Tag: travel

I was at Power Coffeeworks in Jerusalem

I was at Power Coffeeworks in Jerusalem

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Disclaimer: This is my original work with details sourced from my personal experiences and observations during the Israel pilgrimage tour I joined and what happened during my free time. Anyone who wants to use this article, in part or in whole, needs to secure first my permission and agree to cite me as the source and author. Let it be known that any unauthorized use of this article will constrain the author to pursue the remedies under R.A. No. 8293, the Revised Penal Code, and/or all applicable legal actions under the laws of the Philippines.

Welcome back, readers and fellow followers of the Lord! This is the 9th chapter of my ongoing series of articles about the holy nation of Israel with recollections about the experiences and discoveries I had during the pilgrimage tour I joined with my local church (hosted by strategic partner Behold Israel). To see my previous Israel tour articles, click here, here, here, here, here,  here, here and here. No matter what happens in this world, I will always stand with Israel and my faith in the Lord remains uncompromising!

In this latest edition of my Israel 2023 series, I share with you one of the things I did during the one and only day-off (February 15, 2023) of our pilgrimage tour. This was the day I visited the Temple Mount, revisited the Western Wall and the Upper Room, and visited the grave of Oskar Schindler. After Schindler, I marched all the way from the Old City to the modern parts of Jerusalem. I had a stopover at Tmol Shilshom to recover before proceeding to Mahana Yehuda Market where I had lunch at Shakshuka Machaneh Yehuda.

During my time at Mahane Yehuda, the cold weather intensified (cloudy and slightly raining). I knew that the heat I got from consuming my lunch would not last long. Suddenly, I remembered what I had been planning to do…visit Power Coffeeworks.

I first learned about Power Coffeeworks on social media while preparing for the trip to Israel some months prior. I checked out what drinks they offered and I knew I had to visit them and enjoy something.

So there I was walking through the crowd at the roofed section of Mahane Yehuda. Remembering what I studied from Google Maps, I went on until I reached a certain road, crossed it and made my way to the commercial building where Power Coffeeworks was located at.

I remember smiling upon arrival outside of Power Coffeeworks as it was my intention to visit and try their coffee.

For the first several moments upon arrival, I examined Power Coffeeworks’ physical set-up, the menu and the local vibe as there were customers who arrived ahead of me. I also noticed that inside are lots of products for sale such as coffee beans, Pumpking Spice, tea and more.

After reading the menu, I went on to order a hot Macchiato as I really needed heat and energy to endure the cold weather. Then I noticed a vacant table and chairs located close to the heater. So I went there to take a seat, enjoyed my hot Macchiato and used the free WiFi (password shared to me at the counter moments earlier) with the comforting heat from the heater. I even had a short chat with one of the coffee joint’s employees as he cleaned the table.

From my early moments at Power Coffeeworks. I like the vibe of the place.

For more than half an hour, I sat there enjoying my coffee, the place, checking updates online and re-energized myself because I planned to return to Mahana Yehuda one last time for treats before marching all the way back to our Jerusalem hotel. My feet were a bit sore by the time I arrived at the coffee joint.

Some of you reading this might be wondering what Power Coffeeworks is and why was I so interested with it. Personally, I really pursued buying (and enjoying) goods of local businesses in Israel. When it comes to coffee, I never thought about the international brands during my time in Israel as I went for Israeli enterprise.

That’s a nice display of products at Power Coffeeworks!

As for Power Coffeeworks, it describes itself as follows:

Power was inspired by the lack of excellent roasted coffee within Jerusalem. With its awesome steampunk vibe and amazing aroma, it is the perfect location for working, reading a book, spending time with friends or chatting with our amazing baristas.

Our coffee is roasted fresh daily, ground per cup and served with a huge amount of love. We are all about the taste, flavor, vibe and not to forget – the music.

Stephanie and Brandon, the owners made aliyah from Cape Town, South Africa in 2016 with their four children to Efrat, Gush Etzion. With their extensive knowledge of the hospitality industry, they decided to open Power Coffeeworks, an anglo orientated coffee roastery in Machane Yehuda Shuk.

Five years later, Power is exactly what they wanted it to be. Despite the struggles of starting a new business in a new country, Stephanie and Brandon took the coffee culture of Jerusalem to a whole new level. After three more children, Covid19 and a whole load of drama. Power coffeeworks has grown to be the number one location in Jerusalem for the best cup of coffee and an unbelievable section of coffee beans.

After spending time at Power Coffeeworks, I left as a satisfied and a happy customer. I would not hesitate to revisit the coffee joint once I return to Israel someday. I am deeply thankful to the Lord for the enterprise of Power Coffeeworks and everything else about the entire Israel pilgrimage tour I joined with my local church.  

This leads to my next point: always be thankful to the Lord for the blessings you enjoyed as He is our source and the definitive provider. All the praise and glory is to Him. Learn from the holy scriptures below…

Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

1 Corinthians 10:31 (NKJV)

And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. 20 Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.

Philippians 4:19-20 (NKJV)

For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. [For all things originate with Him and come from Him; all things live through Him, and all things center in and tend to consummate and to end in Him.] To Him be glory forever! Amen (so be it).

Romans 11:36 (AMPC)

“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord,

And whose hope is the Lord.

For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters,

Which spreads out its roots by the river,

And will not fear when heat comes;

But its leaf will be green,

And will not be anxious in the year of drought,

Nor will cease from yielding fruit.

Jeremiah 17:7-8 (NKJV)

Never forget that Israel is the land that God the Heavenly Father designated to the Jewish people and He always has great plans for them. As people of faith, we should do our part to love and bless the Jewish people. Also remember that the ties between Jews and Christians are biblical. Read the scriptures below…

Now the Lord had said to Abram:

“Get out of your country,

From your family

And from your father’s house,

To a land that I will show you.

I will make you a great nation;

I will bless you

And make your name great;

And you shall be a blessing.

I will bless those who bless you,

And I will curse him who curses you;

And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”

Genesis 12:1-3 (NKJV)

Again God said to him, Your name is Jacob [supplanter]; you shall not be called Jacob any longer, but Israel shall be your name. So He called him Israel [contender with God].

And God said to him, I am God Almighty. Be fruitful and multiply; a nation and a company of nations shall come from you and kings shall be born of your stock;

The land which I gave Abraham and Isaac I will give to you, and to your descendants after you I will give the land.

Genesis 35:10-12 (AMPC)

Now therefore, if you will obey My voice in truth and keep My covenant, then you shall be My own peculiar possession and treasure from among and above all peoples; for all the earth is Mine.

And you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests, a holy nation [consecrated, set apart to the worship of God]. These are the words you shall speak to the Israelites.

Exodus 19:5-6 (AMPC)

No longer shall your name be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham, for I have made you the father of a multitude of nations. I will make you exceedingly fruitful, and I will make you into nations, and kings shall come from you. And I will establish my covenant between me and you and your offspring after you throughout their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and to your offspring after you. And I will give to you and to your offspring after you the land of your sojournings, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession, and I will be their God.”

And God said to Abraham, “As for you, you shall keep my covenant, you and your offspring after you throughout their generations.”

Genesis 17:5-9 (ESV)

Say therefore to the people of Israel, ‘I am the Lord, and I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, and I will deliver you from slavery to them, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with great acts of judgment. I will take you to be my people, and I will be your God, and you shall know that I am the Lord your God, who has brought you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians. I will bring you into the land that I swore to give to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob. I will give it to you for a possession. I am the Lord.’”

Exodus 6:6-8 (ESV)

“Yet hear now, O Jacob My servant,

And Israel whom I have chosen.

Thus says the Lord who made you

And formed you from the womb, who will help you:

‘Fear not, O Jacob My servant;

And you, Jeshurun, whom I have chosen.

For I will pour water on him who is thirsty,

And floods on the dry ground;

I will pour My Spirit on your descendants,

And My blessing on your offspring;

They will spring up among the grass

Like willows by the watercourses.’

One will say, ‘I am the Lord’s’;

Another will call himself by the name of Jacob;

Another will write with his hand, ‘The Lord’s,’

And name himself by the name of Israel.

Isaiah 44:1-5 (NKJV)

“Now, show the people the pieces of wood you have written on, and tell them, ‘Lord Yahweh says this: I will gather the Israelites from the nations where they have gone. I will gather them together from everywhere and bring them to their homeland. And I will make them into a single nation in the mountainous land of Israel and give them one king to be king over them all. They will never again be divided into two nations nor split into two separate kingdoms.

Ezekiel 37:20-22 (TPT)

For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life.

John 3:16 (AMPC)

Jesus said to him,

“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

“If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; and from now on you know Him and have seen Him.”

John 14:6-7 (NKJV)

And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying,

“This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.”

Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying,

“This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.”

Luke 22:19-20 (NKJV)

Conclusion

The view from my table.

I would love to return to Power Coffeeworks once I return to Jerusalem in the years to come. Only the Lord know when that time will be. No matter what happens, my faith in the Lord will never be compromised. To those of you who are interested to discover Power Coffeeworks and find out what products they offer, I encourage you to visit their official website at https://www.powercoffeeworksjerusalem.com/. Remember that once you make it to the Mahane Yehuda market, this nice coffee joint is just a short walk away.

Israel is a great and holy place to visit! Visit Israel with the Holy Bible! Pray to the Lord wholeheartedly and reveal to Him your heart’s desire to visit Israel to deepen your faith in Him. Always be the fearless and aggressive church of Lord Jesus! Follow the light of Lord Jesus, keep on praying to support Israel and for the peace of Jerusalem. Live on with uncompromising faith in Him!

Watch out for more Israel 2023 travel articles here. There is more to come!

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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

Can the DOT achieve its 2024 target of 7.7 million international visitor arrivals?

Can the DOT achieve its 2024 target of 7.7 million international visitor arrivals?

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Recently the Department of Tourism (DOT) confirmed that as of November 1, 2024, it has recorded 4.8 million international visitor arrivals, according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) news article. That is around three million short of its 2024 target of 7.7 million.

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

International visitor arrivals to the Philippines reached more than 4.8 million, the Department of Tourism (DOT) said on Friday.

In a statement announcing its attendance at the 2024 World Travel Market (WTM) in London, the DOT said the event would serve as an opportunity to invite more tourists from the European market, especially as it makes up a huge percentage of the foreign visitors to the country.

“The United Kingdom leads as the top European source of visitors, ranking as the Philippines’ ninth-largest source market, with 128,660 arrivals recorded from Jan. 1 to Oct. 31,” it said.

“As the UK outbound travel market rebounds, it presents a valuable opportunity for the Philippines.”

As of Nov. 1, the number of international visitors to the Philippines has reached 4,879,022, less than 3 million away from the DOT’s yearend target of 7.7 million arrivals.

With UK tourists increasingly seeking destinations that offer value for money and experience, the DOT is confident the Philippines’ “diverse landscapes, rich history, and immersive travel experiences” align well with the market’s preferences.

By doing the math, 4,879,022 international tourist arrivals covering the period of January 1 to November 1 (306 days) is equivalent to 15,944.516 per day. Multiply that current average by 366 days for 2024 (a leap year), the total would be 5,835,693 international tourist arrivals which is clearly short of the target.

Of course, it is expected that more visitors from overseas will increase sharply this December as many Filipinos based abroad will be coming home for Christmas and New Year celebrations with families. It remains to be seen how the DOT and its strategic partners will accommodate the anticipated high influx of visitors from overseas. It is recalled that the Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC) and China Banking Corp. found the nation’s Philippine tourism recovery still lacking.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this latest development? Do you think the DOT can still hit its 2024 target of 7.7 million international visitor arrivals by the end of December? Do you think news about crime connected with Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) are discouraging foreigners from visiting the Philippines? Do you wish to see the DOT get more involved with special events such as food festivals, entertainment conventions, film festivals, international sports events, car shows and the like?

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, special event 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

Have you been to X-Site amusement center inside Festival Mall lately?

Have you been to X-Site amusement center inside Festival Mall lately?

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In times of prosperity or hardship, Festival Mall (originally named Festival Supermall) in Filinvest City, Alabang, Muntinlupa City continues to attract families and shoppers. Since the mall’s early days in 1998, its amusement center X-Site kept on succeeding on attracting visitors and providing them bouts of varied fun in return to what the customers paid for. X-Site is a lively form of entertainment-focused capitalism that just keeps on moving forward and attracting visitors.

Located at the 3rd floor (note: officially referred to as the 2nd Level or 2L or 2nd Floor by the mall. The 1st floor and 2nd floor of the mall are referred to as Lower Ground Floor and Upper Ground Floor respectively), the X-Site Amusement Center has a wide floor space with a high ceiling.

The way it was designed, X-Site has several arcade games (lots of fun retro games included), merchandiser games, a virtual reality ride, KTV booths, motion-sensing dance spot, the ring toss, entertainment stores, indoor sports games, redemption games, bumper cars, and the indoor roller coaster (which explains the need of having a high ceiling). Watch below the YouTube video and the images I prepared below.

At the arcade games section inside X-Site.
Having a high ceiling made it possible to have an indoor roller coaster (tracks above the machines and people in this image). Other amusement centers in Alabang had lower ceilings which made their places feel small or tight when compared to X-Site.
Some newer machines plus indoor sports games added into the arcade games section.
This is the place for those who love dancing and music.

When I was much younger and Festival Mall was still new, I played lots of games at the arcade of X-Site. Elevator Action Returns, Tekken 2, Tekken 3, Marvel vs. Capcom: Clash of Super Heroes, Street Fighter Alpha 3 and Tekken Tag Tournament were some of the games I played there as far as I could remember. I never rode the indoor roller coaster because my fondness for roller coasters had faded away even before Festival Mall opened its doors (May 1998).

Back in 1998, I know a few friends whose had not even visited Festival Mall (at the time we talked) yet they already heard of the positive word-of-mouth feedback about the indoor roller coaster of X-Site.

The indoor roller coaster of X-Site remains a favorite ride for those who kept coming back.

On December 25, 2023, I visited Festival Mall to look around. I passed by X-Site and I saw an unusually large number of people there composed of young people, children and their parents/guardians.

For the newcomers reading this, December 25 here in the Philippines is a time of having fun during the Christmas season and also it is the day when the annual Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) opens in cinemas. This explains why a lot of people spend time at the shopping malls and it is a cultural thing here in the Philippines.

Considering the fact that the original cinemas of Festival Mall have deteriorated leaving only 2 or 3 screens operating (note: the mall also has modern cinemas at the expanded side), a lot of people still visited the mall to watch the MMFF movies that opened on December 25. As for the large number of people who flocked to X-Site that same day, I can only speculate that some of them might have been moviegoers passing the time as they wait for the next screening of movies to watch.

I took this shot of X-Site on December 25, 2023. Look at the high number of people on the floor.

If you plan to visit Festival Mall in Alabang and if you are craving for fun rides or games, then you might want to visit X-Site Amusement Center.

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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 engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

Destination of the Year award for 2023 goes to Subic Bay

Destination of the Year award for 2023 goes to Subic Bay

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Recently the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) got recognized yet again in the field of sports tourism as it won the Destination of the Year award for 2023 during the 6th Philippine Sports Tourism Awards, according to the social media announcement via the FUNtastic Subic Bay Facebook page.

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

We’re thrilled to announce that Subic Bay has once again been recognized as the 𝑫𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒀𝒆𝒂𝒓 (for 2023) at the prestigious 6th Philippine Sports Tourism Awards!

From the post of FUNtastic Subic Bay on Facebook.

This marks our fourth win, following our previous victories in 2019 for Sports Tourism Destination Marketing of the Year, 2018 for Event of the Year (International), and 2017 for Destination of the Year.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our Chairman and Administrator Engr. Eduardo L. Aliño, the SBMA Board of Directors, the SBMA working group, our partner organizers, and all our stakeholders for their unwavering commitment to making Subic Bay a premier sports tourism destination. This achievement is a testament to our collective efforts. Congratulations to all of us!

I personally have visited the Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBFZ) from time to time since 1994. I have witnessed how much Subic Bay evolved as a tourism destination, a shopping destination as well as a special events destination. The tourism team of the SBMA has a long track record of sports tourism development and the hosting of many kinds of sports events. That being said, it is not surprising to me that the SBMA won another sports tourism award.

For the newcomers reading this, Subic Bay was the host venue of selected events of the 2019 Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games). Each year, Triathlon Philippines (TriPhil) organizes the Subic Bay International Triathlon (SuBIT) there.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Have you been touring Subic Bay recently? Did you ever attend a sports event held in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone?

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

Official website and social media presence launched by New NAIA Infra Corporation (NNIC)

Official website and social media presence launched by New NAIA Infra Corporation (NNIC)

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In its pursuit to keep the public informed and oriented, the new operator of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) – San Miguel-led New NAIA Infra Corporation (NNIC) – recently launched its official website as well as social media accounts, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

For the newcomers reading this, the operations of NAIA were recently turned over to NNIC which is a private entity. NAIA is still owned by the national government.

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

San Miguel-led New NAIA Infra Corporation (NNIC), the new private operator of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport has launched the official website and social media pages of NAIA as the transformation of the Philippines’ primary gateway begins.

The new website, www.newnaia.com.ph, focuses on providing comprehensive information about NAIA — including details on the ongoing transformation project, its progress, and the future vision for the airport.

It serves as a hub for travelers, offering real-time flight information as well as updates on airport services and amenities.

In honor of the Philippines’ modern-day heroes, the website will feature a regular section called Bagong Bayani dedicated to inspiring stories about Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).

NNIC has also launched its social media pages on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) under the name newnaiaph. These will serve as additional channels for sharing updates, engaging the public, and building a community around the NAIA transformation.

The public can also connect via email (feedback@newnaia.com), hotline (+63 2 8877 1111), and SMS (TextNAIA) at +63 917 839 6242.

“The launch of our website and social media pages is part of our commitment to open communication and transparency,” said San Miguel Corporation Chairman and NNIC President and CEO Ramon S. Ang.

For your general reference:

https://www.newnaia.com.ph/

https://www.facebook.com/newnaiaph

https://x.com/newnaiaph

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? As a traveler, have you tried searching for relevant information on newnaia.com.ph? Have you been following NNIC’s accounts on Facebook and Twitter? Is the flight status tool of the official website working properly?

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

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 arrested at NAIA Terminal 3 for stealing from judge inside the airplane

Chinese national arrested at NAIA Terminal 3 for stealing from judge inside the airplane

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A Chinese national was arrested at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 for stealing the handbag and money that belong to a judge while inside the airplane, according to a Manila Bulletin news report. A flight attended saw the said Chinese traveler stealing from the judge who was traveling with two lawyers.

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

A Chinese national was arrested after he was caught stealing from a female judge aboard a plane at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), the Bureau of Immigration (BI) said on Wednesday, Sept. 18.

In a statement, BI Officer-in-Charge Joel Anthony Viado identified the Chinese national as Lyu Shuming, 48, who was arrested at the NAIA Terminal 3 last Sept. 15. The BI did not identify the female judge.

“We will not allow these kinds of foreigners to victimize our kababayan,” Viado declared. Based on his statement, it can be presumed that the judge is a Filipino.  

“The BI will continue to monitor the progress of this case, and blacklist any other members that might be found,” he added.

The BI said that Lyu, who was found to have a valid Philippine visa, was traveling with two other Chinese nationals identified as Xu Xianpu, 41, and Xie Xiaoyong, 54.

“All three have been recommended for inclusion in the BI’s blacklist,” the BI said as it noted that Xu and Xie were also suspected to be thieves and have been allowed to board an outbound flight.

The BI said the three Chinese nationals were transiting the Philippines from Malaysia to Hong Kong.

While aboard the plane, the BI said a flight attendant caught Lyu stealing a handbag and P63,000 in cash owned by a female judge who was traveling with two lawyers.

“He was said to have opened the overhead stowage bin to retrieve the bag owned by the judge,” it said. 

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Did you encounter people stealing the belongings of others while riding the airplane? Do you think the arrested Chinese traveler knew that the judge was traveling with lots of money?

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

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

Rehabilitation of airport begins as government formally turns over NAIA operations to San Miguel-led group

Rehabilitation of airport begins as government formally turns over NAIA operations to San Miguel-led group

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The rehabilitation of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) has officially started as a result of the government’s recent turnover of airport operations to the New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) which is a San Miguel-led group, according to a news report by GMA Network. To be clear, the government still owns NAIA and the operations will be handed back by the private group many years from now. Over P140 billion will be invested on managing and improving the NAIA.

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

The government turned over Saturday the operation of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to the San Miguel-led New NAIA Infra Corp., setting in motion the rehabilitation of the Philippines’ main gateway.

In a news release, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said key officials of the agency and Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) handed over the airport to its new private operator during a ceremony at NAIA’s Terminal 3.

“The baton has been passed and now it is our turn in NNIC to carry it forward to the finish line,” said NNIC general manager Lito Alvarez.

Transportation Undersecretary for Aviation Roberto Lim expressed support to NNIC, saying the takeover would be a precursor to a world-class and modernized NAIA.

“Today, we celebrate the competitive spirit of the winning consortium, which brings financial muscle, management expertise, and the technical operations strength and experience of Incheon Airport,” said Lim.

The turnover of NAIA’s rehabilitation, operations, and further development to NNIC, formerly SMC SAP & Co. Consortium, is seen to boost the airport capacity to meet growing demand by handling more flights and passengers, while improving service quality and compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.

San Miguel-led NNIC is investing approximately P144 billion to manage and improve NAIA under a 15-year concession, extendable by 10 years, which would be contingent on meeting key performance targets.

The DOTr clarified that ownership of the airport will remain with the government. The agency said that at the end of the concession period, NNIC will return to the government the operations of NAIA.

The government signed the landmark concession agreement for the NAIA Public-Private Partnership (PPP) project on March 18.

Among the expected improvements in NAIA that the traveling public and other stakeholders can expect include expansion of the Passenger Terminal Buildings (PTBs), additional aircraft parking bays, increase in vehicular parking slots, installation of world-class systems and technology, more food and beverage (F&B) and retail options, more convenient land transport connectivity, among others.

Furthermore, flight delays and cancellations due issues with airport facilities are expected to be significantly reduced.

NNIC Chairman Ramon Ang said, “A world-class airport means more jobs, more tourists and a much more stronger and prosperous Philippines.“

The consortium is committing to modernize NAIA, increasing its capacity from 35 million passengers to 62 million passengers. Air traffic movement is also expected to be increased from 40 movements per hour to 48.

The rehabilitation is expected to generate at least 58,000 jobs for Filipinos.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think that the NAIA operations will improve under the San Miguel-led group? Do you think this will lead to improved travel efficiency, convenience and comfort for millions of air travelers in the Philippines?

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

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

Filinvest Hospitality Corp. makes big bet on Philippine tourism

Filinvest Hospitality Corp. makes big bet on Philippine tourism

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Filinvest Hospitality Corp. (FHC) announced that it is betting big on Philippine tourism with its newest move to add a few thousand more new rooms over the next five years to accommodate tourists, according to a BusinessWorld news report.

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

GOTIANUN-LED Filinvest Hospitality Corp. (FHC) is aiming to add close to 2,000 new rooms in the next five years, a company official said.

“We’re looking at adding close to 2,000 keys. It’s more about the quality of the keys and the spread as opposed to the number,” FHC First Senior Vice-President Francis Nathaniel C. Gotianun told reporters on the sidelines of the Shareholders’ Association of the Philippines’ third general membership meeting in Makati City on Tuesday.

“We’re focusing on key tourist destinations across the country. We’re working on a collection of the top spots so when we go out into the international market or even the domestic market, we can sell all the good destinations, whether that be Boracay, Palawan, Bohol, Baguio, or Cebu. We’re trying to catch them all,” he added.

FHC’s hospitality portfolio has about 1,800 keys across seven hotels, ranging from high-end five-star properties under the Crimson brand to Quest hotels and Timberland, which serve the mid-priced leisure markets.

“We’re really focusing on creating a collection of hotels in the right locations so that when we go out into the market, we can sell all the best of the Philippines,” Mr. Gotianun said.

Mr. Gotianun said that FHC is very bullish on the prospects of the country’s tourism sector. He added that the company has a couple of projects to be announced by the end of the year.

“We can really see the tourism numbers starting to come back up, very strong domestic while international is still a little bit below, but we think we’ll catch up,” Mr. Gotianun said.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think FHC’s addition of about two thousand new rooms will help the nation’s tourism industry a lot in the years ahead? Do you think our nation still lacks rooms for domestic and foreign tourists?

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

What to watch on YouTube right now – Part 31

What to watch on YouTube right now – Part 31

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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 topics and the related videos I found.

HolyLandSite’s comprehensive videos about the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, Israel  – I love Israel and I will always stand with it in accordance to my uncompromising faith in the Lord and His Word (the Holy Bible). During the one and only day-off of the Israel 2023 pilgrimage tour I joined, I visited the Temple Mount in the Old City of Jerusalem and it is truly one of the most significant places to visit in the entire world. The Dome of the Rock (the Muslim shrine) occupies the space where the two Jewish temples used to be and inside it is the Foundation Stone (preserved layer of mountain top rock) which is the spot where Abraham almost sacrificed Isaac before God sent the angel to intervene. Be aware that during the time of Lord Jesus, the 2nd Jewish temple was established.

HolyLandSite produced the most in-depth and most informative videos about the Temple Mount and I encourage you to watch them now.

The billion Apple Car disaster – You ever heard of the Apple Car? Such a project from the very same company behind iPhone actually existed and it ended up as a disaster worth an estimated $10 billion. What happened behind the scenes at Apple? Did the technology giant really believe it could make a positive impact on the automobile industry? You can find out more by watching ColdFusion’s video below.

Venom: Lethal Protector revisited and explained  – I should mention first that I am not a fan of the Marvel Comics super villain Venom. For the newcomers reading this, Venom emerged in the late 1980s as Spider-Man’s deadliest enemy and went on to become a murderer who somehow helped Marvel Comics sell a lot of comic books. Because comic book fans wanted more of him so much, Marvel went on to publish the Venom: Lethal Protector limited series in the early 1990s and it led to even more comic books showcasing him as an anti-hero (specifically a killer helping the powerless people). If you are interested to learn about the Venom: Lethal Protector limited series without having to go through all the trouble of finding the comic books, watch the video below. Better save your money.

You, Me and the Movies’ reaction videos of the first three Jaws movies – YouTube channel You, Me and the Movies recently posted their movie reaction videos of Steven Spielberg’s Jaws (1975), Jaws 2 (1978) and Jaws 3-D (1983). Having seen all three movies before, I enjoyed these reaction videos. The first movie from 1975 is a true cinematic classic directed by a very young Spielberg and if you have not seen it, I encourage you to watch it entirely first before seeing the related reaction video. I cannot say the same about Jaws 2 and Jaws 3-D (AKA Jaws 3). Once you are ready, enjoy the videos below.

Retrospective videos of Suikoden and Suikoden II – Recently, Konami announced that it will finally be releasing the anticipated collection Suikoden I&II HD Remaster Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars on March 6, 2025 for varied game consoles plus Steam. The said collection was supposed to have been released in 2023 but a delay happened and Konami was very silent until recently. Now that fans of the first two Suikoden games have something to look forward to in 2025, here are some retrospective videos that will help you understand what the games are and why they are still popular among Japanese RPG (JRPG) enthusiasts.

The wickedness and wokeness of Rachel Zegler exposed  – Actress Rachel Zegler is not worth trusting as she went ballistic while promoting the new Snow White movie from woke Disney. Not only did she go against the legacy of the classic Snow White animated movie, she sided with the pro-Palestine movement and their terrorists. While her tweet could encourage pro-Palestine believers to watch the new Snow White, it is a fact that there already a movement of people who hate Israel telling people to boycott the said movie simply because it has Israeli actress (and Wonder Woman star) Gal Gadot. By being woke and reckless, Zegler is only turning off people from watching the new Snow White and if the movie fails, it will cost Disney a lot of money. Watch and learn from the selected videos below.

Popcorn in Bed reacts to King Kong (1933) and Godzilla (1954) – I really enjoy watching the movie reaction videos of Popcorn in Bed (PIB) and recently she posted new videos about two very significant movies…the original King Kong of 1933 and the original Godzilla (Gojira) film of 1954. As the two mentioned movies are cinematic classics, I encourage you to watch them first before watching Popcorn in Bed’s reaction videos. To those who saw classics already, watch the reaction videos below.

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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

North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) promises Calamba-NCR-Pampanga travel by high-tech train in the future

North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) promises Calamba-NCR-Pampanga travel by high-tech train in the future

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If you are based south of Metro Manila and you intend to visit Pampanga without having to endure the stress of driving through vehicular traffic, then the high-tech train just might be the viable option as the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) promised quick travel in the future, according to a GMA Network News report.

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

The North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) promises commuters from Buendia in Makati or Alabang, Muntinlupa to reach the Clark International Airport in Pampanga in less than an hour.

In Joseph Morong’s report in 24 Oras on Thursday, the high tech train system stretches from Calamba, Laguna to Clark, Pampanga.

The West Valenzuela-Clark segment of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) will be the first to open and will operate in the first quarter of 2028, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said.

The report said that the Balagtas Station in Bulacan is 95% complete and expected to be the first one to be completed. Meanwhile, the Clark Station beside Clark International Airport is 80% done.

But the whole project itself is just 40% done, as the DOTr is facing a challenge in the right of way particularly in the Valenzuela to Sucat, Paranaque segment.

“Dadaan po tayo sa Buendia, sa EDSA (It will pass through in Buendia and in EDSA) … and then we will have to relocate 13,000 informal settlers from Manila to Calamba,” said Transportation Undersecretary for Rails Jeremy Regino. Hence, the whole NSCR project is expected to be completed by 2031.

The NSCR system boasts 51 train sets that are similar to ones operating in Japan. The train line also promises 40 minutes of travel from Buendia to Alabang. Further, the DOTr said the fare for NSCR will be affordable.

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, would you consider going all the way to Pampanga by train?

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