#pinoy — Public Fediverse posts

Alexei Cruz #AlexeiCruz #model #sfw #sfwgay #eyecontact #abs #hunk #asian #philippines #Filipino #pinoy

Alexei Cruz #AlexeiCruz #model #sfw #sfwgay #eyecontact #abs #hunk #asian #philippines #Filipino #pinoy

Philippines 2026 Foreign Tourist Arrivals Reach 4.11 Million as of August, U.S. and South Korea Remain Top Markets

With the Peso performing terribly in the global currency market, weakening economic growth, high inflation and fears of an economic recession growing, 2026 has not been good for the Philippines. There is a bright spot in tourism, however, as the Philippines saw its 2026 foreign tourist arrivals reach 4.11 million in the January-August period and the United States and South Korea combined for more than 1.5 million tourist arrivals, according to a news article by the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

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

The Philippines has recorded 4.11 million foreign arrivals from January to August, higher by 3.7 percent compared to the same period last year, the Department of Tourism (DOT) said on Tuesday.

The United States posted the highest number of share at 818,318, followed by South Korea at 727,379, Japan at 350,191, China at 310,088, and Australia at 234,156.

Also making it in the top 10 source markets are Canada with 231,972, Taiwan with 154,957, the United Kingdom with 132,370, Singapore with 126,812, and India with 77,883.

Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay said the Philippines targets to surpass its 2025 arrival figures to reach between 6.4 million and 6.8 million, or at least 7 million, by the end of 2026.

To achieve this, she said the DOT is intensifying its branding and promotions to reach more tourists in its key source markets.

The DOT is also in active talks with airlines to open up and establish more chartered flights between the Philippines and secondary cities of Korea and China.

DOT Assistant Secretary Ren Sapitan said the agency is also set to sign a contract with a creative agency in November to broaden the country’s marketing efforts and make the Philippines more visible worldwide.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the Philippines will be able to exceed the 2025 foreign tourist arrivals number by the end of this year? Do you think the DOT is doing a good job to strengthen the Philippines’ attraction of foreign tourists? Considering the Top 10 markets of foreign tourists the Philippines attracted so far, are you convinced that the nation’s hosting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit did not create any positive tourism results?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Moody’s Analytics Cuts Philippines 2026 GDP Growth Forecast to 3%

By citing key factors like weak consumption, Middle East oil shock and the collapse in private investment, Moody’s Analytics officially slashed its 2026 gross domestic product (GDP) growth forecast for the Philippines to 3%, according to a news report by BusinessWorld.

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

MOODY’S ANALYTICS slashed its 2026 growth forecast for the Philippines, amid weak consumption and a collapse in private investment.

In its latest Asia-Pacific Outlook report dated Aug. 24, the analytics firm said it now sees Philippine gross domestic product (GDP) expanding by 3% this year, slower than its 4% projection in June.

“We lowered our 2026 GDP growth forecast to 3% from 4% in the June vintage after incorporating the second-quarter GDP result, which was far weaker than expected,” Moody’s Analytics Assistant Director and Economist Sarah Tan said in an e-mailed reply to questions.

The Philippine economy slumped to its worst post-pandemic growth of 2.3% in the April-to-June period, as investments and public construction continued to reel from last year’s flood control corruption scandal. Rising prices from the Middle East war-driven oil shock also strained household spending.

“The economy expanded by just 2.3% year on year, with private consumption showing notable weakness and private investment collapsing,” Ms. Tan noted. “This points to softer underlying domestic demand than we had previously anticipated.”

As of the first half of 2026, the country’s GDP growth averaged 2.6%, well below the government’s 3.5%-4.5% full-year target.

If Moody’s Analytics’ forecast holds true, the government will miss its growth target for a fourth year in a row. The economy would also further soften from last year’s post-pandemic low growth of 4.4%.

Economists earlier said that reaching even the bottom end of the government’s target entails a steep climb, as it means the economy must grow by at least 4.4% in the second half.

Moody’s Analytics sees growth recovering over the next two years to 4.6% in 2027 and 5.1% in 2028. The government wants full-year expansion to be between 5% and 6% from 2027 to 2030.

Meanwhile, GlobalSource Partners Country Analyst Diwa C. Guinigundo noted that the Philippines could face a more complicated path toward fiscal consolidation if growth remains below potential.

“Slower growth would make fiscal consolidation and debt reduction more difficult,” he said in a Viber message. “The issue is not simply that government revenues would grow more slowly; a weaker economy also means a smaller denominator for the debt-to-GDP ratio.”

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think 2026 will end up as a very disappointing year of economic growth for the Philippines? Do you think the economy of the Philippines could still fall into a recession in 2027 or in the first half of 2028? Are you convinced that the Philippines has nothing to gain economically from hosting the ASEAN Summit?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Over 1,000 Communist Rebels and Supporters in the Philippines Neutralized As of August 13

Over a thousand rebels of the New People’s Army (NPA) and their supporters were neutralized as of August 13, according to a news article of the Philippine News Agency (PNA) citing the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Neutralized refers to the surrender, capture, or killing of enemy troops.

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

The government’s campaign against communist insurgents is gaining momentum as the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reported neutralizing 1,045 New People’s Army (NPA) rebels and their supporters during operations conducted from Jan. 1 to Aug. 13 this year.

Of the total, 935 surrendered, 38 were arrested, and 72 were killed in various military operations, AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said in a media interview late Tuesday.

“A total of 661 firearms and 255 anti-personnel mines were either seized or surrendered, and 38 encampments were seized (in the same period),” she said.

Neutralized is a military term that refers to the surrender, capture, or killing of enemy troops.

“The numbers give us an indication of the operational situation, but we should look beyond the numbers. The more significant story is that 935 CTG (communist terrorist group) members and supporters chose to surrender,” Padilla pointed out.

In 2025, the military said it neutralized around 2,018 NPA members and their supporters. The bulk of whom were surrenderers, at 1,798, while 93 were arrested and 127 were killed.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Are you thankful to the AFP for neutralizing over a thousand Communist rebels and supporters as of mid-August? Are you convinced that there are still many millions of young Filipinos who took sides with the Leftist rebels? Do you think Democrats and/or the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) from the United States are secretly supporting Communist rebels here in the Philippines?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Over 1,000 Communist Rebels and Supporters in the Philippines Neutralized As of August 13

Over a thousand rebels of the New People’s Army (NPA) and their supporters were neutralized as of August 13, according to a news article of the Philippine News Agency (PNA) citing the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Neutralized refers to the surrender, capture, or killing of enemy troops.

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

The government’s campaign against communist insurgents is gaining momentum as the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reported neutralizing 1,045 New People’s Army (NPA) rebels and their supporters during operations conducted from Jan. 1 to Aug. 13 this year.

Of the total, 935 surrendered, 38 were arrested, and 72 were killed in various military operations, AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said in a media interview late Tuesday.

“A total of 661 firearms and 255 anti-personnel mines were either seized or surrendered, and 38 encampments were seized (in the same period),” she said.

Neutralized is a military term that refers to the surrender, capture, or killing of enemy troops.

“The numbers give us an indication of the operational situation, but we should look beyond the numbers. The more significant story is that 935 CTG (communist terrorist group) members and supporters chose to surrender,” Padilla pointed out.

In 2025, the military said it neutralized around 2,018 NPA members and their supporters. The bulk of whom were surrenderers, at 1,798, while 93 were arrested and 127 were killed.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Are you thankful to the AFP for neutralizing over a thousand Communist rebels and supporters as of mid-August? Are you convinced that there are still many millions of young Filipinos who took sides with the Leftist rebels? Do you think Democrats and/or the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) from the United States are secretly supporting Communist rebels here in the Philippines?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Over 1,000 Communist Rebels and Supporters in the Philippines Neutralized As of August 13

Over a thousand rebels of the New People’s Army (NPA) and their supporters were neutralized as of August 13, according to a news article of the Philippine News Agency (PNA) citing the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Neutralized refers to the surrender, capture, or killing of enemy troops.

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

The government’s campaign against communist insurgents is gaining momentum as the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reported neutralizing 1,045 New People’s Army (NPA) rebels and their supporters during operations conducted from Jan. 1 to Aug. 13 this year.

Of the total, 935 surrendered, 38 were arrested, and 72 were killed in various military operations, AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said in a media interview late Tuesday.

“A total of 661 firearms and 255 anti-personnel mines were either seized or surrendered, and 38 encampments were seized (in the same period),” she said.

Neutralized is a military term that refers to the surrender, capture, or killing of enemy troops.

“The numbers give us an indication of the operational situation, but we should look beyond the numbers. The more significant story is that 935 CTG (communist terrorist group) members and supporters chose to surrender,” Padilla pointed out.

In 2025, the military said it neutralized around 2,018 NPA members and their supporters. The bulk of whom were surrenderers, at 1,798, while 93 were arrested and 127 were killed.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Are you thankful to the AFP for neutralizing over a thousand Communist rebels and supporters as of mid-August? Are you convinced that there are still many millions of young Filipinos who took sides with the Leftist rebels? Do you think Democrats and/or the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) from the United States are secretly supporting Communist rebels here in the Philippines?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Philippines Attracts FDI Worth $210 Million in May 2026

The Philippines, which hosted the summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and other related conferences, failed once again on attracting significant foreign direct investment (FDI) as the May 2026 FDI net inflow was counted at $210 million only making it the lowest in eleven years, according to a news report by the Manila Bulletin.

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

Foreign direct investment (FDI) net inflows into the Philippines plunged to $210 million in May, the lowest monthly total in more than 11 years as global economic volatility and geopolitical tensions prompted foreign companies to delay capital commitments.

According to the latest data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), released on Monday, Aug. 10, the May figure represents a 64.7 percent contraction from the level recorded in May 2025 and falls below the previous record low of $200.43 million seen in March 2015.

The sharp monthly drop dragged total net inflows for the first five months of 2026 to $2.18 billion, a 33.4 percent decline from the $3.27 billion recorded in the same period last year.

According to the BSP, the cumulative decline was “driven by lower foreign net investments in debt instruments and reinvestment of earnings, which more than offset the increase in net equity capital investments (other than reinvestment of earnings).”

The central bank added that this trend “reflected lower intercompany borrowings from foreign direct investors and reduced earnings retained for reinvestment during the period.”

Among its components, the primary driver of the May shrinkage was the sharp fall in net investments in debt instruments, which tumbled 92.1 percent to $35 million from $440 million a year earlier.

As of end-May, debt instruments—which “consist mainly of intercompany borrowing or lending between foreign direct investors and their subsidiaries or affiliates in the Philippines”—totaled $1.25 billion, dropping by nearly half from the $2.48 billion recorded in 2025.

This five-month performance follows a challenging 2025, during which annual net inflows plunged to $7.79 billion from $9.40 billion in 2024. The BSP forecasts inflows to clock in lower at $7 billion before rebounding to $8 billion in 2027.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think hosting the ASEAN Summit will lead the Philippines to economic miracles and stronger FDI in the near future?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Philippines Economic Weakness Continues As 2nd Quarter GDP Growth Lands At 2.3%

The economy of the Philippines slowed down even further in the 2nd quarter of 2026 landing at 2.3%, according to a news report by GMA News. Embarrassingly, this made the Philippines an economic weakling among the members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

By comparison, the economy of the Philippines achieved only 2.8% growth in the 1st quarter of this year. The nation’s economic growth for 2025 was at 4.4%

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

The Philippine economy continued to slow down in the second quarter of 2026, still due to a subdued investor and consumer sentiment amid the lingering effects of the flood control corruption scandal and the inflationary pressure brought by Middle East crisis-induced global fuel price shocks, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported on Friday.

At a press conference, PSA chief and National Statistician Claire Dennis Mapa said the economy, as measured by gross domestic product (GDP)—the value of goods and services produced in a period— grew 2.3% in the April to June 2026 period, slower than the 2.8% growth seen in the first quarter of 2026.

This is the economy’s weakest footing since the fourth quarter of 2009 —excluding the contraction seen during the COVID-19 pandemic years— when the GDP growth rate was at 1.8%.

The 2.8% second quarter GDP growth put the Philippines behind its neighbors in Southeast Asia that already released their April to June economic growth rates such as Indonesia at 5.29%, Vietnam at 8.39%, and Singapore at 5.7%.

The first half of 2026 GDP growth rate stood at 2.6%, still behind the government’s downwardly revised target of 3.5% to 4.5% for the entire year.

Despite the economic slowdown, Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said, “What we are experiencing right now, I believe, is transitory, temporary.”

“Domestic demand remained subdued, mainly because total investment continued to contract as public construction declined. Household consumption growth also moderated amid higher inflation, job losses, and lower remittance receipts arising from the Middle East conflict,” Balisacan said.

Household final consumption expenditure grew 2.8%, slower than 5.2% in the same period last year, weighed by contractions in transport (-7.5%), alcoholic beverages and tobacco (-1.9%), recreation and culture (-0.8%), and restaurants and hotels (-0.2%).

Government expenditure, likewise, slowed down by 8.3% from 8.7% year-on-year; while gross capital formation (GCF) —which measures investments— contracted by 9.2% from a growth rate of 0.9% a year ago.

The decline in GCF was due to the decline in construction at 14.8% with government spending on construction contracting 32.4%.

“Although public construction is a small part of the economy, the amount of contraction, at 32%, brought a significant impact on the economy,” Balisacan said.

“The sharp decline in public construction was the main contributor in the decline in investments… driven by continuous caution due to the flood control scandal,” the country’s chief economist said.

Among the major economic sectors, agriculture posted a growth rate of 2.7%, slower than 7% year-on-year; industry declined by 2.4%, from an increase of 2.1% weighed by the construction’s depreciation; services grew slower at 4.5% from 6.9%.

Agriculture, industry, and services sector contributed 7.5%, 27.9%, and 63.3%, respectively to the total GDP during the quarter.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the economy of the Philippines will eventually fall into a recession in 2027? Do you believe that the hosting of the ASEAN summit by the Philippines will result in economic miracles and more foreign investment?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Swiss Challenge For Cerberus’ Subic Bay International Airport Proposal Launched

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has officially launched the Swiss challenge for the P7 billion proposal for the upgrading and management of the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) and this opened the field for entities to submit their proposals challenging the existing proposal of Cerberus Asia Pacific Investments LLC, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

For previous blog posts about the SBIA project, click here, here and here.

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

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has formally started the Swiss challenge for the ₱7-billion proposal to manage and upgrade the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA), as it issued a call to potential challengers to submit competing offers.

In a bid bulletin dated July 31, the SBMA invited firms to submit their comparative proposals for the project proposed by United States (US)-based Cerberus Asia Pacific Investments LLC.

SBMA said interested firms have until Oct. 29 to submit their proposals, with the bid opening scheduled to take place on the same day. A pre-bid conference to clarify the requirements and address queries from participating firms is set for Sept. 14.

Under a Swiss challenge, also known as a comparative challenge, the SBMA is allowing other companies to match the unsolicited proposal for the SBIA submitted by Cerberus, which was approved in April last year.

Cerberus has been granted original proponent (OP) status by the SBMA for its unsolicited proposal to upgrade, expand, operate, and maintain the SBIA. As the OP, Cerberus will have the right to match the best offer during the challenge process.

Cerberus is seeking to manage the SBIA under a 25-year operate-rehabilitate-add-transfer scheme to develop the gateway into a strategic cargo and logistics hub that would help ease congestion at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

“Currently underutilized, SBIA requires substantial investment and comprehensive operational improvements to realize its full potential over the concession period,” SBMA said.

Cerberus is planning to invest ₱7 billion to develop the project, nearly 13 percent higher than the initial project cost pegged at around ₱6.2 billion.

The investment will focus on upgrading existing airport facilities to align them with international benchmarks, alongside the development of new facilities to transform the airport into a higher-capacity logistics hub.

SBMA noted that the airport’s location and air-to-sea access pose a significant opportunity to develop it into a hub for commercial cargo and warehousing.

“This highlights a growing demand for air cargo services, driven by the need for industrial supplies and the transportation of finished products,” it said.

In addition, SBMA noted that the ongoing development of the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) further increases the need for improved air connectivity.

The LEC is an initiative led by the Philippines, the US, and Japan aimed at accelerating high-impact investments to enhance connectivity between Subic Bay, Clark, Manila, and Batangas.

“All these factors lead to the conclusion that the manufacturing industry in the Philippines, and particularly Central Luzon, is highly likely to significantly grow in the upcoming decade, both in terms of size of current facilities, and additional factories,” SBMA said.

“This leads to demand for air cargo in terms of industrial supplies, as well as output products, and attracts population growth and consumer wealth, leading to consumption increase and related air cargo demand,” it added.

By developing the SBIA, SBMA said it is ensuring that Clark International Airport will not be the only alternative once NAIA reaches its cargo capacity limit in the future.

The agency said an upgraded SBIA can ensure competitive pricing and provide additional options for airlines operating or planning to set up shop in Manila.

With this, Subic Bay is expected to help accommodate an additional 200,000 tons of cargo by 2035.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think there will be a lot of corporations locally and overseas that will submit their Subic Bay International Airport proposals to the SBMA? When was the last time you arrived at the international airport in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

SBMA Releases Almost P220 Million Revenue Shares To Olongapo City And Other Local Government Units

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) announced that it has released almost P220 million in revenue shares to the City Government of Olongapo and seven other local government units (LGUs).

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the SBMA’s official announcement. Some parts in boldface…

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) released a total of PHP 218,115,671.26 in revenue shares to eight local government units (LGUs) contiguous to this premier freeport zone.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said that this amount released on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, represents the revenue shares for the first semester of 2026, which is 10.24 percent higher than that of last year’s comparative period.

The recipient LGUs are Olongapo City, the municipalities of Subic, San Marcelino, Castillejos, and San Antonio in Zambales, and the towns of Dinalupihan, Hermosa, and Morong in Bataan.

Taking into account the population and land area, Olongapo was allocated the largest amount of PHP 50,420,165.72, received by Olongapo City Mayor Atty. Rolen Paulino, Jr. This was followed by Subic, Zambales, which received PHP 32,871,521.46, accepted on behalf of Mayor Jonathan John Khonghun.

The remaining LGUs received their allocations as follows: Dinalupihan, Bataan, with PHP 27,438,313.68, accepted on behalf of Mayor German Santos, Jr.; San Marcelino, Zambales, with PHP 26,272,445.97, received by Mayor Elvis Soria; Hermosa, Bataan, with PHP 23,422,520.27, accepted on behalf of Mayor Atty. Anne Adorable-Inton; Castillejos, Zambales, with PHP 19,817,470.23, received on behalf of Mayor Jeffrey Khonghun; Morong, Bataan, with PHP 19,340,287.10, received on behalf of Mayor Leila Linao-Muñoz; and San Antonio, Zambales, with PHP 18,532,946.83, received by Mayor Dr. Arvin Antipolo.

The LGU shares are sourced from five percent corporate taxes paid by business locators in the Subic Bay Freeport. They are distributed among LGUs based on population (50%), land area (25%), and equal sharing (25%).

OIC-Deputy Administrator for Finance Editha Marzal, along with the finance team, led the distribution of the LGU shares.

Marzal noted that the net shares distributed to the LGUs include not only the current collection period’s allocations but also the 10 percent retention withheld during the first semester of the 2024 distribution.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you see the increased amount of revenue shares as a sign of better economic activities and finances within the Subic Bay Freeport Zone? Do you think the revenue shares would be higher once the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) and Pax Silica activities finally start economic activities in the near future?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

DTI Sees More Jobs And Investments Rising In Metro Manila Following Removal Of Ecozone Ban

Following the lifting of the ban on information technology economic zones in Metro Manila, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) expects the new investments to come in as well as new jobs to be generated, according to a news report by the Manila Bulletin.

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

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) expects the information technology and business process management (IT-BPM) sector to generate more jobs and attract new investments after the lifting of the ban on IT economic zones in Metro Manila.

In a statement on Tuesday, July 28, Trade Secretary Cristina Roque welcomed the issuance of Administrative Order (AO) No. 45, which seeks to ease some of the restrictions under the broader prohibition on the processing and evaluation of applications for ecozones imposed during the previous administration.

“This major policy reform is a resounding victory for the IT-BPM sector and a decisive step forward in strengthening the Philippines’ position as a premier global destination for digital services,” the DTI chief said.

AO 45, signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., excludes applications for the establishment of IT centers and IT parks from the ongoing moratorium on ecozone applications.

The order maintains the prohibition on all other ecozone applications in National Capital Region (NCR), as embodied in AO 18, issued by former President Rodrigo Duterte in 2019. The policy was implemented to encourage development and spur investments in the provinces.

With the lifting of the ban, Roque said the government is addressing long-standing investor demand from IT-BPM firms looking to open or expand in NCR while also creating more opportunities for real estate development.

“As we open new avenues for growth in Metro Manila alongside our continuous push to develop regional IT hubs, we are positioning the IT-BPM sector to generate thousands of high-quality jobs, attract foreign direct investments, and ensure economic growth nationwide,” she said.

The DTI earlier endorsed the proposal of the investment promotion agency (IPA) Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) to lift the moratorium to provide more options for companies seeking to locate in key central business districts in the capital region.

PEZA Director General Tereso Panga earlier told reporters that the ban has essentially forced firms to operate in existing ecozones, restricting their expansion plans.

“We invite our global partners and prospective investors to take full advantage of this renewed momentum and build their future here in the Philippines,” Roque said.

IT-BPM firms operate in ecozones to avail themselves of the fiscal and nonfiscal incentives provided by the government.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you consider Metro Manila suitable for the establish of new economic zones as well as the expansion of existing economic zones? Do you believe that the demand by IT-BPM firms for expansion in Metro Manila is real?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Palestinian Arrested In Quezon City For Stealing Money Bag

For some time now, I have been monitoring the criminal acts committed by people who are present in different countries as foreigners. Here in the Philippines, a Palestinian man was arrested in Quezon City for stealing a bag containing a lot of cash from the café of a hotel, according to a news report by the Manila Bulletin.

As it turns out, the Palestinian already has a history of committing other forms of crime. Could it be possible that, apart from violence and terrorism, theft and an obsession of committing crime are parts of the Palestinian nature?

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

A 36-year-old Palestinian man was arrested after allegedly taking a money bag containing P5,020 and an empty cash box from a hotel café on Timog Avenue in Barangay South Triangle, Quezon City, at around 11:06 p.m. on Thursday, July 23.

The suspect, identified as “Ham,” was intercepted by hotel security personnel at the establishment’s exit after the incident was detected through the hotel’s CCTV monitoring system.

Initial investigation showed that the suspect entered the café and allegedly took the money bag and empty cash box without the knowledge or consent of the 24-year-old male cashier.

Recovered from the suspect were P5,020 in various peso bills and coins, the cash bag, the empty cash box, and a backpack.

Personnel of Kamuning Police Station (PS 10) later responded and took custody of the suspect from the hotel security personnel.

Further verification showed that the suspect had previous criminal records for estafa, unjust vexation, resistance and disobedience to a person in authority, use of a fictitious name, and concealing his true name in October 2025, as well as theft in May 2026.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Are there a lot of Palestinians living in your local community right now? Are you aware of the fact that a lot of Palestinians follow Islamic terrorists as their leaders? How many Palestinians do you think are present all over the Philippines today? Did you notice an increase of the number of foreign Islamists in your local community over the past twelve months? Do you think the national government is secretly allowing Palestinians to enter the Philippines as high-priority refugees with immigration in mind?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Philippines Remains Vulnerable To Effects Of US-Iran War And Is One Of The Least Resilient In The Asia Pacific Region

When it comes to resilience to the effects of the war between the United States and the Islamic terrorist regime of Iran, the Philippines remains not only vulnerable but also one of the laggards of the Asia Pacific region as a whole, according to a news report by the Manila Bulletin.

Be reminded that the Philippines is experiencing weak economic growth, high inflation, and has been weak when it comes to attracting foreign direct investment. Already S&P Global slashed GDP growth forecast for the Philippines.

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

Asia-Pacific’s (APAC) relative insulation from the Middle East conflict has singled out the Philippines and Indonesia as laggards as external headwinds are exacerbated by domestic turmoil, according to Allianz Research.

Allianz Research said in its half-time outlook report published last week that despite emerging as one of the regions most exposed to the United States (US)-Iran conflict, APAC is still seen as relatively resilient, with average growth of 4.3 percent this year.

This resilience is attributed to the artificial intelligence (AI) boom, which is “doing the heavy lifting that geopolitics and fiscal policy cannot.”

“However, gains are far from evenly shared, with a group of winners emerging, including countries such as Taiwan, Singapore and South Korea, while countries such as the Philippines and Indonesia lag as domestic turmoil compounds exposure to the conflict,” Allianz said.

Apart from the technology surge, the report also pointed to Asia’s role as a global engine of commerce. “In 2026, 80 percent of global trade volume growth in goods and services is driven by Asia and the US,” the report said.

However, this dominance faces fresh challenges from shifting American trade policies. Allianz warned that the shift in US policies “is expected to negatively affect Asian countries in particular,” as the US effective tariff rate is projected to rise from eight percent to 13 percent.

According to Allianz, the region’s resilience hinges on the booming technology sector. It said the AI boom, which has been driving nearly two-thirds of Asia’s export growth, is helping “cushion” the global economy from the impact of the Middle East crisis.

This AI boom is broadening Asia’s recovery beyond traditional manufacturing, with major semiconductor firms in Taiwan and South Korea leading regional market gains.

By contrast, the Philippines and Indonesia are struggling with the lingering consequences of energy shocks.

“Despite recent developments toward normalization in the Gulf, we expect inflation to remain elevated in the near term as second-round effects from elevated fuel, energy and fertilizer prices keep weighing on the region,” Allianz said.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? What do you think the Philippines should do in order to become more resilient to the effects of the war between America and the Islamic terrorist regime of Iran? Do you think the national government has been working to improve oil storage capacity, attract more foreign investors and rely less on the Middle East for importing oil? Do you think the Philippines will reach out to the Islamic terrorist regime of Iran to make an economic deal?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Philippines Supreme Court Upholds Law Granting VAT Refund To Foreign Tourists

Remember the law granting value-added tax refund (VAT refund) to foreign tourists signed a few years ago? That law was challenged and recently the Supreme Court of the Philippines upheld the constitutionality of Republic Act 12079 (the act creating a VAT refund mechanism for non-resident tourists), according to a news report by GMA News.

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

The Supreme Court (SC) has upheld the constitutionality of a law that grants value-added tax (VAT) refunds on select local purchases by non-resident foreign tourists.

In a 30-page decision, the SC En Banc dismissed a petition challenging the validity of Republic Act 12079, or an act creating a VAT refund mechanism for non-resident tourists, adding Section 112-A to the National Internal Revenue Code.

“Granting VAT refund to foreign tourists was not arbitrarily done. It is a policy decision based on legitimate state interests, i.e. the need to remain competitive as a global tourist destination,” the SC said.

“In fine, foreign tourists may be granted privileges and benefits that are not extended to Filipino citizens, so as long as these distinctions are based on reasonable and justifiable classifications, as in here,” it added.

According to the SC, the VAT refund applies to goods brought from duly accredited stores and taken out of the country within 60 days from purchase. The goods must be priced at least P3,000 per transaction.

Meanwhile, the SC said Section 5 of the law’s implementing rules and regulations limit the refund to retail and tangible goods, including clothing, apparel, electronics, gadgets, jewelry, accessories, souvenirs, food or non-food consumables, and other items intended for personal use.

The petitioner, however, argued that the law violates the constitutional guarantee of equal protection as it excludes Filipino citizens.

For its part, the SC said equal protection does not require identical treatment for all persons.

It said the act also distinguishes foreign tourists from Filipino citizens.

According to the SC, the VAT refund system follows the basic rule of VAT that goods are taxed where they are consumed. If the goods are consumed in the Philippines, they remain subject to Philippine VAT.

Meanwhile, the SC added that VAT refund for foreign tourists is a well-established international practice.

“The Philippines is among the last few countries in Asia to adopt such a system. Our Asian neighbors, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, China, and Japan have long implemented this VAT refund mechanism for foreign tourists,” it said.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you agree with the Supreme Court’s decision on the law about VAT refund for foreign tourists? Apart from the VAT refund for foreign tourists, what problems that plagued the Philippine tourism industry should the government solve this year?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

BPI Customers Can Withdraw And Deposit Cash At Grocery, Convenience Stores And Other Commercial Joints

Customers of Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) are able to withdraw and deposit cash at grocery, convenience stores and other commercial joints thanks to the a newly launched campaign between the bank and over a thousand partner stores, according to a news report by GMA News.

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

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) on Wednesday launched its “Himala” campaign, allowing customers to withdraw and deposit cash at 1,369 partner stores, including grocery and convenience stores.

The service effectively turns participating outlets into “mini BPI branches,” enabling customers to complete cash transactions without visiting a physical bank branch.

The partner network includes Robinsons Retail Holdings Inc. (RRHI) stores such as Robinsons Easymart, Robinsons Supermarket, Shopwise, The Marketplace, Robinsons Department Store, Toys “R” Us, and Uncle John’s.

The service is also available at non-RRHI outlets, including Amesco, Fitmart GenSan, CVM Pawnshop, Falcor Marketing, Prince Retail, Prince Warehouse, Rodamel Drugstore, Savers Depot, Tacurong Fit Mart Inc., and Tambunting Pawnshop.

Customers can generate a barcode through the BPI app for cash deposits and withdrawals, then present it at any participating store for processing. They may also send the barcode to another person, who can use it to deposit or withdraw cash at a partner outlet.

Customers may deposit or withdraw a minimum of P100 through the partner network. Deposits are limited to P10,000 per barcode and P50,000 per day, while withdrawals are capped at P10,000.

Select services, including account opening and applications for BPI products, are also available through the bank’s network of 8,000 retail partners, which includes pharmacies and gas stations nationwide.

According to BPI Agency Banking head Rally Jereza, the Ayala-led lender is in talks to onboard more partner stores, with the goal of expanding the network to 10,000 outlets within the year.

“For now, I’m satisfied with 8,000 because we want to encourage people to use [the service]. But in terms of expanding, with existing BPI clients, corporate clients… it’s easy to expand. Right now, we just want to be able to maximize all of those footprints,” he said.

Jereza said the initiative also supports BPI’s “May BPI Dito” campaign, which aims to make the bank’s services available in as many locations as possible.

“What began in 2023 as product application points has evolved into a fully integrated banking ecosystem. Every phase—from enabling transactions on tablets to barcode withdrawals and now barcode deposits—was built to ensure safety, simplicity, and trust,” he said.

“This is not just expansion; it is a redefinition of what a bank can be in the digital age,” he added.

BPI said it has onboarded more than one million new-to-bank customers through its agency banking network and aims to increase the figure to 10 million.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? If you are a BPI customer, have you experience the convenience of doing important transactions at the grocery or at the convenience store lately?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

New Philippines Domestic Tourism Program Launched With Over 3,000 Travel Deals

In what is clearly a serious attempt by the Department of Tourism (DOT) to boost domestic tourism a lot, the new program Discover More To Love was recently launched with more than three thousand travel deals from varied hotels, tour operators and airlines, according to a news report by the Manila Standard.

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

The Department of Tourism (DOT) launched a new campaign offering more than 3,000 travel deals from hotels, tour operators, and airlines to boost domestic travel during off-peak months and support local businesses.

The campaign, named “Discover More to Love,” runs from July to November 2026 to stimulate year-round travel, sustain bookings, preserve jobs, and strengthen local economies during the industry’s traditional lean period.

The initiative serves as an extension of the country’s official tourism brand, “Love the Philippines,” rather than a replacement.

Travelers can access discounts of up to 70 percent from more than 70 hotels and resorts through the Hotels Sales and Marketing Association. The campaign also features more than 250 nationwide travel packages alongside discounted fares from carriers Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, AirAsia Philippines, and Sunlight Air.

Online platforms AirAsia MOVE and Klook are providing exclusive deals, while Mastercard offers special payment privileges for cardholders. Travelers can access the promotional room packages, staycation deals, dining credits, and flexible booking options directly through the department’s enhanced website at http://www.tourism.gov.ph.

Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay said the agency wants to evolve the initiative through feedback from travelers and industry partners.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you support the DOT’s renewed focus on 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.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Philippines At Risk Of Losing Ground In Global Supply Chain

If the Philippines fails to address the high costs of energy and the ongoing corruption connected with infrastructure projects, it could lose ground in global supply chains, according to a news report by BusinessWorld.

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

THE PHILIPPINES risks losing ground in global supply chains unless it addresses high energy costs and unresolved corruption issues surrounding infrastructure projects, which continue to weigh on investor sentiment, according to UK-based risk intelligence firm Verisk Maplecroft.

“The Philippines’ biggest infrastructure challenge is its relatively high cost of energy, which has been exacerbated by the Hormuz crisis,” Laura Schwartz, a senior Asia analyst at Verisk Maplecroft, said in an e-mailed reply to BusinessWorld.

“Following the onset of the crisis, there was some movement in fast-tracking renewable energy projects, but more will be needed,” she added.

The Philippines, which sources at least 90% of its oil supply from the Middle East, has been one of the most affected by the global oil crisis.

Ms. Schwartz also said last year’s corruption scandal — which linked state officials and contractors in substandard or nonexistent flood control projects — may deter companies that are seeking to diversify their supply chains from investing in the Philippines.

“High-profile governance issues, particularly the widespread public works corruption allegations and political jockeying, are one of the top factors leading to investor hesitation in the near term,” she said.

In its 2026 Supply Chain Risk Outlook, Verisk Maplecroft identified the Philippines, Thailand, Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay as “rising stars” in the global supply chain.

“Relative to the established hubs, these ‘rising stars’ offer different mixes of sector capability, market openness, regulatory strengths, and labor-risk trajectories for organizations looking to realign their supply chains,” it said in the report released on June 23.

“The businesses that move first — screening these markets now, building supplier relationships before demand spikes, and stress-testing entry strategies against external risk data — will find themselves better positioned to act when faced with disruptive geopolitical realignment, trade restrictions, or conflict outbreaks,” Verisk Maplecroft said.

A third of the world’s busiest ports and airports are vulnerable to disruption amid ongoing geopolitical conflicts, environmental challenges, and domestic security threats, the firm noted.

The closing of the Strait of Hormuz has created near-term headwinds for the Philippines and Thailand, Verisk Maplecroft said.

Despite this, “procurement teams willing to take a longer-term view will find these markets worth their attention,” the company added.

The report cited the Philippines’ strong potential in the global supply chain due to improvements in its market openness, its competitive labor costs, and its young, English-fluent workforce.

“The Philippines performs second-best across the Southeast Asian economies analyzed due to significant improvement in our market openness pillar,” it said.

“Despite lower infrastructure quality and governance challenges, including recent corruption scandals, the Philippines shows notable opportunities in sectors like electronics, auto parts, and food manufacturing,” Verisk Maplecroft said.

Other Southeast Asian economies assessed in the report were Singapore, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, and Myanmar.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the government of the Philippines has the will to resolve high energy costs and the ongoing corruption on infrastructure projects? Do you think the Philippines could get more affordable oil from places other than the Middle East?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Better than Streaming: Free Movie Admission For Senior Citizens In Muntinlupa City Restored

Welcome back fellow geeks and film buffs!

In the progressive city of Muntinlupa in the Philippines, the City Government led by Mayor Ruffy Biazon formally signed the memorandum of agreement (MOA) with three cinema operators – Alabang Town Center, Festival Mall and SM Center Muntinlupa – granting free admission for senior citizens with limits starting July 6, 2026, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

This move effectively restored the movie benefit of senior citizens in the city. Regarding the limitations of the benefit, free movie admissions will happen once-a-week, either on Monday or Tuesday.

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

Senior citizens in Muntinlupa will once again be able to watch movies for free starting July 6, following the signing of an agreement between the city government and cinema operators.

On July 1, Muntinlupa Mayor Ruffy Biazon signed a memorandum of agreement with SM Center Muntinlupa, Festival Mall, and Alabang Town Center granting senior citizens free movie admission.

Biazon said bona fide residents of Muntinlupa can avail themselves of the free movie admission once a week, either on Monday or Tuesday.

In May, Biazon signed City Council Resolution No. 2026-333, which authorized him to enter into the agreement with cinema operators in the city.

The resolution stated: “Senior Citizens of Muntinlupa City are given preferential attention and priority to enjoy additional grants of incentives as an expression of gratitude for their invaluable contribution to the progress and prosperity of Muntinlupa City.”

This latest development will eventually attract more senior citizens to enter the specific commercial places that have cinemas. Festival Mall’s modern cinemas are located at the 4th floor (AKA 3rd level) while those at Alabang Town Center are on the ground floor. Watching movies on the big screen inside the cinema is more immersive and clearly better than streaming.

Streaming extremists who oppose cinema viewing cannot argue with the fact that almost all movies released from long ago were made for the big screen inside the theaters, not for smartphones, not for laptops and not for TV sets. I should state that senior citizens can enjoy spending time inside commercial joints socializing with friends after watching movies, and it definitely is not ideal for them to spend all their free time inside their homes. There is the human need for the temporary change of place and it is only the cinema that can provide them the immersive, big screen entertainment experience.

If you wish to join a group of movie enthusiasts and talk about cinema, cinematic trends, Blu-ray releases and more relevant stuff, visit the Movie Fans Worldwide Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/322857711779576

+++++

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

Muntinlupa City Police Rescues 28 Individuals In Street Situations

Recently in the city of Muntinlupa, local authorities rescued almost thirty individuals – including minors – who were spotted on local streets to ensure their safety, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

The Muntinlupa police rescued 28 Children, Individuals, and Families in Street Situations (CIFISS) during a reach‑out operation aimed at providing assistance and intervention.

A total of 61 police personnel, 20 barangay personnel, and three personnel from the Muntinlupa City Public Information Office participated in the one-time big-time reach-out operation in Barangays Alabang and Ayala Alabang.

Col. Olivia Ancheta, Muntinlupa police chief, led the pre-deployment briefing together with barangay offices that emphasized the importance of a coordinated, humane, and community-centered approach in assisting CIFISS.

CIFISS includes minors who live and spend time on the streets, adults who live in public spaces, and families living on the streets due to economic hardship. The composite teams were deployed to target areas, including a terminal and the Alabang viaduct.

The rescued individuals were turned over to the Barangay Social Services Department of Barangay Alabang for documentation, assessment, and the provision of interventions and social welfare services.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? If you are a resident of Muntinlupa City, do you approve the way the local authorities rescued the individuals spotted on city streets?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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

S&P Global Slashes Philippines GDP Growth Forecast

In its latest analysis and assessment, S&P Global predicts weaker gross domestic product (GDP) growth for the Philippines at 4.1% this year, according to a news report by BusinessWorld.

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

The economic drag from the Middle East-war driven oil shocks and last year’s flood control mess fallout could slow the Philippines’ growth to 4.1% this year, S&P Global said.

In its latest economic outlook for Asia-Pacific, the debt watcher cut its gross domestic product (GDP) growth forecast for the Philippines to 4.1% for this year, from 5.8% previously.

S&P Global Asia-Pacific Chief Economist Louis Kuijs and Senior Economist Vishrut Rana noted that the Philippines emerged as a laggard in the region, which was largely resilient at the start of the year.

“Asia-Pacific economic growth largely held up in early 2026. In the first quarter, GDP growth met or exceeded expectations in most economies, with generally solid contributions from both exports and domestic demand,” Mr. Kujis and Mr. Rana said.

“However, growth significantly lagged expectations in the Philippines, where the energy shock combines with a sharp reduction in public infrastructure spending related to misutilization of funds,” they added.

In the first quarter, the economy unexpectedly grew by 2.8%, its weakest growth since the COVID-19 pandemic, due to spiraling oil prices and the lingering effects of last year’s corruption scandal.

The S&P economists noted that countries in the Asia-Pacific, including the Philippines, are heavily reliant on oil imports from the Middle East, which made them vulnerable to disruptions in the region’s key energy facilities and the Strait of Hormuz.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the government has any plans to stimulate economic growth? Do you see the GDP of the Philippines growing at a slower rate over the next several quarters? Do you think the economic managers of the current administration should be replaced?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

America Is Currently Top Market Of Foreign Visitors For The Philippines

It is not a secret that the Philippines has been having trouble attracting visitors from overseas. There was a tourism boom in Southeast Asia in 2025 and the Philippines fell way behind its neighbors (note: Vietnam attracted over 21 million visitors while Indonesia attracted over 15 million). When it comes to foreign tourists counted in 2025, the Philippines attracted 8,375 less compared to 2024.

In fairness, domestic tourism here in the Philippines is thriving as Filipinos and their families do have a strong appetite for local travel and holidays. On the aspect of foreign tourism with statistics counted as of June 16 this year, the United States has emerged as the top market for the country, 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 Philippines has welcomed 2.9 million foreign visitors from January 1 to June 16, 2026, led by those from the United States, the Department of Tourism (DOT) said.

Preliminary figures released Thursday showed tourists from the U.S. reached 591,569 out of the country’s total inbound arrival of 2,955,014 during the period.

The DOT has yet to provide the full breakdown of top visitor arrivals, but said the U.S. “has now become our number one source market,” and it expects the figures to further grow.

At the general membership meeting of the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (AmCham) on June 17, Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay said the DOT will intensify its push for more tourism and investment partnerships with the U.S.

“We no longer see tourism simply as promotion. We see it as a platform for long-term investment,” she said, citing as example the USD3.4 billion in investments, pipeline opportunities, and financial support the Philippines secured during President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s recent state visit to Japan.

“This is the direction we are pursuing — tourism as a connector sector that brings together aviation, infrastructure, healthcare, and regional development.”

The DOT, she said, will also work closely with relevant government agencies to improve and expand air connectivity across the country.

“To make this more systematic, we will convene regular airline and airport connectivity discussions with carriers, airports, stakeholders, and government agencies. The goal is simple: solve bottlenecks together and turn plans into actual flights,” she added.

At the same time, Angara-Mathay said DOT would sustain efforts to develop the Philippines’ high-value tourism segments such as meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE), gastronomy, wellness, education, and retirement tourism.

“Once people can get here more easily, the next question is what kind of experience we offer them. And that brings me to high-value tourism. Our goal is not simply to bring in more visitors, but to make every visit more meaningful, longer stays, higher spending, and deeper engagement with our destinations and communities,” she said.

To put things in perspective, 2,955,014 foreign visitors attracted in the first 167 days of 2026 is equivalent to an average of 17,694.69 per day. At that rate, the Philippines could attract more than 6.4 million this year and exceed the 2025 count. However, the DOT did not specify if the current count excludes Filipinos with foreign citizenship (or dual citizenship) based overseas.  

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Were you surprised that the United States overtook South Korea as the top market of foreign visitors to the Philippines? Under the new leadership of the DOT, do you feel confident that improvements on attracting foreign visitors will happen this year? What do you think the Philippines has when it comes to attracting American tourists?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Weak Infrastructure Safeguards In The Philippines Exposed

It has been several months since the flood control corruption scandal rocked the Philippines. As a result, the scandal exposed weak infrastructure safeguards, according to a news report by the Manila Bulletin.

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

The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) has flagged corruption as a major risk to Philippine infrastructure delivery, warning that the multibillion-peso flood-control corruption scandal show that current accountability safeguards remain insufficient to prevent the misuse of public funds.

In its report titled “Accelerating Sustainable Infrastructure Investments: Assessing Policies for Planning, Delivery and Financing in Central and Southeast Asia” published on Friday, June 12, the Paris-based OECD said procurement weaknesses continue to undermine infrastructure development in the Philippines despite existing legal frameworks and reform initiatives.

“Corruption remains a major risk in infrastructure delivery” in the country, OECD said, citing persistent procurement vulnerabilities despite measures such as the Integrity Initiative and online blacklisting.

OECD said anti-corruption clauses should be embedded in public procurement and public-private partnership (PPP) contracts, while transparency mechanisms should be expanded to strengthen oversight over infrastructure projects.

It said recent high-profile scandals involving infrastructure rollout, particularly flood-control projects, showed that existing accountability mechanisms were not enough to prevent the improper use of public funds.

OECD devoted a section of its Philippines chapter to flood-control governance failures, citing reports in a University of the Philippines Center for Integrative and Development Studies (UP CIDS) policy brief on irregularities affecting projects worth more than ₱545 billion, or about $9.5 billion, since 2022.

According to OECD, UP CIDS reported that a significant share of contracts had been awarded to a small number of firms, while some projects were found to be non-existent or poorly executed.

The report also cited estimates that corruption in flood-control spending may have cost the government ₱42 billion to ₱118 billion, or $700 million to $2 billion, a year.

OECD said the case showed how corruption and mismanagement could weaken climate resilience while wasting scarce public funds in a country highly exposed to climate-related flooding.

To address these risks, OECD said the Philippines should strengthen procurement transparency, independent audits, competitive bidding, and project-level monitoring.

It also recommended publishing contract data and linking budget releases to verified project completion to help protect public resources as well as ensure that infrastructure investments deliver actual resilience and development outcomes.

OECD said public procurement, PPPs, and state-owned enterprises (SOEs), or locally known as government-owned and/or controlled -corporations (GOCCs), should “lead by example” in promoting responsible business conduct (RBC) in infrastructure.

While the Government Procurement Reform Act (GPRA) already includes RBC-related provisions, OECD said bidding documents still lack references to climate resilience and broader RBC risks.

The report also noted that the PPP Code mandates environmental and social safeguards, but gaps remain in standardized procedures as well as the capacity of local government units (LGUs) to implement them.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think it will still be a few years before guilty ones behind the flood control corruption scandal will be brought to justice? Do you think infrastructure development will continue to be hampered by corruption over the next ten years?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

America’s Ban On Importing Crab Meat From The Philippines Takes Effect

Due to the Philippines’ failure to comply with the US Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), the United States’ ban on importing Philippine crab meat officially took effect, according to a business news report by the Philippine Star. This latest development is another embarrassment for the Philippines as it is the only Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member nation that failed the US comparability assessment. It should be noted that the Philippines took pride in hosting the ASEAN Summit this year.

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

As the US import ban on Philippine crab meat takes effect today, the blue swimming crab industry is bracing for massive economic losses – estimated at P6 billion to P7 billion annually – and job displacements, an industry stakeholder said.

Former E.B. Magalona mayor and crab meat exporter Alfonso Gamboa said the country’s failure to comply with the US Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) led to the loss of its largest export market.

About 90 percent of Philippine crab meat production is exported to the United States, Gamboa said.

The United States National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) announced on May 12 that imports of Philippine blue swimming crab products would be restricted due to inadequate documentation on mandatory marine mammal protection and bycatch monitoring programs.

Gamboa, president of Saravia Blue Crab Inc., a major blue crab processing company, said the Philippines is the only ASEAN country that failed the US comparability assessment, noting that Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India, Vietnam and even China were able to comply.

“We failed because of insufficient documentation and monitoring measures concerning marine mammal protection,” he said.

Gamboa said the industry had already been experiencing difficulties since September 2025 when Philippine exporters were initially denied access to the US market. An appeal filed in January 2026 was likewise unsuccessful.

“In other words, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) did not do its job,” he said.

Gamboa estimated that around 10,000 fishermen and an additional 4,000 to 5,000 crab meat pickers in Negros, Panay, Bicol, Samar, Leyte and parts of Mindanao could be affected by the loss of the US market.

Major production areas include the Visayan Sea, Guimaras Strait, San Miguel Bay, Masbate, Sorsogon, Camarines Norte and Camarines Sur.

The Philippines exports approximately 500,000 pounds of crab meat monthly to the US, with products sourced from processing facilities in Bacolod, Iloilo, Cebu, and other coastal communities.

Although alternative markets such as China, the European Union, Canada and Australia remain available, Gamboa said they are too small to absorb the volume previously purchased by US buyers.

“These markets cannot absorb the displaced workers or the volume we used to ship to the United States,” he said.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the government of the Philippines will be able to act quickly to gain access to the United States for its crab meat exports? Who in Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) should be held responsible for the failure to comply with the US Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA)?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Food Cart Program In Las Piñas City Expanded To Include More Families

Recently in Las Piñas City, the new food cart program was expanded to include more families so they could improve their livelihoods and be able to start small-sized businesses of their own, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

Fifteen families in Las Piñas City have been given a fresh opportunity to improve their livelihoods after the city government distributed additional food carts under its ongoing assistance program.

Mayor April Aguilar announced that the food carts were awarded to selected beneficiaries to help them start small businesses and generate extra income for their households. This latest batch of recipients adds to the six families who received food carts on May 2.

Some of those earlier beneficiaries have already launched ventures this summer, selling refreshing “samalamig” drinks and popular street food favorites known as “tusok-tusok.”

These affordable snacks not only bring joy to local communities but also provide steady earnings for the families involved.

The beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the assistance, saying the food carts would help them meet their daily needs and give them a chance to build a more stable source of livelihood for their families.

The mayor said the local government remains committed to implementing programs that create jobs and livelihood opportunities for Las Piñeros as part of the city’s continuing efforts to improve the quality of life of its residents.

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? Are you delighted to see more families getting included in the local food cart program under the City Government?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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

SBMA Adjusts Bidding Timeline For Subic Bay International Airport

With the window remaining open for bidders to challenge Cerberus’ unsolicited offer for the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA), the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) officially adjusted the bidding timeline, according to a news report by the Manila Standard. Previously, the SBMA announced a Swiss challenge for the airport development project.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the SBMA’s official announcement. Some parts in boldface…

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is inviting rival bidders to challenge the unsolicited offer of Cerberus Asia Pacific Investments LLC for the P6.2-billion Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) development project.

In a recent bid bulletin, the SBMA announced that the issuance and availability of tender documents has been rescheduled to June 17, 2026, moving back from its initial May 18, 2026 timeline.

“The extension ensures technical specifications, financial parameters, and contractual frameworks are comprehensive, accurate, and clear,” the SBMA said.

“This adjustment protects the integrity of the Comparative Challenge process and ensures an equal footing for all participants. No prejudice is caused to any party as documents have not yet been released,” it added.

The asset-management firm Cerberus originally submitted its unsolicited proposal on March 26, 2025, under an Operate-Rehabilitate-Add-Transfer scheme.

The project spans a 25-year concession period—with a possibility for extension—and involves upgrading, expanding, operating, and maintaining the SBIA before its eventual turnover to the SBMA.

The primary goal is to transform the airport into a modern, high-capacity cargo hub that meets international standards and streamlines logistics across the Luzon region.

The comparative challenge will operate under a “right-to-match” mechanism in accordance with the PPP Code Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR).

The original proponent will be given 30 calendar days to match or top the most superior proposal submitted by a challenger. If no challengers emerge, or if the original proponent submits a superior counter-offer, the contract will be awarded to Cerberus.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think several corporate entities overseas will eventually challenge Cerberus’ bid for the Subic Bay International Airport?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Deal Signed For Vietnam To Supply Rice To The Philippines

On the sidelines of the recent summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), a new agreement was signed for Vietnam to supply the Philippines with 1.5 million metric tons of rice which will last until April 2027, according to a news report by the Manila Standard.

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

The Philippines and Vietnam signed a new rice supply agreement on Thursday during high-level bilateral talks on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit in Cebu City, as Manila moves to secure stable imports amid rising global uncertainties.

Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the Philippines secured a one-year agreement for the supply of 1.5 million metric tons of rice from Vietnam, ensuring uninterrupted shipments through April 2027. The deal helps stabilize the domestic market against geopolitical risks and climate-related production threats.

“Securing import volumes until next April is crucial amid geopolitical uncertainties and climate risks,” Tiu Laurel said, noting that stable supply is essential to keeping rice prices manageable in the domestic market.

Both sides finalized pricing and logistics arrangements and agreed on a benchmark price of $450 per metric ton for the widely consumed DT8 rice variety. Vietnam remains the Philippines’ largest rice supplier and accounts for the bulk of the country’s imported grain requirements.

Tiu Laurel said Manila is prioritizing reliable supply channels as regional demand continues to rise, fueled partly by tensions in the Middle East and concerns over possible production disruptions from another El Niño episode. He added that Vietnam seeks a long-term trade framework covering rice and other agricultural commodities.

“Even the Vietnamese prime minister consistently highlighted this during the bilateral meeting,” Tiu Laurel said.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vietnam Prime Minister Lê Minh Hưng pushed the deal during the latter’s first ASEAN Summit appearance in Cebu. The two leaders also commemorated the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the 2 countries while discussing expanded cooperation in trade, tourism, agriculture and investment.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the new rice supply agreement between the Philippines and Vietnam ensures food security for the Filipino people? Have you ever tasted rice imported from Vietnam? Do you think the Philippines should focus more on harvesting a lot more local rice grain and support more domestic rice farmers to ensure a better internal supply?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

U.S. Trade And Development Agency To Fund Feasibility Study For Sangley Point International Airport

Here in the Philippines, the push to develop new international airports to improve air travel connectivity with other destinations gained a major step forward as the United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) will fund a crucial feasibility study for the multi-billion Dollar Sangley Point International Airport (SPIA) project, according to a news report by the Manila Bulletin.

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

The United States (US) Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) will fund a feasibility study for the proposed Sangley Point International Airport in Cavite, a project aimed at easing congestion in Metro Manila and bolstering security for direct transpacific flights.

The USTDA awarded the grant to Cavitex Holdings Inc., a local developer leading the project consortium, the agency said in a statement on Tuesday, May 12.

Cavitex has selected California-based The S-A-P Group LLC to conduct the technical analysis, which will include air traffic forecasting, financial modeling, and the design of security protocols for a facility intended to serve as a major gateway for US-bound travel.

The investment comes as the Philippines struggles to manage surging aviation demand. Metro Manila’s primary gateway, Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), handled approximately 52 million passengers in 2025, pushing its aging infrastructure to the limit. The Sangley project is a central component of the Luzon Economic Corridor, a strategic initiative designed to strengthen economic resilience and infrastructure connectivity across the country’s most populous island.

“The high volume of direct international travel between the United States and the Philippines reflects the steadfast friendship of our two countries,” said Thomas R. Hardy, USTDA deputy director.

He added that the project aligns with the broader goal of maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific by fostering safe and efficient passenger traffic.

For Cavitex, the US backing provides both technical expertise and a gateway to American technology. The study will evaluate the adoption of US solutions for security screening, telecommunications, and airport construction.

Leonides J.M. Virata, Cavitex president and chief executive officer, said the grant will accelerate the development of an airport expected to generate tens of thousands of jobs and unlock billions of pesos in long-term economic activity.

While the project cost remains subject to the study’s findings, the consortium has previously indicated that the multi-phase redevelopment of the former naval base could require an investment exceeding 500 billion pesos. The project is designed to handle both cargo and passenger traffic, providing a necessary relief valve for the capital region’s saturated airspace.

The USTDA functions as a “first mover” for US government involvement in emerging market infrastructure, providing the technical groundwork required to make large-scale projects bankable.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Are you convinced that the USTDA’s funding of a feasibility study is very crucial for the development of the Sangley Point International Airport? Do you think there really is a high volume of direct international travel between America and the Philippines? Do you think the development of new international airports in the Philippines will progress better as long as the national government does not get involved?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Philippines Inflation Accelerates To 7.2% In April 2026

Considering the immense economic impact the conflict in the Middle East had on the world, the inflation rate of Philippines unsurprisingly accelerated to 7.2% in April 2026, according to a news report by GMA News.

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

Inflation rate accelerated to its fastest in three years in April 2026 as higher global fuel prices brought about by the Middle East petroleum crisis spilled over to food, local petroleum, and utilities costs during the period.

At a press briefing on Tuesday, National Statistician and PSA chief Claire Dennis Mapa said inflation — the rate of increase in the prices of goods and services — accelerated to 7.2% last month from 4.1% in March 2026 and 1.4% in April 2025.

This was the fastest inflation print since March 2023, when the inflation rate clocked in at 7.6%.

April’s inflation brought the year-to-date rate to 3.9%, still within the 2% to 4% comfortable ceiling set by the government for the entire 2026.

“Ang pangunahing dahilan ng mas mataas na antas ng inflation nitong Abril 2026 kumpara noong Marso 2026 ay ang mas mabilis na pagtaas ng presyo ng Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages na may 6% inflation rate,” Mapa said.

(The main contributor to the increase in inflation rate in April 2026 compared to March 2026 was the faster hike in the prices of Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages which posted a 6% inflation rate.)

Also contributing to the uptrend of the overall inflation in April 2026 was the faster annual increases seen in the Transport index at 21.4% in from 9.9% in March as well as the Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas and Other Fuels at 8.2% during the month from 4.7% in the previous month.

Moreover, faster increment were likewise seen in the indices of the following commodity groups last month:

Alcoholic beverages and tobacco – 4.8% from 3.7%; Clothing and footwear – 2.8% from 2.6%; Furnishings, household equipment and routine household maintenance – 3.5% from 3.1%; Health – 3.8% from 3.4%; Information and communication – 0.9% from 0.7%; Recreation, sport and culture – 4.9% from 4.7%; Restaurants and accommodation services – 6% from 5%; Personal care, and miscellaneous goods and services – 3.3% from 2.9%.

Food inflation – Food inflation, which tracks the price movements of food items in a “basket” commonly purchased by household, soared to 6.1% from 2.7% month-on-month driven primarily by the faster increase in rice inflation at 13.7% from 3.5% in March 2026.

Faster increments were also seen in corn (21% from 12.3%), flour and other bakery products (3% from 2.5%), fish and other seafood (9.4% from 6.6%), fruits and nuts (6% from 4.7%), vegetables (10.4% from 7%), and ready-made food (2.5% from 2.4%).

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the inflation rate of the Philippines will end up at 5% by the end of this year?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Philippine Economic Growth Slows Down To 2.8% In 1st Quarter Of 2026

While the Philippines is hosting the summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the economy of the nation grew only 2.8% in the first quarter this year and it is the slowest growth in five years, according to a business news report by the Manila Bulletin.

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

The Philippine economy grew at its slowest pace in five years, expanding just 2.8 percent in the first quarter of 2026, as the country grapples with the persistent government spending slump and mounting inflation shocks.

The country’s economy, as measured by the gross domestic product (GDP), decelerated from the 3.0 percent expansion recorded in the final three months of 2025.

It also significantly missed the 3.4 percent median growth projected by economists in a survey, and marked the weakest quarterly output for the country since the first quarter of 2021, when the economy contracted 3.8 percent during pandemic-era lockdowns.

Growth was severely dragged down by a prolonged slump in public construction following a massive government flood-control scandal late last year, which has continued to stall state spending.

Moreover, the global energy shock triggered by the Middle East conflict in late February also sent domestic oil and input costs soaring, severely denting consumer and business confidence.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think heavy government spending will boost the economy somehow? Could it be possible that the Philippines could fall into a recession this year or next year? How do you rate the performance of the economic managers of the national government?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Food Cart Program Launched In Las Piñas City

Recently in Las Piñas City, a new livelihood program designed to help locals start small businesses was launched by the City Government, according to a news report by the Manila Bulletin.

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

The Las Piñas City government launched its “Pangkabuhayan Cart” program, a new livelihood initiative aimed at helping residents start small businesses and achieve financial stability.

Las Piñas Mayor April Aguilar led the program with the distribution of food carts to six selected Las Piñero families, marking the first step in providing sustainable income opportunities for local communities.

The program is designed to empower residents by giving them the tools and resources needed to operate their own small enterprises.

Aguilar said that beneficiaries are given a chance to earn a steady income and build a better future for their families.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a resident of Las Piñas City, what is your reaction to this development? Do you think the new food cart program will inspire a lot of local residents to start small businesses?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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

Over 1,400 Las Piñas City Senior Citizens Receive 1st Quarter Pension

Recently in Las Piñas City, more than one thousand four hundred senior citizens from three different barangays received their social pension of P3,000 each for the first quarter this year, the City Government announced. Mayor April Aguilar personally attended the distribution and met with the constituents.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the City Government’s announcement (translated from Tagalog). Some parts in boldface…

More than 1,400 senior citizens from Barangay Pulanglupa Dos, Manuyo Dos, and CAA have personally received their P3,000 Social Pension for the first quarter of 2026.

Payout was done at Aguilar Sports Complex where our grandparents were comfortable waiting to be called for their pension.

Mayor April also reminded our seniors of the programs the city provides freely to them to better care for their health and well-being. Because in Las Piñas, caring is not just a word.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a resident of Las Piñas City, what is your reaction to this development? Do you personally know any local senior citizens who received their respective social pension fund?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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

Four Suspects Arrested In Parañaque City For Stealing Telecom Cables

Recently in the City of Parañaque, local police officers arrested four suspects over the illegal cutting and the attempt to steal underground copper telecommunications cables, according to a news report by The Daily Tribune.

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

National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Chief P/Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin commended the swift coordination between security personnel and responding police officers, which resulted in the prompt arrest of four adult male suspects and the recovery of stolen telecommunications equipment.

The incident occurred at around 4:20 a.m. on Friday, 24 April, in front of a gasoline station along Doña Soledad Avenue corner West Service Road, Barangay Don Bosco.

While conducting routine area monitoring, arresting officers intercepted the suspects in the act of illegally cutting and taking underground copper telecommunications cables.

Initial reports showed that security personnel in the area immediately alerted authorities upon noticing the suspicious activity, prompting a coordinated swift police response that resulted in the on-site arrest of four individuals. However, nine of their cohorts managed to flee and are currently the subject of follow-up operations.

Recovered from the scene were several pieces of cut underground copper cable wires measuring approximately two meters in length, with an estimated amount of P262,006.63.

Seized were tools and equipment used in the illegal activity, including a bolt cutter, an improvised steel hook, a white closed van and a motorcycle believed to have been used in the operation.

The suspects are now under police custody and are facing charges for violation of Section 4(d) of Republic Act 10515, also known as the Anti-Cable Television and Cable Internet Tapping Act of 2013.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What do you think about this recent development? If you are a resident of Parañaque, did the cutting of the telecommunication cables affect your household somehow? Do you think Parañaque City is becoming a new hot spot for the stealing of telecommunication cables?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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

Fuel Subsidy Released To Over 2,000 Tricycle And PUJ Drivers In Las Piñas City

Recently in Las Piñas City, more than two thousand drivers of tricycles and public utility jeepneys (PUJs) received P5,000 each in fuel subsidy during the payout at Aguilar Sports Complex monitored by local officials, according to the City Government’s announcement.  

To put things in perspective, posted below is the entire social media announcement (translated from Tagalog) of the City Government. Some parts in boldface…

For those who were not able to claim their subsidy, the Special Fuel Subsidy Payout was held at Aguilar Sports Complex where almost 2,300 Tricycle and PUJ drivers personally received P5,000.

With the cooperation of DSWD-NCR and CSWDO headed by Ms. Lowefe Romulo, the distribution of relief was smooth, fast and organized inside a comfortable and cold venue. Like the previous payout, there is still a help desk to respond to some questions and problems drivers have experienced in relation to their documents.

In this time when oil and gasoline prices are still very high, the city government, under the leadership of Mayor April Aguilar, is ensuring that every registered driver will be provided and will receive the assistance intended for them.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a resident of Las Piñas City, what is your reaction to this development? Do you consider P5,000 sufficient as a fuel subsidy for the tricycle and PUJ drivers of the 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.

+++++

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

Swiss Challenge For P6.2 Billion Subic Bay International Airport Launched By SBMA

New developments regarding the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) could happen soon as the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) formally launched the Swiss challenge for it, according to a news report by the Manila Bulletin. It is recalled that Cerberus Asia Pacific Investments proposed to manage, operate and rehabilitate the SBIA for P5.31 billion.

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

More than a year after an unsolicited proposal was first submitted, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has formally launched the Swiss challenge for the ₱6.2-billion Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) project, opening the door to rival bidders for an airport that would complement the seaport facilities in the former United States (US) naval base in Zambales province.

In an invitation posted on the website of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center last Monday, April 27, SBMA invited challengers to apply for eligibility and submit comparative proposals for the airport project, which is an unsolicited proposal from American firm Cerberus Asia Pacific Investments LLC. PPP Center Deputy Executive Director Eleazar E. Ricote told Manila Bulletin on Tuesday, April 28, that the estimated project cost is ₱6.2 billion, up from the previous ₱5.31-billion estimate released by the agency last year.

SBMA noted that it received the unsolicited proposal from Cerberus in March 2025 under an operate-rehabilitate-add-transfer scheme in accordance with Republic Act (RA) No. 11966, or the PPP Code of the Philippines. Cerberus proposed a 25-year concession period, subject to extension.

To recall, Cerberus previously acquired the shuttered Hanjin shipyard in Subic in 2022 and has since invested at least $40 million to revive operations at the facility, now known as Agila Subic Multi-Use Facilities—said to be the future site of a joint US-Philippines ammunition production and storage facility. The firm had also earlier signaled plans to convert the Subic airport into a cargo and logistics hub as part of its broader investments in shipbuilding, logistics, semiconductors, and energy in the country.

The Swiss challenge—technically referred to in SBMA’s bidding documents as a “comparative challenge”—involves the upgrade, expansion, operation and maintenance (O&M), and eventual turnover of SBIA to SBMA after the concession period. The project primarily aims to establish an efficient and modern cargo transport system for Luzon region by transforming the airport into a modern, efficient, and high-capacity cargo hub that meets international standards and improves cargo shipment quality, SBMA said.

Following detailed evaluation and negotiations between SBMA and Cerberus, the American firm was granted original proponent status (OPS), making its unsolicited proposal subject to comparative challenge.

In Philippine PPP practice, a comparative challenge is essentially the formal Swiss challenge process for unsolicited proposals, wherein third parties may submit competing bids while the original proponent retains the right to match the best offer.

Under this project’s single-stage bidding process, challengers must submit a comparative proposal consisting of three envelopes: qualification documents, a technical proposal, and a financial proposal.

SBMA’s pre-qualification/qualifications, bids, and awards committee (PBAC) will first evaluate challengers’ legal, technical, and financial qualifications. Those who pass will proceed to the opening of technical proposals, and compliant technical bids will move on to the opening of financial proposals. The challenger submitting the financial proposal that meets the highest base concession fee in contract year one will be declared as having the most superior comparative proposal.

The comparative challenge will be conducted under a right-to-match mechanism, in which Cerberus, as the original proponent, may match or better the financial proposal of the most superior comparative proposal within 30 calendar days.

“In case the SBMA PBAC determines the financial proposal of the original proponent to be superior or more advantageous to the government or in case there is no challenger, the PPP contract shall be awarded to the original proponent,” SBMA said.

Interested challengers may obtain the instructions to challengers and other tender documents starting May 18 upon payment of a non-refundable participation fee of ₱1.4 million, or $23,333.33. Only challengers that have paid the fee in full may join the pre-bid conference, participate in the comparative challenge, and submit comparative proposals.

The comparative challenge process will run for 90 calendar days from the issuance of the challenge documents. Submission of comparative proposals must be completed on or before 2 p.m. on Aug. 17.

The Subic airport project complements the government’s broader push for the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC), which aims to strengthen logistics, infrastructure, and industrial connectivity across the former US bases of Subic and Clark, Manila, and Batangas province.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think there will be challengers coming in for the P6.2 billion SBIA? When was the last time you visited the international airport in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Almost 4,000 Las Piñas City Senior Citizens Receive Pension

Recently in Las Piñas City, almost four thousand senior citizens from nine different barangays received their social pension of P3,000 each for the first quarter this year, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

The Las Piñas City government released cash aid to 3,900 senior citizens across nine barangays as part of the first-quarter social pension program for 2026.

Las Piñas City Mayor April Aguilar said the payout, led by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), was conducted at the Aguilar Sports Complex to ensure an orderly and efficient distribution.

A total of 1,700 beneficiaries from Barangays Talon Uno, Talon Singko, Talon Tres, and Pilar received P3,000 each during the initial payout.

Another 2,200 senior citizens from Barangays Ilaya, Pamplona Uno, Manuyo Dos, Daniel Fajardo, and Elias Aldana got their cash assistance on April 20.

Aguilar said the distribution was “smooth, organized, and fast,” allowing elderly beneficiaries to conveniently receive their allowance without long delays.

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? Did many senior citizens of your local community receive their respective social pension funds lately?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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

Panel By DHSUD To Check Concerns Of Homeowners’ Association In Las Piñas City

In response to the concerns of members of a particular homeowners’ association (HOA) in Las Piñas City, the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) announced the creation of a panel to preside over the community’s election of new officers, according to a news report by The Manila Times.

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

The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) on Monday said that it would create an interim poll body in connection with the election of new officers of a village homeowners’ association in Las Piñas City.

A ranking official of the agency told The Manila Times the DHSUD’s National Capital Region (NCR) office has been assigned to look into the concerns of the members of the Woodridge Homeowners Association Inc. (WHAI) in Barangay Pulang Lupa.

The official said the NCR office will issue an order on Monday for the appointment of an interim committee that will preside over the election.

Earlier last week, WHAI members warned that chaos could mar the homeowners’ association election-related proceedings at the Woodridge Subdivision unless the DHSUD stepped in.

The WHAI members have called on the department to intervene to stop alleged irregularities by members of an interim electoral body who were recently appointed by the agency itself.

Former WHAI president Joselito Chua said the intervention of the DHSUD would prevent irregularities in the election of board members of the village. Chua’s group claimed that the interim board failed to comply with the 30-day requirement for the organization of an election committee (Elecom) as required under Section 8(b) of DHSUD Memorandum Circular 2025-003.

“Notwithstanding such lapse, the remaining members of the interim board proceeded with the conduct of a general assembly and election-related activities on April 12, 2026,” the group said. Chua said they filed a formal notice of non-compliance and request for clarification, but “the interim board proceeded with the activity, the election of Elecom members.”

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? Have there been any election irregularities in your homeowners’ association recently?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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

South Korean Fugitive Arrested In Las Piñas City

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) announced that it apprehended a South Korean fugitive  in Las Piñas City for illegal online gambling operations

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the BI’s official announcement. Some parts in boldface…

In line with the directive of President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. to intensify the crackdown on foreign fugitives and transnational crimes, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) reported the arrest of a South Korean national wanted by international authorities for operating illegal online gambling operations.

BI Fugitive Search Unit (FSU) agents, in coordination with the Korean National Police Agency and the Philippine National Police–Integrity Monitoring and Enforcement Group, arrested Lee Jonghak, 37, on Tuesday morning , April 14, at a residence in a subdivision in Pamplona Dos, Las Piñas City.

Lee is the subject of an Interpol Red Notice issued in 2025, stemming from an arrest warrant released by the Incheon District Court on the same year for violations of South Korea’s National Sports Promotion Act related to illegal online gambling operations.

Investigations by Korean law enforcement revealed that from August 2021 until recently, Lee and his accomplices operated at least 23 illegal online gambling websites from different locations.

The group reportedly managed sports betting and casino-style games, recruited members, and facilitated financial transactions, generating over KRW 5.33 billion in profits. Authorities estimate the syndicate’s total earnings to have exceeded KRW 350 billion.

Lee reportedly served as an assistant manager overseeing multiple operational teams composed of around 300 employees. The exact amount he personally received remains under investigation.

Records from the BI showed that Lee last arrived in the Philippines in 2024 and was admitted under a probationary permanent resident visa. He was later included in the Bureau’s blacklist and watchlist as an undesirable alien and fugitive from justice.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Are you thankful to the Bureau of Immigration for arresting the fugitive?  

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

Slower Economic Growth And Higher Inflation For The Philippines

With the higher fuel prices, a limited oil storage capacity, a very vulnerable currency and other economic uncertainties happening around, the Philippines is headed towards higher inflation and slower gross domestic product (GDP) growth in the near future based on the latest analysis of Moody’s Ratings, according to a news report by BusinessWorld.

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

MOODY’S RATINGS lowered its growth forecast for the Philippines and raised its inflation outlook, reflecting the impact of soaring global energy prices amid the Middle East conflict.

In a credit opinion on Tuesday, Moody’s cut its Philippine gross domestic product (GDP) growth projection to 4.9% this year from 5.5% previously. This is below the government’s 5-6% target for 2026.

For 2027, Moody’s trimmed its GDP growth forecast to 5.3% from 5.6% previously. If realized, this will be lower than the economic managers’ 5.5-6.5% target range for 2027.

“The conflict in the Middle East has increased downside risks to the Philippines’ economic outlook by raising global energy prices and external cost pressures,” it said.

Moody’s said it expects domestic demand and industrial activity to remain subdued due to high oil prices and fuel shortages.

“Higher energy and broader import costs are expected to erode real incomes amid high pass-through, dampen consumption, and weigh on industrial activity, reinforcing a firmer inflation trajectory,” it said.

Moody’s also noted that trade uncertainty and climate risks may also dampen economic activity.

“Our baseline assumes that the recovery in public investment will be gradual and begin only in the second half of 2026, as the government continues to take concrete measures to address the temporary slowdown. Meanwhile, higher energy import bills amid rising prices and peso depreciation, together with slower remittance growth, are expected to widen the current account deficit,” it said.

The Philippines is currently under a year-long national energy emergency as the Middle East crisis threatened its fuel supply. The government rolled out targeted subsidies and implemented energy conservation protocols.

“Together, these measures should mitigate the risk of significant supply disruptions,” Moody’s Ratings said.

Moody’s also hiked its average inflation forecasts to 3.7% in 2026 from 3% previously, and to 3.5% in 2027 from 3.2% previously, as oil prices remain elevated due to the Middle East conflict.

Moody’s forecasts are below the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) 5.1% inflation projection this year and the 3.8% projection for 2027.

Inflation quickened to a nearly two-year high of 4.1% in March, breaching the BSP’s 2-4% target amid rising fuel and transportation costs.

“Inflation is expected to remain above the BSP’s target range, reducing policy flexibility and increasing the risk of policy tightening, even as softening growth and a negative output gap support a broadly accommodative stance in the near term,” Moody’s said.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? What do you think the government of the Philippines should do to stimulate economic growth and attract more foreign investors?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Five Drug Suspects Arrested In Parañaque City And lllegal Drugs Worth P91 Million Seized

Recently in the City of Parañaque, local police officers successfully pulled off a major anti-drug operation that resulted in five suspects – including one former policeman – arrested and the seizure of illegal drugs worth more than P91 million, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

A former policeman and four alleged high-value drug suspects were arrested in a major anti-drug operation that led to the seizure of more than P91 million worth of suspected shabu and high-powered firearms in Parañaque City on Friday, April 10.

Operatives of the Southern Police District (SPD) Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU) identified the suspects as alias Bossing, 35; James, 49, a resigned member of the Philippine National Police (PNP); Jezreel, 29; Hazel, 25; and alias “Ricardo,” 48.

All five were tagged as newly identified high-value individuals (HVIs) and were apprehended during a buy-bust operation conducted in Sun Valley, Parañaque, following days of surveillance and intelligence monitoring.

Authorities said the operation was launched in coordination with other police units to dismantle a suspected drug syndicate operating in the southern Metro Manila.

Confiscated during the sting were approximately 13.389 kilograms of suspected shabu and five containers of liquid crystalline substance, with a combined estimated Standard drug price of P91,045,200.

Police also recovered two .45-caliber pistols, a Bushmaster rifle, communication devices, and P319,950 cash.

Authorities said the presence of high-powered firearms indicates the group’s capability to protect their illegal activities, raising concerns over the potential violence linked to drug trafficking operations.

“This operation sends a clear message that no drug syndicate is beyond our reach. The Southern Police District will relentlessly pursue those involved in the illegal drug trade and ensure they are brought to justice,” said acting SPD director Col. Glenn Oliver Cinco.

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 convinced that drug syndicates find the city an ideal place to do their illegal businesses while having the mean to cause harm to local residents? What do you think makes Parañaque an attractive city to those involved in illegal drugs?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

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 athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

136 Hired In Las Piñas City Job Fair

Out of several hundreds of locals who applied during the Mega Job Fair in Las Piñas City, one hundred and thirty-six successfully got hired, according to a news report by the Manila Bulletin.

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

Hundreds of jobseekers were given a fresh start as the city government successfully connected residents to employment opportunities during the Mega Job Fair in Las Piñas.

Las Piñas City Mayor April Aguilar said that the mega job fair themed “Sa Las Piñas, Lahat May Oportunidad” was held at the Robinson’s Place, which highlighted the city’s commitment to inclusive growth, ensuring that every Las Piñero—regardless of background—has access to livelihood opportunities.

Aguilar led the initiative alongside Public Employment Service Office (PESO) head Red Garcia and Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) MuntiParLas Director Jeremiah T. Carlos.

She said that a total of 662 jobseekers registered for the event, including 10 persons with disabilities (PWDs), eight senior citizens, and 90 solo parents—underscoring the city’s inclusive approach to workforce development.

The mayor said that of the total number, 136 applicants were hired on the spot, among them five solo parents.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a resident of Las Piñas City, what is your reaction to this development? Do you hope the City Government will organize or sponsor more job fairs soon? How many people do you personally know got hired in any job fair held locally?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

Two Suspects Arrested In Parañaque City Over Illegal Substances Worth More Than P1 Million

Recently in the City of Parañaque, the local police successfully pulled off a buy-bust operation that resulted in two suspects arrested and the seizure of illegal substances worth over P1 million, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

Two individuals, including a newly identified big-time drug personality, were arrested in a buy-bust operation launched by the Parañaque City Police Station Drug Enforcement Unit (SDEU) early Wednesday morning, April 8.

Parañaque City Police chief Col. Nicolas Piñon identified the suspects as Roy, 33, tagged as a high-value drug dealer, and Rafael, 54, classified as a street-level drug suspect.

They were apprehended at around 12:05 a.m. on Tulips Street in Tramo Uno, Parañaque City.

Police said the operation was carried out in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) after the suspects were placed under monitoring for alleged involvement in illegal drug activities.

An undercover operative was able to purchase suspected shabu from the suspects, which led to their immediate arrest.

Authorities recovered nine heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing approximately 210 grams of suspected shabu, with an estimated value of ₱1,428,000.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What do you think about this recent development? If you are a resident of Parañaque, do you think the illegal drug menace will continue to happen in the 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.

+++++

Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

Summer Swimming Lessons 2026 At Tropical Palace Resort Hotel Start Today

The Summer Swimming Lessons 2026 program at Tropical Palace Resort Hotel in BF International, Las Piñas City officially begins today.

Coach Alec Dequiña will lead the teaching of the swimming lessons. Inside Tropical Palace Resort Hotel are the main swimming pool (rectangular) and the small pool.

Courses offered are as follows: Basic (6-years-old and above) for P6,500 with lessons taking place 7:30 AM to 8:30 AM. Advance (6-years-old and above) for P6,500 with lessons taking place 7:30 AM to 8:30 AM. Toddlers (3 to 5-years-old) for P7,500 with lessons taking place 9 AM to 10 AM.

For the precise location of Tropical Palace Resort Hotel, click https://maps.app.goo.gl/qHxdSmeANvk5m4Fa7

To see what the swimming pools look like, click here.

For more information, call Tropical Palace Resort Hotel at landline numbers 8825-1011 and 8825-1012, and mobile number 0906-2750698.

+++++

Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

Two Suspects Arrested In Parañaque City Over Illegal Substances Worth More Than P3.7 Million

Recently in the City of Parañaque, the local police successfully pulled off a buy-bust operation that resulted in two suspects arrested and the seizure of illegal substances worth over P3.7 million, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

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

Police arrested two high-value targets and seized more than P3.7 million worth of shabu in a buy-bust operation in Parañaque City.

Parañaque City Police chief Col. Nicolas Pinon said the suspects, identified as Toto, 52, and Ronnie, 53, both residents of Manuyo Dos, Las Piñas City, were arrested in Barangay San Isidro.

Pinon said the Station Drug Enforcement Unit (SDEU) launched the operation after receiving information that the suspects, though based in Las Piñas, were conducting illegal drug activities in Parañaque.

The suspects were caught selling 25 grams of shabu worth P170,000 to an undercover police officer. Further search led to the recovery of 11 additional sachets of shabu weighing about 525 grams, valued at P3,750,000, inside a black eco bag.

In total, authorities confiscated around 550 grams of shabu worth P3,740,000, along with a Redmi cellphone and the buy-bust money.

The suspects are now detained at the police custodial facility and face charges for violating Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Brig. Gen. Randy Arceo, Southern Police District (SPD) director, said the arrest highlights the police’s continued commitment to combating illegal drugs.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What do you think about this recent development? If you are a resident of Parañaque, do you think there could be more individuals from different places doing illegal drug activities in the city? Why do you think Parañaque is a hot spot when it comes to illegal drugs?   

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

+++++

Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

#Buchi and #HaloHalo! ​:munch_pride:​

cc @[email protected] second image has #ube! ​:munch:​

#halo-halo #Chowking #snack #ice #icesnack #icefood #food #foods #FilipinoFood #Pinoy #Filipino @[email protected] @[email protected]

RE: https://sk.gensokyo.shop/notes/9q1v3mst35sc00uq