.

“The idea of the booster is to just increase your immunity. You already have immunity. Let me make that clear: if you are fully vaccinated, your immunity does not disappear but your antibodies actually wane. That’s why the booster shot stimulates your immune system to produce more antibodies against COVID-19,” said Herbosa.

He also added that while it stimulates the immune system in producing more antibodies, it actually gives “additional protection” against the disease and its emerging variants.

Meanwhile, Herbosa disclosed that the booster inoculation is one of the “slow parts” of the country’s vaccination program.

“Kailangan magpa-booster ha. If you have been fully vaccinated, you should get boosted [as well]. This is another slow part of our vaccination program. We’ve vaccinated 63 million but only 10 million have come forward to get their booster shots. Reminder to the public na hindi enough ang two doses, kailangan kumuha rin tayo ng third dose (We need to get boosted. If you have been fully vaccinated, you should get boosted as well. This is another slow part of our vaccination program. We’ve vaccinated 63 million but only 10 million have come forward to get their booster shots. I just want to remind the public that two doses are not enough, we need to get boosted),” he added.

The above report ended stating that based on the Department of Health’s (DOH) National COVID-19 Vaccination Dashboard statistics, 63,188,209 people were fully vaccinated while 10,137,607 people got their respective booster shots as of February 21, 2022. There is still a very long way to go before the booster shot count reaches 60,000,000.

While the Omicron variant does not look like a major problem anymore here in the Philippines, there is still that possibility that another coronavirus variant might come out. Whenever a new variant comes out, concerns or doubts about the protection provided by vaccines always emerge in people’s minds.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What do you think about this new development? Are most of the people in your local community fully vaccinated or boosted for COVID-19 already?

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/

Muntinlupa City’s Aquatic Center inaugurated

Muntinlupa City’s Aquatic Center inaugurated

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During the celebration of the 27th cityhood anniversary of Muntinlupa that took place this past Tuesday, the brand new Muntinlupa Aquatic Center was formally inaugurated, according to a news report by the Manila Bulletin. The inauguration was attended by Muntinlupa City Government officials led by Mayor Jaime Fresnedi as well as several special guests.

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

The Muntinlupa City government inaugurated on Tuesday, March 1, its world-class Muntinlupa Aquatic Center which has an Olympic-size swimming pool that can host competitions.

Muntinlupa celebrates its 27th cityhood anniversary on March 1 and the inauguration of the Aquatic Center was one of the highlights.

Mayor Jaime Fresnedi led the opening of the Muntinlupa Aquatic Center together with Rep. Ruffy Biazon, Vice Mayor Artemio Simundac, city councilors, and officials.

The Muntinlupa Aquatic Center is the first indoor Olympic-size swimming pool in the Philippines that can cater to swimming, water polo and artistic swimming, and programs like water safety training and competition, scuba diving pool session, swim and survive programs, and physical education programs.

“When we love a person or thing, we take care of it. We give the best. This is how I love our residents, our youth. That is why we inaugurated a world-class Aquatic Center for our Muntinlupeños on the 27th anniversary of the establishment of our city,” said Fresnedi.

The Aquatic Center is located at the Muntinlupa Sports Complex in Barangay Tunasan and has a seating capacity of up to 1,200.

“Like all parents, I also want a bright future for our children. Besides the benefits in sports, it will be a big help to the health of our residents. You do not need to go to Marikina or Biñan [Laguna] to avail of a facility like our Aquatic Center,” said Fresnedi.

The above report ended stating that the funding of the construction of the Muntinlupa Aquatic Center was not sourced from loans but rather funds allotted by the City Government.

The Muntinlupa Aquatic Center itself looks great and it should help diversify the kind of water-related special events that the city can host. Imagine someday that the brand-new facility will be used to host swimming competitions that involve schools. If the roads outside the Muntinlupa Aquatic Center are of good quality, a triathlon event can be held using the pool for swimming and roads for cycling and running. Imagine, for example, the Philippines gets to host the Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) many years from now – Muntinlupa’s facility could be used for swimming events. There is no doubt that the new aquatic center is a landmark of the city.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a Muntinlupa City resident, what do you think about the newly inaugurated Muntinlupa Aquatic Center?

