foreign affairs – Author Carlo Carrasco

I Love Israel: Israel Exploring Opportunities Of Cooperation With The Philippines On Tourism, Cybersecurity And More

November 5, 2025October 28, 2025carlocarrasco

During an important discussion with the Manila Bulletin, Israeli Ambassador to the Philippine Dana Kursh stated that the Jewish state and the Philippines are exploring opportunities of cooperation over important topics such as tourism, cybersecurity, trade and direct flights, the newspaper reported.

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

The Philippines and Israel are exploring “more avenues of cooperation”—including a possible free trade agreement, direct flights between the two countries, and cybersecurity agreements—that will improve the “bond” that has been going strong since World War II, Israel Ambassador to Manila Dana Kursh said on Monday, Oct. 27.

In an exclusive roundtable discussion with The Manila Bulletin, the envoy underscored the importance that Israel puts in the Philippines, citing high-level visits of its ministers for foreign relations, economy, and tourism, as well as its deputy foreign minister.

“That shows that the Israeli government thinks very highly of the Philippines because it is working top down—our Prime Minister said look east and he specifically said also the Philippines and our ministers are coming here to explore more avenues of cooperation,” she said.

“So, this is one time that it relies on the past and it looks at the present and if we are looking at the future there are two things that are important,” she added.

The first, Kursh shared, is the possible free trade agreement (FTA) between the two countries, of which discussions on building the mechanisms have already started in July.

“So, hopefully, there will be a free trade agreement. We are now just finalizing things so, we initially started in July and when it’s done, the potential of bond between the two nations will become even more,” she pointed out.

PH, Israel eye revival of direct flights – Another important component of this relationship is the establishment of direct flights.

Noting the big potential of tourism between the two countries, the ambassador lamented the travel advisory currently raised in Israel by the Philippine government.

“We have to move aside is a travel advisory. I know that tourists are still coming despite the travel advisory, but we need to overcome this challenge and God willing, now with the voices, with the wind of peace from our region, I do hope that the DFA will decide, together with other ministries, will decide to lift this,” she said.

Travel Alert Level 2 is currently raised in Israel, which reminds Filipinos to avoid non-essential travel to the country. This includes, among others, tourism visits, pilgrimages, temporary stays with relatives and friends, volunteer work, sports events, entertainment, and similar activities.

After going past that hurdle, Kursh said the two countries can start discussion two possible options for direct flights, with one options having only direct flights on a certain amount of days a week.

The envoy added they have already met with the country’s flag carrier Philippine Airlines on how the direct flights will benefit the company.

“I do hope that more and more Filipinos will come to Israel and vice versa more and more Israelis will come to more than 7,000 mini paradise that we have in the Philippines.”

“So if I’m trying to answer, I think that God willing, within the next year and a half, we’ll be able to reach some progress, or even, but I cannot commit, we cannot commit to what’s going on in Israel, and at the end of the day, because it’s a decision of the airlines, we need to find ways to create the best formula that will be a win-win,” she added.

According to Kursh, there are some 30,000 or 40,000 tourists on both sides, but the “potential is tremendous.”

Cybersecurity partnership – Pointing out Israel’s expertise in technology, Kursh also said that her country has “added value” when it comes to exchanging best practices on innovation and technology, including cybersecurity.

“So, it’s both business and both tourism, we need to provide in our nations, to other next generation, we need to provide them food security and we need to provide cybersecurity and we need to provide them with health, with mental health and physical health and in all those realms and more Israelis and Filipinos can work together to have a better future for everyone,” she added.

This newest development shows the continuing growth of Israel-Philippines ties and Ambassador Kush pointed out the high-level visits of ministers from the Jewish state. In my view, the Philippines and Israel can become greater partners than they are today. Apart from travel, Israelis and Filipinos can help each other out in business, cybersecurity, and trade. We all have to pray that the Philippines and Israel will work together more closely sooner than later.

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.

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!

+++++

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: Philippines Is A Priority Market For Israel On Tourism

November 4, 2025October 28, 2025carlocarrasco

Following the end of the 2-year war in Gaza and the return of twenty living hostages connected with US President Donald Trump’s peace plan for Gaza and the Middle East, there is now a renewed optimism in Israel particularly on tourism and that includes efforts to revive the travel sector while providing foreigners new opportunities to visit the Holy Land. Israel made clear that it sees the Philippines as a priority market on tourism, according to a news article by the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

For the newcomers reading this, I myself had visited Israel on a pilgrimage tour with my local church in 2023. You can read some of my blog posts by clicking here, here, here, here, here and here. My faith in Lord Jesus is uncompromising and I will always stand in support of Israel and its people.

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

Israel sees the Philippines as a “priority” market in its efforts to revitalize its tourism sector, its tourism ministry said.

Intense promotions and trade engagement are underway in Asia following the “renewed travel optimism” seen after the Gaza ceasefire deal was signed this October, according to the Israel Ministry of Tourism (IMOT).

The agency, during its participation at the recent Internationale Tourismus Borse (ITB) Asia 2025 travel event in Singapore, underscored Israel’s intent to deepen ties across Asia’s high-growth travel markets and highlighted the destination’s “evolving identity that unites its heritage and modern leisure offerings.”

“The enthusiasm we’ve seen from Filipino travelers and partners at ITB Asia truly reflects how Israel remains a top bucket-list destination for many Filipinos,” Anna Oraiza Aban, marketing manager at IMOT’s Philippine office, said on Friday.

“With visa-free access for Philippine passport holders, we’re confident that more Filipinos will soon turn their dream trips into reality. The strong interest from the market and travel trade inspires us to continue developing experiences that connect deeply with Filipino travelers, whether through faith, culture, or adventure.“

In a briefer, IMOT said insights from ITB Asia 2025 will guide its regional strategy through 2026, with emphasis on joint marketing campaigns, airline collaborations, and education programs to build awareness and drive sustainable visitor growth in Asia.

Israel received 118,200 tourists in August, a 39 percent increase from July. Between January and August, it recorded 814,000 tourist arrivals, up from 672,400 in the same period last year.

“Asia has been a key market for Israel with India, Indonesia, the Philippines, China, and South Korea leading,” IMOT said.

“This steady rise shows Asia’s growing confidence and curiosity in Israel’s mix of culture, culinary, eco-conscious, wellness, and adventure travel experiences,” it added.

This newest development shows the continuing growth of Israel-Philippines ties and I am confident that new travel breakthroughs between Israel and the Philippines plus other nations in Asia will happen. That means better commercial and investment opportunities, and more people in Asia will be able to visit the Holy Land in Israel and witness the Holy Bible come to life during their visit. This also means more Asian travelers – the faithful and those who are still spiritually lost – will have golden opportunities to realize that Lord Jesus is the hope of all nations!

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.

Always be the fearless and aggressive church of Lord Jesus!

+++++

Trump and Takaichi Reaffirm US-Japan Alliance in Tokyo

October 29, 2025October 29, 2025carlocarrasco

United States President Donald Trump and new Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae met in Tokyo yesterday and officially America and Japan reaffirmed its alliance, according to the English news report of NHK and other sources.

For the newcomers reading this, Takaichi was recently elected as the new Prime Minister of Japan while Trump arrived from Malaysia where he presided the formal signing of a peace declaration between Thailand and Cambodia, and reached trade agreements with some Southeast Asian nations. Trump and Takaichi both attended the ASEAN Summit in Malaysia.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from NHK’s English news report. Some parts in boldface…

Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae and US President Donald Trump are taking part in a series of talks and appearances during their first summit in Tokyo.

Takaichi welcomed Trump at the State Guest House in Tokyo Tuesday morning. They received a salute from a ceremonial guard of honor with Japan’s Self-Defense Forces. Soon after, the two leaders sat down for their first face-to-face meeting.

Takaichi said, “I am determined to restore Japan’s dynamic diplomacy to protect Japanese national interests. I am ready to promote further collaboration between Japan and the United States toward our shared goal of achieving a free and open Indo-Pacific. I want to realize a new golden age of our Japan-US alliance in which both nations become stronger and more prosperous.“

Trump said, “I have always had a great love of Japan and a great respect of Japan, and I will say that this will be a relationship that will be stronger than ever before, and I look forward to working with you and on behalf of our country. I want to just let you know anytime you have any questions, any doubt, anything you want, any favors you need, anything I can do to help Japan, we will be there, we are an ally at the strongest level.”

The two leaders have signed documents to cement a deal reached as a result of tariff talks.

Trump meets abductee families – After the meeting, Trump met families of Japanese citizens abducted by North Korea.

He said, “I met the families before, and I’m with them all the way, and the US is with them all the way, and with Japan and the prime minister.“

Trump also said he’s had the issue in mind since meeting late Prime Minister Abe Shinzo. He told the families the US will do everything in its power to help.

Japan’s government says at least 17 Japanese nationals were kidnapped by North Korean agents in the 1970s and ’80s. Five of them returned in 2002, but what happened to a dozen others remains unknown.

Takaichi seeks to strengthen security, economic ties with US – Ahead of the meeting on Tuesday morning, Takaichi wrote on X that she is looking forward to “having a fruitful discussion on how we can further strengthen our great Alliance.”

Trump has complained that the burden for security shouldered by US allies is insufficient. The measures include revising three national security documents, including the National Security Strategy, by the end of next year.

Japan had been aiming to increase defense spending and related expenditures to two percent of the GDP in fiscal 2027. Takaichi will likely tell Trump that Japan will instead achieve that goal in the current fiscal year.

Takaichi wants to use the occasion to build a personal relationship with Trump. She is also hoping to enhance bilateral cooperation across a wide range of fields, including security and economy.

For additional coverage of Trump’s visit in Japan, watch the selected YouTube videos below…

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Are you feeling confident that US-Japan relations will improve under Trump and Takaichi? Considering the geopolitical interests of both leaders, do you think US-Japan will help turn the tide against Communist China with regards to disputes on the sea of Southeast Asia? Do you think illegal immigrants, the LGBTQ mob, the woke extremists and Islamists are now feeling uneasy about invading Japan and 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.

+++++

I Love Israel: Several Living Hostages Are Back Home And Trump Makes Impact In Israel

October 14, 2025October 14, 2025carlocarrasco

October 13, 2025, will be remembered as an emotional day in Israel as several living hostages were released and successfully went back home. That same day, US President Donald Trump arrived in Israel and went on to address the Knesset.

To get straight into what happened, watch the selected videos below. Pay close attention to the details.

To put things in perspective about the many surviving hostages who made it back home to Israel after spending over two years in captivity in Gaza, posted below is an excerpt from The Jerusalem Post news report. Some parts in boldface…

All 20 of the living Israeli hostages held by Hamas have returned to Israeli territory, the IDF announced. The remaining live hostages held by Hamas were all in IDF custody as of 11:42 a.m.

The first seven hostages to be released were named as: Matan Angrest, Alon Ohel, Eitan Mor, Gali and Ziv Berman, Omri Miran, and Guy Gilboa-Dalal. The second round of returned hostages, which are the other 13, included: Bar Abraham Kupershtein, Evyatar David, Yosef-Chaim Ohana, Segev Kalfon, Avinatan Or, Elkana Bohbot, Maxim Herkin, Nimrod Cohen, Matan Zangauker, Eitan Horn, Rom Braslavski, Ariel Cunio, and David Cunio.

The released hostages have undergone a medical assessment and are en route to hospitals and will reunite with their families, the military added.

Despite earlier IDF estimates that the hostages would be returned in three rounds, in the end it took only two rounds, with Hamas seeming to want to have all hostages over to Israeli custody before US President Donald Trump was soon expected to speak to the Israeli Knesset.

The three expected locations for the transfers were Gaza City, central Gaza, and Khan Yunis in southern Gaza.

Earlier Monday at 9:10 a.m., the IDF had already received seven out of the 20 remaining live hostages back from Hamas via the International Red Cross (ICRC). By 8:10 a.m., the ICRC had already received those hostages from Hamas.

Late Sunday night, the IDF had said that if the live hostages were stable, they would move from Red Cross custody to IDF special forces custody, then to the Reim base, and then to the three hospitals: Shiba, Ichalov, and Beilinson. However, if a live hostage was in immediate medical danger, a helicopter would be sent to rush them to Soroka Medical Center or to Barzilai Medical Center.

All of the first round hostages were stable enough medically that they did not require an emergency evacuation.

The IDF expects that some deceased hostages will be returned on Monday, but has no set numbers about how many, and is prepared for that part of the process to be drawn out over multiple days or longer. The deceased hostages will be transferred to Israel in coordination with further Red Cross-supervised exchanges, under the same verification and transfer protocols. Part of the process will also involve identifying the remains with specific hostages.

According to the IDF, Hamas is bound to assist a joint mechanism associated with the Trump ceasefire to help locate other deceased hostages, where finding them may be less of an exact science.

The ICRC will also transfer around 2,000 Palestinian security prisoners held in Israeli prisons to the Gaza Strip, West Bank, and locations outside of Israel, such as Qatar and Turkey.

Praise and thank the Lord for the return of the 20 surviving hostages! Spending a little over two years as captives of the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas in Gaza surely has been painful and torturous for them. Their respective families had to deal with the long waits and uncertainties during the two years. The surviving hostages are now starting to get their lives back on track and figure out how they will fit back in with local society. The release of the hostages was made possible by the new peace deal for Gaza (and the Middle East) brokered by Trump. What has happened today is undeniably history unfolding and there is still a lot of developments yet to happen.

Of course, we should not forget about the other hostages who died in captivity in Gaza. For sure, the return of bodies of dead hostages will be sorrowful for the affected families and their local communities. That being said, I urge the faithful reading this to pray to the Lord to comfort and heal the families whose loved ones died in captivity in Gaza.

Moving on, Trump addressed the Knesset during his visit in Israel. He expressed how good it is to say that the hostages are back and that the painful nightmare left behind by the October 7, 2023, terrorist attacks committed by Hamas (supported by terrorist state Iran) is over.

To put things in perspective and to find out what Trump exactly said, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of The Jerusalem Post. Some parts in boldface…

US President Donald Trump arrived at the Knesset on Monday morning, giving a speech at the plenum.

A trumpet fanfare sounded in the Knesset upon his entrance to the building and he entered the plenum to additional fanfare and wide applause.

“We’re in a nice place,” Trump’s speech began. We are “giving thanks to the Abrahamic God,” he added.

“The hostages are back! It feels so good to say it,” Trump said.

Netanyahu is “not easy to work with, but that’s what makes him great,” Trump affirmed.

“Like the USA right now, it will be the golden age for Israel,” the president commented.

Trump commented that “a lot of people said we were wasting our time” with regards to a ceasefire agreement, but thanks to several “great American patriots, we achieved this,” Trump commented, highlighting the work of US envoy Steve Witkoff for the part that he played.

Trump also thanked “someone who loves Israel so much, my daughter converted,” referring to his son-in-law Jared Kushner, and also thanked US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, noting that the two were political rivals, particularly during the Republican party primaries before Trump’s 2016 election victory.

Trump said that countries working together toward peace under the Gaza agreement represents an “incredible triumph for Israel and the world.”

He said Israel “has won all that can be won by force of arms.”

He added that it was time to translate what he described as “victories against terrorists” into peace and prosperity for the Middle East.

Trump then said my “personality is all about stopping wars.”

“As you mentioned, Bibi before, peace through strength…We have a lot of weapons, and we’ve given a lot of them to Israel frankly…Bibi would call me sometimes, can you get me this weapon that weapon, some of them I had never even heard of,” Trump said.

“Never forget and never again,” Trump declared regarding Hamas’s October 7, 2023 massacre, as the plenum stood for a standing ovation.

The “cruelty of October 7 struck the heart of humanity. The US mourned alongside Israel,” Trump affirmed.

“Because of us, the long and painful nightmare is finally over,” he said.

Trump also praised Israel for its airstrikes against Iran in June’s Operation Rising Lion, and the part the US played in striking Iranian nuclear facilities in Operation Midnight Hammer.

“We stopped the number one state sponsor of terror in obtaining the world’s most dangerous weapons,” he said.

“Assuming we made the same deal we have today, there would be a dark could over the deal,” he added.

“We took a big cloud off the Middle East and off of Israel,” Trump said to a round of applause.

“They took a big hit,” Trump said about Iran. “You know it would be great if we could make a peace deal” with them, he said.

“The dagger of Hezbollah, long aimed at Israel’s throat, has been shattered,” Trump commented, adding that he is supporting the Lebanese president in disarming the terror organization.

“People are dancing in countries in the street that would never have danced in the street,” due to the deal, Trump said, adding that the entire region has endorsed the plan that Hamas will be demilitarized.

“Peace is not just a dream, it’s a reality that we can build upon piece by piece,” the president said.

Everybody that has tried antisemitic policies has become irrelevant, and those who have reached across to Israel have become important, Trump said referring to the Abraham Accords, signalling his intention for other countries to join the agreement. “Now you have peace…people who really like Israel,” he said.

“They did nothing with the document,” he said, referring to countries who have not yet join the normalization agreement with Israel.

“This little dot, look at what you’ve done it’s incredible,” he said, receiving another standing ovation.

“The world wanted peace and Israel wanted peace, everybody did, and what a victory it’s been. The timing of this is brilliant,” Trump said as he thanked Netanyahu for “having the courage to end the war” when he did.

“After tremendous pain and hardship, now is the time to build the country up, instead of tearing it downI intend to be a partner is this,” Trump said.

“It’s my firm hope and dream that the Abraham Accords will turn out to be everything that we thought they would. Trump said that even after the war, the countries within the accords have remained. I hope all the countries we’re seeking, join quickly, no games,” Trump commented.

When Iran signed the nuclear deal it was a disaster for everyone,” Trump spoke on the past.

“That was the beginning of a very bad time, and by the way, I terminated the Iran nuclear deal,” Trump added.

Iran “wants to make a deal,” Trump said. Neither US or Israel bear Iran any hostility, the president claimed.

“We are ready when you are, and it’s going to be the best decision that Iran ever made,” Trump said.

“The state of Israel is strong and it will live and thrive forever,” he said, praising Israel as a key US ally.

Trump also spoke on the things he has done for Israel, remarking on how he is the best ally Israel has ever had.

Still there in the Knesset, Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with the mourning families, the abducted and the wounded Israel Defense Forces (IDF) personnel. You can see it by clicking here.

Thank the Lord for US President Trump, Prime Minister Netanyahu, the Israeli President Isaac Herzog, the armed forces of Israel and the entire Jewish State for the breakthroughs that happened this year. Israel defeated Iran during the 12-Day War which involved America’s massive bombing on the Iranian nuclear facilities. Hamas terrorists lost a lot of ground in Gaza and were down to their final stronghold being cornered by the IDF.

The Trump-brokered peace deal is working as I write this and having been to Israel myself (some of my Israel 2023 tour blog posts can be read by clicking here, here, here, here and here) I truly believe that the Middle East will change for the better with Israel as God’s chosen state. There will be challenges, the Trump-brokered peace deal has to keep developing, Middle East nations will have to adjust before joining the Abraham Accords and the terrorist leadership of Iran has yet to vanish. Whatever happens, hang on to your faith in the Lord and live on with His Word (the Holy Bible). Do not let the worldly pawns of Satan and chaos of the world dominate you. Simply stay strong with the Lord and keep on supporting Israel and Trump’s current term as US President.

To everyone 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.

Always be the fearless and aggressive church of Lord Jesus!

+++++

I Love Israel: Trump’s New Peace Plan For Gaza And The Middle East

October 1, 2025October 1, 2025carlocarrasco

During a high-level press conference in the White House, United States President Donald Trump revealed an ambitious new plan to achieve peace not only in the Gaza Strip but also in the Middle East, and already Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has agreed to it.

To get straight into what happened, watch the official video of the press conference from the White House below. Pay close attention to the details.

It should be noted that during the conference, Trump made it clear that if the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas (which has always been supported by terrorist state Iran and Qatar) rejects the plan, America will support Israel to eliminate the terrorists. Be aware that Hamas never cared for their fellow Palestinians in Gaza as they used them as human shields, and Hamas fed their greed and selfishness using humanitarian aid they snatched for a long time. Hamas, not Israel, is guilty of committing genocide and other crimes against humanity. There clearly is no justification for the Palestinian terrorists to exist the way they are. Hamas has a chance to stop their terrorism and we will find out soon if they will give in or not.

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

WHAT DID TRUMP SAY AT THE WHITE HOUSE PRESS CONFERENCE? – Trump said that the US would be involved in Israel’s security after the ceasefire agreement.

The president said that if his deal were accepted by Hamas, all of the hostages, living and dead, would be released almost immediately.

Trump intends to end the war itself, and said that he was “hearing that Hamas wants to get this done.”

He also stated that during his meeting with Netanyahu, the Israeli PM clearly stated his opposition to a Palestinian state.

Trump slammed other countries that had “foolishly” recognized a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly last week.

He noted that if Hamas rejects the deal that Israel has agreed to, he would give Israel the backing to destroy Hamas.

“And if Hamas rejects the deal, which is always possible, they’re the only one left. Everyone else has accepted it, but I have a feeling that we’re going to have a positive answer,” he said. “But if not, as you know, Bibi, you have our full backing to do what you would.“

In addition, he said Israel and others were “beyond very close” to reaching an agreement on ending the Israel-Hamas War in the Gaza Strip.

Trump, standing alongside Netanyahu, said the agreement would involve Arab countries and should help to achieve a broader peace in the Middle East.

“At least we’re at a minimum, very, very close. And I think we’re beyond very close,” Trump told reporters. “And I want to thank Bibi for really getting in there and doing a job.”

Trump affirmed that Israelis want a return to peace and want the hostages home. He also added that there were “many Palestinians who wish to live in peace,” adding that they had a “rough life under Hamas.

Trump stated that he believes Iran will one day become a member of the Abraham Accords.

He concluded his statement by again calling on Hamas to accept his plan, calling it an “extremely fair proposal.”

WHAT DID NETANYAHU SAY AT THE WHITE HOUSE PRESS CONFERENCE? – Netanyahu stated that Trump was Israel’s greatest friend in Washington.

“You are the greatest friend that Israel has ever had in the White House,” the prime minister said, adding that “it’s not even close.”

He also said that Trump’s plan achieves all of Israel’s war aims. Netanyahu outlined his cabinet’s “day after” plan for Gaza and the end of the war.

The objectives included: the disarmament of Hamas, the demilitarization of Gaza, the return of the hostages, Israel maintaining security parameters within the enclave, and the establishment of a peaceful civilian administration in the Gaza Strip.

The prime minister also said that there would be no role for the Palestinian Authority in Gaza until it underwent major transformations.

Netanyahu said that Trump’s plan provides a “realistic path for Gaza.”

WHAT IS TRUMP’S PLAN? – Trump released his plan to end the Israel-Hamas War.

Notably, the statement said that within 72 hours of Israel publicly accepting this agreement, all hostages, alive and deceased, will be returned.

The released statement states that Gaza will be “a deradicalized terror-free zone that does not pose a threat to its neighbors,” and that the enclave will be redeveloped for the citizens of Gaza, “who have suffered more than enough.”

If both sides agree to this proposal, the war will immediately end. Israeli forces will withdraw to the agreed-upon line to prepare for a hostage release. During this time, all military operations, including aerial and artillery bombardment, will be suspended, and battle lines will remain frozen until conditions are met for the complete staged withdrawal.

Once all hostages are released, Israel will release 250 life sentence prisoners plus 1,700 Gazans who were detained after October 7th, 2023, including all women and children detained in that context. For every Israeli hostage whose remains are released, Israel will release the remains of 15 deceased Gazans.

Once all hostages are returned, Hamas members who commit to peaceful co-existence and to decommission their weapons will be given amnesty. Members of Hamas who wish to leave Gaza will be provided safe passage to receiving countries.

For additional insight about the press conference, watch the videos below.

Thank the Lord for this significant development on the part of Israel. President Trump and his team truly have a grand strategy to achieve peace in the Middle East and it involves Gaza (note: Trump previously revealed a Gaza plan) which has long been a hot bed of Islamic terrorists and literally the launch pad of terrorist attacks against Israel. Trump has been able to make peace agreements happen since he returned to the White House and in this year alone, many breakthroughs happened diplomatically, socially and economically.

That being said, it is a must for people to focus on what would happen next after the announcement of Trump’s bold peace plan for the Middle East. You can simply ignore the foolish acts of the corrupted United Nations (UN) and its many member nations who joined the wrong side of history by deciding to recognize a Palestinian state, getting close with terrorist state Iran and walking out of Netanyahu’s UN address. The Gaza and Middle East peace plan revealed by Trump and agreed to by Netanyahu is the one people of faith should focus on and pray to the Lord to make it happen.

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.

Always be the fearless and aggressive church of Lord Jesus!

+++++

I Love Israel: Israel’s Ministry of Tourism and El Al Airlines Celebrate Ties With Filipino Partners

September 26, 2025September 24, 2025carlocarrasco

Let me start by declaring that my native Philippines committed a major error by favoring a United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) resolution calling for the implementation of a two-state solution on Israel and the stateless Palestine. They even praised the nations who decided to recognize a so-called state of Palestine…and now they are all on the WRONG side of history. I personally strongly disagree with the move of the Filipino diplomats (under the Department of Foreign Affairs or DFA) and I want to make clear with all my friends from Israel that those diplomats do not represent the Filipinos’ love for Israel and the Lord. I should stress that any concept of multilateralism that involves supporting illegal immigrants and empowering terrorists is absolutely wrong! Regardless of what the DFA does and what they currently believe in, I urge my fellow Filipinos to keep standing united in support of Israel and never give any room to Islamic terrorists, the Islamo-Leftist mobs and their mainstream news media partners-in-crime. Let me remind you all the you cannot trust the wicked United Nations (UN) and make sure you watch the DFA’s moves much closely.

On with the news about Israel and the Philippines…

The ties between Israel and the Philippines remain strong and the new Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Dana Kursh is focused on strengthening the ties more. Recently, a major event happened that brought Israel’s Ministry of Tourism and Filipino partners together, according to a Manila Bulletin news article.

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

In a vibrant prelude to Rosh Hashana, the Jewish New Year, the Israel Ministry of Tourism (IMOT), in partnership with El Al Airlines Philippines, hosted a festive gathering for key figures in the Philippine travel industry and media. The event celebrated the deepening tourism ties between Israel and the Philippines, spotlighting Israel’s rich cultural appeal and the visa-free access now extended to Filipino travelers.

Her Excellency Dana Kursh, ambassador of Israel to the Philippines, opened the celebration with a heartfelt message: “As Israel’s Ambassador to the Philippines, my vision is for Filipinos to experience the beauty of Israel — from the Galilee of my childhood to the wonder of Jerusalem — and for Israelis to discover the Philippines, its people, its hospitality, and its 7,000 islands of paradise. This vision inspires our Embassy’s efforts to make direct flights between our countries a reality.”

The event showcased Israel not only as a spiritual haven but also as a land of striking contrasts, where golden deserts meet snowy peaks, and ancient history blends seamlessly with modern vibrancy.

Anna Oraiza Aban, marketing manager of IMOT’s Philippine office, emphasized this unique appeal: “Israel is a land of contrasts, where you can marvel at golden deserts and snowy peaks in the same journey. With the gift of visa-free entry for Filipinos, we are excited to welcome you to discover Israel’s beauty, culture, and unforgettable experiences.”

Tisha Escalona, president of APG Philippines and general sales agent of El Al Airlines, reaffirmed her commitment to expanding travel opportunities: “As the General Sales Agent of El Al in the Philippines, APG is proud to collaborate with the Israel Ministry of Tourism to inspire more Filipinos to discover Israel.”

In keeping with Rosh Hashana traditions, Ambassador Kursh led a symbolic toast with a ruby-red drink inspired by the pomegranate, a symbol of abundance, renewal and sweetness. Guests also shared apples dipped in honey, reflecting hopes for a fruitful year ahead and the belief that even life’s challenges can bring sweetness.

This newest development shows the continuing growth of Israel-Philippines ties and I am confident that eventually new breakthroughs will be realized in the years to come. The new Ambassador Dana Kursh is dedicated to strengthening ties between the Jewish state and the Philippines. I urge you readers to pray to the Lord in support of Ambassador Kursh, the Israeli embassy, the Israeli businesses in our country so that progress benefitting both Israel and the Philippines will manifest regardless of external developments. Pray also that the DFA will be enlightened so that it will stop committing diplomatic blunders.

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 and more resilient no matter what happens around the world.

Always be the fearless and aggressive church of Lord Jesus! Always stand in support of Israel and its ties with the Philippines!

+++++

I Love Israel: MASHAV head and Israeli Ambassador meet with DILG Secretary Remulla

March 7, 2025February 26, 2025carlocarrasco

Recently Israeli aid agency MASHAV head Eynat Shlein and Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss met with Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla and discussed strategies for local development, innovation and sustainable growth, according to the social media post of Israel in the Philippines.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the social media post. Some parts in boldface…

The meeting between H.E. Eynat Shlein, H.E. Ilan Fluss, and Secretary Jonvic Remulla, discussed the training opportunities offered by MASHAV for Filipinos in the field of disaster management, agriculture, innovation, food security, health, municipality management, and more.

The Filipino alumni of these programs return with invaluable firsthand knowledge of Israel’s best practices, which they apply to their roles, driving positive change in the Philippine economy. The discussion also explored ways to further leverage these learnings to benefit society at large, expanding the impact across the nation.

The Head of MASHAV, H.E. Eynat Shlein, together with head of Internship in Agriculture Administration, Ms. Tamar Yarden, visited the Philipppines from February 18 to February 20.

This newest development shows the continuing growth of Israel-Philippines ties through aid from MASHAV and the cooperation that comes with it. For the newcomers reading this, MASHAV is the Jewish State’s Agency for International Development Cooperation at Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It was established in 1958 following the vision of then Foreign Minister Golda Meir and Prime Minister David Ben Gurion to assist fellow nations overcome development challenges by sharing knowhow and technologies, which provided the basis of Israel’s own development.

MASHAV is responsible for the design, coordination and implementation of the Sate of Israel’s development cooperation programs and humanitarian assistance efforts. By placing people at the heart of development, the agency focus its development activities on human capacity building and on the ‘training of trainers’ approach, sharing with other countries Israel’s own development experience and expertise as well as innovative technologies and tested methodologies. That being said, MASHAV is a very valuable and strategic partner for the Philippines.

Always be the fearless and aggressive church of Lord Jesus! Always stand in support of Israel and its ties with the Philippines!

+++++

Opening of DFA-NCR South Consular Office inside Festival Mall commended by Muntinlupa Mayor

February 23, 2025February 18, 2025carlocarrasco

Recently in the progressive City of Muntinlupa, the permanent Consular of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) was formally opened inside Festival Mall in Filinvest City, Alabang, and it was commended by Mayor Ruffy Biazon as the facility’s many services will be helpful for the local residents and those from other cities, 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…

Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon commended the opening of the permanent Consular Office of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) at Festival Mall in Alabang.

Biazon attended the opening of the DFA Consular Office National Capital Region-South located at the third floor of the mall’s east wing.

Also present during the opening ceremony were Ambassador Joseph Yap, DFA Office of Consular Affairs Assistant Secretary Adelio Angelito Cruz, and Filinvest Land president and CEO Tristan Las Marias.

“Available dito ang primary services tulad ng document verification and authentication at passport issuance, among others. Spacious, bright, at convenient din ang bagong office—hindi lang para sa Muntinlupeños kundi pati sa ating mga kababayan from nearby cities and provinces (Primary services such as document verification and authentication and passport issuance, among others, are available here. The new office is spacious, bright, and convenient—not only for Muntinlupeños but also for our countrymen from nearby cities and provinces),” the mayor posted on Facebook.

Biazon said, “this office is more than just a facility. It’s a gateway of dreams para sa lahat ng Pilipinong nagnanais makabisita, makapag-aral, o makapagtrabaho sa ibang bansa (It’s a gateway of dreams for all Filipinos who wish to visit, study, or work abroad).”

Cruz said the DFA-NCR South Consular Office will serve “as the mini-OCA Aseana and DFA outpost.”

He said the Alabang office will provide “consular services that cover first time passport applications, passport renewals, authentication, and Assistance-to-Nationals (ATN).”

The first passport applicant at the DFA-NCR South office was a 67-year-old man who applied for his very first Philippine passport. He said he applied for a passport so he can visit his child in California.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? If you are a resident of Muntinlupa City, do you think the upcoming STI Academic Center Alabang will make a positive impact on local society as well as on families looking for schools to have their children enrolled in?

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

+++++

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

Additional visa requirement for Chinese tourists revealed by DFA

June 20, 2024June 13, 2024carlocarrasco

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced that Chinese tourists who intend to secure a temporary visitor’s visa for travel to the Philippines will have to come up with an additional requirement, according to a GMA Network news report.

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

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) released details on Thursday on the additional requirement for Chinese citizens applying for a temporary visitor’s visa.

The DFA said that Chinese nationals applying for a 9(a) Temporary Visitor’s Visa at Philippine Foreign Service Posts will be required to submit their Chinese Social Insurance Record Certificates.

According to the DFA, the certificates must be registered for at least six months at the time of the visa application.

Those exempted from the visa requirement are Chinese citizens who are currently enrolled in primary, secondary, or college education—who will be required to submit proof of enrollment—and retirees over 55 years old.

Meanwhile, the department said other exceptions will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

“The additional visa requirement is part of the DFA’s continuing efforts to enhance its visa policies and regulations for the safe and efficient entry of foreign visitors,” it said in a statement.

Last month, the DFA announced that the Philippines would tighten its visa requirements for Chinese tourists amid many fraudulent applications received in its embassy and consulates in China.

Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Jesus Domingo said on May 9 that the stricter visa requirements intend to “weed out” the “illegitimate and unsavory” tourists from the legitimate ones.

Several Chinese nationals have reportedly been involved in organized crimes such as human trafficking, prostitution, kidnapping, and fraud.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the new requirement the DFA came up with will reduce the number of Chinese nationals who intend to commit crime while in the Philippines? Considering the recent conflicts between China and the Philippines at sea as well as the high number crimes committed by Chinese nationals in the Philippines, do you think the new requirement is justified? Do you think the new requirement will severely reduce the number of Chinese tourists visiting the country?

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

+++++

I Love Israel: Major agreements made between Israel and the Philippines; direct flights included

June 7, 2023June 6, 2023carlocarrasco

This week has been very significant for Israel-Philippines relations. Israel’s Foreign Minister Eli Cohen arrived here on an official visit and he had a high-level meeting with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. in Malacañang Palace which resulted in very tremendous agreements that include direct flights between Israel and the Philippines, according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) news article.

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

*Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr., with Israel’s Foreign Minister Eli Cohen. (photo source: Israel in the Philippines Facebook page)*

The Philippines and Israel are pushing for the direct flights between the two countries and elevating their partnership in agriculture and water sectors, Malacañang said on Tuesday.

The plan to enhance cooperation between Manila and Tel Aviv was discussed when President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. met with Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Monday, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Cheloy Garafil said in a statement.

Cohen told Marcos that establishing direct flights between the Philippines and Israel would boost the two nations’ tourism and economic ties.

“There’s another thing that we, both of us, took for an action item. [It] is to have a direct flight… your external sea between Israel and the Philippines,” Cohen, as quoted by the PCO, said during the meeting, referring to his earlier meeting with Filipino officials.

“And I think that we agree that both ministries will work together to have the direct flight. And this is also to bring more business people to come to invest and reach the place between us. So this is also another important action item that we will do.”

The Philippine Airlines was supposed to launch its direct flights to Tel Aviv in 2022, but the plan has been stalled because of geopolitical concerns.

The Philippines has become one of the top tourist destinations for the Israelis in the last few years, Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss said in November 2022.

Cohen also told Marcos about Israel’s planned closer cooperation with the Philippines to ensure food security, suggesting that the two nations may open an agricultural hub.

“I think that we can work together on the segment of agriculture. I just let you know that our land, 60 percent of our land is desert. But although 60 percent of our land is desert, we were able to provide all our water needs,” Cohen said.

“And I think that we can work together and let’s say that less import, more export for the Philippines. And I think that we can work together,” he added.

Marcos said he was glad that Cohen raised Israel’s plan, as he expressed admiration for its advancement in agriculture.

He added that agricultural development is “very important” for the Philippines,

“Because when we look at the economy as hard to just test, we said how do we fix the economy. It always comes down to agriculture first, how to fix every policy, then everything else would be great. So that’s the position that we find ourselves in,” he said. “So, the offers that you make for assistance and partnership in those two areas are very, very welcome.”

Cohen said the Philippines and Israel can also collaborate on water management, noting Tel Aviv’s vast experience in this sector.

He said Israeli experts may visit the Philippines to provide advice, noting that Israel has been reusing a large portion of its water resources because of water scarcity and it can share its experience in water management with the Philippines.

Marcos said the Philippines is looking at Israel and Singapore for best practices that the country can imitate.

Indeed, these recent developments prove the Israel-Philippines ties are blossoming and truly essential. For the newcomers reading this, the 65^th anniversary of friendship between Israel and the Philippines was commemorated. It was also this year when the 75^th year of independence of the State of Israel was celebrated.

The establishment of direct Israel-Philippines flights will enable more Filipinos to visit the Holy Land while potential more Israelis will visit more conveniently and boost not only Philippine tourism but also engage in business and investments. For those of you who want to visit Israel to deepen your faith in the Lord, read my Israel 2023 feature articles by clicking here, here, here, here, here and here.

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 by all. 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!

Always be the fearless and aggressive church of Lord Jesus! Always stand in support of Israel and pray for the peace of Jerusalem.

In ending this I Love Israel piece, posted below are Israel-related videos for your viewing pleasure and enlightenment.

+++++

	Shaman Tiers on A Look Back at Fatale #1 …
	Luke on Trump Administration Weighs Hi…
	Instapundit »… on Trump Administration Weighs Hi…
	Roaming Rhonda on Christian Music Appreciation:…
	Instapundit »… on Trump Administration Rescued O…

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this: