BPI Wealth – the wealth management arm of the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) – will establish a new mutual fund to lure in young and tech-savvy investors, according to a Manila Bulletin business news report.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Manila Bulletin news report. Some parts in boldface…
Amid favorable conditions for long-term investments, the wealth-management arm of Ayala-led Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) will roll out before this year ends a new mutual fund eyeing young and tech-savvy investors.
BPI Wealth personal wealth head Irene Ang told a press briefing on Friday, October 18, that the forthcoming BPI Wealth Builder Multi-Asset Mutual Fund Inc. isexpected to be approved “soon” by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which regulates mutual funds, for it to be sold to the public.
This first-of-its-kind balanced, global-based and peso-subscription and -redemption fund aims to convince millennials and the Gen X generation in the country to invest and prepare for their retirement, Ang said.
Among the innovative and unique features of this mutual fund include availability for a minimum of only P1,000; accessibility on BPI’s online platforms and accredited channels to conveniently open an investment account, monitor investments, and receive cumulative rewards and benefits at no extra cost; as well as an automated and automatic top-up system allowing additional investments of at least P100 monthly.
Ang is optimistic that up to P1-billion investments in their upcoming newest mutual fund would be “easy.”
BPI Wealth president and chief executive officer (CEO) Maria Theresa D. Marcial noted that among their investors, those who onboarded via digital channels continued to engage more regularly than branch-opened accounts.
“We should push more into digital initiatives,” said Marcial, who is spearheading BPI’s “Wealth Wellness Month” this October to promote financial inclusion and literacy as well as opportunities for small investors.
Marcial disclosed that as of end-September, BPI Wealth’s assets under management (AUM) rose to a new high of P1.4 trillion, from P1.2 trillion in end-2023.
On top of the earlier goal of 20-percent AUM increase for this year, Marcial said a further 15-percent growth next year will be “reasonable.”
BPI Wealth targets P3 trillion in AUM by 2026.
Marcial cited that while mutual funds and other assets experienced a roller-coaster ride of ups and downs during the past three years due to global financial conditions, the clarity in the ongoing monetary policy easing here and abroad this year has improved prospects.
“We’re seeing markets becoming more buoyant, and fund managers are becoming more constructive across asset classes,” she said.
“Bonds are expected to do better, as interest rates go lower. And because interest rates are lower… so [in] equity we’re seeing some renewed interest,” she added.
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think BPI Wealth’s newest move makes a lot of sense with today’s economic environment? Do you think a lot of millennials are willing to engage in investments?
Recently in the city of Parañaque, three men who pretended to be agents of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) got arrested by the police for extortion, grave threat, malicious mischief and the usurpation of authority, according to a Manila Bulletin news report. The three suspects were also responsible for a previous attempt to extort money from a Parañaque spa while pretending to be working for the NBI.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Manila Bulletin news report. Some parts in boldface…
Three men who posed as agents of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and attempted to extort P100,000 cash from the owner of a food store were arrested by members of the Parañaque police Tambo Substation on Saturday, October 19.
The Southern Police District (SPD) identified the suspects as alias “Bernard,” 44, alias “John,” 29, both businessmen, and alias “Lenon,” 24.
The SPD said the suspects were arrested around 3:00 a.m. at a food store located in Aseana I Building, E. Cuenco, Barangay Tambo.
The police said the suspects reportedly entered the establishment and presented a fraudulent search warrant alleging that the store was selling illegal tobacco and cigarettes.
The suspects threatened the 19 year-old store cashier and demanded that the store owner pay P100,000 cash to avoid penalties for selling illegal tobacco products.
The police said Aseana security guards were alerted and intervened when they noticed the commotion inside the food store while the suspects were dismantling the store’s CCTV camera.
Members of the Tambo police substation who were near the area were called for police assistance and upon verification, the suspects were found to be fake NBI agents.
During investigation, the police said Atty. Joseph Eufemio S. Martinez, Deputy Chief of Staff, Office of the Deputy Director for Operations Supervising Agent, National Capital Region (NBI-NCR), National Bureau of Investigation, said that the arrested suspects are not member of the agency.
The police also found that the same suspects had previously attempted to extort money from a spa in Parañaque City on September 1, 2024 by posing as NBI agents and threatening the business owner.
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 more individuals who would visit local businesses pretending to be NBI agents and make grave threats as they extort money? If you are a local business owner, did you encounter the same suspects in the news report?
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 progressive City of Muntinlupa, all of the nine barangays successfully passed the standards for Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) desks, 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…
All the nine barangays in Muntinlupa have passed the standards under the law for their VAWC (Violence Against Women and Children) desks.
“Congratulations to all barangays of Muntinlupa for achieving 100% compliance with our VAWC (Violence Against Women and Children) desk standards!” said Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon.
Under the standards, he said, the functionality of each barangay was assessed based on policies, personnel, resources, planning and budgeting, implementation, good practices, and regular submission of reports.
“At talagang commendable ang bawat barangay for having met these standards (And each barangay is really commendable for having met these standards),” he said.
Under a memorandum circular issued in 2023 by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), VAWC) is defined as “any act of or a series of acts committed by any person against a woman who is his wife, former wife, or against.a woman with whom the person has or had a sexual or dating relationship, or with whom he has a common child, or against her child whether legitimate or illegitimate, within or without the family abode, which result in physical, sexual, psychological harm or suffering, or economic abuse including threats of such acts, battery, assault, coercion, harassment or arbitrary deprivation of liberty.”
These acts include physical violence, sexual violence, psychological violence and economic abuse. Biazon lamented the violence happens inside a household.
“Pero naririto ang City Government at mga barangay to ensure that women and children have somewhere to turn to for help. Tinitiyak natin na meron laging tutugon sa kababaihan at kabataang humihingi ng saklolo (But the City government and barangays are here to ensure that women and children have somewhere to turn to for help. We ensure that someone will respond to women and children who seek help),” the mayor said.
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 having a VAWC desk in your barangay will be helpful? What is the first thing that comes to your mind whenever you think about the VAWC
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
Madison Galeriesannounced that the 2024 edition of the Mardi Gras Warehouse Sale is all set to happen from November 15 to 17, 10AM to 8PM, at The Events Place at the 3rd floor of the mall in Barangay Cupang, Alabang, Muntinlupa City.
For the newcomers reading this, Madison Galeries is located along Don Jesus Boulevard and it is a short drive away from Alabang Hills Village as well as the West Service Road.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from Madison Galeries’ Facebook announcement. Some parts in boldface…
Exciting news, everyone! The ultimate Warehouse Sale is back and better than ever! Mark your calendars! Mardi Gras is coming on November 15-17, 2024, at The Madison Events Place.
This is the anticipated event of the year where you can score amazing deals with up to 80% off a wide range of items! Whether you’re hunting for unique finds, fresh stocks, or just looking to snag low prices, this sale is not to be missed.
The accepted modes of payments at the sale are cash, GCash and credit cards. Like the previous years’ Mardi Gras sale/bazaar, there will be a wide range of items offered such as coffee mugs, utensils, kitchenware, clothes, toys, bags and more. Mardi Gras Warehouse Sale is also an opportunity for shoppers to buy items for Christmas gift-giving.
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
Recently in the city of Parañaque, an armed Chinese national was arrested by the local police for illegally possessing a firearm, committing grave threat and violating the gun ban, according to a Manila Bulletin news report. The suspect had an intense argument with a fellow Chinese national.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Manila Bulletin news report. Some parts in boldface…
A Chinese national was arrested for allegedly pointing a gun at his friend during a heated arguement in Parañaque City on Wednesday night, October 16.
The Southern Police District (SPD) identified the suspect as “Liu,”32. Liu was arrested at around 8:10 p.m. near a hotel in Barangay Don Galo, Parañaque City.
Based on the police investigation, the suspect had a heated argument with his compatriot identified as “Fang” while inside a vehicle driven by “Mark.”
Mark reportedly stopped the vehicle and sought assistance to some bystanders. Luckily, officers from the Parañaque Police Station Investigation and Detective Management Unit (SIDMU) who were conducting an operation near the area heard the commotion and responded to it.
Upon arrival, the officers witnessed Fang and Mark who had already subdued the suspect and were able to get hold of a pistol which Liu allegedly pointed to Fang.
Police recovered the .9mm pistol with five live ammunition from the suspect who failed to show any documents on the firearm.
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 still a lot more Chinese nationals living in the city who could cause trouble? Have you been wondering how Chinese nationals are able to get hold of guns?
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
Just yesterday, the said Dark Asia with Megan episode gathered over 100,000 views worldwide as well an estimated 3,500 likes. It should be noted that it took less than 30 days for the Antonio P. Antonio episode to surpass the 100,000 views mark. That being said, I posted below for your convenience the YouTube video. I encourage you all to watch it from start to finish.
For the newcomers reading this, the late Antonio P. Antonio (APA) was one of the most notable residents of BF Homes subdivision which is so large it occupies parts of the cities of Parañaque, Las Piñas and Muntinlupa. Antonio was also a president of the United BF Homesowners Association, Inc. (UBFHAI) and in the world of business, he was very successful tycoon. For my past blogs about Antonio P. Antonio and his family, click here, here, here and here.
Regarding Dark Asia with Megan, I encourage you to visit the YouTube channel by clicking https://www.youtube.com/@DarkAsiawithMegan. The YouTuber has almost 550,000 subscribers worldwide as of this writing.
For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673
Disclaimer: This is my original work with details sourced from reading the comic book and doing personal research. Anyone who wants to use this article, in part or in whole, needs to secure first my permission and agree to cite me as the source and author. Let it be known that any unauthorized use of this article will constrain the author to pursue the remedies under R.A. No. 8293, the Revised Penal Code, and/or all applicable legal actions under the laws of the Philippines.
Welcome back superhero enthusiasts, 1990s culture enthusiasts and comic book collectors! Today we go back to the early 1990s and explore a part of the Marvel Comics shared universe through a tale of the Spider-Man monthly series.
In my previous retro review, Todd McFarlane told a tale of the iconic web-slinger with intense build-up leading to another rematch with his old nemesis the Lizard (Dr. Connors). While the writing was pretty weak, McFarlane still managed to tell a tale with a strong element of horror and supernatural stuff. McFarlane’s approach with visual violence and graphic stuff was clearly adulterated. What was presented daringly tested the limits allowed under the Comics Code Authority (CCA).
With those details laid down, here is a look back at Spider-Man #2, published in 1990 by Marvel Comics with a story written and drawn by Todd McFarlane. This is also the 2nd chapter of the Torment storyline.
The cover.
Early story
The story begins in New York City where two men got suddenly murdered by the Lizard in an alley during the night. The next morning Peter Parker reads the newspaper (showing the photograph and the news story of the Lizard’s murder of the two men) while having a breakfast moment with his wife Mary Jane. As soon as his wife mentions the word “monster”, Peter takes a 2nd look at the newspaper’s photograph and finally notices the bloody writing “CNNR” on the alley wall which makes him realize that the Lizard is back again.
Feeling very troubled, Peter leaves Mary Jane quietly and dresses up as Spider-Man to go out once again.
Elsewhere in the city, a sorceress uses her evil method of crafting a potion which creates an unrelenting sound of disturbance which Spider-Man hears. As the sound goes on, his focus and Spider Sense get overwhelmed…
Quality
A quick look at the origin of the Lizard by McFarlane.
While the writing by McFarlane remains weak, he still succeeded in making this story a marginal improvement over the previous issue in terms of moving the plot forward, paying off a good chunk of the build-up in issue #1, and establishing his own visual corner (inspired by horror and adulterated stuff) within the Spider-Man franchise of comics of the time.
The biggest feature here is the physical conflict between Spider-Man and the Lizard. As expected, McFarlane drew the big fight with a lot of intense action, powerful violence (note: it was clear the editorial team recommended moves to tone down the graphic violence), suspense and a good amount of horror. Not only does the big fight move the story forward, it allowed McFarlane to dramatize Spider-Man as a vulnerable hero who not only has to cope with the disturbance from the sorceress far away, but also deal with the poison he got from the Lizard. That being said, Spidey also struggles with his sanity and the new fact that the Lizard has turned into a murder machine which disturbs him a lot as he personally knew Dr. Connors.
Considering what happened here and in the previous issue, there is still a greater force of evil that awaits Spider-Man and the Lizard happens to be an ultra-violent tool.
Conclusion
Many times Spider-Man finds himself in a disadvantage while fighting the Lizard.
Being the 2nd chapter of the Torment storyline, Spider-Man #2 (1990) is a slight improvement over the previous issue in terms of moving the story forward, spectacle and dramatization. While the big fight between Spider-Man and the murderous Lizard is clearly the big feature of the story, McFarlane does a good job portraying Spider-Man as vulnerable and on the edge towards defeat. McFarlane’s writing here is still weak but the other positive elements achieved outweighed the weakness.
Recently here in the Philippines, GMA Network made waves to boost their sports coverage by unveiling their artificial intelligence (AI) sportscasters named Maia and Marco which drew varied reactions from Filipinos online. Check out the official video unveiling of the AI sportscasters from GMA Integrated News’ YouTube channel below…
If you look at Maia and Marco’s unveiling, you probably would have been impressed with how photo-realistic they look and how almost human they sounded (including being able to speak Tagalog). They were made to look like Filipinos convincingly You might be saying to yourself that this is a shining example of Filipino achievement in the world of technology and be totally accepting of it. But make no mistake as Maia and Marco are indeed not real people (fake Filipinos) and most notably, they have no souls at all.
This bring me to the fact that AI has no soul and we humans must take action to prevent artificial intelligence from overwhelming us. Overseas, the development of AI is moving at a rapid face and the competing tech giants (which invested heavily on AI) involved are so focused on outmaneuvering and outdoing each other, they don’t seem to care about the possibilities that AI could turn into a rebellious force that could harm people around the world in multiple ways. Already, artificial intelligence and robotics are emerging as threats to humanity. To put things in perspective, watch the CBN News YouTube videos below…
With AI and robots left unchecked, a new form of religion that has nothing to do with God, Lord Jesus and the Holy Spirit is emerging already. There are those who pulled themselves away from the Lord to dedicate themselves to intelligent robots, human-like AI-driven characters and other aspects of technology. I would not be surprised if I find out that GMA’s Maia and Marco are being idolized by some people right now (note: idolatry is both foolish and unholy).
In the world of entertainment, AI is already being used as a tool for visuals (combined with computer-generated imaging or CGI) which includes the process of recreating the likenesses of actors (both the living and the dead) to make characters on-screen look as real as possible. In relation, the digital ways of resurrecting dead actors to portray their respective characters is morally disturbing to say the very least. It should also be stated that AI itself is being used to make articles, essays and even scripts – literary pieces that were not composed by the human user himself/herself. Has it occurred to you that the movie or streaming show you watched used a script that was partially made with AI because the screenwriter took shortcuts when working? Learn from the YouTube videos of Dave Cullen below…
Going back to GMA Network and its AI sportscasters, a lot of Filipinos have been questioning how artificial intelligence will affect not only journalism but also Philippine sports broadcasting (a lively sector) and job opportunities (which millions nationwide need badly). No matter how life-like and charismatic they look on-screen, Maia and Marco are still fake Filipinos created with AI and CGI. They are characters, not human beings. Did GMA Network even try to search for talented and charismatic prospects for their sports broadcasting needs among the many living and breathing Filipinos present in the country? The Philippines has a population of over 100 million people and that includes many young adults and adults who can be employed.
Way back in 1992, in a response to Marvel Comics’ expression that creative people (their employees) are secondary to their comic book characters, Image Comics co-founder Rob Liefeld emphasized the need for a living and breathing work force to keep the company and the business moving.
“Without your creative people, there would be no Batman, there would be no Spider-Man, there would be no Hulk. That’s short-sighted as far as I am concerned. You will need warm bodies, warm creative bodies to create properties to keep your company going,” said Liefeld.
While he specifically did not talk about AI at all, what Liefeld said long ago is still highly relevant which companies and organizations here in the Philippines can learn from before going all-in with artificial intelligence (which will deprive job seekers the opportunities). At least in my view, AI is unnecessary with sports broadcasting. There is nothing like watching a live sports event happen in which the human broadcaster makes powerful or exciting verbal expressions whenever a fun moment happens during the game. That being said, do you seriously think an AI sportscaster can pull off such human reactions in natural and believable fashion for the millions of viewers watching? In case you did not notice, Maia and Marco of GMA still have that robotic tone with the ways they talked – undeniable proof that AI has no soul. Humans who work have souls.
In fairness, GMA Network is aware of the public’s concerns about AI with regards to ethics, human labor, journalism and more. Watch the GMA YouTube news video (mostly in Tagalog) below…
Regardless of how AI develops and make impact on Filipinos, what is clear to me is that measures must be taken to ensure that humans will always have an advantage over artificial intelligence. I am talking about the need for kill switches covering all AI applications and projects to ensure that human users will have the edge in the event that AI turns rogue against humanity. That being said, I encourage you readers to contact your congressional representative and tell him or her to make laws that will make kill switches on AI a requirement all over the Philippines, and that includes requiring all AI providers/makers (including the foreign entities) to comply. Users of AI should be prioritized always! Do you want ChatGPT to control you or destroy you and your family? Do you want robots with AI to be a major part of your household and your lifestyle? I don’t think so.
Once again, AI has no soul. If you want to cook, do it yourself. If you want to write a letter or an article, do it yourself. If you want to compose a teaching module or a new prayer for a bible-focused session in your local church, push AI out of the way to follow the lead of the Holy Spirit and then proceed with the Lord’s command. By the way, artificial intelligence and technology could never understand the Holy Spirit and you definitely should never let them be part of your Christianity. No matter how many people around you worshipAI, robots, science and technology, you should never let them pull you away from the Lord.
Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this latest development? Do you think GMA Network has set a bad example with their AI sportscasters Maia and Marco with regards to Philippine sports coverage and journalism in general? Why do you think the network wanted their AI sportscaster to look human? Do you think the technology of artificial intelligence will be abused by those who possess it here in the Philippines? Do you think Philippine Congress should come up with a new law requiring kill switches on all AI projects and applications within the country to ensure that users will still have an advantage in case AI goes rogue? Do you think a rogue AI can bring down the security and economy of the Philippines?
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 arts and culture enthusiasts, Marvel Comics fans and comic book collectors! Today we go back to the year 1993 and explore a part of Marvel Comics’ universe through the reimagined tales emphasized in the What If monthly series.
Back in 2021, I reviewed What If #46 (1993) which told a compelling story about division between the mutants, the clash of beliefs between Professor X and Cable, and how terrorism affects everyone. The comic book was also a mesmerizing portrayal of how the X-Men would have organized themselves without Charles Xavier, Jean Grey and Cyclops.
Considering all the chaos that happened in What If #46 (1993), the time was just right for Magneto – the X-Men’s most dangerous enemy of all time – to come in and make an impact not only on mutants but on the world.
With those details laid down, here is a look back at What If #47, published in 1993 by Marvel Comics with a story written by Kurt Busiek and drawn by Tod Smith.
The cover.
Early story
The story begins with Magneto leading a huge legion of mutants to take overwhelm the remaining resistance – including Spider-Man, the Fantastic Four, Captain America, the Avengers and the dedicated American soldiers – in Washington, D.C.
A fierce battle then took place with both sides hitting each other hard. After noticing Magneto’s lack of presence during the battle, Captain America then realizes that the long-time enemy of the X-Men took advantage of the fighting to penetrate the U.S. Capitol’s bomb shelters and got the nation’s leaders hostage. After easing some of his fellow heroes, Captain America decides not to escalate the fight against Magneto in consideration of the lives of America’s top officials…
Quality
A recap of the events in issue #46.
To begin with, I can say that this story is a well-planned follow-up to the events of issue #46. While Magneto’s presence has been magnified a lot here, there are still strong story connections to the previous issue.
With regards to what was emphasized on the front cover of the comic book, this story explores what would happen if Magneto took power to control the entire United States while leading a group of mutants with a platform focused on crushing anti-mutant racism even though it includes pushing the non-mutant people (which is the great majority of America’s people) as well as the dissenting mutants out of the way.
For one thing, this superhero fantasy concept is actually socially relevant with today’s geopolitics and the way America has turned out under the fake leadership of Joe Biden (who is NOT leading as US President but only following the modern-day American Communists and reckless SJWs dictating him to do their evil bidding. Biden also arrogantly denies reality when it goes against the desires of his administration and his Satanic Democrats) It should be noted that the US President visualized in this comic book eerily looks like Joe Biden complete with that absent-minded facial expression.
Next, a clear theme in this What If story is absolute power and why groups who crave for it would sacrifice so much and hurt others just to acquire it. Magneto, who carries deep hatred towards people he perceives to be obstacles or opposition for his quest of uplifting mutants, takes advantage of mutants who have lost hope and are depending on someone to lead them. Indeed, the long-time X-Men nemesis gains power to control America but finds himself facing a new force of opposition which leads the nation into a drastic series of change that clearly do not alight with his vision of a better future for mutants.
Still on the theme of absolute power, the US government in this story was portrayed to have developed technologies designed to overwhelm its citizens, as well as the means to establish infrastructure and protocols to transform America into an automated dictatorial state that enslaves its citizens and violate their rights without restraint. Once again, this aspect of the story makes it socially relevant.
Considering the epic concept and the dark turn of events the creative team prepared, this comic book does not have a clear good-versus-evil approach but rather it emphasizes chaos that comes with the pursuit and abuse of absolute power over the nation. You will see key elements from the classic X-Men storyline Days of Future Past here in relation to America’s deformation.
Conclusion
Wow! The US President in this comic book eerily looks so much like Joe Biden whose leadership led America into a lot of problems and hardship. Sky high inflation is just one of the problems that happened under Biden.
What If #47 (1993) is truly a very captivating read mainly because of its core concept which goes way beyond the scenario of Magneto taking control of America. Considering its portrayal of America and the exploration of dark themes about people getting overwhelmed by power abusers, the story is a warning about the fall of America told in superhero fantasy form. Considering the intense social degradation that rocked America the past few years (note: riots by the Black Lives Matter terrorists, SJWs disturbing the peace, Democrats allowing more illegal immigrants into the country, socialists in colleges continuing to brainwash students and more), this story is very socially relevant. It will keep you thinking and reflecting deeply, even if you strongly desire whatever superhero entertainment you seek in this comic book.
Overall, What If #47 (1993) is highly recommended!
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, fans of the 2099 universe of Marvel Comics, 1990s culture enthusiasts and comic book collectors! Today we revisit the X-Men 2099 comic book series by focusing on the seventh issue. If there is anything that makes the series of Marvel’s futuristic mutants distinct from other Marvel 2099 monthly series, it is the fact that it shows more of wasteland of America which easily reminds me of the Mad Max movies.
With those details laid down, here is a look back at X-Men 2099 #7, published by Marvel Comics in 1994 with a story written by John Francis Moore and drawn by Ron Lim.
The cover.
Early story
The story begins in the middle of an abandoned town with the X-Men in battle with the Freakshow. Xi’an fights their leader Breakdown while his teammates struggle with the other members of the Freakshow. Already infected by one of the Freakshow members, Eddie is suffering severe pain even in his metallic form.
The fight suddenly ends when an old lady fires a blast with her rifle. It turns out she is Breakdown’s superior and she is precisely whom the X-Men have been searching for…
Quality
In the heat of battle.
As one of the early stories showing the X-Men of 2099 exploring the American wasteland, this is a well-written piece of work by John Francis Moore which is expected. While it has the usual superhero elements of spectacle and special moves, discovery and exposition are easily the most obvious elements of the story. What I like most about this comic book is that it reveals more of the history about the mutants’ struggle to survive not only with the harshness of the wilderness but also with dealing with rejection from the people who are not mutants (which symbolizes prejudice). This also reveals that the mutants are still searching for a fabled place called Avalon which could be a better destination for all mutants to live in.
As the narrative about the past gets emphasized, the creative team added some elements of emotion and concern on the X-Men visually. This makes a lot of sense since the mutants are clearly searching for purpose and trying to make the most out of their current situation in the hope of having a brighter future. This is similar to the original X-Men and yet X-Men 2099 has its distinct style and concept about mutant survival.
Conclusion
At an abandoned old town that has government secret facilities.
X-Men 2099 #7 (1994) is indeed a good comic book to read. As the X-Men of the far future encounter more people in the wasteland, the discoveries they get impacts them and their efforts to survive. As discovery and exposition are strong elements in the story, the comic book is definitely not your typical good-versus-evil superhero story. The strong writing by John Francis Moore and his approach on expanding the world of 2099 America to the readers really made this comic book a solid read.
If you are seriously planning to buy an existing hard copy of X-Men 2099 #7 (1994), be aware that as of this writing, MileHighComics.com shows that the near-mint copy of the regular edition costs $30 while the near-mint copy of the newsstand edition costs $90.
Overall, X-Men 2099 #7 (1994) is recommended!
+++++
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