Trump signs executive order declaring English as official US language
WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a historic policy shift, President Donald Trump signed an executive order declaring English as the official language of the United States, marking the first time in the nation’s nearly 250-year history that a national language has been formally designated at the federal level.
The order will direct federal agencies to prioritize English in official government communications, documents, and public services. While it will not ban the use of other languages, it rescinds Executive Order 13166, signed by former President Bill Clinton on August 11, 2000. That order, titled “Improving Access to Services for Persons with Limited English Proficiency,” required federal agencies and recipients of federal funding to provide language assistance to individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP) to ensure meaningful access to government
Egg prices soar: How Filipino families and businesses are coping with the surge
LOS ANGELES – The rising cost of eggs has hit Filipino households and small businesses hard, as prices continue to climb due to supply shortages and inflation. Once an affordable kitchen staple, eggs are now among the most expensive items in grocery stores, with prices soaring over 50% in the past year, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This sharp increase is forcing families and businesses to make difficult adjustments.
Why are egg prices rising?
The primary driver behind the price surge is the ongoing outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), or bird flu, which has led to the loss of millions of egg-laying hens across the country. With fewer hens producing eggs, supply has dwindled
MANILA — At least 80 Filipinos have received deportation notices from United States authorities as the new administration pushes through with its plan to kick out illegal aliens.
The Filipinos are not detained and still have the opportunity to legalize their stay, Philippine Ambassador to the U.S. Jose Manuel Romualdez said in an interview Tuesday, March 4.
“So far, they have just received the notice (that they are up for deportation) and some of them, if
deportation
I’m not mistaken, already departed voluntarily,” he said.
The U.S. government's crackdown on undocumented migrants began immediately after President Donald Trump was sworn into office on January 20.
Earlier this month, the U.S. deported illegal aliens from Africa and Asia, some reportedly from China and Vietnam, to Central American nations that are acting as third-country stopovers.
Romualdez said none of the
Filipino deportees have been put on similar deportation flights to another state so far.
“It only goes to show that, for me, many of those Filipinos in the U.S. have the chance to be able to have a legal path. That is my hope, that they will look into what status they can work on,” he said.
The Department of Foreign Affairs earlier said it is ready to extend necessary assistance to Filipinos who may be affected by the immigration crackdown. (PNA)
‘Duterte’s mess’
Catherine S. Valente
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is committed to addressing the "mess left behind by the previous administration," particularly in eliminating or reducing activities related to money laundering and terrorist financing, Malacañang said Saturday, March 1.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro reaffirmed the president's commitment following the Philippines' removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list.
In a video message, Castro said the Philippines' exit proves that the FATF saw the Marcos administration's efforts to fulfill its obligation to address money
laundering and terrorism financing issues in the country.
"We, especially the president, will clean up the mess left behind by the previous administration. Let us pray that we will never again be included in the FATF's grey list or black list," Castro said, in an apparent reference to the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
"We were placed on the grey list in 2021 after the international watchdog identified 18 deficiencies that the government must address to combat money laundering and terrorism financing in the country," she added.
If a country is grey-listed, it is under increased monitoring by the FATF due
MANILA — House lawmakers supportive of Vice President Sara Duterte’s impeachment will help the prosecution team prepare and educate the people about why the process is necessary if the trial remains delayed, a legislator said on Tuesday, March 4.
Assistant Majority Leader and Tingog party-list Rep. Jude Acidre admitted in a press briefing that they have no other option as
the proverbial ball on the impeachment proceedings is now with the Senate, as the House of Representatives has finished its task of sending the Articles of Impeachment to the Senate.
“For us, our choice is only to prepare well for our prosecutors. As of now, the pre-trial preparations on the part of the prosecution is the best way to go for us, but we are also happy to see that there are steps taken by ordinary Filipinos, like the people’s impeachment calls
MANILA — Amid concerns triggered by a contentious meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that put Kyiv’s future uncertain in the absence of fresh security assurances from Washington, the Philippines should be ready to beef up its own defenses, Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez said on Monday, March 3.
The high-profile meeting at the Oval Office that unfolded in front of the media turned into a tense exchange as the two leaders clashed over the future of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Zelenskyy left the meeting without signing a mineral deal in exchange for additional U.S. military support to help Ukraine.
“We have to all be ready for that type of situation. It may be some other president in the future, but at the end of the day, each country now has to be ready to be able to beef up its own defense, beef up its own economic security. And that’s always
MANILA — Almost seven months after dismissed Bamban mayor and suspected Chinese spy Alice Guo escaped to Indonesia, immigration officials are still clueless about how she left the Philippines to evade an arrest order of the Senate.
At the Senate hearing on Tuesday, March 4, Sen. Risa Hontiveros expressed frustration with the Bureau of Immigration (BI)’s dismal performance in figuring out
the details of Guo’s escape in August last year.
“We are inutile as a country. It’s been four months and we still don’t know how fugitives got past our borders undetected,” Hontiveros lamented.
BI Intelligence Division chief Fortunato Manahan Jr. agreed with the senator. Ports or sub-ports used by Guo and her siblings to escape also remain unknown, Manahan said.
“How did they manage to escape? Or was there a
PH envoy: Defense is each country’s...
been what we have been doing … that we would like to put up our own resources to be able to modernize our armed forces and to be able to bring our economy to where we want it to be,” Romualdez told foreign correspondents in a forum in Manila.
Defense agreements
He remained optimistic, however, that Washington’s support for Manila would continue and there were no indications that what happened to Ukraine could happen to the Philippines.
“I think all of that will remain. I am confident that it will,” Romualdez said when asked whether defense agreements and military aid would continue under the Trump administration.
He confirmed a Reuters report that Washington exempted $336-million worth of military assistance to Manila from its foreign aid freeze and said he was hopeful that “succeeding monies will be made available to us in the next couple of years.”
Both U.S. State Secretary Marco Rubio and defense chief Pete Hegseth have reaffirmed Washington’s “ironclad commitment” to the Philippines during their respective engagements with Philippine Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo and Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. last month.
The Philippines has also carried out a number of joint patrols with the United States
since January under the new Trump administration in the West Philippine Sea, part of the South China Sea that China claims almost entirely.
Manila has a Mutual Defense Treaty with Washington in effect since 1951 that calls for each side to come to the other’s defense in case of an armed attack.
The Philippines is also the biggest country recipient of U.S. military assistance in the region.
Marcos-Trump meeting
“The Philippines faces an existential threat in the South China Sea, and our desire to develop our defense capabilities to address this threat aligns closely with U.S. interests to maintain peace and stability in this part of the world,” he said.
Plans are already underway for a possible meeting between President Marcos and his American counterpart, likely in the spring, Romualdez said.
“I believe that an in-person meeting with President Marcos would be crucial in further bolstering the U.S.’ continued support for the Philippine-U.S. relations and continued presence in the Indo-Pacific region,” he said.
“It’s really a matter of timing. But President Marcos has clearly said that when President Trump is available, he would definitely like to fly to Washington and meet with him,” Romualdez said.
Mr. Marcos, who took office in 2022, moved the Philippines closer to the
United States since replacing Rodrigo Duterte, who pivoted the country’s foreign policy away from Washington and toward Beijing.
Alliances
On Monday, the Philippine Army launched a large-scale exercise to test and improve its ability to quickly deploy in response to a potential conflict.
The Combined Arms Training Exercise (Catex), set from March 3 to 22, will highlight the Army’s efforts to shift to external security operations.
The exercises will simulate the defense of northern and Central Luzon from an invasion and test newly delivered light tanks and artillery, such as Sabrah light tanks and Pandur 8×8 wheeled armored vehicles.
Around 6,000 Army troops will take part in the Catex.
During the weekend, top Army officials from the Philippines, United States, Japan, and Australia also gathered in Manila to discuss collective approaches to deter shared threats amid rising tensions with China.
The meeting of the “CORE 4 Technical Working Group” on March 1 and 2 focused on “enhancing interoperability and aligning military exercises among regional partners and allies,” which aimed to reinforce “collective defense capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region,” Army spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala said. n
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BI still clueless on Alice Guo escape...
government official who helped them? Which port or coast of our archipelago did they flee from?” Hontiveros asked.
Counterparts of the BI across Asia have not replied to inquiries about the Guo siblings’ escape, Manahan said.
“We will check with the office of the commissioner if any reports have been submitted from November to this year,” he said.
No BI personnel helped Guo escape, Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said.
Guo’s most probable mode of exit was through a backdoor in the southern part of the country, the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) said.
Aside from wanted criminals, human traffickers are using this backdoor to transport victims who end up working in scam hubs abroad, the BI previously reported.
Private coastlines and airstrips are not manned by
the BI, Viado noted. Viado has thanked the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking for its efforts to curb illegal backdoor exits. Guo is currently detained and facing charges of qualified human trafficking, among others, stemming from her involvement in Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs).
Roque’s whereabouts
Hontiveros pressed the BI about the whereabouts of former presidential spokesman Harry Roque,
who is also being probed for his reported involvement in POGOs.
“Where, for God’s sake, is Harry Roque?” she asked.
Roque had served as legal counsel for Whirlwind Corp., which leased a property to a raided POGO hub in Porac, Pampanga.
Hontiveros said she received a tip that Roque –who is allegedly hiding in Dubai – flew to Shanghai, China on Dec. 8 last year and stayed there for a day before flying to Macau. n
Marcos to clean up ‘Duterte’s...
to certain deficiencies in its campaign against money laundering and terrorism financing.
Blacklisted countries, on the other hand, are those with significant strategic shortcomings or with a severe lack of measures to fight money laundering and terrorism financing.
Castro said the Philippines was placed on the FATF grey list in June 2021 during the Duterte administration due to regulatory weakness in gambling operations, failure to implement financial sanctions, and delays in enforcing the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020.
"Let us remember that Philippine offshore gaming operators were rampant back then," the Palace official said.
Castro also said regulator agencies at the time seemed to have ignored these issues, especially the supposed financial anomalies during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
To address these shortcomings, Castro said that Marcos issued Executive Order 33, which directed government agencies to take immediate action to remove the country from the FATF grey list.
"Removing the country from the FATF is a great accomplishment of the president," she said. "The FATF recognized the country's improvements in terms of money laundering and terror financial controls."
Castro said the country's
removal from the FATF grey list was expected to facilitate smoother financial transactions, attract more foreign investors, and lower remittance fees for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
"Our president will not stop in eradicating activities related to money laundering and terrorist financing," she added.
The FATF is the global watchdog for money laundering and terrorist financing. It sets international standards to prevent these illegal activities and the harm they cause society.
The 39-member body also sets international standards to ensure national authorities can effectively go after illicit funds linked to drug trafficking, the illegal trade in arms, cyber fraud, and other serious crimes.
PH investor confidence
Meanwhile, administration senatorial bet and former Senator Panfilo Lacson said the Philippines' removal from the FATF grey list would boost the confidence of businesses to invest in the country.
Lacson attributed the country's improved standing to key legislative measures, including the passage of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 and the strengthening of the Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA) — laws he either authored, co-authored, or sponsored.
He also cited the total ban on POGOs as a crucial factor.
"Being taken off the grey list should increase investor confidence in the country.
The provisions in the AntiTerrorism Act on terrorist financing, along with the strengthened Anti-Money Laundering Act, played a significant role," Lacson said in an interview.
Lacson said these combined efforts contributed to the FATF's decision, which he believed would encourage more investors to place their money in the Philippines.
His legislative efforts include amendments to the AMLA, such as lowering the threshold for covered transactions from P4 million to P500,000, making it more effective in detecting illicit financial activities.
The Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas senatorial candidate underscored that these initiatives were part of a broader push to combat financial crimes.
"Our goal has always been to crack down on dirty money and hold accountable those who have tarnished the country's reputation as a hub for financial crimes," he said. Lacson also called for consistent enforcement of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing laws to ensure the country does not fall back into FATF scrutiny.
He reiterated the need to exclude public officials from the Bank Secrecy Act to further strengthen transparency measures.
"We already have the necessary laws. The key now is consistent implementation," Lacson said. n
Sen. Risa Hontiveros
Philstar.com file photo
TEMPORARY SHELTER. Members of the Lagundi family stay at an evacuation site in Barangay UP Campus, Quezon City on Tuesday, March 4. They were among the approximately 1,000 residents of the Daan Tubo community displaced by a fire the day before. PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler
SECURITY TALKS. The Philippine Army hosted a meeting of senior military leaders from the Philippines, United States, Japan and Australia over the weekend to discuss measures to deter shared threats amid rising tensions with China. Photo from the Philippine Army Facebook page
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Malacañang file photo
Nevada judiciary expands free legal resources with self-help website
Enhanced legal self-help resources, including multilingual AI-powered support and step-by-step guides, assist self-represented litigants.
CARSON City - The State of Nevada Judicial Branch is proud to announce that the state-wide legal selfhelp website selfhelp. nvcourts.gov now includes features aimed at providing free resources to empower individuals who are navigating the legal system.
The Supreme Court of Nevada Administrative Office of the Courts enlisted the help of technology company CiviLaw.Tech to develop innovative online tools including instructional step-by-step guides and informative videos. These resources address many common topics including divorce, custody, paternity, child support, separate maintenance, annulment, guardianship, adoption, termination of parental rights, name changes, and more.
“Access to justice is, and always will be, of paramount concern to the Supreme Court of Nevada and I am confident that our efforts to increase the resources available to the people of our state through our Self-Help website will be tremendously impactful,” said Supreme Court of Nevada Chief Justice Douglas Herndon. “I am grateful to everyone involved in our Administrative Office of the Courts for their innovative efforts to bring this tool to all Nevadans.”
The Self-Help Center features an AIpowered chatbot offering multilingual support. As legal self-help resources become increasingly vital nationwide, the Supreme Court of Nevada is at the forefront, utilizing an artificial intelligence chatbot that provides tailored legal information
and resources based on an individual's needs, available in more than 50 languages.
Guided interviews, similar to those used in tax preparation software, are available to assist users in navigating legal processes.
Additionally, the SelfHelp Center offers a portal to file protection orders, information on court basics, finding legal assistance, and self-representation in court. A list of resources for individuals experiencing issues such as domestic violence, child support enforcement, missing children, and senior services is also available.
"Everyone deserves access to justice and the resources necessary to navigate the legal system,” added State Court Administrator, Katherine Stocks. "This portal reflects our unwavering commitment to supporting Nevada residents in their legal needs, regardless of their ability to pay."
Visitors can access information on court fees and fee waivers in various languages, along with details on free and low-cost legal assistance.
Legal Aid providers throughout Nevada are hosting Ask-A-Lawyer events in which members of the public can consult with a licensed attorney.
The first three events are:
• Fallon: Thursday, March 13 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Churchill County Library
• Yerington: Thursday, April 17 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Lyon County Yerington Branch Library
• Pahrump: Thursday, May 1 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the NYE Communities Coalition
For more information about the State of Nevada Self-Help Center, please visit https://selfhelp. nvcourts.gov.
About the Supreme Court of Nevada
The Supreme Court of Nevada is the highest authority in the state's judicial system. Composed of seven justices, with one serving as the Chief Justice, the Court hears appeals from district courts across Nevada’s 11 judicial districts and is responsible for the regulation of the state judiciary. The Administrative Office of the Courts acts to support the Chief Justice in fulfilling his or her constitutional responsibility to be the administrative head of the Branch and provides a number of programs and services for both the appellate and trial courts.
To learn more about the Supreme Court of Nevada, visit https://nvcourts.gov.
About CiviLaw.Tech
In an era of rapid technological advancement, the legal system often lags behind, leaving many underserved populations without adequate access to justice. At CiviLaw. Tech, we are dedicated to closing this justice gap through innovative, tailored solutions that leverage technology and provide outstanding support.
With over two decades of experience, our team excels in designing and implementing creative strategies to enhance complex systems. We prioritize open-source technologies to offer cost-effective solutions, ensuring that our services remain accessible to those who need them most. n
Non-citizens ‘between a rock and a hard place’ as Trump pushes for national registry
by Peter schurMann Ethnic Media Services
THERE’S a video circulating on social media of a Latino man walking into a Target store with a U.S. passport glued to his forehead. “Me walking around with my passport to avoid ICE questioning me,” the caption reads, a laugh track in the background.
It’s dark humor, for sure, and the comedy only works because it’s true. Now more than ever.
On February 25, the Trump administration issued its latest guidelines on immigration enforcement, creating a national registry requiring the estimated 13 million undocumented immigrants now living in the country to register or face criminal prosecution.
“They are reanimating a provision of US immigration law that has been dormant for decades that requires certain groups of noncitizens to register with the government,” said Nayna Gupta, policy director with the American Immigration Council.
That provision, the Alien Registration Act of 1940, passed on the cusp of WWII and the onset of the Cold War, targeted with a broad brush any non-citizen for suspected ties to communist or fascist groups. It cast a shadow of fear in immigrant communities across the country.
“This will force many people… to make a very hard choice between two options that carry serious risk,” Gupta explained. “Either register as required and be subject to removal, or don’t register to avoid mass deportation and then be subject to criminal prosecution.”
She added, “It leaves noncitizens between a rock and a hard place.”
Gupta spoke during a virtual press briefing hosted by the immigrant advocacy group America’s Voice looking at the latest steps taken by the Trump administration as it pursues its campaign of mass deportations.
Under the new requirements, all individuals who entered the country without a visa—regardless of how long they have lived
here—will be required to register and carry proof of that registration at all times.
Immigrant rights groups say the language of the current measure is a draft and that further amendments or changes could be made. In the meantime, Gupta warns it will likely lead to cases of racial profiling.
“If you are a federal agent and asked to find people in violation of this requirement, you are being incentivized to profile,” she said. “And that will be targeted toward citizens, non-citizens with status and the undocumented.”
Carlos Guevara, senior director of policy at the Immigration Hub, described the measure as a
“nationalization of the ‘Show Me Your Papers’ laws,” first passed in Arizona and Texas in 2010, authorizing law enforcement to check the immigration status of anyone they suspect of not being in the country legally.
While the ACLU and others sued to block implementation of the Arizona law, known as SB1070, arguing it violates
FIRE PREVENTION MONTH. The Bureau of Fire Protection ramps up its Fire Prevention Month campaign with a safety drill and seminar at C5 Extension in Las Piñas City on Tuesday, March 4. Firefighters educated the public on safety, prevention and preparedness.
PNA photo by Avito Dalan
California extends financial aid deadline for college students
by selen ozturk Ethnic Media Services
WITH Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) delays and plummeting applications, California is extending financial aid access for all students who need it.
The California Student Aid Commission reports a 25% fall in high school senior FAFSA applications — a decrease of 48,000 students — compared to February of last year.
Overall, FAFSA applications statewide have dropped by 14%, while California Dream Act (CADAA) applications have dropped 38%.
In response, the state has extended this year’s FAFSA and CADAA application deadline by 30 days, from March 3 to April 2.
Around 55% of California students receive federal grants, close to the national rate of 56%.
While FAFSA problems aren’t new — rollout delays and technical glitches during last year’s cycle led to a 9% decline in applications as of August 2024 — many experts and students attribute much of this year’s decline to fears that undocumented students will have their information targeted for deportation.
The share of financial aid-applying students with at least one parent who’s
undocumented has fallen 44% this February compared to last, from about 30,000 Californians to 17,000.
“Things like eliminating the U.S. Department of Education, freezing federal funding and increasing immigration enforcement is leading many students to ask themselves whether it’s safe or even possible to apply for financial aid … with their future in question,” said Dr. Daisy Gonzales, executive director of the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC), at a Thursday, February 27 Ethnic Media Services briefing on the state deadline extension.
“While we can’t speculate on how the federal administration may use the information collected through FAFSA,” she continued, CADAA application information “is held by the state of California, and will only be used to determine eligibility for state and institution-based financial aid.”
“I’m the daughter of immigrants, and grew up in foster care in LA County. I wouldn’t be who I am today if I weren’t able to access financial aid at the age of 17, go to community college and eventually transfer to a UC,” Gonzales added. “Extending this deadline means extending hope and support
like this in real time.”
For students needing help applying, CSAC — which administers public higher education state aid — has free online and in-person Cash for College workshops, and phone and email hotlines.
“The hit in financial aid applications we’re seeing right now is even worse than what we saw during a global pandemic,” said Catalina Cifuentes, CSAC chair and executive director of college and career readiness in the Riverside County Office of Education.
“At least during the pandemic, many of those students came back,” she continued. “I’m worried that by the time these students and families realize they could have gotten tuition and fees covered, It’s too late. They may have full time jobs by then, children, spouses, and coming back to school is so difficult for working adults.”
In Riverside County, which serves over 420,000 K-12 students across 23 school districts, “we have one of the lower college educated adult populations in California … and a high volume of students that are first in their family to go to college,” Cifuentes explained. “What we tell them is: Apply. See what happens. You have plenty of time to
House to educate public on VP Duterte...
made earlier,” he said in Filipino.
“I hope this becomes an avenue to relay to the people, to ordinary Filipinos to study the importance and merits of the impeachment case that will be tackled at the Senate trial. So I think if the Senate would not start a trial immediately, I think for many of us in the House and with many more advocates, we would bring the discussions to the people,” he added.
According to Acidre, there are many ways of making the people informed about the impeachment procedures aside from staging rallies.
He said the signature campaign launched by religious groups and other non-government organizations calling for the immediate start of the impeachment trial is “a good way to show the Senate what is the true sentiment of our people.”
“Many schools are conducting forums about the impeachment; that is an important step as we can explain to the people the matter, which would allow them to have a deeper understanding of these issues,” he added.
Duterte was impeached after 215 House of
Non-citizens
Representatives members filed and verified a fourth impeachment complaint, citing several issues like alleged misuse of confidential funds lodged within her offices, threats to ranking officials including President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and conduct unbecoming of a vice president.
Under the 1987 Constitution, a trial should start forthwith if at least onethird of all House members — in this case, 102 out of 306 have signed and endorsed the petition.
Trial however has yet to start because the Senate did not discuss the Articles of Impeachment at the plenary before the session adjourned on February 5.
Recently, Senate President Francis Escudero said that the trial would start on July 30 with the new set of lawmakers sitting as senatorjudges.
There have been concerns, however, with the trial being set as late as July. Acidre said Duterte would benefit the most from the delay as it may be indicative of a culture of impunity, where observations made by different House committees are not given much weight.
In September 2024, the House committee on good
government and public accountability started the hearing on fund use anomalies involving the Department of Education (DepEd) under Duterte and the Office of the Vice President (OVP). The committee found several glaring concerns, like a high likelihood that fake identities were used in signing the acknowledgment receipts (ARs) for confidential fund (CF) disbursements.
At one point, Antipolo 2nd District Rep. Romeo Acop said the name Mary Grace Piattos, which was used to sign off the ARs, bears a first name similar to a coffee shop, and a surname that is a famous potato chip brand.
Later on, Lanao del Sur 1st District Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong showed two more ARs — one for OVP and another for the DepEd — which were both received by a certain Kokoy Villamin. However, the signatures and handwriting of Villamin differed.
Manila 3rd District Rep. Joel Chua, a member of the prosecution team, also warned about the possibility that evidence crucial to the impeachment case may be tampered with, while witnesses may be threatened if trial continues to be delayed. n
‘between a rock and a hard...
the Fourth Amendment’s protection against unreasonable search and seizure, the Supreme Court has largely left it and similar legislation untouched.
Any litigation around the current measure would come once the language is finalized and issued, explained Gupta, noting several organizations are already considering filing suit.
According to Guevara, children are increasingly vulnerable under these new regulations.
“We have six million American kids who live with an undocumented loved one,” he noted, adding the “climate of fear and uncertainty” is driving families to keep their kids home from school, the hospital, church, all places no longer seen as off limits to federal immigration agents.
Reporting out of San Diego recently noted the presence of ICE vehicles outside a local clinic, with health care providers attesting to a subsequent drop in the number of patients they are seeing.
Guevara said these moves are in sync with Trump’s broader “deportation agenda,” including a reduction in the number of immigration judges and a recently passed house bill that threatens to strip public funding for vital health care
programs.
The goal is to make conditions such that migrants will opt to self deport, said David Leopold, former president and general counsel with the American Immigration Lawyers Association, an unlikely option for many, if not most migrants here.
“We are dealing with folks who have been here for decades. They’ve raised their families here. Selfdeportation or just going back to a country you have no memory of, is not as easy as it sounds.”
An estimated 80% of undocumented immigrants in the US have lived here for 15 years or longer, data show.
Pointing to the economic harm Trump’s policies could inflict given the pivotal role immigrants play across a number of vital sectors, he adds, “This policy is about self-deporting our own economic advantages.”
The number of deportations during Trump’s first month in office are in fact lower than numbers seen during former President Joe Biden’s final months in office.
But the panelists agreed the administration is actively taking steps to bolster infrastructure—including through the expansion of private detention centers—to house an expected increase
Trump signs executive order declaring...
services.
“America has always welcomed people from all over the world, but a common language unites us,” Trump stated. “This order ensures that English remains at the heart of our national identity and government operations.”
Policy and practical implications
The executive order represents a significant departure from language access policies that have accommodated the nation’s linguistic diversity.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, over 350 languages are spoken in American households, with 21.7% of individuals aged five and older speaking a language other than English at home. Additionally, about 25.1 million individuals in the U.S. are considered LEP, comprising approximately 8% of the population. Many LEP individuals rely on multilingual services in government, healthcare, and legal sectors to access critical information.
By rescinding Executive Order 13166, the new directive eliminates federal requirements for language assistance, giving agencies the discretion to provide translations or multilingual
services but no longer mandating them. This shift could significantly impact non-English speakers, particularly in communities where government-provided translations are essential for accessing voting materials, healthcare services, emergency response, and legal aid.
Critics argue that the order will create barriers for immigrants and non-English speakers, making it harder for them to participate fully in civic life.
Vanessa Cárdenas, executive director of America’s Voice, expressed concern, stating:
“This isn’t just a symbolic move — it will have real consequences. Removing language assistance means millions of people will struggle to access critical services, from healthcare to the justice system.”
State and local impact
Although more than 30 states already recognize English as their official language, the federal directive may create tensions with state and local governments that have extensive language-access programs. In California, New York, and Illinois, for example, where local laws mandate multilingual services, officials are
assessing whether the executive order conflicts with existing policies.
Education officials are also reviewing its potential effects on English as a Second Language (ESL) programs in public schools, particularly in districts with high numbers of nonEnglish-speaking students.
The road ahead As the executive order is signed and implemented, its legal and practical ramifications remain uncertain. Advocacy groups are expected to challenge the measure in court, arguing that it disproportionately harms immigrant communities and non-English speakers by restricting access to government services. Meanwhile, federal agencies will need to determine how to implement the directive while navigating existing state and local languageaccess policies.
The decision reignites long-standing debates over language, identity, and inclusion in American society. Whether the order stands or faces legal challenges, it signals a shift in federal language policy that could reshape the country’s approach to multilingualism.
(AJPress)
Egg prices soar: How Filipino families...
while demand remains high, driving up costs.
In addition to bird flu, higher feed prices, increased fuel costs, and persistent supply chain disruptions have further contributed to the spike.
Impact on Filipino food businesses
smaller farms or wholesalers to manage expenses, but balancing affordability with sustainability remains a challenge.
How Filipino families are adjusting
in the number of migrants detained.
“The administration is trying to rapidly expand its infrastructure to carry through on its threat of mass deportation,” Gupta said.
“They are asking congress for money to set this up, to expand detention capacity.”
With the new registry, the government can also now rely on federal prisons. “They can prosecute someone and put them in federal prison for 6 months before initiating a removal process.”
With that expansion into private prisons comes a loss of accountability, transparency, and access by legal aid providers, something Gupta said is already being seen in places like Maryland, where lawyers struggled to meet with clients detained for a prolonged period.
According to Leopold, when it comes to immigration, the media needs to help the public better distinguish fact from fiction, including the fact that being undocumented is not a criminal act warranting imprisonment but a civil violation.
“Pick any term you want from 1930s Germany and replace it with immigrant,” he said, describing the current atmosphere. He added, “It is going to get much worse than we see today… This is just the beginning.” n
For many Filipino restaurants and bakeries, eggs are a core ingredient in countless dishes, from baked goods to traditional meals. The price increase has put a strain on small business owners, forcing them to make tough choices — whether to raise prices, reduce portion sizes, or find ingredient alternatives.
“We use eggs in so many of our baked goods and main dishes,” shared a Filipino bakery owner in Los Angeles. “We’re trying to absorb some of the cost, but we’ve also had to slightly increase our prices. It’s tough because we know our customers are also struggling with rising grocery costs.”
Filipino bakeries have been especially impacted, as eggs are essential for many traditional pastries and desserts like ensaymada and leche flan. Some have turned to
For many Filipino households, eggs are a versatile and reliable protein source, making them a staple in daily meals. With prices skyrocketing, families have adapted with creativity and resourcefulness. They buy in bulk when prices drop, explore local Asian markets for better deals, and substitute eggs with alternatives in recipes. Some families have even reserved eggs for special dishes, carefully balancing tradition with practicality.
These inventive cooking adjustments allow families to stretch ingredients without compromising on taste or cultural heritage. By sharing tips and insights within their communities, they help preserve beloved dishes and strengthen their collective resilience in the face of rising costs.
Government response and possible solutions
To address the crisis, the USDA has announced measures such as increasing
biosecurity protocols to prevent further bird flu outbreaks, providing financial aid to poultry farmers to help repopulate egg-laying flocks, and exploring egg imports from other countries to stabilize supply and ease domestic shortages. However, experts warn that it may take several months before production normalizes and prices begin to stabilize. In the meantime, consumers can help mitigate the impact by supporting local farms, joining community co-ops, or exploring alternative protein sources to ease reliance on eggs. Navigating the challenges ahead Filipino small businesses are responding to rising costs with resilience, leaning on community support to navigate these tough times. They are adjusting with creativity and determination, while families carefully manage their meals and budgets to make ends meet. Despite the challenges, families are embracing resourcefulness, discovering new ways to sustain themselves, and holding onto hope for relief as they continue to make the most of every meal.
(AJPress)
Dateline PhiliPPines
Pres. Marcos: Supporters of admin’s candidates are real people, not trolls
by
MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. once again warned the public about fake news, pointing out that supporters of the administration’s Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas are real people and not trolls.
On his official YouTube vlog uploaded on Sunday, March 2, Marcos said fake news is among the challenges faced by Alyansa, especially amid the campaign season.
“Fake news is everywhere. That’s why we, as citizens, must be careful. As we always say, the new generation of Filipinos knows how to discern between true and false
information. Now that fake news and disinformation are spreading again, we must be extra cautious about what we read online,” he said in Filipino.
“One of the things that makes me happy about the rallies we attend is that I get to see our supporters in the Alliance firsthand. They are real people, real Filipinos—not just keyboard warriors or trolls. They are real individuals whom we shake hands with, talk to, and check in on,” he added.
Marcos also said the testimonies from Alyansa’s supporters, whom he claimed thanked them for various government initiatives and programs, cannot be faked.
“That is why we must
continue what we have started. Whether it’s a campaign or not, fake news is always there. Campaign or not, nothing will stop our government from serving,” he added.
Although it was unclear why Marcos released such a statement, netizens posted photos of Alyansa bets interacting with a crowd of supporters.
This is not the first time Marcos addressed an issue related to troll farms during campaign season.
In the 2022 polls, Marcos revealed that he was offered to use online troll farms to boost his campaign, but he rejected the offer and even urged his critics to find even just one of his supposed trolls. n
Pimentel to draft impeachment rules, set stage for VP Duterte trial
MANILA — In his bid to help speed up processes in relation to the impeachment trial against Vice President Sara Duterte, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III said his office would be submitting proposed and revised rules for the judicial proceeding.
Pimentel made the categorical stand on Tuesday, March 4 after he was asked to comment on Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino’s remark, saying that Pimentel should start drafting the rules if he’s in a rush.
“Trabaho muna, bago boto. Senators have a constitutional duty that comes before anything else. Having said that, my office will be submitting our proposed rules for the impeachment to help speed up the process,” Pimentel told reporters.
Both Pimentel and Tolentino are campaigning for the upcoming midterm polls in May.
Pimentel is running for a congressional seat in Makati city’s first district while Tolentino is vying for another term in the Senate.
Senate President Chiz Escudero previously said that the proper impeachment trial against Duterte would begin after President
Arts &Crafts
SewingClasses
Bongbong Marcos’ fourth State of the Nation Address in July.
Despite calls from various organizations and groups, Escudero made clear that they do not intend to delay the proceeding.
He said they will follow the law and the rules regardless of who it happens to benefit.
“The law is the law and we will not bend nor violate it on the mere desire or ask of partisan and biased individuals or sectors. I will favor no one and will ensure a fair and equitable procedure that will render justice to all concerned,” said Escudero. n
DPrinting
DepEd eyes mental health offices in schools
MANILA — Mental health and well-being offices will be established in highburden areas after Education
Secretary Sonny Angara on Tuesday, March 4 signed the implementing rules and regulations of the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act.
The measure seeks to improve mental health facilities and services in schools nationwide.
Led by a schools division counselor, the office will prioritize learners’ wellbeing and create an enabling learning environment.
The Department of Education is tasked with ensuring that there is at least one counselor per school, or multiple associates in large schools. DepEd will also build care centers.
These mechanisms will take pressure off school leaders and prevent cases of bullying, Angara said, citing the case of Rizal High School (RHS) in Pasig where studentled violence recently made headlines.
RHS principal Richard
Santos said reforms for mental health and anti-bullying in schools are welcome developments.
About 382 bullying cases have been recorded at RHS, Santos said.
Of the number, 48 resulted in physical injuries, he noted.
“The sheer scale of these incidents is compounded by the fact that RHS has only one guidance counselor to cater to a student population of 12,584,” Santos said.
The Anti-Bullying Act of 2013 is being reviewed by the DepEd and the Second Congressional Commission on Education.
Anti-bullying and rightsbased education will be integrated by the DepEd into the curriculum to address underreported bullying cases.
An anti-bullying policy
Celebrate through exploring, making, designing & engineering
Drop in STEAM - Button Making
Make a custom, unique button to put on your backpack or suspenders.
Friday, March 7: 12 p.m. - 3:45 p.m.
Saturday, March 8: 10 a.m. - 2:45 p.m.
Blue Diamond Library
AGE GROUP: ALL
Teen Creative Journaling Space
Decorate the pages in your journal with our paper crafts and art supplies.
Friday, March 7: 4 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Centennial Hills Library
AGE GROUP: TEENS
Come Out and Clay Jr.
Learn to make some of our favorite storytime pals in clay. Families are welcome.
Saturday, March 8: 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Sunrise Library
AGE GROUP: PRESCHOOLERS & KIDS
Youth 3D Printing Certification Class
Customers ages 10-17 may become certified to use the Library District’s self-serve 3D printers through this class. Registration is required.
Saturday, March 8: 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
West Las Vegas Library
AGE GROUP: KIDS, TWEENS & TEENS
Free and open to the public.
Seating and supplies are on a first-come, first-served basis and may be limited.
Scan QR Code for more events, programming, and maker resources.
Youth Maker Fair 2025
Get hands-on experience with a wide range of exciting activities!
Wednesday, March 12: 3:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
West Charleston Library
AGE GROUP: TODDLERS, KIDS, TWEENS & TEENS
Makershop Sewing
Learn how to use a sewing machine and get hands-on practice while you sew a bookmark. Registration is strongly encouraged.
Thursday, March 13: 4 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Sunrise Library
AGE GROUP: TEENS & ADULTS
Cardmaking for Adults
Make two unique greeting cards.
Friday, March 14: 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Mesquite Library
AGE GROUP: TEENS & ADULTS
Art Block - Shrinky Dinks
Struggling to get out of an artist block? Feel inspired at Art Block, where creativity knows no bounds!
Tuesday, March 18: 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.
East Las Vegas Library
AGE GROUP: TWEENS, TEENS & KIDS
LEGO Club Children are invited to an hour of creative building using the library’s vast LEGO collection.
Thursday, March 20: 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
West Las Vegas Library
AGE GROUP: TWEENS & KIDS
and code of conduct will also be included in the learner’s handbook.
Social and behavior change materials will be distributed nationwide to reinforce awareness and advocacy against bullying.
Intervention mechanisms are being enhanced by the DepEd’s Learner Rights and Protection Division to ensure faster case resolution and better support systems.
The agency will localize the TeleSafe Contact Center Helpline to adapt to the language, context and cultural approach of each region.
About 522 bullying cases were recorded by the helpline from November 2022 to February this year, with physical altercations being the most common form of conflict among students. n
Paint with watercolors and enjoy the company of our friends.
Friday, March 21: 4 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Mt. Charleston Library
AGE GROUP: ADULTS
Take & Makes
Pick up a Spring-themed craft to make at home.
Monday, March 24: All day during business hours
West Charleston Library
AGE GROUP: TODDLERS, PRESCHOOLERS & KIDS
Teen Maker Fair
Teens are invited to learn and create something new!
Thursday, March 27: 4 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Centennial Hills Library
AGE GROUP: TEENS
Watercolor Club
by Neil JaySoN ServalloS Philstar.com
Faith argosino Inquirer.net
by charie abarca Inquirer.net
Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III Inquirer.net file photo
The measure seeks to improve mental health facilities and services in schools nationwide. Philstar.com photo
DUBIOUS DELIVERY. Bureau of Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio and Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. (2nd and 3rd from left) lead the inspection of container vans containing PHP200 million worth of misdeclared food products at the South Harbor Port of Manila on Monday, March 3. Found in the vans
OPiniOn Features
How did they escape?
THE story has faded from the headlines, but Filipinos would still want to know how Alice Guo and her purported siblings Shiela and Wesley managed to flee the country in July last year.
Finding out how the Guos escaped could expose the weaknesses that allowed it to happen, and identify and hold accountable those who helped them escape.
Editorial
At a hearing of the Senate committee on justice and human rights on Tuesday, March 4, Sen. Risa Hontiveros raised a valid point: seven months after the three escaped, the government still has not validated Alice Guo’s story, as told to the Senate on Sept. 9 last year.
Guo, facing the committee on women, children, family relations and gender equality, said she and her siblings traveled to Manila where they boarded a small white boat, which seemed to be a yacht. They transferred to a bigger vessel that appeared to be a fishing boat, and again transferred a few days later to a smaller boat that brought them to Malaysia.
Multiple government agencies have offices around the Port of Manila. There are supposed to be patrols by state forces
The bold immigration plan of President Donald Trump that offers foreigners a pathway to U.S. citizenship through a “gold card” visa is now a hot button topic, opening up discussions and debates on whether it can spur the U.S. economy or if it will further drive inequality.
Dubbed the “golden visa” program that allows individuals to be granted permanent U.S. residency by investing $5 million, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said the proposal will replace the current visa program for foreign investors known as the EB-5 which grants “green cards” (permanent resident cards) to foreigners (plus their spouses and children under 21) who will invest $1 million in a business or company with 10 employees at the very least.
Created in 1990 by the U.S. Congress, the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program
NOW that the Philippines, after missing its deadline, finally managed to get out of the gray list of countries under tighter monitoring by the Financial Action Task Force or FATF, the global dirty money watchdog may want to take a look at one of the biggest financial laundromats in this country: campaign finance.
Pressure from the Paris-based anti-money laundering FATF compelled the government, among other things, to tighten supervision of casino junkets and strengthen its framework for combating terrorism financing. The complete ban on Philippine offshore gaming operations and the local POGO copycat IGL or internet gaming licensee also helped.
While Philippine officials are patting themselves on the
around Manila Bay, including the Manila Yacht Club where the yachts dock. How hard is it to find out where the Guos boarded the “white boat” and who facilitated the escape?
The Bureau of Immigration could only tell Hontiveros that BI personnel had no hand in the escape.
At the same hearing, Hontiveros lamented the escape of three Chinese POGO bosses wanted in their country. Lyu Xun, Kong Xiangrui and Wang Shangle reportedly escaped during a layover in Hong Kong en route to China following their deportation from the Philippines.
Authorities are also still trying to piece together how former presidential spokesman Harry Roque ended up in the Middle East as the House of Representatives ordered his arrest and detention for contempt. Roque has reportedly been spotted in Macau and Japan. The BI said he tried to leave for the U.S. from Japan. The nation must find out how people
wanted in the Philippines and in other countries manage to slip past border controls. Uncovering what happened will
President Trump’s ‘golden visa’
is administered by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and aims to “stimulate the U.S. economy through job creation and capital investment by foreign investors.” Green card holders including those who have EB-5 visas have to live lawfully in the U.S. for five years before they can apply for U.S. citizenship.
According to Secretary Lutnick, the new “gold card” initiative would not have the job creation requirement under the EB-5 program which he described as “low priced” and full of “nonsense, make believe and fraud.” In a recent interview, the U.S. Commerce Secretary said there are already 250,000 individuals now “waiting in line” to get one of the gold cards, giving the assurance that everyone will be “deeply vetted.”
“Wealthy people will be coming into our country by buying this card; they’ll be wealthy and they’ll be successful, and they’ll be spending a lot of money and paying a lot of taxes and employing a lot of
back, several nongovernment organizations are lamenting that the exit from the gray list was achieved partly at their expense, with their assets frozen and restrictions imposed for being classified as supporters of terrorist groups.
Several of these NGOs have been linked by government security officials to the Communist Party of the Philippines and New People’s Army. The CPP and NPA are designated as terrorist organizations not only in the Philippines but also in the United States and the European Union. The exit from the FATF gray list means the country is seen to have made significant progress in strengthening measures against money laundering and financing of terrorism.
Officials have stressed that exiting the list does not mean money laundering has been eliminated. Which is just as well, since Filipinos
people, and we think it’s going to be extremely successful,” said President Trump, disclosing that they can offer as many as 10 million “gold cards” to raise $50 trillion to pay off the $35-trillion U.S. national debt and still have a $15 trillion surplus.
There are those, however, who are concerned that the initiative could promote divisiveness and inequality as it would allow the very rich, or the “ultra-high net worth individuals,” to “buy their way” into U.S. citizenship and, unlike the EB-5 visa, will not be required to create jobs or put up businesses. On the other hand, those who approve of the new “golden card” initiative say it will boost the U.S. economy. Critics of the EB-5 program also say it is rife with loopholes and has been prone to abuse, such as alleged backroom deals that have not benefitted rural and distressed urban areas which are supposed to be the intended beneficiaries of the investor visa program.
The 10,000 annual limitation
in issuing the investor visas has also resulted in long waiting times that turn off potential investors.
The fact is, a lot of other countries are also luring investors by offering “golden visa” programs for wealthy individuals who can obtain citizenship by purchasing real estate or investing money, with the amounts varying in each country.
According to Henley & Partners, a leading investment migration consultancy firm based in London, golden visa acquisition is a “process whereby qualified, vetted candidates are granted residence rights in exchange for a defined economic contribution to the host country.”
Data from the British firm says the golden visa legislation is now in place in over 100 countries all over the world, among them Greece, Portugal, Italy, the UK, Switzerland, Australia, Canada, Spain, Singapore, New Zealand, the United Arab Emirates and Malta.
One of the most popular
golden visa countries is Spain that is also popular among tourists because of its natural beauty, rich history and diverse culture.
Under the Spain Residence by Investment Program, a foreign individual and his immediate family members can become permanent residents after five years of continuous residence in the country and may become Spanish citizens through the acquisition of real estate with a minimum value of €500,000; investment funds, bank deposits or listed company shares in Spanish financial institutions with a minimum value of €1 million; or a government bonds investment with a minimum value of €2 million.(Unfortunately, Spain is suspending its golden visa program effective April 3, 2025 due to concerns about rising property prices and housing affordability for citizens.)
The Golden Visa Program of Greece is also much sought-after with its diverse qualifying options that include a specialized
Still a dirty money haven
will laugh if told that the exit means the country is no longer a money laundering haven.
Some quarters are even hoping that the FATF will also exert pressure on the government for the passage of legislation for genuine campaign finance reforms and easing of bank secrecy laws.
* * *
Members of all Congresses since the restoration of democracy in 1986, with their powerful self-preservation instincts, have tossed out all proposals for regulating election campaign finance and lifting of the world’s toughest bank secrecy laws. Defanged by lawmakers and the judiciary, all that the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has managed to impose is a requirement for all candidates, win or lose, to file statements of contributions and expenditures or SOCE within 30 days after election day.
While verification of the accuracy of the financial declarations can be challenging for the understaffed Comelec, Chairman George Garcia has announced plans to upload the SOCE for public access, in hopes that interested parties particularly the candidates will be checking each other for possible lying in the statements. The Comelec can then act on complaints.
The Comelec also oversees compliance with spending limits set under the Omnibus Election Code – currently at P10 per voter for the races for president and vice president, P3 for other positions and P5 per voter for political parties.
Comelec officials have said the spending limits set under the Code passed in 1991 have become unrealistic and must be increased. This will be welcomed by moneyed candidates, who can then openly spend more for their campaigns without worrying
about breaking the rules and facing sanctions. But raising the spending limit may be frowned upon by those with limited resources.
For candidates who are flush with cash from illegal activities, the sky’s the limit in campaign spending.
* * *
Alice Guo is under investigation on charges of faking her Philippine citizenship to run for mayor of Bamban, Tarlac. POGOs are believed to have bankrolled her campaign for election.
Offshore gaming and the crimes linked to POGOs, such as cyberscams, kidnapping for ransom and human trafficking, aren’t the only illegal activities that have financed election campaigns in this country. Other forms of illegal gambling such as jueteng have been laundered for successful career shifts to politics. If the jueteng lords don’t seek public office
real estate investment of €250,000 to convert commercial buildings into residential use; €400,000 for the purchase of a single property with a minimum size of 120 square-meters and $800,000 for the purchase of properties in certain cities and islands with more than 3,100 residents.
Even young Filipino professionals are showing increased interest in the EU’s golden visa programs, says an article from Schengen News that quoted a recent report by an international property marketing consultancy, with Portugal and Greece as top choices.
The golden visa program is something that we should also try to do in the Philippines to attract quality investors to come in as this will help boost the economy. While the Philippines has the Special Investor’s Resident Visa that allows foreign visitors to stay indefinitely and then apply for citizenship after 10 years of continuous residency, the
themselves, they bankroll the campaigns of candidates and even contribute heavily to the war chests of presidential bets.
Anti-crime watchdogs had previously noted that moneyraising criminal activities such as kidnapping for ransom and daring robberies of banks and armored vehicles tended to spike during election season.
Apart from gambling barons, among the biggest donors to election campaigns are smugglers and drug traffickers.
When the candidate backed by such lowlifes wins, the campaign donors become untouchable, intensifying their criminal activities with impunity.
Some of the offenses are international criminal activities that transcend borders, so the FATF should be interested in the opportunities for money laundering related to such
AnA MArie PAMintuAn
Babe’s Eye View
allow the leaks in the system to be plugged. This can prevent impunity and more escapes. (Philstar.com)
President Trump’s ‘golden...
minimum required amount of $75,000 is “too cheap and too low,” said a local businessman.
I certainly agree with him.
The Philippines has become a very attractive investment
Still a dirty money...
crimes.
Even groups designated as foreign terrorist organizations – the targets of the FATF focus on combating terrorism financing – engage in criminal activities to raise funds. The Abu Sayyaf, one of such organizations, has a long track record of lucrative fund-raising through ransom kidnapping and extortion.
Security officials say the New People’s Army is among the biggest maintainers of marijuana farms around the country.
Against Corruption, adopted by the UN General Assembly in October 2003 and which entered into force on Dec. 14, 2005. Corruption has been one of the biggest hindrances to the elimination of poverty and the achievement of UN development goals. The global campaign against money laundering is a critical component of any battle against corruption.
The FATF should be interested, for example, in the laundering of slush funds and kickbacks by politicians and other government officials worldwide.
There’s a legally binding United Nations Convention destination with the government offering various incentives to investors and a skilled, educated and English-proficient work force who are worth their weight in gold. (Philstar. com)
It can set up a black or
* * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
* * * Email: babeseyeview@gmail.com
gray list of countries and territories that are money laundering havens for crooks in government and their cohorts in the private sector.
Exiting the FATF gray list is a step forward.
With pressure from the FATF, perhaps Philippine lawmakers will finally be compelled to legislate campaign finance reforms and relax bank secrecy laws.
(Philstar.com)
* * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
California extends financial aid...
decide if you want to pursue post-secondary, but you only have this window to get the maximum aid available.”
“With two younger sisters to think about, it was a really tough decision to figure out whether college was even an option for me, and whether I was ever going to be able to make it,” said Keiry Saravia, a CSAC commissioner and a junior English teaching major at California State University, Northridge (CSUN).
“I’m a first-generation student born and raised in Los Angeles to two immigrant parents from El Salvador,” she continued. “I hope to go to law school after this and become an immigration and criminal lawyer … if I wasn’t able to get financial aid through a Cal Grant, I wouldn’t have even considered going to law school. I would have been more committed to helping my family and ensuring that my sisters could go to
college.”
“Right now, even here at CSUN, where a lot of us have already submitted our our FAFSA, we’re still getting a lot of misinformation about whether we’ll be eligible again, whether it’s even feasible, whether our information will be safe, because we’re a predominantly Hispanic community, and a lot of undocumented students are scared,” explained Saravia.
“But it just takes students continuing to push for help. More students need to know that they don’t have to stop after one application. They can keep applying until they’re eligible … because without these opportunities, many wouldn’t be in the positions that they’re in now, me included,” she added.
“We hear a lot these days about student debt, rising tuition, skepticism about the value of higher education,” said Shawn Brick, associate vice provost of student
financial aid at the UC Office of the President. “We need to focus not just on return on investment, but the value in terms of understanding the options it gives you for the rest of your life, educationally and employment-wise.”
The UC system, which includes 10 campuses, has extended its own financial aid priority filing deadline to April 2, matching the state.
In the 2022-2023 academic year, nearly 70% of UC undergraduates received financial aid and over 50% paid no tuition.
Over 75% of California State University undergraduates received aid; over 60% paid no tuition. “Financial aid is about more than covering tuition. It can help students cover other costs while enrolled in school — that includes food, housing, transportation, books and supplies,” added Brick. “You can afford college. We’ll make sure that’s a reality.” n
UN panel: Corruption still pervasive in Philippines government
MANILA — A United Nations committee remains concerned that corruption is still “pervasive” in all branches of government and in the wider public sector in the Philippines.
The UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights on Monday, March 3, issued its findings, officially known as Concluding Observations on the Philippines’ implementation of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) and efforts to fight corruption, after the review on the Philippines on Feb. 18 in Geneva, Switzerland.
“While noting the information provided by the state party regarding efforts to combat corruption, the committee remains concerned that corruption remains pervasive in all branches of government and in the wider public sector,” the Concluding Observations on the Seventh Periodic Report of the Philippines read in part.
It is also concerned about reports that anti-corruption bodies, such as the Office
of the Ombudsman and the Commission on Audit, lack sufficient financial and technical resources to effectively investigate all such allegations.
The committee recommended that the Philippines “promptly, independently and impartially investigate and prosecute all cases of corruption, in particular high-level corruption, including corruption in the government and the judiciary, and if a person is convicted, apply penalties commensurate with the seriousness of the offense” and “ensure the effectiveness of anti-corruption bodies by immediately providing them with sufficient human, technical and financial resources with a view to enabling them to effectively and independently discharge their mandates.”
While noting the information provided by the Philippines regarding recently enacted legislative measures and policy interventions to protect and uphold economic, social and cultural rights and citations of the Covenant by the Supreme Court, the committee remains concerned that the direct
application of the Covenant by domestic courts, particularly lower courts, continues to remain low.
The committee reiterated is previous recommendation that the state party take all appropriate measures to ensure the protections of economic, social and at the constitutional level, to institutionalize writs of amparo concerning the Covenant rights, and to ensure that those rights are protected by the domestic courts at all levels, and that the state party enhance training for judges, lawyers and public officials on the Covenant. It is concerned about reports of instances of pressure, threats, intimidation and intervention by public officials in the judicial system, including at the national, regional and municipal levels.
“The committee recommends that the state party safeguard, in law and in practice, the full independence, impartiality and safety of judges and prosecutors and prevent them from being influenced in their decision-making by any form of undue political pressure, violence, threats or corruption,” it said. n
by Pia lee-Brago Philstar.com
HARD LABOR. Construction works in Intramuros, Manila on Tuesday, March 4 continue amid rising temperatures. Health officials advise drinking water often, limiting time outdoors from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., using protection like hats and umbrellas, and wearing light and loose clothing. PNA photo by Yancy Lim
VEGAS&STYLE JOURNAL
Hollywood star Hailee Steinfeld honors her Filipino roots
The Filipino American actress graces the cover of Vogue Philippines
by Gavin Martinez Inquirer.net
STEPPING into the spotlight with Filipino pride, Filipino American singer and actress Hailee Steinfeld is honoring her Filipino roots as she graces the cover of Vogue Philippines for its March issue, “The Wonder Years: The Fashion Issue.”
The “Pitch Perfect 2” and “Bumblebee” star stuns in a metallic ocean blue and silver mini dress paired with clear heels, with additional looks showcasing designs from Saint Laurent, Prada, Gucci, Max Mara, Et Ochs and Cong Tri.
Beyond the fashion, Steinfeld’s cover story highlights her connection to her heritage and the values instilled in her by her family.
She reflects on how her Filipino background has shaped her character and further emphasizes resilience, kindness and the importance of family bonds.
“I carry my Filipino heritage with so much pride. And I feel like [it’s] deeply rooted in the values that my parents have instilled in both my brother and I: resilience and kindness and a deep sense of family,” she shared with Vogue Philippines.
The “Hawkeye” actress also teased her upcoming film, “Sinners,” hinting at its
maternal grandfather,
personal significance.
“I find that with what I do, there’s always something to learn about yourself. But when you get to learn about yourself and your family, that’s something that can be really special,” she said, adding that the film will make her sentiments clearer to audiences.
Even though she’s born and raised in the U.S., Steinfeld has her Filipino lineage to back her up.
As she juggles multiple projects, she thrives on a busy schedule and finds excitement in a packed calendar.
For her, the thrill of working on different ventures, from acting to music and beyond, keeps her passion alive.
by Jan Milo severo Philstar.com
THE late veteran actress Jaclyn Jose was part of the In Memoriam tribute of the 97th Academy Awards on Monday, March 3. Jaclyn was joined by other Hollywood celebrities such as Gene Hackman, Maggie Smith, Gena Rowlands, Michelle Trachtenberg, Shannen Doherty and Olivia Hussey, among others, at the tribute.
“The Academy honors friends and colleagues we lost over the last year. Take a moment to remember the artists and filmmakers we lost in 2024-2025,” Oscars wrote on its website.
In Instagram, Jaclyn's daughter Andi Eigenmann posted the screenshot of Oscars' tribute for Jaclyn.
“My nanay is among other Hollywood artists and filmmakers who are remembered by The Academy this year,” she wrote.
Jaclyn succumbed to heart attack in her home in Quezon City last year.
by Kristofer Purnell Philstar.com
DIFFERENT generations of Filipino-American "High School Musical" stars reunited at one of the many Oscars parties held after the 97th Academy Awards.
Olivia Rodrigo and Vanessa Hudgens both attended the Vanity Fair Oscars afterparty held in the Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, coming together on the red carpet after snapping individual photos.
Both actresses-singers wore black outfits — Olivia in a leather halter top Roberto Cavalli dress and Vanessa in one-shoulder thigh-high
CARLA Pulido Ocampo, daughter of indefatigable Leah Pulido Ocampo (executive director of the Department of Trade and Industry’s Center for International Trade, Expositions and Missions), is a film editor, screenwriter, documentary filmmaker, and cultural worker residing in the indigenous territory of Bontoc, in the mountainous region of the Philippine Cordilleras. She is a co-founder of groups that are purveyors of alternative cinema culture in Northern Philippines: Habi Collective, Balay Habi Studio, and Pelicula Union. She started out in film by composing theme songs and guitar-based scores for her classmates’ shorts, at the then Film Department of the College of Mass Communication, University of the Philippines – Diliman, where she graduated cum laude in 2005 (Bachelor of Arts in Film and Audio-Visual Communication). As tourism officer of Sanchez Mira Municipality in Cagayan, she is best known for her filmography centering on the culture and lore of the indigenous Bontok Igorot people. She is writer, researcher and editor for the seminal documentary “Walang Rape sa Bontok” (2014), which won the 38th Gawad Urian award for Best Documentary in 2015,
and which was shown in the Festival Internacional Signos da Noite in Portugal for two consecutive years (2016 and 2017) as well as in film festivals in the United States, Thailand and France. Her short film “Tokwifi” (she’s the director, screenwriter, editor and colorist) won the Special Jury Prize at the 7th QCinema International Film Festival in 2019. It also won the Best Short Film in the 16th Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival, 43rd Gawad Urian, and 68th FAMAS Awards. It was shown in Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Spain, Myanmar, Chile, and Taiwan film festivals.
Tokwifi (pronounced “tokwee-fee”) is a short film that explores the what-ifs of differing love languages. But more than that, it is also a parable reflecting two significant issues in Philippine media – (1) how women characters are “boxed” within men-dependent stereotypes throughout the history of local television; and (2) how famous Philippine personalities – labeling our indigenous mountain people as “primitive”, “uncivilized” or perennially unkempt – has time and again broken the indigenous heart.
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During the last Sunday of February, Pastor Ken Jensen at non-denominational Northgate Church on Lake Herman Road in Benicia, California talked about Matthew 26:31-32 which states that “Tonight you will all desert Me; for it is written, ‘I shall strike the shepherd and the sheep of the flock will
be scattered.’
But after I am raised up I will precede you to Galilee.” He mentioned about our flaws and failings are no surprise to God. Our pride can blind us to our flaws.
There is the portion in a song that has ingrained into my mind: “Who else is worthy? There is no one. Only Jesus.”
After the church service, I happened to see at Northgate my niece Angela Valdez with her hubby Jose and her talented daughter Tali as we had a little talk.
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Even though I am here in the U.S., I extended my birthday greeting to Senator Jinggoy Estrada (February 17). I asked him about his three wishes on his birthday.
“Good health especially for my parents. Enact more bills that can help our marginalized sector of our society. To have a REAL UNITED country,” he said.
I hope and pray there will be real unity in the Philippines.
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Deanne Marie Mate, or Dia, from Cavite was crowned recently as Miss Reina Hispanicoamericana 2025 in Bolivia. She is the granddaughter of Justice Secretary Boying Remulla.
A singer-songwriter, Dia is in a relationship with OPM singer Juan Carlos Labajo.
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* * President Donald J.Trump signed an executive order to protect all women and end the war on female athletics.
“From now on, women’s sports will be only for women,” said the president who wants to keep men out of the women’s sports.
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The late Au Kumano was a member of the famous Vicor Dancers and Solid Gold Dancers. She appeared in a Dolphy produced movie with Alma Moreno and Rolly Quizon. She was also seen in rapper-comedian Andrew E and Queen of All Media Kris Aquino’s films. She was a choreography instructor of
the defunct German Moreno’s That’s Entertainment show on GMA7 and was a part of a dance group at Eat Bulaga noontime show. Singer Yeng Constantino used to call her “Ate Au” as a sign of respect. Au came from a family of artists. Among them were National Artist for Dance Leonor Orosa-Goquingco, Father of Philippine Glass Sculpture Ramon Gahol Orlina, and LVN Director Felicing Constantino.
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When I interviewed Kris Aquino during the taping of her show directed by Jose Javier Reyes some years ago, she was kind, accommodating and humble. I was then working during the day at Malacañang Palace and at night as a freelance journalist in a broadsheet.
Years have passed and Kris Aquino remains strong and and firm to go on with life. I am praying for her recovery.
* * * Paulo Xavier Ilano from the Philippines recently attended
Alorica’s 2025 kickoff event in Las Vegas, Nevada, where company leaders gathered to celebrate achievements, discuss the future of the organization, and strengthen partnerships. The event brought together more than 120 leaders from across Alorica, led by co-CEOs Michael Clifton and Max Schwendner.
Pictured in a group photo somewhere in this column are Alorica’s Co-CEOs Max and Michael, alongside company leaders Anastasia Bellos, Jesse Rodriguez, Alexandra Spredemann, Cielito
Hailee Steinfeld Photo from Instagram/@voguephilippines
Olivia Rodrigo Photo from Instagram/@oliviarodgrigo Vanessa Hudgens Photo from Instagram/@vanessahudgens
In Instagram, Jaclyn’s daughter Andi Eigenmann posted the screenshot of Oscars’ tribute for Jaclyn. Photo from Instagram/@andieigengirl
MedinA
Promising filmmaker Carla Pulido
Ocampo of ‘Tokwifi’ and ‘Walang Rape sa Bontok’ fame. Photos compiled by Rogelio Medina
The new Miss Reina Hispanicoamericana 2025 is Dia Mate, a Filipina singersongwriter, who was recently crowned in Bolivia.
Six-year-old Tali with her parents, Jose and Angela Valdez at Northgate Church in Benicia, California.
President Trump signs an executive order that keeps men out of the women’s sports.
Senator Jinggoy Estrada
Au Kumano of the Vicor Dancers and Solid Gold Dancers.
PX Ilano (standing, extreme left with long hair), representing Alorica-Philippines.
Kris Aquino
AJ columnist Rogelio Constantino Medina inside the office of First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos; behind is her office desk.
Merriam, Carlos Tala, Sarah Le Blanc, Ricardo Cantú, Annette Tucker, Luis Morales, Paulo Xavier Ilano, Lauren Cox, Maddie Kunik, Grace Chiu, Scott Karlin, Alejandro Vela, Lourdes Gallero, Michelle Fernando, Ross Ong, Eduardo Heart, and Austin Levine.
Her
Ricardo, hails from Panglao, Bohol – a family history that has kept the Philippines close to her heart.
feathery Dolce & Gabbana dress. This marked Vanessa's first red carpet appearance since
giving birth to her first child with husband and American football player Cole Tucker PAGE 9
MAN has always been fascinated about the “fountain of youth” which noted Spanish Explorer Juan Ponce de Leon is reported to have fanatically searched for in Florida in 1513.
Today, beyond looking for that illusive “miraculous” potion, science, which has been searching for eons, appears to have partially cracked “the code” for longevity, a molecular metric called Aging Clock. While the calendar helps us count our chronological age, the Aging Clock measures our actual biological age – how old our body really is – like a running, ticking, digital stopwatch.
This newly discovered biologic Aging Clock tells us which lifestyle factors affect and control our longevity, and could be “quantified” by analyzing and evaluating our blood proteins as “Molecular Markers,” reported by Medical News Today
This new study using the proteomic Aging Clock offers more evidence of how genetics, mental health, chronic illnesses, diet, lifestyles and environmental factors influence how we age, including smoking status, physical activity and living conditions.
Half a million
The clinical analysis evaluated “medical data from almost half a million individuals in the UK BioBank to find out the impact of 164 different lifestyle and environmental facts on aging, age-related illnesses and premature deaths.
Of the 25 lifestyle and environmental factors that are linked to mortality and proteomic aging, as well as biomarkers for major disease risks, 23, thank God, are modifiable. Interestingly, these include “cheese consumption, ease of skin tanning, degree of education, employment status, ethnicity, frequency of feeling tired, gym use, financial difficulties, household income, physical activity, sleeping hours, smoking status, type of housing (house, apartment, mobile home, etc.) use of open fire for heating, and weight and height when the subject was 10 years old.”
The researchers found that “smoking, socioeconomic status, physical activity, and living conditions were the factors that had the most influence on mortality and biological aging. Smoking alone was associated with 21 diseases, and socioeconomic factors and tiredness frequency with 19 diseases.”
Back to basic
In this modern day and age of fancy new trends in health and wellness, this study highlights the fact that “getting back to the basic will possibly have the
Aging Clock
largest and most strategic impact on improving population health,” comments researcher Austin Argentieri, PhD.
The team, overall, “attributed 17% of the variation in risk of death to environmental factors, compared to less than 2% explained by genetic predisposition for 22 major diseases…. and that environmental exposures had a greater effect on lung, heart, and liver diseases, while genetic risk still dominated for dementias and breast cancer.”
The fact that environmental exposures account for 17 percent of mortality risk compared to less than 2 percent from genetics is a great blessing and gives us a wise opportunity to live a healthier lifestyle and significantly lessen our exposure to environmental dangers and poisons, instead of being a hostage fated without hope to our genetic make-up.
Lifestyle versus genetics
Lifestyle and environments are almost 10 times more significant in mortality risk than our genetic predisposition for major disease-causing death. As highlighted in my book, Let’s Stop “Killing” Our Children (on Amazon.com), a manual on healthy lifestyle and disease prevention, we have the power to maintain health and live to our maximal longevity, if a healthy lifestyle is started while in our mother’s womb, in the crib, as a toddler, and in an environment conducive to wellness, physically, mentally, and, biologically as well.
Prevention is our vital key health akin to vaccines as prophylaxis against infectious killers or cancers, like cervical cancer today, but vaccines to prevent other cancers are coming.
Aging and longevity are not fully predetermined by our genetics, but by our habits and behavior and environment. Reducing harmful exposures to tobacco, alcohol, and illicit drugs, and other dangerous elements in our environment are also vital to health.
The molecular marker proteomic Aging Clock will now enable researchers to fully integrate multi-omics data (genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics) and provide us a more comprehensive view of how environmental and genetic factors interplay, and provide clinicians tools for a more individualized, personalized, approach to preventive care strategies for each person.
AI in medicine
Someday, with the help of Artificial Intelligence in Medicine (AIM), your physician would be able to predict illnesses EACH person will have and exactly what exact food items, habits, behavior, and preventive medications the individual
should consume, or not consume, to stay healthy and preclude diseases. All from our DNA and various molecular markers in our system.
An example: Today, through clinical evidencebased research, we know that the so-called Nightshade (Solanaceae) veggies are bad for those with arthritis: raw tomato with skin and seeds, potato, eggplant, bell pepper, paprika, cayenne, chili. They are inflammatory foods and aggravate pains. These veggies also contain solanine which increase intestinal leakiness and adversely affects gastrointestinal microbiota. Tobacco actually belongs to the Nightshade family also. Someday, science will also be able to tell which individual (as early as in childhood) who has a type of personal metabolism which would allow them to eat a lot of red meat and not suffer any untoward health consequences.
For now, let’s follow the guidelines today of eating mostly plant-based food items daily, minimum carbohydrates, eating red meat no more than 3 servings (total of about 12 ounces) a week, drinking a lot of filtered water, about 2 regular cups of coffee (or tea), if desired, eating fruits and healthy nuts and staying away from soft drinks. Of course, no smoking/chewing tobacco, and remember, there is no safe level of alcohol intake.
Occasional (once or twice a month) indulgence in fast food is acceptable to pamper ourselves and for gastronomic delight. Most importantly, we must listen to our body and protect it from harm.
* * * 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.
* * * The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people to live a healthier lifestyle, to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve a happier and more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation, or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable to or appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute for your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health.
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* * Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, health advocate, medical missionary, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He is a recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, presented by then Indiana Governor, U.S. senator, and later a presidential candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry S. Truman, President George HW Bush, pugilist Muhammad Ali, David Letterman, Astronaut Gus Grissom, distinguished educators, scientists, etc. (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday.com, and philipSchua. com; Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com.
Social Security slashes cooperative agreements
Effort supports President’s Executive Order
THE Social Security Administration today 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 Social Security’s Acting Commissioner Lee 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 Preferencing – The White House.
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)
Fil-Am ‘High School Musical’ stars...
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who was her date for the night. Meanwhile, Olivia was accompanied by boyfriend Louis Partridge, star of the "Enola Holmes" movies. The two previously crossed paths at the 2022 Met Gala when Vanessa was cohosting the red carpet and Olivia was an invited guest. Vanessa starred in the three "High School Musical" films, while Olivia broke out in the "High School Musical:
The Series" inspired by the trilogy. In the show, Olivia's character Nini auditions to play the role of Gabriella Montez originated by Vanessa. Other former Disney stars in attendance at the after-party were Miley Cyrus, Selena Gomez, and Lindsay Lohan, as were new Oscar winners Mikey Madison and Zoe Saldaña. Palme d'Or winner "Anora" topped the Oscars this
year as it won five of its six nominations including Best Picture, Best Actress for Madison, and filmmaker Sean Baker winning Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Editing. The honors made the director the first individual to win four Oscars for the same film, and the only other person since Walt Disney in 1953 to win four Oscars in one night (Disney's wins were for four different categories).
Clark County’s Tacos and Tamales Festival is a culinary extravaganza not to
March 28-30, 2025, at the new Event Center at Desert
LAS VEGAS – Clark County Parks & Recreation proudly presents the Tacos and Tamales Festival, a culinary celebration that promises three days of mouthwatering delights and family-friendly entertainment on March 28 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., March 29 from 10 a.m. to 10 pm. and March 30 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.at the newly constructed Event Center at Desert Breeze located at 8455 Kidz Zone Parkway at Durango Drive and Twain Avenue.
Prepare your taste buds and enjoy a delectable fusion of tacos and tamales, including vegan options, meticulously crafted by local vendors, as well as craft beer, tequila and signature Mexican cocktails. The event will feature the highly anticipated People's Choice Best Taco and Tamales Competition, where attendees have the chance to crown their favorites.
Embrace the vibrant cultural scene with live music performances, featuring artists with diverse sounds. Witness the creative process in action with live painters showcasing their talents throughout the event where well-known artists will show off their skills in action. Experience the electrifying world of Lucha Libre, where skilled wrestlers from around the world will bring high-flying action and excitement to the ring. The carnival atmosphere includes games, attractions and a joyous spirit that will make this event a memorable experience for attendees of all ages.
The family-friendly culinary and entertainment festival takes place at the new Event Center at Desert Breeze, a 15-acre facility designed by Clark County Parks & Recreation to host festivals and events for the community to enjoy.
Located at Desert Breeze Park, the Event Center at Desert Breeze has nearly 6 acres of programming space with built-in facilities to accommodate a variety of festivals. The park itself has a storied history with large festivals, including Tacos and Tamales Festival, Extreme Thing, and BITE of Las Vegas where local favorites Imagine Dragons had their career-breaking performance that launched them into international superstardom.
Single Day and Multi Day Admission tickets are on sale now and available for purchase at tacosandtamaleslv.com. Tickets are required for entry.
Single day tickets:
• $7 in advance ($12 at the door) for guests ages 11-59
• $3.50 in advance ($7 at the door) for children ages 5-10 and seniors ages 60 and older • Children 4 and under are free
Multi-day pass:
• $12.50 in advance
($20 at the door)
Guests 21 and older can upgrade their experience for $40 with The Walk, an alcohol tasting experience that includes all-day admission and features unlimited tastings of a curated selection of assorted beverages available at multiple booths throughout the event. Tacos and Tamales Festival promises a weekend of culinary excellence, cultural richness and family fun for all in an immersive experience that goes beyond food, creating lasting memories for all who attend. Event sponsors include Findlay Chevrolet, Kia and Suburu; Star of the Desert Arena at Primm Valley Casino Resorts; and Estrella Jalisco.
For more information about Tacos and Tamales Festival, please visit tacosandtamaleslv.comor connect on Facebook and Instagram.
