Cosplay – the act of dressing up as a character from a work of fiction – can be fun to watch and do for as long as violations are not committed. The concept of cosplay here in the Philippines took a dark turn as the Manila Bulletin reported yesterday a crime news report about the arrest of man who was accused by a lady of rape after he lured her to what was supposed to be a cosplay photo shoot. Reportedly the arrest took four years to do and it turns out there was a warrant of arrest issued for the suspect.
To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the Manila Bulletin news report. Some parts in boldface…
A man who was accused of raping a woman he lured into posing as a cosplay artist was finally nabbed by authorities at a Quezon City mall on Monday afternoon, Sept. 5, 2022, after eluding arrest for more than four years.
Carl Jefferson Soriano, 26, was collared by operatives of the Manila Police District (MPD)-Special Operations Unit (SOU), and the Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC) of the Regional Intelligence Unit (RIU) of the National Capital Region (NCR) based on a warrant issued by Pasay City Regional Trial Court Judge Gina M. Bibat-Palamos last May 30, 2018. No bail was recommended for his temporary release.
Soriano’s arrest came four years after the complainant reached out to then broadcaster and now senator Raffy Tulfo in his complaints/civic action show, seeking justice for what Soriano had done to her.
The complainant told Tulfo in his show Raffy Tulfo in Action on Feb. 21, 2018 that she met Soriano on Facebook where the suspect engaged her in chats, and was able to convince her to model for him in cosplay costumes.
She said Soriano promised him P7,500 for the photoshoot.
She added that, on the day of the photoshoot, Soriano fetched her on a transport network vehicle service (TNVS), and brought her to a hotel in Pasay City.
According to the victim, Soriano even asked her to pay for the TVNS fare, and the hotel room, and that he will just add on these costs to her talent fee later.
Soriano then told her that two more models and another photographer would be arriving soon to join them.
But it was while they were waiting that the suspect was able to force himself on her, and even banged her head on the wall before raping her.
After she was violated, Soriano belligerently told her that they would have to go to his condominium.
However, after arriving at the lobby of the condominium, Soriano excused himself, saying that he was going to get something from his motorcycle. He never came back.
Indeed, the Manila Bulletin news report above is very disturbing. This might affect the way cosplay is done here in the Philippines from organizing private photo shoots to doing cosplay at special events like comic conventions or pop culture events that involve the use of costumes. Can you just imagine how vulnerable a female cosplayer would be playing Darna whose traditional look exposes a lot of skin?
Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the allegations of rape and the mentioned cosplay photo shoot are real and could be proven in court? If you are a parent who has a child fond of cosplay, does this crime news report make you feel worried about your child’s safety? Do you think that new rules are need to protect cosplayers from sexual assault, harassment and rape?
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
The Philippines’ defense of its littoral zones will be strengthened thanks to the newly acquired fast-attack interdiction craft-missiles (FAIC-Ms) from Israel for the Philippine Navy’s use, according to an announcement published through the Philippine News Agency (PNA). Be aware that this is not the first time that military hardware made by Israelites will be used to enhance the defense operations of the Philippines.
To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the article of the PNA. Some parts in boldface…
The newly-acquired fast-attack interdiction craft-missiles (FAIC-Ms) will boost the Philippine Navy’s (PN) capability to protect the country’s littoral zones.
The littoral or nearshore is the part of a sea, lake, or river that is close to the shore.
“These ships could be deployed to patrol and protect our littorals from any possible threats,” PN spokesperson Commander Benjo Negranza said in an interview with the Philippine News Agency Tuesday.
Other possible missions of these ships will be determined by the leadership of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), he added.
The BRP Nestor Acero (PG-901) and BRP Lolinato To-Ong (PG-902), which were formally christened in rites at the PN headquarters in Manila on Tuesday, are the first two out of the nine FAICS-Ms acquired by the Philippines from Israel Shipyards Limited for PHP10 billion.
These vessels are named after two Philippine Marine Corps heroes and Medal of Valor recipients — the late Private First Class Nestor Acero and the late 1st Lt. Lolinato To-Ong.
“This acquisition aims to strengthen the country’s naval capability in terms of enhancing littoral defense and maritime interdiction operations as it will complement the previously acquired 12 MPAC (multi-purpose attack craft) of the PN,” Negranza said.
These two FAIC-Ms were sponsored by Soledad B. Bacarro, the wife of AFP chief-of-staff Lt.Gen. Bartolome Vicente Bacarro.
The two vessels were loaded aboard a cargo ship and departed Haifa, Israel in late August. These vessels were formally launched last June 26.
