money – Author Carlo Carrasco

Trump Announces $1,776 Christmas Bonus For American Troops

December 19, 2025December 18, 2025carlocarrasco

I believe that every nation has to reward its armed forces in return for the extensive services they rendered for the citizens and the government throughout the year. Just today, I learned via a Newsmax news report that US President Donald Trump announced that every active-duty member of the United States Armed Forces will receive a Christmas bonus worth $1,776 – called the Warrior Dividend – and already the checks are on their way to them (1.45 million service members).

Before proceeding with the news and details, let me remind you all that Christmas is all about Lord Jesus, and never about the character called Santa Claus. Lord Jesus is our Savior and the Hope of ALL nations! Wherever you are, celebrate Christmas with your family remembering Lord Jesus and living on with His peace. All the praise, honor and thanks to the Lord!

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

President Donald Trump announced Wednesday night that every active-duty member of the U.S. armed forces will receive a $1,776 Christmas bonus, unveiling what he called the “Warrior Dividend” during a nationally televised prime-time address from the White House.

Trump said the one-time payment would go to roughly 1.45 million service members and is already being distributed, with checks scheduled to arrive before Christmas. The amount, Trump said, was deliberately chosen to honor America’s founding in 1776. That’s just ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary, to be celebrate (throughout) the coming year.

“I am also proud to announce that 1,450,000 military service members will receive a special — we call Warrior Dividend — before Christmas, a Warrior Dividend in honor of our nation’s founding in 1776,” Trump said during the address, which was carried live by Newsmax from the White House Diplomatic Room.

“We are sending every soldier $1,776. The checks are already on the way,” Trump said. “Nobody deserves it more than our military. And I say congratulations to everybody.”

The Warrior Dividend emerged as a highlight of Trump’s year-end prime-time address, which the White House framed as a review of economic gains and fiscal changes achieved during his second term and promised gains in the (coming) years of the president’s second term. The speech focused heavily on revenue growth, job creation, and what Trump described as a reshaping of federal finances.

Trump tied the military bonus directly to increased government revenue generated through tariffs and recent legislation, arguing that stronger trade enforcement and changes in economic policy produced results that exceeded projections.

“We made a lot more money than anybody thought because of tariffs, and the bill helped us along,” Trump said.

The president cast the dividend as both a tangible reward and a symbolic gesture, presenting it as recognition of service members’ sacrifices while reinforcing claims of economic revival. Trump said the payment reflects an administration that prioritizes military families and uses economic strength to deliver direct benefits rather than expanding federal debt.

The prime-time address marked Trump’s final nationally televised speech of the year and served as a capstone to a broader messaging effort focused on economic performance. Trump used the speech to highlight tariff revenue, domestic manufacturing investment, and wage growth, arguing that those factors allowed the administration to deliver what he described as meaningful, immediate relief.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you find the Warrior Dividend a nice bonus for the active members of the United States Armed Forces? Are you looking forward to the 250^th Independence Day of the America? What are your current feelings or opinions about the US Armed Forces right now?

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

Almost 1,800 Las Piñas City Senior Citizens Receive 4th Quarter Social Pension Payout

December 18, 2025December 10, 2025carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Las Piñas, almost one thousand and eight hundred senior citizens five barangays received their social pension payout for the 4^th quarter, the City Government confirmed via social media. Mayor April Aguilar personally attended the distribution.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from social media post of the City Government (translated from Tagalog to English). Some parts in boldface…

The first day of Social Pension Payout was happily held, where almost 1,800 senior citizens from the barangays of Almanza Dos, Almanza Uno, Talon Dos, Daniel Fajardo, and Ilaya received their 4th quarter social pension.

Our seniors received 3,000 pesos (1,000 pesos per month) for the last quarter of the year. Payout was held at the air-conditioned Aguilar Sports Complex to ensure a comfortable and smooth flow of the program, especially for our seniors.

Mayor April Aguilar wants this pension to be given immediately to be used for their daily needs, and most of all, so they can have something to use this coming Christmas.

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? Did many senior citizens from your local community receive their social pension payout?

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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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

Muntinlupa Mayor Encourages MSMEs To Take Advantage Of Soft Loans

December 14, 2025December 6, 2025carlocarrasco

Recently in the progressive City of Muntinlupa, Mayor Ruffy Biazon reached out to the local micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and encouraged them to take advantage of the soft loans offered by the City Government, according to a news report by the Daily Tribune.

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

Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are encouraged by Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon to take advantage of the soft loans offered by the local government unit, as well as the national government, to elevate from micro to medium entrepreneurs.

In an interview during the opening of “Tindahan ni Tarsee” in Festival Mall in Alabang on Friday, Biazon said the LGU’s Muntinlupa Entrepreneur Financing Division (MEFD) has been consistently providing financial aid through soft loans to MSMEs.

“We are providing funding for MSME capital, interest-free, starting from P5,000 for as much as P150,000. More business owners became successful because of that project, especially those who lost jobs right after the pandemic. Most of them did not return to their jobs and became full-pledge entrepreneurs already,” he said.

Biazon said most of the business owners that the MEFD has assisted are engaged in food businesses and sari-sari stores.

The number of MSMEs in Muntinlupa City is pegged at more than 30,000, an increase from the 15,708 registered businesses in 2019 or before the COVID-19 pandemic hit the country in 2020.

“We can see that our MSMEs are very successful, especially in our city, as they propped up the local economy and provide jobs even at a minimal number of two to three per entrepreneur. Yung mga hindi nakakapasok sa mga malls at ibang companies, sa mga MSMEs they have the chance to have jobs,” he said.

Biazon urged aspiring business owners to take advantage of the MEFD program, which will restart next year on 2 January, as the division’s funds for this year have already been fully utilized.

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, are there any micro or small entrepreneurs among your local community’s members? What do you think makes Muntinlupa an attractive city for MSMEs to do business 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.

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I Love Israel: Potential Partnership Between Israel And Cebu Chamber Of Commerce And Industry Could Be Achieved

December 4, 2025November 27, 2025carlocarrasco

In the island province of Cebu, Israeli Ambassador Dana Kursh met with officials of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) and things are looking bright for a potential partnership between the Jewish State (including its investors and capitalists) and the business chamber, according to news reports by Sun.Star Cebu (click here and here).

In the November 20 report, Ambassador Kursh confirmed that Israel is pursuing long-term and mutually beneficial partnerships, and sees potential in Cebu as it is already a crucial part of the economy of the Philippines. For insight, posted below is an excerpt from the report. Some parts in boldface.

ISRAEL sees “tremendous” potential for deeper economic, tourism and innovation partnerships with Cebu, Israel Ambassador to the Philippines Dana Kursh said during a courtesy visit to the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) on Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025.

Kursh, who arrived in the Philippines three and a half months ago, said she chose Cebu for her first business trip outside Manila because of its strategic role in the economy.

“Cebu is a crucial part of the economy of this amazing nation,” she said. “After an hour and a half of discussions with the chamber, I am even more certain that investing in the paradise of Cebu is a must.”

During the engagement, CCCI Jay Yuvallos presented the chamber’s L.E.A.D Agenda. Kursh’s visit was facilitated by the Honorary Consul of Israel to Cebu, Emily Benedicto-Chioson.

Kursh said Israel is pursuing long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships and sees Cebu as well-positioned for collaboration in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, medical and tourism-related technologies and sustainable solutions.

With nearly 70 percent of Cebu’s economy driven by services, she said Israeli firms are looking closely at the province’s innovation potential. Kursh said one area where Israel can immediately contribute is talent and teacher training.

“We can bring experts to work with your teachers on artificial intelligence, innovation and future skills. This is something we can easily do together,” she said.

Trade, investment prospects – Kursh said Israel aims to revive bilateral trade and investment flows, which had slowed due to global uncertainties. She said trade reached about US$500 million before declining because of the war and other external factors.

“My goal is to raise that again — not alone, but in partnership with the Philippine business community,” she said.

She noted that even at the height of the conflict, Israel’s Economic Minister Nir Barkat visited Manila in July this year and met with Trade Secretary Cristina Roque to advance discussions on a Philippines–Israel Free Trade Agreement.

“Even with war, we must look to the future. And the future is the partnership between our nations,” she said.

Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan earlier said any deal that enhances trade would benefit the Philippines, citing potential gains from Israel’s technology and innovation transfer.

In Sun.Star Cebu’s November 23 report, the CCCI showcased to Israel Cebu’s growing tech and startup ecosystem and potential for global partnerships. For insight, posted below is an excerpt from the report. Some parts in boldface.

THE Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) has invited the Israeli Embassy and Israeli tech firms to partner in developing its planned innovation hub, saying Israel’s strength in research and development could accelerate Cebu’s push to build a stronger innovation ecosystem.

Speaking at a dialogue with Israel’s Ambassador Dana Kursh on Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025, CCCI president Jay Yuvallos said the chamber is converting the second floor of its building into an innovation hub aimed at supporting startups, strengthening industry–academe links and positioning Cebu as a center for technology-driven growth.

“Across all industries, Israel is a leader in innovation. That is one of our main thrusts — developing an ecosystem for innovation,” Yuvallos said.

He cited Singapore’s rise as an R&D hub, noting how a single foreign research center eventually “overflowed to the whole community and ecosystem.”

Yuvallos said CCCI is pursuing the project aggressively and is “dreaming big,” stressing that a partnership with Israeli companies or the embassy would provide a “big boost” to Cebu’s innovation agenda.

“This is an invitation for the embassy or Israeli companies to be a partner of this innovation hub. Your comments actually make us more confident that we are on the right track,” he said. “We’d love to welcome whatever you want to bring, and we hope to reciprocate the energy and passion you’ve shown.”

He added that the chamber is ready to support Israel’s initiatives in Cebu and ensure that collaboration between Cebu and Israel “works on the ground.”

CCCI is set to open a P20-million Innovation and Startup Hub to accelerate local entrepreneurship and link Cebu’s innovators with global markets.

For the newcomers reading this, I used to work and live in Cebu long before I even visited Israel. I have witnessed the Cebu business community’s determination to modernize and innovate, and their efforts on attracting foreign investors (including direct foreign investment) have been consistently strong. A partnership with Israel and its business community could be realized in the near future benefitting both Cebu and the Philippines as well. Pray to the Lord in support of Israel-Cebu partnership!

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!

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Investors’ Interest In Nuclear Energy In The Philippines Remains Strong

November 30, 2025November 24, 2025carlocarrasco

The future of a nuclear-powered Philippines remains achievable as the Department of Energy (DOE) confirmed that investors are strongly interested in nuclear energy in the country, according to a BusinessWorld news report.

For the newcomers reading this, more Filipinos expressed through a survey their preference for nuclear power for electricity, PhilATOM was signed into law by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, and Meralco is preparing its bid for a nuclear power license.

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

INVESTORS are still keen on developing nuclear energy projects in the Philippines, the Department of Energy (DoE) said, as the government prepares to start accepting applications next year.

Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin said there is significant investor interest in nuclear energy projects in the Philippines, as some companies have already presented their ideas.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Ms. Garin said companies want to go into nuclear energy as they see it as a possible solution to serve baseload capacity and to cater to the increasing demand from data centers.

“They’re very interested and are waiting for us to finalize the site selection and site evaluation,” she said in mixed Filipino and English.

The DoE plans to begin accepting applications for nuclear energy projects by 2026 as part of efforts to integrate nuclear power into the country’s energy mix by 2032.

Under the Philippine Energy Plan, the country aims to integrate nuclear energy into the power mix with at least 1,200 megawatts (MW) of capacity by 2032, increasing it to 2,400 MW by 2045 and to 4,800 MW by 2050.

“I understand, the companies are waiting for us to guide them on which are the areas that are more feasible. But some companies have already approached DoE to enter into a memorandum of agreement, non-exclusive, to explore the possible nuclear power plant development,” Ms. Garin said.

She said some energy firms have expressed interest in nuclear energy development such as power distributor Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) and power generation firm Aboitiz Power Corp.

In a separate interview, Meralco Executive Vice-President Chief Operating Officer Ronnie L. Aperocho said that the company waiting to see the ongoing development of Romania’s first small modular reactor before proceeding on its own.

“There is a requirement from PhilATOM (Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority) that the first-of-its-kind technology must run of at least about two years without any incidents before we can adopt it here in the Philippines. So, we have to go through that two-year requirement,” he said in mixed Filipino and English.

In September, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. signed Republic Act No. 12305, the Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act, which created PhilATOM.

PhilATOM is an independent quasi-judicial body tasked with overseeing all nuclear and radiation activities in the country. Under the law, PhilATOM will hold sole and exclusive jurisdiction over the regulation of nuclear energy and radiation sources in the Philippines, ensuring their peaceful, safe and secure use.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think nuclear power in the Philippines will become a reality over the next several years?

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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President Marcos Calls On HSBC To Help investors See Economic Opportunities In The Philippines

November 27, 2025November 19, 2025carlocarrasco

As the signs are clear that economic growth of the Philippines has weakened, President Marcos called on financial giant HSBC to help foreign investors realize the economic opportunities in the country, 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…

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has called on international bank HSBC to help more foreign investors see the huge economic opportunities the Philippines has to offer.

“Together let’s build a more progressive Philippine economy, where people can access reliable financial services, obtain meaningful opportunities, and live more dignified, comfortable lives,” he said in a speech at HSBC’s 150th year anniversary gala in Taguig City on Tuesday night.

“Let us continue creating an environment where investors, stakeholders, and most importantly, our citizens see the Philippines as a nation of promise,” he added.

He acknowledged the foreign bank’s support for government initiatives, including its participation in recent bond issuances such as the SEC-registered USD3.3 billion-equivalent dual currency global bond that aims to ensure the continuation of vital government programs.

“These programs, whether on infrastructure, education, or social protection, directly benefit our people, especially those who rely on stable public services,” he said.

He also cited HSBC’s strong collaboration with relevant economic agencies and its contribution to increasing the country’s exposure to foreign investors.

From its first branch in Binondo in 1875, Marcos said HSBC’s growing presence in the Philippines serves as a vote of confidence in the future of the Philippines.

On the part of the government, he said the administration continues to strengthen its financial systems to protect depositors.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, he added, is refining capital, liquidity, and governance standards to ensure that banks are resilient.

The country, he said, also adopts reforms such as the Basel III New Standardized Approach, the National Risk Assessment, and clearer guidelines for the disqualification of erring officers.

“Today, as HSBC adapts to a rapidly changing economy, we are confident that the bank will remain true to its commitment to making its services more inclusive, more secure, and accessible to Filipinos,” the chief executive said.

HSBC, the leading international bank in the country, serves 41 million clients across 57 markets, with over USD3 trillion in assets.

In his remarks, HSBC Interim Group Chairman Brendan Nelson said the firm has “strong” confidence in the Philippines and is ready to work with the country to sustain its growth momentum.

He said HSBC is “determined to continue growing” in the Philippines as he noted its strategic position in Southeast Asia, one of the regions, he noted, is set to benefit most from the “configured globalized world.”

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think economic growth of the Philippines will get stronger in 2026? Do you think foreign investors will take a new look at the Philippines for economic opportunities soon?

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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Philippines At Risk Of Falling Behind Southeast Asian Neighbors Economically

November 26, 2025November 19, 2025carlocarrasco

The 3^rd quarter growth of only 4% the Philippines achieved has been on people’s minds a lot lately. As such, the country is at risk of falling behind its neighbors in Southeast Asia in terms of economic growth and gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, according to a BusinessWorld news report.

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

The Philippine economy is at risk of further falling behind its Southeast Asian neighbors, an economist said, noting it may take two years to catch up with Vietnam and up to 70 years to catch up with Singapore.

“(T)he Philippines could find itself lagging behind if alleged public spending issues continue to divert attention and resources away from the structural reforms needed to accelerate economic development,” Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) Lead Economist Emilio S. Neri, Jr. said in a commentary on Wednesday.

In the third quarter, Philippine gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 4%, its slowest pace in over four years amid slower household and public infrastructure spending as the flood control scandal dampened investor and con-sumer sentiment.

In the nine months to September, GDP growth averaged 5%, putting the government’s 5.5%-6.5% full-year growth target further out of reach.

“The Philippine economy is growing, but not enough to close the economic gap with other countries,” Mr. Neri said.

He noted the Philippine GDP per capita is lower compared with other economies in the region. Citing International Monetary Fund (IMF) data, he said the Philippines’ GDP per capita stood at $4,078 in 2024.

“At the current growth rate, it would take the Philippines two years to catch up with the GDP per capita of Vietnam, 4 years with Indonesia, 14 years with Thailand, 26 years with Malaysia, and 70 years with Singapore, assuming their incomes remain stagnant. In reality, their GDP per capita continues to grow, which means the gap could persist or even widen,” Mr. Neri said.

The Philippines lagged behind Singapore which had a GDP per capita of $90,674 in 2024, followed by South Korea ($36,128), Japan ($32,498), China ($13,312), Malaysia ($12,540), Thailand ($7,491), Indonesia ($4,958) and Vietnam ($4,535).

“Before the pandemic, the Philippines had a higher GDP per capita than Vietnam, but has since been overtaken. At current trends, it would take the Philippines two years to catch up with Vietnam, but that gap could increase to 13 years by 2044,” Mr. Neri said.

The BPI economist said the Philippines needs structural reforms to accelerate growth in order to close the widening gap with its neighbors.

“The current economic model of the country is not enough, as shown by the country’s inability to grow faster than 6% in recent years,” he said.

Mr. Neri said the economy has been “too reliant” on consumer spending, driven by overseas Filipino worker (OFW) remittances and the business process outsourcing industry.

“There is a need to diversify its sources of growth. The economy must improve in terms of production, especially in agriculture and manufacturing, as they will allow the economy to be more self-sufficient and to reach foreign markets. These industries have been critical to Vietnam’s success and could play a similar role for the Philippines,” he said.

However, Mr. Neri said implementing these reforms will be hard if the government lacks focus.

“Public spending issues divert fiscal resources and policymaking focus away from long-term development priorities. Efforts to strengthen safeguards against potential issues in government spending are essential, enabling the country to work on structural reforms that could improve the economy,” he said.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? What do you think should the government do to accelerate economic growth?

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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Business Groups Reaffirm Commitment To National Economy

November 25, 2025November 18, 2025carlocarrasco

With the weakening economic growth and growing socio-economic uncertainty affecting the entire Philippines, prominent business groups reaffirmed their commitment to invest and create jobs in the country, 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…

Six prominent groups representing the business sector reaffirmed their commitment to invest and create jobs in the Philippines amid weakening sentiment in the economy, which is fueled by what they described as a “political turmoil” stemming from the ongoing corruption scandal.

In a rare joint statement sent to the media moments after a pivotal reshuffle in the administration’s economic team, the business groups emphasized that they remain committed to supporting the Philippine economy.

“While the current political turmoil raises understandable concerns, we stress that the country’s long-term fundamentals remain strong; anchored by a well-regulated financial system, a stable banking sector, and companies that continue to invest in and believe in the Philippines,” the groups said on Monday, Nov. 17.

The statement was signed by Makati Business Club (MBC), Management Association of the Philippines (MAP), Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines (FINEX), Philippine Finance Association, and Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD).

In a statement that essentially serves as a pitch to potential investors, the six business groups said that the institutions safeguarding local markets “continue to operate independently and rigorously.”

The groups cited the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as among the most reliable government partners when it comes to businesses.

Both the BSP and the SEC uphold regulatory frameworks aligned with global standards, ultimately ensuring market integrity, prudent risk management, and strong investor protection, they said.

“The Philippines continues to meet international benchmarks on capital adequacy, disclosure requirements, and corporate governance,” the groups said.

The business groups also took note of the corporate earnings of publicly listed companies, which reflect the economy’s underlying strength.

They noted that even during periods of global instability, such as the Covid-19 pandemic, companies continued to demonstrate resilience with growing revenues and stable margins.

Further, the groups said that investment sentiment in the country remains robust, with gross fixed capital formation ranging between 22 percent and 27 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) over the last 10 years.

“This ongoing level of capital spending, mainly driven by business growth, clearly indicates that Philippine companies continue to build capacity, expand operations, and invest in the country’s long-term prospects,” the statement read.

While upholding optimism, the six business groups stressed that investor confidence is influenced not only by economic fundamentals but also by governance.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Does the joint statement of the prominent business group boost your confidence about the future of the country? Do you think the Philippine economy will be able to bounce back strongly next year? Does the continuing media coverage of the flood control corruption scandals and investigations continue to bother you?

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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BSP Warns Public About Text Hijacking

November 22, 2025November 21, 2025carlocarrasco

If you received a text message containing links, you better avoid clicking on those links as scammers have gotten more sophisticated with technology to steal money, access to personal accounts and personal data from victims through mobile communication. That being said, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has warned the public about text hijacking, according to a news article by the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

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

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) warned the public on Friday that only scammers would send links through the short messaging system (SMS) or text message.

BSP, in a press release, said legitimate banks, e-money issuers, and other financial entities will not send links, even though the messages look like it came from these regulated institutions.

This scheme is called text hijacking that “involves scammers inserting fake messages into legitimate text threads to make them look authentic.”

“These messages often contain malicious links designed to steal access to victims’ financial accounts and are usually accompanied by urgent prompts such as notifications of expiring rewards, unauthorized transactions, or account verification requests to pressure recipients into clicking the link,” it said.

Reports about fraudulent text messages continue to rise, the BSP noted.

This, even as the central bank and other financial institutions have increased their education campaign aimed to inform the public about this scam.

The public is advised to avoid clicking links in text messages or e-mails even if they appear to come from banks or e-money issuers; enable multi-factor authentication to secure accounts and never share personal or financial details with anyone.

If the account has been compromised, contact the bank or e-money issuer through official channels: https://bit.ly/BSPScamAlert

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Where you ever a victim of text hijacking? What do you think government and financial institutions should do to find the scammers and have them all arrested?

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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Approved Foreign Investment Pledges Fall Down 48.7% In 3rd Quarter

November 21, 2025November 14, 2025carlocarrasco

The flood control corruption scandals connected with the weaker investor sentiment resulted in a 48.7% fall in foreign investment pledges during the 3^rd quarter this year, according a news report by BusinessWorld. It should be noted that Philippines GDP growth for the same quarter slowed down a lot.

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

APPROVED foreign investment pledges plunged nearly 50% in the third quarter as investor sentiment soured due to the corruption scandal involving government infrastructure projects, the local statistics agency said.

Preliminary data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed the value of foreign commitments approved by investment promotion agencies (IPAs) fell by 48.7% to P73.68 billion in the July-to-September period from P143.74 billion in same period last year.

However, this was the highest amount of investment pledges since the third quarter of 2024.

Ser Percival K. Peña-Reyes, director of the Ateneo Center for Economic Research and Development, said the decline in approved investments can be attributed to the weaker investor sentiment.

“Tingin ko. Wala pang nakukulong eh (I think so. No one has been imprisoned yet),” he said in a Viber message, when asked if this sharp slump in approved investments will likely persist in the fourth quarter until 2026.

Quarter on quarter, the approved pledges rose by 9.34% from P67.38 billion in the second quarter.

Singapore was the top source of foreign investment pledges in the third quarter with P20.26 billion (27.5%), followed by Japan with P13.59 billion (18.4%) and Cayman Islands with P13.14 billion (17.8%).

Investment commitments from South Korea stood at P5.57 billion (7.6%), while those from China stood at P4.51 billion (6.1%)

PSA data showed the investment pledges were approved by seven IPAs — the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan, Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), Board of Investments (BoI), Clark Development Corp., Clark International Airport Corp., Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), and Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? What do you think the government must do to convince foreign investors to become more confident about investing in the Philippines? Do you think the investigation and pace of justice related to the flood control corruption scandal is moving too slowly?

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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