101224 - Los Angeles Edition

Fil-Am leaders show support for Measure G to strengthen representation in LA County government

fILIPINo American leaders in Los Angeles County are among the Asian American, Native hawaiian, Pacific Islander (AANhPI) officials showing their support for measure G, a landmark governance reform package on the November 2024 ballot. measure G aims to increase representation, transparency, and accountability in LA County by expanding the Board of supervisors, requiring public budget hearings, establishing an independent ethics Commission, and creating an elected County executive.

In LA County’s 174-year history, there has never been an AANhPI supervisor. measure G seeks to address this by ensuring more diverse voices are represented in decisionmaking that affects all residents of LA County.

“measure G is a historic opportunity to build a government that truly reflects the

Apl.de.Ap honored with Carson’s Key to the City,

GrAmmy-winning artist and Black eyed Peas co-founder Apl.de.Ap has been honored with Carson’s Key to the City as the community kicks off filipino American history month. the Key to the City recognizes the music icon’s service to the filipino American community in Carson and the work his Apl. de.Ap foundation International is doing with electronic vehicle retrofitting.

Apl was also honored for his commitment to bettering conditions for filipinos in the Philippines and in the United states, and people of color throughout the world.

“It is with pride that we present the Key to our City to Apl.de.Ap and the Apl.de.Ap foundation International. Apl’s journey,

Marcos challenges China over clashes

sea at regional summit talks on thursday, october 10 as fears grow that conflict could erupt in the disputed waterway.

Li met the leaders of the 10-member Association of southeast Asian Nations (Asean) at their gathering in Laos after a day of discussions dominated by the myanmar civil war.

Cases vs Quiboloy to continue despite Duenas’ guilty plea in US

mANILA – only the cases against marissa Duenas have been dropped but the cases against her other co-accused, including Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KJC) leader Pastor Apollo Quiboloy will continue, the Department of Justice (DoJ) said friday, october 11.

Duenas pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the U.s. government by helping KJC conduct between 25 to 100 sham marriages to circumvent U.s. Immigration Laws.

“Upon verifying with the U.s. embassy,

the U.s. prosecutor and Quiboloy codefendant marissa Duenas have reached an agreement in which she pleads guilty to conspiracy to defraud the U.s. government, and the prosecutor agrees to dismiss the other charges against her only,” Assistant secretary Jose Dominic Clavano IV, DoJ spokesperson, said in a statement.

Clavano said the cases against all other defendants remain pending.

he said the trial is tentatively scheduled to begin on may 20, 2025.

Quiboloy is currently under the custody of the Philippine National Police (PNP) after

tensions on the political front, the southeast Asian diplomat said.

marcos also said that both sides should hasten talks on a code of conduct in the sea. on Wednesday, october 9, Asean leaders repeated longstanding calls for restraint and respect for international law in the south China sea, according u

A2

VIeNtIANe — United states secretary of state

Antony Blinken on friday, october 11 called out China for "increasingly dangerous and unlawful actions" in the south and east China seas.

In his remarks during the Association of southeast Asian Nations (Asean) - U.s summit here, Blinken reaffirmed the U.s.’ commitment to uphold the right of freedom of navigation to maintain peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

"We remain concerned about China's increasingly dangerous and unlawful actions in the south and east China seas, which have injured people, harmed vessels from Asean nations and contradicted commitments to peaceful resolution of disputes," Blinken said. the United states will continue to support freedom of navigation and freedom of overflight in the IndoPacific," he added. Blinken also stressed the importance of maintaining

mANILA — retired police colonel

royina Garma has confirmed that the past administration adopted a so-called “Davao template” in terms of the war against illegal drugs, where officers involved in the killing of drug suspects are rewarded.

Garma, during her testimony at the house of representatives’ quad committee on friday, october 11, was emotional as she read a supplemental affidavit regarding the drug war. In the affidavit, Garma confirmed that there are three modes of payment or rewards — first, for every suspect killed; second for the planned operations; and third, the refund of operational expenses.

According to Garma, it was former President rodrigo Duterte who contacted her about the creation of a national task force.

“I was already acquainted with thenmayor Duterte, having served as a station commander in one of the police stations in Davao during his tenure. During our meeting, he requested that I locate a Philippine National Police officer or operative who is a member of the Iglesia Ni Cristo, indicating that he needed someone capable of implementing the war on drugs on a national scale, replicating the Davao model,” Garma said. this Davao model referred to the system involving payment and rewards […] the Davao model involves three levels of

the newest Barbie doll in toy company mattel's styled by Design series is a filipina one created by filipino American Carlyle Nuera. the filipina doll by Nuera, lead designer of the Barbie signature collection, arrives in time for the celebration of the filipino American history month. Barbie fan Club members were able to get a look at the doll a day before its public reveal on october 10. the doll's overall look is inspired by the haute couture

Nuera said in an Instagram post the doll was "an opportunity to do something meaningful for my people in the spirit of representation," admitting that being filipino was his most foundational identity.

"I am so hyped for this Barbie to finally be out in the world and hopefully make the anaks feel seen, represented, inspired and

style of the Philippines as the morena Barbie wears a modern corset top, butterfly terno sleeves, a malong-like skirt, a sun crown adorned with sampaguita jasmine flowers, bakya platforms shaped like a bahay kubo, and batok tattoos on her arms.

Mattel releases new Filipina Barbie doll...

Marcos challenges China over...

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to a draft summit chairman's statement seen by Agence france-Presse.

the growing frequency and intensity of clashes in the disputed waterway are fueling fears that the situation could escalate.

the south China sea is a live and immediate issue, with real risks of an accident spiraling into conflict," singapore's Prime minister Lawrence Wong told his fellow leaders in Wednesday's summit.

Beijing claims almost the entirety of the south China sea, a waterway of immense strategic importance through which trillions of dollars in trade transit every year.

But several Asean members — the Philippines, malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia and Brunei — also have competing claims to various small islands and reefs.

Clashes at sea

the meeting with Li comes after a slew of violent clashes, particularly with the Philippines around the spratly Islands.

Chinese coast guard and other vessels have rammed, watercannoned and blocked Philippine government vessels.

and deployed vessels that the Philippines says harass its ships and block its fishers.

'Aggressive, coercive' on Wednesday, marcos called his fellow southeast Asian leaders "not to turn a blind eye" to China's "aggressive, coercive, and illegal actions" in the south China sea.

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earlier this month, Vietnam issued an angry condemnation after some of its fishermen were attacked and robbed off the Paracel Islands by what it called "Chinese law enforcement forces."

Beijing responded that the islands are its sovereign territory and its personnel were taking action to stop "illegal fishing" by the Vietnamese.

U.s secretary of state Antony Blinken arrived thursday and is expected to raise the south China sea when he holds talks with Asean leaders on friday, october 11.

Daniel Kritenbrink, the top U.s diplomat for east Asia, accused China of taking "escalatory and irresponsible steps designed to coerce and pressure many in the south China sea."

China has for years sought to expand its presence in contested areas of the south China sea, brushing aside an international ruling that its claim to most of the waterway has no legal basis.

It has built artificial islands armed with missile systems and runways for fighter jets,

In his remarks during the Asean summit's retreat session here on Wednesday, marcos urged Asean to "firmly reject the actions of external parties which violate international law, disregard international norms, and distort and undermine the principles upon which this organization is founded."

"We call on all Asean member states not to turn a blind eye to the aggressive, coercive, and illegal actions of an external power against an Asean member state. for such actions undermines their claims of genuine adherence to our core values," marcos said. they run counter to one of Asean's purposes: to unite the region as a bulwark against external threats and conflicts, and ensure that each Asean member state can lead its national existence free from interference, subversion and coercion. silence in the face of these violations diminishes Asean," he added.

marcos also stressed that peace and security in the region is a "collective responsibility that we, as Asean member states, must uphold."

"We cannot afford to prioritize transient gains at the expense of the unity and integrity of Asean. this is not about taking sides with one country over another, but rather about upholding our commitment to the rules-based international order bound by

international law," he said. my country cannot speak of independence and submit to the delusion that our sovereignty and security as an independent nation need not be fiercely guarded against the threats that are confronting it daily," he added. marcos said though there have been positive developments recently in the region, "it is regrettable that it has not changed the overall situation in the south China sea, and tensions remain."

"Despite the illegal and dangerous actions of China against the Philippines in the south China sea, and notwithstanding the serious damage and physical harm inflicted on our vessels and personnel, we are dedicated in our efforts to address and manage these disputes and tensions with China in accordance with the 1982 Unclos and the binding 2016 Arbitral Award," marcos said. the president said it was time for Asean claimant states to consider working together more closely with each other on the code of conduct (CoC) in south China sea, and other similar cooperative initiatives, either bilaterally or multilaterally.

"Using these complementary platforms, we may be able to agree on a number of outstanding core issues, which remain pending in the bigger CoC negotiations with the People's republic of China," marcos said.

"In spite of all the adversities in our road to peace, we will tread on this path and engage China through all diplomatic channels to arrive at mutually acceptable solutions to de-escalate the tensions in our waters," he added.

(With reports from Agence France-Presse)

SUMMIT SESSION. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. listens during a session at the Asean Summit on Oct.

2024. Malacañang photo INQUIRY.

Apl.de.Ap honored with Carson’s Key to...

marked by innovation and philanthropy, resonates deeply with the spirit of our City,” Carson mayor Lula Davis-holmes said during the presentation.

“today, Carson is not merely presenting a Key, but opening the door to endless possibilities, celebrating greatness and cultural unity.”

In response, Apl said it was an honor to be recognized by the City “because Carson is like my second home.”

“When the Black eyed Peas first began, we would come to Carson and dance and make music and get to know the people in the community. We started here,” he said.

Apl.de.Ap has headlined many Carson City events, served as a judge at a Carson talent contest and performed with his “the Voice: Philippines” protégé Janice Javier at this year’s Philippine Independence Day Celebration, where he served as the Grand marshal.

Filipino American History Month

Apl is set to headline the City’s filipino American history month celebration this saturday, oct. 12 at the Carson event Center. featuring filipino food, music and cultural presentations, the event sets the tone for the monthlong commemoration of the first

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recorded presence of filipinos in the continental United states on october 18, 1587. home to more than 100,000 fil-Ams, the City of Carson also celebrates Philippine Independence Day every year in June.

Star-studded FAHM celebration hosted by the 2024 mr. Philippines UsA candidates, the event will feature local talents including Broadway star Debralee Daco, Leo mercedes, the Voice” finalist Janice Javier, comedian rex Navarrete, and rising stars toni Gica, hazel Velasco and Jey Bersales. food trucks will serve up authentic filipino dishes while the “Battle of the Best” adobo cook-off spotlights the Philippines’ unofficial national dish. the event will also feature the first-ever Carson Auto show,

co-produced by the Apl.de.Ap foundation International.

“I’ll be back in Carson on october 12,” said Apl.de.Ap. “I get to judge the first adobo chicken cook-off! Plus, I’m bringing an entire car show with me…the foundation wants to show examples of the retrofitting work we are going to be doing in the Philippines by turning gas engines into electric vehicles!” Car show highlights include Apl.de.Ap’s reimagined 1967 ford f100, a vintage truck revamped into a 600 hP electric vehicle, a powerful statement on automotive innovation and sustainability. for more information about the event, you may call the City of Carson Community services, recreation and Park maintenance Department at (310) 830-9991 or visit the City’s social media pages. (Mary Villegas/inquirer.net)

Blinken calls out China’s...

the shared commitment to protect stability across the taiwan strait.

"Advancing our shared vision also means coming together to address shared challenges to that vision, from the deepening crisis in myanmar to the DPrK destabilizing behavior, to russia's war of aggression in Ukraine, which continues to

violate principles at the heart of the United Nations Charter and aat the heart of Asean treaty of Amity and cooperation," Blinken said.

"But whether it's responding to urgent global challenges or advancing the shared hopes of our people, the relationship between the United states and Asean will continue to be essential," he added. n

Cases vs Quiboloy to continue...

two courts ordered his arrest for qualified human trafficking and sexual and child abuse.

In the U.s., he was indicted for conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking by force, fraud and coercion as well as cash smuggling. the DoJ earlier said it may

use the plea deal of Duenas in the trafficking case in the Philippines.

“But since it’s already in the media, of course, our prosecutors will use that, because they know that a co-respondent of Quiboloy has already admitted to this in another jurisdiction,” Clavano told reporters. n

Monterey Park Mayor Thomas Wong organizes AAPI leaders in support of Prop 5

moNterey Park — monterey Park mayor thomas Wong welcomed local AAPI leaders for a special luncheon and briefing on thursday, october 10 to discuss Proposition 5, a significant ballot initiative aimed at empowering communities to address the critical needs of affordable housing and public infrastructure.

“I am proud to join local and regional leaders, teachers, nurses, business leaders, and working families from across the state, as well as fellow councilmembers, elected officials, and nonprofit leaders to urge voters to vote yes on Proposition 5 this November,” said monterey Park mayor thomas Wong. “We have a housing and homelessness crisis throughout the state of California that is only getting worse. there's also an infrastructure crisis in many of our cities where critical investment and reinvestment in our local communities is needed. here in monterey Park we've been seeking state and federal funding to rebuild one of the oldest fire stations in the entire region, station 63, which has been damaged by decades of earthquakes. Proposition 5 would empower local voters and cities with a much needed tool to help address these crises.”

following mayor Wong’s remarks, local elected officials and community leaders contributed to the discussion around how Prop 5 will strengthen their communities and ensure that voters will have a stronger voice in shaping the future of their neighborhoods:

• Stan Liu, Mayor, City of Diamond Bar

• Vinh Ngo, Mayor Pro Tem, monterey Park

• Frank Yokoyama, Councilmember, City of Cerrritos

• Mike Eng, former State Assemblymember and monterey Park mayor

• Jury Candelario, Executive Director, APAIt

• Steve Kang, Director of external Affairs, Koreatown youth & Community Center

“By lowering the approval threshold to 55%, Prop 5 will make it easier for us to fund affordable housing projects for low and middle income families, seniors, and first-time home buyers, which is crucial in maintaining the diversity and the vibrancy of our communities,” said Diamond Bar mayor stan Liu.

“And by facilitating investments in housing and infrastructure, Prop 5 can stimulate our local economies, create jobs, and improve overall quality of life in our cities, supporting our vision of thriving, sustainable communities today and for future generations.”

“I'll keep it simple as to why I'm in support of Proposition 5,” said Vinh Ngo, mayor Pro tem, monterey Park. “one, new infrastructure. two, more workforce affordable housing for our community. And three, spending accountability. Being

an immigrant in a community predominantly made up of Asian ethnic groups, I will add that Prop 5 will help the immigrant community because it meets all of these needs.”

“California is facing urgent challenges of affordable housing, deteriorating infrastructure, and insufficient emergency services to protect our communities,” said Cerritos City Councilmember frank yokoyama. “these issues affect all of us and our cities, but current state laws restrict our ability to take action at the local level. Prop 5 changes that by empowering local voters and taxpayers to make local decisions tailored to the specific needs of our cities.” having served in four capacities in the san Gabriel Valley, representing the cities in this particular area, I speak for many people here when I say that Proposition 5 is a lifeline,” said former state Assemblymember and former monterey Park mayor mike eng. A vote for Proposition 5 is really a vote for our future, a vote to make sure that we can pass the torch on to the next generation that will raise a family, and so that their hopes and their dreams can come true here.”

“I am in support of Proposition

5 because we serve about 350 individuals and families in the nine housing sites that we operate throughout Los Angeles County, and day in and day out, the issue that we see most among san Gabriel members and residents–particularly single mothers with families–is that they cannot afford to put food on the table, let alone pay rent,” said Jury Candelario, executive Director, APAIt (Access to Prevention, Advocacy, Intervention, and treatment). “the skyrocketing rent is outrageous. We need initiatives like Proposition 5 if we are to remove the threat of housing insecurity.”

“We need action now on policies to remove systemic barriers that prevent our ability to create more affordable housing all across the state of California,” said steve Kang, Director of external Affairs, Koreatown youth & Community Center. “As a provider of affordable housing, we have firsthand experience of the difficulties of fighting for limited resources to build more affordable housing. We strongly believe that Proposition 5 is a step in the right direction to provide local communities the power to invest and choose the path of affordable housing. We urge everyone to support Proposition 5.” n

Fil-Am leaders show support for Measure

people of LA County. for far too long, AANhPI communities and others have been underrepresented at the highest levels of county leadership,” said LA County Board Chair and coauthor of the measure, Lindsey P. horvath. “measure G will ensure that every voice is heard, every community is represented, and that our government is accountable to the people it serves.”

Aquilina soriano-Versoza, executive director of the Pilipino Worker’s Center, showed support for measure G, saying, it would open “opportunities for communities.”

“At the Pilipino Workers Center, our workers organize to win fair wages, a dignified workplace and equitable

investment in their communities. their AANhPI communities and all communities in Los Angeles deserve more representation in their County government,” said soriano-Versoza. “measure G opens opportunities for communities to engage with the highest levels of LA County government and be part of the solutions that shape our future.” other filipino American leaders in support of measure G include Artesia City Councilmember melissa ramoso and Claremont City Councilmember Jed Leano. ramoso said measure G would hold the supervisors and County staff accountable “for their actions and ensure they are adhering to the highest standards.” this will build the trust,

accountability, and public confidence that LA County residents deserve. With measure G, we can bring LA County government into the 21st century, with transparency and integrity at its core,” ramoso added. meanwhile, Leano said he support the measure "because it creates the equitable, ethical government our local communities need to thrive.” measure G will be on the November 2024 ballot, offering LA County voters the opportunity to bring meaningful change to the county’s leadership structure. the measure seeks to increase transparency, improve representation, and create a more responsive government that reflects the diversity of LA County’s residents. (AJPress)

UNCLEAR. Haze blankets Metro Manila’s skyline on Friday, Oct. 11, photographed in Makati City. State weather bureau PAGASA explained that as the southwest monsoon (habagat) season has ended, there is thermal inversion or hotter temperature on a higher level, thus the trapping of air pollutants. PNA photo by Yancy Lim

Apl.De.App receives Key to the City in Carson.

Photo from Fox40

Photos by Ubaldo Lira

Who’s at risk under Project 2025?

by Selen Ozturk Ethnic Media Services

ProJeCt 2025 poses an “existential threat” to immigrant, reproductive, LGBtQ+, climate and health protections nationwide, policy leaders warn. the over 900-page policy blueprint, released by conservative think tank the heritage foundation in 2022 under the title “mandate for Leadership,” promotes rightwing policies intended to reshape the government in the event that Donald trump will win the 2024 presidential election.

many political analysts hold that the initiative is designed to push the U.s. toward autocracy by eroding the rule of law, weakening the separation of powers, blurring the lines between church and state, and threatening civil liberties.

Climate and health

“Project 2025 is an effort to privatize public things, like health care protections and utility services, which are already price-gouging Americans,” said sulma Arias, executive director of People’s Action Institute, at a friday, october 4 ethnic media services briefing about Project 2025. “We don’t have to wait until these measures are implemented to see how they impact our community. It’s already happening.”

the document’s climaterelated proposals include eliminating disaster relief loans to small businesses; raising the threshold for disaster declaration; privatizing femA flood insurance; and privatizing the National oceanic Atmospheric Administration and National Weather service.

you can see the impact in North Carolina with hurricane helene. over 200 people are dead, over a million are without power and there’s $35 billion in damage,” said Arias. “If we really understood the effects of something this horrible, I believe that most Americans would be against it.”

Project 2025 would also privatize the health care sphere with measures like cutting medicaid benefits; increasing medicare prescription drug prices, including insulin; and repealing the Affordable Care Act (ACA), thereby allowing insurance companies like United health to deny coverage based on preexisting conditions and leaving tens of millions of Americans uninsured.

this year alone, 21.3 million people signed up for insurance through the ACA. “for many people, this means the difference between life and death,” said Arias. “With record profits, United health has denied over 250 million cases in a year, for example … What’s behind this is corporate greed, and a fight over who gets to control the growing inequality in this country.”

Reproductive rights

Project 2025 health proposals will drastically roll back reproductive rights, said yvonne Gutierrez, chief strategy officer

of reproductive freedom for All. for instance, the document misinterprets the 150-year-old Comstock Act — which bans the mailing of “obscene” items — to block the distribution of fDAapproved abortion care in all 50 states, which would institute a de facto abortion ban without Congress or public support.

Currently, 63% of Americans support legalizing abortion in all or most cases.

Project 2025 would also cease investigating and enforcing federal requirements that hospitals provide abortion care in emergency cases; restore exceptions allowing individuals and institutions to deny patients reproductive care in all 50 states; and order federal tracking of birth and abortion outcomes, weakening hIPAA protections and allowing the prosecution of patients who receive abortions in all 50 states. this week I spoke with a miami physician treating a patient who, after her cancer returned, learned she was pregnant and needed chemo right away, and therefore needed an abortion. No provider in florida could provide this, because she was just over the six-week mark. Already ill herself, she had to leave the state,” said Gutierrez.

“those in favor of reproductive restrictions talk a lot about exceptions. exceptions don’t work,” she added. “this patient needed life-saving care, but because she wasn’t going to die tomorrow, it didn’t count … even when lives are on the line, where doctors are too afraid to give care or patients are too afraid to seek it, it becomes too late.”

LGBTQ+ rights

Defunding, surveilling and prosecuting health providers and clinics like Planned Parenthood would endanger the lives of many in the LGBtQ+ community as well, said tony hoang, executive director of equality California. this document equates the act of being transgenderism to pornography and declares that it should be outlawed … describing it as a ‘social contagion’ for youth,” he added.

Project 2025 would revoke federal funds for genderaffirming care for all adults and minors; allow health providers to deny it if they object for religious reasons; and replace the Department of health and human services with the “Department of Life”, cutting title X family planning funding and redirecting federal funds to support a biblicallybased definition of families as composed of a married father, mother and children. the document would also close the Department of education and its protections for LGBtQ+ youth; order that no school employee have to use a student’s chosen pronoun; restore parental rights over a student’s decision to transition; and sue or withhold funding from school districts where officials

Garma says Davao drug war template...

payments or rewards. first is the reward if the suspect is killed. second is the funding of planned operations. third is the refund of operational expenses,” she added.

According to Garma, she told Duterte that she is unaware of “any individual with those qualifications” as she has not been assigned outside of Davao. however, she remembered her upperclassman, National Police Commission (Napolcom) Commissioner edilberto Leonardo who was also a former police colonel, who is a member of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and was also a member of the Iglesia Ni Cristo.

“I mentioned his name to the president. on the same day, a certain individual named ‘muking’ contacted me by phone to request Leonardo’s contact details, which I promptly provided. A week later, I learned from Arthur Narsolis via phone call that Leonardo had been summoned by the president and was instructed to proceed to the mandaya hotel in Davao for a meeting,” Garma said.

weekly report and requests for refunds of operational expenses,”

Garma said.

“Leonardo had the final authority to determine who would be included on the list of drug personalities and to classify their threat levels, as well as the discretion to remove individuals from the list,” she added.

Garma and Leonardo were both invited by the quad committee over rumors that they are linked to different extrajudicial killings.

Garma and Leonardo were both accused of masterminding the death of former Philippine Charity sweepstakes office (PCso) Board secretary Wesley Barayuga. During a previous quad committee hearing, Lt. Col. santie mendoza said Leonardo contacted him about operating a high-value drug target in the person of Barayuga.

According to mendoza, he told Leonardo that he would think about the operation, but the Napolcom official said that this operation would bode well for his career.

mendoza said Leonardo sent him a synopsis that would show how Barayuga, a former police general and a member of the Philippine military Academy matikas Class of 1983 was supposedly involved in the illegal drug trade. But when the former said he would conduct his own study, Leonardo supposedly said that the hit already had the blessings of Garma, who was then PCso general manager. When they were about to carry out the attack, mendoza said that Leonardo informed them that Barayuga was inside the PCso office in mandaluyong, with Garma sending a photo of the late board secretary. Leonardo and Garma are two officials believed to have close ties to Duterte. n

affirm transgender students, including allowing students to use restrooms that accord with their identity.

“Project 2025 would reverse Biden policies that protect folks from being discriminated against on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in the workplace,” hoang said. this is not just in a vacuum. As LGBtQ+ lives are threatened, so are other communities.”

Immigration the document also “poses an existential threat to immigrant communities,” said manjusha Kulkarni, executive director of the AAPI equity Alliance.

Project 2025 proposes a militaristic mass deportation of unauthorized immigrants “by giving broad authority to federal agents to enter our private homes, schools, places of business and even houses of worship. It allows agents to search for undocumented immigrants without a warrant from a judge and arrest suspected undocumented people,” she explained.

11 million undocumented immigrants live in the U.s as of 2022, according to Pew estimates.

Project 2025 would also eliminate family-based immigration, for which the U.s receives an average of 848,362 green card applications annually. the document would downsize “high-skilled” h1-B visas, “low-skilled” seasonal h2-A and h2-B visas, student visas and refugee admissions; strip temporary Protected status protections; and have the federal government “pause” legal immigration applications in the event of excessive backlogs, which the government is empowered engineer by deregulated understaffing.

the document uses every opportunity to demonize immigrants, using terms like ‘illegal aliens,’ and ‘infiltrate,’” said Kulkarni. “All of this serves to fan the flames of racism, and we’ve seen the effects recently with false claims about haitian immigrants in springfield, ohio.”

A University of massachusetts Amherst August 2024 poll of 1,000 demographically representative Americans found that their views on immigration were conflicting.

A small majority of polled Americans supported a path to citizenship (57%) and temporarily resettling and employing refugees and asylum seekers (51%), but about half also supported building a wall along the southern border (50%) and deporting the nation’s undocumented immigrants (49%).

over half of polled Americans (53%) had heard of Project 2025, and most opposed key initiatives like replacing career government officials with political appointees (68% opposed), restricting contraception rights (72%) and eliminating the Department of education (64%).

“Ultimately, this is about power,” Kulkarni said. “folks who had a monopoly on power in America are losing it because of demographic changes, and they don’t like it. In our democracy, if you can’t do something when it’s unpopular, you can do it by taking away the rights of individuals through executive action … It’s going to take all of us to fight that.”

(This resource is supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of california, administered by the california State Library in partnership with the california Department of Social

and the california

“Leonardo informed me that he stayed at the hotel for three days, during which the president directed him to organize a task force similar to the PAoCtf When Leonardo relayed this information and urged me to join the task force, I declined, citing my lack of experience in handling such operations,” she added.

Garma also said that Leonardo told her that he made a proposal outlining the task force’s operations, coursed through senator Bong Go who was then the special assistant to Duterte.

she also admitted that initially, she facilitated the meetings between Go and Leonardo. eventually, Garma said that the two men “established direct communication”.

It was also Leonardo who conducted briefings for all Philippine Drug enforcement Agency (PDeA) officials and even Philippine National Police (PNP) chiefs — even having the final authority on who would be on the watchlist.

“Leonardo conducted briefings for all PDeA, IG, regional Directors, and PNP Chiefs regarding operations. Additionally, if any individual died during police operations, Leonardo reported the incident to Bong Go for inclusion in his

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OpiniOn Features

No better time to work with ICC

With all the horror stories emerging from the ongoing probe of drug-related killings in the previous administration, people are wondering how the abuses committed by ranking Philippine National Police officials got past the internal disciplinary mechanism of the PNP.

the international court is pushing an investigation into Duterte and his cohorts for the extrajudicial killings (eJKs) of thousands of drug suspects in his brutal drug war. While initially hostile to the idea, claiming the ICC’s lack of jurisdiction because of the country’s 2018 withdrawal from its rome statute, the marcos administration has since softened its stance.

In August, Justice secretary Jesus Crispin remulla said the country would not block any arrest warrants that the Interpol may issue concerning the ICC’s “drug war” case. “We no longer have a commitment with the ICC, but we have with the Interpol,” he said. While the turnabout may be partly due to the political war of attrition between the marcoses and the Dutertes, there’s no denying that both the senate and quad committee hearings at the house of representatives have unearthed enough leads to pin down the former president on the ICC’s charge of crimes against humanity.

Duterte’s narcolist

the latest would-be witness to surface was Kerwin espinosa who alleged being threatened by Duterte police chief and now sen. ronald “Bato” dela rosa to admit before the senate that he was a drug lord. Dela rosa has denied this.

espinosa on saturday, october 5 said he was “1,000 percent” willing to testify before the ICC “to get justice” for his father, former Albuera, Leyte mayor rolando espinosa sr., who died in an alleged shootout inside a provincial jail in November 2016. In september, former Iloilo mayor Jed mabilog said that he was included in Duterte’s narcolist and repeatedly threatened, forcing him and his family into exile in the United states for the next seven years. mabilog said his insider friends had warned him against meeting with some of Duterte’s

representatives as he would be forced to link the drug trade to opposition leaders former senate President franklin Drilon and former presidential aspirant mar roxas. Also in september, Bureau of Corrections senior supt. Gerardo Padilla recalled Duterte’s call congratulating him over the August 2016 killing of three alleged Chinese drug lords in the Davao Prison and Penal farm. Before the killing, he said he had received a call from then Criminal Investigation and Detection Group officer royina Garma ordering him not to interfere in the “operation.” Garma has denied Padilla’s claims, but she has since been implicated in illegal jueteng operations as its alleged protector and in the killing of Philippine Charity sweepstakes office board secretary Wesley Barayuga, when she was PCso manager.

Window of opportunity though the former president has yet to appear before the quad comm hearings despite its open invitation to him, his recent words seem to support the given testimonies: “What do they want to know? extrajudicial killings? they’re true. Illegal drugs. that’s why people died,” he said on saturday, october 5. With the witnesses’ bold testimonies occasioned by Duterte being no longer in a position of power to influence the courts or threaten, neutralize, or wreak political vendetta against his detractors, the prospect seems promising to finally get justice for the families of eJK victims.

But this window of opportunity could close prematurely, with the looming elections reversing political fortunes overnight. Admittedly, the Dutertes are not a spent force and still command a loyal following in some quarters. With an overflowing

campaign chest, the former president’s family seems confident enough to run for re-election, while his allies are circling the wagons, knowing that restoring their patron to power could bring back their glory days as well.

Global reputation It is thus imperative for the government to act quickly and decisively to pursue and prosecute those involved in the interlocking ills of drug-related killings, illegal Pogos, and criminality. the testimony of witnesses credible for their firsthand accounts and involvement in the drug war is material to this resolve. for a start, the government can explore the possibility of turning the more credible and least guilty

parties into state witnesses, thus affording them state protection. rethinking our official stance on the ICC can further embolden other potential witnesses to come out, while cooperating fully with this body will boost our global reputation as a nation of laws, which aligns with President marcos’ repeated declaration of the need “to establish a rules-based order.” Ultimately, determined efforts to ferret the truth and hold to account those behind the drug killings should serve as a strong deterrent against future regimes that would put the law in their hands. But we have to seize the moment—a more conducive atmosphere to the ICC probe might not come again. (inquirer.net)

VP Sara’s trust problem: Can she recover?

sArA Duterte’s once-strong political standing is facing an avalanche of challenges. A major survey commissioned by think tank stratbase, Inc. shows a significant drop in her net trust rating, revealing that filipinos are increasingly losing faith in her. But is this just a temporary dip, or are we seeing the beginning of a broader political crisis for the embattled vice president? the numbers paint a troubling picture. from June to september 2024, Duterte’s net trust rating plummeted by 16 points, nearly double the drop experienced by President ferdinand marcos, Jr. this isn’t just a statistical anomaly—it’s a reflection of deeper political issues. And the causes aren’t hard to find.

At the heart of Duterte’s falling numbers is the controversy surrounding alleged misuse of confidential funds. In 2022, her office spent P125 million in just 11 days, raising red flags among government watchdogs and prompting serious questions about transparency and accountability. the Commission on Audit (CoA) disallowed P73million or roughly 60% of these expenses, citing irregularities like questionable payments for supplies, safe houses even food and medicine. for a vice president who promised clean governance, this scandal has cast a long shadow over her credibility. to make matters worse, Duterte has been evasive during congressional inquiries. Critics argue that her refusal to address these allegations only fuels more suspicion. As opposition lawmakers like ACt teachers party-list rep. france Castro pointed out, this lack of transparency is

troubling for someone holding the second highest office in the land. Duterte’s claim that these criticisms are politically motivated hasn’t convinced many. If anything, her avoidance of the issue may be fueling even more distrust.

Cabinet resignation: A tactical error?

Adding to the controversy was Duterte’s abrupt resignation as secretary of education, amid accusations of corruption linked again to alleged fund misuse. her decision to step down raised eyebrows and added to the perception that she might be avoiding accountability for the botched delivery of computers and textbooks, stale milk and moldy bread or nutribuns for poor students. this, in turn, has eroded public confidence, particularly among urban voters and the middle class, two demographics critical to any future political ambitions she may have.

VP sara’s resignation also

highlights the growing rift between her and President marcos, Jr. this division within the ruling coalition is no secret, with Duterte’s supporters even going so far as to accuse marcos of orchestrating the attacks against her. the squabble has weakened Duterte’s standing, as internal conflicts tend to tarnish both sides involved.

Aside from her personal controversies, Duterte’s administration has faced significant external challenges. the Philippines has been rocked by natural disasters, with devastating typhoons and floods sweeping through Luzon and mindanao. the massive floods in VP sara’s home city of Davao despite billions of pesos in flood control funds channeled through her brother is further eroding confidence. While it’s true that President marcos also saw a decline in trust ratings during this period, Duterte’s numbers took a much steeper dive.

Likewise, escalating tensions in the West Philippine sea have further strained her credibility. As China became more aggressive in asserting its territorial claims, filipinos grew increasingly frustrated with government’s perceived lack of assertiveness. While foreign policy is primarily within the president’s domain, VP Duterte’s deafening silence in the face of China’s continuing aggression has made her a target for severe criticism. The road ahead: Can VP Duterte bounce back? recovering from this steep decline in trust will not be easy for Duterte. her core base in mindanao remains relatively stable, but her numbers in Luzon, metro manila, and Visayas are cause for concern. these are critical regions if she hopes to maintain national relevance. the decline in trust among the middle and upper classes also suggests a shift in support that could impact her

US vs China in Southeast Asia

Who’s more valuable to southeast Asia: its immediate neighbor China, or the other superpower across the Pacific, the United states? there’s an undeniable rivalry between the two in their multifaceted relations with the region, and for good reason. the switzerland-based World economic forum describes Asean—the 10-member Association of southeast Asian Nations—as the world’s “economic dark horse.” Its combined population of 685 million makes it the third-largest market in the world, next to India and China. It thus wields demographic power and is now acknowledged as a driver of the global economy.

the Asean countries share a common geography and

ethnicities, but the economic disparities among them are wide. Average income in the richest member singapore ($91,100 in 2023) is 77 times that in the poorest member myanmar ($1,180). Price stability ranges from very stable (with Brunei’s and thailand’s annual inflation rates of 0.4 and 1.2 percent, respectively) to hyperinflationary (Laos with 31.2 and myanmar with 27.1 percent). the jobs situation ranges from virtual full employment in Cambodia and thailand, with unemployment rates of 0.5 and 1.0 percent this year, to Indonesia’s 5.3 percent. exports-to-GDP ratio ranges from dynamic singapore’s 108.9 percent to inward-looking Philippines’ measly 12.7 percent (regional average is 55.9 percent). education outcomes range from globally top-ranked singapore to bottom-dwellers Philippines and Cambodia (77th and 81st, respectively) in the 2022 Programme

for International student Assessment or Pisa. With such wide disparities, it would be ideal if the U.s. and China help the region with a “rising tide that lifts all boats” so that the wide inequalities both across and within countries in Asean could somehow be narrowed.

I was invited last week to a candid dialogue in thailand on how China and the U.s are helping southeast Asia. my assigned focus was on their economic contributions to the region. these come via trade, investment, economic assistance, tourism, labor migration, and more. I focused on the first three, which are the most prominent elements in the relationship, and for which data are readily available. China is Asean’s largest trading partner, which is not surprising being right next door. even so, the U.s. actually took the lead from China early this year as the biggest buyer of Asean’s exports, even from

the other side of the world. trade balance with the U.s. has consistently been in Asean’s favor, with a $200-billion trade surplus; that is, Asean sells more to the U.s. than it buys from it, by that much. the reverse is true with China, which sells more to Asean than it buys, by about $100 billion, and this Asean trade deficit with China has grown tenfold since 2010, in an increasingly lopsided trade.

As to foreign direct investments, the U.s. is Asean’s largest source, with $74.4 billion in fDI inflows in 2023. China comes in fourth with fDI flows of $17.3 billion, behind the european Union’s $24.9 billion and Asean cross-investments of $21.9 billion. American investments have been shifting to Asean since the U.s.-China trade war and the CoVID-19 pandemic led American manufacturers in China to shift out or add back-up factories in Asean, to the great benefit of the region.

China’s economic assistance

comes mainly as soft loans for large infrastructure projects under the Belt and road Initiative. In 2021, it pivoted to a Global Development Initiative promoting “peoplecentered, high-quality, green, and innovation-driven development.” the U.s. Agency for International Development delivers a smaller but comprehensive package of grant assistance covering a wide range of areas including governance, education, health care, agriculture, manufacturing, renewable energy, digital economy, trade facilitation, and workforce development— all aimed to support economic growth, poverty reduction, and sustainable development in Asean. U.s. grants and soft loans uphold labor and environmental standards, transparency, accountability, and human rights, which some see as intrusive conditionalities.

While Chinese soft loan projects have no such “strings” attached,

potential future candidacies. to regain public trust, Duterte needs to address the allegations head-on. Continued evasion will only deepen perceptions that she has something to hide. transparency and accountability, not deflection, are the only ways to win back people’s confidence. If the vice president continues to ignore these issues, the likelihood of more severe political repercussions, like impeachment, looms larger. With opposition voices growing louder, Duterte’s political future hangs in the balance. the next few months will be crucial in determining whether she can reverse the downward trend or whether this is the beginning of the end for her once-promising political career. (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.

they provoke concerns about a lack of labor and environmental safeguards, looming “debt traps,” and the prospect of giving up state assets in the event of default. their assistance with connectivity infrastructure is also feared to carry the risk of data security, cyber-espionage, and over-dependence. there are pros and cons on each side. But rather than see it as a contest for the region, the dialogue agreed that complementation or even cooperation, rather than competition, would be in the best interest of southeast Asia, and in turn, the world. however, current geopolitical realities make this little more than wishful thinking. (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

Jake J. Maderazo

Sharp Edges

Cielito F. Habito

Dateline philippines

Guo will no longer seek reelection as Bamban mayor

by Charie abarCa Inquirer.net

mANILA — Alice Guo on

tuesday, october 8 said she would not seek reelection as Bamban mayor in 2025 to clean her name amid the cases filed against her.

senate President Pro tempore Jinggoy estrada brought up the matter during the senate panel on women’s 15th hearing on Guo’s ties to Philippine offshore gaming operators (PoGos).

“I will face the accusations being hurled against me. I will cleanse myself so that I become fair to my constituents whom I really love,” Guo said in filipino.

During the hearing, sen. Joel Villanueva also warned that

PoGos could be sponsoring candidates for the 2025 elections.

“PoGo politics represents a new form of corruption,” said Villanueva.

In a separate statement of Guo sent to the media through her legal counsel Atty. stephen David, the dismissed Bamban mayor addressed the locals.

“I know many of you want me to file candidacy for mayor in our town next year. I hope you understand my decision to postpone this. this doesn’t mean that I’ll leave you, maybe we’ll have more time to spend with you again. I believe God has a special way of doing things,” said Guo in a mix of filipino and english. the suspected human

Marcos: PH seeks ways to be more conducive for int’l investments

mANILA — President ferdinand marcos Jr. on monday, october 7 said that the national government is “continuously finding ways” to make the country a “conducive” and “sustainable” spot for foreign investments.

marcos made the pronouncement during the Philippines-republic of Korea Business forum at the manila hotel, which was held shortly after a bilateral meeting and signing of various agreements with south Korean President yoon suk yeol.

In his speech, marcos expressed how the Philippines is “ready to embrace with open arms” investments from south Korea.

“to our esteemed Korean partners, I want to assure you: the Philippine government stands ready to embrace your investments with open arms and with continuing and unwavering support,” said marcos.

“We are continuously finding ways to make the Philippines a more conducive place to do business. We are accelerating policy reforms designed to improve the business environment here,” he added. Among these efforts, said marcos, is the enactment of the PPP or Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Code of the Philippines, Internet transactions Act, and tatak Pinoy Act, which are laws intended to boost infrastructure, regulate e-commerce, and promote local industries in global markets to benefit the economy. through key policy reforms and measures such as these, we aim to make the Philippines a top destination for sustainability — and to be sustainable in our strategic investments,” he said. marcos also cited international agreements such as the Association of southeast Asian Nations (Asean)-Korea free trade Agreement and the regional Comprehensive economic Partnership Agreement, which paved the way for the Philippines to pursue its regional economic integration agenda actively. he also mentioned the Philippines-Korea free trade Agreement which “elevated relations” between the Philippines and south Korea by eliminating tariffs on agricultural goods, electronics, and automotive components. (inquirer.net)

LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (LACMTA) REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

LACmtA will receive Bids/ Proposals for oP1270688370 - fItNess CeNter AtteNDANt serVICesat the 9th floor receptionist Desk, Vendor/Contract management Department, one Gateway Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90012. A Pre-Bid conference will be held on thursday, october 17, 2024, 2:00 p.m., at one Gateway Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90012, Virtual meeting: online. All Bids must be submitted to LACmtA, and be filed at the reception desk, 9th floor, V/Cm Department, on or before 10:00 a.m. Pacific time on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, at which time bids will be opened and publicly read. Bids received after the above date and time may be rejected and returned unopened. each Bid must be sealed and marked Bid No. oP1270688370. for a copy of the Proposal/ Bid specification visit our solicitation Page on our Vendor Portal at https:// business.metro.net or for further information email ricardo Narvaez at narvaezr@

10/12/24

LACmtA will receive Proposals for Ps124278(2) - metro micro software servicesat the 9th floor receptionist Desk, Vendor/ Contract management Department, one Gateway Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90012. A Pre-Proposal conference will be held on Wednesday, october 9, 2024, 1:00 p.m., at one Gateway Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90012, Virtual meeting: online. All Proposals m t be submitted to LACmtA, and be filed at the reception desk, 9th floor, V/Cm Department, on or before 11:00 a.m. Pacific time on monday, october 28, 2024. Proposals received after the above date and time may be rejected and returned unopened. each proposal must be sealed and marked Proposal No. Ps124278(2). for a copy of the Proposal/ Bid specification visit our solicitation Page on our Vendor Portal at https:// business.metro.net or for further information email Ana rodriguez at rodrigueza8@ metro.net.

10/12/24

CNs-3859472# AsIAN JoUrNAL (L.A.)

trafficker said she thought about her action multiple times, but she said she believes that despite the challenges and hurdles she’s experiencing, she’ll be able to bounce back.

“I will continue to pray for our town, and every day, I’ll thank you all for your love, trust, and support for me despite what I’ve been going through. I can really feel your love,” she added. n

by Maila ager Inquirer.net

mANILA — Although pleased by the sandiganbayan’s junking of the P276-million ill-gotten wealth case against her family, sen. Imee marcos lamented the 37 long years they had to endure waiting for its resolution.

“Nagpapasalamat ako pero napakatagal naman,” marcos said at the Pandesal forum in Quezon City on thursday, october 10.

(i am grateful, but it took so long.) thirty-eight years namang

naghintay at nakita naman natin kulang-kulang ang katibayan,” she added. (We’ve waited for thirty-eight years, and we’ve seen that the evidence is lacking.) the case was filed by the Presidential Commission on Good Government on July 21, 1987 against the late President ferdinand marcos sr., his widow former first Lady Imelda marcos, and an alleged crony, roman Cruz Jr.

In Civil Case No. 006, the first couple was accused of using Cruz to purchase parcels of land supposedly through ill-gotten

wealth. But the sandiganbayan dismissed the case due to inordinate delay.

In its resolution, the court also cited a provision in the 1987 Constitution that states that all persons have the right to “a speedy disposition of their cases before all judicial, quasi-judicial, or administrative bodies.” still, sen. marcos said the family was very pleased by the court’s decision.

“Although the long delay of course has been very difficult and painful for my family,” the senator added. n

Members of the Marcos family

Inquirer.net file photo

Dismissed Bamban Mayor Alice Leal Guo, otherwise known as Guo Hua Ping Photo from the Senate Public Relations and Information Bureau

LOS ANGELES

Lea Salonga credits support system for lasting 47 years in the industry

By Nathalie tomada Philstar.com

LEA Salonga continues to be one of the leading figures in musical theater since making history in “Miss Saigon.” Being the original Kim won her every possible award that could be won for her performance — the Olivier, Tony, Drama Desk, etc. But this status also comes with a level of expectation, especially for those who want to follow in her footsteps. It obviously puts pressure on aspiring Pinoy theater stars to live up to standards set by Lea on the international stage.

“I feel like anybody that auditions for the role of Kim, I need to apologize to all of them because of where those notes are,” she honestly admitted during an exclusive interview with The Philippine STAR

“But even then, I mean, nowadays those are pretty easy to reach for a lot of younger women, especially after shows like ‘Wicked,’ ‘Hairspray,’ ‘Legally Blonde,’ ‘The Color Purple,’ and so many other shows where the high notes are even higher than what was written in ‘Miss Saigon.’”

Lea further said that she has always had immense respect for those pursuing a career in musical theater, but she also knows the challenges that it entails. “Anybody who wants to have a career in musical theater has got to be insane because it requires so much. It asks for so much discipline and the expectation of performing at a very high level. Sometimes, I’m like, ‘Oh my God, what have we done?’” she mused.

Still, the Filipino Broadway icon takes pride in the fact that Filipinos continue to be sought after in the world of musical theater, saying: “From the revival (of ‘Miss Saigon’) in 2014, Filipinos are still sought after, which is a pretty cool legacy.”

Lea particularly cited her recent experience at “Do You Hear The People Sing?” show in Manila, where she reunited with Claude-Michel Schönberg, co-creator of “Miss Saigon.” “He was incredibly impressed with the performers in that show. There were so many new — well, not new to us, but new to him — young performers he hadn’t encountered before, and he was just amazed. He was very impressed by the high level of performance.”

No matter where Filipino performers go, Lea believes they carry a unique responsibility.

“Wherever we go, whether it’s ‘Miss Saigon’ or not, or even if it’s a small show somewhere, performing at Disneyland, or doing a show in the West End, or on Broadway or off-Broadway, if you’re identified as a Filipino performer, you’d better be good. You’re carrying the flag,” she said.

Lea may be considered a trailblazer but she is humbled by the international success of many Filipino talents today. “There are a lot of amazing Filipino performers, both in the West End and on Broadway, doing incredible work, and it makes me

Photo from KIKO CABUENA OF

‘CITIZEN PUTI’: A FAN’S DEDICATION AND A HEARTWARMING FAMILY REUNION. For

Gurfinkel calls

Lea Salonga credits support system for...

incredibly proud to be part of that. I don’t know about being a trailblazer, though. So many others came before me, and many are coming after me,” she further told The STAR

She proudly noted how times have changed, especially with entire shows now being cast with Filipino performers. Case in point was last year’s “Here Lies Love,” which featured Broadway’s first all-Filipino cast. “It’s gotten to the point where you can cast an entire show with Filipinos, which I never thought I’d see in my lifetime, but it happened.”

Meanwhile, Lea is returning to the Philippine concert scene after five years with “Stage, Screen & Everything in Between.” First mounted in the UK, the originally two-night show (Nov. 4 and 5) at The Theatre at Solaire proved to be a certified hit — tickets sold out just a few hours after they went on sale — that another show, Nov. 7 at 8 p.m., was added.

All three shows will have as special guest singeractor Clay Aiken, who was runner-up in “American Idol” Season 2. Tickets for the Nov. 7 show are now available at the Solaire Box Office and the Ticketworld website.

When this writer asked Lea about how she has maintained her voice, she said it’s all about discipline and self-care. “I’m a show-week warrior… Though I should work out to maintain that better, but I’m lazy,” she said candidly. “For most of the repertoire, the keys are still challenging

but doable. I tend to pick keys where I can do it eight times a week.”

Her “special sauce” for preserving her vocal health is surprisingly simple. “I prefer staying home, playing video games, rather than going to parties. I don’t drink much, my biggest vice is coffee, and I’m not a smoker. I tend to rest at home.”

Besides “Stage, Screen & Everything in Between,” she’s currently headlining the one-woman straight play “Request Sa Radyo” alternately with awardwinning actress Dolly de Leon.

When it comes to taking on new projects, Lea shared that she’s no longer chasing “lofty goals.” “I just want to keep doing what I love. I don’t have any lofty goals at this point. It’s a career, it’s a job, and I want to do it to the best of my ability. I just want to have the energy to get on stage, do shows where I feel challenged but not burned out.”

Just recently, for her outstanding work as a Filipino artist, Lea was conferred the Gawad CCP Para sa Sining, the highest honor given by the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP). During her acceptance speech, she stressed that whatever she achieved in her career was not possible without a support system.

Said Lea, who has been working in the industry for 47 years now and still counting: “I don’t think any artist can work in a vacuum. As an artist in this ephemeral art form, I don’t work alone… a career like mine would not be possible without a village, a support system, and the people who are actively behind me.

Heart Evangelista among Paris Fashion Week SS25’s top influencers

by HannaH Mallorca Inquirer.net

HEART Evangelista is the only Filipina to be included in the list of top influencers for Paris Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2025, more than a week after being noted for estimated media value (EMV) in Milan Fashion Week.

With 16.2 million followers on Instagram, Evangelista placed 10th on the list where she garnered $5.1 million EMV, per data from the fashion platform Lefty.

The report also noted the number of fashion shows the actress-fashion personality attended, among them highend fashion houses like Dior, Schiaparelli, and Balmain. She previously shared on Instagram that she attended 19 shows for the recent iteration of Paris Fashion Week.

Also included in the list are Kylie Jenner (1st), Blackpink’s Rosé (3rd), Jisoo (5th) and Lisa (8th), Cha Eun-woo (7th), IVE’s Wonyoung (9th), and Kendall Jenner (14th).

Evangelista was also named as one of the top influencers for Milan Fashion Week Spring/ Summer 2025 last month with fellow Filipina and Miss Universe

‘Citizen

persistence paid off.

Puti’ special: A family reunited...

After overcoming additional COVID-related delays and a rescheduled U.S. Embassy interview due to a medical issue, Aries and his daughter Arya were finally granted immigrant visas in April 2024. This emotional reunion, capped by Ricky’s admiration for Citizen Pinoy, brings the story full circle as the family begins their new chapter together in the U.S. Watch this success story on an encore episode of Citizen Pinoy on Sunday, October 13 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the free app. (Advertising Supplement)

From left: Ricky Lee, Aries, Arya, Martha and Atty. Michael Gurfinkel.

Heart Evangelista

Photo from Instagram/@iamhearte titleholder Pia Wurtzbach. The Kapuso star made headlines after getting emotional at the end of Paris Fashion Week earlier this month, where she was surrounded by the members of her new glam team.

The recent Paris Fashion Week also witnessed Evangelista interacting with Anne Curtis on the sidelines of the Gucci show, after earlier hoping to see more of the “It’s Showtime” host in the annual fashion event.

‘Abot-Kamay na Pangarap’ finale on Oct. 19; CITEM

My P.E.P. (People, Events,Places)

Rogelio Constantino Medina

to hold Manila F.A.M.E. Oct. 17-19

AFTER over two years on air with several milestones achieved, GMA Network’s top-rating afternoon drama “ Abot-Kamay na Pangarap” nears its finale on October 19. The record-breaking show is headlined by Carmina Villarroel as Lyneth, Richard Yap as Doc RJ, and Star of the New Gen Jillian Ward as Doc Analyn.

It is produced by the GMA Entertainment Group, headed by Senior Vice President Lilybeth G. Rasonable, Vice President for Drama Cheryl Ching-Sy, Assistant Vice President for Drama Ali Nokom-Dedicatoria, and Executive Producer Joy LumboyPili. This heartwarming program is under the helm of esteemed director L.A. Madridejos. * * *

Bro. Eddie Villanueva’s Jesus

Is Lord (JIL) Church Worldwide’s 46th Anniversary is on October 12 at Luneta, Manila starting 3 p.m. with some musical performances. This year’s theme is “Christ is the answer,” based on Romans 7:25a (NLT Version): “Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord.” Christ is the Answer: “For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.” (Colossians 1:1617 King James Version)

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Ayala Alabang Village’s Gilda Fernandez-Perez, 95, a retired Malacanang Chief Librarian, is still much active despite her old age. Her eldest child soprano Queenie Perez lives in New York. Though alone, Gilda spends fruitful time with her friends and family circles, attending activities that can increase one’s nerve cells.

Her younger sister Erly, 90, who lives in New Jersey, is still working at the same corporation she first got employed in the United States. She survived the

September 11, 2001 attack in New York.

* * * Foremost Filipino glass artist Ramon Orlina and Original Pilipino Music iconic singer Jose Mari Chan met for the first time in the birthday of Stella Tansengco-Schapero during her twin exhibits at Artepintura Gallery in Ermita, Manila. The two famous celebrities sang a happy birthday song to her.

*

* * Yogi Ruiz, former head of Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and ex-Customs chief, had a recent presscon at a Quezon City restaurant, with basketball player-actor Bonel Balingit, a.k.a. Gentle Giant or Man-Mountain, who appears in some TV sitcoms and comedy films.

Bonel will run as councilor in Cebu City under the team of mayoralty aspirant Yogi Ruiz of Kilusang Bagong Lipunan and Partido Federal ng Pilipinas, a party headed by Pres. Bongbong Marcos.

“Our country needs leaders who are not afraid to take bold actions, leaders who put people first,” said Ruiz.

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* The Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), headed by Leah Pulido Ocampo, is the export promotion authority of the Philippine government attached to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). For over 40 years, CITEM has been relentlessly helping shape the country’s image as a premier destination for quality export products and services. It continues to set the highest standards of creativity, excellence and innovation to achieve competitiveness in the home, fashion, lifestyle, food, creative, and sustainability sectors. From October 17-19, 2024, CITEM’s Manila F.A.M.E., the Philippines’ premier trade show for quality home, fashion, and lifestyle products, welcomes international buyers, exhibitors, visitors, and guests with the theme “REIMAGINATION,” where the best of the Philippines’ local enterprises, craftsmen, and artisans translate the country’s abundant raw materials into functional and aesthetic pieces.

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Filipino Queen of Rock and recipient of 2nd Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Award, has a soft spot for old people, especially the poor, abandoned ones – whether they are in the streets or in the institutions for the elderly. For the nth time, she extended her blessings to the GRACES Home for the Elderly (formerly the Golden Acres) in Quezon City, just at the back of SM North EDSA.

GRACES is the Golden Reception and Action Center for the Elderly and Other Special Cases which is one of the long-standing institutions in the Philippines, offering care and shelter for the elderly who are abandoned, neglected or homeless. Managed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development in the National Capital Region, GRACES provides comprehensive services to its residents, including medical,

Leah Pulido, executive director of CITEM

Bro. Eddie Villanueva in a promotional material for Light TV.

From left: Jaysar Datuon Lorayna, Lae Manego and Madonna Decena.

Photo shows (clockwise, from bottom left) Bence Lao, Jan Ilar, JP Cerezo, Rogelio Constantino, Mikayla Shaine Alonzo and Rocelle Anabeza.

Rogelio Medina (left) and Yogi Ruiz

Gilda Fernandez-Perez and Rogelio Medina at the former’s home in Ayala Alabang Village.

Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos (front, center) met recently with the Filipino community in Laos. Photos courtesy of Rogelio C. Medina

Singer Lae Manego-Franzani,

The cast of the GMA Network soap opera “Abot-Kamay na Pangarap” headed by Carmina Villaroel, Richard Yap and Jillian Ward.

Stella Tansengco-Schapero (center) with (from left) Jose Mari Chan and Ramon Orlina

Can I file a divorce in California if my spouse resides out of state?

Barrister’s Corner

THIS is a common question

respondent may challenge any orders relating to distribution of property and support based on the court’s lack of jurisdiction.

ReveRend Rodel G. BalaGtas

WHAT drives and motivates us to serve? Is it honor, title, prestige, and popularity? Or is it a genuine concern for others and love for God? This is an important question to reflect upon, as it can free us from the taints of selfimportance and self-absorption, granting us a profound and authentic sense of joy. How do we perceive earthly degrees, titles, ranks, status, and positions? Do we view them merely as avenues for achieving fulfillment, self-glorification, and prestige within society, atty. Kenneth URsUa Reyes

among people contemplating divorce in California when the other spouse does not live in the state. The California Courts has the power to grant a divorce, annulment, or legal separation if either party is domiciled in the state. Domicile is where a person lives and intends to remain. However, there is an additional requirement if you are seeking a divorce rather than annulment or legal separation.

To obtain a divorce in California, one of the parties must have been a resident of California for six months immediately before the filing of the divorce petition.

Responding spouses can use this requirement as a defense if the Petitioning spouse does not meet such requirement when the petitioner filed for divorce. In addition, divorce petitions may be filed in the county where at least one spouse resided for 3 months immediately prior to filing the petition.

Now apart from getting a divorce, legal separation, or annulled status, there may be issues relating to distributing community and separate properties between the spouses and awarding support payments. In order for the California Courts to have the power to make orders, the California Courts must have personal jurisdiction over the respondent.

Personal jurisdiction means the respondent has minimum contacts with California even if not physically here. Some of the factors looked at is respondents presence in the state, domicile, residence, citizenship, consent, appearance in the action, doing business in the state, doing an act that causes an effect in the state, ownership in the state, other relationship to the state. If the respondent does not have minimum contact with California,

With regards to initial child custody issues, these issues are resolved under the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act. California Courts have the power to make initial custody orders if it is the child’s home state at the time the action was filed. California may also assume power to make custody orders if California has been the child’s home state within six months before the action was filed, the child is absent form California, and a parent continues to live in California. California may also exercise jurisdiction when no other state is the child’s home state or when all court’s having jurisdiction over the child has declined to act and deferred to California as the more appropriate place to make custody orders. California may also exercise jurisdiction if no other state would have jurisdiction over the child.

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Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, APC.  This article is not a solicitation.

* *

*

Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Board Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, APC is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 700, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kenneth@ kenreyeslaw.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com (Advertising Supplement)

On the true motive of service

or do we recognize them as responsibilities given by God— opportunities to honor Him by serving humanity?

Indeed, we, as human beings, often feel compelled to discuss ranks and titles—who is being promoted, who is popular, and who surpasses others. In these conversations about mundane matters, we may find ourselves reflecting on or questioning our personal status, sometimes feeling grateful for our uncomplicated lives, and content with simplicity.

Friends, some individuals are destined for greatness while others are called to ordinariness, according to God’s will. Some strive relentlessly for prestige, even resorting to dishonest

means and manipulating the system to achieve their goals. Ultimately, however, they must answer before God regarding how they selflessly served His people.

The wisdom we must seek from God is the enlightenment concerning the true motives of our service. There is nothing more liberating than discovering and embracing the sacredness of one’s vocation. This Sunday’s (October 13) First Reading from the Book of Wisdom (7:7-11) speaks of the wisdom we should pursue as the true wealth we must seek:

“I prayed, and prudence was given me; I pleaded, and the spirit of wisdom came to me.

I preferred her to scepter and throne, and deemed riches nothing in comparison with her, nor did I liken any priceless gem to her; because all gold, in view of her, is a little sand, and before her, silver is to be accounted mire.”

With warm greetings, Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas * * * 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.

Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas is the pastor of Incarnation Church in Glendale, California.

Tisha Alyn hosts 2nd Philippine Airlines (PAL) USA Cup

TISHA Alyn, a Filipino American former pro golfer turned popular golf media personality who was recently featured in Forbes’ “Women in Sports,” will host the exciting Second Philippine Airlines (PAL) USA Cup – Bong K. Tan Memorial Golf Tournament on November 2 at the Morongo Golf Club at Tukwet Canyon in Beaumont.

Forbes, in its feature of Women in Sports for its 2024 Under 20 Summit, wrote: “Tisha Alyn is a renowned Filipino American golf media host, content creator, former pro golfer, and talented trick-shot artist. Since her professional debut in 2015, Tisha has created a significant buzz in the golf industry by leveraging her social media channels to share her golf journey behind the scenes, which landed her partnerships with some of the world’s biggest brands.

“Today, she stands tall among the biggest names in the industry. With her captivating personality and exceptional talent, Tisha continues to engage her followers with her love for golf, fitness, travel, fashion, and juggling many hats. She produces entertaining content, including her trademark trick shots, and showcases the latest fashion trends.

“Tisha has also become the face of Google Fitbit, sharing her latest in-app workouts with her followers. Her influence extends beyond the golf course, as she hosts international brand initiatives, travels the world to host tournaments, and advocates for the LGBTQ+ community and girls’ youth programming through various activations as an ambassador for Youth On Course. Tisha’s passion for Golf started at the age of 3 and has since defied societal norms along the way- she looks forward to breaking barriers across

golf and entertainment.”

The pioneering Filipino American creative powerhouse in the world of golf started playing golf at the young age of three. At seven years old, the Illinois native was already playing golf in competition. By the time she was 11 years old, Alyn was ranked the number one Junior in Illinois.

After shining as a college athlete at Cal State University, she turned pro. Today, Alyn has become a popular golf media personality and a passionate advocate of the LGBTQ+ community. She looks forward to hosting the Nov. 2 tournament which offers a chance to win free roundtrip PAL tickets to the Philippines.

A raffle giving away free PAL roundtrip tickets to the Philippines, a gourmet catered lunch and more are in store for all participating golf enthusiasts.

Celebrities and PAL’s top executives are arriving from the Philippines to connect with SoCal’s Filipino American golfers in a fun and challenging tournament.

The not-to-be-missed tournament will raise funds for PAL’s various charitable programs and projects through the PAL Foundation.

Individuals and teams are encouraged to join the tournament which will use the Stableford stroke play (shotgun style).

The $160 registration fee includes the catered sumptuous lunch. Registration starts at 7:00 a.m. with tee off at 9:00 a.m.

The PAL raffle tickets will be sold during the registration and awards reception.

The deadline for the submission of entry forms is on October 12. Email entry forms to: michelle_narvaez@pal.com.ph

All payments should be mailed to: Philippine Airlines, c/o Michelle Narvaez, 5757 W. Century Blvd., Suite 751, Los

turnout and a fun, memorable tournament of challenges and camaraderie

Olivia Rodrigo’s ‘GUTS’ and proud Pinoy heart

by Patricia Dela roca

Social Security announces 2.5% benefit increase for 2025

SOCIAL Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments for more than 72.5 million Americans will increase 2.5 percent in 2025, the Social Security Administration announced today. On average, Social Security retirement benefits will increase by about $50 per month starting in January.

Over the last decade the COLA increase has averaged about 2.6 percent. The COLA was 3.2 percent in 2024.

Nearly 68 million Social Security beneficiaries will see a 2.5 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) beginning in January 2025. Increased payments to nearly 7.5 million people receiving SSI will begin on December 31, 2024. (Note: Some people receive both Social Security benefits and SSI).

“Social Security benefits and SSI payments will increase in 2025, helping tens of millions of people keep up with expenses even as inflation has started to cool,” said Martin O’Malley, Commissioner of Social Security.

Some other adjustments that take effect in January of each year are based on the increase in average wages. Based on that increase, the maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax (taxable maximum) is slated to increase to $176,100 from $168,600.

Security begins notifying people about their new benefit amount by mail starting in early December.

This year, for the first time, Social Security beneficiaries will receive a newly designed and improved COLA notice that makes it easier for customers to find the information they need most. The simplified COLA notice is now only one page, uses plain and personalized language, and provides exact dates and dollar amounts of a person’s new benefit amount and any deductions.

will

account by Nov. 20 to see

COLA notice online. To get started, visit www.ssa.gov/ myaccount. Information about Medicare changes for

Individuals who have a personal my Social Security account can view their COLA notice online, which is secure, easy, and faster than receiving a letter in the mail. People can set up text or email alerts when there is a new message--such as

Kim Chiu, Paulo Avelino gear up for new film

by anne Pasajol Inquirer.net

KIM Chiu and Paulo Avelino brought excitement to fans as the actors gave a glimpse of their preparation for their upcoming film “My Love Will Make You Disappear” alongside their castmates.

In the photos they shared on their respective Instagram pages on Thursday, Oct. 10, Chiu and Avelino can be seen in what appears to be a meeting with the production staff and film director Chad Vidanes.

Also with them are cast members Nico Antonio, Wilma Doesnt, Karina Bautista, Lovely Abella, Benj Manalo and Martin Escudero.

“My Love Will Make You Disappear,” Chiu captioned the post, adding the phrase “coming soon.”

The project, which will be Chiu and Avelino’s first film together, was first announced last August.

Vidanes said at the time that the film is a “classic rom-com” that demonstrates how the “magic of love can make things go wild and fun.”

The film is based on the concept of Prime Cruz and will be written by Patrick Valencia and Isabella Policarpio.

“My Love Will Make You

Disappear” comes after the hit chemistry of Chiu and Avelino in the TV series “Linlang,” and afterwards, in the Philippine adaptation of the K-drama series “What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim.” Further details including the movie’s premiere date has yet to be announced as of this writing.

SERVICES

Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino with director Chad Vidanes and “My Love Will Make You Disappear” cast. Photo from Instagram/@chinitaprincess

‘Abot-Kamay na Pangarap’...

psychological and social support.

* * * Many thanks to the staff of the Office of Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc, JP Cerezo and Jan Ilar who attended to our team (Rocelle Anabeza, Mikayla Shaine Alonzo, Bence Lao and me) while in the province until we arrived at the bus station on our way to Manila.

* * * President Ferdinand

Romualdez Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos met with the Filipino community in Vientiane, Laos during the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summit (October 8-11, 2024).

* * * 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

Maris Racal starrer ‘Sunshine’ to make festival rounds before Philippine premiere

By Kristofer PurNell Philstar.com

MANILA — Filmmaker

Antoinette “Tonet” Jadaone is hoping her latest film “Sunshine” will find more success in international festivals before screening in Philippine theaters.

“Sunshine” stars Maris Racal as the titular young rhythmic gymnast who dreams of joining the national team but she finds out that she was pregnant days before her tryout.

Promotions for the movie see Sunshine doing everything to abort the fetus, including finding medicine and punching her gut. These are illegal in the Philippines.

“On her way to a seller of illegal abortion drugs, Sunshine meets a mysterious girl who eerily thinks and talks like her,” goes the film’s synopsis.

Apart from tackling teen pregnancy and abortion, the movie will also focus on the struggles of local athletes aspiring to join prestigious competitions like the Olympics.

Direk Tonet spoke to several members of the media, including Philstar.com, at the gala performance of “Request sa Radyo” last October 9, the one-woman show starring Lea Salonga and Dolly de Leon in alternating roles.

The filmmaker could not give exact updates on the film premiere of “Sunshine” in the Philippines, as her team plans

Olivia Rodrigo’s ‘GUTS’...

reproductive rights, and preventing gender-based violence. Her contribution to Jhpiego Philippines particularly aims to “improve the health and lives of women and girls in the Philippines, especially in underserved and conflict-affected areas.”

The former Disney channel actress also visited the organization’s headquarters in Manila and praised their efforts in providing healthcare services to Filipino women and girls.

“I got to visit the organization while I was in Manila and was so impressed by the work they are doing providing healthcare to women and girls in the Philippines.”

Meanwhile, Olivia had described her first visit to her ancestral country as both “special” and “meaningful.”

like Intramuros and checking out local restaurants.

“I’m so happy to be in Manila. This is a dream come true. I wanted to come here for as long as I can remember. Today is the day. I’m so thankful you guys showed up. It means so much,” she told the crowd of fans, fondly known as “Livies.”

“I had the best time exploring the Philippines, exploring the city… You have been so kind to me, I got to meet some of you guys, and I ate all my favorite food — pancit lumpia and halo-halo every day that I’ve been here.

“I (really want) to say, proud Pinoy ako ,” Olivia declared, playfully referencing her song So American as she shared how she felt “so Filipino” before launching into her performance at what she described as her “biggest venue ever.”

to bring it to more international film festivals first. “Sunshine” made its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) last month.

Regarding TIFF, Direk Tonet was “super happy” that the film’s three screeenings all sold out despite being at the tail-end of the festival.

“Karamihan nagsi-uwian na pero na-sold out namin,” she continued. “Akala ko puro Pinoy lang manonood but there were a lot of non-Filipinos who watched [and were] also affected by the film. Nakaka-happy.”

Asked by Philstar.com which films festivals “Sunshine” would enter, Direk Tonet would not disclose but assured they were international ones leading up to next year.

Co-starring with Maris in the movie, which Direk Tonet also wrote, are Elijah Canlas, Xyriel Manabat, Jennica Garcia, Annika Co, and Meryll Soriano.

This is Maris’ third project and first movie with Antoinette, having previously worked on the shows “The Kangks Show” and “Simula Sa Gitna.”

This is also Antoinette’s first feature film since her Metro Manila Film Festival-winning movie “Fan Girl,” starring Charlie Dizon and Paulo Avelino.

The director is known for her projects “On the Wings of Love,” “That Thing Called Tadhana,” “Never Not Love You,” “Alone/ Together,” “Till I Met You,” and “Love You to the Stars and Back.”

“It was the most special show and the most meaningful trip. Saying I’m grateful doesn’t even begin to cover it! Mahal kita,” she wrote in her post, using the Filipino phrase for “I love you.”

During the concert itself, Olivia, whose father is Filipino, declared her Pinoy pride as she expressed her joy to be in the country for the first time. Ahead of the concert, she was spotted visiting tourist spots

The successful turnout was also made possible by Olivia’s decision to

Maris Racal in ‘Sunshine’

Photos by Project 8 Projects

Remastered classic Bona returns to the spotlight at the 62nd New York Film Festival

by MoMar G. Visaya AJPress

THE restored version of Bona , a landmark Filipino film directed by Lino Brocka and starring National Artist Nora Aunor, made a triumphant return to the big screen with four screenings at the1 62nd New York Film Festival, including a sold-out U.S. premiere on September 28.

First released in 1980, Bona tells the story of a middle-class young woman who abandons her family and education to follow Gardo, a minor actor in the Filipino film industry. As her obsession grows, she moves in with him, only to find herself relegated to the role of his maid rather than a romantic partner. The film provides a scathing critique of fanaticism, poverty, and unrequited love. Tatler Asia describes Bona as “a tactile example of the Filipinos’ enduring and flawed culture of fanaticism,” while the Toronto International Film Festival hailed it as a “remarkable work of feminism.”

Though celebrated upon release and even selected for the Directors' Fortnight at the 1981 Cannes Film Festival, Bona remained largely unseen in its original format for decades. The recent 4K restoration, spearheaded by Carlotta Films and Kani Releasing, was made possible through the efforts of Professor José B. Capino.

In a pivotal 2017 interview, Capino unearthed the location of the film’s original elements, securing its preservation and restoration.

The journey to restoring Bona was a complex and determined effort, as shared by screenwriter Gil Quito in a recent interview with the Asian Journal. This was made possible by a collaboration between Vincent PaulBoncour of Carlotta Films and a network of passionate advocates for Filipino cinema, determined to preserve and showcase its history.

Quito recounts that his connection with Paul-Boncour

began during the premiere of another restored Filipino classic, Itim (1976), co-written by Quito and directed by Mike de Leon. The 2022 screening of Itim at Cannes sparked a fruitful relationship with Paul-Boncour, leading to his involvement in the search for Bona ’s film elements. “Vincent asked if I happened to have a copy of Bona in my library.

I said the only copy I had was one with very poor VHS quality, and this was reputed to be the only extant version,” Quito explained. Despite the condition, Paul-Boncour was determined to find a way to bring the film back to life.

A key turning point in the restoration process came when Vincent learned from a 2011 interview conducted by Professor Capino that the late Pierre Rissient, who originally brought Bona to Cannes, had deposited the film's negatives at a Paris lab, LTC Patrimoine. This fortuitous discovery enabled the eventual restoration of the film, with Cite’ de Memoire recovering the negatives from LTC’s vast

inventory. “It was a thrill when Cite’ de Memoire eventually found the negatives of Bona ,” Quito noted, emphasizing how crucial this discovery was in saving the film for future generations.

The restoration process required the collective efforts of various players, including Hong Kong-based Kani Releasing headed by Pearl Chan and Ariel Sebastian Cayer and Filipino cultural figures like Vicky Belarmino of Cinemalaya and the Cultural Center of the Philippines, director Adolf Alix, and longtime Nora Aunor friend Jojo de Vera. Through months of negotiation and advocacy, Bona was restored and is now distributed in the U.S. by Carlotta Films. “The effort to restore Bona eventually pushed through,” Quito said with relief and pride, as the project to save this significant film was successfully completed.

The world premiere of Bona at Cannes in May 2023 was another milestone in the film’s rebirth. It was only the fourth

Philippine film selected for the Cannes Classics following Lino Brocka's Manila in the Claws of Light in 2013, Insiang in 2015, and Mike de Leon’s Itim in 2022.

Although Nora Aunor and Philip Salvador were unable to attend due to personal commitments, the screening drew a significant crowd of Filipino cinema luminaries, including Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) chair Jose Javier Reyes, Quezon City Film Festival chief Ed Lejano, director Adolf Alix, actor Xian Lim, and other prominent figures.

U.S. director Sean Baker, an avid fan of Lino Brocka, also attended and was thrilled to receive a special Bona poster from the team behind its restoration. “A world premiere at Cannes is always exciting,” Quito remarked.

Despite this recent success, Quito warns of the urgency to continue preserving Filipino classics, as many films face the risk of being lost forever.

“There remains a huge inventory of Philippine film

and restored before the original elements deteriorate even further or disappear,” he said, emphasizing the critical need for continued efforts in film restoration.

The film’s return to the big screen in a stunning 4K restoration, meticulously scanned and color graded from its original negatives, ensures that new generations will witness Brocka’s searing commentary on Filipino society, especially the plight of women during the Marcos dictatorship. The screenings, part of a broader resurgence of interest in Brocka’s body of work, exemplify the enduring power of Filipino cinema on the global stage.

Despite the monumental work of groups like Mowelfund and the Society of Filipino Film Archivists, there are still many films at risk of being lost forever.

As for future restoration efforts, Quito expressed hope for saving more films by masters like Ishmael Bernal and Lamberto Avellana. "There's much work to be done, and it's a race against time," he said.

Quito also highlighted the dire need for more efforts in film restoration, especially with several of Lino Brocka’s masterpieces either lost or only available in low-quality formats. "Films like Santiago and Tubog sa Ginto may never see restoration if the original elements can't be recovered," he explained.

Among those who attended the Cannes premiere of *Bona* were (from left) Daphne Chiu of TBA Studios, Vicky Belarmino from the Cultural Center of the Philippines and Cinemalaya, Gil Quito, director Harold Soon of TBA Studios, and American filmmaker Sean Baker (second from right), who later won the Palme d'Or for *Anora*. A passionate fan of Lino Brocka, Baker had posted on social media about his excitement to attend the premiere, expressing his deep admiration for the legendary Filipino director.

Contributed photos

Quito with Paul-Boncour, Vicky Belarmino, and Nora Aunor adviser Jojo de Vera

Quito at the Cannes Film Festival with writer-director Marin Arnaldo, Vincent Paul-Boncour (Carlotta), Pearl Chan (Kani), and Josh Siegel (MoMA). Contributed photos classics that still need to be saved