Tag: Philippines

Business tycoon Ramon S. Ang will give P22 million in incentives to Olympic medalists

Business tycoon Ramon S. Ang will give P22 million in incentives to Olympic medalists

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There is no doubt that the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games was historic for the Philippines thanks to Hidilyn Diaz, Nesthy Petecio, Carlo Paalam and Eumir Marcial who won four medals combined, including the Olympic gold (in women’s weightlifting).

In addition to the established law that guaranteed that the Olympic medalists will receive millions of pesos worth of incentives from the national government, San Miguel Corporation (SMC) president Ramon S. Ang will give over P20 million more in incentives to them according to a recent report by the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

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

San Miguel Corporation (SMC) president Ramon S. Ang will give Tokyo Olympics medalists, led by the country’s very first gold medal winner Hidilyn Diaz, a total of PHP22 million in incentives for accomplishing the Philippines’ best Olympic performance to date, in 97 years of competing in the foremost international competition.

Ang’s “personal gift” or incentive to the winning athletes, as earlier announced by the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) prior to the Summer Games, will consist of PHP10 million for weightlifter Diaz, PHP5 million each for boxers Carlo Paalam and Nesthy Petecio for winning silver medals, and PHP2 million for boxer Eumir Marcial’s bronze finish.

“As a longtime partner and supporter of Philippine sports, I’m so happy for our athletes. All their hard work paid off. They’ve opened the eyes of so many Filipinos sports patrons, fans, and aspiring athletes that indeed, we Filipinos can compete and win against the best in the world in the Olympics. This is just the beginning. We have the momentum. We can only get stronger in the succeeding Olympics,” Ang said in a news release on Monday.

“I’m especially grateful to Hidilyn, whom we’ve supported for several years now, for giving honor to the country by winning our very first Olympic gold medal. We can build on these successes to develop stronger sports programs and produce more Olympic winners like Hidilyn, Carlo, Nesthy, and Eumir,” he added.

Ang also said the Olympic athletes, as well as their coaches and teams, gave the Philippines more than just medals.

“The message of this Olympic campaign for us Filipinos is clear. We are resilient in the face of challenges and we do not back down from adversity. This pandemic is perhaps one of the greatest challenges in our lifetime. Thank you Hidilyn, Carlo, Nesthy, and Eumir for giving us hope and inspiration during this critical time. You showed us that nothing is impossible,” Ang said.

Ang added that as the Olympics showcased the outstanding athletic feats that fully-trained athletes are capable of, it also serves as a reminder that people are not limited, and that Filipinos should endeavor to keep fit and healthy in the face of Covid-19 pandemic.

“Aside from following health protocols to stop the transmission of the virus and getting vaccinated, we should also do our best to make sure we are mentally and physically fit and healthy during this crisis. I believe that will help us a lot in coping with the stresses of this time,” Ang said.

Before the pandemic, SMC consistently supported the country’s participation and hosting of international competitions, including the staging of 2019 Southeast Asian Games.

Wow! The deep generosity of Ramon S. Ang is undeniable and he is absolutely right that great achievers who competed in very tough competitions should be rewarded handsomely. While Republic Act Number 10699 (RA10699) guarantees that the national government will release incentives for national athletes who won medals in specific competitions, private sector-provided incentives are undeniably helpful and very welcome. Thank our Heavenly Father for all the success achieved and the blessings that manifested! Thank the Lord also for the tremendous Olympic success the Philippines achieved!

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: Are you very happy for everything that our nation’s four Olympic medalists achieved for the Filipino people at the Tokyo Olympics? Are you delighted to learn that the Olympic medalists as well as all the other Philippine Team members who did not win medals at the Tokyo Olympics will be rewarded accordingly?

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

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com

Parañaque police officer passed away

Parañaque police officer passed away

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In a recent report by the Philippine Daily Inquirer, there was this police officer assigned to the Philippine National Police (PNP) station in Parañaque City who died two days after he got run down by a vehicle driven by someone drunk along Dr. A. Santos Avenue (DASA).

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

A police officer assigned to the Parañaque City Police Station died after being run down by a car with a drunk driver on Dr. A. Santos Avenue, the Southern Police District (SPD) said on Tuesday.

Cpl. Nestor Guslab Jr. was manning a quarantine control point in front of the Loyola Memorial Park in Barangay San Antonio last Friday night when a silver Toyota Corolla Altis approached the checkpoint at high speed.

Police officers at the checkpoint tried to flag down the speeding car, which was said to be driven by a certain Dominic Alastair David. But instead of stopping, the driver even sped up and hit Guslab who fell on the ground.

The car continued moving towards the direction of Baclaran until stopped by responding officers at the corner of San Antonio Avenue — about 2 kilometers from the quarantine control point.

Police officers found in the car a small sachet containing dried leaves suspected to be marijuana

Guslab, who had serious head and body injuries, was brought to the Parañaque Medical Hospital and then transferred to the Uni-Health Medical Hospital, where he eventually died on Sunday, two days after.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: Did you witness any reckless driving incidents or car accidents in Parañaque City recently? Does the death of the Parañaque police officer impact you somehow? When you hear the words Parañaque Renaissance, does crime or reckless driving enter in your mind?

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

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com

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

COVID-19 Crisis: PNP to strictly implement Metro Manila prohibition on outdoor exercise during ECQ

COVID-19 Crisis: PNP to strictly implement Metro Manila prohibition on outdoor exercise during ECQ

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Did you spot anyone running or biking or hiking outdoors in your local community recently? I spotted nobody doing any fitness activities outdoors which is not surprising since the Metro Manila mayors passed the resolution prohibiting outdoor exercise for the duration of the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) which is supposed to end on August 20, 2021.

Yesterday I spotted the Philippine News Agency (PNA) follow-up story to the NCR outdoor exercise ban and it focuses on the side of the Philippine National Police (PNP) who are following the orders to implement the said ban.

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

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief, Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, on Wednesday, ordered all police officers to strictly enforce the prohibition on outdoor exercises for the duration of the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) period in the National Capital Region (NCR).

“Ang pagbabawal sa mga outdoor activity ay desisyon ng ating mga Metro Manila mayors na kailangang ipatupad ng inyong PNP para sa kapakanan ng lahat, lalo na at marami na ang kumpirmadong kaso ng mga bata, kabilang ang mga sanggol, na nahahawa ng Covid-19 (The prohibition on all outdoor activities is the collective decision of all Metro Manila mayors that need to be implemented by the PNP for the safety of all, especially now that there are a lot of cases involving children, and even babies, who got infected with the coronavirus disease 2019),” Eleazar said in a statement.

He called the prohibition on all outdoor activities very timely, considering that the Philippines has been declared as “high-risk” for Covid-19 due to the increasing number of infections.

The measure, he added, is needed to ensure that the situation would not worsen the country’s health and economic situation.

Eleazar also directed police commanders to maximize the information drive on the measure through the PNP’s social media accounts and through Oplan Bandillo where policemen warn the public through a megaphone or speaker system installed in roving police vehicles.

He appealed to Metro Manila residents to abide by this rule and cooperate with authorities.

In Resolution 21-17, series of 2021 issued on Monday, the Metro Manila Council (MMC) banned outdoor exercise for the remainder of the ECQ in the NCR.

The resolution was signed by the 17 NCR mayors and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chair Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr.

“It is hereby resolved that the MMC prohibits outdoor exercise in NCR during the ECQ until 20 August 2021 through the local government units of Metro Manila,” the resolution read.

The decision was made after the “steady rise” in the number of Covid-19 cases, including confirmed cases of the highly transmissible Delta variant of the coronavirus,s in the region.

The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday said the Philippines has gone up to high-risk classification as a rise in Covid-19 cases has been observed with a positive two-week growth rate (TWGR) at 47 percent.

In closing this piece, let me ask you readers: Do you believe that the Metro Manila Council made the right decision prohibiting outdoor exercise for the duration of the current ECQ? Are you concerned that the police will abuse their authority once they spot someone exercising outdoors? What do you think about the PNP 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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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com

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

COVID-19 Crisis: Metro Manila mayors approve resolution prohibiting outdoor exercise during ECQ

COVID-19 Crisis: Metro Manila mayors approve resolution prohibiting outdoor exercise during ECQ

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Are you conscious about your health and you constantly need to exercise to meet your personal fitness goals? If you are residing here in Metro Manila, you will be screwed because the Metro Manila Council (MCC) composed of many mayors with Parañaque mayor Edwin Olivarez as the chairman approved a resolution prohibiting residents from going out of their homes for exercise in relation to the current enhanced community quarantine (ECQ). Take note that lesser outdoor space to exercise means lesser opportunities to keep yourselves healthy and boosting your immune system (this we all need so badly in this COVID-19 pandemic apart from the vaccines).

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

Metro Manila Council (MMC) Chairman and Paranaque City Mayor Edwin Olivarez said the mayors of the National Capital Region (NCR) are ready to implement the ban on exercising outside residences during the two-week enhanced community quarantine (ECQ).

Olivarez said Metro mayors agreed and passed a resolution prohibiting residents from going out of their homes to exercise until August 20.

“Ipinagbabawal po natin ang exercise, ang walking. Dahil po sa Delta variant, talagang hard lockdown po talaga. Ganon ang naging usapan talaga dahil nagkakaroon po kasi ng gathering kapag nageexercise. (We prohibit exercise and walking. Because of the Delta variant, it’s really a hard lockdown. That’s what we talked about because there’s a gathering when people exercise), the mayor said in an interview with DZMM Teleradyo.

“Kung hindi po talaga essential yung paglabas mo talaga, hindi po talaga papayagan talaga (If it is not really essential, it really won’t be allowed),” he added.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Daily Inquirer made its own report of the same issue except their source is Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Benhur Abalos (who recently visited Muntinlupa, Las Piñas and Parañaque for inspection of local vaccination operations). Watch this Inquirer news video clip…

Let me ask you readers: What do you think about the latest news? Do you believe that the Metro Manila mayors carefully analyzed the health-related science, the situations in their respective cities and the COVID-19 data before deciding on a resolution prohibiting outdoor exercise? Do you believe the Metro Manila mayors consulted with doctors and scientists about outdoor exercise being a COVID-19 risk?

Do you agree with mayor Olivarez’s claim about people gathering when they exercise? How far should local government leaders go with their authority over their constituents over the topic of outdoor exercise? If you are a resident of Parañaque City, do you believe that the local vaccination organizers are doing a good job with the registration, contacting registrants and handling all the people who lined up at local vaccination sites?

Could the Metro Manila mayors be more concerned about the next national and local elections of May 2022 than public health and COVID-19? If ever MMDA chairman Abalos runs for a national position in 2022 like, let’s say for Senator, would you vote for him?

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

In concluding this, I want you readers to pay close attention to what I’m posting here…

No matter what the other news outlets report about the prohibition on outdoor exercise within Metro Manila and no matter the public officials do, we must never lose faith in the Lord high above us all. It is to Him we should look up to and pray to Him for continued protection and lifting us up. We also need to pray to Him to enlighten all the public officials in office so that they may see the light. Always remember that Lord Jesus is the true savior of all. Posted below is a holy scripture for you all…

When you abide under the shadow of Shaddai,

    you are hidden in the strength of God Most High.

He’s the hope that holds me and the stronghold to shelter me,

    the only God for me, and my great confidence.

He will rescue you from every hidden trap of the enemy,

    and he will protect you from false accusation

    and any deadly curse.

His massive arms are wrapped around you, protecting you.

    You can run under his covering of majesty and hide.

