Recently in the City of Las Piñas, twenty barangay associations of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) received desktop computers from the City Government and Vice Mayor April Aguilar witnessed the distribution, according to the social media announcement of the local government unit (LGU).
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the City Government’s social media announcement. Some parts in boldface…
The City of Las Piñas, through the City Social Welfare and Development Office, distributed desktop computers to 20 Barangay Associations of Persons with Disabilities on Monday, December 2, at the Verdant Covered Court in Pamplona Tres to enhance the operational capabilities of these associations.
Each barangay association received a desktop computer to support their programs and improve their administrative processes. This effort underscores the city government’s commitment to empowering PWD groups through the provision of essential resources.
Vice Mayor April Aguilar, CSWDO head Lowefe Romulo, and Alelee Aguilar attended the event, personally handing over the computers to the beneficiaries. Their participation highlights the local government’s dedication to inclusivity and community development.
Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a resident of Las Piñas City, what is your reaction to this development? Is the PWD association of your barangay actively working? Are there many PWDs in your local community?
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
To keep on strengthening the drive of tourism all over the Philippines, the Department of Tourism (DOT) recently unveiled its plans for 2025, according to a Manila Times news report.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of the Manila Times. Some parts in boldface…
The Department of Tourism (DOT) unveiled its plans for 2025 to propel Philippine tourism to new heights and give travelers more reason to love the Philippines.
“Tourism will be a cornerstone of our nation’s recovery. We embraced the challenge—not just to rebuild but to innovate, not just to promote, but to develop, to transform, to lead,” Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco said at the DOT’s year-end press briefing on Tuesday.
The DOT has formed a partnership with the Department of Health (DOH) to develop Tourist First Aid Facilities and is in talks with key government agencies to establish tourist courts that will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to “resolve tourist-related crimes.”
Tourist First Aid Facilities will be established in tourist-heavy locations such as La Union, Boracay Island in Aklan, Siargao Island in Surigao del Norte, Panglao Island in Bohol, Palawan, and Puerto Galera.
The department will also soon initiate “Layover Tours” as part of the Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours program, which Frasco said “would make layovers more enjoyable and provide seamless access to our iconic attractions.”
The Philippines Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours program, which started in 2023, allows solo and group tourists to plan fast, self-guided trips using an advanced bus network and a specific smartphone app.
The DOT also plans to establish the “Golf Experience” initiative, which Frasco described as “geared to enthusiasts motivated to discover the world-class golf destinations.”
It will continue to construct more Tourist Rest Areas across the country, equipped with new features such as rainwater harvesting facilities and solar panels, in addition to basic amenities such as clean and adequate restrooms, a tourism information center, and a pasalubong center.
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the DOT’s plans for the new year will create positive results for the nation’s tourism industry? Do you think the DOT should recognize special events like car shows, fashion shows, film festivals and cosplay events so that more local and foreign tourists could join them?
Welcome back readers, fellow geeks and electronic gaming fans!
In this edition of the Retro Gaming Ads Blast (RGAB) series, we will take a look at another batch of retro gaming print ads – including arcade flyers – from the 1980s and 1990s.
For the newcomers reading this, Retro Gaming Ads Blast (RGAB) looks back at the many print ads of games (console, arcade, computer and handheld) that were published in comic books, magazines, flyers, posters and newspapers long before smartphones, social media, the worldwide web and streaming became popular. To put things in perspective, people back in the 1980s and 1990s were more trusting of print media for information and images about electronic games and related products.
With those details laid down, here is the newest batch of retro gaming print ads for you to see and enjoy…
1. Defender arcade flyer
Perhaps Atari did not have enough original artwork of Defender to be used in this arcade flyer. So they ended up using footage of an astronaut on the moon.
Very long ago, I played the classic game Defender a lot on the Atari 2600. Strangely enough, I never played its arcade version as my visits to arcades were quite limited as I was so young back then. When it comes to the arcade flyer of Defender, I find the use of stock footage of an astronaut on the moon as the artistic backdrop baffling because the game’s concept was all about fighting back alien invaders and protecting the citizens. Ironically, the image blended well with the photos of two arcade machines showcased.
2. Amidar Atari 2600 print ad
Does this ad make you think about King Kong or animals?
When I was a young boy, I saw this Parker Brothers print ad of Amidar appear in many superhero comic books I read. I never played the game on the Atari 2600 nor in the arcades. Each time I saw this ad, I always wondered how the game played and what its creative concept was all about. The constant showing of a giant gorilla on the game box cover reminded me of King Kong.
