100-year-old Fil-Am becomes first dual citizen of 2025
Loreto Noguera begins her new year reacquiring her Philippine citizenship
WASHINGTON – Filipino American centenarian Loreto Noguera became the first dual citizen of 2025 as she began her new year reacquiring her Philippine citizenship, according to the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C. Noguera was joined by her family when she proudly took her oath of allegiance administered by Consul Barbie Rosales.
“It is such a special way to start the new year by assisting our kababayan in such a meaningful moment,” said Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez.
“Mrs. Noguera’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of maintaining strong ties to our Filipino heritage.”
The Dual Citizenship Law or Republic Act 9225 allows natural-born Filipinos who have become naturalized citizens of another country to retain their Philippine citizenship, granting them the rights and privileges of being Filipino citizens while also keeping their foreign citizenship.
In 2024, the Embassy approved 3,235 dual citizenship applications, the highest number in its history.
This development highlights the growing interest among Filipinos in the United States to maintain their ties with the Philippines while embracing their U.S. citizenship.
“(Noguera’s) milestone not only celebrates her personal journey but also underscores the deep and enduring connection many Filipinos in the United States feel towards their homeland,” the Embassy said in a statement.
“The Embassy remains committed to supporting the Filipino and Filipino-American community and looks forward to more milestones that celebrate the unique journeys of Filipino nationals abroad.” n
PH, US, Japan vow to strengthen, continue ‘trilateral agreement’
THE Philippines, the U.S., and Japan vowed on Monday, January 13 to continue working together to enhance and deepen trilateral ties, particularly in the areas of economic, maritime, and technology cooperation.
“I am confident that our three countries will continue to work together closely to sustain the gains
that we have made in enhancing and deepening our ties,” President Marcos said in his remarks during the trilateral meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden Jr. and Japan’s Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru. President Marcos, President Biden, and former Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida participated in a trilateral summit in Washington, D.C., on April 11, 2024, where they reaffirmed their commitment to a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific, guided by the values of democracy, the rule of law, and human rights. The Chief Executive noted that since the adoption of the Trilateral Joint Vision Statement in April,
Marcos still
firmly
against VP Duterte’s impeachment – Palace
by ZacaRiaN SaRao Inquirer.net
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. still believes that Vice President Sara Duterte should not be impeached, the Palace on Tuesday, January 14.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin made the pronouncement when asked if the Iglesia ni Cristo’s (INC) peace rally on Monday, January 13 had any effect on the president’s stance on Duterte’s
impeachment.
“The president’s position on the impeachment move in the House of Representatives has not changed,” Bersamin said in a statement.
This stems from Marcos’ previous admission that he told the House of Representatives not to file an impeachment complaint against Duterte even amid the widening rift between them.
Marcos pointed out that doing so
u PAGE 2
Sara seriously considering 2028 run for presidency
by Neil JaysoN servallos Philstar.com
MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte is “seriously considering” running for president in 2028, saying she could not take sitting down the “continued backsliding” of the country.
“We are seriously considering,” Duterte told overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Tokyo during a meet-and-greet event as part of her “private” trip to Japan over the weekend.
“What’s happening to the country now can no longer continue. We see the country continuously backsliding. I really believe our country can be great,” she said when asked about her plans for 2028.
The vice president’s statement was a change of tune from her previous remarks when asked about her political plans.
During her last public engagement last year, she reiterated that she would decide in 2026 whether she would run for the presidency in 2028.
While she was already considering throwing her hat into the 2028 presidential race, Duterte acknowledged how tough government reforms could be.
“It is difficult to make our countrymen understand how difficult the things we have to do are because we really have to stand firm, especially with government policies that need fixing,” she said.
“But I believe that if the people are
191 Filipinos displaced as LA fires rage on
seeking assistance from the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles, in the wake of devastating Southern California wildfires, has risen to 191, according to Consul General Adelio Angelito Cruz. Cruz told Inquirer.net USA Monday, January 13 they expect this number to increase as Los Angeles residents face another round of intense fire danger, with the powerful Santa Ana winds returning Tuesday. The wildfires have destroyed thousands of homes and killed at least 24 people, as of Monday. There are no Filipinos among the fatalities, Cruz said.
Consulate is working with the LA-based Pilipino Workers Center to provide assistance to Filipino victims, including finding housing for those who have lost their homes or have been placed under evacuation orders. More than 12,000 homes, businesses, schools and other structures have been destroyed by wildfires that began to ravage the Los Angeles area last Tuesday.
US or China? Asian economies may have to pick a side
ASIAN economies like the Philippines might benefit from aligning their trade policies with either the United States or China amid President-elect Donald Trump’s tariff threats, highlighting the difficulty in forming a united Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) response to heightened trade protectionism.
At a forum organized by the Asian Shadow Financial Regulatory Committee (ASFR), Maria Socorro Gochoco-Bautista, economist at the University of the Philippines, said the “dissimilar” impact of Trump’s policies on Asian economies means there would be winners and losers in the event of a global trade war.
ASFR is a group of independent experts on economic policy issues relevant to the Asia-Pacific region.
Typically, ASFRC tries to translate concepts drawn from academic literature into concrete policy recommendations.
At the forum, Gochoco-Bautista cited a study by UP economists Joy Abrenica and Anthony Sabarillo and Ricardo Rafael Guzman of Aix-Marseille University—which found that it is in the interest of some Asian economies to align with either the United States or China amid the trade friction between the two superpowers.
“The results from that paper show that different countries in Asia will be affected in dissimilar ways. One interesting finding there is that it will actually pay for certain countries to choose to align with either the United States or China. They could gain,” GochocoBautista said.
“There are winners and losers. But in general, you know that Asian countries grew by being open economies—open to trade and investment. And any time you have policies that restrict trade, really nobody gains. I mean, in the end, nobody wins,” she added.
Insulated
As it is, many analysts expect the Philippines to be relatively insulated from Trump’s threat to impose a 10 to 20-percent tariff on all imported goods in the United States, which is targeted to countries with large trade deficits with Washington.
The Philippines can also find refuge in the fact that it mostly exports services, not goods that can be easily slapped with tariffs.
by Nimfa U. RUeda Inquirer.net
Filipino American centenarian Loreto Noguera (right) proudly takes her oath of allegiance administered by Consul Barbie Rosales (left). Contributed photo
Ignacia Mabalot (right) is one of the 3,235 Filipino Americans who obtained dual citizenship in 2024. The number of dual citizenship applications last year was the highest in the Embassy’s history. The 99-year-old Fil-Am reacquired her Filipino citizenship at an oath-taking ceremony in Charleston, South Carolina. Photo from the U.S. Embassy
by iaN NicolaS P. cigaRal Inquirer.net
PH, US, Japan vow to strengthen...
substantial progress had been made in implementing bilateral and trilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest between the Philippines, the U.S., and Japan.
These interests include inclusive economic growth and resilience, crucial and emerging technologies, climate cooperation and clean energy, and promoting peace and security among the three nations.
President Biden echoed President Marcos’ sentiments, stating that the Philippines, the U.S., and Japan “have made historic progress” since the Trilateral Summit last April, “especially in maritime security, economic security, and
technology cooperation.”
“Since then, we’ve made historic progress in our trilateral partnership, especially in areas of maritime security, economic security, technology cooperation, and high-quality infrastructure investments …
We should continue to deepen our cooperation in these areas, I believe,” President Biden said. President Biden also commended President Marcos for his diplomatic response “to China’s aggressive and coercive activities in the South China Sea.”
“Simply put, our countries have an interest in continuing this partnership and institutionalizing our cooperation across our governments so that it is built
to last. I’m optimistic that my successor will also see the value of continuing this partnership, and that it is framed the right way,” President Biden said.
Prime Minister Ishiba also highlighted the importance of deepening trilateral cooperation between the Philippines, the U.S., and Japan, noting the progress made since the trilateral summit in April.
“Going forward, it is important to deepen trilateral cooperation in a variety of fields,” Prime Minister Ishiba said.
In a trilateral phone call on Monday, President Marcos, President Biden and Prime Minister Ishiba committed to enhance the trilateral relations among the three countries. (PND)
Marcos still firmly against VP Duterte’s...
191 Filipinos displaced as LA fires...
1
A total of 40,300 acres have burned across multiple blazes including the Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire, CalFire said in an update Monday.
Cruz, who also serves as Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) assistant secretary, said he has been authorized by the DFA to provide $200 in emergency assistance to every Filipino “proven to have been affected” by the fires.
Southern California is home to about 700,000 Filipinos, with more than 300,000 living in Los Angeles County, according to the 2020 census.
Cruz said the Consulate is also reaching out to Fil-Am businesses and organizations to
coordinate donation drives for relief efforts.
Cruz said they support the Pilipino Workers Center’s Mutual Aid Community Care program that aims to help the Filipino community heal and rebuild following the devastating fires.
The program is designed to be “a holistic initiative that involves both giving care and receiving care,” PWC spokesperson Hannah De Castro-Abinuman told Inquirer.net USA.
“It’s about recognizing that, while some may need support, others have the ability and willingness to offer help.”
PWC is currently doing a survey to better understand the specific needs of the
community “so we can address them effectively,” De CastroAbinuman said.
In addition to setting up a donation page to support those affected by the wildfires, PWC is also “surveying available resources” within the community, including cash assistance and volunteering opportunities, she said.
“Whether it’s material support, emotional care or volunteer power, your input will help us connect those in need with those ready to lend a hand,” De Castro-Abinuman added.
“By sharing your needs or your willingness to help, you become part of a network of care – one that can provide comfort, relief and hope.” n
This particular statement is also what the INC claimed to be the foundation of its nationwide peace rally.
Its “National Rally for Peace” at the Quirino Grandstand alone on Monday was attended by an estimated 1.8 million members. n
US or China? Asian economies...
But that doesn’t mean that the domestic economy is completely safe.
It may be recalled that the Philippine peso had revisited the record-low 59:$1 level thrice last year amid expectations that Trump’s tariff threats could stoke inflation stateside, a development that can slow the ongoing easing cycle of the U.S. Federal Reserve.
A shallower easing in the United States, in turn, might prevent the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) from cutting the local policy rate at a much faster pace, thus limiting the ability of monetary policy to support an economy that had slowed in the third quarter of 2024.
Gochoco-Bautista said the U.S. dollar was expected to continue its rally amid the uncertainties.
“It means that the rest of us have to more or less toe the line and keep interest rates high,” she added. (INQ)
“In a world where there’s so much uncertainty, there is already a natural tendency for countries to want to hold and acquire dollar assets. So that also contributes to the strengthening of the U.S. dollar independently of the fact that interest rates remain high in the United States,” she said.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. (left) and Vice President Sara Duterte
Photo from Marianne Bermudez/ Grig C. Montegrande/Inquirer Files
LA fires rage on: Here’s how you can help
Several initiatives have been launched to aid evacuees
THE wildfires raging across Los Angeles County have wreaked havoc on communities, claiming lives and forcing more than 180,000 residents to flee their homes.
Since igniting on Jan. 7, the fires have left behind destroyed properties and countless families in urgent need of aid.
Despite the tireless efforts of first responders, the massive inferno continues to spread, prompting widespread evacuations and an outpouring of support from local and national organizations.
In response to the crisis, several initiatives have been launched to aid evacuees and those directly affected.
Evacuees can head to the Rose
Bowl in Pasadena, where food and essential supplies are being distributed. Volunteers and donations are greatly needed to sustain relief efforts.
For those seeking more ways to help, the American Red Cross offers multiple donation options. Supporters can visit redcross. org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a contribution.
GoFundMe has stepped in by creating a centralized hub for verified campaigns related to the Southern California wildfires.
Additionally, GoFundMe.org has initiated the 2025 Wildfire Relief Fund, which promises to direct donations to individuals in need and nonprofit organizations actively involved in the relief operations. Meanwhile, the LAUSD Education Emergency Relief
Fund has been activated to provide immediate assistance to Los Angeles Unified School District employees and families impacted by the fires.
The Community Organized Relief Effort (CORE) is also playing a critical role by distributing emergency protective equipment, offering cash vouchers and assisting evacuees in navigating available resources.
Additionally, the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firefighters Fund (WODFF) is assisting firefighters injured in the line of duty and offering financial and emotional support to their families.
As Los Angeles grapples with one of its most destructive wildfire seasons, communitydriven support and donations remain crucial. n
Trump’s return puts Medicaid on the chopping block
UNDER President Joe Biden, enrollment in Medicaid hit a record high and the uninsured rate reached a record low.
Donald Trump’s return to the White House — along with a GOPcontrolled Senate and House of Representatives — is expected to change that.
Republicans in Washington say they plan to use funding cuts and regulatory changes to dramatically shrink Medicaid, the nearly $900-billion-a-year government health insurance program that, along with the related Children’s Health Insurance Program, serves about 79 million mostly low-income or disabled Americans.
The proposals include rolling back the Affordable Care Act’s expansion of Medicaid, which over the last 11 years added about 20 million low-income adults to its rolls. Trump has said he wants to drastically cut government spending, which may be necessary for Republicans to extend 2017 tax cuts that expire at the end of this year.
Trump made little mention of Medicaid during the 2024 campaign. The first Trump administration approved work requirements in several
states, though only Arkansas implemented theirs before a federal judge said it violated the law. The first Trump administration also sought to block-grant funding to states.
House Budget Committee Chair Jodey Arrington (R-Texas) told KFF Health News that Medicaid and other federal entitlement programs need major changes to help cut the federal debt.
“Without them, we will watch this country sadly enter into fiscal collapse.”
Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas), a member of the Budget Committee, said Congress needs to explore cutting federal spending on Medicaid.
“You need wholesale reform on the health care front, which can include undoing a lot of the damage being done by the ACA and Obamacare,” Roy said. “Frankly, we could end up providing better service if we do it the right way.”
Advocates for poor people fear GOP funding cuts will leave more Americans without insurance, making it harder for them to get care.
“Medicaid is an obvious target for huge cuts,” said Joan Alker, executive director of Georgetown
University’s Center for Children and Families. “An existential fight about Medicaid’s future likely lies ahead.”
Medicaid, which turns 60 in July, is nearing the end of a disruptive period, after covid pandemic-era coverage protections expired in 2023 and all enrollees had to prove they still qualified. More than 25 million people lost coverage over the 18 months after the “unwinding” began, though it has not notably increased the number of people without insurance, according to the latest census data.
The unwinding’s disruptions could pale in comparison to what happens in the next four years, said Matt Salo, former executive director and founder of the National Association of Medicaid Directors. “What we are going to see is an even bigger seismic shift in who Medicaid covers and how it operates,” he said.
But Salo said any efforts to shrink the program will face pushback.
“A lot of powerful entities — state governments, managedcare organizations, long-term care providers, and everyone under the sun who wants to do
Doctors, nurses press ahead as wildfires strain Los Angeles’ health care
THE rapidly spreading wildfires that have transformed much of Los Angeles County into a raging hellscape are not only upending the lives of tens of thousands of residents and business owners, but also stressing the region’s hospitals, health clinics, first responders, and nursing homes.
At least one medical clinic burned down. Senior patients were evacuated by ambulance from nursing facilities as embers swirled around them and their providers. Medical offices have closed, and routine appointments have been canceled. Some providers have lost homes or had to evacuate their neighborhoods, keeping them from work in many cases and making it a challenge for some health care centers to maintain sufficient staffing.
Amid the maelstrom, doctors, nurses, and other caregivers did their jobs.
On Tuesday night, Jan. 7, Ravi Salgia, an oncologist at City of Hope National Medical Center
We’ve helped first-generation college students create a brighter future for decades. And we’re just getting started.
in Duarte, saw the house above his Eaton Canyon home go up in flames. As debris and sparks fell, he, his wife, and their older
daughter estimated they had no more than seven minutes to get out. In the middle of the night,
Salgia,
Photo by Ravi Salgia
by Bernard J. Wolfson and Molly Castle Work and eMily alpert reyes los angeles tiMes KFF Health News
Sara seriously considering 2028 run...
united, that we know where we are going, our people can do it,” she added.
The Office of the Vice President (OVP) said Duterte went to Japan over the weekend on a “private trip,” during which she also paid a visit to various OFW groups.
While the OVP did not say when she returned, it said that she has been back in Manila.
Sara thanks INC
Meanwhile, Duterte thanked the members of the Iglesia ni Cristo for the church’s rally for peace, intended to drum up support for President Marcos’ call last year not to proceed with the impeachment of his former runningmate.
In a statement, Duterte, who had just returned to Manila from her private weekend trip to Japan, said the rally was a “powerful” demonstration of unity and faith among Filipinos.
“I sincerely send my greetings to everyone who participated in today’s massive peace rally. This is a powerful display of unity and faith and whose only desire is peace toward the development of our country,” she added.
Duterte expressed her gratitude to the INC for its “continued efforts to bring understanding and unity to our countrymen.”
The INC held rallies in various parts of the country, with activities concentrated in the cities of Manila and Pasay, where classes and work were suspended.
Members of the 110-year-old church called on lawmakers to not proceed with Duterte’s impeachment, echoing Marcos’
rejection of calls to impeach the Vice President.
“In the midst of rising commodity prices, poverty and other problems, a peaceful and united Philippines will never be shaken, and will rise again and again in the midst of the challenges of the times,” Duterte said.
Last year, various political, civic and religious groups filed three impeachment complaints against the Vice President before the House of Representatives over alleged violations of the 1987 Constitution, starting from when Duterte was Davao City mayor in 2007 up to the time she was elected Vice President in 2022 and concurrently served as secretary of the Department of Education.
The complainants primarily hinged their allegations on Duterte’s supposed misuse of her office’s confidential funds and the statements she made against Marcos and members of his family.
The House, whose members serve as prosecutors during impeachment proceedings, said it may take up the impeachment complaints filed against the Vice President, should there be no more fourth complaint to be filed at the Batasang Pambansa complex in Quezon City.
While Duterte has conceded her chances before the House, where the number of her allies remains to be determined following her tumultuous year of locking horns with leaders of the chamber over her office’s budget proposal and spending issues, she expressed belief that she can present a strong case.
The vice president’s father,
former President Rodrigo Duterte, was made part of her team of litigators who would be handling her impeachment complaints and possible criminal charges over the vice president’s press conference, where she talked about contracting a person to kill the President, First Lady Liza Marcos and Speaker Martin Romualdez if their alleged plot to kill her succeeds.
Dismay Sen. Ronald dela Rosa has expressed dismay over the president’s removal of the country’s former presidents from the National Security Council, as he emphasized that their “wealth of experience” could prove valuable in crafting the country’s national security policies.
“Maybe, they find it uncomfortable, you know, convening the National Security Council with the vice president around, so they removed it. That is their discretion, it is not stated in our Constitution that the vice president is really there, so they just don’t want to, they can do everything, the Chief Executive has the power to reorganize all the departments and offices under the executive branch,”
Dela Rosa said.
“What a waste, I regret the experience – the wealth of experience of former presidents that could be converted into valuable inputs in crafting defense policies of the sitting president,” he added after he was asked in a recent interview about his reaction to the NSC’s reorganization.
Marcos recently issued Executive Order 81, which reorganized the NSC and removed the vice president and past presidents of the country from the advisory body for plans and policies related to national security.
Aside from the Vice President, EO 81 has also omitted former Presidents Joseph Estrada, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Rodrigo Duterte.
Dela Rosa noted that it is Marcos’ prerogative to reorganize all departments and offices under the executive branch and that the vice president’s removal from the council was “nothing new,” considering that former Vice President Leni Robredo was also effectively excluded from the NSC. — Cecille Suerte Felipe
Trump’s return puts Medicaid on...
PAGE 3
well by doing good — wants to see Medicaid work efficiently and be adequately funded,” he said.
“And they will be highly motivated to push back on something they see as draconian cuts, because it could affect their business model.”
The GOP is looking at several tactics to reduce the size of Medicaid:
Shifting to block grants.
Switching to annual block grants could lower federal funding for states to operate the program while giving states more discretion over how to spend the money. Currently, the government matches a certain percentage of state spending each year with no cap. Republican presidents since Ronald Reagan have sought to block-grant Medicaid with no success. Arrington said he favors ending the open-ended federal funding to states and replacing it with a set annual amount based on how many people each state has in the program.
Cutting ACA Medicaid funding.
The ACA provided financing to cover, through Medicaid, Americans with incomes up to 138% of the federal poverty level, or $20,783 for an individual last year. The federal government pays 90% of the cost for adults covered through the law’s Medicaid expansion, which 40 states and Washington, D.C., have adopted. The GOP may try to lower that funding to the same match rate the feds pay states for everyone else in the program, which averages about 60%.
“We should absolutely note that we are subsidizing the healthy, able-bodied Medicaid expansion population at a higher rate than we do the poorest and sickest among us, which was the original intent of the program,” Arrington
said. “That’s not right.”
Lowering federal matching funds. Since Medicaid began, the federal match rate has been based on the relative wealth of a state’s population, with poorer states receiving a higher rate and no state receiving less than a 50% match. Ten states get the base rate — all but two are Democratic-run states, including New York and California. The GOP may seek to cut the base rate to 40% or less.
Adding work requirements.
During the first Trump term, federal courts ruled that Medicaid law doesn’t allow coverage to be conditioned on enrollees’ working or seeking jobs. But the GOP may try again. “If we can get strict work requirements on able-bodied adults, that can be a huge cost savings by itself,” Rep. Tom McClintock (R-Calif.) told KFF Health News. Because most Medicaid enrollees already work, go to school, or serve as caregivers, critics say such a requirement would simply add red tape to obtaining coverage, with little impact on employment.
Placing enrollment hurdles. About 10 states offer some populations what’s called continuous eligibility, whereby people stay enrolled for years without having to renew their coverage. That policy’s been shown to prevent enrollees from falling out of the program for short periods because of hardships or paperwork problems, which can lead to surprise medical bills and debt. The Trump administration could seek to repeal waivers that allow states to grant multiyear continuous eligibility, which would require people in those states to reapply for coverage annually. If the GOP’s plans to shrink Medicaid are realized, Democrats
and health experts say, lowincome people forced to buy private insurance would face challenges paying monthly premiums and the large copayments and deductibles common to commercial plans that typically don’t exist in Medicaid. The Paragon Health Institute, a leading conservative think tank run by former Trump adviser Brian Blase, has issued reports saying the billions in extra money states took to expand Medicaid under the ACA has been a boon to private insurers that manage the program and relatively wealthier people it says shouldn’t be enrolled.
Josh Archambault, a senior fellow with the conservative Cicero Institute, said he hopes the Trump administration holds states accountable for overpaying providers and enrolling people in Medicaid who are not eligible. Conservatives have cited CMS reports saying states improperly pay Medicaid providers billions of dollars a year, though the federal government notes that is mostly due to lack of documentation. He said the GOP will look to scale back Medicaid to its “traditional” populations of children, pregnant women, and people with disabilities. “We need to rebalance the program that most people think is underperforming,” he said. Most Americans, including large majorities of both Republicans and Democrats, view the program favorably, according to polls. (Phil Galewitz/KFF Health News) KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces indepth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFF—an independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism.
Doctors, nurses press ahead as wildfires...
Salgia got a call that the hospital had become an emergency command center and was at risk of evacuation, meaning he needed to help evaluate patients and make discharge preparations.
Salgia arrived at the hospital at 2:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8. He was joined by colleagues, many of whom had also evacuated their homes.
“We all felt very strongly that we needed to take care of our patients — no matter what’s happening to us physically and emotionally, what’s happening to our houses — that we need to make sure that the people we serve were taken care of,” Salgia said in an interview.
He doesn’t know if his house is still standing.
In Pacific Palisades, St. John’s Physician Partners, a primary care and pediatric clinic affiliated with Providence Health & Services, burned down, said Patricia Aidem, a spokesperson for the large Catholic hospital chain based in Renton, Washington.
Not far from the eastern edge of the Palisades Fire, Providence St. John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, one of the group’s major LA-area hospitals, was so close to evacuating that it called other hospitals in the area to find space for patients who would be displaced, Aidem said.
USC Verdugo Hills Hospital, in Glendale, also faced potential evacuation, along with other hospitals in the region.
“All hospitals in close proximity to the fires remain on high alert and are prepared to evacuate if conditions worsen,” the Hospital Association of Southern California said in a statement. “The fires are creating significant operational hurdles,” the association added.
The association also said emergency services have been strained by high call volumes, while road closures have impeded the transport of patients, supplies, and health care workers. Some health facilities have been hit by power outages, the association said, while “many staff members PAGE 3
are directly impacted by evacuations and fire-related disruptions, further complicating operations.”
The California Department of Managed Health Care on Thursday, Jan. 9 ordered health plans to ensure enrollees affected by wildfires have access to all needed medical services, including prescription drug refills.
Aidem said some doctors and other health workers at Providence St. John’s in Santa Monica and Providence Holy Cross Medical Center in the San Fernando Valley have lost homes or been evacuated, making them miss work and creating challenges to ensure adequate staffing.
Hospitals across the county said their emergency rooms had treated patients for burns, smoke inhalation, and eye irritation.
Over 700 people — and possibly far more — have been evacuated from nursing homes and other care facilities, according to the California Department of Public Health.
On Wednesday, West Valley Health Center, operated by Los Angeles County’s Department of Health Services, closed due to a power outage, the department said. And UCLA Health said the closure of some of its clinics in Pasadena and on L.A.’s Westside was due partly to “utility shutoffs.”
Children’s Hospital Los Angeles said two of its specialty care clinics, in Encino and Santa Monica, were closed Thursday “due to the impacts from the wind storm, power outages and wild fires.”
Providence also has shut several clinics this week.
The two biggest blazes, the Palisades Fire in the parched coastal hills of western L.A. County and the Eaton Fire on the Eastside, have together torched more than 50 square miles, burned thousands of structures, reduced beloved cultural landmarks to ashes, killed at least 10 people, and severely injured many more.
The monster winds that fueled the explosion of the fires on Tuesday and Wednesday
have begun to quiet down, though significant gusts are still expected to complicate the task of firefighters for the next several days.
Routine medical care will likely be disrupted for thousands in the days ahead.
Kaiser Permanente, the giant HMO and medical provider, said it closed multiple medical sites Thursday due to the fires, including a pharmacy and laboratory and an eye clinic.
Huntington Hospital in Pasadena, close to the Eaton Fire, said some of its outpatient offices were affected by evacuation notices and heavy smoke.
Dignity Health, another large health system, said some of its hospitals were operating on generator power due to high winds, and some, including Glendale Memorial Hospital, had canceled elective surgeries. Other hospitals, including USC Verdugo Hills and Providence St. John’s, temporarily halted nonemergency surgeries due to the impact of the wildfires.
Christine Kirmsse, a registered nurse, evacuated her Santa Monica home on Wednesday night and is staying at a hotel an hour away. But she said she feels strongly that she needs to come into work.
“There’s obviously so much help that’s needed,” Kirmsse said.
“And it’s important to me because I have the skills to be able to help. In times like this, this is when community is the most powerful.” KFF Health News’ Chaseedaw Giles and Tarena Lofton contributed to this report.
This article was produced by KFF Health News, which publishes California Healthline, an editorially independent service of the California Health Care Foundation. KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces indepth journalism about health issues and is
Vice President Sara Duterte held a press conference she dubbed the “Drag Me to Hell Presscon” at the Office of the Vice President in Mandaluyong City on October 18, 2024. STAR /Ryan Baldemor
SORT OUT. Workers make an inventory of printed ballots at the National Printing Office in Diliman, Quezon City on Wednesday, Jan. 15. The day before, the Commission on Elections announced it suspended the printing of official ballots for the May 12 midterm elections following a Supreme Court temporary restraining order on the enforcement of disqualification of five candidates. PNA photo by Joan Bondoc
Dateline PhiliPPines
West PH Sea: 2 largest PCG vessels deployed to shadow China monster ship
by Faith argosiNo Inquirer.net
MANILA — Two of the largest Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) ships were deployed to shadow China’s so-called “monster ship,” which was last spotted about 77 nautical miles west of Capones Island in Zambales province.
PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela said BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV-9701) — one of the two PCG ships — “is back in the game” after it was repaired
in Bataan due to overheating.
“We have two coast guard vessels pushing the CCG vessel 5901 to move further away from the coast of Zambales that is BRP Gabriela Silang, [MRRV]-8301, and BRP Teresa Magbanua, MRRV-9701,” Tarriela said in a press conference on Tuesday, January 14.
“I’m not an engineer to explain why there was an overheating, but right now, the Philippine Coast Guard 9701 is back in the game. It was not a serious derangement, it was just a very minor one. It only took them less
than six hours, to probably give some time for all the engines to rest, and then it eventually went back to the location of the China Coast Guard 5901,” he explained.
Aside from shadowing the monster ship, National Task Force West Philippine Sea spokesperson Jonathan Malaya said aerial assets from the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the PCG were deployed to monitor its illegal presence.
Last week, the Philippine Coast Guard confirmed the presence of the monster ship — CCG vessel 5901 — about 54 nautical miles off the coast of Capones Island.
Beijing’s continued aggression was based on its assertion of sovereignty over almost the entire South China Sea, including most of the West Philippine Sea, as it continues to reject the 2016 arbitral ruling that effectively dismissed its claims and ruled in favor of Manila.
The landmark ruling stemmed from a case filed by Manila in 2013, a year after its tense standoff with Beijing over Panatag Shoal, whose lagoon the latter now effectively controls. n
PH to open more embassies across globe — PBBM
THE Philippines will open more embassies in different parts of the world as part of the country’s independent foreign policy, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said on Saturday, January 11.
Speaking before the members of the diplomatic corps during the Vin D’Honneur in Malacanang, President Marcos said that through the government’s independent foreign policy, his administration broadened and strengthened its diplomatic reach and engagements with the world.
“Last year, we opened four Embassies in Europe and in Latin America. This year, we will
be opening four more Foreign Service Posts in North America, in Asia, and the Pacific. And by the end of 2025, we will have 102 Posts, effectively widening our reach globally,” he said in his toast remarks.
“We are poised to establish more down the road. We welcomed the opening of some Embassies in Manila in 2024, such as Bahrain and Slovenia, and are eager to welcome new foreign missions in the years to come, such as from Central Asia.”
The President said he introduced the Philippines to the world and jumpstarted meaningful, concrete, and mutually beneficial partnerships
that drive growth for the country in the 21st century economy.
“A great deal has transpired in the last two and a half years,” he said.
“The Philippines has since embarked on a diplomatic agenda that leverages international partnerships, which have translated to increased bilateral engagements and cooperation with traditional partners and new allies in key economic sectors and security areas.”
This has resulted, he noted, in a vibrant exchange of high-level visits of officials from many countries, as well as several outgoing visits of Philippine officials. (PND)
PH vehicle sales hit fresh record high in 2024
MANILA — Vehicle sales
hit a new record high in 2024, although that was not enough to hit the industry’s growth target for last year.
Vehicle manufacturers sold a total of 467,252 units last year, up at an annualized rate of 8.7 percent, according to industry data released on Tuesday by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (Campi) and Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA).
Figures showed this was the highest volume of vehicles sold on record, beating the previous peak of 429,807 that was seen in 2023.
In December alone, auto sales went up by 7.4 percent year-on-year to 42,044 units. Below target
However, the overall 2024 performance fell below the industry’s expectations. Local vehicle makers had hoped to sell 500,000 units last year and
grow sales by 10 to 15 percent.
“The overall market remains on track to sustain growth into 2025,” Campi president Rommel Gutierrez said nevertheless.
As it is, auto sales are widely used, including by the central bank, as an indicator of economic health. This is because consumer spending historically accounts for about 70 percent of the Philippines’ gross domestic product, and heightened purchases of big-ticket items like vehicles can significantly boost economic growth.
While the record-high sales volume was impressive, the below-target industry performance could be an indication of the “firm but subdued” domestic demand conditions that the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) had been seeing.
The latest central bank survey of households
showed consumers were less pessimistic about purchasing big-ticket items in the fourth quarter of 2024. But consumer sentiment on buying motor vehicles and houses and lots stayed “downbeat.”
Dissecting the joint report of Campi and TMA, sales of commercial vehicles, which had a market share of 74.15 percent, had risen by 8.1 percent to 346,482 units in 2024. Passenger cars sold reached 120,770 units, marking a 10.5-percent increase.
Toyota Motor Philippines Corp. remained the dominant market player with a 46.66-percent share, followed by Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. (19.07 percent), Ford Group Philippines (5.99 percent), Nissan Philippines Inc. (5.73 percent) and Suzuki Philippines Inc. (4.36 percent). (Ian Nicolas P. Cigaral/Inquirer. net)
“Operation Baklas” (Dismantling)
Accountability
IMPEACHMENT is a political process, but the legal system cannot be tainted with politics. Members of the House quad committee have said they will continue their probe into the abuses committed in the course of the bloody campaign against illegal drugs launched under the watch of Rodrigo Duterte.
Surveys have shown high public approval for the work of the quad comm. The transcripts of the hearings are expected to be used in an investigation related to Duterte’s war on drugs. The probe is being carried out by the Department of Justice for possible violations of Republic Act 9851, the law enacted in December 2009, covering crimes against international humanitarian law, genocide and other crimes against humanity.
The International Criminal Court has also reportedly accessed the quad comm records. The ICC is years ahead of the Philippine government in investigating Duterte and several of his former anti-crime enforcers for possible crimes against humanity in his crackdown on illegal drugs when he was mayor of Davao City and when he became president.
Graft-related criminal cases are also being eyed against Duterte’s daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, in connection with her utilization
Babe’s Eye View
BaBe Romualdez
OVER the years, I have developed good relations with a wide range of think tanks in Washington, D.C. But one that I particularly look forward to receiving information from is Eurasia Group founder and president Ian Bremmer, who has become a personal friend.
Although this year is “looking extraordinary” when seen from a “certain perspective,” Ian tells us that despite certain encouraging developments – such as the prospect of negotiations and even a possible ceasefire in the war in Ukraine, the diminishing violence in Gaza and beyond, and a hotlycontested presidential election that resulted in an “undisputed winner with a clear mandate” – a closer look shows that the world has “big problems.”
A “community of nations” is “the stuff of fairy tales, with governance that isn’t meeting the needs of citizens. Our challenges are global, whether those related to climate, technology, the
“THE conventional army loses if it does not win. The guerrilla wins if he does not lose,” the legendary statesman Henry Kissinger once famously argued. Stripped of power and access to all key agencies of the state, the Duterte dynasty has been forced to wage a guerrilla warfare against the Marcos administration.
Over the past year, the onceinvincible Dutertes have been gradually reduced to a ragtag cabal of “destabilizers” after getting purged from all key positions in the government. Congress held a months-long set of hearings that exposed the multifarious anomalies undergirding the Duterte style of governance, while the Department of Justice and National Bureau of Investigation threatened to file serious criminal charges against the key members of the family. Even worse, the Dutertes began to bleed support and popularity, with Vice President Sara Duterte’s net approval ratings standing at barely above 20 percent in the fourth quarter survey of Pulse Asia last year.
Sara Duterte even faced the serious threat of impeachment, which would disqualify her from running for office perpetually. So
of confidential funds in the Office of the Vice President and when she was concurrent secretary of the Department of Education. The issue was the subject of a separate probe by another panel of the House of Representatives, the committee on good government and public accountability.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said on Tuesday, January 14 that the DOJ would also continue the probe on the public statement of Vice President Duterte that she had put out a contract on President Marcos, his wife Liza and his cousin, Speaker Martin Romualdez in case the vice president herself is assassinated.
These are possible grave offenses that cannot be swept under the rug. Because the persons involved served or are serving at the top levels of government, pursuing accountability gains more urgency. Failure to do so would guarantee impunity and the institutionalization of wrongdoing by those entrusted to lead the country. (Philstar.com)
economy or national security,” the political scientist and New York Times bestselling author asserts.
Certainly, it is lamentable that “we are heading back to the law of the jungle,” seeing a world where “the strongest do what they can while the weakest are condemned to suffer what they must. And the former – whether states, companies or individuals – can’t be trusted to act in the interest of those they have power over,” he stresses.
Ian puts a spotlight on the U.S. and China, saying these “two most powerful countries in the world” are assertively rejecting responsibility for the rest of the planet as they focus inward on the enemies first and foremost within their own borders, increasingly worrying over threats to their own stability.
Based on Ian’s analysis, the biggest global risk for 2025 is the emergence of a “G-Zero World:” an era when “no one power or group of powers is both willing and able to drive a global agenda and maintain international order. That global deficit is growing critically dangerous.”
In Bremmer’s 2012 book
Top global risks in 2025
titled “Every Nation for Itself: Winners and Losers in a G-Zero World,” he was already talking about the dangers of a growing power vacuum with no country or alliance of countries willing to take on the responsibility of assuming global leadership.
Today, this power vacuum poses “a recipe for endemic geopolitical instability that will weaken the world’s security and economic architecture, create new and expanding power vacuums, embolden rogue actors and increase the likelihood of accidents, miscalculation and conflict,” with the risk of economic disruptions and dangerous military clashes that could grow when there is no one able and willing to uphold global peace and prosperity.
“Our top risk this year is not a single event. It’s the cumulative impact of the G-Zero leadership deficit on the breakdown of the global order. We’re entering a uniquely dangerous period of world history on par with the 1930s and the early cold war,” he warns.
Despite such a grim picture, some people are hopeful of “far stronger international
cooperation than is thought desirable or would be feasible” in order to solve such challenges – although there is a sense of dismay that “the political actors most essential to strengthening global institutions are moving in the other direction.”
What particularly caught my attention is “Risk # 7: Beggar Thy World” that discusses the rivalry between the United States and China. “Global markets are riding high on hopes of a strengthening global economic expansion in 2025,” but according to Ian, the world’s two giant economies are “set to export disruption to everyone else this year, shortcircuiting the global recovery and accelerating geo-economic fragmentation.”
China’s economy is experiencing its weakest performance in decades with a deepening property crisis, mounting debt and collapsing confidence that have exposed the limits of Beijing’s growth model, while U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has announced plans to impose tariffs to correct unfair practices against the U.S. But the timing is particularly poor, given the tepid global growth,
inflation remaining sticky and debt levels at historic highs, with even developed economies like Japan and Italy still struggling with debt burdens, Ian states.
“Against this backdrop, governments that won recent elections promising better times ahead will face a harsh reality check. Their honeymoons will be brief as global economic pressures turn political. Many emerging and frontier economies must decide between raising taxes or slashing spending,” he cautions.
Like other nations, the Philippines will have to find a way to navigate these global risks that could impact its economic transformation goals. A study conducted by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies titled “Macroeconomic Prospects of the Philippines in 2024-2025: Toward Upper Middle-Income Status” forecasts a 6.1 percent year-on-year GDP growth for 2025 and identifies key drivers of progress like enhanced macroeconomic stability, effective governance and deeper integration into international trade and investment networks.
While there are promising trends, the study highlights
challenges to growth in 2025, in particular the global economic slowdown that poses risks to demand for Philippine exports. To mitigate these risks, the Philippines must strengthen regional ties within ASEAN and expand trade partnerships with the U.S., China and other global players, PIDS emphasizes. We definitely want to have stronger ties with countries that share our values and whose security interests align with ours, because a strong and stable economy will define the future of the Philippines. At the same time, we need to find ways in strengthening economic relations with China, whose economy is currently on a downward trend but inextricably intertwined with the rest of the world. There is always hope that a peaceful resolution to our maritime issues will come at some point in time. (Philstar.com) * * *
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
* * *
Email: babeseyeview@gmail.com
Hijacking ‘People Power’ vs Marcoses
far, however, the notorious family has won by Kissinger’s metric. The Marcos Jr. administration’s various communications faux pas and controversies surrounding the unprecedented $109 billion national budget for the new year gave a second life to the Dutertes.
On one hand, some members of the genuine opposition unwittingly became an instrument of the Dutertes’ machinations by singularly focusing real and perceived anomalies in the government’s new budget.
Eager to exploit the situation, the pro-Duterte camp went on the propaganda offensive by, inter alia, portraying themselves as victims of a ”witch hunt” by a supposedly singularly corrupt administration.
The Duterte line basically goes this way: “Why obsesses over ’millions’ of confidential fund under Sara Duterte’s tenure in the Department of Education, when ‘billions’ are being corrupted by our opponents?” In short, the proDuterte camp argued that even if allegations of anomalies were true, theirs were only miniscule indiscretions—“napakaliit” in Sara Duterte’s words—compared to en masse theft of public funds by their enemies.
This narrative, however, could have easily been countered had well-meaning champions of good governance proactively called out the Dutertes’ hypocrisy and lack of moral authority as well
as actively reminded the public of billions of anomalous deals during the Duterte presidency, especially at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Remember the Pharmally scandal? The Department of Health spending anomalies? Oh, and lest we forget, the Chinese POGOs, which brought billions of “dirty money” into the country under the previous administration under the most shadowy circumstances?
The list is long. Not to mention, billions of confidential funds enjoyed by the Dutertes throughout their decades of uninterrupted rule in one of the country’s largest cities. As Davaonative former associate Justice Antonio Carpio has repeatedly argued, the Dutertes practically “invented” the “confidential fund” phenomenon, which has been the cornerstone of their power since they first took over Davao City. The Dutertes have also unabashedly appropriated the whole “People Power” mantra, even if the pro-Duterte camp has been the biggest slanderers of the EDSA People Power revolt and its ultimate hero, Ninoy Aquino. Mind you, a major religious group aligned with the Dutertes launched its own massive “peace rally” in a clear show of force against opponents of the notorious dynasty. The ultimate fault, however, lies with the ruling administration. Whether due to temperamental
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diffidence or overabundance of political caution, Mr. Marcos has repeatedly failed to seize the moment. Worse, he has handed the Dutertes a perfect opportunity to distract the public and hijack the genuine opposition by refusing to rein in his legislative allies engaged in allegedly questionable fiscal practices ahead of the 2025 elections. Some pro-Marcos elements have argued that they can pin down the Dutertes after the midterm elections and/or settle for a containment strategy, which would keep the notorious dynasty on its toes for the foreseeable future. What they tend to forget is that the Dutertes are a heartbeat away from recapturing Malacañang, and Sara Duterte is still a top contender for the 2028 presidential elections. And should they come back to power,
RichaRd heydaRian
Marcos, wife Liza host dinner for senators
by ZacariaN sarao Inquirer.net
MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his wife First Lady Liza AranetaMarcos met and had dinner with several senators and their spouses on Monday, January 13.
A photo of the dinner was shared by the First Lady herself through Facebook on Tuesday, January 14.
“Dinner with senators and
their spouses,” Liza said in the photo’s caption. Liza also bared that the dinner was held at Bahay Pangulo, the first family’s official residence within the Malacañan Palace Complex in Manila. Almost all senators were present at the dinner—with the exception of Senators Risa Hontiveros, Bato Dela Rosa, Bong Go, Grace Poe and the President’s sister, Imee. It should also be noted that
the dinner was held the same day as the Iglesia ni Cristo’s “National Rally for Peace” which was conducted seemingly in defense of Vice President Sara Duterte amid impeachment complaints, albeit with the church’s leadership insisting that it was non-political.
The Palace has yet to provide an explanation for what transpired during the dinner, why it was held, or whether it was an official meeting or not. n
Alice Guo charged with 62 counts of money laundering
by evelyN macaiRaN Philstar.com
MANILA — The Department of Justice-National Prosecution Service (DOJ-NPS) has recommended the filing of money laundering charges against dismissed Bamban Mayor Alice Guo for allegedly running criminal activities inside the Baofu compound in her town.
In a 49-page resolution, a panel of prosecutors from the DOJ-NPS recommended the filing against Guo, also known as Guo Hua Ping, of 26 counts of money laundering under Section 4 (a) of Republic Act 9160 (AntiMoney Laundering Act of 2001), five counts of money laundering under Section 4 (b) of RA 9160 as amended by RA 10365 (An Act Further Strengthening the Anti-Money Laundering Law) and 31 counts of violation of Section 4 (d) of RA 9160 as amended by RA 10365.
In the 31 counts of money laundering, named respondents were Guo and 30 others, including Jian Zhong Guo, also known as Angelito Guo aka Angelito dela Cruz Guo; Lin Wenyi aka Wen Yi Lin aka Amelia Leal; Shiela Leal Guo aka Mier Zhang; Seimen Leal Guo; Zhiyang Huang aka Boss Wang and Rachelle Joan Carreon.
The DOJ-NPS explained that the elements of money laundering – the existence of unlawful activity, monetary instrument or property that represents proceeds of the unlawful activity, performance of acts pertaining to the proceeds and property and knowledge of the unlawful activity – were present in the case.
“Upon judicious evaluation and consideration of all the documentary evidence and totality of circumstances presented vis-à-vis the respondents’ arguments and defenses, the undersigned investigating panel is convinced that there exists prima facie cases for money laundering with reasonable certainty of conviction of respondents found to be involved in its complex web of commission,” the DOJNPS said in its resolution.
It added that Guo’s involvement in “the grand scheme cannot be overemphasized.”
“She appears to be its brainchild and/or architect,” the DOJ-NPS said.
Guo is the president of Baofu Land Development, which has been the subject of three search warrants reportedly because of online gambling, internet fraud and other cybercrime operations conducted by Hongsheng.
There were also Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) operating inside Baofu.
A month after it was given juridical personality and prior to the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) awarding it with a POGO license, it was raided, resulting in the arrest of 332 foreign nationals, a majority of whom were of Chinese descent.
During the search conducted on March 13 last year, foreign nationals were rescued.
Zen Yuan was reportedly engaged in labor trafficking, online fraud, cryptocurrency scam, love scam and investment fraud.
“Noteworthy, there were no financial documents indicating specific remittance or receipt of money or other monetary instruments by either Baofu, Hongsheng or Zun Yuan arising from the unlawful investment or love scamming activities
conducted inside Baofu compound,” the resolution said.
“Nonetheless, this does not defeat or negate the fact that respondents actually derived proceeds from their unlawful activities. Obviously, the respondents are too keen and crafty as to leave any trail or evidence of dirty money that would easily give them away,” it added.
The resolution noted, however, that the case involves several corporations that tried to conceal the true nature of their businesses and sow public perception of conducting legitimate activities.
“With the machinations of the respondents, chiefly by Alice Leal Guo, layers of corporations were incorporated one after another to make it appear that these were engaged in independent, profitable and legitimate businesses,” the resolution stated.
While there was no direct and specific financial document showing proceeds from unlawful activities being conducted inside Baofu, it claimed that “it is very apparent that proceeds from unlawful activity were diverted and channeled through Guo’s other businesses such as QJJ Farm and QSeed Genetics.”
“In this case, Alice, through QJJ Farm and QSeed Genetics as transit accounts, paid for the electric bills and other operating expenses of Baofu, Hongsheng and Zun Yuan,” the resolution stated.
“Doubtless, these cases and check payments relating to the utility and other operating expenses of Baofu, Hongsheng and Zun Yuan represented or constituted the proceeds generated from the unlawful activities by Hongsheng and later, by Zun Yuan,” it added.
The charges against Katherine Cassandra Li Ong, however, were dropped for lack of evidence.
DOJ Assistant Secretary and spokesman Mico Clavano said the case would be filed in a Manila court “as soon as possible.”
29 foreigners nabbed in ‘guerrilla’ POGO
Twenty-nine foreigners were arrested when law enforcement authorities raided a guerrillatype POGO hub in Silang, Cavite, the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) reported on Wednesday, January 15.
The suspects, 22 Chinese nationals and six citizens of Myanmar, were arrested at a private resort in Barangay Lalaan II around 3:30 p.m.
In a report, the PAOCC said the owner of the resort alerted the authorities about the suspicious activities of the foreigners on his
property.
A composite team consisting of members of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, Bureau of Immigration, Cavite police and the PAOCC swooped down on the resort.
Authorities were conducting an inventory of the items seized at the resort as of Wednesday afternoon.
Seized from the suspects were computer laptops and other devices.
80% of POGOs closed
At least 80 percent of the 400 POGO hubs in the country have shut down their operations, but law enforcement authorities continue to keep tabs on their workers who have started shifting to small-scale operations.
PAOCC executive director
Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz said they are keeping tabs on certain areas of the country where there is reported presence of smallscale POGO hubs.
Apart from Metro Manila, the PAOCC has been monitoring illegal gaming hubs operating in Calabarzon, the Visayas and Mindanao.
Cruz gave assurance that they are not letting their guard down even if around 320 of the approximately 400 POGO firms in the country have stopped operating.
“Let’s say about 80 percent of the 400 stopped, but stopping doesn’t mean they have stopped completely,” he said in an interview aired over PTV’s “Bagong Pilipinas.”
He added that around 27,000 of the 40,000 foreigners working in POGO hubs have been deported to their home countries, which means around 13,000 people are still unaccounted for.
These foreigners are now the focus of intelligence-driven operations as they could be setting up clandestine POGO hubs in defiance of President Marcos’ ban on the industry, according to the PAOCC chief.
“Mostly in Metro Manila, but also in Northern Luzon, Visayas, we are already receiving reports,” he said.
He added that they have also monitored other similar establishments in Mindanao.
Cruz earlier said they are monitoring over 100 small-scale POGO hubs nationwide.
He added that the suspects organize themselves into groups of 20 to 50, renting condominium units, houses in subdivisions and even resorts for their operations.
The foreigners then hire the services of Filipinos as keyboard operators of their scamming activities, according to Cruz. (With reports from Emmanuel Tupas)
HIGHER. Oil firms wiill implement an increase in pump prices as seen in this photo taken at a
Photo from Facebook
Dismissed Bamban Mayor Alice Guo during the Senate probe into the illegal operations of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) on September 9, 2024. Philstar.com file photo
ANNOUNCEMENT
Advertisement for Bids Notice is hereby given that the San Diego Unified School District, acting by and through its governing board, will electronically receive bids for the furnishing of all labor, materials, transportation, equipment, and services for: CC25-0634-05-00-00 TRASH ENCLOSURE MODIFICATIONS
AT ALBA COMMUNITY DAY SCHOOL
A mandatory site visit is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2025, outside the main office of ALBA Community Day School, 4041 Oregon St., San Diego, CA 92104. All attendees must preregister with the District prior to attending the site walk at sandiegounified.org/sitewalks. The Bid and Contract Documents may be downloaded free of charge at the District’s online Planroom at sandiegousdplans.com. All bids must be received electronically via PlanetBids before 1:00 p.m. on FEBRUARY 6, 2025. Prime contractors interested in submitting a bid must go to tinyurl.com/SDUSD-PlanetBids then search under “Bid Opportunities” for “Invitation number” CC25-0634-05-00-00 Trash Enclosure Modifications at ALBA Community Day School. For new vendors, please register under “New Vendor Registration.” The project estimate is between $83,000 and $88,000, including allowances. This is not a PSA project but requires the District’s prequalification for projects estimated under $1 million. The District requires that Bidders possess any of the following classification(s) of California State Contractors License(s), valid and in good standing, at the time of bid opening and contract award: B, or other appropriate license, subject to District approval. SAN DIEGO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT, George A. Harris III, Director, Fiscal Controls and Information Systems, Facilities Planning and Construction CC25-0634-05-00-00.
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FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9025555
CDM Marketplace located at 600 E. 8th St Ste 7, National City, CA 91960. Registrant: Chan Dong Inc., 600 E. 8th St Ste 7, National City, CA 91960. This business is conducted by A Corporation.
REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT
BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 12/31/2024. Signature: Linh Du. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 13/31/2024.
AJ 1595 01/10, 01/17, 01/24, and 01/31/2025. AJSD 1595
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2025-9000090
BF MACHINING located at 4166 43rd Street, San Diego, CA 92105.
Registrant: a. Thuy Thi Tran, 5036 Sterling Court, San Diego, CA 92105. b. Leon Ly, 4166 43rd Street, San Diego, CA 92105 This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Partnership.
REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 01/02/2025. Signature: Leon Ly. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/03/2025.
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COZ Construction Handyman Services located at 1011 Beyer Way SPC #86, San Diego, CA 92154. Registrant: a. William Coz, 1011 Beyer Way SPC #86, San Diego, CA 92154. b. Alondra Martinez, 1011 Beyer Way SPC #86, San Diego, CA 92154. This business is conducted by A Married Couple. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 01/06/2025. Signature: Alondra Martinez. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/06/2025. AJ 1600 01/17, 01/24, 01/31, and 02/07/2025. AJSD 1600
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FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9024948
Postal Connections San Diego located at 4231 Balboa Ave, San Diego, CA 92117.
Registrant: Papouz Global LLC, 10461 Guindo Place, San Diego, 92124. This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company.
REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 03/19/2024.
Signature: John Georges. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 12/19/2024. AJ 1589 12/27/2024, 01/03/2025, 01/10/2025, and 01/17/2025. AJSD 1589
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NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9024443
Castor Bernadeau Mylvia Family Child Care LLC located at 3121 Sweetwater Springs Blvd 76, Spring Valley, CA 91978. Registrant:Castor Bernadeau Mylvia Family Child Care LLC, 3121 Sweetwater Springs Blvd 76, Spring Valley, CA 91978. This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company.
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NAME STATEMENT NO. 2025-9000540
The Construction Company of San Diego located at 6755 Mira Mesa Blvd Suite 123381, San Diego, CA 92121.
Registrant: Construction Conveyors INC, 6755 Mira Mesa Blvd Suite 123-381, San Diego, CA 92121. This business is conducted by A Corporation.
REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 01/09/2025.
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FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2025-9000530
Gluten Free Pop Up Market located at 2647 Ariane Dr, San Diego, CA 92117.
Registrant: Maria Fernanda López Ortiz, 3432 Boundary St, San Diego, CA 92104.
This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 01/09/2025. Signature: Maria Fernanda López Ortiz. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/09/2025. AJ 1603 01/17, 01/24, 01/31, and 02/07/2025. AJSD 1603
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a. Custom Glass Specialties INC located at 821 E 2nd St, National City, CA 91950.
b. Commercial Glass & Hardware located at 821 E 2nd St, National City, CA 91950.
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AJ 1590 12/27/2024, 01/03/2025, 01/10/2025, and 01/17/2025. AJSD 1590
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9023675
Loraine Lashes LLC located at 2720 E. Plaza Blvd Suite L, National City, CA 91950. Registrant: Loraine Lashes LLC, 3633 Peach Blossom St, National City, CA 91950. This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company.
REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 09/16/2024. Signature: Mylvia Castor Bernadeau. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 12/12/2024. AJ 1592 12/27/2024, 01/03/2025, 01/10/2025, and 01/17/2025. AJSD 1592
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ASAP located at 2466 B Van Ness Ave, National City, CA 91950. Registrant: Miguel Angel Lugo, 2466 B Van Ness Ave, National City, CA 91950.
This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 01/06/2025. Signature: Miguel A Lugo. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/06/2025. AJ 1597 01/10, 01/17, 01/24, and 01/31/2025. AJSD 1597
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NAME STATEMENT NO. 2025-9000780
Chrispy Auto Styling located at 1703 Hoover Ave Ste A, National City, CA 91950. Registrant: Chrispy Services LLC, 521 Cochran Ave, San Diego, CA 92154. This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company.
REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE.
Signature: Christopher Anthony Navarro. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/13/2025. AJ 1602 01/17, 01/24, 01/31, and 02/07/2025. AJSD 1602
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2025-9000947
Beauty House Care located at 635 C St Apt 307, San Diego, CA 92101.
Registrant: Rosalinda Malfabon, P.O. BOX 533, Lemon Grove, CA 91946. This business is conducted by An Individual.
REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 09/17/1998. Signature: Rosalinda Malfabon. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/15/2025. AJ 1604 01/17, 01/24, 01/31, and 02/07/2025. AJSD 1604
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9024966
Abide Home Health located at 9474 Kearny Villa Road, Ste. 101, San Diego, CA 92126. Registrant: Abide Home Health Care INC, 9474 Kearny Villa Road, Ste. 101, San Diego, CA 92126. This business is conducted by A Corporation. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 08/09/2024. Signature: Camilo Gallego. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 12/19/2024. AJ 1591 12/27/2024, 01/03/2025, 01/10/2025, and 01/17/2025. AJSD 1591
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9023450
COURT ‘N JO’S SOUND ROOM located at 923 E St, San Diego, CA 92101. Registrant: NO REQUESTS EXPERIENCE LLC, 625 Broadway Apt 715, San Diego, CA 92101. This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company.
REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 10/02/2020.
Signature: Loraine G. Reduque. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 12/02/2024. AJ 1593 12/27/2024, 01/03/2025, 01/10/2025, and 01/17/2025. AJSD 1593
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT NO. 2025-9000270
Linda’s Cleaning Services located at 4019 Via del Brado, San Ysidro, CA 92173. Registrant: Hermelinda Cortez M, 4019 Via del Brado, San Ysidro, CA 92173. This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 01/07/2025. Signature: Hermelinda Cortez M. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/07/2025. AJ 1598 01/10, 01/17, 01/24, and 01/31/2025. AJSD 1598
REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 09/04/2024. Signature: Jolene Ho. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 11/25/2024. AJ 1594 01/03, 01/10, 01/17, and 01/24/2025. AJSD 1594
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT NO. 2025-9000300
L & M Residential located at 2840 Via Del Allazon, Bonita, CA 91902. Registrant: Oscar Lara, 2840 Via Del Allazon, Bonita, CA 91902. This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 01/01/1999. Signature: Oscar Lara. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 01/07/2025. AJ 1599 01/10, 01/17, 01/24, and 01/31/2025. AJSD 1599
SAN DIEGO
‘Kung sino ‘yung wala sa ABS-CBN, gusto kong makatrabaho’ — Jodi Sta Maria
by Jan Milo severo Philstar.com
KAPAMILYA actress Jodi
Sta Maria revealed that she wanted to work with Kapuso actors. During the recent media conference for her show “Lavender Fields,” Jodi was asked who she wants to work with in the future.
“I guess siguro, kung may mga gusto pa ako, ang dami, eh. Kaya lang wala sila sa ABSCBN. Kung sino ‘yung mga wala sa ABS-CBN, gusto kong makatrabaho,” she said.
“ Ang daming magagaling na artista ngayon. Ang daming revelation. Ang daming underrated. Ang daming mga theatre actor na magagaling ,” she added.
Jodi admitted that playing her character in “Lavender Fields” was hard.
“Like I said, this is the first time na gumawa ako ng ganitong genre. Noong tinanggap ko ang role, nagkaroon ako ng doubt sa sarili ko, kung kaya ko ba? Sabi ko na lang sa production, na every time magkakaroon ng action scene, mag-rehearse muna kami one day before. Kasi parang hindi ako confident na mag -rehearse lang ng same day,” she said.
“Memorable rin talaga sa akin ang mga
Coco Martin proud of Julia Montes being active in showbiz again
MANILA — Actor Coco Martin could not be prouder of Julia Montes, as the actress was recently busy with a Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entry and an online family drama series.
“Sobrang proud. Natutuwa ako kasi lahat ng ginagawa niya,” Coco told reporters last December during his launch as the brand ambassador for Toyota Tamaraw Next Gen held in Glorietta mall in Makati City. Julia was the female lead star in the Metro Manila Film Festival 2024 entry “Topakk,” opposite Arjo Atayde.
Her Prime video series
“Saving Grace” ended last Thursday, January 9. It is the Philippine adaptation of the 2010 Japanese drama “Mother.” Coco said he received feedback from Richard Somes, Julia’s director in “Topakk” and actress Sylvia Sanchez, who was one of the film’s producers.
Photo from Instagram/@montesjulia08
Karylle slams campaign gimmicks: ‘Voters deserve more than jingles’
by JessiCa ann evangelista Inquirer.net
FILIPINO singer and TV host
Karylle has called on voters to demand more from election candidates, emphasizing the need for substance over gimmicks.
Speaking recently on the radio show “Good Times,” Karylle criticized campaign strategies that rely on jingles and TikTok dances, urging the public to focus on debates and platforms that address the nation’s issues.
“That’s why we have to demand it as voters, as people… It is our job as voters to be more noisy about… right namin na mapanood kayo ( it is our right to watch you ). Gusto namin marinig ( we want to hear ) more than your jingle, more than your TikTok dance, whatever. What are you about? We want to know. We have to demand this. This is our right,” she emphasized.
The “It’s Showtime” host underscored the importance of using “one’s brain” when it comes to choosing the right candidate to elect into positions of power.
“We have to reclaim our voice as the voting public, especially women. The right to suffrage — we didn’t really have that all this time, but we have it now. So we have to just be loud about it. And we have to be comfortable about being loud,” she stated.
“Let’s educate the voters and make sure that we are all educated. You, as a voter, should, you know, use your own brain… Even with religion, you have to discern for yourself. Because you have to think for yourself,” added the singer-host.
Karylle’s statement comes at the start of the campaign period for the upcoming 2025 midterm elections and the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC)’s “peace rally” amid the feud between President Bongbong Marcos and Vice President Sara
Coco Martin and Julia Montes
Nae-excite ako kasi napaproud ako sa kanya e kasi alam ko kung paano niya pinaghihirapan ang bawat gawa niya,” the actor said. He also complimented Julia’s take on her returning series comeback in “Saving Grace.” “Kahit ako, nasabi ko kay Mommy Pie (Cherry Pie, his costar in ‘FPJ’s Batang Quiapo’), natatakot ako ka-eksena si Jules kasi ang galing-galing niya
Biruin mo, ang onti ng lights niya pero ang mata niya, ‘yung maturity,” Coco said. Ako naman wala akong magagawa kundi sumuporta at nasa likod niya,” the actor added.
Inigo Pascual,
family evacuate from Los Angeles home amid wildfires
Duterte.
Meanwhile, after headlining the musical play
“Little Shop of Horrors” in 2024, Karylle recently joined the cast of the upcoming Filipinafronted reality show “Manila Matriarchs.”
nagkikita kami, hindi kami nagsasabunutan, kundi nagbubugbugan kami ,” she added.
UNITED States President Joe Biden recently awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 individuals who made extraordinary contributions to America and the world.
Among the recipients were as follows: Jose Andres, Bono, Ashton Baldwin Carter (posthumous), Hillary Rodham Clinton, Michael J. Fox, Tim Gill, Jane Goodall, Fannie Lou Hamer (posthumous), Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Robert Francis Kennedy (posthumous), Ralph Lauren, Lionel Messi, William Sanford Nye, George W. Romney (posthumous), David M. Rubenstein, George Soros, George Stevens Jr., Denzel Washington, and Anna Wintour.
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The weather was awesome and we had a good ambience in the City of Pines which attracts thousands of tourists, foreign and local, each year.
One of the tourist attractions in Baguio is the Baguio Mansion House, the official summer palace of the president of the Philippines.
It is now open to the public, thanks to the initiative of First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos.
* * * Welcome to the year 2025!
I randomly asked another four persons to answer two questions: (1) What are your plans/projects this year?; and (2) Any insights/ learnings on the past year?
Here are their replies:
Sunita Mukhi, an LA-based actress and artistic director: (1)
“I have to constantly steel myself by doing yoga, walking, eating well, sleeping, catching up with friends and family, rehearsing, auditioning, persisting, prevailing and believing that the Universal Creative Spirit is with me, honing me for a purpose... So for 2025 the intention is to redouble my efforts, refine the story performance pieces I have conjured, engage with other authentic talents. I would love to do a production/project with Filipino colleagues! But most importantly, be kind, and joyful, despite the feasts and the famine of this whimsical artistic adventure that I have embarked on.” (2) “2024 was a year of
President Biden honors 19 great leaders
travel, family reunions and a number of wins for me creatively. I travelled to New York, Turkey, London, and Italy for professional and personal reasons. Short films that I was part of were screened all over the U.S., and even in Florence, Italy where the film RSVP got the audience choice award. The same film also got Best Performance in NYWIFT (New York Women in Film and Television) streaming festival. How I Met Your Masi, a sketch group I was invited to play with, is currently the reigning champion of Upright Citizens Brigade! But as a creative, the high of recognition for these modest endeavours makes you even more hungry for more work … I want to give more, express more, and collaborate more!”
De La Salle Brother Vincent H. Fernandez F.S.C. of La Salle Green Hills Alternative Education: (1) “My project for the new year is to find more ways to allow our ALS (Alternative Learning System) learners, especially the unschooled adults either in community or those in the jails to be educated and formed according to where they are today and on how they desire to become a much better and righteous version of themselves.” (2) “My insights today, based on my experience in the past year, are that all these years we have always advocated justice and peace. While these two are still necessary and inseparable advocacies, it will never be achievable unless grounded in the righteousness of God as fully and clearly defined by the life of Christ and the Gospels (So for this year, my personal advocacy
is for God’s Righteousness to be proclaimed, lived and celebrated with greater intentionality, purpose and action.).”
Sister Mary John Mananzan O.S.B., a missionary Benedictine nun, activist, educator, theologian and author: (1) “For our school, St. Scholastica’s Academy San Fernando in Pampanga, there will be a continuation of yearlong centennial activities ending in June 2025 which includes centennial walk, grand alumni homecoming, St. Scholastica’s Feast Day featuring a solemn mass, merit awards, festive lunch, placing of centennial markers, gala concert. The closing ceremony in June features ‘Gawad Saysay/Husay’ awarding of 100 outstanding alumnae. As for the country, continued ‘No to Chacha (charter change),’ ‘West Philippine Sea Amin Ito ,’ Movement Against Tyranny, CyberGuardian Philippines against OSAEC ( Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children), PEPP (Philippine Ecumenical Peace Platform) advocacy for the continuance of the official peace talks, and in March, celebration
City of San Diego identifies safety improvements for high crash locations
Traffic engineering team outlines recommendations based on injury and fatal crash rates
SAN DIEGO – In order to improve traffic safety conditions and help protect pedestrians, the City of San Diego’s Traffic Engineering team has recommended improvements for seven locations with high injury and fatal crashes in calendar year 2023. The High Crash Locations list and recommended safety improvements are part of an annual engineering process and the result of a year-long evaluation completed by the Transportation Department.
In identifying these priority locations, city staff reviewed data from calendar year 2023 and evaluated intersections where five or more crashes had occurred. The analysis also looked at intersections and street segments with the most injury crashes and intersections with the most crashes involving pedestrians.
Each year as part of its proactive traffic safety improvement program, the city’s Transportation Department conducts a citywide high crash analysis. The results are made available on the city’s Vision Zero website. As part of the city’s commitment to safety, the High Crash Location analysis is one of many studies the city completes to help improve safety within the public right of way. The Transportation Department also performs assessments of all fatal crashes and prepares recommendations for improvements at these locations.
In addition, the city recently completed a Systemic Safety Analysis, which identifies similar characteristics across intersections where fatal crashes have occurred, allowing the city to proactively prioritize improvements at intersections with those characteristics.
“Our engineers and field operations teams are working hand in hand to ensure these safety upgrades are implemented to maximize safety for all users,” said Transportation Department Director Bethany Bezak. “Being able to carry out these projects with our in-house teams is important so the work can be
completed as quickly and efficiently as possible.”
The seven locations identified through the 2023 High Crash Locations analysis include five intersections and two street segments:
• Art Street at El Cajon Boulevard
• Kurtz Street at Rosecrans Street
• Miramar Road at Nobel Drive
• Briarwood Road at Paradise Valley Road
• Pacific Highway at Taylor Street
• El Cajon Boulevard from 63rd Street to Choctaw Drive
• Market Street from 26th Street to 27th Street.
Traffic engineering teams are now in the process of designing and scheduling work for these safety improvement projects. Many of the safety improvements will be installed by city crews through quick build projects, but some must be completed through the city’s Capital Improvement Program and will require additional funding to implement.
Among the safety recommendations, additional signs, flashing beacons and crosswalks aim to improve visibility for drivers to see pedestrians entering the intersections. The recommendations also call for upgrading traffic signal lights, replacing or adding speed limit signs, and pedestrian countdown timers. Where applicable, intersections may receive additional red curbs to be consistent with the new Assembly Bill 413 “Daylighting Law” which prohibits vehicles from parking within 20 feet of a marked or unmarked crosswalk.
Traffic engineering recommendations vary for each location and, in some cases, require coordination with other agencies including MTS and the North County Transit District.
To learn more about the city’s efforts to create safer roads and improve mobility options, visit sandiego. gov/VisionZero. (City of San Diego Release)
City of San Diego warns about parking enforcement phishing scam
Fraudulent webpage requests payment via text message for parking citations
SAN DIEGO
– The City of San Diego is warning residents and visitors of a phishing scam that impersonates a city webpage requesting payment for parking citations. Through a message sent via SMS text message, recipients are notified of phony parking tickets, with instructions to click a link and pay the balance online.
The city’s cybersecurity team is working with authorities, including the San Diego Police Department, to take down the fraudulent webpage and identify those responsible. Anyone who receives the parking citation message in a text message is urged NOT to follow the links and to avoid entering credit card or payment information. To verify the status of a parking citation or to safely make a payment online, visit sandiego.gov/ parking/citations. Anyone who receives a text about parking citations should avoid clicking or following any link sent via text message and, instead, visit the city’s website or call Parking Administration at 866-470-1308. The phone number is monitored between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Community members are encouraged to remain vigilant regarding cybersecurity threats. To learn more, visit the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (https://www.ic3.gov). For additional concerns or questions regarding parking enforcement, please contact the city’s Parking Administration office (https://www.sandiego.gov/ parking/contact/parkingadmin). (City of San Diego Release)
of Women’s Month.” (2) “The greatest obstacle to Philippine progress is corruption from top to bottom, interred in our bones and lack of a sense of common good by a domesticated citizenry. The greatest shame is the dismal state of educational system – Philippines lowest next to Bangladesh in Asian survey! Only a revolution can change the entrenched system, something which sadly no group in the country is capable of. God of justice, have mercy on your people.”
Ignacio “Toting” Bunye, former Muntinlupa City Mayor and former Board Member at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas: (1) “Let me just share with you the top two in my long wish list for 2025. First and foremost is to continue to remain active in the community undertakings of the Kiwanis Club of Muntinlupa Rizal (KCMR) of which I am a charter member. Chartered in 1976, KCMR is a strong proponent of Serving the Children of the World, a cause which I am passionate about. By actively participating in all club undertakings I hope to be able to contribute to
building a better Philippines, one family, one community at a time. Second, in order to enable me to actively participate in activities which I enjoy, I intend to prioritize my health and wellbeing. This means sticking to a strict regimen of exercise, balanced diet, adequate sleep and participation in enjoyable social activities.” (2) “I have always believed in lifelong learning. Staying informed and continuously learning is vital. Embracing new knowledge, technologies and perspectives will keep one relevant and effective regardless of age.”
* * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
* * * rogeliocmedina@yahoo.com
City of San Diego helps make flood insurance more affordable for property
owners
San Diegans encouraged to get flood insurance; federal program provides 15% discount
SAN DIEGO
– During this rainy season, the City of San Diego is encouraging homeowners to make sure they are prepared and have the appropriate insurance to cover any potential losses from flooding. While there has not been significant rainfall in the forecast so far this year, now is the time to plan ahead and be prepared.
Thanks to the city’s participation in the Community Rating System (CRS), thousands of local property owners and renters have access to a 15% discount on flood insurance premiums.
Floods can happen in any season, and their impact can be devastating. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), one inch of floodwater can cause up to $25,000 in property damage.
Most homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. Therefore, to cover losses from flooding, property owners and renters must acquire a separate flood insurance policy. It’s also important to note that new flood insurance policies have a 30-day waiting period before they take
effect.
“We are committed to helping San Diegans be prepared and stay protected,” said city Stormwater Department Director Todd Snyder. “Flooding can occur unexpectedly, and it’s important to plan ahead. This flood insurance discount makes it easier and more affordable for residents to secure insurance and safeguard their homes and families.”
Last month, the city distributed approximately 10,000 educational pamphlets with vital information on how to prepare for potential flooding, including guidelines on ways to protect property, understand your potential flood risk and how to purchase flood insurance. The pamphlets, available in both English and Spanish, were distributed to owners and occupants of properties located within a FEMA designated high-risk flood zone.
Residents are encouraged to review the information, determine if their home is in a floodplain, and implement measures to protect against flood damage.
San Diegans can also prepare for the rains and potential for flooding by taking a few simple steps:
• Sweep and pick up trash and debris that collect around storm drains and curb gutters near your home or property.
• Know the safest routes to and from your home or property should flooding occur.
• Sign up for emergency alerts through Alert San Diego to be notified of flash flooding events.
• Slow down and do not drive, ride or walk through flood waters.
• Do not open or lift manhole covers in the event of street flooding.
During heavy rains, multiple city storm patrol crews will be actively monitoring areas throughout the city and responding to incidents, such as temporary flooding and downed trees or branches.
For more information and resources on how to properly prepare before a storm, please visit the city’s Storm Preparedness web page at https://www.sandiego. gov/storm-preparedness. (City of San Diego Release)
Prohibits opportunist investors from making unsolicited offers on property in fire-ravaged communities
LOS ANGELES — Governor Gavin Newsom on Tuesday, January 14 issued an executive order to protect firestorm victims in the Los Angeles area from predatory land speculators making aggressive and unsolicited cash offers to purchase their property. Taking advantage of the disaster and associated trauma, these predatory and exploitative practices endanger the financial well-being and security of vulnerable victims. Tuesday’s announcement will allow
Sunita Mukhi with writer and co-producer Zen Dot in the short film RSVP, which recently won the Audience Choice Award in the River to River Florence Indian Film Festival in Italy. De La Salle Brother Vincent Fernandez, F.S.C.
Ignacio “Toting” Bunye, author of the book “Central Banking for Every Juan and Maria.”
Baguio Mansion House during daytime.
Baguio Mansion House and surroundings at night.
Actor Denzel Washington receives the Presidential Medal of Freedom from U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House. Photos courtesy of Rogelio C. Medina
Sr. Mary John Mananzan O.S.B.
At Baguio Mansion: (from left) Rogelio Medina, Bam Garcia, Yayot Garcia, Roger Oriel, Mikayla Shaine Alonzo and Bence Lao.
Pechanga pledges $500K to aid LA fire victims
The Pechanga Tribe teams with Los Angeles Rams Foundation to donate $250,000 to fire relief efforts in Los Angeles, as well as an additional $250,000 to the American Red Cross
THE Pechanga Tribe in Southern California announced on Tuesday, January 14 a contribution of $500,000 to assist Los Angeles fire victims impacted by the Palisades and Eaton Fires. Pechanga will join with the Los Angeles Rams Foundation to contribute a total of $250,000 to three organizations working around the clock to help Los Angeles through this devastating time:
American Red Cross Los Angeles Region, the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Foundation, and the World Central Kitchen. In addition, Pechanga will donate an additional $250,000 to American Red Cross.
ANG Employment
Development Department (EDD) ng Sacramento – California ay nag-anunsyo ngayon ng malaking pagpapalakas sa Paid Family Leave at mga benepisyo sa kapansanan para sa mga manggagawa hanggang sa 90 porsiyento ng suweldo para sa mga manggagawa na kumikita ng mas mababa sa $63,000 bawat taon, at 70 porsiyento para sa mga manggagawang mas mataas ang kita.
“Ang mga benepisyo ng Expanded Paid Family Leave ay tungkol sa pagpapadali para sa mga taga -California na alagaan ang kanilang sarili, makipagbonding sa isang bagong bata, at alagaan ang kanilang mga pamilya nang hindi nababahala kung paano nila babayaran ang mga bayarin,” sabi ni Gobernador Gavin Newsom. “Ito ay isa pang halimbawa ng California na nangunguna sa pagsuporta sa mga manggagawa, paglikha ng isang mas abot-kayang California, at pagbuo ng mas maraming pagkakataon para sa lahat.”
“Ang pagpapalakas ng benepisyong ito ay ginagawang mas abot- kaya ang magpahinga sa trabaho at mag-alaga sa isang may sakit na miyembro ng pamilya, makipag-ugnayan sa isang bata, o gumaling mula sa sakit o pinsala,” sabi ni EDD Director Nancy Farias. “Ang mga pamumuhunang ito ay nagpapalakas sa manggawa ng California at nagpapahusay sa buhay ng milyun-milyong tagaCalifornia.”
Ang pagpapalakas ng benepisyo ng California ay tutulong sa mga manggagawa na magpahinga sa trabaho para sa pagbubuntis, panganganak, o paggaling mula sa sakit o pinsala. Makakatulong din ito sa mga tao na pangalagaan ang mga miyembro ng pamilyang may malubhang karamdaman, makipag-ugnayan sa mga bagong anak, o suportahan ang pamilya sa panahon ng pagdeploy ng military sa ibang bansa.
Ang bagong batas na nagpapataas sa mga benepisyong ito, ang Senate Bill 951(SB 951), ay nagkabisa noong Enero 1, 2025 at hindi retroactive –meaning na mga paghahabol mula 2024 ay patuloy na nagbabayad sa mga rate ng 2024 (na nagbayad ng 60 hanggang 70 porsiyento ng lingguhang sahod). Ang impormasyon tungkol sa panahon ng paglipat na ito ay nai-post sa 2025 na mga FAQ sa Pagbabayad ng Benepisyo sa webpage. Ang Bayad na Family Leave at Disability Insurance ay mga insurance plans na sumasaklaw sa higit sa 18 milyong manggagawa sa California. Nagbabayad ang mga manggagawa sa mga planong ito
sa seguro sa pamamagitan ng mga kontribusyon sa payroll at pagkatapos ay kumukuha ng mga benepisyo kung kinakailangan. Ang mga kwalipikadong manggagawa na tumatanggap ng kapansanan ay maaaring makakuha ng hanggang 52 linggo ng mga benepisyo at ang mga manggagawang kumukuha ng Bayad na Family Leave ay karapat-dapat para sa hanggang 8 linggo ng mga benepisyo, kasama ang 4 na linggo bago ang kapanganakan para sa mga umaasang ina. Sa karaniwan, ang mga manggagawa noong nakaraang taon ay nakatanggap ng higit sa $870 bawat linggo sa Bayad na Family Leave at higit sa $780 bawat linggo para sa kapansanan. Ang sinabi nila tungkol sa pagpapalakas ng benepisyo “Sisiguraduhin ng SB 951 na ang bawat manggagawa sa California ay kayang alagaan ang kanilang pamilya at ang kanilang sarili sa pinakamahahalagang sandali ng buhay,” sabi ni Senator Maria Elena Durzo, may-akda ng SB 951. “Pinapalakpakan ko si Gobernador Newsom sa paglagda sa aking panukalang batas bilang batas, na magbibigay-daan sa katamtaman at mababang suweldo na mga manggagawa upang makatanggap ng hanggang 90 porsiyento ng kanilang sahod kapag nasa bakasyon. Ang pagbabagong ito ay makikinabang sa milyonmilyong maggagawa na nagambag sa programa sa panahon ng kanilang mga karera. Ipinagmamalaki na ipakilala, ay bahagi ng makasaysayang gawaing ginagawa ng California upang palawakin ang pantay na pag-access sa may bayad na bakasyon.”
“Ang SB 951 ay gagawa ng malaking pagkakaiba sa mga magulang at tagapag-alaga ng California na ngayon ay makakayang maglaan ng oras upang makipag-ugnayan sa kanilang mga anak, alagaan ang kanilang mga miyembro ng pamilya , o upang gumaling mula sa kanilang sariling malubhang kondisyon sa kalusugan,” sabi ni Jenya Cassidy, Director ng California Work & Family Coalition. “Talagang ipinagmamalaki ko na
naging bahagi ako ng malaking pagsisikap na naging possible. Ngayon kailangan nating ipakalat ang salita upang matiyak na alam ng lahat ang tungkol dito!”
“Natutuwa kaming makitang magkabisa ang SB951,” sabi ni Sharon Terman, Director ng Work & Family Program sa Legal Aid at Work. “ Sa pamamagitan ng pagtataas ng mga rate ng benepisyo sa 90 porsiyento para sa mga manggagawang mababa ang sahod, ginagawang maa-access ng batas na ito ang Bayad na Pag-iwan sa Pamilya at Seguro sa Kapansanan ng Estado sa mga taga- California na may mababang kita na dati ay hindi kayang tumanggap ng malaking pagbawas sa suweldo kapag nakikitungo sa isang medical na krisis ng pamilya o sa pagtanggap ng isang bagong bata, salamat sa SB951, milyun-milyong higit pang mga manggagawa ang makakayanan na kumuha ng bakasyon na kailangan nila upang pangalagaan ang kanilang sarili at ang kanilang mga pamilya, nang hindi kinakailangang ipagsapalaran ang kanilang katatagan ng ekonomiya.”
Mga madalas itanong
Tanong: Paano kakalkulahin ng EDD ang halaga ng benepisyo sa kapansanan o Bayad na Family Leave?
Sagot: Ang petsa ng pagsisimula ng paghahabol at ang kita ng aplikante at tumutukoy sa rate ng benepisyo. (Ang petsa ng pagsisimula ay ang pets ana hinihiling ng aplikante na magsisimulang makatanggap ng mga benepisyo- hindi ang petsa na isinumite ang aplikasyon sa EDD.) Susunod, i-multiply ang naaangkop na rate sa regular na lingguhang sahod ng aplikante upang makuha ang bayad sa benepisyo. Ang maximum na lingguhang halaga ng benepisyo para sa 2025 ay $1,681.
T: Makukuha ba ng isang tao ang 2025 na rate ng benepisyo sa kapansanan para sa operasyon?
S: Nalalapat ang mga rate sa 2025 kung ang operasyon ay magaganap sa Enero 1, 2025, o ms bago at ang humiling ng mga benepisyo ay magsisimula sa Enero 1, 2025, o mas bago.
T: Kung ang mga benepisyo sa kapansanan para sa isang claim sa pagbubuntis ay nagsisimula noong 2024 anong rate ang naaangkop para sa anumang Paid Family Leave (PFL) bonding?
S: Ang PFL bonding pagkatapos ng kapansanan sa pagbubuntis ay bahagi ng parehong claim at ang batas ay hindi retroactive. Kaya an PFL rate ay nananatiling pareho kung ang paghahabol sa kapansanan ay nagsisimula bago ang Enero 1, 2025. Para sa karagdagang impormasyon at mga update bisitahin ang webpage ng State Disability Insurance ng EDD (https://edd.ca.gov/en/ disability/). (EDD Release)
“From ancient times to now, Southern California has always been and will always be our home,” said Mark Macarro, Pechanga Tribal Chairman.
“The loss and devastation that continues to take its toll on our region from these catastrophic fires is heartbreaking. Our reservation has been impacted by fires in the past, and we know the importance of coming together to lift up people in need.”
In addition to Pechanga’s monetary contribution, the Pechanga Fire Department has had personnel, equipment and resources deployed to the Eaton and Palisades Fires, as well as their logistical command centers, since Tuesday, January 7. The Pechanga Resort Casino has also been offering discounts to residents without power due to sustained high winds and those impacted by the Los Angeles fires.
Pechanga has been there for the community when wildfire destroyed homes and land near the reservation. Similarly, the community supported Pechanga many years ago after a fastmoving fire tore through the reservation.
More than 200 American Red Cross workers are currently assisting many hundreds of Southern Californians who now find themselves displaced by the deadly wildfires. Residents impacted by the blazes are receiving safe shelter, food, help locating loved ones and more critical support from the American Red Cross.
The Los Angeles Rams have
been a steadfast and committed partner with Pechanga for more than seven years. The Los Angeles Rams Foundation is creating pathways for fire victims to receive more support and funding through its dedicated community teams. The Rams Foundation supports multiple organizations in their efforts to bring comfort and immediate assistance to those caught up in this tragedy.
Pechanga Resort Casino offers one of the largest and most expansive resort/casino experiences anywhere in the United States. Voted best casino/ resort in the United States by readers of Condé Nast Traveler, the