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/

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

One of the victims rescued in Barangay BF Homes, Parañaque City, turned out to be a Taiwanese fugitive

One of the victims rescued in Barangay BF Homes, Parañaque City, turned out to be a Taiwanese fugitive

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In relation to what happened recently in Barangay BF Homes in Parañaque City, the local authorities just revealed that one of the victims rescued turned out to be a Taiwanese citizen who has been wanted in her homeland for fraud, according to a Manila Bulletin follow-up story. In their previous report, the two victims of kidnapping were described as Chinese nationals.

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

One of the two foreigners who were rescued by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG) during a raid in Parañaque City on Feb. 26, turned out to be a fugitive wanted in Taiwan for fraud.

AKG director Brig. Gen. Ruldolph Dimas said they discovered that Li-You Ci is a Taiwanese and is wanted at the course of the investigation after the rescue operation in Parañaque City where three of his captors were killed in a brief gunbattle.

“We immediately served the arrest warrant for her after verification. Documentation will be undertaken prior to her turnover to the Bureau of Immigration for the deportation proceedings,” said Dimas.

Li was kidnapped by a group of Chinese armed men in Pasay City. She was then kept in a safe house of the suspects while negotiations for her release were being conducted.

The warrant of arrest was issued by the Taiwan Kinmen District Prosecutors Office and was served on March 1,

The AKG, however, could not provide details as to why Li is (being) sought by Taiwanese authorities.

The above report ended stating that despite this strange turn of events, the filing of the case for kidnapping will still push through.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What do you think about this latest news development? If you are a resident of Parañaque City, are you concerned that houses within your local community occupied by foreigners could have fugitives and other criminals in hiding?

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/

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

Maynilad customers in Muntinlupa City to get rebates soon

Maynilad customers in Muntinlupa City to get rebates soon

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It has been weeks since the City Government of Muntinlupa pressed water concessionaire Maynilad for answers over the water service disruptions that negatively affected many customers around the city. In a recent development, Maynilad customers in Muntinlupa will soon receive rebates from the company, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

Customers of Maynilad Water Services in Muntinlupa will get rebates in their bills after the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System Regulatory Office (MWSS-RO) found the company liable for prolonged water service interruptions (WSI).

In a statement, MWSS-RO Chief Regulator Patrick Lester Ty said his office will impose a financial penalty on Maynilad for the water service interruptions that happened from December 2021 to February 2022 due “to the failure of its Putatan Water Treatment Plants (PWTP).”

Maynilad has two water treatment plants in Barangay Putatan, Muntinlupa, which draw raw water from the Laguna Lake and uses it to supply thousands of customers in Muntinlupa and other areas.

“Based on the evidence gathered from its investigation, the MWSS RO concluded that Maynilad failed to meet its Service Obligation of ensuring the availability of an uninterrupted 24 hour supply of water at seven (7) pounds per square inch (psi) minimum pressure to all connected Customers in its Service Area. Customers within the PWTP Supply Zone were found to have been deprived of water service obligation for at least fifteen (15 days), which adversely impacted their health and welfare,” said Ty.

The water service interruptions left thousands of Maynilad customers in Muntinlupa without water for up to 18 hours a day. In some areas, there was no water service for days.

Customers complained that the water coming out of their faucets was brownish in color, making it unusable for drinking or cooking.

According to Ty, MWSS-RO will “implement the financial penalty in the form of bill rebates to affected Maynilad customers within the PWTP’s Supply Zone by April. It is already in the process of identifying all accounts that will be covered by the Rebate Program, the rebate amount for each account, and the policies and procedures for carrying out the Program, in coordination with Maynilad.”

