IN a historic election, Jessica Caloza and Christopher Cabaldon have both made strides as the first Filipino American duo to serve simultaneously in California’s state Legislature, representing the Assembly and the Senate. Caloza, elected to the California State Assembly for District 52, is the first Filipina American woman to serve in the Legislature, while Cabaldon, who clinched the lead in the District 3 race, is the first Fil-Am elected to the state Senate.
Both Caloza and Cabaldon bring a
SAN DIEGO – Mayor Todd Gloria looks poised to serve a second term after taking an 11-point lead over San Diego police officer Larry Turner in Tuesday night’s (November 5) initial election results.
With a voter turnout of 43.1 percent and an unknown number of ballots left to count, the incumbent Gloria holds a 55.7 percent share of the vote compared to Turner’s 44.2 percent.
Retired Marine lieutenant colonel Turner was running a well-financed campaign, but a significant cohort of undecided voters appear to break for Gloria — who pulled in 50 percent of the vote followed by 23.1 percent for Turner and 15.9 percent for Geneviéve Jones-Wright in March’s primary election.
Gloria, a Democrat, faced off with independent Turner for the nonpartisan office. However, the SDPD officer received financial support from Republicans throughout the past six
Trump clinches US presidential victory as VP Harris concedes
by AJPress
DONALD Trump has clinched the United States presidency in a tightly contested election against Vice President Kamala Harris, marking a dramatic return to the White House. Trump’s key wins in critical battleground states sealed his victory.
In her concession speech, Harris urged her supporters to "accept the results of this elec-
tion" and emphasized the need for national unity and respect for democratic principles. Harris commended the record-high voter turnout and her campaign’s diverse coalition, highlighting her commitment to crucial national issues like healthcare reform and climate change. Her call for a peaceful transition of power and acceptance of the election outcome underscored her dedication to democratic values.
Senate adopts P1.3-billion House cut in OVP budget
by CeCiLLe suerte FeLiPe DeLon PorCaLLa Philstar.com
MANILA — The Senate adopted the House of Representatives’ P1.3-billion cut in the 2025 budget of the Office of the Vice President (OVP), as the Upper Chamber formally started discussions on the proposed P6.352-trillion 2025 national budget. The 14-page Senate finance committee report posted on its website
indicated that the senators retained the House version of the OVP budget with P733.198 million, from the initial proposal of P2.037 billion, while the Office of the President retained its P10.446-billion proposed allocation.
In a chance interview with Senate reporters, Sen. Grace Poe, chairperson of the Senate finance committee, admitted that the Senate adopted the House version of the cut on the OVP budget.
by Dominique FLores Philstar.com
MANILA — Filipinos tend to place greater trust in leaders and institutions they perceive as competent, consistent, transparent and driven by good intentions, a study revealed.
Exhibiting a deeper sense of trust, Filipinos today are more cautious and inclined to seek proof of fulfilled promises before extending trust. These findings were emphasized in the 2024 Philip-
pine Trust Study conducted by the EON Group in collaboration with the Department of Development Studies at Ateneo de Manila University. It was unveiled on Tuesday, November 5.
The study, based on a nationwide survey of 1,800 respondents conducted from May to September 2024, supplemented quantitative data with focus group discussions (FGDs) to add context to Filipinos’ responses.
Using a three-pronged framework, the study exam-
MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. extended his congratulations to Donald Trump on his anticipated victory in the United States presidential elections, adding that he looks forward to working with the re-elected president. In his message on Wednesday, November 6, Marcos expressed eagerness to work with Trump on a variety of issues that interest both the Philippines and the U.S.
“President Trump has won, and the American people triumphed, and I congratulate them for their victory in an exercise which showed the world the strength of American values,” Marcos said.
“We look forward to working with President
by Pia Lee brago Philstar.com
MANILA — As results of America’s vote came in, U.S. Ambassador MaryKay Carlson called the elections on Tuesday, November 5, a festival of American democratic process where voting is a privilege, but also comes with obligations.
“As friends, partners and allies, we hold each other accountable to live up to our highest democratic ideals, including – maybe especially
– during elections,” Carlson said on Wednesday, November 6.
“Our systems of government, though far from perfect, strive to enshrine the rule of law and protect the equality and dignity of all people – one person, one vote at a time. As Abraham Lincoln said, ‘Democracy is the government of the people, by the people, for the people,’ ” she said.
She noted that when political parties compete freely
Trump’s path back to the White House This victory marks a historic comeback for Trump, who previously served as the 45th president from 2017 to 2021. His path to re-election has been marked by a turbulent political journey, including an impeachment, a highly polarized presidency, and a narrow defeat in 2020. Undeterred, Trump mounted a fierce 2024 campaign, tapping into voter u PAGE 2
Pres. Marcos extends congratulations to...
Trump on a wide range of issues that will yield mutual benefits to two nations with deep ties, shared beliefs, common vision, and a long history of working together,” he added. Marcos further said: “I am hopeful that this unshakeable alliance, tested in war and peace, will be a force of good that will blaze a path of prosperity and amity in the region and on both sides of the Pacific.”
Additionally, he affirmed the Philippines full commitment to its “durable part-
nership” with the U.S., as it is founded on “freedom and democracy” that the both countries share.
“I have personally met President Trump as a young man, so I know that his robust leadership will result in a better future for all of us. Congratulations, President Trump!,” Marcos concluded.
In an Agence FrancePresse report dated November 6, it said that Trump already claimed victory and pledged to “heal” the U.S., as results place him on the brink of defeating Kamala Harris in the presidential post. n
US envoy: Elections festival of...
1
on a level playing field, when voters’ rights are respected and when election outcomes are upheld with the peaceful transition of power, “societies are more prosperous and secure.”
“And if governments fall short, voters can vote the other way the next time. That’s the power of democratic elections,” she added.
With relations on very strong footing, the Philippines and the United States will remain “steadfast” friends and “ironclad” allies whoever wins the presidential elections, Carlson said.
“In my 39 years in the State Department, I have witnessed transitions from Republican to Democrat to Republican and back and forth… We will remain steadfast friends and ironclad allies as well as partners in prosperity no matter who wins the election in the United States today,” Carlson told reporters at the presidential election watch party organized by the U.S. embassy in Manila.
The relationship between the two countries, she said, has “stood the test of time for decades.”
“I’m highly confident that whoever wins the presidential elections, U.S.-Philippine
relations are on very strong footing,” she added. Carlson said both Democrats and Republicans in the U.S. Congress enthusiastically support U.S.-Philippine alliances and military financing for the Philippines, noting that the country has a very strong bipartisan support in the U.S.
The U.S. announced in July a $500-million military aid for the Philippines, highlighting support for enhancing the capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine Coast Guard to effectively fulfill their territorial defense mission.
The military funding was announced by the U.S. Department of Defense to bolster the defenses of its oldest treaty ally in Asia.
The Philippines has ramped up its military ties with the U.S. and allowed greater U.S. access to local military bases, which angered China.
The Defense Department said that expanding U.S. rotational access by designating four new Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement sites at strategic locations across the Philippines is one of the historic achievements alongside its ally to make U.S. force posture in the Indo-Pacific more mo-
bile, distributed and resilient.
Meanwhile, the projected win of Donald Trump as the next U.S. president should concern Filipinos, militant group Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) said.
“Filipinos must be wary of the fact that the unequal agreements with the U.S. will likely remain and our country will continue to be used for U.S. hegemonic interests and war provocations,” Bayan president Renato Reyes said in a statement.
Reyes fears a Trump win will not mean an end to U.S. wars and conflicts overseas, noting his impending presidency will be met with a new wave of protests to end the genocide in Gaza.
“Our militant solidarity goes out to the working class and progressive movements in the U.S. who will now contend with the return of a fascist Trump regime,” he added.
Reyes said Trump harped on anti-immigrant and racist rhetoric while giving the people populist sound bites throughout his campaign.
Straight out of the fascist playbook, the group leader added Trump capitalized on people’s fear in a period of economic crisis and uncertainty. n
Trump clinches US presidential...
frustration with the current political landscape and positioning himself as a champion for change. Trump’s resurgence reflects a divided yet determined political base, especially in swing states where his message of "America First" resonated. His campaign emphasized economic renewal, immigration reform, and restoring American manufacturing, rallying voters who feel left behind by globalization and economic shifts. This electoral win underscores Trump’s ability to mobilize populist sentiment and renew his core themes of economic nationalism.
Global reactions to Trump’s victory Trump’s win has elicited varied reactions from world leaders. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. congratulated him, reaffirming the strong U.S.-Philippines alliance, particularly
in defense and trade. While leaders in Asia and the Middle East welcomed Trump’s stance on national sovereignty and bilateral ties, European leaders expressed reservations, voicing concerns over his skepticism toward multilateral agreements and potential shifts in trade, climate policy, and defense commitments.
Trump’s agenda: Domestic and foreign policy challenges As Trump prepares to return to the White House, his “America First” approach is expected to influence both domestic and international policies. The international community is closely monitoring his stance on alliances and existing agreements, with allies and adversaries alike anticipating potential changes in U.S. foreign policy.
Domestically, Trump’s supporters expect a renewed focus on economic growth,
tax reform, and immigration policies. Critics, however, are concerned about potential rollbacks on environmental protections and healthcare reforms. Trump’s commitment to deregulation and revitalizing American industries will be a focal point of his administration as the transition begins.
A new chapter in American politics Trump’s return to the presidency signals a shift in the U.S. political landscape, with major implications for both national and global issues. As he prepares to navigate his second term, the world will be watching closely to see how he addresses ongoing challenges, from economic disparities and climate change to shifting global alliances. His approach in the coming months will set the tone for what promises to be a defining era in American and global politics. n
Senate adopts P1.3-billion House...
“Yes, the Senate adopted the House version of the OVP budget cut. We reached out several times to the Office of the Vice President, requesting they submit documents to clarify issues regarding their budget, but they have not submitted them as of today. So we decided to retain the GAB (General Appropriations Bill) amount pending submission and review of these documents.”
“While we cannot account for movements in the figures on an apples-to-apples basis, we can say that we retained the original budget for the relevant item in DSWD while we increased further the item under the DOH budget,” Poe noted, referring to the Department of Social Welfare and Development and the Department of Health.
Poe said the proposed 2025 national budget emphasized significant priorities in social services, health, education, jobs, technology and infrastructure and human development. She underscored the imperative for accountability in every peso spent in the budget.
