Disclaimer: This is my original work with details sourced from reading the comic book and doing personal research. Anyone who wants to use this article, in part or in whole, needs to secure first my permission and agree to cite me as the source and author. Let it be known that any unauthorized use of this article will constrain the author to pursue the remedies under R.A. No. 8293, the Revised Penal Code, and/or all applicable legal actions under the laws of the Philippines.
As an X-Men fan, 1993 was a memorable year for me during my time of collecting comic books and enjoying what was believed to be the modernization of superhero comics in America. Gimmick covers of comic books, the post-event effects of the Death of Superman, the launch of the Ultraverse and then there was the 30th anniversary celebration of the X-Men which was wild.
To put things in perspective, Marvel Comics organized the celebration of the 30th anniversary of Spider-Man releasing lots of merchandise and, most notably, special issues of comic books that came with covers with holograms, more pages for content and a cover price that was more than double than what was normal (note: read my review of one of them). Such comic books were hot stuff for not only Spider-Man fans but also comic collectors who were often hunting for the next great collectorās item that would ensure them great wealth.
Marvel had the same business approach with the 30th anniversary of the X-Men, and there were multiple X-Men-related monthly series of comic book back then. X-Factor #92, X-Force #25, Uncanny X-Men #304, Wolverine #75 and Excalibur #71 all were released with covers with hologram cards on the front, more pages of content and inflated cover prices.
The one 30th anniversary celebration comic book of the X-Men that was most memorable to me was X-Men #25 (Volume 2) and to this day, its plot remains very memorable for its shock value. I bought my copy of this comic book at a store in BF Homes. With the history lesson over, he is my retro review of X-Men #25, published in 1993 by Marvel Comics with a story written by Fabian Nicieza and drawn by Andy Kubert.
The cover.
Early story
The story begins with the United Nations Security Councilās approval to initiate the alpha and beta parameters of the Magneto Protocols which literally sent waves from the White House to the Kremlin. A short time later, several satellites orbiting the Earth activate and linked with each other to form a protective mesh of electro-magnetic fire. This provokes Magneto (accompanied by Acolytes and Exodus at Avalon) to react by generating a massive pulse wave that affects the entire world. Even the Fantastic Four and Excalibur were not spared.
At the School of Gifted Children, Charles Xavier organizes an urgent meeting with the X-Men. Together they discussed the impact of Magnetoās pulse wave which not only rendered worldās mechanical and technological resources useless but also caused trouble (plane crashes, medical equipment failure, etc.) and deaths. For Xavier, the mere fact their team survived (aided by Shiāar technology) is a mistake on the part of Magneto considering his capability to wipe out life around the world.
In response to Wolverineās question, Xavier stated, āWe do not have the luxury of time, nor the occasion for nobilityā¦at this point, we are not fighting for the philosophy of a cause, a hope, or a dream, we are fighting for our very survival and if we do not win this fight, this planet will be irrevocably lost to us!ā
Quality
The X-Men during their daring mission.
I can clearly declare that when it comes to the combined works done by Fabian Nicieza and Andy Kubert with the X-Men, this particularly story was not only the most ambitious collaboration of theirs but also their most compelling and finest work at the time of publishing. Very strong writing (top-notch characterization, plotting and pacing) and great art really defined this comic book!
Characterization is spot-on! Wolverine is arrogant and gritty as usual, Gambit is still the smooth-talker, Cyclops is the focused leader serving under Xavier, etc.
Without spoiling the major details, I can say that the shocking moments executed were greatly done not for the mere intention of shocking but to break new ground with regards to the characters of Wolverine and Charles Xavier. The first time I read this comic book back in 1993, I was really stunned with those particular scenes and I started to question Wolverineās durability as well as Xavierās sanity. And then there was the state of Magneto at the end of the story. The thing about the shocking moments was that there was an adequate amount of build-up leading to them and the pay-off was excellently done.
Conclusion
The immense power of Magneto.
There is no doubt in my mind that X-Men #25 (1993) is the true gem of the entire X-Men 30th anniversary celebration. The creative team led by Nicieza and Kubert really outdid themselves and what happened in this comic book had consequences that lasted for a good number of years. The creative team took big risks and pulled them off nicely as the impact of the story was eventually felt in the years that followed. Lastly, unlike Uncanny X-Men #304 (supposed to be the highlight of X-Menās 30th anniversary celebration), this comic book is more focused and really had no creative baggage nor filler that got in the way of the storytelling.
If you are seriously planning to buy an existing hard copy of X-Men #25 (1993), be aware that as of this writing, MileHighComics.com shows that the near-mint copy of the regular edition costs $50 while the near-mint copy of the newsstand edition is priced at $150. The near-mint copies of the signed-and-numbered edition and the gold edition cost $210 and $368 respectively.
Overall, X-Men #25 (1993) is highly recommended!
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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
A portion of the northbound extension of the Skyway within Muntinlupa City. (source – Ramon S. Ang Facebook page)
āWe are on track to deliver the northbound section of the Skyway Extension project by December, and with this, motorists from the south can easily access Makati, Manila, San Juan, Quezon City, and the North Luzon Expressway,ā said San Miguel Corporation (SMC) president and chief executive officer (CEO) Ramon S. Ang in a press statement.
To put things in perspective, SMC fully funded the project with P10 billion and it is designed to extend the Skyway from Susana Heights on the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) to Sucat and back, and provide direct access to the elevated section of the Skyway. The South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) and the Muntinlupa Cavite Expressway (MCX) will get connected to the Skyway at Susana Heights which will bypass Alabang and should result seamless and shorter travel from south to north via the Skyway system.
āUnder normal Metro Manila conditions, you will be lucky if you can get from SLEX to the North Luzon Expressway in under three hours. You would have to pass through traffic gridlocks in Alabang, Magallanes, practically the whole of EDSA, or various areas through Manila. With the Skyway Extension and the completed Skyway 3, you can get there in 30 minutes without stopping,ā Ang further elaborated.
In addition, motorists coming from the provinces of Cavite, Laguna and Batangas will be able to bypass Alabang which should also ease traffic in Muntinlupa as well as along Alabang-Zapote road.
At this point of time, things are really looking very good as far as Luzon highways and Metro Manila travel are concerned. Being able to travel from Alabang to north of Metro Manila and back with much faster speed and much less stress is something I have always dreamed of. That old dream will soon be realized! Keep an eye on the Skyway and the completion of the extension.
In ending this article, watch and enjoy this very recent Skyway update video.
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It is all out in the news here in the Philippines and it is the best piece of infrastructure and travel-related news for travelers, business stakeholders and other concern parties specifically here in Metro Manila and the communities outside its boundaries ā San Miguel Corporation (SMC)ās president and chief operation officer (COO) Ramon S. Ang announced the completion of the Skyway 3 project (AKA Skyway Stage 3) which is almost eighteen kilometers long. Right now, they are working on completing the finishing touches before formally opening it to the public.
Personally, I am happy for their achievement!
A great view of a portion of Skyway Stage 3. (source – Mark Villar Facebook page)
For the newcomers reading this, the Skyway 3 project is composed of a 17.93 kilometer stretch that links the norther and southern parts of Luzon by means of a modern highway. More specifically, once the newly completed project finally opens, travel from the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) to the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) will take only twenty minutes which will be a major improvement from the average of 2-3 hours (without Skyway 3). It should be noted that the project was completed way before the October 31, 2020 target of completion.
āIām happy to announce that the whole structure of Skyway 3 is now complete. With this, Skyway 2 in Buendia is now officially extended all the way to the North Luzon Expressway. After many challenges, this project faced in previous years, the dream of connecting north and south and providing an alternative to Edsa is now a reality,ā Ang said in a press statement released on October 13.
As mentioned earlier, I am happy for the completion of Skyway 3 and soon it will finally be opened to public motorists (who can afford to pay the eventual toll fees). Each year for the past several years, I travel from Alabang to Clark and Subic Bay to attend important events. During those times, it was a struggle to move from south to north and back WITHOUT Skyway 3. The traffic along EDSA (which passes through different Metro Manila cities and on the maze of roads within the City of Manila were often bad, time-consuming and unpredictable.
Another stretch of Skyway Stage 3 over water. (source – Mark Villar Facebook page)
With Skyway Stage 3, travel between SLEX and NLEX will be much faster. It is stated in the press statement that travel from Magallanes to Balintawak will only take about 15 minutes, Balintawak to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) also only 15 minutes, and Valenzuela to Makati in just 10 minutes. As for people from the cities of Muntinlupa, Las PiƱas, ParaƱaque and even further south from Laguna province who need to travel to Subic Bay faster in the near future, imagine going north using the SLEX, then the Skyway (in the south) moving through the metropolis in quick fashion to reach the NLEX thanks to Skyway 3’s stretch and then take the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) to get to Subic Bay faster than ever before. Travelers from Cavite province will also benefit from the improved access and travel too since their province has highways that connect to the SLEX. Really, a lot of people, especially families business people who need to travel within Metro Manila and those who want to go further north or south will really benefit from the eventual operation of Skyway 3 not for just a year but in the years to come.
From this point on, watch out for SMCās announcement of the formal opening of Skyway 3. Congratulations to SMC and their strategic partners for their accomplishment! Thank the Lord in Heaven also for making big dreams a reality!
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For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists 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 FB group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
Inside BF Homes subdivision in ParaƱaque City, Aguirre Avenue is famous mainly for being the kilometers-long stretch of commercial joints, especially restaurants, cafes and bars. Some people referred to it as the Food Strip given the many places of food joints there are plus the wide variety of meals, drinks and other food items they offer collectively. More established brands like Shakeyās and Starbucks are present.
Due to the pandemic and community quarantine, a major economic downturn hit the entire Philippines which severely affected many businesses along Aguirre Avenue, reaching the point of having no choice but to shut down and layoff their employees. One of the food joints I featured before closed down sadly and left their Aguirre Avenue commercial space.
Subsequently a new food joint opened up in that very same commercial space which turned out to be the local branch of an existing business called Lola Nenaās. A few days ago, their BF Homes branch had its soft opening and quickly attracted several customers. Just yesterday, out of curiosity, I took the opportunity to visit them and take home something.
The counter at the Lola Nena’s BF Homes branch.
So what is Lola Nenaās? According to their history, they are a food joint that started in the year 2012 as a result of their founders who were inspired to recreate the famous Pichi Pichi of their family. What was a small starter on selling Pichi Pichi quickly grew in terms of popularity eventually compelling them to cook the said food in batches so that demand can be met. Today, Lola Nenaās sell Pichi Pichi by the bilao for those who want to buy a lot of it!
As the years passed by, Lola Nenaās (which heavily uses the color red) started offering more snack items and pastries. They also went on to offer pancit (noodle meals) and food products in bottles. In 2017, they launched their Classic Old Fashioned Donuts which went on to become a commercial hit. This year, they launched their Triple Cheese Donuts which caught a lot of attention on social media.
So there I was at the BF Homes Lola Nenaās branch. There was no line of customers but a few ones standing a few feet apart from each other. I noticed the place lacked indicators (marks or signs) as to where exactly should people stand to line up heading towards the counter for ordering and picking up products.
As I waited in line, I overheard some details between the customers and the Lola Nenaās personnel in front of me. Certain meals, a customer was told, will take forty-five minutes to be prepared and released due to high demand (many orders taken already) and the effort to prepare them properly. Customers were politely asked if they were willing to wait.
And then it was my turn. Out of curiosity, I decided to order one box of their Classic Old Fashioned Donuts to bring home for my family. As it turned out, there were already boxes filled with the said donuts waiting to be released. Right after I ordered, the lady at the counter pulled one box and properly prepared it for me. Then I paid for it and got the receipt I requested which was quickly done. It was a painless and quick transaction.
Once I got in the car, I decided to open the box (note: the boxes at Lola Nenaās counter were taped closed already) to see exactly whatās inside. After viewing, I deliberately avoided touching the doughnuts, closed it, and go back home.
The box from Lola Nena’s. There are some instructions written inside on preparing the doughnuts.
The eight Classic Old Fashioned Donuts I paid for. These last for up to 48 hours in room temperature. As such, you should be mindful about when to consume these at your home.
Finally, after arriving home, I shared the doughnuts to our household members. They all enjoyed it.
Each of the Classic Old Fashioned Donuts of Lola Nenaās were coated with sugar, had some sweet substance on the surface and even had small portions of cheese inside. These doughnuts, by the way, do not resemble the round doughnuts people know. Lola Nenaās doughnut are thick, were not really round and had no openings in the middle. Regardless, I personally found it to be delicious and enjoyable.
The Lola Nena’s doughnut up close.
For a box containing of eight of their Classic Old Fashioned Donuts, you do get good value and taste in return for the current price of P120. What you need to watch out for is your blood sugar level since these doughnuts were made with lots of sugar.
You will get to see a huge Lola Nena’s sign along Aguirre Avenue.
If you are planning to visit Lola Nenaās in BF Homes, head on to 287 Aguirre Avenue. In closing this, posted below is my video of the food joint.
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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. Also my fantasy book The World of Havenor is still available in paperback and e-book format. 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 and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments.
It has been seven years since prominent BF Homes resident and business tycoon Antonio P. Antonio died as a result of a tragedy that happened at his familyās home. It all happened on September 11, 2013 when Antonio (referred to as Tonton by his friends and associates) was shot several times by his son Nelson after their private meeting at Villa Antonio and, after a desperate attempt to get him treated at Asian Hospital in Alabang, passed away at age 63. Antonio has been buried at Everest Hills Memorial Park in Tunasan, Muntinlupa City, where friends and family members pay their respect to him each whenever his death anniversary passes.
His son, the suspect Nelson, is still being tried in court in ParaƱaque City for the charge of parricide. The trial has yet to conclude.
His other children ā Xialen, Vladimir and Lenin to name a few ā have taken over the family business left behind.
Prominent in BF Homes and overseas
The late Antonio P. Antonio.
The late Antonio P. Antonio was well established with many community leaders and personalities in BF Homes subdivision (which itself is part of ParaƱaque, Muntinlupa and Las PiƱas). Apart from being highly successful in the world of business, Antonio served as a director as well as president of the old federation United BF Homeowners Association, Inc. (UBFHAI).
Over in Japan, Antonio P. Antonio has his own OHAKA tombstone in a cemetery in Odawara. This is in relation to his being honored by his Japanese business associates who trusted and believe in him very much. He is the only GAIJIN or foreigner to have a tombstone in the mentioned cemetery and it is a high honor for the Japan to do to a friend.
Remembering the father
On behalf of the family, Xialen Antonio shared some insights about their father and how the family turned out over the past seven years.
āI can only say that life hasn’t been easy without our father, his demise simply put us in a chaotic life. Eventually, life paved the way on how we can deal with our loss. Our lifestyle has changed dramatically and it only made us humble before the LORD,ā Xialen stated.
When asked what she missed the most from her father, she pointed to his presence, his sense of calm, and protection towards adversities. Xialenās siblings simply adapted ways to build resilience especially in trying times. The tragedy, unsurprisingly, compelled them to adjust themselves and live on.
Justice pursued
As mentioned earlier, justice for the father is being pursued by Xialen and her family. The parricide trial of Nelson Antonio is continues to be held at Branch 257 of the ParaƱaque Regional Trial Court (RTC). The status of the trial is as followsā¦
āWe are down to the cross examination of our last witness which will happen very soon. We can never be confident until we finish this trial and there are still obstacles in fighting for the Justice of APA. But then I have put our faith in our justice system, the local government, the police, the media and with the help of the community that put focus and attention to this case,ā Xialen stated.
What led to the trial
When tragedy struck on September 11, 2013, Antonio P. Antonio was seen wounded and bleeding shortly after the shooting. His son Vladimir and their driver rushed him to the Asian Hospital in Alabang in an attempt to save his life. Before passing away, the former UBFHAI president told Vladimir that it was Nelson who shot him with a gun.
Back in BF Homes, suspect Nelson arrived at the Philippine National Police (PNP) sub-station along Elsie Gatches street, ParaƱaque City to surrender himself. Based on the written Investigation Report at the Las PiƱas City PNP signed by three officers (SPO2 Edmund Alfonso, PO2 Christian C. Yanga and PO2 Mark Billy S. Carbonell), Nelsonās arrest from the ParaƱaque PNP sub-station was confirmed. This meant sending a Las Pinas police team to fetch the suspect at the ParaƱaque sub-station. What was noticeable, however, was that the report had no indication of the recovery of the firearm that was used in killing the father.
Because of the fact that the Antonio residence occupied the border of the cities of Paranaque and Las Pinas, there was confusion with regards to jurisdiction. In fact, police officers from both cities visited the site of incident. Suspect Nelson was turned over to the police of Las PiƱas. A release order dated September 27, 2013 was issued by Las Pinas City Prosecutor Zelica Longcob due to the lack of jurisdiction.
After much struggle over the issue of jurisdiction, the case for parricide was tossed back to legal system in ParaƱaque, specifically at Branch Number 257 of the local Regional Trial Court. On February 27, 2014, Branch 257 Judge Roland G. How issued a Warrant of Arrest for Nelson who was charged with parricide (Criminal Case Number 14-0222). By the time the order was made, the suspect was already overseas. According to flight records, Nelson left December 28, 2013 for Singapore.
On February 16, 2018, Nelson Antonio was arrested in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This was the result of a particular overseas Filipino worker (OFW) who saw an investigative report on television (aired December 2017) which exposed the suspect. The OFW recognized Nelson and contacted the Philippine police attache to arrest him. Eventually an international arrest warrant (the Interpol Red Notice) was issued by the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) which alerted the police force in the UAE.
Escorted by law enforcers, Nelson Antonio arrived here in the Philippines on April 30, 2018.
Xialenās message to the readers
āOur family would like to seek the support from our community to help us fight for Justice for APA. We want to be the living example of how we can attain TRUE JUSTICE during these unprecedented times. May we request everyone to pray for this and let this be a community standard of a wonderful collaboration among all sectors that are involved.ā
An official portrait of the late Antonio P. Antonio.
As soon as my friend and I entered Mattyās, there was this peaceful and relaxing atmosphere inside that welcomed us. The interiors really looked nice and there was a large wooden table (good enough to accommodate some customers who sit by) plus a few smaller tables with chairs. There is also a hanging monitor where you can see some cable TV movies or news feed shown. Wifi is also available. Further inside is the counter as well as a selection of beverages and prices displayed on the nearby wall. There you can make your choices and order over the counter. Oh yes, like Mang Pandesal, 1 Corinthians 10: 31 is displayed clearly. For your reference, the scripture reads:
Whether you eat or drink, live your life in a way that glorifies and honors God.
1 Corinthians 10: 31 (TPT)
Tables and chairs await customers. Matty’s also has TV and wifi as well. (note: this photo is a property of Matty’s and permission was granted to use it for this article.)
A very nice looking counter and menu-on-the-wall inside Matty’s. Displayed on the counter is 1 Corinthians 10: 31.
Pandesal from Mang Pandesal and chilled coffee from Matty’s make a GREAT combination!
My friend and I had a nice time talking while enjoying the really tasty drinks we ordered: a Mattyās milk tea and an iced coffee with jelly. There was also smooth music played which added more to the relaxing atmosphere. I also noticed while inside, we had a view of the road outside as well as the nearby corner of Tropical Avenue and El Grande Avenue where vehicles pass by all the time.
For those of you who love drinks, Mattyās has nice selections of milk tea (multiple variants), fruity drinks, hot coffee and iced coffee. Good food? They have it too such as their specialty Sylvanas and the Rich Leche Flan in jars to name a few. I brought home Sylvannas and the leche flan and they both really tasted good! In fact, I highly recommend them to you all! Through their website, you can even make orders in advance before visiting Matty’s to pick up. By the way, I must state that Matty’s in-store personnel are very helpful and attentive.
Two great tasting products of Matty’s that you should try: Rich Leche Flan in jar and Matty’s Sylvanas.
Matty’s Sylvanas for your viewing…
and a closer look at one of the Sylvanas. Each one tasted really good!
Matty’s Rich Leche Flan in jar is indeed rich and delicious!
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
Disclaimer: This is my original work with details sourced from the City Administrator of ParaƱaque. Anyone who wants to use this article, in part or in whole, needs to secure first my permission and agree to cite me as the source and author. Let it be known that any unauthorized use of this article will constrain the author to pursue the remedies under R.A. No. 8293, the Revised Penal Code, and/or all applicable legal actions under the laws of the Philippines.
Just a few days ago, Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Inc. (BPCI) announced via Facebook that it has officially postponed the Binibining Pilipinas 2020 Pageant indefinitely. The Bb. Pilipinas is a major beauty pageant and its annual event always draws a huge audience nationwide. As such, the postponement was a bummer for those who were anticipating it even though it is clear that the COVID-19 crisis is still in effect and the nation is slowly adjusting to move the economy forward. Clearly now is not a good time to organize live events with a huge physical audience in attendance. The Bb. Pilipinas organizers stated that it is essential to protect the health of their candidates and many others.
The above development reminded me of something ā ParaƱaque Cityās annual Cityhood Anniversary celebration which is traditionally done every February.
To put things in perspective, the 2020 edition of the ParaƱaque Cityhood Anniversary celebration saw only a few of its scheduled events push through (specifically events that did not involve a huge audience) due to COVID-19 fear.
Back then, the postponed events include the fun run, the Zumba and concert, the drum-and-lyre, the Sunduan exhibit, and most notably the city beauty pageants of Gandang Mamita and Bb. ParaƱaque. The mentioned pageants are often the most popular attractions of the Cityhood celebration.
That was back months ago.
Today I decided to approach the City Government of ParaƱaque to find out the status about the remaining events of their 2020 Cityhood Anniversary celebration that were postponed.
I inquired directly with ParaƱaque City Administrator Fernando āDingā Soriano and he replied to me via text message as follows:
All events related to our Cityhood anniversary are now cancelled.
So there you have it, my readers. The 2020 ParaƱaque Cityhood Anniversary isofficially no more as the City Government is focused on solving its COVID-19 problems and serving the local constituents. As of this writing, the City Government still has yet to release publicly a signed document by mayor Edwin Olivarez confirming the cancellation. Still, City Administrator Sorianoās words do confirm the cancellation of events.
Think about it carefully. As long as the COVID-19 Crisis continues and the new normal remains in effect, having a huge physical audience of spectators on competitions or special events is simply not doable and too risky for public health. No ParaƱaque fun run, no beauty pageants, no exhibitions, no parades and no contests. No Sunduan Festival as well.
While the COVID-19 Crisis is still here, itās simply best to pray to Lord Jesus for the crisis to end, that cures and vaccines versus coronavirus will be realized, that the frontliners will be protected and rewarded for serving us for so long, and that life will return to normal.
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 outĀ my servicesĀ andĀ my portfolio. Feel free toĀ contact meĀ as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook pageĀ Author Carlo CarrascoĀ and follow me atĀ HavenorFantasy@twitter.com
For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also sayĀ NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation,Ā NO to plagiaristsĀ andĀ NO to sinister propagandaĀ when it comes to news and developments.
COVID-19 Crisis: Social Amelioration Program (SAP) deadline this Sunday
In your own city, were you able to check if the officials of your city government and barangay have been working extra hard on organizing the release of the Social Amelioration Program (SAP) to qualified residents in your community? They should be!
Hereās an excerpt from the DILGās official release.
Excerpt:DILG Secretary Eduardo M. AƱo said that he recognizes the challenges encountered by LGUs on the ground especially those with high density population like Metro Manila, Cavite, Rizal, Laguna, Bulacan, and Cebu and Davao City, hence the decision to extend the deadline for the payout anew.
āWe have received reports from our field offices na kahit na 24/7 ang pamimigay ng ayuda ay mahihirapan talagang mameet ng LGUs ang May 7 deadline lalo na āyung mga nasa Metro Manila. We are therefore giving them until May 10 para makompleto lahat āyan,ā he said.
He said that the League of Cities of the Philippines and the League of Municipalities of the Philippines together with the Metro Manila Development Authority requested for an additional three (3) days to complete the SAP distribution.
The DILG Chief said that those LGUs who will not be able to meet the new deadline on May 10 will definitely receive show cause orders from the Department. “This is the last extension that we will grant to the LGUs. Our people cannot wait any longer,” he said.
The show cause order for failure to meet deadlines should be enough to compel city government officials to really work. As far as Metro Manila is concerned, the SAP distribution was estimated at 36% according to a Manila Bulletin report on May 5. 36% accounts to over 565,000 low-income families in Metro Manila who were successful in receiving cash subsidies under the SAP.
In order to qualify to receive the cash subsidy, applicants must meet requirements including filling up official application forms. However, such efforts can be derailed by misinformation, miscommunication, rumor mongering, finger pointing, news media corruption and fake news.
Check out the situation in ParaƱaque City below.
And then something bad happened in the same city, related to SAP.
Whatever happens, be aware of your surroundings. Do not let your guard down. Do not be fooled by scammers and do not let corrupt officials bring you down. Do not let unprofessional and irresponsible local community print media journalists/publishers manipulate you.
Right now, literally speaking, the ball is in the court of the LGU and the barangays to beat the May 10 deadline for releasing the SAP funds to those who qualify for it.
For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also sayĀ NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation,Ā NO to plagiaristsĀ andĀ NO to sinister propagandaĀ when it comes to news and developments.
Disclaimer: This is my original work with details sourced by means of interviewing a top official of the Barangay BF Homes Sangguniang Kabataan. Anyone who wants to use this article, in part or in whole, needs to secure first my permission and agree to cite me as the source and author. Let it be known that any unauthorized use of this article will constrain the author to pursue the remedies under R.A. No. 8293, the Revised Penal Code, and/or all applicable legal actions under the laws of the Philippines.
COVID-19 Crisis: Barangay BF Homes Sangguniang Kabataan distributes relief goods to constituents
And then there were these two recent ParaƱaque City news videos showing more of the gloomy situation. Itās so sad, no beauty pageant in the city will ever lift up the frustrated. The promised ParaƱaque Renaissance will most likely not be realized during this final term of mayor Edwin Olivarez.
Fortunately in Barangay BF Homes, the youth living in mission areas are being taken cared of as the Barangay BF Homes Sangguniang Kabataan (BFSK) led by chairwoman Mariel Angela Tumang has been moving around and delivering relief goods to them right at their respective residences.
Barangay BF Homes SK chairperson Mariel Angela Tumang personally distributing relief goods. (photo contributed by Mariel Tumang)
SK Kagawad Jerry Dalmero doing his part. (photo contributed by Mariel Tumang)
SK Kagawad Alma Galindo distributing to a lady. (photo contributed by Mariel Tumang)
According to Tumang, the relief goods were prepared by their team and, behind the scenes, the goods were acquired by means of using the SKās own funds.
Very recently, Tumang along with SK kagawads Alma Galindo, Jerry Dalmero, Roselyn Regis, Kelly Haboc, Anne Corre, Stephanie Sebullen and SK treasurer Jefferson Ching personally delivered bags of relief goods to their constituents from one house to the next in the developing communities of Baong Silang, Villonco, Estrada 1 and Estrada 2.
SK Kagawad Anne Corre. (photo contributed by Mariel Tumang)
SK Kagawad Roselyn Regis. (photo contributed by Mariel Tumang)
SK Kagawad Stephanie Sebullen. (photo contributed by Mariel Tumang)
SK Kagawad Kelly Haboc. (photo contributed by Mariel Tumang)
SK Treasurer Jefferson Ching. (photo contributed by Mariel Tumang)
Their operation will only continue today in other areas. For the Barangay BF Homes youth reading this, rest assured that your youth council is coming to provide you goods to consume. Tumang and the SK kagawads are working hard under the heat of the sun to take care of you. Contact the SK by visiting their official FB page at https://www.facebook.com/skcouncilbfhomes/
For all others reading this from around the Philippines and overseas, I know many of you who got negatively affected by the imposed community quarantine under the China virus crisis are thinking about giving up hope. I urge you not to give up hope. In fact, I encourage you, my readers, to stand up and look up to the Lord! Pray to Lord Jesus with confidence and trust in Him. Study the Holy Bible and apply its lessons to your life. Pray in tongues and honor the Lord.
Remember that the government is not our source. It is God who is our source. God Himself is not limited by your circumstance and trust me that He is already waging a battle against Satan (who is the cause of China coronavirus COVID-19). In due time, God will win yet again over Satan and end the COVID-19 Crisis that hampered us all. As such, always keep faith in the Lord and keep on trusting in Him. Do not worship idols, images and people. Worship only the Lord.
Let me end this with a holy scripture.
For God so [greatly] loved and dearly prized the world, that He [even] gave His [One and] only begotten Son, so that whoever believes and trusts in Him [as Savior] shall not perish, but have eternal life.
John 3: 16 (Amplified Version)
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Suicide is defined as the act or an instance of taking oneās own life voluntarily and intentionally (source ā Merriam Webster Dictionary). For so long has suicide affected societies worldwide and left a lot of families very hurt.
What is disturbing in the survey of the WHO on the said topic is that the age-group of 15-29 years saw suicide as the 2nd leading cause of deaths in 2016. To break down the 2016 statistics, suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death for people aged 15-29 among both genders and the females. Among the males, suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death.
While varied organizations and researchers have their own definition of the age group for youth, the Jesus Global Youth Day organizers defined it verbally as below the age of thirty, which I personally witnessed during the 2019 Jesus Global Youth Day held here in the Philippines. As such, the 15-29 age group would be counted as youth at least in this article.
Back to the topic at hand, the menace of suicide affecting youth right down to the local level of Barangay BF Homes, ParaƱaque City made its presence felt when I interviewed Barangay BF Homes Sangguniang Kabataan (BFSK) chairwoman Mariel Tumang twice in 2019.
During the first interview (published here), she told me that suicide among the youth in the local community was present not just in the form of committed suicide (confirmed death) but also in the form of thoughts (suicidal thoughts or suicidal thinking) inside the minds of young people.
Then, months later, in another interview Tumang confirmed to me that a tragedy happened when a 21-year-old man living in the depressed community of Masville hanged himself to death because he broke up with his girlfriend (click here). The victim was a loss not only to his family, his friends and the neighborhood, but also for the economy (note: he was already working in the private sector). Tumang stated that their definition of youth is 15 to 30-years-old.
Along the way, Tumang and her SK kagawads (Youth Councilors) attended seminars on dealing with suicide through the aspect of psychology and behavior. Whatever topics and skills they learned, they made ways to make their community youth aware of it by holding seminars locally.
The sad trail of youth suicide also goes a long way back in the form of archived news reports. In January 2014, a 16-year-old boy killed himself inside his house in Cebu City because of his failure in school (click here) and his school adviser confirmed to his mother that he would not be going to fourth year high school.
On April 2016, a 15-year-old girl was found dead hanging from a mango tree (click here) in Talisay City, Cebu. According to the archived news report, a suicide note was left behind by the victim (a stay-in student of a school) and she reportedly told one of her superiors she wanted to kill herself and no reason was given. Before the tragedy happened, her superiors at school found it disturbing that she (the victim) was very silent. Included in the news report was a police officer who revealed that the victim lost her father to insurgents while her mother (who was then linked to another man) was later killed in a vehicular accident with her live-in partner.
What cause young people to commit suicide? There are several factors related to society, economics and psychology. Here are the factors I narrowed down.
Failure to deal with fear early in life
Depression
Physical abuse
Loss of purpose
Peer pressure
Gender confusion
Lack of parental guidance or counselingĀ
Being misled by pop culture or online trends
Internet addiction
Being misled by fake news or distorted news
Getting bullied
Being misled by rumors
Living with negative vibes in his/her local environment (note: in the Philippines, most barangay youth councils have presence in economically depressed communities dubbed as developing communities)
Shame or embarrassment
Being misled by those living with unbeliefĀ
Temptations
Obsession with people, images and things they idolized
Becoming addicted to something dangerous
Being trapped by religious traditions, rituals and other restrictions
Having selfish desires or very high expectations
Lack of focus on the Lord
While taxpayersā money is being spent by government bodies of different levels to develop the youth and help prevent suicide, I honestly believe that the menace of suicide can be solved more effectively by having the youth realize their true purpose as creations of God. It is by having faith in the Lord that young people can truly become strong, stable and more knowledgeable with their lives. It is by having a personal relationship with the Lord that the youth can truly move forward with. If the youth can be educated to reject all forms of hindrances that prevent them from truly establishing faith in the Lord, they would be better off and youth suicide would be reduced dramatically.
Sadly, government programs for youth development remain insufficient to bring the youth to God, His Son Jesus and the Holy Spirit.
What I noticed is that the Christian faith and spiritual approach to solving and preventing youth suicide is missing among the key development programs of barangay youth councils.
Ironically in 2019, in the city of ParaƱaque specifically, there were barangay youth councils that organized their own beauty pageants featuring local homosexuals as candidates which most likely added to the suicide factor of gender confusion. This is sad because not only was taxpayersā money most likely used to fund such events, it gave the youth the false message that homosexuality is legitimate. In truth, homosexuality is an abomination and certainly Satan loves it when people are fooled into believing that homosexuality is good and accepted as normal in society. Letās read a holy scripture confirming that homosexuality is wrong and evil.
Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God.
1 Corinthians 6: 9-10 (NKJV)
As a whole, 1 Corinthians 6: 9-10 made clear that people trapped by sin will never make it in Godās kingdom. As such, the youth today still have time and opportunities to turn away from sinful behavior, submit themselves to Lord Jesus for forgiveness, accept Him as their Lord and Savior to start a new life with dedication to live under His holiness. This is the good news that the youth, whether they are still trapped by the darkness of unbelief (read: atheism and secularism) or religion (read: idolatry, wrong theology, traditions and rituals) should know.
To help the youth understand their true purpose in life as Godās creations, they should be taught with the following holy scriptures (apart from teaching them they need to be born again as written in John 3: 3):
And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, will all your mind, and with all your strength.
Mark 12: 30 (NKJV)
If you then were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.
Colossians 3: 1-2 (NKJV)
Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are Godās.
1 Corinthians 6: 19-20 (NKJV)
Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. Because of these things the wrath of God is coming upon the sons of disobedience, in which you yourselves once walked when you lived in them.
Colossians 3: 5-7 (NKJV)
By becoming Christian, the young one can start a new life free from the sins and youthful lusts of the past. As part of getting reformed by Lord Jesus, the new life youth should learn to strongly reject the many form of lust like gratifying sensual cravings (example: losing his or her virginity in exchange for sexual pleasure), desiring the forbidden (example: taking illegal substances), longing for evil (example: bringing down other youth to bring yourself up just to feel good and proud), and engaging in experiences that are contrary to Godās will. These are emphasized in the holy scripture below.
Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
2 Timothy 2: 22 (NKJV)
The Christian youth living the new life should learn to conduct himself or herself in an exemplary manner. This is expected because once someone gets born again, he/she is under the Lord and has been anointed with the Holy Spirit. Because really, under the watch and care of God, age does not matter and this also means being youthful as a Christian is NOT a disadvantage. It also does not matter if people will find Christians a peculiar people because this is expected. Learn from the next holy scriptures.
Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
1 Timothy 4: 12 (NKJV)
The LORD has chastened me severely, But He has not given me over to death.
Psalm 118: 18 (NKJV)
But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special peope, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.
1 Peter 2: 9-10 (NKJV)
Conclusion
I believe that involving Lord Jesus in the lives of the youth will spare them from suicide and all other factors that lead to self-destruction. I honestly believe that no amount of taxpayersā money spent and no sophisticated government program can be more effective on preventing youth suicide (and suicide in general) than emphasizing faith in the Lord, believing in His Word (with the Holy Bible as the main reference) and applying biblical lessons in life.
Please take note that the dreaded presence of secularism is still in the minds of many government officials (note: there is a so-called separation of church and state in the 1987 Constitution).
If the youth realize their true purpose as creations of God, then it would be great not only for the local community but also the whole world. An enlightened youth, as children of God, definitely would not even think about suicide nor give the devil any room into their lives. The youth should realize how essential it is for them to study the Word of God (the Holy Bible) and prioritize it as their ultimate authority among all reading materials. With the Lord on the youthās side, the menace of suicide and Satan can be defeated and the youth can grow in holiness as they grow into adulthood. Christianity, not feelings or earthly matters, should be embedded into the minds and hearts of the youth. Because really, everybody needs Lord Jesus and the youth need Him. With more youth believing and trusting in Jesus, cases of youth suicide will be much smaller!
As such, I highly recommend that Christian teaching (complete with studying the Holy Bible) should be included more in youth development programs and suicide prevention programs of youth councils. The youth who are spiritually unsaved must be taught the truth that they need Lord Jesus and have faith (not religion) in Him.
At this point, Iād like to reach out to the unsaved youth reading thisā¦if you seek salvation and are ready to submit yourselves to the Lord, and accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior, then pray this simple prayer in sincerity from your heart:
Dear God,
I believe that Jesus is Your Son, and that He died on the cross to pay the penalty of my sins. I believe that Jesus has been raised from the dead and that He is alive! Right now, I call on the name of Jesus. Jesus, come into my heart. I receive You as my personal Lord and Savior. Forgive me of my sins and cleanse me by the power of Your blood. Thank You for saving me and giving me eternal life! Help me now to follow Your plan for my life. Amen.
Congratulations! You are now a child of God! Praise the Lord and always be faithful to Him! No more darkness in your life caused by unbelief or religion (and the idolatry, traditions and rituals that come with it). Your new life under the Lord has truly begun!
From this point on, acquire for yourself a copy of the Holy Bible (New King James Version is recommended), study it and apply its many lessons in your life no matter what situation you are in right now. I also recommend you to join a church of born again Christians near you and find your place in the spiritual family. Worship the Lord together with them and remember that each of you has a personal relationship with Him. That personal relationship with God is strictly off-limits to everyone, even to your family.
The Holy Spirit is in you and you are now a new creation! You are a youthful Christian right now, and you can keep growing spiritually for the rest of your life. Remember that God loves you and He is definitely happy over your conversion.
As a new and young Christian with the Holy Spirit in your heart, never allow yourself to get involved in youth movements that involve unbelief, religion, idolatry, traditions and rituals because those are not holy. The only youth you need to get involved with are your fellow Christians (those who got born again like you), and the only reference of authority you need is the Holy Bible. Once you get involved in a new Christian church, you can always ask the pastor if they have a youth ministry you can join in.
In ending this piece, feel free to enjoy these Christian praise-and-worship YouTube videos plus a few ones featuring the model Christian youth herself, Sadie Robertson! Hallelujah!!!
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. Sharing this Christian piece means spreading the good news of the Lord to others. It can help you save the unsaved souls out there.