“It targets to conduct a Public Information Drive (PIDr) to clarify the bill rebates and inform affected customers of the nature, scope, and other details of the Rebate Program in March. Updates will be posted on the MWSS RO’s official Facebook page (@MWSS.RO) Twitter account (@mwssro) and website (ro.mwss.gov.ph),” he said.

The Muntinlupa City Council’s Committee on Environment conducted a public hearing last Feb. 8 on the water service interruptions in Muntinlupa with representatives from Maynilad and MWSS-RO.

Councilor Raul Corro, majority floor leader of the City Council, commended MWSS-RO for its decision to impose a penalty on Maynilad.

“The penalty imposed against Maynilad by MWSS RO was the subject of a public hearing conducted by the Sanggunian Panglungsod of Muntinlupa. In the public hearing and in the presence of MWSS RO officials, I formally asked the regulatory body to impose the proper penalties and bill rebates to thousands of households due to its inability to comply with its contractual obligations under the concession agreement,” he said.

“I commend MWSS-RO for exercising its mandate and showing concern to thousands of suffering Maynilad customers whose plea for help triggered the conduct of the public hearing,” Corro said.

“But imposing the penalties and bill rebates are not enough. Maynilad must be able to deliver 24-hour uninterrupted supply of water per its commitment under the concession agreement and that aside from the quantity, it must also deliver quality water that is safe and healthy for human consumption and for other daily household use,” the councilor added.

Ty said MWSS-RO issued a Notice to Explain to Maynilad last Feb. 11 “for its non-adherence to the WSI schedules announced through its public advisories on the planned WSIs caused by water quality problems at the PWTP.”

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What do you think about this newest development? If you are a Maynilad customer based in Muntinlupa, how fast do you think your rebate from the water company will come? Are you glad that the regulators rendered its decision on Maynilad?

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@twitter.com as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/

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

COVID-19 Crisis: Alert Level 1 status in Metro Manila takes effect today with amended guidelines

COVID-19 Crisis: Alert Level 1 status in Metro Manila takes effect today with amended guidelines

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Thanks to the Lord who listens to the prayers of the faithful and will never abandon them, Alert Level 1 is now in effect all over Metro Manila which will last until March 15, 2022. Along the way, the national authorities amended the guidelines for Alert Level, according to the Philippine News Agency (PNA). There will still be specific rules that need to be followed and things like face masks and vaccination cards are still required. As such, pay close attention to the details about the amended guidelines.

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

The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) on Sunday approved the amendments to the guidelines on the nationwide implementation of the Alert Level System for Covid-19 response.

This, after the IATF also approved on Sunday placing the National Capital Region and 38 other areas under Alert Level 1 from March 1 to 15.

Under Alert Level 1, the IATF said there are no restrictions in terms of indoor and outdoor capacities. Everyone can undertake intrazonal and interzonal travel without regard to age and even comorbidities.

All establishments, persons, or activities are likewise allowed to operate, work, or be undertaken at total on-site or venue seating capacity, provided these are consistent with minimum public health standards.

Meanwhile, face-to-face classes for primary education shall be subject to prior approval of the Office of the President.

Below are some of the protocols to be observed under Alert Level 1:

*Well-fitted face masks shall be worn properly at all times, whether outdoors or in indoor private or public establishments, including in public transportation by land, air or sea, except when eating and drinking, participating in team and individual sports in venues where ventilation standards can be maintained, and practicing outdoor sports/exercise activities where physical distance can be maintained;

*All private offices and workplaces, including public and private construction sites, may operate at full 100 percent capacity, consistent with national issuances on vaccination requirements for on-site work. However, they may continue to provide flexible and alternative work arrangements as deemed appropriate based on function or individual risk.

*Agencies and instrumentalities of the government shall likewise adhere to 100 percent on-site workforce. Off-site work shall be under such work arrangements subject to relevant rules and regulations issued by the Civil Service Commission and the Office of the President.

*On the other hand, public transportation in areas under Alert Level 1 shall be at full seating capacity. For intrazonal and interzonal travels involving public land transportation between an area with a higher alert level classification and an area under Alert Level 1, the passenger capacity shall be that which has the lower passenger capacity rate between the point of origin and point of destination. For aviation, maritime and rail public transport operating in and out of Alert Levels 1 areas, the passenger capacity will be at 100 percent. The use of acrylic and/or plastic dividers in public transportation shall not be required. The use of the Safe, Swift and Smart Passage (S-PaSS) travel management system shall likewise not be required for interzonal travel to areas under Alert Level 1.

*On contact tracing, the use of health declaration forms/paper-based contact tracing shall not be required for all the agencies and establishments under Alert Level 1. On the other hand, the use of digital contact tracing such as the StaySafe.PH application is optional for all the agencies and establishments.

*On testing prioritization, testing protocols shall be implemented, consistent with national guidelines, for individuals who are unvaccinated or have higher exposure risk pursuant to IATF Resolution No. 148-B and No. 149, s. 2021. In addition, testing using RT-PCR shall be recommended and prioritized for: Priority Groups A2 (persons above 60 years old) and A3 (persons with comorbidities) and Priority Group A1 or healthcare workers. Testing shall be optional for other groups not stated above. It shall not be recommended for asymptomatic close contacts unless symptoms will develop, and should immediately isolate regardless of test results. Instead, symptom monitoring is recommended. Should testing still be used, testing should be done at least 5 days from the day of last exposure. Testing shall also not be recommended for screening asymptomatic individuals. Meanwhile, testing using antigen tests shall be recommended only for symptomatic individuals and in instances wherein RT-PCR is not available, consistent with previously issued guidelines.

*The Hospital Infection Prevention and Control Committees (HIPCC) may implement testing protocols in health facilities for health workers and patients based on their assessment of risk and benefit.

*On isolation and quarantine, updated quarantine protocols for incoming international travelers shall be consistent with IATF Resolution No. 160 A/B, and updated isolation and quarantine protocols for general public and healthcare workers and authorized sectors shall be consistent with DOH Dept Memo No. 2022-0013.

*Under Alert Level 1, establishments are no longer required to set-up isolation facilities within the workplace.

*On treatment, close contacts, asymptomatic confirmed cases and mild to moderate confirmed cases shall be managed at the primary care level, such as health centers, private clinics thru face to face or teleconsultation, while confirmed cases with severe and critical symptoms shall be managed in the appropriate health care facility.

*In the case of reintegration, isolation can be discontinued upon completion of the recommended isolation period, provided that they do not have fever for at least 24 hours without the use of any antipyretic medications, and shall have improvement of respiratory signs and symptoms.

*For the purpose of claiming sick leave, health benefits or other relevant processes wherein the proofs of Covid-19 management are necessary, a medical certification may suffice provided it should include the following minimum information: name of patient, severity of symptoms, diagnosis as probable or confirmed COVID-19, and date of end of quarantine and/or isolation period.

Meanwhile, individuals 18 years old and above will be required to present proof of full vaccination before participating in mass gatherings or entry into indoor establishments, such as but not limited to:

*In-person religious gatherings; gatherings for necrological services, wakes, inurnment and funerals for those who died of causes other than Covi-19 and for the cremains of the Covid-19 deceased;

*All indoor dine-in services of food preparation establishments such as kiosks, commissaries, restaurants and eateries. For outdoor or al fresco dining and take out channels, no proof of full vaccination is required;

*All indoor personal care establishments such as barbershops, hair spas, hair salons, and nail spas, and those offering aesthetic/cosmetic services or procedures, make-up services, salons, spas, reflexology and other similar procedures including home service options;

*Fitness studios, gyms and venues for exercise and sports;

*All indoor cinemas or movie houses operating at full capacity;

*Meetings, incentives, conferences, exhibition events and permitted venues for social events such as parties, wedding receptions, engagement parties, wedding anniversaries, debut and birthday parties, family reunions, and bridal or baby showers;

*Venues with live voice or wind-instrument performers and audiences such as in karaoke bars, clubs, concert halls and theaters;

*Indoor ancillary establishments in hotels and other accommodation establishments; and

*Venues for election-related events.

