Tag: Philippine News Agency (PNA)

A tough battle for the Philippines at the 2023 Southeast Asian Games (32nd SEA Games) in Cambodia

A tough battle for the Philippines at the 2023 Southeast Asian Games (32nd SEA Games) in Cambodia

carlocarrasco

This year marks Cambodia’s hosting of the 32nd edition of the Southeast Asian Games (also referred to as SEA Games, 32nd SEA Games and Cambodia 2023). The said regional games composed of multiple sports competitions will officially happen this coming May and already a tough battle for the Philippines has been seen, according to a news article by the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

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

Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino on Tuesday sees tough battle ahead for the Philippine contingent as Cambodia hosts the 32nd Southeast Asian Games in less than four months.

“Frankly, kinakabahan ako because of the formula na ginawa ng host country (Frankly, I’m worried because of the formula made by the host country),” said Tolentino during the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum at the East Ocean Palace Restaurant in Pasay City.

“Medyo mabigat ang ginawa (It’s a bit abrupt),” Tolentino added, referring to Cambodia’s decision to include events that are practically alien to the other countries and exclude events where Cambodians have slim chances of winning.

For a country of less than 17 million people, Cambodia has lined up 608 events in 49 sports, far bigger than the 530 events in 56 sports in the Manila edition in 2019 and the 526 events in 40 sports in Hanoi last year.

But it does not mean that the Philippines, this early, is giving up the fight for the biennial event scheduled from May 5 to 17.

Tolentino said the POC will still make sure that the Philippines will be represented well in as many events in Cambodia and hope to match or improve on its fourth-place finish in Hanoi in May 2022.

“Salihan natin lahat ng events sa Cambodia (We will join all events in Cambodia),” he said during the forum presented by San Miguel Corporation (SMC), MILO, Philippine Sports Commission, POC, and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).

“Kailangan natin masalihan lahat (We need to compete in all events). We will give them a good fight,” added Tolentino, who is also counting on newly-appointed Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairperson Dicky Bachmann as the national athletes gear up for the Cambodia event.

“Buti na lang pareho kami hands-on (Bachmann) (The good thing is we are both hands-on),” said the POC chief and president of PhilCycling.

Cambodia finished at No. 8 in the last SEA Games edition, winning nine gold medals along with 13 silver and 41 bronzes. Providing the golds for the country were vovinam with three and petanque with two, then kickboxing, wrestling and taekwondo with one each.

Tolentino said it will be quite difficult for Cambodia to win the overall title this year.

“Based on their formula hindi kaya mag-first. Pero sasaksak sa taas yun whether second, third or fourth. So baka battle for fourth na naman. Tingnan natin (Based on their formula, they cannot get first place. But they will surge within the top whether second, third or fourth. So it might be battle for fourth again. Let’s see),” Tolentino said.

For the multisports enthusiasts reading this, the SEA Games in Cambodia officially has triathlon, duathlon and aquathlon competitions included which is something the Philippines has been looking forward to.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you believe that the Philippines could match its 31st SEA Games (hosted by Vietnam) overall medal finish in this year’s SEA Games in Cambodia? If you have been to Cambodia, what is their country like and how is their climate?

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

+++++

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

Marcos reiterates vow to upgrade Philippine transport system

Marcos reiterates vow to upgrade Philippine transport system

carlocarrasco

Recently, Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr., reiterated his vow to improve the transport system of the entire nation which can benefit many people who need to travel, according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) news article. This is similar to what his predecessor declared before.

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

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday reiterated his vow to continue upgrading the country’s transport system to relieve commuters of their daily ordeal due to traffic congestion.

“We will continue to invest and improve our transportation system as well as pursue more projects in the years to come so that Filipinos can gain greater access to places of work, commerce, recreation, and other vital areas,” Marcos said in his speech during the launch of the Metro Manila Subway Project’s (MMSP) tunnel boring machine (TBM) at its depot in Barangay Ugong, Valenzuela City.

“Having an effective and efficient transportation system will have multiplier effects on employment, the economy, our society, it will bring comfort, convenience, an easier life for all,” he added.

Marcos said developments on the country’s first subway system in the country allow Filipinos to look forward to “better days” as it would also spur economic development and job creation.

He thanked both the public and private sectors for working to ensure the realization of what he described as an “ambitious” endeavor.

In particular, he expressed gratitude to the Japanese government and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for being active partners in the fulfillment of the Philippine infrastructure program.

According to Marcos, the Philippines would not have fulfilled its many infrastructure projects without the assistance of JICA.

“This tunnel boring machine highlights Japan’s expertise and technology and trailblazing contributions in the modern world and thus I am confident that they will help us shape our railway infrastructure and keep them at par with the highest international standards,” he said.

He acknowledged the joint venture of Filipino and Japanese companies for working with the Philippine government on the Metro Manila Subway Projects Contract Package 101 and expressed hope it would be completed on time.

“I hope that both of you and the DOTR will not waiver on your commitment to finish the contract package by the end of 2027 to ensure that Filipinos will get to enjoy the project at the soonest possible time,” he said.

Marcos likewise sought their continued patience, trust, and support, especially as big-ticket projects take years to complete.

“…Let the launching of this tunnel boring machine become a testament to this administration’s commitment to continue to projects of the previous administration and more importantly build better more,” he added.

He also described the launch of the TBM as “a very apt beginning” for a year with renewed vigor and commitment to his administration’s mission to improve the lives of Filipinos.

“We also gain inspiration from the selfless individuals who constantly strive to turn our vision for the transportation sector into a grand reality,” he said.

The PHP488.48 billion Metro Manila subway will stretch for about 33 kilometers across seven cities, from Valenzuela City to Pasay City, and will be able to serve over 519,000 passengers daily once completed.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you believe that the Metro Manila subway will make local travel more efficient? What new infrastructure projects do you think the country needs right now?

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

+++++

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

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

HSBC sees Philippine economy growth of 4.4% for 2023 due to key factors

HSBC sees Philippine economy growth of 4.4% for 2023 due to key factors

carlocarrasco

HSBC, one of the biggest players of the global financial industry, recently made its forecast of the Philippines growing economically at 4.4% for the year 2023, according to a news article by the Philippine News Agency (PNA). There are certain factors mentioned in HSBC’s assessment for the nation.

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

Hikes in the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) key policy rates are expected to dampen the strong domestic output for 2023, with an executive of HSBC forecasting a 4.4 percent expansion this year.

In a virtual briefing on Thursday, HSBC chief investment officer for Southeast Asia, Global Private Banking and Wealth, James Cheo, said private consumption contributed to the strong recovery of the domestic economy last year but this is seen to be limited by the monetary tightening aimed to temper the elevated inflation rate.

Other factors that boosted gross domestic product (GDP) last year include investments, higher government spending on infrastructure and increased mobility following the resumption of face-to-face schooling, he said.

“Looking into 2023, the country’s growth will slow and the recovery is going to be more gradual as the reopening boost fades and monetary tightening weighs on domestic demand,” Cheo said.

As of the third quarter of last year, growth, as measured by gross domestic product (GDP), rose by 7.76 percent, exceeding the government’s 6.5 to 7.5 percent growth assumption for this year.

The BSP’s key rates have been hiked by 350 basis points from May to December last year, after being at record-low of 2 percent in 2020, as monetary authorities help address the elevated inflation rate.

Last December, domestic rate of price increases further accelerated to 8.1 percent, the highest since November 2008, due to faster annual jumps in goods and energy prices.

Cheo said “household’s consumption in 2023 will likely be curtailed” given the elevated inflation rate.

“Strong employment, tourism recovery, expanding production and retail sales, and public investment will continue to support growth in 2023,” he said.

With inflation expected to remain high, Cheo projects the BSP to make three consecutive 25 basis point increases this year, “pausing at 6.25 percent by Q2 (second quarter) 2023” and keeping this decision until at least the second half of 2024.

The above article ended with HSBC predicting that the Philippine Peso will weaken to the United States Dollar at a rate of US$1 = P56.50.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you believe that inflation and interest rates will somehow slow down the ongoing economic growth later this year? Do you think that Philippine tourism will become a factor to help the Philippine economy grow at least 5% this year? What do you think the national government and its economic managers should do to maintain strong growth as the nation keeps on recovering from the depression of the COVID-19 crisis? Have you been managing your personal or business finances carefully recently?

