Welcome back and Merry Christmas to all my readers, YouTube viewers and all others who followed this series of articles focused on YouTube videos worth watching. Today is the Christmas Special for this series and I want you to celebrate the season in remembrance of Lord Jesus who is our Savior and the Hope of ALL nations! Lord Jesus’ birth in Israel thousands of years ago will always remain highly significant not just during Christmas season but for all time.
I recommend you check out the following topics and the related videos I found. May these videos bring you closer to Lord Jesus this Christmas.
#1Christmas music videos – To start with, I selected for you all varied music videos celebrating Christmas and the honoring of Lord Jesus as presented by Christian churches. Watch, enjoy and come closer to Him.
#2 Christmas special presentations and the Word of God – Churches of Lord Jesus have their own special presentations about Christmas. If you want a more extensive viewing experience of Christmas celebrations plus teachings of the Word of God (the Holy Bible), watch the videos I selected for you all.
#3 Christmas in Israel – As some of you may already know, I have visited the Holy Land in Israel and I would love to return there to deepen my faith in Lord Jesus even more. I pray that someday I could spend Christmas in Israel and witness how the season is celebrated right there. Of course, Christmas is all about Lord Jesus and His birth in Israel thousands of years ago is forever a holy event. Enjoy the sights of Christmas in different parts of Israel as captured by YouTuber Relaxing WALKER.
In concluding this Christmas special, I want to remind you to celebrate the season by praising and honoring Lord Jesus. Rejoice with Him every Christmas. Lord Jesus is the Savior and the Hope of ALL nations! Each and every lost soul still has time to come to Jesus for repentance and submission so that salvation will happen. Learn the truth from the holy scriptures below.
For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father [of Eternity], Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6 (AMPC)
For God is one, and there is one Mediator between God and the sons of men—the true man, Jesus, the Anointed One.
1 Timothy 2:5 (TPT)
Jesus told him,
“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.”
John 14:6 (NLT)
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)
And Joseph also went up from Galilee from the town of Nazareth to Judea, to the town of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David,
To be enrolled with Mary, his espoused (married) wife, who was about to become a mother.
And while they were there, the time came for her delivery,
And she gave birth to her Son, her Firstborn; and she wrapped Him in swaddling clothes and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room or place for them in the inn.
Luke 2:4-7 (AMPC)
Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying,
“I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”
John 8:12 (NKJV)
Thank you for reading this blog post. Merry Christmas to everyone! Jesus is our King, He loves the faithful and He will return to us someday!
As some of you are already aware, I fully stand with Israel which is very connected with my uncompromising faith in the Lord. I keep on praying to Him for Israel to overwhelm its enemies, rescue the hostages and recover from the effects of the October 7, 2023 terrorist attacks committed by the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas which is sponsored by terrorist state Iran. I can assure all of you that nobody from the evil Islamo-Leftist mob, nobody from the pro-Palestine radicals, nobody from the political correctness extremists, and nobody from evil societies would stop me from supporting and loving Israel.
Now, on with the news…
A few weeks ago, a special event showcasing Israeli wine was held here in the Philippines, according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) news article. This development signified Israel’s focus on the Philippines as a new wine market.
To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the PNA news article.. Some parts in boldface…
Israel is pouring its wine into the Philippine market, confident that its products can rival the best in the world.
With a deep legacy of winemaking dating back thousands of years, Israel is now eager to share its fine bottles with Filipino wine lovers and travelers.
At the “L’Chaim! Discover Israeli Wine” event on Dec. 4, the Israeli Embassy in Manila treated wine enthusiasts, hoteliers and distributors to a curated tasting of wines from 15 of Israel’s top wineries.
“The Philippine market has matured, in my opinion. So it’s time,” Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss said.
“It’s obvious that we have competition here but what Israel can offer is really the higher end of wines — and we have so much to share.”
In addition to reintroducing Israeli wines to Filipino consumers, the embassy is also aiming to inspire Filipinos to explore Israel’s wineries as part of their travel plans.
Israel, often called the Holy Land, has a winemaking tradition that stretches back over 5,000 years, with wine from Judea being traded around the ancient world during the time of Jesus.
