PH consulate hosts immigration briefing amid mass deportations
The second part of the hybrid seminar is scheduled for March 13
Los ANGeLes – As the trump administration ramps up immigration enforcement across the U.s., the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles recently hosted the first of two scheduled immigration briefings to support filipino migrants. the first installment of the two-part hybrid seminar titled, “Briefing on Immigration Developments for filipinos in the U.s.,” featured filipino American legal experts, who addressed community concerns following what has been described as the largest deportation operation in U.s. history. Deputy Consul General and Acting head of Post maria Alnee A. Gamble, who opened the feb. 18 seminar, highlighted the importance of knowing one’s rights and legal options amid the changing immigration landscape.
Meet Philadelphia Eagles’ Johnny Wilson: Proud of his Filipino roots
PhILADeLPhIA — on feb. 9, the Philadelphia eagles made history by overcoming the Kansas City Chiefs in super Bowl LIX, and filipino American wide receiver Johnny Wilson, in his first year with the team, is part of that victorious legacy. In New orleans, Wilson’s dream came true as the eagles clinched victory over the Chiefs with a commanding score of 40-22. surrounded by teammates and the deafening cheers of eagles fans, he felt an overwhelming surge of pride. “Winning the super Bowl as a filipino American is something special for me and my family,” he told Inquirer.net UsA. “It’s a reminder that dreams can come true, no matter where you come from.” this victory is not just mine; it’s for everyone who believed in me. It’s for my family, for my community in Pacoima, and for every young athlete out there.” Despite appearing in five super Bowls, the Philadelphia eagles have only been victorious twice. their first win was in 2018, defeating
Palace ‘elated’ by US aid freeze exemption
by Michael Punongbayan alexis RoMeRo Philstar.com
mANILA — malacañang was elated by the United states’ decision to exempt a portion of its military aid to the Philippines from the trump administration’s current foreign aid freeze policy. of course we are elated,” Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said at a press briefing on tuesday, february 25 when sought for comment on the development.
“It is something significant and we are thankful for that support... the AfP (Armed forces of the Philippines) modernization is very important. But of
course, with the additional help, it can help a lot,” she added. Last month, U.s. President Donald trump ordered a pause on fresh obligations and disbursements of foreign assistance while they are being reviewed for efficiency and consistency with Washington’s foreign policy.
on monday, february 24, the Department of foreign Affairs (DfA) announced that the U.s. has exempted a part of its military aid to the Philippines from the policy. According to earlier reports, $336 million for the modernization of the Philippines’ security forces was among the items exempted from the aid freeze.
Philippines prays for Francis’ health
by evelyn MacaiRan Philstar.com
mANILA — the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines is seeking continuous prayers for the 88-year-old Pope francis, whose health continues to be “critical.”
In its official facebook page, the CBCP posted a one-line request: “Let us continue to pray for Pope francis.”
It attached a health update released by the holy see Press office which said, “the condition of the holy father continues to be critical. therefore, as explained on sunday, february 23, the pope is not out of danger.” on saturday morning, february 22, francis reportedly experienced an asthma-
like respiratory crisis of prolonged intensity, which required the administration of highflow oxygen. his blood tests also reportedly showed thrombocytopenia, associated with anemia, that required the administration of blood transfusions.
“the holy father remains alert and spent the day in an armchair, although he is more uncomfortable than yesterday (sunday). At the moment, the prognosis remains guarded,” the Vatican said.
several church leaders have been asking for prayers for the pope, who has been confined at the Gemelli hospital in rome since feb. 14 because of a respiratory infection, which
Church leaders urge Filipinos to uphold EDSA Revolution spirit
by Jown Manalo Inquirer.net
mANILA — As the nation marked the 39th anniversary of the edsa People Power revolution on tuesday, february 25, 163 bishops, priests, nuns, and members of religious groups have called on filipinos to uphold the spirit of the revolution by standing against oppression and advocating for justice.
In a joint statement titled “Living out the spirit of edsa: A Call to the Church People,” the
religious leaders emphasized that the 1986 uprising was not just a political event but a “moral and spiritual awakening.” the victory of edsa was not just a political triumph; it was a moral and spiritual awakening,” the statement reads. “It showed us that courage, compassion, and solidarity could break the chains of dictatorship.” signatories included apostolic vicars and bishops from the Catholic Church, bishops from the Iglesia filipina Independiente,
According to Castro, the exemption indicated the U.s. has not wavered in its support for the Philippines. the U.s. has repeatedly described its defense commitment to the Philippines as “ironclad,” saying the alliance between the two countries play a key role in ensuring a free, open and prosperous IndoPacific. the U.s. decision is a “welcome development” for the AfP.
“We are glad to continue. And it also signals basically our longstanding relationship with the U.s.,” AfP public affairs office chief Col. Xerxes u PAGE 2
PH hopes for more US military aid despite global aid freeze – Romualdez
by chaRie abaRca Inquirer.net
mANILA — the Philippine government is hoping to receive additional military assistance from the United states despite the global pause on foreign aid announced by President Donald trump. this was disclosed by Philippine Ambassador to the U.s. Jose manuel “Babe” romualdez on tuesday, february 25 adding that the pause on global security foreign aid would not affect the Philippines. there will be no major changes for the Philippines. In fact, we are hoping to receive even more assistance as we push to modernize our Armed forces as quickly as possible due to the challenges we face in the IndoPacific region,” romualdez said in an interview with radyo 630.
“And our message to our friends in the U.s Congress is very simple: If our Armed forces are strong, we can truly be a partner of the U.s.,” he added. the Department of foreign Affairs on monday,
on tuesday, february 25 said
ferdinand marcos Jr.
more appropriate to wait for the senate to request a special session on the impeachment trial of Vice President sara Duterte before calling one himself. this was Palace Press officer and Undersecretary Claire Castro’s answer when asked if marcos could compel the conduct of a special senate session even without a request from the chamber. the way we see it, it would be an awkward position on the part of the president to voluntarily call for a special session, considering that there is this ongoing [allegation] that the president is behind the impeachment proceeding,”
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Malacañang
Malacañang: ‘Awkward’ for Marcos to call...
Castro told reporters.
“so it is better for the senate to request, considering even the president made this pronouncement that if the senate would ask him to call for a special session he would do so,” she added.
Asked if it was legal for the
president to call for a special senate session that would only be limited to the impeachment trial, Castro responded that the president may call for a special session anytime under the Constitution.
“It is not limited to the urgency of a bill or legislation, but we believe it also includes the
impeachment trial because it’s anytime, without any condition,” she explained. the house of representatives impeached Duterte last february 5. on february 18, she filed a petition asking the supreme Court to stop the impeachment proceedings. n
Philippines prays for Francis...
PAGE 1
was later confirmed to be double pneumonia.
Last feb. 19, CBCP President Kalookan Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David solicited prayers for the pontiff. on feb. 20, Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma led a eucharistic vigil for Pope francis’ healing at the san Carlos seminary College’s martyrs of Lisieux Chapel in Cebu City. the next day, manila
Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula led a prayer service for the health of Pope francis. francis, born Jorge mario Bergoglio, has been pope since 2013 and has suffered bouts of ill health in the past two years. he is particularly prone to lung infections because as a young adult he developed pleurisy – a condition where the layers of tissue between the lungs and chest wall become inflamed – and had part of one lung removed. n
Palace ‘elated’
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trinidad said.
“It has further strengthened the ties between the two countries. on the development or its particular use, we leave it to our top leadership… the acquisition and development of eDCA sites and other programs,” he said, referring to the enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement.
Philippine Navy spokesman for the West Philippine sea rear Admiral roy Vincent trinidad said the U.s. announcement would mean uninterrupted implementation of projects and activities.
by US aid...
there are already particular programs that higher headquarters has mapped out for this year and even in the years to come,” he said.
“And with this particular unfreezing of the support by the U.s. government, it only means that our programs that have been initially planned out will push through. this will include activities on sea, air and land, and even our support systems, cyber and other areas,” he added.
trinidad said the AfP is unaware yet of specific aid, projects or programs covered by the foreign aid freeze exemption.
suffice it to say, the move to unfreeze the $336-million package is a very much welcome development,” he told reporters at a press briefing. In its announcement on monday, the DfA also said the U.s. and the Philippines “are committed to the treaty alliance and to efforts to further strengthen our defense cooperation and interoperability.”
“We will continue to engage the U.s. government on the importance of our bilateral work in supporting our shared goals and priorities,” DfA spokesperson ma. teresita Daza said. n
PH hopes for more US military aid...
1
february 24 confirmed that the U.s. has exempted the Philippines from its pause on global security foreign aid.
According to foreign Affairs spokesperson teresita Daza, the Philippine government has been informed of the “waiver issued to a portion of the U.s foreign military financing for the Philippines.”
she said the Philippines and the U.s. remain committed to their treaty alliance and to efforts to further strengthen defense cooperation and interoperability. n
Church leaders urge Filipinos to uphold
1
priests and members of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines, nuns from the Asia missionary sisters of sr. Charles Borromeo, Dominican sisters of st. Catherine of siena –Philippines, and members of the United methodist Church.
Notable signatories were Apostolic Vicar of taytay Broderick Pabillo, san Carlos Bishop Gerardo Alminaza, Gumaca Bishop eugenius Longakit Cañete, Calbayog Bishop Isabelo C. Abarquez, and Archdiocese of Cebu Vicar for social Advocacies Nazario “Ace” Vocales.
the church leaders warned against remaining silent amid injustices, noting that the same powerful family unseated in 1986
is back in office, perpetuating a system that keeps many filipinos in “poverty, silence, and fear.”
“As a Church, we cannot be neutral. silence in the face of injustice is complicity,” they said, urging the faithful to act as “the voice of the voiceless, to expose lies with truth, and to resist evil with love.”
they also called for vigilance against historical revisionism and the spread of disinformation, emphasizing the need to educate communities about the realities of injustice and threats to democracy.
“Living out the spirit of edsa means more than remembering history — it means embracing a continuing commitment to social transformation,” they added.
EDSA...
the religious leaders likewise cited biblical teachings, quoting Proverbs 31:8-9: “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” they also challenged the faithful. the spirit of edsa is alive whenever we choose to act in faith, speak truth to power, and build a nation where justice and peace reign,” they said. the struggle for justice cannot be fought alone. Just as edsa was a collective movement, we must build communities of resistance and hope, standing together in the fight against corruption, disinformation, and oppression,” they added. n PAGE 1
PH consulate hosts immigration briefing amid...
fil-Am immigration law experts discussed the rights of filipino immigrants and offered practical tips for dealing with immigration authorities.
Atty. marlon B. Baldomero provided background information on the Immigration and Customs enforcement (ICe) and what to do when encountering ICe authorities.
Atty. ed Allan Lindain explained the jurisdictions covered by law enforcement and immigration agents, and the fourth Amendment to the U.s Constitution. meanwhile, Atty. maria theresa
t. Calimag, with the reeves Immigration Law Group, talked about people’s rights under the criminal justice system and during removal proceedings. the session culminated in a Q&A session, where participants sought clarifications on rules they need to follow in specific scenarios. Closing the briefing, the Consulate reminded filipino immigrants about their rights and the consular assistance available to them. the briefing was presented live on the Consulate General’s official facebook page and may be viewed here.
the second part of the seminar is scheduled for march 13. meanwhile, a coalition of more than 25 immigrant rights, legal, labor and faith-based organizations known as the Los Angeles rapid response Network has created a hotline to report ICe activity, connect migrants with legal aid and prevent wrongful detentions.
“Community is what keeps us safe,” LA Councilman hugo sotomartinez said in a statement. “If you see ICe in LA, call the rapid response Network at 888-6244752 so we can verify, report and take action to protect those at risk.” (inquirer.net)
Pope Francis during his apostolic visit to the Philippines in 2015. Malacañang file photo
Philippine Ambassador to the U.S. Jose Manuel Romualdez Inquirer.net file photo by Gabriel P. Lalu
Under Trump, press freedom under heat
by selen oZtuRk Ethnic Media Services
three weeks into trump’s second presidency, press freedom is in danger for newsrooms nationwide.
san francisco radio station
KCBs is facing a federal Communications Commission (fCC) investigation after broadcasting information about an Immigration and Customs enforcement operation; Associated Press journalists are barred from White house events after refusing to follow trump’s executive order to rename the Gulf of mexico the Gulf of America; and major media houses like ABC and CBs faced trump lawsuits even before he took office.
“What power is the fCC asserting? It appears to be a claim that reporting the news is not in the public interest if the government doesn’t like what news is being reported,” said David Loy, legal director of the first Amendment Coalition at a friday, february 14 ethnic media services briefing about recent press freedom threats.
the fCC primarily regulates broadcast media like radio and television. Print and digital content is beyond its jurisdiction.
the organization’s authority depends on a “public interest” standard — rooted in the radio Act of 1927 and the Communications Act of 1934, when airwaves were scarce — requiring broadcasters to operate in a way that serves the public interest.
In laws, lawsuits and regulations since then, however Congress, courts and the fCC itself have been unclear on the meaning and scope of “public interest.”
‘The process is the punishment’
In a case toeing this gray area of public interest last January, trump’s new fCC chair Brendan Carr ordered an investigation of NPr and PBs for “broadcasting underwriting announcements that cross the line into prohibited commercial advertisements.”
“It’s not the government’s business to dictate what the press reports, or how … and who is doing what on the government dime is, by definition, public business and newsworthy,” said Loy. “there’s a reason that the press is the only private institution expressly named in the Constitution, where the first Amendment guarantees its freedom.”
“the process is the punishment when it comes to freedom of speech,” he continued. “I think the most pernicious danger is selfcensorship, and this is not just a red state or federal issue. Local officials have been threatening reporters for years,” with many recent instances in California alone.
In may 2019, for example, san francisco police obtained a warrant to raid the home of a freelance journalist — taking a sledgehammer to his gate and seizing his computers, phones and other devices — after he refused to name a source related to the death of san francisco public defender
into
Jeff Adachi that february.
In April 2022, a Los Angeles County sheriff gave a press conference calling for the investigation of an LA times journalist who reported on a leaked video of a deputy kneeling on the head of a handcuffed inmate for several minutes.
Last December, a san Joaquin County sheriff announced that journalists who legally obtained county superior Court documents could face criminal prosecution for having “conspired to break the law.”
“this erosion of norms and legal safeguards for journalists is part of a global trend,” said Joel simon, founding director of the Journalism Protection Initiative at the Craig Newmark Graduate school of Journalism. “there’s not a lot of examples where press freedom has declined and then rebounded … once your rights deteriorate, it’s very difficult to reclaim them.”
Press freedom violations in the U.s. are even older than the country itself, spanning landmark cases including a 1734 libel suit against a publisher by New York’s colonial governor; the 1798 sedition Act criminalizing criticism of the government, repealed two years later; and President Nixon’s far more recent Watergate breach in 1972.
‘Defending our ability to do our work’
“What makes these issues potentially more damaging now is that the institutional power of the media is greatly diminished,” said simon. “During the first trump administration, the battle was over who controls the narrative. that’s not where we are now. Now, we have to focus on defending our ability to do our work. If we don’t, we’re going to see those rights erode.”
“outside the U.s., a lot of legal harassment targeting media is not related to the production of content, but other things like tax issues, fraud allegations and workplace practices,” he explained, recommending that U.s. journalists brace themselves for the same.
Legal resources for journalists include pro bono aid through Lawyers for reporters, ProJourn and reporters Committee for freedom of the Press (rCfP), and legal hotlines through rCfP and the first Amendment Coalition. self-censorship is not good
because people will not get the news. It’s as simple as that,” said Zach Press, senior staff attorney at Lawyers for reporters at the Cyrus r. Vance Center for International Justice. “the question we should ask ourselves is: What measures do we put in place to have the confidence to do that reporting?” he added that with trump’s attacks on this confidence, Lawyers for reporters has seen an increase in “strategic lawsuits against public participation,” or sLAPPs; these are lawsuits brought by people and entities to dissuade negative publicity by forcing the critics accused to spend extensive time and money on defense.
the good news?
In recent years, many states have adopted anti-sLAPP laws, almost all involving fee shifting — meaning that if, for example, a court dismisses a case or rules against the suing plaintiff, that plaintiff must pay the defendant’s lawyer fees and possibly even more in damages.
Adopting states include Virginia in 2017; Colorado, Virginia and texas in 2019; New York in 2020; Washington in 2021; Kentucky and Arizona in 2022; Pennsylvania and minnesota in 2024; and ohio last January.
“It’s a very strong deterrent,” said Press of the laws. “If the plaintiff knows they’ll be on the hook for a claim they just wanted to raise to shame a journalist, maybe they’ll think twice about it.”
Against sLAPP and other threats, he encouraged journalists to make their work as factually, digitally and legally bulletproof as possible through extensive editorial fact-checking; media liability insurance; encrypted messaging apps like signal and telegram; and — especially for nonprofits, which comprise many local media — updated tax and employment filings. through actions like these, “press freedom begins at home,” added Loy. “I can’t guarantee that the fCC or any other arm of government will not attempt to abuse its power, but autocracy depends on acquiescence.”
“Ignore your rights and they will go away. the best way to stand up to a bully is to fight a bully,” he continued. “Yes, there are risks … but the press should not allow those risks to prevent it from fulfilling its function: to report the news.” n
Meet Philadelphia Eagles’ Johnny Wilson: Proud...
PAGE 1
the New england Patriots, 41-33, in super Bowl LII.
At 23, Wilson grew up in a vibrant household that embraced diversity. his filipino roots on his mother’s side blend beautifully with the influences of his African grandfather.
“Growing up in Pacoima shaped who I am,” he said. “It taught me the value of hard work and community.”
Wilson’s journey to the NfL began at Calabasas high school, where he emerged as a four-star recruit by esPN and 247 sports, catching the attention of major college programs.
After initially committing to oregon, he ultimately chose Arizona state, where he laid the groundwork for a successful college career. “It was a big decision, but I knew I had to follow my heart,” he recalled. his journey was not without challenges. After transferring to florida state, Wilson faced the pressure of proving himself. every step was a learning experience,” he said. “I had
to adapt and keep pushing forward.” his hard work paid off, culminating in a sixth-round draft selection by the eagles in 2024.
Johnny Wilson: ‘I could eat lumpia every day’ When discussing his heritage, Wilson’s warmth shines through. “Visiting the Philippines was life-changing. the warmth of the people and the culture—I felt so connected to my roots. It made me realize how important it is to represent my heritage on the field.”
food is also a significant part of Wilson’s connection to his culture. “I could eat lumpia every day,” he said. “It’s the perfect comfort food! Whenever I have it, I’m reminded of family gatherings and the joy they bring.”
At 6’6”, Wilson defies the stereotype often associated with filipino Americans. “I find it funny when people say filipinos are short. I mean, look at me!” he quipped. “But that’s just another way to break stereotypes. success isn’t defined by height or background—it’s about heart and determination.”
Trump froze out
Project 2025 in his campaign. Now its blueprint is his health care playbook
by stePhanie aMouR
feW voters likely expected President Donald trump in the first weeks of his administration to slash billions of dollars from the nation’s premier federal cancer research agency.
But funding cuts to the National Institutes of health were presaged in Project 2025’s “mandate for Leadership,” a conservative plan for governing that trump said he knew nothing about during his campaign. Now, his administration has embraced it.
the 922-page playbook compiled by the heritage foundation, a conservative research group in Washington, says “the NIh monopoly on directing research should be broken” and calls for capping payments to universities and their hospitals to “help reduce federal taxpayer subsidization of leftist agendas.”
Universities, now slated to face sweeping cuts in agency grants that cover these overhead costs, say the policy will destroy ongoing and future biomedical science. A federal judge temporarily halted the cuts to medical research on feb. 10 after they drew legal challenges from medical institutions and 22 states.
Project 2025 as prologue the rapid-fire adoption of many of Project 2025’s objectives indicates that trump acolytes — many of its contributors were veterans of his first term, and some have joined his second administration — have for years quietly laid the groundwork to disrupt the national health system. that runs counter to trump’s insistence on the campaign trail, after Democrats made Project 2025 a potent attack line, that he was ignorant of the document.
“I have no idea what Project 2025 is,” trump said oct. 31 at a rally in Albuquerque, New mexico, one of many times he disclaimed any knowledge of the plan. “I’ve never read it, and I never will.”
more choice and lower monthly premiums for buyers, but unwitting consumers may face potentially massive out-of-pocket costs for care the plans won’t cover. And Project 2025 called for halting medicaid funding to Planned Parenthood affiliates. the organization, an important health care provider for women across the country, gets roughly $700 million annually from medicaid and other government programs, based on its 2022-23 report. Abortion made up about 4% of services the organization provided to patients, the report says.
the administration’s steps to scrub words such as “equity” from federal documents, erase transgender identifiers, and curtail international medical aid — all part of the Project 2025 wish list — have already had sweeping ramifications, hobbling access to health care and eviscerating international programs that aim to prevent disease and improve maternal health outcomes. Under a memorandum issued in January, for example, trump reinstated and expanded a ban on federal funds to global organizations that provide legal information on abortions. studies have found that the ban, known as the “global gag rule” or “mexico City Policy,” has stripped millions of dollars away from foreign aid groups that didn’t abide by it. It’s also had a chilling effect: In Zambia, one group removed information in brochures on contraception, and in turkey, some providers stopped talking with patients about menstrual regulation as a form of family planning.
Project 2025 called on the next president to reinstate the gag rule, saying it “should be drafted broadly to apply to all foreign assistance.”
searchers in JAmA. the Project 2025 blueprint sets out goals to curb access to medication abortion, restructure public health agencies, and weaken protections against sex-based discrimination. It would have seniors enroll by default in medicare Advantage plans run by commercial insurers, in essence privatizing the health program for older Americans. And it calls for eliminating coverage requirements for Affordable Care Act plans that people buy without federal subsidies, which, insurance experts say, risks leaving people underinsured.
“It’s the agenda of the trump administration,” said robert Weissman, a co-president of Public Citizen, a progressive consumer rights advocacy group. “It’s to minimize access to care under the guise of strict work requirements in medicaid, privatizing medicare, and rolling back consumer protections and subsidies in the Affordable Care Act.” the White house didn’t respond to a message seeking comment. Conservatives have said implementation of the project’s proposals would curb waste and fraud in federal health programs and free health systems from the clutches of a radical “woke” agenda.
“Americans are tired of their government being used against them,” Paul Dans, a lawyer and former director of Project 2025, said last year in a statement. “the administrative state is, at best, completely out of touch with the American people and, at worst, is weaponized against them.”
As a role model for aspiring athletes, Wilson offers this simple yet profound advice: stay focused, work hard and believe in yourselves. there will be moments when people doubt you, but it’s your journey. Keep pushing through.”
Looking ahead, the fil-Am wide receiver envisions a future where he not only excels on the field but also gives back to the community.
“In five years, I hope to still be playing at a high level and expanding my impact— whether through charity work or mentoring young athletes. I want to make a difference,” he said.
Balancing his football career with his cultural identity is crucial for Wilson. “No matter how busy life gets, I always stay connected to my family and heritage. It’s part of who I am, and it gives me strength.”
As confetti fell in New orleans, Wilson stood proudly with his teammates, celebrating their victory. his journey is just starting, but he is ready to inspire the next generation. (Elton Lugay/ inquirer.net)
But because his administration is hewing to the heritage foundation-compiled playbook so closely, opposition groups and some state Democratic leaders say they’re able to act swiftly to counter trump’s moves in court.
they’re now preparing for trump to act on Project 2025 recommendations for some of the nation’s largest and most important health programs, including medicaid and medicare, and for federal health agencies.
“there has been a lot of planning on the litigation side to challenge the executive orders and other early actions from a lot of different organizations,” said Noah Bookbinder, president of Citizens for responsibility and ethics in Washington, a watchdog group. “Project 2025 allowed for some preparation.”
the plan, for example, calls for state flexibility to impose premiums for some beneficiaries, work requirements, and lifetime caps or time limits on medicaid coverage for some enrollees in the program for low-income and disabled Americans, which could lead to a surge in the number of uninsured after the Biden administration vastly expanded the program’s coverage. these proposals don’t directly alter eligibility for medicaid or the benefits provided, but the ultimate effect would be fewer people with health coverage,” said Larry Levitt, executive vice president for health policy at Kff, a health information nonprofit that includes Kff health News. “When you erect barriers to people enrolling in medicaid, like premiums or documenting work status, you end up rationing coverage by complexity and ability to pay.”
Congressional republicans are contemplating a budget plan that could result in hundreds of billions of dollars being trimmed from medicaid over 10 years.
Project 2025 called for expanding access to health plans that don’t comply with the Affordable Care Act’s strongest consumer protections. that may lead to
trump also signed an executive order rolling back transgender rights by banning federal funds for transition-related care for people under age 19. An order he signed also directed the federal government to recognize only two sexes, male and female, and use the term “sex” instead of “gender.”
the Project 2025 document calls for deleting the term “gender identity” from federal rules, regulations, and grants and for unwinding policies and procedures that its authors say are used to advance a “radical redefinition of sex.” In addition, it states that Department of health and human services programs should “protect children’s minds and bodies.”
“radical actors inside and outside government are promoting harmful identity politics that replaces biological sex with subjective notions of ‘gender identity,’” the Project 2025 road map reads.
Data disappears
As a result of trump’s order on gender identity, health researchers say, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention took down online information about transgender health and removed data on LGBtQ+ health. A federal judge on feb. 11 ordered that much of the information be restored; the administration complied but added notices to some webpages labeling them “extremely inaccurate” and claiming they don’t “reflect biological reality.”
the CDC also delayed the release of information and findings on bird flu in the agency’s morbidity and mortality Weekly report. federal workers have said they were told to retract papers that contain words such as “nonbinary” or “transgender.” And some hospitals suspended gender-affirming care such as hormone therapy and puberty blockers for youths.
Advocacy groups say the orders discriminate and pose barriers to medically necessary care, and transgender children and their families have filed a number of court challenges. Lawyers, advocates, and researchers say implementation of many of Project 2025’s health policy goals poses a threat. the playbook presents an antiscience, antidata, and antimedicine agenda,” according to a piece last year by Boston University re-
Dans did not return messages seeking comment for this article. the heritage foundation has sought to separate itself and Project 2025 from trump’s executive orders and other initiatives on health. this isn’t about our recommendations in Project 2025 –something we’ve been doing for more than 40 years. this is about President trump delivering on his promises to make America safer, stronger, and better than ever before, and he and his team deserve the credit,” ellen Keenan, a spokesperson for heritage, said in a statement.
Versions of the document have been produced roughly every four years since the 1980s and have influenced other GoP presidents. former President ronald reagan adopted about two-thirds of the recommendations from an earlier heritage guide, the group says. In some instances, the trump administration hasn’t just followed Project 2025’s proposals but has gone beyond them. the document called on the next president to scale back and “deradicalize” the U.s. Agency for International Development, an independent federal agency that provides foreign aid and assistance, including for many international health programs. the administration hasn’t just scaled back UsAID. trump adviser elon musk bragged on his social media platform, X, that his “Department of Government efficiency” fed the agency “into the wood chipper,” physically closing its offices and putting nearly all its staff on administrative leave while ending funding for its programs and disseminating misinformation about them. But the administration risks waning public support if it adopts the project’s goals to upend U.s health care and health policy. Almost 60% of voters said they felt negatively about Project 2025 in a september poll by NBC News.
“Project 2025 was never a thought exercise; it was always a blueprint,” said Ally Boguhn, a spokesperson for reproductive freedom for All, an abortion rights group. “We’re only a few weeks into his presidency, and it’s setting the groundwork for even more.” KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFF—an independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism.
Philadelphia
Wilson.
Three weeks
Trump’s second presidency, press freedom is in danger for newsrooms nationwide. Pexels.com photo by Brotin Biswas
KFF Health Newa
SEND-OFF CEREMONY. A total of 733 members of Davao City’s security and safety clusters are sent off for the 88th Araw ng Dabaw celebration, in a ceremony at Camp Captain Domingo E. Leonor on Wednesday, February 26. More than 6,000 personnel of the Davao City Police Office will be deployed for the month-long event next month. PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.
Dateline PhiliPPines
Philippines, Japan boost security ties amid rise of China
by FRances Mangosing Inquirer.net
mANILA — the Philippines and Japan have agreed to establish a high-level dialogue to expand defense exports from tokyo and start talks on protecting shared military information amid their common concerns over China’s increasing maritime aggression in the region.
Defense secretary Gilberto teodoro Jr. and Japanese Defense minister Gen Nakatani met in manila on monday, february 24 for their first bilateral defense meeting.
Nakatani, who took office in october, is in his second tenure as defense minister after last serving in 2015.
Part of the discussions included the security situation in the east and south China seas, where both the Philippines and Japan have territorial disputes with China.
China claims sovereignty over almost all of the south China sea, and its coast guard ships have acted aggressively against Philippine vessels near disputed shoals and atolls that fall inside manila’s exclusive economic zone.
Japan and China have also repeatedly faced off around uninhabited Japaneseadministered islands that tokyo calls the senkaku and Beijing calls the Diaoyu.
At the start of the talks, teodoro said he looked forward to a resilient partnership with Japan to guard against “unilateral attempts by China and other countries to change the international order and the narrative.”
Nakatani, for his part, said the regional security environment has become “increasingly severe,” calling on both countries as strategic partners to further boost defense cooperation.
Strategic talks the two officials agreed
to start discussions between senior officials and defense industry representatives to further enhance cooperation “in a mutually beneficial manner,” according to Nakatani. security ties between Japan and the Philippines, both close U.s. allies, have deepened in recent years amid China’s increasing military activities.
tokyo’s only export to manila was an air surveillance radar system built by mitsubishi electric Corp. as part of a P5.5billion deal signed in 2020. the Philippines is in the third phase of its military modernization program, where it seeks to build up its military in the next decade with more equipment, including missiles, fighter jets, and frigates.
Nakatani said they also agreed to start a “strategic dialogue” between high-level military officials on deeper information sharing and protecting military information “in order to elevate bilateral cooperation.”
tokyo’s security cooperation with manila is expected to get a boost in the coming years after the two countries signed a reciprocal access agreement (rAA) last July, allowing their troops and equipment on each other’s territory for combat training and disaster response. the rAA is awaiting ratification from the Japanese parliament.
Stronger alliances Nakatani on sunday, february 23 toured Basa Air Base in Pampanga province, one of the nine military bases where the U.s. military has access under an enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, as well as Wallace Air station in san fernando City, La Union province, where some of the air surveillance radar systems sold by tokyo were in place. he visited the command and control centers of both sites, where future cooperation
between the Philippine Air force and Japan Air self-Defense force was being looked at.
Aside from strengthening bilateral defense ties, both officials also agreed to enhance their three-way partnership with the United states and the quadrilateral grouping with the U.s. and Australia, collectively known as the “squad.”
“We are not only to enhance existing alliances in terms of the scale of mutually cooperative activities but also the scope of these arrangements by inviting like-minded partners potentially to join these alliances. In any case, the upholding of international law and the promotion of a free and open Indo-Pacific, a free and open south China sea and east China sea, in accordance with generally accepted principles of international law, is a shared initiative,” teodoro noted.
Also on monday, two Japanese warships—Js Ariake, a murasame-class destroyer, and Js hamagiri, an Asagiri-class destroyer—arrived in the country for a goodwill visit, according to the Philippine Navy. the two ships were on an overseas training cruise and were making stops in partner nations.
on friday, february 21, the french Navy’s aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle also made its first visit to the Philippines, making a stop in Zambales, the province facing the West Philippine sea. the aircraft carrier docked in subic Bay along with two multimission destroyers, an air defense destroyer, and the auxiliary oil replenishment ship Jacques Chevallier. the french Navy forces conducted combined naval and air exercises alongside the Philippine Navy and the Philippine Air force in the West Philippine sea. (With a report from Kyodo News)
36 party-list groups may be disqualified
by Mayen JayMalin Philstar.com
mANILA — At least 36 partylist organizations may be barred from participating in the may 2025 midterm polls for violating rules on campaign posters. Commission on elections (Comelec) Chairman George Garcia said they are issuing notices to 36 party-list groups to remove their illegal campaign posters immediately.
“We ordered their campaign materials removed nationwide,” Garcia said at the Kapihan sa manila Bay forum on Wednesday, february 26. he said the 36 organizations failed to comply with regulations on the size of campaign posters and use of environment-friendly materials.
Garcia said some of the partylist groups also placed their campaign posters in prohibited areas. every day, Garcia said, the Comelec will issue notices to candidates, party-list groups and political parties found violating rules on campaign posters.
“We will issue notices to remove illegal campaign posters in three days. otherwise we will file a disqualification case against them,” he said. Violating rules on campaign posters is considered an election offense and thus violators may also be slapped with criminal cases. meanwhile, amid intensifying election-related violence, the Comelec said more areas in mindanao are likely to be placed under the so-called red category.
Garcia met on monday, february 24 with Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. rommel francisco marbil to discuss the reclassification to the red category of certain areas in mindanao, where a spike in election-related violence has been reported.
“We observed areas in orange category that had a sudden spike of violence. It’s not that high, but security forces must be increased in those areas,” Garcia said.
“I think there will be an increase in classification. there are incidents of violence that we cannot overlook, even if there are no big people involved,” Garcia told reporters. the poll chief, however, clarified that the rise in the number of election-related violence was only limited in mindanao and not in the entire country. An area is classified under the orange category for having a history of violence during elections, but since violence erupted recently, Garcia said the Comelec can re-classify it under the red category upon recommendation of the PNP.
Garcia noted that marbil just visited the Bangsamoro Autonomous region in muslim mindanao (BArmm) to assess the security situation in the region. he also stressed the need to reclassify some parts of areas in mindanao. Currently, there are 38 areas under the red category, most of which are in BArmm, he noted.
According to Garcia, the commission will not think twice about placing an area under Comelec control to ensure that voters will be able to safely cast their votes. other than the recent attack against Datu Piang Vice mayor omas samama, Garcia said the commission has also received several incidents of electionrelated violence in maguindanao that were not reported on national media.
Garcia further noted that those election-related incidents happened long before the start of the campaign period for local candidates. Local elections have traditionally been more violent than national. the spike in election-related violence, Garcia said, was observed starting feb 11. But he said cases of election-related violence this midterm polls are way lower compared to past elections. Still within limits Alyansa para sa Bagong
Marcos leads inaugural payout under Expanded Centenarians Act
by helen FloRes Philstar.com
mANILA — President marcos led on Wednesday, february 26 the inaugural payout of P10,000 cash gift to qualified senior citizen beneficiaries under the expanded Centenarians Act of 2024. they (senior citizens) deserve nothing but our love, our care, and our protection,” marcos said during a ceremony at malacañang.
“In the New Philippines (Bagong Pilipinas), we want our elders to live with comfort and dignity,” he said. the president distributed cash gifts to select senior citizens identified by the National Commission of senior
Citizens (NCsC). similar cash gift distributions were simultaneously held in different parts of the country, benefiting 1,079 elderly. marcos has directed the NCsC to ensure that only qualified individuals benefit from the financial incentives. the NCsC aims to complete the distribution of cash gifts to 7,759 identified beneficiaries by the end of this month. the agency added that P2.9 billion in financial aid would be distributed to 275,000 senior citizens across the country this year. In his speech, marcos cited some centenarians who are survivors of World War II. he said about 73 percent of senior citizens depend on family support, while 55 percent use their own money for health expenses. on feb. 26 last year, marcos signed republic Act 11982, or the expanded Centenarians Act of 2024, expanding the benefits, formerly limited to centenarians. rA 11982 grants senior citizens who reach 80, 85, 90 and 95 years old P10,000 cash gift. Under the law, the government’s benefit for the centenarians is P100,000. senior citizens are also entitled to five to 20 percent discounts on products or services under rA 11982. these include a fivepercent discount on water and electricity, applicable when water usage does not exceed 30 cubic meters, and electricity consumption is limited to 100 kilowatt-hours. n
Escudero not interested in VP post
by MaRc Jayson cayabyab Philstar.com
mANILA— senate President francis escudero is not interested in being vice president in case the impeached sara Duterte gets convicted during trial.
In an interview with The Philippine STAr’s online show truth on the Line” on friday, february 21, escudero put the issue to rest.
“that is an unfair question because the entire Congress above the age of 40, and all of the senators, can be a choice of the president (for vice president),” the senate president said.
“I am simply one of them. But if you ask me, I am not interested,” he added.
section 9, Article VII of the 1987 Constitution states:
“Whenever there is a vacancy in the office of the Vice President during the term for which he was elected, the president shall nominate a vice president from among the members of the senate and the house of representatives who shall assume office upon confirmation by a majority vote of all the members of both houses of the Congress, voting separately.” escudero said that while the senate president is third in the line of succession, it is not automatic that he will get elevated to vice president if the position gets vacated. he said delicadeza would dictate upon them as senatorjudges in the upcoming impeachment trial to reject an offer to become vice president because they will be the ones
rendering judgment on Duterte.
“It would not be good to look at. It would be more prudent for those who voted to, if at all, remove the vice president, to decline any such offer or nomination,” escudero said. escudero said he would not succumb to pressure from some quarters to either delay or fast-track the impeachment proceedings. he maintained that the senate can only start tackling the Articles of Impeachment while in session. he scoffed at his critics saying the senate committed a constitutional breach because it did not convene the impeachment court after receiving the impeachment complaint on feb. 5, when the chamber had two more days that week before the break. n
Pilipinas senatorial candidate and former Interior and secretary Benhur Abalos maintained that his campaign spending for the 2025 midterm elections is still within the limits set by law amid criticisms over his big billboards.
In a television interview, Abalos failed to provide a ballpark figure on how much he has spent for his senatorial bid.
“It is difficult to give a ballpark figure… But I assure you we’re within the limits of the law,” Abalos said, in reaction to observations of netizens that they see him more than their families because of his huge billboards dispersed across the metro.
he added that his campaign funds came from some friends, and thanked his supporters “for this act of volunteerism.”
the good thing, (my billboards) contain different messages. some (of the billboards) read an enemy of criminals, actions not talk… these are all volunteers from different areas. I just give them the designs, and they will do the (the billboards),” Abalos said. he said that he finally decided to resign as secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government after the arrest of Pastor Apollo Quiboloy.
“I told the president, sir, this is it, this is mission accomplished. maybe, I already finished everything,” he said, noting that his fellow former officials discouraged him from leaving his post.
“Why will you resign? You’re just like a little president with DILG. (I told them) because it is still not enough, there is a need to pass the necessary laws,” Abalos added.
Abalos said he could also use the oversight power of the senate to look into the failure of concerned agencies to implement the laws. the senate has that broad power. If I am there (senate), I can address all my frustrations. this is it,” he said. (With reports from Bella cariaso)
DEEPER COOPERATION. Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. (right) meets with Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani on Monday, February 24 to discuss deeper security cooperation between the Philippines and Japan. DND photo
OPiniOn Features
More reforms needed
Four years after being placed under close monitoring by global dirty money watchdog Financial Action Task Force, the Philippines has finally exited the gray list of the Paris-based FATF.
the country was placed on the gray list in June 2021 for failure to address deficiencies tagged by the fAtf following talks with Philippine officials in Paris from feb. 17 to 20, the fAtf deemed the country to have achieved significant progress in strengthening measures on anti-money laundering and combating terrorism and proliferation financing.
Editorial
Among the measures cited were the efforts to stop the flow of dirty money through casino junkets, tightening of rules on money transfers as well as the application of sanctions on illegal remittance operators. the fAtf said the country also demonstrated effective risk-based supervision of designated non-financial businesses and professions.
Increased use of financial intelligence led to more money laundering probes and prosecutions, the fAtf noted. Law enforcement agencies gained greater access to beneficial ownership information. rules were also tightened on nonprofit or nongovernment organizations. exiting the gray list eases financial transactions including the remittance of overseas workers’ earnings. Philippine officials are hoping that the exit will also boost the chances of the country for a credit rating upgrade.
PhILIPPINe stAr
columnist
Iris Gonzales’ thought-provoking article “how about a tycoon or Ceo for president?” caught many people’s attention the other day.
In her column, Iris noted that an “air of frustration” seems to be seeping into the minds of “many of our big businessmen” who are getting increasingly “impatient with our dizzying political landscape,” the “glaring corruption among some of our lawmakers,” including the “move to tinker with our budget.”
“Would a businessman or a tycoon be an effective president of the Philippines? someone with effective management and leadership skills who can steer our rudderless ship to better shores? someone who has the brilliance to manage our resources so that our government can provide the right social services to our people? someone whose goal is no longer just about making money but building a nation for
VICe President inday sara Duterte has only just begun. Last february 18, Vice President sara took her impeachment fight to the supreme Court when she asked the issuance of a temporary restraining order to stop her impeachment trial at the senate. senate President francis escudero has already asked the office of the solicitor-General to act as the lawyer of the senate. the impeachment case against the highest voted official in Philippine history is obviously a legal farce railroaded by the unholy alliance of the marcosromualdez-Araneta triumvirate with the reds and Pinklawans. the alleged promise of P25million allocation for AKAP, P25 million for AICs and P100 million for infrastructure under DPWhosec has been exposed by congressmen themselves in their defense of their impeachment vote. the impeachment process raised a constitutional issue, as VP sara accused the house of representatives of “grave abuse of discretion” for deliberately circumventing a constitutional
the exit strategy is not without critics. NGos have decried the action plan for paving the way for restrictive measures against their groups, and for facilitating what they describe as the red-tagging and freezing of assets of organizations classified as terrorists. other groups, meanwhile, are calling for more reforms, including the lifting of bank secrecy laws and the passage of campaign finance reforms. Lawmakers, however, have consistently resisted such reform measures. Instead of promoting financial transparency, the country is moving in the opposite direction, with access to top government officials’ statements of assets, liabilities and net worth now strictly restricted. this restricted access is the perfect complement for bank secrecy laws that effectively conceal slush funds and kickbacks paid to politicians. even worse than casino junkets are election campaigns, which have become major laundromats for dirty money, with the Commission on elections lacking the authority and capability to regulate campaign finance. Combined with the world’s toughest bank secrecy laws, politicians enjoy full protection for their dirty money. the country missed deadlines to exit the gray
Philippines, Inc.
generations and generations to come?” Iris wrote. this idea got many people thinking that perhaps it is time to consider having a tycoon or Ceo for our next president. In fact, a businessman friend even messaged me that this could be “a takeoff from what is happening in the U.s. with Donald trump, a real estate mogul and celebrity television host, now managing the White house.” the millions of Americans who voted for Donald trump believe that he will bring “common sense” back into government, together with his chief advisor, tech billionaire elon musk. musk, who heads the Department of Government efficiency (DoGe) tasked to streamline operations and cut “government waste,” has drawn criticism and flak but has also gathered support from many who believe government should not squander taxpayers’ money. Just recently, a proposal to issue “DoGe dividend” checks to taxpayers is gaining traction, especially after President trump said he is considering a “new concept” where 20 percent of
DoGe savings will be given to American taxpayers while another 20 percent goes to paying down debt.
An article in forbes.com written by shahar Ziv said the proposed $5,000 DoGe dividend checks could “provide a one-time boost to American households and help improve their financial health by paying off debt or increasing their savings.”
Disclosing the financial health Network’s “financial health Pulse 2024” report that “70 percent of American households remain financially unhealthy with day-to-day financial realities worsening for many,” the article quoted fhN president and Ceo Jennifer tescher, who said the data indicates that financial health in the U.s., “especially that of moderate and middle-income households, remains precarious and is influenced by a reliance on credit to stay afloat.” saying the proposed DoGe dividend check of $5,000 would be more than double the average tax refunds of a little over $2,000, the author believes this move could provide a substantial financial boost to taxpayers.
list. Now that it has been taken out of the list, the challenge is to sustain the reforms and prevent backsliding. the tougher challenge is to address
Definitely, filipino taxpayers would appreciate a “financial boost” since many are grumbling that they are always at the tail-end (if not missing) in the list of beneficiaries for government ayuda (aid). As one reader emailed, “I am a mid-level executive in a modest company, but I also need financial assistance. Why am I (and others like me) being deprived of government ayuda just because I am employed? I wish congressmen would also show sensitivity to taxpayers like me who contribute to government revenue, and realize that I also need help,” the reader ranted.
Perhaps there is really wisdom in having Ceos as presidents since successful corporations are run “professionally” without fear of, or favor to, anyone, because priority is to ensure the company’s profitability and sustainability. one country that has shown dynamic growth in recent years is the Dominican republic, with the International monetary fund projecting a five percent GDP growth rate for 2025. Led by President Luis Abinader (who obtained his economics degree at the santo Domingo Institute of technology, studied Corporate finance and financial
Inday Sara’s petition
safeguard against more than one impeachment proceeding against the same official within one year. to remind our dear readers, there were three impeachment complaints filed in December 2024, which the house of representatives secretary General deliberately did not refer to the committee on justice. the fourth impeachment complaint filed on feb. 5, 2025 was used with the necessary signatures to fast-track the process. here we can see that the 19th Congress allowed multiple impeachment complaints against the VP, directly violating the Constitution. on the same day of VP sara’s filing, a group of lawyers filed a similar petition before the high Court challenging the legality of the impeachment and referring to the impeachment case as “procedurally defective, constitutionally infirm and jurisdictionally void.”
It is good that the vice president argued, citing the Constitution, that “no impeachment proceedings shall be initiated against the same official more than once within the period of one year.” the fourth impeachment complaint is prohibited by the one-year bar as respondent house of representatives
already took initial action by deliberately freezing the first three impeachment complaints; respondent senate should be enjoined from acting on the fourth Impeachment Complaint,” VP sara stated in her petition for certiorari and prohibition filed by her legal team.
Incidentally, former President rodrigo roa Duterte is part of the legal team of the VP, alongside VP sara’s father-in-law Lucas Carpio Jr. and lawyers from fortun, Narvasa and salazar Law. frankly, with the former president as an impeachment counsel, the impeachment trial would be an absolute cinema for millions of filipinos. filipinos are getting excited. the petition added, “there is no question at this point that the freezing of the first three impeachment complaints was calculated and deliberately made by respondent house of representatives in order to avoid the application of the one-year bar.”
As expected, anti-Duterte forces led by the makabayan Bloc in the house of representatives strongly condemned the legal move of the vice president to halt the senate impeachment trial, calling VP sara as “desperate” and “scared.”
As an impeachment veteran of sorts, I share the legal view of VP
sara that the fourth impeachment complaint is prohibited. A similar impeachment case took place more than 20 years ago. I filed a petition in the supreme Court prohibiting the house of representatives from transmitting to the senate the Articles of Impeachment against then chief justice hilario Davide. We won the case on the ground that the second impeachment complaint filed against CJ Davide is invalid because of the one-year bar rule.
the first impeachment complaint was filed against then CJ Davide on June 2, 2003, referred to the house committee on justice on Aug. 5, 2023 and dismissed by the house committee on justice on oct. 22, 2003. A day later, oct. 23, a second impeachment complaint against then CJ Davide was filed. It is very clear in the Davide impeachment that it violates the constitutional prohibition against the initiation of impeachment proceedings against the same impeachable officer within a oneyear period. In its decision, the high Court ruled that “initiation takes place by the act of filing, coupled with Congress’ taking action on the complaint.” the question that needs to be addressed in the Duterte impeachment is: when did the
engineering at harvard University and Advanced management at Dartmouth College in New hampshire), the Dominican republic is the fastest growing economy in Latin America.
Abinader was executive president of Grupo Abicor (a consortium founded by his father) engaged in real estate, construction, tourism and cement industries before becoming president of the Dominican republic.
tiny Palau is also displaying phenomenal economic growth with businessman and politician surangel samuel Whipps Jr. as president. of Palauan and American lineage, Whipps finished a Business Administration and economics degree from Andrews University in michigan and his mBA from UCLA. he also founded a group of companies engaged in import, logistics, retail, wholesale, construction and travel. Last July, the World Bank upgraded Palau as a high-income country, and its economic growth is expected at eight percent this 2025, according to the Asian Development Bank’s Asian Development outlook issued in september 2024. It seems the idea of a businessman or Ceo as president is catching fire, with many talking
about the column of Iris Gonzales. since the Philippines has a high potential of being a “profitable” country, there are those seriously thinking that we need someone with a corporate mindset to run the country efficiently as it navigates the complexities of a highly competitive global arena. Just like President trump’s “America first” agenda that prioritizes the welfare of American citizens, this country also needs a leader who will share the vision of President marcos to transform the economy and make sure that the “return on investment” will redound to the major shareholders and stakeholders – who are none other than the filipino people.
But the question is, who is that person? the 2028 Philippine presidential election is still three years away – there’s plenty of time for people to think about this idea. surely, somebody that fits the bill might just emerge. (Philstar.com)
* * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the
beginning or the initiation of the impeachment proceeding take place? Yes, there is the filing of the complaint but there is no referral to the committee on justice. Is the non-action, or freezing, on the three impeachment complaints considered action?
We leave it up to the supreme Court to decide. the impeachment of VP inday is not about people’s quest for the truth and the accountability of public officers. It is about the marcos forever scheme and the only way for this evil plan to succeed is to disqualify the vice president from holding public office for life.
however, in their obsession to kick out inday sara Duterte, the dominant candidate, in the political landscape, these anti-Duterte forces, beaming with their merry Christmas smiles, committed their biggest blunder with their invalid fourth impeachment complaint. And as the campaign season begins, we are seeing impeachment as the election campaign issue. the next battleground is the senate and the stakes are high. the composition of that august body is crucial to the conviction or acquittal of the VP. Let us ensure all the candidates of the PDP, including their guest candidates, win in 2025. (Philstar.com)
Vice President Sara Duterte
Photo from
Risa presses Chiz on Senate caucus
by cecille sueRte FeliPe Philstar.com
mANILA — senate deputy
minority leader risa hontiveros on Wednesday, february 26 urged senate President francis escudero to call an all-senator caucus to discuss the impeachment trial of Vice President sara Duterte, emphasizing that nothing prevents the senate from convening as an impeachment court.
During the Kapihan sa Senado forum, hontiveros said the allsenator caucus is the next step after the house of representatives submitted the impeachment complaint against Duterte to the senate.
“In my opinion, based on what senator Koko (Pimentel) is saying and my understanding of what is discussed in the Constitution, there is nothing stopping us from tackling the Articles of Impeachment and acting as an impeachment court. It can be said that even though the senate has adjourned its regular session, it doesn’t mean it cannot proceed and fulfill its duties in the impeachment trial,” hontiveros said.
hontiveros backed senate minority leader Aquilino Pimentel III’s stance that the Constitution mandates the immediate commencement of the impeachment trial, regardless of whether or not the senate is in session.
While she pressed for the impeachment trial to start, hontiveros acknowledged escudero’s stance that the senate cannot convene as an impeachment court while the session is adjourned.
“I agree with sen. Koko that the senate president should call for an all-members caucus. that would give our colleagues the
opportunity to hear sen. Koko’s arguments on why we should convene as an impeachment court to address the articles of impeachment,” hontiveros added.
“I am hopeful that the allsenators caucus will push through so we can discuss whether to proceed with the impeachment trial. sP mentioned that it might be scheduled for June when sessions resume, but I believe it’s possible to hold it earlier than June.”
hontiveros said she would not be surprised if Pimentel actively engages with fellow senators to push for a caucus and move forward with the impeachment trial.
hontiveros said waiting until June, when session resumes, to address the impeachment is far too long, stressing that delaying the VP’s impeachment trial would be a neglect of the senate’s responsibilities.
she also stressed that delaying the process until June would waste the remaining time of the 19th Congress. If the impeachment proceedings begin only then, the current senate would handle only the preliminaries, leaving the actual trial to the newly composed 20th Congress.
even as she and the vice president had an exchange during the senate’s budget hearings, hontiveros vowed to be objective in appreciating the evidence to be presented during the impeachment trial.
for his part, Pimentel gave assurance that all his efforts to gather support from the senate majority for a special session on the impeachment trial of Vice President Duterte would be conducted in a “professional” manner.
“I will never do anything behind the back of the sP. All
my communications to the senate majority will be through the senate president. We will be ‘professional’ with each other,” Pimentel said.
Pimentel said the Constitution mandates the immediate commencement of the impeachment trial, regardless of whether the senate is in session. the Constitution mentions the ‘trial’ or the start of the trial. the judgment day will be determined by the natural course of events after the trial has commenced. It is the trial which shall proceed forthwith per the Constitution,” he added.
Impeachment is about accountability the ongoing impeachment case against Vice President Duterte is about accountability to the people, Lanao del sur rep. Zia Alonto
Adiong said in reaction to a recent Wr Numero survey indicating that 47 percent of filipinos oppose the impeachment.
Adiong maintained that the process is not a political contest but a constitutional mechanism to ensure that high-ranking officials are held responsible for their actions.
however, we must emphasize that multiple independent and reputable surveys show that a clear majority of filipinos support impeachment. A single survey cannot erase the growing clamor for justice and accountability,” he said.
“the house of representatives will not be swayed by propaganda or public relations tactics. this fight is not political. this is a fight about the truth, justice and accountability,” Adiong said. “the people are the true judges. And the shout of the majority is clear: hold those guilty accountable.”
(With reports from Jose rodel clapano)
by cecille sueRte FeliPe alexis RoMeRo Philstar.com
mANILA — the marcos administration will embark on a smart city project linking metro manila with state agencies to improve disaster response and traffic management. officials tackled on tuesday, february 25 the metro manila smart City Infrastructure for Network resilience project during a sectoral meeting led by President marcos at malacañang. the project aims to connect local government units with the metropolitan manila Development Authority and Department of Information and Communications technology.
“All of metro manila will be connected to a single, efficient system using fiber optic networks,” marcos posted on facebook.
traffic lights would be synchronized to achieve smoother traffic flow, allow realtime flood monitoring through interconnected closed-circuit television and ensure fast delivery of aid during disasters, the President noted.
PUVMP review meanwhile, sen. Grace Poe has expressed support for newly appointed transportation
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
secretary Vince Dizon as he heeded calls to review the public utility vehicle modernization program (PUVmP).
for more than seven years, we have been asking the Department of transportation (Dotr) to fix the program first before setting any other deadline,” Poe said.
“Aside from the lack of route plans, very expensive units, foreign designs and lack of subsidy for drivers, the utilization rate of the program is also very low, only hitting 53 percent of the P7.5-billion budget from 2018 to 2024,” Poe noted.
An additional P1.6 billion was allocated to the program in the national budget this year, she said. this is the time for the Dotr
to listen to the grievances of drivers and passengers and pave the way for the humane modernization of our transport sector,” Poe said.
Extending MRT, LRT hours Progressive group Akbayan has lauded Dizon’s openness to extending the operating hours of the metro rail transit and Light railway transit. extending train hours will be beneficial to commuters and workers taking a night shift, Akbayan party-list rep. Perci Cendaña said on tuesday. Akbayan first nominee Chel Diokno has urged the Dotr to institutionalize a citizens’ dialogue mechanism to better design transport systems in the country. n
Senate Deputy Minority Leader, Senator Risa Hontiveros
PNA photo by Avito Dalan
ROAD TO FOREVER. Dioscoro Robillo, 60, and his wife Pilar join the Kasalang Bayan (mass wedding) at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City on Wednesday, Feb. 26. Pasay City Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano said the city government holds a mass wedding every February or the love month to help couples who cannot afford church or civil weddings.
PNA photo by Avito Dalan
Maris Racal’s ‘Sunshine’ wins Crystal Bear at 75th Berlinale
by Kristofer Purnell Philstar.com
ANtoINette Jadaone's "sunshine," starring maris racal, won the Crystal Bear at the 75th Berlin International film festival (Berlinale).
the Crystal Bear is awarded to the Best film of both the Generation Kplus and the Generation 14plus competition, the latter where "sunshine" competed in.
Jadaone and one of the movie's actors, eJ Canlas, attended the european premiere of sunshine" in Berlinale.
maris was also at the Berlinale for the opening ceremony and even hit the red carpet, but she left Germany before her movie's premiere.
Dutch filmmaker emma Branderhorst, German filmmaker Asli Özarslan, and toronto International film festival curator Ikoro sekai were part of the Generation Jury.
Producer Bianca Balbuena noted that "sunshine" marked the third time a project she produced won at Berlinale.
the previous two were Lav Diaz's "Hele sa Hiwagang Hapis" winning the silver Bear in 2016 and Pham Ngoc Lan's "Cu Li Never Cries" winning the Gesellschaft zur Wahrnehmung von film-und fernsehrechten Best first feature Award last year.
Jadaone told Philstar.com last year that her team plans to bring "sunshine" to more international film festivals before premiering in the Philippines, which Jadaone later confirmed she is working on. the film stars maris as the titular young rhythmic gymnast who dreams of joining the national team but she finds out that she was pregnant days before her tryout. on her way to a seller of illegal abortion drugs, sunshine meets a mysterious girl who eerily
Sofronio
by HannaH Mallorca Inquirer.net
there is no stopping sofronio Vasquez from soaring to new career highs since his “the Voice UsA” season 26 victory.
Vasquez recently announced that his life story is currently in the works, along with an offer to be part of the London staging of “miss saigon” during his contract signing with ABs-CBN’s star magic on Wednesday, february 26. Details on the lead star, storyline, and release date are yet to be revealed, however.
“Alam mo, nagkaroon na kami ng meeting, briefing, storytelling, and interview, tinatanong ako kung excited to act [in my life story], kaso nacha-challenge ako,” Vasquez said when asked if he will be part of the special.
“Gusto ko na lang kumanta. Kung balak nila akong ipasok, gusto kong mag-‘Batang Quiapo’ na lang. mafia role ko. Wag ang iyak-iyak. hindi ko kaya. But everything now is a possibility,” he continued, noting that he wants elijah Canlas to portray himself.
(We already had a meeting, briefing, storytelling, and interview, and i was asked if i’m excited to act in my life story but i’m challenged to do it. i just want to sing. But if they have plans for me to go into acting, i just want to be part of “Batang Quiapo.” i want to take on a mafia role, but not something emotional. i can’t do it. But everything now is a possibility.)
When Vasquez was asked if he
thinks and talks like her," goes the film's synopsis. Apart from tackling teen pregnancy and abortion, the film also focuses on the struggles of local athletes aspiring to join prestigious competitions like the olympics.
Co-starring with maris and eJ are Xyriel manabat, Jennica Garcia, Annika Co and meryll soriano. this is maris' third project and first movie with Jadaone, who also wrote the screenplay. they previously worked on the shows "the Kangks show" and "Simula Sa Gitna." this is also Jadaone's first feature film since her 2020 metro manila film festival-winning movie "fan Girl," starring Charlie Dizon and Paulo Avelino.
has something yet to accomplish on his bucket list, he revealed that he was offered the role of thuy in the UK staging of “miss saigon.” thuy is the cousin and betrothed of the musical’s lead character Kim.
“I am so excited to share [with] everyone that I was offered [a role] in ‘miss saigon’ UK, but I have to figure it out kasi medyo masikip ang dates,” he said. “may nagcacast sa’kin and nagbigay na sila ng dates, so technically, kakanta na lang ako and I’ll be in London for four weeks. sana magawan ng paraan. Pero kung hindi… I won’t close any doors.”
(i am so excited to share with everyone that i was offered a role in “Miss Saigon” UK, but i have to figure it out because the dates are packed. Someone is casting me and dates were already given, so technically, i have to just sing and i’ll be in London for four weeks. i hope we will find a way through it. But if not, i won’t close any doors.)
Bridge between PH and the US
With his “the Voice UsA” season 26 win, Vasquez said he was “given the opportunity” to cross the bridge between the Philippines and the U.s. in terms of representation in the entertainment industry.
“When we talk about bridge, we are talking about how to cross so now I am given the opportunity and I am humbly recognized as ‘the Voice UsA’ season 26 winner,” he said when asked by INQUIrer.net on how his career would bridge the gap between both countries. “I think na-cross
with them.
or there is already a bridge. I think ang kailangan kong gawin (what I need to do now) is how to sustain it, and how to broaden the bridge.”
the singer hoped that his championship would open more opportunities for filipino singers to be recognized internationally. the challenge is paano [mapalapad] ang tulay para hindi lang ako ang mag-adjust, ‘yung hindi [lang kababayan ko ang] mag-adjust [kasi] mas maraming mabibigyan na pagkakataon ang ating local singers.”
“malay mo sa ‘the Voice’ because you cannot join ‘the Voice’ without the legal papers in the U.s.,” he continued. “malay mo, magkaroon sila ng bagong [opportunity] na pwedeng tanggalan ang legal papers and pwede nilang i-sponsor. that’s already a big win for us. Again, it’s all a possibility and the culture itself is very challenging.”
(The challenge is how i can widen the bridge where i would not be the only one adjusting, how my fellow Filipinos won’t be the one adjusting, because it would open more doors for local singers. Perhaps, in “The Voice” because you cannot join without the legal papers. Perhaps, there would be an opportunity for this requirement will be removed and they can sponsor the contestants. That’s already a big win for us. Again, it’s all a possibility and the culture itself is very challenging.)
Vasquez also shared that he adjusts his performance depending on the audience:
“When we talk about the adjustment of performing, it’s also a challenge. In terms of [adjusting my performances], songs in the Philippines are heartfelt and emotional. While abroad, I wanted to touch artistically in the Western side, so may chance na magkaroon ako ng country or eDm song,” he said. “It’s not hard, but it’s challenging. feeling ko with the help of people that’s been helping me, I think magiging possible.”
(When we talk about the adjustment of performing, it’s also a challenge. in terms of adjusting my performances, songs in the Philippines are usually heartfelt and emotional. While abroad, i wanted to touch on the Western side artistically so there is a chance i will have a country or EDM song. it is not hard but it’s challenging. i think it is possible to do it with the help of people that’s been helping me.) through the tutelage of michael Bublé throughout his “the Voice UsA” stint, Vasquez is the first filipino and first Asian winner of the famed singing competition.
KrIs Aquino delighted her fans after she made her first public appearance in several years, attending the PeopleAsia magazine’s People of the Year 2025 for her close friend michael Leyva. the Queen of All media accompanied the fashion designer who was one of the awardees at the event, as seen in the photos and videos shared by Cornerstone entertainment and PeopleAsia on their respective Instagram pages on tuesday, feb. 25. her son Bimby was also
Clad in a yellow top, floral floor-length skirt and a fuchsia pink blazer, Kris looked vibrant as she mingled with other attendees and with the members of the press. Kris, who has been battling several autoimmune diseases since 2018, said she came late to the gathering because she had a hard time waking up due to a new medicine. speaking about her friendship with Leyva, Kris was all praises for him, saying he is “the younger brother [she] never had.” there are people who would say ‘I’ll be there for you,’ or
Maaasahan mo ako’ but michael has proven so many times, and in so many ways,” she added. During the event, Kris was also asked about her health, to which she admitted that she was feeling dizzy and that she was “not so okay.”
Kris’ first public outing in a while also coincided with the 39th anniversary of the eDsA People Power revolution, a historic event not just for the country but for her family. she said she initially thought that the magazine event was held on the 24th, but was reminded by Leyva that it was on the 25th. “Perfect coming out!” she said.
BeLLe mariano is ready to take the spotlight on her own as she prepares for her solo project with director Cathy Garcia-sampana, after years of being one-half of the onscreen duo, DonBelle, with actor Donny Pangilinan. on her Instagram page, mariano reshared star Cinema’s post of her meeting with Garciasampana on tuesday, feb. 25, where they discussed their upcoming movie, alongside executives from ABs-CBN films.
Garcia-sampana previously worked behind the scenes on some of the actress’ projects with on-screen partner Donny Pangilinan, but this will mark her first collaboration with mariano for a full-length feature.
mariano underscored that this project is set to mark a bold step or “growth” in her career. this is gonna be an unusual setup. It’s my first time doing a
film with Direk for a while, I’ve been working with Donny for so long. this is the first time na gagawa ako ng film on my own, I would say it’s growth. something scary but I’m really excited for
it,” she told ABs-CBN. mariano and Pangilinan are currently putting their on-screen partnership on hold as the latter is also set to embark on a solo journey as one of the new judges of “Pilipinas Got talent” (PGt). “We’ve both been open about it na we’re both supportive of each other, with him on PGt, I’m very supportive. And of course with this thing I’m doing with Direk, he’s very supportive as well,” said the actress. star Cinema is currently tight-lipped about the details of mariano and Garcia-sampana’s untitled project, but assured that they will be revealed soon. meanwhile, mariano recently made a guest appearance on the action drama “Incognito,” where her brief portrayal was lauded by online viewers. the actress previously headlined “Can’t Buy me Love,” “how to spot a red flag,” and “An Inconvenient Love,” among others alongside Pangilinan.
ALDeN richards stirred speculation after making a cryptic remark about “minding [one’s own] business,” in what seemed to be a response to rumors about his private life. the actor took to a nowexpired Instagram story on monday, feb. 24, where he said, “food for thought: mind your own business,” although he didn’t disclose whom he was referring to.
It can be noted that richards has been making headlines after he reportedly stopped courting Kathryn Bernardo. however, the onscreen pair have yet to comment about their status from the time they started promoting hello, Love, Again” in 2024 until the present, as they notably only spoke about their close friendship.
richards was speculated to have been courting Bernardo after he was seen attending the latter’s 28th birthday party in Palawan in march 2024. Weeks later, he made a surprise
appearance at the actress’ intimate celebration, where he surprised her with a bouquet of red roses and a gift bag. the actor also said his friendship with Bernardo is “deep and special” in an interview on “fast talk with Boy Abunda” in November 2024, adding that he cherished knowing the latter’s family beyond the camera. meanwhile, Bernardo was rumored to have gotten back together with her ex-boyfriend
“hello, Love, Again” is currently the highest-grossing filipino
earning P1.4
by Jessica ann evangelista Inquirer.net
by ann PasaJol Inquirer.net
Belle Mariano Photo from Instagram/@belle_mariano
Alden Richards
Photo from Instagram/@aldenrichards02
Sofronio Vasquez Photo from Facebook/@itssofroniovasquez
by HannaH Mallorca Inquirer.net
Kris Aquino with her son Bimby.
Photo from Instagram/@cornerstone
Daniel Padilla, although her mother min seemingly denied the rumor as she reminded the public to “not believe in fake news.” richards and Bernardo worked together in the romantic films “hello, Love, Goodbye” and hello, Love, Again,” where they portrayed the characters Joy and ethan.
film,
billion.
US-based Filipina named finalist for global
rUBY sibal, founder and Ceo of Beyond Baby Care and cofounder of himba Placement Agency Inc., has been named a finalist for the 2025 Women Changing the World Awards. her work as a 4th-trimester care professional and her commitment to nurturing new families have earned her a spot in five categories of the prestigious global awards. the Women Changing the World Awards, presented by oprah Winfrey’s all-time favourite guest, Dr. tererai trent, celebrate and recognize women achieving outstanding success in areas such as sustainability, humanitarian work, leadership, advocacy, tech, product development, education, health, and innovation. the awards are designed to recognize the growing number of women who are leading the way in making the world a better place for us all and inspire other women to answer the call to take action.
Dr. trent explains, “these exceptional women are here to awaken hearts, give permission to recapture dreams and inspire the women of the world to come together to forge a brighter path for all. the rising of women is the awakening of everybody.”
As a 4th-trimester care professional, ruby’s heart and life’s work revolve around supporting new parents, especially mothers, during one of the most tender and vulnerable stages of parenthood. “my journey began with a deep passion for helping families navigate the newborn phase, which oftentimes brings uncertainty and can be overwhelming,” ruby shares.
“I genuinely understand how important it is to not only care for a baby but to also empower parents to trust their instincts and understand their little one’s unique cues, as I have experienced all this firsthand from working with over a hundred newborns, mostly around the clock, for over a decade.”
“I owe so much of who I am to my filipino roots,” ruby adds.
“We filipinos are known for being ‘maaruga’ (deeply caring and nurturing) and ‘marunong makipagkapwa-tao’ (treating others with compassion, empathy, and genuine respect). these values are the heart of everything that I do, and it no longer feels like work to me; it’s second nature.”
ruby’s cultural heritage has profoundly shaped her approach to newborn care and parental support. residing and practicing in America, ruby is a proud daughter of the Philippines. “I draw on centuries-old values of community, compassion, and resilience – principles that are integral to filipino culture,” she explains. In every family she supports, ruby weaves these values into her practice, creating a nurturing environment that honors tradition while embracing modern best practices. this approach ensures that every new mother receives the comprehensive support she needs, boosting her confidence and ability to thrive as a parent.
“It brings me so much joy to see how the care we provide has a ripple effect – helping one family at a time, one generation at a time,” ruby says. “When we empower caregivers, we uplift communities and create lasting change for the future. ‘It takes a village to raise a child,’ as the African proverb goes. that is the very core of our company’s name hImBA. hImBA is a tribe in Namibia whose women are responsible for taking care of other women’s children. It also stands for helping Infants and mothers Bond and Adapt.” ruby’s work is rooted in empowerment. As a mother of two
grown children, she understands the joys and challenges of early parenting. “every new mother I encounter is on the brink of discovering her strength, and my mission is to empower her with the confidence and knowledge to navigate this new chapter of life,” ruby explains. “I’ve witnessed firsthand how the right guidance and support can transform a mother’s journey into parenthood, which is why I’m deeply passionate about helping them trust their instincts and embrace their new roles with confidence.”
ruby’s professional journey has also been marked by significant achievements. one of her most humbling milestones this year was receiving the top Alumni Achievement Award from her alma mater, the University of san Agustin in Iloilo City, Philippines. this recognition is more than just an award – it’s a testament to the lasting impact of ruby’s work in caregiving, parental support, and newborn care. “this award validates the dedication I’ve poured into training caregivers and empowering new parents,” says ruby. “It reinforces my mission to continue making a difference, not just in individual families but in the industry as a whole.”
Another key milestone for ruby
U.s. Immigration Attorney michael J. Gurfinkel takes on one of the most challenging cases in the show’s 19-year history. Judy was petitioned by her father in 1993, but a series of tragic events complicated her case: Judy fell into a coma in 2002, and her father, the petitioner, passed away shortly after. Adding to the challenge, one of her daughters was close to aging out of the petition.
Judy remained in a coma for years while her family held on to the hope that her daughters would eventually have a chance at a better future in the U.s. By 2008, Judy’s priority date for her visa had become current, but her medical condition and the death of her petitioner left her case in limbo.
Judy’s family eventually sought the help of Atty. michael J. Gurfinkel after watching “Citizen Pinoy.” Despite the odds
stacked against them, Judy’s brother, Jasper, made a promise to his comatose sister: he would do everything he could to make
sure Judy’s daughters could immigrate to the U.s Atty. Gurfinkel faced three
PAGE 11
seLLING a property in the Philippines can be a rewarding yet challenging process, especially if you’re looking for the best value and a seamless transaction. Whether you’re based locally or overseas, the key to a successful sale lies in preparation, marketing, and working with the right professionals. here’s a stepby-step guide in selling your Philippine property.
1. Understand the market
• Research current property prices in your area to set a competitive price.
• Identify peak seasons when buyers are more active, such as during the holiday season or before school starts.
• Consider hiring a real estate agent with local expertise to provide insights on market trends.
2. Prepare your property for sale
• Conduct minor repairs and maintenance to enhance property appeal.
• Declutter and stage the home to make it more attractive to buyers.
• Secure necessary documents such as the title, tax declaration, and official receipts for utility payments.
3. Set the right price
• Get a professional property appraisal to determine a fair market value.
• Avoid overpricing, which can deter buyers, or underpricing, which can lead to losses.
How to successfully sell your property in the Philippines
• Be open to negotiations while ensuring you don’t compromise too much on value.
4. Market your property effectively
• Utilize online platforms such as real estate websites, facebook marketplace, and property listing sites.
• Take high-quality photos and create a compelling property description.
• Consider paid advertisements or social media promotions to reach a wider audience.
5. Work with a trusted Real Estate Broker
• A licensed broker can handle inquiries, negotiations, and legal documentation.
• Brokers have access to a wider network of potential buyers, expediting the sale process.
• Ensure you work with someone reputable by checking their PrC license and client reviews.
6. Be ready for legal and financial matters
• Ensure your title is clean and free from encumbrances or disputes.
• Be aware of taxes and fees involved, such as capital gains tax, documentary stamp tax, and broker’s commission.
• If selling remotely, provide an authorized representative with a special Power of Attorney (sPA) to handle the transaction on your behalf.
7. Negotiate and close the deal
• Be responsive to inquiries and flexible with viewing schedules.
• Prepare the deed of sale and other necessary paperwork for a smooth closing. sAB realty specializes in connecting property sellers with the right buyers, offering comprehensive real estate services for both local and overseas clients. With extensive experience in the Philippine real estate market, sab realty provides expert guidance in pricing, marketing, and legal compliance to ensure a smooth and successful transaction. Whether you are looking to sell a family home, a commercial property, or an investment asset, sab realty is committed to delivering professional and personalized service. At sAB realty, we provide expert guidance to help you make informed decisions. Whether you’re buying a family home, diversifying your portfolio, or preparing for retirement, we’ll help you every step of the way.
*
* * 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.
* * * Sharon Ann Bathan-San Pedro, a licensed real estate broker in the Philippines for ten years, is also a proud member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) in America. For inquiries, questions, or if you’re interested in buying or selling a property, feel free to reach out:
• Email: sab.sanpedro@gmail.com
• PH Contact (Viber/WhatsApp): +63 917823-7796
• USA Contact (Viber): +1 (951) 367-6840.
Philippine Consulate in San Francisco, honorary consuls under its jurisdiction convene for a planning meeting
sAN frANCIsCo – the Philippine Consul General in san francisco, Neil frank r ferrer, convened for the third time, a planning meeting with the honorary Consuls of Colorado, oregon, and Alaska on february 5, 2025, to present their 2024 accomplishments and lay out the work plan and priorities for this year. the planning meeting was attended by honorary Consul in Colorado Donna LaVigne, honorary Consul in oregon enrico tadeo, and honorary Consul in Alaska evelyn Abello, with the officers of the Philippine Consulate in san francisco, the Philippine trade and Investment Center-silicon Valley, and the Philippine Department of tourism-san francisco. ms. macy maglanque, Labor Attaché and head of the migrant Workers office in Los Angeles attended the meeting virtually. honorary Consul LaVigne and honorary Consul tadeo presented their accomplishments for 2024 along with their workplans for 2025. honorary Consul Abello, having been newly appointed as honorary Consul in Alaska, presented priority areas to focus on and the work plan for the year ahead. In his message, Consul
General ferrer underscored the importance of providing timely consular services to the filipino communities; in advancing the interests of the Philippines in terms of trade, investment, and tourism; and in enhancing the relationship between the
Philippines and the United states through engagements with the local and federal officials and the various filipino American community organizations in the respective areas the honorary Consuls cover. (PcGSF release)
US-based Filipina named finalist for global...
was completing a comprehensive four-day public speaking course with world-renowned speaker and best-selling author Brian tracy, who is now her mentor. “this was a strategic step in my journey,” says ruby. “It allowed me to refine my ability to communicate effectively and inspire a broader audience. Public speaking is a powerful tool, and with this new skill, I can reach more new parents, equipping them with knowledge and confidence in their journey. It will also help me train and mentor more newborn caregivers, empowering them to embrace this field with skill, heart, and purpose.” this achievement positions ruby to expand her impact beyond one-on-one care, turning her mission into a larger movement of education and advocacy. By improving her ability to communicate her message, ruby aims to make newborn care education more accessible and
impactful worldwide.
ruby’s vision extends to the Philippines, where ruby is expanding her programs to offer culturally attuned newborn care training. she believes filipinos are among the world’s best caregivers, and by providing robust training, she hopes to elevate global caregiving standards and create job opportunities both locally and internationally. “this initiative will not only improve the quality of life for women but also contribute to brighter futures for their communities,” she says. ruby’s work is not just about caring for families one at a time – it’s about creating a lasting impact. she has seen the powerful shift from vulnerability to empowerment in the families she supports and realized that true change comes when we empower others. through her mentorship and training programs, ruby has set in motion a ripple effect of care, support,
On Medicare, Medicare Advantage plan, LIHEAP program
the two important medicare enrollment period will end on mach 31, 2025. Additionally, be sure not to miss the application open period for home energy assistance.
<Q1> I realized that I missed my Initial Enrollment Period. When can I enroll in Medicare?
If you missed your Initial enrollment Period for medicare and you don't qualify for a special enrollment Period, you can still sign up during the General enrollment Period. this period takes place every year from January 1 to march 31.
If you enroll during this time, your coverage will begin on the first day of the following month. for example, if you sign up in march, your coverage will start in April. however, be aware that late enrollment penalties may apply, which can increase the cost of your monthly premiums.
<Q2> I am currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, but I found a better plan that fits my medical needs after the deadline of the annual Medicare Open Enrollment Period. Should I wait for the next open enrollment period to switch to the better plan?
If you found a better plan after the Annual medicare open enrollment Period ends (which runs from october 15 to December 7 each year), you don’t necessarily have to wait until the next open enrollment period. You can switch to another medicare Advantage plan during the medicare Advantage open enrollment Period (mA oeP), which runs from January 1 to march 31 each year.
During this period, those already enrolled in a medicare Advantage plan can switch to another Advantage plan or go back to original medicare with a Part D prescription drug plan. Keep in mind you can make only one change during this period, so choose wisely!
<Q3> I am finding it increasingly difficult to keep up with my energy bills. Are there any programs or assistance options available to help manage these expenses?
You can get assistance from the LIheAP (Low Income home energy Assistance Program). this is a federally funded program that
helps low-income households to meet their immediate home energy needs. this program provides an eligible household with an annual cash grant to help you pay for your home heating and cooling costs. the grants are paid either directly to you or to your energy company. to be eligible a household must have an income that does not exceed the greater of 150% of the federal poverty guideline (e.g., monthly $2,555 for a twoperson household). While assets are generally not a primary factor, some states may count assets as part of the eligibility requirements. enrollment periods may not be year-round. the application
Social Security announces change to improve agency operations and strengthen protections
SSA slashes cooperative agreements, supports Trump executive order
the social security Administration is announcing an organizational realignment of the functions provided by its office of Analytics, review, and oversight (oAro). these functions remain critical to ensure the programs social security administers are of high quality and effective, that ssA uses the latest tools to recommend opportunities to improve the programs, and to detect and prevent fraud.
“President trump has made it clear that good government must do better at identifying and eliminating fraud, waste, and abuse,” said Lee Dudek, Acting Commissioner of social security. realigning functions previously under the office of Analytics, review, and oversight, is an important, common-sense step in the right direction to further strengthen the integrity of the social security and supplemental security Income programs millions of people depend on.”
moving oAro functions to existing parts of the agency will streamline layers of management, increase data sharing with essential social security components, and speed the opportunities to identify fraud, waste, and abuse and implement needed solutions.
Acting Commissioner Dudek
understands that government alone doesn’t have all the answers. An important part of identifying fraud, waste, and abuse, is timely and meaningful engagement with a range of stakeholders, including many in the advocate community. engagement with advocates will resume in earnest.
With the realignment of oAro functions, Gina Clemons, formerly the Deputy Commissioner for oAro, will take the lead for ssA to engage directly with key outside stakeholders on topics including, protecting the integrity of our programs and identifying opportunities for efficiencies such as program simplification and technology. these improvements will build on recommendations that DoGe team members provide the agency and help to improve how social security serves America.
Also recently, the social security Administration announced the termination of their retirement and Disability research Consortium (rDrC) cooperative agreements. this action supports the president’s executive order, “ending radical and Wasteful Government DeI Programs and Preferencing.” terminating our rDrC cooperative agreements aligns
with President trump’s priorities to end fraudulent and wasteful initiatives and contracts,” said Acting Commissioner Dudek.
“We will continue to root out waste and abuse to earn back America’s trust and confidence in our agency.” social security previously entered into rDrC cooperative agreements with research centers that included a focus on research addressing DeI in social security, retirement, and disability policy. terminating these cooperative agreements results in about $15 million dollars in cost savings for hardworking Americans in fiscal year 2025. for more information on the president’s executive order, see “ending radical and Wasteful Government DeI Programs and Preferencng – the White house” (https://www.whitehouse.gov/ presidential-actions/2025/01/ ending-radical-and-wastefulgovernment-dei-programs-andpreferencing/). to learn more about Acting Commissioner Dudek’s commitment to agency transparency and protecting benefits and information, see his statement under by visiting https://www.ssa.gov/news/press/ releases/. (SSA release)
and hope that extends far beyond individual families, reaching communities and generations to come. By investing in the growth of caregivers, ruby is shaping the future of newborn care and inspiring a new generation of compassionate, skilled professionals who will continue to uplift families worldwide. read the complete finalist list at wcwawards.com/finalists.
the winners of the 2025 Women Changing the World Awards will be announced at the Women Changing the World Global summit and Awards at Park hyatt, river thames, London, United Kingdom, on April 3, 2025. for more information on the Women Changing the World Awards, visit wcwawards.com. for more information about ruby, email her at rubysibal@ beyondbabycare.com or visit her website, www.beyondbabycare. com.
Consul General Ferrer expresses appreciation to the Honorary
My P.E.P. (People, Events,Places)
Rogelio ConStantino medina
hoCKeY is a popular sport that can be a favorite for many reasons, including its physical benefits (for it can help improve cardiovascular fitness, lower body strength, reaction time, and hand-eye coordination), cultural significance, and the opportunity to develop teamwork.
one of my favorite hockey teams is the florida Panthers, a professional ice hockey team based in the miami metropolitan area. the Panthers compete in the National hockey League as a member of the Atlantic Division in the eastern Conference.
the 2024 stanley Cup champion florida Panthers was recently honored by President trump at the White house.
* * * solano County-based Brothers David and Vincent Isip are supporters of the train therapy (the former started it even before the CoVID-19 pandemic, while the latter during the post-pandemic), an emerging intervention for coping with behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia that relies on a railway travel simulator.
Dementia is the loss of cognitive functioning — thinking, remembering, and reasoning — to such an extent that it interferes with a person's daily life and activities.
David Isip, founder of Budget Window Coverings, a lowvolume provider of window treatments, in 1980 (now being continued by his son miguel), has railways train simulator that features minimalist and artistic elements merged in an
Florida Panthers visit the White House
immersive experience where the perks of a train trip are emphasized. In the case of Vincent Isip, a Contra Costa County employee in California, his loco simulator can pull 20 train cars and has a caboose, a boxy railroad car attached to the end of freight trains (cabooses are used to house the train crew and monitor the train for safety). the number of train cars a locomotive can pull depends on the locomotive's horsepower and the weight of the cars. he has also a vintage or classic train simulator where patience is a virtue. to succeed, you need to wait for the right moment and use your train management skills to drag the trains from one railway to another. Imagine your thoughts and feelings as a train, and notice them without judgment. this can help you get some distance from your thoughts and feelings.
* * * february is the month of love. I will feature different stories of love. I asked male respondents: (1) how do you define love? (2) Are you in love now with your spouse and why? their replies (fourth batch) are as follows: LA-based roderick Gutierrez of City of hope medical Center, who has been married to Jane taguding-Gutierrez of Davao del sur for 37 years and has sired four children: (1) “Love is such an ambiguous word that could be defined depending on the context on where to use it.”; (2) “As for my wife, I could say that cherishing her for the rest of my life would be the only definition I had and still have.”
Vallejo-based Alan and Jelynne Valentin are happily married and the couple has 5 kids: (1) “Love covers a lot
of sacrifices. In the Bible, 1 Corinthians 13:4–7 NIV, ‘Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres’.” (2) “Love looks to build each other's up, even at the expense of self.”
oregon-based Dale Villar Acelar, a former actor who works at mercedes Benz of Wilsonville, is married to megan Powers-Acelar for 7 years and they have five kids: (1) “Love is something you feel — it’s not just in your mind, but in your body and soul. It’s a force that moves through you, beyond logic or explanation. It’s that unshakable connection, the kind that doesn’t need words to be understood. When it’s real, you don’t just experience it — you live it, you become it. And I am blessed to share it with my wife.” (2) “Yes, I’m in love with my wife, megan. she’s not just my partner—she’s my best friend, my biggest supporter, and the person who truly understands me. Love isn’t just about the good moments; it’s about choosing each other every day, through every challenge and every joy. And with her, that choice is easy. We understand each other and I am so happy God brought me to her.”
* * * I am glad that the second child of Danilo Jubay marella, mariano III seldura marella of san Carlos City, Negros occidental, who graduated from University of saint La salle with Bachelor of Physical education, is now a Licensed Professional teacher. Another teacher in our
Success
family!
* * * the ferdinand e marcos
(fem) memorial stadium has won the 2025 Building of the Year Awards - sports Architecture from Archdaily showcasing the value of social architecture. this recognition highlights the stadium’s world-class design, innovation, and significance as a premier sports venue in Ilocos Norte. It is a testament to filipino architecture and creativity and is hopefully the first of many more to come.
* * * Pam Bondi was recently confirmed as U.s. Attorney General. It is believed to reaffirm President trump’s commitment to “restoring law and order and defending American values.”
Florida Panthers hockey players with U.S. President Donald Trump and Vincent J. Viola (left, beside President Trump) in the White House. Photos collated by Rogelio C. Medina
Dale and Megan Acelar, who are based in Oregon.
Mariano Marella at the Iloilo Convention Center.
President Donald Trump with U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi
Happily married couple Alan and Jelynne Valentin.
Roderick and Jane Gutierrez have been married for 37 years.
The Ferdinand E. Marcos Memorial Stadium in Laoag City.
David Isip’s railways train simulator with astonishing landscapes observed at slow
From left: Jasper, Joyze and Atty. Michael Gurfinkel
Financial considerations for multigenerational households
F or many families multigenerational living is a cherished aspect of home life. It can also be good for your family’s overall wellbeing.
Research indicates there can be financial benefits to multigenerational living, and when executed intentionally, having multiple family members under the same roof can potentially help improve health outcomes, reduce loneliness for older adults and bolster educational outcomes for children.1
While multigenerational living has many positives, it also comes with a unique set of financial matters and planning needs. From saving and budgeting to dividing costs and estate planning, navigating the financial landscape of a multigenerational home calls for foresight and strategy.
Below are some financial considerations for people living in multigenerational households and those considering moving in with family members.
Helping to build family wealth
In a 2022 study, the Pew Research Center found people in multigenerational households were less likely to live in poverty,2 and some multigenerational households had more earners than the non-multigenerational households, which can help provide a safety net in case someone loses a job. It can also encourage homeownership -- 14% percent of all home buyers in the study said their purchase was motivated by a desire to accommodate multiple generations in their family.
Having diverse financial needs
Savings and budgeting plans can be more complicated because of the wide range of ages among family members. Seniors might require more for health care and retirement, for example, while children can bring daycare and tuition costs. Be flexible with your planning to accommodate different saving and budgeting needs and set short- and long-term goals for your savings with all generations in mind.
Expenses should be handled with fairness and equity
Multigenerational households have to ensure fairness by dividing costs such as mortgage or rent, utilities, groceries and household expenses based on each member's financial capacity and usage. A sense of transparency can be maintained among family members by openly discussing financial contributions and expenses.
Find balance between cultural values and financial health
Cultural traditions and familial structures can also play a significant role in money management, and it’s important to consider how multigenerational living can impact family wealth. Cultural heritage can shape financial attitudes and practices within multigenerational households, including saving habits, investment strategies and perceptions of wealth. Understanding how your cultural values connect to your beliefs and practices related to money can be essential for effective financial management within diverse family structures.
Communication is key to managing conflict and disagreement
The more people living in a home, the more likely they’ll face conflicting financial priorities. Navigating disagreements over spending habits and adapting to changing income levels or unexpected expenses are necessary to maintain financial stability in multigenerational households.
Future planning is vital
Estate plans should be tailored to accommodate the financial needs and goals of each generation within the household and strategies should be developed for transferring ownership of businesses or properties to ensure continuity and preserve the family's legacy. Make sure to compile essential legal documents -- including wills, trusts, powers of attorney and health care directives -- to outline the distribution of assets and clarify end-oflife wishes.
The bottom line
Multigenerational households can foster financial harmony and wellbeing by accounting for their individual financial goals and their shared responsibilities. Family members should be clear about plans, needs and expectations to promote financial stability and satisfaction for all. Communicating about these issues early can help avoid tension later on.
By addressing these considerations holistically and prioritizing open discussion and collaboration, multigenerational households can build a solid financial foundation, helping them achieve prosperity and security for their family members now and in the future.
Read more about financial considerations for multigenerational households here on chase.com/ theknow
1AARP, “Multigenerational living.” (2024).
2The demographics of multigenerational households.” (March 2022).