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

+++++

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

LTO suspends license of jeepney driver responsible for hitting a woman in Parañaque City

LTO suspends license of jeepney driver responsible for hitting a woman in Parañaque City

carlocarrasco

A few days ago, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) suspended for ninety days the license of the jeepney driver who was held responsible for hitting a woman who crossed the pedestrian lane in Parañaque City, according to a news article by the Philippine News Agency (PNA). It is recalled that the said driver as well as owner of the jeepney were summoned by the LTO.

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

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) on Tuesday suspended the license of a jeepney driver who hit a woman crossing a pedestrian lane in Parañaque City in December.

In a statement, the LTO said driver Leonilo Aque has received a 90-day preventive suspension of his driver’s license.

“Kasunod ito ng pag-amin ng drayber ng jeep na si Leonilo Aque na nabundol nito ang babaeng tumatawid matapos na hindi agad makapagpreno (This is after Aque admitted to having struck a woman crossing the street after he failed to apply brakes on time),” the LTO said.

The incident recorded through a closed-circuit television showed a woman who was suddenly struck by a jeepney while crossing a pedestrian lane.

Aque and the owner of the jeepney were issued a show cause order on Dec. 22, 2022, and were summoned to appear before the LTO Intelligence and Investigation Division (IID) on Dec. 28.

They were summoned for violation of DOTC Joint Administrative Order 2014-01 or “failure to yield right of way for pedestrian crossing” and Republic Act 4136 on reckless driving and being an “improper person to operate a vehicle.”

“During the hearing, Mr. Aque affirmed that he is the assigned driver of the subject motor vehicle and admitted that he hit/bumped a pedestrian during the incident. Thus, his professional driver’s license is hereby preventively suspended,” the LTO said.

LTO chief Assistant Secretary Jose Arturo “Jay Art” Tugade warned motorists, especially drivers of public transport, that it is within their responsibility to keep the roads safe.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What do you think about this recent development? Do you consider Parañaque a hot spot for traffic incidents involving jeepneys? Do you think the 90-day suspension by the LTO is sufficient?

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

+++++

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. If you want to support my website, please consider making a donation. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/.

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

Philippines attracted 2.65 million international arrivals and over P200 billion in tourism revenues in 2022

Philippines attracted 2.65 million international arrivals and over P200 billion in tourism revenues in 2022

carlocarrasco

With the year 2022 officially over, the Department of Tourism (DOT) officially confirmed that the Philippines attracted 2.65 million tourist arrivals (exceeding the target of 1.7 million) and over P200 billion in tourism revenues were generated for the year, according to a news article by the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

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

The holidays delivered further gains for the Philippine tourism industry as it breached its 1.7-million target with 2.65 million international arrivals as of the end of 2022.

The arrivals translated to PHP208.96 billion or USD3.68 billion in tourism revenues, a whopping 2,465.75-percent increase from 2021, according to a news release on Monday.

Based on the monitoring of the Department of Tourism (DOT) from the time the country reopened its borders to all travelers in February until Dec. 31, 2022 arrivals peaked in December as more Filipinos and tourists alike opted to spend the Christmas and New Year vacations in the Philippines.

Of the total 2.65 million international arrivals last year, 628,445 were returning Filipinos while the bulk of 2.02 million tourists were from top markets United States (505,089), South Korea (428,014), Australia (137,974), Canada (121,413), the United Kingdom (101,034), Japan (99,557), Singapore (53,448), India (51,542), Malaysia (46,805) and China (39,627).

The year just ended likewise generated an estimated 5.23 million tourism-related jobs, 11,989 DOT-accredited tourism enterprises as of Dec. 29, 2022 and 25,770 tourism stakeholders who were trained.

DOT Secretary Christina Frasco was elated over the achievements of the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., just six months into office.

She said the tourism sector’s growth clearly showed the hard work of the entire industry in order to recover from the unprecedented crisis brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Moments of great difficulty are also moments of great opportunity. In the past, we have overcome a global pandemic and survived various calamities. The Philippine tourism industry has managed to exceed expectations and our tourism partners and frontliners continue to offer the best of Filipino grace and hospitality to the world,” Frasco said in a statement.

“We welcome 2023 with gratitude and excitement for Philippine tourism to bounce back stronger than ever. We shall welcome with warmth and that distinct Filipino smile visitors from all over the world as they visit our award-winning beaches, experience the richness of our culture, and enjoy our world-renowned Filipino brand of service excellence,” she added.