    His arms of faithfulness are a shield keeping you from harm.

You will never worry about an attack of demonic forces at night

    nor have to fear a spirit of darkness coming against you.

Don’t fear a thing!

    Whether by night or by day, demonic danger will not trouble you,

    nor will the powers of evil be launched against you.

Even in a time of disaster, with thousands and thousands being killed,

    you will remain unscathed and unharmed.

You will be a spectator as the wicked perish in judgment,

    for they will be paid back for what they have done!

Psalm 91:1-10 (TPT)

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com

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

COVID-19 Crisis: Delta variant cases in Las Piñas City counted at 24

COVID-19 Crisis: Delta variant cases in Las Piñas City counted at 24

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Just as the total number of vaccinated people in Las Piñas City approaches the 500,000 mark, it was reported by the Manila Bulletin that there are 24 cases of the highly contagious Delta variant within the city confirmed.

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

The Las Pinas City government confirmed that there are already 24 cases of the Delta variant of COVID-19 in the city and the patients are recovering.

Dr. Julie Gonzales, City Health Office (CHO) officer, said the 24 cases of Delta variant came from seven barangays in the city. She refused to name the barangays.

Gonzales said it was initially reported that the total number of Delta variant case in the city was 26 but upon case investigation, it was found out that the two cases came from another local government unit (LGU).

She also said that the city is seeing other coronavirus disease (COVID-19) variants mutations and could not still identify if it is the Delta variant.

The CHO officer said the city is still waiting for the genome sequencing result on the new cases reported in the city.

Mayor Imelda Aguilar ordered for an intensified prevent-detect-isolate-treat-reintegration (PDITR) system and vaccination to stop the transmission of the virus.

Aguilar was also informed that hospitals in the city — the Perpetual Help Medical Center, Las Pinas General Hospital, E. Zarate Hospital, and A. Zarate Hospital have reached full capacity.

The mayor said the city government is not yet implementing granular lockdown on barangays with Delta variant cases because those afflicted were already isolated and are recovering.

The above report ended stating that Mayor Aguilar said that their city government is only implementing house lockdowns as their local health office keeps on investigating COVID-19 cases. Speaking of COVID-19, posted below for your reference is the official number of vaccinated people in the city accurate as of August 7, 2021. Also the local advise regarding Delta variant is posted further below.

Any Las Piñas resident who has yet to get registered for the free COVID-19 vaccines can learn the ways (4 methods) by clicking here. Anyone who is ready and willing to register online can click bit.ly/LasPiñasVaccination

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a resident of Las Piñas, are you still moving around the city using public transportation knowing that there are Delta variant cases in the city? Does the Delta variant news convince the unvaccinated members of your community to get registered and join the line for the free vaccines?

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

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com

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

COVID-19 Crisis: Muntinlupa ramps up vaccine rollout, PNP inspects 2,337 PUVs and apprehends 277 violators

COVID-19 Crisis: Muntinlupa ramps up vaccine rollout, PNP inspects 2,337 PUVs and apprehends 277 violators

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The City Government of Muntinlupa ramps up its vaccine rollout by adding additional vaccination sites across the city while the local PNP implements stricter inspection during the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ).

“Siyam na bagong vaccination sites ang bubuksan sa buong lungsod sa mga susunod na araw. Karagdagan ito sa existing seven sites na kasalukuyan nang operational. Ngayong may karagdagang vaccination sites ay madadagdagan pa ang ating mabibigyang proteksyon kontra COVID-19. Idi-distribute po sa lahat ng sites ang pag-iischedule,” the Muntinlupa City COVID-19 Vaccination Program (MunCoVac) announced on its Facebook page.

In total, there will be 16 vaccination sites in Muntinlupa which can accommodate up to 10,000 residents every day, subject to the availability of COVID-19 vaccines.

The vaccination sites in Muntinlupa are the following: Cluster 1 – Mega Site: SM Center Muntinlupa,   Satellite Sites: Tunasan – Victoria Health Center, Tunasan Pavillion (Arandia St.), Tunasan National High School, Centennial Ave. (formerly MNHS Tunasan Annex), and Poblacion – Muntinlupa National High School – Main, Biazon Covered Court, NHA – Southville 3; Cluster 2 – Mega Site: Ayala Malls South Park, Satellite Sites: Putatan – Soldier’s Hills Covered Court, and Bayanan – Bayanan ES Unit 1 (Baywalk); Cluster 3 – Mega Site: Festival Upper Ground Floor Parking; Cluster 4 – Satellite Sites: De La Salle Santiago Zobel School, Alabang Town Center (for A4 non-residents); Cluster 5 – Satellite Site: New Cupang Health Center; Cluster 6 – Satellite Sites: Sucat Covered Court, Buli Elementary School, Colegio de Muntinlupa.

Earlier, MunCoVac announced that walk-ins will not be accommodated in the vaccination sites, except for senior citizens. The City Government urges those who do not have a confirmed vaccination schedule from MunCoVac to refrain from proceeding to the vaccination sites. City residents are encouraged to register online through the city’s COVID-19 vaccination registration system via www.vaccine.muntinlupacity.gov.ph/muncovac to receive their schedule.

Mayor Jaime Fresnedi encouraged the public to avail the vaccination service of the local government especially during the ECQ for them to have an added protection against the adverse effects of COVID-19.

As of August 6, there are 339,909 vaccines deployed in Muntinlupa, of which 199,236 are first dose (51.7% of the target) and 145,026 are second dose (37.6% of the target).

Further, members of the Muntinlupa City Police Station (MCPS) inspected at least 2,377 public utility vehicles (PUVs) and recorded 277 violations committed by authorized and unauthorized persons outside of residence.

In a report by MCPS chief Col. Melecio Buslig, the PUV inspections and violations were recorded from 5 a.m. of Aug. 8 to 5 a.m. of Aug. 9 at the Muntinlupa-San Pedro, Laguna boundary quarantine control point (QCP), Susana Heights Road QCP, Biazon Road law enforcement checkpoint (LEC), Alabang-Zapote Road LEC and Sucat-Taguig boundary.

As of August 8, Muntinlupa City has 945 active cases, with 14,229 recoveries, 15,569 confirmed cases, 395 reported deaths, 34 suspect cases, and 1,621 probable cases.

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

Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com

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

COVID-19 Crisis: GCash will be used by the Muntinlupa City Government to distribute ayuda to local recipients

COVID-19 Crisis: GCash will be used by the Muntinlupa City Government to distribute ayuda to local recipients

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Calling all residents of Muntinlupa City who use GCash! Be aware that it has been reported by the Manila Bulletin that the national government’s financial assistance (AKA ayuda) will be released to qualified recipients through their GCash accounts. Take note that the City Government of Muntinlupa will use the mobile wallet app as a crucial method to send the money to the qualified recipients which should relieve them from having to personally travel to a single venue to physically collect the money. For the newcomers reading this, the national government releases financial assistance to the residents of specific areas or regions that got affected by the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ).

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

The Muntinlupa City government announced Monday that it will use the mobile wallet app GCash in the distribution of the national government’s “ayuda” or financial assistance.

“For the expected distribution of ‘ayuda’ for affected Muntinlupa residents under ECQ [enhanced community quarantine], the local government will use GCash. The city government decided to hold an online distribution to ensure the safety of everyone against COVID-19,” according to an announcement by the city government.

It said it will issue additional updates about the online payout and urged the public to make their own GCash accounts.

According to Local Budget Circular No. 138 issued by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) on Aug. 6, Muntinlupa has been allotted P441.6 million for distribution to affected residents.

The “ayuda” allotment was given to Metro Manila local government units (LGUs) after the region was placed under ECQ from Aug. 6 to 20.

A total of P10.89 billion has been allotted by the national government to 16 cities and one municipality in Metro Manila.

If you are a qualified recipient of the ayuda here in Muntinlupa and you don’t have GCash, then you should download the app as soon as possible. Posted below are the ways to get yourselves moving with GCash. The images below were posted by the City Government through their official Facebook page.

Residents of Muntinlupa City who remain unregistered and unvaccinated should make a move to get registered by learning the ways to do it. Those who are prepared (with personal information available) and willing to go through online registration for the free vaccines in Muntinlupa are encouraged to click https://vaccine.muntinlupacity.gov.ph/muncovac/

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a Muntinlupa City resident who is qualified for the financial assistance, do you think that GCash is the most ideal way to receive the money through the City Government? Do you prefer cash in physical form over digital? What is the one thing you like or dislike the most about GCash?

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

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com

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

Better than Streaming: Why I look forward to The Suicide Squad’s eventual 4K Blu-ray release

Better than Streaming: Why I look forward to The Suicide Squad’s eventual 4K Blu-ray release

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I want to start by saying that I am not a fan of the Suicide Squad entertainment franchise of DC Comics for the simple reason that I rarely read any of its comic book. In 2016, out of curiosity, I got to watch Suicide Squad in the cinema and even got some enjoyment out of it.

This year, The Suicide Squad got released and what caught my attention was the fact that it was directed and written by the highly creative James Gunn who made his mark in American cinema with the Guardians of the Galaxy films which established their own notable place within the highly successful Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Sadly, being based here in the Philippines, I won’t be able to watch the newest DC Comics movie on the big screen because local cinemas have stopped showing movies since the COVID-19 pandemic started (note: some local cinemas were used as vaccination sites). Although millions of people here in the Philippines have been vaccinated, there are still no new signs that movie theaters will reopen and resume the showing of movies.

The movie poster of The Suicide Squad.

The next best option for me is the eventual 4K Blu-ray release of The Suicide Squad.

Now don’t get me wrong. As of this writing, there is still no official announcement yet that The Suicide Squad will come out on Blu-ray (for 1080p viewing) and 4K Blu-ray. Still, that movie has a 4K Blu-ray page at Blu-ray.com and can see it by clicking right here. Trust me, The Suicide Squad 4K Blu-ray will be announced soon!

Posted below are key details from the said page.

Video

Codec: HEVC / H.265

Resolution: Native 4K (2160p)

HDR: HDR10

Original aspect ratio: 1.90:1

Audio – TBA

Subtitles – None

Discs

4K Ultra HD

Blu-ray Disc

Two-disc set (2 BD)

Digital

Digital 4K

Digital copy included

Playback

4K Blu-ray: Region free

2K Blu-ray: Region A

Why I look forward to this movie’s 4K Blu-ray release

Firstly, being a geek, I find James Gunn’s superhero-related work to be really creative and that includes combining bombastic spectacle with presenting groups of characters whose interactions and respective personalities prove to be memorable. He is also a solid storyteller and has proven to be capable of not only getting solid performances from the actors but also making good use of their respective talents.

Secondly, for some time now, I’ve been checking for updates about how Gunn’s style and approach would make the new Suicide Squad movie of Warner Bros. fun and engaging to watch. The good news here is that, as of this writing, critical reception has been positive.

Of course, movie critics’ tastes are different from my own and it will be some time before I will finally get to watch the The Suicide Squad 4K Blu-ray.

Thirdly, I find the cast of the new movie interesting and intriguing. John Cena as Peacemaker looks zany. Michael Rooker’s Savant looks intimidating. There is also the iconic Sylvester Stallone providing the voice of King Shark! Of course, there is also Idris Elba as Bloodsport and I wonder how the cinematic version of the character will turn out. Bloodsport debuted in the 1987 comic book Superman #4 (Volume 2) during the time John Byrne spearheaded comics of Superman.

Fourthly, my 4K Blu-ray collection is pretty small as of this writing and when it comes to Warner Bros./DC Comics superhero movies available in 4K Blu-ray format, I want something much better than Wonder Woman 1984 (note: director Patty Jenkins clearly did not take inspiration from the fine works of the legendary George Perez as far as telling a Wonder Woman story set in the 1980s goes. The presentation was also bloated and disappointing.).

From this point on, The Suicide Squad has its chance to recover its huge production and marketing costs by playing in several movie theaters (that managed to stay open or reopened) around the world. How the movie-loving public, geeks and DC Comics fans will react remains to be seen.

There is also the possibility that James Gunn-directed DC Comics movie might not score highly in ticket sales given the fact that it has been launched also on the streaming service HBO Max. Matching the $746.8 million global ticket sales of 2016’s Suicide Squad is pretty daunting for the new movie in this age of pandemic. Streaming the movie for home viewing is convenient but the best visual experience is still in the movie theaters, especially in the IMAX cinemas (because the movie was filmed with IMAX cameras).

It should be noted that paying for HBO Max does NOT mean you are paying The Suicide Squad producers and investors. Buying movie tickets, Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray discs actually pay the film’s producers, investors and business partners. That being said, I encourage you to go for Blu-ray and/or 4K Blu-ray instead of streaming when it comes to enjoying movies at home.

Too bad the local IMAX cinemas and all regular theaters here in the Philippines remain closed. Clearly the best option for me to watch The Suicide Squad is on 4K Blu-ray in the near future. Streaming is definitely not an option for me and I am not going to waste my money on any streaming service.

Stay tuned for future updates about The Suicide Squad on 4K Blu-ray.

For more entries of my Better than Streaming series of articles, check out my pieces on The Beastmaster 4K Blu-ray, The Transformers: The Movie 4K Blu-ray, Mortal Kombat 2021 4K Blu-ray, Space Jam 4K Blu-ray, V: The Original Miniseries Blu-ray (read my retro review), V: The Final Battle Blu-ray and Highlander 4K Blu-ray.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com

COVID-19 Crisis: Beware of fake vaccination cards made and sold by certain computer shops within Muntinlupa City

COVID-19 Crisis: Beware of fake vaccination cards made and sold by certain computer shops within Muntinlupa City

carlocarrasco

In the City of Muntinlupa, it has been reported by the Manila Bulletin that certain local business joints have allegedly been producing fake COVID-19 vaccination cards and have been selling them. Already the local authorities are aware of this and there is potential danger with regards to fake vaccination cards being used to deceive local businesses (who grant discounts for vaccinated customers) and community organizations who relied on official vaccination cards (the ones from MunCoVac) for verification and statistics.

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

The Muntinlupa City government has warned that people who fake COVID-19 vaccination cards and sell them will face legal action.

In an announcement Saturday, the Muntinlupa City COVID-19 Vaccination Program (MunCoVac) said it “received a report of alleged faking and selling of fake vaccination cards in several computers shops in the city.”

“This is illegal. The BPLO [Business Permits and Licensing Office] went to the computer shop to investigate. Their business permits can possibly be revoked. People can also be charged if they are proven to be involved in faking public documents like the vaccination record,” said MunCoVac.

MunCoVac said fake vaccination cards are dangerous as those who have not been vaccinated do not have protection against COVID-19.

“They are also putting their family and other people they meet in danger. Moreover, this negates our sacrifices over several lockdowns in order to stop the spread of COVID-19,” it added.

It said the city government will launch a verification system in the next few weeks in which the validity of the vaccination record using QR code can be confirmed.

As of Aug. 6, 199,236 individuals, including 5,192 inoculated in private companies, have received their first dose, or 51.7 percent of the target population of 385,725.

To the locals who have gotten vaccinated and have their genuine cards from MunCoVac, please take special care of those cards. Right now, Metro Manila’s COVID-19 problem has gotten much worse and the presence of fake vaccination cards will only make things difficult not only for the City of Muntinlupa but also on other cities. Just imagine someone using a fake Muntinlupa vaccination card to illegally avail of discounts offered by business joints in other cities.

Residents of Muntinlupa City who remain unregistered and unvaccinated should make a move to get registered by learning the ways to do it. Those who are prepared (with personal information available) and willing to go through online registration for the free vaccines in Muntinlupa are encouraged to click https://vaccine.muntinlupacity.gov.ph/muncovac/

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you spent time recently in Muntinlupa, were you able to visit local computer shops that made and/or sold fake vaccination cards? Do you think the City Government’s upcoming verification system will be able to detect which vaccination cards are fake or genuine?

Are you aware that Coffee Syndicate in Alabang offers a 10% discount to customers who can prove they were vaccinated for COVID-19? Visit Coffee Syndicate at the ground floor at Commercenter mall.

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

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com

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

Philippine athletes who did not win medals at the Tokyo Olympics will still be rewarded

Philippine athletes who did not win medals at the Tokyo Olympics will still be rewarded

carlocarrasco

With so much focus on the respective Olympic victories of Hidilyn Diaz (gold in women’s weightlifting) and Nesthy Petecio (silver in women’s boxing) as well as the remaining chances of the Philippines to win more medals at the Tokyo Olympics, it is natural to forget all the other national athletes who failed to win any medals.

There is however a breakthrough for the non-medalists among the Philippine team members at the Olympics as it was announced yesterday that such athletes will actually be rewarded half-a-million Philippine pesos each thanks to the generosity of the MVP Sports Foundation. In short, the Olympic non-medalists will not go home empty handed (praise and thank the Lord).

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the Philippine News Agency (PNA) report. Some parts in boldface…

For being part of the Philippines’ most successful Olympic campaign ever, even those who failed to land a podium finish in this year’s Tokyo Olympics will still receive a monetary reward.

The Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) announced on Thursday that the MVP Sports Foundation will be giving away PHP500,000 each to the Olympic non-medalists.

“Everyone on Team Philippines in these ‘Golden Olympics’ deserve all the praises, and in this case, incentives, they need,” POC president Bambol Tolentino said. “Qualifying for the Olympics is already that difficult, what more competing in the Games themselves.”

Benefiting from this development are rowing’s Cris Nievarez, taekwondo’s Kurt Barbosa, skateboarding’s Margielyn Didal, shooting’s Jayson Valdez, gymnastics’ Carlos Yulo, boxing’s Irish Magno, judo’s Kiyomi Watanabe, weightlifting’s Elreen Ando, golf’s Juvic Pagunsan, athletics’ EJ Obiena (pole vault), Kristina Knott (200m run), and swimming’s Remedy Rule and Luke Gebbie.

The place in the history of the Philippines’ 2020 Tokyo Olympics team has been secured when Hidilyn Diaz won the country’s first-ever gold in the women’s 55-kg weightlifting event.

Nesthy Petecio added a silver in the women’s featherweight boxing event.

Still in the running for a medal are golfers Yuka Saso and Bianca Pagdanganan.

Pagdanganan finished the first round of the women’s golf event within striking distance of a Top 3 finish after going two-under-par 69 on Wednesday, good for a share of seventh place with Round 2 ongoing as of posting.

On the other hand, boxers Eumir Marcial and Carlo Paalam are already assured of medals as well but can still upgrade them to silver or even gold.

As you can see in the details above, the Philippine team of athletes at the Olympics is pretty small and yet it is the most successful in terms of medals achieved (including the nation’s first-ever Olympic gold medal). At the same time, it is only right for the athletes to be provided something not only because everyone is struggling during this COVID-19 pandemic but also because training for important sports events representing the country requires a lot of money for the years to come.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: Do you think that the P500,000 incentive for each non-medalist is good enough? Do you think that more private enterprises should donate more to the non-medalists?

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

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me as well. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me at HavenorFantasy@twitter.com