There are still many hostages held by Palestinian terrorist group Hamas in the Gaza Strip. For each hostage released under the current ceasefire (a very fragile one), Israel releases a lot of Palestinian prisoners. No matter what deception Hamas pulls off that gets magnified by the corrupted mainstream news media, Hamas cannot be trusted. Hamas can always harm the hostages secretly before deciding to release them. Remember that Hamas (which is supported by terrorist state Iran and Qatar) is guilty of murder and genocide when they committed the October 7, 2023 terrorist attacks against Israel.
That being said, I encourage you all to keep praying the Lord Jesus to support Israel (which now has Trump-led America as its main ally) and to support the remaining hostages still under captivity. As for the hostages who released already, pray for them as they are struggling to recover and reconstruct their respective private lives.
Don’t let Hamas’ propaganda and the mainstream news media distract you! Keep having unwavering faith in the Lord and rely on His Word (the Holy Bible). Be uncompromising with your faith in the Lord.
Recently in the City of Muntinlupa, a new ordinance was approved resulting in the City Government to implement a zero-contact policy in the issuance of business permits and licenses, 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 will implement a zero-contact policy in the issuance of business permits and licenses.
Mayor Ruffy Biazon signed Ordinance No. 2025-303, passed by the Muntinlupa City Council, “Institutionalizing Business E-Payment System (BeST) for Effective Implementation of the ‘Zero-Contact Policy’ in the Issuance of Business Licenses and Permits in Muntinlupa City.”
The ordinance stated that “in compliance to the mandate of all existing laws and national directives, the City Government of Muntinlupa through the Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO) established Business E-Payment System (BeST) as an online platform to facilitate applications for new and renewal of business permits.”
BeST “allows electronic payments through various partner banks, e-wallets, and payment gateways and also provides an option of door-to-door delivery service.”
The ordinance added that “there is an urgent need to institutionalize the said system to support and enhance city services in pursuit of being a ‘smart city’ and be compliant with the said laws and national directives.”
It mandates the Muntinlupa BPLO to “adopt and establish Business E-Payment System (BeST) as an online platform of the City Government of Muntinlupa to facilitate application for, processing of, and issuance Of business licenses and permits for business entities, including, but not limited to, those owned and operated by individuals, partnerships, cooperatives, associations or corporations in the City of Muntinlupa.
“The BeST will guarantee the effective implementation of the ‘zero-contact policy,’ transparency and good governance that eliminates the possibility of graft and corruption with lesser personnel the taxpayer deals with,” the local law stated.
Under BeST, “electronic versions of licenses, clearances, permits, certifications or authorizations with the same level of authority and containing the electronic signature of the authorized officer/s and seal of the City, which may be printed by the businesses in the convenience of their offices” shall be provided.
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, does the new zero-contact policy in the issuance of business permits and licenses make a lot of sense?
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
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 year 1996 and explore a part of the Marvel Comic shared universe through a tale of the Spider-Man 2099 monthly series.
To put things in perspective, the original Spider-Man 2099 monthly series that launched in 1992 lasted a total of 46 issues. The prolific author Peter David wrote the first 44 issues as he resigned from his duty in relation to the sudden firing of Marvel 2099 editor Joey Cavalieri in 1996. The previous issue was a great read.
With those details laid down, here is a look back at Spider-Man 2099 #44, published in 1996 by Marvel Comics with a story written by Peter David and drawn by Ron Lim.
The cover.
Early story
The story begins in the City of New York already flooded and infiltrated by lots of marine life. Under the water, Spider-Man and Roman the Sub-Mariner fight each other intensely as the foot of a gigantic sea monster is about to step in. At the last moment, Spider-Man saw the huge foot and instantly flipped away to survive with the Sub-Mariner.
After getting separated, Spider-Man gets out of the water to breath and immediately spots an organic-looking horn that the Sub-Mariner used to control the huge monster. Suddenly, on the aquatic humanoids appears to get the horn. Spider-Man then used his web to get the horn first which triggered the aquatic humanoid to move fast towards him.
Quality
The intense battle between Sub-Mariner and Spider-Man went on even as the huge sea monster is very near them in the city.
Without spoiling the plot, this comic book is a tale about a massive disaster and also a tale about the complicated legacy of Miguel O’Hara whose personal life is even more connected with the corporation he works for.
The huge disaster of New York getting flooded (which started in the previous issue) and Spider-Man fighting the leader of the mutates (genetically designed sentient beings) concluded in a really satisfying way. The futuristic webslinger really found himself struggling with the determined Sub-Mariner (motivated by what Alchemax did to the aquatic world) while dealing with the fact that so many citizens got displaced or even got killed by not only the huge flood but also by the presence of the gigantic sea monster. The stakes were really raised high for Spider-Man and the pay-off was really good.
