Author Carlo Carrasco

17 Men Arrested For Stealing 150-Meter Copper Cable In Las Piñas City

January 17, 2026January 12, 2026carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Las Piñas, seventeen men were apprehended for the theft of an underground copper cable along Alabang-Zapote Road which affected more than a thousand Internet service customers, according to a GMA Network news report. Now in custody, the suspects claimed they were hired by someone who promised to pay them.

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

A group of men was arrested after allegedly stealing an underground copper cable belonging to an internet service provider along Alabang-Zapote Road in Las Piñas City.

According to Jamie Santos’ exclusive report on 24 Oras Weekend on Sunday, an investigation by the Las Piñas Police found that the 17 suspects are from Manila.

The suspects claimed they were recruited by an unidentified individual who promised to pay them P1,200 each in exchange for carrying a cargo.

They also claimed they were loaded into a closed van and brought to Las Piñas City, where they later discovered that the cargo contained internet cables, the report added.

Roving guards of the internet service provider allegedly caught the suspects loading the cables into the van, triggering a chase.

“Nagkaroon sila ng habulan. Paakyat ng Skyway ang van hanggang sa tumigil ito sa toll gate. Binangga ang barriers ng toll gate kaya hinold sila ng mga guwardiya.

(A chase ensued. The van was heading up the Skyway until it stopped at the toll gate.)

“Pagkatapos, tumawag ang toll gate security personnel sa HPG-Bicutan,” said Police Major Bobbe Imbo, chief of the Investigation and Detective Management Section of Las Piñas Police Station.

(After it crashed into the toll gate barriers, the guards held them, then the toll gate security personnel called the HPG-Bicutan.)

“Possible po na hindi nila alam ang bubuhatin. May isang tao lang na nag-recruit sa kanila at sinabi na may bubuhatin sila. Hindi nila nire-reveal ang pangalan,” he added.

(It is possible they did not know what they were carrying. They said there was only one person who recruited them and told them they had something to carry, but they are not revealing the name.)

Authorities seized a 150-meter cable valued at more than P500 million, as well as a bolt cutter. An estimated 1,400 subscribers lost internet connection due to the incident, the report said.

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? Were you one of the many Internet service subscribers who lost connection due to the theft committed by the suspects? Who do you think hired them?

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 Prime #14 (1994)

January 16, 2026January 13, 2026carlocarrasco

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, Ultraverse fans and comic book collectors! Today we revisit the Ultraverse to take a look at one of the many tales of Prime from the monthly series that first launched in 1993.

In recent times, I’ve been reading and reviewing Prime comic books I missed out before. For my most recent Prime retro reviews, click here and here. For the newcomers reading this, Prime is one of the most definitive heroes of the entire Ultraverse and his true identity is the teenager Kevin Green.

With those details laid down, here is a look back at Prime #14, published by Malibu Comics in 1994 with a story written by Len Strazewski and Gerard Jones, and illustrated by the Darick Robertson with ink work done by Barbara Kaalberg.

Early story

The story begins with Prime flying and deeply thinking about the group of powered social outcasts…Freex. Prime, who recently spent time with Freex and helped them fight monsters (click here and here). He wished to help them more but does not want to be like them. He wants to show the whole world that it cannot push him around only because of his youth.

Moments later, Prime arrives at Venice Beach in California to meet members and agents of the media…

Quality

*This should remind you to always behave yourself in front of any family member of your friend. Prime ends up being disrespectful to Kelly’s mother due to Kevin’s lack of maturity.*

As a long-time Ultraverse comic book reader, there is a lot to like in this tale of Prime. For one thing, it is a pure character-driven story with a strong emphasis on how Kevin Green’s personal views develop, why he keeps on struggling to understand society and why his way (in the form of Prime) of interacting with ordinary people remains awkward.

There is so much stuff here, it can be challenging to realize the main themes of the story written by Jones and Strazewski. To make things clear, at this point in the Ultraverse, worldly authorities are very aware of the Ultras who seem to want to help people with problems but they are compelled to use force to confront them as those super powered beings are capable of making their own rules, violate laws with impunity and cause trouble in societies.

Prime is already in the middle of a troubled American society and the government as well as secret societies have other Ultras to deal with. Being a teenager himself, Kevin Green is able to relate with members of Freex who have no families to return to and are always on the run being chased by the authorities and being hated by the world. Along the way, Prime is acting impulsively with the adults and members of the media since Kevin himself lacks maturity and has yet to fully understand society and its norms. Kevin also forgets how to behave properly as he fails to control his emotional impulse.

When it comes to the art, Darick Robertson did a really fine job visualizing Prime and in most pages of the comic book, he uses dynamism to make the reading experience look very lively. He also did a good job with the facial expressions.

Conclusion

*Prime recalls the time he spent with Freex.*

It is very clear that the writing in Prime #14 (1994) done by the Jones-Strazewski duo is rich and deeply layered. Being a self-declared fighter and supporter of young people in this issue puts Prime into deeper trouble as he does not realize yet the consequence of the moves he made. The creative team really excelled in dramatizing Kevin Green – in the physical form of Prime – being impulsive and immature to adults while acting as a helpful adult to teenagers he meets. This story also sheds light on broken families which will instantly remind readers about poverty, vices and long-lasting negativity in unchecked parts of American society. That being said, this Prime story is a great read and its social commentary remains very relevant. This is also a great development of Prime’s personality.

Overall, Prime #14 (1994) is highly recommended.

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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. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. If you want to support my website, please consider making a donation. 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/.

Business Group Proposes New Blueprint To Solve Bottlenecks of Tourism In The Philippines

January 16, 2026January 11, 2026carlocarrasco

Things are clearly not looking good for the Philippines economically and also on international tourism. The Philippines was left behind by many of its Southeast Asian neighbors even as the region attracted more foreign tourists in 2025. Vietnam attracted more than 21 million foreign tourists last year and they are clearly benefiting from the ongoing tourism boom. That said, it is not surprising to see a local business group or federation make noise and urge the government to implement comprehensive reforms to solve the many problems of the tourism industry of the Philippines which the Manila Bulletin recently reported.

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

The Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) is sounding the alarm on the Philippines’ lagging tourism sector, urging the government to enact sweeping reforms as international arrival figures fall behind regional competitors.

In a statement on Sunday, Jan. 11, FFCCCII President Victor Lim described the current state of the industry as a “pivotal” moment, arguing that structural changes are now an urgent economic necessity.

While neighboring nations in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations are reporting a robust post-pandemic recovery, the Philippines is struggling to regain its footing.

“We, the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII), urge immediate decisive and comprehensive tourism reforms,” Lim said.

Data from the first 11 months of 2025 showed that the Philippines recorded 5.24 million international arrivals, a 2.2 percent decrease from the same period a year earlier.

The end-November figure also remained 37 percent below the benchmark levels seen in 2019, before the pandemic disrupted global travel.

Lim said the decline posed a direct threat to the broader economy, noting that tourism is a critical engine of inclusive growth. The sector is a primary employer and a lifeline for micro, small, and medium enterprises across the archipelago.

The federation identified three systemic hurdles: a “hassle factor” caused by congested airports and poor digital connectivity, uncompetitive visa policies that act as a deterrent compared to the streamlined entry points of regional peers, and a fragmented marketing strategy that fails to capitalize on the country’s cultural heritage.

To reverse the trend, the FFCCCII proposed a “Blueprint for Immediate Reform.” The plan calls for an “ASEAN-competitive” visa regime and a “connectivity revolution” to modernize primary gateways and facilitate easier travel between islands.

Lim also cited the need to pivot promotional efforts toward “The Philippine Experience,” moving beyond traditional sightseeing to highlight the nation’s history and hospitality.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the FFCCCII is correct about the current state of Philippine tourism? Do you find the FFCCCII’s proposal sensible and believable? Do you think the Department of Tourism (DOT) should take the FFCCCII’s proposal very seriously? Do you thinking it is inevitable that other business chambers from around the Philippines will push for tourism industry reforms?

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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US State Department Imposes Terrorist Designations Against Muslim Brotherhood Chapters Of Three Countries

January 15, 2026January 14, 2026carlocarrasco

Remember a few months ago when US President Donald Trump made it clear that the Muslim Brotherhood will be officially declared a terrorist organization? America made its move by imposing terrorist designations against the Egyptian, Jordanian and Lebanese chapters of the Muslim Brotherhood, as announced very recently by the US State Department.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the complete US State Department’s announcement. Some parts in boldface…

Today, as a first step in support of President Trump’s commitment to eliminate the capabilities and operations of Muslim Brotherhood chapters that pose a threat to the United States as described in Executive Order 14362, the United States is imposing terrorist designations against the Lebanese, Jordanian, and Egyptian chapters of the Muslim Brotherhood.

The Department of State is designating the Lebanese Muslim Brotherhood as a Foreign Terrorist Organization and a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT), and the group’s leader Muhammad Fawzi Taqqosh as an SDGT. Concurrently, the Department of the Treasury is designating the Egyptian Muslim Brotherhood and Jordanian Muslim Brotherhood as SDGTs for providing material support to Hamas.

These designations reflect the opening actions of an ongoing, sustained effort to thwart Muslim Brotherhood chapters’ violence and destabilization wherever it occurs. The United States will use all available tools to deprive these Muslim Brotherhood chapters of the resources to engage in or support terrorism.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think this newest move by the United States will help the government of Egypt, Jordan and Lebanon corner the Muslim Brotherhood chapters and bring them down somehow? Do you think the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas will be severely affected now that the Egyptian and Jordanian chapters of the Muslim Brotherhood have been tagged by the US? Do you think America will eventually crack down on the Muslim Brotherhood’s deep connections with the pro-terrorist government of Qatar?

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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83 Illegal Aliens Arrested In Parañaque City

January 15, 2026January 11, 2026carlocarrasco

Recently in the city of Parañaque, a raid happened at a certain shopping mall which resulted in the apprehension of more than eighty illegal aliens, according to a news release by the Philippine News Agency (PNA). A great majority of the suspects were from Bangladesh.

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

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Saturday reported the arrest of 83 foreign nationals during a large-scale operation at a shopping mall in Baclaran, Parañaque City.

The operation, which stemmed from intelligence reports, was carried out on Jan. 7, following weeks of surveillance and verification, according to a belated news release.

The apprehended foreigners were 68 Bangladeshi nationals, 14 Chinese and one Indian. There were 2 females in the group.

Initial records check showed that while some held valid visas, they were engaged in retail trade activities prohibited under Philippine law. The report added that 18 of the foreigners are holding tourist visas, while the identities of six are under verification.

The foreign nationals are facing charges of immigration violations including undocumented stay, misrepresentation and violation of Republic Act 8762 or the Retail Trade Liberalization Act, which prohibits foreigners from engaging in retail trade without proper authority, regardless of visa status.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado explained that the possession of a visa does not grant blanket authority to work or do business in the country.

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 foreigners secretly working illegally at the nearest commercial center?

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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Nomura Says Philippine Economic Growth May Fall Below 4% In The Near Term

January 15, 2026January 9, 2026carlocarrasco

By pointing to the effects of the flood control corruption scandal as well as other factors, Nomura Global Markets Research stated that the economic growth of the Philippines may fall below 4% in the near term, according to a BusinessWorld news report.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from business report of BusinessWorld. Some parts in boldface…

PHILIPPINE economic growth may fall below 4% in the near term as the billion‑peso flood control scandal drags on, affecting government spending and dampening consumption and sentiment, Nomura Global Markets Research said.

“I think going forward, these spillover effects (from the graft scandal) will also expand,” Nomura Chief Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Economist Euben Paracuelles told Money Talks with Cathy Yang on One News on Thursday.

The scandal, which curbed state spending last year, is expected to dampen household consumption and business investment amid weaker sentiment, he added.

“If the drag is now sort of becoming more broad-based, not just the drop in government spending, you’ll see growth coming potentially below 4%, at least in the near term,” he said.

Nomura now expects the gross domestic product (GDP) to expand by 5.3% in 2026 from 5.6% previously. This is still within the government’s recently revised 5-6% target this year.

Economy Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan earlier said growth targets were lowered through 2027, after GDP growth likely slowed to 4.8-5% in 2025 amid the flood control controversy.

The government cut its 2026 projection to 5-6% and to 5.5-6.5% for 2027 from the earlier 6-7% range. The 2028 target was retained at 6-7%.

Mr. Paracuelles anticipates that the government will roll out catch-up spending plans, possibly in the second half of the year.

Meanwhile, the Philippines may earn a credit rating upgrade if the government manages to resolve the flood control corruption issue within a year, Mr. Paracuelles said.

“The key for me is 12 months from here, when they need to decide on whether they need to upgrade the Philippines, I think it’s still quite uncertain,” he said.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the economic growth of the Philippines is indeed slowing down right now? Would you be surprised to see the nation’s economic growth reach less than 4%? Do you think the officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is working sufficiently to restore its credibility?

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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A Look Back at X-Men #7 (1992)

January 14, 2026January 10, 2026carlocarrasco

Welcome back, superhero enthusiasts, 1990s culture enthusiasts, X-Men fans and comic book collectors! Today we revisit the Marvel Comics universe to examine one of the many tales of the X-Men monthly series.

Since issue #5, Omega Red was introduced and the creative team of the series inserted flashbacks showing Wolverine, Sabretooth and Maverick as paramilitary teammates from several years prior. It was also revealed that Wolverine and Omega Red encountered each other before, and their present day encounter resulted in the capture of the Canadian mutant. Wolverine managed to escape only to be recaptured by Sabretooth. Logan’s teammates were also captured by the same sinister group that has Omega Red.

With those details laid down, here is a look back at X-Men #7, published by Marvel Comics in 1992 with a story plotted and drawn by Jim Lee, scripted by Scott Lobdell and inked by Art Thibert.

Early story

The story begins with Wolverine heavily restrained and his healing factor has been pushed to its limits. In the presence of Matsu’o Tsurayaba, Psylocke and others, Omega Red presses Wolverine for information about the carbonadium synthesizer. Matsu’o advises the Russian to not let the Canadian mutant bait him, and he shares the realization that it is impossible to mass produce his healing factor.

Matsu’o tells Omega Red that his only chance for survival rests in completing the process that was started thirty years prior. The Russian replied saying that he realizes he is dependent upon synthesizing the only metal capable of negating his death factor.

Not wanting to top, Omega Red says that he would rather pry the information from Wolverine’s brain by hand…

Quality

*Psylocke in action versus Matsu’o and Omega Red.*

To begin with, this is the conclusion to the storyline that started with issue #5. It is a cleverly paced story that had a good amount of build-up followed by big pay-offs with Jim Lee’s dynamic touch with the visuals.

Wolverine is once again vulnerable and Matsu’o’s gang already has the advantage. Matsu’o is determined to discover information about the C-Synthesizer no matter the cost (note: at the expense of Wolverine’s life). Omega Red’s death factor is much more emphasized in this issue and the goals behind the operations of the gang is made clearer here. As the story moved on, there were these clever twists that were entertaining to see leading to the chain of action-packed sequences. Without spoiling the plot, I can say that the creative team came up with a very solid conclusion in this short storyline and Maverick’s own presence has been justified as well.

As with the previous issue, scenes of Mojoworld were inserted giving readers updates about Dazzler and Longshot. Very clearly, this was the build-up leading into the 10^th issue of the comic book series.

For those who enjoy visual spectacle, there is a lot to enjoy from Jim Lee here. As always, Lee draws action dynamically and made sure they are exciting to look at. Particularly, I found Lee’s carefully chosen action moments – particularly Sabretooth’s strike on Maverick and Wolverine’s strike against Omega Red – really impactful to look at.

Conclusion

*Wolverine in a very vulnerable and painful state.*

X-Men #7 (1992) is a very enjoyable read. It is a great conclusion to its 3-part storyline that started in issue #5 and by the time I read the end, Omega Red was clearly established as a very formidable foe of the X-Men even though he was a new addition to the lore. The writing of this comic book is very solid and the same thing can be said about the structure of the plot. Considering the time of its release, this comic book was clearly part of Jim Lee’s way of modernizing the X-Men.

Overall, X-Men #7 (1992) is highly recommended.

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Health And Nutrition Program For Children Of Las Piñas

January 14, 2026January 8, 2026carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Las Piñas, the City Government’s nutrition committee announced the local health program for younglings which aims to emphasize better health and proper nutrition, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

The (Las) Piñas City government, through its City Nutrition Committee, is set to conduct the annual Operation Timbang Plus (OPT) to promote the health and proper nutrition of young Las Piñeros.

Mayor April Aguilar said the program will cover infants and children up to four years old, ensuring early monitoring of their growth and nutritional status.

Aguilar said Operation Timbang Plus plays a vital role in assessing the weight, height, and overall health condition of children, serving as an important basis for the city in crafting and strengthening health and nutrition programs for the youth.

She encouraged parents and guardians to participate in the activity, noting that the data gathered from OPT will help guide the local government in addressing malnutrition and promoting healthier lifestyles among Las Piñero children.

The City Nutrition Committee assured the public that the schedules and additional details of the activity will be announced soon through official channels.

Residents are advised to stay updated by following announcements from the city government and the official Facebook page of the City Nutrition Committee.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a resident of Las Piñas City, what is your reaction to this development? Are parents in your local community bringing their children to the announced health and nutrition program?

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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I Love Israel: Israel And Japan Ties Emphasized As Top Officials Meet

January 13, 2026January 12, 2026carlocarrasco

Israel and Japan formally engaged with each other diplomatically as Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and their Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar separately in Jerusalem, according to reports by The Jerusalem Post and NHK World.

The meetings are significant not just because it marks the first time a delegation representing Japan under the administration of new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi arrived in Israel for diplomacy and cooperation, but also because Japan supports the American-led Gaza peace plan of US President Donald J. Trump (click here and here) and will be proactive in recovery and reconstruction efforts in the Gaza Strip. The Japanese, however, expressed disagreement over Israel’s West Bank (biblical Judea and Samaria) settlement activities and insisted on a two-state solution. On the bright side, Japan will still NOT recognize a Palestinian state.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from news report of The Jerusalem Post. Some parts in boldface.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi in Jerusalem on Sunday to discuss continued cooperation between Israel and Japan, the Prime Minister’s Office stated.

Netanyahu congratulated Motegi and the delegation members on their visit to Israel and thanked them for their support, the PMO noted. During the meeting, Netanyahu and Motegi also discussed different ways to address regional challenges.

Earlier, Motegi met with Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar at the Foreign Ministry in Jerusalem.

This is Motegi’s first bilateral diplomatic visit since taking office.

Motegi is also expected to meet with President Isaac Herzog on Monday morning during his visit to Israel, the PMO added.

Japan won’t recognize a Palestinian state given US ties – Israel and Japan align on some regional issues critical to the Jewish State.

The Asahi newspaper, citing unidentified government sources, reported in September 2025 that Japan will not recognize a Palestinian state for now, probably to maintain relations with the United States and to avoid a hardening of Israel’s attitude.

With regards to the meeting with Israel’s Foreign Minister, posted below is an excerpt from NHK World. Some parts in boldface…

Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu has visited Israel and held talks with his Israeli counterpart, Gideon Sa’ar. Motegi called for the steady implementation of a US-led peace plan for the Gaza Strip, while pledging a proactive role by Japan in the strip’s reconstruction.

At the opening of their meeting in Jerusalem on Sunday, Motegi said that to improve the situations surrounding Israel and the Palestinians it is important to steadily implement the peace plan.

He also said both sides should take concrete action toward the elimination of mutual distrust that has persisted over many years in order to ease regional tension and bring peace to the area.

Motegi also urged Israel to take appropriate responses to protect civilians and ensure humanitarian assistance in Gaza offered by international organizations, NGOs and others. He added that Japan will play a proactive role in engaging in the early recovery and reconstruction of Gaza.

Motegi told Sa’ar that Israel’s settlement activities in the West Bank are in violation of international law, and that Japan is concerned that the increase in settler violence may further destabilize the situation in the region.

Motegi urged Israel to immediately cease what he described as any unilateral actions that run counter to a two-state solution.

Motegi later met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the first face-to-face meeting with him by a Japanese senior government figure since then-Prime Minister Abe Shinzo in 2018.

There are indeed imperfections as revealed by the two news reports regarding the latest Israel-Japan meetings. In my opinion, Japan has yet to realize that the two-state solution is both pointless and worthless. They have yet to realize the truth that the Palestinians have a tradition of violence against the Jewish people, and they often followed terrorist leaders (fact: Palestinians expressed support for Hamas terrorists with regards to the October 7 attacks against Israel in 2023). Japan should realize that the West Bank is not rightfully owned by the global community and international law covering the said region is just an illusion. As such, we who support Israel should pray to the Lord that the Japan’s diplomats will get enlightened as they cooperate more with Israel in the years to come.

Praise and thank the Lord for the high-level meetings between the governments of Israel and Japan. Pray to Him to bless Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi and the people of Japan. Pray also for the potential future visit of Prime Minister Takaichi to Israel.

To all my readers, I encourage you to accept the truth that Israel is the land God designated specifically for the Jewish people (read Genesis 35:10-12) and His command must be followed without hesitation. If you want to be blessed further by the Lord, do so by loving and blessing the Jewish people (Genesis 12:1-3). I did my part when I was in Israel. Also, let me remind you all that the ties between the Jews and Christians are truly biblical!

I encourage you all to pray to the Lord God in support of Israel, to love and bless the Jewish people, and pray for the peace of Jerusalem.

If you truly believe in Lord Jesus, the Holy Spirit and God the Heavenly Father wholeheartedly and you continue to be faithful, you should be aware that Christians are meant to stand united with Israel and love the Jewish people no matter what. 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.

Always be the fearless and aggressive church of Lord Jesus!

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Muntinlupa City Mayor Wants Local Regulation On Use Of E-Bikes and E-Trikes

January 13, 2026January 6, 2026carlocarrasco

Recently in the progressive City of Muntinlupa, Mayor Ruffy Biazon pushed for the local regulation on the use of e-bikes (electric bikes) and e-trikes (electric tricycles) following the Land Transportation Office’s (LTO) enforcement of a ban on them, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

For the newcomers reading this, e-bikes and e-trikes are popular here in the Philippines. They are, however, occasional hazards on roads due to factors such as their overall slow speed, drivers having no licenses and lacking knowledge on the basics of road safety, and even minors getting to drive them illegally. The LTO recently enforced a ban on e-trikes and e-bikes on major roads and highways. In previous years, there were incidents which you read about by clicking here, here, here and here.

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

Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon is pushing for local regulations governing the use of e-bikes and e-trikes within the city.

This move comes after the Land Transportation Office (LTO) began enforcing the ban on e-trikes along major Metro Manila roads starting January 2. The affected thoroughfares include Quirino Avenue (Manila), Roxas Boulevard, C-5 Road, and EDSA.

While the LTO has not given the Muntinlupa City government the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) on e-bikes and e-trikes, Biazon said it is important to have a regulation in the city.

“Gayunpaman, hangarin natin na magkaron ng lokal na regulasyon sa paggamit ng e-trikes at e-bikes. Hindi sila exempted sa basic rules sa kalsada, dahil pareho ang panganib na maaari nilang idulot—sa ibang motorista at sa mismong nagmamaneho—lalo na kung walang sapat na kaalaman sa batas-trapiko (However, we aim to have local regulations on the use of e-trikes and e-bikes. They are not exempt from the basic rules of the road, because they pose the same danger—to other motorists and to the driver himself—especially if he does not have sufficient knowledge of traffic laws),” the mayor posted on Facebook.

He added, “As I have mentioned before, I have already announced to the City Council our intention to pass an ordinance regarding the use of e-trikes on the roads of Muntinlupa. This is still under study, and we will ensure that there is a clear process of consultation, passage of the ordinance, and development of an IRR before its implementation.”

Biazon said there is no misunderstanding on the policy with the LTO.

“Pare-pareho ang layunin natin: kaligtasan at kaayusan sa kalsada. Ang usapin sa ngayon ay ang kakulangan ng malinaw na implementing rules, kaya hindi pa ito ganap na maipatupad ng Pamahalaang Lungsod sa local level (Our goal is the same: safety and order on the roads. The issue right now is the lack of clear implementing rules, so the City Government has not yet been able to fully implement it at the local level).”

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, did you notice any e-bike or e-trike causing problems on local roads? Do you think the said electric vehicles made local traffic worse? Did you ever notice the driver of an e-bike or an e-trike deliberately violating road safety rules recently? How many people in your local community own an e-bike or an e-trike?

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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