Philippines blog – Page 91 – Author Carlo Carrasco

Muntinlupa Mayor slams China Coast Guard for harming Philippine Navy personnel

June 21, 2024June 20, 2024carlocarrasco

Very recently, Muntinlupa City Mayor Ruffy Biazon slammed China Coast Guard for harming personnel of the Philippine Navy who were on a resupply mission at sea and the incident was captured on video, according to a Manila Bulletin news report. A Philippine seaman lost his finger as a result of a Chinese vessel ramming a Philippine rubber boat.

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

Muntinlupa Mayor and former representative Ruffy Biazon condemned the China Coast Guard for attacking and hurting Philippine Navy troops who were doing a humanitarian rotation and resupply mission in Ayungin Shoal in the Spratlys Island in Palawan on June 17.

“The only Coast Guard in the world that puts life at sea in danger,” Biazon posted on X.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said, “The China Coast Guard’s coercive, aggressive, and barbaric actions during the humanitarian rotation and resupply mission at BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal on June 17, resulted in severe damage to AFP vessels, including their communication and navigation equipment.”

As a result of the China Coast Guard’s attack, Seaman First Class Jeffrey Facundo’s finger was cut off when the Chinese vessel rammed a Philippine rubber boat.

In a statement, AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said that “the Chinese Coast Guard has no right or legal authority to interfere with our legitimate operations or damage our assets within our Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).”

“This reckless and aggressive behavior has caused bodily harm and constitutes a blatant violation of international maritime law, Philippine sovereignty, and sovereign rights. The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) strongly denounces these actions, which not only infringe upon our maritime rights but also pose significant risks to regional stability. The AFP remains committed to upholding the rule of law and will collaborate with international partners to ensure and secure peace and stability across the West Philippine Sea and the Indo-Pacific Region,” he said.

Biazon said the China Coast Guard has been violating maritime regulations.

“They are invoking the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, the best thing for them to do is file a formal complaint at the IMO [International Maritime Organization]. But of course, they won’t do that because they know they have been violating it themselves for a long time now,” he said.

He added, “In the hands of military or even coast guard, the bolos & knives are weapons. Using them against persons or property to cause injury or death or damage is an attack. Define ‘Armed attack/ now, in the context of the MDT [Mutual Defense Treaty].”

“Point to ponder : If CCG [China Coast Guard] has the audacity to board a PH RHIB (Philippine Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat],will they have the impunity to board a grounded PH LST [Philippine landing ship, tank]? I think the AFP should state as early as now that our soldiers won’t be restrained to fire weapons in defense if LS 57 [BRP Sierra Madre)] is forcibly boarded by foreign forces,” added Biazon.

Biazon called on senators and representatives to speak up about the latest attack on Philippine troops.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? If you are a resident of Muntinlupa City, do you agree with Mayor Biazon slamming China Coast Guard for harming Philippine Navy personnel at sea? What do you think will it take for the Philippines to push back against Chinese agresssion?

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

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

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

Additional visa requirement for Chinese tourists revealed by DFA

June 20, 2024June 13, 2024carlocarrasco

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced that Chinese tourists who intend to secure a temporary visitor’s visa for travel to the Philippines will have to come up with an additional requirement, according to a GMA Network news report.

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

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) released details on Thursday on the additional requirement for Chinese citizens applying for a temporary visitor’s visa.

The DFA said that Chinese nationals applying for a 9(a) Temporary Visitor’s Visa at Philippine Foreign Service Posts will be required to submit their Chinese Social Insurance Record Certificates.

According to the DFA, the certificates must be registered for at least six months at the time of the visa application.

Those exempted from the visa requirement are Chinese citizens who are currently enrolled in primary, secondary, or college education—who will be required to submit proof of enrollment—and retirees over 55 years old.

Meanwhile, the department said other exceptions will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

“The additional visa requirement is part of the DFA’s continuing efforts to enhance its visa policies and regulations for the safe and efficient entry of foreign visitors,” it said in a statement.

Last month, the DFA announced that the Philippines would tighten its visa requirements for Chinese tourists amid many fraudulent applications received in its embassy and consulates in China.

Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Jesus Domingo said on May 9 that the stricter visa requirements intend to “weed out” the “illegitimate and unsavory” tourists from the legitimate ones.

Several Chinese nationals have reportedly been involved in organized crimes such as human trafficking, prostitution, kidnapping, and fraud.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the new requirement the DFA came up with will reduce the number of Chinese nationals who intend to commit crime while in the Philippines? Considering the recent conflicts between China and the Philippines at sea as well as the high number crimes committed by Chinese nationals in the Philippines, do you think the new requirement is justified? Do you think the new requirement will severely reduce the number of Chinese tourists visiting the country?

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

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Around 1,000 young girls vaccinated for HPV in 3-day Las Piñas City vaccination drive

June 20, 2024June 20, 2024carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Las Piñas, around one thousand young girls got vaccinated for HPV during the 3-day vaccination drive at Robinsons Place Las Piñas, the City Government announced via social media. Vice Mayor April Aguilar appeared and observed the activities there.

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

The City Health Office, led by Dr. Juliana Gonzalez, recently concluded a highly successful three-day HPV Vaccination drive aimed at females aged 9-14. This significant health initiative, held from June 7-9 at Robinsons Las Piñas, provided vaccinations to approximately 1,000 young girls, ensuring their protection against the human papillomavirus (HPV) before their sexual debut.

The vaccination drive is a critical component of the city’s broader public health strategy to prevent HPV-related diseases, including cervical cancer. Dr. Gonzalez emphasized the importance of early vaccination, noting that immunizing girls before they become sexually active significantly reduces their risk of developing cervical cancer later in life.

City Vice Mayor April Aguilar graced the event, underscoring the city’s commitment to proactive healthcare measures. In her remarks, Vice Mayor Aguilar praised the efforts of the City Health Office and the dedication of the healthcare workers who facilitated the smooth and efficient administration of vaccines over the three days.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a resident of Las Piñas City, what is your reaction to this development? Do you think the HPV vaccination drive for local young girls will turn out helpful? Are there many anti-vaccination fanatics among your local community’s members?

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

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COMELEC claims that Miru Systems is ready to deliver 110,000 automated counting machines for 2025 national & local elections

June 19, 2024June 13, 2024carlocarrasco

With the 2025 national and local elections happening less than a year from now, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) announced that the contracted provider Miru Systems is ready to deliver more than one hundred thousand automated counting machines (ACM) for the said polls, according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) news article.

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

Commission on Elections (Comelec) chairman George Garcia on Wednesday said the Miru Systems is ready to deliver the 110,000 automated counting machines (ACMs) for the 2025 mid-term elections.

Garcia made the remark after he and other Comelec officials visited on Monday the facilities of Miru, a South Korean firm contracted to provide the automated technology for next year’s polls.

“Kuntento at satisfied ang Comelec sa nakikita namin so far. Hindi po tayo nagkamali nung nabigay natin ang award kay Miru (The Comelec is satisfied with what we see so far. We did not make a mistake when we gave the award to Miru),” Garcia said in a statement.

Last Feb. 22, the Comelec awarded the full automation system with transparency audit/count (FASTrAC) project to the joint venture of Miru Systems Co. Ltd., Integrated Computer Systems, St. Timothy Construction Corporation, and Centerpoint Solutions Technologies, Inc. (MIRU-ICS-STCC-CPSTI).

Garcia thanked the South Korean company for showing the Comelec team how the manufacturing will be done. Miru Systems was the lone bidder for the lease of FASTrAC project worth PHP17.9 billion.

“Napatunayan natin na ang Miru talaga ay isang manufacturing company ng mga automated counting machines dahil nakita natin lahat ng mga makina na ginawa nila at ginamit para sa ibang bansa (We have proven that Miru is actually a manufacturing company of automated counting machines because we have seen all the machines they made and use for other countries),” he said.

“Nakita din namin na handang-handa sila na talagang ideliver sa atin yung 110,000 machines na kakailanganin natin sapagkat on-time at yung timeline nila ay sadyang sinusunod. Nakita din natin kung gaano kagaling ang kanilang mga technicians at engineers habang ginagawa nila ang makina (We also saw that they are ready to actually deliver to us the 110,000 machines that we will need because they are on-time and their timeline is being followed. We also saw how good their technicians and engineers are while they are building the machine),” he added.

Miru officials headed by chief executive officer Jin-Bok Chung and vice president for Overseas Sales Ken Cho welcomed the Comelec officials and other stakeholders.

“We are honored to welcome Comelec Chair George Garcia, Commissioners Nelson Celis and Aimee Ferolino, and all other important stakeholders from the Philippines to oversee these early stages of production,” Cho said.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for us to show the status of the ongoing customization of the machines according to the needs of the Filipino people to all stakeholders, including the Philippine Computer Society, KBP (Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas), and other media friends,” he added.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think Miru Systems will be able to deliver all the ACMs needed for the 2025 national and local elections?

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

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Chinese fugitive denied entry into Philippines, gets deported to China

June 18, 2024June 9, 2024carlocarrasco

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) announced that it prevented a Chinese fugitive from entering the country and proceeded to deport him to China, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

A Chinese fugitive was barred entry to the Philippines and deported to China where he is wanted for illegal gambling activities, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) said on Sunday, June 9.

BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco identified the fugitive as Wang Yilin, 37, who was intercepted by immigration officers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 last May 29 following his arrival from Bangkok, Thailand.

“We granted the request of the Chinese embassy that he be sent back to China and stand trial for his alleged crimes,” Tansingco said.

Wang was deported last May 31 and was accompanied by Chinese police escorts, the BI said. He was also included in the BI’s blacklist and perpetually barred from entering the Philippines, it said.

The bureau said “a warrant for Wang’s arrest was issued by the Bengbu municipal public security bureau in Anhui province, China on Sept. 28 last year.”

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Are you concerned that there could be more Chinese fugitives who will try to enter the Philippines?

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

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Immigration officials prevent two Chinese nationals from leaving the country

June 18, 2024June 7, 2024carlocarrasco

Recently the Bureau of Immigration (BI) intercepted and arrested two Chinese fugitives at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) preventing them from leaving the country, according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) news article. The apprehensions happened in two separate occasions.

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

Immigration authorities have prevented two Chinese fugitives from fleeing the country at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Pasay City.

In a news release Thursday, Commissioner Norman Tansingco said Jun Zhang, 36; and Tianyi Zhang, 28, were intercepted and arrested on separate occasions on June 1 after they tried to depart the country for Bangkok, Thailand and Xiamen, China, respectively.

Jun, who was arrested while attempting to board a flight to Bangkok, presented himself as a Myanmar national with the name Lu Kyin Yang at the immigration counter.

“We received advanced information from the Chinese government that he is a fugitive in China and that he would be using that Myanmar passport to evade detection,” Tansingco said.

Jun reportedly arrived in the country in April, before Chinese authorities filed the information on his crimes with the BI.

Meanwhile, Tianyi was found to have a deportation order by the BI for being an undocumented and undesirable alien, after she was caught working for an establishment involved in prostitution and labor exploitation.

Tianyi and two other Chinese suspects also face a case before the Makati City regional trial court for the crime.

A hold departure order has been issued against them by the court to prevent them from leaving while their cases are still under trial.

“They are now detained at our detention facility in Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City where they will remain until they are deported,” Tansingco said.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Are you concerned that there could be more Chinese fugitives hiding in your local community right now?

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

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Almost 200 local and foreign workers rescued in Pampanga POGO raid

June 17, 2024June 7, 2024carlocarrasco

Recently in the province of Pampanga, elements of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), the Special Action Force (SAF) and the local police raided a Philippine Overseas Gaming Operator (POGO) resulting in the rescue of almost two hundred local and foreign workers, according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) news article.

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

Authorities rescued 187 foreign and Filipino workers in a raid at a Philippine Overseas Gaming Operator (POGO) center in Pampanga province on Tuesday night.

In a report on Wednesday, the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) said its members together with the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, Special Action Force and the local police carried out a search warrant operation against the Lucky South 99 compound along Friendship Highway in Angeles City.

The Malolos City Regional Trial Court Branch 14 issued the search warrant against the POGO over reports of human trafficking, torture and scam activities taking place within the establishment.

“Yung reports na nakuha sa atin, initial report for rescue was may mga tinotorture dito. Pinapalo ng mga baseball bat at pinagtatadiyakan dito. Meron tayong isang video na diumano babae na pinagsasayaw dito at pinagpapasahan ng mga bosses (The reports that we received, the initial report for rescue there are persons who are being tortured here. They are struck with a baseball bat and are being kicked. We also have a video allegedly showing a woman dancing and being abused by the bosses),” PAOCC spokesperson Winston John Casio said in a television interview.

Some 158 foreigners, including Chinese, Vietnamese, Malaysians, Myanmar and Korean workers were rescued, together with 29 Filipinos.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Are you convinced that more POGOs around the nation should be investigated for potential criminal activities such as torture, prostitution, scamming and hacking? Do you believe it is high time for a nationwide ban on POGOs?

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

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Two teenagers arrested in Las Piñas City for robbing pedestrian

June 14, 2024June 6, 2024carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Las Piñas, two teenagers were apprehended by the local police for robbing a pedestrian, according to a Manila Bulletin news report. One other suspect, however, remains at large and is now the subject of a manhunt.

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

Two teenagers were arrested by police Thursday morning, June 6, three hours after they robbed a pedestrian in Las Piñas City.

Las Piñas City police chief Col. Sandro Tafalla reported the arrest of the suspects identified as alias Gielyn and alias Nico, both 16 years old.

Tafalla said the third suspect identified as alias Rusty is now the subject of a police manhunt.

The victim, alias Nikkos, 19, sought police assistance from Las Pinas Police Zapote Substation after he was held up by the three suspects while walking near a gasoline station along C5 Extension in Barangay Manuyo Dos, Las Piñas City at around 2:30 a.m. on Thursday, June 6.

The victim claimed that he was confronted by the three suspects riding a motorcycle. One of them, who was armed with a pellet gun, forcibly took his personal belongings, cellular phone worth P21,800, and wallet containing P50 cash.

The police said the suspects were arrested during a follow-up operation conducted at around 5:30 a.m. at C5 Extnesion, Barangay Pulanglupa Uno, Las Piñas City.

Recovered from the arrested suspects were one pellet gun, one 13-inch kitchen knife, one black Yamaha Mio 125 motorcycle, and one OPPO cellular phone.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a resident of Las Piñas City, what is your reaction to this development? Are you concerned that there could be more teenagers in your city who could be engaging in criminal activities?

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

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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

Las Piñas City Vice Mayor honors graduates at SM Southmall Events Hall

June 13, 2024June 3, 2024carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Las Piñas, Vice Mayor April Aguilar appeared during the 7^th Commencement Exercises of the Las Piñas City National Senior High School – Doña Josefa Campus which was held at the SM Southmall Events Hall, the City Government announced via social media.

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

The Las Piñas City National Senior High School – Doña Josefa Campus held its 7th Commencement Exercises on Wednesday, May 29th, at the SM Southmall Events Hall. City Vice Mayor April Aguilar graced the occasion, celebrating the academic achievements of the graduating students.

*Las Piñas City Vice Mayor April Aguilar spoke to the graduates at the SM Southmall Events Hall. (photo source – Las Piñas PIO)*

The ceremony featured the awarding of the Mayor Nene Aguilar Academic Excellence Award, which Vice Mayor Aguilar personally presented to graduates who achieved academic distinction. This award, named in honor of the late Mayor Nene Aguilar, recognizes students who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and performance in their studies.

During her address, Vice Mayor Aguilar congratulated the graduates for their hard work and perseverance. She emphasized the importance of education as a cornerstone for future success and encouraged the students to continue striving for excellence in their academic and personal lives.

A video message from Mayor Imelda Aguilar added to the celebratory spirit, underscoring the city’s commitment to supporting and recognizing academic excellence.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a resident of Las Piñas City, what is your reaction to this development? Are you delighted to see the Vice Mayor appear and speak during the graduation ceremony?

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

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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

DOF considering selling government’s SLEX share

June 12, 2024June 2, 2024carlocarrasco

Recently the Department of Finance (DOF) announced that it is considering selling the government’s share in South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

The Department of Finance (DOF) is considering selling the government’s stake in the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) by the end of this year.

Finance Undersecretary Catherine L. Fong told Manila Bulletin that the government’s ownership in SLEX is included among the assets slated for privatization in 2024.

However, Fong did not provide additional details when asked about the specific shares in SLEX that are being considered for sale.

The government currently holds a 20 percent stake in SMC SLEX Inc., the toll road operator, through the state-owned Philippine National Construction Corp. (PNCC).

SMC SLEX, formerly known as South Luzon Tollway Corp, operates as a unit of San Miguel Holdings Corp. and is a joint venture with PNCC.

Fong said that the Land Bank of the Philippines will conduct the valuation of the SLEX shares.

In 2006, SMC SLEX was granted a 30-year concession, set to expire on Feb. 1, 2036, to operate and manage SLEX, a major tollway in Luzon.

The proceeds from the sale will help achieve the Marcos administration’s target of generating P42.12 billion in non-tax revenues through privatization in 2024.

Apart from the SLEX shares, Fong said that the DOF is also set to sell the 2.2-hectare Mile Long property in Makati.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think selling the government’s stake in the SLEX will turn out good and sensible?

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

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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

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