The rest of the comic book deals with the intense meeting between Conchata O’Hara and Tyler Stone, Xina’s time with the Net Prophet, Gabriel O’Hara’s time with “father” Jennifer. Among the three sub-plots, the conflict between Conchata and Tyler is very intense and dramatic to read. More importantly, it was crafted by Peter David to be really believable and it ultimately added tension to the background and even the future of Miguel O’Hara (now a powerful Alchemax executive). This particular sub-plot is easily the most important one this comic book has and it will compel fans to revisit the 25th issue of this monthly series as well as issue #10.
While the sub-plot of Xina and the Net Prophet does not generate enough depth for this comic book, there is a big revelation made in the sub-plot of Gabriel and “father” Jennifer which will compel fans to revisit issues #40 and #41. In fact, nothing is ever simple regarding the origin of a specific villain of the 2099 universe.
When it comes to the artwork, this comic book is a downgrade compared to what was presented in issue #43 (drawn by Andrew Wildman). I’m not saying that Ron Lim’s art is bad, it’s just nowhere as good as that of Wildman’s art. In fairness, Ron Lim managed to make the city disaster look intense and he managed to make the characters look recognizable. In fact, Lim successfully made the Conchata-Tyler scenes look intense and dramatic.
Conclusion
The giant monster aspect of this comic book added intensity to the battle and the disaster. There were a few Godzilla vibes here and there.
As the final Peter David-written issue of this monthly series, Spider-Man 2099 #44 (1996) is undeniably a very solid reading experience. There were strong pay-offs executed here to what was built-up in the previous issues, and in typical fashion, David kept building up the other sub-plots. The conclusion to the Conchata-Tyler sub-plot is actually more powerful than that of the city disaster. Clearly, Peter David kept track of the character developments and events that previously happened and dramatized them nicely here. In fact, you will feel some sympathy towards Miguel O’Hara knowing how unfortunately complicated his family legacy really is.
Overall, Spider-Man 2099 #44 (1996) is highly recommended!
Yesterday in Muntinlupa City, the “road safety park” project of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) was formally started with a groundbreaking ceremony at the Muntinlupa Sports Center, according to a news article by the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the PNA news article. Some parts in boldface…
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Thursday broke ground for a new ‘road safety park’ in Muntinlupa City that seeks to promote active transportation through the construction of road safety features and cycling facilities.
Transportation Undersecretary for Road Transport and Infrastructure Jesus Ortega (2nd from left) and Muntinlupa City Mayor Ruffy Biazon (2nd from right) lead the groundbreaking for Muntinlupa City’s first-ever ‘road safety park’ at the Muntinlupa Sports Center. (photo source – DOTr)
The park is being built on a 3,140-square meter lot at the Muntinlupa Sports Center and will be connected to public road transport.
It will feature bike lane classes, public transport stops, a road signage park, and a footbridge, and will be connected to public road transport.
“Through these initiatives, we are not only building infrastructure — we are fostering a culture of safety, sustainability, and inclusivity,” DOTr Undersecretary for Road Transport and Infrastructure Jesus Ortega said during the groundbreaking rites.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony. (photo source – DOTr)
He said cyclists will be able to enjoy end-of-trip cycling facilities featuring a bicycle parking shed with u-shaped racks and a bicycle repair station.
“These efforts will benefit thousands of people, including students, employees, and visitors, as we work together to transform Muntinlupa into a model city for active transport and road safety.”
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? If you are a resident of Muntinlupa City, do you think the DOTr’s “road safety park” will turn out useful? Are you delighted that the project is being built in the city?
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
Recently in the City of Las Piñas, roughly five hundred senior citizens of Barangay Almanza Uno got vaccinated for pneumonia for free during the vaccination drive organized by the City Health Office at the local community facility, the City Government announced via social media.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the social media announcement. Some parts in boldface…
Nearly 500 senior citizens from Barangay Almanza Uno received free pneumonia vaccines during a vaccination drive held on Wednesday, January 29, at the Almanza Uno Covered Court. This initiative aims to protect the elderly from respiratory diseases and strengthen their overall health.
The City Health Office led the administration of pneumonia vaccines, ensuring that seniors received proper medical attention. In addition to the vaccination, attendees were also provided with health consultations and wellness guidance.
Vice Mayor April Aguilar personally attended the event to show her support and commitment to the well-being of senior citizens. Other city health officials were also present to assist in the program.
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 Health Office organized a vaccination drive in your local community?
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
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) revealed online recently that the overall collection of its coin deposit machines (CoDMs) has exceeded P1.2 billion. The latest statistics are accurate of as January 15, 2025.
Based on the latest statistics, a total of P1,235,393,307.96 (14.07%% higher than the previous count of P1,082,972,600.36) in coins got deposited into BSP machines on 284,974 transactions from customers. In terms of physical quantity, 310,679,523coins were deposited.
Doing the math on the latest statistics, customers averaged P4,335.1088 per transaction at the machines (compared to the November 15, 2024 average of P4,231.9156 per transaction). As for the grand total Peso amount divided by the number of coins deposited, the average is P3.9764 per coin deposited (previous average was P3.8654 per coin deposited)
When it comes to the number of coins involved with each transaction, 310,679,523 coins divided by 284,974 transactions resulted in an average of 1,090.2030 coins per transaction (a slight drop compared to the previous average was 1,094.8293 coins per transaction).
Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the BSP coin deposit project deposits could hit P2 billion by the end of this year? When was the last time you deposited at least 50 coins into the nearest CoDM of the BSP? Do you think it is time for the BSP to add its coin machines in the Visayas and Mindanao regions?
Japanese motor giant Mitsubishi Motors Corp. (MMC) formally announced recently that it will be investing P7 billion in the Philippines which President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr., welcomed, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of the Manila Bulletin. Some parts in boldface…
President Marcos welcomed Mitsubishi Motors Corp.’s (MMC) P7-billion investment plan in the Philippines in the next five years, saying this will create more jobs for Filipinos.
Marcos expressed his appreciation to MMC during Mitsubishi President and CEO Kato Takao’s courtesy call to the President in Malacañan on Thursday, Feb. 6, to discuss the company’s investment plan in the Philippines.
During their meeting, Kato said MMC’s expansion plan includes adding a new production model at its Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. (MMPC) plant in Laguna. Marcos welcomed this move as it would generate more jobs for Filipinos.
“The jobs that it will provide, that your investment will provide, are very important to us and certainly, vehicle manufacture is one of those,” President Marcos said.
In a Facebook post, the President described Mitsubishi as a valuable partner in his administration’s quest to boost the automotive industry.
“As a strong partner in our journey to strengthen the automotive industry and empower Filipino workers, we welcome Mitsbushi Motors Corporation’s plans to expand operations in the country,” he wrote.
“Mr. Takao Kato and I share the same goals of driving innovation, creating more jobs, and making sustainable transportation a reality for Filipinos,” he added.
During the meeting, Marcos said that MMC will be included in the government’s Revitalizing the Automotive Industry for Competitiveness Enhancement (RACE) Program, a new proposed version of the Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy (CARS) Program. He hoped MMC’s inclusion would help in its expansion plans.
For his part, Kato said the Philippines is MMC’s most important investment in Southeast Asia, citing its good and stable economy.
“In the ASEAN, (the) Philippines is our number one market,” Kato told the President.
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think Mitsubishi’s ambitious investment plan will add a lot to the ongoing economic growth of the country?
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.
#1 Saving Private Ryan reaction videos – I still remember the day I saw Steven Spielberg’s Saving Private Ryan in the local cinema in 1998. It was a mesmerizing war movie experience. Considering its acclaimed status, commercial success and impact on pop culture, it is not surprising that the movie is the subject of many movie reaction videos on YouTube. That being said, I spotted a few must-see videos. If you have not seen the movie yet, watch it first. Otherwise, enjoy the videos below.
#2Woke game companies panic as gamers reject their games – There is no doubt that the woke virus and the pathetic DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) have infected a lot of video game companies, most notably Ubisoft and Electronic Arts. This explains why several video games ended up as creative promotions of identity politics, woke concepts and feminist garbage done at the expense of quality and fun. That being said, a lot of gamers collectively rejected the woke games by not buying them, as well as avoiding future woke releases. Be aware of the latest trends in video games by watching Adam Post’s analytical video below.
#3 US President Trump’s plan for the American takeover of the Gaza Strip – I can clearly say that US President Donald Trump’s announcement of a plan for America to take over the Gaza Strip (which is physically located within Israel and borders Egypt in the southwest) to redevelop it was both totally surprising and very ambitious. For decades now, Gaza has been a hot spot of Islamic terrorists – notably Palestinian terrorist group Hamas – who were able to arm themselves heavily, launched countless attacks against Israel, and even enriched themselves by abusing the countless humanitarian donations they received. That being said, Trump’s plan makes a lot of sense and if implemented (only after Israel concludes its war against the terrorists), it could change the tone of the Middle East. Watch and learn the details from the video below.
#4 Democrats keep getting dumber and dumber – Ever since Donald Trump returned as President of the United States, the remaining Democrats in power only turned more chaotic and dumber. In his show, Ben Shapiro explains in detail why the Democrats have gotten dumber. Watch the video below.
#5 Trump’s ban and the trans hysteria – In case you missed the news, US President Trump signed an executive order that banned men from participating in women’s sports events. In short, men who identify as women (read: transgender) are not allowed to compete with the real women in their sports activities. Since then, the transgendered mob and LGBTQ have turned chaotic. Very clearly, the Satanic Leftists do NOT care about fairness in sports, do NOT care about the protection of women, and they do NOT care about common sense! Watch and learn from the videos below.
#6 VKunia reacts to Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol – Remember back in 2011 when Tom Cruise had a successful return with Mission: Impossible Ghost Protocol? Since then, the Hollywood superstar kept coming back as Ethan Hunt in more sequels and the Mission: Impossible film franchise still remains essential for both Cruise and Paramount. Witness how the 2011 MI movie impacts VKunia in her reaction video below.
#7 PatmanQC examines the history of the Superman arcade game – Back in 1989, I played the Superman arcade game developed by Taito. Even though it was repetitive and had generic villains to fight with, it was still a fun experience for me. Looking back at it, it was one of the early Superman-related video games that was made with fun and quality in mind. It even came with the iconic theme from the movie. To learn more about the history of the Superman arcade game, watch PatmanQC’s video.
#8 GoodBadFlicks examines The Cannonball Run – Released in 1981, The Cannonball Run is a action-comedy movie inspired by a real-life cross-country outlaw road race. The film had a huge cast that includes Roger Moore, Burt Reynolds, Farrah Fawcett, Jackie Chan and others. To learn more about what made the movie fun to watch and what else inspired its creation, watch GoodBadFlicks’ video below.
Recently in the City of Las Piñas, around five hundred senior citizens of Barangay Pamplona Tres got vaccinated for pneumonia for free during the vaccination drive organized by the City Health Office, the City Government announced via social media.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the social media announcement. Some parts in boldface…
Close to 500 senior citizens from Barangay Pamplona Tres were vaccinated during the Free Pneumonia Vaccination Program held on Wednesday, January 29, at the Verdant Acres Covered Court. The initiative is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to protect its elderly population from pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses.
The vaccination drive was organized by the City Health Office, with healthcare workers ensuring the safe and efficient administration of pneumonia vaccines.
Vice Mayor April Aguilar and City Councilor Mark Anthony Santos were present during the event to show their support and interact with the senior residents. Their presence emphasized the local government’s commitment to addressing the health needs of its senior citizens.
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 want the City Health Office to organize a vaccination drive for the senior citizens of your local community as soon as possible?
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
Now that the global scandal of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been exposed, there is a list of connected projects here in the Philippines (more than 30 projects according to a recent Philippine Star news report) and the disturbance is only growing. The administration of US President Donald Trump has been examining the spending and projects of USAID, and the Democrats have been outraged which is not surprising because a lot of USAID projects are based on their Leftist and woke agenda.
This past December, the Manila Bulletin reported a project involving USAID (specifically the United States Agency for International Development – Clean Cities, Blue Ocean or USAID-CCBO for short) and the City Government of Parañaque (through its City Environment and Natural Resources Office called CENRO for short) in the form of a mural painting emphasizing “environmental stewardship and youth empowerment through community-based initiatives.”
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the December 12, 2024 Manila Bulletin news report. Some parts in boldface…
The city government of Parañaque, through its City Environment and Natural Resources (CENRO), together with the United States Agency for International Development – Clean Cities, Blue Ocean (USAID CCBO), conducted a mural painting event on Dec. 11 promoting environmental stewardship and youth empowerment through community-based initiatives.
Parañaque City Mayor Eric Olivarez said the event, with the theme “Raising Awareness on Solid Waste Management and Marine Litter Pollution,” was held at the City Material Recovery Facility in Barangay La Huerta and was participated by students from Parañaque National High School – Main
They were accompanied by their principal, Gerry Lumaban, and teacher Winnie Freda Cabero.
The students’ artistic talents were showcased during the activity under the guidance of AG Sanio, a renowned Filipino muralist, conservationist, photographer, landscape architect, and environmental advocate.
Within the context of the Manila Bulletin news report, it’s hard to see if there is anything wrong or questionable about the Parañaque City project involving USAID. It is also not yet clear how much American taxpayer’s money was spent by USAID on the project (a mural painting). Perhaps in due time, the Trump administration will find all the details about it.
The December 2024 project is not the first time that Parañaque’s CENRO was involved with USAID which you can see by clicking here. This past January, the USAID – CCBO team visited Parañaque to “conduct a dry run of the Waste Sorting Line.”
For the newcomers reading this, if you want to learn about USAID and what the scandal is all about, watch and learn from the YouTube videos below. The scandal is only growing.
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 aware of the project in your city involving the scandalous USAID? If you have seen the project, do you find it questionable or acceptable? Do you think the project in Barangay La Huerta benefits the citizens of Parañaque at all? Do you think projects that emphasize climate change or environmentalist propaganda are needed in Parañaque City at all? Can you speculate how much in American taxpayer Dollars were spent by USAID in Parañaque City? If you are an American, how do you feel about your tax Dollars being spent in several USAID projects in the Philippines and around the world?
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
Author Carlo Carrasco 