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What To Watch On YouTube Right Now – Part 162

What To Watch On YouTube Right Now – Part 162

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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 English-dubbed Super Dimension Fortress Macross episodes – As some of you are already aware, I am a Macross fan when it comes to anime. I saw lots of anime since I was little but it was the Super Dimension Fortress Macross anime TV series that I found very compelling and engaging to watch. A few years ago, I view all of the original SDF Macross TV episodes subtitled in English. Recently, I found this YouTube channel called MacrossMan and it featured all 36 SDF Macross episodes dubbed in English (the dub was done in 2006 by ADV Films). Apart from having a really good cast of voice actors, original Macross singer and voice actress Mari Iijima returned as Lynn Minmay complete with English dialogue! For your viewing pleasure, posted below are three videos covering the first 18 episodes of Super Dimension Fortress Macross.

#2 Castlevania II: Simon’s Quest revisited – The original Castlevania console game of 1986 is still widely remembered by long-time fans and retro gamers not only because it started successfully and paved the way for a long-running game franchise, but also because it was an inspired work that captured the popular elements of horror connected with pop culture. I noticed there are gamers who still replay the original Castlevania on different platforms to this day. Strangely enough, not too many Castlevania fans and retro gamers talk about the 1987 sequel Castlevania II: Simon’s Quest. I myself played and finished that game and it was loaded with gameplay features that made it play and feel different from its predecessor in many ways. To learn more about Castlevania II: Simon’s Quest, watch the retrospective video below.

#3 Japan’s effort to protect the future of food – Food is undeniably essential. Without food, people would not survive and nations will collapse. In Japan, there are these gene banks that store a few hundred thousand genetic resources. Those gene banks were designed to preserve varied food genes such as the rare heirloom vegetables, fruit varieties from around the world and more. These gene banks reflect Japan’s focus on ensuring food security as well as the survival of different types of food on the genetic level. Watch and learn from the Nippon TV video below.

#4 The House of the Dead remembered – Remember the sudden rise in popularity of zombies and horrific monsters in video games back in the mid-1990s? Apart from the success of the original Resident Evil video game, Sega made its presence felt in horror-themed gaming with the release of The House of the Dead in 1996. Powered by Sega’s Model 2 arcade hardware, The House of the Dead is a light gun arcade game that had players facing off with zombies and other horrific creatures. The game was a tremendous arcade success with sales of more than 8,500 cabinets globally and it led to the production of ports and sequels in the years that followed. If you are wondering who created The House of the Dead, what specific audience Sega targeted and what controversies did the game generate, watch the video of the late PatmanQC below.

#5 The 1989-90 Phoenix Suns remembered – Before Charles Barkley joined the Phoenix Suns and led them to the 1993 NBA Finals, the team’s strong formation and rise happened in the late-1980s. Entering the 1989-90 season, the Suns had the high-scoring Tom Chambers and the action-packed point guard Kevin Johnson who were already among the elite players. That said, the Suns made quite an impact on the Western conference during the 1990s NBA playoffs. To find out what the 1989-90 Suns achieved and why they were a solid team, watch the retrospective basketball video below.

#6 You, Me and The Movies reacts to The Return of Godzilla – Way back in 1984, Toho revived the Godzilla movie franchise with grittiness, darkness and the Cold War mixed in. They achieved that with The Return of Godzilla and it truly was a return to form for Japan’s iconic cinematic monster. To make things clear, this is NOT Godzilla 1985 which was a butchered low-budget Western version that had Raymund Burr. Recently, You, Me and the Movies posted their reaction video of The Return of Godzilla and it is entertaining to watch.

#7 Moxy Swim 2026 Miami Swim Week fashion show – Are you familiar with Moxy Swim? Moxy Swim is a popular, creator-designed brand of swimwear. During this year’s edition of Miami Swim Week, Moxy Swim had a flashy fashion show showcasing many beautiful women and the latest swimwear of the company. Watch and enjoy the video below.

#8 The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers reaction videos – In early 2003, I saw The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers in a local cinema with many other moviegoers. It is truly a great fantasy movie and the cinematic experience was captivating despite the long runtime. There are even a few film buffs who considered it the best of the LOTR film trilogy. To see how much of an impact The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers has on YouTubers, watch the 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 @CarloCarrascoPH as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Domestic Tourism in the Philippines Dampened by High Fuel Costs

Domestic Tourism in the Philippines Dampened by High Fuel Costs

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Domestic tourism, which has been one of the few economic bright spots for the Philippines this year (click here and here), has officially been dampened by high fuel costs and the Department of Tourism (DOT) itself confirmed it lately, 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…

DOMESTIC TOURISM has been dampened by high fuel costs stemming from the fighting in the Middle East, the Department of Tourism (DoT) said.

Supervising Tourism Operations Officer Ryan R. Carlos said in a webinar on Monday that higher fuel prices have pushed airfares higher.

“We cannot deny that inflation is also one of the factors,” Mr. Carlos said, pointing to soaring prices of air travel, accommodations, and various tourism-related expenditures.

Inflation accelerated to 7.2% in September from 6.1% in August, bringing the nine-month average to 5.4%.

The Civil Aeronautics Board set the passenger fuel surcharge at Level 16 for Oct. 16-31, down one notch from the first half of the month.

Under Level 16, airlines may collect fuel surcharges ranging from P525 to P1,535 for domestic flights and between P1,733.76 and P12,891.29 for international flights, depending on distance.

To address rising costs, Mr. Ryan said the DoT has been partnering with various travel associations to help bring down the costs of tourism-related goods and services. He said the department has also asked its regional offices to develop affordable itineraries.

Domestic tourism propped up the industry last year, according to the Key Indicators of the Household Survey on Domestic Visitors report.

Of the 84.38 million individuals aged 15 years and over, 74.5% took at least one domestic trip in 2025. Female domestic travelers accounted for 50.5% of the total, compared with 31.11 million, or 49.5%, for males.

“By age group, domestic travelers are much more concentrated in the younger age group, particularly in the range of 13 to 54 years,” Assistant National Statistician Genelyn Ma. F. Sarte said, adding that the highest percentage of travelers belonged to the 25 to 29 age group.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think domestic tourism numbers by the end of this year will end up being lower than in 2025? If you were able to go out of town for vacation here in the Philippines over the past six months, how much did you spend on travel? Do you think 2027 will be a tougher year for domestic tourism?

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

Bangkok’s International Airport to Reduce Duty-free Space to Make Room for Premium Services

Bangkok’s International Airport to Reduce Duty-free Space to Make Room for Premium Services

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Suvarnabhumi Airport, the primary international gateway serving the Bangkok metropolitan region in Thailand, will reduce the amount of duty-free retail space to make room for new paid premium passenger services, according to a news report of VnExpress.

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

Thailand’s airport operator plans to reduce duty-free retail space at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport to make room for new paid premium passenger services.

Airports of Thailand (AoT), which manages Suvarnabhumi Airport, expects to announce details of a new paid Premium Service for arriving and departing passengers this month, ThaiPbsWorld news site reported.

AoT President Paweena Jariyathitipong said the existing duty-free model had fallen short of expectations, prompting the operator to reassess the use of retail space to better reflect passenger behavior and preferences, Thaiger reported.

The state-owned airport operator plans to reduce retail space, using the freed-up area to install more automated immigration gates and expand online order pick-up counters. To improve passenger convenience, AoT plans to roll out a range of à-la-carte premium services available for individual purchase.

Unlike traditional VIP treatment, which is typically reserved for celebrities and dignitaries, the new paid offerings will be open to all passengers, including business travelers and tourists seeking greater privacy and faster airport services.

Passengers will be able to choose individual services based on their needs rather than purchase bundled packages.

Proposed services for arriving and departing passengers include valet parking, electric buggy transfers within the terminal and dedicated fast-track assistance.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think the plan of Suvarnabhumi Airport will the travel experience of passengers better or more efficient? Have you traveled to Thailand over the past six months?

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 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

A Look Back at Spider-Man 2099 #12 (1993)

A Look Back at Spider-Man 2099 #12 (1993)

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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, 1990s culture enthusiasts and comic book collectors! Today we go back to the year 1993 to explore a part of the Marvel Comics shared universe through a tale of the Spider-Man 2099 monthly series.

By 1993, the 2099 lineup of comic books became popular with Marvel Comics readers and it was the series of the futuristic Spider-Man that engaged readers a lot thanks to the in-depth writing of the late Peter David. It should be stated that David also wrote a lot of stories of the classic Spider-Man (Peter Parker) years before Marvel even launched the 2099 franchise of comic books.

With those details laid down, here is a look back at Spider-Man 2099 #12, published in 1993 by Marvel Comics with a story written by Peter David and drawn by Rick Leonardi.

Comic book cover featuring Spider-Man and a character named Thanatos. Spider-Man is seen in a dynamic pose, while Thanatos, wearing a gold and red costume with a helmet, is prominently displayed. The background is orange with comic-style text.
The cover.

Early story

The story begins in an Alchemax facility with Tyler Stone talking with Dana at work. As Miguel O’Hara walks by the virtuality unreality office, a huge explosion sudden hits them. It turns out there was an experiment by Jordan Boone that went wrong and Miguel finds him. As the two talked, Jordan remains arrogant and sarcastic towards O’Hara.

Elsewhere, the mysterious man wearing armor and a helmet uses his device to scan the Alchemax facility and he spots Tyler Stone and Dana talking with each other. He listens to their conversation closely…

Quality

A comic strip featuring a distressed woman with long blonde hair expressing emotional turmoil amidst a backdrop of technological failure. The panels depict her hesitation, thoughts on running, and a call to someone named Miguel. The scene is vibrant with bright colors, emphasizing her emotional state.
Not even Miguel O’Hara’s AI assistant could handle the news.

This is a tale that has a careful mix of complexity and twists within. It technically is about the business of Alchemax getting disrupted from within and from the outside with the mysterious Thanatos pursuing something deep within the secrets of the company.

Miguel O’Hara is in a bind here as Dana (who is his fiancée) gets involved in a dangerous situation because of Thanatos’ sudden forced entry into Alchemax targeting Tyler Stone. At the same time, O’Hara values the company and prefers it does not collapse because of Thanatos. As expected, Miguel changes into the futuristic Spider-Man and carefully deals with Thanatos not by force but with strategic negotiation and discussion. Since he does not know what Thanatos is truly after, he has to play along while ensuring nobody from the company suffers (even though Alchemax itself has some very undesirable personalities within).

All throughout, this tale is heavy on the dialogue and there are a lot of details that you will need to absorb in order to understand the story and what Thanatos is pursuing. Along the way, this story reveals Alchemax has something valuable that has nothing to do with wealth. This is where the virtual unreality division of the company comes into place and Jordan Boone (who later becomes the fake Loki in the Fall of the Hammer storyline and also Halloween Jack in later X-Men 2099 tales) has a very notable role here. The story moves mostly in a medium pace and the build-up of the plot happens gradually. As such, there is some suspense and intrigue here.

Thanatos here is a pretty calculating antagonist. He is capable of killing others to get what he wants, but he prefers to do things patiently and strives get what he wants without using force as the primary option. There is richness in the dialogue here and his interactions with Spider-Man and Tyler have a cerebral touch throughout.

Conclusion

A comic book panel featuring characters in superhero costumes interacting, with one character in a red and black suit resembling Spider-Man, and another in a yellow and blue suit. Dialogue bubbles reveal a tense negotiation. The scene includes two other characters standing nearby, with a futuristic background.
Spider-Man carefully talks with Thanatos to let Dana go free. Dana does not know Miguel O’Hara and Spidey are one and the same person.

Spider-Man 2099 #12 (1993) is a really intriguing read filled with suspense and twists. This is not your typical superhero story about the hero fighting hard with the villain, and Thanatos is a pretty unique antagonist who puts Alchemax and others on the edge of danger. That said, this tale is the start of a new storyline and there is more that have yet to be revealed. 

Overall, Spider-Man 2099 #12 (1993) 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 @HavenorFantasy 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

Japan Launches New Disaster Management Agency

Japan Launches New Disaster Management Agency

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In a renewed attempt to boost disaster response and reduce damage from future disasters, the government of Japan formally launched a new disaster management agency, according to a news report of Kyodo News.

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

The Japanese government on Monday launched a new agency to oversee its response to disasters in the quake-prone country and prepare damage reduction measures for a myriad of crises.

Headquartered in Tokyo, the National Disaster Management Agency will establish regional hubs to enhance coordination with local governments to deal with disasters, including potential megaquakes along the Japan Trench, the Chishima Trench, the Nankai Trough and directly beneath the Tokyo metropolitan area. The location of the regional hubs will be selected in the summer of 2027 and they will open by July 2028.

The agency is headed by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Reconstruction Minister Goshi Hosono will serve concurrently as disaster management minister, Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said at a press conference Monday.

It marks the first launch of an agency directly under Cabinet supervision since the establishment of the Digital Agency in September 2021.

A key challenge for the new agency, which will also respond to torrential downpours and volcanic eruptions, will be expanding support to municipalities that may have limited budgets and poor access to disaster management experts.

The disaster management minister will have the authority to make recommendations to other ministries and agencies, and those whose efforts are deemed insufficient will be obliged to respect the minister’s recommendations.

Megaquakes along the Nankai Trough, which stretches southwest off the Pacific coast of central Japan, or in the Tokyo metropolitan area are expected to generate an overwhelming number of evacuees, necessitating the improvement of evacuation shelters, reducing disaster-related deaths and proactively delivering amenities that tend to be in short supply.

The agency will also be responsible for the recovery and reconstruction of disaster-hit regions starting from the Noto Peninsula, hit by an earthquake in 2024, and Kumamoto Prefecture, which experienced a (magnitude)-7.1 temblor in July this year.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think it is necessary for Japan to establish a disaster management agency that is directly under the supervision of the Cabinet? Do you perceive the new disaster management agency as another form of expanding central government control on the nation’s disaster response and management?

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

Overstaying Chinese National Arrested in Parañaque City over Involvement in Telecommunications Fraud

Overstaying Chinese National Arrested in Parañaque City over Involvement in Telecommunications Fraud

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Recently in the city of Parañaque, elements of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) arrested a Chinese national who has been wanted for his alleged involvement in a telecommunications fraud syndicate and the Chinese Embassy sought his deportation, according to a news report of GMA News. The suspect has been overstaying in the Philippines since 2018 and had entered the country as a foreign tourist.

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

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has arrested a Chinese national wanted for his alleged involvement in a telecommunications fraud syndicate in Parañaque City.

In a press release issued on Monday, the BI identified the fugitive as 39-year-old Chen Yongzhou, who was arrested on October 14, 2026.

His arrest was initiated at the request of the Chinese Embassy in Manila, which sought his deportation.

According to the Embassy, Chen is subject to an active warrant for criminal detention issued by the Xinzhan Branch of the Public Security Bureau in Hefei, China.

Chinese authorities allege that Chen was involved in an overseas telecommunications fraud syndicate that operated from 2023 to 2024. The syndicate reportedly used voice phishing tactics to target victims in China, deceiving them into parting with their money through fraudulent investment schemes.

“They allegedly used a website called ‘WeChat’ to make random voice calls and build relationships with victims under the guise of romance,” BI Fugitive Search Unit Chief Rendel Ryan Sy said.

“They then persuaded victims to send gold to designated recharge points and invest in a fraudulent platform purportedly linked to the Shanghai Gold Exchange,” he added.

Sy noted that the group’s fraudulent operations allegedly defrauded victims of over 4.73 million renminbi, or roughly USD 706,000.

BI travel records show that Chen last entered the Philippines as a tourist in June 2018 and was already overstaying at the time of his apprehension.

The BI reported that the suspect remains detained at the Parañaque City Jail due to a pending murder charge before a local Regional Trial Court, a legal proceeding that will run independently of his deportation process.

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 illegal aliens or foreign criminals living in your local community? What do you think makes Parañaque so attractive to illegal immigrants/aliens and fugitives? What do you think about the groups of Chinese nationals living in your city?

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

Japan’s Narita International Airport Plans to Combine Three Terminals

Japan’s Narita International Airport Plans to Combine Three Terminals

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Narita International Airport (NRT), the primary international gateway of Japan, could make flight connections and the travel experience better once its plan of combining the three terminals pushes through, according to a news report by VnExpress pointing to the Japanese media.

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

The operator of Japan’s Narita International Airport seeks to make travel easier for passengers and improve the airport’s position as a regional hub, according to local media.

Since opening in 1978, Narita has added new terminals regularly over the years. But this makes it inconvenient for transfer passengers, who often have to take shuttle buses between the various terminals.

To solve this problem, the airport operator plans to merge the three terminals into one, making connections easier.

According to The Mainichi newspaper, the operator first presented the single-terminal concept in September 2022 at a meeting with the governor of Chiba Prefecture. More proposals were unveiled at a meeting in Tokyo on July 6, 2026.

They included closing the current Narita Airport train station at Terminal 1 and building a new one under the terminal to be built south of Terminal 2.

The plan also includes adding about 30 new parking spots with jet bridges, bringing the total to around 100. Customs and passenger processing will gradually move into this central structure.

The airport’s total floor area will increase from 970,000 square meters to about 1.1 million square meters.

The airport also plans to build a new 3,500-meter third runway and extend runway B by 1,000 meters to 3,500 meters by March 2029.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? If you have entered Japan through the Narita International Airport over the past twelve months, how was your personal travel experience? Do you think the BRT operator’s plan to combine Narita’s three terminals into one makes a lot of sense? Do you think the plan will somehow help Japan attract even more tourists from around the world while ensuring border security?

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