Two Filipinas serving in US Army killed in California car crash
A CAR crash off the treacherous Devil’s Slide along California’s Highway 1 recently took the lives of two Filipinas and a military interpreter in the U.S. Army.
The victims were identified as 36-yearold Brylyn Aroma from Fort Riley, Kansas, 28-year-old Angelica Gacho and 29-yearold Mohammad Noory, both from San Francisco. The three were killed July 26 after their gray sedan plummeted into a ravine near the Devil’s Slide, an area of steep seaside cliffs about 15 miles south of San Francisco.
The crash remains under investigation. Authorities are looking into what caused the car to plunge down the cliff and land on a rocky shoreline ending up partially submerged in the ocean.
California Highway Patrol told NBC they went to rescue the car crash victims after a report of a vehicle accident at Highway 1, south of Devil’s Slide before 11:30 a.m.
Remembering the car crash victims Fellow soldiers and friends mourned the
Fil-Am hurdler Lauren Ho man re ects on Paris Olympics debut
AFTER a challenging campaign at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Filipino American hurdler
Lauren Hoffman expressed her gratitude and pride in achieving her long-awaited dream of becoming an Olympian, despite facing significant setbacks due to an Achilles injury.
In a recent Instagram post, the Philippine record holder shared her struggles and reflections on her first Olympic experience. “Officially an Olympian but MAN these last 2 months have been a struggle,” Hoffman wrote.
Reaffirming Hoffman’s status as one of the Philippines’ brightest athletics prospects, She candidly described the difficulties she faced in maintaining her health, keeping up with her training and staying confident in the lead-up to and during the games.
“A struggle to stay healthy, to get the training in, to stay confident. 2 disappointing
Marcos, Villars form biggest PH political bloc
by CHARIE MAE F. ABARCA Inquirer.net
AS his political party continued forging alliances ahead of the 2025 midterm elections, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. urged politicians on Thursday, August 8 to set aside their differences and personal interests and work together toward improving Filipinos’ lives.
At the signing of a pact between his Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) and Nacionalista Party (NP), the oldest political party in the Philippines, Mr. Marcos said he was very happy that the “natural alliance” between them has been
formalized.
Mr. Marcos chairs the PFP while former Senate President and businessman Manny Villar is the NP president. Its members include his wife, Sen. Cynthia Villar, and children Sen. Mark Villar and Las Piñas Rep. Camille Villar.
“That alliance has now formed the largest political bloc in the Philippines … We are here today to formalize this relationship and to prepare ourselves to make sure that the leaders who win in the midterm election next year are leaders who understand that we must put our partisan and personal differences aside, whatever
MANILA — Will the “day of reckoning” for agents of the Duterte administration’s bloody drug war come next month?
Retired Supreme Court Justice Antonio Carpio said on Tuesday night, August 13 that the investigation of the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) prosecutor into the brutal campaign against illegal drugs had reached a pivotal point.
“I think the day of reckoning is coming closer because what I’m hearing is that a warrant of arrest will be issued by the ICC sometime in September,” Carpio said in an interview on the vlog of political analyst and Inquirer columnist Richard Heydarian.
Carpio, however, did not say who his sources were.
Heydarian said he received similar information about the timeline when he recently visited The Hague in the Netherlands, where the international tribunal is based.
“That was the question I had in The Hague the other month … I know it’s gonna come later this year, but tell me before [filing of the certificate of candidacy] or not. And somehow I got similar answers,” he said.
The period of filing of certificate of candidacy for aspirants in the 2025 elections has been set from Oct. 1 to Oct. 8, based on the Commission on Elections’ calendar of activities.
MANILA — As cases of leptospirosis continue to rise, the Department of Health (DOH) plans to ask local government units, especially in flood-prone areas, to ban swimming in floodwaters.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, August 12 at Malacañang, Health Secretary Ted Herbosa lamented the public’s lack of information about leptospirosis.
“I will recommend to local chief executives, to mayors, to issue an ordinance... to ban swimming in floodwaters,” Herbosa said.
The DOH chief said he would also talk with Education Secretary Sonny Angara to help in educating children about acquiring the disease by swimming in water contaminated with animal urine.
“It’s not a communication problem, it’s a behavior
MANILA — Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Monday, August 12 said China’s aircraft dropping of flares in Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal in the West Philippine Sea is expected as the Manila continues to assert its sovereign rights.
Chinese fighter jets fired flares into a path of a Philippine Air Force plane last Aug. 8, the Armed Forces of the Philippines said over the weekend.
“We have to expect that it is a consistent pattern,” Teodoro said in an ambush interview in reaction to China’s actions.
“This is a continuous struggle for presence and for assertion of sovereign rights in the
MANILA — The Sy siblings retained their top spot in this year’s Forbes list of the Philippines’ 50 richest, with ports and casino tycoon Enrique Razon Jr. dislodging real estate magnate Manuel Villar Jr. at second spot. Despite their net worth being reduced reflecting the weaker peso, the Sy siblings, heirs to the SM group built by the late Henry Sy Sr., remained the country’s richest with a net worth of $13 billion. The Sy Group’s flagship listed conglomerate SM Investments, which has interests in banking, property and retail, and is
expanding to geothermal energy with five new projects across the country.
Taking over second spot for the first time is Razon, whose wealth soared by $3 billion to $11.1 billion. He is also the biggest dollar gainer for the second year in a row. Forbes said that shares of Razon’s listed International Container Terminal Services, which has been in expansion mode, surged by nearly 80 percent in the past year amid the global trade rebound. On Villar’s, end, while his net worth expanded by $1.2 billion to $10.9 billion, he slipped to third place after being overtaken by Razon.
FIRST FAMILY WELCOMES CALOY. Paris Olympics double winner Carlos Yulo playfully poses with his gymnastics gold medals as (from left)
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, with sons Joseph Simon and William Vincent, welcome the athletes, coaches and officials at Malacañang Palace, Manila on Tuesday night,
Henry Sy Sr. worked in his father’s sari-sari store at age 12, opened the first Shoemart in 1958 and rose to become the country’s richest man. Philstar.com file photo
FROM WATER CANNONS TO FLARES. A Chinese fighter jet in the distance drops flares into the path of a Philippine Air Force plane conducting a routine maritime patrol over Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal) on Aug. 8, as shown in this screengrab from a video that a government source shared with the Inquirer.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Partido Federal ng Pilipinas chair, and Nacionalista Party president Manny Villar preside over the signing of an agreement forging an alliance between their parties for the 2025 midterm elections. Contributed photo by RICHMOND MERCURIO Philstar.com
by HELEN FLORES Philstar.com
by KATHLEEN DE VILLA Inquirer.net
by MICHAEL PUNONGBAYAN Philstar.com
Two Filipinas serving in US Army killed...
PAGE 1
loss of the two Filipinas and the third victim who were all pronounced dead at the scene.
Brylyn Andulan Aroma served in the U.S. Army as a 68W combat medic specialist since July 2021 and had been assigned to Fort Riley KS since October 2022, holding the position of specialist.
She had earned many accolades, including the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and the Army Service Ribbon.
Honoring Aroma and expressing his grief, Army spokesperson Jefferson Grimes said,, “We are deeply saddened by the untimely passing of Brylyn, a Big Red One Soldier, teammate, and friend.”
Angelica Gacho served as a communications specialist and a 92W water treatment specialist in the U.S. Army from 2021 to 2023, earning several achievements including the Korea Defense Service Medal and the Army Achievement Medal and Overseas Service Ribbon.
Her partner, also serving in the U.S. Army, Melvin Mitchell III expressed his love and heartfelt grief in a post, writing, “Angel, my love. Words cannot express how much I love you and what you mean to me. You were the greatest part of my day, my motivation, my safe
place, and my peace. I truly have no idea how to move forward from here.”
One of her friends paid tribute to her on Facebook, writing, “You were an outstanding soldier and a caring friend.
Having you around made my army life easier.”
The third victim of the car crash, Mohammad Noory, had worked as a U.S. military interpreter in Afghanistan. (Mary Villegas/Inquirer.net)
and humbling performances on the highest stage of sport, but I am still so grateful and want to thank God for the opportunity,” she continued.
Despite the challenges and not being able to represent the country as she had hoped, the Fil-Am athlete emphasized the invaluable experience she gained and her unwavering gratitude, stating, “Even though I couldn’t represent the country in the way I know I can, I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything.”
Hoffman’s message went beyond personal reflections, as she highlighted her broader goals of glorifying God and inspiring others.
“More than times, the goal is always to glorify God and inspire others, and I hope I was still able to do that in some capacity. Fall down 7 times, stand up 8.
Thank you ALL for the endless support, maraming salamat at laban Pilipinas,” she concluded, expressing her appreciation for the support she received from her fans and countrymen.
During the qualifications,
Forbes: Sy siblings still Philippine’s...
Vista Land & Lifescapes and his mass-housing and memorial park flagship Golden MV Holdings have both diversified into high-rise apartments to capitalize on the property market’s hot streak.
Taking fourth spot is tycoon Ramon Ang of San Miguel as his net worth grew by $400 million to $3.8 billion.
Under his leadership, Forbes said San Miguel has repositioned itself as a nation builder with an ambitious push into infrastructure, winning bids for airports, toll roads and power plants.
Isidro Consunji and siblings of diversified engineering conglomerate DMCI Holdings completed the top five with a fortune of $3.4 billion, up from last year’s $2.9 billion.
Coming in at sixth is Tony Tan Caktiong of Asian food conglomerate Jollibee Foods with a net worth of $2.9 billion He was followed by taipan
Lucio Tan with a net worth of $2.65 billion, Jaime Zobel de Ayala with $2.6 billion and the husband-and-wife tandem of Lucio and Susan Co of Puregold with $2.3 billion.
Rounding out the top 10 was the Aboitiz family whose net worth amounted to $2.2 billion.
Forbes cited education magnate Eusebio Tanco as a notable gainer in this year’s list, ranking at No. 22.
Tanco’s wealth grew by 35 percent to $815 million on rising shares of his online gaming company DigiPlus Interactive, which benefited from the government’s crackdown on illegal offshore gambling firms.
Meanwhile, Lance Gokongwei and his siblings slipped out of the top 10 in this year’s list.
Forbes said their fortune shrank by 37 percent to $1.9 billion, falling to No. 11 from No. 7.
Shares of their flagship JG Summit Holdings are down from
a year ago, as its petrochemicals unit got impacted by weaker global prices and high operating costs, according to Forbes.
Overall, Forbes said the combined wealth of tycoons on the Philippines’ 50 Richest list this year was nearly flat at $80.8 billion compared to $80.4 billion last year.
“The Philippines’ economy expanded by 5.7 percent in the first quarter of 2024, slower than the 6.4 percent growth in the same period last year, as inflation and high borrowing costs weighed on domestic demand. While the country’s benchmark stock market index gained two percent since fortunes were last measured, the peso fell six percent,” Forbes said “As a result, more than half of the country’s 50 richest are less wealthy this year,” it said.
To make the list, the minimum net worth was $170 million, down slightly from $180 million last year. g
Lauren Hoffman shares her reflections on her first Olympic experience.
Photo from Instagram/@hoffyyy14
Photo from Brylyn Aroma/Facebook
Brylyn Aroma (right) and Angelica Gacho (left) were killed in a car crash off the Devil’s Slide along California’s Highway 1. Photos from Brylyn Aroma, Angelica Gacho/Facebook
Hoffman failed to advance to the semi-finals after placing eighth in the women’s 400m hurdles with a time of 57.84 seconds. She went on to fight for a spot
in the repechage on Monday, August 5 at Stade de France but placed seventh with a time of 58.28 seconds. (Hans Carbonilla/ Inquirer.net)
Villar’s
Marcos, Villars form biggest PH...
they may be,” the president said in his remarks at Brittany Hotel in Taguig City.
“There are big and small differences between us. But what is most important is that we agree on the best way to help our countrymen. That is what we should do,” he said.
The NP president agreed that
different political parties can still find common ground “despite our differences” in terms of diverse cultural, religious and economic backgrounds and different political ideologies.
“We need to prove to the Filipino people that we are a nation capable of rising above our differences in order to build a bright future for the country,”
Villar said. The PFP’s pact with NP is its fourth alliance forged this year as part of preparations for next year’s elections. Mr. Marcos’ political party earlier signed similar agreements with the Lakas Christian Muslim Democrats, Nationalist People’s Coalition and National Unity Party. g
China’s dropping of flares in...
area so you have to expect these things to happen,” he added.
No less than President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos
called Chinese Air Force move as as “unjustified, illegal and reckless.”
diplomatic protest to condemn Beijing’s latest action.
Teodoro also highlighted the importance of lodging a
“We cannot not do it, or else we are acquiescing,” Teodoro said of diplomatic protest. g
DOH wants ban on swimming ...
problem. We need a change in behavior,” Herbosa said.
He also called for proper solid waste management as accumulation of garbage attracts rats, the common cause of leptospirosis, adding that most of the cases were in areas affected by the recent flooding due to Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon.
Herbosa gave assurance that there is no shortage of doxycycline, which is used to treat the disease. Symptoms of leptospirosis include fever,
vomiting, nausea, muscle pain and headaches.
Reports said a total of 1,444 leptospirosis cases were recorded from Jan. 1 to July 27 this year – a figure 42 percent lower compared to the 2,505 cases in the same period last year.
Dr. Alberto Domingo, DOH spokesman and assistant secretary, said the cases are expected to rise further.
“Not yet included in our latest data are the new cases we have now – those lined up in hospitals. Thus, we are seeing a rise in
the number,” Domingo said in a televised interview.
He assured the public that even with the rise, there are still enough beds in hospitals for leptospirosis patients.
“We do not lack hospital beds. There are times, we observe there are hospitals about to get filled with patients but we are still able to manage,” Domingo said. He reminded the public to seek immediate consultation after wading in floodwaters. (Rhodina Villanueva, Delon Porcalla/ Philstar.com)
Carpio: ICC warrant may be...
‘Element of surprise’ Kristina Conti, one of the lawyers representing the families of drug war victims, cautioned against any public announcements regarding the possible issuance of arrest warrants against the identified suspects in the ICC prosecutor’s investigation.
“There’s sensitivity in the actual arrest. It’s better to not announce the issuance so that there will be [an element of] surprise,” Conti told the Inquirer, refusing to confirm or deny the supposed schedule of arrests.
Former Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV, one of the parties who filed a complaint in the ICC in connection with the drug war killings, earlier told the Inquirer he was certain that arrest warrants would be released within the year.
The investigation stemmed from allegations that former President Rodrigo Duterte and his lieutenants committed crimes against humanity by waging a ruthless war on drugs, both as the country’s chief executive and as mayor of Davao City.
The drug war killed some 6,000 people, based on official data, but rights watchdogs placed the actual number at more than 20,000, citing underreporting or falsified records.
In July, Trillanes made public a supposedly confidential document from the ICC’s Office of the Prosecutor tagging as “suspects” former Philippine National Police chief and now Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, retired PNP chief Oscar Albayalde, former Criminal Investigation and Detection Group
chief Romeo Caramat Jr., former National Police Commission chief Edilberto Leonardo, and former PNP chief intelligence officer Eleazar Mata.
Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra later confirmed that his office was having communications with the ICC, saying the government would not assist them in interviewing the police officials but would not stop them from doing so.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla also promised not to block the International Criminal Police Organization, or Interpol, from arresting anyone on the ICC’s behalf.
“We are not in the business of blocking any movement at Interpol,” he said.
Disengagement policy
Conti said such statements already constituted “official acknowledgment” that the ICC investigation would proceed “even without the government’s assistance.”
But she added that while the
drug war victims “appreciate the minimum commitment” expressed by the incumbent administration, they still hoped that President Marcos would reverse his “declared policy of disengagement.”
“It would certainly be more favorable if the ICC secures full cooperation from the Philippines, given the unreasonable positions and even promises of violence from certain persons likely being considered for trial by the court,” Conti told the Inquirer. The Philippines officially left the ICC in 2019, a year after Duterte unilaterally ordered the country’s withdrawal from the Rome Statute, the 2002 treaty that established the international tribunal.
The ICC has maintained that its inquiry in the context of the drug war remains within its jurisdiction, as most of the alleged crimes occurred when the country was still a member of the court, from Nov. 1, 2011, to March 16, 2019. g
This combination of file photos shows retired Supreme Court
Justice Antonio Carpio and former President Rodrigo Duterte. Inquirer and presidential file photos
Residents from Bulelak Street in Malanday, Marikina City carry their pets, children, and belongings as they evacuate after the Marikina River breached the third alarm due to #CarinaPH and the southwest monsoon on July 24, 2024. Photo from STAR / Walter Bollozos
REDUCING BACKLOG. Plastic driver’s license cards dated March and April 2023 are ready for pickup at the Land Transportation Office-Davao Region in Davao City on Tuesday, Aug. 13. Owners may claim their cards even without appointment. PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.
Fil-Am breakdancer Logan Edra looks back on her Olympics debut
THE 2024 Paris Olympics marked a historic moment for both the sport of breaking and the Filipino American community as Logan Edra, known in the dance world as “Logistx,” made history as the first Filipina to compete in breaking, a newly added Olympic event.
After her Olympic debut, Edra took to Instagram to express her pride in her performance, despite not securing a medal. “Trust you are seen. All your life’s battles. Even if it stays between you and God,” she wrote, reflecting on the personal significance of the experience.
She continued, “Although I didn’t walk away with the outcome I envisioned, I still fought through to be here and did what I came here to do, and that was to represent and enjoy. I love how I danced out there, and that makes me proud.”
Edra acknowledged the challenges of competition, noting that while some rounds felt like victories, the unpredictable nature of the sport is all part of the journey. In her message, Edra also paid
tribute to the origins of breaking, expressing deep gratitude for the pioneers and creators of the art form. “Shoutout to Hip Hop for being a light in my life. SHOUTOUT TO THE PIONEERS/CREATORS OF BREAKIN. Thank you Breakin for being true medicine. Thank God for dance and music,” she added.
The Fil-Am dancer emphasized the importance of respect for BIPOC, Hip Hop, and the breaking community, asserting, “BIPOC / HIP HOP / BREAKIN IS NOT TO BE MESSED WITH WE ARE TO BE RESPECTED.”
In an interview shared by NBC Olympics, Edra expressed her excitement and confidence about breaking’s debut on the Olympic stage. Her vision for the sport extends beyond personal success. She aims to captivate audiences worldwide, highlighting breaking, like skateboarding, as an “artsport.”
“I pray that we bring the most hype and steal attention from the other sports,” she told Reuters “They are going to hear the music
Photo from Instagram/@logistx_ugf and be so curious. Like, what’s going on?”
Unfortunately, Team USA missed the podium in breaking at the Summer Games, as both of its B-Girls, Sunny Choi and Logistx, were unable to advance beyond the round-robin stage.
(Inquirer.net)
Mayor Gloria highlights power of partnerships in second annual state of Balboa Park address
SAN DIEGO – Highlighting the progress his administration has made to improve Balboa Park and outlining plans to preserve the future of San Diego’s iconic crown jewel, Mayor Todd Gloria on Thursday, August 8 delivered his second annual State of Balboa Park address.
The event, held at the Natural History Museum, focused on the importance of harnessing the power of partnerships to ensure Balboa Park remains a vibrant and sustainable cultural and recreational gem for generations to come.
“I delivered the first State of Balboa Park last year because I wanted to keep San Diegans updated on the progress we’re making as we maintain and improve our city’s crown jewel,” said Mayor Gloria. “Since then, so much work has been done, and so many new decisions have been made, that I felt I needed to do it again, to provide lovers of Balboa Park with new updates on how we are renewing our dedication to maintaining this magical place.”
Mayor Gloria’s speech was delivered on the day San Diego’s newest ambassadors, Yun Chuan and Xin Bao, two giant pandas from China, made their public debut at the world-famous San Diego Zoo, located in Balboa Park. The San Diego Zoo was the first in the U.S. to receive giant pandas in 21 years, and their arrival is emblematic of San Diego’s stellar conservation reputation around the globe.
In a theme that resonated throughout the evening, Mayor Gloria spoke about the importance of impactful collaborations and working together to ensure Balboa Park remains a civic treasure and beacon for those seeking inspiration from its rich culture and heritage found throughout its lush grounds.
Recognizing one such person for being an incredibly ardent and fervent park supporter, Mayor Gloria presented Senate President pro Tem Emeritus Toni Atkins with a “Key to Balboa Park.” Her significant contributions to Balboa Park over the past 25 years include helping fund the Botanical Building, the International Cottages, improvements to the Fleet Science Center, the Worldbeat Cultural Center, and the Natural History Museum.
“Toni’s passion for the park
File photo/www.countynewscenter.com
runs deep, and she has backed that passion up with action and leadership at both the local and state levels for more than a quarter of a century,” Mayor Gloria said.
“In her various roles as city councilmember, interim mayor, assemblymember, assembly speaker, senator and senate president pro Tem, Toni Atkins has come through for Balboa Park time and time again.”
Additional key highlights in Mayor Gloria’s address include:
• Nearing completion of the $28 million ground-up reconstruction of the Botanical Building that recreates the building’s original 1915 design thanks to $9 million in state funding secured by Senate President pro Tem Emeritus Toni Atkins.
• Signing a lease agreement earlier this week with the Worldbeat Center that formally recognizes center’s 30-year of providing cultural programming and education related to the African diaspora. This agreement, along with a $1 million state grant, will provide much needed improvements to the building.
• Completing SANDAG’s $27 million Pershing Bikeway Project to greatly enhance the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists along Pershing Drive while improving our environment.
• Restoring historic Marston House with a $1 million state grant provided by Assemblymember Chris Ward to repair brickwork, windows and trim so that visitors can soon enjoy its rich heritage.
Mayor Gloria also announced several projects on the horizon. Under his leadership, the city is:
• Issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Starlight Bowl to find a partner for the rehabilitation and operation of the beloved, iconic outdoor amphitheater, marking the beginning of its decades-long
anticipated revitalization.
• Anticipating the release of an RFP to restore the Village Grill Restaurant to add to the unique culinary offerings in the park for visitors to enjoy.
• Announcing the upcoming ribbon cutting of the World Design Capital Pavilion in the Plaza de Panama; the pavilion will be a vibrant hub for global design discussions for the next few months.
• Refurbishing the delicate innerworkings of the pipe organ and providing upgrades to the building’s infrastructure located in Spreckels Organ Pavilion.
Mayor Gloria noted that looking to the future, the time has come to revisit the planning documents that guide development in the park.
“The Balboa Park Master Plan is over 35 years old, and while the primary tenets of the plan still hold true, it is time for an update,” Mayor Gloria said.
“Tonight, I am directing our Park and Recreation Department and Planning Department staff to seek out grants or other funding that will enable us to begin a new Balboa Park Master Plan Update as well as updates to the various Precise Plans that govern the park.”
He also asked the city’s Financial Services Department to set up a new fund, where revenue generated in the Park is solely dedicated to making park improvements, instead of being diverted into the General Fund.
With all these exciting initiatives in the works, Mayor Gloria acknowledged the need for even more revenue to achieve Balboa Park’s full potential.
“We are making the most out of the city’s limited resources to maintain and elevate this civic treasure,” said Mayor Gloria.
“However, there is still a long list of unfunded projects and deferred maintenance that we must address.”
To this end, he reminded the public of the proposed 1-cent sales tax measure that will appear on the November ballot.
The second annual State of Balboa Park attracted more than 150 attendees, including Senate President pro Tem Emeritus Atkins and City Councilmember Stephen Whitburn, key stakeholders, city employees, donors, supporters, and others. (City of San Diego Release)
‘I feel dismissed’: People experiencing colorism say health system fails them
LOS ANGELES — Jonnae Thompson has felt for a long time that her dark brown skin and natural hair have made finding work in Hollywood especially hard.
“It’s like this negative connotation,” said the 37-yearold actress, singer, and stand-up comedian, who said she is often asked to audition for villainous roles such as a bully, drug dealer, or pimp.
Her quest for more equitable representation on the big screen isn’t just professionally exhausting. Thompson says anxiety about her skin complexion has affected her health.
“It definitely had a negative impact on my self-esteem,” she said. She recalls being called “charcoal” in kindergarten. “It was big, like, your skin is dark and that’s a problem.”
The term colorism — a form of prejudice and discrimination in which lighter skin is favored over darker skin — was popularized by author Alice Walker in her 1983 book “In Search of Our Mothers’ Gardens: Womanist Prose.”
Clinicians from various ethnic groups have recently begun to draw a direct line between colorism and poor health. A 2023 KFF survey found that, among Black and Hispanic adults, those with self-described darker skin tones reported more experiences with discrimination in daily life compared with those who have lighter skin tones. People who feel they experience daily discrimination can be at higher risk for depression, loneliness, increased alcohol and drug use, and anxiety, data shows.
And colorism can also lead to physical health concerns. Hair straighteners and skin lighteners commonly used by women of color, sometimes to conform to racialized beauty standards, increase their exposure to toxic chemicals, research shows.
Because of the potential health implications, the health care system should pay more attention to colorism, said Regina James, a child and adolescent psychiatrist who heads the American Psychiatric Association’s Division of Diversity and Health Equity.
“Skin color discrimination is so insidious it can literally get under your skin,” she said. “And consciously or subconsciously, it
self-esteem and self-confidence, and even
detrimental
Boston College.
Jonnae Thompson, an actress, a singer, and a stand-up comedian, performs in the “Ladies Love Comedy” show at the Ice House Comedy Club in Pasadena, California, on April 27. She says anxiety about her skin complexion has negatively affected both her physical and mental well-being.
Photo from Alics Noel
Shannon Brown,
Photo from Sam at
Shakun Kaushal, a digital communications
Photo from
Marcos: Police ops humane, bloodless
by KRISTINA MARALIT ManilaTimes.net
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday, August 8 hailed the Philippine National Police (PNP) for conducting lawful, humane and bloodless police operations in its bid to weed out criminality.
Speaking at the 123rd Police Service Anniversary, Marcos acknowledged the strong determination of the police force to maintain peace, security and harmony.
Commending the leadership of PNP chief Gen. Rommel Marbil, Marcos said “noteworthy reforms and achievements” were achieved in recent months.”
Our crackdown on illegal
drugs, smuggling, illegal gambling, private armed groups, human trafficking, and criminality has also strengthened significantly in ways that are not only effective but legal and lawful,” Marcos said. “Indeed, police operations are now conducted as humane, as truthful, and as bloodless as possible,” he added.
DATELINE PHILIPPINES Petecio gives Philippines 4th medal in Paris Games
The president said the PNP’s partnership with the military has led to the neutralization of some 1,951 members of local and communist terrorist groups.
He also cited the police force’s intensified patrol operations and increased police deployment that contributed to a lower crime rate, as well as the improved cybersecurity capability of the PNP.
He called on policemen to be faithful to their oath of protecting the country and its people.
“Remember your mandate and place public safety and service at the core of your duty,” the president said. “I also urge all police personnel to support the leadership of the PNP. I trust that you will sustain your current initiatives and take care of the people’s increasing confidence in the PNP’s abilities,” he added.
Marcos lauded the hard work of the police, noting that law enforcers should serve as an inspiration for others to pursue integrity, excellence and utmost dedication.
Senate honors Yulo, fellow PH Olympians
by CHARIE MAE F. ABARCA Inquirer.net
— The Senate on
Wednesday, August 14 adopted resolutions commending and congratulating Filipino athletes who participated in the 2024 Paris Olympics led by two-time gold medalist Carlos Yulo. With all senators made coauthors, the upper chamber adopted Senate Resolution No. (SRN) 1128, authored by Sen. Ramon Bong Revilla Jr., taking into consideration SRNs 1129, 1132, 1140, 1141 and 1144 commending and congratulating Team Philippines “for their impressive performance” in the
Paris 2024 Olympics.
“The historic and recordbreaking achievements by the Filipino Olympians, which can be considered as the country’s best Olympics stint in history, proves that Filipinos are among the best and brightest in the global arena of sports,” Revilla said in his resolution.
“The 22-strong Philippine contingent in the Paris 2024 Olympics has served as an epitome of the ‘quintessence of Filipino spirit’ defining the nation’s continuous showcase of perseverance, discipline and excellence. Their participation in the quadrennial sporting event is proof of unfolding historical
milestones beyond chasing medals. They are exemplars in their respective fields who shine their light of inspiration to our next generations of athletes,” it added.
Apart from 24-year-old Olympian gymnast Yulo, among those who bagged medals during the 2024 Olympics were boxing bronze medalist Nesty Petecio and first time Olympic medalist Aira Villegas, who also won bronze in boxing.
“The Philippine Senate has, on several occasions, given recognition to outstanding Filipinos for their exemplary feats of bringing honor and glory to the country,” the resolution further indicated.
by FRANCO JOSE C. BAROÑA ManilaTimes
PARIS – Nesthy Petecio’s Paris odyssey ended in a tough call in the semifinals on Wednesday, August 7 at Stade Roland Garros. Petecio didn’t get it, missing a second straight Olympic final and settling for a bronze being added to her silver from Tokyo in 2021.
Sobrang labo, sobrang labo talaga,” said Petecio, not convinced she lost the fight to young Polish foe Julia Szeremeta.
Wala siyang clear punch sa third round, ‘yung body shots ko, hook ko pumapasok, hindi ko alam kung ano ang nangyari,” said Petecio.
The judges saw otherwise, giving the 57-kg semis bout to Szeremeta at 4-1.
With another shot at the gold on the line, Petecio entered the arena determined to get it. First up atop the ring, Petecio prayed in her corner then launched her drive, taking the opening round at 5-0.
But it became a split when Szeremeta fought back and grabbed the second at 4-1, making the finale as the deciding round.
It became a veritable barroom brawl with Petecio indeed landing the clearer shots but with Szeremeta being the busier fighter, throwing more punches though not hitting the target.
Alas, all judges gave it to Szeremeta, a decision seen as highway robbery by many Filipino sports officials.
Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham Tolentino didn’t hide his disgust. POC secretary general Wharton Chan disagreed with the judges and so did rowing chief Patrick Gregorio.
“Remnants of AIBA,” rued Tolentino, referring to the international boxing body expelled by the International Olympic Committee for governance, finance and corruption issues, among others.
Akala ko akin, hindi ko alam kung ano ang nangyari,” said Petecio.
But with her semis finish, Petecio nonetheless made history as the first Philippine boxer to nail
medals in back-to-back Olympics.
She’s the fourth Filipino Olympian to win multiple medals, joining gymnast Carlos Yulo, weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz and swimmer Teófilo Yldefonso.
“We came with five boxers and going home with two Olympic bronze medals,” said Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines (ABAP) chairman Ricky Vargas, thanking the nation for the support.
“To Hergie (Bacyadan), Eumir (Marcial), Carlo (Paalam), Aira (Villegas) and Nesthy, our gratitude. Your sacrifice and courage is what makes us all better as a nation,” Vargas also said. “Until 2028, in Los Angeles, the Olympic gold remains to be our goal. Sorry to disappoint. No excuses but we assure you we gave our best.” Vargas was still happy “our flag still rises with the best.”
Team ABAP came through with a two-bronze haul after a twosilver, one-bronze haul in Tokyo.
Villegas was the other Paris bronze winner with her semis windup in the women’s 50-kg class.
At 29, Villegas is looking forward to the next Olympics.
At 32, Petecio isn’t closing the door on another shot at Olympic glory.
“Tignan po natin. Di ko po masabi sa ngayon. Pero hanggang kaya ko pa, bakit hindi natin ipagpatuloy ang paglaban para sa bayan.” Petecio would be promoted a rank higher by the Philippine
Coast Guard when she returns to the country. Petecio currently holds the rank of Petty Officer Second Class, under the PCG’s Special Service Office (CGSSO).
“Nesthy won a bronze medal in recognition of her feat, that is a very inspiring achievement. The Philippine Coast Guard will be promoting her to the next rank when she comes back,” said PCG commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan.
Meanwhile, the CGSSO is also rooting for one of its own personnel competing in Paris — Coast Guard Seawoman Second Class Elreen Ando who competes in 59-kg women’s weightlifting.
Marcos sends congratulations President Marcos on Thursday, August 8 lauded Petecio for bagging bronze at the 2024 Paris Olympics, saying she demonstrated the resilience of her countrymen.
“Congratulations, Nesthy!
Thank you for bringing home the bronze medal for the Philippines. You’ve truly shown the world how Filipinos never back down from a challenge,” the president said in a Facebook post.
“The whole country is proud of you! Taas kamao, para sa boxingerong Pilipino (A raised fist for the Filipino boxer),” the president added.
First Lady Liza Marcos thanked Petecio, saying: “Another Filipina has punched her way to an Olympic medal — a proud moment for all of us! You are truly a Filipino boxing champ in our hearts!”
Poland’s Julia Szeremeta (blue) reacts after beating Philippines’ Nesthy Petecio in the women’s 57kg semi-final boxing match during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at the Roland-Garros Stadium, in Paris on August 7, 2024. Photo by Peter Cziborra / POOL / AFP
The Philippine Olympic Team waves back to screaming fans during their victory parade. Inquirer.net photo by Richard A. Reyes
MANILA
FEATURES OPINION
Come out and talk
EVEN the person identified as the architect of Oplan Tokhang has admitted that police abuses were committed in carrying out the bloody crackdown on the illegal drug scourge during the previous administration. Relatives of many of the thousands of drug suspects who were killed in the so-called war on drugs are still hoping for justice.
If those with intimate knowledge of the brutal campaign want to talk about what happened, this is a good time to do so. President Marcos is standing firm on his policy, which he has made clear since the start of his administration, that he is pursuing a different tack in confronting the illegal drug problem. The other day, he reiterated it before the Philippine National Police: “Indeed, police operations are now conducted as humane, as truthful and as bloodless as possible.”
Editorial
offered to serve as witnesses in the House probe. In the early months of the Marcos administration, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla had urged law enforcers to come out and testify about abuses committed in the war on drugs, promising protection to those who decide to talk. There were no takers. Remulla issued the call as Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra lamented the difficulty of finding witnesses and even complainants in possible EJKs in the war on drugs.
At the same time, anyone can infer from the pronouncements of administration officials that the government will not block the International Criminal Court in its effort to determine whether murder as a crime against humanity was committed in the drug war launched by Rodrigo Duterte when he was president and before that, mayor of Davao City. Congressmen, for their part, are looking into reports that dirty money from Chinese-run Philippine offshore gaming operator firms, which proliferated in the previous administration, were used to finance an alleged reward system that encouraged extrajudicial killings or EJK in the war on drugs. The congressmen said several police officers, some retired and others still in the active service, have
At the time, however, administration officials were saying that the Philippines did not recognize ICC jurisdiction. Also, the 2022 alliance between the Marcos and Duterte groups appeared to be intact. This time, both sides have acknowledged that the UniTeam has broken up, with the government’s indirect cooperation with the ICC reportedly among the reasons. These developments open opportunities for the truth to be known in the drug killings. If there are police officers who are ready to talk, it’s time for them to come out. Whether they are genuinely bothered by their conscience or simply want something in return, what matters is that they tell the truth, and help deliver justice. (Philstar.com)
Dynasties: Our spreading cancer
SOME hopes must have run high when another newspaper bannered last month that the Supreme Court had moved to compel Congress to finally pass a law defining political dynasties, which our 1987 Constitution expressly prohibits. Article II Section 26 asserts: “The State shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law.” The report added that the Court considered the latter’s failure to pass the enabling law to implement the ban to be a grave abuse of discretion, and represents a continuing violation of the Constitution. But it all turned out to be a mistake. The paper had to apologize the following day, admitting it had misinterpreted
THEY say the true measure of one’s character is the ability to bounce back from failure and disappointment. But it’s equally true that success and glory can be revealing. The past week was easily among the proudest and most joyful moments for the Filipino nation. Carlos Yulo defied all odds by claiming not one but two gold medals for the country, thus catapulting our nation to the top 35 nations in the overall Olympic medal rankings. And mind you, he achieved this in the field of gymnastics, arguably the pinnacle of all sports.
In fact, Yulo’s unfathomable success singlehandedly made sure that the Philippines remained the leader among all Southeast Asian countries. Bronze medals from our valiant boxers, Aira Villegas and Nesthy Petecio, cemented our regional position ahead of both Indonesia and Thailand well into the end of the games. If anything, the Philippines comfortably ranked among the top 10 nations in the entire Asian continent, with the usual “Big Four” of China, South Korea, Japan, and Iran putting up dominant performances in their respective fields of strength. The Koreans did their magic in taekwondo, while
the Court’s posting on its website of petitions and other pleadings asking it to compel Congress to pass such a law. The Court clarified that all remain pending, including one such petition that a group of lawyers filed last March. Some expect that the high court would invoke separation of powers and avoid any such action that might be seen as encroaching on the powers of Congress as a co-equal body. The enabling law required to implement the constitutional ban on dynasties may yet remain a dream after 37 years, and still counting. It’s not for lack of bills filed in Congress. Numerous bills have been filed since 1987, but Congress simply passed them over. In more recent memory, the late former Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago filed antidynasty bills in the 15th and 16th Congresses. So did former Senators Franklin Drilon, Panfilo Lacson, and Francis
Pangilinan, the last being in the 18th Congress in 2019. Similar bills had been filed in the House of Representatives, including by Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. and various party list and district lawmakers in the 16th Congress. Most recently, Sen. Robin Padilla, as chair of the Senate committee on constitutional amendments and revision of codes, filed Senate Bill No. 2730 “seeking to finally fulfill the 1987 Constitution’s mandate to prohibit political dynasties.” Padilla cites findings by scholars documenting the harm dynasties have done, and how they have become more and more prevalent in the Philippines over the years.
Studies distinguish between “fat” and “thin” dynasties: the first is when family members hold simultaneous government positions (“sabay-sabay”), while the latter is when family members succeed each other in the same position (“sunod-sunod”). Either
A culture of mediocrity?
the Persians easily reminded the world of their wrestling pedigree. As for China, they got 13 gold medals in diving and shooting alone, with five in both table tennis and weightlifting. As for tiny impoverished Uzbekistan, it easily ranked in the top 15 nations on earth by leveraging its Soviet-era legacy of sports excellence, particularly in boxing and judo. In short, the Philippines was in a rarified company of Asian sporting giants.
It was precisely at this moment of singular national glory that things took a bizarre turn. Instead of pouring over sports analytics and Yulo’s incredible journey to an unprecedented double-gold at the Olympics, the national conversation was seamlessly hijacked by a family feud and personal drama. I’m neither in a position to nor, frankly, interested in pouring over the precise circumstances of private squabbles in Yulo’s life. I’m not here to judge. It’s his private life, and I respect that. The problem, however, is that too many extraneous elements seemed more than eager to cash in on the controversies surrounding our new national hero’s private life. And entrepreneurial vloggers and click-bait media practitioners were the main culprits. But there was more. Talent managers reportedly angled to handle Yulo’s budding “showbiz”
career, while credit-grabbing politicians began flexing their alleged past support for the new hero ahead of next year’s elections. As of this writing, the total amount of pledged prizes in both cash and properties is approaching a whopping 20 percent of the Philippines’ entire annual sports budget. It’s not that Yulo is getting too much—he deserves every million he is getting—but that our total investment in sports is so minuscule. The proposed 2025 national budget decreased dramatically, from last year’s P1.156 billion to only P725 million in the upcoming fiscal year.
If anything, the bulk of new funding in sports is expected to go into basketball, an unquestionably much-beloved sport that is yet to produce an Olympic qualification in this century. Meanwhile, most of our national sportsmen and potential Olympians will have to survive on barely minimum wage level support for the foreseeable future. We clearly have a winner-takes-all culture, which handsomely rewards only those who have won medals rather than those who could win our next ones en masse.
More fundamentally, however, we need to overcome a culture of mediocrity, which prioritizes drama, sentimentality, and showbiz. It’s the same culture that has driven away among the
way, the Philippines appears to have earned the “dynasty capital of the world” tag that Santiago described us to be. A group of Ateneo de Manila University researchers led by Dr. Ronald Mendoza noted that looking at legislators alone, 75 percent belonged to dynasties in 2013. The same figure was 6 percent in the United States, 10 percent in Argentina and Greece, 22 percent in Ireland, 24 percent in India, 33 percent in Japan, 40 percent in Mexico, and 42 percent in Thailand—all far below us.
Apart from much higher incidence, Philippine dynasties kept expanding over time, quite unlike experience elsewhere where dynasties have declined.
A 2009 study led by Ernesto Dal Bo found that 11 percent of U.S. legislators between 1789 and 1858 were dynastic, but fell to 7 percent after 1966, and more recently, to 6 percent. A 2011 study by Brian Feinstein noted a similar
decline in various countries that introduced political reforms to curb dynasties, notably in Latin America. But in the past three decades, the Philippines moved in the opposite direction. From 62 percent in the 8th Congress (1987-1992), it rose to 66 percent by the 12th Congress (1998-2001), and further to 75 percent in the 14th Congress— jokingly described then as a “Montessori Congress” for the unusually large number of young legislators who were offspring of their predecessors. But even more glaring is the current 19th Congress, where husbands and wives, parents and sons or daughters, and siblings have won seats together. Almost 80 percent of our lawmakers now belong to dynasties. Disturbingly, even sectoral representatives are also increasingly dynastic, defying the intended aim of party list representation to make representation in Congress more inclusive. How then can one
expect an anti-dynasty law to come out of such a legislature? It’s the same story with local elective positions. Mendoza’s updated data show governors with at least one relative in office having grown from a 41-percent share in 1988 to 80 percent in 2019. Vice governors’ fat dynasty share had risen from 18 to 68 percent in the same period. For mayors, it grew from 26 to 53 percent. With countless studies having shown close correlation between dynasties and persistent backwardness and poverty, it looks and feels like a cancer getting out of hand, overwhelming our politics and our society. One can only pray it’s not terminal. (Inquirer.net) * * * 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.
* * * cielito.habito@gmail.com
best and brightest in this country, including former Olympians and many of my colleagues, both academics and professionals, who are now instead working at the world’s leading institutions rather than directly helping their motherland.
This year’s memorable Olympics showed us that we never lacked in talent, or in determination.
If anything, a new “golden era” in Philippine sports could be on the horizon. But we need a culture of excellence, which knows how to prioritize investment in nurturing our best and brightest as well as developing a wide range of sports endeavors capable of delivering us Olympic glory. As the 13th most populous nation on earth, we are clearly yet to fully optimize the vast and impressive pool of
RICHARD HEYDARIAN
talent and energy in our beloved Philippines. (Inquirer. net)
Carlos Edriel Yulo
Photo courtesy of International Gymnastics Federation
Philippines, US hold joint air exercises
by Michael Punongbayan Philstar.com
MANILA — Air forces of the Philippines and the United States carried out a joint maneuver on Friday, August 9 over Pampanga and Cebu, in what organizers said was a demonstration of the two allies’ enduring partnership.
Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo, Philippine Air Force public affairs office chief, said the exercise –dubbed as Iron Blade – involved two Philippine FA-50PH fighter aircraft, two U.S. Air Force FA22s and a U.S. Air Force C-130
Hercules transport aircraft. During the activity, the aircraft conducted formation flights between Basa Air Base in Pampanga and Brigadier General Benito Ebuen Air Base in Mactan, Cebu.
Castillo said a photo exercise was also included in the mission, aimed at further improving cooperation and interoperability between the PAF and the USAF. Apart from the aerial maneuvers, she said subject matter expert exchanges were held in Pampanga focusing on flight operations and maintenance, while cargo-related
exchanges took place in Cebu.
Castillo said Iron Blade is part of the two air forces’ redeployment activities following their participation in the Pitch Black Exercise in Australia.
The Philippines is one of the stopover points of the US air group before heading for Kadena Air Base in Japan. The U.S. Air Force contingent had six F-22s and three C-130s participating in the stopover.
Castillo said the latest joint exercise also underscored the Philippines and U.S. commitment to regional security and stability. g
No plans to make PH holidays fewer – Escudero
by Jean Mangaluz Philstar.com
MANILA — Senate President
Francis Escudero on Monday, August 12 said there are no plans to cut down the number of holidays following the online uproar his previous comments stirred.
Last Wednesday, August 7, Escudero floated the possibility of combining or reducing the number of holidays, saying there were already too many, which was making the Philippines less productive.
“Walang issue sa holiday.
Ang polisiya ng Senado: ‘wag nang dagdagan ang holiday natin ngayon kasi sobrang dami na pero wala kaming balak bawasan,” Escudero said in a media interview at the Senate.
(There is no issue about holidays. The policy of the Senate is this: do not add to our holidays now because there are already too many, but we have no plans to reduce them.)
Escudero acknowledged that it would be a long and drawn-out process that would outlast the 19th Congress.
He noted that in addition to the 21 national holidays, there are also provincial and municipal holidays, bringing the total number a person could observe to 23 or 25 days.
“We’re granting holidays in provinces that don’t have a holiday yet pero kung mayroon na, ‘wag na nga dagdagan,” said Escudero.
(We’re granting holidays in provinces that don’t have a holiday yet, but if there is one, we will not add any more.)
Escudero said the Senate had to deliberate on three holiday bills on that day alone. They had to reject one provincial holiday, as the said province already had two.
Holiday economics is also being considered, as the president could choose to declare a holiday on days that are sandwiched between a holiday
VP Sara impeachment?
Solons say it’s unheard of, but not surprising
by gabriel Pabico lalu Inquirer.net
MANILA — There are no talks of an impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte at the House of Representatives, but a lawmaker said that it would not be a surprise if someone actually files a petition given the second-highest official’s recent activities.
During a press briefing on Monday, August 12 at the Batasang Pambansa complex, Young Guns bloc members were asked about former Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque’s prediction that an impeachment complaint against Duterte is in the works.
Roque in a video posted on his official Facebook page said that he heard from his “classmates” in the 17th Congress who are still part of the 19th Congress that a complaint will be filed this week.
La Union Rep. Francisco Paolo Ortega V said he has not heard of such talks, claiming that the crystal ball that showed such predictions might just be dirty.
“I have two crystal balls, but I have not seen anything like that, I looked at the left, and then the right, but there’s nothing. We’re sticking to the facts, of course, were sticking to the issues in the House of Representatives, and we have not heard anything like that,” Ortega said.
“So maybe that crystal ball is just dirty, maybe it needs cleaning,” he added.
Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Raul Angelo Bongalon agreed with Ortega, saying that he also has not heard of any possible impeachment complaint against Duterte.
Bongalon however said it would not be a surprise if someone actually files a complaint.
“So I will echo the statement of Cong. Paolo Ortega, we have not heard about any complaints, but it would not be a surprise if somebody would file an impeachment case against the vice president. It’s not bewildering, and we would not be shocked if there are actually groups or individuals out to file complaints who want to hold the vice president accountable,” he said.
Mere gossip
“But as of now, I am saying that we have not heard anything or any news about a possible filing of an impeachment case against the VP. So as of now, his (Roque’s) post will remain a mere gossip,” he added.
Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong meanwhile urged the public to separate the truth from hearsay, especially regarding this issue—adding that he does not know what are the intentions behind talks that Duterte might face an impeachment complaint.
“You know, we need to identify what is true news and what is mere gossip. I think we have been too reliant on gossip. I do
and the weekend. This would allow more people to schedule trips and vacations.
Escudero faced backlash from netizens after his comments on holidays were reported.
Critics argued that there are more effective ways to enhance Filipino productivity and competitiveness, with some highlighting that the Senate itself takes breaks between sessions.
"Yung holiday, nagkasundo ang Senado na limitahin ang holiday. Mahigit isang buwan na ang holiday sa buong bansa, which makes Philippine companies and workers less competitive," Escudero said last week.
(The holidays, the Senate agreed to limit them. Holidays take up more than one month in the country, which makes Philippine companies and workers less competitive.) g
‘I feel dismissed’: People experiencing...
things as human beings that we all need to secure to have good health, both physically and mentally,” she said.
The issue can emerge in childhood for Black and Indigenous people and other people of color, who must navigate fair skin often being seen as superior, a ramification of colonialization. Black children with the darkest complexions experience higher levels of depressive symptoms, found a 2020 study in the journal Society and Mental Health.
Shannon Brown, 34, a former college counselor from the Bronx, New York, who is Black, remembers being called “midnight” by classmates and having family members joke about his skin being difficult to light in family photos. “I’ve just kind of accepted it and try to find the humor in it,” he said. “I feel like most folks aren’t intentionally trying to hurt me, but the jokes get tiresome.”
Shakun Kaushal, a 26-year-old digital communications specialist at the Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions, is Indian American and has a “darker complexion.” She said that in Indian culture one might hear comments like, “Oh, she’s so light and beautiful.”
“I sometimes feel dismissed by people,” said Kaushal, who has searched for an Indian or Black therapist in hopes they might better relate to her lived experience. She believes conversations about colorism should be intergenerational, start
early, and get introduced with great care.
“What you say to a child does affect them. They will remember, and it will impact how they feel about themselves and in their skin,” Kaushal said. “We must talk about it.”
The feeling of shame and embarrassment colorism produces in people is palpable and needs to be acknowledged in health care settings, said Roopal Kundu, a dermatologist who founded and directs the Northwestern Medicine Center for Ethnic Skin and Hair in Chicago. Kundu, who is of South Asian heritage, opened the center in 2005 and notes that some cases of diseases like psoriasis, skin cancer, and eczema get diagnosed later, or misdiagnosed, because they present differently on diverse skin tones.
“How can we really make sure, as a field, that we’re taking care of everybody?” she said. “Healthy skin is beautiful skin. And beauty is across every single skin tone that there is.”
Therapists, doctors, and other clinicians from diverse backgrounds say that, in addition to clinical approaches that incorporate cultural competence, more efforts are needed to diversify the pool of mental health practitioners and to collaborate between disciplines.
Without cultural awareness and sensitivity, “you’re not going to get all the information that you need to appropriately diagnose and treat someone,” James said.
not know what the intention is, maybe to preempt whatever is the result of this (quad-committee) investigation, to somehow divert the attention, make this issue political, which is not […] really political,” Adiong said.
“They’re trying to make it as a politically-motivated (issue). Remember when we said earlier, this (quadcomm) investigation is not political because this investigation has separate investigations by these committees,” he added.
Duterte has been facing criticisms recently over her statements, especially since she resigned from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s cabinet last June 19.
When Duterte announced that she would not be attending Marcos’ third State of the Nation Address and was instead appointing herself as the designated survivor, several lawmakers and observers felt the joke was done in bad taste — as if a veiled threat that something wrong might happen during the event.
Then, when Duterte complained about the removal of 75 police officers from her security detail, past and present solons were quick to remind her that she still had over 300, with former Office of the Vice President spokesperson Barry Gutierrez saying that this was still three times greater than what ex-vice president Leni Robredo had.
Duterte also drew flak for supposedly making it appear that her security was depleted when the Armed Forces of the Philippines said that 400 military officers were securing her.
According to Santa Rosa City Rep. Dan Fernandez, having this number might be excessive already.
Several media outfits, including INQUIRER.net, have asked the Office of the Vice President for their response to the criticisms hurled at Duterte, but they have not issued any response as of now. g
Black people are more likely to report difficulty finding mental health providers who understand their background and experiences, a KFF survey found. At the same time, programs that bolster diversity, equity, and inclusion in medical schools are faltering in the wake of the 2023 Supreme Court decision outlawing affirmative action in higher education.
According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, in 2022, about 5% of active psychiatric physicians identified as Black, 16% as Asian, 6% as Hispanic, and fewer than 1% as American Indian or Alaska Native.
Thompson, Brown, and Kaushal all said they had never been treated by a therapist who looks like them.
Thompson, the L.A. comedian, said she drank bleach when she was 10 years old, thinking it would lighten her skin. Fortunately, it caused only nausea. If she could speak to her younger self, she would say: “You’re beautiful. You’re brilliant.” (Chaseedaw Giles/KFF Health News)
This article was produced by KFF Health News, which publishes California Healthline, an editorially independent service of the California Health Care Foundation. KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs
Vice President Sara Duterte Philstar.com photo
PH on track to meet fiscal program for 2024 Senate leaders back new tack vs illegal drugs
MANILA
– The Philippines stays on track to meet its fiscal program for 2024 due to the government’s robust revenue effort and manageable deficit level during the first half of the year, Finance
Secretary Ralph Rector assured senators on Tuesday, August 13.
year. And this is above our full-year target of 16.1 percent,” he said. Recto said fiscal deficit is also expected to drop from 5.6 percent in 2024 to 3.7 percent by 2028. “The fiscal deficit has remained very manageable at PHP613.9 billion as of end-June 2024. As a percentage of GDP, the deficit stood at 4.9 percent in the first semester, below the full-year target
in 2023. Meanwhile, the finance chief assured members of the Senate that the government is continuously managing the country’s debt “according to the highest standards of fiscal discipline.”
by Bernadette e tamayo ManilaTimes.net
THE Senate leadership backed the “new strategy” of the Philippine National Police (PNP) to combat substance abuse by cutting off the supply chain.
that the raw materials for shabu and cocaine mostly come from abroad,” Escudero said. “And I have always questioned why the PNP catches only the petty pushers and not a single (or several) big drug lord/s.”
Pimentel III said, “[That’s] a correct [approach]. Target the ‘suppliers.’ That is where the real drug lords would be found.”
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Over the medium term, the government expects revenues to grow by an average of 10.3 percent annually. Revenues as a percentage of GDP are also expected to increase from 16.1 percent in 2024 to 17.0 percent in 2028 with the help of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC) by working hard to boost efficiency as
“These projections took into account the additional revenues from the refined revenue reforms of the DOF, which we recalibrated to ensure that they do not place undue burdens on the taxpayers,”
Tax collections from the BIR and the BOC totaled PHP1.84 trillion, which is 10 percent higher than
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9016186
the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.)
The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.
A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: Date: 08/29/202
Time: 01:30 P.M. Dept.: 503 Address of court: 1100 Union Street, San Diego, CA 92101
Branch Name: Central, Probate
If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.
If you are a creditor or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the
Therapy With Tracy located at 14340 Minya Lane, Poway, CA 92064. Registrant: Tracy Sharbaugh Aronlee, 14340 Minya Lane, Poway, CA 92064. This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 03/13/2024. Signature: Tracy Sharbaugh Aronlee. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 08/08/2024. AJ 1482 08/16, 08/23, 08/30, and 09/06/2024. AJSD 1482
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As of June, Recto said the gross financing stands at 61 percent of the full-year goal of PHP 2.57 trillion which includes the landmark USD2 billion global bond issuance last May, making it one of the government’s most affordable and
He reported that the country has a high reliance on domestic financing, with 68.3 percent of the national debt denominated in local currency. Recto clarified that despite the high debt, the country’s economy is large enough to meet
Under the Medium-Term Fiscal Program, he assured that the deficit and debt are aimed to be gradually reduced while creating jobs, increasing incomes, and
He told senators that the government’s spending priorities include education, infrastructure, food security, social protection, and
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9016273 a. Escondido Combat Academy located at 300 S. Escondido Blvd. Ste 104, Escondido, CA 92025. b. ECA located at 300 S. Escondido Blvd. Ste 104, Escondido, CA 92025. c. Combat Academy located at 300 S. Escondido Blvd. Ste 104, Escondido, CA 92025. d. Escondido Combat located at 300 S. Escondido Blvd. Ste 104, Escondido, CA 92025. e. ESCO CA located at 300 S. Escondido Blvd. Ste 104, Escondido, CA 92025. f. ESCO Combat Academy located at 300 S. Escondido Blvd. Ste 104, Escondido, CA 92025. g. ESCO Combat located at 300 S. Escondido Blvd. Ste 104, Escondido, CA 92025. Registrant: Escondido Combat Academy, 118 W 8th Ave, Escondido, CA 92025. This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 01/22/2024. Signature: Dominique La Darryl Eugene Chise. Statement filed with Recorder/ County Clerk of San Diego County on 08/09/2024. AJ 1483 08/16, 08/23, 08/30, and 09/06/2024. AJSD 1483
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9016494
One-Stop Commercial Equipment Services located at 981 E. J St, Chula Vista, CA 91910. Registrant: One-Stop Commercial Equipment Services, 981 E. J St, Chula Vista, CA 91910. This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 08/13/2024. Signature: Kristina Balderrama. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 08/13/2024. AJ 1488 08/16, 08/23, 08/30, and 09/06/2024. AJSD 1488
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9014621
Senate President Francis Escudero, in a text message on Monday, August 12, said, “I agree and support this new strategy.” “From the start, we should have focused on the supply chain given
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9014592
The senator said if the PNP succeeds in this, “it will make the supply of drugs scarce and price prohibitive for new and old users and hopefully lower the prevalence of [illegal] drugs and the number of drug users in the country.”
Sen. Ronald dela Rosa, who led the Duterte administration’s bloody war on drugs when he was still PNP chief, said, “I wish them good luck. I hope and pray that they will succeed.”
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9014657
Sen. Robinhood Padilla, an ally of former president Rodrigo Duterte, said the people “simply yearn for law and order.” g
MANILA – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has started its investigation on the allegations against former chairperson Andres Bautista, who has been charged with bribery and money laundering before a United States court in connection with the 2016 elections.
Comelec chair George Garcia said the investigating panel is waiting for the documents and other pieces of evidence, including against current employees.
“Sila na bahala mag-review at
Tita’s Kitchenette located at 2720 E Plaza Blvd, National City, CA 91950. Registrant: Tita’s Enterprises. Corp, 2720 E Plaza Blvd, National City, CA 91950. This business is conducted by A Corporation REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 06/08/2011. Signature: Ovidio S. De Guzman. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 07/17/2024. AJ 1475 07/26, 08/02, 08/09, and 08/16/2024. AJSD 1475
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9014052
Linda View Disposal located at 6456 Tooley Street, San Diego, CA 92114.
Registrant: Gerardo Lopez Burgoa, 6456 Tooley Street, San Diego, CA 92114. This business is conducted by An Indidvidual.
REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE.
Signature: Gerardo Lopez Burgoa.
Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 07/08/2024. AJ 1478 08/02, 08/09, 08/16, and 08/23/2024. AJSD 1478
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9015706
Carbix Auto Detailing located at 475 Woodlawn Ave, Chula Vista, CA 91910. Registrant: Yorbis Jose Rivera Carrero, 300 S. Escondido Blvd. Ste 104, Escondido, CA 92025. This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE.
Signature: Yorbis Jose Rivera Carrero. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 08/01/2024. AJ 1484 08/16, 08/23, 08/30, and 09/06/2024 AJSD 1484
Senate Minority Leader Aquilino
Comelec begins probe on ex-chief Bautista
magpatawag ng mga tauhan natin kung kailangan at the same time, magbigay ng recommendation sa Commission (They are in charge of reviewing it and they would call in our personnel if needed and at the same time, give a recommendation to the Commission),” Garcia said in an interview on Monday, August 12. Garcia, however, said they will not summon former Comelec officials.
Last week, the U.S. Department of Justice reported that Bautista
Philly Fusion located at 287 Naples St, Chula Vista, CA 91911. Registrant: Triple Een Beautified LLC, 4646 63rd St #1122, San Diego, CA 92115. This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE. Signature: Parween Kakayi. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 07/16/2024. AJ 1476 07/26, 08/02, 08/09, and 08/16/2024. AJSD 1476
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9016052
a. SAFA International Market located at 12788 Rancho Penasquitos Blvd, Suite E, San Diego, CA 92129. b. SAFA Restaurant located at 12788 Rancho Penasquitos Blvd, Suite E, San Diego, CA 92129.
Registrant: SAFA INC, 12788 Rancho Penasquitos Blvd, Suite E, San Diego, CA 92129. This business is conducted by A Corporation.
REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 08/06/2024. Signature: Bashir Ahmadi. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 08/06/2024. AJ 1480 08/09, 08/16, 08/23, and 08/30/2024. AJSD 1480
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9016037
Mahshid Boutique located at 602 Verdin St, El Cajon, CA 92019. Registrant: Fatima Nedeem, 602 Verdin St, El Cajon, CA 92019. This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE. Signature: Fatima Nedeem. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 08/06/2024. AJ 1485 08/16, 08/23, 08/30, and 09/06/2024. AJSD 1485
and two officials of poll technology firm Smartmatic, Roger Alejandro Pinate Martinez and Jorge Miguel Vasquez, were indicted for their parts in illegal transactions to retain and obtain business related to the 2016 national and local elections. They were supposedly involved in the payment of at least USD1 million in bribes to Bautista between 2015 and 2018. Smartmatic was the Comelec service provider for automated polls from 2010 to 2022. (PNA)
American Combat Academy Inc. located at 945 Otay Lakes Rd Suite E, Chula Vista, CA 91913. Registrant: American Combat Academy Inc., 945 Otay Lakes Rd Suite E, Chula Vista, CA 91913. This business is conducted by A Corporation REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 07/15/2024. Signature: Anthony P. Caravelli. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 07/17/2024. AJ 1477 07/26, 08/02, 08/09, and 08/16/2024. AJSD 1477
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9016165
Pretty Evy located at 4434 49th Street Apt 5, San Diego, CA 92115. Registrant: Evelyn Anayely Bojorquez Arreola, 4434 49th Street Apt 5, San Diego, CA 92115. This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 08/08/2024.
Signature: Evelyn Arreola. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 08/08/2024. AJ 1481 08/09, 08/16, 08/23, and 08/30/2024. AJSD 1481
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9016388
Nordahl Pharmacy located at 740 Nordahl Rd Unit 120, San Marcos, CA 92069. Registrant: Nordahl RX, INC, 16226 Avenida Suavidad, San Diego, CA 92128. This business is conducted by A Corporation. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE. Signature: Casey Long Hoang. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 08/13/2024. AJ 1486 08/16, 08/23, 08/30, and 09/06/2024. AJSD 1486
SAN DIEGO
FASO celebrates the music of Louie Ocampo in ‘A Soulful Summer Evening’
Featuring guest vocalists Joey Albert, Charlie Green and Lindsay Solo
– The Filipino
LOS ANGELES
American Symphony Orchestra
(FASO) will pay tribute to the timeless music of renowned Filipino pop music composer Louie Ocampo at “A Soulful Summer Night,” a one-of-a-kind concert on Saturday, August 17 at the Walt Disney Concert Hall.
Led by musical director Robert Shroder, FASO will perform an eclectic repertoire that includes a reimagination of Ocampo’s hits through new orchestral arrangements, along with Filipino folk songs and classical music favorites. Joining the orchestra and Ocampo are guest vocalists Joey Albert, Charlie Green, Lindsay Solo, and Madison Lauren.
“We are excited to showcase a special anthology of Louie Ocampo’s compositions, which have stood the test of time,” Shroder said. “In true FASO tradition, this unique concert will have something for everyone in the audience, including classical favorites, Filipino folk songs and Louie’s hits.”
FASO will honor Ocampo with an Excellence in Music award at the concert. Drawing from Ocampo’s oeuvre, the orchestra will perform “Foster in Mind,” “ Ikaw Lang Ang Mamahalin ,” and “Kahit Isang Saglit,” among other works. For the past 46 years, Ocampo has racked up an impressive 100 Original Pilipino Music (OPM) chart-toppers with total online plays exceeding 100 million, including “Tell Me,” “Say That You’ll Love Me,” “Points of View,” and “Forever.” He has been honored by the Philippine Association of the Record Industry’s AWIT Awards, receiving accolades such as Best Musical Arrangement, Best Ballad
Recording, and Best Song of the Year. Ocampo graduated from Berklee College of Music in Boston, Mass. with a degree in Music and Film Scoring. Joey Albert, one of the Philippines’ beloved pop vocalists, has built an illustrious career filled with 14 studio albums, 5 compilation albums, and 15 awards. Her rendition of Ocampo’s compositions in the 1980s catapulted his songs to the top of the Philippine charts and brought both of them instant fame. Albert was Ocampo’s most prominent muse. Her upcoming performance of Ocampo’s songs is a much-anticipated nostalgic tribute to their collaboration and will be made spectacular by the PAGE 10
Manny Jacinto cast as Lindsay Lohan’s husband in ‘Freaky Friday’ sequel
by HANNAH MALLORCA Inquirer.net
FILIPINO -Canadian actor Manny Jacinto, who rose to international fame after starring in “The Acolyte,” will star as the onscreen husband of Lindsay Lohan in the sequel of the hit 2003 film “Freaky Friday.”
Jacinto’s casting was confirmed in an Entertainment Weekly report last August 10, where he will be joining Lohan and her onscreen mother, Jamie Lee Curtis.
“Manny [Jacinto] plays Lindsay’s husband, but that’s as much as we can say… Manny is lovely, so funny,” Curtis said of Jacinto in the report.
Details of Manny’s character and how he was tied into the storyline of Anna Coleman (Lohan) are yet to be announced, as of this writing.
Aside from Jacinto, Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, Sophia Hammons, and Julia Butters join the film.
Mark Harmon, Chad Michael Murray, Christina Vidal Mitchell, Haley Hudson, Lucille Soong, Stephen Tobolowsky, and Rosalind Chao will also reprise their roles in the sequel.
Titled “Freakier Friday,” the sequel to the hit 2003 film was revealed at the “D23” Disney Studios presentation earlier this month. The announcement puts an end to the longstanding rumors about the movie getting a sequel.
The movie will reportedly center around a “multigenerational twist,” picking up years after Tess Coleman (Curtis) and her daughter Anna Coleman (Lohan) switched bodies. It will also tell
the story of how
“lightning might indeed strike twice,” referring to another potential switch between the mother-and-daughter duo. Jacinto was born in Manila before moving to Canada in 1990.
The actor is best known for his roles in the series “The Good Place” and “Star Wars” series
“The Acolyte.” He also appeared in the film “Top Gun: Maverick” and provided the voice for Kenshi in “Mortal Kombat Legends: Snow Blind.”
Marian Rivera dedicates Cinemalaya Best Actress win to teachers
MARIAN Rivera dedicated her Cinemalaya 2024 Best Actress Plum to the teachers who sacrificed themselves to protect the votes of the nation, saying her character in “Balota” was a fulfilling experience.
Rivera and “Kono Basho” star Gabby Padilla tied for Best Actress at the film festival’s closing ceremony at Ayala Malls Manila Bay on Sunday, August 12 — which incidentally took place a day before the Kapuso actress’ 40th birthday.
The actress also said her award is dedicated to her character, Teacher Emmy, who is a teacher manning a particularly violent election, and to all the teachers who give their lives to protect every vote.
“Sa lahat ng Teacher Emmy na matapang na ginagawa ang lahat para protektahan ang boto ng
sambayanan — kahit sarili nilang buhay ang ilaan sa panganib — Teacher Emmy, para sa’yo to. Mabuhay po kayo. Mabuhay ang pelikulang Pilipino,” she said.
(To all the Teacher Emmys who bravely do everything to protect every vote — even if their own lives are at stake — Teacher Emmy, this is for you. Long live everyone. Long live Filipino films.)
In a brief interview on the sidelines of the ceremony, Rivera said working on “Balota” gave her a strong sense of fulfillment in herself and her career.
“Noong nagawa ko ang pelikula, parang bonus na lang ang tropeo. Pero ‘yung fulfillment sa paggawa ko ng ‘Balota’ sa harap at likod ng camera, ito ‘yata sa ilang years ko sa showbiz, ngayon ko lang PAGE 10
Composer Louie Ocampo will be honored by FASO with an Excellence in Music award on August 17. Photos courtesy of Filipino American Symphony Orchestra
(From left) Manny Jacinto and Lindsay Lohan Photos from Instagram/@mannyjacinto, Miles Diggs via Instagram/@lindsaylohan
Joy Mendoza Rojas to have art show this month; Roderick Paulate, Maricel Soriano, Pepe Diokno win at FAP’s LUNA Awards
“GOMBURZA,” referring to Fathers Gomez, Burgos and Zamora who were executed during the Spanish rule in the Philippines, is a historic Filipino film that is directed by Pepe Diokno, who will direct Ricky Lee’s “Himala The Musical,” a Metro Manila Film Festival entry this December 2024. According to Canada-based Judy Garcia Fernandez: “My late father was Dr. Bienvenido Zamora Garcia. His mom was Carlota who was once the ‘Perlas de Quiapo’ and was the only daughter with six brothers. They are related to the Filipino priest Jacinto Zamora. I hope to watch this movie as requested by my siblings.”
* * *
This year’s Circle of Excellence awardees for the entertainment sector on August 10 at Teatrino Promenade in Greenhills, San Juan City (thanks to Richard Hinola) included Elizabeth Oropesa, Marissa Delgado, Manila Vice Mayor Yul Servo, William Thio, Angelique Lazo, Dr. Joseph Lee and Daria Ramirez. The Empowered Men and Women 2024 from showbiz were Daisy Reyes-Tobias, Jak Roberto, Vandave L. Paragas, Janeena Chan, Roldan Frias Castro, Marissa Sanchez, Eraseph Winters, Hannah Precillas, Catherine O. Camarillo, Dingdong Avanzado, Bianca Umali, Aubrey Carampel Aricheta of GMA7, Arnold Reyes, Papa Ahwel Paz, Sugar Nabas Amper, Japper Ril, Nanet Bandola of Sparkle GMA Artist Center, Jimsen Jison, beauty queen-TV host-news anchor Emma Tiglao, beauty queen-actress Bianca Manalo, Ashley Rivera, Renz Verano, John Fontanilla, Jessa Zaragoza, Daryl Ong, Meg Siozon, Arthem Basierto, Donna Cariaga & Ely Cellan, Iyah Mina, Maricar de Mesa, Bigboy Villariza, Gianna Margarita Llanes, Alexander John Fong and many more.
* * *
Josie Cruz Natori, a FilipinoAmerican fashion icon, loves the energy of New York City but she and her husband also have a weekend home in Westchester, New York. She loves promoting the Philippines, as she said to me when I first interviewed her years ago for The Philippine Star. Last year, I visited her in her mother’s home in Quezon City.
Shirley Halili-Cruz is Josie’s sister-in-law and she is the founder of Halili School of Ballet where I saw the graceful grit of Pia Allones (talented daughter of Department of Migrant Workers Undersecretary Atty. Ma. Anthonette Velasco-Allones) through countless hours of training and learning. Five years ago she participated in the 21st Asia Pacific Dance Competition in Bangkok, Thailand and got honorable mention in a very tight section with 14 competitors.
Pia, who studies Economics at the University of the Philippines Diliman, placed 1st in classical ballet solo in All Dance World Competition in Orlando, Florida in 2021. She also won 1st place (double platinum) in solo jazz and 1st place (double platinum) in contemporary solo at the 2023 Get the Beat Competition held at Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig City in Metro Manila. * * *
During his teen years at La Salle Greenhills, Atty. Jose Ferdinand Mendoza Rojas II used to do buy-and-sell of different kinds of goods. He would sell them to the parents of his classmates and to the offices where his father Jose Agreda Rojas would go during summer time. Later, he was exposed to real estate business after graduating at the University of Massachusetts where he completed his Bachelor of Arts
degree, majors in Economics and Political Science, cum laude, in 1988. He graduated at Ateneo de Manila University Law School in 1994 with Juris Doctor of Law. In that same year, he passed the grueling bar exams. After that, he tried working in a private law firm, the De Borja Medialdea Ata Bello Guevarra & Serapio Law Office as an associate from 1994 to 1995. Then he became a partner at Rojas Sales De Leon Tecson & Desiderio Law Office. In 2000, he put up his own law office, the Jose M. Rojas II Law Office, which is engaged in the general practice of law. Though he has been into
business and legal works, he has his other side: the visual artistry in him. His artistic journey has continued at the ArtistSpace situated at Ground Level, Ayala Museum Annex, Makati Avenue corner De La Rosa Street, Greenbale Park, Makati City for the 8th solo exhibit sometime in August this year. He says he gets inspiration from the places, whether in the Philippines or abroad, usually in Japan, France, Spain and other European countries. He creates and innovates with his naturally gifted independent mind. He paints and paints most of the time in his rented studio in Pasig City.
County LEEDing the way
WHEN the county broke ground last month on its seventh Crisis Stabilization Unit — a place to give people in the midst of crisis a calm place to recover — it wasn’t just a boon for behavioral health.
It was also a boost for the environment, sustainability and thwarting climate change in San Diego County.
That’s because when the building opens next year in El Cajon it will be the county’s sixty-eighth to meet the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED environmental standards. LEED stands for “Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.”
It will also be the county’s eleventh “Zero Net Energy” building, meaning it will produce more electrical energy than it uses — thanks to solar rooftop panels, ample use of natural lighting, air circulation and other green amenities.
And it will be the third county facility to reduce its carbon footprint by using “embodied carbon” techniques.
Marko Medved, head of the county’s Department of General Services, said embodied carbon is newer to the county. But he said it has become the third environmental pillar, along with LEED status and Zero Net Energy, that the county uses to build sustainable facilities. Embodied carbon reduces the overall carbon footprint of
buildings by building them with materials that use less energy to create — like low-carbon concrete, and timber that grows naturally instead of steel that has to be mined, crushed and fired in blast furnaces. Embodied carbon techniques also use low-energy transportation, installation, maintenance, demolition and disposal.
Medved said the county estimates the embodied carbon approach will reduce the carbon emissions it takes to build the new Crisis Stabilization Unit in El Cajon by 30%.
The county has been building to Zero Net Energy and LEED standards for many years.
“You get there,” Medved said, “by having an efficient building, having low water use, recycling, using local materials and making the interior environment good for the people who are working in there — having good, natural light, good circulation and good air quality.”
In fact, in 2018 San Diego County became the first county in California and the second in the nation to receive the U.S. Green Building Council’s Platinum certification — its highest distinction — in its LEED for Communities program.
A number of notable county buildings are green.
The County Operations Center in Kearny Mesa has achieved several LEED certifications.
Seven of the county’s branch libraries are LEED certified, including Alpine, Borrego Springs, Fallbrook, Lakeside, Lincoln Acres, Imperial Beach and Ramona. Of those, six are certified “gold.” And four are also Zero Net Energy buildings: Alpine, opened in 2016; Imperial Beach, opened in 2017; Borrego Springs, opened in 2018; and Lakeside, opened in 2023. The Assessor/Recorder/ County Clerk’s Office & Archive building in Santee that opened 2020 and won an Orchid award for outstanding architecture is certified
FASO celebrates the music of...
might of a full orchestra.
Charlie Green is an awardwinning, acclaimed FilipinoBritish vocalist who first gained recognition in 2008 as a 10-yearold semi-finalist on “Britain’s Got Talent.” His captivating performances earned over 10 million hits on YouTube. His career has since taken him to the Philippines, North America, China’s New Year Eve countdown TV show, and the UK, at London’s Royal Albert Hall. In 2018, Green released his second gospel album and performed for a sold-out crowd at Huntington Hall in Worcester, UK for his first big band concert.
Lindsay Solo is a dynamic vocalist renowned for her soulful pop rendition and compelling operatic performances. Originally from Denver, Colo., Solo studied vocal performance and opera at the University of Colorado, Boulder, and La Musica Lirica in Italy. A Disney alum and recording artist, she has sung duets with Michael Bolton. Her classically trained voice has led to collaborative performances
with the members of the LA Philharmonic for “Phantom of the Opera” and singing at major sporting events such as Breeder’s Cup and World Ski Cup. Solo’s versatile repertoire spans classical crossover, opera, pop, jazz, musical theater, and more.
Madison Lauren is a 9-yearold vocal prodigy known for her versatility and dynamism in soulful pop, R&B, musical theater, jazz, and even rap. She has been performing publicly since she was three years old. Madison has opened for prominent Filipino artists such as AGT finalist Marcelito Pomoy, hip-hop group ALLMO$T, and double platinum artist Moira Dela Torre. Madison recently triumphed in a Bay Area music competition, winning her age group and the overall “Ultimate Champion” title.
The Filipino American Symphony Orchestra (FASO) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to fostering artistic excellence and community empowerment. Its mission is to cultivate cultural growth for present and future generations
to develop a sense of pride in their identities through music. Annually, FASO supports 500 students with workshops in instruments, musicianship, performance, songwriting, and vocals. With a diverse staff and music educators who are steadfast in FASO’s mission, FASO engages over 100 Orchestra musicians and performers and over 40 youths in the Junior Orchestra in their annual concert season, presenting a synthesis of musical genres. With a program that engages more than 5,000 in person attendees and over 1 million virtually, FASO aims to broaden its reach and increase the number of students by providing free instruments while also increasing awareness of Filipino American music and narratives.
Proceeds from “A Soulful Summer Night” benefit FASO and its youth music education programs, which provide instruction in vocals, instrument, songwriting, musicianship, and performance. Tickets are available from $50 to $120 at www. fasomusic.org.
Marian Rivera dedicates Cinemalaya...
PAGE 9
naramdaman ang fulfillment sa sarili ko at sa trabaho ko,” she said.
(When I did the film, this trophy felt like a bonus. But the fulfillment in doing “Balota” on- and off-screen — throughout my many years in showbiz — this was the time I felt a strong fulfillment in myself and my work.)
New era
Rivera was giddy when asked if the Cinemalaya film marks a new era in her acting career, saying she’s open to taking such roles again. “Yii! Why not? Kung may magandang kwento (If the story is nice),” she said.
While thanking the film’s cast and crew, the actress said she’s grateful for working with people who gave their full support and trust to portray her character.
“Direk Kip [Oebanda], sa umpisa pa lang ng shooting natin, ramdam ko ang 100% na pagtitiwala sa’kin kung paano ko ia-arte si Teacher
Emmy (Director Kip Oebanda, I felt your 100% trust on how I would portray Teacher Emmy the moment we started shooting) so thank you,” she said while referring to the film’s director.
“Sa crew, sa loob ng six days of shooting, ramdam ko ang pagaalala, pagmamahal, at paggabay sa’kin na safe ako, na kahit anong bigat ang nararamdaman ko sa
lahat ng eksena, hindi nila ako pinababayaan and mine-make sure nila na maayos akong uuwi kahit sugat-sugat ako. Sa cast, ang gagaling niyo,” continued Rivera.
(To the crew, I felt your concern, love, and guidance throughout the six days of shooting. You ensured that I was safe. Despite the hardships I felt in every scene, you never left me alone. They all made sure that I would come home safe even if I was wounded. To the cast, you were all great.)
Role of a lifetime
Choking back tears, Rivera then recalled how her husband Dingdong Dantes urged her to accept a role of a lifetime in “Balota.” Dantes was spotted in the audience getting teary-eyed as well.
“Hindi matatapos ang pagpapasalamat ko [kung hindi ko babanggitin] ang asawa ko. Kwento ko lang nang short. Sabi ko, ‘Mahal, may offer sa’kin ang Cinemalaya. Tatanggapin ko ba? Kakayanin ko ba?’ Sabi ng asawa ko — wala pang ilang minuto — ‘Kailangan mong gawin yan. Kailangan mong ipakita kung sino ka.’ Thank you, Dad,” she said. “At sa mga anak kong excited tuwing uuwi ako at ‘yung bunso kong binibilang ang sugat ko araw-araw tuwing uuwi ako, maraming salamat.” (My acceptance speech won’t be complete without mentioning my husband. Here’s a short story. I said, “Love, I received an offer from Cinemalaya. Should I accept it? Can I handle it?” He immediately said, “You have to do it. You have to show who you truly are.” Thank you, Dad.) Balota” revolves around the life of Teacher Emmy (Rivera) who was assigned as an election inspector in a small town. The residents in her hometown are voting for their new mayor, which is a tight race between a former sexy star and a land-grabbing tycoon. The Kip Oebanda-helmed film also stars Will Ashley, Royce Cabrera, Sassa Gurl, Esnyr Ranollo, Sue Prado, Joel Saracho, Gardo Versoza, and Mae Paner. (Inquirer.net)
At the MHE offices: (from left) Cris Hernandez, Cierus Suarez, Rogelio Medina, Guia Buenaventura, Jeizelle Duarte, James Tan. Photos courtesy of Rogelio C. Medina
Attys. Trisha Bunye and Joy Mendoza Rojas (center) with Joy’s artistic works.
Clockwise, from top left: Amb. Virgil Reyes, Consul General Lynn Gavino, May Rufino, Dahli Espellera, Rex Robles, Rogelio Medina, Gen. Sonny Yan, Gemma Cruz-Araneta, Eppie Valbuena and Encarnacion Laurel-Loewen.
From left: Rogelio Medina, Roderick Paulate and Manny Morfe.
Pepe Diokno (extreme left) has been awarded best director at this year’s 40th FAP’s LUNA Awards for the film “Gomburza.”
The county has been building to Zero Net Energy and LEED standards for many years. File photo/www.countynewscenter.com
Josie Natori and Rogelio Medina Joy Mendoza Rojas with one of his paintings.
Marian Rivera during the Cinemalaya 2024 closing ceremony. Inquirer.net photo by Hannah Mallorca
Joy Mendoza Rojas to have art...
* * * I was a recent guest by Guia Cruz Buenaventura in her program
Coffee Tea on MHE, Mondays to Fridays from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Media House Express, the Philippines’ first radio-television situated in Mandaluyong City. MHE is headed by Allan Afable Hobrero and it is an awardee in the 2nd Philippines’ Finest Business Awards and Outstanding Achievers in September 2024.
Guia, an educator from Philippine Normal University, has been supporting A Smile from Heaven (ASFH), a nonprofit organization in memory of her husband Dan that assists our less fortunate brethren and gives livelihood projects.
Assisting her in Coffee Tea on MHE are technical director Cris Janmille Hernandez, creative director Jewel B, and interns Cierus E. Suarez, Jeizelle R. Duarte and James Martin B. Tan.
* * *
Years ago, I met the CGN (Carmen Guerrero Nakpil) Friends group for the first time days after the passing on of Chitang Nakpil, a noted and respected Filipino essayist, historian, and journalist.
Artist-writer Mav Rufino told me they meet there Wednesdays during lunch time and they had been doing this since 2004. Now they have transfered to Kashmir (an Indian restaurant) in Taguig City’s BGC as the group’s meeting place.
Former Tourism Secretary Gemma Guerrero Cruz-Araneta, CGN’s eldest daughter and first Filipino and Asian to be Miss International in 1964, took over the helm of CGN Friends and she led briefly a moment of silent prayers for her affectionate mom whom she took care of during her last remaining days on earth. She vividly remembers that her mom did not allow her to join the movie
world but she was encouraged to enhance Philippine history. In later years, however she hosted a daily radio program and a weekly TV show.
Nonon Padilla, director and theatre arts professor at De La Salle College of Saint Benilde, said his aunt Chitang spoke Spanish very well and was “formidable and aloof” but was caring, thoughtful and humorous. It was he who organized the Guerrero family reunion in 1993. For Consul General Lynn Gavino, Chitang has been her best friend and mentor since 1984, the year she was assigned as First Secretary and Consul at our embassy in Paris, France and Chitang was our ambassador and permanent delegate to the UNESCO.
She said that Chitang had a very keen memory. “Her memory was prolific. While riding with me in the car, she would remember the street names and the direction as to where we were. When we’re inside a restaurant, she could remember who is our waiter. She could even draft and edit her works in her mind so that time would not be wasted.”
She fondly remembers: “Chitang asked me the difference between a drunkard and a non-drunkard. She said that a drunkard would drink her red wine like a coke and would finish it right away while a nondrunkard would sip it slowly and finish it but you can take as many glasses as you want. Everything would be observed by her. Being with her as a friend, you feel like you were in a finishing school. I learned how to write my report, how to be proper and correct and most important how to be always punctual.”
This year’s Film Academy of the Philippines’ LUNA Awards was well organized and finished
at 9 p.m.
(it began at 6 p.m.) at the University of the Philippines Diliman’s performing arts theater, the IBG-KAL Theater in Quezon City.
“Gomburza,” a Philippine historic film, won Best Picture. Roderick Paulate and Maricel Soriano (both starred in the film “In His Mother’s Eyes”) were declared Best Actor and Best Actress, respectively. Pepe Diokno, son of Filipino lawyer and educator Chel Diokno, won Best director for the film GOMBURZA. Best supporting actor and actress were LA Santos for “In His Mother’s Eyes” and Ana Abad Santos for “Third World Romance,” respectively. Other winners were as follows: Jun Lana for best screenplay in “About Us, But Not About Us”; Carlo Mendoza for best cinematography in “Gomburza”; Marya Ignacio for best editing in “Third World Romance”; Ericson Navarro for best production design in “Gomburza”; Albert Michael Idioma/Janina Minglanina/Emilio Bien Sparks for best sound in “Gomburza”; Jesse Lasaten for musical scoring in “When I Met You in Tokyo.” Mary Liza DinoSeguerra was the recipient of the Fernando Poe Jr. Lifetime Achievement Award.
The FAP is headed by Manny Morfe, its OIC directorgeneral. It will send soon an official Philippine entry to the International Feature Film Award category of the 97th Academy Awards (The Oscars).
Thanks to FAP’s special projects officer Raymond Diamzon for the assistance.
* * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
* * * rogeliocmedina@yahoo.com
County recognized in statewide study for response to Medi-Cal information calls
SAN Diego County is being recognized for its Medi-Cal call center customer service response times.
The Children’s Partnership, an organization that focuses on child health equity, conducted a study to learn how quickly call centers statewide answered and the best practices to support Californians enrolled in Medi-Cal.
For the study, secret callers reached out to 44 counties. The average hold time to speak to staff was 55 minutes across the state.
By contrast, wait times in San Diego County were less than one minute for 77% of the calls, with all calls being answered in under 10 minutes.
The average hold time overall for San Diego County was just under one minute.
The results of the study are available at https:// childrenspartnership.org/ research/medi-cal-call-wait-timessurvey-report/. San Diego County is the second largest county in California with a population of 3.3 million. The region also is home to the second
building. File photo/www.countynewscenter.com
largest number of residents enrolled in Medi-Call, at 1.06 million.
City of San Diego seeking to rehabilitate and reopen Starlight Bowl
SAN DIEGO – The City of San Diego is looking for organizations or individuals interested in bringing the historic and famed Starlight Bowl in Balboa Park back to life.
On Friday, August 9, the City of San Diego issued a Request for Proposals for the lease and renovation of the open-air amphitheater, which saw its last production in 2010. In their proposals, interested parties must show how they will renovate, rehabilitate, operate, finance and maintain the property.
The city is asking the lessee to reestablish the 3,600-seat amphitheater for community events, outdoor performances and presentations.
“Many longtime San Diegans have cherished memories of the Starlight Bowl and have wanted to see it restored,” said Mayor Todd Gloria. “We are excited to invite proposals that will breathe new life into this iconic venue. Revitalizing the Starlight Bowl not only honors our past but also helps build a more dynamic future for Balboa Park.”
Since taking office the Gloria Administration has pursued opportunities to reactivate the venue. In 2022, the city received $500,000 in federal Community Project funding, secured by U.S. Rep. Sara Jacobs, to rehabilitate existing bathroom facilities, as well as make Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) enhancements throughout the venue.
Originally called the Ford Bowl, the Starlight Bowl was constructed in 1935 by the Ford Motor Company as a showcase for Ford vehicles during the 1935-1936 California Pacific International Exposition.
In 1945, the San Diego Civic Light Opera was founded and began operating the Starlight Bowl with musical performances, choirs and symphonies for over 50 years. In 2018, the city entered into an agreement with the nonprofit organization Save Starlight to manage the amphitheater.
The Starlight Bowl is characterized by the large plasterclad shell that defines the stage area and contains the dressing rooms and storage areas. It also houses a box office, concessions and offices. The city is asking for proposals to include innovative ideas to better incorporate the property’s physical structures into
the overall architectural design of Balboa Park.
“From theater productions to large entertainment acts, the Starlight Bowl has served as a memorable place for families and friends to enjoy outdoor events for decades,” said Economic Development Director Christina Bibler. “We look forward to working with an organization or individual to revive the amphitheater so we can continue offering those experiences, create goodpaying jobs and provide cultural opportunities and experiences for San Diegans and visitors.”
The Balboa Park Central Mesa Precise Plan serves as a guide for renovations and improvements within the park. Review of any
proposed renovations will include the city’s Parks and Recreation Department, the Balboa Park Committee and the Balboa Park Historic Resources staff.
When selecting a lessee, the city will consider the proposer’s experience and qualifications to operate an open-air amphitheater, their financial capability, a detailed operating plan and proposed renovations, an oral presentation and an interview. The exact terms of the lease will be negotiated after a proposal is selected.
The Request for Proposals can be accessed through the city’s website (www.sandiego.gov). Proposals must be submitted by 4 p.m. on Nov. 14. (City of San Diego Release)
THE county’s Housing and Community Development Services (HCDS) is opening a waitlist for renters who are interested in living in three new housing developments with dedicated units supporting seniors, low-income families and disabled adults experiencing homelessness. These units are supported by Project-Based Housing Choice Voucher (PBV) rental assistance. Eligible applicants will be selected from the waitlist and, if approved by the landlord, would pay an affordable rent that is equal to approximately 30% of their income.
Starting Thursday, August 29 at 7:30 a.m., applications will become available and can be submitted online at www.sdhcd. org. Applications also will be accepted in person at the HCDS office, which will open at 7:30 a.m. and have copies available, or by calling 858-694-4801.
“County Project Based Vouchers spur the development of much needed affordable housing in the region and are an important way the county supports the housing needs of vulnerable groups like the elderly and disabled,” said David Estrella, director of HCDS.
Advance public notices are posted on HCDS’s website, local newspapers, social media, through email blasts and flyers distributed to County partners
“I want to applaud all of our employees for their responsiveness and commitment to great customer service,” said Rick Wanne, director of Self Sufficiency Services. “We are grateful for this state-wide recognition and humbled at the opportunity to share best practices with our colleagues statewide.”
For more information on Medi-Cal, visit the County of San Diego website at https://www. sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/ hhsa/programs/ssp/medi-cal_ program.html.
(Cassie N. Saunders/County of San Diego Communications Office) and community centers. The waitlists will open for the following Project-Based Voucher developments:
• Santa Fe Senior Village 53 furnished new, unoccupied units, a portion of the units will be filled through the waitlist and a portion through partner service provider referrals. Housing for seniors aged 62 and older 414-428 N. Santa Fe Ave, Vista • Estrella 96 new, unoccupied units Housing for low-income families, with 24 allocated to project-based vouchers 604 Richmar Ave, San Marcos • Breezewood 23 project-based voucher units within an existing building that is currently occupied. This waitlist will be for future
vacancies at the development. Housing for disabled adults experiencing homelessness and low-income families 1560 S. Escondido Blvd, Escondido.
The need for affordable housing far outweighs the resources available, making a waitlist necessary in many rental assistance programs. The county is establishing waitlists to fill current and future vacancies at these sites. All applicants will be selected from the HCDS’s waiting lists, following federal housing policies and program criteria. Please visit www.sdhcd.org for more information on eligibility requirements and services provided at each development.
(Cassie N. Saunders/County of San Diego Communications Office)
An aerial view of the Starlight Bowl, then known as the Ford Bowl, which was constructed in 1935 by the Ford Motor Company as a showcase for Ford vehicles during the 1935-1936 California Pacific International Exposition. Photos courtesy of City of San Diego 1949 Chocolate Soldier at Starlight Bowl.
