051724 - San Diego Edition

DATELINE USA

Fil-Am journalists among finalists in 2024 Pulitzer Prizes

FILIPINO American investigative journalist Nicole Dungca has been recognized as one of the outstanding finalists in the 2024 Pulitzer Prizes, the highest recognition for journalistic excellence in the U.S. Dungca is no stranger to doing impactful work. As part of a team from “The Washington Post,” including journalists Claire Healy and Davao visual artist Ren Galeno, the journalist is a finalist in the “Illustrated Reporting and Commentary” category for their collaborative effort on the story titled “Searching for Maura.”

This investigative piece tackles the narrative surrounding Maura and her role in uncovering racial injustices within the Smithsonian’s brain collection, demonstrating the power of storytelling to ignite change.

In an Instagram post, the visual artist shared, “I am endlessly grateful to the incredible team at the Washington Post,

Fil-Ams

join rally to demand child care support for working moms

The rally is part of a nationwide campaign called ‘A Day Without Child Care’

NORTHRIDGE – Working moms struggling to find quality, affordable child care held a rally in Northridge Monday, May 13 to call attention to the challenges they face raising families.

Part of a nationwide campaign called A Day Without Child Care, the rally was held at Dignity Health – Northridge Hospital Medical Center the day after Mother’s Day, when all moms were celebrated. Working moms were the focus of efforts to call attention to the burdens they bear from lack of child care and demand “thriving wages for childcare providers, affordable care for families, a childcare system built on

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Marcos forms special body on human rights

by Melvin Gascon, Russel loReto Inquirer.net

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has issued Administrative Order No. 22 creating what the presidential Communications Office (PCO) described as an interagency “super body” tasked to “enhance [government] mechanisms for the promotion and protection of human rights in the Philippines.”

Critics, however, called the move an attempt by his administration to evade accountability for

and window-dress the country’s human rights situation.

“A Special Committee on Human Rights Coordination is hereby created under the (Presidential Human Rights Committee)… [which] shall be in charge of sustaining initiatives and accomplishments of the (United Nations Joint Program on Human Rights) in the areas of law enforcement, criminal justice, and policymaking,” Marcos said in the order signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on May 8, which will take effect immediately upon its

PH-US tie-up on space tech to help monitor EEZ

by Dona z pazzibuGan Inquirer.net

MANILA — The Philippines and the United States have agreed to further cooperation on space technology, including its use for maritime domain surveillance of Manila’s territorial waters and exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

Both sides held the inaugural bilateral space dialogue in Washington on May 2, aimed at expanding bilateral cooperation on outer space innovation, “including the use of space-based Earth observation

Pacquiao eyes Senate comeback

satellite data for a wide variety of socioeconomic applications.”

“The delegations recognized the potential for expanded cooperation on the use of space for maritime domain awareness, including through the U.S. Department of Transportation-led SeaVision program,” said a joint statement released on Tuesday, May 14.

“Such programs can help monitor and document vessels in the Philippines’ territorial waters and EEZ, ensure the safety of mariners at sea, monitor and help

NBI to probe China embassy ‘wiretapping’

by

MANILA — Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla has ordered the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to look into possible violations of the wiretapping law by the Chinese embassy. In a statement on Tuesday, May 14, Remulla said he gave the order for an “in-depth investigation” after the Chinese embassy released an alleged transcript of a conversation between its diplomat and the chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Western Command regarding a “new model” for managing the Ayungin Shoal issue.

“Diplomatic immunity should never be used as a license to exploit our country’s peace and harmony for selfish motives. This privilege does not shield anyone from the consequences of the rule of Law,” Remulla said.

He added that while diplomats enjoy the privileges and immunities accorded to them, they are dutybound to respect the laws and regulations of their u PAGE 2

South China Sea

maritime claims

MANILA — Manny Pacquiao wants another shot at being a senator.

The retired boxing icon, who served the Senate for six years before running for president in 2022, on Friday, May 10 confirmed in an ambush interview by ABSCBN that he’s joining next year’s senatorial race. The 45-year-old Pacquiao, who retired from professional boxing in 2021, gave the thumbs-up sign when asked if he’s running under President Marcos’ party – Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP).

“Yes, yes,” said Pacquiao. “Under PFP.”

The sportsman/politician from General Santos City remains a strong, viable candidate in next year’s midterm elections. He placed sixth in a recent survey by Pulse Asia Research Inc. for senatorial candidates.

The former congressman from Sarangani (2010 to 2016) placed sixth in the Pulse by abac coRDeRo Philstar.com

Former Senator Manny Pacquiao

Photo from Instagram/@mannypacquiao

Asia survey released last month, behind Rep. Erwin Tulfo, former senator Tito Sotto, former president Rodrigo Duterte, Sen. Bong Go and Sen. Pia Cayetano. Trailing Pacquiao in the survey were

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2 China coast guard ships try to block ‘Atin Ito’ convoy

by nestoR coRRales Inquirer.net

WEST PHILIPPINE SEA — Two China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels on Wednesday, May 15 shadowed and tried to block the Filipino civilian-led convoy sailing toward Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), a resource-rich area in the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) that was seized by China in 2012. At 6:15 p.m., a CCG ship, with body No. 4108, maneuvered to block FB Bing Bing, one of the four commercial fishing vessels comprising the supply mission organized by the Akbayan-led “Atin Ito” (This is Ours) Coalition. The fishing boats, called by locals as “Pangulong,” carried volunteers,

by United States

MANILA — Excessive maritime claims advanced by China and two other claimants in the South China Sea (SCS) were the most operationally challenged by United States forces under the Freedom of Navigation program, according to the latest annual U.S. Department of Defense FON report.

The defense department released on Thursday, May 9 its annual FON Report for fiscal year 2023. During the period from Oct. 1, 2022 through Sept. 30, 2023, U.S. forces operationally challenged 29 different excessive maritime claims advanced by 17 different claimants throughout the world.

Excessive maritime claims are unlawful attempts by coastal

Daphne Galvez Philstar.com

FUN GAMES. Children participate in traditional parlor games during the fiesta of Barangay Jesus Dela Peña in Marikina City on Wednesday, May 15. ManilaTimes.net photo by John Orven Verdote

NBI to probe China embassy...

host countries.

The Chinese embassy earlier said the recorded conversation was between a Chinese diplomat and Wescom chief Vice Adm. Alberto Carlos. The conversation reportedly took place last Jan. 3.

In the reported “new model,” the Chinese agreed to allow the delivery only of food and provisions to troops on BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal, but not construction materials.

The Navy intentionally beached the Sierra Madre in 1999 so it would serve as outpost for a handful of Marines.

Under the Anti-Wiretapping Act, it is illegal to record conversations without the consent of all those participating. Secret wiretapping is also illegal without court approval.

Violators face imprisonment of up to six years and foreigners would be deported, but there is no specific provision for offenders who are diplomats.

The DOJ noted that under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, diplomats, employees of international organizations and their immediate family members are covered by a certain degree of diplomatic immunity during their stay in a receiving state.

However, diplomatic immunity is only with respect to official acts performed in the exercise of official duties and functions necessary for advocating international comity, policies and interests, it added.

“If the Chinese embassy official is entitled to diplomatic immunity, he cannot be prosecuted but he can be expelled as persona non grata,” retired Supreme Court associate justice Antonio Carpio earlier said. Philippine security officials are urging the expulsion of the Chinese embassy officers for violating Philippine law sand diplomatic protocols.

Meanwhile, the Inter-Agency Committee on Foreign Students (IACFS) said it wants the NBI and the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) to make a “security assessment” on the alleged activities of spies

and sleeper cells in the country.

Bureau of Immigration (BI) spokesperson Dana Sandoval said at the IACFS meeting on Monday that while they were unable to detect anything irregular with the bureau’s process of issuing student visas to foreigners, there were national security concerns that should be considered.

Sandoval did not say if the “security assessment” would be targeting a particular nationality.

“Of course they could have all the complete documents but then the national concern on sleeper cells was also raised, but that would be under NBI and the NICA already. But in terms of visa issue, they did not find anything irregular,” said Sandoval.

Sandoval said they would cooperate with the NBI or NICA in case the two agencies request for data. “We would gladly share the data as part of the inter-agency.”

It was reported last month that the Philippine National Police (PNP) is conducting background checks on Chinese students studying in Cagayan province amid speculations that they might be spies or part of sleeper cells for the Chinese military.

In an interview with Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon, Sandoval said that after the COVID-19 pandemic, they noticed an increase in the number of foreign students in the country in 2023.

The BI, NBI, NICA, the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Education (DepEd) are memberagencies of the IACFS which is chaired by the Commission on Higher Education.

POGO hospital raided

In Pasay City, Philippine AntiOrganized Crime Commission raided and shut down on Monday a clandestine hospital catering to employees of Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) firms.

PAOCC executive director

Gilbert Cruz said policemen and BI personnel swooped down on the hospital located inside the Hobbies of Asia compound on Macapagal Ave. at around 5:30 p.m.

Cruz said the operation was based on information that the hospital was operating without a license from the Department of Health.

Three doctors – two Vietnamese and a Chinese – were taken into custody. Also apprehended were a Vietnamese nurse and a Chinese pharmacist.

“They failed to show their licenses to practice as foreign professionals from the Professional Regulation Commission,” Cruz said in a message on Viber.

The suspects were brought to the BI for immigration inquest.

Two patients, a Vietnamese and a Chinese, were allowed to leave after they presented their visas. — Evelyn Macairan, Emmanuel

forms special body on...

changing its stand on its refusal to recognize the ICC’s jurisdiction to investigate Duterte for alleged crimes against humanity over the drug war killings.

According to PCO Secretary Cheloy Garafil, the legal brief is part of “standard procedure” to ensure “that our administration remains prepared for any scenario.”

Under AO 22, the special committee will be composed of Bersamin as chair and Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla as cochair, with Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo and Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos as members.

Described by the PCO as a “super body,” the committee is also mandated to “strengthen existing mechanisms for the protection and promotion of human rights.”

Committee’s functions

The new body will cover matters like “investigation and accountability,” “datagathering on alleged human rights violations by law enforcement agencies,” and “expanding civic space and engagement with [the] private sector.”

It will also tackle matters involving “national mechanisms for implementation, reporting and follow-up” and a “human rights-based approach toward drug control.”

“For this purpose, the special committee may, whenever necessary, invite as member and/ or observer such other government agencies, including the Commission on Human Rights (CHR), Dangerous Drugs Board and AntiTerrorism Council-Program Management Center,” Marcos said in AO 22.

According to him, the super body is also tasked to “facilitate access to redress mechanism by victims of human rights violations.”

“[The committee shall] monitor and ensure effective implementation of government policies and programs aimed at upholding and protecting human rights of persons deprived of liberty, particularly in guaranteeing that no one is subjected to torture and other cruel, inhumane or degrading treatment or punishment,” he said.

The PCO did not reply to queries about concerns that the “special committee” usurps or duplicates the functions of the CHR.

But in issuing the order, the president cited the significance of maintaining and intensifying the accomplishments of the United Nations for the Joint Program on Human Rights (UNJP).

He said the imminent expiration of the UNJP on July 31 raised the need for the government to “[institutionalize] a strong and healthy multistakeholder process for the promotion and protection of human rights in the Philippines.”

The country is a state party to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights; and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

Its state-party involvement led to the creation of the presidential Human Rights Committee (PHRC) to comply with the Philippines’ obligations to international human rights groups.

The PHRC is also tasked with formulating a National Human Rights Action Plan.

Critics weigh in For Carlos Conde, a senior researcher at Human Rights Watch’s Asia division, the committee’s lack of an accountability mechanism and independence from government influence was a cause for concern.

“On paper, the special committee’s aim are laudable. God knows institutionalizing respect for and protection of human rights in the Philippines is of utmost concern,” Conde told the Inquirer. “However, I view the creation of this committee with some concern… [The] committee will function mainly as a propaganda tool of the government to respond to criticism of the government’s dismal human rights record.” He also noted that the special committee did not have UN or civil society participation.

“Even the CHR is not included and will only be optional. The committee is composed of government agencies that have a poor record when it comes to accountability for human rights abuses,” Conde said.

“The human rights situation under Marcos demands accountability. That is the key need of the moment. If Marcos really wants to ensure accountability, he needs to keep the CHR independent and give it all the resources it needs,” he added.

Bayan Muna executive vice president Carlos Isagani Zarate echoed a similar sentiment, saying that there was “nothing special regarding this committee as it is just another bureaucratic layer to make the Marcos Jr. administration acceptable in the community of nations where human rights is of paramount concern.”

“If Marcos Jr. is truly sincere in the promotion and protection of human rights, his administration should start by abolishing the [National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict], the main government machinery created by his disgraced predecessor that promotes and enables the massive and grave violation of human rights in the country these past years and until now,” Zarate said.

Human rights group Karapatan called the committee “a desperate attempt to windowdress the grave human rights situation in the country.”

“With its premise of addressing human rights issues through mere ‘coordination,’ one cannot expect much from this ‘special committee,’” Karapatan said in a statement. “It will go the way of the Inter-Agency Committee created under Administrative Order No. 35 tasked to resolve extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, torture, and other grave violations of human rights, which has a pitiful record.”

Amnesty International, in a statement, said:

“The government doesn’t need a ‘super body’ to champion human rights. What it needs to do is accept and implement the recommendations of the UNHRC, the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression and Opinion and get serious about returning to the ICC. What the president needs to do is to walk the talk — address and resolve human rights violations by leaning in on the proposals presented by Amnesty International in its annual report and human rights legislative agenda.” n

Tupas n

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla speaks on July 19, 2023. STAR / Ernie Penaredondo

South China Sea has most excessive...

identified excessive maritime claims in the South China Sea by China, Vietnam and Taiwan that were challenged by U.S. FON Program.

Challenged were China’s straight baselines not drawn in conformance with international law or the Chinese government’s Declaration on the Baselines of the Territorial Sea; requiring prior approval for military survey activities in the exclusive economic zone; restrictions on foreign aircraft flying through an Air Defense Identification Zone without the intent to enter national airspace; requiring prior permission for innocent passage of foreign military ships through the territorial sea; and Beijing’s claims of “historic rights” in the South China Sea. Also challenged were Taiwan requiring prior notice for foreign military vessels to conduct innocent passage in the territorial sea and Vietnam’s straight baselines that do not conform with UNCLOS and imposing prior notification for foreign warships to enter the territorial sea.

The U.S. rejected unlawful and sweeping maritime claims in the South China Sea that pose a serious threat to the freedom of the seas, including the freedoms of navigation and overflight, free trade and unimpeded commerce, and freedom of economic opportunity for South China Sea littoral nations.

According to the U.S. Navy, China, Vietnam and Taiwan “purport to require either permission or advance notification before a foreign military vessel engages in ‘innocent passage’ through the territorial sea.”

U.S. forces also challenged excessive maritime claims by Cambodia in the Gulf of Thailand; Colombia (Caribbean Sea), Croatia (Adriatic Sea); Dominican Republic; Iran (Strait of Hormuz, Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman); Japan (vicinity of Tsushima Strait and Senkaku Islands); Latvia (Baltic Sea); Maldives; Malta (Mediterranean Sea); Oman (Strait of Hormuz); Russia (Bering Strait); Thailand (Andaman Sea); United Arab Emirates

(Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman), and Yemen (Bab el-Mandep Strait).

“Unlawful and sweeping excessive maritime claims – or incoherent legal theories or maritime entitlement – pose a threat to the legal foundation of the rules-based international order,” according to the report.

The defense department said the U.S. is committed to confronting this threat by challenging excessive maritime claims.

“As long as some countries continue to assert limits on maritime rights and freedoms that exceed coastal state authorities nested under customary international law, the United States will continue to challenge such unlawful claim,” it said.

‘Only Philippines can create island in Escoda’

The Philippines is the only country that can create an artificial island on Escoda Shoal, an island within the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ), according to former Supreme Court associate justice Antonio Carpio on Saturday, May 11.

“(Escoda Shoal) is part of the 200 nautical mile EEZ of the Philippines. As such, only the Philippines can create an artificial island on Escoda Shoal,” Carpio told The STAR in a text message.

“Any structure or artificial island erected by China on Escoda Shoal is illegal under international law,” he added.

In such instances that China constructs an artificial island or any structure in Escoda Shoal, Carpio said the Philippines can seek legal options, such as filing a case for damage to the marine environment for the destruction of the coral reef.

“The case will be filed with an UNCLOS tribunal,” he added.

Carpio also pointed out that the purpose of China in creating an artificial island is to create a military outpost that would “prevent the Philippines from getting the gas in Reed Bank and in other nearby areas.” (by Pia Lee-Brago/Philstar.com) n

Fil-Am journalists among finalists in 2024 Pulitzer Prizes...

whose infectious passion and drive transcends oceans.”

“[Healy], [Dungca], thank you for your fearless reporting.

You’ve helped bring this dark chapter of our history into the light. It’s been an honor to work with you,” the artist added.

PH-US tie-up on space tech...

protect the environment, and help combat illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing,” it added.

Free system access

SeaVision is a web-based maritime situational awareness tool that provides a broad array of maritime information.

The system uses satellite imagery, transponders and infrared to track ships round the clock, providing near real-time and historical information on vessel positions and details.

Since 2021, the United States has been providing free access to the system to the Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Navy, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and National Coast Watch Center.

“possible expansion of cooperation of the joint USAIDNasa SERVIR program, which expanded last year to include the Philippines,” the statement also said.

Tracking tool

A joint program of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (Nasa) and United States Agency for International Development (Usaid), SERVIR provides critical information and support services to track environmental changes, evaluate ecological threats, and respond to damage from disasters.

The Philippine delegation was led by Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) Deputy Director General for space science and technology Gay Jane Perez.

PhilSA mandate PhilSA was created under Republic Act No. 11363, or the Philippine Space Act.

An attached agency of the Office of the president for purposes of policy and program coordination, it is the central government agency addressing all national issues and activities related to space science and technology applications, and to ensure alignment in national policies and priorities.

In addition to her journalistic pursuits, Dungca currently serves as the president of the Asian American Journalists Association.

Alongside her, two other Filipinas, photographer Hannah Reyes Morales and Galeno, have also secured their places among the finalists. Morales has been acknowledged as a finalist in the “Feature Photography” category for her photographic work featured in the New York Times story titled “How the Youth Boom in Africa Will

Notably, Dungca’s dedication to investigative journalism extends beyond this prestigious nomination. As the co-host of the investigative podcast “Broken Doors,” she played an integral role in the podcast’s recognition with the Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Award for Radio. Furthermore, her previous nomination as a finalist in the Audio Reporting category of the Pulitzer Prizes in 2023 speaks volumes about her consistent commitment to excellence in impactful journalistic endeavors.

Change the World.”

Expressing her gratitude at the news of her nomination, Morales took to her Instagram page to reflect on the profound impact of her work and the invaluable contributions of those she had the privilege to photograph. “I’m still in a daze since that call, overwhelmed and grateful for the chance to have worked on this story, written by @ declanwalsh. Thank you to everyone we photographed – it was not the easiest assignment but those we photographed helped us understand, bit by bit, what it means to be young and reshaping Africa, and the world.” (Hans Carbonilla/ Inquirer.net) n

Both sides also agreed to “consider the possible hosting in the Philippines of a U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Landsat ground station,” according to the joint statement.

The Landsat program is a U.S. satellite system capable of repeated multi-spectral observations of the global land surface at a moderate scale that show both natural and humaninduced change.

The Philippines also expressed interest in the

The U.S. delegation was led by State Department Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs Deputy Assistant Secretary Rahima Kandahari.

PhilSA Director General Joel Marciano Jr., Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs acting Assistant Secretary Jennifer Littlejohn and National Space Council Executive Secretary Chirag Parikh gave the welcome and keynote messages.

Among its mandate is “to safeguard Philippine sovereignty, territorial integrity, Philippine interest, and the right to self-determination as mandated by Article II, Section 7 of the 1987 Constitution.” It is also tasked to support “the development, application and utilization of science and technology that will foster patriotism and nationalism and accelerate social progress, such as the development of space technology and applications for its security and for the benefit of its citizens.”

PhilSA also seeks to ensure that the Philippines is officially represented in the international space community for establishing cooperation agreements and linkages on space development. n

Pacquiao eyes Senate...

City Mayor Abigail Binay. Pacquiao ran for senator in 2016 and placed seventh with over 16 million votes. In the 2022 presidential elections, the only boxer in history to win world titles in seven weight divisions placed third under the PROMDI banner with 3,663,113 votes behind Marcos (31,629,783) and Leni Robredo (15,035,773). n

Sen. Ronald dela Rosa, Sen. Imee Marcos, former Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso, broadcaster Ben Tulfo, Sen. Ramon Revilla Jr. and Makati

2 China coast guard ships try to block ‘Atin Ito’...

journalists and fishermen. Leonardo Cuaresma, president of the New Masinloc Fishermen Association, who is onboard FB Bing Bing, said their boat was 24 nautical miles (44.44 kilometers) away from their destination in Panatag, or Bajo de Masinoc when the incident happened.

Their location was about 100 nautical miles (185.2 km) from Masinloc town in Zambales province, where the convoy, initially accompanied by a fifth commercial fishing boat and about 100 small outriggers, set sail early in the morning on Wednesday, May 15.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), which is escorting the civilian convoy through the 44-meter BRP Bagacay, confirmed the presence of two CCG vessels.

In a Viber message to reporters late Wednesday afternoon, Emman Hizon, one of Atin Ito’s organizers, reported that two Chinese vessels had already been spotted in the area. These CCG vessels have body Nos. 4108 and 4109, he said.

The Chinese sighting led to an exchange of “radio challenges” between the PCG and its counterpart.

No Filipinos onboard the fishing boats were hurt during the incident.

Through a radio message, Rafaela David, coconvener of Atin Ito Coalition who was on FB Bing Bing, instructed other members of the convoy to “proceed.”

Monitoring Before this encounter, a PCG aircraft (Cessna Caravan 2081)

sent to monitor the civilian mission was able to track 19 China-flagged vessels sailing near Panatag at 8:23 a.m. This comprised eight CCG vessels, 10 suspected Chinese maritime militia vessels and People’s Liberation Army-Navy vessel 668, based on a PCG summary report.

The PCG aircraft also detected “two floating barriers at the southeast entrance of [Bajo de Masinloc].”

This led to four radio challenges issued by China against the PCG aircraft, which returned to Manila by 10 a.m.

American maritime expert Ray Powell earlier said that China had sent a “huge force” of ships to blockade Panatag as the civilian convoy sailed to the contested shoal.

Atin Ito’s David said: “China’s narrative has significantly faltered. It is running a very bad script. When a superpower deploys a fleet of military vessels to act as a goalkeeper in a shoal it has no authority over, against a group of wooden fishing boats manned by Filipino civilians, it is unmistakably exposed as an aggressor, usurper and illegal occupant.”

“China’s actions in the West Philippine Sea reveal not strength, but a glaring weakness. When it resorts to intimidating small, civilian fishing vessels with military might, it showcases a narrative built on fear rather than legitimate authority,” she added.

Located inside the Philippines’ 200-nautical-mile (370 km) EEZ, Panatag Shoal is coveted for its bountiful fish stocks and a lagoon that provides a safe

haven for vessels during storms. More ships from PCG

At 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, the Atin Ito convoy distributed fuel and food supplies to about 100 fishermen and installed buoys marked with “WPS, Atin Ito”

(WPS, This is Ours) in an area some 40 km west of Masinloc town.

After installing the buoys and finishing the first round of supply missions to local fishermen, four of the main commercial fishing boats continued their journey to Panatag, while the smaller boats returned to Matalvis Port in Masinloc.

The civilian convoy was expected to reach the vicinity of Panatag at 6 a.m. on Thursday, May 16.

Rear Adm. Armand Balilo, PCG spokesperson, told the Inquirer on Wednesday afternoon that the BRP Panglao and BRP Boracay, coming from Manila and Batangas province, were on their way to Panatag to “rendezvous the convoy.”

In a news briefing, Commodore Jay Tarriela, PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, said: “Because of the multiple deployments of the People’s Republic of China to block our ‘Atin Ito’ coalition, our [PCG] commandant has decided to add two more coast guard vessels to ensure the safety of our countrymen should there be any untoward incidents.”

“There’s no denying the fact [that] there are a lot of (CCG) vessels deployed there. You can use different ways, whether commercial satellite info… it’s open source, and [it] could be confirmed that what Ray Powell said was true… So, I won’t deny it,” said Tarriela.

Asked whether this would escalate tensions in the West Philippine Sea, Tarriela said China should be blamed for any provocation.

“Are we provoking them? Are we escalating the tension?” asked Tarriela. “No, they’re the ones escalating the tension because of the mere fact that they are deploying their coast guard vessels, their maritime militia vessels to block a civil society initiative in sailing within our own EEZ.”

Asserting sovereignty

In a statement on Wednesday, Edicio dela Torre of the Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement, also an Atin Ito coconvener,

said “the persistent aggression displayed by China in the West Philippine Sea only highlights its lack of legitimate claim.”

“Our mission is a testament to the resilience and rightful assertion of our sovereignty by the Filipino people. This civilian supply mission is not just about delivering supplies, it’s about reaffirming our presence and rights in our own waters,” he said.

“The world is watching, and the narrative of rightful ownership and peaceful assertion is clearly on our side,” Dela Torre said.

In another statement, Bishop Pablo Virgilio David, president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, called for prayers “that no untoward incident happens” to the civilian convoy.

“A stubborn civilian presence instead of a joint military show of force is indeed the peaceful, nonviolent approach to this conflict. This is also a good test case of civilian supremacy over the military, which is essential in a true democracy,” David said.

“This is a better way to express our unity as a nation and assert our sovereignty toward China without succumbing to the demands of warmongers who are eager to involve us in a violent proxy war that would only benefit the major arms industries,” he added.

Atin Ito led a similar mission in December to deliver supplies to troops stationed at Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal off Palawan province, but it cut short its journey due to what it described as shadowing and harassment by Chinese coast guard ships.

China’s embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the civilian mission. It has maintained China has “indisputable sovereignty over the South China Sea Islands and the adjacent waters.”

China claims almost all of the South China Sea, including parts claimed by the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam.

But a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration found that China’s sweeping claims have no legal basis. — with reports from Kathleen de Villa and Reuters

Fil-Ams join rally to...

racial and gender justice, and an expanded,

according to organizers.

Among those who joined the rally were Filipino American

care providers and advocates, including Lourdes Duarte, a

from Mar Vista, California.

“Child care providers ensure that parents can go to work knowing their child is in a safe, nurturing and educational environment. Our work is important to the economy of our city, our state and our country, Duarte said.

“Yet, most providers earn low wages and struggle to keep their doors open. That is why we are coming together to urge (California) Governor Gavin Newsom to respect our profession and make sure that we earn a livable wage that reflects the true cost of the care we provide.”

Also attending the rally were Los Angeles City Council member Nithya Raman, other child care providers, working

challenges working moms face, including lack of child care, long waiting lists for child care facilities, low wages for providers and the high cost of care.

The governor’s revised budget proposal contains cuts to child care services and programs provided by the state. One proposal is a cut to Cal WORKs which provides eligible families child care subsidies.

“We are one of the only rich countries in the entire world that expects families to carry this burden all on their own … and to me that is shameful,” Raman said at the morning event, organized by Service Employees International Union Local 99. Rally organizers said in

Dateline PhiliPPines

Israel honors fallen soldiers, Filipinos

by Bernadette e tamayo ManilaTimes.com

THE Embassy of Israel in the Philippines commemorated Israel’s Memorial Day for the fallen soldiers and victims of terror attacks, including the four Filipinos killed by Hamas militants in October 2023.

The embassy said this year’s commemoration honored not only the Israeli fallen soldiers and civilians but also the “four loyal and brave Filipino caregivers who were murdered by Hamas terrorists” on Oct. 7, 2023.

Israel Memorial Day was held on May 13. Israel’s 76th Independence Day was on May 14.

In a statement, the embassy said prayers and a moment of silence were offered to commemorate Filipino caregivers Angelyn Aguirre, Loreta Alacre, Grace Cabrera and Paul Vincent Castelvi, who were killed by Hamas when they

attacked a farm settlement.

The embassy also honored Sgt. Cydrick Garin, a FilipinoIsraeli who served in the Israel Defense Forces and was killed in action early this year.

Israeli Ambassador to Manila Ilan Fluss said the event was an opportunity to recognize overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Israel.

“Most of them are still in our country, and they feel at home and loyal to their employers,” he said.

“Aside from OFWs, Filipino volunteers are in Israel to express unity with Israel during this difficult time. I could feel the spirit of support and solidarity among our friends from the Philippines,” Fluss said.

This year is the first observance of Memorial Day and Independence Day while Israel is at war, the embassy said. On Oct. 7, 2023, more than 1,200 casualties were recorded — the “highest number of Jews

murdered in one day since the Holocaust,” it added.

The atrocities include sexual violence, kidnapping, and other “unimaginable acts by Hamas.”

To date, 132 Israelis are still held in captivity in Gaza by Hamas, the embassy said.

“Most of the people in Israel, especially the family and loved ones of the hostages, are not in the mood for celebration. Israel continues its efforts to bring the hostages back home,” Fluss said.

The envoy offered an ancient Jewish prayer for the fallen soldiers and civilians on Israel’s Memorial Day.

“We feel mixed emotions — sadness on Memorial Day but happiness for Independence Day. Our life in Israel is in between remembering the loss of lives and celebrating the freedom, independence, and the great success of the state of Israel that shines amongst the nations,” Fluss said. n

Marcos vows to fend off destabilization plots

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday, May 16 vowed to quash destabilization plots even as he called on the military to continue its loyalty and service to the country.

Speaking before the Army’s 4th Infantry Division (4ID) at Camp Edilberto Evangelista in Cagayan de Oro City, Marcos said he would not allow attempts to sow division in the country.

“We will also not allow agents within the country to destabilize our government and create division within our nation,” Marcos said, as quoted in a Presidential Communications Office (PCO) news release.

“So, I urge all of you to continue to [demonstrate] your loyalty, patriotism, and service to your country. And let that love of country remain as your compass in your duty to our country and to our people,” he added.

Earlier, former Senator

Antonio Trillanes IV, who is also a former soldier, claimed that high-ranking police officials were recruiting personnel to join the ouster plot against the Marcos administration.

The commander-in-chief said that he has not received any reports of a destabilization plot involving active police officials against his administration, noting the police are not engaged in politicking.

Marcos, however, did not rule out the possibility that retired officials could be hatching a destabilization plot.

Likewise, Marcos appealed to the Army troops to keep the momentum of their operations until the areas were completely cleared of terrorist influence.

He also emphasized the need for them to adapt to the changing times and learn how to combat new threats to the nation’s security, particularly in the digital realm.

“I call on you to develop the

skills and acquire [knowledge] to combat new forms of warfare, including those that extend up to the digital realm,” Marcos said.

“We must be prepared to fight false narratives, disinformation, and digital operations that seek to sow conflict [against us] and among us,” he added.

The president warned that the country’s enemies may be hiding in the shadows, or infiltrating the very communities and institutions that the government seeks to protect.

He said the government would be ready to fight back and implement countermeasures to thwart any nefarious schemes and attempts.

Dev’t projects vs. insurgency

In the same speech, the president reported that the government has so far invested PHP5.3 billion in 758 projects across 356 barangays, as part of the campaign against against communist insurgency.

u PAGE 7

Atin Ito: Mission accomplished

by michael PunongBayan Philstar.com

MANILA — “Diskarteng Pinoy” – the Filipino way – made the day for the Atin Ito Coalition’s “peace and solidarity regatta” as it managed to elude a Chinese blockade of Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal to accomplish its mission of delivering 1,000 liters of fuel and 200 food packs to Filipino fishermen in the area.

“This stands as a testament to the ingenuity, resourcefulness and bravery of the Filipino spirit amid formidable challenges. China may possess larger and more vessels, and wield strong water cannons, but we possess a secret weapon: our ‘diskarteng Pinoy,’ which, when coupled with determination and love for fellow citizens and country, can surmount even the most daunting adversity,” Atin Ito co-convenor and Akbayan president Rafaela David said.

Organizers said it was an advance team aboard the MV Franz Gavin, which completed the trip to Panatag – unmolested by the Chinese – after it left Subic Fishport a day ahead of the main convoy’s departure from Masinloc, Zambales on Wednesday.

“Despite China’s massive blockade, we managed to breach their illegal blockade, reaching the

vicinity of Bajo de Masinloc to support our fishers with essential supplies,” David said. “Mission accomplished.”

Atin Ito mission spokesman Emman Hizon told The STAR the advance contingent managed to reach its destination – also called Bajo de Masinloc – and deliver supplies despite being shadowed by a China People’s Liberation Army Navy warship with bow number 175.

With the advance team’s having managed already to accomplish the main task of handing over food and fuel to fishermen, the main convoy of four civilian vessels escorted by at least three Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) boats – amid radio challenge from the Chinese – decided to cut short its trip some 50 nautical miles from Panatag Shoal and 10 nautical miles from the blockade set up by the China Coast Guard, according to Hizon. But the main convoy, he said, was able to distribute fuel and supplies to fishermen and lay buoys and markers on its way back to Subic Fishport. The group was expected to arrive at midnight Friday, May 17.

“Atin Ito’s advance team has already reached the vicinity of Bajo de Masinloc and distributed supplies to Filipino fishers. Mission accomplished! Atin Ito

MANILA –

Features OpiniOn

Abusing visa powers

WILL anomalies never end in the Bureau of Immigration? On Nov. 9, 2020 while the COVID pandemic was raging with no vaccine available, Rodrigo Duterte summoned over 40 BI employees to Malacañang to berate them over the so-called pastillas scam. This referred to the anomalous entry of foreigners mostly from China who ended up working in Philippine offshore gaming operator or POGO firms. The cash payments for facilitating the entry were reportedly handed over to BI personnel in rolled-up bundles resembling pastillas or local milk pastry.

Duterte did not carry out his threat to make the BI employees eat paper rolled up like pastillas, which supposedly contained cash. The BI employees were already suspended at the time over the scam. In June 2022, the Office of the Ombudsman dismissed 45 of them from the service. You’d think BI personnel would have learned their lesson from that scandal. Yet here we are again, with the House of Representatives investigating reports that unscrupulous BI personnel are abusing for a fee the bureau’s authority to convert tourist visas into student visas. The authority is given to the BI under Executive Order 285, issued in 2000 during the presidency

of Joseph Estrada. EO 285 also created an inter-agency committee on foreign students, chaired by the Commission on Higher Education. The committee members are the Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Education, National Bureau of Investigation and National Intelligence Coordinating Agency. With questions raised about a reported influx of Chinese students in Cagayan, a House committee has learned that in 2023, the BI granted student visas to 16,200 Chinese nationals. It’s unclear if most of the 16,200 initially entered the Philippines on tourist visas. But Surigao del Norte 2nd District Rep. Robert Ace Barbers is urging Malacañang to scrap EO 285, and to instead transfer to the DFA

the authority to convert tourist visas to student visas.

Barbers has acknowledged that under normal circumstances, the influx of foreign students should not be a problem, but the country’s dispute with China over maritime issues as well as peace

nationals. Possible corruption in the BI is another reason to tighten and streamline visa rules. (Philstar.com)

The goldmine that is Philippine tourism

RFM meetings, and last year I had the opportunity to visit some provinces where we conducted our nationwide mentoring and national events.

I HAVE said it time and again, and I will not tire of saying it: the Philippines has so much to offer the traveler. There is so much potential in Philippine tourism: it’s a real goldmine. That is why we had again our annual Tourism Summit at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay.

This year’s Tourism Summit got a boost with the presence of First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, who has been very supportive of our MSMEs by making it a point to grace our events.

Of course, Department of Tourism Sec. Christina Garcia Frasco was with us, and personally congratulated the winners for this year’s Inspiring Tourism Entrepreneurs Awards. She was also with us at our Tourism Summit last year in Cebu, and I was glad for the opportunity to travel again to this city.

I travel a lot. Mostly for work and, when time allows it, for leisure. For my work with the ASEAN, I go on short trips throughout Southeast Asia; I also enjoy visiting Japan and Hong Kong. Here in the Philippines, every year I get on the boat and sail around our beautiful islands. I also visit Baguio almost regularly for our

For leisure, my travel mode of choice is by water. It is the best way to see what I believe are the Philippines’ greatest travel assets: its islands. Although I stopped diving years ago and just snorkel nowadays, it is still quite an enjoyable experience hopping from island to island in the southern corridors. Close to Manila is the Batangas-Mindoro corridor.

If you’re a diving enthusiast like me, you could ease into the trip starting with Anilao and Puerto Galera. Apo Reef in Mindoro offers one of the best diving in these parts. This also is a convenient entry point to my favorite travel destination, Palawan. I especially enjoy sailing around the islands in this area, which are unlike anything else on the planet. Coron, Linapacan and El Nido – one could stay for days here, living on the boat and diving when the time is best to see the corals and the marine life, or just relax along the spectacular white sand beaches like the one on Balabac Island. The nice thing about the strait of Coron to Linapacan is the long stretch of islands up to El Nido. From there, you can go all the way to Puerto Princesa. It can be possible to sail for a

whole month, maybe even two, exploring the Visayas corridor. Start in Cebu and trace the famous sailing triangle there; going down to Malapascua to see the tiger sharks, passing the night on the beaches around the tiny island of Calanggaman. And on the way back you can go through Cabilao, maybe do a side trip to Bohol to sail beside (or even swim with) the dolphins there. Or maybe sail through Balicasag and all the way to Oslob, where the whale sharks are, and then to Siquijor to spend a few days exploring their white-sand beaches and reefs teeming with marine life. From my experience, the best time to explore the islands is from April to May, two months that ensure calm waters and smooth inter-island sailing. This could maybe stretch until June, but after that, the habagat (southwest monsoon) might make for rough waters.

But there’s more to the sights. I’ve been on guided tours in Palawan that give you the real island experience. One such tour operator took us on a backpacker type of adventure on the islands around Palawan, but of course sparing us the rougher parts because, I suppose, that is part of the service.

I find that travel allows you to step back and discover new concepts and, more importantly, to challenge your own ideas. I remember it was through travel

that I got the idea for Kettle Korn. I saw something similar in the U.S. and I was so inspired by it that, once I got back to the Philippines, I registered the new business right away and set out to create something a little different from the other brands that were already here.

Travel is so important for anyone who’s in business; you have to know what is out there: either to find out what you can improve or what unique product you can offer. It’s an opportunity to see what the competition is up to.

I realized this during my recent trip to Laos to attend meetings for the ASEAN. The rail systems that are coming up and connecting cities in Southeast Asia, for example, could change

the game drastically. I can imagine how easy it will be to travel from the cosmopolitan city of Bangkok to rural Luang Prabang, eliminating for travelers the hassle of booking separate trips and giving the tourism business of these two countries a tremendous boost.

The small entrepreneurs I’ve spoken to find that travel is a gift that keeps on giving. Some of these young travel entrepreneurs told me that they build their own travel experiences in order to enhance the products and services they offer their customers. They discover small, hidden places or exciting experiences and weave these into the customized packages they create.

Travel content creators and

influencers, meanwhile, mine their experiences for content that can bring them not just advertising revenues but also potential brand deals and affiliate marketing opportunities. This is an example of how digitalization has created an industry that has become more inclusive and exciting, where small tourism operators have an equal footing with the giants. And with a gem like the Philippines, who knows how much farther we can take Philippine tourism. (Philstar. com)

* * *

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.

Defending the Philippines via alliances

IT is time we understand that the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the increasing tension in the Taiwan Strait caused by China and the increasing pressure on the Philippines regarding the illegal possession of Philippine sovereign territory are interconnected and not isolated events. The China-Russia coalition has now become the premier alliance of authoritarian regimes. This now includes Iran and North Korea. The world’s democracies are trying to respond with their own alliances to counteract the intent of the authoritarian powers to divide the democratic world. In Europe, there is the NATO composed primarily of European countries plus the United States and Canada.

In Asia, there are two alliances. The first one is the QUAD composed of India, Australia, Japan and the United States. This is a response to Chinese military and economic power. This particular alliance, however, does not provide for a mutual defense agreement. The newly formed trilateral mutual pact of the United States, Japan and the Philippines has gone a step further and includes a mutual defense agreement. China has recently been increasing its support of Russia, including military support for its war in Ukraine. It has also displayed strong interest in reshaping the geopolitical landscape in Europe.

aid to Ukraine in its fight against Russian invasion.

The next and final stop was Slovakia, which has adopted a pro-Russian policy.

In Asia, China has been attempting to make the question of Taiwan a purely local issue. This severely underestimates the consequence of China’s invasion of Taiwan.

Recently, Xi Jinping went on a state visit to Europe, his first after five years. The main purpose was supposed to be trade and investment. However, his choice of countries displayed an intention to try and divide the democratic world. His first stop was France, whose President Macron has been advocating for an independent European policy. His next stop was Hungary. Its Prime Minister Viktor Orban has been publicly advocating an anti-Western political stance and has publicly stated that he was against giving

According to Bloomberg Economics, a Chinese invasion of Taiwan would cause the global economy around $10 trillion. This is the equivalent to nearly 10 percent of global GDP. This would even dwarf the combined impacts of the war in Ukraine, the COVID-19 pandemic and the global financial crisis of 200809.

A Chinese blockade of Taiwan, it is said, will result in less immediate distraction but would still cost the global economy around $5 trillion.

Again, Bloomberg Economics says the reason for this global catastrophe is that over 90 percent of advanced chips are produced in Taiwan and approximately half of the global fleet of ships that carry shipping

containers pass through the Taiwan Strait. Preserving the status quo in the Taiwan Strait is vital to maintaining the U.S. alliance system and the regional balance of power. This potential takeover of Taiwan would shift the advantage in Asia to China and encourage its authoritarian expansionism. If China succeeds in Taiwan, its next obvious target would be the Philippines. China and Russia must strengthen its coalition to advance the interest of authoritarian regimes. The democratic alliance is composed of countries that believe in democracy and also countries that are not necessarily democratic but are under threat by Chinese expansionism. The Philippines belongs to the latter category.

However, ever since the Philippines’ open public policy to align with democratic countries, the Philippines has noticeably taken a few initial steps towards becoming a more democratic country. Although it has not yet become fully democractic, it should be noticed that in

the Philippines, freedom of expression and human rights have become more accepted by the government.

The strongest opposition to the government’s policy to resist China’s aggression comes from the camp of former President Rodrigo Duterte. During his term, Duterte was openly proChina and Russia and was publicly anti-west.

I anticipate that the Philippine foreign policy will be a major issue in the coming presidential elections if, as expected, Sara Duterte runs for president against the Marcos candidate.

China under Xi Jinping has also increased its nuclear capability.

According to Pentagon estimates, Beijing started with 200 nuclear warheads in 2019 and is estimated to have amassed 1,000 nuclear warheads by 2013. This may not mean that China intends to start a nuclear war but its plan for nuclear expansion is to establish a geopolitical leverage in Asia. Perhaps it has learned its lesson from Russia, which threatens nuclear war to dissuade western countries from sending troops to Ukraine.

The American response to Beijing’s threat to its Asian allies has been to threaten China with sanctions. However, this has proven ineffective, especially since even its European allies seek to increase trade and investments in China.

Recently, there was news that Australia and New Zealand felt threatened by China’s attempt to increase its economic and political influence in the island states in the Pacific Ocean and the Indian Ocean. For example, in 2019, Solomon Islands severed its diplomatic relations with Taiwan and signed a security pact with China. In the Maldives, a pro-China government is in place.

The Philippines has formed an alliance with countries that will hopefully help protect its interests against Chinese aggression and expansionism. (Philstar.com)

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.

ManilaTimes.net

and order problems associated with POGOs give a national security dimension to the entry of Chinese citizens. The DFA itself is tightening visa requirements for Chinese

JoEy Con CE pCion

Go Negosyo Pilipinas Angat Lahat!

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco kicked off a series of panel discussions on Monday, May 13, formally launching Go Negosyo’s Tourism Summit for the current year at the Ayala Malls By the Bay venue.

DOT photo

Marcos vows...

These projects include infrastructure, farm-to-market roads, water systems, schools, and health centers, of which over 78 percent are now considered completed. Marcos, likewise, acknowledged the efforts of the troops in ensuring peace in Northern Mindanao and Caraga Region.

“Because of your efforts, those who we consider our adversaries before are now (helping to) build their communities instead of destroying those communities,” Marcos said.

“It will ensure peace in formerly conflict-affected areas and prevent communities from falling back into the trap of armed conflict,” he added. (PNA) n

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Atin Ito: Mission accomplished...

PAGE 5

will now proceed to conduct the final leg of supply distribution in the current area, as there are no more Filipino fishers in BdM (Bajo de Masinloc) after they were reportedly sent away by various Chinese vessels,” organizers announced.

Thursday’s “peace and solidary regatta” was the second civilian supply mission to the West Philippine Sea following the one held in December last year. The latest mission benefitted a total of 144 Filipino fishermen from six mother boats and 36 small fishing vessels.

Atin Ito said the 10-member advance team that reached Panatag Shoal comprised members from Akbayan Party, Pambansang Katipunan ng mga Samahan sa Kanayunan, and the Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement.

Absurd, comical

“This feat mirrors the success of last December’s inaugural civilian mission, where Atin Ito’s smaller supply boat, ML Chowee, navigated past Chinese vessel harassment near Ayungin Shoal

Notice is hereby given that the San Diego Unified School District, acting by and through its governing board, will electronically receive bids for the furnishing of all labor, materials, transportation, equipment, and services for: CC25-0158-00-00 SECURITY FENCING AT

2 SITES

A mandatory site visit is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2024, outside the main office of Creative Performing Media Arts Middle School, 5050 Conrad Avenue, San Diego, CA 92117. Upon completion of the first site, contractors shall proceed immediately to Field Elementary School, 4375 Bannock Avenue, San Diego, CA 92117. Prime contractors must be present at all both in order to bid this project. All attendees must preregister with the District prior to attending the site walk at sandiegounified.org/sitewalks. The Bid and Contract Documents may be downloaded free of charge at the District’s online Planroom at sandiegousdplans.com. All bids must be received electronically via PlanetBids before 1:00 p.m. on JUNE 7, 2024. Prime contractors interested in submitting a bid must go to tinyurl.com/SDUSD-PlanetBids then search under “Bid Opportunities” for “Invitation number” CC25-0158-50-00-00 Security Fencing at 2 Sites. For new vendors, please register under “New Vendor Registration.” The project estimate is between $250,000 and $275,000, inclusive of allowances. This is not a PSA project and does not require prequalification. The District requires that Bidders possess any of the following classification(s) of California State Contractors License(s), valid and in good standing, at the time of bid opening and contract award: A, C-13, or other appropriate license, subject to District approval. SAN DIEGO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT, George A. Harris III, Director, Fiscal Controls and Information Systems, Facilities Planning and Construction CC25-0158-50-00-00

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Notice is hereby given that the San Diego Unified School District, acting by and through its governing board, will electronically receive bids for the furnishing of all labor, materials, transportation, equipment, and services for: CC25-0159-50-00-00 SINGLE POINT OF ENTRY AT 3 SITES

A mandatory site visit is scheduled for 8:00 a.m. on THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2024, outside the main office of Innovation Middle School, 5095 Arvinels Avenue, San Diego, CA 92117. Upon completion of the first site, contractors shall proceed to the following sites in the order listed: Field Elementary School, 4375 Bannock Avenue, San Diego, CA 92117; Creative Performing Media Arts Middle School, 5050 Conrad Avenue, San Diego, CA 92117. Prime contractors must be present at all 3 sites in order to bid this project. All attendees must preregister with the District prior to attending the site walk at sandiegounified.org/sitewalks. The Bid and Contract Documents may be downloaded free of charge at the District’s online Planroom at sandiegousdplans.com All bids must be received electronically via PlanetBids before 1:00 p.m. on JUNE 6, 2024. Prime contractors interested in submitting a bid must go to tinyurl.com/SDUSDPlanetBids then search under “Bid Opportunities” for “Invitation number” CC25-015950-00-00 Single Point of Entry at 3 Sites. For new vendors, please register under “New Vendor Registration.” The project estimate is between $530,000 and $565,000, inclusive of allowances. This is not a PSA project and does not require prequalification. The District requires that Bidders possess any of the following classification(s) of California State Contractors License(s), valid and in good standing, at the time of bid opening and contract award: B, or other appropriate license, subject to District approval. SAN DIEGO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT, George A. Harris III, Director, Fiscal Controls and Information Systems, Facilities Planning and Construction CC25-0159-50-00-00.

to deliver supplies to frontline workers on Lawak Island,” organizers said.

In a post on X, PCG Commodore Jay Tarriela, spokesman for the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea said the Chinese “seem to overlook the fact that the international community now finds it both absurd and comical that Beijing is making such a fuss, all the while ignoring the fact that these waters falls within

our Exclusive Economic Zone.”

“It is actually their large flotilla of vessels that are trespassing into Philippine waters,” he added.

Sen. Jinggoy Estrada, chairman of the Senate committee on national defense and security, praised Atin Ito for its successful mission. “I stand in awe of the remarkable efforts of these brave men and women from the Atin Ito Coalition for their extraordinary

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resolve and resilience even in the face of adversity and blatant intimidation,” Estrada said.

“Their actions exemplify the best of the Filipino spirit and serve as an inspiration to all,” he added.

“Let us affirm our unwavering support for the Atin Ito Coalition and its noble mission. Their courage and compassion embody the true essence of bayanihan and their actions mirror best what it means to be Filipino,” he added.

On Pag-asa in the Kalayaan Island Group, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri called on the Chinese coast guard to leave the Philippine territorial seas.

“Maybe there is a sensitive listening device from there on their (China) ships. I want to say if they are listening, this is the territory of the Republic of the Philippines, it is not yours, it was ours before Magellan came, so if you can, leave,” Zubiri said in his speech at the groundbreaking for a planned Philippine Navy barracks and a Super Rural Health Unit in the island community. n

Notice is hereby given that the San Diego Unified School District, acting by and through its governing board, will electronically receive bids for the furnishing of all labor, materials, transportation, equipment, and services for: CC25-0160-39-00-00 MADISON HIGH SCHOOL SECURITY

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A mandatory site visit is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on FRIDAY, MAY 24, 2024, outside the main office of Madison High School, 4833 Doliva Dr, San Diego, CA 92117. All attendees must preregister with the District prior to attending the site walk at sandiegounified.org/sitewalks. The Bid and Contract Documents may be downloaded free of charge at the District’s online Planroom at sandiegousdplans. com. All bids must be received electronically via PlanetBids before 1:00 p.m. on JUNE 5, 2024. Prime contractors interested in submitting a bid must go to tinyurl. com/SDUSD-PlanetBids then search under “Bid Opportunities” for “Invitation number” CC25-0160-39-00-00 Madison High School Security Fencing. For new vendors, please register under “New Vendor Registration.” The project estimate is $577,578 inclusive of allowances. This is not a PSA project and does not require prequalification. The District requires that Bidders possess any of the following classification(s) of California State Contractors License(s), valid and in good standing, at the time of bid opening and contract award: A or other appropriate license, subject to District approval. SAN DIEGO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT, George A. Harris III, Director, Fiscal Controls and Information Systems, Facilities Planning and Construction CC25-0160-39-00-00

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Notice is hereby given that the San Diego Unified School District, acting by and through its governing board, will electronically receive bids for the furnishing of all labor, materials, transportation, equipment, and services for: CC25-0161-39-00-00 Madison High School Single Point of Entry A mandatory site visit is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on FRIDAY, MAY 24, 2024, outside the main office of Madison High School, 4833 Doliva Drive, San Diego, CA 92117.All attendees must preregister with the District prior to attending the site walk at sandiegounified.org/sitewalks. The Bid and Contract Documents may be downloaded free of charge at the District’s online Planroom at sandiegousdplans. com. All bids must be received electronically via PlanetBids before 1:00 p.m. on JUNE 12, 2024, 2022. Prime contractors interested in submitting a bid must go to tinyurl.com/SDUSD-PlanetBids then search under “Bid Opportunities” for “Invitation number” CC25-0161-39-00-00 Madison High School Single Point of Entry. For new vendors, please register under “New Vendor Registration.” The project estimate is between $95,000 and $145,000, inclusive of allowances. This is not a PSA project and does not require prequalification. The District requires that Bidders possess any of the following classification(s) of California State Contractors License(s), valid and in good standing, at the time of bid opening and contract award: B, or other appropriate license, subject to District approval. SAN DIEGO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT, George A. Harris III, Director, Fiscal Controls and Information Systems, Facilities Planning and Construction CC25-0161-39-00-00

UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 01/28/2004. Signature: Pedro M Coronel. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 05/15/2024. AJ 1413 05/17, 05/24, 05/31, and 06/07/2024. AJSD 1413

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BEAUTIES WITH A PURPOSE. Binibining Pilipinas 2024 candidates and past winners wear ecofriendly clothes and accessories at the “Reinvent: Sustainable Fashion Show” at Gateway Mall in Cubao, Quezon City on Thursday, May 16. The models showcased the collection of local artisans who specialize in unique and sustainable designs. PNA photo by Joan Bondoc

A China Coast Guard ship passes one of the boats of Atin Ito Coalition volunteers who decided not to sail closer to Panatag Shoal yesterday. Inset shows fishermen raising food packs they received from the civilian resupply mission. Photo by Miguel De Guzman

SD#0338

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COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA No. 00349-2024 NOTICE TO DEFEND AND CLAIM RIGHTS To: Lesbia Lugo YOU HAVE BEEN SUED IN COURT. If you wish to defend against the claims set forth in the following pages, you must take prompt action. You are warned that if you fail to do so, the case may proceed without you and a decree of divorce or annulment may be entered against you by the Court. A judgment may also be entered against you for any other claim or relief requested in these papers by the Plaintiff. You may lose money or property or other rights important to you, including custody or visitation of your children. When the ground for divorce is indignities or irretrievable breakdown of the marriage you may request marriage counseling. A list of marriage counselors is available at the Office of the Prothonotary, Luzerne County Courthouse, 200 North River Street, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania 18711. IF YOU DO NOT FILE A CLAIM FOR ALIMONY, DIVISION OF PROPERTY, LAWYERS FEES OR EXPENSES BEFORE A DIVORCE OR ANNULMENT IS GRANTED, YOU MAY LOSE THE RIGHT TO CLAIM ANY OF THEM. YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LAWYER AT ONCE. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A LAWYER OR CANNOT AFFORD ONE, GO TO OR TELEPHONE THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW TO FIND OUT WHERE YOU CAN GET LEGAL HELP. NORTH PENN LEGAL SERVICES, INC. 33 North Main Street, Suite 200 Pittston, PA 18640 (570)-299-4100 (877)-953-4250 (Toll Free) (570)-824-0001 (Fax) 101 West Broad Street, Suite 513 Hazleton, PA 18201 (570)-455-9512 (877)-953-4250 (Toll Free) (570)-455-3625 (Fax) AVISO HA SIDO DEMANDADO EN LA CORTE. Si desea defenderse de las reclamaciones establecidas en las siguientes páginas, debe tomar medidas inmediatas. Se le advierte que si no lo hace, el caso puede proceder sin usted y el tribunal puede dictar un decreto de divorcio o anulación en su contra. También se puede dictar un fallo en su contra por cualquier otro reclamo o reparación solicitada en estos documentos por el demandante. Puede perder dinero o bienes u otros derechos importantes para usted, incluida la custodia o las visitas de sus hijos. Cuando el motivo del divorcio es indignidades o ruptura irreparable del matrimonio, puede solicitar asesoramiento matrimonial. Una lista de consejeros matrimoniales está disponible en la Oficina del Protonotario, Palacio de Justicia del Condado de Luzerne, 200 North River Street, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania 18711. SI NO PRESENTA UN RECLAMO DE PENSIÓN ALIMENTICIA, DIVISIÓN DE BIENES, HONORARIOS DE ABOGADOS O GASTOS ANTES DE QUE SE OTORGUE UN DIVORCIO O ANULACIÓN, PUEDE PERDER EL DERECHO A RECLAMAR CUALQUIERA DE ELLOS. DEBE LLEVAR ESTE DOCUMENTO A SU ABOGADO DE INMEDIATO. SI NO TIENE UN ABOGADO O NO PUEDE PAGAR UNO, VAYA O LLAME POR TELÉFONO A LA OFICINA QUE SE INDICA A CONTINUACIÓN PARA AVERIGUAR DÓNDE PUEDE OBTENER AYUDA LEGAL. SERVICIOS LEGALES DE NORTH PENN, INC. 33 la Calle Main del Norte, Oficina 200 Pittston, PA 18640 (570) 299-4100 (877) 953-4250 Llamada gratuita (570) 824-0001 Fax 101 la Calle Broad del Oeste Oficina 513 Hazleton, PA 18201 (570) 455-9512 (877) 953-4250 Llamada gratuita (570) 455-3625 Fax HUNTER J. MERIDETH, ESQUIRE Merideth Law, LLC 14 West Main Street Shippensburg, PA 17257 AJ 1405 05/10, 05/17, 05/24, and 05/31/24 AJSD 1405

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9008950

LV Nails located at 1660 Broadway #10, Chula Vista, CA 91911.

Registrant: Kieu Linh Thi Le, 1660 Broadway #10, Chula Vista, CA 91911. This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 04/24/2024.

Signature: Kieu Linh Thi Le. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 04/24/2024.

AJ 1399 05/03, 05/10, 05/17, and 05/24/2024. AJSD 1399

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9008279

a. Dirty Birds SD located at 253 10th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101. b. SD Dirty Birds located at 253 10th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101. Registrant: Born In Brooklyn INC, 253 10th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101. This business is conducted by A Corporation. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 10/01/2016. Signature: Scott Rothman. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 04/17/2024. AJ 1406 05/10, 05/17, 05/24, and 05/31/2024. AJSD 1406

CASE NUMBER: 37-2024-00022008-CU-PT-NC TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Mekayla McCarty on behalf of a minor filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Sophia Rae Haman to Sophia Rae McCarty. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 06/28/2024 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. 25 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego North County Division 325 S. Melrose Dr., Dept 25 Vista, CA 92081 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county. Asian Journal: MAY 14, 2024 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Brad A. Weinres Judge of the Superior Court AJ 1411 05/17, 05/24, 05/31, and 06/07/24

ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120).

If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner. To change a name on a legal document, including a birth certificate, social security card, drivers license, passport, and other identification, a certificate copy of Decree Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree Changing Name and Order Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance of New Birth Certificate (JC Form #NC-230) may be required. Contact the agency(ies) who issues the legal document that need to be changed to determine if a certificate copy is required. A certified copy of Decree Changing Name (JC Form #NC-130) or Decree Changing Name and Order Recognizing Change of Gender and for Issuance of New Birth Certificate (JC Form #NC230) may be obtained form the Civil Business Office for a fee. Petitioners who are seeking a change of name under the Safe at Home program may contact the assigned department for information on obtaining certified copies. If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions.

If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions.

A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date.

Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court. AJSD 1411

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9008982

XM Properties located at 1843 El Prado Ave, Lemon Grove, CA 91945. Registrant: Xavier Kevin McDonnell, 1843 El Prado Ave, Lemon Grove, CA 91945. This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 08/01/2005. Signature: Xavier Kevin McDonnell. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 04/25/2024. AJ 1400 05/03, 05/10, 05/17, and 05/24/2024. AJSD 1400

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9009152

Boba Me This located at 4269 Lowell Street #4, La Mesa, CA 91941. Registrant: Sokha Chouth, 4269 Lowell Street #4, La Mesa, CA 91941. This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE. Signature: Sokha Chouth. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 04/29/2024. AJ 1407 05/10, 05/17, 05/24, and 05/31/2024. AJSD 1407

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9009044

Nath Elite Events located at 10106 Gem Tree Way, Santee, CA 92071.

Registrant: Alexandra Nath, 10106 Gem Tree Way, Santee, CA 92071. This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE.

Signature: Alexandra Nath. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 04/25/2024. AJ 1389 05/03, 05/10, 05/17, and 05/24/2024 AJSD 1389

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9005576

Vibrant Living located at 5723 Bounty Street, San Diego, CA 92120.

Registrant: Greater Solutions LLC, PO BOX 1944, La Mesa, CA 91944. This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company

REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 05/15/2009.

Signature: Julie Norris. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/12/2024. AJ 1393 04/26, 05/03, 05/10, and 05/17/2024. AJSD 1393

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9008487

Bright Houses located at 545 Park Way, Chula Vista, CA 91910.

Registrant: Giovanny Delgado Mojica, 545 Park Way, Chula Vista, CA 91910.

This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE.

Signature: Giovanny Delgado Mojica. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 04/18/2024. AJ 1396 04/26, 05/03, 05/10, and 05/17/2024. AJSD 1396

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9009223

iCell Phones located at 1632 Connoley Ave, Chula VIsta, CA 91911.

Registrant: Marvin Morales, 416 W San Ysidro Blvd L973, San Ysidro, CA 92173. This business is conducted by An Individual.

REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE. Signature: Marvin Morales. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 04/29/2024. AJ 1401 05/03, 05/10, 05/17, and 05/24/2024. AJSD 1401

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9009648

Date Shake located at 441 Casselman St Apt 13, Chula Vista, CA 91910. Registrant: Alla Alagha, 441 Casselman St Apt 13, Chula Vista, CA 91910. This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE.

Signature: Alla Alagha. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 05/06/2024. AJ 1408 05/17, 05/24, 05/31, and 06/07/2024. AJSD 1408

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9008026

Active Lawn Care located at 2521 Glenridge Rd, Escondido, CA 92027.

Registrant: Juan Climaco Gregorio Carrillo, 2521 Glenridge Rd, Escondido, CA 92027. This business is conducted by An Individual.

REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 04/12/2024.

Signature: Juan Gregorio. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 04/12/2024. AJ 1391 04/26, 05/03, 05/10, and 05/17/2024. AJSD 1391

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9005574

Vibrant Living II located at 6140 Crawford Street, San Diego, CA 92120.

Registrant: Greater Solutions INC, PO BOX 1944, La Mesa, CA 91944. This business is conducted by A Corporation

REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 11/21/2022.

Signature: Julie Norris. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/12/2024. AJ 1394 04/26, 05/03, 05/10, and 05/17/2024. AJSD 1394

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9008017

Kuya Con located at 10808 Caravelle Place, San Diego, CA 92124.

Registrant: Conner Thomas Tano McKinney, 215 East Oxford Street, Chula Vista, CA 92124. This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE.

Signature: Conner Thomas Tano McKinney. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 04/12/2024. AJ 1397 04/26, 05/03, 05/10, and 05/17/2024. AJSD 1397

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9006882

ELR Trucking located at 812 Plaza Mar, Chula Vista, CA 91910.

Registrant: Earbin Lopez Rivera, 780 Dennery Rd. Ste 303, San Diego, CA 92154. This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 12/11/2018. Signature: Earbin Lopez Rivera. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/27/2024. AJ 1402 05/03, 05/10, 05/17, and 05/24/2024. AJSD 1402

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9010146

Panda Pancakes located at 1539 Glenwood Springs Ave, Chula Vista, CA 91913. Registrant: Sugar Rush LLC, 1539 Glenwood Springs Ave, Chula Vista, CA 91913. This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE.

Signature: Dulce Lozano. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 05/10/2024. AJ 1409 05/17, 05/24, 05/31, and 06/07/2024. AJSD 1409

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9008801

Mariomax Salon And Beauty Supply located at 113 Jamacha Rd, El Cajon, CA 92019. Registrant: Mario Max, 113 Jamacha Rd, El Cajon, CA 92019. This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 01/01/1995. Signature: Mario Max. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 04/23/2024. AJ 1392 04/26, 05/03, 05/10, and 05/17/2024. AJSD 1392

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9008952

Beer Me San Diego Tours located at 750 Eastshore Ter #122 Chula Vista, CA 91913.

Registrant: Dalina M Horta, 750 Eastshore Ter #122 Chula Vista, CA 91913. This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE.

Signature: Dalina M Horta. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 04/24/2024. AJ 1395 04/26, 05/03, 05/10, and 05/17/2024. AJSD 1395

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9009141

Plaza Alta Recycling LLC located at 8927 Campo Rd, Spring Valley, CA 91977. Registrant: Plaza Alta Recycling LLC, 9246 Jamacha Rd, Spring Valley, CA 91977. This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE. Signature: Susana Garcia Amezcua. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 04/26/2024. AJ 1398 05/03, 05/10, 05/17, and 05/24/2024. AJSD 1398

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9009499

SSR Supports located at 6106 Lakewood Street, San Diego, CA 92122. Registrant: Ming Ye, 6106 Lakewood Street, San Diego, CA 92122. This business is conducted by An Individual.

REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT

BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 05/01/2024. Signature: Ming Ye. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 05/02/2024. AJ 1403 05/10, 05/17, 05/24, and 05/31/2024. AJSD 1403

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9009523 Todo Blanco Candle Company located at 1990 Kent St, Chula Vista, CA 91913.

Registrant: Liliana V. Bello Recio, PO BOX 210852, Chula Vista, CA 91921. This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE.

Signature: Liliana V. Bello Recio. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 05/02/2024. AJ 1410 05/17, 05/24, 05/31, and 06/07/2024. AJSD 1410

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9009521

Myreen’s Hair & Nails located at 3142 E Plaza Blvd, National City, 91950. Registrant: a. Arlan Ivan Arcelon, 1704 La Posada St, National City, CA 91950. b. Jonathan Macaspac, 1704 La Posada St, National City, CA 91950. This business is conducted by A General Partnership.

REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE.

Signature: Arlan Arcelon. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 05/02/2024. AJ 1404 05/10, 05/17, 05/24, and 05/31/2024. AJSD 1404

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9010333

FST Motorsports located at 842 Broadway, Chula Vista, CA 91911. Registrant: Broadway Suspension And Tires, LLC, 842 Broadway, Chula Vista, CA 91911. This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company.

REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 04/30/2024.

Signature: Luis E Lopez. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 05/14/2024. AJ 1412 05/17, 05/24, 05/31, and 06/07/2024. AJSD 1412

SAN DIEGO

JOURNAL

MAY 17, 2024

TAAF Heritage Month Summit celebrates AANHPI achievements and solidarit y

by MoMar G. Visaya / AJPress

T

HE Asian American Foundation (TAAF) held its Third Annual Heritage Month Summit in New York City last week, spotlighting crucial discussions on identity, coalition building, and solidarity within the Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders (AANHPI) community.

The two-day event brought together influential speakers and over 600 attendees to celebrate the community’s achievements and address pressing issues. With high-profile speakers, insightful panels, and empowering discussions, the summit marked TAAF’s third anniversary and celebrated AAPI Heritage Month with a theme of “Together We Build Power.”

“When we launched TAAF three years ago, we envisioned gatherings like tonight, where we can come together, celebrate our wins, and connect on the next goals we can accomplish as partners united against hate,” said Sheila Lirio Marcelo, one of TAAF’s board members, as she welcomed the guests to the gala dinner. “Because even as our community faces challenging, turbulent times, there is power in us coming together in support of what unites us.”

On the first day of the summit, notable figures like actor Darren Criss, and former U.S. Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta took the stage to discuss themes of identity and belonging.

Criss, known for his Emmy and Golden Globe-winning performances, shared his introspective journey of navigating identity as someone “blatantly White passing” but with a rich cultural heritage. “I was unaware of the privilege I had,” he confessed during the panel on identity and belonging which was moderated by Jose Antonio Vargas.

Star Mayors Mayors Aftab Pureval of Cincinnati, Sheng Thao of Oakland, and Michelle Wu of Boston made history by coming together on stage as groundbreaking Asian American leaders. Pureval is Tibetan and Indian American and the first Asian American mayor of his city, Sheng Thao is the first

Hmong American mayor of any major city in the U.S., and Michelle Wu is the first minority mayor of Boston. Each shared their unique journeys and highlighted the significance of representation in politics. Pureval emphasized the potential for Asian Americans to succeed in various political arenas, despite being a minority in his city. “Asians can run and win anywhere in this country,” he told the audience, adding that Cincinnati only has 2% Asian American population. Thao, the first Hmong American mayor of a major U.S.

city, urged Asian Americans to step up and participate in civic engagement, emphasizing the importance of voting. Born in Stockton, California to Hmong refugee parents who escaped genocide in Laos, she grew up in poverty and lived in public housing with nine other siblings. At age 17, Thao moved out on her own. As a young single mother, she experienced domestic violence and periods of homelessness while raising her son.

Wu, reflecting on her upbringing as a child of Taiwanese immigrants, spoke about her motivation to serve her community and address systemic inequities. Wu was elected to the Boston City Council in 2013 at age 28, becoming the first AsianAmerican woman to serve on the council. She won as Mayor of Boston in November 2021 and became Boston’s first woman, person of color, and millennial mayor.

“When you most needed services or help is when you’re most invisible because those services are not set up for families like us,” she said.

Empowerment and representation

The second day of the summit continued the momentum with discussions on workplace belonging, mental health, storytelling, and sports representation. Notable speakers included Oscarnominated actor Steven Yeun, journalist Juju Chang, author Joanne Lee Molinaro, and NFL player Camryn Bynum, among others.

Key moments included a fireside chat with Yeun, who emphasized the importance of diverse storytelling and AANHPI representation in Hollywood. Yeun, renowned for his groundbreaking performances in “Minari” and “The Walking Dead,” captivated the audience with his impassioned plea for diverse representation in Hollywood. “We want to depict life as it is, as we are—a declaration that we are allowed to be here in our fullness,” he proclaimed, rallying support for

authentic storytelling. Panel discussions explored topics ranging from workplace equity to AANHPI representation in children’s literature and sports. Capping the summit was the conversation between Pablo Torre (sportswriter and host, “Pablo Torre Finds Out” podcast), Cam Bynum (NFL Player – Safety, Minnesota Vikings), Kaitlyn Chen (Princeton University Tigers Guard), and Tsai, covering how AANHPIs are breaking barriers from the MLB to the NBA and the NFL. Celebrating achievement and legacy

The TAAF Awards Dinner honored courageous AANHPI leaders across various industries, including philanthropy, public service, business, and culture. Notable awardees included Congressman Andy Kim, Dan Lin, Dr. Rajiv Shah, and Wen Zhou, among others. The event also introduced the Angela Chao Legacy Award in memory of Angela Chao, celebrating her contributions as a trailblazing business leader.

For his opening welcome remarks, TAAF CEO Norman Chen said, “TAAF knows we can build power and meet any challenge our community faces, by investing in our organizations, storytellers, and cities, innovating new initiatives and leveraging data as a force of change – to bring together our incredible community and strengthen our relationships.”

u PAGE 10

The Summit included a panel about AANHPI identity and belonging moderated by Define American founder Jose Antonio Vargas with Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actor and musician Darren Criss, who shared his personal experience grappling with his own identity as an Asian American; composer and performer “Hamilton” Ari Afsar; actor, content creator, and speaker

Ryan Alexander Holmes; and actor, author, and activist Maulik Pancholy, dove into the nuances and intersectionality of the AANHPI community, and how their upbringings and lived experiences each contributed to their own

TAAF Board Member Sheila Lirio Marcelo with other TAAF officers and actor Steven Yeun and Juju Chang.

AJPress Photos by Momar G. Visaya

Oscar-nominated actor Steven Yeun opened up about transcending stereotypes, breaking ground

Ryan Alexander Holmes, Darren Criss,

Afsar, Maulik Pancholy, and Jose Antonio Vargas Photos by Janice Yim/Getty Images for The Asian American Foundation

Michelle Yeoh and

Erika Moritsugu and Gina Ortiz Jones

Governor Newsom’s cuts to the Equitable Building Decarbonization program will harm low-income communities

By AJPress

LAST week, Gov. Gavin Newsom released an updated state budget proposal that cuts $283 million in funding from the Equitable Building Decarbonization Program (EBD) — a 30% reduction. The proposed cuts could deny access to no-cost clean energy upgrades for tens of thousands of low-income households who otherwise would be eligible for the program.

The EBD program is designed to support low-income households with energy-saving home upgrades, like weatherization and zeroemission heat pumps, at no cost to the resident. Studies have found heat pumps to be more efficient than air conditioner units, and they can also provide space heating more efficiently than gas furnaces, saving customers money on their utility bills.

In addition, the EBD program is critical for public health and safety amid rising temperatures. Currently, about a quarter of Californians lack access to cooling in their homes, while extreme heat events are growing in severity and frequency. Extreme heat is dangerous for vulnerable populations like children, seniors, and the disabled and puts low-income and communities of color at an elevated risk. The EBD Program can mitigate the impact of extreme heat by keeping our homes cool and comfortable.

The EBD Program can also help improve air quality in California by reducing climate emissions and other pollutants caused by gaspowered appliances. This is critical because the American Lung Association’s most recent “State of the Air” report found that over 9 in 10 people in California live in a community impacted by unhealthy levels of ozone and/or particle pollution. A major culprit of the unhealthy indoor and outdoor air quality is gas-burning appliances in our homes, which emit four times more nitrogen oxide pollution than the state’s gas power plants. Likewise, homes and buildings are the second leading contributor of greenhouse gas emissions in the state.

In response to these proposed cuts, a coalition of climate and environmental justice advocates are calling on the governor to restore funding to the EBD program, and bolster it with an additional $400 million in a climate bond that will go before voters on the November ballot. And while California is facing higher than expected revenue deficits, advocates argue that the state cannot afford to delay its critical climate and clean energy goals. Despite its perceived climate leadership, California is projected to miss 2030 greenhouse gas reduction targets by seventeen years. Cuts to the EBD Program will undermine the state’s goal of creating 3 million climate-ready homes equipped with heat pumps by 2030 and 7 million by 2035. This goal includes a target of deploying 6 million heat pumps by 2030. To date, there are only 1.5 million heat pumps installed in about 800,000 homes — and to meet this target, California would need to more than triple its rate of heat pump adoption.

Legislative budget hearings on the revised budget will begin this week and provide the public an opportunity to learn more about the proposals. The public should contact legislators directly to let them know their views on the governor’s proposals.

With so much at stake, the state budget will be a key indicator of the administration’s ability to stick to its commitments on climate and clean energy. While low-income communities are most impacted by climate change and pollution, they are the least able to afford solutions. Maintaining funding for programs like the EBD Program is critical to protect our most vulnerable communities and stay on track to meet California’s ambitious climate goals. n

TAAF Heritage...

TAAF recognized the achievements of courageous AANHPI leaders across various industries, including philanthropy, public service, business, culture, and impact. The first-ever Angela Chao Legacy Award was presented in memory of Angela Chao, a founding member of the TAAF Advisory Council, beloved business leader, and former CEO of Foremost Group.

Elaine Chao (former Secretary of Transportation) honored Wen Zhou (Co-Founder and CEO, 3.1 Phillip Lim) with the Angela Chao Legacy Award, celebrating her role as a trailblazing woman in business who helms a global fashion brand that she helped build from the ground up.

TAAF board member and Co-CEO of KKR Joseph Y. Bae presented Congressman Andy Kim with the TAAF Award for his contributions to public service. As the first Democratic member of Korean descent in Congress, TAAF honored Congressman Kim for his commitment to the advancement of the AANHPI community in culture and entertainment.

LOOKING FOR FINE DINING DURING A CASINO/RESORT EXPERIENCE?

PRIME steaks. Caviar. Wagyu beef. Lobster. These fine dining dishes speak for themselves. Though when combined with the brand new, inviting and modern ambiance and more than 200 wine selections inside the completely remodeled Great Oak Steakhouse, guests get a dining experience to remember and return to.

Pechanga Resort Casino proudly reintroduces its signature restaurant, the Great Oak Steakhouse, following an intensive seven-month remodel. From the front façade to the back kitchen, the entire 8,000 square foot space underwent a refresh. Inside the dining room, warm and rich gold, brass and earth tones woven with complementary soft colors draw the eye up to accent lighting and bold chandeliers. A 30-foot long by five-foot tall stained glass, textured façade looking out to the casino designed and executed entirely by hand by a local, San Diego glass artist, serves as the restaurant’s first nod to the Tribe’s sacred Great Oak Tree.

Once inside the restaurant, guests can start their evening at the new bar and lounge located off the main dining area. The lounge offers menu choices such as Wagyu beef tartare or oak grilled oysters beginning at 3 p.m. each day. Guests may choose among 16 seats at the bar and 36 seats within the lounge. The menu features 15 cocktails, many created with locally and responsibly sourced ingredients.

The remodeled restaurant ushers in an exciting menu featuring eight steak cuts, as well as Wagyu selections, cooked to order by Chef Emmanuel Inocencio, an 11-year culinary veteran of Pechanga, and his highly trained team. Steak, poultry, fresh seafood, incredible vegetables, and side dishes are prepared to perfection by Inocencia’s acclaimed team. Pechanga procures much of its ingredients from local farms.

From autoimmune diseases,

by IzA IglesIAs ManilaTimes.net

APART from being diagnosed with five autoimmune diseases, the former “Queen of All Media,” Kris Aquino, disclosed that she has a “problem with [her] heart.”

The 53-year-old shared this news through a conversation with close friend and entertainment journalist Dindo Balares, who posted their exchange on his Instagram account.

“There’s a problem with my heart, Kuya Dindo – genetics. Very high cholesterol and triglycerides that at this point can’t be treated because I am underweight (91 lbs),” Aquino told Balares as per his post.

“My BP (blood pressure) is misbehaving – I am normally 145/122 with a heart rate of 110-130. It’s the diastolic and heart rate that’s scary,” she said.

Two additional dining destinations within Pechanga recently received updates. Umi Sushi & Oyster Bar, renowned for its 2nd place finish in USA Today’s Best Casino Restaurant readers’ poll, expanded its bar area and lounge area. Guests may order up a cool drink or delicious appetizer in the new bar area Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Paisano’s, serving authentic Italian cuisine, underwent a refresh of its front entrance, restaurant lighting and many interior finishes. Chef Amanda Colello, who appeared on “Hell’s Kitchen” and “Chopped,” heads the culinary offerings at Paisano’s, taking recipes and cooking specialties from her New York upbringing and pairing them with the freshness and unique ingredients only found on the west coast.

For guests looking for an unmatched dining experience in Southern California, parties of six to 10 can reserve the Chef’s Table. A semi-private dining experience situated between two glass enclosed walls encasing 288 bottles of red wine, the Chef’s Table offers an eight-course culinary journey with wine or cocktail pairings.

now it’s Kris Aquino’s heart

Aquino shared.

currently be done to address her very low weight. However, this didn’t dampen her joy about the latest findings regarding her autoimmune disease.

Apart from the fresh air in their area, she reiterated that what helped her was the increased dosage of methotrexate plus dupixent for her chemotherapy after several years of undergoing other treatments without seeing any progress. Balares finally mentioned that Aquino’s food cravings were back.

“I miss your laing and lechon kawali very much,” Aquino told Balares.

It was in February when Aquino was interviewed by friend, TV host Boy Abunda through his show “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda.”

She also disclosed her battle with Churg Strauss, a rare autoimmune disease, and shared her fear of heart failure and cardiac arrest.

TAAF board member, Founder of AME Cloud Ventures, and Co-Founder of Yahoo! Jerry Yang presented Dr. Rajiv Shah (President, Rockefeller Foundation) with a TAAF Award, honoring his philanthropic efforts to create a more equitable and sustainable society and his dedication to advancing largescale change around the world. Ending the awards portion of the night, Academy Awardwinning actress Michelle Yeoh presented Oscar-nominated actor Steven Yeun (“Beef,” “Minari, “The Walking Dead”) with a TAAF Award, naming him “one of the most talented actors of his generation.”

The TAAF Heritage Month Summit provided a platform for dialogue, empowerment, and celebration within the AANHPI community. By amplifying diverse voices and promoting solidarity, TAAF continues to pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.

Originally established in response to the surge in antiAsian hate incidents during the pandemic, TAAF continues its mission to uplift AAPI communities and bridge gaps in support. With

Joe Tsai, TAAF board member, Chairman of Alibaba, and Governor of the Brooklyn Nets and New York Liberty, honored Dan Lin (Chairman of Netflix Films; Founder and Board Chair, Rideback Rise) with the TAAF Award, paying tribute to his long-standing support of AANHPI artists and allies and his visionary leadership in creating critical opportunities on main stages for voices from underrepresented communities.

On a positive note, Aquino mentioned that her autoimmune disease was finally responding to the methotrexate, which is her chemotherapy, and further praised the “good air quality in Newport Coast” in Orange County, California, U.S., where she currently resides. Aquino then asked Balares to thank people who have been praying for her and said that she already misses her sisters.

“Can you please thank everyone praying for me? The combination of medicine I’m being given is really effective. It’s just that after the Methotrexate and Dupixent, I am super down for four days. UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles) is very impressive. We don’t have Dupixent at

“I miss my sisters so much. Time for my meds. Yes, Kuya Dindo, please thank everyone praying,” Aquino said.

Meanwhile, in a separate post on Wednesday, May 15, Balares shared another conversation with Aquino who revealed how her high cholesterol and triglycerides levels, as well as heart disease, were inherited from her parents and grandparents.

“My dad’s dad died at 55 years old from a massive heart attack. My dad had his heart attack and triple bypass at 47. Noy had an angioplasty 5 weeks before he died. Isn’t it true that’s why we have broken hearts?” Aquino told Balares.

Balares added that Aquino was worried about the findings of her cardiologist, especially since there’s nothing that can

“Because of Churg Strauss I now have cardiomyopathy. This means my heart muscles are having trouble pumping blood due to inflammation, and because of that inflammation, it’s exhausting my heart and causing it to begin to fail and ultimately, please pray with me – sana hindi tuluyang sumuko or mag cardiac arrest (I hope it doesn’t give up or suffer from cardiac arrest),” she wrote in an Instagram post following her interview with Abunda.

Aquino also mentioned that the next months would be crucial and asked for prayers so she could still be with her two sons Bimby, who is still 16 years old and Josh, 28, who has autism. n

City of San Diego unveils new and

Interactive Project Finder Map

Tool helps San Diegans find out about projects in their

SAN DIEGO – The City of San Diego has developed a new interactive Project Finder Map that uses Google Maps and GIS technology to allow the public to find details and location information on hundreds of construction projects and events citywide. Replacing the previous Project Finder, this new, more engaging platform offers users improved design, functionality and notifications.

“This new Project Finder Map developed by the city’s Transportation Department greatly improves on the previous platform and makes it

easier for San Diegans to learn about and plan for impactful projects and events near them,” said Chelsea Klaseus, Deputy Director for Transportation. “It is a great tool to keep San Diegans informed and engaged with their city.”

This Project Finder Map boasts new features that allow users to designate an area, community or neighborhood in the city and sign up for email alerts specific to projects in that area. It provides a Google satellite images layer and shows real-time traffic updates for construction impacts and

special events. Users can look up projects and events around the city by location and time range and can also select filters to specify the type of projects most relevant to them. Map features also allow individuals to look up various projects, both in construction and preconstruction phases, such as road resurfacing,

HER HEART. Kris Aquino being monitored at her home in the U.S. Photo from Instagram/@krisaquino home,”

focus on philanthropy

community empowerment,

The private dining area at the Great Oak Steakhouse.

Great Oak Steakhouse, the signature restaurant in Pechanga Resort Casino, underwent a 7-month remodel.

Umi Sushi & Oyster Bar inside Pechanga Resort Casino.

Paisano’s serves authentic Italian cuisine.

Mayor Sheng Thao of Oakland, Mayor Michelle Wu of Boston, and Mayor Aftab Pureval of Cincinnati discussed their own political paths and the future they see in building power and impact for AANHPIs across the country during a political year and beyond.

Photo by Janice Yim/Getty Images for The Asian American Foundation

Legendary comedian and actor Martin Short appointed as new mayor of Funner, CA

Funner’s fourth celebrity mayor, Martin Short, has officially taken the oath of office

FUNNER – Harrah’s Resort

Southern California officially welcomed iconic comedian and actor Martin Short as Funner, California’s newest mayor on Monday, May 13, succeeding former mayors Jane Lynch, Rob Riggle and David Hasselhoff.

Mayor Marty, dressed in his signature purple suit and bow tie, took the oath of office amid the lively support of the residents of Funner, California and beyond.

“Martin Short represents the essence of Funner,” said Jill Barrett, senior vice president and general manager of Harrah’s Resort SoCal. “His renowned humor and dedication to entertainment make him an ideal leader for guiding Funner into a new era. Mayor Marty is already actively planning innovative projects that will enhance the fun in Funner like his ‘Short On Time’ spa offerings and ‘Buckets of Fun’ hotel package; we eagerly anticipate seeing his vision unfold and fun made funner.”

As he took to the stage for his induction ceremony, Mayor Marty conveyed his enthusiasm for the opportunity to lead Funner and outlined his vision for the city’s future. Accompanied by surprise emcee, his friend and former mayor Jane Lynch, Mayor Marty declared his promise to continue making Funner a destination known for its distinctive, funfilled experiences, bringing laughter and joy to all who visit.

The ceremony concluded with Mayor Marty receiving the key to the city, officially marking the start of his tenure as Funner’s newest mayor.

“We are excited to welcome Martin Short as Funner’s new mayor,” said Bo Mazzetti, chairman of the Rincon Tribe.

“His enthusiasm and extensive background in entertainment promise to elevate the vibrant community at Harrah’s Resort SoCal.”

Now that it’s official, Mayor Marty plans to implement a new era of fun in Funner — including exciting entertainment options, innovative culinary experiences,

spa treatments, and more, all aimed at ensuring every visitor enjoys their own unique, Funner experience. Visitors can expect exciting (and delicious) initiatives such as:

• Culinary delights: Short Stack Pancakes, Pancake Short Tacos, Short & Sweet Churros, The Mega Marty (Tavern Ham, Gouda & Pretzel Sandwich)

• Bar favorites: Mayor’s Refresher (Ginger Shandy), Marty’s Motherland (Classic Ginger Whiskey), Mayor’s Choice Cosmo (complete with image of Mayor Marty)

• Hotel packages: Short & Suite (30% off Sweet Suites), Buckets of Fun (room of choice and bucket of Corona poolside at Dive)

• Express 20-min ‘Short On

Time’

spa specials: Fun Made Funner Massage, Stunner Facial, Marty’s Mani.

“It’s truly a privilege to stand here with you all in beloved Funner, California,” said Mayor Marty. “I’m committed to being more than just a handsome man in a purple suit and stylish bow tie. Let’s work together to elevate Funner and craft extraordinary experiences for every visitor.”

For more information about Harrah’s Resort SoCal and Funner, California, please visit www.harrahssocal.com and www.harrahssocal.com/visitfunner. Follow the resort on Facebook at www.facebook. com/harrahssocal and on Instagram at www.instagram. com/harrahssocal. (Advertising Supplement)

4S Ranch community celebrates new Four Gee County Park

THE San Diego County Department of Parks and Recreation opened Four Gee County Park to an eager crowd of close to 200 people on Saturday, May 11 in 4S Ranch.

County Supervisor Joel Anderson led the celebration and reminded all that “Nothing brings a community together like a park.”

The event featured fun activities for families and their pets. Dogs made full use of their portion of the park. Laughter echoed from the playground, chess tables, cornhole and ping-pong tables. Park staff educated and entertained with a “Discovery Table” and a live owl.

The park, located at 16964 Four Gee Road, measures over 1 acre and offers a variety of amenities for people of all ages and varying interests to enjoy.

Families with kids can enjoy a large, shaded play structure with nearby lawn area. There are also picnic tables, a grill, bike racks, walking paths and a restroom.

Dog owners can take advantage of the fenced, off-leash dog areas and agility course features, along with a drinking fountain that accommodates both dogs and their owners.

Sustainability is at the core of the county’s mission. All plants are drought-tolerant and watered by smart irrigation systems to support sustainability measures. Many of the trees and shrubs are native to the area, to complement existing vegetation and encourage wildlife.

The park will be open daily from sunrise to sunset, and both patrolled and maintained by County Parks and Recreation

Mayor Marty (left) and good friend Jane Lynch, who is a former mayor of Funner, CA

Photos courtesy of Harrahs Resort Southern California

Photos courtesy of County of San Diego Communications Office

Harrah’s Resort SoCal is located in Funner, located in North San Diego County in California. A premier gaming destination, it also features world-class dining as well as a slew of activities and amenities to make one’s stay enjoyable, entertaining and worthwhile.

Actor/comedian Martin Short was sworn into office as new mayor of Funner, CA.