Southeast Asia – Page 30 – Author Carlo Carrasco

Parañaque Congressman Yamsuan tells graduates there is nothing wrong with starting at the bottom

July 31, 2025July 24, 2025carlocarrasco

Recently in Parañaque City, the 2^nd District Representative Brian Yamsuan told the newest graduates of Parañaque City College (PCC) not to be ashamed of starting at the bottom, according to a Manila Bulletin news report. He tried to inspire many during PCC’s graduation rites.

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

Don’t be ashamed of starting at the bottom.

Parañaque City 2nd district Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan gave this message to this year’s graduating batch from the Parañaque City College (PCC) as they try to transition from learners to workers.

Yamsuan recalled how in all the jobs he undertook before he became a government official–from being a fastfood restaurant worker and a taxi driver, to being a young Senate staff member doing menial tasks–he always did his best, and kept in mind that no task is too small or beneath him.

“I had the mindset that the way we do the small things says a lot about how we will handle bigger things,” Yamsuan said in his speech before the PCC Class of 2025 during the school’s recognition rites held on July 21.

“And so, when you enter the workforce and perhaps starting at the very bottom, approach every role with respect, gratitude, and the willingness to grow. Humility is the first step to becoming better. Kung magsimula kayo sa baba, huwag kayong mahiya (If you start at the bottom, don’t be ashamed of it),” he added.

Yamsuan underscored the importance of humility, compassion, and integrity in shaping the character and actions of today’s youth.

“Let humility be your foundation, to keep you grounded and always learning. Let compassion be your compass, guiding how you treat others. And let integrity be your anchor, reminding you who you are, no matter how far you go,” he said.

In a world that prioritizes speed and competition, Yamsuan told graduates to never forget the power of kindness and compassion in positively changing people’s lives and creating an impact that goes beyond profits and success.

“In whatever job you decide to do, let compassion lead you to serve others,” Yamsuan said. “In whatever field you choose to pursue, never lose sight of why you’re there: the people.”

As a public servant, Yamsuan said compassion is at the core of everything he does—from crafting laws, policies and programs to engaging directly with the people to understand their hopes and daily struggles.

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 think today’s newest batch of college graduates have a lot of challenges to face as they hunt for available jobs? Do you find Congressman Yamsuan’s message to PCC graduates inspiring?

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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CIDG seizes P121.4-M substandard Apple products and arrests two suspects in Parañaque City

July 30, 2025July 22, 2025carlocarrasco

Recently in Parañaque City, elements of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) seized more than P120 million worth of substandard Apple products and arrested two suspects, 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…

Operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) arrested two individuals and seized substandard Apple products worth PHP121.4 million in Parañaque City.

In a statement on Monday, CIDG acting chief Brig. Gen. Romeo Macapaz said the suspects “Crissa” and “Charles” were caught in the act of selling assorted Apple products such as iPhone, Apple Watch and accessories without the required clearance from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) and registration from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), during the operation in a residential compound in Barangay Tambo on July 19.

This act violates Articles 18 and 50 of Republic Act 7394 or the Consumer Act of the Philippines, in relation to Section 2 of NTC Memorandum Circular 08-08-2004A.

The CIDG seized nine boxes of Apple iWatches (225 units), 14 boxes of MagSafe chargers (531 units), 92 boxes of AirPods (4,580 units), including seven boxes of charger adaptors (2,652 units), 37 boxes of charger sets (6,664 units), 18 boxes of iPhone accessories (1,033 units), one box of car chargers (70 units), 10 boxes of charging cords (1,740 units), two boxes of handheld fans (87 units), three boxes of hair dryers (77 units), three boxes of Beats Solo headphones (126 units), one unit of iPhone 16, and one box of earphones (110 units) with estimated market value of PHP121.47 million.

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 selling of substandard technology products a major problem in the city? Who do you think is responsible for the many substandard products of Apple that entered Parañaque?

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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Chinese nationals arrested in Cavite, two women rescued

July 29, 2025July 19, 2025carlocarrasco

Recently in the province of Cavite, elements of the Bureau of Immigration’s (BI) fugitive search unit arrested three Chinese over varied violations and rescued two women who were held against their will, 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…

A Chinese national, who is allegedly linked to illegal drugs activities and human trafficking, has been arrested in Cavite by agents of the Bureau of Immigration Fugitive Search Unit (BIFSU).

BIFSU Chief Rendel Ryan Sy identified the suspect as Jin Tian, 26, who was arrested in his residence in General Trias City last July 15.

During the operation in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Philippine Navy, two women allegedly held against their will were rescued, Sy said.

At the same time, Sy said that two other male Chinese nationals were arrested during the operation. They were identified as Sun Yong, 36, and Liu Zhiwei, 33. Sun was found by PDEA operatives to be in possession of a substance believed to be shabu and drug paraphernalia.

Sy also said that the three Chinese nationals were found to be overstaying aliens for failure to present any valid immigration documentation. Also, Jin was found to have two derogatory records for overstaying.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Are you concerned that there could be more Chinese fugitives as well as overstaying fugitives hiding in your local community?

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 Men Arrested in Parañaque City Over Theft of Electrical Materials and Plumbing Fixtures

July 29, 2025July 21, 2025carlocarrasco

Did you notice any faucets or wires missing in your household lately? Recently in Parañaque City, two men were arrested over the theft of faucets and wires from a private residence located in Barangay Sto. Niño, according to a Daily Tribune news report. The suspects attempted to escape.

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

Two men were arrested early Sunday, 20 July, after allegedly stealing electrical materials and plumbing fixtures from a private residence along Ninoy Aquino Avenue, Barangay Sto. Niño, Parañaque City.

The suspects, both unemployed and residents of Sitio Libijo, were identified as 25-year-old alias “Rowel” and 22-year-old alias “Jasper.”

Both were caught around 1:30 a.m. while security officers were conducting routine patrols. Authorities said the suspects were carrying a white sack and attempted to escape but were quickly apprehended.

A search of their belongings yielded 18 water faucets valued at around P135,000, two regulator gauges worth P7,000, three rolled royal cords valued at P5,000, and a gray wire.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What do you think about this recent development? If you are a resident of Parañaque, did you notice anyone stealing wires and faucets in your local community lately?

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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New Evacuation Facility in Barangay Talon Uno, Las Piñas City Inaugurated

July 28, 2025July 18, 2025carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Las Piñas, the newest evacuation facility located in Barangay Talon Uno was formally inaugurated with the presence of Mayor April Aguilar, Vice Mayor Imelda Aguilar and other local officials, the City Government announced via social media.

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

The Las Piñas City Government inaugurated a newly constructed two-storey evacuation facility in Golden Acres Subdivision, Talon Uno on Thursday, July 17, as part of its continuing efforts to strengthen local disaster preparedness and public safety.

Mayor April Aguilar and Vice Mayor Imelda Aguilar led the inauguration ceremony, which included the blessing of the facility. Funded through the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO), the project is located along Marcos Alvarez Avenue, near the Las Piñas High School Annex.

With a total floor area of 73.343 square meters, the facility features basic amenities to accommodate residents during emergencies. The ground floor includes male and PWD-friendly comfort rooms with shower areas, a kitchen, a vacant space, and a stage. The second floor houses female comfort rooms with shower areas and a wash area.

City officials said the evacuation center will serve as a safe and accessible refuge for families in times of calamity.

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 there is a possibility that another evacuation center will be built by the City Government in your local community.

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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Woman Arrested in Parañaque City for Deceiving Job Applicant, Accomplice Still at Large

July 27, 2025July 18, 2025carlocarrasco

Have you been very careful when applying for a job overseas? Recently in Parañaque City, a woman who deceived an applicant over an overseas job got arrested as a result of a successful entrapment operation by the local police, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

A woman who conned an applicant for a job in the Netherlands and Japan was arrested by the Parañaque City Police in an entrapment operation on July 16.

The suspect was identified as Mary Joyce, 26, while her accomplice, Nellica, remains at large. She was arrested at around 5:20 p.m. along Quirino Avenue, Barangay Don Galo, Parañaque City.

The police said the victim, identified as Jennilyn, 29, reported that the suspects misrepresented themselves that they are connected with Dimension Manpower Agency Inc.

Jennilyn said the two promised her deployment in the Netherlands or in Japan on July 29 and asked for P175,000 as processing fee.

The victim also stated that when asked for an official receipt and update of her deployment, the suspects failed to provide any and instead demanded an additional P16,000 which prompted her to report to the police.

The police said the agency issued a certification notifying Jennilyn that the suspects are not connected with them, which led the police to conduct an entrapment operation.

The police immediately arrested Mary Joyce after receiving two P1,000 bills and 14 pieces of boodle money from the victim.

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 think that more scammers and fake job offers will multiply locally over the next six months? If you are looking for work in another country, do you do research first before applying with any agency?

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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Almost 750 senior citizens vaccinated for pneumonia in Las Piñas City

July 26, 2025July 17, 2025carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Las Piñas, the vaccination drive held at SM Center Las Piñas saw almost seven hundred fifty senior citizens getting free vaccinations for pneumonia, the City Government announced via social media. Mayor April Aguilar personally attended the vaccination drive and met with the locals.

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

A total of 743 senior citizens received free pneumonia vaccines during the health drive organized by the City Health Office on Wednesday, July 16, at SM Center Las Piñas. The event, led by Mayor April Aguilar, is part of the city’s continuing effort to protect the elderly from respiratory illnesses.

Mayor Aguilar visited the venue and personally engaged with residents, expressing her gratitude for their participation and reiterating the city’s commitment to ensuring accessible and preventive healthcare for all. Also present was Dr. Juliana Gonzalez, head of the City Health Office, who addressed the attendees and highlighted the importance of pneumonia vaccination in preventing complications among older adults, especially those with pre-existing health conditions.

To ensure a smooth and safe process, participants were asked to bring their Senior Citizens ID, Vaccination Card (if previously vaccinated for pneumonia), and a Screening Form from their respective health centers. The City Health Office also reminded residents to be in good health on the day of vaccination, to maintain a five-year interval from their last pneumonia shot, and to eat beforehand and bring drinking water to help prevent post-vaccination reactions.

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 wish the City Government will soon organize a vaccination drive in your barangay?

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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America sets 19% tariff on Philippine goods after crucial Trump-Marcos meeting

July 24, 2025July 23, 2025carlocarrasco

Months after initial communications were made (click here and here), Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. finally met with US President Donald Trump in the White House and this ultimately resulted in a 19% tariff on Philippine goods by America, according to two related news articles (click here and here) by the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

For the newcomers reading this, America initially announced a 17% tariff on products from the Philippines last April and it was recently revised to 20% which surprised many here in the Philippines. Now that the American tariff for Philippine goods has been settled at 19%, President Marcos called the reduction significant. It should be noted that America generated more than $100 billion in new revenue from tariffs under Trump this year.

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

Philippine exports to the United States (US) will now be subject to a 19 percent tariff, down from the 20 percent Washington initially planned to impose, US President Donald Trump announced following what he called a “beautiful visit” by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at the White House.

Part of the new deal includes granting zero tariffs for American products bound for the Philippines.

*Philippine President Marcos with US President Trump at the White House. (photo source – the White House)*

“It was a beautiful visit, and we concluded our Trade Deal, whereby The Philippines is going OPEN MARKET with the United States, and ZERO Tariffs. The Philippines will pay a 19% Tariff,” Trump posted on his Truth Social account early Wednesday (Manila time).

*Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt tweet of President Trump’s TRUTH Social post about the meeting with President Marcos and new trade deal.*

He also described Marcos as a “very good and tough negotiator.”

Latest data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed that the US comprised the highest export value amounting to USD1.115 billion, or 15.3 percent of the country’s total exports in May this year.

Posted below is an excerpt from the other PNA news article related to Marcos’ description of the 1% reduction of tariff by America as well as his clarification about Philippines’ zero tariff approach on certain American products coming to the country. Some parts in boldface…

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. defended the Philippines’ new trade arrangement with the United States (US), saying the reduced 19 percent tariff on Philippine exports—down from the proposed 20 percent—is a “significant achievement,” amid questions over its fairness.

“One percent might seem like a very small concession. However, when you put it in real terms, it is a significant achievement,” Marcos said in a press briefing following his meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House on Wednesday (Manila time).

The President acknowledged that the new deal also opens key Philippine markets to American products—particularly vehicles, agricultural goods, and pharmaceuticals—but said the arrangement will benefit Filipinos through lower prices and stronger bilateral trade.

“We will open that market and no longer charge tariffs on that… para makamura naman ‘yung mga – maging mas mura ‘yung gamot natin (so we can lower the cost of medicines),” he said.

Marcos said while the 19 percent tariff on Philippine goods is still substantial, it reflects a step forward in trade engagement with Washington D.C. and lays the groundwork for future negotiations.

For transparency, posted below is the official video from the White House YouTube channel.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you realize that there is a lot more about US and Philippines relations that go beyond the newly agreed trade agreement? Do you think America’s 19% tariff on exports from the Philippines will add challenged to the Philippine economy? What do you think about the Trump-Marcos meeting? Did you pay attention to the planned Subic Bay ammunition manufacturing plant that was mentioned? If you are based in the Philippines, do you look forward to importing American-made vehicles, agricultural products and pharmaceutical products once they enter the country without any tariffs imposed on them? Do you think the newest exchange between Trump and Marcos will make Communist China concerned or worried?

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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Online Lending Company Raided and 168 Employees Arrested Over Harassment Allegations

July 24, 2025July 16, 2025carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Pasig, law enforcers raided an online lending firm and arrested one hundred and sixty-eight employees over alleged harassment of several borrowers, according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) news article. It should be noted that one of the victims committed suicide due to harassment over money borrowed from the raided firm.

For the newcomers reading this, this is the latest development about local companies that lend money to clients who later get harassed or threatened as ways to compel them to pay back. There were similar developments that happened over the past few years which you can see by clicking here, here, here and here.

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

The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) on Tuesday said an inter-agency operation in Pasig City has resulted in the arrest of 168 employees of an online lending company allegedly harassing borrowers.

In a statement, the PAOCC said the operation was conducted at the 22nd floor of Robinsons Equitable Tower in Pasig City, the main operating hub of Creditable Lending Corporation, the company behind the online lending application Easy Peso.

The operation was led by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG), and the PNP-CIDG, with support from the PAOCC, the National Privacy Commission (NPC), and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) by virtue of a Warrant to Search, Seize, and Examine Computer Data (WSSECD) issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 46 in Manila.

Authorities seized hundreds of computers and several company-issued mobile phones allegedly used for harassment during debt collection, along with hundreds of pre-registered SIM cards, text blasters, and harassment scripts.

The raid followed months of surveillance and investigation, aided by the testimony of a former employee who came forward to expose how the company misled and harassed borrowers.

According to the PAOCC, some victims were directed to send payments to personal GCash or bank accounts under the guise of clearing their loans, only to be contacted again by collectors despite having paid.

This operation comes just days after a man from Valenzuela City took his own life after suffering harassment from individuals connected with Easy Peso.

“May isang buhay na nawala dahil sa pang-aabuso ng isang lending app. Hindi utang ang pumatay sa kanya kundi ‘yung walang-awang pangha-harass (A life was gone due to the abuses of a lending app. The victim did not die due to his debt, but due to cruel harassment),” PAOCC Executive Director Gilbert Cruz said.

“Sa bawat biktima, huwag kayong matakot. Hindi kayo nag-iisa. Nandito ang gobyerno na handa kayong tulungan (To each victim, don’t be scared. You are not alone. The government is here ready to help you) ,” he said

Meanwhile, the SEC is reviewing the company’s legal and regulatory compliance, as its operations appear to have exploited the system while falsely claiming legitimacy.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think there are still a lot of online lending firms that planned to harass or threaten its borrowers? Do you know anyone who borrowed money from such firms only to get threated to pay back? Did you notice the presence of online lending firms in your local community?

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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Las Piñas City Mayor April Aguilar Leads Emergency Briefing on Habagat Response

July 24, 2025July 22, 2025carlocarrasco

In the City of Las Piñas, the new Mayor April Aguilar led the emergency operations briefing as the local authorities responded to the needs of the constituents who were affected by the heavy torrential rain that lasted for days affecting Metro Manila, the City Government confirmed via social media. The City Government remains on high alert and has been monitoring the situation as of this posting.

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

Mayor April Aguilar led an emergency operations briefing on Tuesday morning following the severe flooding that hit the city, caused by heavy torrential rain shortly after midnight and a high tide from Manila Bay early this morning.

*The new Mayor April Aguilar at the emergency center of operations of Las Piñas. (photo source – Las Piñas PIO)*

The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO) reported that intense rainfall began at 12:45 AM, leading to rapid water accumulation in several barangays. The situation was further aggravated by a 1.2-meter high tide from Manila Bay at around 7:00 AM, which contributed to the widespread flooding in low-lying areas.

As of the 10:00 AM report, 17 barangays have been affected, with 146 flooded areas recorded throughout the city. A total of 504 families, or 1,669 individuals, have been evacuated to 17 designated evacuation centers managed by the city government.

*Mayor Aguilar talks with the emergency operations team members. (photo source – Las Piñas PIO)*

Key city department heads were present during the briefing, including representatives from the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO), City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), City Engineering Department, City Health Office, City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), and the Public Information Office, all of whom provided situational updates and coordinated ongoing response actions. Also in attendance were District 1 City Councilors Alelee Aguilar and Robert Cristobal, who joined the discussions on resource deployment and community support.

To respond to emergency calls, the city deployed 14 response teams composed of 94 personnel, including units for water search and rescue, evacuation support, and debris clearing. A total of 53 rescue requests have been received, with 30 already completed.

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 City Government and its emergency personnel has done enough to assist those who were affected by the heavy rain? Was there a lot of flooding in your local community?

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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