Three more vessels are scheduled to be delivered starting this year while the remaining four units will be constructed at the PN shipyard in Naval Station Pascual Ledesma in Cavite City.
These 32-meter high-speed vessels are equipped with quick intercept ability, remote stabilized weapons, and short-range missiles that are capable to deliver precision strikes against larger hostiles and high-value targets on land and sea.
Four of the FAIC-Ms will be armed with non-line-of-sight (NLOS) missiles with pinpoint accuracy and a range of 25 kilometers while the other four will be armed with machine guns and light automatic cannons.
The acquisition of eight FAIC-M units is among the 2019 projects approved by former President Rodrigo Duterte under the Horizon 2 List of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program.
The notice of award for the FAIC-M project, worth around PHP10 billion, was issued on January 5 last year.
These are expected to replace the force of patrol killer medium (PKM) or medium-sized patrol craft.
Be thankful to the Lord as Israel-Philippines ties continue to grow stronger through military and defense-related matters. The Philippines has a lot of work to do to enhance national defense and that means we must pray to our Lord for the national defense goals to be fulfilled. The newly acquired FAIC-M units from Israel are the newest blessings for the Philippines. Keep on praying to Him to have the two nations rise high strongly and stand out among all nations of this very divided world we live in. Pray to Him that no enemy will ever succeed on opposing Israel and the Philippines. The evil ones will be exposed and will fall down in due time.
If you truly believe in Lord Jesus, the Holy Spirit and God the Heavenly Father wholeheartedly and you continue to be faithful (not religious), you should be aware that Christians are meant to stand united with Israel, love the Jewish people and pray for the peace of Jerusalem. You can do your part supporting Israel by donating to Christians United for Israel (CUFI). Do not forget to read the Holy Bible, then pray in tongues to the Lord in the privacy of your room with the door shut.
In the progressive city of Muntinlupa, a special project referred to as the Urban Green Space and Recreational Park located at the Bayanan Baywalk was jointly inaugurated today by Mayor Ruffy Biazon and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Usec. Carlo Dimayuga III and witnessed by several guests and stakeholders, according to the City Government’s announcement.
A joint inauguration by the City Government of Muntinlupa and the MMDA symbolically led by Mayor Ruffy Biazon and Chairman Usec. Carlo Dimayuga III. (source – Muntinlupa PIO)
The project was from both the City Government and the MMDA done in accordance to the “I ♡ Metro Manila (MM)” advocacy where the agency is in contact with various local government units in the National Capital Region for the Adopt -a-Park Project.
Also in accordance to the Urban Re-Greening and Renewal Program of the agency, the new project is the initiative to raise environmental awareness and encourage inclusive and participatory planning among stakeholders to address urban decay through the creation of green public parks and Metro revitalization Manila ecosystem against rapid urbanization.
Mayor Biazon announced that the establishment of the park is part of the 7K Agenda central to his administration. The said agenda consists of Kabuhayan (livelihood), Kalusugan (health), Karunungan (knowledge or education), Kaunlaran (progress), Kapayapaan/Kaayusan (peace and order), Katarungan (justice) and Kalikasan (environment).
The new park is now accessible to the public. There, visitors will find newly planted grass, bollard lights, seats, ramps for persons with disabilities (PWDs), exercise areas, and a colorful playground for children to enjoy.
A very modern looking playground. (source – Muntinlupa PIO)
Present during the inauguration ceremony were Councilor Jedi Presnedi, City Engr. Dynadelle Aranda, EnP. Alvin Veron, Acting Head of the City Planning & Development Office, Arch. Don Causapin, head of the City Architect’s Office, Mr. Lorna Misa, head of the Environmental Sanitation Center, Mr. Herminio Dela Cruz, head of the Lake Management Office, Barangay Captain Ador San Pedro of Bayanan and barangay members Kagawad Johnson San Pedro, Kagawad Jojo Solema, Kagawad Ronnie Viconia, and Kagawad Buboy Soliveres. Also present at the was Barangay Administrator Engr. Vic Orellana and Barangay Treasurer Engr. Athan Gutierrez.
Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a Muntinlupa City resident, what is your reaction to this recent development? Do you find this special project very helpful to the city? Do you plan to visit the Urban Green Space and Recreational Park soon?
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
In the progressive city of Muntinlupa, the local campaign against illegal drugs organized by the City Government’s Anti-Drug Abuse Council (ADAC) was recognized by the Department of the Interior and Local Government-National Capital Region (DILG-NCR), the Business Mirror reported. This is the latest recognition Muntinlupa City earned.
To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the Business Mirror news report. Some parts in boldface…
WITH its relentless effort to keep away its constituents from illegal substance abuse that have nil effects not only to their health and well-being but to their socioeconomic status as well, the City of Muntinlupa has been recognized by the Department of the Interior and Local Government-National Capital Region (DILG-NCR) office for the effective implementation of its programs against illegal drugs.
The DILG-NCR rated the City’s Anti-Drug Abuse Council (ADAC) as “highly functional,” per the result of its recent audit of anti-drug abuse programs among key cities and towns in Metro Manila.
Additionally, it also gave a “functional” rating to Muntinlupa’s Peace and Order Council (POC) for effective implementation of policies and programs for security and order.
“Congratulations, Muntinlupa City! Maraming salamat sa lahat ng bumubuo ng ating ADAC at Local POC [Thank you to the people behind our Anti-Drug Abuse Council and local Peace and Order Council], Mayor Rozzano Rufino Biazon said in response to the recent achievements of the local government unit (LGU).
The DILG-NCR audit ran from 2019 to 2021. It covered the implementation of anti-drug programs by LGUs, such as anti-drug interventions for persons who use drugs (PWUDs).
The overall state of PWUDs in Muntinlupa is overseen by the Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Office (DAPCO), which is part of the local ADAC and POC.
DAPCO, which is headed by PCol. Florocito Ragudo (ret.), implemented various programs, including the evaluation and certification of drug-free workplaces and residences and the effective reform and rehabilitation of PWUDs.
Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a Muntinlupa City resident, what is your reaction to this recent development? Are you convinced that the problem of illegal drugs in the city will continued to be solved by the local authorities?
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
Welcome back, my readers and fellow Christians! In this newest edition of my Christian Music Appreciation (CMA) series, we will focus on a decades-old worship song that pastor Darlene Zschech composed during her time with Hillsong Church and the Hillsong Worship team – I Will Run to You.
As for Hillsong Worship, follow them by clicking here (Facebook), here (Instagram) and here (Twitter).
Before getting into the analysis of the Biblical relevance of I Will Run to You, posted below for your reference are the lyrics. Words and music of this song were credited to Darlene Zschech.
Your eye is on the sparrow
And Your hand, it comforts me
From the ends of the Earth to the depth of my heart
Let Your mercy and strength be seen
–
You call me to Your purpose
As angels understand
For Your glory, may You draw all men
As Your love and grace demand
–
And I will run to You
To Your words of truth
Not by might, not by power
But by the Spirit of God
Yes, I will run the race
‘Till I see Your face
Oh let me live in the glory of Your grace
–
You call me to Your purpose
As angels understand
For Your glory, may You draw all men
As Your love and grace demand
–
To begin with, let’s take a close look at the lyrics of the first paragraph of the song: Your eye is on the sparrow, And Your hand, it comforts me, From the ends of the Earth to the depth of my heart,Let Your mercy and strength be seen.
The above lyrics emphasize that the Lord is ever present and He will never abandon His faithful children no matter how divisive and chaotic this world is. As long we keep faith in Him, honor Him and follow Him, the Lord will keep us up with His mercy, strength and peace. This also means we should keep on pursuing Him wholeheartedly and without hesitation! To be with God requires being with His Son Jesus who is our Lord and Savior! Learn from the holy scriptures below…
And He said, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”
Exodus 33:14 (NKJV)
Do not fear, for I am with you;
Do not be afraid, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you, I will also help you,
I will also uphold you with My righteous right hand.’
Isaiah 41:10 (NASB)
And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.
Jeremiah 29:13 (NKJV)
But I’ll keep coming closer and closer to you, Lord Yahweh, for your name is good to me. I’ll keep telling the world of your awesome works, my faithful and glorious God!
Psalms 73:28 (TPT)
Jesus explained, “I am the Way, I am the Truth, and I am the Life. No one comes next to the Father except through union with me. To know me is to know my Father too.”
John 14:6 (TPT)
Next, take a close look at the following lines of lyrics from the 2nd paragraph: You call me to Your purpose, As angels understand, For Your glory, may You draw all men, As Your love and grace demand.
The above lyrics is a lively reminder that as creations of God, there is absolutely no way we could fully separate ourselves from Him. To be separated from Him is futile and only leads to darkness. When the Lord calls you, it is your destiny to answer His call which is undeniably a high call. Without the Lord, we are nothing, we won’t have glory and we would fall into darkness, sadness and wickedness. Answer the Lord’s call and come to Him. Run to Him and be with Him wholeheartedly! Never forget that God sent Jesus to save humanity and that alone shows how much He loves us and how faithful He is. We only need to answer the high call from our Lord and come to Him decisively with love and obedience. The Lord is always the holy one we must connect with. Learn from the scriptures below…
Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will do it.
1 Thessalonians 5:24 (NASB)
When he calls to me, I will answer him;
I will be with him in trouble;
I will rescue him and honor him.
Psalm 91:15 (ESV)
But as for me, I will call upon the Lord to save me, and I know he will!
Psalms 55:16 (TPT)
By having the eyes of your heart flooded with light, so that you can know and understand the hope to which He has called you, and how rich is His glorious inheritance in the saints (His set-apart ones),
Ephesians 1:18 (AMPC)
With this in view we constantly pray for you, that our God may deem and count you worthy of [your] calling and [His] every gracious purpose of goodness, and with power may complete in [your] every particular work of faith (faith which is that [a]leaning of the whole human personality on God in absolute trust and confidence in His power, wisdom, and goodness).
2 Thessalonians 1:11 (AMPC)
“Loving me empowers you to obey my commands. And I will ask the Father and he will give you another Savior, the Holy Spirit of Truth, who will be to you a friend just like me—and he will never leave you. The world won’t receive him because they can’t see him or know him. But you know him intimately because he remains with you and will live inside you. “I promise that I will never leave you helpless or abandon you as orphans—I will come back to you! Soon I will leave this world and they will see me no longer, but you will see me, because I will live again, and you will come alive too. So when that day comes, you will know that I am living in the Father and that you are one with me, for I will be living in you. Those who truly love me are those who obey my commands. Whoever passionately loves me will be passionately loved by my Father. And I will passionately love him in return and will reveal myself to him.”
John 14:15-21 (TPT)
There is no one holy like the Lord,
Indeed, there is no one besides You,
Nor is there any rock like our God.
1 Samuel 2:2 (NASB)
Exalt the Lord our God,
And worship at His holy hill;
For the Lord our God is holy.
Psalm 99:9 (NKJV)
Next, take a close look at the following lines of lyrics from the 3rd paragraph: And I will run to You, To Your words of truth, Not by might, not by power, But by the Spirit of God, Yes, I will run the race, ‘Till I see Your face, Oh let me live in the glory of Your grace.
The above lyrics collectively emphasize the Holy Spirit, God’s Word, His grace and our union with Him. The said lyrics, in my view, are the very essence of the Hillsong worship song. Learn from the holy scriptures below…
For the Word that God speaks is alive and full of power [making it active, operative, energizing, and effective]; it is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating to the dividing line of the [a]breath of life (soul) and [the immortal] spirit, and of joints and marrow [of the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and sifting and analyzing and judging the very thoughts and purposes of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12 (AMPC)
Jesus commented, “Even more blessed are those who hear God’s Word and guard it with their lives!”
Luke 11:28 (MSG)
Now, the “Lord” I’m referring to is the Holy Spirit, and wherever he is Lord, there is freedom. We can all draw close to him with the veil removed from our faces. And with no veil we all become like mirrors who brightly reflect the glory of the Lord Jesus. We are being transfigured into his very image as we move from one brighter level of glory to another. And this glorious transfiguration comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
2 Corinthians 3:17-18 (TPT)
May the God of your hope so fill you with all joy and peace in believing [through the experience of your faith] that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound and be overflowing (bubbling over) with hope.
Romans 15:13 (AMPC)
He gave us resurrection life and drew us to himself by his holy calling on our lives. And it wasn’t because of any good we have done, but by his divine pleasure and marvelous grace that confirmed our union with the anointed Jesus, even before time began!
2 Timothy 1:9 (TPT)
But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.
Isaiah 40:31 (NLT)
But God shows and clearly proves His [own] love for us by the fact that while we were still sinners, Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One) died for us.
Romans 5:8 (AMPC)
For God’s Word is something to sing about! He is true to his promises, his word can be trusted, and everything he does is reliable and right.
Psalms 33:4 (TPT)
Jesus answered him, I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, that unless a person is born again (anew, from above), he cannot ever see (know, be acquainted with, and experience) the kingdom of God.
John 3:3 (AMPC)
For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome.
Jeremiah 29:11 (AMPC)
Just as the Father has loved Me, I also have loved you; remain in My love.
John 15:9 (NASB)
And it’s true: “Everyone who calls on the Lord’s name will experience new life.”
Romans 10:13 (TPT)
Indeed, the lyrics and title of I Will Run to You are holy and anointed! This Hillsong worship song is also musically beautiful and written to motivate your heart of worship of the Lord. That being said, I strongly recommend the playing of I Will Run to You during Sunday worship services as well as during church special events. I Will Run to You is clearly all about us – the children of God – to always come to our Heavenly Father through Lord Jesus no matter what happens. This Hillsong worship song is also a great reminder of our union with the Lord.
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. Sharing this Christian piece means spreading the good news of the Lord to others. It can help you save the unsaved and the lost souls out there. Also please consider making a donation to support my publishing of faith articles and CMAs.
Welcome back fellow geeks, Blu-ray collectors and movie buffs! In this edition of the Better than Streaming series, we take a look at the upcoming 4K Blu-ray release of the 1942 classic film Casablanca (starring Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman and Paul Henreid) which is set for November 8, 2022. Take note that this year marks the 80th anniversary of Casablanca which itself is an iconic American film, won the Academy Award for Best Picture, became memorable for movie quotes, its theme song and was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry for being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.”
As I am writing this, Casablanca 4K Blu-ray still has not been listed for pre-order at Amazon.com but you can bet that its November 8 release date is definitive. According to the Blu-ray.com announcement, Casablanca 4K Blu-ray comes with the expected 4K restoration described as having achieved “the richest, most dynamic image possible, rendering the most romantic movie of all time the most beautiful it’s ever been.” For the 4K Blu-ray purists reading this, this upcoming 4K Blu-ray release has native 4K visuals confirmed already!
The official 4K Blu-ray cover of Casablanca.
For the details of Casablanca 4K Blu-ray, posted below are technical stuff sourced from its Blu-ray.com page.
Playback – 4K Blu-ray: Region free, 2K Blu-ray: Region A
In the most recent update of Blu-ray.com, more details about Casablanca 4K Blu-ray were posted. Posted below is an excerpt. Some parts in boldface…
The new Casablanca 4K Blu-ray image was restored and remastered from a 2022 4K 16bit film scan of the best-surviving nitrate film elements. The 4K-scanned digital images went through an extensive digital restoration process to clean and repair the picture for an unprecedented and pristine ultra-high-resolution presentation. The restored images were then graded in High Dynamic Range for today’s premium 4K display experience, providing the highest fidelity in image contrast and detail retention. This work was meticulously handled by Warner Bros. Motion Picture Imaging. The original theatrical mono audio has also been newly restored as well, providing a richer and broader frequency response than previously possible.
Special Features and Technical Specs:
BRAND NEW 4K 16-BIT RESTORATION OF THE FILM (2022)
NEWLY RESTORED ORIGINAL MONO TRACK (2022)
HDR PRESENTATION OF THE FILM
Commentary by Roger Ebert
Commentary by Rudy Behlmer
Introduction by Lauren Bacall
Great Performances: Bacall on Bogart (1988 PBS special)
Michael Curtiz: The Greatest Director You’ve Never Heard Of
Casablanca: An Unlikely Classic
You Must Remember This: A Tribute to Casablanca (1992 TEC documentary)
As Time Goes By: The Children Remember
Deleted Scenes
Outtakes
Who Holds Tomorrow? (1955 “Casablanca” TV episode)
Carrotblanca (1955 WB Cartoon)
Scoring Stage Sessions (audio only)
Lady Esther Screen Guild Theater Radio Broadcast – 4/26/43 (audio only)
Vox Pop Radio Broadcast – 11/19/47 (audio only)
Trailers
Warner Night at the Movies
Now, Voyager trailer
Newsreel
Vaudeville Days (1942 WB short)
The Bird Came C.O.D. (1942 WB cartoon)
The Squawkin’ Hawk (1942 WB cartoon)
The Dover Boys at Pimento University (1942 WB cartoon)
Overseas movie poster of Casablanca.
I personally am interested in this upcoming 4K Blu-ray release which is heavily loads with lots of features that will appeal to both Casablanca fans and other movie buffs. It has been a very long time since I last saw Casablanca during my college days. Sometimes, I accidentally saw parts of it played when I switched channels on cable TV. Casablanca 4K Blu-ray should deliver the promised improved visuals, sounds and immersion that streaming simply cannot achieve.
For the newcomers reading this, if you want the best home entertainment with Casablanca and if you are determined to discover its story, performances and memorable moments for the first time ever in your lives, I urge you all to avoid watching Casablanca reaction videos as well as spoileriffic video reviews of the movie on YouTube until you get Casablanca 4K Blu-ray. No offense to the YouTubers who make reaction videos and the spoileriffic video reviews but I say that Casablanca needs to be preserved for the movie-loving people who are about to see it for the first time ever.
Casablanca movie poster.
Watch out for Casablanca 4K Blu-ray on November 8, 2022.
Disclaimer: This is my original work with details sourced from reading the comic book and doing personal research. Anyone who wants to use this article, in part or in whole, needs to secure first my permission and agree to cite me as the source and author. Let it be known that any unauthorized use of this article will constrain the author to pursue the remedies under R.A. No. 8293, the Revised Penal Code, and/or all applicable legal actions under the laws of the Philippines.
Welcome back superhero enthusiasts, 1990s culture enthusiasts and comic book collectors! Today we go back to the early 1990s and explore a part of the Valiant Comics shared universe through the Harbinger monthly series.
In my previous retro review, Sting, Kris and Shatiqua got into trouble upon seeing the traitorous Ax and his powered companions. Their encounter turned into a radically different turn of events when the Harbinger foundation’s armed personnel and Eggbreakers members arrived targeting Ax.
With those details laid down, here is a look back at Harbinger #17, published in 1993 by Valiant Comics with a story written by Maurice Fontenot and illustrated by Howard Simpson.
The cover.
Early story
The story begins in the past – January 11, 1991 at the Woodville State Mental Institution in Pennsylvania. One of the local doctors leads two formal visitors into the secured room of one of their patients described as a “fascinating subject”. His name is Simon and the visitors turned out to be from the Harbinger foundation. They tell Simon, who is invisible, that the Harbinger foundation was established to help special people like him, help him understand and control his talents, and he will not be alone as the foundation has others like him.
In the present day of December 23, 1992, Faith is flying just above a truck which is slipping out of control along a major bridge in New Jersey. Sting is barely holding on the top of the truck. Being unable to utilize his power to control the situation, Sting instructs Faith to pull the driver out of the truck. Moments after Faith saves the truck driver, the truck itself stops but ended up hitting a vehicle.
As Flamingo uses her power to put out a fire, Kris finds Sting on the side of a car feeling terrible. Sting wonders what is wrong with him as he failed to stop the truck…
Quality
Even though he is already in a relationship with Kris, Sting focused on the blonde lady in the middle of a party.
I want to point out that this is yet another build-up type of story from Fontenot and Simpson, only this time it introduces Simon who is involved with the Harbinger foundation not as a trained Eggbreakers member but rather as a patient still relying on medical and psychological care. Through Simon, you will feel his loneliness, his trouble to fit in with society and his personal pain related to being unwanted. Through him, you will also realize that even though it has lots of resources and experts as employees, the Harbinger foundation is not the ideal replacement for Simon’s father (who rejected him in the first place). That should also remind you readers that government units also can never be your parent nor your guiding light no matter what socialists and Commies say in this age of Joe Biden and the fascist Democrats (read: the Satanic Left). Fontenot’s script here is, unsurprisingly, really strong and Simon’s introduction never felt like a throwaway piece.
Apart from Simon, Sting and his teammates got a lot more of the narrative’s spotlight this time around which is like a breath of fresh air since the previous two issues focused more on Harbinger and the Eggbreakers. Even though they are already dealing with their domestic problems, the primary characters still make efforts to solve problems and help others knowing that they would not be compensated by society.
More on character development, the team leader Sting continues to desire recruiting and helping powered young adults before the organization of Toyo Harada gets them first. This shows his arrogance and delusion as he rejects the reality that he and his team don’t really have the massive resources the Harbinger foundation has when it comes to recruitment and providing the constant needs of recruits. Furthermore, Sting does not even see his current problem (with his super power) as a hindrance at all when facing the Harbinger foundation.
Storywise, this comic book is more balanced with the spotlight on characters on the two sides of the spectrum with Simon being symbolically caught in the middle of the conflict. This is really solid storytelling.
Conclusion
Something’s wrong with Sting.
I like Harbinger #17 (1993) very much. What it lacks in spectacle, it bounces back big time with character development, deep dramatics and introducing a new character who gets connected with both Sting’s team and the Harbinger foundation. This story obviously keep on building up something for a future conflict between the two forces and already I am eager to find out what will happen in the next issue.
Overall, Harbinger #17 (1993) is highly recommended!
To those of you motorists who got penalized over alleged violations of the No-Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP) implemented by some local government units (LGUs), be aware that the Supreme Court has issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) against the said police and scheduled oral arguments on January 2023, according to a GMA Network news report. Also be aware that certain Metro Manila city mayors are standing firm with the NCAP.
To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the GMA news report. Some parts in boldface…
The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) against the No-Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP) being implemented by local government units.
In a media briefer, the SC said effective immediately, any apprehensions through the NCAP programs and ordinances related to the policy shall be prohibited until further orders from the court.
It also enjoined the Land Transportation Office and all parties acting on its behalf from giving out motorist information to all local government units, cities, and municipalities enforcing NCAP programs and ordinances.
The SC set the oral arguments on the issue on January 24, 2023.
The SC’s order came after transport groups Kapit, Pasang Masda, Altodap, and the Alliance of Concerned Transport Organizations filed a petition against local ordinances related to NCAP in five cities in Metro Manila.
For its part, the LTO has previously asked local governments to temporarily suspend the implementation of the policy, with its head, Teofilo Guadiz III, calling on the mayors of the five cities to sit down with the LTO and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to create uniform guidelines.
For the many motorcycle riders who reside in Las Pinas and Cavite, going to Manila or Quezon City meant passing through Paranaque City’s Dr. Arcadio Santos Avenue (Sucat RD) toward Domestic Road on the way to EDSA, or toward Macapagal BLVD and Roxas BLVD.
A few weeks ago, road users were in an uproar on what they dubbed as “road trap” in one of the intersections of the said thoroughfare.
On this particular intersection of J.P. Rizal and Sucat RD, the second lane was marked with an arrow for left-turning vehicles only. Since Paranaque City is one of the few Metro Manila cities that implement a No-Contact Apprehension System, hundreds of drivers and motorcycle riders were summoned with their corresponding traffic violation which amounts to PHP 1,500 for Disregarding Traffic Signs (DTS).
What’s odd is that the marking was previously pointing north towards the former Nayong Pilipino and not to the left.
With fuel costs nearing PHP 100/liter, every penny counts for the Juan dela Cruz rider/driver, and penalties from similar traffic violations could mean a family skipping lunch or dinner.
Just recently, a motorcyclist was summoned by the city for DTS. The motorcycle rider sought help from the Motorcycle Rights Organization (MRO), who then advised what steps should be taken following due process of law.
According to MRO, based on their research of relevant laws, LGUs like Paranaque City cannot make a new or update a road marking/traffic sign without prior approval from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) or the Department of Transportation (DOTr)/ Land Transportation Office (LTO).
To follow due process, MRO advised the rider to first seek a reaction/memo from the DPWH as to the legality of the road/traffic markings. The DPWH has then sent a letter to Paranaque LGU advising them that the marking is inconsistent with current standards. You can view the MRO social media post here.
On their end, the City of Paranaque has made the necessary lane marking corrections and has declared the motorcycle rider’s traffic violation void.
For added insight about Parañaque, watch the video below.
Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this new development? If you were charged for traffic violations based on findings through the NCAP system, which particular local government unit penalize you? Do you believe that the NCAP system is being abused by LGUs as a means to raise internal revenues at the expense of motorists who were tagged for traffic violations? Did Parañaque City’s notorious road trap get you penalized? Do you believe that the NCAP made traffic flow and road discipline better? Do you believe that the NCAP implemented by the cities of Parañaque, Valenzuela, San Juan, Manila and Quezon City should be declared illegal by the Supreme Court?
Do you believe that the city governments of Parañaque, Valenzuela, San Juan, Manila and Quezon City should be compelled to reveal how much many they each raised from all the penalties collected through NCAP?
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
Disclaimer: This is my original work with details sourced from reading the comic book and doing personal research. Anyone who wants to use this article, in part or in whole, needs to secure first my permission and agree to cite me as the source and author. Let it be known that any unauthorized use of this article will constrain the author to pursue the remedies under R.A. No. 8293, the Revised Penal Code, and/or all applicable legal actions under the laws of the Philippines.
Welcome back, superhero fans, 1990s arts and culture enthusiasts and comic book collectors! Today we revisit the Ultraverse of Malibu Comics and examine one of its many stories told through an issue of the Sludge comic book series.
In my previous retro review, a more character-driven story about Sludge was told as the city crime war story has ended. What made issue #10’s story standout was the unexpected physical change Sludge goes through which is something he had desired apart from wanting death. Ironically, this made him more vulnerable to physical attacks. Needing help on something, he reaches out to the New York Daily Globe’s reporter Shelley Rogers.
With those details laid down, here is a look back at Sludge #11, published by Malibu Comics in 1994 with a story written by Steve Gerber and drawn by Robb Phipps.
The cover.
Early story
The story begins with Sludge about to engage in a physical battle with the Bash Brothers just outside the Lalama Clinic. Shelley Rogers is just standing nearby. The Bash Brothers proved to be troublesome for Sludge until Shelley explains to one of them that their mother was not harmed. The said mother comes out and after an exchange of talk between them all, they realize Sludge needs the help of Dr. Ferdinand Lalama who was involved with the Caldwell Pharmaceuticals which itself was responsible for the stuff that affected Sludge in the first place.
Shelley then notices that Sludge is reverting back to his previous gooey state. At the same time, Dr. Lalama made no communication for almost a week…
Quality
Something wild is about to happen.
As a story that started with Sludge needing to find a specialist to help treat him, this one went wild with the fantasy concepts. Without spoiling the plot, this wild ride has strong science fiction elements such as energy streaming and traveling to another dimension through a portal. The sci-fi elements are indeed a factor that made this tale of the search of Dr. Lalama a really intriguing read.
With regards to the titular hero, this story encourages researching details of his origin (how he went from human into a chemical being) as well as reading issue #1. Sludge himself is more vulnerable than before and the unpredictable changes with him added suspense to the narrative. This story also contains themes of scientific experimentation and molecular manipulation which were nicely planted into the story’s sci-fi aspect. That being said, I can say that what was explained near the end of the comic book was both intriguing and worth reading.
Conclusion
A really interesting discussion here.
Sludge #11 (1994) is indeed a really intriguing and entertaining read. Without spoiling anything, I can say that it cleverly answered questions about how Sludge came to be, what Zuke and a regeneration formula did to his state and what forces behind the pharmaceutical company took place that affected the titular character. This is really fitting as this comic book was the 2nd-to-the-last issue ever published. That being said, I can say that I am looking forward to what will be told in issue #12.
Welcome back fellow geeks, Blu-ray collectors and movie buffs! When it comes to cinematic martial arts and stunt works that are thrilling to watch, I can say Hong Kong action filmmakers and performers really stand out. More notably, Jackie Chan and Michelle Yeoh are the cinematic icons of Asia whose decades-old works remain memorable to this day.
That being said, if you are fond of Jackie Chan and Michelle Yeoh, and if you want something really fun to add to your collection of 4K Blu-ray movies, then you should get ready for the release of the 4K Blu-ray of the 1992 Hong Kong action film Police Story 3: Supercop (also referred to as Police Story III: Supercop) which has been set for December 13, 2022. The good news here is that advanced orders of Police Story 3: Supercop 4K Blu-ray are being accepted already. You can order it right now by clicking here.
The 4K Blu-ray cover.
For the details of Police Story 3: Supercop 4K Blu-ray, posted below are technical stuff sourced from its Blu-ray.com page.
Video
Codec: HEVC / H.265
Resolution: 4K (2160p)
HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10
Original aspect ratio: 2.39:1
Audio – TBA
Subtitles – English, English SDH
Discs – 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray Disc, Single disc (1 BD)
Packaging – Reversible cover
Playback – 4K Blu-ray: Region free, 2K Blu-ray: Region A
Police Story 3: Supercop 4K Blu-ray will come with extra stuff and key features. Check out the official product trailer below…
I personally am interested in this upcoming 4K Blu-ray of the movie that had Jackie Chan and Michelle Yeoh as the stars. For one thing, I only saw the Dimension Films version released in 1996 simply titled Supercop and that version had some content of the original Hong Kong version cut out. I am also interested in the extra stuff related to the dangerous stunts Chan and Yeoh pulled off while making the film. Other aspects of the film’s production, which includes filming in Malaysia, are something I would like to see.
As for the movie itself, it has a lot of thrills and to watch them – as well as Jackie Chan and Michelle Yeoh themselves – again in 4K is something to look out for. On the aspects of story and continuity, this 1992 movie was the 2nd sequel to the original Police Story (1985) movie that I saw long time ago on home video. Filled with lots of action, very dangerous stunts (note: Chan doing the dangerous pole stunt with exploding electric lights inside a shopping mall was the definitive stunt to see) and car chases, Police Story became successful and spawned sequels. Police Story 3: Supercop had Chan working with Michelle Yeoh (note: this was her comeback) and in my view, they had fine chemistry together and proved how great they are with fighting and stunt work. No computer-generated images here as the action and stunts were really done by the stars with high risk and danger. Chan and Yeoh are movie legends now and their team-up in 1992 is alone a solid reason to anticipate the 4K Blu-ray release.
Asian region movie poster of Police Story 3: Supercop.
Watch out for Police Story 3: Supercop 4K Blu-ray on December 13, 2022.
In closing this Better than Streaming piece, posted below are Police Story 3: Supercop-related videos and some videos related to Jackie Chan and Michelle Yeoh.
Author Carlo Carrasco 