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Better than Streaming: Do you have Cloak & Dagger (1984) 4K Blu-ray in your collection?

June 24, 2024December 19, 2024carlocarrasco

Welcome back, fellow geeks, Blu-ray collectors and movie buffs!

Decades ago, I saw on home video Cloak & Dagger (1984) which turned out to be an entertaining film to watch as I was already playing games on Atari 2600 and the arcades. After replaying by chance on cable TV years later, I finally bought myself the 4K Blu-ray and it sure was fun to watch it all over again. Check out my retro movie review of it by clicking here.

*The front of my copy of Cloak & Dagger (1984) 4K Blu-ray.*

*The rear with the details that can be read.*

For the newcomers reading this, Cloak & Dagger (1984) is a movie that involved then video game giant Atari in the creative process. The movie’s plot is not based on Atari’s arcade game of the same name (previously titled as Agent X).

Cloak & Dagger (1984) its own original plot of espionage about a young boy Davey (played by Henry Thomas, the star of Steven Spielberg’s E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial) who witnesses a murder and receives an Atari 5200 cartridge of the game Cloak & Dagger that contains something very important. This in turn makes him a target of armed henchmen who won’t stop until they get him. Due to his reputation of being too playful and living with his wild imagination as a spy, people don’t believe Davey’s claim of witnessing a murder. This film happens to be inspired by the short story “The Boy Cried Murder” written by Cornell Woolrich.

*Cloak & Dagger in arcade form. Atari released it in the form of an arcade conversion kit aimed at arcade machines of certain games of its competitors.*

The Cloak & Dagger arcade game can be played on your game console with the Atari 50 collection software (over 100 games). This screenshot I captured while playing it on my Xbox Series X console running Atari 50.

A few weeks ago, my copy of the Cloak & Dagger 4K Blu-ray arrived and it came with two discs: One 4K Blu-ray disc which contained the movie in native 4K (scanned in UHD from the 35mm film) resolution of 3840 x 2160p. The other disc has the same movie in HD (1920 x 1080p) plus the extra stuff which can provide viewers and Cloak & Dagger fans a good amount of important content which will help them learn what the video game elements in the film are, what inspired its creative process and why the film is very unique by today’s standards. There is also an informative new interview with Henry Thomas.

Since then, I saw Cloak & Dagger in 4K twice on my Xbox Series X and its 1080p version on a standalone Blu-ray disc player. Cloak & Dagger in 4K looks better than ever as the picture quality is better, images look sharper and clearer, the colors are vibrant, the small visual details (which were not visible in lower resolution before) are more noticeable now, and film grain structure has been preserved intact!

*The two discs. The one on the right is Cloak & Dagger in 4K.*

As for the story itself, I still find it engaging and enjoyable to watch from start to finish. Cloak & Dagger is clearly a production of its time as it carries clear Cold War references – the Soviet Union and Iran are the evil forces told in very subtle fashion – as well as video game elements and brands (note: ColecoVision even appeared in this Atari-influenced movie) that dominated America’s console gaming market long before PlayStation, Nintendo and Xbox arrived. For a movie aimed at parents and children, this one has really intense violence as it involves shooting and even some elements of terrorism.

Ultimately, I got a lot of enjoyment from my Cloak & Dagger (1984) 4K Blu-ray and I highly recommend it to Cloak & Dagger fans, gamers, physical media collectors and anyone who loves watching movies in the comfort of home. Cloak & Dagger (1984) is a very unique and fun movie that Hollywood does not make anymore. You really should see it.

In case you are interested or if you have made up your mind, you can order a copy of Cloak & Dagger (1984) 4K Blu-ray by clicking here.

If you wish to join a group of movie enthusiasts and talk about cinema, visit the Movie Fans Worldwide Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/322857711779576

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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

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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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

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

First-ever gameplay of Perfect Dark reboot revealed at 2024 Xbox Games Showcase

June 12, 2024June 11, 2024carlocarrasco

Welcome back Xbox fans, geeks and gamers!

Wow! That was a powerful presentation of 1st party video games at the 2024 Xbox Games Showcase (also referred to as Xbox Showcase) that happened in America very recently. Not only was it better and more exciting than the Xbox showcase of 2023, it made this year’s State of Play and Summer Game Fest look even more lackluster and more unsatisfying. Already there are PlayStation 5 (PS5) fans who begged Sony to do better with their showcase of games because this year’s Xbox showcase – which is also the first of the new age of Microsoft-owned Activision-Blizzard-King – energetic and exciting.

For this post, I will be focusing on one of highlights of the Xbox showcase…the first-ever reveal of gameplay and features of the Perfect Dark reboot (for my previous posts, click here and here). For starters, watch the gameplay showcase video below…

Wow! The Perfect Dark presentation exceeded my expectations on gameplay and it looks like The Initiative (Xbox game studio) and Crystal Dynamics (the studio responsible for many Tomb Raider games over the past several years) really got their creative forces combined to make something unique.

Like the previous games that preceded it, the new Perfect Dark utilizes a first-person viewpoint for immersive gameplay and it has a new version of Joanna Dark introduced featuring the likeness of model Elissa Bibaud. Strangely enough, the new agent Dark does not look too attractive. Perhaps more new images of her will be unveiled someday.

*The new Joanna Dark featuring the likeness of model Elissa Bibaud.*

*Elissa Bibaud’s picture from her Instagram.*

The Initiative and Crystal Dynamics must have brainstormed a lot and worked long to modernize the gameplay for this new game (officially the 4^th Perfect Dark game for consoles played at home). What was shown during the video presentation were moments when Joanna Dark used gadgets to do thermal scanning, extract data wirelessly, generate voice-prints and create deepfake audio. Not only that, Joanna is capable of climbing wall pipes, sliding on surfaces and doing wall-running.

Without spoiling the concept of the video too much, I can say that Joanna Dark is already an agent who goes to Garden City in Cairo to find the wanted criminal Daniel Carrington and discover what he has been scheming. With all the details made available by the video and the Xbox Wire piece, Perfect Dark is really a first-person adventure that allows players to figure out what to achieve as they work their way through in missions. This is not just an action-packed first-person shooter.

Perfect Dark is a first-person adventure game laced with sci-fi and espionage elements. Players will be offered opportunities to overcome obstacles in creative ways such as using gadgets to infiltrate places.

Considering what was shown, I can only hope that the game developers will be able to create wide and vertical maps that will allow players to explore a lot more as they take on missions. By today’s standards, linear level designs just won’t cut it anymore. I know for a fact that making an open-world environment will take too much time and effort to complete Perfect Dark, so having wide and vertical maps will be good enough to offer players exploration opportunities.

Strangely enough, the video presentation does not specify which Xbox consoles Perfect Dark will be released for. What was confirmed is that the upcoming game will launch on day one on the Game Pass service which means it will eventually be released on Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S and Windows PC. That being said, Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S owners who are subscribing to Xbox Game Pass (XGP) and Windows PC gamers subscribed already to PC Game Pass will be able to play the new Perfect Dark on launch day someday. I doubt a version of the game will be released for the aging Xbox One consoles.

*In this game, you can accomplish your mission objectives by using stealth or by engaging with the enemies directly with guns and other high-tech weapons.*

While there is no release date yet for the Perfect Dark reboot, you can learn more about the game by clicking https://news.xbox.com/en-us/2024/06/09/perfect-dark-details-interview-xbox-games-showcase-2024/

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Muntinlupa City Mayor tells graduates to live life with integrity instead of wanting social media likes

June 11, 2024June 1, 2024carlocarrasco

During a graduation ceremony held recently in the City of Muntinlupa, Mayor Ruffy Biazon told the graduates to live life with integrity instead of wanting likes of social media, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

Amid the popularity of social media like Facebook and Instagram, Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon reminded graduates to live life with integrity and purpose beyond online validation.

“Live for others instead of for ‘likes.’ Think about how we can serve our families, communities, and fellow citizens,” he said in his speech to the Class of 2024.

He added, “Work hard to be a champion, not to chase clout. Strive for excellence and become champions in everything you do.”

Biazon attended the graduation and moving up ceremonies of more than 20,000 students in public elementary and high schools in Muntinlupa from May 29 to 31.

He acknowledged the importance of social media and noted that while likes are not inherently bad, they should not dictate people’s actions or compromise their values and principles.

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 strongly agree with Mayor Biazon’s advice to the graduates? Do you think that the Filipino youth has gotten too addicted by social media? Do you think that social media companies genuinely care about the mental health of teenagers among their many users?

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

New Health Center in Barangay BF International-CAA inaugurated

June 6, 2024May 29, 2024carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Las Piñas, a new health center in Barangay BF International-CAA was formally inaugurated with Vice Mayor April Aguilar present as the special guest, the City Government announced on social media. This development was described as a significant step in addressing the health needs of the local residents and the broader Las Piñas community.

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

On Thursday, May 23rd, City Vice Mayor April Aguilar led the inauguration of the new CAA-C Health Center in Barangay BF International CAA, a significant development aimed at enhancing healthcare services in the area. City Health Office OIC Dr. Juliana Gonzalez was also present, highlighting the city’s commitment to accessible healthcare.

*The brand new health center of Barangay BF International-CAA. (photo source – Las Piñas PIO)*

The new health center offers a comprehensive range of free services, including infant and child immunization, medical consultations, and dental services such as tooth extractions, fluoride treatments, and free dentures. Additionally, it provides pre-natal and post-partum care, tuberculosis diagnosis and treatment, and adolescent mental health and teenage pregnancy counseling.

Other services include STI/HIV screening, management of lifestyle-related diseases like hypertension, diabetes, and cancer, cervical screening, and nutrition assessment and counseling. The center also serves as an initial point of care for Green Card or Las Piñas City Health Program (LPCHP) holders and provides referrals for diagnostic laboratory services.

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? Is there a new health center being constructed within 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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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

Young Jiu-jitsu gold medalist welcomed by Las Piñas City Mayor Aguilar

May 30, 2024May 20, 2024carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Las Piñas, Mayor Imelda Aguilar welcomed the very young jiu-jitsu champion Jeon Bradley Cruz at City Hall, which the City Government confirmed via social media. For the newcomers reading this, the 6-year-old Cruz won the gold medal of the Kindergarten Rooster division of the ASEAN International Jiu Jitsu Open Championship 2024.

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

City Mayor Imelda Aguilar warmly welcomed six-year-old Jeon Bradley Dela Cruz during a courtesy visit at the City Hall on Thursday, May 16th. Jeon recently competed in the ASEAN International Jiu Jitsu Open Championship 2024, where he won the gold medal in the Kindergarten Rooster division.

*Las Piñas City Mayor Imelda Aguilar with the young champion and family at City Hall. (photo source – Las Piñas PIO)*

In addition to his recent victory, Jeon also participated in the Marianas Pro Manila Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Championship 2024, where he secured another gold medal in the same division. His achievements in these prestigious competitions highlight his talent and dedication to the sport.

Mayor Aguilar congratulated Jeon on his accomplishments, expressing pride in his representation of Las Piñas on an international level. She noted that Jeon’s success at such a young age is commendable and brings great honor to the city and emphasized the importance of hard work and dedication, which Jeon has clearly demonstrated through his achievements.

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 very delighted to learn about what Jeon Bradley Dela Cruz achieved for both the city and the nation?

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

Newest women’s crisis center of Las Piñas inaugurated in Barangay Talon Dos

May 22, 2024May 9, 2024carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Las Piñas, City Government officials led by Mayor Imelda Aguilar graced the inauguration of the newest women’s crisis center located in Barangay Talon Dos, according to the local government’s social media post.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the City Government’s social media post of May 9, 2024. Some parts in boldface…

The City of Las Piñas has inaugurated a new Women’s Crisis Center in Sta. Cecilia Village, Barangay Talon Dos, providing essential services to women aged 18-59 who face gender-based violence. The center, which opened its doors on May 8th with City Mayor Imelda T. Aguilar and Vice Mayor April Aguilar in attendance, aims to support up to 40 women with temporary shelter and rehabilitation services.

This initiative responds to a rising number of violence cases against women in the area, attributed to increased awareness of women’s rights. The facility offers a comprehensive range of services designed to promote healing and recovery, including counseling, legal assistance, and livelihood training.

In addition to serving as a protective haven, the center functions as a Livelihood Center, aligning with Mayor Aguilar’s focus on enhancing economic opportunities for women through skill development. The diverse programs aim to empower women to rebuild their lives and achieve economic independence.

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 wish to see another women’s crisis center get built and launched in your local community someday?

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

BIR softens approach on social media influencers

May 17, 2024May 7, 2024carlocarrasco

Recently the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) announced that it would soften is approach on social media influencers, according to a Malaya Business Insight news report.

In reference to the Revenue Memorandum Circular 97-2021 issued by the BIR, social media influencers are defined as those who derive their income from the following sources: YouTube Partner Program; sponsored social and blog posts; display advertising; becoming a brand representative/ambassador; affiliate marketing; co-creating product lines; promoting own products; photo and video sales; digital courses, subscriptions, e-books; and podcasts and webinars.

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

Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. is opting to take a “soft” approach on influencers, giving them a chance to cooperate and comply first with the tax agency’s regulations.

When asked by reporters if the agency is currently working on possible cases to be filed against non-compliant social media personalities, the BIR chief said: “Not yet. I don’t want to file a case yet because I want to take a soft approach first.”

“We may do an audit, but we won’t file a case yet. As long as they are willing to comply, we will help them (to comply),” Lumagui said.

During the previous administration in 2021, the BIR started cracking down on social media influencers and probed an initial 250 individuals to check their tax compliance. Some major online personalities, however, deactivated their accounts after the release of a related circular during the said year.

Lumagui said he has extended his invitation to the association of these social media personalities to sit down and discuss with them their concerns and how the industry can be more tax compliant.

“We would just like to educate them on their obligation,” the BIR chief said.

Lumagui also said he has been in touch with individual influencers who are correctly paying their taxes, and asked them to encourage their colleagues to do the same.

According to Revenue Memorandum Circular 97-2021, social media influencers should pay income tax and percentage tax or, if applicable, the value-added tax, as mandated under the National Internal Revenue Code and other existing laws.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think this latest move by the BIR will encourage social media influencers to come out and cooperate?

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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Las Piñas City hosts clean-up drive with DILG Secretary Abalos

May 10, 2024May 1, 2024carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Las Piñas, a major clean-up drive attended by Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos took place within Barangay BF International-CAA, the City Government announced through social media.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the City Government’s social media post of April 30, 2024. Some parts in boldface…

Las Piñas City held the KALINISAN sa Bagong Pilipinas Clean-Up Drive at the Arratelis Open Court, Brgy. CAA/BF International on Saturday, April 27th. The event was spearheaded by DILG Secretary Atty. Benhur Abalos Jr. and attended by city officials, including Vice Mayor April Aguilar.

The clean-up drive forms part of the broader KALINISAN or “Kalinga at Inisyatiba Para sa Malinis na Bayan” program, aimed at enhancing environmental health and safety through community efforts.

The initiative focuses on integrating all segments of society to take part in environmental preservation through the traditional Filipino value of ‘bayanihan.’, with the goal of fostering public awareness about environmental care and motivating local government units to invest in solid waste management and sustainable ecological practices.

The day’s activities included a series of community cleaning efforts, such as trash collection and the beautification of public spaces and a planting activity at the urban garden.

By focusing on community engagement and responsibility towards the environment, the KALINISAN program seeks to instill a sense of duty in maintaining cleanliness and ecological balance.

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 wish to see more major clean-up activities held in other parts of the city? Do you think the presence of the DILG adds credibility to such activities in the city?

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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