Muntinlupa Mayor Fresnedi reiterates BuCor’s lack of coordination on wall construction along Insular Road, House Committee on Justice to prepare final report

Muntinlupa Mayor Jaime Fresnedi reiterated the lack of coordination from the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) regarding the construction of a wall along Insular Road in Bilibid during the conclusion of the hearings conducted by the House Committee on Justice last July 14.

“There was never a time that BuCor Director General Gerald Bantag coordinated or informed the city government of his intentions to close the road going to Southville 3. I was expecting Usec. Bantag to coordinate so we could also consult this matter with the affected residents and that proper intervention, especially the transportation and other emergency matters, will be implemented,” Fresnedi noted.

The local exec answered Bukidnon 2nd District Rep. Jonathan Keith Flores’ inquiries on whether DG Bantag coordinated with the local government on construction of a wall along Insular Road since his designation as BuCor Director General in 2019.

Flores also pointed during the congressional hearing that there is a need to review the provision on BuCor Modernization Law pertaining to the bureau’s “absolute authority.”

“I think absolute authority only comes when the properties are under the name of BuCor. That is why the provision requires the BuCor to have the titles transferred in their name. It seems that for as long as the title still remains in the name of the Republic of the Philippines, then it would be pre-mature for BuCor to exercise absolute authority over the same. Just like I said, it is still not yet under the name of the BuCor,” Flores said.

Register of Deeds Atty. Silverio Garing testified during the hearing that land titles in the city’s land record repository for NBP Reservation are titled under the name of the Republic of the Philippines and not BuCor.

Further, Department of Public Works and Highways district engineer Elpidio Trinidad confirmed that the Insular Road is a National Road as per inventory and is owned by the National Government and not BuCor.

Committee chairman and Leyte Rep. Vicente Veloso recognized the lack of coordination and proper consultation of the BuCor to have affected the livelihood of the residents and their access to public transportation, especially barangay and city health services during this national public health emergency caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Clearly, we will not be in this predicament and this inquiry would not have taken place if the BuCor have simply taken simple, logical, and humanitarian steps on public consultation before taking such drastic action that obviously would affect thousands of citizens in the community,” Veloso said in his opening remarks during the committee hearing.

Jap Landingin, president of NHA Southville3 Homeowners Association, told the committee that since the road closure, many community members have lost their jobs and were deprived of medical assistance. Landingin added that at least ten (10) residents of Southville 3 have died due to COVID-19.

Congressman Ruffy Biazon, who raised the issue in Congress for a committee hearing in aid of legislation, said the inquiry has been terminated since enough information has been gathered to prepare the committee report.

“Based on the discussions in the hearing and the statements of the committee chairman, it appears that the actions of the BuCor in closing Insular Road was not only baseless, it was against the law. I call on the Bucor to heed the findings of the committee and tear down the wall constructed on a national road,” Biazon said.

Last March, the City Government condemned BuCor’s action to construct a concrete wall along Insular Road. Southville 3 is a socialized housing project of the National Housing Authority located within NBP with 8,000 families or at least 40,000 residents.

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The above information was sourced from the official press release of the Muntinlupa PIO. Some parts were changed for this website.

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

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: 118 businesses in Las Piñas City awarded with Safety Seals

To ensure that business establishments are safe for customers to visit and do business transactions in during this COVID-19 pandemic, the inspection team of the City Government of Las Piñas found one hundred and eighteen businesses qualified for the Safety Seal as revealed in a recent Manila Bulletin news report. That is a majority of the recent inspection of almost one hundred fifty businesses they visited.

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

The Las Piñas City government inspection and certification team has already inspected 149 business establishments around the city.

Out of the evaluated establishments, 118 have already been awarded with safety seal certification for passing the checklist in the implementation of health and safety protocols to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The Safety Seal Inspection Team formed by Mayor Imelda Aguilar is composed of City Administrator Reynaldo Balagulan, City Public Information Officer-Paul Ahljay San Miguel, and other offices in the city government.

According to the report, 31 business establishments that were inspected and evaluated still need to comply with other requirements before they will be awarded with safety seal certification.

Aguilar called on all business establishments in the city to comply with the checklist requirements.

She said the safety seal certification will allow businesses the opportunity to gradually increase their operating capacity.