“Israel is a country of different cultures, and so is its cuisine,” visiting Israeli Tourism Minister Haim Katz said.
“Tourists can enjoy Mediterranean delicacies, dishes from Arab cuisine, Jewish food, colorful markets, and wine tastings that offer an unforgettable culinary experience.”
L’Chaim, which means “to life” in Hebrew, was the first of its kind hosted by the Israeli mission in the Philippines.
“L’Chaim is more than just a toast. It’s a celebration of life, friendship, and the bright future we are building together,” Fluss said.
Renowned Israeli wine expert and international wine judge Haim Gan was also present to provide insights into Israel’s innovative wine industry, noting its growing recognition and numerous international awards.
This latest development shows the continuing growth of Israel-Philippines ties through the business of wine as well as the opportunities for Filipinos to explore the wine industry of Israel when they travel there. Indeed, Israel-Philippines ties are essential!
To my fellow Filipinos reading this, 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. Pray to Him so that Israel-Philippines ties and cooperation will keep growing stronger in the years to come.
As some of you are already aware, I fully stand with Israel which is very connected with my uncompromising faith in the Lord. I keep on praying to Him for Israel to overwhelm its enemies, rescue the hostages and recover from the effects of the October 7, 2023 terrorist attacks committed by the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas which is sponsored by terrorist state Iran. I can assure all of you that nobody from the evil Islamo-Leftist mob, nobody from the pro-Palestine radicals, nobody from the political correctness extremists, and nobody from evil societies would stop me from supporting and loving Israel.
Now, on with the news…
In recent times, Israel and the Philippines officially signed a major agreement in relation to tourism developments and cooperation between them according to the announcement of the Israeli Embassy via social media. No less than the Minister of Tourism of Israel Haim Katz personally visited the Philippines and signed the agreement opposite Department of Tourism (DOT) secretary Christina Frasco.
To put things in perspective, posted below is the entire social media post of the Israeli Embassy. Some parts in boldface…
Israel Tourism Minister Katz Visits the Philippines, Signs Joint Declaration with DOT
Signing of the joint declaration between Israel’s Minister of Tourism Haim Katz and Philippines Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary, Christina Garcia Frasco.
Israel’s Minister of Tourism, Haim Katz, is currently visiting the Philippines from 2-5 December 2024 as part of a strategic effort to enhance tourism relations between the two countries. Highlight of the visit is the signing of a joint declaration with the Philippines Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary, Christina Garcia Frasco.
On December 3, Tourism Minister Katz and DOT Sec. Frasco signed the joint declaration to foster cooperation in the field of tourism between Israel and the Philippines.
“We are excited to see such strong interest from Filipino travelers to Israel,” said Minister Katz. “With the upcoming Jubilee Year, we anticipate even more Filipinos will be eager to experience the holy land and the rich history, culture, and hospitality Israel offers. We hope to see direct flights between Israel and the Philippines very soon, this will boost tourism and people to people exchange,” he shared.
Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Ilan Fluss shared that the official visit of Minister Katz is proof of the strong, historically friendly bilateral relations between Israel and the Philippines, especially in the field of tourism. “I hope that this will encourage tourism exchanges between our nations, particularly with the visa-free travel for Filipinos to Israel and vice versa. I invite Filipinos to experience Israel not just as the Holy Land but to enjoy culinary and experience the Land of Innovation and Start-Up Nation,” he explained.
Minister Katz’s visit highlights Israel’s commitment to expanding its presence in the Philippine market, especially for divers and nature lovers. “Israelis find the Philippines an attractive destination for diving and water activities,” Ambassador Fluss said.
Since opening its tourism office in the Philippines in 2017, Israel has witnessed a remarkable 65% rise in Filipino visitors in its first year alone. In 2023, a record-breaking 33,000 Filipinos traveled to Israel.
During his stay, Minister Katz will promote Israel as a premier destination for wine enthusiasts and engage with Filipino distributors of Israeli wine. He will also meet with the Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA), connect with religious leaders in Manila, and hold discussions with the President of Philippine Airlines (PAL) to advance the goal for establishing direct flights between Israel and the Philippines. This initiative aims to enhance tourism and people to people exchange by making travel between the two countries more convenient and accessible.
This latest development shows the continuing growth of Israel-Philippines ties through travel and cooperation. This opens more opportunities for my fellow Filipinos to visit the Holy Land in Israel while doing the same for Israelis to visit the Philippines for leisure and business opportunities (which will be helpful in building up the economy of the Philippines). As I said before, Israel-Philippines ties are essential!
To my fellow Filipinos reading this, 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. Pray to Him so that Israel-Philippines ties and cooperation will keep growing stronger in the years to come.
Recently, the Christmas spectacle at Filinvest City Central Park was launched and already it has attracted a lot of visitors who enjoyed the place, sights, special activities and facilities that were prepared this year.
To be specific, Filinvest City’s Christmas season spectacle at the park is formally titled “Cherish Every Moment of Christmas at Filinvest City” which is a program of activities and special events to delight visitors on weekend nights (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) starting from the weekend of November 29 – December 1 until the weekend of December 20 – 22.
Lots of colorful lights, structures and decoration established to provide visitors the atmosphere of the season of Christmas.
Some hanging Christmas lights at this new structure with a roof.
On Friday nights, visitors can enjoy live musical performances from artists Blaster on December 13 and Munimuni on December 20. The band Over October already performed on the park on November 29. Still on Friday evenings, fireworks displays are scheduled to happen at 8PM (November 29 to December 20).
Those who want to see new facilities and decorations at the park, the Christmas Display is lighted starting 6PM to 9PM from November 29 up to January 6, 2025.
Lots of places to have your pictures taken at.
Christmas display at the Filinvest City Central Park looks livelier this year.
When it comes to brand new structures, Filinvest City’s The Tree is the one that stood out the most this year. The Tree is the newest events stage at the Filinvest City Central Park designed to be a suitable place for live musical performances, lighting ceremonies and other special activities. It was also made to bring the community together for celebration and connecting with each other. I personally witnessed the first live performance there on the evening of November 29 and what impressed me was the vibrant lighting and how the color of the lights changed efficiently.
This is The Tree, the brand new structure built at Filinvest City Central Park.
As I explored the different places of Filinvest City Central Park on the evening of November 29, I noticed a lot of people enjoying the place. You can see what happened by watching my video below.
In ending this post, I want to say that no matter how the organizers portrayed Christmas, always remember that Christmas is all about Lord Jesus who is the Savior and Hope of ALL nations!
That being said, as we enjoy the Christmas season and the blessings, we should never forget our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Learn from the holy scriptures below.
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)
For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father [of Eternity], Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6 (AMPC)
Therefore, the honor that belongs to the Father he will now share with his Son. So if you refuse to honor the Son, you are refusing to honor the Father who sent him.
John 5:23 (TPT)
Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying,
“I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”
John 8:12 (NKJV)
Santa Claus is not the reason of Christmas nor is he the definitive figure of the season. Lord Jesus is the one we should honor, thank and praise every Christmas. The birth of Lord Jesus in Israel thousands of years ago remains highly significant and essential. Celebrate Christmas by having unwavering faith in Lord Jesus!
For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
Disclaimer: This is my original work with details sourced from 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!
Hello, everyone! A major milestone happened today and I am deeply thankful to our Lord for it.
I am delighted to share with you all that my blog and website (Author Carlo Carrasco) surpassed one million hits (page views) worldwide today and the count is only growing! More than 1,000,000 hits counted along with over 706,000 visitors from around the world counted by my service provider. For transparency, I posted below the screenshot I captured.
Over one million hits and growing!
Surpassing the 1,000,000 hits mark is a major achievement for me personally and this made me look back at late 2018 when, after much research and getting advise from a close friend of mine, I decided to sign up with WordPress.com to start making my blog/website. After some struggling and learning the functions, I completed the general structure and officially launched my site on the afternoon of January 4, 2019.
I can say that my website is a part of my life. Since launch, I published lots of posts about the following:
Sharing my observations about what happened locally and overseas.
Magnifying local developments of South Metro Manila as well as news updates (both local and foreign) that I find relevant to share with you readers.
Publishing mostly retro reviews of comic books, movies, video games and other entertainment stuff.
Preaching the Word of God through bible teachings, through my Christian Music Appreciation (CMA) posts and through certain features or news developments (notably about Israel) that I posted.
Emphasizing the state of Israel, the truth that God designated the land of Israel to the Jewish people, the truth that the ties between Jews and Christians are biblical, the truth that Lord Jesus lived as a Jewish man and made ways for people to find salvation, and sharing the significance of the Holy Land through my Israel 2023 tour special features.
The occasional sports events and the developments that are significant with regards to our nation.
YouTube videos that need to be seen.
Local community developments from the local government units (LGUs) down to the residential communities.
My website and blog will keep continuing with updates for you and for readers from around the world. It is my intention to keep blogging until the end of my natural life. I will keep preaching God’s Word, post relevant updates, blog about my Holy Land experience, featuring something or someone new, and more.
I thank you my readers for coming back for more. My thanks also to others who supported me in varied ways through the years – the sponsors and donors (note: donate by clicking here), my business clients, the local community entities, the LGUs, local churches/ministries, community groups, the members of my South Metro Manila and the Movie Fans Worldwide Facebook groups, fellow faithful followers of Lord Jesus, and more.
In closing this, I want to remind you all that Lord Jesus is the Savior God (the Heavenly Father) sent to us. No matter what happens to you in this twisted world we live in, never get separated from Jesus as He is the hope of all nations! Learn from the holy scriptures below…
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)
Jesus answered and said to him,
“Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”
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
As some of you are already aware, I fully stand with Israel which is very connected with my uncompromising faith in the Lord. I keep on praying to Him for Israel to overwhelm its enemies, rescue the hostages and recover from the effects of the October 7, 2023 terrorist attacks committed by the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas which is sponsored by terrorist state Iran. I can assure all of you that nobody from the evil Islamo-Leftist mob, nobody from the pro-Palestine radicals and nobody from any evil society would stop me from supporting and loving Israel.
Now, on with the news…
Recently it was announced that two Israeli-produced Fast Attack Interdiction Crafts (FAICs) were received by the Philippines which raises the current number of Philippine Navy (PN) FAICs to eight, according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) new article.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the PNA news article. Some parts in boldface…
The Philippine Fleet (PF) on Monday announced that two more fast attack interdiction craft (FAIC), also known as the Acero-class patrol vessels, were delivered to the country.
In a message to reporters, PF spokesperson Lt. Giovanni Badidles said the two FAICs were delivered at the Pier 15 of the Manila South Harbor on Sept. 17.
“These two FAICs, to be designated with bow numbers PG-908 and PG-909, will be the seventh and the eighth fast boats under the Acero-class patrol vessels,” PF spokesperson Lt. Giovanni Badidles said in a message to reporters.
Once commissioned into service, the number of FAICs in the Philippine Navy (PN) will rise to eight, leaving only one to be delivered by contractor Israeli Shipyards Ltd.
“Similar with their predecessors, the newly delivered platforms are designed for high-speed operations, featuring advanced missile systems and sophisticated onboard technology, which enhances the PN’s capability to conduct rapid and effective maritime interdiction operations,” Badidles said.
He also said the arrival of these vessels underscores the continued modernization of the PN and represents a crucial step toward bolstering Manila’s Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) program.
On May 22 this year, the PN formally commissioned into service the fifth and sixth FAICs and named them BRP Herminigildo Yurong (PG-906) and BRP Laurence Narag (PG-907). These two FAICs are equipped with the Spike NLOS (non-line of sight) missile systems.
The PN received the two gunboats from Israel Shipyards Ltd. on Nov. 18, 2023.
The vessels were named after two Medal of Valor awardees, the late Marine Staff Sgt. Herminigildo Yurong and Marine Cpl. Laurence Narag, who perished in the line of duty during the Philippine government’s campaign against Moro rebels in Mindanao in 2000.
This latest development shows the continuing growth of Israel-Philippines ties through defense and military technology. The Philippine Navy needs the best technology they could get to help them in their operations as well as securing the nation.
To my fellow Filipinos reading this, 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!
We live in a very divided world. Around the world, Leftist forces have been supporting evil forces like the current regime of Iran which is known for supplying and arming the Palestinian terrorists, Hezbollah and other terrorist groups around the Middle East. The Leftists and terrorists always go together and their anti-Semitism is clearly obvious. Overseas, Israel recently intensified its fight against the Iran-sponsored terrorist group Hezbollah. Israel made it clear that they are at war with Hezbollah, not the people of Lebanon.
With all that said, I encourage you all to pray to the Lord God in support of Israel and believe that He will guide the Israeli forces to another victory which means finishing off Hamas, crushing Hezbollah and forcing Iran and its terror proxies to fall down. Read Joshua 11:1-20 in the Holy Bible for relevance and truth. Pray to the Lord to support Israel, its government officials, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the citizens and other stakeholders.
As some of you are already aware, I fully stand with Israel which is very connected with my uncompromising faith in the Lord. I keep on praying to Him for Israel to overwhelm its enemies, rescue the hostages and recover from the effects of the October 7, 2023 terrorist attacks committed by the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas which is sponsored by terrorist state Iran. I can assure all of you that nobody from the evil Islamo-Leftist mob, nobody from the pro-Palestine radicals and nobody from any evil society would stop me from supporting and loving Israel.
For the newcomers reading this, Hassan Nasrallah was a religious murder who led Hezbollah for decades and organized several acts of terrorism against Israel . To learn more about the dead Nasrallah, read The Jerusalem Post’s article by clicking here.
To put things in perspective, posted below are selected YouTube videos for your viewing. Watch and pay close attention to the details.
Hassan Nasrallah had been in power for DECADES committing murders and terrorism. So many men, women and children got killed because of him and Hezbollah’s evil moves. There are so many people who became victims and saw their lives disrupted or ended. Think about that very carefully.
While the people who were brainwashed with political correctness keep on failing to see the evil in Nasrallah and his terrorist group, there is no doubt that the evil is real. Terrorist state Iran’s involvement with Hezbollah only made their evil more real and clearer.
Nasrallah’s elimination was inevitable. Not only that, other top officials of Hezbollah and a few Iranian generals died with him during the precise strike by Israel at the terrorists’ headquarters in Lebanon. Knowing how much Iran-sponsored Hezbollah attacked Israel for so long, the elimination of Nasrallah and his top officials proved that vengeance is the Lord’s (Romans 12:19) and He has always been with Israel’s side. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel is the world leader in the fight against terrorism while the IDF is clearly the most moral army in the whole world. Again, God is with Israel!
Israel’s war is with Hezbollah, not the people of Lebanon. Remember that.
Also be reminded that shortly after Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, Hezbollah in Lebanon fired rockets at Israel. Without their top leaders, the remaining Hezbollah terrorists know that their days are numbered and they could lose their grip of Lebanon someday (note: the people of Lebanon who seek freedom from Hezbollah need prayers of support). Those evildoers should realize by now that God truly exists and that Israel’s government and the IDF have God on their side. Islamic terrorists and their useful idiots (Islamo-Leftists) should realize that God is watching them all.
Today, the axis of evil in this world is Iran-Turkey-Russia.
Before ending this post, I want to share with you all the relevant holy scriptures below. These scriptures should remind you that the Lord will never abandon His people and His faithful believers. The Word of God is eternally holy and eternal.
Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.
Deuteronomy 31:6 (NKJV)
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.”
As some of you are already aware, I fully stand with Israel which is very connected with my uncompromising faith in the Lord. I keep on praying to Him for Israel to overwhelm its enemies, rescue the hostages and recover from the effects of the October 7, 2023 terrorist attacks committed by the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas. I can assure all of you that nobody from the evil Islamo-Leftist mob, nobody from the pro-Palestine radicals and nobody from any evil society would stop me from supporting and loving Israel.
Now, on with the topic at hand…
In recent times, YouTuber travelingisrael.com published a compelling, explanatory video titled The Nazis and the Arabs of Palestine: the Untold (yet Documented) connection which you can watch below.
Decades before Bill Clinton forged an evil union with Yasser Arafat in the 1990s, the people of Palestine were allied with Adolf Hitler and the Nazis as both of them shared a powerful hatred towards the Jewish people. This is a chapter of world history that does not get discussed too much, nor has it been significantly taught in academies around the world.
Travelingisrael.com’s video and explanations are backed with facts, archived photos and videos, and solid references of historical information. You might be surprised to realize that there were indeed Muslims who served with the SS, that the leader of the Arabs of Palestine Amin al-Husseini lived in Berlin for a number of years and met with the murderous Adolf Hitler (who views Arabs as an inferior race but still became fond of Islam which has similarities with Nazi ideology). All these and more historical details and facts await you in the video below.
Always pray to the Lord in support of Israel, its government, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and its stakeholders. Pray to Him so that the evil axis of Iran-Hamas-Hezbollah and the pro-Palestine extremists will be stopped significantly. Learn to love and bless the Jewish people and pray for the peace of Jerusalem.
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.
#1Darlene Zschech’s newest worship music videos – In recent times, pastor Darlene Zschech released through her official YouTube channel the latest worship music videos of the songs Testament, Shout to the Lord and Cry of the Broken. For the newcomers reading this, Darlene Zschech is a Christian worship leader as well as an accomplished worship musician. She is based in Australia and she and her husband are with Hope Unlimited Church (HopeUC). She is a truly anointed woman of the Lord God and you can learn more about her by visiting her official website. Enjoy the worship music videos below.
#2 Grandia retrospective videos – I had a lot of fun playing and completing the Japanese role-playing game Grandia on PlayStation way back in 1999. I recently bought Grandia HD Collection which has Grandia and the sequel Grandia II (this I have yet to play) with enhanced visuals. That said, I have been replaying Grandia on my Xbox Series X and I can say that I am enjoying it. The gameplay features, the game design, the writing and visual presentation of Grandia have aged well. To get to know more about Grandia, watch the selected videos below.
#3 HolyLandSite’s newest Mount of Olives tour video – HolyLandSite published their latest video about their Mount of Olives tour in Israel. This time around, the video includes Mary Magdalene Church, Tomb of Prophets, the Chapel of Ascension and other sites. To truly grasp the relevance of this video of HolyLandSite, you must have strong faith in the Lord and in His Word. Be aware that as the world turns chaotic and more people turn to evil, Rapture could happen anytime and that means the return of Lord Jesus will follow. I encourage you to watch the video with faith and you will realize it is more than a tourism video. Pay close attention to the bible teachings.
#4 Popcorn in Bed’s sports-related movie reaction videos – Recently, YouTuber Popcorn in Bed published two movie reaction videos that happened to be sports-related. One was about ice hockey and the other was about running and the 1924 Olympic Games. While the films Miracle and Chariots of Fire are inspiring, be mindful that creative liberties were taken at the expense of historical accuracy which is often the case with movies. Still, Popcorn in Bed’s reactions are amusing to watch and II encourage you watch the videos below.
#5 Rocky (1976) movie reaction/review videos – Still on the topic of sports-related movies, Sylvester Stallone’s Rocky is arguably the most iconic of them all. Not only did it bring fame to Stallone, it also won the Academy Award for Best Picture and was selected by the Library Congress for preservation in the United States National Film Registry for being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant”. Naturally, Rocky has been featured in a lot of movie reaction/review videos and you can watch some of them below.
#6 Israel’s Prime Minister points to terrorist state Iran and its useful idiots – During his speech to the United States Congress (both lower and upper houses of Congress) in Washington, D.C., Israeli Prime Minister mentioned the truth about terrorist state Iran which has terrorist proxies around the Middle East as well as many brainwashed supportive protesters (the useful idiots) composed of Islamists, Communists, socialists, Marxists, liberals, the woke and other Islamo-Leftist elements. Netanyahu is correct that Iran’s axis of evil exists and there is a clash between civilization and barbarism (this points to Iran, the terrorists and woke extremists who support terrorism). It is also clear that all the people who hate Israel and sided with Islamic terrorists are on the wrong side and God is watching. Watch and learn from the video below.
Author Carlo Carrasco 