Family of police officer killed in DC plane crash arrives in US, assisted by PH Embassy
LOS ANGELES – The widow of Police Col. Pergentino Malabed Jr. – one of the 67 killed when a commercial jet and U.S. Army helicopter collided over Washington, D.C., Wednesday – and other family members have arrived in the U.S., according to the Philippine Embassy.
In a statement, the Embassy said it has been “providing full support to the family of Col. Pergentino N. Malabed, Jr. and assisting with all the necessary arrangements.”
Malabed, 51, was one of the passengers of American Eagle Flight 5342 that collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and crashed into the Potomac River Wednesday night.
In a statement, the PNP has identified Malabed, chief of the Supply Management Division and member of the Philippine National Police Academy Class of 1998, as one of the fatalities.
Malabed flew to the United States to inspect a batch of armored vests procured by the PNP. He was on his way to Washington, D.C., to pay a courtesy call to Police Attaché Colonel Moises Villaceran Jr.
Trump's aid freeze suspends at least P4B of Philippines programs
by Cristina Chi Philstar.com
MANILA — United States President Donald Trump's sweeping foreign aid freeze has
thrown at least 39 development projects in the Philippines into limbo — jeopardizing critical work from a nationwide forest protection program to a Bangsamoro education project meant to run until 2029.
US, PH fighter planes conduct joint patrol
On January 24, Secretary of State Marco Rubio ordered the suspension of all U.S. foreign aid programs worldwide for review, exempting only Israel and Egypt.
by Donnabelle
LOS ANGELES —
Assemblymember Jessica Caloza, the very first Filipina to serve in the California state Legislature, has filed her first two bills aimed at providing relief amidst the recent fires in Southern California. In a speech during her recent community swearing-in
ceremony held at Los Angeles River Center & Gardens on Sunday, January 26, Caloza said she introduced Assembly Bill 262, the California Individual Assistance Act, which would provide direct cash assistance to individuals and families to cover essential needs during a disaster like food, housing, and transportation.
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UNITED States and Philippine fighter aircraft staged a joint patrol and training Tuesday, February 4 over a disputed South China Sea shoal where Chinese fighter jets fired flares last year to drive away a Philippine aircraft, Philippine officials said. "U.S. Pacific Air Force or Pacaf will conduct a bilateral bomber air patrol, air intercept training, and photo exercise over the West Philippine Sea," Philippine Air Force (PAF) spokesman Col. Ma.
Consuelo Castillo said in a press briefing.
"This exercise is a crucial step in enhancing our interoperability, improving air domain awareness and agile combat employment, and supporting our shared bilateral objectives," she added. Castillo said that involved in the drill were two Philippine FA-50 fighter aircraft and two American B1-B bombers.
She added that the joint air
MANILA — The impeachment complaint filed against Vice President Sara Duterte reached the Senate on Wednesday, February 05.
The document from the House of Representatives was received by Senate Secretary Renato Bantug at 5:49 p.m
Earlier, the House of Representatives confirmed that 215 lawmakers signed the fourth impeachment complaint against Duterte.
Three complaints were filed against Duterte in December. The complaints alleged that she had misused millions of pesos in confidential funds and “tried to cover up” how the money was spent when pressed to explain. n u PAGE 2
GatDula-arevalo AJPress by Charie abarCa Inquirer.net
Vice President Sara Duterte
Trump's aid freeze suspends...
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In the Philippines, the freeze affected dozens of projects funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the State Department that had yet to wrap up. Of the 39 ongoing projects, 14 were meant to conclude this year, while 25 others were designed to continue until 2026 to as far as 2029, according to publicly available data on U.S. foreign assistance in the Philippines.
Data shows USAID and the State Department had already committed $69.7 million (P4.06 billion) in fresh funding for these projects last year before the freeze. This amount reflects the obligations in 2024, not the full unspent budget for the programs.
Environmental, health programs on the line. Data from fiscal year 2024 indicates environmental protection programs are hit hardest by the freeze, as they received the largest share of USAID funding among Philippine projects set to continue beyond January 2025. Specifically, there are seven conservation or environmental-related projects last year that were allotted $19.5 million.
Basic education programs received the second-largest funding at $13 million last year spread across four different projects. A significant portion also went to health programs, with a single HIV/AIDS project receiving $6.7 million. Government and civil society programs were allocated $6.5 million for eight projects. Philstar.com's analysis focused only on projects with confirmed implementation timelines beyond the freeze and excludes operational expenses like salaries and other administrative costs.
Uncertainty
The suspension of all U.S. foreign aid projects reaches deep into Philippine development work. Programs under review include a fiveyear biodiversity conservation program and initiatives that sought to democratize access to reading materials, health services and early job opportunities, among others.
The environmental program that was allocated the largest USAID funding last year was the Inspire Project by the Gerry Roxas Foundation, which received $7.97 million in obligations (roughly P467.18 million).
The five-year initiative aims to enhance
natural resource resilience and security in the Philippines by increasing the engagement of civil society organizations and local communities in natural resource governance. It is slated to end in 2026.
The U.S. State Department's largest funding obligation for a project in the Philippines last year was $6.68 million (approximately P391.67 million) for an HIV epidemic control program, according to government records.
The project, implemented by an undisclosed international organization, focuses on providing technical assistance to local Philippine groups working to control the spread of HIV.
Staff of at least two projects funded by USAID who spoke to Philstar.com on the condition of anonymity confirmed they were ordered to halt all activities except administrative work while their programs undergo review.
"We are still receiving our salaries but we are not sure how long this will be sustainable given that there is no word yet if USAID will reimburse contractors who will bear overhead costs in the meantime," said one employee for a USAID contractor.
They described an atmosphere of uncertainty that followed Trump's stop-work order. "We’re not sure how long this will be in effect and what the outcome will be," they added.
'America First'
The aid freeze is one of Trump's first major actions back in office that push his "America First" agenda — triggering leadership shakeups at USAID where some officials have been accused of resisting the order.
An official from USAID Philippines declined to comment, saying they were not authorized to discuss the matter.
For non-government organizations dependent on U.S. funding for their main programs, the impact was immediate and severe.
"We have to halt our operations connected to the USAID grant all over Mindanao... We have to lay off staff with no separation pay," said Rhadem Musawah, one of the leaders of Mujer, an LGBT rights organization based in Zamboanga City, in Mindanao.
"Our legal and humanitarian assistance to LGBT communities will stop, along with our
patrol was a regular training and had nothing to do with the recent tension in the area.
"This cooperative effort falls under the framework of the Mutual Defense BoardSecurity Engagement Board activities between the Philippines and the United States specifically addressing bilateral air activities and joint air patrols," Castillo said.
The joint patrol and air-intercept drills over the hotly disputed Scarborough Shoal off the northwestern Philippines were the first by the longtime treaty allies since U.S. President Donald Trump took office again.
Trump's "America First" foreign policy thrust has sparked concerns among Washington's allies in Asia about the scale and depth of U.S. commitment to the region in his new term. His predecessor, Joe Biden, had moved to strengthen an arc of security alliances in the region to counter China's increasingly assertive actions.
In August last year, two Chinese Air Force aircraft flew close and then fired flares in the path of a Philippine Air Force plane on routine patrol over the Scarborough Shoal in actions that were strongly condemned and protested by the Philippine government, military officials said.
All those aboard the Philippine Air Force NC212i turboprop transport plane were unharmed, the Philippine military said.
The Southern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army said then that a Philippine Air Force aircraft "illegally" entered the airspace above the shoal and disrupted training activities by Chinese forces. It warned the Philippines to "stop its infringement, provocation, distortion and hyping-up."
The Philippine military chief, Gen. Romeo Brawner, said at the time that the incident "posed a threat to Philippine Air Force
aircraft and its crew, interfered with lawful flight operations in airspace within Philippine sovereignty and jurisdiction and contravened international law and regulations governing safety of aviation."
China and the Philippines have had increasingly alarming faceoffs in the shoal, called Bajo de Masinloc by the Philippines and Huangyan Island by China.
"We are always prepared for any contingency; it's part of the training," Castillo said when asked if the allied forces had prepared to address any challenge by Chinese aircraft.
"It already happened before and, as I have said, whatever the coercive, aggressive actions of any foreign party, the Philippine Air Force will not be deterred from performing its mandate," Castillo said.
The U.S. military has reported encountering such dangerous maneuvers by Chinese air force planes in the past over the disputed waters, where it has deployed fighter jets and navy ships to promote freedom of navigation and overflight.
China has bristled at U.S. military deployments in the disputed region, saying these have endangered regional security.
Aside from China and the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Vietnam and Taiwan have overlapping territorial claims in the busy sea passage, a key global trade and security route, but hostilities have particularly flared in the past two years between Chinese and Philippine coast guard and navy forces in the Scarborough Shoal and another fiercely contested atoll, the Second Thomas Shoal.
Washington has repeatedly warned that it's obligated to defend the Philippines, its oldest treaty ally in Asia, if Philippine forces, ships and aircraft come under an armed attack, including in the South China Sea. (By Francisco Tuyay and Associated Press)
Filipina Assemblymember Caloza
Another bill she introduced, Assembly Bill 265, the Small Business Recovery Fund Act, would help small businesses and nonprofits receive emergency funding during a disaster.
“Small businesses and non-profits anchor our communities and they too, have been deeply impacted by the wildfires. Now is our time to help them,” Caloza said.
In an interview with the Asian Journal, Caloza said she would want to urge the Filipino American community to remain vigilant and always work together for the common good.
“For the Filipino American community, I hope you know that you are powerful,” the assemblymember said. “Your voice is represented in Sacramento, she assured.
She said all those Filipino Americans affected by the recent wildfires could count on her for help. “We are here
to help you. Please reach out to me and my team, we are here at your service," she said.
While emphasizing the importance of being able to provide fast and efficient public service, especially during difficult times, Caloza likewise expressed great appreciation to all those who dedicated time and effort during the crisis.
“To our first responders — our firefighters, public safety officials, and public works teams —thank you for your service, sacrifice, and commitment to protecting all of us. Thank you also to the countless workers who are uplifting our communities during this difficult time—our teachers, healthcare workers, childcare providers, education workers, custodians, public transportation workers, and so many more,” Caloza said.
“On the second day of the fires, my team and I were fielding calls, emails, and requests from all over the
district from residents who needed help. Robert, a resident in Highland Park, was so kind and helped us deliver almost 40 cases of water to seniors who desperately needed it,” she recalled. Those seniors who were able to receive help were present during the swearing-in ceremony. She also commended the college students from UCLA and Occidental College who were helping deliver food to frontline workers.
“I saw small businesses that were already struggling before the fires, continue to dig deep and donate hot meals to shelters even though they were the ones who needed help,” she added.
Addressing hundreds of supporters, dignitaries, community leaders, and special guests who attended the swearing-in ceremony, Caloza said, “These stories… they bind us and they are powerful. These last few
Chart by Philstar.com / Cristina Chi
Trump administration’s halt of CDC’s weekly scientific report stalls bird flu studies
Trump administration’s halt of CDC’s weekly scientific report stalls bird flu Studies
One of the studies would reveal whether veterinarians who treat cattle have been unknowingly infected by the bird flu virus. Another report documents cases in which people carrying the virus might have infected their pet cats.
The studies were slated to appear in the official journal of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. The distinguished journal has been published without interruption since 1952. Its scientific reports have been swept up in an “immediate pause” on communications by federal health agencies ordered by Dorothy Fink, the acting secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. Fink’s memo covers “any document intended for publication,” she wrote, “until it has been reviewed and approved by a presidential appointee.” It was sent on President Donald Trump’s first full day in office.
That’s concerning, former CDC officials said, because a firewall has long existed between the agency’s scientific reports and political appointees.
“MMWR is the voice of science,” said Tom Frieden, a former CDC director and the CEO of the nonprofit organization Resolve to Save Lives.
“This idea that science cannot continue until there’s a political lens over it is unprecedented,” said Anne Schuchat, a former principal deputy director at the CDC. “I hope it’s going to be very short-lived, but if it’s not short-lived, it’s censorship.”
White House officials meddled with scientific studies on covid-19 during the first Trump administration, according to interviews and emails collected in a 2022 report from congressional investigators. Still, the MMWR came out as scheduled.
“What’s happening now is quite different than what we experienced in covid, because there wasn’t a stop in the MMWR and other scientific manuscripts,” Schuchat said.
Neither the White House nor HHS officials responded to requests for comment.
CDC spokesperson Melissa Dibble said, “This is a short pause to allow the new team to set up a process for review and prioritization.”
News of the interruption hit suddenly last week, just as Fred Gingrich, executive director of the American Association of Bovine Practitioners, a group for
veterinarians specializing in cattle medicine, was preparing to hold a webinar with members. He planned to disclose the results of a study he helped lead, slated for publication in the MMWR later that week. Back in September, about 150 members had answered questions and donated blood for the study. Researchers at the CDC analyzed the samples for antibodies against the bird flu virus, to learn whether the veterinarians had been unknowingly infected earlier last year.
Although it would be too late to treat prior cases, the study promised to help scientists understand how the virus spreads from cows to people, what symptoms it causes, and how to prevent infection. “Our members were very excited to hear the results,” Gingrich said.
Like farmworkers, livestock veterinarians are at risk of bird flu infections. The study results could help protect them. And having fewer infections would lessen the chance of the H5N1 bird flu virus evolving within a person to spread efficiently between people — the gateway to a bird flu pandemic.
At least 67 people have tested positive for the bird flu in the U.S., with the majority getting the virus from cows or poultry.
Family of police officer killed in DC...
He was on official travel, “fulfilling his duty, committed to the service of protecting and securing both the PNP and the nation,” the PNP said.
In a Facebook post, Malabed’s widow, Rio Alanis Taganas-Malabed, wrote that she is spending time with loved ones and honoring her husband.
“On behalf of the other members of the Malabed family, I extend my gratitude to all for coming our way during this difficult time,” TaganasMalabed wrote. “I further ask for your understanding in quietly observing our moments as we prepare to bring my husband back home.”
In another post, she paid tribute to Malabed, saying, “…you always make me proud with your dedication to your
Filipina Assemblymember
weeks, we witnessed so much humanity and kindness that we were all literally willing to give the shirt off our backs to our neighbors and perfect strangers.”
She said, “I’ve dedicated my life to this work and to public service because simply put, I believe in the power of government and how it can transform lives when it works. That’s what it did for my family. I believe it works best when our government is grounded with everyday people, with the community. That’s what my parents, Gigi and, taught me—to care deeply, to fight hard to protect your values, and work even harder to pay it forward to others because it’s the right thing to do. This is the spirit I witnessed during the wildfires.”
She also called for unity in the community. “That’s the Los Angeles I am fighting for and that I believe in. Beyond labels. Beyond political parties. Democrat. Republican. Progressive. Moderate. Conservative. None of that mattered during this crisis because when faced with life or death decisions, we picked life. We picked each other. We picked community. Because we have so much more in common than what divides us.”
According to Caloza, she is grateful that similar efforts to help disaster victims are also being carried out on a larger scale.
service until the end. I love you so much.”
The PNP said Malabed’s passing “is a profound loss to the PNP, where he served with honor, integrity and dedication throughout his career.”
The Philippine Embassy has echoed the family’s request for privacy.
“At this time, the family has requested privacy as they mourn the loss of their loved one,” the Embassy said.
U.S. authorities have yet to announce when Malabed’s remains will be released to his family. (Inquirer.net)
deserves solutions. Families want to live in affordable neighborhoods, not just for themselves but for their kids and their grandkids,” she said.
“People want more housing— both homeowners and renters alike. Every person I’ve talked to wants us to treat homelessness like the crisis it is and we want our unhoused neighbors to get the help they desperately need.”
Among the issues she aims to focus on are those concerning the youth, the seniors, and the working class.
Joe Edmiston, who delivered the welcome remarks, commended Caloza for her vigorous efforts to providing assistance to the community during the crisis time.
“Thank you so much to our assemblymember who understands the needs of the community,” Edmiston said.
The ceremony also highlighted special remarks from LA County Board of Supervisors, Ist District Hilda Solis.
“This was not just true in the community but also at the State Capitol. That’s why I’m so excited that my colleagues under the leadership of Speaker Robert Rivas and our Budget Chair Jesse Chair secured bipartisan support to pass a $2.5 billion dollar relief bill to provide emergency aid to help our communities rebuild, especially our neighbors in Altadena, Pasadena, and Pacific Palisades,” she noted. Rivas administered Caloza’s ceremonial community oath of office.
Aside from the two new bills she introduced, Caloza said she is also committed to passing more expedient bills in the near term that would address the needs of her constituents. “These (two) bills are just the beginning. In the coming weeks, I will be introducing new legislation to address the ongoing needs of our district,” she added.
“I’ve talked to thousands of residents and people are ready for action and our community
“Young people want more open space, more parks, and clean air and clean water. Our seniors and Veterans want safe streets and better access to government services. Working class people just want to be able to live off of one paycheck, have a safe workplace, and go to sleep at night knowing their job is safe,” she said, noting that
“I’ve listened to your stories. I want you to know that not only do I hear you and see you but I am committed to doing everything in my power to deliver real progress on these issues.”
“What you have is my commitment to representing you in the Assembly as someone who is going to work really hard for you,” said Caloza.
District 52 includes the southern portion of Glendale, Eagle Rock, Mt. Washington, Highland Park, Glassell Park, Silver Lake, Echo Park, Atwater Village, Lincoln Heights, Loz Feliz, East Hollywood, Cypress Park, Elysian Valley, Monterey Hills, Hermon, Montecito Heights, El Sereno and Unincorporated East Los Angeles. There are more than 13,000 Filipino Americans in this district.
During the swearingin ceremony, Mountains
“We are witnessing history as Jessica Caloza becomes the first Filipina American to serve in the California State Legislature. And I hope more Filipinas and Filipinos follow her path and of course, not just for herm but for all women of colors... She is an example not just in our Filipino community but for all of us," Solis said. Solis encouraged young Filipina Americans to emulate Caloza and see her as an inspiration. “To our young Filipina girls here today, you have to look at Assemblymember Jessica Caloza, you could be like her. Jessica has paved the way for you so it is easier for you this time,” Solis said.
The event also included community testimonials from Foundation for Filipina Women’s Network founder and CEO Marily Mondejar; Armenian National Committee of AmericaGlendale Chapter chairperson Lucy Petrosian; East Los Tacos owner Erika Armenta; and Environmental Justice Leader Ceci Dominguez.
The Posting of Colors was led by Detachment 1347 Marine Corps while the Pledge of Allegiance was recited by Fil-Am student Zoe Zelenski and Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) students. n
by Amy mAxmen KFF Health News
California state Assemblymember Jessica Caloza receives a recognition from Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis during Caloza’s community swearing-in ceremony in Los Angeles on Sunday, January 26. Caloza represents the state’s 52nd District, which is home to South Glendale, East Los Angeles and Northeast Los Angeles. Photos courtesy of the Office of Assemblymember Jessica Caloza
Rio Alanis Taganas-Malabed (right), the widow of Police Col. Pergentino Malabed Jr., and other family members have arrived in the US.
Photo from Rio Alanis Taganas-Malabed/Facebook
Features OpiniOn
Magic number for a just living wage
HERE, at last, comes a serious and determined push in Congress to increase the minimum daily salary in the private sector, some 36 years after the country’s workers experienced their last across-the-board wage hike.
The proposed raise — set initially at P100 by the Senate and now doubled by the House of Representatives to P200 — offers not just relief but salvation to millions of working-class Filipinos whose earnings have failed to keep up with skyrocketing costs of feeding, clothing, and housing their families.
Editorial
What made everyone sit up and take notice wasn’t so much the announcement itself but where the announcement was coming from: Speaker Martin Romualdez, who on Wednesday pledged to speed up deliberations on the minimum daily wage hike bill, following a meeting with labor leaders.
The Senate had done its part when it passed its P100 wage hike proposal in February last year. Then on Thursday, the House labor and employment committee promptly endorsed the Speaker’s pitch for a P200 wage hike bill, bringing it a step closer to approval in plenary session.
AS usual, there are those unscrupulous, opportunistic people engaged in the law profession who are coming forward pretending to be do-gooders but in reality are just trying to take advantage of the situation to promote themselves or their “legal”
Romualdez said the House had resolved to double the Senate proposal to provide employees economic relief while ensuring the sustainability of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), as “a critical step toward achieving inclusive growth and addressing the immediate challenges faced by Filipino families.”
The greater good
On Thursday, Senate President Francis Escudero said his chamber looked forward to working with the House to harmonize the two versions of the bill at the bicameral conference.
But the timing raised questions about the lawmakers’ motive in pushing for the measure so close to the midterm elections in May: Is this what they call “legislation in aid of reelection”?
Then again, do the legislature’s intentions matter when the outcome redounds to the greater good for the greatest number?
The case for a wage hike is not only compelling — it is undeniable.
Over the years, inflation has whittled away at the purchasing power of Filipino workers, reaching 2.9 percent in December. Yet, today’s minimum wage remains woefully inadequate to meet the basic needs of a family, while scant regional wage increases consistently fail to keep up with soaring costs of food, transportation, and utilities.
Drop in the bucket
In July 2024, the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board approved a wage hike of P35 in Metro Manila, which might well have been a drop in the bucket for urban poor families trying to stay afloat. Other regions saw even smaller increases, rubbing salt to the wound of struggling workers across the nation, whether in cities or provinces. The proposal has been greeted with stiff opposition.
We are committed to help Filipinos within legal parameters
business – capitalizing on the “fear factor” that people are experiencing.
These people are stupidly and dangerously trying to undermine the efforts that our Philippine consulates are doing to help those who are affected by the new immigration policy of the Trump administration. Ironically, we are even being accused of creating panic because we have been giving
the sound advice for those affected to leave voluntarily IF there is no legal path –especially for those who came into the United States illegally or overstayed on a tourist visa.
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt said during his first inaugural address: “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” If people allow fear to take over, it can make them even more vulnerable as well as susceptible to those who
just want to take advantage of their situation in the guise of concern.
Filipinos who are “tago ng tago” or TNT – a euphemism for illegal immigrants hiding from authorities – should start seeking legal advice and reach out to those organizations that are truly concerned in helping with their plight. But as I have repeatedly stressed on many occasions, the best and most practical advice we can give
to undocumented Filipinos is to seek a legal path – for their peace of mind.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is continuing to work closely with the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration and the Department of Labor and Employment for a whole-ofgovernment support system for Filipinos who will be impacted by the immigration
policy of President Donald Trump – especially those who are undocumented or have no legal status in the United States.
Estimates place the number of undocumented Filipino immigrants in the U.S. at 350,000 (although the DMW puts the number higher at 370,000), and among the support mechanisms being put into place for possible
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Babe’s Eye View BaBe
Trump administration’s halt...
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But studies and reporting suggest many cases have gone undetected, because testing has been patchy.
Just before the webinar, Gingrich said, the CDC informed him that because of an HHS order, the agency was unable to publish the report last week or communicate its findings. “We had to cancel,” he said.
Another bird flu study slated to be published in the MMWR last week concerns the possibility that people working in Michigan’s dairy industry infected their pet cats. These cases were partly revealed last year in emails obtained by KFF Health News. In one email from July 22, an epidemiologist pushed to publish the group’s investigation to “inform others about the potential for indirect transmission to companion animals.”
Jennifer Morse, medical director at the Mid-Michigan District Health Department and a scientist on the pending study, said she got a note from a colleague last week saying that “there are delays in our publication — outside of our control.”
A person close to the CDC, speaking on the condition of anonymity because of concerns about reprisal, expected the MMWR to be on hold at least until Feb. 6.
The journal typically posts on Thursdays, and the HHS memo says the pause will last through Feb. 1.
“It’s startling,” Frieden said. He added that it would become dangerous if the reports aren’t restored. “It would be the equivalent of finding out that your local fire department has been told not to sound any fire alarms,” he said.
In addition to publishing studies, the MMWR keeps the country updated on outbreaks, poisonings, and maternal mortality, and provides surveillance data on cancer, heart disease, HIV, and other maladies.
Delaying or manipulating the reports could harm Americans by stunting the ability of the U.S. government to detect and curb health threats, Frieden said.
The freeze is also a reminder of how the first Trump administration interfered with the CDC’s reports on covid, revealed in emails detailed in 2022 by congressional investigators with the House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis. That investigation found that political appointees at HHS altered or delayed the release of five reports and attempted to control several others in 2020.
In one instance, Paul
Alexander, then a scientific adviser to HHS, criticized a July 2020 report on a coronavirus outbreak at a Georgia summer camp in an email to MMWR editors, which was disclosed in the congressional investigation.
“It just sends the wrong message as written and actually reads as if to send a message of NOT to reopen,” he wrote. Although the report’s data remained the same, the CDC removed remarks on the implications of the findings for schools.
Later that year, Alexander sent an email to then-HHS spokesperson Michael Caputo citing this and another example of his sway over the reports: “Small victory but a victory nonetheless and yippee!!!”
Schuchat, who was at the CDC at the time, said she had never experienced such attempts to spin or influence the agency’s scientific reports in more than three decades with the agency. She hopes it won’t happen again. “The MMWR cannot become a political instrument,” she said.
Gingrich remains hopeful that the veterinary study will come out soon. “We’re an apolitical organization,” he said. “Maintaining open lines of communication and continuing research with our federal partners is critical as we fight this outbreak.” n
Magic number for a just...
The Employers Confederation of the Philippines (Ecop) warned that a legislated wage hike could stoke inflation and drive investors away. “This will just make investors hesitate more with the uncertainty it creates. And we are already lagging behind our neighbors in terms of investments,” Ecop president Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr. said.
But that argument pales in comparison to what the wage hike could mean for ordinary workers.
Deputy Speaker Democrito Raymond Mendoza of the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines said higher salaries would “lift over 5 million minimum wage earners out of poverty, put nutritious food on their table, send their children to school, and give them a fighting chance for a better life to overcome hardships and attain prosperity.”
Backbone of nation’s economy
As the House begins debates on the wage hike bill, the challenge for lawmakers now is finding the magic number that is acceptable to both labor and business sectors. The P200 proposal is a step in the right direction, but by no means is it an upper limit.
Lawmakers must engage in genuine dialogue with stakeholders and be open to compromise. For instance, a possible middle ground is the grant of wage subsidies to MSMEs. In the end, the final product must not fall short of a sustainable wage increase that lifts workers out of poverty without crippling employers.
The clock is ticking, and the onus is on both legislative chambers and Malacañang to rally behind this long overdue measure. It may well require President
We are committed to help...
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deportees include financial and legal assistance as well as job retooling and employment facilitation in coordination with agencies such as the National Reintegration Center for OFWs, Department of Trade and Industry and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.
Marcos certifying the bill as urgent for it to be enacted before the midterm poll winners take office. But whether motivated by the people’s welfare or their odds of being reelected, lawmakers must act quickly to ensure the proposal does not get drowned out by election noise.
For too long, the government has failed to recognize economic justice as the bedrock of a functioning democracy. A legislated wage hike is not just about fulfilling workers’ wishes but affording them the dignity of living meaningful, purposeful lives rather than just toiling away to put food on the table and keep a roof above their heads.
Workers are the backbone of the nation’s economy, and they deserve nothing less than wages that allow them to live, not just survive.
(Philstar.com)
According to Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma, the government is ready to assist Filipinos who will be affected by the Trump administration’s massive crackdown on illegal immigrants, citing the previous large-scale deportation of undocumented Filipino workers from Malaysia.
It can be recalled that in 2018, the Malaysian government implemented a crackdown against undocumented migrants, affecting an estimated 400,000 Filipinos who had no legal immigration status. During that time, the government encouraged our undocumented kababayans to take advantage of the voluntary deportation program offered by the Malaysian government rather than risk facing imprisonment or paying penalties.
As Secretary Laguesma noted, there is “convergence” in the efforts of government agencies that have been tasked to provide support to those who will be possibly affected by the Trump administration’s immigration policy.
Definitely, the Philippine embassy in Washington, D.C. will continue to do what
it has always been doing in providing whatever legal advice it can give to Filipinos in the United States, whether they are documented or undocumented. Even before the U.S. presidential election in November last year, one of the first things we did was to evaluate the potential impact of a new immigration policy under a Trump administration. We also intensified our information campaign on the rights that Filipinos have in the United States regardless of their immigration status through our website, putting together the information obtained from various sources that include the U.S. Department of Labor, migration offices of states and immigration centers. In addition, engagements with relevant U.S. government officials were strengthened to advocate for the rights and welfare of all Filipinos in the U.S.
We also listed the 24/7 consular emergency hotline numbers for all consulates across the United States, including Agana in Guam. This was followed by a planning and strategy session in Washington, D.C. with all the consulates general to discuss the next steps in view of the incoming administration’s statements regarding the massive deportation of illegal immigrants. The main target of authorities now are those people with criminal records. However, this should not make those with uncertain legal status complacent.
One very major concern
of ours is those who have been in the United States for many years – decades even –and have already established families as well, which is why we have reached out and are working with groups from the Filipino-American community that are prepared to offer support and provide legal advice.
One of them is the Filipino American Legal Defense and Education Fund or FALDEF that is offering legal advice pro bono. Our meeting with the representatives of FALDEF was very productive as we discussed the various challenges that undocumented Filipinos face, with insights on how they can legally stay in the United States.
A major concern is the possibility of our kababayans being detained for a long period of time before they are deported – and this is what we are trying to avoid for them. Let’s not forget, one of the three pillars of our foreign policy is the protection of the rights and the promotion of the welfare and interests of Filipinos overseas, and we at the embassy in Washington, D.C. – and all Philippine embassies all over the world for that matter – are committed to help Filipinos everywhere. (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
ELECTION SOLIDARITY PACT. Officials of the Commission on Elections 11 (Davao Region) and Police Regional Office 11 lead the signing of a solidarity pact at the parade grounds of Camp Sgt. Quintin Merecido, Buhangin, Davao City on Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025. The event aims to ensure a peaceful, fair, and transparent electoral process for the 2025 National and Local Elections and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Parliamentary Elections. PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.
Dateline philippines
PhilHealth chief replaced in wake of ouster calls
by Dexter CAbAlzA, mArlon rAmos, melvin GAsCon Inquirer.net
MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday, February 4 swore in a new president and chief executive officer of the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. amid the string of controversies that hounded the state health insurer.
The President administered the oath of office to Dr. Edwin Mercado in Malacañang on Tuesday morning, replacing Emmanuel R. Ledesma Jr., who had faced ouster calls in recent months.
The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) did not respond to the Inquirer’s queries on whether Ledesma quit or was removed from his post.
Philippines jets, US bombers jointly patrol Panatag
by MiChael PunonGbayan Philstar.com
with the PAF, Castillo said.
In December 2024, the Nagkaisa Labor Coalition urged the President to remove Ledesma and the entire PhilHealth board after Congress slapped the agency with a zero subsidy in the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA).
During the budget deliberations in the Senate in November 2024, senators criticized Ledesma for his “disrespectful” responses as he was made to explain the agency’s P89.9 billion in excess funds that were transferred to the national treasury.
PhilHealth was again the subject of public outrage following reports that it had allotted P138 million for
Mercado’s entry comes on the heels of a growing clamor to replace Ledesma over allegations of “inefficient” PhilHealth fund utilization.
its year-long anniversary celebrations in 2025.
Critics have argued that such spending was inappropriate, especially when many Filipinos faced challenges accessing basic healthcare services.
In September 2023, PhilHealth suffered a major cyberattack by the Medusa ransomware group, allowing hackers to steal and leak millions of members’ records, including their personal and medical information.
Track record
Ledesma’s successor is a U.S.-trained orthopedic surgeon with 35 years of experience in hospital management, according to the PCO.
Before he was appointed PhilHealth chief, Mercado was
PAGE 10
MANILA — Two U.S. Air Force B-1 bombers joined three Philippine FA-50 fighter jets in air patrol and intercept exercises over Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal recently, the first joint military drills between the Philippines and the U.S. under the Trump administration.
Officials stressed the bilateral exercises were not directed at any specific country. China has several coast guard and militia vessels around the shoal and in other areas within Philippine waters.
“This exercise is a crucial step in enhancing our interoperability, improving air domain awareness and agile combat employment and supporting our shared bilateral air objectives,”
“So far my staff can’t recall any report from the public affairs or training office records of previous deployment of B-1 for joint training,” Castillo said. “We need to check past years’ records. So I can’t give immediate and conclusive answer for this,” she said.
She said the exercises were carried out within the regular Intensive Military Training Area (IMA) inside the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
“This cooperative effort falls under the framework of the Mutual Defense Board Security Engagement Board activities between the Philippines and the United States, specifically addressing bilateral air activities and joint air patrols,” she said.
Asked about what’s in store for Panatag Shoal in future similar exercises, Castillo said “this is just a simple flying exercise conducting joint air patrol together with the B-1 aircraft of PACAF.” PACAF refers to Pacific Air Forces of
PhilHealth chief replaced...
the vice chair of the Mercado General Hospital/Qualimed Health Network since March 2021.
He has demonstrated proven leadership and executive and strategic planning expertise, the PCO said.
“Under his leadership, Mercado General Hospital Inc.
(MGHI) has expanded into a national chain of healthcare facilities that include four general hospitals, six multispecialty clinics, two surgery centers, 150 primary care corporate clinics, a college for paramedical professionals, and a physician practice group of 400 four doctors,” the PCO added.
According to the PCO, Mercado has “dedicated his work to ensuring equitable access to quality medical care and leveraging technology to strengthen health systems, particularly in financial management and primary care programs.”
A graduate of the University of the Philippines in 1987, Mercado completed his Master of Medical Sciences in Global Health Delivery from Harvard Medical School in 2023.
Out-of-pocket expenses
Senators welcomed the replacement of Ledesma and called on his successor to institutionalize reforms in the state health insurer.
“It should have been done much earlier,” Senate President Francis Escudero said of Mercado’s appointment.
“(Mercado) should not do what his predecessor did. He should focus on improving the benefits being given to our countrymen and ensure that these match their needs,” he
told reporters.
“I hope he fixes all the problems of PhilHealth. One good thing is that he is not a politician. He is very highly qualified to be the chief of PhilHealth,” added Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada.
Sen. JV Ejercito, who had earlier urged Marcos to replace Ledesma, emphasized the need to ensure the full implementation of the Universal Health Care (UHC) Act, which he had authored and sponsored during the 17th Congress.
He lamented that PhilHealth had functioned like a “private insurance company” under Ledesma’s watch.
“Our aim is really to bring down the out-of-pocket expenses of every Filipino. So I’m hoping that the new PhilHealth president will always put that in mind,” Ejercito said.
For Sen. Grace Poe, the new PhilHealth leadership should be able to “breathe new life” into the public health insurer and establish a “more responsive, efficient and just healthcare management.”
“With his track record in the medical field, we are optimistic that Dr. Mercado’s expertise will be instrumental in driving much-needed reforms within the agency to better implement the country’s National Health Insurance Program,” Sen. Joel Villanueva told the INQUIRER Accomplishments
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, who sits as chair of the PhilHealth board, congratulated Mercado, noting that his background in healthcare administration and health economics would be vital in implementing UHC in the country.
Despite being part of the policymaking body of PhilHealth, Herbosa was vocal in calling for the “need to fix this broken system” of PhilHealth under the administration of Ledesma.
The DOH chief was at odds with the former PhilHealth president’s uncoordinated pronouncements, at one point even telling reporters, “I don’t know what the hell he is talking about,” when Ledesma said during a Senate hearing in July last year that he would recommend to President Marcos to lower the current 5-percent contribution rate of its paying members.
Important reforms
Amid the criticism, in the more than two years of Ledesma’s stint, PhilHealth implemented important reforms, especially in the area of claims payments and benefit enhancements.
In just a year, PhilHealth increased twice the rates for nearly all of its more than 9,000 benefit packages to account for inflation: 30 percent in February 2024 and 50 percent in January this year.
These were the first and only en masse adjustments in PhilHealth case rates since 2013.
The state health insurer also significantly raised the benefit packages for the most financially burdensome diseases, including high-risk pneumonia, ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, bronchial asthma, neonatal sepsis, and hemodialysis.
The average turnaround time for processing of claims also significantly improved— from 40 days in 2021 to 25 days in 2024, or 35 days faster than the 60 days prescribed under the law. n
Philippines jets, US bombers...
they’re going to rendezvous somewhere here in the Philippines, West Philippines, and then they’re going to fly within the IMTA and within that is Bajo de Masinloc which is part of our territory,” Castillo said.
Challenge expected
She said they expected foreign aircraft to fly near their formation or possibly execute intercept maneuvers.
“But they will definitely receive challenges, also especially if they’re flying over our territory or near our territory,” she said.
“At the same time, there will be counter challenges as
expected but as for us, we are doing this training based on international rules-based order and based on protocols. So we will just continue on regardless of the action of other foreign actors,” she added.
“We are always prepared for any contingency, it’s part of the training. It already happened before and as I’ve said, whatever the coercive, aggressive actions of any foreign party, the Philippine Air Force will continue and it will not be deterred to perform its mandate because we believe that what we’re doing, these trainings that we are doing, even the maritime
Trump's aid freeze suspends...
efforts on local policy lobbying for anti-discrimination ordinances and LGU engagements," Musawah said in Filipino in a message to Philstar.com.
USAID, the U.S.' lead development agency, and the State Department are the primary channels for delivering U.S. foreign assistance worldwide.
While USAID focuses on implementing development programs and humanitarian aid, the State Department oversees diplomatic relations and contributes to foreign assistance through initiatives like security cooperation and democracy promotion.
‘Things will crumble’
While Trump's order states that the suspension and review of foreign development assistance will only last for 90 days, development workers in the Philippines have immediately grasped its lasting consequences.
patrols that we are doing on a regular basis, are within the international rules-based order,” she added.
Philippine Navy spokesman for the WPS, Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, emphasized that all military activities are programmed.
“They are conducted regularly. We expect all participants to be able to perform in a professional manner regardless of any provocative, coercive or aggressive action conducted against them,” he said.
“All our actions will be in a professional manner, ensuring safety of everybody.”
—
Mark Ernest Villeza
"The national government [of the Philippines] pretends that the aid freeze won't affect the Philippines as a whole, but let's see after two to three months how things will crumble after thousands of partner organizations of the government shut down and no longer provide support to the government grassroot programs," Musawah said.
The impact is already being felt across communities that, for years, have been systemically excluded from the Philippine government's traditional health programs.
For instance, Transmasculine Philippines, a community-based organization for Filipino trans men and transmasculine nonbinary people, was forced to
close its community center for transgender Filipinos on January 28 after all USAID funding was paused.
"With several of our local LGBTQIA+ organizations dependent on awarded USAID funding, we believe the suspension endangers efforts to provide accessible services to community members, as well as individuals relying on such projects for their wellbeing," the group said.
Some government agencies are also feeling the impact of the aid freeze. For instance, the Department of Education, which partners with USAID on multiple projects, is also now facing uncertainty about ongoing programs.
Education Secretary Angara told Philstar.com: "We're not quite sure yet about the long-term impact of the order but we are hoping that the new administration will see the value of the projects undertaken by USAID with the Philippines as a strategic partner."
Angara said these are the ongoing USAID projects in partnership with DepEd:
• ABC+: Advancing Basic Education in the Philippinesa $47.5 million initiative aimed at improving the quality of basic education in the country, specifically the provision of early grade reading materials to Bangsamoro learners
• GABAY: Strengthening Inclusive Education for Blind and Deaf Children - a $3.4 million project focused on enhancing educational opportunities for children with visual and hearing impairments.
• ILO-PH: Improving Learning Outcomes for the Philippines - a $5 million program designed to boost
learning outcomes for Filipino students.
The uncertainty is also believed to extend beyond the immediate project suspensions.
A development worker who spoke to Philstar.com on the condition of anonymity believes Trump’s order will have “serious consequences in future grants, especially those that won't align with the Executive Order of the White House." They noted that anti-corruption and diversity initiatives may be particularly vulnerable to restructuring. Aid dependency?
While organizations are scrambling to keep their programs, some believe the aid freeze has largely exposed deeper vulnerabilities in Philippine development work.
"The Trump presidency has revealed the darkest part of developmental work in the Philippines — that we are not sustainable and that we are too dependent on their aid and indirectly has been taken hostage by these foreign policy aids," Musawah said.
LoveYourself — an organization that provides free HIV testing — said it had to suspend newer initiatives like free PrEP distribution and selftesting campaigns due to the aid freeze.
In turn, the group called on the Philippine government to “step up” and fund programs that have been paused.
"To the Philippine government, this is your moment to step up and partner with civil society organizations. By working together, we can scale up programs, foster innovation, and fill the gaps left by international funding uncertainties," it said in a statement. n
IMPROMPTU BRIEFING. Senator Joel Villanueva talks to reporters about the impeachment of Vice President Sara Z. Duterte on Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025. He said any impeachment complaint as well as the establishment of an impeachment court has to be discussed during a regular session.
PNA
photo by Avito Dalan
COMMUNITY JOURNAL
Urgent immigration issues under Trump in Part 2 of Citizen Pinoy’s Kapihan with ConGen Mangalile, Fil-Am Press Club of New York
AS President Donald Trump pushes forward with his mass detention and deportation agenda, “Citizen Pinoy” presents the second part of its special Kapihan episode, bringing essential information to the Filipino immigrant community.
Leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel joins Consul General Senen Mangalile of the Philippine Consulate General in New York and members of the Fil-Am Press Club of New York (FAPCNY) to address pressing concerns surrounding immigration policies in Trump's new administration. With fear and uncertainty rising
among undocumented Filipinos, this discussion provides muchneeded clarity and guidance.
This episode examines crucial topics such as what constitutes illegal entry, potential changes to family-based petitions, and the impact of Trump’s stance on H-1B visas. The panel also discusses ICE procedures—specifically whether detained Filipinos are legally entitled to Consulate notification— and what kababayans should keep in mind as they navigate the next four years. The case of journalist Jose Antonio Vargas, who went PAGE 12
‘CITIZEN PINOY’ KAPIHAN PART 2: URGENT IMMIGRATION CONCERNS UNDER TRUMP. As President Donald Trump enforces stricter immigration policies, “Citizen Pinoy” continues its special Kapihan episode with leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel, Consul General Senen Mangalile of the Philippine Consulate in New York, and the Fil-Am Press Club of New York (FAPCNY). They tackle critical issues affecting the Filipino immigrant community, including illegal entry, family-based petitions, and Trump’s stance on H-1B visas. The discussion also covers ICE procedures, whether detained Filipinos are entitled to Consulate notification, and key lessons from journalist Jose Antonio Vargas’ immigration journey. Atty. Gurfinkel and ConGen Mangalile address urgent concerns raised by FAPCNY members, providing clarity and reassurance for those navigating these uncertain times. The Philippine Consulate affirms its commitment to assisting affected Filipinos, emphasizing available resources and support. Don’t miss Part 2 of this essential and informative episode of Citizen Pinoy on Sunday, February 9 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. (Advertising Supplement)
Choosing our poison
Health@Heart
PhiliP S. Chua, md, FaCS, FPCS
THE World Health Organization observes “World No Tobacco Day” on May 31st of each year to remind people around the globe about the deadly effects on smoking and to inspire smokers to quit the habit as a part of a healthy lifestyle.
The smokers and their family and other people around them are impacted directly and indirectly by this addiction. Globally, there are about 1.25 billion smokers. In the United States, there are about 29 million who smoke tobacco, a reduction from 44 million in 2011.
Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death, killing 7 million persons (about 1.3 million from secondhand smoke) around the globe annually. This is extrapolated to increase to almost 9 million deaths each year by 2030. And the greater tragedy is that this massive loss of lives could be prevented by the pre-emptive option of abstaining from tobacco or quitting the habit.
At least 300 Filipinos die each day – yes, each day – or about 109,500 a year, from smoking-related illnesses like cardiovascular, pulmonary and metabolic diseases, and cancers, especially lung cancer. In Malaysia about 20,000, and in Vietnam at least 40,000, die annually from tobacco-related conditions. Indonesia’s death toll is the worst: 400,000 a year.
The sad fact is that official global tobacco youth survey has revealed that the “smoking prevalence among American highschool students in 2024 is about 10.1 and 5.4 in middle school. In the Philippines, 12.5 percent ages 13-15 are smokers (18.3 percent boys and 6.9 percent girls), and about 28 percent of Filipinos (round 32 million) smoke some forms of tobacco, with about 112,000 deaths each year from tobacco-related diseases.
The figures cited above are from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and
National Cancer Institute of the United States and from the Tobacco and Poverty Study in the Philippines conducted by the College of Public Health of the University of the Philippines, National Epidemiology Center of the Department of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO). Obviously, for political correctness and expediency, majority of our Philippine legislators in Congress (the same with the old U.S. Congress several decades ago) prefer to protect the tobacco industry and allow tobacco to continue to kill our people. What money from the tobacco lobby finding its way to the deep pockets of the legislators can do!
Smoking kills. It is that plain and simple. There is no more doubt today that tobacco (cigarette smoking) is the predominant cause of lung cancer, besides other malignancies and cardiovascular diseases that maim, kill men and women and hurt our society, especially our children. In the United States alone, almost half a million die each year from smoking-related illnesses. Demographic studies have shown that smokers are about 10 times more prone to die premature deaths than non-smokers. This unnecessary loss of lives is at an immense direct cost for non-smokers in terms of increased health risks from passive smoking, in higher health insurance premiums and taxes, not to mention personal and family tragedies in all shapes and forms.
As we have alluded to in a previous column, secondhand smoke is even more dangerous. Innocent bystanders are forced to inhale cigarette smoke at their workplaces or in public places, thus increasing their health risk. The Environmental Protection Agency engineers have shown that even the best available ventilation and air-moving equipment were unable to reduce carcinogenic (cancercausing) air contamination to a safe level for a nonsmoker sharing workspace with a habitual smoker.
If you think about it, our government and those of other nations are enabling drug use (nicotine and other
chemicals in cigarettes, and now legalized recreational marijuana) in the name of profit and added revenues, wantonly sacrificing their citizens’ health and future, shortening people’s lives, wasting trillions of dollars or more of expenditures for research as to how to fight the habit, how to cure the tobacco-induced illnesses, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, hypertension, and cancer, etc. Allowing the development of addiction and diseases, and then finding a way to fight the addiction and the diseases it causes, is plain stupidity.
Having said that, I shall defend the right of people to smoke if they so choose, so long as they respect and do not abridge the right of the non-smokers to protect themselves from the more deadly health effects of secondhand smoke. Those who defend smoking are misinformed or are in denial, and doing a great disservice to the public, especially to the youth.
Unfortunately, the senseless global smokefilled “killing field” protected by governments will continue. It is, indeed, most tragic for the victims.
The other poison in our midst is alcohol. Use to be thought of as providing some health benefits, alcoholic beverages, even wine, has been found to damage our health. It used to be two drinks for men and one for women, but new studies found that there is actually “no safe level of alcohol.” One drink is one too many, healthwise. A colleague suggested a practical compromise: one drink, occasionally. At least 40-45 percent of all cancers can be prevented by abstinence from alcohol and tobacco.
As a cardiac surgeon, I find the solution too obvious to ignore, equally evident to billions of non-medical people (including school graders) with common sense: Eliminate the darn cause, get rid of the poison! Then, you don’t have to do expensive research looking for the “antidote” or finding the cure, etc. Instead, let us save the trillions of dollars in each country and spend the money to eliminate graft and corruption among government officials and
Marvin Agustin answers 'TOTGA' question about Jolina Magdangal
by Kristofer Purnell Philstar.com
ACTOR-chef Marvin Agustin humorously stammered as he answered whether his love team partner Jolina Magdangal was his "the one who got away" or TOTGA.
Both Marvin and Jolina were guests in the January 30 episode of "Fast Talk with Boy Abunda" to promote their upcoming headliner reunion movie "Ex Ex Lovers."
After reminiscing about the MarJo love team during the '90s and reenacting one of their scenes, Boy brought up that the last time he interviewed Marvin, the actor did not answer his TOTGA question. Boy asked it again, this time for both Marvin and Jolina.
Marvin quipped it was difficult to answer because Jolina has been married to Rivermaya drummer Mark Escueta since 2011, "Baka masapak ako!"
The actor-chef stuttered loudly to give a response, much to the amusement of the studio audience,
so Jolina chipped in her answer.
"I think hindi kasi never naman siya nawala, nandiyan pa rin siya para sa'kin 'pag kailangan ko ng kasama," said Jolina.
Marvin said that their years of friendship was what mattered the most.
The actors then talked about "Ex Ex Lovers."
Jolina described it as a dream project where she and Marvin get to bring MarJo fans another thing to cherish.
Before the episode ended, Boy asked them what they know about love that they did not know back then.
Marvin said it was the existence of a sincere and supportive love between two people; it is the same one that he has with Jolina, one he knows could last forever. "Ex Ex Lovers," directed by JP Habac, will premiere in Philippine cinemas on February 12, two days before Valentine's Day.
Urgent immigration issues under Trump
PAGE 11
from being undocumented to securing legal status, is also explored for lessons that others might apply.
Atty. Gurfinkel and ConGen Mangalile respond to tough questions from FAPCNY members, including Momar Visaya, Don Tagala, Marivir Montebon, Lindy Rosales and Marilyn Abalos. The Philippine Consulate reassures the community that it is prepared to assist Filipinos in need, emphasizing its role in protecting their rights and providing necessary resources.
As the landscape of U.S. immigration continues to shift, this conversation serves as a vital resource for Filipino immigrants seeking answers and hope. Watch this special episode of Citizen Pinoy on Sunday, February 9 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the free app. (Advertising Supplement)
Marvin Agustin and Jolina Magdangal reunite on the big screen in 'Ex Ex Lovers'. Photo courtesy of Project 8 Projects
Lindy Rosales, Don Tagala, Momar Visaya, Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel, Philippine Consul General to New York Senen Mangalile, Marilyn Abalos, and Marivir Montebon.
Atty. Gurfinkel with ConGen Mangalile
10 FilAm chefs (and a sommelier) named James Beard Award semifinalists
by MoMar G. Visaya / AJPress
SEVERAL Filipino American chefs and a sommelier have earned a spot on the prestigious list of semifinalists for the 2025 James Beard Awards, one of the highest honors in the culinary world. Announced last week by the James Beard Foundation, the semifinalists represent the country’s most talented and influential figures in food, from rising stars to industry veterans. The awards celebrate excellence across all facets of dining, from high-end establishments to beloved neighborhood spots,
highlighting those shaping the future of American cuisine.
Paolo Dungca (Hiraya in Washington, D.C.), who is nominated for the Emerging Chef Award told us he felt “truly surreal” when he heard the good news.
“I’ve dreamed of seeing my name on such a prestigious list for a long time, so this recognition feels like a dream come true,” he said.
“But honestly, this isn’t just for me. It’s much bigger than that. It’s an honor to represent Washington, D.C. in this category, and I’m
proud that this nomination shines a spotlight on our cuisine and heritage on such an incredible platform.”
Dungca also acknowledged his team, “Most importantly, this is for my team—none of this would have been possible without their unwavering passion and dedication to pushing Filipino food forward.”
Born in the culinary capital of the Philippines, San Fernando, Dungca moved to Los Angeles with his mother when he was 13 years old. While in nursing school, Dungca picked up a job as a dishwasher at Disneyland and was captivated by the energy of the kitchen. It was then that Dungca knew he was meant to be on the line, and traded nursing school for culinary school.
Monique Feybesse and Paul Feybesse (Tarts de Feybesse in Oakland) are nominated for Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker.
Monique is an alumna of Top Chef.
The restaurants Archipelago (Seattle) and République (Los Angeles) are both nominated for
Outstanding Hospitality.
Aaron Verzosa, co-owner and chef of Seattle restaurant Archipelago, was one of the “Outstanding Chef” nominees last year and was a semifinalist for Best Chef: Northwest and Pacific in 2023.
Margarita Lorenzana Manzke and her husband Walter are behind Republique. Margarita was nominated for eight consecutive years for a James Beard Award, finally winning the Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker in 2023.
Canlis, a classic fine dining treasure in Seattle has two reasons to rejoice as it celebrates its 75th year in business this year.
The restaurant’s sommelier Linda Milagros Violago is up for Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service, a new award meant to honor a service professional who curates and serves wine, beer, or other offerings such as sake, low- and nonalcoholic beverages in a restaurant or bar setting; or winery, distillery or brewery that also serves food.
“A true honour to be listed among these esteemed professionals as a semifinalist for Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service,” Violago posted on her Instagram account. “Thanks to all the people who supported me along the way: employers, colleagues, peers, distributors, producers, and so many guests who have followed me from city to city, country to country.”
Aisha Ibrahim, the
Chef Walter Manzke and Chef Margarita Lorenzana Manzke of Republique. Photo courtesy of republiquela.com
Lindas Milagros Violago of Canlis
Photo courtesy of Canlis
Sheldon Simeon of Tiffany’s (Wailuku) Photo from Instagram/@chefwonder
Suzanne Cupps of Lola’s
AJPress
Photo by Momar G. Visaya
Aisha Ibrahim of Canlis
Aaron Verzosa of Archipelago
Photo from Archipelago Seattle
Tara Monsod of Animae (San Diego)
Photo by Matt Furman
Paolo Dungca of Hiraya
Monique Feybesse Photo courtesy of tartsdefeybesse.com
Remembering former Pres. Cory Aquino on her birthday
ConStantino
I SAW a Facebook post from Jose Ma. Montelibano that said: “Old friends gathered to reminisce about a great lady that they all served directly or indirectly from 1986, or 39 years ago. It was a different era but a proud one, and the memories remain strong and vibrant. May generation after generation never forget.”
He was referring to former President Corazon Cojuangco Aquino, whose birthday is January 25, a day before my birthday.
I vividly remember I was the Information Officer 3 at the Office of the Press Secretary. How I missed the late Fritzi Aragon and my good friends Margie Juico and Marisse Reyes.
Ballsy Aquino-Cruz was so kind to me and she even called me up at my home then.
* * *
February is the month of love. I will feature different stories of love. I asked each respondent: (1) How do you define love? (2) Are you in love with whom and why?
Their replies are as follows:
PX Ilano is happily married to She Ilano and has a child actress-daughter Elia: (1) “Love for me is an unshakable commitment to protect, provide and stand firm no matter what the storm is. It’s when you look at someone and know you’d face the world’s chaos just to see her smile.”; (2) Yes, I am very much in love with my wife every day. I love her because she gave meaning and direction to my life. She is incomparable and she is a blessing from God.”
Basketball coach and sportscaster Frederick Francisco is married to Hershelyn David Francisco and has a son Luka: (1) “True love is choosing to be with someone who can’t live without you.”; (2) “My wife and baby boy. I’m in love with life and the hope it brings with my family.”
Ping Diaz Fetizanan is married to Robert RJ Fetizanan and they are in New York City celebrating their anniversary: (1) “Love after 30 years of marriage is not just a feeling — it is a legacy. It is a commitment built
through the years, marked by struggles, joys, and the everyday moments that often go unnoticed. Aging may bring physical and emotional challenges, but love at this stage becomes a testament to the promises you made long ago. Hormonal changes and irritability are natural, but they also offer the chance to redefine love. It becomes less about grand gestures and more about quiet acts of care. Love is brewing a cup of tea for your spouse when they’re too tired to ask, choosing to walk away instead of snapping back, or holding hands in silence when words feel too heavy. These small acts of kindness remind you both why you chose each other. This love is also a gift to your family — a reminder to your children and grandchildren of what true commitment looks like. It shows them that love is not fleeting; it is a constant effort to choose one another every single day, even when it’s hard.”; (2) “My husband because he is the one whom God chose for me, and in his, I find a partner who walks beside me through every high and low. When we stood before God and our loved ones on our wedding day, we made a commitment to love, honor, and cherish each other. That promise was not just for a season, but for a lifetime. It was a vow to embrace the good and the bad, to adjust to life’s changes, and to grow together in faith and love. My love for my husband goes beyond the things he does for me. It’s about the life we’ve built together, the family we’ve nurtured, and the shared dreams we continue to pursue. With him, I’ve found not just love, but purpose. He is my blessing, my strength, and my greatest gift from God.”
Comedian Roger Ocampo, hailed as the Filipino Mr. Bean, has lost his right foot and is blinded on the left eye: (1) “For me true love is unconditional, just how Jesus Christ loved us. Love is knowing how God really loves us by giving His one and only Son to die on the cross for all of us. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son Jesus Christ, that whosoever believes in Jesus Christ will not perish.”; (2) “I’m separated with my original wife and three kids for 24 years. They’ve left after I had an accident losing my middle finger on my left hand
on board ship as I worked as a seaman. I lost my job and I couldn’t provide the needs of my family. My motherin-law took away my wife and my three kids and I was left all alone. I was accused falsely, that’s why my three kids neglected me and they have forgotten me as their father until now...But I’m so in love with Jesus Christ and I’m happy walking on His side holding and leaning in His everlasting arms. Jesus Christ is everything to me. I’m so blessed that He never leaves me even in my hardest time.”
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It is very much appreciated that each year my very good friend Wick Veloso, De La Salle University alumnus and CEO of the Philippine National Bank, greets me an advanced birthday greeting.
Many thanks, Wick, you are always the first one to greet me a happy birthday. I turned 65 on January 26 this year.
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Thanks to my mother Rosita Constantino Medina as well as to my sister Victoria Medina Isip and her loving husband Vicente Santiago Isip (they plan to spend this year their wedding anniversary in London) for treating me to Hibachi Grill and Buffet along Gateway Blvd., Fairfield, California for my 65th birthday after attending a Sunday Mass at Northgate.
Birthday cake was courtesy of my niece Aiko Kumano in Hawaii and my sister and brother-in-law surprised me with their birthday presents.
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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
Robert and Ping Fetizanan
PX and She Ilano
Frederick and Hershelyn Francisco with their son Luka
Adorable Roger Ocampo bringing cheers to children as Mr. Bean Pinoy
Former Pres. Corazon Cojuangco Aquino and Rogelio C. Medina
From left: Birthday celebrant Rogelio C. Medina, Victoria Medina Isip and Rosita Constantino Medina behind Kohl’s Sephora in Vallejo, California.
Wick and Cayen Veloso with their cute, talented grandchildren.
Photo above shows (seated, from left) Popoy and Margie Juico, Elfren Cruz, Maria Montelibano, Ball Dominguez, Mimi de Jesus, Mariasun Azcuna, Ballsy Cruz, and Neni Sta. Romana Cruz; (standing, from left) Dodo Dee, Cesar Sarino, Jose Ma. Montelibano, Eldon Cruz, Viel Dee, Tina Sarino, Sonny Dominguez, Ping de Jesus, and Adolf Azcuna.
Photos courtesy of Rogelio C. Medina
Twenty years after, Nina’s self-titled album still resonates with listeners
by Jessica ann evangelista Inquirer.net
SINGER Nina reflected on the continuous impact of her 2005 hit album “Nina Live!” as she also shared her excitement about her new role as a judge in the singing competition “Sing Galing.”
With her wide vocal range, Nina was easily one of the most popular and sought-after singers of the early 2000s after breaking into the R&B scene, especially after releasing her self-titled album, becoming one of the best selling recording artists in the country.
In a recent interview with INQUIRER.net , the “Diamond Soul Siren” expressed gratitude for how her 20-year-old album is still gaining traction to this day, especially in the era of social media.
“Nakakataba ng puso kasi from generation to generation, relevant pa rin ‘yung songs ko. I thank the parents for doing that, kasi baka nung bata sila pinapakinggan ng parents tapos napass on, at least nalaman ng mga kabataan, kilala pa rin nila ako and my songs,” she said.
( It’s heartwarming that my songs remained relevant from generation to generation. I thank the parents for doing that, because they might have been listening to those songs then passed that on to their kids. At least the youth are aware of me, and my songs .)
Nina also said that from her “Nina Live” album, her cover of the Julia Fordham original, “Love Moves in Mysterious Ways,” and Chaka Khan’s “Through the Fire” are her personal favorites. She shared that recording the entire album was still vivid on her mind after all these years.
“I still remember very much recording that album. Kasi galing pako sa ASAP taping non Tapos I remember parang magkakasakit ako tapos inabot kami ng madaling araw . And ‘ yung bar na ‘yon sarado na siya ngayon ,” shared the soulful singer.
In 2005, “Nina Live!” debuted number one on the Philippine Top 10 Albums chart. After a week of commercial release,
the album reached gold status by the Philippine Association of the Record Industry (PARI) and was certified platinum after three weeks. It is considered to be the biggest-selling album by a female artist in the Philippines, certifying 10× Platinum (Diamond) by the PARI.
Given her continued relevance and experience as a singer, Nina has been recently announced as one of the new judges of the upcoming season of “Sing Galing.”
“ Syempre tuwang tuwa to be chosen as a judge, I get to share my knowledge of what I know as a singer. It was really fun. You get to watch the celebrities na hindi mo alam na magaling or marunong pala kumanta So nakaka surprise siya and masaya since relax lang ‘yung feel sa pagiging jukebox boss,” she said.
When asked what kind of judge she thinks she is going to be considering it’s her first time to tackle such role, Nina underscored that she will be more gentle to her team.
“ Strikto ako sa sarili ko pero baka hindi ko naman i apply sa kanila Siguro baka sweet na istrikto Hindi naman to criticize how they sing, siguro ‘yung kailangan lang i impove,” she said.
“Okay lang sakin kung biretera o hindi as long as kapag kinakanta nila ‘yung
11 FilAm chefs among James Beard Awards...
restaurant’s executive chef is up for Best Chef: Northwest and Pacific. Ibrahim accepted the position in 2021 becoming the seventh executive chef in the restaurant’s history. She was a 2023 Food and Wine Best New Chef awardee and made it to TIME100’s Next 24.
Suzanne Cupps, who opened Lola's in New York last year is up for Best Chef: New York State. She expressed a bit of unbelief on her social media account when she heard of the nomination.
“Still processing this one,” Cupps posted. “What a dream to see my name on this list of amazing NY chefs. Thanks to everyone who has come by @lolas.nyc and for the team of talented and truly lovely people I get to work next to everyday.”
Cupps named the restaurant Lola’s, which comes from the Tagalog word for grandmother, in
song naiintindihan nila kung ano ‘yung kinakanta nila Hindi ‘yung basta kakanta lang sila ,” added the singer.
The OPM artist also extended a word of advice to young aspiring singers, emphasizing the importance of staying humble.
“ Siguro doon sa mga gusto talaga maging singer, just pursue your dreams. And if they want to stay up there, huwag nila pabayaan ‘yung boses nila , alagaan nila . And of course, always be humble; just stay grounded. Huwag ipasok ‘yung fame sa ulo ,” she said.
Nina, who is set to have her Pre-Valentines concert “Love Matters” on Feb. 7 at the New Frontier Theater as well as her Australia tour “Nina Live!” then reflected on her overall journey as a singer.
“So far, it has been a really beautiful journey. I have my fair share of ups and downs. Syempre hindi naman mawawala ‘yon and I’m really grateful for those times na nagkaroon ng konting sadness, kasi it will lead you to your happiness, like in the present. Lahat ng pinagdaanan ko sobra akong proud doon. I’ve learned a lot of lessons along the way,” she explained.
“Sing Galing ” premieres in March on TV5.
honor of her father’s mother Annunciasion “Noning”
Rocamora Paraiso, who fled Japanese occupation in the Philippines during WWII.
“I really wanted to name my restaurant after such a strong woman. It’s not really about the recipes—I don’t even cook a lot of Filipino food; I’m trying to learn. It’s more about my heritage and honoring my family,” Cupps told the Asian Journal in an interview last year.
Sheldon Simeon of Tiffany’s (Wailuku) got another nod for Best Chef: Northwest and Pacific while Tara Monsod (ANIMAE in San Diego) is up again for Best Chef: California.
Silver Iocovozzi of Neng Jr.'s, in Asheville also returns with another Best Chef: Southeast (GA, KY, NC, SC, TN, WV) nomination.
Choosing
eradicate poverty among the destitute, homeless and hungry.
This way, we can even have these added bonuses: a smokeless and sober society, a healthier citizenry, nobler and more compassionate nations, and a less polluted environment, ecologically friendlier to Mother Earth!
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The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
This year’s winners will be celebrated at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony on June 16 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
The James Beard Awards, considered to be among the nation’s most prestigious honors, recognize exceptional talent in the culinary and food media industries, as well as a demonstrated commitment to racial and gender equity, community, sustainability, and a culture where all can thrive.
Founded more than 30 years ago, the James Beard Foundation “celebrates and supports the people behind America’s food culture, while pushing for new standards in the restaurant industry to create a future where all have the opportunity to thrive,” according to its announcement. n
This year, Lordfer Lalicon of Kaya in Orlando is nominated for Best Chef: South (AL, AR, FL, LA, MS, PR). Kaya, a contemporary Filipino restaurant was up for the Best New Restaurant Award last year.
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The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people to live a healthier lifestyle, to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve a happier and more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation, or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable to or appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute for your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health.
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Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international
medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, newspaper columnist, and chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He was a recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, presented by then Indiana Governor, U.S. senator, and later a presidential candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry S. Truman, President George HW Bush, Muhammad Ali, Astronaut Gus Grissom, scientists, and educators. (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888. com, Today.SPSAtoday.com, and philipSchua.com; Amazon.com (“Where is My America?”); Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com.
Nina Girado Photo from Inquirer.net/Jessica Ann Evangelista
Chef Silver Iocovozzi (right) of Neng’s Jr. at the James Beard event in New York called Taste America. AJPress Photo by Momar G. Visaya