For the newcomers reading this, business establishments having Safety Seals posted should restore business confidence at least in the short term. Within Las Piñas, SM Southmall itself got certified safe. Offices at Las Piñas City Hall qualified for Safety Seals. Whether an office or a business establishment has a Safety Seal or not, visitors can still do their parts in meeting health protocols by wearing face masks and face shields.

With regards to local COVID-19 matters, any Las Piñas resident reading this who has yet to get registered for 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

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: Have you visited any local business there in Las Piñas that does not have a Safety Seal yet? Did you witness the City Government’s inspection team do their work?

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

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: Foreign direct investments spiked in April 2021 in connection to CREATE Law, economic reopening and other factors

It’s been months since the last time I wrote about the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises act otherwise referred to as the CREATE Law. For the newcomers reading this, the CREATE Law was designed to cut down corporate income tax which should lead to the creation of new jobs and the attraction of investment in mind. The said law is really crucial in this COVID-19 crisis we are all still living with.

Recently, the Philippine News Agency (PNA) published an article stating that a huge rise of foreign direct investments (FDIs) in the country was realized this past April and the CREATE Law was one of the factors behind it.

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

An economist has attributed the rise of foreign direct investments (FDIs) in the country in April 2021 to the implementation of the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) law and the opening of the economy.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on Monday reported the 114.4-percent year-on-year jump of net FDI inflows to USD679 million last April from USD317 million in the same period last year.

In a report, Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) chief economist Michael Ricafort said lower interest rates and lower cost of some inputs like real estate property and leases are plus factors that enticed higher FDIs.

Some foreign investors may have started to come in view of the progress made on the CREATE law, which was finally signed on March 26, 2021 and reduces corporate income tax rates to 25 percent for large corporations (from 30 percent) retroactive July 1, 2020, thereby narrowing the gap with the tax rates in other Asean/Asian countries, and also provides greater certainty on investment incentives, thereby helping attract more FDIs and making some foreign investors on the sidelines in recent months/years to become more decisive and finally bring in more FDIs into the country,” he said.

Ricafort said positive credit rating actions on the Philippines, which even got its first-ever A-level credit rating, A-, from the Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) in June 2020, also boosted investors’ sentiment on the domestic economy.

The positive credit rating actions, he said, “reflect improved international investor confidence in the country, manifesting the country’s improved economic fundamentals, as well as the country’s attractive demographics.”

These factors are, however, expected to be countered by the still high number of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) cases, aggravated by new variants that are reported to be more contagious.

Ricafort believes that higher government spending, especially on infrastructure, and the accommodative monetary policy by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) are seen to further support the rise in net FDIs.

The above article is indeed filled with good news that our nation badly needs, especially since there are still many millions more people around the country who have yet to get vaccinated and the fact that lots of businesses are still struggling. In recent times, patients under the A4 category have been gradually vaccinated for COVID-19 and that is a very good thing because it under that very category where the nation’s laborers are listed. There are still lots of unemployed workers out there who badly need vaccines and jobs, and it does not help that certain local government units (LGUs) had to temporarily suspend their local vaccination operations due to a lack of supply of vaccines. There are supposed to be around 13 million doses of vaccines to come into the Philippines this month, and so far some of that have arrived (click here, here and here).

More on economics, apart from the rise of FDIs last April, it was reported that the local demand for office space nationwide grew by 38% rising from 122,000 square meters (sqm) in the first quarter of 2021 to 169,00 sqm. in the second quarter. It was described to be the strongest office demand since the start of the pandemic.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: Does the recent news about the sharp rise of FDIs in our country make you confident about your economic prospects? How much do you know about the CREATE Law and what further positive effects it can generate for the country? If you have been unemployed, how long have you been out of work?

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: First dose vaccination resumes in Muntinlupa City using AstraZeneca vaccines

Yesterday the first dose vaccination officially resumed in Muntinlupa City as a result of the new supply of vaccines that the City Government received.

The Muntinlupa City COVID-19 Vaccination Program (MunCoVac) has announced the resumption of 1st dose vaccination in the city’s vaccination sites after the City Health Office received new supply of Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccines from the national government.

“Natanggap ng Pamahalaang Lungsod, sa pamamagitan ng City Health Office, ang 22,780 doses ng ASTRAZENECA vaccine. Dahil dito, magbabakuna muli ng FIRST DOSE simula ngayong araw, July 13,” MunCoVac posted in its Facebook page.

First dose vaccination using AstraZeneca vaccines will commence at the following sites: Sucat Covered Court, New Cupang Health Center, Biazon Covered Court in NHA-Southville 3, De La Salle Santiago Zobel School (No Walk-in), Festival Mall Upper Ground Floor Parking (July 13 only), and SM Center Muntinlupa (July 13 only).

MunCoVac stressed that vaccination in the city is still by appointment and residents will need to register online via https://vaccine.muntinlupacity.gov.ph/muncovac. City residents are notified on their schedule via text message from MunCoVac.

Further, the second dose vaccination of Pfizer-BioNTech recipients will continue in SM Center Muntinlupa, Ayala Malls South Park, and Festival UG Floor Parking with adjusted schedules. Second dose recipients of Pfizer-BioNTech are advised to follow their updated schedules and instructions indicated in the text message from MunCoVac.

Earlier, the City Government has announced the suspension of 2nd dose vaccination using Sinovac Life Sciences’ CoronaVac vaccine due to the limited new supply. The City Government made the decision following the issuance of National Task Force Against COVID-19 Advisory No. 62 regarding the delay in the arrival of new Sinovac vaccines in the country.

MunCoVac further explained that as per NTF Advisory No. 62, DOH All Experts Group on Vaccines assures that prolonging the interval period between the first and second dose for three (3) to six (6) months is acceptable if delivery of COVID-19 vaccines is affected by the global vaccine supply.

As of July 12, there are 223,436 vaccines deployed in Muntinlupa, of which 152,900 are first dose (39.6% of the target) and 70,536 are second dose.  While, there are 282,726 registered individuals in MunCoVac, translating to 73.3% of the target population to be vaccinated.

Muntinlupa targets to inoculate 385,725 residents which is 70% of 551,036, the city’s estimated population for 2020.

For more information and inquiries, visit the MunCoVac Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/MunCoVac.

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The above information was sourced from the official press release of the Muntinlupa PIO. Some parts were changed for this website.

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

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: Parañaque City Vice Mayor’s office certified safe to visit

You heard about the Safety Seal that has been posted on offices and establishments that met the criteria for approval and certification? For the newcomers reading this, the Safety Seal is an indication that the establishment is compliant in terms of the standard safety protocols, including the use of StaySafe.ph app. In recent times, offices at Las Piñas City Hall, the Alabang Town Center (ATC) in Muntinlupa and SM Southmall in Las Piñas were certified safe and respectively each had Safety Seals posted. This is all related to the current pandemic caused by COVID-19.

Over at City Hall (specifically at the Legislative building) in Parañaque City, the Office of the Vice Mayor obtained the Safety Seal as revealed in the July 12, 2021 picture post of the official Facebook page titled Rico Golez. As seen in the picture below, Vice Mayor Rico Golez was present with officials of the local DILG (Department of the Interior and Local Government), the BFP (Bureau of Fire Protection) and the PNP (Philippine National Police) when the Safety Seal was formally posted at the office. This means that it is safe for taxpayers, local residents, senior citizens and other guests to visit the Office of the Vice Mayor for their respective needs and appointments.

Parañaque City Vice Mayor Rico Golez (2nd from right) and officials of DILG, PNP and BFP show the Safety Seal posted at the front door of the Office of the Vice Mayor. (source – Rico Golez Facebook page)

The FB post has text addressed to readers written as follows:

Today, Dilg Parañaque BFP and PNP gave the office of the Vice Mayor a SAFETY SEAL…

This was obtained by the office for following all health protocols…

I was especially happy to learn that we were one of the first offices in the city hall to be awarded a SEAL…

Thank you very much and we will all stay safe.

As for the newly posted Safety Seal at the Office of the Vice Mayor, it is written as valid until January 5, 2022. The safety seal number is listed as NCR-2021-0001806.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: With this latest development, do you residents of Parañaque feel more confident about visiting the Vice Mayor’s office? If yes, how about visiting the other offices of City Hall that have the Safety Seal posted?

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

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

PDEA and partners apprehend suspect and confiscate P3.4 million worth of illegal drugs in Parañaque City

The crime wave involving illegal substances continued in Parañaque City (for past reports click here, here, here, here and here) as the Manila Bulletin recently reported the successful buy-bust operation of the local police, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) which resulted the confiscation of more than P3 million worth of illegal drugs and the arrest of one suspect.

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

A drug suspect was arrested in possession of P3.4 million worth of shabu (methamphetamine hydrochloride) during a buy-bust operation by combined operatives from the Parañaque police, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Saturday.

Southern Police District (SPD) Director Brig. Gen. Jimili Macaraeg commended the operatives for the arrest of suspect Nabel Sarip, 23, a resident of Parañaque.

Macaraeg said the suspect was arrested at about 3:10 p.m. in front of Raf Mansion Hotel on Service Road, Roxas Boulevard in Baclaran.

Sarip was placed under surveillance by the police after receiving several complaints on the illegal activities of the suspect.

A policeman who acted as a poseur-buyer was able to buy shabu from the suspect leading to his arrest.

Police were able to confiscate from the suspect about 500 grams of shabu placed inside two plastic bags and estimated to be worth P3.4 million.

Macaraeg said the confiscated shabu was brought to the SPD Crime Laboratory for chemical analysis.

Police filed charges of violation of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act of 2002, before the Parañaque Prosecutor’s Office against Sarip, who is now detained at the police custodial facility.

Below is a related news video by ABS-CBN…

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are resident of Parañaque City, are you tired about your city being a hot spot for crimes related to illegal drugs? What do you think makes Parañaque an attractive place for drug pushers/smugglers/mules/traders?

Do you believe it is time for the City Government of Parañaque to become more active in making the city free of illegal drugs?

When you hear the words Parañaque Renaissance, does crime become the first thing to enter in your mind?

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

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: Vaccination for minors in Muntinlupa not yet allowed

Very recently, the Manila Bulletin reported that the vaccination of minors (individuals aged 17 and below) is not yet officially allowed by the City Government of Muntinlupa. The City Government had to make a statement as rumors were rife that minors can be vaccinated.

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

Minors, or those 17 years old and below, are not yet allowed to be vaccinated, government officials said.

This was the clarification made by the Muntinlupa City government on rumors spreading that those below 18 years old can now get their vaccine shot.

It said this is based on an advisory issued on July 11 by the National COVID-19 Vaccination Operations Center.

Advisory 65-A, signed by Health Usec. Myrna Cabotaje, stated that “as of July 11, 2021, pediatric/adolescent (17 years old and below) vaccination is not yet allowed.”

“The vaccination rollout will still focus on the eligible population (18 years old and above) under Priority Groups Al, A2. A3, and in some areas, including Priority Groups A4 and A5, as stipulated in the National Vaccine Deployment and Vaccination Plan (NDVP),” the advisory added.

“As of now, they cannot be allowed at vaccination sites as rumored. As per the National Vaccination Deployment Plan, we will still focus on the eligible population of 18 years old and above in the priority groups,” said Muntinlupa City Health Officer Dr. Juancho Bunyi.

As of July 9, 218,064 doses of the vaccines have been administered in Muntinlupa. Of the total, 152,900 individuals received their first dose, or 39.6 percent of the target population of 385,725.

Of the 152,900 first dose recipients, 10,928 are A1 (health workers), 19,319 are A2 (senior citizens), 64,975 are A3 (persons with comorbidities), 49,396 are A4 (essential workers) and 8,282 are A5 (poor population).

In addition, 65,164 individuals received their second dose, or 16.9 percent of the target population.

For Muntinlupa City residents who have not yet registered for the free COVID-19 vaccines, learn the ways to get registered right here. If you are ready to register yourself online, click https://vaccine.muntinlupacity.gov.ph/muncovac/

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a parent of a minor living in Muntinlupa City, are you comfortable with the idea of having your child vaccinated? Do you believe it is time for the national authorities to make clear its stand on the issue of having minors vaccinated for COVID-19?

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

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

I Love Israel: Exchange of scientists between Israel and the Philippines confirmed

As I was browsing the latest and most relevant news at the Philippine News Agency (PNA) recently, I spotted the latest development about Israel-Philippines ties and it is about the exchange of scientists. Very recently, Israeli health experts provided valuable advise to Philippine authorities on dealing with COVID-19.

For me, this is significant because I observed that Israel itself has made lots of advances in the field of science and this was confirmed by the Bloomberg Innovation Index wherein Israel finished as the fifth most innovative country in the world for the year 2019. Israel also has its high-tech industries and excels in green science or agriculture feeding the world along the way.

To put things in perspective about the Israel-Philippines exchange of scientists, posted below is an excerpt from the PNA article. Some parts in boldface…

Israel and the Philippines will be sending scientists to each other’s countries as part of capacity building and trainings, an official of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) said on Tuesday.

“The specifics such as the number of the experts, duration and date of the visit will still have to be further discussed. While we want to proceed with the activity as soon as possible, we also need to consider the current situation, including travel advisories both in the Philippines and Israel,” DOST Assistant Secretary for International Cooperation Leah Buendia told the Philippine News Agency.

She said the Filipino experts going to Israel will be trained on drip irrigation, medicinal chemistry, Israel’s drug discovery, and artificial intelligence (AI).

On the other hand, the Israeli scientists going to the Philippines will meet with Filipino researchers.

“One of the agreements during the (Philippines-Israel joint committee meeting on science and technology) is to conduct a workshop which will serve as a platform for Filipino and Israeli experts to discuss their works, and identify potential collaboration. During the meeting, our Israeli counterparts said that they want to visit the Philippines,” she said.

DOST Secretary Fortunato de la Peña said the meeting with Israel’s Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) chief scientist, Avi Domb, and other officials of both agencies was held virtually last June 30.

He said they talked about the potential joint initiatives to be implemented on the identified priority areas that include agriculture (water management); AI (robotics); and health (biomedical engineering and drug discovery).

The discussed priorities were guided by the memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Scientific Cooperation signed by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte during his official visit to Israel in 2018, he added.

Israel is a valuable partner for us. It is part of our 20 priority partners for STI (science, technology, innovation) international cooperation, recognizing their strengths in STI and considering the pronouncements of engaging with non-traditional partners,” Buendia said.

She added that the DOST officials are happy that they finally had the meeting to lay out their plans for the collaboration.

De la Peña earlier reported that capacity building activities include scholarships, visiting professors, and trainings.

The conduct of joint conferences to discuss the respective researches and projects of experts shall also be expected, eyeing the development of AI applications for government/public service and emergency response, among others.

And here are some videos to help you know Israel better…

The latest exchange between Israel and the Philippines regarding scientists is a reflection of the stronger ties between the two nations. We Filipinos should be grateful to the State of Israel, no matter what happens and no matter who are leading as national authorities both here and there. We Filipinos can also give back by supporting Israel in more ways than one. We can pray for Israelites and provide varied support for them (note: refer to the Christians United for Israel reference near the very end of this article below) knowing that there are still terrorists (sponsored by Iran) and other forces of evil that are obsessed in destroying Israel.

Before I end this, here is a holy scripture for you all…

Now, this is what Yahweh says:

    “Listen, Jacob, to the One who created you,

    Israel, to the one who shaped who you are.

    Do not fear,

    for I, your Kinsman-Redeemer, will rescue you.

    I have called you by name, and you are mine.

  When you pass through the deep, stormy sea,

    you can count on me to be there with you.

    When you pass through raging rivers,

    You will not drown.

    When you walk through persecution like fiery flames,

    you will not be burned;

    the flames will not harm you,

  for I am your Savior, Yahweh, your mighty God,

    the Holy One of Israel!

    I give up Egypt as the price to set you free,

    Cush and Seba in exchange to bring you back.

  Since you are cherished and precious in my eyes,

    and because I love you dearly and want to honor you,

    I willingly give up nations in exchange for you—

    a man to save your life.

  I am with you now, even close to you,

    so never yield to fear.

    I will bring your children from the east;

    from the west I will gather you.

  I will say to the north, ‘Hand them over!’

    and to the south, ‘Don’t hold them back!’

    Bring me my sons from far away,

    my daughters from the ends of the earth!

  Bring me everyone who is called by my name,

    the ones I created to experience my glory.

    I myself formed them to be who they are

    and made them for my glory.”

Isaiah 43:1-7 (TPT)

If you truly believe in Lord Jesus, the Holy Spirit and God the Heavenly Father wholeheartedly and you continue to be faithful (not religious), you should be aware that Christians are meant to stand united with Israel, love the Jewish people and pray for the peace of Jerusalem. 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!

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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

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

DTI-NCR provides carinderia kits to 75 “Muntipreneurs,” Mayor Fresnedi receives Resilience award

The Department of Trade and Industry – National Capital Region Office has turned over Carinderia Kits to food retailers and other micro-entrepreneurs in Muntinlupa, dubbed as “Muntipreneurs,” in a bid to help them recover and improve their businesses amid the pandemic.

DTI-NCRO Regional Director Marcelina Alcantara, Mayor Jaime Fresnedi, and Congressman Ruffy Biazon led the Awarding Ceremony of Carinderia Kits worth P8,000 each to seventyfive beneficiaries of the Livelihood Seeding Program – Negosyo Serbisyo sa Barangay (LSP-NSB) at Muntinlupa Sports Complex, Brgy. Tunasan last July 7.

City Government officials led by Mayor Jaime Fresnedi and the 75 Muntipreneurs. (source – Muntinlupa PIO)

The LSP-NSB is a program of DTI that allows a wider reach of business development assistance by bringing government services closer to the people through partnerships between relevant local government units and DTI officials.

The program aims to provide individual package of livelihood kits that contains items that could aid in the recovery of affected individuals during catastrophic events including health disasters like epidemics and pandemics.

Other services offered by the LSP-NSB include business registration assistance, SME counseling, product development, financing facilitation, market/business matching, trade promotion, investment promotion, business information and advocacy, trainings, seminars, and workshops, among others. LSP-NSB beneficiaries will undergo monitoring and evaluation to ensure the growth of their businesses.

Other officials attending the program include LSP-NSB National Program Manager Asec. Dominic Tolentino, Muntinlupa Local Economic and Investment Promotions Department chief Gary Llamas, and City Administrator Allan Cachuela.

Mayor Jaime Fresnedi extended his thanks to DTI-NCR for providing assistance to local entrepreneurs. He hoped that programs for micro-entrepreneurs in the city will help revive the stalled local economy due to the COVID-19 pandemic. During the program, DTI-NCRO officials also conferred the Certificate of Recognition for being Rank 1 in the Resilience category (HUCs) of the recent Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index to Mayor Fresnedi.

Mayor Jaime Fresnedi (3rd from right) receives the Resilience Award from DTI-NCRO. Also present was Congressman Ruffy Biazon and other local officials. (source – Muntinlupa PIO)

For inquiries and other information, interested micro entrepreneurs may contact the local Negosyo Center at Plaza Central, Brgy. Poblacion at 0917 5120269 and look for Ms. Bea Trozado.

In a similar program, the City Government of Muntinlupa also provides financing assistance to micro-entrepreneurs and MSMEs through Tulong Negosyo Program’s zero-interest loans (formerly Dagdag Puhunan). Muntinlupa is the first LGU to introduce the micro-financing program.

Tulong Negosyo caters to MSMEs and provides micro-finance assistance ranging from P2,000 up to P150,000 depending on the business capital ceiling and payment record of beneficiaries. The program aims to provide additional capital for business expansion for aspiring and established business owners in Muntinlupa.

For more information, visit the Joint Resources Financing Program – JRF Facebook Page or visit them at 2F Plaza Central, Brgy. Poblacion with contact numbers 8772-3457and (0921) 888 6124.

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The above information was sourced from the official press release of the Muntinlupa PIO. Some parts were changed for this website.

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

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

Two suspects arrested and P1.3 million in illegal substances seized in Parañaque City

The Manila Bulletin reported that on July 6, 2021 (Tuesday), local police officers successfully seized P1.3 million worth of illegal substances and apprehended two persons as suspects as a result of buy-bust operation that took place in Barangay San Isidro, Parañaque City. This is the 2nd straight illegal drugs-related crime report about Parañaque following the drugs-in-DVD-cases report.

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

Southern Police District (SPD) operatives arrested two drug suspects on Tuesday in Paranaque City and confiscated from them P1.3 million worth of shabu.

SPD Director Brig. Gen. Jimili Macaraeg, citing a report by city police chief Col. Maximo Sebastian, said the arrests were made during a buy-bust operation along San Juan Miguel St., San Antonio, Valley 6, Barangay San Isidro, Paranaque City on Tuesday.

The arrested suspects were identified as Myrna Sobinsky, 47, and Marjun Estolonio, 30, both residents of Paranaque City.

The police said the suspects were placed under surveillance by members of the Station Drug Enforcement Unit (SDEU) after receiving reports on their illegal drug activities.

Members of the SDEU immediately conducted a buy-bust operation and were able to confiscate from the suspects four pieces of medium heat sealed transparent sachet containing about 200 grams of shabu worth P1.3-million.

And now here is the related news video by GMA Network…

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are living in Parañaque City, do you believe that the local police officers and barangay tanods are doing enough to protect your local community from criminals? Who do you think is the mastermind behind the presence of illegal drugs in Parañaque City?

Did someone promise you that Parañaque City would be a drug-free or crime-free city soon? Do you believe in the so-called Parañaque Renaissance?

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

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