Muntinlupa City Government Aims for Zero Firecracker Injuries, to Apprehend Open-muffler Ban Violators

December 27, 2019December 27, 2019carlocarrasco

Muntinlupa City Government Aims for Zero Firecracker Injuries, to Apprehend Open-muffler Ban Violators

With local measures already enforced, the City Government of Muntinlupa announced today that it is targeting zero firecracker-related injuries and will apprehend motorists using open-mufflers in the holiday season.

Muntinlupa Public Information Officer Tez Navarro said the City Government aims to have zero firecracker-related casualty when city residents welcome the New Year as it beefs up the implementation of Oplan Iwas Paputok campaign.

Navarro said the City Health Office recorded a significant decrease in casualties from 13 cases in 2016 to six in 2017, and reduced to two in 2018 upon the implementation of the ban. Local hospitals including Ospital ng Muntinlupa are on standby and have installed fast lanes to provide emergency medical assistance to victims of firecracker blasts.

Mayor Jaime Fresnedi ordered the local Peace and Order Council to intensify inspections on marketplaces to confiscate illegal firecrackers and apprehend violators.

On December 23, the Muntinlupa Traffic Management Bureau and personnel of the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) led an operation in Alabang Viaduct to apprehend vendors selling firecrackers and conducted an information drive.

Ordinance No. 14-092 was passed by the City Council effectively prohibiting the display and distribution of firecrackers within Muntinlupa’s legal jurisdiction as part of its efforts to reduce cases of casualties and harmful effects of pyrotechnic devices to health and the environment.

Apprehended individuals using firecrackers will be fined with P1,000 up to P5,000 penalty. While commercial establishments selling firecrackers may face revocation of permit and license to operate in pursuant to penalties provided in the ordinance. Further, mall owners or similar establishments may organize fireworks displays in designated areas upon securing a permit from Bureau of Fire Protection and the Philippine National Police.

The City Government is also set to organize a motorcade on December 30 to launch its Iwas Paputok awareness campaign. During the motorcade, local officials will distribute alternative noisemaking devices (torotot) in District 1 and 2 barangays. The motorcade will begin at Muntinlupa City Hall Quadrangle and will conclude in South Station, Alabang with a boodle fight event.

While alternative noise-making activities are encouraged, MTMB warned motorists that the use of aftermarket mufflers, or removal of such, which emit excessive loud noise causing disturbances in is prohibited as per City Ordinance 04-022 or the Muntinlupa City Traffic Code.

The City Government has coordinated with Philippine National Police (PNP) and Land Transportation Office (LTO) to put up checkpoints and conduct monitoring surveillance on major thoroughfares, including secondary roads, for the apprehension of revelers with open-mufflers.

Mayor Fresnedi urged residents to use alternative noise-making instruments and not to patronize firecrackers and open-pipe mufflers. He also encouraged them to celebrate the New Year’s Eve safely.

Muntinlupa residents are also encouraged to report violators to authorities. Locals may contact the following offices: MTMB (831-9884), PNP Muntinlupa (862-2611 / 09083770084), BFP Muntinlupa (842-2201), Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (925-4351), and Ospital ng Muntinlupa (771-0457).

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

My Observations: Pizza Telefono in Alabang

December 27, 2019carlocarrasco

This past Christmas Day at Westgate, Filinvest City, Alabang, Muntinlupa City, I was walking to the parked car coming from Starbucks Reserve planning to go back home. As I was about to open the car, I noticed something nearby and decided to walk to it and check it out.

It turns out that the Alabang branch of Pizza Telefono was already open and waiting for customers. Out of curiosity, I entered the restaurant and approached the counter to see what was listed on their menu.

To say the least, they had an interesting selection of meals that surely will interest food enthusiasts, notably those who love Italian cuisine. They have hand-tossed pizza (9 variants or flavors), thin-crust pizza (9 variants), premium hand-tossed pizza (6 variants) pasta, premium breakfast meals, salad, chicken, baked rolls and the unique Chicago pizza pot pie (Ragu and Mushroom).

As it was Christmas Day, I had to help with the family hosting a party at home so eating there at the Alabang branch of Pizza Telefono was out of the question.

Today, I returned to the restaurant for lunch. I ordered their spaghetti with meatballs.

*Pizza Telefono’s spaghetti with meatballs.*

*This piece of bread is several inches long and thick enough.*

The meal came with a generous amount of noodles, pasta sauce with stewed tomatoes, a piece of bread and three meatballs. For my first bite, I cut a piece of meatball and took it in. Instantly, there was this Italian taste on my tongue. The piece of meatball, to my surprise, was not that warm. It was smooth enough to chew on, though.

When it comes to taste, I felt that the spaghetti of Pizza Telefono tasted very similar to that of Sbarro’s (the one with tomato sauce). Even the texture of the noodles were similar. The piece of bread, meanwhile, was long and thick enough.