3. Reactor Atari 2600 print ad
Parker Brothers made this ad imagining gamers getting very engaged with reactor once they start playing it.
Reactor was one of those video games that was somewhat influenced by the subject of nuclear technology, particularly about the nuclear reactors. This is another game I never played on console nor in the arcades. This Reactor print ad by Parker Brothers for the Atari 2600 has a visual style and creative concept that I still find fascinating to look at.
4. Punch-Out!! arcade flyer
This was years before Nintendo hired Mike Tyson to endorse the console version of Punch-Out!!
In 1984, Nintendo released the original Punch-Out!! game in the arcades and literally punched its way through to the top of American arcades that year while also scoring big in other arcades around the world. While the game proved to be very playable and a lot of fun, it could be argued that the intriguing image Nintendo used for the North American arcade flyer – a boxer down after literally getting beaten by the Punch-Out!! machine – made an impact on both gamers and arcade operators.
5. Arumana no Kiseki flyer
Is the famous Indiana Jones theme music playing inside your mind right now as you look at this art?
Released in 1987 on the Disk System of the Nintendo Family Computer (Famicom) in Japan, Arumana no Kiseki was one of the many 2D adventure games Konami released that entertained gamers. When compared to Castlevania – strongly influenced by American horror movies – this game was very influenced by the Indiana Jones movies of Steven Spielberg which is very evident in this promotional flyer.
In fact, some gamers who could not read the Japanese title actually thought this was an official Indiana Jones video game because the artwork was so suggestive. Having played and finished the game myself, I can say that Arumana no Kiseki was simply an Indiana Jones-inspired adventure game that had its own creative concept and unique settings and characters.
6. Devastators arcade flyer
The 1980s female Rambo smiling towards you.
By looking at the track record of Konami closely, you will notice that many of their games in the 1980s were influenced by Hollywood movies and they hired pretty or sexy models for their arcade flyers. This arcade flyer of Devastators is no exception and you can clearly see the Rambo-inspired lady smiling while carrying a weapon. Devastators itself had strong Rambo vibes for its concept.
7. S.P.Y. Special Project Y arcade flyer
Somehow the picture of this flyer reminds me of Miami Vice.
Still with Konami, S.P.Y. Special Project Y is 1989 arcade game that featured action sequences in which players fight against countless enemies in order to progress with the minimal story. This game had certain spy movie elements and to promote it, Konami came up with this arcade flyer showcasing three sexy women wearing swimwear accompanied by two men who looked more like operators or schemers. Can you imagine yourself as an arcade operator looking at this flyer trying to decide to buy the game?
This arcade flyer is still great and exciting to look at, even if your not a TMNT fan.
Now this is one of the most definitive arcade games Konami ever made. Released in late 1989, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles became a massive arcade hit in North America constantly attracting lots of fans and casual gamers to play at each machine. The demand was so great, Konami had no choice but to hire a company to manufacture more machines. When it comes to promoting the game, Konami cleverly used a mix of artworks for the TMNT characters and fantasy environment while having a hired model playing April O’Neil blending in smoothly.
Having seen the 1980s animated series myself, I can say that the ad makers struck gold when it came to making a promotional image that Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle fans can easily recognize and go to the arcade to play the game.
9. Batman arcade flyer
If you saw the 1989 movie, did you play this in the arcade?
The live-action Batman movie of 1989 was simply inescapable as there was so much hype, merchandising and promos connected with it. When it came to video games, it was not surprising that a lot of companies talked with Warner Bros. and eventually Atari made the official arcade game based on the movie (for insight on the production, watch PatmanQC’s video by clicking here). This early-1990s arcade flyer had a simplistic approach showing a few screenshots and descriptive text while having the live-action Batman (note: Michael Keaton in costume) dominating in the middle. Simplistic yet effective in telling gamers and arcade operators what to expect.
10. Xevious arcade flyer
This arcade flyer is exciting and creative to focus on.
Xevious is a long-running series of video games owned by Namco. Since the early 1980s, several Xevious video games were released on arcades, consoles and mobile devices. Believe it or not, the original Xevious game was published by Atari for North American arcades and the company came up with this dynamic looking flyer to promote it. The arcade flyer really looks dynamic due to the hand-drawn art surrounding the photo of the machine. Even by today standards, this flyer still looks modern and energetic.
11. Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves print ads
Tell me if this ad makes you want to play the game.
Original artwork here was meant to immerse viewers into the fantasy setting of the game based on the movie.
If you saw the 1991 movie Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, were you able to play the video game adaptation? Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves on the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) was notable for being specially featured in the Nintendo Power magazine and its game design was truly ambitious at the time. To promote the game and take advantage of the movie’s popularity, Virgin Games came out with two print ads targeting movie fans and NES gamers.
The first print ad above had lots of selected screenshots surrounding the game’s box and crammed the descriptive text. The 2nd print ad had original artwork to emphasize the fictional setting and used only three screenshots. Looking at both print ads, it was clear that the ad makers had no permission to use the likeness of Kevin Costner as Robin Hood. The same with other actors and their characters. Regardless, the ads still reminded me enough of the movie while keeping me informed about the video game.
More than P1.6 trillion in approved investments have been confirmed and this means that the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) exceeded its target for 2024, according to a news article by the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the PNA news article. Some parts in boldface…
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said approved investments already surpassed the 2024 target.
In a statement on Thursday, DTI said investments approved by the Board of Investments (BOI) amounted to PHP1.62 trillion, surpassing the PHP1.5 trillion target. It was also higher than the PHP1.26 trillion approved investments in 2023.
In a separate statement, the BOI said energy sector, specifically the renewable energy projects, recorded the biggest surge in approvals, totaling PHP1.38 trillion, up by 40 percent year-on-year.
Other sectors which recorded the biggest increase include air and water transport at PHP121.20 billion; real estate activities (mass housing) at PHP37.26 billion; manufacturing at PHP31.67 billion; water supply, sewerage, waste management, and remediation activities at PHP16.28 billion; agriculture, forestry, and fishing at PHP11.02 billion; wholesale and retail at PHP8.25 billion; and information technology-business process management at PHP7.34 billion.
The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), meanwhile, approved PHP214.17 billion in investments, surpassing the PHP200 billion target for the year.
“We are pleased to report significant progress in attracting investments this year. These investments will fuel job creation, drive innovation, and foster dynamic economic progress. By focusing on international trade, we are laying the foundation for sustainable and inclusive economic growth,” Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said.
“As we approach 2025, we are determined to build on this positive momentum. We will continue to refine and implement forward-looking policies that attract investments in these key industries, ensuring that the Philippines remains a prime destination for innovation and growth.”
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the P1.62 trillion in approved investments will have a big effect on the national economy in 2025?
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 literature enthusiasts, 20th century arts and culture enthusiasts, Marvel Comics fans and comic book collectors! Today we go back to the year 1975 to take a close look at Marvel Comics’ very own comic book adaptation of the science fiction film Planet of the Apes (1968).
The first time I ever saw the Charlton Heston-led movie was on local TV but I could only watch a few portions of it as my access to TV was very limited on the day of its broadcast. It took me a purchase of the DVD copy of Planet of the Apes in 2001 and the use of a relative’s TV and DVD player to finally see it entirely.
As the movie was highly philosophical and symbolic with its presentation, I could see why a lot of people regard it as a sci-fi classic. I should state that I do not believe in human evolution nor do I believe that humans and apes share a common genetic ancestor. Science and technology could never solve God’s designs and power of creation of life. As such, the concept of Planet of the Apes – which started as a novel before being adapted into film with the involvement of Rod Serling of The Twilight Zone – is nothing more than fantasy.
As the 1968 movie turned out successful, it not only spawned cinematic sequels but also an official comic book adaptation by Marvel Comics.
With those details laid down, here is a look back at Adventures on The Planet of the Apes #1, published in 1975 by Marvel Comics with a story written by Doug Moench and drawn by George Tuska. This is the first chapter of a 6-part adaptation of the 1968 movie.
The cover.
Early story
The story begins in deep space. Inside the speeding space ship is the American pilot Taylor doing an audio recording of mission details and his thoughts. He mentions the theory of Dr. Hasslein stating that centuries have already passed back on Earth even though he and his companions Dodge, Landon and Stewart (all three already in a state of suspended animation) hardly aged at all. He then joins his teammates for the long-term sleep expecting that by the time they wake up, they will their destination.
A very long time later, the ship enters the atmosphere of a breathable planet and crash lands on water. Now with facial hair, Taylor, Dodge and Landon wake up and they are shocked to see that Stewart is already dead. Suddenly, water begins to enter the interior of the ship forcing the three men go outside and ride on a boat with the equipment they managed to bring out. They move on as their ship sinks below the water.
Taylor, Dodge and Landon arrive on shore and they realize they are in the middle of a wasteland…
Quality
Taylor, Dodge and Landon with the primitive humans.
I am surprised to see that this literary work turned out to be faithful to the movie (specifically from the start until Taylor got shot during the ape-led hunt). It is not a 100% accurate which is not surprising as Marvel’s creators balanced the amount of details for adaptation while still having some space left for them to implement their own creative way of dramatizing the characters.
Writer Doug Moench clearly paid close attention to the details from the movie while ensuring that the adaptation will work within the limitations of the comic book format. For his part, artist George Tuska did a fine job drawing the characters, the environments and the apes. The way he drew Taylor, Landon and Dodge, there is clearly some 1970s influence on their space suits and the character designs (example: Dodge has an afro hairstyle). Tuska’s art on the apes unfortunately lacked details and they look rushed. The way they appeared in the comic book, the apes don’t look intimidating at all.
When it comes to adapting scenes from the movie script into comic book form, there were clear differences with regards to the arrangement of the details. For example in the movie, Charlton Heston’s Taylor talks a lot more in the opening scene (inside the space ship) expressing his lack of faith in humanity and desire for something better than his own species. In this comic book, Taylor talked much less in the beginning but his cynicism as well as his sarcastic views on humanity and nation were revealed in a scene when he and his companions were in the middle of the wasteland. Literary Taylor’s putdowns on Landon are much more detailed than what was shown in the movie. In some ways, the dialogue in this comic book is more philosophical than what was executed in the movie when it comes to the common scenes (between comic book and film).
Another example was the scene showing the three men and the waterfall. In the film, they took their clothes off and started swimming in the lake without even checking the quality of the water. In the comic book, Dodge actually tested the water and declared it safe for them to swim in. The comic book also showed more of Dodge’s dedication to scientific testing.
Conclusion
Observe how divisive and cynical Taylor here is. The grey-haired Landon is in conflict with Taylor while Dodge keeps doing scientific work.
I can say that Adventures on The Planet of the Apes #1 (1975) is an entertaining read and a good enough start of the 6-part adaptation of the movie. The Moench-Tuska duo’s efforts resulted in an engaging tale of Taylor and his two teammates who find themselves in a strange world that turned out to have apes being armed and riding horses. This comic book is mostly composed of build-up of details and expository dialogue, and yet the action scenes on the last three pages resulted in a short yet sufficient pay-off.
Overall, Adventures on The Planet of the Apes #1 (1975) is recommended.
Recently in the city of Parañaque, agents of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) raided a house resulting in the rescue of a helper and the apprehension of several Chinese nationals, according to a GMA Network news report.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of GMA News. Some parts in boldface…
The authorities rescued a house helper in Parañaque City after being locked in by her employer operating a (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operation) (POGO).
According to John Consulta’s report on 24 Oras, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) agents raided a house inside an exclusive subdivision in Parañaque City.
On the third floor, some Chinese nationals were caught online.
The helper said when she found out about the illegal activities happening inside the house, they locked her inside the house.
“Noong bigla ako umakyat doon at nakita ko na ganun ang trabaho nila. Noong malaman ko binabawalan na nila akong umakyat, bawal na ako lumabas kasi baka magkwento raw ako sa labas. Binabawalan nila akong maglinis sa third floor. Natatakot po ako,” she said.
(When I went up there, I saw what they were doing. When I found out what they were really doing they banned me from going upstairs, I wasn’t allowed to go out because I might tell someone about this outside. They forbid me to clean the third floor. I’m afraid.)
The NBI said she wasn’t able to go out since November.
“Nag-start ng November na ‘di na siya pinapalabas, restricted na galaw niya. Kahit sa paggamit ng cellphone, di na siya pinapagamit ng maayos,” said Terence Long-e, NBI agent.
(It started in November that she was no longer allowed to go out, her movements were restricted. Even when using a cell phone, she is not allowed to use it.)
Luckily, she was able to call a friend who then asked for help from the NBI.
The authorities discovered their scripts on the computers and the various online frauds they were into. There is also an indication that they are preying on some Filipinos.
“Nakakita kami ng mga written script which indicates social engineering scheme, may cryptocurrency scripts, may money muling, may nakita kaming romance scam script,” said NBI Cybercrime Division Chief Atty. Jeremy Lotoc.
(We have found written scripts that indicate social engineering schemes, there are cryptocurrency scripts, money muling, and we have found romance scam scripts.)
“They come from a big POGO organization, dahil sa wala na nga, pinatigil na ng pangulo ang POGO, nagdivide sila into smaller group at tinuloy nila ang mga kalokohan nila,” said NBI Director Jaime Santiago.
(They come from a big POGO organization because it’s gone, the president stopped the POGO, they divided into smaller groups, and they continued their nonsense.)
Seven Chinese nationals were arrested and are facing multiple complaints. No one among them gave a statement.
The NBI will assist the rescued helper to return home to her two children in Davao.
“Yung finile namin is at least apat na charges, merong afasa, may Kasambahay Law, may Republic Act 10175, at merong expanded Anti- Human Trafficking in Persons Act,” said Lotoc.
(Our final is at least four charges: there is a fast, there is the Maid Law, there is Republic Act 10175, and there is the expanded Anti-Human Trafficking in Persons Act.)
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 small groups of POGOs secretly setting up new and illegal operations within your local community? Do you think Parañaque has something that makes it a preferable destination for Chinese nationals to set up illegal operations?
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
Recently in the city of Parañaque, a wanted man from Quezon province was arrested in BF Homes over his alleged involvement in online child sexual exploitation activities, according to a Philippine Star news report. The local law enforcers were armed with a warrant for his arrest which was issued by a Regional Trial Court (RTC) judge in Quezon province.
To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of the Philippine Star. Some parts in boldface…
A 59-year-old building contractor, known by the alias “Anthony,” was arrested at B.F. Homes in Parañaque City last Thursday for his involvement in online child sexual exploitation activities.
Operatives from the District Special Operations Unit (DSOU) and the District Intelligence Division of the Southern Police District (SPD) served the warrant of arrest against the accused around 5 p.m. that day.
The arrest was made in connection with charges under the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials Act.
SPD director Brig. Gen. Bernard Yang confirmed that the arrest stemmed from a pending warrant for violations of Sections 4(M) and 4(A) of the law.
The warrant was issued by Julius Francis Galvez, presiding judge of the Regional Trial Court, Branch 96, Catanauan, Quezon on Dec. 12.
The accused faces a recommended bail of P200,000 for one charge, while the other remains non-bailable.
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 more wanted people from the provinces who could be present in your local community within the city?
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
Some good news for those who need medicine but have limited financial resources. The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) announced that several more medicines for cancer, diabetes and mental illness have officially been declared exempted from the Value-Added Tax (VAT), 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 Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has exempted 16 more medicines for cancer, diabetes, and mental illness from value-added tax (VAT).
Under Revenue Memorandum Circular (RMC) 131-2004, the BIR updated the list of VAT-exempt medicines to include those for cancer — Degarelix freeze-dried powder with 80 milligrams (mg) and 120 mg, and Tremelimumab concentrates with 25 mg and 300 mg dosages.
It also exempted more medicines for diabetes including Sitagliptin and Linagliptin film-coated tablets.
Also included in the VAT-free medicines are those for mental illnesses such as Clomipramine Hydrochloride tablets, and Midazolam film-coated tablets.
The BIR said the additional exemptions were made in response to the updated list of VAT-exempt products from the Food and Drug Administration.
Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Are you happy to hear that the BIR declared VAT-exempt more medicines of diabetes, mental illness and cancer?
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
Welcome back and Merry Christmas to all my readers, YouTube viewers and all others who followed this series of articles focused on YouTube videos worth watching. Today is the Christmas Special for this series and I want you to celebrate the season in remembrance of Lord Jesus who is our Savior and the Hope of ALL nations! Lord Jesus’ birth in Israel thousands of years ago will always remain highly significant not just during Christmas season but for all time.
I recommend you check out the following topics and the related videos I found. May these videos bring you closer to Lord Jesus this Christmas.
#1Christmas music videos – To start with, I selected for you all varied music videos celebrating Christmas and the honoring of Lord Jesus as presented by Christian churches. Watch, enjoy and come closer to Him.
#2 Christmas special presentations and the Word of God – Churches of Lord Jesus have their own special presentations about Christmas. If you want a more extensive viewing experience of Christmas celebrations plus teachings of the Word of God (the Holy Bible), watch the videos I selected for you all.
#3 Christmas in Israel – As some of you may already know, I have visited the Holy Land in Israel and I would love to return there to deepen my faith in Lord Jesus even more. I pray that someday I could spend Christmas in Israel and witness how the season is celebrated right there. Of course, Christmas is all about Lord Jesus and His birth in Israel thousands of years ago is forever a holy event. Enjoy the sights of Christmas in different parts of Israel as captured by YouTuber Relaxing WALKER.
In concluding this Christmas special, I want to remind you to celebrate the season by praising and honoring Lord Jesus. Rejoice with Him every Christmas. Lord Jesus is the Savior and the Hope of ALL nations! Each and every lost soul still has time to come to Jesus for repentance and submission so that salvation will happen. Learn the truth from the holy scriptures below.
For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father [of Eternity], Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6 (AMPC)
For God is one, and there is one Mediator between God and the sons of men—the true man, Jesus, the Anointed One.
1 Timothy 2:5 (TPT)
Jesus told him,
“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.”
John 14:6 (NLT)
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)
And Joseph also went up from Galilee from the town of Nazareth to Judea, to the town of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David,
To be enrolled with Mary, his espoused (married) wife, who was about to become a mother.
And while they were there, the time came for her delivery,
And she gave birth to her Son, her Firstborn; and she wrapped Him in swaddling clothes and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room or place for them in the inn.
Luke 2:4-7 (AMPC)
Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying,
“I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”
John 8:12 (NKJV)
Thank you for reading this blog post. Merry Christmas to everyone! Jesus is our King, He loves the faithful and He will return to us someday!
As some of you are already aware, I fully stand with Israel which is very connected with my uncompromising faith in the Lord. I keep on praying to Him for Israel to overwhelm its enemies, rescue the hostages and recover from the effects of the October 7, 2023 terrorist attacks committed by the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas which is sponsored by terrorist state Iran. I can assure all of you that nobody from the evil Islamo-Leftist mob, nobody from the pro-Palestine radicals, nobody from the political correctness extremists, and nobody from evil societies would stop me from supporting and loving Israel.
Now, on with the news…
A few weeks ago, a special event showcasing Israeli wine was held here in the Philippines, according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) news article. This development signified Israel’s focus on the Philippines as a new wine market.
To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the PNA news article.. Some parts in boldface…
Israel is pouring its wine into the Philippine market, confident that its products can rival the best in the world.
With a deep legacy of winemaking dating back thousands of years, Israel is now eager to share its fine bottles with Filipino wine lovers and travelers.
At the “L’Chaim! Discover Israeli Wine” event on Dec. 4, the Israeli Embassy in Manila treated wine enthusiasts, hoteliers and distributors to a curated tasting of wines from 15 of Israel’s top wineries.
“The Philippine market has matured, in my opinion. So it’s time,” Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss said.
“It’s obvious that we have competition here but what Israel can offer is really the higher end of wines — and we have so much to share.”
In addition to reintroducing Israeli wines to Filipino consumers, the embassy is also aiming to inspire Filipinos to explore Israel’s wineries as part of their travel plans.
Israel, often called the Holy Land, has a winemaking tradition that stretches back over 5,000 years, with wine from Judea being traded around the ancient world during the time of Jesus.
“Israel is a country of different cultures, and so is its cuisine,” visiting Israeli Tourism Minister Haim Katz said.
“Tourists can enjoy Mediterranean delicacies, dishes from Arab cuisine, Jewish food, colorful markets, and wine tastings that offer an unforgettable culinary experience.”
L’Chaim, which means “to life” in Hebrew, was the first of its kind hosted by the Israeli mission in the Philippines.
“L’Chaim is more than just a toast. It’s a celebration of life, friendship, and the bright future we are building together,” Fluss said.
Renowned Israeli wine expert and international wine judge Haim Gan was also present to provide insights into Israel’s innovative wine industry, noting its growing recognition and numerous international awards.
This latest development shows the continuing growth of Israel-Philippines ties through the business of wine as well as the opportunities for Filipinos to explore the wine industry of Israel when they travel there. Indeed, Israel-Philippines ties are essential!
To my fellow Filipinos reading this, I encourage you to accept the truth that Israel is the land God designated specifically for the Jewish people (read Genesis 35:10-12) and His command must be followed without hesitation. If you want to be blessed further by the Lord, do so by loving and blessing the Jewish people (Genesis 12:1-3). I did my part when I was in Israel. Also, let me remind you all that the ties between the Jews and Christians are truly biblical!
I encourage you all to pray to the Lord God in support of Israel, to love and bless the Jewish people, and pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Pray to Him so that Israel-Philippines ties and cooperation will keep growing stronger in the years to come.
Author Carlo Carrasco 