“This budget isn’t just a series of numbers. It’s a blueprint of our priorities, the most important investment of our government and the heartbeat of our nation’s future,” Poe said in her sponsorship of the GAB containing the P6.352-trillion proposed budget.
“Under this Senate committee report, every peso has been accounted for. With each line item, we asked all agencies, ‘What do we want to happen here?’” Poe said. “Accountability is not just a choice; it is our duty.”
Meanwhile, the Senate has also started discussions on the budget of each department in the executive branch.
VP’s aide in U.S.
One of the seven officials under the Office of the Vice President (OVP) whom lawmakers wanted to be included in the Bureau of Immigration’s (BI) lookout bulletin managed to leave for the United States last Monday, November 3.
Based on immigration records sent by the BI to the House of Representatives’ committee on good government and public accountability, Vice President Sara Duterte’s chief of staff Zuleika Lopez left Monday night at 7:30 p.m. via Philippine Airlines flight PR 102 to Los Angeles, California.
However, it could not be ascertained by the BI whether one of the OVP’s special disbursing officers (SDO), Gina Acosta, was able to leave the country on the basis that she has “multiple namesakes” as her name is very common, thus making the search for her difficult.
The rest of the OVP staff were also able to travel overseas, as reported by the BI to panel chairman Manila Rep. Joel Chua. Nonetheless, they have come back, like Edward Fajarda, another OVP’s SDO, and former Department of Education (DepEd) assistant secretary Sunshine Charry Fajarda, who both arrived last June 25.
Rep. Bienvenido Abante, chairman of the House committee on human rights, noticed that the OVP officials seem to be well-off, owing to the fact that they travel a lot based on immigration records.
“If I may issue a warning, please don’t challenge us to issue contempt orders for you (OVP officials) to attend our next hearing. We have been very lenient with you. The next hearing will be our fifth,” Abante said. Upon the motion of Abante and Rep. Joseph Stephen Paduano of Abang Lingkod party-list, the Chua committee decided to re-issue another subpoena to the seven OVP officials “with the stern warning that refusal to do so will be dealt with accordingly.”
The Chua panel wanted to summon Lopez, Acosta, the Fajarda couple, chief accountant Julieta Villadelrey, assistant chief of staff and bids and awards committee chairman Lemuel Ortonio and administrative and financial services director Rosalynne Sanchez to the House hearings.
The OVP officials have snubbed the House hearings in connection with the office’s utilization of its budget.
“The Office of the Vice President maintains that the ongoing congressional inquiry by the House committee on good government and public accountability is unnecessary and plagued with irregularities in the conduct of the proceedings,” the OVP said in a press statement on Tuesday, November 5.
The office also refused to receive and honor the subpoena earlier issued by the House committee to compel the attendance of its officials in the hearing.
“The OVP asserts that the subpoena issued by the
honorable members of the House panel is not valid. The subpoena document dated Oct. 17, 2024 issued for the hearing on Oct. 28, 2024, was only transmitted to the agency on Nov. 4, 2024,” the OVP said.
The office pointed out that since the subpoena issued to its officials was for the hearing scheduled on Oct. 28, it can “no longer be legally served nor obeyed” thus its officials refused to receive it upon serving at the OVP office in Mandaluyong City on Monday.
The OVP cited Sec. 8 of the Rules Governing Inquiries in Aid of Legislation, which states that a subpoena shall be served to a witness “at least three days before a scheduled hearing in order to give the witness every opportunity to prepare and to employ counsel, should the witness desire.”
“With due respect to the members of the honorable committee, service of a subpoena must be proper in order not to violate the right to sufficient notice of the persons invited in the hearing,” the OVP said.
In a position paper submitted to the House committee yesterday, the OVP also reiterated its earlier position that the ongoing inquiry is no longer “in aid of legislation.”
“While the OVP recognizes the power of the Lower House to conduct such an inquiry ‘in aid of legislation,’ the ongoing congressional probe, which stemmed from Privilege Speech (P.S.) No. 379 of the Hon. Rolando Valeriano last Sept. 3, 2024, is not in aid of legislation,” the office said
“P.S. No. 379 as well as the motu proprio inquiry based on the manifestation of Hon. Gerville Luistro both lack clear legislative objectives or contemplated legislation that is expected as an outcome of the deliberations,” the OVP further stated.
The OVP pointed out that the issues on utilization of its budget for 2022 to 2024 have already been extensively tackled during the House appropriations committee’s deliberation on the OVP’s proposed budget for 2025.
“Considering that budget utilization is a matter directly and principally relating to the expenditures of the national government and that the appropriate committee has already terminated its deliberations, no other committee can take up the same subject matter appropriately belonging to it,” OVP said.
Lastly, the OVP said there is already ongoing audit proceedings by the Commission on Audit (COA) in connection with its budget utilization and that “the OVP is fully cooperating with the COA.” Poa contract ‘pre-terminated’
Meanwhile, Michael Poa, former spokesman of the OVP, said his contract with Duterte has been “pre-terminated.” He told the Chua-led panu PAGE 2
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Malacañang file photo
Office of the Vice President spokesperson Michael Poa sits behind Vice President
Sara Duterte during the House appropriations panel's deliberations in to the OVP's proposed 2025 budget, Aug. 28, 2024. House of Representatives photo
Fil-Am mayor of San Diego takes lead...
months.
In September, local attorney Steven Richter donated $1 million to the conservative Lincoln Club of San Diego’s political action committee. Much of that went toward Turner’s campaign.
Democrats responded by raising several hundreds of thousands of dollars in a political action committee of their own, led by Stephen Cushman, one of the biggest champions of and consultants for Gloria’s proposed “megashelter” at Kettner and Vine.
Gloria was initially elected in 2020, in the thick of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent economic downturn. He earned the endorsement of then-Senator Kamala Harris in 2020.
His term has been a challenging one, as San Diego faced a slew of problems, including increasing rates of homelessness and housing costs, the rising threat of fentanyl, questions about the city’s infrastructure following the Jan. 22 storms and the worsening of the ongoing Tijuana River Valley sewage pollution crisis.
Many of these issues are out of Gloria’s direct control, but as the face of the city, he has borne the brunt of the criticism. Last year, former unofficial city ambassador Bill Walton made news by calling out Gloria’s response to homelessness as inadequate. Walton died in May.
Gloria has touted his administration’s efforts to build more housing, repair the city’s aging infrastructure and provide more shelters for the homeless.
“Mayor Gloria understands that tackling this crisis requires a balanced approach — one that treats those experiencing homelessness with dignity and compassion, while also ensuring that public spaces are safe and accessible for everyone,” a statement from his campaign reads.
Gloria has also pivoted to taking a tougher stance on crime and being less forgiving to the homeless unable
or unwilling to stay in shelters. In September, he joined residents and business owners in downtown San Diego’s East Village neighborhood to endorse a plan seeking to completely ban homeless encampments and tents downtown, as well as having faster police response times, stronger sentences for smash-and-grab crimes and forcing people with addiction and mental health issues into state conservatorship.
“Gloria’s approach balances smart investments in public safety with efforts to build trust and transparency between law enforcement and the community,” reads his campaign website.
“The result couldn’t be more clear: San Diego is now one of the safest major cities in the U.S., and we’re headed in the right direction.”
Turner, self-described as a “lifelong independent” who is not “beholden” to the two major political parties, does not have elected experience.
As a result, he has centered his campaign not necessarily touting his own plans but blasting Gloria’s efforts.
`I will be an independent voice that represents the citizens of San Diego, not a political party or soft-oncrime ideology,” reads Turner’s campaign site. “I’m here to deliver solutions only, to save the lives of our homeless struggling to survive (and our businesses alike), to return safety and dignity to our streets.”
He has previously said the homelessness crisis will be handled “in the first 180 days of my tenure,” by immediately directing the construction of 5,000 shelter beds — particularly focused on those addressing mental health and addiction.
How he intends to do this is made less clear, but he has blamed Gloria for lack of action and then attacked his choices when the mayor has tried to get something off the ground, such as the Kettner and Vine project.
Turner has also put an emphasis on improving infrastructure, using the San
Diego Convention Center year-round as an economic engine, keeping small businesses in San Diego, focusing less on bike lanes in transit and an expedited route for undocumented people to become Americans.
Turner’s candidacy was challenged in a quickly dropped lawsuit in the run up to the primary election, contending he was not a resident or registered voter in the city of San Diego 30 days prior to filing his nomination papers, as required.
Turner denied the allegations. A statement from his campaign stated that he lived in Bonsall in parts of 2016 and 2017, and between 2020 and early 2023, his family stayed in Alpine, but he otherwise has lived in San Diego.
Turner said that during the period in question he was living in East Village, but has since moved to Ocean Beach.
The police officer has also faced pushback from his own union. He has said he would consider cutting police benefits and putting a freeze on new hires as a way to balance the city’s budget, but has since walked that back.
Gloria too made the San Diego Police Officer’s Association bristle during the pandemic by at first requiring all city employees to be fully vaccinated. This was met with outrage and worries about keeping the SDPD fully staffed. The mayor ultimately backed down, allowing for significant numbers of police officers and other city employees to have exemptions.
The SDPOA only endorsed Gloria on Oct. 10, following Turner’s statements above in a televised debate. Gloria also has the endorsements of the state and county Democratic party, Gov. Gavin Newsom, the city’s firefighters and Planned Parenthood.
Turner’s website does not list endorsements but has received one from La Prensa. The San Diego County Republican Party has not endorsed either candidate (Inquirer.net)
Filipinos prefer to trust competent...
ined how Filipinos perceive trust, whom they trust and the factors that drive trust in institutions.
Although surveys typically indicate high levels of trust among Filipinos, often around 90% or more, the FGDs found that this trust is “not full or absolute.”
So where is Filipino trust rooted, how is it defined and what behaviors reflect it?
How Filipinos understand trust
The study asked its respondents what kind of leaders they value. Across various institutions, whether in government, organizations or families, a significant majority (70-80%) of Filipinos strongly preferred consultative leaders over imposing ones.
However, the study found that Filipinos hold polarized views on how they believe they should relate to leaders. About half of the respondents prefer leaders to be questioned, while the other half believes leaders should be obeyed.
On both sides, three in 10 Filipinos strongly preferred their respective choices.
Asked to define trust, Filipinos said it largely involves expecting leaders and institutions to “do their part.”
The study suggested that this expectation may explain why the public often associates satisfaction with trust.
Other descriptions shared by the respondents include how trust is shaped by time and shared experiences, how it is “fragile,” and how it begins in the family where a person first develops the concept of trust.
From a behavioral standpoint, the study showed that Filipinos choose to trust because they believe it is necessary. However, it also comes with the expectation that leaders and institutions may fail.
“[Filipinos] have no choice but to trust [leaders] because they have the power to do something,” Ateneo Development Studies assistant professor Kevin Go said.
For Filipinos, they understand that the choices they make affect their and their families’ survival, while at the same time recognizing that the options they have are limited and may be dependent on socioeconomic conditions.
This is why the study emphasized how Filipinos often “hope against hope,” meaning they hold onto hope despite uncertainty, wishing that the choice they make is the right one.
“Filipinos are careful in trusting and not fully trusting because there's a lot to lose,” EON Group President Malyn Molina said.
Who Filipinos trust
Most Filipinos (98%) expressed the highest trust in themselves, followed by their bosses (95.6%), religious leaders (95%) and government leaders. Trust in strangers is the lowest, with around 19% expressing confidence in them.
Government In government, Filipinos trust their local government leaders more than national government leaders, with over eight in ten (85.4%) expressing trust in LGUs, compared to seven in ten (70.7%) for national leaders.
Go attributed the high levels of trust in LGUs to the stronger familiarity Filipinos have with these local institutions.
When broken down by provincial, municipal, city or barangay government units, respondents gave trust ratings as high as 95%.
Filipinos also generally trust social protection agencies, the military, police authorities and coast guard, with trust ratings ranging from 85% to 95%.
The most trusted govern-
SANTA CLAUS MOMENT. Father and daughter marvel at life-sized Santa Claus displays at NCCC Mall VP in Davao City on Tuesday, November 5. The interactive Santa features sensors that allow it to move and play music, adding a festive touch to holiday shopping. PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.
Senate adopts P1.3-billion House...
el that contrary to the lawmakers’ impression, he is no longer connected with any of Duterte’s offices.
“I would like to inform the committee that I am no longer connected with the OVP. My consultancy contract (was) already pre-terminated,” he told Chua and the panel members.
The panel also asked Poa if he personally knew OVP officials who snubbed the hearing anew.
“When I was still there, yes, they were connected with the OVP. Although as of today, I can no longer say that they are, factually, if they are still connected or not. I would assume, because of the position paper with the letterhead, that they’re still connected,” he retorted.
In effect, he confirmed that the seven officials may still be connected with the OVP.
The former OVP and DepEd spokesman pointed out that his function and exposure were just limited to “upper management” on the basis that he was responsible for addressing media queries.
Poa clarified, however, that he had no involvement in the decision-making processes around confidential fund disbursements of the OVP and DepEd.
Earlier, he made his statements before the House committee where he confirmed that Duterte and Edward held the sole authority over DepEd’s confidential funds.
The revelation came as a surprise to committee members, as Poa testified on the structure of authority governing the use of these confidential funds, which have been a focal point of legislative scrutiny and public concern.
‘Malversation’
The Chua committee is investigating a total of P612.5-million potential misuse of confidential funds managed by the OVP and DepEd, with the latter being led by Duterte for two years from July 2022 to July 2024.
Of the P612.5 million, P500 million pertains to the OVP’s confidential fund allocations while P112.5 million went to DepEd.
“We’re very much dismayed at what we have discovered here in the House Blue Ribbon committee. We have seen how much has been spent by the OVP and DepEd on the use of confidential funds that have been issued to them in fiscal years 2022 and 2023,” Chua disclosed.
The OVP received P625 million in confidential funds for late 2022 and all of 2023, with COA reviewing P500 million and noting significant irregularities.
In December 2022 alone, the OVP spent P125 million in just 11 days – from Dec. 21 to 31 – averaging P11.364 million daily, with the COA disallowing P73.3 million of this for irregularities and ordering repayment from Duterte and two other OVP officials.
Additionally, COA issued three audit observation memorandums in 2023, highlighting adverse findings on OVP’s quarterly confidential funds use up to the third quarter.
One of the confidential funds’ expenditures raising significant concerns involved P16 million reportedly spent by the OVP on 34 safehouses over an 11-day period in 2022.
Batangas 2nd district Rep. Gerville Luistro discovered on Tuesday, November 5 that on top of other irregularities Duterte may have committed, she can also be held liable for malversation of public funds, among others, over an unaccounted P10.4 million in confidential funds.
“So, where is this amount now? In conclusion, I wish to believe that the confidential fund of the Department of Education was not properly recorded at its best, or misspent or misappropriated at its worst,” she said. According to the lawmaker, only the two P2-million confidential fund allocations – or a total of P4.2 million –have been liquidated by the
former education secretary while there were no acknowledgment receipts for the rest.
Luistro said the liquidation covered only one of the four DepEd programs which is anti-insurgency. In contrast, programs about “abuse prevention and control within schools, anti-illegal activities operation, anti-extremism/terrorism programs” remained unaccounted for.
The confidential and intelligence funds issued to Duterte at the time amounted to P15.5 million.
“What is consistent, with respect to their location, is equivalent only to the amount of P4.2 million. So there remains an unexplained amount of P10.4 million,” she said during Tuesday’s hearing.
These were among the agency’s confidential programs, which were in the form of “payment and rewards for informants” when, in fact, it should be the other way around, according to Luistro.
“It is the humble submission of this representation that there is a prima facie case of malversation and, in addition, an apparent case of breach of public trust. For us to be able to know whether there is malversation, four elements must be present,” she stated.
“First, the person should be a ‘public official,’ second, the person is the ‘custodian of fund,’ third is the ‘fund must be for public purpose’ and last but not least, that the public official ‘took, appropriated, misappropriated or consented or negligence permitted another person to take them,’” she added.
“If the four elements are present, which I believe they are, there is prima facie case of malversation. With respect to the breach of public trust, this is violation of public’s confidence in a public officer’s ability to serve with integrity, impartiality and in accordance with law,” she further explained. (With reports from Elizabeth Marcelo)
Filipinos prefer to trust competent...
ment agencies are those that provide services Filipinos are familiar with, such as the Department of Education (97.7%), the Department of Health (97%) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (94.8%).
The least trusted, while still maintaining relatively high trust ratings, are the Department of Trade and Industry (75.1%) and the Bureau of Internal Revenue (78.8%).
Businesses Nearly 90% of Filipinos also trust businesses, with digital payment apps (83.1%) and real estate developers (79.6%) receiving the lowest trust ratings.
Factors influencing Filipinos' trust in businesses include product and service quality, proximity and familiarity, as well as reputation and sustainability, the latter being a primary concern among younger respondents.
However, it was underscored that patronage or consumption patterns do not necessarily indicate trust. Filipinos shared that they sometimes “just don’t have a choice” due to the limited variety of products or services available in their vicinity.
Media Across news media, Filipinos trust broadcast media more, with TV (93.7%) and radio stations (90.6%) receiving higher trust ratings than print media and online news sites, which have trust ratings of around 60%.
Respondents noted that their trust in news outlets is undermined by their “perceived bias” of the media, expressing a desire for more “balanced” reporting that includes positive news and not just negative stories.
Filipinos also highlighted the importance of having independent news media and journalists not influenced by financial interests.
Academe Trust in the academe is generally high, but there is notable distrust in
public elementary and high schools (69%), compared to private schools and state universities and colleges, which have trust levels exceeding 90%.
This is despite DepEd being the most trusted government agency.
Religious groups. Considering the large proportion of Roman Catholic respondents, the study found that the Catholic Church (92.4%), Evangelical Churches (66.9%) and Iglesia ni Cristo (59.9%) are trusted more than Islam (48%). The least trusted is the Kingdom of Jesus Christ led by Apollo Quiboloy (28.9%).
Asked how strongly Filipinos believe their religion “acts in their interest,” Muslims and INC members have a stronger belief in their religion compared to Roman Catholics.
Non-government organizations. The study also found that many Filipinos are unfamiliar with NGOs and what they are, which is why 66% of respondents reported not trusting any NGO.
In the FGDs, it was revealed that Filipinos tend to confuse government programs for social welfare, like the distribution of goods and services, as forms of NGOs.
What drives trust
To identify the key factors influencing Filipinos’ trust, the study presented respondents with 10 statements and asked them to select the three reasons they considered most important.
Filipinos' trust in leaders and institutions was primarily based on their perceptions of competence, good intentions, ethical standards, transparency, openness to ideas, and consistency in their actions, rather than the relationships they developed with them.
For the government, the most frequently chosen reasons were “They are competent” (36.9%), “They have good intentions” (38.4%) and “They assure me that they will behave or act the same way in the future”
Caloza, Cabaldon break new ground as...
new wave of Filipino American leadership and visibility to California politics, amplifying the community’s voice in state governance. Jessica Caloza: California State Assembly Caloza’s election is a landmark achievement, making her the first Filipina in the California State Assembly and only the second Filipino American to hold this role, following in the footsteps of California Attorney General Rob Bonta. Representing District 52 — which covers Los Angeles-area neighborhoods of Eagle Rock, Echo Park, south Glendale and more — Caloza’s priorities include economic equity, education reform, and immigrant rights—issues critical to her diverse constituency.
In her campaign ad, Caloza promised to “fight to lower the rising cost of living, protect reproductive rights, address climate change, and fund public schools."
With her extensive experience in public policy, including her role as a commissioner of the Los Angeles Board
of Public Works and her work with the U.S. Department of Education under the Obama administration, Caloza is poised to drive significant legislative efforts on issues such as healthcare, housing, and environmental protection.
Christopher Cabaldon: California State Senate Cabaldon’s victory marks another milestone as he becomes the first Filipino American to serve in California’s State Senate. Representing District 3, his platform focuses on economic growth, sustainable development, and small business support.
(34.9%).
Filipinos shared similar reasons for trusting businesses, but with slightly higher emphasis on competence (43.8%), good intentions (39.7%), openness to ideas (38.9%), and adherence to ethical standards (35.8%).
Meanwhile, openness to ideas (45.1%) was the most important factor for Filipinos' trust in news media, followed by strict adherence to ethical standards (37.5%) and good intentions (37.2%).
For schools and universities, the same reasons were considered, but nearly half of Filipinos cited them as key factors for trust. The top reasons were perceived competence (47.3%) followed by good intentions (45.2%) and adherence to ethical standards (41.2%).
Trust in religious groups was largely driven by the belief that they act in good faith (49.3%). Second and third to this were competence (36.4%) and following set standards (34.7%).
For NGOs, however, many Filipinos were unsure what would make them trust these organizations (34.2%). Good intentions (33.4%) and competence (26.2%) were the most common responses.
The study also found that promises made and Filipinos’ belief in leaders still matter in sectors like the government and religious groups. Filipinos said that leaders and institutions that are two-faced, fail to deliver, lack transparency and undermine the experiences of disadvantaged and marginalized groups will cause their trust to erode.
The 2024 Philippine Trust Study is the ninth iteration of the EON Group’s research into trust which began in 2011. It is an expanded version of the Philippine Trust Index, increasing respondents from 800 to 1,800, including qualitative measures and lowering the margin of error to ± 2%. n
by stePhanie amour KFF Health Newa
FORMER President Donald Trump’s election victory and looming return to the White House will likely bring changes that scale back the nation’s public health insurance programs — increasing the uninsured rate, while imposing new barriers to abortion and other reproductive care.
The reverberations will be felt far beyond Washington, D.C., and could include an erosion of the Affordable Care Act’s consumer protections, the imposition of work requirements in Medicaid and funding cuts to the safety net insurance, and challenges to federal agencies that safeguard public health. Abortion restrictions may tighten nationwide with a possible effort to restrict the mailing of abortion medications.
And with the elevation of vaccine skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to Trump’s inner circle of advisers, public health interventions with rigorous scientific backing — whether fluoridating public water supplies or inoculating children — could come under fire.
Trump defeated Vice President Kamala Harris with 277 Electoral College votes, The Associated Press declared at 5:34 a.m. ET on Wednesday. He won 51% of the vote nationally to Harris’ 47.5%, the AP projected.
Trump’s victory will give a far broader platform to skeptics and critics of federal health programs and actions. Worst case, public health authorities worry, the U.S. could see increases in preventable illnesses; a weakening of public confidence in established science; and debunked notions — such as a link between vaccines and autism — adopted as policy.
Trump said in an NBC News interview on Nov. 3 that he would “make a decision” about banning some vaccines, saying he would consult with Kennedy and calling him “a very talented guy.”
While Trump has said he will not try again to repeal the Affordable Care Act, his administration will face an immediate decision next year on whether to back an extension of enhanced premium subsidies for Obamacare insurance plans. Without the enhanced subsidies, steep premium increases causing lower enrollment are projected. The current uninsured rate, about 8%, would almost certainly rise.
Policy specifics have not moved far beyond the “concepts of a plan” Trump said he had during his debate with Harris, though Vice President-elect JD Vance later said the administration would seek to inject more competition into ACA marketplaces.
Republicans were projected to claim a Senate majority, in addition to the White House, while control of the House was not yet resolved
A new chapter of representation in California Together, Caloza and Gabaldon’s historic wins bring the Filipino American community’s perspectives into the heart of California’s decision-making. Their roles in both legislative chambers build on a legacy of representation established by leaders like Attorney General Rob Bonta and San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria, who was previously a state assemblymember, who highlight the growing impact of Filipino Americans in shaping policies that reflect the state’s diversity.
California is home to approximately 1.6 million Filipino Americans, according to Pew Research Center, with the highest concentrations in the Los Angeles and San Francisco metropolitan areas. (AJPress)
His two-decade tenure as Mayor of West Sacramento, coupled with his leadership roles in the California Community Colleges System and the California State Assembly Higher Education Committee, have equipped him with a deep understanding of policy and community needs. As a tenured professor at Sacramento State University, Christopher has taught California government, design thinking for public policy, state and local budgeting, urban economics, and the political environment of policymaking. Cabaldon’s commitment to inclusive development and workforce support positions him to address key challenges for his district’s nearly one million residents.
Trump’s White House return poised to tangle health care safety net
early Wednesday. Polls show the ACA has gained support among the public, including provisions such as preexisting condition protections and allowing young people to stay on family health plans until they are 26.
Trump supporters and others who have worked in his administration say the former president wants to improve the law in ways that will lower costs. They say he has already shown he will be forceful when it comes to lowering high health care prices, pointing to efforts during his presidency to pioneer price transparency in medical costs.
“On affordability, I’d see him building on the first term,” said Brian Blase, who served as a Trump health adviser from 2017 to 2019. Relative to a Democratic administration, he said, there will be “much more focus” on “minimizing fraud and waste.”
Efforts to weaken the ACA could include slashing funds for enrollment outreach, enabling consumers to purchase more health plans that don’t comply with ACA consumer protections, and allowing insurers to charge sicker people higher premiums.
Democrats say they expect the worst.
“We know what their agenda is,” said Leslie Dach, executive chair of Protect Our Care, a health care policy and advocacy organization in Washington, D.C. He worked in the Obama administration helping to implement the ACA. “They’re going to raise costs for millions of Americans and rip coverage away from millions and, meanwhile, they will give tax breaks to rich people.”
Theo Merkel, director of the Private Health Reform Initiative at the right-leaning Paragon Health Institute, which Blase leads, said the enhanced ACA subsidies extended by the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022 do nothing to improve plans or lower premiums. He said they paper over the plans’ low value with larger government subsidies.
Other Trump supporters say the president-elect may support preserving Medicare’s authority to negotiate drug prices, another provision of the IRA. Trump has championed reducing drug prices, and in 2020 advanced a test model that would have tied the prices of some drugs in Medicare to lower costs overseas, said Merkel, who worked in Trump’s first White House. The drug industry successfully sued to block the program. Within Trump’s circles, some names have already been floated as possible leaders for the Department of Health and Human Services. They include former Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal and Seema Verma, who ran the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services during the Trump administration. Kennedy, who suspended
his independent presidential run and endorsed Trump, has told his supporters that Trump promised him control of HHS. Trump said publicly before Election Day that he would give Kennedy a big role in his administration, but he may have difficulty winning Senate confirmation for a Cabinet position.
While Trump has vowed to protect Medicare and said he supports funding home care benefits, he’s been less specific about his intentions for Medicaid, which provides coverage to lower-income and disabled people. Some health analysts expect the program will be especially vulnerable to spending cuts, which could help finance the extension of tax breaks that expire at the end of next year. Possible changes include the imposition of work requirements on beneficiaries in some states. The administration and Republicans in Congress could also try to revamp the way Medicaid is funded. Now, the federal government pays states a variable percentage of program costs. Conservatives have long sought to cap the federal allotments to states, which critics say would lead to draconian cuts.
“Medicaid will be a big target in a Trump administration,” said Larry Levitt, executive vice president for health policy at KFF, a health information nonprofit that includes KFF Health News.
Less clear is the potential future of reproductive health rights.
Trump has said decisions about abortion restrictions should be left to the states. Thirteen states ban abortion with few exceptions, while 28 others restrict the procedure based on gestational duration, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a research and policy organization focused on advancing reproductive rights. Trump said before the election that he would not sign a national abortion ban.
State ballot measures to protect abortion rights were adopted in seven states, including Missouri, which Trump won by about 18 points, according to preliminary AP reports. Abortion rights measures were rejected by voters in Florida, South Dakota, and Nebraska. Trump could move to restrict access to abortion medications, used in more than half of abortions, either by withdrawing the FDA’s authorization for the drugs or by enforcing a 19th-century law, the Comstock Act, that abortion opponents say bans their shipment. Trump has said he generally would not use the law to ban mail delivery of the drugs. KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFF—an independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism.
DAteline PhiliPPines
Bato opposes opening Senate drug probe transcript to public
by marC Jayson Cayabyab Philstar.com
MANILA — Sen. Ronald
dela Rosa has opposed the move of the Senate Blue Ribbon committee to make public the transcript of its drug war investigation, where former President Rodrigo Duterte admitted to having a death squad.
The senator said he would question the directive of Senate President Francis Escudero to make the drug war hearing records public, even to prosecutors of the International Criminal Court (ICC).
“That depends on the Senate leadership. But if they submit the records to the ICC, I will try to ask him: why are you submitting to the ICC when we do not recognize its jurisdiction?”
Dela Rosa said in a press briefing at the Senate on Tuesday, November 5.
Dela Rosa renewed his opposition to participating in ICC proceedings investigating Duterte and the former top cop for crimes against humanity.
asking and for what? They should not be mechanical about it. We should question their purpose,” Dela Rosa said.
“And if they say it is for the ICC, the committee should deny the request. Giving this copy to the ICC is tantamount to recognizing their jurisdiction over us,” he added.
“I am not saying this because I am an accused before the ICC. But my view is that the legislature, although a co-equal branch of government, should follow the same line of the executive. We should take the cue from the president, being the chief architect of foreign policy,” Dela Rosa said.
But if the Senate allows the public to request for copies of the records, such as a certified true copy of the transcript, Dela Rosa said the Blue Ribbon committee should find out the motive of the requesting party.
“We should ask – what is the purpose for requesting a certified true copy? Who is
The senator reminded his colleagues that the administration of President Marcos is firm in not rejoining the Rome Statute that created the ICC, saying the ICC investigation of the narcotics crackdown violates the country’s sovereignty.
Dela Rosa denied being worried that the records of the drug war hearing - where Duterte admitted to having a death squad composed of gangsters in Davao City against suspected criminals – would bolster their crimes against humanity case before the ICC.
“I am not worried. But we should all be in sync about it. When Malacañang said we should not recognize the ICC’s jurisdiction, we should do the same as a country. We should unite about it,” said the senator.
Senate minority leader Aquilino Pimentel III, who presided over the subcommittee hearing, said the records should be made public for the scrutiny of rights groups and nongovernment organizations.
Escudero, for his part, said the records of the public hearing cannot be kept secret, even from the ICC. n
Marcos urges LGUs to buy palay from local farmers
by Luisa Cabato Inquirer.net
MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday, November 5 urged local government units (LGUs) to purchase palay (unhusked rice) from local farmers to boost their profit and ensure the country’s sufficient supply of rice.
Marcos made the call during a meeting with officials from the Department of Ag-
riculture, National Irrigation Administration, and National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) at Malacañang.
“I’m also calling on our LGUs to buy palay directly from our farmers. This way, our farmers receive fair prices for their hard work, and we can secure a steady supply of rice for everyone,” Marcos said in a Facebook post.
Furthermore, the president said he tasked the De-
partment of Finance and NEDA to look into the rising input costs and climate impacts that affect food prices.
“This is a united effort to support our farmers and keep rice prices within reach for every Filipino family,” he said.
The recent torrential rains and flooding brought by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine resulted in over P3.7 billion worth of damage to the agriculture sector. n
Megaworld’s president among Forbes ‘power businesswomen’
by Javier Joe ismael ManilaTimes.net
MEGAWORLD President Lourdes Gutierrez-Alfonso was named among Asia's Power Businesswomen of 2024 by Forbes Magazine this month, the only executive from the Philippines to make the list.
"Gutierrez-Alfonso's new role will be a challenge: Although the central bank has started to ease interest rates, borrowing costs remain high while rival builders are aggressively constructing hotels in anticipation tourism will rally as the government and private sector invest heavily in infrastructure, including airports," Forbes wrote.
"Since joining the builder in 1990, Gutierrez-Alfonso, a certified public accountant, has held various positions, including senior executive vice president for finance and administration and, most recently, chief operating officer," it added.
Also mentioned in the
Other
list is Feny Djoko Susanto of Indonesia, whose Sumber Alfaria Trijaya operates Alfamart, which has 1,600 outlets in the Philippines.
"Feny has held key roles in the company's growth, such as overseeing its public listing in 2009 and managing its expansion to the Philippines in 2014 in a joint venture with local retail giant SM Investments, resulting in over 1,600 Alfamart outlets in the Philippines today," Forbes' description read.
Senator Ronald Dela Rosa Philstar.com photo
Megaworld President Lourdes Gutierrez-Alfonso
ManilaTimes.net file photo
NATIONAL CHLDREN’S MONTH. The Museo Pambata and Sun for All Children join the celebration of the “Stop and Salute” flag-raising ceremony at Rizal Park in Manila on Monday, November 4 in celebration of National Children’s Month. This year’s theme is “Break the Prevalence, End the Violence: Protecting Children, Creating a Safe Philippines,” which was translated in seven dialects -- Filipino, Ilokano, Kapampangan, Bikol, Hiligaynon, Sebwano and Waray. PNA photo by Yancy Lim
executives on the list, which was done in no particular order, were Telstra Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Vicki Brady from Australia, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing CEO Bonnie Chan, Hong Kong Investment Corp. CEO Clara Chan, Chenbro Micom co-founder and chairman Maggi Chen of Taiwan, Kakao CEO Shina Chung of South Korea, Mori Trust President and CEO Miwako Date, and several others. n
OPiniOn FeAtures
Where foreigners must not tread
THE capture of three men involved in the kidnapping of American vlogger Elliot Eastman in Mindanao is one of those rare occasions that prove Philippine authorities can take swift, decisive action when it counts, especially with a little prodding from the United States.
In a country where crime victims could go missing for years — from vanished activist Jonas Burgos to the disappeared “sabungeros” (cockfight aficionados) — it’s a little jarring to see such a quick breakthrough in one foreigner’s case, with six suspects already charged in court, half of them the subject of a manhunt.
Editorial
Only 13 days later, the Philippine National Police announced that three suspects were in the custody of its Zamboanga command. Along with three others being hunted down, the suspects will face kidnapping and serious illegal detention charges, the PNP said.
But the lack of a ransom demand for Eastman or even proof of his life more than two weeks after his disappearance casts a pall on efforts to save him and bring the perpetrators to justice. As his fate remains a mystery, the American’s abduction has blackened further the reputation of Mindanao, or a large swath of it, as an unsafe destination. Many might reproach Eastman for not heeding travel advisories and repeated verbal warnings against staying in Sibuco town, Zamboanga del Norte, where he was residing with his Filipino wife — and they would not be wrong to do so — but the blame for the absence of peace and order should not fall on the shoulders of clueless foreigners. What’s clear is Eastman’s abduction on Oct. 17 was the consequence of lawlessness in that region and the government’s failure to protect residents and travelers alike.
Shot in the leg for resisting
Based on news accounts, Eastman was abducted at gunpoint by men disguised as police operatives and wielding M16 rifles from his coastal home in Sitio Tungawan, Barangay Poblacion. His abductors reportedly shot him in the leg when he resisted, forcing him aboard a motorboat that headed toward open water.
Public Lives
Randy david
WHAT I term “Dutertismo” goes beyond the populist, authoritarian approach typically associated with former President Rodrigo Duterte. More specifically, it refers to a form of presidential rule that seeks sweeping exceptions from the standard application of the law, under the premise that extraordinary measures are needed to address urgent threats to the nation. In essence, it is the wielding of exceptional powers without the constitutional checks that would normally accompany a formal declaration of a state of emergency.
Duterte wove his presidential campaign around the idea that the rampant spread of illegal drugs was devastating Filipino lives and that the country needed a resolute
Commentary
iRis Gonzales
THE world is waiting with bated breath as Americans decide on who their next president will be – Donald Trump or Kamala Harris?
Poll results indicate that it’s going to be a razor-thin race, with some already anticipating election chaos. When I was in the United States from April to May this year, all the cab drivers I encountered said they were voting for Trump. One said, “Only Trump can stop the ongoing war in the Middle East.” At the time, it was still President Joe Biden who was
“But until now we have not received any information about the demand for ransom. Sadly, we still don’t have any proof of life,” the PNP spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo, said.
The PNP Zamboanga command said the suspects in custody had “direct participation in the kidnapping.”
Lt. Col. Helen Galvez, PNP Region 9 spokesperson, said two of the three suspects had turned themselves in, while the third was arrested in an operation, all of them confessing to have acted as lookouts and spotters during the abduction. “We are still optimistic that he (Eastman) is still alive,” she said. All six suspects belong to crime groups operating in the Sibuco area as “common criminals … who only worked together after seeing a vulnerable victim,” Galvez said.
U.S. travel advisory No wonder Washington continues to advise its citizens to steer clear of Mindanao.
Based on its latest travel advisory dated May 16, the U.S. Department of State asks Americans not to travel to the Sulu archipelago and Marawi City. U.S. nationals are also advised to reconsider travel to other parts of Mindanao, except Davao City, Davao del Norte province, Siargao Island, and the Di-
leader unafraid to use drastic measures to halt this scourge. “I am your last card,” he would tell his audiences, casting himself as the final hope in a grim struggle against a powerful enemy.
This message resonated with a wide swath of the population who felt unsafe in their own homes and on the streets, having lost faith in the police’s ability to protect them. Coming from behind better-funded, well-known rivals, Duterte won the 2016 presidential election. He viewed this remarkable victory as a mandate to replicate nationwide the “killing” model he had used in Davao City to root out crime and drugs. What Duterte was cryptically referring to in the awkward phrase “a level of governance that is consistent to our mandate” was, in fact, a carte blanche— an open pass to bypass legal constraints that he
nagat Islands, “due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping.”
“Terrorist and armed groups in Mindanao have historically engaged in kidnappings for ransom, in addition to bombings and other attacks. These incidents often target foreign nationals, including U.S. citizens, as well as civilians, local government entities, and security forces,” it states.
A day before Eastman’s kidnapping, there had been yet another reminder of the myriad security challenges facing Mindanao: A Taguig court found 17 members of the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group guilty of the abduction of 21 individuals from the Malaysian island resort of Sipadan in 2000, holding them hostage for months in Sulu province.
Held back by conflict
The alleged bandits were sentenced to reclusion perpetua, or between 20 and 40 years of imprisonment, for each count of kidnapping and serious illegal detention with ransom. The crime happened in April
2000, when the Philippines had yet to enact a law on terrorism.
Mindanao, of course, has come a long way since the wave of kidnappings in the 1990s and 2000s. Over the years, peace agreements with insurgents that led to the creation of a self-governing Bangsamoro region have quieted much of the unrest among the locals, while relentless military operations have weakened smaller armed groups operating in the southern Philippines, like the Abu Sayyaf.
But Eastman’s case shows that there is still much work to do in stomping out crime and terrorism in Mindanao, which boasts of a natural beauty and bountiful resources but is being held back by conflict and widespread poverty. Until and unless the government restores order and gains control of lawless elements, including Eastman’s abductors, on the island, much of Mindanao will remain a place where foreigners must not tread. (Inquirer.net)
Duterte vs the rule of law
believed were justified by his unexpected presidential victory. Yet, he (or maybe his editor) tried to soften this message with a comforting assurance: “As a lawyer and a former prosecutor, I know the limits of the power and authority of the president. I know what is legal and what is not.” He followed this with a guarded remark: “You mind your work, and I will mind mine,” implying, “I’ll do my job as I see fit; it’s up to you to stop me if you can.”
The veiled rhetoric that characterized Duterte’s early pronouncements surfaced again at the recent Senate hearing, only this time eclipsed by his bold, repeated assertion that he was taking “full legal responsibility” for the drug war he had set in motion. In response to questions about whether he had directly ordered police to kill drug suspects, he confirmed unequivocally that indeed he had, adding that he even told the police to
goad suspects into fighting back (nanlaban) so they (the police) could easily invoke self-defense.
This was not the stance of a former president bracing for a legal showdown. This was the posture of a battlehardened general rallying his remaining forces in one last stand for political survival. Duterte understood that he was in a political arena, not a courtroom. What he therefore needed to project was defiance and selfassuredness, not deference or contrition. He wasn’t speaking to his accusers; he was addressing his troops.
To my mind, his Senate appearance was a brazen taunt aimed at the nation’s lawmakers and those responsible for upholding justice. In language dripping with expletives and insolence, he was in effect daring them: “Go ahead— charge me or throw me in jail if you wish. But do not expect me to offer apologies
or excuses for doing what I believed was necessary.”
By appearing before the Senate to defend his drug war policy and the brutal campaigns that led to thousands of deaths, Duterte hijacked a platform he desperately needed. This was his opportunity to rekindle the aura of fearlessness and invincibility that had so endeared him to his followers during his presidency.
He was fully aware that, apart from the unyielding Sen. Risa Hontiveros—the lone opposition figure who was willing to confront him with tough and sensible questions—other members of that chamber were either too reluctant or too cowed to challenge him.
The fact that next year is an election year was surely not lost on the former president. We can assume this was factored into his calculation.
It cannot be denied that Duterte still commands a sizable following that he
could mobilize to aid his allies or hurt his enemies.
But there isn’t much else the aging patriarch can realistically do to support his embattled successor. He is no longer president, and the 2028 presidential election is still over three years away. So, what prompted Duterte to appear before the Senate and engage in what may, at first glance, look like a selfsabotaging performance?
My brief answer: He is fighting a crucial political battle that his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, is losing. The vice presidency remains her last stronghold, yet she risks losing even this if Congress, with the Palace’s backing, decides to pursue impeachment. (Inquirer.net) * * *
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. * * * public.lives@gmail.com
An election that will shape the world
in the running. It was only in July when Kamala Harris, the 49th and incumbent U.S. vice president, announced her candidacy for this year’s elections. President Biden withdrew his bid for reelection and endorsed Kamala. It’s been six months since I got back, and so many things have changed. Celebrities and U.S. media organizations have endorsed Kamala, but it still is a close fight. For many observers, it’s a puzzle why, after everything, Americans are still voting for Trump.
Here is a possible answer from Alex Hinton, a distinguished professor of anthropology at Rutgers University-Newark: “Are you better off than
you were four years ago?”
“For many Trump voters, the answer to Ronald Reagan’s famous question is clear: ‘No.’ They accurately remember Trump’s term as one of tax cuts, economic growth and stock market highs,” Hinton said. (theconversation.com).
Bread on the table, money in the bank
“It is true that overall employment numbers and average pay went up under President Joe Biden. But for some Trump supporters, that economic boost pales in comparison to the massive surge in inflation during Biden’s term, with prices rising almost 20 percent. While the inflation rate has recently abated, prices remain
high – as voters are reminded everyday at the grocery store.
“Polls also show that Trump has a strong lead over Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris on how they would handle the economy, which is a top concern for voters, especially Republicans,” Hinton also said.
Some also believe in Trump’s position to “shut the border, build a wall and deport 11 million immigrants who are living in the U.S. without legal authorization.” And then there’s the issue of Israel’s invasion of the Gaza Strip. Trump supporters, Hinton added, perceive that American taxpayers foot a large portion of the Bid-
en-Harris war in the Middle East.
Clearly, whoever wins, the results of this election will surely affect the rest of the world. What does it mean for the Philippines?
Will there be more bloody wars? Will there be trade sanctions? And in the case of the Philippines, what does this mean for our overseas Filipino workers and for our imports and exports, or trade in general? Will a planned bilateral free trade agreement (FTA) with the U.S. still happen?
Last I heard, the Philippines still wants to lobby for the FTA but will be waiting until the U.S. elections are over.
Philippine products that are exported to the U.S., such as garments, electronics and agriculture, will significantly benefit from having an FTA with the U.S. The Biden administration, however, has been more focused on the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework instead of the traditional FTAs. What happens next is still anyone’s guess, but for sure, the U.S. election results will shape future U.S. policies which, in turn, will shape the world. There will be global implications, whether it’s Trump or Harris. The U.S., after all, remains the world’s largest economic and military power.
ManilaTimes.net photo
Senate adopts reduced budget of P733M for OVP
by tina g santos Inquirer.net
MANILA — The Senate has adopted the House of Representatives’ decision to give the Office of the Vice President (OVP) only P733 million instead of its requested P2.03-billion budget for next year.
This was confirmed by Sen. Grace Poe, chair of the Senate finance committee.
“We reached out several times to the [OVP] requesting them to submit documents to clarify issues regarding their budget but they have not submitted as of today. So, we decided to retain the GAB (General Appropriations Bill) amount pending submission and review of these documents,” she told reporters shortly before she delivered her speech sponsoring the general principles of the 2025 budget on Tuesday, November 5.
“While we cannot account for movements in the figures on an apples-to-apples basis, we can say that we retained the original
budget for the relevant item in DSWD (Department of Social Welfare and Development) while we increased further the item under the DOH (Department of Health) budget,” she added.
The Senate begins on Wednesday, November 6 its marathon plenary deliberations on the proposed P6.352-trillion budget for next year
The House of Representatives earlier made good on its promise to reduce Vice President Sara Duterte’s proposed P2.03-billion budget for next year by P1.3 billion—an amount that has been realigned to the DSWD and DOH. Earlier, the lower chamber agreed to cut Duterte’s 2025 budget, citing overlapping functions between the OVP and other agencies such as the DSWD and DOH, as well as the steep rental expenditures incurred by the OVP’s satellite offices.
Priorities blueprint Poe, in her sponsorship speech, underscored the
imperative for accountability in every peso spent in the budget.
“This budget isn’t just a series of numbers. It’s a blueprint of our priorities, the most important investment of our government, and the heartbeat of our nation’s future,” she pointed out.
“Under this Senate committee report, every peso has been accounted for. With each line item, we asked all agencies, ‘What do we want to happen to this? Accountability is not just a choice; it is our duty,” she stressed.
“This budget isn’t just numbers on a spreadsheet; it’s a promise to every Filipino that their own government serves and works for them, not the other way around. Sure, the zeros may be overwhelming, but each one represents real support for our people and reflects our priorities. In the days ahead, we’ll break down the specifics, item by item, line by line to ensure that every peso works for everyone,” she added. n
An election that will shape...
6 less wars.
Any changes in U.S. policies could affect our interest rates, our peso and local inflation. These will impact consumer spending, borrowing costs, local expansion and the stock market.
All these will affect you, me and everyone we know, so whether we like it or not and whether it’s Trump or Harris, there will be changes. Some may be good, but some may be bad; others may be very ugly.
That said, I fervently hope that whoever wins will put an end to the ugly wars we’re seeing right now, which are already giving our world enormous stress. Lives have been lost, and the future of generations have been put at risk.
Indeed, the next leader of the free world must see an end to these ugly and sense-
Tesla in the Philippines
Speaking of America, Texas-headquartered automotive and renewable energy company Tesla will open this Friday, Nov. 8, its Tesla Showroom Flagship Experience Center in the Philippines. This will be in the Uptown Parade in Taguig. The opening will “usher in a new era of sustainable energy in the Philippines. With great excitement, we invite you to be among the first to witness Tesla’s monumental entry into the market, along with the launch of its pioneering products and technology,” says the invite sent to guests.
Furthermore, the celebration will “showcase Tesla’s commitment to revolutionizing our landscape and accelerating the world’s transition to sustainable energy.” The
showroom will open to the public on Nov. 9.
Fans of Elon Musk, however, won’t be able to see the world’s richest man as he won’t be present during the launch, tycoon Kevin Tan, Tesla’s landlord partner in the Philippines, said when I asked if the Tesla CEO would be flying to the country for Friday’s event. What’s certain is that for now, Musk is busy with Trump’s campaign and canvassing operation. (Philstar. com)
* * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
*
* * Email: eyesgonzales@gmail. com. Follow her on Twitter @ eyesgonzales. Column archives at EyesWideOpen on FB.
Duterte’s spokesperson confirms exit from OVP
by Cristina Chi Philstar.com
MANILA — Michael Poa, the spokesperson of Vice President Sara Duterte, has vacated his post at a time when her office is facing intense congressional scrutiny over its use of confidential funds.
The lawyer and former Education undersecretary bared this on Tuesday, November 5, during the House committee on good government and public accountability's fourth inquiry into the alleged misuse of funds by the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and Department of Education (DepEd).
At the start of the hearing, Poa revealed that his contract as a consultant with the OVP had been pre-terminated.
"I would like to inform the honorable committee that I am no longer connected with the Office of the Vice President," Poa said.
Poa said the pre-termination of his contract, which was supposed to end in December 2024, was a "mutual decision" between him and Duterte.
"I expressed that I could not fulfill the obligations of the contract as a resource person...Nawawala ang objectivity [There's no more objectivity]. So I said, 'I dont think I am capable of really fulfilling the contract.' She understands
my position, so we mutually decided to pre-terminate it," he explained.
Acknowledging his exit, lawmakers sought Poa's insights as to why some OVP officials continued to snub the inquiry. Poa said he was only familiar with some of them, while he has met others briefly during budget inquiries.
The exact timing and circumstances surrounding the abrupt end to his contract were not immediately clear based on his House testimony.
Philstar.com has reached out to the OVP for comment and will update this article with their response.
Poa previously served as DepEd spokesperson when Duterte was education secretary from 2022 to June this year. He was one of at least six ranking DepEd officials who tendered their resignation when Duterte stepped down as DepEd chief. Poa said that he resigned to give then-incoming Education Secretary Sonny Angara a free hand to choose the new members of his team.
He then returned as OVP spokesperson in August, just in time for the start of the legislative budget cycle.
Poa was Duterte's go-to crisis communicator, handling hot-button issues that have dogged the vice president over the past two years. During this year's legisla-
tive budget season, Poa often faced the media to explain how the DepEd and OVP justified its confidential funds to the Commission on Audit. This is the issue that led Duterte to issue combative replies to House lawmakers during one House budget hearing.
A key revelation from an earlier House good government probe involved Poa's role in gathering military certifications for the DepEd's liquidation of its confidential funds in 2023. He admitted asking thenDepEd Undersecretary Nolasco Mempin, a retired general from Davao City, to obtain documents from military units related to its youth leadership summits to justify how DepEd spent its secret funds in 2023. DepEd under Duterte then presented these documents to state auditors and claimed these summits involved the use of DepEd's confidential funds. Mempin admitted, however, that it was clear that no DepEd funds were used for the summits, which were funded by the military. The certifications were simply documenting the collaboration between different agencies, including DepEd. He said he was also unaware that the certifications would be used by DepEd to justify payments to informers. n
Go seeking enhanced protection of journalists
by Javier Joe ismael ManilaTimes.net
SENATOR Bong Go has called for enhanced protection of Filipino media workers after the Philippines ranked 9th in the Global Impunity Index for journalist killings.
The country remains one of the most dangerous places for journalists, joining Somalia, Iraq and Mexico, where justice for murdered journalists is rare.
The ranking, issued by the Committee to Protect Journalists, highlights unresolved killings of journalists and the high rate of impunity in the Philippines.
Go, a member of the Senate Committee on Public Information, expressed concern over the challenges media workers face and emphasized their critical role in a democratic society.
Citing past efforts in safeguarding the media, Go highlighted the establishment of the Task Force on Media Security under former President Rodrigo Duterte's administration, reaffirming his commitment to supporting media safety.
As a legislator, he said he has advocated for more robust safeguards through Senate Bill 1183, also known as the Media and Entertainment
Workers Welfare Act, which he filed earlier.
The proposed law aims to reinforce media worker protections and enhance benefits across all platforms, including broadcast, print and digital media.
Under this measure, media employers must establish written employee contracts to ensure equitable treatment and uphold journalists' rights.
This includes provisions for health insurance, overtime and night differential pay, hazard pay and other essential benefits to protect media workers from unfair treatment and exploitation. n
VEGAS&STYLE
‘Hello, Love, Again’ to close 10th Asian World Film Festival
by HannaH Mallorca Inquirer.net
“HELLO, Love, Again” — the sequel to the hit 2019 film “Hello, Love, Goodbye” starring Kathryn Bernardo and Alden Richards — was announced as the closing film of the 10th Asian World Film Festival. This was confirmed in the festival’s official website, where the romantic drama will be screened on November 20 at the Culver Theater in California, United States. Bernardo and Richards, as well as filmmaker Cathy Garcia-Sampana, will grace the screening where they will hold a question-and-answer segment for the audience.
My
P.E.P. (People, Events,Places)
THE first time I met Kuh Ledesma, a popular Filipino pop and jazz singer, it was in Boracay years ago when we were invited by then Tourism Undersecretary Ramona Lopez-Ty. I was a writer for the Philippine Daily Inquirer and my late editor-in-chief Letty Jimenez Magsanoc congratulated me later for a balanced article on the said island. At that time, I also saw in the island then presidential daughter singer Jo Ramos (I really miss my good friend who was vacationing and at that time I didn’t know she was sick).
Dubbed as the Philippines’ Pop Diva, Kuh has not changed since our days in Boracay island. We met again recently at the NobleLife International’s 18th year celebration at Quezon City’s New Frontier Theatre, with Dr. Romeo Orteza, Nancy Deocareza, NLI Pres. Lila Baylon-Macapinlac with her husband Ron, Rudy Aquino and Alexander John Fong. In her dressing room, she gave me a leaflet on “The Power of Prayer” that I will treasure forever, with special dedication from her.
I remember when I invited her to bring cheers to kids with cancer at East Avenue Medical Center’s Tahan-Tahanan. She went there with my friend Malo Cruz, and the kids and their parents were very happy. Meanwhile, she will have on November 9 a benefit concert in Cebu for the Kalipay Negrense Foundation, a nonprofit foundation working for the causes of disadvantaged children.
* * * Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte has given her support to the QCinema International Film Festival with “The Gaze” as its theme, inviting audiences to explore diverse perspectives through film. From the masculine and feminine gaze to new ways of seeing the world, this year’s festival showcases 77 titles, including 22 short films and 55 full-length films, across 11 sections. Featuring a mix of Asian competition films, world cinema, genre works, and arthouse gems, “The Gaze”
“The strength of [Ethan and Joy’s] love is tested by distance, time, and unforeseen circumstances, they decide to part ways. Years later, they unexpectedly say their hellos once more. They rediscover each other, they navigate the complexities of their new lives, finding romance and rekindling their connection amidst the changes,” its synopsis read.
The Asian World Film Festival is described as a “cross-cultural collaboration” and celebration of Asian filmmakers in hopes of “strengthening ties between the Asian and film industries,” per its website.
“The festival is supported by patrons from the diverse
Asian communities in Los Angeles as well as general audience members who are passionate about foreign and independent cinema,” it added.
Opening the festival is the South Korean film “A Normal Family” starring Sul Kyunggu, Jang Dong-gun, Kim Hee-ae, and Claudia Kim on November 13.
Among the full-length films included in the event are Cambodia’s “Meeting with Pol Pot,” Hong Kong’s “Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In,” India’s “Lost Ladies” (India), South Korea’s “12.12: The Day,” and Thailand’s “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies,”
Ariana Grande says Filipinos have the ‘best attitude, talent in singing’
by Jessica ann evangelista Inquirer.net
GLOBAL pop star Ariana Grande praised the Filipinos for having the “best attitude” and “talent in singing,” as she reminisced about the time she went to the country for a concert in 2015.
Entertainment journalist Lyn Ching-Pascual had a one-on-one sit-down with Grande and Cynthia Erivo during the premiere of their upcoming movie “Wicked.”
On her Instagram Story, Ching-Pascual shared bits of her interview with the “thank u, next” singer.
“Ariana remembers us having the best attitude, that we’re so much fun and have the best talent in singing. And she remembers how warm we are towards her,” said the journalist.
Ching-Pascual also shared that Grande expressed her desire to “go back” to the Philippines.
“She really loves the Philippines and the Filipinos,” added the reporter.
Meanwhile, Ching-Pascual noted that Erivo also wanted to visit the country given the nice stories Grande shared about the Filipinos.
“Tuwang tuwa sila sa talent ng mga tao (They were both very appreciative of the talent of Filipinos). Ariana says we have the best sing-
ers,” she said. Ahead of the Philippine release of “Wicked,” Universal Pictures PH recently held a singing contest among Filipinos. Thirty winners were given the chance to sing their rendition of “Defying Gravity” and be part of the music video that will debut alongside “Wicked” as it arrives in Philippine cinemas on Nov. 20.
In “Wicked,” Grande will
be
Meanwhile, in 2022 Grande made headlines after she expressed her amazement over a video of the Filipino crowd at former Vice President Leni Robredo’s Pasig rally singing her hit song “Break Free.”
“I could not believe this was real,” she captioned her Instagram post at the time.
Kuh Ledesma Cebu concert benefits disadvantaged children
offers a rich and immersive experience that opens new insights into politics, gender, race, and more.
The festival will take place from November 8 to 17 across Gateway Cineplex 18, Ayala Malls Cinema at Trinoma, Red Carpet at Shangri-la Plaza, and Powerplant Mall.
* * * Blessie K. Cirera, Police Files Tonite entertainment editor, received recently her Entertainment Editor of the Year award from the Philippines Distinct Men & Women of Excellence. It is a well-deserved recognition. Thanks to director Romm Burlat.
* * * The Philipines topped the Science Journalism Forum (SJF) 2024 Whova Leaderboard held virtually last 28th to 31st of October and participated in by renowned science journalists, communicators, editors, professors and doctoral students worldwide. Next year it will be conducted in hybrid, a mix of inperson (in UAE) and online activities. Trailing behind the Philippines were Bouda Brahim (Algiers, Algeria), Pauline Nasimiyu (Kenya), Aleem Ahmed (Pakistan), Amal Magneez (Yemen), Sana Jaballah (Tunisia), Kennedy Kariuki (Nairobi, Kenya), Marc Gbaguidi (Cotonou, Benin), Nina Portolan (Belgrade, Central Serbia), and Metwally Hamza (Red Sea Governorate, Egypt).
* * * I remember I was the editor of the CITEM Trade Update and I reunited with persons from CITEM’s communications division during the recent Manila FAME at World Trade Center. I saw Luz Burgos-
Soriano, Froilan Miranda and Lhen Visperas.
* *
*
I interviewed recently Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Joseph Marcos Manotoc at the provincial capitol in Laoag City. He invited us to join in Himala sa Buhangin (miracle in the sand) on November 16 during the Himala Arts and Music Festival (which was started by his mother Sen. Imee R. Marcos) at the Paoay Sand Dunes. Enjoy the indie vibes, rock anthems and soulful tunes of the local bands Peach, Magrus, and Kaizen. Listen to singers Shanti Dope and Zack Tabudio, watch performances of Alab Poi Fire Dancers, LED Dancers and Belly Dancers, Batosay and Migs, comedians Fhukerat, Queen Dura and Ernalyn, Kimpoy Feliciano and John Bonifacio, DJ Emman Radovan, Hype Man Mc Fame, couple Baninay Bautista and Bont Bryan Oropel, and young stars Seth Fedelin and Francine Diaz. Residents of Ilocos Norte have FREE entry, while VIP tickets for those who want to have upgraded experience. You can buy tickets and contact the himala.ilocosnorte. ph. For the non-locals, they can buy tickets to SM Tickets at smtickets.com/events/ view/13766.
* * * Congrats to newly-wed couple Michelle Lomboy-Galit and Arby Galit of Palapag, Northern Samar.
* rogeliocmedina@yahoo.com
Kathryn Bernardo and Alden Richards in a poster for “Hello, Love, Again.”
Image courtesy of Star Cinema
Ariana Grande Photo from Instagram/@arianagrande
playing the role of Glinda, while Erivo will portray Elphaba.
RoGelio Constantino Medina
From left: Rogelio Medina, Froilan Miranda, Luz BurgosSoriano and Lhen Visperas
From left: Pop Diva Kuh Ledesma, Rogelio Medina and Alexander John Fong Ilocos Norte Gov. Matthew Joseph Marcos Manotoc (right) being interviewed at the provincial capitol in Laoag City. Photos courtesy of Rogelio Medina Rogelio Medina with Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte
Newlywed couple Michelle and Arby Galit
Police Files Tonite entertainment editor Blessie K. Cirera
From left: Ron and Lina Macapinlac, Dr. Romeo Orteza and Rogelio Medina
The Philippines tops the SJF 2024 Whova Leaderboard. The country is represented by journalist Rogelio Constantino Medina.
PhiliP s . Chua, Md, FaCs , FPCs Health
ONE of the greatest human innovations introduced in recent times is Artificial Intelligence, which crude forms have actually been around for centuries. The recent field of AI research started in 1956 at the Darthmouth Summer Research Project.
Still a controversial matter, AI, a double-edge sword, and could cut both ways. The vast benefits artificial intelligence could provide the world are immense, by it also poses a lot of dangers, especially in the hands of bad actors. Some of them are job displacement, economic inequality, security concerns, loss of human connection, data collection, misinformation, bias, improper disclosure of personal data, lack of accessibility, unforeseen and unintended consequences, abuse and misuse, and existential risk, wrong or unsafe decisions and outcomes from AI machines, which fears Elon Musk of Space X and Tesla has expressed.
One recent example is California’s passage of a bill (SB 1120) last month “ensuring that physicians, not artificial intelligence (AI) have the final say on patients’ treatment and services, including insurance-required ‘prior authorization’.” Review of a significant number of past AI decisions on this matter revealed that AI decisions had been erroneous, leading to delay and denial of diagnoses and treatments among some seniors, contributing to some deaths. Artificial intelligence for our homes, garages, offices, cars, personal gadgets (computers, tablets, phones etc.), and security devices are magnificent and beneficial we can’t do without, even being addictive. We are so dependent on them and are blessed to have them today. But their misuse and abuse are already evident, especially in social media and in the hands of criminals.
In clinical medical practice, AI would be a masterful aid, which could expedite diagnosis and rapidly suggest treatments, but this mechanical-electrical algorithmic-controlled cold “humanoid” will never have human warmth, empathy, and spirit.
While AI is excellent in countless ways, human intelligence and human touch are still superior because of our five basic senses and instincts coupled with our inherent ability to love, feel compassion, and desire for justice.
So, we, humans, can either create and utilize artificial intelligence to be a monster to hurt people or society for selfish or diabolical reasons,
AI – friend or foe
or even destroy mankind, or develop it wisely to make the whole world a better place, a more convenient, healthier, more productive, more secure, and happier habitat for all of us, earthlings. Let’s see how intelligent and wise, or stupid we, humans, really are.
Lectins and gluten Studies have shown that lectins (in legumes and grains) and glutens (in wheat products, like bread) are unhealthy substances also found in these food items, like oatmeal, tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, paprika, peppers, spinach, kale, some fruits, etc., items we used to think were healthy for us.
Lectins and glutens are proteins that could disrupt digestion by binding to, and destroying, the lining of our intestines, causing leaky gut syndrome, allowing bacteria to seep into our blood stream. They could cause inflammation and obesity and could also damage our immune system. Soaking (in acid medium, like lemon juice, buttermilk, yogurt) and cooking at high temperature will reduce lectins and glutens. Make sure to read food labels (or Google food ingredients) to make sure you are eating healthy. While quantity (caloric control) is important, quality of foods we eat is also vital.
Aluminum dangers Aluminum has been a part of our life since 1903 when it was first introduced in France. In 1911, this material was used in Bern, Switzerland, for wrapping chocolate bars. In 1926, the US Foil Company (parent company of Reynolds Metals) launched this tin foil, which became an instant hit.
Anyway, studies have now revealed that aluminum has detrimental health effects as a neurotoxin, linked to Alzheimer’s, bone disease, and pulmonary fibrosis, among other still undiscovered side effects.
Hot food items wrapped in tin foil could conceivably contaminate the food. Using aluminum cookware and aluminum accessories in the kitchen is also unsafe. Aluminum could leach into foods. Safer alternatives include using stainless steel, glass, and ceramic cook wares, utensils, and dinner wares.
Vitamin D3 warning
One of the most popular and beneficial vitamins today is D3, a nutrient our body needs for building and maintaining healthy bones, to prevent osteoporosis, for one. It also regulates many cellular functions in us and has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective qualities that support our brain cell activity, immune health, and muscle function.
Vitamin D is not found naturally in many food items but present in fortified milk, cere-
al, and fatty fishes, like salmon, sardines, mackerel. Exposure to sunlight also converts a chemical in our skin into an active form of calciferol (Vitamin D). During winter months, with less sunlight, vitamin D production might be less or nil. Sunscreen, obviously, while important to prevent skin cancer, also decreases vitamin D production.
The latest recommendations from the FDA and medical centers, like the Mayo Clinic, Harvard, based on updated guidelines from multiple studies from the Endocrine Society, reported in August 2024 in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and metabolism is: The recommended daily amount of vitamin D is 400 international units (IU) for children up to age 12 months, 600 IU for people ages 1 to 70 years, and 800 IU for people over 70 years.
While taking vitamin D3 is generally safe, some side effects of overdosing can include nausea, vomiting, constipation, poor appetite and unwanted weight loss, weaknesses, confusion, disorientation, heart rhythm disturbances, kidney stones and renal damage. Vitamin D could interact with many medications.
Before embarking on any health strategy, including adding vitamins or supplements to your current regimen, discuss your plans with your physician because any of these might interact with your medications or cause potential serious complications.
* * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
*
* * The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people to live a healthier lifestyle, to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve a happier and more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation, or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable to or appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute for your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health.
Charo Santos loses voice, takes break from ‘Batang Quiapo’ taping
by anne PasaJol Inquirer.net
CHARO Santos disclosed that she had to pause her “Batang Quiapo” taping after she temporarily lost her voice and was strictly instructed by her doctor not to talk.
Santos, who portrays the role of Tindeng in the TV series, spoke about this through a video shared on her Instagram page on Monday, November 4.
“Isang umaga gumising na lang ako wala na akong boses. Tapos naisip ko, siguro dahil do’n sa back-to-back taping schedules ko ng ‘Batang Quiapo’ at my military training, bumagsak na ‘yung immune system ko,” she said. (I just woke up one morning without a voice. Then I thought, my immune system might have weakened due to my back-to-back taping for “Batang Quiapo” and my military training.)
The
Santos underwent military training in October to be a Philippine Air Force (PAF) Reservist. During her training, Santos said she had to use a whiteboard and a pen to communicate with the military officers and instructors.
“I was given strict instructions by my doctor not to talk, not even whisper. Hirap na hirap talaga ako nung FTX (field training exercises) ko,” she added. “Thankfully naman, naka-graduate ako.”
(It was really difficult for me during my field training exercises. Thankfully, I was able to graduate.)
“Ngayon, medyo bumabalik na ‘yung boses ko. A bit raspy pero may lumalabas na, and hopefully by next week makabalik na ako sa taping ng ‘Batang Quiapo,'” she told fans. “See you soon!” (Now, my voice is slowly coming back. It’s still a bit raspy but at least I get to talk already. Hopefully, by next week, I will be able to resume taping for “Batang Quiapo.”)
Aside from her acting stints, Santos served as ABSCBN president and CEO and hosted the long-running anthology show “Maalaala Mo Kaya.” Last May, she was appointed to the ABS-CBN board of directors.
‘rebirth’ of Julie Anne San Jose
by iza iglesias ManilaTimes.net
JULIE Anne San Jose em-
bodies the title "Asia's Limitless Star" thanks to her incredible range as a singer, songwriter, actress, host, instrumentalist, and television personality.
From her beginnings in the reality singing competition "Popstar Kids" in 2005 to her present-day status as a highly sought-after recording artist and performer, she has continually reinvented herself by staying true to her artistic vision and thriving with unwavering passion in a competitive industry.
However, the 30-year-old is ready to embark on a new chapter — a "rebirth," as she puts it — following her announcement as the 2025 Ginebra San Miguel Calendar Girl.
Curtis (2011), Solenn Heusaff (2012), Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach (2019), Sanya Lopez (2020), Christelle Abello (2021), Chie Filomeno (2022), Yassi Pressman (2023), and Heaven Peralejo (2024).
"It feels like a rebirth for someone like me. I'm proud to be chosen alongside past calendar girls because they're all remarkable in their own right. I'm honored to be part of this family," she added.
"It's overwhelming. I can hardly believe it. Today is a big day for me, and maybe, it's a surprise for you all. Actually, it's even a surprise for me — this moment feels surreal," San Jose continued.
To prepare for this new role in her career, the singer-actress focused on staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
"People might see this as a complete change — a 360-degree shift from Maria Clara to Ginebra San Miguel's calendar girl. It's a totally different world," she remarked.
"But as an artist, I love taking on different roles. I like to innovate and grow in my craft. I hope that as a calendar girl, I'll reach out to different people and, in some way, touch their lives," San Jose added.
She emphasized that her new role doesn't diminish her role as an inspiration to youth and women.
"To me, being sexy isn't just physical. It's in a person's character, in how they carry themselves, voice their opinions, and inspire others through their craft or talents," she said.
* * * Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, medical missionary, newspaper columnist, and chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He was a recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, presented by then Indiana Governor, U.S. senator, and later a presidential candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry S. Truman, President George HW Bush, Muhammad Ali, Astronaut Gus Grissom, scientists, and educators. (Source: Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday.com, and philipSchua.com; Amazon.com (“Where is My America?”); Email: scalpelpen@ gmail.com. PAGE 8
"I haven't done anything like this before, so I want to try something new. I want to show a different side of me — a more confident, stronger, braver Julie Anne. This is the start of something new for me," San Jose shared during the launch.
The Ginebra San Miguel Calendar Girl tradition dates back to 1988, showcasing beauty queens, TV and movie actresses, and models who have made their mark. Notable names include Marian Rivera (2009 and 2014), Anne
"I try to do cardio when I can, but a busy schedule also helps me keep in shape. I'm naturally slim, and with performances involving dancing and lots of movement, my routines help too. As much as possible, I aim for eight hours of sleep and eat plenty of vegetables," she explained.
According to San Jose, her new image may surprise fans who used to watch her portray the demure "Maria Clara" on TV, a character rooted in Jose Rizal's novels.
With Obra Maestra (Masterpiece) as the 2025 calendar's theme, the San Jose brings to life six stunning visual compositions, capturing her various personas in a series of timeless masterpieces.
"I love being able to portray different personas. The artworks resemble me as a singer, dancer, performer, host, actress, and influencer. I get to be whoever I want to be in my craft," San Jose, currently a judge on "The Voice Kids Philippines" and host of "The Clash," shared.
‘Hello, Love, Again’ to close 10th Asian...
among others.
Short films from Palestine, Turkey, Iran, Lebanon, Kazakhstan, Syria, South Korea, China, and Vietnam will also be screened in the festival.
Star Cinema also confirmed the screening of the Bernardo and Richards star-
rer on its Instagram page on Saturday, November 2.
“‘Hello, Love, Again’ to cap 10th Asian World Film Festival—Los Angeles’ annual celebration of Asian filmmakers,” its post read.
The Cathy Garcia-Sampana-helmed film will premiere on November 13 at
the Philippines, and will also be screened at theaters in Asia, Middle East, and North America.
Aside from Bernardo and Richards, “Hello, Love, Again” also stars Joross Gamboa, Jennica Garcia, Valerie Concepcion, and Kevin Freider.
EMPLOYMENT SERVICES SERVICES
The singer, actress and host considers her announcement as the 2025 Ginebra San Miguel Calendar Girl a rebirth since it’s a feat she has never done before. ManilaTimes.net photos