Frasco is hopeful that the DOT will surpass its targets anew in 2023.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development about the Philippines tourism? If you are managing a business, did your business benefit somehow from the arrival of foreign tourists and/or Filipinos who arrived from overseas? Do you think the DOT will be able to achieve its targets for 2023?

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

+++++

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

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

Customs officials seize P140 million-worth of undeclared agricultural products in Muntinlupa City

Customs officials seize P140 million-worth of undeclared agricultural products in Muntinlupa City

carlocarrasco

In the progressive city of Muntinlupa, elements of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) seized several undeclared agricultural products estimated to be worth almost P140 million, according to a news article by the Philippine News Agency (PNA). The seizure happened before 2022 ended and there is a disturbing trend happening lately.

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

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) on Saturday reported the seizure of undeclared agricultural products amounting close to PHP140 million from a Muntinlupa City-based company.

According to Commissioner Yogi Filemon Ruiz, the containers were declared to contain udon noodles and frozen dimsum balls, but upon examination, the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service at Manila International Container Port (CIIS-MICP) found that it contained undeclared fresh red and white onions, frozen ox tripe, frozen barbecue, and frozen crawfish.

The PHP139,769,500 worth of undeclared agricultural products underwent examinations from Dec. 27 to 29, 2022.

The shipments arrived from China between Nov. 27, 2022 and Dec. 3, 2022 at the MICP and were consigned to Taculog J International Consumer Goods Trading located at B4 L7 Mariategui HMOA, Alabang.

Ruiz said he was surprised that the same company almost managed to bring in hundreds of millions worth of smuggled agricultural products into the country in less than two months.

“Although I am proud of our men and what they were able to accomplish these past weeks, I am appalled at the gall of these groups. We have reports coming in that a kilo of red onions sells for PHP720 in the markets. Bringing a hot commodity like onions into our borders without going through the proper procedures is an affront to our farmers, the people who make sure we have enough supply of it,” he said in a statement.

The operation came after the bureau reported the apprehension of PHP171.35 million worth of smuggled agricultural products, including fresh red and white onions, from containers that arrived between Nov. 12 and Dec. 3, 2022 consigned to the same company.

The shipment that arrived on Nov. 25 and examined on Dec. 28 was initially declared to contain frozen lobster, frozen prawn balls, and frozen crab stick but was later found to also have undeclared frozen ox tripe worth PHP15.5 million.

On the other hand, containers that arrived on Nov. 27 and examined from Dec. 27 to 29, were declared to have udon noodles, frozen lobster, frozen prawn balls, and frozen crab sticks. But upon examination, these containers had undeclared fresh red onions, frozen barbecue, and frozen crawfish that amounted to PHP46.75 million.

Four shipments that arrived on Dec. 3 and examined from Dec. 27 to 29, were declared to contain only udon noodles, but examiners instead found undeclared fresh red and white onions amounting to an estimated total value of PHP77,519,500.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a Muntinlupa City resident, what is your reaction to this development? How expensive are the prices of agricultural products right now locally?

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

+++++

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

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

Almost 30,000 arrived in the Philippines on Christmas Day

Almost 30,000 arrived in the Philippines on Christmas Day

carlocarrasco

With several COVID-19 pandemic restrictions already lifted, Christmas season travel here in the Philippines really turned out heavy and this is a dramatic change compared to what happened in late-2020 and late-2021. On December 25, 2022, almost 30,000 people from overseas arrived here in the Philippines, according to a news article published by the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

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

Over 29,000 travelers, including Filipino passengers, arrived in the country on Christmas Day to spend the holidays with their families, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) said on Monday.

Dana Krizia Sandoval said the figure was much higher than in previous years when the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic was at its peak.

“The arrivals on December 25, were at 29,968 individuals…For departures, a total of 27,934 people on Christmas Day,” she said at the Laging Handa briefing.

“And this is significantly higher than the last two years. Because if you remember, the last two years the holiday seasons were a bit sad because almost no one traveled due to the travel restrictions imposed worldwide due to the pandemic. Now, we are seeing again, many countries are opening up again, including us here in the Philippines. So we can see enthusiasm and joy again in our airports,” she added.

Sandoval said they expect the number to increase for the remaining days of 2022.

“Well, our projection is all the way until New Year, our arrivals are quite high because our countrymen and their families are returning home to celebrate Christmas and New Year,” she said.

She noted that the number of departures are expected to rise in the early part of 2023.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this new development? Do you think the increased number of arrivals from abroad will positively impact the nation’s tourism and economy? What particular businesses do you think will benefit the most from the high number of arrivals from overseas this Christmas season?

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

+++++

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. If you want to support my website, please consider making a donation. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/.

Philippines aiming to attract 4.8 million foreign visitors and generate $5.8 billion tourism revenue in 2023

Philippines aiming to attract 4.8 million foreign visitors and generate $5.8 billion tourism revenue in 2023

carlocarrasco

With the economic recovery from COVID-19 still continuing and the year coming to an end, the Department of Tourism (DOT) revealed its targets for foreign visitors and tourism revenue in 2023, according to a report by the Philippine News Agency (PNA). For the newcomers reading this, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr., declared already that it is time for the to return to pre-pandemic life and having a strong tourism sector is a crucial part of the post-pandemic strategy. It has also been several months since the Philippines opened its borders to

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

The Philippines eyes to double its tourism revenues and reach at least 4.8 million in foreign visitor arrivals in 2023.

Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco Friday revealed the projections as she presented the efforts of the agency to expedite tourism’s recovery.

Frasco said DOT seeks to attract 4.8 million visitors and generate at least USD5.8 billion in revenue.

Latest data showed that the Philippines has already breached its 1.7 million arrivals target for 2022, hitting over 2.46 million tourists and PHP149 billion in receipts.

With the administration’s focus on tourism and the various measures implemented to ease travel, Frasco is optimistic Manila could even surpass the pre-pandemic tourism figures before 2025.

DOT’s initial forecast indicated that Manila will not reach more than 8 million tourists until after 2025, a projection Frasco described as “alarming”.

“[T]o me, that was an alarming projection in a sense that 2025 is so far off for us to obtain our pre-pandemic levels until after 2025 and that really forced us to take an inward look as to how we can expedite the recovery,” she told reporters.

“Having set out policies under the Marcos administration, precisely to serve the more aggressive approach towards tourism recovery, we’re seeing now that we have been able to breach the previous projection as well as the high projection (for this year),” she added.

Aside from constructing rest areas and improving connectivity for inbound tourists, Frasco presented more initiatives DOT sets to undertake in the next few months.

These include showcasing the country as a top cruise destination by 2023, coordinating with the relevant office to ease visa processing, and strengthening the promotion of Mindanao — especially for halal tourism.

Frasco also said DOT and the Department of National Defense are soon to sign a Memorandum of Agreement to obtain necessary data to determine the “most ideal areas to begin the process of reopening Mindanao.”

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development about the Philippines and its tourism plans for 2023? Do you think it is doable for the Philippines to attract 4.8 million foreign visitors by the end of 2023? What do you think the DOT should do when it comes to emphasizing tourism through conventions and special events? Do you think the DOT is doing enough with getting involved with sports tourism, medical tourism, food tourism, and the like?

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

+++++

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

COMELEC to intensify information drive regarding Register Anywhere Project (RAP)

COMELEC to intensify information drive regarding Register Anywhere Project (RAP)

carlocarrasco

As the voter registration processes are happening nationwide, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) announced that it will intensify the information campaign to make the public more aware about their newly launched Register Anywhere Project (RAP), according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) news article. Here in South Metro Manila, there is a RAP processing spot at SM Southmall in Las Piñas City and the turnout started really low.

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

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Monday admitted the need to intensify its information campaign regarding the holding of the Register Anywhere Project (RAP) to encourage the public to enlist themselves in several participating malls in key areas across the country.

“We still need to intensify the information drive on the RAP,” Comelec Chairperson George Erwin Garcia said in a message to reporters.

This came following a low turnout of registrants in RAP hubs in Metro Manila, Tacloban City in Leyte province and Legazpi City in Albay over the weekend.

Data released by the poll body showed a total of 611 applicants were able to register in RAP booths inside shopping establishments.

SM Fairview recorded the highest number with 190 registrants, followed by Robinsons Galleria with 133, both in Quezon City; Robinsons Place Manila with 118, and SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City with 75.

On the other hand, few registrants were recorded in other venues such as Robinsons Place Naga with 38, SM Southmall in Las Pinas with 27, SM City Legazpi with 20, and Robinsons Place Tacloban with 10.

The pilot test will be held every Saturdays and Sundays between Dec. 17, 2022 and Jan. 22, 2023, except on Dec, 24, 25, and 31, 2022, and Jan. 1, 2023.

Under the project, qualified applicants residing anywhere in the Philippines may register at the RAP booths by submitting their application form, documentary requirements, and have their biometrics taken on-site.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: When was the last time you went to the COMELEC for registration or adjustment of your voter’s record? Did you try getting registered through the RAP?

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

+++++

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

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

DILG calls on local government units to take part in SIM card registration information campaign

DILG calls on local government units to take part in SIM card registration information campaign

carlocarrasco

Anyone based here in the Philippines using mobile devices that each carry SIM cards are required to have the said cards registered starting December 27, 2022 in accordance to Republic Act 11934 or the Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) Registration Act. To ensure that as many people get informed about this, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) called on local government units (LGUs) nationwide to participate in the information drive, according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) report.

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

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) called on local government units (LGUs) to help the national government in its information campaign on the implementation of Republic Act 11934 or the Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) Registration Act, which takes effect on Dec. 27.

RA 11934, the first law signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., aims to regulate the registration and use of SIMs by mandating all end-users to register their SIMs with their respective telecommunications networks before their activation.

In a statement on Monday, DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. said an intensive information drive must be carried out at the grassroots level and LGUs should step up in educating the public on the requirements and importance of the law.

“As we seek to ensure public safety even in the online space, I encourage LGUs to exert all efforts to promote responsible use of SIM cards, educate their stakeholders on the benefits of mandatory SIM card registration and guide them through the whole registration process,” Abalos said.

He said the SIM Registration Act will aid the Philippine National Police and other law enforcement authorities in curbing rising electronic communication-aided criminal activities in the Philippines such as mobile phishing, spam text messages, online scams, bank frauds and identity theft,” Abalos said.

Abalos said the implementation of the law will not only prompt accountability from all sides — the mobile users, the telcos, the government and authorities — but will also help the PNP to quickly locate offenders of crimes committed in anonymity through the use of electronic devices.

Section 4 of the law’s implementing rules and regulations (IRR) released by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) provides that DILG, along with other government agencies such as DICT, NTC, DepEd, and telecom companies, shall “facilitate all SIM registrations in remote areas with limited telecommunication or internet access.”

“Together with the LGUs, DILG will cooperate with DICT and the NCT to fast-track the establishment of registration facilities in geographically-isolated areas, which should be done within 60 days after December 27,” Abalos said.

The DILG chief sought the assistance of local chief executives (LCEs) and barangay captains in remote areas in processing needed documents and other requirements to set up the registration centers.

“We know not everyone has access to the internet and other means of communication so let us reach out to them and inform them of this new law,” he said.

To register, all existing SIM subscribers must submit an accomplished form through a database platform or website provided by the telco company within 180 days. The DICT can extend the registration period for another 120 days. If a subscriber fails to register, SIM cards will be deactivated.

Subscribers must provide the following: full name, birthday, sex, address, mobile SIM number and serial number and valid identification cards (for individuals); business name, business address and full name of authorized signatory (for businesses and other juridical entities); full name, nationality, birthday, passport, proof of Philippine address, return ticket to own country (for foreigners and tourists).

Abalos also urged parents and guardians to be responsible and register the SIM used by their minor children or relatives under their name to protect them from ill-intentioned individuals. They will be asked to present an ID and consent form.

“To our parents and guardians, let us help each other in this endeavor to safeguard minors. Magtulungan po tayo upang masiguro na hindi sila mabibiktima ng mga panloloko (Let’s work together to protect them from fraud) online,” he said.

Likewise, Abalos asked the public to support the mandatory SIM card registration as this will be beneficial in the long run.

“I encourage every Filipino to register their SIM cards and be one with the government in fighting text and online scams which are becoming more prevalent in recent years,” he added.

Abalos warned people who will attempt to provide false or fictitious information and documents to register a SIM and those who will try to spoof a registered SIM to defraud or cause harm.

The above report ended stating that registering with false or fictitious information or the use of fake identities constitute a penalty of six months to two years imprisonment, and a fan of P100,000 to P300,000.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this latest development from the national government? Are you worried that SIM card registration will be tough and inconvenient to do given the nationwide scope of the processing?

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

+++++

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