Proof of full vaccination shall be required before entry in the list of establishments identified under the principles of 3C’s strategy against Covid-19.

Children ages 17 and below shall not be required to present proof of vaccination status.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What do you think about this new development? If you are a Metro Manila resident, do you feel very relieved about Alert Level 1 in effect for the next two weeks?

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/

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

3 Chinese nationals killed, 2 others rescued in Barangay BF Homes, Parañaque City

3 Chinese nationals killed, 2 others rescued in Barangay BF Homes, Parañaque City

carlocarrasco

It seems that Parañaque City is still a hot spot for criminal activities that involve Chinese nationals as something happened in Barangay BF Homes that saw the deaths of three Chinese nationals as crime suspects and two others as kidnap victims who got rescued, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

Three Chinese nationals, who allegedly kidnapped two fellow citizens, were killed during a police rescue operation in Parañaque City on Sunday afternoon, Feb. 27.

Brig. Gen. Jimili Macaraeg, Southern Police District (SPD) director, said the suspects were killed in a shootout with members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Anti-Kidnapping Group, Pasay and Paranaque police at about 5:50 p.m. on Vicente Recto St. at Barangay BF Homes, Paranaque City.

Macaraeg said that prior to the encounter, a suspect identified as Lorriel Lozano, 22, admitted his involvement in the kidnapping-for-ransom of one Ling Qang Chang, 43, in Pasay City.

The SPD chief said the joint team launched a rescue operation after learning that two foreigners identified as Zhou Xiang Kin, 42, and Li Ci You, 33, were also kidnapped and being detained inside a dog cage on the second floor of the suspects’ house.

Macaraeg said the operatives were fired upon by the suspects upon arrival in the area. The cops retaliated, wounding the three Chinese kidnappers.

The police rushed the suspects to the Medical Center Paranaque, but they were declared dead on arrival.

The SPD chief said they could not yet release the names of the slain suspects because the PNP is still conducting investigation on the kidnapping incidents involving Chinese nationals.

Macaraeg said the operatives recovered at the crime scene a 12-gauge shotgun, a .45-caliber pistol, one .9mm Uzi, a .9mm pistol, one black Toyota Innova, a white Kymco motorcycle, assorted military and police uniforms, ammunitions, cartridge cases, bullet vests, and gun parts.

For added insight, watch the related ABS-CBN and GMA Network news videos below…

The above news story that took place within Barangay BF Homes is pretty disturbing not just because it took place within a residential area, but also because the suspects accumulated deadly weapons and lots of military and police uniforms. It seems the suspects are working for some powerful people who have yet to be identified. Having that much guns, ammunition and clothing resembling local authorities is very disturbing to say the least. We can only hope that the police will be able to find out who the superiors and financiers of the suspects are.

The kidnapping of Chinese nationals committed by their fellow citizens here in the Philippines is not unusual. More on Parañaque itself, there was a gang composed of almost all Chinese nationals that got arrested for attempting to kidnap another Chinese citizen. With regards to foreigners causing disturbance within Parañaque with other forms of criminal activities, there was even an illegal online gaming operation involving several Chinese and Filipino citizens in Barangay Tambo. As for the cyber sex den in Parañaque that got stopped by the NBI, that illegal operation also involved a Chinese citizen.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are living in Parañaque City, do you believe that Chinese nationals are causing trouble in your local community? Are you concerned that a house in your local community occupied by Chinese nationals could be used for illegal activities like kidnapping, hacking, cybersex, prostitution, torture, smuggling, and imprisonment of other people?

If ever you spot an act of kidnapping happening, are you willing to report the incident to the local police?

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/

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