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Vietnam sets 2027 targets of at least 10% GDP growth and $6,100 per capita GDP

Vietnam sets 2027 targets of at least 10% GDP growth and $6,100 per capita GDP

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With its booming economy, robust manufacturing and exports, and a thriving tourism industry, Vietnam is aiming high to achieve at least 10% GDP growth and $6,100 per capita GDP in 2027, according to a news report by VnExpress. Vietnam is already one of the outstanding economies in all of Southeast Asia today and it will host the prestigious Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) next year.

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

Vietnam’s National Assembly has set a target of at least 10% economic growth in 2027, with GDP per capita expected to reach approximately US$6,100.

The legislature passed a resolution on the country’s 2027 socio-economic development plan on Saturday, with more than 93.4% of lawmakers voting in favor.

Under the resolution, Vietnam aims to achieve economic growth of at least 10% next year while keeping inflation at around 4.5%.

The resolution calls on the government to continue prioritizing growth while maintaining macroeconomic stability, controlling inflation and ensuring major economic balances.

The government is also tasked with making breakthroughs in mobilizing and efficiently allocating resources for development. Measures include increasing state budget revenue, cutting expenditure, particularly recurrent spending, issuing various types of bonds and securing official development assistance (ODA) loans.

It must also promptly implement policies to raise foreign ownership limits in industries and sectors that do not affect national security.

The National Assembly urged the government to manage interest and exchange rates in line with domestic and international conditions, lower lending rates and direct credit toward production, business activities and priority sectors.

The government is also expected to introduce effective measures to address trade deficit, develop a healthy and sustainable real estate market, and resolve long-standing stalled projects.

To ensure energy security, the resolution requires the government to guarantee sufficient supplies of electricity and petroleum products under all circumstances.

On infrastructure, the government is tasked with completing the expressway network in line with approved plans, particularly the eastern and western sections of the North-South Expressway and East-West transport corridors.

It must also accelerate major national railway projects, including the Lao Cai-Hanoi-Hai Phong railway, the North-South high-speed railway, international rail connections and urban railway networks.

The resolution calls for faster progress on two major airport projects: Long Thanh International Airport in Dong Nai, about 40 kilometers east of Ho Chi Minh City, and Gia Binh International Airport in Bac Ninh Province, 40 km east of central Hanoi.

Long Thanh is being developed to ease pressure on HCMC’s Tan Son Nhat International Airport and eventually handle 100 million passengers annually. Gia Binh is planned as a major aviation gateway for northern Vietnam, serving passenger and cargo transport, international transit and aircraft maintenance.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Considering the strong economic momentum Vietnam has been enjoying recently, do you think they can achieve GDP growth of at least 10% next year? Do you think inflation won’t reach 5% anytime soon? How long do you think Vietnam’s thriving manufacturing and exports will last?

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 at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Man Arrested in Parañaque City over Connection with Fatal Stabbing Incident

Man Arrested in Parañaque City over Connection with Fatal Stabbing Incident

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Recently in the city of Parañaque, local police officers apprehended a man in connection with a stabbing incident that resulted in the death of a housekeeping staff member, according to a news report by The Daily Tribune.

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

Swift police action led to the arrest of a 41-year-old man in connection with a fatal stabbing incident in Barangay San Isidro, Parañaque City.

The suspect, identified as alias John, was arrested at around 12:30 p.m. Monday, 2 November, in Barangay San Isidro, following a hot pursuit operation conducted by personnel of the San Dionisio Police Sub-Station, with the assistance of three barangay tanods (village watchmen).

The incident occurred at around 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, 1 November, resulting in the death of a 30-year-old housekeeping staff member.

Immediately after the incident, police personnel launched an investigation and follow-up operations to establish the circumstances surrounding the killing and identify the person responsible.

During the investigation, witnesses positively identified the suspect as the alleged perpetrator. Their accounts were further supported by CCTV footage obtained from a nearby establishment.

Initial findings indicated that the victim was allegedly attacked suddenly and unexpectedly, leaving him with no reasonable opportunity to defend himself.

In light of these circumstances, the qualifying circumstance of treachery is being considered in the investigation, which may warrant the filing of a case for murder, subject to the evaluation and determination of the appropriate authorities.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What do you think about this recent development? If you are a resident of Parañaque, are you concerned that there could be a lot more violent people lurking within the city? Do you think violent crime will somehow increase locally before the year ends?

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 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

Festival Mall ushers in Christmas in Alabang

Festival Mall ushers in Christmas in Alabang

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This past Friday, the Christmas season in Alabang was ushered in by Festival Mall with a lot of excitement during the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony which unveiled a giant Christmas tree presented in partnership with POP MART.

The event officially launched “The Magic of Christmas” celebration in Alabang and in attendance were top officials of the City Government of Muntinlupa, Filinvest executives, Festival Mall itself and many other invited guests.

Decorated Christmas tree with a Wishes Come True sign and POP MART display in a shopping mall atrium
The fabulous looking giant Christmas tree inside Festival Mall. The mall’s strategic partner POP MART is global designer toy company that connects artists and fans through collectibles and immersive experiences.

I myself attended the Christmas tree lighting ceremony which was organized with a lot of excitement and it executed a fresh creative spin on the holiday tradition. Seated at front row were Muntinlupa City Mayor Ruffy Biazon, Vice Mayor Stephanie “Phanie” Galan Teves-Wong, Filinvest Hospitality Corporation CEO Francis Gotianun and Festival Mall General Manager Yvette Dizon. Near me were Donna Santiago of South Snippets, some local business owners, bloggers, vloggers and members of the press. Unsurprisingly, there were a lot of spectators who viewed the ceremony.

Man speaking on stage at a POP MART holiday event in a shopping mall, with a large decorated Christmas tree and seated audience.
Muntinlupa City Mayor Ruffy Biazon delivered his remarks to the many guests who attended the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.
Man holding a microphone on a holiday-themed mall stage beside a decorated Christmas tree, speaking to children in the audience.
Filinvest Hospitality Corporation CEO Francis Gotianun spoke to the attendees.

“The reason why we celebrate Christmas is Jesus Christ. And for that, there should be enough reasons for us to celebrate and be happy and thankful,” Mayor Biazon said when he delivered his remarks. “The message we would like to share to the people is that we should be thankful. Whether it is small or large we receive, we have to be grateful for the blessings we receive from God.”

“At Festival Mall, we always wanted to be more than just a shopping destination. We want to be a place for families and friends who come together enjoying new experiences, celebrate special occasions, or simply spend quality time with each other. What better time to celebrate than Christmas? This year, we are bringing to you the unboxing of the magic of Christmas made even more exciting in partnership with POP MART,” Filinvest Hospitality Corporation CEO Francis Gotianun said.

Vice Mayor Teves-Wong also delivered her remarks.

After the important words shared by the special guests, a short stage presentation was held telling a short story about Christmas emphasizing the suspense and mystery that come with receiving gifts during the season.

After that, the exciting countdown and formal lighting of the giant Christmas tree happened, and you can watch the short clip by clicking https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1EtLcyw1m6/

Decorated Christmas tree with gifts and a “Wishes Come True” sign in a brightly lit shopping mall
This is what the newly lighted Christmas tree looks like from a higher part of Festival Mall.

A meet-and-greet with Santa Claus followed and several children (who were from the City Government and its Social Services Department and others from the Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines) received gifts one by one. The invited guests were treated with a Christmas buffet and free-flowing drinks.

Festival Mall’s legacy of Christmas and giving – Festival Mall, which first opened in May 1998 and remains a strong shopping and lifestyle destination in South Metro Manila, is the flagship of Filinvest Malls, the retail business unit of Filinvest Land, Inc. Its Christmas celebration carries the mother brand’s message of community and connection into a place where families and friends come together to shop, dine, and spend time with one another. The partnership with POP MART for the November 6 Christmas tree lighting ceremony placed character-based creativity at the center of Festival Mall’s Christmas story.

Santa Claus seated on an ornate red throne surrounded by people at a festive event
A meet-and-greet between Santa Claus and the children was held during the ceremony. City Government officials and Filinvest executives in the background.
Children posing in front of a decorated Christmas tree and festive holiday display at a shopping mall
Children from Muntinlupa City (and the Social Services Department of the City Government) and Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines pose with Santa Claus by the lighted Christmas tree. (photo contributed by Festival Mall).

