Tag: Defense

Trump’s America Urges Allies To Increase Defense Spending To 5% Of GDP

Trump’s America Urges Allies To Increase Defense Spending To 5% Of GDP

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Under the leadership of US President Donald J. Trump, America’s new defense strategy urged its allies and partner to increase their defense spending to 5% of their gross domestic product (GDP), according to a news report by Kyodo News. This latest development could result in a chain of events in which American allies will not only spend more but also act more responsibly when it comes to securing their respective nations.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Kyodo News report. Some parts in boldface…

A new U.S. defense strategy released Friday urges all American allies and partners to increase defense spending to 5 percent of their gross domestic product and be more responsible for their own national security.

Highlighting President Donald Trump’s “America First” and “peace through strength” agenda, the Pentagon’s policy document says they have a bigger role to play, but not as “the dependencies of the last generation,” as the United States needs to prioritize defending its homeland and its interests throughout the Western Hemisphere.

“We will advocate that our allies and partners meet this standard around the world, not just in Europe,” says the first National Defense Strategy since Trump’s return to the office a year ago, referring to the 5 percent defense target.

“As our allies do so, together with the United States, they will be able to field the forces required to deter or defeat potential adversaries in every key region of the world, even in the face of simultaneous aggression,” it says.

NATO members have already pledged to meet Trump’s demand to increase defense spending from 2 percent to 5 percent of GDP by 2035. The new NATO target is composed of 3.5 percent for core military spending and an additional 1.5 percent for security-related spending.

As the document praises Europe and South Korea for committing to raising their defense expenditures since Trump’s return to office, it appears inevitable that other major U.S. allies, including Japan, will face increased pressure from his administration to follow suit.

On par with the National Security Strategy, released by the White House in December, the key defense document touches on China and its fast-paced military buildup.

But the tone is softer compared to previous versions.

It says the second Trump administration’s approach is to deter China in the Indo-Pacific region through strength, “not confrontation.”

In the 34-page document, there is also no mention of Taiwan, the self-ruled island that China regards as its own territory and around which it has been stepping up military pressure.

“President Trump seeks a stable peace, fair trade and respectful relations with China, and he has shown that he is willing to engage (Chinese) President Xi Jinping directly to achieve those goals,” the document says, adding that Washington’s goal is not to dominate China.

“Rather, our goal is simple: To prevent anyone, including China, from being able to dominate us or our allies,” it says.

As part of efforts to meet that end, the U.S. military will erect a “strong denial defense” along the first island chain in line with the security strategy, according to the defense blueprint.

The island chain runs from the Japanese archipelago, through Taiwan, the Philippines and on to Borneo, encircling China’s coastal waters.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think the new American strategy will create a huge impact on how the allies will defend their respective nations? Do you think this will lead to the containment of Communist China’s aggression on the Indo-Pacific? Do you think the new strategy could lead to more stability in both Asia and Europe?

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

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

Varied And Impactful Changes Realized Since Trump Returned As US President

Varied And Impactful Changes Realized Since Trump Returned As US President

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A year ago, Donald J. Trump returned as President of the United States and a wide series of changes were realized since January 20 of 2025. Those changes are still happening and it is very clear Trump’s America made impact not only on Americans but also on the world. Trump is on his 2nd term as President and he has three years remaining.

As such, the White House issued a statement titled “365 WINS IN 365 DAYS: President Trump’s Return Marks New Era of Success, Prosperity” which contains a very extensive list of changes and developments since January 20 of 2025. The statement contains an extensive list of developments covering a wide series of categories such as economics, immigration, national security, border security, jobs, income, international relations and more.

Clearly, I cannot highlight all the items from the White House statement in this blog post. What I can share with you are the items that caught my attention.

To put things in perspective, posted below are excerpts from the White House statement. Some parts in boldface…

Item – Achieved negative net migration in 2025, reversing a 50-year trend and restoring U.S. control over immigration flows for the first time in a generation.

Item – Removed more than 2.6 million illegal aliens from the United States through deportations and voluntary self-departures.

Item – Carried out over 650,000 arrests, detentions, and deportations of illegal aliens — including the worst of the worst criminal illegal alien killers, rapists, gang members, and repeat offenders.

Item – Revoked visas tied to pro-Hamas agitators on college campuses, restoring safety, free speech, and American values to universities across the nation.

Item – Rescued 62,000 missing migrant children from trafficking, forced labor, and exploitation networks tied to illegal migration — most of whom were lost during the Biden Administration.

Item – Revoked Temporary Protected Status for over 500,000 migrants — a decision upheld by the Supreme Court.

Item – Delivered the largest one-year decline in homicides in U.S. history by launching targeted federal crime crackdowns and ending Biden-era non-enforcement.

Item – Created 654,000 private-sector jobs following deregulation, tax relief, and restored investment confidence.

Item – Ensured 100% of net job growth went to native-born Americans by enforcing immigration laws.

Item – Achieved massive economic growth, with real GDP rising 4.3% in the third quarter of 2025 — smashing economists’ expectations and setting the stage for future growth, with GDP projected to be even higher in the fourth quarter as President Trump’s policies continue to take effect.

Item – Signed the Working Families Tax Cut, delivering the largest middle-class tax relief package in modern U.S. history and saving 5.9 million jobs.

Item – Delivered on his No Tax on Tips campaign promise.

Item – Secured new and improved trade agreements with major U.S. trading partners covering more than half of global GDP — including the United Kingdom, European Union, Japan, China, Republic of Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Israel, Switzerland, the Philippines, and Cambodia.

Item – Sent tariff revenues soaring, collecting $300 billion under expanded enforcement and new policies.

Item – Reduced the trade deficit to its lowest since 2009.

Item – Ended the Israel–Hamas war by imposing a ceasefire framework, securing the release of hostages, and enacting a landmark Gaza Peace Plan to unleash total security and prosperity for all in the region.

Item – Brokered peace between India and Pakistan.

Item – Brokered peace between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda.

Item – Destroyed Iran’s nuclear weapons capability through coordinated military action, sanctions escalation, and intelligence operations.

Item – Secured the capture of long-wanted narcoterrorist Nicolás Maduro, paving the way for his prosecution in the U.S.

Item – Rolled out new merit-based federal hiring plans, ensuring the government’s hiring decisions are based on merit only — including at the Federal Aviation Administration, where the Biden Administration specifically recruited individuals with intellectual disabilities and psychiatric issues.

Item – Established the Make America Healthy Again Commission tasked with investigating and addressing the root causes of America’s escalating health crisis — with an initial focus on childhood chronic diseases.

The selected items shared above are only a portion of the extensive list of the White House statement. Still, it give you an idea as to how vast the Trump administration’s initiatives really are. Truly, America is back and we should observe what else could President Trump and his team do over the next three years.

To see the full statement and list, click https://www.whitehouse.gov/articles/2026/01/365-wins-in-365-days-president-trumps-return-marks-new-era-of-success-prosperity/

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Among the many initiatives Trump launched since January 20, 2025, how were you affected? Do you think the international community is respecting America more under the leadership of President Trump? Do you think the US economy is taking off towards a new economic boom? Do you think Trump’s America should start striking the terrorist state of Iran to bring down the Islamic regime once and for all?

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

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

America and Japan Confirm Strong Alliance

America and Japan Confirm Strong Alliance

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As America prioritized its position in the Western Hemisphere, there is concern in Asia that a decline of American military presence in the Indo-Pacific could follow and allow Communist China to be an even bigger threat. That, however, is not the case at all as US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi confirmed that their alliance remains strong and it will be backed up with action, according to a report by Kyodo News.

For the newcomers reading this, Japan is currently dealing with the aggression of Communist China. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, Japan officially set its fiscal 2026 defense budget at 9 trillion Yen. Recently, Japan signed new agreements with the Philippines related to security and logistics support between their respective military forces. Prime Minister Takaichi will soon meet US President Trump in America.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Kyodo News report. Some parts in boldface…

The defense chiefs of Japan and the United States on Thursday agreed to reinforce the deterrence and response capabilities of the bilateral alliance amid concerns in Asia that Washington’s focus is drifting from the region.

“We confirmed that the Japan-U.S. alliance remains completely unshaken and that both countries are cooperating closely,” Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi told reporters following his meeting with U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth at the Pentagon near Washington.

Koizumi said he was reassured that the United States remains committed to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific, even as President Donald Trump’s administration has designated the Western Hemisphere its top priority.

While Trump has downplayed Chinese military activities around Taiwan, his administration is seeking to strengthen its position in North and South America and the surrounding waters, as evidenced by its recent intervention in Venezuela and designs on Greenland.

In some Asian capitals, Trump’s increased focus on the Western Hemisphere has prompted concerns about a potential decline in U.S. engagement in the Indo-Pacific, creating a security vacuum in the region as China accelerates its military buildup.

“Our job and our goal here is to continue…to strengthen that in every way possible,” Hegseth said as they began talks, referring to the decades-old security alliance.

After welcoming Koizumi in an honor cordon ceremony, Hegseth hailed Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s resolve to increase Tokyo’s defense spending.

According to Koizumi, Hegseth did not call on Japan to raise its defense spending during their meeting, which lasted about 50 minutes.

Koizumi said he told Hegseth that Japan will do its utmost to beef up its defense capabilities and the alliance.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think the United States has something planned to enhance its alliance with Japan which could create a bigger challenge towards China in the Indo-Pacific region? What do you think will be announced once Trump and Takaichi meet in America?

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

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

Japan Sets Fiscal 2026 Defense Budget At Record 9 Trillion Yen

Japan Sets Fiscal 2026 Defense Budget At Record 9 Trillion Yen

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In light of the aggression of Communist China in the Pacific and security challenges coming from North Korea, the government of Japan set its draft defense budget for fiscal 2026 at a record figure of 9 trillion yen (estimated at $58 billion), according to a news article published by Kyodo News.

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

Japan’s draft defense budget was set at a record 9.04 trillion yen ($58 billion) for fiscal 2026, the government said Friday, as the country faces increasing security challenges from China and North Korea.

The figure, including outlays linked to hosting U.S. military bases, eclipses the then record 8.7 trillion yen in the initial budget for the current fiscal year to March 2026. Fiscal 2026 marks the fourth year of Japan’s five-year 43-trillion-yen defense buildup plan.

The Cabinet of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi approved the same day a draft initial state budget for the year starting next April worth 122.3 trillion yen, also a record high, including defense and other expenditures.

Under the defense budget, 100.1 billion yen has been earmarked for building the “Shield” layered coastal defense system, which requires numerous aerial, surface and underwater vehicles. The spending on Shield comes at a time when many countries have been rapidly developing drone technology since the Russia-Ukraine war changed the nature of warfare.

With China in mind, 1.1 billion yen has been set aside to assess the use of long-endurance drones as a measure against airspace violations.

Japan plans to rebrand the Air Self-Defense Force as the Air and Space Self-Defense Force to enhance the country’s space capabilities.

Another 1.1 billion yen has been earmarked for acquiring equipment to monitor satellite interference.

The country has secured 30.1 billion yen to procure hypersonic guided missiles, which travel at above five times the speed of sound and are considered hard to intercept, as a means of counterattack.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think the record defense budget of 9 trillion yen is sufficient to keep Japan secured from the threats of China and North Korea?

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

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

I Love Israel: Aerial Lasers The Next Step In Military Technology

I Love Israel: Aerial Lasers The Next Step In Military Technology

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After officially having their brand new Iron Beam fully operational for defense, the next step of military technology for Israel is having their aircraft armed with laser, according to a news article by The Jerusalem Post. We are talking about aerial lasers here and the corporation Elbit has serious plans for the Jewish state.

It should be noted that the Israeli Air Force (IAF) intends to execute a major overhaul of their fleet of F-16’s. Several F-16 units were used by Israel in the 12-Day War with terrorist state Iran months ago.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from The Jerusalem Post news article. Some parts in boldface…

As the Defense Ministry and Rafael announce new developments regarding Israel’s ground-based laser defense systems, Elbit continues its long path toward the next stage in laser military technology – lasers on aircraft.

Experts in the field have stated that this is a much longer-term challenge, one that is expected to take years, possibly even five to 10.

However, Elbit chief technology officer for electro-optic systems Oded Ben David told The Jerusalem Post that air-based lasers have distinct advantages over ground-based ones.

He explained that dealing with turbulence and other atmospheric challenges is far easier when striking a target from above than when attempting to ascend from the ground to shoot down an aerial threat.

Aerial lasers are also the holy grail of lasers in that they can be used more effectively and suddenly on both defense and offense, as opposed to ground-based lasers, which must adjust the direction and goal of their firing much more slowly.

Next, he pointed out that Israir, El Al, and other Israeli aircraft have had a weaker form of laser defense – direct infrared countermeasures – for many years, such that the idea of an air-based laser has already been achieved.

Yet, he explained that these lasers work very differently from those that Elbit plans to develop, which will be able to strike aerial threats at much greater distances and which will have much more powerful laser beams.

In addition, the existing air defenses protect against aerial threats approaching the aircraft directly, whereas the purpose of future air-based lasers will be to shoot down threats that are in a completely different area, nowhere near the aircraft carrying the lasers.

Lasers will be fully Israeli-made – Elbit Systems President and CEO Bezhalel Machlis stressed that the laser will be fully Israeli-made, arguing, “It will transform the country’s defense array.”

“The company is dedicated to developing high-energy laser systems for military applications, first and foremost an airborne laser with the potential to bring a strategic change to air defense capabilities,” he said.

Thank the Lord for this significant development on the part of Israel. I can imagine having power lasers on Israeli aircraft – specifically within military operations – will prove crucial both offensively and defensively. The commercial aircraft of Israel could really use enhanced defenses with laser. The concept of aircraft armed with laser – previously presented in science fiction and pop culture – will eventually turn real with Elbit and Israel. It is a just a matter of time.

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

I Love Israel: Iron Beam Fully Operational For Defense

I Love Israel: Iron Beam Fully Operational For Defense

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Israel’s defense was recently enhanced with its new military laser – the Iron Beam – which became fully operational, according to a news article by The Jerusalem Post. Several Iron Beam units will soon be deployed across Israel.

For the newcomers reading this, the Iron Beam is a laser defense system capable of shooting down drones, missiles, rockets and mortars. Ultimately, better defense in Israel means more safety for its people, the infrastructure, the establishments, the Holy Land sites and foreigners who are already present. The Iron Beam also costs much less to operate when compared to the Iron Dome and Arrow interceptors.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from The Jerusalem Post news article. Some parts in boldface…

The Defense Ministry announced on Wednesday that Israel’s “Iron Beam” is now operational and that a full series of batteries will be deployed across the country to provide cutting-edge new air defense capabilities within the coming months.

Already in June, the ministry and Rafael, the lead company of multiple defense tech companies involved, including also Elbit and others, had announced that Lite Beam, a smaller relative of Iron Beam, was operational.

At the time, the ministry also disclosed that Israeli laser defense systems had shot down around 40 Hezbollah drones in October 2024.

However, Wednesday’s news signals multiple additional jumps forward.

What’s new? – Second, Iron Beam can specifically shoot down not only drones, but also missiles, rockets, and mortars, making it far more formidable than if it were only capable of shooting down drones, a relatively slow-moving threat.

Third, the announcement means that Iron Beam batteries will be produced and dispersed around the country at scale, as opposed to serving in just one or two locations where its impact would take time to be judged.

The ministry and the IDF expect Iron Beam to immediately start reducing the cost of shooting down aerial threats, an issue that has been out of control for Israel during this war, in which tens of thousands of threats have been launched through the air at Israel on six fronts. 

Firing Arrow interceptors can cost millions of shekels, Iron Dome interceptors can cost tens of thousands of shekels, but firing the Iron Beam is as cheap as turning a light on.

Defense Ministry Director-General Maj.-Gen. (res.) Amir Baram said that the current announcement regarding Iron Beam was only the foundation stone to start the process, which will change battle zones worldwide until they become filled invariably with cheaper laser platforms.

Security officials stated that Iron Beam also has the capacity to counter barrages of simultaneous aerial threats and is not limited to shooting down one or two at a time.

Head of the directorate’s R&D Division, Brig.-Gen. Yehuda Elmakayes, said that the Knesset already approved an extensive budget two years ago to cover as many Iron Beam batteries as would be needed at this stage of deployment.

In June, IDF M.-Sgt. “A” told The Jerusalem Post in an exclusive interview that his time on the laser team protecting the country with this game-changing, cutting-edge system has been “incredible.”

A is a reservist who was stationed in the North to work on how to operate the laser in real combat situations, and who had spent time in the IDF’s air defense units, mostly over a decade ago, but returned to assist when the current war broke out.

He said that he and everyone else had to learn how to best operate the laser in real time in the field since it is essentially something that no one has ever done before.

“We received the system, we made adjustments while operating in the field, and we improved with the industry developers [Rafael] after we got a better understanding of what we needed to increase our shoot-down success,” said A.

Although Raytheon in the US, as well as England, Russia, China, Germany, and Japan, are all at various stages of developing laser defense systems, the ministry said on Wednesday that Iron Beam is the only one that has moved beyond test firings to actual use in the field.

Defense sources also revealed on Wednesday that the new family of lasers could eliminate the need for Israelis to run to bomb shelters versus most aerial threats.

They explained that a major advantage of lasers, such as Iron Beam, Iron Beam M, and Lite Beam, is that they can shoot down enemy rockets and drones much earlier in the threat process. This means that most of the time, no siren warnings or bomb shelters would be necessary.

How does this work?

Light energy of laser travels much faster than Israeli interceptors – The reason would be that the light energy of the laser travels much faster than any interceptor in Israel’s arsenal and would already potentially destroy the enemy aerial threat shortly after it launches, and invariably while still in enemy territory.

In fact, because the laser fires so much faster, the IDF will also likely have more chances to hit a target that it initially misses, since it will know it has missed earlier on in the process.

That means that Israelis would likely only hear a siren and need to run to bomb shelters in those rare cases where the laser system missed its target, and then likely missed it multiple more times.

Thank the Lord for this significant development on the part of Israel. Defense is essential and protecting the people in Israel requires the very best technology has to offer. I believe that the Iron Beam will improve Israel’s overall defense from enemy projectiles in the long run.

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

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reiterates commitment to defend the nation

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reiterates commitment to defend the nation

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In connection with the New Year 2025 and the uncertainties that lie ahead, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reiterated its commitment to defending the nation, according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) news article.

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

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reiterated its commitment to defending the country and the people in welcoming the New Year.

“This New Year is an opportunity to renew our commitment to our shared goals and aspirations as an organization. Let us move forward with unity and determination, embracing innovation, strengthening partnerships, and remaining steadfast in our resolve to protect the Filipino people and our nation’s future,” AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said in his New Year’s message.

Brawner also added that 2024 has proven the AFP’s collective strength, resilience, and professionalism as it faced numerous challenges.

“Together, we have faced challenges with courage, fulfilled our missions with excellence, and made significant strides in safeguarding our sovereignty and promoting peace and security,” he stressed.

Brawner also thanked military personnel for their dedication and tireless service to the nation.

“To the AFP family and our fellow Filipinos, I wish you all a prosperous and peaceful New Year. May 2025 bring us closer to our vision of a strong, secure, and progressive Philippines,” he added.

The Philippine Army (PA) also recognized the hard work of its personnel, which led to numerous gains in 2024.

“What we achieved this 2024 was not born out of ease but of effort. It came from steadfast dedication, strong collaboration, and from the unwavering support of those who believe in our mission,” PA chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido said in his New Year’s message.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the AFP today is more capable of defending the nation from enemies both foreign and domestic? Do you think the AFP has better technologies and military hardware needed for its operations?

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

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

I Love Israel: Two more Israeli-made missile boats received by the Philippines

I Love Israel: Two more Israeli-made missile boats received by the Philippines

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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.

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! Always stand in support of Israel and pray for the peace of Jerusalem.

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

Major agreement between Japan and the Philippines formally signed, up for ratification

Major agreement between Japan and the Philippines formally signed, up for ratification

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A major agreement between Japan and the Philippines pertaining to defense matters and accessibility has been formally signed in the presence of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr., at Malacañang Palace, according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) news article. It should be remembered that Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro mentioned this past June that the signing would happen in July. The newly signed agreement is up for ratification in both nations.

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

The Philippines and Japan on Monday signed the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) that would facilitate mutual visits between Filipino and Japanese armed forces for training and joint exercises.

Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko and Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. signed the treaty documents in the presence of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in a ceremony at Malacañan Palace.

The treaty will have to be ratified by the respective legislative bodies of the Philippines and Japan before it comes into force.

In a courtesy call by Kamikawa and Japan Defense Minister Kihara Minoru to the President, Marcos expressed elation over the signing of the new defense deal.

“Your presence here increases our confidence in the importance that the Japanese government puts on this very important agreement that we have. And I’m very glad that we have come to this day,” Marcos said.

For her part, Kamikawa said the signing of the RAA is “a great achievement” for the two countries deepening bilateral relations.

Meanwhile, Kihara touted the leadership of Marcos and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in strengthening the ties of the two countries.

He also vowed to continue working with Teodoro to further enhance the defense cooperation and exchanges of the Philippines and Japan.

The Philippines has been expanding engagements with its allies while also beefing up the capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines amid China’s aggression in the West Philippine Sea.

It has similar defense pacts with the United States and Australia, while another defense deal is being pursued with France.

Upgraded ties – Teodoro, meanwhile, said the partnership between the Philippines and Japan has been “upgraded one level higher”, following the signing of the RAA.

“This is another milestone in our shared endeavor to ensure a rules-based international order to ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific and particularly in our region. Once again we thank the Government of Japan for the assistance rendered to us in several fields,” Teodoro said during his bilateral meeting with Kihara held at the Shangri-la The Fort, Manila in Taguig City.

Teodoro said this landmark deal has added security to the “traditional fields” where Manila and Tokyo have strong ties, particularly economy and trade.

“By adding the vital aspect of security which creates a holistic dimension or adds a holistic dimension to our bilateral relations. It will also add to the multilateral efforts that both our governments are doing to make sure that our region, with respect to international law, we (worked) hand in hand in creating a global architecture which will ensure sustainable peace and stability particularly in our area,” Teodoro said.

The DND chief said Manila is looking forward to more confidence-building measures between the Japanese Self-Defense Force and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, along with their respective defensive departments.

Meanwhile, Kihara extended his sincere appreciation for the warm welcome he had received from the Teodoro and the DND.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the newly signed agreement will be approved soon in both Japan and the Philippines? Do you think China will react negatively towards the new agreement?

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

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

Very strong possibility that the Philippines and Japan will seal defense deal this July

Very strong possibility that the Philippines and Japan will seal defense deal this July

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As the respective foreign and defense ministers of Japan and the Philippines will formally meet this July, the signing of a defense deal will most likely happen, according to a Kyodo News report.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Kyodo News report. Some parts in boldface…

Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro said on Thursday that there is a “very strong possibility” for his country and Japan to sign an agreement allowing their defense forces to train in each other’s territories during a meeting involving the two nations’ foreign and defense ministers in July.

In an interview with Kyodo News, Teodoro stated that negotiations on a reciprocal access agreement were nearing conclusion, with no remaining contentious issues. These negotiations commenced in late November, following an agreement earlier that month between Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to initiate talks aimed at enhancing security ties.

“It will allow your maritime forces…land (forces) and your air forces to train with us in a different environment (from what) you are used to,” Teodoro said, referring to possible cooperation between Japan’s Self-Defense Forces and the Philippine military.

It will be Japan’s first RAA with a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and the third following pacts with Australia and Britain, which took effect last year.

Once both countries ratify the RAA, it will enable Japanese forces to participate in the annual large-scale Balikatan military exercise conducted by the Philippines and the United States, he said.

Teodoro, his Japanese counterpart, Minoru Kihara, Philippine Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo, and Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa will attend the bilateral security meeting scheduled for July in Manila.

Teodoro said the Philippines and Japan would eventually consider holding talks about a military intelligence-sharing accord called the General Security of Military Information Agreement, which Manila is currently negotiating with Washington.

Japan and the Philippines, both U.S. allies, have been strengthening bilateral defense ties in recent years in response to China’s intensifying provocative activities and territorial claims in the East and South China seas.

The Philippines is deepening its security ties with other like-minded countries such as Australia. In April, the Philippines, Australia, Japan, and the United States conducted a joint maritime exercise in the South China Sea, of which China claims almost the entire area as its territory.

In order to “demonstrate to the world freedom of navigation,” Teodoro said his country hopes to conduct naval activities with the three allies within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone “as often as possible.”

Beijing’s sweeping claims in the South China Sea were invalidated by a 2016 ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the anticipated defense deal between Japan and the Philippines will somehow deter China’s aggression on the sea?

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