*This is one of the meatballs partially cut open.*

Overall, the spaghetti and meatball meal of Pizza Telefono was satisfying and tasty enough. It was tasty, I did not use any condiments to enjoy it. At P275, it was worth it. The meatballs could have been a warmer, though.

With regards to the restaurant itself, as it is still brand new as of this writing, there are still some shortcomings. While there were lots of tables and chairs filling the rectangular space, I was told that the far-end section was still closed. When I made my first order for beverages, bottled water, canned sodas and Minute Maid were unavailable. I had to settle with their local drinking water.

Being an Alabang resident, I plan to revisit Pizza Telefono as I’m really interested to try out soon one of their pizzas. Their premium breakfast meals looked interesting too.

*The entrance of Pizza Telefono Alabang.*

For the South Metro Manila residents as well as those coming from nearby Laguna and Cavite, Pizza Telefono Alabang branch inside Westgate is a short walking distance away from Contis Alabang and Fitness First Alabang. One end of the restaurant faces the said two establishments. For those who are about to visit Westgate for the first time, prepare to pay for parking.

Muntinlupa City Government issues public warning about firecrackers ban and the prohibition of open pipe mufflers

December 23, 2019December 23, 2019carlocarrasco

If you are caught using an open pipe muffler or if you light firecrackers within the City of Muntinlupa during the Christmas holidays, then you will be in trouble.

The City Government of Muntinlupa formally announced on December 23 the on-going ban on firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices, including open pipe mufflers and other modifications, during the Christmas and New Year celebration.

On that same day, the Muntinlupa Traffic Management and MMDA led an operation at Alabang Viaduct to apprehend illegal vendors selling firecrackers and conduct an information drive on the prohibition of the said items.

The City Council passed Ordinance No. 14-092 prohibiting the display and distribution of firecrackers in the city as part of its efforts to reduce cases of casualties and harmful effects of pyrotechnic devices to health and the environment.

Apprehended individuals using firecrackers will be fined with P1,000 up to P5,000 penalty. Commercial establishments selling firecrackers may face revocation of permit and license to operate in pursuant to penalties provided in the ordinance.

Further, mall owners or similar establishments may organize fireworks displays in designated areas upon securing a permit from Bureau of Fire Protection and the Philippine National Police.

Upon the implementation of the firecracker ban, the City Health Office recorded a significant decrease in casualties from 13 firecracker-related cases in 2016 to six cases in 2017 and two cases in 2018.

While alternative noise-making activities are encouraged, the Muntinlupa Traffic and Management Bureau warned motorists that the use of aftermarket mufflers, or removal of such, which emit excessive loud noise causing disturbances in the holiday season will be apprehended.

As per City Ordinance 04-022 or the Muntinlupa City Traffic Code, motorists shall equip their vehicles with a muffler to prevent unusual noise.

Mayor Jaime Fresnedi urges residents to use alternative noise-making instruments and not to patronize firecrackers and open-pipe mufflers. He encouraged Muntinlupa residents to celebrate the New Year’s Eve safely.

Muntinlupa’s 102nd Founding Anniversary Celebrated

December 20, 2019December 20, 2019carlocarrasco

On the afternoon of December 19, the City Government of Muntinlupa celebrated the 102^nd Founding Anniversary of Muntinlupa with special activities at the Muntinlupa Sports Complex in Barangay Tunasan.

Among the most notable activities was Mayor Jaime Fresnedi’s awarding of plaques of recognition to outstanding citizens who made an impact on the fields of public service, academics and sports.

For sports, it turned out that Muntinlupa is home to nine Philippine Team members who won medals in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games (2019 SEA Games) which our nation hosted to much success. It is also notable that Muntinlupa hosted the SEA Games badminton tournaments while the SEA Games obstacle course race events were held at Filinvest City.

2019 SEA GAMES MEDALISTS — In celebration of Muntinlupa’s 102^nd Founding Anniversary, the local government fetes Muntinlupa 2019 SEA Games medalists along with other outstanding citizens. Mayor Jaime Fresnedi (3^rd from right) awarded plaques of recognition to Muntinlupa athletes who snagged medals in the 2019 SEA Games last December 19 at Muntinlupa Sports Complex, Tunasan. Shown in the photo: (L-R) Congressman Ruffy Biazon, Kodo Nakano (Bronze, Judo), Keisei Nakano (Bronze, Judo), Shugen Nakano (Gold Medalist, Judo), Daryl Mercado (Bronze, Judo), Ryssa Jezzel Sanchez (Silver, Arnis), Rick Jayson Constantino Senales (Bronze, Kurash and Judo), Vice-mayor Temy Simundac, and City Administrator Engr. Allan Cachuela. (photo released by City Government of Muntinlupa – PIO)

The Muntinlupa-based SEA Games medalists who received honors and shared the stage with the Mayor, Vice Mayor Temy Simundac, Congressman Ruffy Biazon and City Administrator Engr. Allan Cachuela were Kodo Nakano (Bronze, Judo), Keisei Nakano (Bronze, Judo), Shugen Nakano (Gold Medalist, Judo), Daryl Mercado (Bronze, Judo), Ryssa Jezzel Sanchez (Silver, Arnis), and Rick Jayson Constantino Senales (Bronze, Kurash and Judo).

The other city athletes who made the honor list were Francis Casey Alcantara and Jeson Patrombon (Gold, Tennis Doubles) Jaime Delange (Gold, Skateboarding) and Jeson Patrombon (Bronze, Tennis Singles).

The above SEA Games medalists will soon receive incentives from the City Government.

On the field of public service, those who were honored were National Academy of Science and Technology of the Philippines Outstanding Scientist Dr. Nathaniel P. Hermosa II, IdeasxMachina CEO and Malaking Muntinlupa Foundation founder Clemente C. Domingo III, Metropolitan Waterworks & Sewerage System (MWSS) Administrator Lt. Gen. Emmanuel B. Salamat (ret.), former Muntinlupa Mayor Ignacio R. Bunye, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Deputy Governor Francisco G. Dakila Jr. (represented by Maura Dakila), and Department of Transportation (DOTR) Sec. Arthur P. Tugade.

For academics, the Muntinlupa residents who were honored for being ranked as top-notchers in various board and bar examinations were Coun. Jun Metong Sevilla representing Atty. Patricia Sevilla (Top 7, 2018 Bar Examinations), Mrs. Gail Turner Diaz representing Engr. James Christian Turner Diaz (Top 4, 2019 Electrical Engineer Board Exam) and Atty. Sean James Borja (Top 1, 2018 Bar examinations).

Apart from being the home city of tremendous achievers, Muntinlupa also had more reasons to celebrate big time. The city is also one of the nation’s leading investment hubs. Mayor Fresnedi emphasized the town’s progress to its people which called as Muntinlupa’s greatest resource. Also highlighted were the City Government’s sustainability initiatives and commitment to prioritize programs for education.

“As we journey through the second century of Muntinlupa, the local government will continue to invest in sustainable programs, focusing on the education of Muntinlupeños, to position the city and its people to greater heights,” Fresnedi said.

For historical perspective, Muntinlupa gained its independent status as a municipality in the year 1917 through Executive Order 108 issued by Governor General Francis Burton Harrison. Today, it has transformed as a Highly Urbanized City with nine equally progressive barangays and a population of 504,509.

Muntinlupa has been recognized as a model LGU (local government unit) in the country and garnered several awards and citations from various governing bodies including the Seal of Good Governance from DILG in 2015 and 2019, Seal of Child-Friendly Local Governance from Regional Committee for Welfare of Children in 2017-2019, Red Orchid Award in 2018 and 2019, Jose Rizal Award in 2017-2019, Most Business-Friendly City Award in 2001, 2002, 2017, and 2018, Green Banner Award and Outstanding LGU in Nutrition Program Management in 2018, MERALCO Luminaries Award in 2018, Government Efficiency and Resilience Award (3^rd Place) from National Competitiveness Council in 2017 and 2018, respectively; and Union Internationale des Transports Publics Awards in 2017, among others.

With the way things are going, Muntinlupa’s strong progressive drive as a highly competitive city of the Philippines (and arguably as the leading city of progress of South Metro Manila) will only keep on moving forward.

BF NorthWest Celebrates Christmas 2019

December 18, 2019December 18, 2019carlocarrasco

This past weekend, the BF NorthWest Homeowners Association, Inc. organized parties to celebrate Christmas (the birth of Lord Jesus) with its employees and security personnel in return for their dedicated service to the village homeowners all throughout the year.

First was a Christmas party in the evening of December 14 for the HOA employees and their family members held at the cover basketball court just steps away from the village clubhouse along Jakarta street. Catered food and free flowing drinks were served to the guests and present were present as well as incoming members of the association’s board of directors. Incoming BF NorthWest President Manny Nubla and incoming Vice President Lulu Trias attended.

*Roasted pork prepared as incoming BF NorthWest President Manny Nubla watches.*

*The BF NorthWest association personnel and their family members.*

*A collection of Christmas party prizes that eventually got raffled off.*

As the games, gift exchange and fun went on, the party was visited by former Barangay BF Homes Kagawad Alfred Lazatin. During the summer of 2019, Lazatin’s 40th birthday celebration was held in the same covered basketball court there in the village.

Several minutes after, Parañaque City Councilor Jackie Bustamante-Mendoza and her son Joaqui arrived to meet and greet the locals.

*City Councilor Jackie Bustamante-Mendoza welcomed by incoming BF NorthWest President Manny Nubla.*

From left to right were Joaqui Bustamante-Mendoza, Councilor Jackie Bustamante-Mendoza, BF NorthWest incoming president Manny Nubla, BF NorthWest director Reggie Orquiza and former Barangay BF Homes Kagawad Alfred Lazatin.

The next day, December 15, the BF NorthWest HOA organized the Christmas party for their security personnel plus some guests which started at past 1PM at the 2nd floor of the village clubhouse.

It was another happy affair as the guests enjoyed good food and drinks, had fun partying and several of them went home with prizes that were raffled off.

*Tasty food served to the security personnel during their December 15 Christmas party. (photo contributed by Lorea Miren)*

*A look at the food prepared for the many security personnel and guests. (photo contributed by Lorea Miren)*

And there you have it. The BF NorthWest Homeowners Association, Inc. continued its long-time tradition of organizing Christmas parties for their office employees and the security personnel who worked hard all year-long to serve the village residents.

December 2019 has been quite a notable month for BF NorthWest. Not only did the association finalize the newest lineup of officers, they hosted a highly successful food fair and bazaar with BF HomeSarap.

For more BF Homes community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments.

+++++

To others reading this, if you are dissatisfied with print media and you want your community/organization/business/special event or project to be featured on this website, please contact me locally via mobile number 0905-3350831 or via email at Carlo.Carrasco@gmail.com

You can check out my varied marketing services (including Twitter boosting) right here.

We can negotiate, work together and be achievers together.

BF NorthWest New Board and Officers To Take Office January 1, 2020

December 18, 2019December 17, 2019carlocarrasco

Hey everyone! Look behind you! There’s someone from a BF Homes-based community print media news publication stalking us looking for news and content to steal from this website. If the local community print media publication lied to you, misled you or even smeared you because of their irresponsible journalism, blatant plagiarism, pretension, dishonesty and sinister propaganda, feel free to approach me for a consultation by contacting me.

A local community print media publication operated unprofessionally can be very dangerous and harmful to the community members.

To be clear with you all, I don’t work for any local community print media publication and I am not contributing to them. If anyone told you lies about me related to local community print media publishing, please inform me. Thank you.

And now for the latest in BF Homes community news.

The BF NorthWest Homeowners Association, Inc. announced its newest lineup of officers as well as new sets of officers-per-district which was the result of their recent village election that took place on November 24, 2019.

Let’s start at the top.

BF NorthWest’s newest officials set to take office on January 1, 2020 (with the terms ending on December 31, 2021) are as follows:

President – Manuel E. Nubla

Vice President – Lualhati G. Trias

Secretary – Lea Castillo

Treasurer – Amor P. Isip

Auditor – Gaudencio Hernandez, Jr.

The above officers were decided by the newly elected governors (BF NorthWest’s term for directors) who convened on December 1, 2019 and elected among themselves the new officers who will manage the affairs of the village.

As for the other officers per district elected, here are the following:

DISTRICT 1

Governor – Reginald Orquiza

Vice Governor – Ramon Laqui

Secretary – Honorata Suarez

Treasurer – Vicente Ortega

Auditor – Luisito De Guzman

DISTRICT 3

Governor – Aida Sora

Vice Governor – Betty Gomez

Secretary – Ferdinand Baena

Treasurer – Raymond Noel

Auditor – Eduardo Aquino

DISTRICT 4

Governor – Joselito Isla

Vice Governor – Edwin Olivarez

Secretary – Luis Trinidad, Jr.

Treasurer – Carlo Busmente

Auditor – Romeo Vinco

DISTRICT 5

Governor – Juan Carlos Guadarrama

Vice Governor – Lilia Fernandez

Secretary – Juanito Valdecantos

Treasurer – Rolly Zamora

Auditor – Stephanie Aquino

DISTRICT 6

Governor – Amor Isip

Vice Governor – Miren Suntay

Secretary – Antonio Moncupa

Treasurer – Agustin Pangan

Auditor – Raul Anonuevo

DISTRICT 7

Governor – Lualhati Trias

Vice Governor – Timoteo Tiangco

Secretary – Julie Ong

Treasurer – Jesus Manaloto

Auditor – Isabelo Agulay

DISTRICT 8

Governor – Charlie Warren

Vice Governor – Ma. Fe Pagtalunan

Secretary – Anthony Vivero

Treasurer – Jeanne Yu

Auditor – Ma. Asuncion Vivero

DISTRICT 9

Governor – Gaudencio Hernandez, Jr.

Vice Governor – Jovi Peralta

Secretary – Edwin Lopez

Treasurer – Noli Acuna

Auditor – Florentino Concepcion

DISTRICT 10

Governor – Lea Castillo

Vice Governor – Elizabeth Ong

Secretary – Jesus Tambunting

Treasurer – Mario Piamonte

Auditor – Fernando Cawa

DISTRICT 11

Governor – Manuel Nubla

Vice Governor – Honorato Mackay

Secretary – Roderick Mackay

Treasurer – Luisito Abano

Auditor – Jose Maria Austria

DISTRICT 12

Governor – Alfonso Lumbad

Vice Governor – Lewellyn Fortuna

Secretary – Janelyn Smith

Treasurer – Ricardo Matias

Auditor – Atty. Nestor David

There you have it! The newest officers elected per district as well as the new officers of the BF NorthWest Homeowners Association. The information above came from an official document of the association formalizing the results of their recent election.

BF NorthWest has been in the positive spotlight lately. They hosted the successful BF HomeSarap Community Food Fair and Bazaar which attracted hundreds of visitors, including two City Councilors.

For the newcomers reading this, BF NorthWest is one of the largest and most significant enclaves of BF Homes subdivision. The enclave has gates along El Grande Avenue.

+++++

To others reading this, if you are dissatisfied with print media and you want your community/organization/business/special event or special project to be featured on this website, please contact me locally via mobile number 0905-3350831 or via email at Carlo.Carrasco@gmail.com

You can check out my varied marketing services (including Twitter boosting) right here.

We can negotiate, work together and be achievers together.

My Observations: BF HomeSarap Community Food Fair plus Bazaar was a Fun Experience

December 14, 2019December 14, 2019carlocarrasco

Hey everyone! I want to share to you all that there is nothing like community building and social interaction through the organizing of an in-village event that emphasized food and beverages which brought people together. Which people specifically? The local residents, the non-resident visitors, government officials and the cooks and entrepreneurs who did their best offering food and drinks for sale.

That specifically happened during the recent BF HomeSarap Community Food Fair and Bazaar which was held on December 7 and 8 by the facilities (open-air basketball court plus the covered stretch nearby) just steps away from the village clubhouse along D.Jakarta street, BF NorthWest, BF Homes Subdivision, Parañaque City. For those who are new to this website, the successful event was previously published here (with an update on November 17).

*A portion of the food fair at the open-air basketball court of BF NorthWest.*

*Food and beverage vendors selling at the covered section just beside the basketball court.*

Before sharing my personal experiences and observations, I want to announce to you all that the BF HomeSarap Community Food Fair and Bazaar was, indeed, a big success pulled off nicely by the organizers such as the BF NorthWest Homeowners Association, Inc., the BF HomeSarap Facebook group (visit their group by clicking here) and other supporters and stakeholders.

According to BF NorthWest Governor-at-Large Lorea Miren, the 2-day event attracted between two hundred fifty to three hundred visitors and 90% of the vendors (whose food and beverage offerings were of good quality and nice variety) sold out! Speaking of visitors, the fair was visited on December 7 by Paranaque City Councilor Wahoo Sotto during the day while his fellow Councilor Jackie Bustamante-Mendoza (accompanied with her son) arrived during the evening. Wow! BF HomeSarap’s event was graced by two highly important people from the City Government!

*Parañaque City Councilor Jackie Bustamante-Mendoza (middle) with her son Juancho (left) and BF NorthWest Governor-at-Large Lorea Miren posed for this website during the evening of December 7.*

Apart from the organizing of the 2-day food fair and bazaar, a major factor in the event’s success was the wide variety of goods offered for sale by the sellers and makers who participated. According to Lorea Miren, many applied to be part of the fair and she and the organizers carefully curated what each seller offered before granting their approval. This was a painstaking process as the organizers aimed high with both variety and quality that consumers can benefit from.

In my personal experience of enjoying the food fair and bazaar, I can confirm to you all that the variety of the food and beverage products was great while the selection of non-food items (at the bazaar) was interesting.

For the food, there were burgers with fries, fresh meat, roasted pig from Cebu, brownies, potato chips, sushi rolls, fresh vegetables, comfort food in jars, buttered shrimp, chili garlic crabs, fruit jam, tuyo, Spanish-style sardines, grilled squid, barbeque, salted duck eggs, Angus beef tapsilog, pies, cereals, cookies, oatmeal bars, deli meat and a whole more! The variety was so great, there was indeed always something that someone can enjoy. The many food makers/sellers belonging to the BF HomeSarap FB group (whose founder Ditas Antenor personally monitored the event and kept in touch with the people) really delivered great stuff from their respective kitchen to the tables at the food fair! For the newcomers reading this, Antenor founded BF HomeSarap on the social network on April 2019 and, as of this writing, the FB group now has over eight thousand members!

*Cebu lechon caught the attention of many.*

With regards to the non-food items that formed the bazaar, those items were not as numerous as the food but what was offered for sale was varied enough and interesting. There were clothes, bags, shoes, toys and other household items that were good enough for Christmas gift-giving. There were also some premium products such as imported thermal water bottles, kitchenware, fragrances, etc.

My companion and I arrived at the food fair during the first hour of opening of the food fair on the afternoon of December 7. Together we had a nice time not just checking out the food for sale but also talking with the vendors who were gentle, helpful and informative to talk with. After buying some snacks and drinks, we sat at the available chairs and table and had a nice talk just as more people visited the food fair. I noticed that, as time passed, each vendor had guests to entertain and sold something to. There were also families, barkadas and others who visited checking out what were on sale, lining up to buy something and enjoy socializing. It was, indeed, a lively food fair that was driven by community interaction.

The next day, after attending worship at our church, I revisited the food fair and brought home some really tasty sushi rolls for lunch. Really tasty and fresh!

*Demand for Angus beef tapsilog was so strong, it got sold out!*

*Nothing like ordering burgers and fries by the van!*

Overall, the BF HomeSarap Community Food Fair and Bazaar was a big success and I personally had a nice time there. With a very nice variety of products to choose from and enjoy, the BF HomeSarap vendors (and the non-food item sellers) were not only pretty good but also deserving of being discovered. Truly the BF HomeSarap Community Food Fair and Bazaar is easily the most special food and beverage event of the entire BF Homes community (and even on the Barangay BF Homes level) for 2019.

Here are some good news: there is a plan to organize another BF HomeSarap Community Food Fair and Bazaar in the summer of 2020. That is something we should all look forward to. As such, to really be very updated and be able to reach out to the many food specialists, you are all encouraged to visit BF HomeSarap at https://www.facebook.com/groups/987695754755106/

And finally, here are some words from BF NorthWest Governor-at-Large Lorea Miren regarding the BF HomeSarap Community Food Fair and Bazaar that went from concept into an actually realized event.

“The BF HomeSarap Food Fair was one of those opportunities that allowed the sellers, organizers and anyone around us the chance to feel what a community affair can bring – home cooked food and the joy it brings. Thank you to all the sellers, who not only ‘brought it’, but rocked it! For their ability to adapt, enjoy and show off their culinary talents,” Miren stated. “It takes one cook to have a meal, but it takes a community to serve it.”

*Walking through the tables of vendors in this covered section was always worth doing.*

*BF HomeSarap Food Fair is a nice way for food makers and new entrepreneurs in the food industry to come out and reach out to new customers to help their business grow.*

*Nothing like being offered deli meat on the weekend. (photo contributed by Lorea Miren)*

+++++

You can check out my varied marketing services (including Twitter boosting) right here.

We can negotiate, work together and be achievers together.

My Observations: 2019 SEA Games Obstacle Course Racing Team Relay Gold Medal Won By Philippines

December 11, 2019December 11, 2019carlocarrasco

I’m thankful to the Lord not only because the Philippines hosted the 2019 Southeast Asian Games (2019 SEA Games) but also because Obstacle Course Racing made its debut in the said games as a medal sport and their events were held at Filinvest City, Alabang, Muntinlupa City.

On the morning of December 4, I hiked from Commercenter to a closed stretch of road just beside the golf range. There the SEA Games OCR was held and, specifically, the event I got to watch was the 400-meter Team Relay event with a pre-finals match between the Philippines (composed of Diana Buhler, Jeffrey Reginio, Klymille Rodriguez and Nathaniel Sanchez) and Malaysia. I recorded a portion of that particular match on my official Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco. Watch it just below.

During the breaks between matches, I made my way through the spectators’ section observing the place, the set-up of the obstacle course and met a few friends (including a Christian sister of mine). The obstacle course really had a lot of expensive looking, customized hardware strategically placed along the closed stretch of the road.

To put in simple terms, obstacle course racing offers lots of challenges for athletes who are expected to not only be fit, strong and fast but also be strategic with their moves because the racing involves running, climbing, light-gun shooting, side-stepping and the like. In other words, it’s a very creative and exciting way of racing.

After the bronze medal match between Indonesia and Timor Leste, the gold medal batch between the Philippines and Malaysia was announced to follow. Naturally the spectators prepared themselves for what was anticipated to be a high-pressure match and they were not wrong.

Then the gold medal match happened. From where I was standing, I witnessed Malaysia overtake the Philippines temporarily before the lead went back to the Filipinos. While I was unable to move close to the finish line for the victory crossing moment, the spectators’ loud cheerful reaction and the voice-over by the event commentator confirmed the victory. Praise and thank the Lord for the gold medal victory of the Philippines!

And then the ceremony of the awarding the gold, silver and bronze medals took place which was witnessed by not only the spectators but also by special guests (including a congressman) and varied sports officials. Philippines won the gold, Malaysia the silver and Indonesia the bronze.

*Southeast Asia’s best in Obstacle Course Racing 400-meter Team Relay – Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia.*

There is nothing like witnessing the SEA Games OCR 400-meter Team Relay medal ceremony on location and in person. It definitely is a more engaging experience than watch such a ceremony on television or via the Internet video. I also made the effort to get a good position in front of the stage, record the ceremony on video and upload it on my official Facebook page. After all that, I left to visit another place.

So what can I say about OCR’s debut in the SEA Games? From what I saw, the creative sport has a future in the regional games. When it comes to South Metro Manila, Filinvest City definitely is a solid venue to have OCR events held with an outdoor setting. When it comes to holding the event inside private subdivisions, however, it can be tricky because it will involve the homeowners’ association (HOA) especially when it comes to matters like in-village traffic, security, noise pollution and crowd control. It’s too easy to suggest holding an outdoor OCR event inside Ayala Alabang (which has a country club, by the way, plus roads wider than those of other subdivisions) or BF Homes subdivision (which has no country club but has a sports club) without considering the disturbance to the residents. The way I look at South Metro Manila, Filinvest City is ideal.

Looking for another venue further south? There is Vermosa Sports Hub along Daang Hari, Imus City, Cavite. Apart from the sports facilities, they have a lot of roads and wide open spaces (vacant lots). I can imagine an OCR event being held there. Vermosa Sports Hub is already established as a popular destination for triathlon (swim-bike-run) and aquathlon (swim-run).

No doubt about it. Obstacle Course Racing has a nice future ahead here in the Philippines and the rest of Southeast Asia.

+++++

You can check out my varied marketing services (including Twitter boosting) right here.

We can negotiate, work together and be achievers together.

Century Club of Tahanan Celebrates Christmas 2019

December 7, 2019January 4, 2020carlocarrasco

The Century Club of Tahanan, Inc. (CCTI), a private club of senior citizens living in Tahanan Village, Barangay BF Homes, Parañaque City, had its annual Christmas party held at their village’s multi-purpose facility (covered basketball court) on the evening of December 6.

According to CCTI president Florencia Umali, there were roughly two hundred guests who attended, including the visitors. When asked about their club’s total membership, she told me that they currently have four hundred and thirty-nine members all in all.

*Century Club president Florencia Umali with guests who posed for this website.*

*The registration table and the dining tables.*

Apart from enjoying the delicious food and drinks, nice music was played by hired musicians that kept everyone entertained.

In addition, varied local officials visited and greeted the guests. Parañaque City mayor Edwin Olivarez, his brother Congressman Eric, City Councilor Tess de Asis and former Barangay BF Homes chairwoman Florencia “Beng” Amurao arrived to personally meet the guests and have their pictures taken with them.

*The Olivarezes and Councilor Tess de Asis with the guests.*

Sometime after De Asis, Amurao and the Olivarezes left, City Councilors Wahoo Sotto, Juvan Esplana and Bong Benzon arrived together. After greeting the guests, they each delivered short speeches and gave the people some updates regarding city legislation.

*City Councilors Wahoo Sotto, Juvan Esplana and Bong Benzon with Umali during the raffle draw.*

*City Councilor Sotto updates the guests with latest developments.*

Finally the last city personality to arrive (after the City Councilors left) was former Congressman Gus Tambunting. He danced with the guests and delivered his remarks.

*Century Club president Florencia Umali with former Congressman Gus Tambunting.*

Throughout the evening, music was played, special prizes (including those donated by the local politicians) were raffled off, guests danced and socializing transpired. Like in previous years, Century Club’s Christmas part continued to not only be a fun event for the members and invited visitors, but managed to attract the local personalities and local authority officials.

One last thing I want to emphasize in closing this. There was one local community print media news publication based in BF Homes that incorrectly published that Century Club’s Christmas party was scheduled to happen on December 4, 2019. Upon reading that publication, I immediately called and verified with club president Umali who responded that December 6 is the precise date of their Christmas party. At the party, I asked other Century Club officials if they had previously planned to organize their Christmas party on December 4. They officially denied it and stated that December 6 has always been the original and precise date of schedule for their party.

*Fake news? Human error? Reckless editing?*

So what’s with the incorrect publishing of the Century Club Christmas party date as December 4? Error with editing? A lapse of the mind? Lying to the public? Irresponsible journalism? Imagine advertising your business with such a careless local community print media publication.

Let me end this with a verse from the Holy Bible.

Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD, But those who deal truthfully are His delight.

Proverbs 12: 22 (NKJV)

+++++

You can check out my varied marketing services (including Twitter boosting) right here.

We can negotiate, work together and be achievers together.

Meet Barangay BF Homes SK Kagawad Irene Juanico

December 7, 2019May 5, 2020carlocarrasco

A few years ago, Irene Juanico represented Barangay BF Homes during a beauty pageant that was part of what was back then Parañaque’s 19^th cityhood anniversary. She did not make it to the final round but that did not stop progress in her life. Then on May 2018, she ran in the Barangay and SK elections, and ultimately got elected as a kagawad of the Barangay BF Homes Sangguniang Kabataan (BFSK).

Recently I got to interview the incumbent SK Kagawad at barangay hall. This is the special feature of Irene Juanico.

Barangay BF Homes SK Kagawad Irene Juanico.

Background

Irene Juanico was born in the Dela Rama community inside BF Homes subdivision. She is the only child in the family. Her mother is currently a government employee and her father is a customer associate for a courier. The SK kagawad is currently studying at San Beda Alabang taking Marketing Management.

Since she was young, Juanico got into modeling. She learned the way on not just looking pretty but also how to pose, what to wear, when to move and the like. Along the way, she participated in several pageants, modeling events and appeared as a muse in academic and sports events.

In 2017, she found a major opportunity to compete with other beauties from around the City of Parañaque by joining the Binibining Parañaque representing Barangay BF Homes.

“During my younger days, I noticed similar pageants that got organized by the SK and wondered, ‘what would it be like if I joined such events?’”, Juanico recalled. “My handlers, who paid attention to the 2017 Parañaque pageant, asked me to try out and compete since I was already into modeling. I was hesitant back then since I was just seventeen years-old but eventually I agreed to represent the barangay and compete.”

As Ms. Barangay BF Homes of 2017, Juanico joined the other candidates from different barangays practicing for the pageant, participating in showcase events (including the Sunduan-related event at SM City BF Parañaque) and more. Along the way, she had to adjust her schedule with school and family.

“The Sunduan showcase alone was challenging because I had to decide how to present myself in front of the judges, the special guests and many people watching. The pressure is real.” she said.

When asked about the evening of the Bb. Parañaque, Juanico confirmed that there was a lot of pressure not only on her to do her best but also on the other candidates as well. This was because there were so many guests watching including City Government officials, barangay officials, barangay fan groups, members of the media, family members of the candidates and the like.

Even though the pressure was high, Juanico simply focused on her future.

*Irene Juanico as Barangay BF Homes’ candidate in the 2017 edition of the Bb. Parañaque. (contributed by Irene Juanico, photo credit to Kevin Rebollo)*

“I said to myself ‘win or lose, I at least represented my barangay well’. My experience also me motivate myself on participating future events representing the community,” Juanico said.

As it turned out in the 2017 pageant, Juanico’s name was not called when the organizers announced the five finalists. She and Barangay BF Homes did not go empty handed however as she won the Boardwalk Model sponsor award. That award was fitting considering the fact that Juanico had been modeling since she was little.

After the pageant, Juanico gained not only improved self-confidence but also respect and recognition from the residents of the barangay. A lot more people noticed her and remembered her participation in the city pageant.

Getting elected into the SK

A year later, Irene Juanico joined the Sangguniang Kabataan team of candidates under the umbrella of Paolo Marquez who ran for Barangay Captain (succeeding his brother Jeremy Marquez).

How did Juanico become candidate for the SK in the first place? It started with curiosity in a rather funny way.

“It all started with a joke with my friends, wondering if I should run for a seat in the youth council (Sangguniang Kabataan). They said I should do it but I reacted I was just joking. Eventually Zeny Pascual contacted me and asked me if I was willing to run. I replied that I would do it,” she recalled.

For Juanico, her candidacy was to inspire other youth of the barangay to aim higher in their lives. It was also her way of showing that a pretty face like her can climb up higher and become a public servant under the reformed Sangguniang Kabataan system. She really went against the local community’s conventional thinking that pretty faces or models have no place in public service which itself is ironic because charm (which comes in very different forms) is a factor on getting elected. She formally met with Paolo Marquez finalizing her candidacy.

During the summer of 2018, she and her teammates struggled to convince voters to trust them and vote for them. They went around from one house to another both in the mission areas (depressed communities) and also inside gated subdivisions. Shook hands and met with people of different walks of life (even former classmates of hers). They also took part in caucuses to reach out to the voters.

“When the campaign ended at last, I recovered by treating myself to a fast food meal. Then I went home to finally get some rest. I prayed to God. I had a very restful sleep and I really felt rejuvenated. Shortly after, my mother told me I won,” Juanico said.

Juanico’s victory in the 2018 Barangay and SK Elections for Barangay BF Homes was, indeed, a major milestone in her life. She and her friends celebrated and she cried out of happiness.

SK Kagawad Juanico and the SK Committee on Health

As an SK Kagawad, Juanico served with her colleagues under chairwoman Mariel Tumang. She is handling the SK Committee on Health. In recent times, the BFSK organized seminars about AIDS, mental health, teenage pregnancy, reproductive health and PWD (persons with disabilities) all of which were projects of her committee.

As of this writing, SK Kagawad Juanico is striving to get not only youth but also pre-teens and children involved with health projects and activities. There are also PWD children (as young as 1-year-old) that she wants to assist. The BFSK is also looking for private organizations as key partners to serve the youth and those with special needs. Team-ups with the health activities of Barangay BF Homes Kagawad Cielo Lazatin have been made.

Juanico confirmed that her committee has several more projects coming in 2020.

Message to the Readers

20190928_145929 — *BFSK Kagawad Irene Juanico (3rd from right) with the other members of the SK (chairwoman Mariel Tumang is 3rd from left) with guests who took part in a seminar about HIV, STDs and AIDS awareness.*

“Service is something that can be given to others without position and without expecting anything in return. It is better to give than to receive. Public service requires not only action but a whole lot of heart.”

	Instapundit »… on American Oil Arrives In J…
	#blogpost on Non-Resident/Pass Thru Car Sti…
	#blogpost on Muntinlupa Mayor Reacts To MWS…
	AI Channel on Non-Resident/Pass Thru Car Sti…
	AI Channel on Muntinlupa Mayor Reacts To MWS…

Muntinlupa City Government Aims for Zero Firecracker Injuries, to Apprehend Open-muffler Ban Violators

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this: