Investagrams – Page 4 – Author Carlo Carrasco

Las Piñas City Government Intensifies Anti-Flooding Efforts

January 29, 2026January 24, 2026carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Las Piñas, the City Government continued its operations to prevent flooding and Mayor April Aguilar inspected the efforts on location, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

The Las Piñas City government has intensified its anti-flooding efforts through Operation Anti-Flood, with ongoing creek inspections and dredging activities aimed at reducing flood risks in vulnerable areas.

Mayor April Aguilar joined personnel from the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) during the inspection and dredging operations at Pasong Cobra Creek in Aventine Hills, Barangay Talon Dos.

Aguilar said Pasong Cobra Creek, which spans approximately 520 meters, has undergone extensive dredging operations conducted on December 29 and 30, and Jan. 3 to 10.

She said that during the operations, around 90 cubic meters of mud and silt were collected and removed to improve water flow and significantly reduce the risk of flooding in the area.

The mayor assessed the progress of the dredging activities and discussed the next steps to ensure the continuous cleaning and proper maintenance of the waterway.

She said the initiative forms part of the city’s broader flood prevention program, which prioritizes proactive and sustainable measures. Operations will continue until waterways are fully cleared and maintained in good condition.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a resident of Las Piñas City, what is your reaction to this development? Do you think the anti-flooding operations are sufficient enough? Are there huge parts of your local community that remain vulnerable to flooding during the rainy season?

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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Japan Warns Philippines About Right-Of-Way Hurdles Related To Infrastructure Projects

January 29, 2026January 26, 2026carlocarrasco

For many years already, the Philippines has infrastructure projects in development with the support of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) which executes the official development assistance (ODA). The right-of-way challenges, however, are putting the projects at risk and Japan has alerted the government of the Philippines about it, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

The Japanese government’s lead development agency said that right-of-way (ROW) hurdles, rather than the tightening Philippine fiscal envelope, pose the primary risk to the completion of multibillion-peso infrastructure flagship projects.

Takashi Baba, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) chief representative in the Philippines, said that while budget reductions are sovereign prerogative, the legal obligations of bilateral agreements necessitate that Manila provides sufficient funding for land acquisition

“At this moment, we do not see any kind of delay because of the delay of the budget, but the delay of the ROW, [and] the process,” JICA Philippines chief representative Takashi Baba told Manila Bulletin last Thursday, Jan. 22.

He noted, however, that delays in ROW acquisition have already had an impact on project implementation.

“We already observed the kind of delay of the progress of the project itself. That’s why we are carefully monitoring the progress,” Baba added.

The assurance comes as the Marcos administration navigates a tighter fiscal landscape. The national government reduced unprogrammed appropriations in the 2026 budget to ₱150.9 billion, the lowest level of standby funding since 2019.

The contraction in the budget’s “standby” category directly affects the accounting of projects like the Metro Manila Subway and the North-South Commuter Railway, which rely heavily on Official Development Assistance (ODA) under JICA.

Baba added that the budget cut in the Philippines should be respected, noting that it reflects a sovereign decision.

“It should be respected,” he said, adding that the move represents “the GOP [government of the Philippines] or the government or the Philippine people’s decision in general.”

However, Baba emphasized that under the legal requirements of bilateral agreements, “the necessary budget should be allocated by the Philippine government,” particularly for ROW financing.

“When we look at the current GAA [General Appropriations Act], we notice that it’s not sufficient to cover everything like necessary budget, [the] necessary amount should be prepared by the Philippine government,” he added, noting that they are closely monitoring the situation.

Baba also highlighted that executive agencies may face difficulties in securing sufficient funding by the middle of the year, raising concerns that funding shortfalls could lead to delays in project implementation.

He said JICA is closely coordinating with the Philippine government to secure additional funding in line with agreements between the two countries.

“We are closely monitoring and also we are keeping good relationship and discussion with the Philippine government to secure another budget to cover the necessary one, which in accordance with agreed between the two countries,” Baba said.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think the right-of-way issues will delay the completion of the multi-billion Peso infrastructure projects that are supported by the Japanese? What should the national government of the Philippines do to resolve right-of-way issues?

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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Trump Delivers Largest Tax Refund Season in American History

January 28, 2026January 27, 2026carlocarrasco

While it is true that the economy of the United States is indeed growing, there are still a lot of Americans struggling financially. As such, the promised tax relief by US President Donald J. Trump is crucial for millions as the new tax season has started. The White House officially announced the largest tax refund in the nation’s history and there is professional feedback to support it.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the White House announcement. Some parts in boldface…

As tax season kicks off, millions of Americans are poised to receive significantly larger tax refunds thanks to President Donald J. Trump’s landmark Working Families Tax Cuts Act — which every Democrat in Congress opposed.

The historic legislation is delivering the biggest tax refund season ever, with average refunds projected to rise by $1,000 or more this year due to its transformative policies.

*Reference from the White House announcement.*

Economists and financial experts agree — 2026 will mark an unprecedented year for tax refunds:

USA TODAY: “The average refund in 2025 was $2,939, IRS data showed. This year, refunds could be as much as 30% more due to new provisions from President Donald Trump’s mega tax and spending bill, according to James Knightley, chief international economist at Dutch bank ING.”

CBS News: “Many Americans could see heftier tax refunds next year when they file their 2025 tax returns, largely due to new provisions enacted through the Republicans’ ‘one big, beautiful bill’ act that are retroactive to the start of the current year, according to an analysis from Oxford Economics. Total taxpayer savings could amount to an additional $50 billion through bigger tax refunds or a cut in their 2026 taxes…A $50 billion boost in tax refunds would represent an 18% increase from the $275 billion in refunds the IRS sent this year to nearly 94 million taxpayers who overpaid on their 2024 federal tax returns.”

The Wall Street Journal: “Refunds on average are expected to come in $1,000 higher than usual this year, according to a study by investment firm Piper Sandler.”

Business Insider: “The Tax Foundation estimates that the average tax refund will grow from $3,052 in 2024 to $3,800 for tax year 2025. Depending on your income and circumstances, you might get even more back.”

CNBC: “Tax experts and analysts have agreed that many filers will see bigger refunds… ‘Overall, we’re expecting these changes to increase refunds by 15% to 20% on average,’ Heather Berger, a U.S. economist with Morgan Stanley said…”

President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts Act provides broad-based tax relief for hardworking Americans, with the average taxpayer expected to see nearly $4,000 in total tax savings in 2026. Key provisions of the bill include No Tax on Tips, No Tax on Overtime, No Tax on Social Security, a deduction for auto loan interest on Made-in-America vehicles, and much more — putting more money back in the pockets of families, workers, and seniors.

For details about the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) and the Working Families Tax Cuts, click here and here.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think this new tax refund season will be very helpful to Americans who are struggling with making ends meet? Have you paid close attention to the details within the Working Families Tax Cuts and the One Big Beautiful Bill already? How many families in your local community have been anticipating the new tax refunds from the Trump administration? Do you think the new tax refunds will be able to boost gross domestic product (GDP) growth to 5% this year?

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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Japanese Senior Citizen Severely Beaten And Robbed In Parañaque City

January 28, 2026January 27, 2026carlocarrasco

This past weekend in the city of Parañaque, a 62-year-old Japanese national got severely beaten and robbed by the suspect who temporarily got away with the cash (including foreign currency) and the Japanese passport, according to a GMA Network news report. The suspect was eventually arrested in Barangay San Dionisio.

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

A 62-year-old Japanese man sustained severe injuries after he was attacked in Parañaque City by a suspect who stole his bag containing cash and other valuables.

According to John Consulta’s Monday report on “24 Oras,” a viral video showed the suspect repeatedly striking the victim on the head while the latter was lying on the ground.

The suspect then grabbed the victim’s bag and fled as if nothing had happened. Authorities responded to the incident after receiving a report from a concerned citizen.

Meanwhile, the victim was found with his head, clothing and hat covered in blood. They recovered the wooden stick used in the attack.

Police said the victim may have been birdwatching in a wetland park area when he was attacked around 11 a.m. on Saturday. Stolen was cash amounting to P30,000 and Y30,000 (around P11,500) as well as a mobile phone and Japanese passport.

Authorities said communicating with the victim was difficult since he does not understand English.

Barangay officials said the victim sustained a crack in the skull and a partially split ear, which required stitches. He also suffered from swelling around the eye and is currently receiving treatment in a hospital.

For insight regarding the arrest of the suspect, posted below is an excerpt from the follow-up news report of GMA News. Some parts in boldface…

In a statement, the SPD identified the suspect as 49-year-old “Ariel”, who was arrested in a subdivision on Monday evening.

Recovered from the suspect were the victim’s sling bag, an iPhone 14, earpods, a Japanese passport, identification cards, an ATM card, a boarding pass, assorted Japanese coins, among others.

Ariel was brought to the hospital where the victim positively identified him.

A complaint for robbery with violence or intimidation of persons under Article 294 of the Revised Penal Code is being prepared against the suspect, according to the police.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What do you think about this recent development? If you are a resident of Parañaque, are you concerned that there could be a lot more violent thieves or robbers targeting foreigners within the city? Do you think this incident will turn off Japanese travelers from visiting the Philippines? Do you think violent crime in Parañaque will get much worse this year?

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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IMF Trims Philippines Economic Growth Projections For 2026 And 2027

January 27, 2026January 20, 2026carlocarrasco

As far as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is concerned, issues of corruption and climate disruptions are enough to convince them to project economic growth of the Philippines at a slower pace not just for this year but also for next year, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

Washington-based multilateral lender International Monetary Fund (IMF) has tweaked downwards its economic growth projections for the Philippines this year and the next, following its more somber outlook for 2025 amid corruption allegations and climate disruptions.

According to the IMF’s updated World Economic Outlook (WEO), Philippine gross domestic product (GDP) is now seen expanding at a slower 5.1 percent, down from its earlier forecast of 5.4 percent—both of which fall short of the country’s already lowered target of at least 5.5 percent.

Despite the cut, the IMF’s forecast remains slightly more optimistic than the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) assumption of a 4.6 percent growth rate, which the central bank has attributed to a loss of confidence tied to governance concerns.

For 2026 and 2027, the IMF also trimmed its growth forecasts to 5.6 percent from a previous 5.8 percent, and to 5.8 percent from 6.1 percent, respectively. The central bank’s projection of 5.4 percent for 2026 stands lower than the IMF’s forecast, while its 6.2 percent forecast for 2027 is higher.

These projections still fall within the revised targets, based on National Socioeconomic Planner Arsenio M. Baliscan’s lower growth assumptions. Baliscan expects growth to clock in at five to six percent in 2026, and 5.5 to 6.5 percent in 2027—both lowered from the earlier goals of six to seven percent.

According to the IMF, the downward adjustment for 2026 and 2027 “reflects the carryover impact from a downward revision in the IMF’s growth forecast for 2025—from 5.4 to 5.1 percent—and a slower pace of capital accumulation.”

It noted that the slashed GDP growth forecast for 2025 reflects the output slump in the third quarter of 2025 “amid recent corruption allegations and climate shocks impacting economic activity in the second half of the year.”

To recall, the Philippine economy expanded by four percent in the third quarter of 2025—the weakest in four and a half years.

Looking ahead, output expansion could accelerate slower than expected mainly due to the potential “escalation of trade restrictions and prolonged uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and disruptive financial market corrections.”

“On the upside, accelerated implementation of structural and governance reforms can boost investment and foreign direct investments (FDI), increase fiscal multipliers and boost potential growth,” the lender said.

What would drive the economy in the medium term is robust private consumption and higher investment, the IMF said, “supported by monetary policy easing and the authorities’ recent policy initiatives to support private investment.”

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the economy of the Philippines can somehow grow faster than what the IMF projected for 2026 and 2027? Do you think foreign investors have been turned off by the flood control corruption scandals?

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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Two Suspects Arrested In Parañaque City Over Illegal Substances Worth P408K

January 27, 2026January 20, 2026carlocarrasco

Recently in the city of Parañaque, two persons were apprehended as a result of a successful buy-bust operation organized by the police over illegal substances worth more than P400,000, 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…

Authorities from the Parañaque City Police Station Drug Enforcement Unit (SDEU) arrested two suspected drug pushers during a buy-bust operation on January 14.

The Southern Police District (SPD) identified the suspects as Abet, 38, a housekeeper, and Rol, 28. They were apprehended at around 7:35 p.m. at Centro Purok 7, Barangay Moonwalk, Parañaque City.

Police said operatives of the Parañaque City Police SDEU conducted the operation after Abet allegedly sold shabu to an undercover police officer.

Seized from Abet were five grams of shabu and two additional heat-sealed transparent sachets containing about 50 grams, with an estimated value of P374,000, including boodle money.

Meanwhile, operatives recovered from Rol approximately five grams of shabu worth P34,000.

In total, authorities confiscated about 60 grams of shabu valued at P408,000.

The suspects were brought to the Parañaque City Police SDEU custodial facility and were charged with violations of Sections 5 and 11, Article II of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What do you think about this recent development? If you are a resident of Parañaque, are you concerned that there could be more traders of illegal drugs who have yet to be caught?

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

January 25, 2026January 24, 2026carlocarrasco

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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Thailand Sets Ambitious Tourism Targets For 2026

January 25, 2026January 20, 2026carlocarrasco

Thailand, the 2^nd most visited nation of Southeast Asia in 2025, has set ambitious tourism targets for itself for 2026 and it includes achieving US$95 billion in tourism revenue, according to a VnExpress news release. Thailand attracted over thirty million international arrivals last year which was actually a decline of more than 7% compared to 2024.

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

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has expressed confidence that the country’s tourism sector will earn 3 trillion THB (US$95.35 billion) in revenue this year through its “Amazing 5 Economy” strategy.

The plan targets an 11% increase in international visitors, enhanced domestic tourism, and a focus on sustainable, high-quality growth despite global challenges.

TAT aims for 36.7 million international arrivals and about 210 million domestic trips in 2026. Meanwhile, the revenue target includes 2 trillion THB from international markets, with an expected 11% increase in international tourist arrivals, and 1 trillion THB from domestic tourism, projected to grow by 4%, said TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool.

In 2026, TAT plans to reignite quality tourism growth by addressing challenges such as geopolitical tensions, increasing global competition, and domestic factors like the strong baht, household debt, safety concerns, and natural disasters. The key to success lies in the “Amazing 5 Economy” framework, which includes life economy, sub-culture economy, night economy, circular economy, and platform economy.

In 2025, Thailand recorded total tourism revenue of approximately 2.7 trillion THB. International arrivals reached 32.97 million, down 7.23% year-on-year.

It saw declines in short-haul markets such as Malaysia and China. However, long-haul markets showed strong momentum, with visitors from Europe, the Americas, the Middle East and Africa reaching a record 10.8 million.

Notably, arrivals from the U.K. and the U.S. each surpassed one million for the first time. Domestic tourism also expanded, with more than 202 million trips, up 2.7%.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Have you ever toured Thailand before? If you did, how long did you stay in Thailand and how was your overall travel experience there? Do you think Thailand will be to achieve its ambitious tourism targets this year?

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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Charter Of The Board Of Peace Ratified By US President Trump In Davos

January 24, 2026January 23, 2026carlocarrasco

The effort to transform Gaza from a region ravaged by conflict and the abuse of Islamic terrorists into a reformed place of opportunity and hope took major steps forward as US President Donald J. Trump formally ratified the Charter of the Board of Peace in Davos, Switzerland, according to the official announcement by the White House.

The historic ratification establishes the Board of Peace as an official international organization dedicated to reshaping the Gaza Strip by rebuilding it, redeveloping it and creating new opportunities for Gaza residents who have been abused and pushed around by the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas for so long. There are, however, legitimate concerns and questions about the Board of Peace.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the White House announcement. Some parts in boldface…

Today, in an historic ceremony in Davos, Switzerland, President Donald J. Trump formally ratified the Charter of the Board of Peace — establishing it as an official international organization. President Trump, who is serving as the Board’s Chairman, was joined by Founding Members representing countries around the world who have committed to building a secure and prosperous future for Gaza that delivers lasting peace, stability, and opportunity for its people.

It’s another pivotal step forward in realizing President Trump’s vision of transforming Gaza from a region plagued by conflict and despair into one defined by opportunity, hope, and vitality. The Board of Peace stands ready to mobilize global resources, enforce accountability, and guide the implementation of the next critical phases of demilitarization, governance reform, and large-scale rebuilding.

President Trump: “This Board has the chance to be one of the most consequential bodies ever created, and It’s my enormous honor to serve as its Chairman… Today, the first steps toward a brighter day for the Middle East and a much safer future for the world are unfolding right before your very eyes. Together, we are in a position to have any credible chance… to end decades of suffering, stop generations of hatred and bloodshed, and forge a beautiful, everlasting, and glorious peace for that region.”

Secretary of State Marco Rubio: “We are here today because of President Trump’s vision. If we go back just a few months ago, people thought what was happening in Gaza was impossible to solve… No one thought that that would ever come to a resolution without more fighting and more bloodshed along the way… But President Trump had the vision and the courage to dream the impossible, to believe that it was doable, and to pursue it with all of his heart.”

To see the entire White House announcement and images, click https://www.whitehouse.gov/articles/2026/01/president-trump-ratifies-board-of-peace-in-historic-ceremony-opening-path-to-hope-and-dignity-for-gazans/

Concerns and Questions – As mentioned earlier, there are some legitimate concerns and questions regarding the Board of Peace. Hamas itself has yet to be disarmed, and two of Israel’s enemies – Turkey and Qatar – are part of the Board of Peace.

For insight, posted below is an excerpt from the related article by Looking For The Blessed Hope. Some parts in boldface.

As part of the peace deal, President Trump proposed a “Board of Peace,” made up of world leaders who will quasi-govern Gaza while the Strip is rebuilt. That phase was to begin after conditions of Phase 1 (hostage return and disarmament) were met. In Davos, President Trump has already assembled that board and appears to be pushing the plan forward, despite Gaza’s lack of adherence to Phase 1 requirements.

So, who is on this infamous “Board of Peace,” announced today and chaired by President Trump himself? Quite frankly, it is shocking. First, there are ZERO Israeli representatives on that board. None…zero…zilch…nada! From the country that was attacked by those monsters. But guess who DID make the cut:

Several Americans close to Trump, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio (who has been a staunch supporter of Israel…let’s hope he keeps his head about him), Jared Kushner (Trump’s Jewish son-in-law/business man) and Steve Witkoff (special envoy who appears to be in the hip pocket of Qatar).

Some international bankers and investment firm billionaires, apparently there to help in the rebuilding of Gaza. Perhaps that will be advantageous, or perhaps they are there to serve their own best interests…we’ll see. Remember, this is a business deal as much (or more) than a foreign policy.)

Supposedly flaming antisemite, Turkish President Erdogan, has accepted an invitation. (If not, his Foreign Minister assuredly has.) Erdogan has publicly stated his intent to destroy Israel, and just recently said (in a conversation with Iran’s president), “Peace, stability, and security of Iran are strategic and vital importance to Turkey.” Why put an avowed Israel-hater in cahoots with the Iranian regime on the board to govern a terrorist enclave who also vows to destroy Israel? Insane!

Qatari Minister of Strategic Affairs Ali al-Thawadi is also among the board members. Qatar is the financial backbone of Iran’s proxies. They literally funded Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthis in the 2-year war with Israel. What are we thinking?

For my previous blog posts regarding President Trump, Gaza and the Middle East, click here, here and here.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think the Board of Peace will be able to fulfill its commitments while Trump remains as US President? Do you think Qatar and Turkey have something very sinister planned to ruin Israel while using the Board of Peace as a diplomatic shield? Do you think Trump and the Board of Peace will be able to pressure Hamas to disarm?

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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Illegal Substances Worth P476K Seized in Parañaque City, Suspect Apprehended

January 24, 2026January 18, 2026carlocarrasco

Recently in the city of Parañaque, local authorities arrested one suspect and seized illegal drugs worth P476,000 as a result of a successful buy-bust operation, according to a news report by the Manila Bulletin.

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

Authorities arrested a drug suspect identified as a high-value individual (HVI) after he was caught selling shabu to an undercover police operative, resulting in the seizure of P476,000 worth of illegal drugs in Parañaque City on Jan. 17.

The Southern Police District (SPD) identified the suspect as MJ, 21, who was arrested at around 3:05 a.m. along Bayabas Street, Purok 7, Sampaloc Site 2, Parañaque.

Police said MJ was apprehended by operatives of the Parañaque City Police Station Drug Enforcement Unit during a buy-bust operation while he was allegedly selling shabu to an undercover officer.

Recovered during the operation were approximately 70 grams of shabu, consisting of one heat-sealed plastic sachet weighing about five grams, which served as the subject of sale, and 13 additional sachets weighing approximately 65 grams.

Also confiscated were the marked buy-bust money, a pink coin purse, and a green-cased iPhone cellular phone allegedly used in the transaction.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What do you think about this recent development? If you are a resident of Parañaque, do you consider the city a hot spot of illegal drugs?

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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