Author: carlocarrasco

I was at Power Coffeeworks in Jerusalem

I was at Power Coffeeworks in Jerusalem

carlocarrasco

Disclaimer: This is my original work with details sourced from my personal experiences and observations during the Israel pilgrimage tour I joined and what happened during my free time. 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, readers and fellow followers of the Lord! This is the 9th chapter of my ongoing series of articles about the holy nation of Israel with recollections about the experiences and discoveries I had during the pilgrimage tour I joined with my local church (hosted by strategic partner Behold Israel). To see my previous Israel tour articles, click here, here, here, here, here,  here, here and here. No matter what happens in this world, I will always stand with Israel and my faith in the Lord remains uncompromising!

In this latest edition of my Israel 2023 series, I share with you one of the things I did during the one and only day-off (February 15, 2023) of our pilgrimage tour. This was the day I visited the Temple Mount, revisited the Western Wall and the Upper Room, and visited the grave of Oskar Schindler. After Schindler, I marched all the way from the Old City to the modern parts of Jerusalem. I had a stopover at Tmol Shilshom to recover before proceeding to Mahana Yehuda Market where I had lunch at Shakshuka Machaneh Yehuda.

During my time at Mahane Yehuda, the cold weather intensified (cloudy and slightly raining). I knew that the heat I got from consuming my lunch would not last long. Suddenly, I remembered what I had been planning to do…visit Power Coffeeworks.

I first learned about Power Coffeeworks on social media while preparing for the trip to Israel some months prior. I checked out what drinks they offered and I knew I had to visit them and enjoy something.

So there I was walking through the crowd at the roofed section of Mahane Yehuda. Remembering what I studied from Google Maps, I went on until I reached a certain road, crossed it and made my way to the commercial building where Power Coffeeworks was located at.

I remember smiling upon arrival outside of Power Coffeeworks as it was my intention to visit and try their coffee.

For the first several moments upon arrival, I examined Power Coffeeworks’ physical set-up, the menu and the local vibe as there were customers who arrived ahead of me. I also noticed that inside are lots of products for sale such as coffee beans, Pumpking Spice, tea and more.

After reading the menu, I went on to order a hot Macchiato as I really needed heat and energy to endure the cold weather. Then I noticed a vacant table and chairs located close to the heater. So I went there to take a seat, enjoyed my hot Macchiato and used the free WiFi (password shared to me at the counter moments earlier) with the comforting heat from the heater. I even had a short chat with one of the coffee joint’s employees as he cleaned the table.

From my early moments at Power Coffeeworks. I like the vibe of the place.

For more than half an hour, I sat there enjoying my coffee, the place, checking updates online and re-energized myself because I planned to return to Mahana Yehuda one last time for treats before marching all the way back to our Jerusalem hotel. My feet were a bit sore by the time I arrived at the coffee joint.

Some of you reading this might be wondering what Power Coffeeworks is and why was I so interested with it. Personally, I really pursued buying (and enjoying) goods of local businesses in Israel. When it comes to coffee, I never thought about the international brands during my time in Israel as I went for Israeli enterprise.

That’s a nice display of products at Power Coffeeworks!

As for Power Coffeeworks, it describes itself as follows:

Power was inspired by the lack of excellent roasted coffee within Jerusalem. With its awesome steampunk vibe and amazing aroma, it is the perfect location for working, reading a book, spending time with friends or chatting with our amazing baristas.

Our coffee is roasted fresh daily, ground per cup and served with a huge amount of love. We are all about the taste, flavor, vibe and not to forget – the music.

Stephanie and Brandon, the owners made aliyah from Cape Town, South Africa in 2016 with their four children to Efrat, Gush Etzion. With their extensive knowledge of the hospitality industry, they decided to open Power Coffeeworks, an anglo orientated coffee roastery in Machane Yehuda Shuk.

Five years later, Power is exactly what they wanted it to be. Despite the struggles of starting a new business in a new country, Stephanie and Brandon took the coffee culture of Jerusalem to a whole new level. After three more children, Covid19 and a whole load of drama. Power coffeeworks has grown to be the number one location in Jerusalem for the best cup of coffee and an unbelievable section of coffee beans.

After spending time at Power Coffeeworks, I left as a satisfied and a happy customer. I would not hesitate to revisit the coffee joint once I return to Israel someday. I am deeply thankful to the Lord for the enterprise of Power Coffeeworks and everything else about the entire Israel pilgrimage tour I joined with my local church.  

This leads to my next point: always be thankful to the Lord for the blessings you enjoyed as He is our source and the definitive provider. All the praise and glory is to Him. Learn from the holy scriptures below…

Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

1 Corinthians 10:31 (NKJV)

And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. 20 Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.

Philippians 4:19-20 (NKJV)

For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. [For all things originate with Him and come from Him; all things live through Him, and all things center in and tend to consummate and to end in Him.] To Him be glory forever! Amen (so be it).

Romans 11:36 (AMPC)

“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord,

And whose hope is the Lord.

For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters,

Which spreads out its roots by the river,

And will not fear when heat comes;

But its leaf will be green,

And will not be anxious in the year of drought,

Nor will cease from yielding fruit.

Jeremiah 17:7-8 (NKJV)

Never forget that Israel is the land that God the Heavenly Father designated to the Jewish people and He always has great plans for them. As people of faith, we should do our part to love and bless the Jewish people. Also remember that the ties between Jews and Christians are biblical. Read the scriptures below…

Now the Lord had said to Abram:

“Get out of your country,

From your family

And from your father’s house,

To a land that I will show you.

I will make you a great nation;

I will bless you

And make your name great;

And you shall be a blessing.

I will bless those who bless you,

And I will curse him who curses you;

And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”

Genesis 12:1-3 (NKJV)

Again God said to him, Your name is Jacob [supplanter]; you shall not be called Jacob any longer, but Israel shall be your name. So He called him Israel [contender with God].

And God said to him, I am God Almighty. Be fruitful and multiply; a nation and a company of nations shall come from you and kings shall be born of your stock;

The land which I gave Abraham and Isaac I will give to you, and to your descendants after you I will give the land.

Genesis 35:10-12 (AMPC)

Now therefore, if you will obey My voice in truth and keep My covenant, then you shall be My own peculiar possession and treasure from among and above all peoples; for all the earth is Mine.

And you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests, a holy nation [consecrated, set apart to the worship of God]. These are the words you shall speak to the Israelites.

Exodus 19:5-6 (AMPC)

No longer shall your name be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham, for I have made you the father of a multitude of nations. I will make you exceedingly fruitful, and I will make you into nations, and kings shall come from you. And I will establish my covenant between me and you and your offspring after you throughout their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and to your offspring after you. And I will give to you and to your offspring after you the land of your sojournings, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession, and I will be their God.”

And God said to Abraham, “As for you, you shall keep my covenant, you and your offspring after you throughout their generations.”

Genesis 17:5-9 (ESV)

Say therefore to the people of Israel, ‘I am the Lord, and I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, and I will deliver you from slavery to them, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with great acts of judgment. I will take you to be my people, and I will be your God, and you shall know that I am the Lord your God, who has brought you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians. I will bring you into the land that I swore to give to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob. I will give it to you for a possession. I am the Lord.’”

Exodus 6:6-8 (ESV)

“Yet hear now, O Jacob My servant,

And Israel whom I have chosen.

Thus says the Lord who made you

And formed you from the womb, who will help you:

‘Fear not, O Jacob My servant;

And you, Jeshurun, whom I have chosen.

For I will pour water on him who is thirsty,

And floods on the dry ground;

I will pour My Spirit on your descendants,

And My blessing on your offspring;

They will spring up among the grass

Like willows by the watercourses.’

One will say, ‘I am the Lord’s’;

Another will call himself by the name of Jacob;

Another will write with his hand, ‘The Lord’s,’

And name himself by the name of Israel.

Isaiah 44:1-5 (NKJV)

“Now, show the people the pieces of wood you have written on, and tell them, ‘Lord Yahweh says this: I will gather the Israelites from the nations where they have gone. I will gather them together from everywhere and bring them to their homeland. And I will make them into a single nation in the mountainous land of Israel and give them one king to be king over them all. They will never again be divided into two nations nor split into two separate kingdoms.

Ezekiel 37:20-22 (TPT)

For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life.

John 3:16 (AMPC)

Jesus said to him,

“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

“If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; and from now on you know Him and have seen Him.”

John 14:6-7 (NKJV)

And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying,

“This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.”

Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying,

“This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.”

Luke 22:19-20 (NKJV)

Conclusion

The view from my table.

I would love to return to Power Coffeeworks once I return to Jerusalem in the years to come. Only the Lord know when that time will be. No matter what happens, my faith in the Lord will never be compromised. To those of you who are interested to discover Power Coffeeworks and find out what products they offer, I encourage you to visit their official website at https://www.powercoffeeworksjerusalem.com/. Remember that once you make it to the Mahane Yehuda market, this nice coffee joint is just a short walk away.

Israel is a great and holy place to visit! Visit Israel with the Holy Bible! Pray to the Lord wholeheartedly and reveal to Him your heart’s desire to visit Israel to deepen your faith in Him. Always be the fearless and aggressive church of Lord Jesus! Follow the light of Lord Jesus, keep on praying to support Israel and for the peace of Jerusalem. Live on with uncompromising faith in Him!

Watch out for more Israel 2023 travel articles here. There is more to come!

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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

Three foreigners arrested in Parañaque City over shooting incident at a residential complex

Three foreigners arrested in Parañaque City over shooting incident at a residential complex

carlocarrasco

Recently in the city of Parañaque, three foreign nationals – two Chinese and one Cameroonian –were arrested over a shooting incident that wounded another foreign national at a residential complex, according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) news article.

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

Three foreign nationals were arrested in a shooting incident that wounded a Chinese national in Parañaque City, the Southern Police District (SPD) said on Thursday.

In a report, SPD Director Brig. Gen. Bernard Yang identified the suspects as alias Shi, 31, and alias Sui, 33, both Chinese nationals, and alias Edwin, 39, a Cameroonian.

They were arrested after a shooting incident occurred at a residential complex in Barangay Don Galo on Wednesday morning.

The victim, a money changer employee residing in the complex, identified as alias Li, a 35-year-old Chinese national, sustained gunshot wounds and is currently receiving medical treatment at the San Juan De Dios Hospital in Pasay City.

He identified the suspects to the police, leading to a swift operation that resulted in the arrest of Shi, Sui, and Edwin.

During the arrest of the suspects, operatives seized 200 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated street value of PHP1.2 million, a 9mm Glock 19 pistol, one magazine, ten live ammunition, two empty shells, one bullet slug, three butane gas canisters, and two pointed weapons.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What do you think about this recent development? If you are a resident of Parañaque, are you concerned that the city will remain a hot spot of criminal activity involving foreign nationals? Why do you think foreigners who engage in violence and possess firearms commit crime in Parañaque?

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

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

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

Over 600 Barangay Daniel Fajardo residents served by Las Piñas Health and Wellness Caravan

Over 600 Barangay Daniel Fajardo residents served by Las Piñas Health and Wellness Caravan

carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Las Piñas, more than six hundred residents of Barangay Daniel Fajardo were served with varied health services provided by the Las Piñas Health and Wellness Caravan, the City Government announced via social media.  

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

The Las Piñas Health and Wellness Caravan, organized by the City Health Office, delivered essential health services to residents of Daniel Fajardo at the Casimiro Townhomes Covered Court on Wednesday, November 6. Over 600 residents took advantage of the free services, showcasing the city’s commitment to delivering accessible healthcare.

The event provided a comprehensive range of medical services, including consultations, blood sugar and cholesterol tests, dental services, ECGs, chest X-rays, and lifestyle-related illness risk screening. Residents also availed of pneumonia vaccinations for senior citizens, free medicines at the pharmacy, and support for PhilHealth registration and the Green Card program. Mobile birth registration and a station offering massages were also available to further support community well-being.

City Vice Mayor April Aguilar was on hand to oversee the health caravan, emphasizing the local government’s dedication to health and wellness. She was joined by City Councilor Mark Anthony Santos and City Council District 1 candidates Alelee Aguilar, Atty. Zardi Abellera, Mac Mac Santos, Robert Cristobal, and Marlon Rosales. Their presence underlined the unified efforts of city leaders to prioritize public health initiatives. City Health Office head Dr. Juliana Gonzalez was also present, ensuring the smooth facilitation of services.

Dr. Juliana Gonzalez highlighted the continuous positive impact of the caravan in reaching numerous residents and addressing health concerns. She noted the program’s role in providing early detection and preventive care to the community.

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? When was the last time the City Government’s Health and Wellness Caravan was held in your local community?

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

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

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

US President-elect Trump and Philippine President Marcos discuss alliance over the phone

US President-elect Trump and Philippine President Marcos discuss alliance over the phone

carlocarrasco

In recent times, the returning US President Donald Trump and President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr., talked with each other on the phone and discussed the US-Philippines alliance, according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) news article.

For the newcomers reading this, Trump pulled off the greatest American political comeback ever after crushing Kamala Harris in the 2024 US Presidential Election.

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

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. spoke to United States (US) President-elect Donald Trump over the phone on Tuesday morning, where they discussed the longstanding alliance between their two countries.

In a media interview during his visit to typhoon-hit communities in the province of Catanduanes, Marcos said he expressed to Trump the Philippines’ openness to further deepen relations with its oldest and strongest military ally.

“I expressed to him our continuing desire to strengthen that relationship between our two countries, which is a relationship that is as deep as can possibly be because it has been for a very long time,” he said.

The President said he also expressed his intention to meet with Trump as soon as possible. He added that he told Trump that Filipinos in the US voted “overwhelmingly” in his favor.

Trump is set for his second term as US president after winning the recently held elections.

According to Marcos, it is his mother, Imelda Marcos, who is a close friend of Trump.

“Ang kaibigan niya talaga mother ko. Kilalang-kilala niya ang mother ko. Kinukumusta niya, ‘How’s Imelda?’ Sabi ko binabati ka nga (It is really my mother who is his friend. He knows my mother very well. He asked how she is, ‘How’s Imelda?’ I said she is extending her congratulations),” he said.

Although he said they did not talk about the fears of a mass deportation of undocumented immigrants in the US after Trump’s win, Marcos assured that the government is already working on it to assist affected Filipinos.

“We didn’t talk about that. It was just a congratulatory call. But, of course, our ambassador is already working on that,” he said.

Nonetheless, Marcos said his conversation with Trump was “very productive.”

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Are you concerned that once Trump takes office again as US President on January 20, 2025, a lot of Filipinos illegally staying in America will get deported along with millions of other illegal aliens? Are you concerned that the dynamics of trade between the United States and the Philippines will be changed drastically? Do you think America under Trump will increase military support for the Philippines facing the bullying presence of China?

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

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

Masbate City’s most wanted person arrested in Parañaque City

Masbate City’s most wanted person arrested in Parañaque City

carlocarrasco

Recently in the city of Parañaque, a man from Masbate City who is wanted for murder was apprehended by local police officers, according to a Philippine Star news report. This is the result of a successful manhunt by the authorities.

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

Masbate’s most wanted person was arrested during a manhunt operation last Thursday in Parañaque City.

The 23-year-old suspect, known by his alias “John,” is originally from Barangay Baga-uma, Aroroy, Masbate was apprehended at 1:20 a.m. in Barangay San Antonio in Sucat.

The suspect faces a murder charge and he had been on the run since a warrant for his arrest was issued on June 9 last year by the regional trial court in Masbate City, according to Parañaque police.

The manhunt operation was a joint effort involving the Aroroy Municipal Police Station, Parañaque City Police Sub-Station 6 and the National Capital Region Police Office.

After his capture, the suspect was brought to Parañaque City Police Sub-Station 6 by 1:50 a.m.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What do you think about this recent development? If you are a resident of Parañaque, are you concerned that there could be a lot more wanted persons from other cities or provinces who could be hiding 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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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

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

A Look Back at Predator #1 (1989)

A Look Back at Predator #1 (1989)

carlocarrasco

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 science fiction enthusiasts, 1980s arts and culture enthusiasts, movie fans and comic book collectors! Today we go back to the year 1989 to take a look at a significant event of the Predator entertainment franchise – the comic book launch of Predator.

For the newcomers reading this, Predator started as a sci-fi action movie in 1987 directed by John McTiernan (Die Hard) and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Carl Weathers, and Jesse Ventura to name some. The writers and creators were Jim Thomas and John Thomas. As the movie became a huge commercial success, it led to the start of its own multi-media entertainment franchise covering video games, toys, novels and comic books. It also led to the release of more movies including a crossover film with the Alien franchise.

With those details laid down, here is a look back at Predator , published in 1989 by Dark Horse Comics with a story written by Mark Verheiden and drawn by Chris Warner. The is the first chapter of a 4-issue mini-series and it would later be referred to as Predator: Concrete Jungle.

The cover.

Early story

The story begins during a very hot summer day in 1991 New York City. A man killed his own wife using a shotgun which eventually leads to the arrival of cops, medics and his arrest. The two detectives Errol Rasche and John Schaefer (brother of Dutch) have been working together in the local war against crime and they have a tendency to do things that violate their superiors’ orders.

In one of the rundown buildings of New York, a secret meeting between two gangs got terribly disrupted by a Predator who attacked from the outside. Chaos and destruction followed.

Shortly after, Rasche and Schaefer arrive outside the same building which has been surrounded and isolated by the local police. When a man suddenly fell out of the building and crashed on top of a police car, the two detectives decide to enter willfully violating the order to stay out.

Once they enter the room where the secret gang meeting was held, Rasche and Schaefer are shocked to see many skinned and dead bodies inside. Schaefer is convinced that what happened was not the result of a gang war…

Quality

A gang meeting about to be disrupted by the unseen Predator.

This comic book – written as a not-too-obvious sequel to the 1987 movie – is absolutely very intriguing to read from start to finish. Mark Verheiden clearly wrote a crime story that happens to involve the species of deadly hunters from outer space. In fact, this comic book has very notable elements that also made it into the core concept of the 1990 movie Predator 2.

Story is set within a massive city that happens to be suffering from a heat wave – check! There is rampant crime and conflicts between gangs – check! The Predator causes huge disruptions on the criminals – check! The detectives willingly violate protocol to solve cases – check! One of the detectives is gradually getting closer to retiring and his pension – check. It’s almost as if this comic book was a huge influence on the people who made Predator 2.

Going back to the story, this is a strong tale of crime and urban war told through the exploits of detectives Schaefer and Rasche who have worked many years together, they treat each other like brothers (similar to Predator 2’s Mike Harrigan and Danny Archuleta).

With their record of disobeying orders, Schaefer and Rasche simply involve themselves in cases believing they have the right know the details on the spot and to solve problems their way even though their superiors don’t need them. This is the anti-authoritarian portrayal of law enforcers that easily reminded me of certain TV shows and movies of the 1980s.

All throughout, the story by Verheiden is nicely structured, has lots of engaging details to follow and carefully blends sci-fi elements with detective storytelling. Verheiden clearly knows how to build up tension, keep the narrative progressing and use action or spectacle with precise timing.

When it comes to the visuals, Chris Warner’s style is very good. His approach on drawing the characters made them look exquisite and visceral at the same time. In fact, there were some shots of people in this comic book which reminded me of Todd McFarlane’s way of drawing people during his early works in comics. Lastly, I should say that Warner’s approach on hard action and his way of drawing of the Predator must be seen.

Conclusion

Rasche and Schaefer defy orders. Schaefer (holding the gun) is the brother of Arnold Schwarzenegger’s character in the Predator movie of 1987.

I really enjoyed reading Predator (1989). This is indeed really fine work by the Verheiden-Warner team and as far as building up the lore of the Predator goes, they clearly succeeded and their contributions here strongly influenced the creation of Predator 2 which opened in cinemas in late 1990. This comic book has the visceral touch and violence that make it comparable with both the 1987 and 1990 movies.

Overall, Predator (1989) is highly recommended!

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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

Las Piñas City Mayor’s daughter supports P103.8 billion reclamation project, appeals to President Marcos and DENR to support it

Las Piñas City Mayor’s daughter supports P103.8 billion reclamation project, appeals to President Marcos and DENR to support it

carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Las Piñas, business woman and candidate Alelee Aguilar-Andanar expressed her support for the P103.8 billion Las Piñas-Parañaque Coastal Bay Reclamation Project and reached out to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to support it as well so that socio-economic developments in the city will happen, according to a Manila Standard news report.

For the newcomers reading this, Aguilar-Andanar is the daughter of incumbent Mayor Imelda Aguilar and the late Mayor Vergel “Nene” Aguilar.

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

A daughter of Las Piñas Mayor Imelda Aguilar expressed support for the resumption of the P103.8-billion Las Piñas-Parañaque Coastal Bay Reclamation Project as it would generate billion of income to the city’s coffer.

Businesswoman Alelee Aguilar-Andanar appealed to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga to sign the notice to proceed of the project as this would create thousands of local jobs, realize pro-poor projects, including socialized housing.

Aguilar-Andanar, who is running for councilor for next year’s election, is the third daughter of the late Las Pinas Mayor Vergel and incumbent Mayor Imelda. Alelle is the wife of former Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar.

Aguilar-Andanar said the reclamation project is a dream and aspiration of her late father who served as mayor of Las Piñas City from 1995 to 2004 and from 2007 to 2016.

She said (her) father’s vision is to keep pace with modern development. “If we don’t keep up or if we don’t devise a way (to generate income), it will become more difficult for the next generation,” said Aguilar-Andanar, quoting her father. She said (her) father wanted to call the reclamation project Las Piñas, Our Home 2.0.

Aguilar-Andanar said her family would join forces with incumbent councilors Mark Anthony Santos and Henry Medina in convincing their constituents on the benefits of the reclamation projects which could help restore ecosystems, create habitats for wildlife and mitigate flooding.

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 that now is the time to have the reclamation project approved so that Las Piñas will further develop economically and socially? Do you think that land reclamation only results in flooding and environmental damage? How many people in your local community are aware of the P103.8 billion Las Piñas-Paranaque Coastal Bay Reclamation Project? Will you vote Aguilar-Andanar for City Councilor in May 2025?

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

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

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

Muntinlupa City wins two Digital Democracy Awards

Muntinlupa City wins two Digital Democracy Awards

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The City Government of Muntinlupa has new additions to its growing list of achievements as it won two awards at the Digital Democracy Awards, 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…

The Muntinlupa City government won at the first Digital Democracy Awards organized by the Makati Business Club (MBC) and sponsored by USAID Philippines and Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Philippines.

US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson, MBC Chairman Edgar Chua, and Department Of Information And Communications Technology Usec. Jocelle Batapa-Sigue presented the Digital Democracy Champion award to 14 city local government units for their exceptional implementation of Digital Democracy initiatives.

Muntinlupa is one of the 14 winners and it also received the Data Stewardship Award for its “responsible handling of citizen data and dedication to advancing smart city initiatives.”

The 14 LGUs that won and recognized as Digital Democracy Champions “for their dedication to advancing citizen participation and transparency in governance” are: 1. Cagayan de Oro City 2. Victorias City 3. Himamaylan City 4. Iligan City 5. Quezon City 6. Isabela City, Basilan 7. Masbate City 8. Tagbilaran City 9. Batangas City 10. Muntinlupa City 11. Naga City 12. San Fernando City, La Union 13. Tagum City 14. Zamboanga City

According to MBC, the awardees in key categories are:

People’s Participation Award: Quezon City for their “Usapang QC” initiative, which bridged communication gaps and engaged over 430,000 residents.

Citizen-Led Policy Award: Naga City for translating citizen feedback into impactful policies, exemplifying the power of participatory governance.

Leadership Award: Batangas City Mayor Beverley Rose Dimacuha, for her exceptional vision and hands-on leadership in advancing digital initiatives.

Outstanding Public Communication Award: Tagbilaran City for their innovative and creative communication strategies, including social media campaigns and community engagement efforts.

Data Stewardship Award: Muntinlupa City for their responsible handling of citizen data and dedication to advancing smart city initiatives.

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, are you very happy to see the city get recognized again with new awards?

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

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

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

Las Piñas City Health and Wellness Caravan serves over 800 residents in Barangay Pilar

Las Piñas City Health and Wellness Caravan serves over 800 residents in Barangay Pilar

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Recently in the City of Las Piñas, the Health and Wellness Caravan served more than eight hundred residents during its stop in Barangay Pilar, the City Government announced via social media.

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

The Las Piñas Health and Wellness Caravan continued its citywide outreach, bringing vital health services to residents at the Aguilar Sports Complex in Pilar on Tuesday, November 5. The event served over 800 residents, providing comprehensive medical and wellness services to ensure the community’s health needs were addressed effectively.

Residents had access to different services, including medical consultations, blood sugar and cholesterol testing, blood typing, ECGs, chest X-rays, and dental treatments. The program also included the distribution of free medications, pneumonia vaccinations for senior citizens, lifestyle-related illness risk screening, and assistance with PhilHealth registration. Additionally, the Green Card Help Desk offered support for hospitalization benefits, and mobile birth registration services were made available, alongside an area offering free massages.

City Vice Mayor April Aguilar was present at the event, emphasizing the importance of accessible healthcare for all Las Piñeros. She was joined by City Councilor Henry Medina and City Council District 2 candidates Lester Aranda, Euan Toralballa, Tito Martinez, and Macky Saito. Their collective presence highlighted the city’s dedication to delivering healthcare services directly to the community. City Health Office head Dr. Juliana Gonzalez also attended, ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the event.

Dr. Gonzalez spoke on the significance of preventive healthcare and the impact of the caravan in reaching underserved populations. She noted that these initiatives are crucial in promoting a healthier community by identifying and addressing medical concerns early.

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? Has the City Government organized a Health and Wellness Caravan in your local community recently?

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

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

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

What to watch on YouTube right now – Part 42

What to watch on YouTube right now – Part 42

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Welcome back, my readers, YouTube viewers and all others who followed this series of articles focused on YouTube videos worth watching. Have you been searching for something fun or interesting to watch on YouTube? Do you feel bored right now and you crave for something to see on the world’s most popular online video destination?

I recommend you check out the following topics and the related videos I found.

Ashleigh Burton’s Logan reaction video – Finally, after posting several X-Men-related reaction videos on her YouTube channel, YouTuber Ashleigh Burton posted her reaction to the great movie Logan. As it is a great film, you must watch it entirely first. If you have seen it already, then I urge you to watch Burton’s reaction video below.

Woke Hollywood continues to freak out over Donald Trump’s comeback as US President – Remember all those many Hollywood elitists who went all out to fool Americans to vote for Commie Kamala Harris for US President? A lot of them plus Hollywood media are still freaking out over Harris’ loss to Donald Trump (who pulled off the greatest American comeback ever). Watch the videos from Midnight’s Edge and RK Outpost below. Pay close attention to the details.

1990s explanatory video about the Fighter’s History – Street Fighter II case – Back in the 1990s, Capcom USA sued Data East over the video game Fighter’s History for infringing on Street Fighter II. As part of its efforts defending Fighter’s History, Data East released to the media an explanatory video (lawsuit exhibit video) which was recently posted on YouTube for millions of people to watch for the first time ever. Watch it now.

Examining Final Exam – Have you ever seen the 1981 movie Final Exam? It was a low-budget, independently made slasher horror movie that looks inspired by Halloween (1978), Friday The 13th (1980) and even National Lampoon’s Animal House (1978). While it is a fact that the movie faded away into obscurity for decades, it suddenly gained attention among film buffs arguably because of its 2023 release on 4K Blu-ray format. Apart from that, Final Exam has a very interesting story of production and execution, and you can learn more about it in the two videos below.

Spotlight on Predator 2 – While it is clear that the 1990 sci-fi action movie Predator 2 does not match the greatness of its predecessor, it still aged well and clearly succeeded in expanding the lore of the Predator entertainment franchise. It also established very creatively the link between Predator and the Alien film franchise. That being said, it is not surprising that the movie became the subject of several YouTubers’ retro movie review videos and movie reaction videos. Before you watch the selected videos below, I encourage you to watch the film first in case you have not seen it. Otherwise, enjoy the selected videos below.

Halo 2 remembered – Twenty years ago this month, Microsoft launched Halo 2 on the original Xbox console with massive hype and success. I could never forget the excitement leading towards its launch followed by the fun I had playing the single-player campaign. The only problem I had with Halo 2 was the abrupt ending. Regardless, Halo 2 is still memorable and if you feel nostalgic about it, watch the video below. Remember, this is a look back at the time when Team Xbox invested a lot not only on Halo 2 but also on making Xbox fans happy with exclusive content.

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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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco