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Economy Of Japan Grows 2.1% In 1st Quarter Of 2026

Economy Of Japan Grows 2.1% In 1st Quarter Of 2026

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Thanks to the recovery in exports and private consumption, the economy of Japan grew by 2.1% in the first quarter this year, according to a Kyodo News report. Still, there will be challenges ahead for the Japanese economy as the nation is still dependent on the Middle East for its crude oil needs and there is the possibility that the Islamic terrorist regime of Iran could start a new series of conflicts in the said region.

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

Japan’s economy grew an annualized real 2.1 percent in the January-March period, marking the second straight quarterly expansion, led by a recovery in exports and private consumption, government data showed Tuesday, with the full impact of the Middle East conflict yet to be felt.

In the first quarter of 2026, gross domestic product adjusted for inflation increased 0.5 percent from the October-December period, the Cabinet Office said in its preliminary report, beating market expectations. GDP is the total value of goods and services produced in a country.

Economists polled by the Japan Center for Economic Research had forecast an annualized real expansion of 1.56 percent while expecting growth to slow to 0.45 percent in the April-June quarter, amid concern that the Middle East crisis and surging crude oil prices will weigh on corporate profits and consumer spending.

In the January-March period, private consumption, which accounts for more than half of the economy, grew 0.3 percent, rising for the fifth straight quarter, helped by strong demand for clothing and a boost in spending at restaurants, an official said.

Spending was also underpinned by state subsidies for gas and electricity bills and solid wage growth, as rising earnings saw companies move to attract and retain talent, economists said.

But with data showing a rapid deterioration in consumer sentiment due to the Middle East conflict, its impact on private consumption warrants close attention, another government official said.

In the January-March period, exports rose 1.7 percent from the October-December quarter on a recovery in auto shipments bound for the U.S. market and strong demand for machinery and electrical devices for industrial purposes. Imports edged up 0.5 percent.

Economists said shipments to the world’s largest economy have been recovering due to receding uncertainty over U.S. tariff policy following a bilateral deal struck last year.

Business investment rose 0.3 percent from the previous quarter, with increased expenditure for research and development on the back of robust corporate profits and for general-purpose machinery and electric lighting fixtures, the first official said.

She said the impact on the data of the Middle East conflict, triggered by U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran that began in late February, was unclear.

Prolonged tensions in the Middle East could affect imports of crude oil and petroleum products such as naphtha and hit exports bound for the region, economists said.

GDP was dampened 0.1 percentage point by a reduction in private inventories, apparently due to the government’s decision to release oil from stockpiles, starting with those held by the private sector.

Japan’s heavy reliance on oil imports from the Middle East makes the country vulnerable to the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping artery, with surging oil prices feared to drive up inflation.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said Monday the government will consider compiling a supplementary budget for fiscal 2026 to ease the impact of elevated crude oil prices.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think the economy of Japan can still maintain its growth rate in the 2nd quarter? Do you think Japan will soon import oil from other parts of the world to reduce its dependence on the Middle East? Do you think Japan’s ties with Trump-led America will open new windows that will help Japanese exporters a lot?

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 @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

USCIS Makes Major Change Compelling Aliens To Return Home For Proper Processing Of The Adjustment Of Statuses

USCIS Makes Major Change Compelling Aliens To Return Home For Proper Processing Of The Adjustment Of Statuses

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The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) formally announced a major change that will compel aliens seeking the adjustment of status to return to their respective countries and go through the consular processing via the Department of State. The change marks the USCIS’ return to the law’s original intent to ensure that aliens navigate America’s immigration system properly.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the USCIS’ official announcement. Some parts in boldface…

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services today announced a new policy memo reiterating the fact that, consistent with long-standing immigration law and immigration court decisions, aliens seeking adjustment of status must do so through consular processing via the Department of State outside of the country.

Officers are directed to consider all relevant factors and information on a case-by-case basis when determining whether an alien warrants this extraordinary form of relief.

“We’re returning to the original intent of the law to ensure aliens navigate our nation’s immigration system properly. From now on, an alien who is in the U.S. temporarily and wants a Green Card must return to their home country to apply, except in extraordinary circumstances. This policy allows our immigration system to function as the law intended instead of incentivizing loopholes. When aliens apply from their home country, it reduces the need to find and remove those who decide to slip into the shadows and remain in the U.S. illegally after being denied residency,” said USCIS Spokesman Zach Kahler.

“Nonimmigrants, like students, temporary workers, or people on tourist visas, come to the U.S. for a short time and for a specific purpose. Our system is designed for them to leave when their visit is over. Their visit should not function as the first step in the Green Card process. Following the law allows the majority of these cases to be handled by the State Department at U.S. consular offices abroad and frees up limited USCIS resources to focus on processing other cases that fall under its purview, including visas for victims of violent crime and human trafficking, naturalization applications, and other priorities. The law was written this way for a reason, and despite the fact that it has been ignored for years, following it will help make our system fairer and more efficient.”

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? If you are an American citizen, do you agree with the USCIS’ change of policy and processes with regards to aliens who are already present in the United States while seeking to adjust their respective statuses? Do you think this latest change will somehow bring down the number of illegal immigrants/aliens present in America? Do you think it makes sense for aliens in America to go back home to their respective countries to apply for change of status at the U.S. consular?

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 @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

University Economists Say Philippine Economic Growth Could Slow Down To 3.1% This Year

University Economists Say Philippine Economic Growth Could Slow Down To 3.1% This Year

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Could the economy of the Philippines be weakening a lot right now? As far as the economists of De La Salle University (DLSU) are concerned, economic growth will be 3.1% this year and they pointed to the effects of the Middle East conflict, rising inflation and other factors, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

De La Salle University (DLSU) economists slashed their 2026 Philippine gross domestic product (GDP) growth forecast to 3.11 percent from 3.79 percent previously, warning that the economy is facing mounting pressure from the Middle East conflict, elevated inflation, and lingering domestic vulnerabilities.

If realized, the revised forecast would mark the country’s weakest annual economic growth post-pandemic, worse than the 4.4 percent recorded in 2025 in the aftermath of the flood-control corruption scandal and below the government’s downscaled five- to six-percent target.

In their report on the Philippine economy for May 2026, published on Monday, May 18, DLSU economists Jesus Felipe, Mariel Monica Sauler, Gerome Vedeja, and Seth Paolo Paden, together with political science professor Susan Kurdli, said the downgrade reflected “three converging pressures on the economy.”

These include the Middle East conflict disrupting oil supply and pushing energy prices higher, the risk of tighter monetary policy should inflation persist, and the emerging pass-through of higher fertilizer costs to food prices.

“The combination of all three explains why the growth outlook has deteriorated more sharply than previously expected,” the report read.

The economists noted that the economy had already slowed sharply to 2.81 percent in the first quarter, which they described as “the last reading to reflect pre-shock normalcy” before the full impact of the Middle East conflict filtered through fuel prices, inflation, and fertilizer supply disruptions.

DLSU expects growth to slow further to 2.8 percent in the second quarter and 2.3 percent in the third quarter before recovering to 4.53 percent in the fourth quarter on the back of government catch-up spending, overseas Filipino workers’ (OFWs) remittances, and an eventual recovery in investments should geopolitical pressures ease.

The report warned that the war had exposed the Philippines’ structural vulnerabilities, particularly its heavy dependence on imported petroleum, fertilizer-sensitive food production, and a fragile investment environment already weighed down by domestic political issues even before the external shock emerged.

Medium-term growth is projected to recover to 3.93 percent in 2027 and 5.71 percent in 2028, driven by easing energy prices, the expected shift toward monetary accommodation, election-related spending, and the ramp-up of the Pax Silica semiconductor industrial hub. Still, both projections remain below the government’s downgraded growth targets.

For 2026, DLSU expects private consumption growth at 4.93 percent, government expenditure at 4.89 percent, exports at 4.51 percent, and imports at 5.62 percent. Gross fixed capital formation, however, is forecast to contract by 1.99 percent, reflecting weak investor confidence, slowing bank lending, and elevated geopolitical risks.

On the supply side, agriculture, forestry, and fishing are projected to grow just 0.2 percent this year, while industry is expected to expand 1.24 percent and services 4.38 percent.

The economists also warned that inflation would remain “elevated through the end of 2026” as higher fuel costs spill over into transport, logistics, and food prices. The report expects inflation to peak at around eight percent by August before easing back within the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) two- to four-percent target band by April 2027.

DLSU also expects the peso to weaken further this year, projecting the currency to hit around ₱63.5 against the United States (US) dollar by August due to rising oil import costs and negative real interest rates before recovering in succeeding years.

The economists argued that peso depreciation may provide limited support to the economy because most Philippine exports and imports are priced in US dollars under the dominant currency pricing system.

“The short-run effect of depreciation tends to be: stronger on import prices; weaker on export volumes; more inflationary; [and] less expansionary for net exports than the textbook case,” the report said.

The report explained that because Philippine exports—particularly electronics and global value chain-related products—contain substantial imported inputs, peso depreciation could raise production costs while delivering only limited gains to export volumes.

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 has no room left to find ways to boost economic growth this year? What do you think the national government should do to stimulate the economy?

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 @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Philippines Counting On Stronger Cooperation With Japan On Investment And Energy Security

Philippines Counting On Stronger Cooperation With Japan On Investment And Energy Security

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As it is already struggling with weak economic growth and high inflation, the Philippines is looking forward to Japan for stronger cooperation on investment and energy security, according to a news report by Malaya Business Insight.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Malaya Business Insight report. Some parts in boldface…

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the Philippines is counting on stronger cooperation with Japan on investment, energy security, and defense as his administration seeks to keep the economy moving despite high inflation, slower growth, and pressure from the Middle East crisis.

Speaking to Japanese media in Malacañang ahead of his May 26 to 29 state visit to Japan, Marcos said the government remains confident the economy can recover from the recent slowdown, citing continued investor interest and policy measures meant to cushion consumers and businesses.

The economy grew 2.8 percent in the first quarter, slower than 3 percent in the fourth quarter of 2025, while inflation surged to 7.2 percent in April from 4.1 percent in March.

Marcos said the government was trying to keep the “economic machine running” despite “elements of fear” arising from global uncertainty.

“Luckily, I suppose, or at least as I said, we are still continuing to see marked interest in investment in the Philippines,” Marcos said.

“And perhaps this is why. This is because of the policies that we adopted, the incentives that we put out for investors. And so slowly we can see the way through this. Where we will recover through this,” he added.

Marcos said the risk of stagflation, or weak economic growth combined with rising inflation, remains a major concern.

He said the government has rolled out fuel subsidies, cash aid for the transport sector, a price cap on imported rice, and the P20-per-kilo rice program to help contain inflation and ease the burden on consumers.

“We want to keep the system, the economic system, continuing to function. We have done all these measures to keep inflation down,” Marcos said.

The President said his talks with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi are expected to focus on energy security and defense cooperation, including tensions in the South China Sea and East China Sea.

Marcos said both countries have faced coercive actions and “gray zone” tactics, making adherence to international law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea central to the discussions.

He said he would also push for the full implementation of the Reciprocal Access Agreement signed in July 2024 and the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement signed in January.

Marcos said Japan’s participation in this year’s Balikatan exercises marked a significant step in strengthening interoperability among allied forces.

He also said the Philippines expects to benefit from Japan’s easing of restrictions on defense exports, including support for radar systems, aircraft, vessels, information technology sharing, and personnel training.

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 cannot grow stronger without the involvement of Japan and its investors? Do you think the Philippines will proceed to acquire anti-ship missile systems from Japan to enhance national defense?

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 @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Mid-Year Bonus For Muntinlupa City Government Employees Released

Mid-Year Bonus For Muntinlupa City Government Employees Released

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Recently in the progressive city of Muntinlupa, employees of the City Government were delighted as their mid-year bonus was officially announced and released, according to a news report by the Manila Bulletin.

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

Good news for employees of the Muntinlupa City government.

Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon announced the release of the midyear bonus for city government employees on May 18.

Biazon held a live broadcast on Facebook for the announcement, saying, “As always, siyempre, and inaasahan ng mga workers in government ‘yung ating midyear bonus (As always, of course, government workers look forward to our midyear bonus).”

“Matatanggap ng city government workers ng Muntinlupa ang kanilang midyear bonus starting today [May 18] (City government workers of Muntinlupa will receive their midyear bonus starting today),” he said.

He said the midyear bonus for plantilla and casual employees of the city government is equivalent to one-month salary.

Workers under job orders, contract of service, Kabalikat (street sweepers), and barangay health workers will receive a premium pay of P5,000 coming from the city government.

“Yan po ay handog ng city government of Muntinlupa courtesy of our taxpayers (This is a present from the city government of Muntinlupa courtesy of our taxpayers),” he added.

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, what is your opinion about the release of the mid-year bonus of the City Government employees?

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

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

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

Chinese National Gets Banned By Thailand After Causing Damage At Suvarnabhumi Airport

Chinese National Gets Banned By Thailand After Causing Damage At Suvarnabhumi Airport

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Recently in Thailand, the authorities permanently banned a Chinese national who caused damage on two automated immigration gates at Suvarnabhumi Airport, according to a VnExpress news report.

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

A Chinese tourist has been permanently banned from re-entering Thailand after allegedly damaging automated passport control gates at Suvarnabhumi Airport, Southeast Asia’s second largest airport by land area.

The 30-year-old man, identified as Zheng Liwei, was accused of vandalizing two automated immigration gates at the airport on Wednesday while attempting to clear passport control for a flight back to China, Bangkok Post reported.

According to reports, Zheng became increasingly agitated after repeatedly failing to complete the airport’s automated screening process.

Video footage circulating online appears to show him slamming his passport against the scanner before kicking the glass barriers and forcing his way through the checkpoint.

Immigration officers quickly intercepted the man after he allegedly crossed the gate without authorization, police told local media outlet The Nation.

Airport security officers, assisted by the man’s wife, later restrained him after he allegedly shouted abuse in both Chinese and English and attempted to assault immigration personnel.

He has been charged with property damage, an offense punishable by up to three years in prison, a fine of up to 60,000 baht (US$1,800), or both.

Zheng also faces a separate charge of insulting a public official while on duty, which carries a penalty of up to one year’s imprisonment, a fine of up to 20,000 baht, or both.

Thai immigration authorities have revoked his visa and placed him on a permanent blacklist, effectively banning him from re-entering the country.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think the authorities in Thailand made the correct responses to the Chinese national? Did you ever witness a fellow foreign traveler causing trouble at an airport while you traveled overseas over the past six months? Have you ever been to Suvarnabhumi Airport?

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 @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

America Eyes Philippines Role In New Clark City Economic Security Zone

America Eyes Philippines Role In New Clark City Economic Security Zone

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With New Clark City in the Philippine province of Tarlac chosen as the site for an industrial hub focused on artificial intelligence (AI) under Pax Silica, a planned economic security zone within the said city is being positioned as the United States of America aims to combine predictability and security with the manufacturing speed and scale of Asia, according to a news report by GMA News.

It should be noted that the economy of the Philippines has been slowing down and this new development could be the key to reinvigorating economic growth and attracting more investments from the United States.

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

A planned “economic security zone” in New Clark City is being positioned as part of broader efforts by the United States to build more reliable supply chains for emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.

During a visit to the Philippines, US Under Secretary for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg said the proposed zone aims to combine “predictability and certainty” with Asia’s manufacturing speed and scale, as global firms reassess supply chain risks.

“This is the site of a planned Economic Security Zone to fuse together the predictability and certainty of American law to the speed and scale of Asia,” Helberg said in prepared remarks delivered in New Clark City.

The initiative comes as US firms seek to reduce dependence on highly concentrated supply chains, particularly for critical components used in artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing.

Helberg said that while semiconductor chips often dominate discussions, the broader AI supply chain relies on a wide range of inputs—from rare earth elements and metals to motors, packaging, and testing systems.

“For each of those parts, our position today is unacceptably overconcentrated,” he said, warning that disruptions, from export restrictions to sudden regulatory changes—have already caused production delays and uncertainty for companies.

He added that when a large share of critical inputs comes from a single source, “you do not have a supply chain,” but rather a vulnerable system exposed to external shocks.

The planned economic security zone is part of efforts under what he described as the US government’s push to treat economic security as a strategic priority, particularly as demand surges alongside the rapid development of artificial intelligence technologies.

Helberg also highlighted the Philippines’ role as a long-standing US partner in the region, calling the project a “partnership of a kind that has not been tried before.”

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think this latest initiative will help the Philippines attract investors and technology firms from the United States? Do you think this will help the Philippines reduce its dependence on Chinese involvement when it comes to long-term, major economic developments within the country? What is your opinion about the AI supply chain?

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 @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

What To Watch On YouTube Right Now – Part 138

What To Watch On YouTube Right Now – Part 138

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Welcome back my readers, YouTube viewers and all others who followed this series of articles focused on YouTube videos worth watching.

Have you been searching for something fun or interesting to watch on YouTube? Do you feel bored right now and you crave for something to see on the world’s most popular online video destination?

I recommend you check out the following videos I found.

#1 How To Get The Strongest And Most Optimized Spaceship Crew In Starfield – This year, Bethesda launched several important updates to make their 2023 science fiction role-playing game Starfield better and they also offered new DLC for those who crave for new content. One of the more defining aspects of the game is space travel and this includes setting up your own crew for your spaceship and there is impact on its functions and capabilities. If you want to learn how to get the stronger and most optimized crew for your ship, I encourage you watch the video below.

#2 Mari Iijima And The Defining Song of Macross: Do You Remember Love? – I really love watching the 1984 anime feature film Macross: Do You Remember Love? Apart from the great animation, the spectacle, the memorable characters and the solid storytelling, the movie also has a great soundtrack made to delight the long-time Macross fans. Still, the movie has its very own song performed by none other than Mari Iijima (Minmay) and it is a classic among Macross fans. In the videos below, you will see Mari Iijima perform the song live in a 1980s TV broadcast and the song playing with selected footage of Macross: Do You Remember Love? Enjoy these!

#3 The Tuna City In Japan Is Changing With Tourism In Mind – If you plan to visit Japan at all, you might want to discover Miura City located in Kanagawa Prefecture. Miura City is famous for its fresh tuna and in recent times there has been a series of changes as several room-only hotels and new trends have sprouted as the locality is finding new ways to turn visitors into overnight guests. This is a place I would like to visit someday if ever I get the opportunity to return to Japan. Watch and learn from the Nippon TV video below.

#4 Women’s Rights Activist Marries Islamist And Things Went Wrong – Did you notice that there is a gradual rising number of feminists and women’s rights activists who not embrace Islam (wicked and ugly) but also marry Islamists believing that things will be alright and they can just continue their activism. Of course, many of them activists and feminists do not fully understand Islam nor the full content of the Quran. As such, when things go very wrong, they are get into deep trouble. Watch and learn from the video below.

#5 Islamists Violate Hindu Women In India And Get Arrested – Let’s be very clear here. Islamists are oriented to conquer others even though they may not be numerous within a locality. Believe it or not, a group of such people who wielded power inside a business violated the Hindu women (plus at least one male employee) with regards to cultural norms and doing things that go against their faith. Even forced religious conversion happened. Watch and learn from the video below.

#6 Meatballs Reaction And Retrospective – When it comes to cinematic comedy, Bill Murray is iconic and his early work in 1979’s Meatballs already involved the late Harold Ramis and the late director Ivan Reitman. That said, there is something about Meatballs – produced for less than $2 million – that helped it achieve tremendous commercial success with ticket sales of $70 million. Remember, three of the creative minds behind the classic Ghostbusters are involved in this old movie and you will see how You, Me and The Movies react to it in the video below. Be aware that as of this writing, there are not too many movie reaction videos about Meatballs on YouTube. Also posted below is an in-depth retrospective about Meatballs by GoodBadFlicks.

#7 Ashleigh Burton Reacts To The Thin Man – Have you ever heard of The Thin Man? It’s not a UFO reference. It’s the 1934 American pre-Code comedy-mystery movie that was eventually named to the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress having been deemed “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant” in 1997. Apart from its reputation in American film history, The Thin Man also resulted in five sequels. If you want to discover the 1934 movie but you don’t have the time nor resources to watch the movie, watch Ashleigh Burton’s reaction video and see how it impacts her.

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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 @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Filinvest Development Corporation’s Net Income Reaches P3.9 Billion In 1st Quarter Of 2026

Filinvest Development Corporation’s Net Income Reaches P3.9 Billion In 1st Quarter Of 2026

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As there are lots of signs of a weakening Philippine economy connected with higher fuel prices and accelerating inflation, Filinvest Development Corporation (FDC) achieved growth in the first quarter this year with its net income reaching P3.9 billion, according to a news report by the Manila Bulletin.

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

Filinvest Development Corp., the holding company of the Gotianun family, reported an eight percent increase in attributable net income to ₱3.9 billion for the first quarter, as robust performances in its banking and real estate divisions mitigated the sharp downturn in its power business.

The firm reported to the Philippine Stock Exchange that its consolidated net income grew by seven percent to ₱4.8 billion from ₱4.5 billion in the first quarter of 2025.

Total revenues and other income for the first quarter of 2026 rose by five percent versus the same period in 2025 to ₱30.8 billion.

The increases in revenues and other income by business segment were: Banking, 12 percent to ₱15.6 billion; Real estate, 16 percent to ₱7.9 billion; and Hospitality, 0.8 percent to ₱1.2 billion. Power declined by 28 percent to ₱3.6 billion.

“Business results were mixed: Real Estate and Hospitality showed resilience against macroeconomic pressure while for others, profits were flat or experienced decreases versus a year ago,” said FDC President and CEO Rhoda A. Huang.

She noted that, “We are facing the challenges with resolve to achieve revenue and profit growth in 2026, despite increasing inflation and weakening GDP growth, through astute strategies and persistence of our organization.”

Banking unit EastWest Bank’s (EW) top-line growth was driven by increased loan volumes and effective management of funding costs, resulting in a 20 percent rise in net interest income (NII) to ₱11.1 billion.

Non-interest income was affected by trading performance amid volatile market conditions, but this was partially offset by an eight percent growth in fee-based income.

FDC’s Real Estate business, composed of Filinvest Land, Inc. (FLI), Filinvest Alabang, Inc. (FAI), and Filinvest REIT Corp. (FILRT), recorded a 16 percent revenue increase to ₱7.9 billion due to stronger residential and commercial lot sales.

Residential sales increased by 28 percent, driven by sustained sales of ready-for-occupancy units and a higher percentage of completion for various residential projects. Mall and rental revenues remained steady with slight gains in occupancy and foot traffic.

The Power subsidiary, FDC Utilities, Inc. (FDCUI), reported total revenues and other income of ₱3.6 billion for the first quarter of 2025 due to a notable decrease in spot market sales and lower coal cost passthrough rates. This was mitigated by reduced costs resulting from lower sales volume.

Revenues from hotel operations under Filinvest Hospitality Corporation (FHC) remained consistent with the previous year’s level, supported by higher average room rates and enhanced contributions from the Food and Beverage (F&B) segment across its portfolio.

The Banking segment was the largest contributor to revenue and other income for the first quarter of 2026, representing 51 percent of the conglomerate’s total.

Real Estate and Power followed with contributions of 26 percent and 12 percent, respectively. The Hospitality segment accounted for four percent of revenues, while the remainder was attributed to other business units.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Considering the current state of the economy of the Philippines today, how do you think Filinvest Development Corporation will be able to perform financially in this current quarter and the next quarter?

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 @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

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

Pickup Coffee Targets Around 800 Stores By The End Of 2026

Pickup Coffee Targets Around 800 Stores By The End Of 2026

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Pickup Coffee, the popular homegrown coffee chain, is aiming to have around eight hundred stores by the end of 2026, according to a news article by the Philippine News Agency (PNA). Pickup Coffee first opened in 2022 and it now has roughly five hundred branches. It continues to attract customers who love coffee.

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

Banking on Filipinos’ love for coffee along with more affordable offerings, an official of grab-and-go coffee chain Pickup Coffee expressed confidence for continued expansion amidst the current economic challenges.

To date, the brand has around 500 coffee kiosks around the country, mostly in Metro Manila, and about a hundred stores in Mexico City.

The goal is to have around 800 stores by end-2026, Diego Lorenzo, Pickup Coffee chief executive officer and cofounder said in an interview Tuesday night.

A branch of Pickup Coffee inside Festival Mall in Alabang, Muntinlupa City.

The company is now open to franchising, with an initial investment of PHP2 million for the coffee truck’s stock, equipment and construction.

Lorenzo said they plan to open as many as 200 more company-owned stores nationwide this year, with the focus on Northern Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

He said they cater to people from all walks of life, from those who can afford high-end brands but are open to cheaper options with quality offerings, to those in the C and D levels.

“The more accessible you are, the faster you will grow,” he said.

The brand has received capital from venture capitalists and Lorenzo said this is a sign of the brand’s potential to post stronger growth going forward.

Rami Chahwan, president of Pickup Coffee, said franchising will complement the existing branches, citing lessons learned over the last 48 months.

He said they have piloted 10 franchise stores over the last three months to ensure they can efficiently cater to more units once this bid is in full bloom.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the quality of drinks and services of Pickup Coffee will be well maintained as the franchising of their business happens? Do you think Pickup Coffee will be able to grow even as the economy of the Philippines slows down? Do you think only a recession would stop Pickup Coffee’s growth? If you consumed coffee from Pickup Coffee, what can you say about the taste and quality of what was served to 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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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 @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

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