Along the way, the mall held its 3rd Season of Sharing in partnership with the City Government of Muntinlupa and its Social Services Department. Several children endorsed by the City Government were welcomed at Festival Mall for a special day of fun that includes arcade gaming, amusement rides, meals and the receiving of Christmas gifts. The sharing reflected the mall’s commitment to being an active and caring community partner. Festival Mall hopes to share not only gifts but also meaningful experiences and memories, reminding everyone that the spirit of Christmas is also about extending kindness and making others feel valued.

“For me, if we can make even one child smile, give someone a reason to feel happy, or make a family’s Christmas a little more special, then we’ve already done something meaningful,” said General Manager Yvette Dizon.

Christmas experience this year – For the 2026 Christmas season, Festival Mall is reviving Rhythm & Lights 4 on December 12 which is a Christmas musical celebration in a festive gathering. The said event will give shoppers and visitors a new opportunity to come together and enjoy the season through live performances.

With its Christmas tree as a meeting point with shopping, dining, and leisure experiences around it, Festival Mall is inviting visitors to make their next holiday gathering part of “The Magic of Christmas” at Filinvest Malls.

Five people posing in front of a decorated Christmas tree with a Wishes Come True sign in a brightly lit shopping mall.
Filinvest executives pose with Mayor Biazon near the Christmas tree. (photo contributed by Festival Mall)
Group of children and adults in festive costumes posing beneath a decorated Christmas tree at a shopping mall event
The children with the special guests, performers and others posed in front of the many photographers.

In ending this post, I want to point to what Mayor Biazon said about Jesus being the reason we celebrate Christmas. Lord Jesus is the hope of ALL nations. To learn more about the Him and His eternal holiness, I encourage you all to grab the Holy Bible and read the following references: Isaiah 9:6, John 3:16, John 6:26-40, Matthew 2:1-2, John 5:19-23 and John 8:12. This Christmas, always be thankful to those who gifted you and also to the Lord. Honor and thank Him for all the blessings and happiness you received.

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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 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

A Look Back at Peter Parker, The Spectacular Spider-Man #116 (1986)

A Look Back at Peter Parker, The Spectacular Spider-Man #116 (1986)

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Disclaimer: This is my original work with details sourced from reading the comic book and doing personal research. 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 superhero enthusiasts, 1980s arts and culture enthusiasts, Spider-Man fans and comic book collectors! Today we go back to the year 1986 to examine a small part of the Marvel Comics shared universe through a tale of the Peter Parker, The Spectacular Spider-Man monthly series.

Within the shared universe of Marvel Comics, Sabretooth is a very notable super villain often associated with the X-Men, and has been portrayed as Wolverine’s rival. Sabretooth by nature is sadistic, savage and is violent driven by his beastly instincts. Like Venom, Sabretooth is also a murderer. Considering how popular the Wolverine-Sabretooth rivalry has been from comics to the movies, would you believe that the ferocious mutant actually encountered Spider-Man in comics long ago? Yes, they met and fought each other!

With those details laid down, here is a look back at Peter Parker, The Spectacular Spider-Man #116, published in 1986 by Marvel Comics with a story written by the late Peter David and the late Rich Buckler.

The cover.

Early story

The story begins with a gang of thugs who have cornered Black Cat who is suffering with a broken nose. It turns out, she broke into the office of their boss called the Foreigner. With her broken nose, Black Cat feels disoriented and helpless. She starts to hallucinate an image of Spider-Man replacing the thug who has her.

In another part of New York City, Spider-Man swings around wondering what Black Cat has been doing. He finds an empty alley and secretly changes into civilian clothes as Peter Parker and decides to visit his friend Mary Jane. As he approaches the building where MJ lives in, he spots Roderick Kingsley coming out of the place. He feels troubled and remembers Roderick for causing him aggravation.

Once he meets Mary Jane, he confronts her about Roderick…

Quality

This page shows the very moment Spider-Man and Sabretooth met.

This is a story with a lot of details spread throughout. While the cover of this comic book prominently shows Spider-Man and Sabretooth together, the plot is divided into a few threads. That said, the Black Cat herself has a great share of the spotlight as this tale happened after Doctor Strange removed the remains of her hex. At this point of the monthly series, Peter Parker and Black Cat no longer have a love relationship as they broke up already. As such, Peter David loaded a lot of emotional stuff into the intense talks between the webslinger and Felicia Hardy. All of that is justified with the very rich dialogue David composed and the tension between the two is realistic and believable.

Spider-Man here is dealing with a lot of emotional baggage even as he keeps on persevering to get rid of the bad guys in New York. He is seriously having a troubled personal life and lacks a clear direction.

Sabretooth, on the other hand, has things in his own life going wrong since he broke prison. This led him to the Foreigner for potential opportunities to find work (read: violent tasks) and already he is itching to kill someone as he failed to achieve any over the previous two days.

That said, Spider-Man and Sabretooth encountered each other by circumstance and Black Cat is technically the bridge. Better temper your expectations because what the cover art does not tell you is that the first-ever encounter between the webslinger and the beastly murderer is not extensive. Still, I can say their battle is surprisingly satisfying and how it ended is very intriguing to see. As such, I am satisfied with their first encounter here.

Conclusion

With so much in his mind, Peter Parker walked on the different surfaces of the place.

Peter Parker, The Spectacular Spider-Man #116 (1986) is loaded with a lot of drama, intrigue and gritty stuff that preceded the Spider-Man/Sabretooth encounter. I should state that the art of the late Rich Buckler here is very impressive to look at and there is a good level of grittiness mixed with realism throughout. Buckler’s take on Sabretooth is menacing to see. This comic book is entertaining and intriguing to read, and I am interest now to search for other comic book encounters between Spider-Man and Sabretooth.

Overall, Peter Parker, The Spectacular Spider-Man #116 (1986) is recommended.

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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 at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Japan Insists US Midterm Election Results Will Not Impact Alliance with America

Japan Insists US Midterm Election Results Will Not Impact Alliance with America

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The 2026 United States midterm elections are over and it is unfortunate that the Democrats will take control of both the US House of Representatives and the US Senate this coming January. Also, those mobs of Islamists, socialists, LGBTQ and the other undesirable groups allied with the Democrats are still partying loudly. Japan, however, insists that the election results will not impact its strong alliance with America, according to a news report by Kyodo News. There is the focus on elevating the Japan-US alliance to new heights.

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

The U.S. midterm election results will not affect the strength of its security alliance with Japan at a time of increasing global uncertainty, the top Japanese government spokesman said Wednesday, emphasizing that the bilateral ties are essential to advance national interests and ensure global peace and stability.

“We will continue to work closely together at every level — including between leaders and foreign ministers — to elevate the Japan-U.S. alliance to new heights,” Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said after the Democratic Party retook control of both chambers of Congress in Tuesday’s elections in a blow to Republican President Donald Trump.

The bilateral alliance “remains the cornerstone of Japan’s foreign and security policy regardless of the outcome of the elections,” Kihara told a press conference.

With China’s military buildup and North Korea’s missile and nuclear programs in mind, the Japanese government has been seeking closer cooperation with the Trump administration to strengthen the alliance’s deterrence and response capabilities.

Since taking office in October last year, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has been seen building amicable ties with Trump by meeting him on multiple occasions, including at the White House, while concerns linger over his aggressive tariff policies and moves to thaw relations with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Tokyo has also faced Washington’s pressure to pay more defense costs, as Trump has called on allies to assume greater responsibility for their own security.

The Japanese government aims to arrange leader-level talks with the United States on the sidelines of an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum summit in the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen later this month and a Group of 20 summit in Miami in December.

Facing greater constraints in advancing domestic agendas following the U.S. midterm elections, Trump could focus more on his diplomatic achievements, which could bring changes to policies on North Korea and the Middle East.

Given the unpredictability of the Trump administration, Japan should stick to the “orthodox approach” to working closely in the economic and security fields, a senior Foreign Ministry official said.

A diplomatic source expressed concerns over the negative impact of possible “turmoil” in the United States stemming from intensifying partisan confrontation, while a Foreign Ministry source said Trump may look to “build a diplomatic legacy” during the remaining two years of his presidency.

Trump has expressed interest in meeting North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, whom he calls “a friend of mine.” If such talks are realized, it could bring a chance to the Japanese government to seek progress in resolving the decades-old issue of Pyongyang’s abduction of Japanese nationals.

The Japanese government officially lists 17 people as abducted in the 1970s and 1980s by North Korea and suspects Pyongyang’s involvement in many other disappearances. North Korea, with which Japan has no diplomatic ties, maintains that the abductions issue has already been resolved.

Major U.S. concessions to North Korea in pursuit of summit talks, such as officially recognizing Pyongyang as a nuclear-armed state, however, could destabilize the security environment in East Asia.

“We need to be prepared for a wide range of situations,” a Japanese government official said.

U.S. economic policies will also be closely monitored, with the Japanese government cautious that it may face pressure toward a further Bank of Japan interest rate hike with the Trump administration critical of a weak yen that could lead to an expansion of the U.S. trade deficit.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you personally think the 2026 US midterm election results will have any serious effects on the current strong US-Japan alliance? What do you think President Trump and Prime Minister Takaichi should do with regards to stability in Asia, the economic challenge on China, the Japanese investment plans for America and other matters? Do you think today’s Democrats intend to manipulate the Japanese to accept more immigrants from Muslim-majority nations and to implement more woke concepts into their culture?

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 at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Filinvest City Aims High with New Alabang District

Filinvest City Aims High with New Alabang District

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Remember back in 2025 when it was announced that telecommunications giant PLDT will relocate its headquarters to Filinvest City? Filinvest City itself is now aiming high with its new Alabang district called The Quarter which is being developed beside the future PLDT campus and it is being prepared to attract commercial investment, according to a news article by Insider PH.

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

Corporate investments and rising demand for commercial space are creating opportunities for further business expansion in southern Metro Manila, as Filinvest City seeks to attract enterprises to its established Alabang township.

Filinvest City has introduced The Quarter, a four-hectare mixed-use district designed to accommodate new businesses and support the township’s next phase of commercial development.

A township of 47,000 workers – The development is positioned beside the upcoming PLDT Campus, which is expected to accommodate approximately 5,000 employees. The concentration of corporate activity could generate demand for retail, dining, healthcare, hospitality and professional services.

The Quarter also offers commercial lots to businesses and investors seeking to establish operations near major employment centers. Filinvest City currently serves approximately 47,000 workers, more than 19,000 residents and 231,000 daily visitors.

The township’s existing population and commercial activity provide a potential customer base for enterprises considering expansion into the district.

Strategic location – The Quarter forms part of Filinvest City’s strategy to diversify its business ecosystem beyond traditional office developments.

Located near Asian Hospital and Medical Center, the district could accommodate healthcare-related enterprises, including private clinics, therapy centers and specialized treatment facilities.

Its location also provides access to the South Luzon Expressway, nearby educational institutions, residential communities and commercial establishments. A pedestrian bridge connecting The Quarter to the future PLDT Campus is also planned.

‘New centers of opportunity’ – “Filinvest City’s growth has always been driven by the ability to identify and cultivate new centers of opportunity,” Filinvest Townships first vice president and head Don Ubaldo said in a press statement.

“Just as the Peza-registered hub Northgate Cyberzone helped establish the township in the 90’s as a leading destination for the IT-BPM industry, The Quarter is envisioned to be the epicenter of its next phase of evolution, creating a dynamic environment where enterprise and innovation can thrive together,” he added.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What do you think of this development? Do you think the new Alabang district called The Quarter will help Filinvest City attract more new investment and create both new jobs and more business opportunities in the years to come? Do you think Filinvest City will become to most vibrant and most progressive central business district (CBD) of the south by the year 2030?

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 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

What To Watch On YouTube Right Now – Part 161

What To Watch On YouTube Right Now – Part 161

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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 The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring reaction videos – I can hardly believe it has been almost 25 years since The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring was first released in cinemas. The first time I saw it (the first part of a cinematic trilogy) was during its final week of showing at the local cinema and I ended up being very engaged by it. Since then, the Peter Jackson-directed fantasy movie (and its two follow-ups) was released in different editions on DVD, Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray formats, ultimately offering movie buffs and J.R.R. Tolkien fans a lot of choices. Considering its great cinematic quality, in-depth storytelling and memorable characters, The Lord of the Rings film trilogy is arguably the greatest cinematic fantasy spectacle ever made. As such, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring itself was featured many times in reaction videos by YouTubers, and posted below are the ones I enjoyed watching. Go watch the videos below.

#2 Islamic Slave Trade examined – When it comes to the disturbing topic of slavery, not too many people want to discuss the Islamic slave trade which started from 7th century and even persisted in various forms into the 20th century. When compared to the transatlantic slave trade, Islamic slave trade happened across North Africa, East Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Southern Europe and South Asia. There were women who were trafficked as domestic laborers or concubines, there were men who were recruited into specialized elite slave militaries, and there were others who subjected to brutal physical labor in various forms in different regions. The Islamic slave trade was indeed twisted and cursed, and it should never be revived. To find out more, watch the in-depth video below.

#3 The impact of Super Castlevania IV remembered – Released in December of 1991 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) in America, Super Castlevania IV was easily one of the most anticipated new games of that year given the fact that the Castlevania game series was already wildly popular with gamers. Considering its American release date, it was also the most pursued SNES game during the Christmas season. As such, its impact with gamers during the season was memorable and the YouTube video below by My Retro Life captured the game’s impact.

#4 Skipjack tuna’s impact in Japan – If you are fond of eating tuna, are you familiar with skipjack tuna? Skipjack tuna (also referred to as Katsuwonus pelamis) is a medium-sized, streamlined pelagic fish in the tuna family of Scombridae. It is the one tuna species that got heavily fished and chances are, you canned tuna you ate came from it. In Japan, there was a surplus of skipjack tuna which not only brought down prices but also made an impact on customers through the restaurants and groceries. Watch and learn from the Nippon TV video below.

#5 The history of Tron – If you have seen the classic sci-fi movie Tron from 1982, were you able to play the official video games about it? Back then, there were video games of Tron released in the arcades and on game consoles of the time. Having seen the movie first, I remember wanting to play the Tron video games whenever I saw a print ad or a poster about the games. To learn more about Tron and its impact on video gaming, watch the video below from the late PatmanQC.

#6 Bill Clinton’s immorality, lying and sex scandal revisited – It has been almost thirty years since the Bill Clinton – Monica Lewinsky scandal first rocked the world resulting in massive news media coverage, legal implications, political debates and even a successful impeachment of Clinton. If you set aside the politics and media coverage, Bill Clinton’s sex scandal alone was essentially embarrassing and tarnished the Office of the President of the United States. I personally know Democrats who had trouble defending their immoral and dishonest President Clinton, and they are still worshipping both Bill and Hillary to this day. Recently, a comprehensive look back at the late-1990s sex scandal of Bill Clinton was released on YouTube and I encourage you to watch it now. Learn from history and never ever follow the evil Clintons.

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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 at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Nuclear Power is the Next Step for the Philippines

Nuclear Power is the Next Step for the Philippines

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As the Philippines continues to use energy from renewable sources, it is also gradually moving forward to adapting nuclear power for its energy needs which was confirmed by the secretary of the Department of Energy (DOE), according to a news article by BusinessMirror.

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

THE Philippines maintains aggressive targets to shift its energy portfolio toward green power. To provide clean, stable baseload power generation that complements renewables, the country has stepped on the gas to advance its nuclear goals.

“I think nuclear is the next step because we are already maturing on renewables and it’s difficult to be dependent on imported fuel. That’s really very painful for us when things don’t go well around the world,” said Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Sharon Garin in an interview.

The energy chief is leading the Philippines’ push to integrate nuclear energy into the national power mix, targeting 1,200 megawatts (MW) of nuclear capacity by 2032 and scaling up to 4,800MW by 2050. This timeline is heavily anchored on the commercial rollout of small nuclear reactors (SMRs). The agency is looking at locations including Bataan, Batangas, Masbate, Pangasinan, Palawan, and Camarines Norte as potential nuclear sites.

“All the companies are interested: Meralco, Aboitiz, San Miguel, Prime Infra. All of them are interested because they know that with nuclear, it’s not a matter of if, but when,” said Garin, adding that since the law does not allow the government to be involved in the power generation, “maybe the government can have a minimal stake only.”

Meralco’s power generation arm, Meralco PowerGen Corp. (MGEN), agrees that nuclear power provides a reliable, low-carbon baseload source that reduces exposure to volatile global fossil fuel prices.

“As I said, it’s an option, right? And if you really want energy independence with a baseload profile, then nuclear is one of the clear options,” said MGEN president Emmanuel Rubio in an interview.

The Pangilinan-led Meralco is among the major industry players driving this transition. It has engaged a US-based engineering firm, Sargent & Lundy, and AMH Philippines, Inc. to conduct a feasibility study on deploying SMRs in the Philippines.

The comprehensive study is expected to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2027. The study marks the next step in the $2.8-million technical assistance program funded by the US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA).

Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower) and Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power Co., Ltd. (KHNP) also agreed to pursue joint pre-feasibility studies, information sharing, and capacity-building activities related to nuclear technologies.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the Philippines will succeed in achieving its nuclear goals over the next several years? Are members of your local community still afraid of nuclear power?

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 at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Thailand Considering Visa Waivers for Travelers from Few Specific Nations

Thailand Considering Visa Waivers for Travelers from Few Specific Nations

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With their struggling tourism industry and long-haul tourism in mind, Thailand is considering a 15-day visa exemption for travelers from a few specific nations, according to a news article by VnExpress.

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

Thailand is considering a 15-day visa exemption for travelers from Colombia, Mexico and Uzbekistan to ease visa processing delays and attract more long-haul visitors.

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports will submit a proposal to the visa policy committee on Nov. 9, Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said on Monday, as reported by The Nation Thailand.

The proposal comes amid growing concerns that visa-processing delays are disrupting Thailand’s long-haul tourism market, particularly travel from Latin America, with passenger show-up rates on some flights falling by 20% to 30%, Khaosod English news site reported.

Emirates recently filed a complaint with the Tourism Authority of Thailand after 20-30 passengers per flight from Mexico failed to show up because they had not received their visas in time, local media reported.

Surasak said the ministry was seeking a long-term solution to persistent visa delays affecting Mexico and other Latin American markets. The committee will assess the proposal’s security and economic implications, with the ministry seeking exemptions for countries considered to pose low security risks.

Chiravadee Khunsub, deputy governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand overseeing international markets in Europe, the Americas, the Middle East and Africa, said visa procedures had also affected arrivals from Uzbekistan, Thai Examiner reported.

Uzbek travelers previously had to apply for Thai e-visas through the Royal Thai Embassy in Russia, a process that travel agents in Uzbekistan considered cumbersome.

Some travelers subsequently canceled their Thailand holiday packages and chose competing destinations, including Vietnam.

The proposed exemption aims to simplify entry procedures, reduce disruptions to travel plans and restore confidence among international tour operators and airline partners.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think Thailand’s move to grant visa exemptions to travelers from Colombia, Mexico and Uzbekistan makes a lot of sense? Do you think Thailand will be able to match its 2025 foreign tourist arrival numbers before the end of this year? What was single biggest problem you had when it came to visiting Thailand?

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 at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Vietnam’s Long Thanh International Airport expected to open on December 24

Vietnam’s Long Thanh International Airport expected to open on December 24

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The ambitious Long Thanh International Airport in Vietnam is expected to open to commercial flights on December 24, 2026, according to a news article by VnExpress. Previously it was announced that December 1 would be the date of opening and that the airport will handle most international flights next year. How this newest development will impact the tourism sector and the current economic boom of Vietnam remains to be seen.

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

Long Thanh International Airport is expected to open to commercial flights at midnight on Dec. 24, initially handling up to 366 flights a week, 322 of them domestic and 44 international.

The Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV) gave the date in a notice sent to the Dong Nai People’s Committee. It asked the city to have relevant agencies help the corporation finish preparations so the launch runs smoothly and safely.

Domestic airlines will start operating at the new airport in stages. Vietnam Airlines is expected to fly the Long Thanh-Hanoi route and several international routes, while Vietjet plans domestic services linking Long Thanh with major economic and tourism centers nationwide.

Management agencies, airport operators and airlines are jointly drawing up flight allocations and operating plans, taking into account slot coordination and schedules at both Long Thanh and Tan Son Nhat International Airport.

Many international airlines have also voiced interest in and support for flying to Long Thanh, ACV said. Spanning 5,000 hectares in Dong Nai, about 40 km from Ho Chi Minh City, Long Thanh is Vietnam’s largest airport by area.

For other previous blog posts about the Long Thanh International Airport, click here and here.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think the new Long Thanh International Airport will be able to launch on December 24 as planned? Do you think the local authorities and the strategic partners of the new airport have done enough to ensure a proper preparation for the opening to commercial flights? If you are planning to visit Vietnam on or after December 24, has this new development impacted your flight plans?

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 at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco