to level the playing field for students, California’s private colleges are now banned from favoring children of donors and alumni. the new law authored by California Assemblymember Phil ting (D-san francisco), signed by Governor Newsom in september 2024 and taking effect september 2025, comes in the shadow of the overturning of affirmative action by the federal supreme Court in June 2023.
“I wasn’t surprised we got this bill through on the heels of affirmative action. It was the right time,” said ting in a thursday, November 7 interview with ethnic media services.
“If you can’t offer preferential treatment based on race to address past racial discrimination, why would you continue providing preferential treatment for
the presidential election has left a country questioning outcomes on political violence, women, immigrants and the environment. through all these issues, November 5 shattered public assumptions that an increasingly multiracial America necessarily means an increasingly progressive one, said political, immigration and economic experts at a friday, November 8 ethnic media services briefing on election insights.
Political violence
there’s a similar public misconception around political violence: “We seem to assume that either we can predict it or else it’s not going to happen at all, which is why we’re constantly surprised when it does happen,” said Dr. robert Pape, professor of political science at the University of Chicago and founder and director of the Chicago Project on security and threats (CPost).
Already, as of November 8, the Justice Department disclosed a murder-for-hire plot for an accused Iranian government asset to kill President-elect trump before the election.
“We need to be watchful against this. It would not come as a surprise to me if there are more assassination attempts between now and January 20 … and in the first 100 days after that, especially if he proceeds with aggressive deportation plans, which include sending ICe
Philippine government to assist Pinoys facing deportation
think it will change,” marcos told reporters in an interview after gracing a welcome dinner on monday, November 11 for the delegates of the seatrade Cruise Asia at okada manila in Parañaque, when asked about the prospects for Philippines-U.s. ties. he said a change in U.s. administration does not necessarily mean a shift in alliances.
“I will have to see if there is a major change, but I don’t think so. I don’t think so,” he added.
marcos earlier congratulated the U.s. president-elect, saying he looked forward to working with trump “on a wide range of issues that would yield mutual benefits for the two nations with deep ties, shared beliefs, a common vision, and a long history of working together.”
“I am hopeful that this unshakeable alliance, tested in war and peace, will be a force for good, blazing a path of prosperity and amity in the region and on both sides of
mANILA — United states Defense secretary Lloyd Austin III is scheduled to visit the Philippines again next week in what may be his farewell call on Defense secretary Gilbert teodoro Jr. and his other counterparts in the Indo-Pacific region.
Pentagon Press secretary maj. Gen. Pat ryder said this will be Austin’s fourth visit to manila in the last four years under the Biden administration, which he describes as part of continuing efforts to further strengthen relations between the U.s. and the Philippines.
U.s. President-elect Donald trump is expected to appoint a new defense chief in two months as soon as he is sworn into
office in January 2025. trump announced on tuesday, November 12 his choice of Pete hegseth, a veteran of wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, as defense secretary. ryder announced on Wednesday, November 13 that the Philippines will be Austin’s second stop in a series of bilateral and multilateral meetings with four countries. According to the Pentagon, Austin is scheduled to depart the U.s. this week for a trip to Australia, the Philippines, Laos and fiji.
he also said Austin will participate in the AseAN Defense ministers’ meeting-Plus on Nov. 21 in Laos, reaffirming the U.s commitment to AseAN centrality at the AseAN-United states Informal meeting and identifying future areas of cooperation with
mANILA — President ferdinand marcos Jr. on thursday, November 14 remained indifferent to his predecessor's desire to be investigated by the International Criminal Court (ICC). for marcos, the government will not stop former President rodrigo Duterte from surrendering himself or cooperating. But neither will the government help him.
“If ‘yun ang gugustuhin ni PrrD (President rodrigo roa Duterte) ay hindi naman kami haharang doon sa mga ICC. hindi
lang kami tutulong. Ngunit kung pumapayag siya na makipag-usap siya o magpa-imbestiga siya sa ICC ay nasa kanya ‘yun. Wala na kaming desisyon doon,” marcos said in an ambush interview in Cavite.
(if that is what PrrD wants, we will not stop him from the icc But we will not help. But if he consents to speak or have the icc investigate him, that is up to him. We have no decision there.)
During the house of representatives’ public inquiry into the war on drugs on Wednesday, November 13, Duterte finally made an appearance after dodging the
Los
ANGeLes – retired police colonel royina Garma, the whistleblower who implicated former President rodrigo Duterte in the investigation into the drug war killings, may apply for asylum in the U.s., according to an immigration lawyer who had handled asylum cases for former Philippine government officials. With a canceled visa, Garma was likely detained as she went through immigration upon arrival
at the san francisco International Airport on Nov. 7 and is now undergoing “either an expedited removal or administrative removal proceedings,” according to Washington D.C.-based immigration lawyer Arnedo Valera.
Garma and her daughter, Angelica Garma Vilela, have been detained in san francisco, the Department of Justice (DoJ) announced on tuesday, November 12. Justice secretary Boying
Philippine government to assist...
documented or undocumented, Cacdac said. through the Aksyon fund and emergency repatriation fund, Cacdac said the DmW will ensure that deported filipinos have immediate access to essential services.
Job retooling, reskilling and employment facilitation will also
be extended to affected filipinos, in partnership with the Department of Labor and employment, Department of trade and Industry and technical education and skills Development Authority, he noted.
Job opportunities abroad are being explored by the DmW, focusing on government-to-gov-
ernment agreements in markets such as Croatia, slovenia, Germany, hungary and Japan to provide alternative employment options for returnees. Illegal filipino migrants with unpaid wage claims and other labor-related complaints are advised to contact migrant Workers’ offices in the U.s n
Marcos: No help for Duterte if he wants...
quad committee's invitations.
Duterte did as Duterte does: make wild statements, which he may, or may not own up to later on. one of his proclamations was that he wanted the ICC to investigate him.
LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION
AUTHORITY (LACMTA)
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
LACmtA will receive Proposals for Ps127251 - mosaic fabrication and Delivery: Westwood/UCLA station North east entranceat the 9th floor receptionist Desk, Vendor/Contract management Department, one Gateway Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90012. All Proposals must be submitted to LACmtA, and be filed at the reception desk, 9th floor, V/Cm Department, on or before 2:00 p.m. Pacific time on friday, December 20, 2024. Proposals received after the above date and time may be rejected and returned unopened. each proposal must be sealed and marked Proposal No. Ps127251. for a copy of the Proposal/ Bid specification visit our solicitation Page on our Vendor Portal at https://business.metro. net or for further information email marc margoni at margonim@metro.net.
11/16/24
CNs-3870094#
AsIAN JoUrNAL (L.A.)
for example, Duterte initially denied implementing a reward system for cops who would kill drug suspects. “‘Yang sinasabi nilang reward, walang reward ‘yan. hindi ako magbibigay ng reward (What they are saying about a reward, there was no reward. i would never give a reward),” Duterte said in october. Not more than a month later in November, Duterte confirmed to the house Quad panel that there was a reward system. reward? Correct. Very correct. talagang totoo. At minsan bigyan ko pa ng dagdag (it’s really true. And sometimes i even give additional funds),” Duterte said when asked during the house panel. Duterte would go on to retract this again in the same hearing. the Department of Justice (DoJ) and the Philippine National Police have already stated that they would investigate cases of extrajudicial killings (eJK). Questions to be answered marcos, meanwhile, said authorities are still looking for answers on the controversial killings. “Who has been – who is responsible? And we had – some of them – the mothers of some of the victims that were there, and up to now, they have not seen the justice for the murders of their children,” he said. marcos was also asked if Duterte’s bold confessions in the congressional drug war hearings have made him reconsider the Philippines' exit from the ICC. the president, however, skirted the question and instead said his administration is monitoring what Duterte has said in the proceedings. the DoJ will examine all the comments, statements, testimonies and evidence to see if a case is necessary, added
marcos.
While he emphasized that the government will not work with the ICC, marcos also retained the Palace’s position that it will uphold Interpol red notices.
When reporters pointed out that reinforcing an Interpol red notice stemming from the ICC case has the same effect as working with the ICC, marcos said: “We’ll see how far it goes. We’ll see what the ICC does.”
Changing tune the Palace's softening stance toward the ICC comes amid a growing spotlight casted on Duterte's war on drugs. Duterte has been accused of implementing a nationwide reward system for police officials who would kill drug suspects.
While numbers vary, at least 6,000 people were killed during the crackdown on drugs. however, some believe that this number is as high as 30,000. there is also a growing gap between marcos and Duterte. While it cannot be definitvely said when things between the two soured, Duterte and his family began a mostly one-sided word war with marcos earlier in January.
Duterte accused marcos of using illegal drugs, to which marcos suggested that Duterte was using too much fentanyl. marcos has since largely refrained from directly addressing Duterte's insults. however, members of the marcos clan have taken to the president's defense whenever a Duterte would insult their patriarch, such as his wife first Lady Liza Araneta-marcos and son Ilocos Norte rep. sandro marcos. the rift between marcos and Duterte was not helped with Vice President sara Duterte's exit from the presidential cabinet in June. n
Royina Garma may apply for asylum in...
remulla said Garma’s U.s. visa has been canceled.
Valera said that upon arrival, all travelers go through primary inspection, where Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers initially screen passengers.
“If there was an issue with (Garma’s) visa, she would be referred to secondary inspection for further questioning and verification,” he said.
Expedited removal proceedings
If CBP officers determined that Garma was inadmissible due to the visa cancellation and there were no valid claims for admission, they could place her in expedited removal proceedings,
he said.
this is a streamlined process applied to certain inadmissible noncitizens at ports of entry, primarily for those who have no valid visa or have misrepresented information,” Valera said. expedited removal allows for quick removal without going before an immigration judge.”
During this time, Garma may have been detained temporarily while CBP officers verified her documents, reviewed her case and made their final determination.
“If she has grounds to contest removal by making an asylum claim, she could request a credible fear interview, which would place her on a different track,” Valera said.
US defense chief to visit...
regional counterparts.
Austin will then conclude his trip in fiji, marking the first-ever visit by a U.s. defense secretary and will meet with key fijian leaders to deepen the bilateral defense relationship.
ryder said Austin’s trip comes as the U.s. builds on unprecedented cooperation with like-minded countries to strengthen regional security.
Austin’s last visit to manila was in July this year, when he and U.s secretary of state Antony Blinken met with foreign Affairs secretary enrique manalo
and teodoro for the fourth Philippines-United states 2+2 ministerial Dialogue. meanwhile, citing serious concerns over China’s behavior and continual refusal to adhere to international laws, teodoro and Australian Deputy Prime minister and minister for Defense richard marles announced a renewed commitment to upholding a rules-based international order in the south China sea. the announcement was made in a joint statement following the inaugural Australia-Philippines Defense ministers’ meeting in
An expedited removal order results in a record of removal, potentially barring reentry to the U.s. for five years or longer, depending on the circumstances.
Asylum Garma may decide to sign a request for expedited removal or she may apply for asylum, Valera said. the right to apply for asylum upon arrival at a U.s. port of entry is established under section 208 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, codified as 8 U.s.C. § 1158. this law establishes that any individual physically present in the U.s. or arriving at the border has the right to apply for asylum regardless of their immigration status or point of entry. n
Canberra, Australia on tuesday. teodoro confirmed the Philippines would participate in exercise talisman sabre next year for the first time, while marles reaffirmed Australia’s continued participation in the Balikatan exercise and its inaugural participation in exercise salaknib next year. Both further agreed to develop and sign a new arrangement in 2025 outlining the direction and management of official dialogues, training, leadership development and infrastructure under the enhanced Defense Cooperation Program. n
PAGE
PEPITO-READY. Modular tents have been cleaned and assembled at the evacuation center of flood-prone Barangay Bagong Silangan in Quezon City on Friday, November 15 in anticipation of the possible effects of Typhoon Pepito. There are food packs and medicines while the local government has dispatched 31 lifeboats to low-lying communities.
PNA photo by Joan Bondoc
Many voters backed abortion rights and Donald Trump, a challenge for Democrats
Voters in three states — Arizona, missouri, and Nevada — chose on tuesday, November 7 to advance protections for abortion rights in their state constitutions.
Donald trump, meanwhile, is likely to win all three states in his victorious bid for the White house.
It’s a conundrum for Democrats, who expected ballot initiatives on abortion rights in those states to boost the prospects of their candidates, including Vice President Kamala harris. But data from VoteCast, a large survey of U.s. voters conducted by the Associated Press and partners including Kff, found that about 3 in 10 voters in Arizona, missouri, and Nevada who supported the abortion rights measures also voted for trump.
“We saw lots of people who voted in favor of abortion access and still voted for Donald trump,” said Liz hamel, director of Public opinion and survey research for Kff, a health information nonprofit that includes Kff health News.
VoteCast is a survey of more than 115,000 registered voters in all 50 states conducted between oct. 28 and Nov. 5. It’s intended to be “the most accurate picture possible of who has voted, and why,” according to the AP.
About 1 in 4 of the polled voters said abortion was the “single most important” factor to their vote, though that number was higher among Democrats, young women, Black adults, and
hispanic adults. Abortion rights referendums passed in seven states on tuesday, including missouri and Arizona, where state bans were overturned. Vice President Kamala harris made reproductive rights a cornerstone of her campaign, but the VoteCast results reinforce earlier surveys that indicated economic concerns were the foremost issue in the election.
tuesday’s was the first presidential election since the U.s supreme Court’s conservative majority overturned roe v. Wade. During trump’s first term as president, he nominated three supreme Court justices who later joined the 2022 ruling that eliminated women’s constitutional right to abortion care.
mike Islami, 20, voted for trump in madison, Wisconsin, where he’s a full-time student. he said abortion is “a woman’s right” that “was definitely in the back of my mind” when he cast his ballot.
“I don’t think much is going to change” about abortion access during trump’s second term, he said. “I believe his policy is that he’s just going to give it back to the states and from there they could decide how important it was.”
the survey found that the percentage of voters who said abortion was the most important factor in their vote was similar in states that had abortion measures on the ballot and states without them.
When voters cast their ballots, they were more motivated by economic anxiety and the cost of filling up their gas tanks, housing, and food, according to the survey results. trump won those voters as much in hotly contested states such as Pennsylvania and Wisconsin as in reliably red states.
Glen Bolger, a republican campaign strategist, said the 2022 election results demonstrated that republican candidates are better off talking about the economy and the cost of living than they are about abortion.
this year, trump voters who supported abortion rights amendments may have decided to take trump “at his word that he was not going to support a national ban,” Bolger said. In casting their vote for trump, he said, those supporters may have thought, “Let’s elect him to deal
with the cost of living and health care and gasoline and everything else.”
the VoteCast survey found stronger support for abortion ballot initiatives from female voters: 72% of women in Nevada, 69% in Arizona, 62% in missouri.
erica Wallace, 39, of miami, voted for harris and in favor of an abortion rights ballot measure in florida, which fell just short of the 60% threshold needed to amend the state constitution.
“As a grown woman, you’re out and you’re working, living your life,” said Wallace, an executive secretary who lives in miami. she said the state’s ban, which criminalizes abortion care before many women know they’re pregnant, amounts to unequal treatment for women.
“I pay my taxes. I live good,” she said. “I’m doing everything every other citizen does.”
men were more likely to vote against protecting abortion rights. men voted 67% in Nevada, 64% in Arizona, and 55% in missouri for the abortion rights ballot initiatives.
the VoteCast survey found that, overall, voters believed harris was better able to handle health care. that is consistent with the long-standing view that “Democrats traditionally have the advantage on health care,” hamel said. still, trump outperformed harris among more than half of voters who said they were very concerned about health care costs.
family premiums for employersponsored health insurance rose 7% in 2024 to an average of $25,572 annually, according to Kff’s 2024 employer health Benefits survey. on average, workers contribute $6,296 annually to the cost of family coverage.
“everybody is impacted by high health-care costs, and nobody has a solution to it,” Bolger said. “that’s something voters are very frustrated about.”
Florence robbins in Madison, Wisconsin, and Denise Hruby in Miami contributed to this report.
KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces indepth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFF—an independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism.
Marcos: PH-US ties won’t change...
the Pacific,” the president added. trump recaptured the White house after defeating Kamala harris in the recent presidential election.
In an interview at malacañang on monday, finance secretary ralph recto said he hopes trade relations between manila and Washington would continue to flourish.
“We hope we can improve that. We are a national security ally of the United states. I’m sure they’re well aware that our economic security, if our economy does better, then we can be a more dependable ally,” recto said.
special Assistant to the President for Investment and economic Affairs frederick Go said on monday the Luzon economic corridor would definitely push through under the trump administration.
“that’s what the trilateral partners are telling us. this is a trilateral G7, which includes now the U.s. and Japan, and there are other countries who want to join the corridor project,” Go said.
“so, we’re now in discussion on how to make the corridor more inclusive to the other countries that are interested in participating,” he said.
the Luzon corridor initiative aims to connect subic Bay, Clark, manila and Batangas, through high-impact infrastructure projects such as ports, rail, clean energy, semiconductors, supply chains, as well as other forms of connectivity in the Philippines.
the development of the Luzon economic corridor is an initiative being undertaken with the support of the U.s. and Japan. It is an outcome of the trilateral Leaders’ summit of the three countries held last April.
It is also part of the Group of seven or G7’s Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment initiative to promote investments in sustainable, inclusive, resilient and quality infrastructure.
Less optimism some senators, however, were less optimistic about a trump administration, as they urged the government to prepare for the possible mass deportation of undocumented filipinos from the U.s
“Instead of sounding alarmist, our government officials should focus on creating a comprehensive contingency plan to assist our filipino kababayans if, and when, President-elect Donald trump follows through on his campaign promise to implement a largescale immigration crackdown,” senate President Pro-tempore Jinggoy estrada said.
“easier said than done. It’s easy to voice hope that our undocumented kababayans already in the U.s. would just decide to go home instead of waiting to be deported,” estrada added.
“In addition to the efforts of concerned government agencies to create logistical support plans for eventual repatriation, authorities should also help returning filipinos by providing them with jobs
or other means of livelihood,” he pointed out.
“the families who depend on the remittances of our compatriots who do not have a legal basis to live in the U.s. would also be affected in case they are forced to return home,” the senator said. sen. Joel Villanueva said the Department of migrant Workers and the Department of foreign Affairs have to be prepared for the repatriation and reintegration of filipinos who may be deported from the U.s Villanueva said that part of the DmW Act is the provision of assistance to migrant workers, whether documented or not, in addition to a reintegration program for repatriated filipinos from other countries. the senator called for government agencies to be proactive in such situations and not just reactive.
“It is important that we are prepared for these situations and that’s the reason why when we pass the DmW Act, we have components in our law in the establishment of our DmW where we can help our ofWs, our migrant workers. Whether you are documented or not, we have a program,” he explained.
“We already know that there are possibilities that could happen, especially this change of leadership. the important thing is that we are ready and above all, we are ready to meet the needs and protect our countrymen,” Villanueva added. n
Now is the perfect time to plant your sustainable garden with California Friendly® and native plants. Whether you do it yourself or work with a landscape professional, LADWP offers rebates and free resources to support your lawn-to-garden project.
Receive $5 per square foot for turf removal, up to $25,000! Plus, we have free landscape designs, plant lists, DIY videos, rebates for water-efficient irrigation devices, and more on our website to guide your project and help your garden thrive.
About 1 in 4 of the polled voters said abortion was the “single most important” factor to their vote, though that number was higher among Democrats, young women, Black adults, and Hispanic adults. Pexels.com photo by Sora Shimazaki
sACrAmeNto – the employment Development Department (eDD) just released a simpler online application for unemployment benefits — another step in modernizing California’s benefit programs and improving the customer experience.
“We’re simplifying California’s unemployment application to serve our customers better,” said eDD Director Nancy farias. this new application is easier to understand and faster to complete.” Unemployment Insurance is one of the more complex public benefit programs, with detailed state and federal requirements. As a result, the application was often considered complex and confusing. In response, eDD asked customers, employees, and advocates for ideas to make the application easier, and then:
• Added simpler explanations to technical terms.
• Clarified questions that many people found confusing.
• Reorganized questions to improve the overall customer experience.
• Eliminated some questions and simplified instructions.
• Replaced many open-ended questions with more specific drop-down options. for example, many customers have trouble with technical
terms and incorrectly say they were “laid off” from a job, yet the actual reason was something else. these imprecise answers caused payment delays because eDD had to seek more information. eDD fixed this by clearly defining terms people use for leaving a job.
eDD also reorganized the application and revised the headings to guide customers through the process and gather all information needed for application review. eDD revised hard-to-understand questions like “Which employer did you work for the longest?” to address situations like intermittent employment. technical terms were replaced with plain language. these improvements — and many others — will also help eDD process applications more quickly and pay customers faster.
eDD’s work to improve customers' experiences aligns with the state’s plain language equity standard under Governor Newsom’s executive order on equity and discrimination. Plain language makes instructions easier to understand, and eDD forms easier to complete. Plain language also makes translations into languages other than english easier to understand.
eDD’s ongoing plain language improvements build upon a major success in boosting language access for communities speaking California’s top eight languages. the streamlined online application is also now translated into the top languages spoken in California, including english, spanish, Armenian, simplified Chinese, traditional Chinese, Korean, tagalog, and Vietnamese. eDD also has dedicated phone lines connecting call center staff who speak these languages with our customers, free translation services for hundreds more languages, and other expanded Language Access resources. these enhancements and more to come are part of eDDNext, an ongoing modernization effort to completely transform the eDD customer and employee experience. eDDNext efforts include updating benefit applications, contact centers, the claims process, policies, procedures, and forms, to make the eDD experience easier and faster. It involves working with customer service experts, such as Amazon Web services and salesforce, to ensure eDDNext is forward-thinking and embraces the best technology and practices. (EDD release)
California bans legacy admissions, one year...
the richest Americans, who can buy every level of support for their children in the admissions process?”
During the supreme Court affirmative action ruling, Justice Neil Gorsuch, who concurred with the 6-3 decision, criticized legacy admissions as “undoubtedly benefit(ing) white and wealthy applicants the most.”
the original version of ting’s bill, AB 1780, would have forced California’s private nonprofit colleges considering legacy in admissions to pay a fee equalling the amount they receive in Cal Grants, the state’s main tuition aid for low-income students.
In 2023, over 25,000 California private college students received about $230 million in Cal Grant funds.
however, after the Association of Independent California Colleges and Universities — a coalition of over 80 such schools — opposed the bill, an amended form was passed which only has the schools appear on a list by the state Department of Justice. this version, which passed with 55 assemblymembers in favor and none opposed, is similar to AB 697, a 2019 bill by ting which requires private universities and colleges to annually report their legacy admissions data.
this is a common practice,” ting explained. “Where we have bills without fines or fees in them, we rely on the Attorney General to enforce the law, so the Attorney General’s office would have the opportunity to sue the universities that don’t comply.”
“the opposition’s main argument is that ending legacy admissions will impact their ability to fundraise, which I think is disingenuous, because they
don’t openly advertise: ‘If you give us $5 million, we’ll admit your child,’” he continued. “By saying that this will impact your fundraising, aren’t you admitting that money tips the scale in your admissions process?” the schools self-report their admissions data, so the state relies on it without verifying it, which is a whole issue of its own — and even with this, these numbers are surprisingly high,” he added.
In 2022, for instance, legacy admissions accounted for roughly 14.4% of enrollment at the University of southern California, 13.8% at stanford University and 13.1% at santa Clara University. that year, over 3,300 out of 31,633 undergraduates admitted to California’s over 100 private colleges and universities were legacy admissions. this bill got bipartisan support. Look at the supreme Court with affirmative action — I don’t think it’s a partisan issue that legacy admissions is a practice that can’t be defended anymore,” said ting.
According to a 2022 Pew research poll, 75% of Americans believe that legacy admissions should not factor into college admissions. the same poll found that public disapproval of affirmative action varies more among partisan lines.
Among republicans, 87% disapproved of affirmative action, compared to 62% of Democrats.
Along racial and ethnic lines, 79% of White adults disapproved of affirmative action, compared to 68% of hispanic adults, 63% of Asian Americans and 59% of Black adults.
A 2023 Pew poll found that,
The impact of the 2024...
agents into blue sanctuary cities like Chicago, san francisco, Los Angeles, New York and Portland … where immigration protests turned violent in 2020,” said Pape.
“Political violence operates like a wildfire. We can measure the material that can combust, but we can’t predict the triggering lightning strikes, thrown cigarette butts, the unattended campfires,” he added. “Because the Washington resistance march this January, for instance, is planned to be a peaceful gathering of 50,000, that doesn’t mean it will be. We’re in a tinderbox of a country.”
Women
“What contributes to political violence are narratives that blame any one group of people for the outcome of this election — like that women lost the election for a woman candidate,” said Kelly Dittmar, research director of the Center for American Women and Politics at rutgers University.
2024 exit polls show that 54% of women and 44% of men voted for harris, while 44% of women and 54% of men voted for trump. the 2024 voting gender gap, where women were 10 points less likely than men to support trump, is similar to those in recent elections; in 2020 the gap was 12 points, while in 2016 it was 11.
Women have been more likely than men to support the Democratic candidate and less likely to support the republican in every election since 1980 — “But these aggregate counts alone are insufficient to truly understand the women’s vote,” said Dittmar.
While most white women (52%) voted republican, for example, over 90% of Black women voted Democrat.
An AP VoteCast exit poll shows that a third of Black women said harris being the first woman president “was the most important factor” in their vote, compared to 14% of all women
and 11% of all men.
“We talk about the gender of the voters, but we also have to recognize the ways in which gender plays a role in who we’re willing to vote for,” she continued.
An october 2024 Public religion research Institute survey found that, while the 43% of Americans overall agreeing that “society as a whole has become too soft and feminine” is down from 48% agreeing in 2023, partisan divides have more than doubled since 2011.
Now, 73% of republicans say that society is too soft and feminine, compared with 42% of independents and 16% of Democrats.
“It’s less about harris’ identity, and more about why a man tapping into grievances about threatened masculinity did not disqualify him from winning,” added Dittmar.
Immigrants and Asian Americans
“Without sugar coating it, this is the worst outcome we could have expected … that the majority of the popular vote is against us,” said Vanessa Cardenas, executive director of America’s Voice. “economic issues overtook everything.”
A september 2024 Pew research poll found that 81% of registered voters said “the economy will be very important to their vote.”
An AP exit poll found “voters broadly believed that trump would be better equipped than harris to handle the economy and jobs.”
“It’s no surprise that immigration was another major motivating factor, because republicans ran the most vicious anti-immigrant campaign of any major party in modern history,” Cardenas continued.
An october 2024 America’s Voice report using AdImpact data finds that republican candidates and organizations spent “$964 million on 1,892 unique tV ads that mention immigration so far
overall, about 50% of Americans disapproved of selective colleges and universities taking race and ethnicity into account to increase diversity; 33% approved and 16% were unsure.
Given this general public disapproval of legacy admissions, ting said he foresaw no impact to the enforcement of his bill with a new administration under President-elect Donald trump. the bill joins California to four other states that have banned legacy admissions for private or public colleges and universities: Illinois, maryland, Virginia and Colorado.
A ban of all legacy admissions in public and private colleges, the fair College Admissions Act, is pending in New York.
“In developing this bill, we looked most closely at New York’s legislation, which involves a straight ban, and then a fine,” ting explained. “the first time I had done this bill was in 2019. We weren’t able to get it through, so we switched it to the data collection bill that passed… that data was quite helpful to pass the bill this year, as we could get a picture of many legacy admits these universities had.”
What’s the biggest hurdle that remains to level the playing field for California students?
“Not everybody gets equal access to K-12 education, particularly low-income students,” he said. “But the main difference from when I was applying to college over 30 years ago — and I’m watching this with my daughter, who’s applying now — is that there are far more students applying for barely more seats. Private universities just aren’t keeping pace with the demand.” (Selen ozturk/Ethnic Media Services)
this year.”
“Immigration itself is being redefined,” explained Cardenas. “As conversations around ending birthright citizenship, tPs and DACA are becoming mainstreamed, the lines between ‘legal’ and ‘undocumented’ are being blurred.” the Asian American voting bloc is particularly supportive of pro-immigrant laws, especially those allowing citizens to bring relatives to the U.s., said John C. Yang, president and executive director of Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC). the AAPI community has the highest proportion of immigrants among all racial and ethnic groups, with about two-thirds of Asian Americans and one-sixth of Pacific Islanders born outside the U.s An october 2024 Pew poll found that 82% of Asian American immigrants supported prioritizing family immigration policies.
An AAJC voter survey conducted that month found that overall, however, the issues most important to AAPI voters were similar] to those most important to voters generally, the top three being jobs and the economy (86%), inflation (85%) and healthcare (85%). Green jobs these issues have led to trump being the first republican president to be elected with having won the popular vote in more than 20 years,” said Ben Jealous, executive director of the sierra Club and former president and Ceo of the NAACP. “You can’t account for this without looking at the deindustrialization of our nation in the last 30 years after NAftA.” since 1994, when the North American free trade Agreement (NAftA) came into effect under President Clinton, the U.s. lost over 80,000 manufacturing plants through 2014, the last year that Census Business Dynamics statistics data is available. u PAGE A5
CA Dep’t of Aging highlights essential, free resources to support caregivers for older adults and adults with disabilities during National Family Caregivers Month
State’s network of aging and caregiving services offers free resources to empower and uplift family caregivers
sACrAmeNto – the California Department of Aging (CDA) is proud to recognize November as National family Caregivers month, a time to honor and support the millions of individuals who provide care for their loved ones. this year, CDA continues its commitment to enhancing caregiver well-being by providing essential tools and resources across California. these resources, available through local Caregiver resource Centers (CrCs) and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), empower caregivers to thrive while caring for their loved ones.
“Caregiving is a great act of love, and this month – and every day – we uplift California’s caregivers as the under-recognized backbone of our families and communities,” said susan Demarois, director of the California Department of Aging. “We understand the sacrifices family caregivers make, and we are dedicated to ensuring that they have access to the tools, resources, and support they need to take care of themselves while providing for their families. We encourage all family caregivers to learn about and take advantage of the many free resources California makes available to meet their unique needs.”
family caregivers are the unsung heroes of California’s long-term care system, with every caregiver providing an average of 18 hours of care per week. that amounts to an estimated $81 billion annually in economic value to the state, with more than 4.5 million unpaid family caregivers across California balancing work, family, and caregiving responsibilities. most caregivers are women, many working outside the home in addition to providing critical support to loved ones who rely on them, often at the expense of their own physical and emotional health.
According to recent statistics, one in five Americans currently provides care for a loved one, with more than 4.5 million Californians providing
unpaid care for family members, friends, or neighbors with chronic illnesses or disabilities. As the population ages, the need for caregiver support continues to grow, making it more important than ever for caregivers to know about the free services and resources available to them.
CDA offers extensive support for unpaid family caregivers through the network of CrCs and AAAs. these local agencies provide free education and training, group counseling, respite care, and financial and legal assistance. Whether helping caregivers plan for long-term care or offering muchneeded breaks, CrCs and AAAs are dedicated to ensuring caregivers have the resources and tools to succeed. In fiscal year 2022-2023, millions of family caregivers accessed these services, with thousands benefiting from professional care management and respite support. the Aging in California resource Guide, with information on caregiver support and other topics, is another helpful resource that’s available in six languages.
to learn more about the support available to caregivers, visit CDA’s website at aging.ca.gov and connect with a local CrC or AAA to discover personalized resources that can help empower a caregiver's journey.
Under the umbrella of the California health and human services Agency, the California Department of Aging (CDA) administers programs that serve older adults, adults with disabilities, family caregivers, and residents in long-term care facilities throughout the state. CDA actively collaborates with many state departments and other entities to deliver services and promote the Department’s goal of every Californian having the opportunity to enjoy wellness, longevity, and quality of life in strong healthy communities. to learn more, visit aging. ca.gov. n
The impact of the 2024...
In comparison, there are approximately 19,500 cities and towns in the U.s that means that most Americans now live where there used to be a factory, and when that factory shut down, what shot up was despair, poverty, joblessness, drug abuse and death from suicide,” said Jealous. “We’ve got to get back to the basic American formula of building an economy that lifts all boats by doing what we’ve always done: designing new things by following the science, then building them here.”
With the Inflation reduction Act, passed under President
Biden in 2022 and authorizing $783 billion for domestic energy and climate change spending, the largest in U.s. history, “We’re doing something we haven’t done in my lifetime: opening factories through the biggest economic opportunity on earth, a chance to change the way the world is powered,” he continued.
As of August 2024, Climate Power data shows that U.s companies have reported 646 new clean energy projects, creating 334,565 new jobs and driving $372 billion in new investments.
“the turn to the right that we saw is a straight line from us betraying the working people of
this country,” said Jealous, adding that this was reflected in trump’s own performance: “In 2016, he promised to kill obamacare, and his own party rebelled. this time, Vice President-elect Vance attacked the new green jobs as ‘table scraps,’ and republican voters roared back.”
“In many red states, voters can be divided on whether or not they want clean technology, but they’re united on wanting it produced there, because they understand that their fortunes are tied to it,” he added. “trump can say what he wants, but this is the future, and people aren’t going back.” (Selen ozturk/Ethnic Media Services)
Don’t miss out: Community college students urged to meet November 30 UC, CSU transfer deadline
for many California students, 2025 will be the year they take a big step in their higher education journey by transferring to a four-year university from a community college. In fact, more than 100 thousand California community college students transfer to a four-year university each year.
that's why the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s office is calling on eligible community college students to take decisive action: submit their transfer applications by the November 30 deadline to transfer to a California state University (CsU) or University of California (UC) for the 202526 academic year.
The importance of timely applications California community colleges play an essential role in ensuring access for all people to improve their quality of life and create bright futures for themselves, their families, and their communities. Part of this role includes creating streamlined, efficient, and affordable pathways for students aiming to transfer to a four-year university. Programs like the Associate Degree for transfer (ADt) and transfer Admission Guarantee (tAG) do just that. the Associate Degree for transfer is the premier transfer pathway, and guarantees students a saved spot at a CsU,
or participating historically Black Colleges and Universities (hBCU) and nonprofit private universities upon completion of necessary requirements. students can also transfer from a California community college to a UC through the tAG program.
missing the November 30 deadline for a transfer to a UC or CsU could mean postponing educational aspirations for another year. In addition, many students that are on a transfer pathway don’t realize they must fill out and submit a transfer application by this deadline regardless that they may have fulfilled all the criteria needed to transfer.
Transfer 101
California community college students who are gearing up to transfer are encouraged to leverage the resources available at their community colleges. It’s important that students interested in transferring should meet with an academic advisor or visit the campus transfer center to ensure that all requirements are met well ahead of the application deadline. these resources can provide guidance on navigating the application process and understanding the specific requirements for each transfer program. for those interested in starting their journey at a California community college or exploring transfer opportunities, resources are readily available. the
website ICanGotoCollege.com offers comprehensive information and a user-friendly transfer tool, providing an interactive guide to help students design their transfer pathways based on their academic goals. the site also is available in spanish, Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese. With the November 30 UC and CsU transfer deadline rapidly approaching, community college students are urged to take action. Don’t let the chance slip away -- take the next step toward achieving your four-year degree today! the California Community Colleges is the largest system of higher education in the nation, composed of 73 districts and 116 colleges serving 2 million students per year. California community colleges provide career education and workforce training; guaranteed transfer to four-year universities; and degree and certificate pathways. As the state’s engine for social and economic mobility, the California Community Colleges support Vision 2030, a strategic plan designed to serve our students, our communities and our planet. for more information, please visit the California Community Colleges website or follow us on facebook, Instagram and twitter (X). (The california community colleges chancellor’s office release)
OpiniOn Features
Smooth sailing in the West PH Sea
With the decrepit and rusting BRP Sierra Madre reflecting the country’s lack of resources to mount a credible defense of our territorial waters, two recent developments have sparked hope for a stronger assertion of our rights in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
on tuesday, November 12, President ferdinand marcos Jr. approved the acquisition of 40 fast patrol boats that will increase fourfold the Philippine Coast Guard’s (PCG) fleet by 2026, strengthening its capability to enforce maritime laws and safeguard our interests in the WPs amid aggressive Chinese incursions.
Under the P25.8 billion project funded through official development assistance from the french government, 20 of the 35-meter boats will be built in france, and 20 will be assembled locally.
“It is the largest single-purchase so far in the modernization of the [PCG]. It is a game-changer for us,” noted PCG Commandant Admiral ronnie Gavan. this will enable the coast guard to deploy at least two patrol boats for the 13 coast guard districts from Batanes to tawi-tawi that are “fast enough to reach the edges of our exclusive economic zone (eeZ),” Gavan added.
Timely intervention
the additional boats are expected to boost the PCG’s efforts in search and rescue operations and in curbing maritime crimes, among them smuggling, drug trafficking, piracy, and illegal fishing. Boats deployed at the WPs will address threats to the country’s territorial integrity, Gavan said.
five 97-meter ships from Japan are also expected between 2027 and 2028, with four more larger ships to be built locally. In all, the PCG will have nine large ships in its fleet.
Beefing up the PCG’s fleet is a minimum requirement to defend our eeZ, with the additional ships a timely intervention, given recent maritime incidents. on Aug. 31, a China Coast Guard ship rammed and inflicted damage on BrP teresa magbanua that, along with BrP melchora Aquino,
is the PCG’s biggest and most modern ship. magbanua was then anchored on escoda (sabina) shoal about 140 kilometers off Palawan and firmly within the country’s 370-km eeZ. earlier in August, two other PCG vessels—BrP Bagacay and BrP Cape engaño—also sustained damage after Chinese ships made dangerous maneuvers and collided with them on escoda shoal.
Innocent passage on top of the necessary upgrading of the PCG and the Philippine Navy fleet, the Philippines also made its strongest move yet in asserting its territorial rights in the WPs with the enactment of two laws defining the country’s maritime zones, archipelagic sea-lanes, and air routes.
the president signed republic Act No. 12064 or the Philippine maritime Zones Act which identifies the country’s internal waters, archipelagic waters, a 22.22-km territorial sea, a 44.45-km contiguous zone from the baseline, a 370-km eeZ, and continental shelf in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the sea (Unclos) and other international laws and treaties.
mr. marcos also signed rA 12065 or the Philippine Archipelagic sea Lanes Act which designates the country’s archipelagic sea-lanes and air routes that foreign military and foreignregistered vessels and aircraft can use for expeditious and innocent passage as prescribed under Unclos and other international laws, subject to the country’s enforcement of its internal security. these two laws emphasize the country’s maritime and archipelagic identity in accordance with Unclos and the 2016 arbitral ruling, the President said.
“maintaining the primacy of the Unclos and the 2016 Arbitral Award as our beacons in the maritime
domain, the Philippines reaffirms its sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction in our waters,” he added.
Hostile stance
While our 370-km eeZ entitlement is already established in accordance with Unclos and further validated by the arbitral ruling, the two recently signed laws provide the solid, legal standing for its claim in the country’s domestic laws. the two laws’ impact is undeniable, as it prompted Beijing to summon the Philippine ambassador to Beijing, Jaime florCruz, to register its condemnation and protest.
China can protest all it wants, but the Philippines has all the legal and moral rights to defend its territorial waters which are clearly way too far
from China’s coastlines for them to be included in China’s ridiculous nine-dash line. It is thus only proper for the Philippine Department of foreign Affairs to lodge another diplomatic protest against China’s insistence on drawing “baselines and base points” around scarborough, which is about 222 km off Zambales and about 850 km off mainland China. the new laws and the infusion of maritime might through the additional PCG and PN vessels represent the country’s staunch determination to show the world that it will not tolerate bullying neighbors that act like pirates in the high seas. Despite China’s hostile stance, we are ready to stand up to defend our sovereignty and maintain peace in the region. (inquirer.net)
BaBe Romualdez
WIth a loud resounding voice, the American people have clearly spoken, electing Donald J. trump as the 47th president of the United states.
the former president’s victory was so astounding that it was described as a “political comeback for the ages” by Australian journalist sharri markson, while vice president-elect JD Vance called it “the greatest political comeback in the history of the United states of America.”
While there was some apprehension, many couldn’t agree more, saying that trump’s electoral triumph was also a slap on mainstream media that some say have been obviously partisan in their reportage, with certain journalists and talk show hosts perceived as having a personal dislike for the former president. on the other hand, the support of elon musk and the use of his resources like X (formerly twitter) tilted the
balance in favor of the former president because “he provided an alternative platform that allowed voters to monitor the campaign activities of both presidential candidates,” a political observer told me.
A lot of people admitted to me that instead of watching the news from U.s. media outlets, they chose to monitor the election results from other networks like Al Jazeera which they found to be more objective in its coverage and presentation, and quicker in giving updates. the outcome was also a repudiation of sorts for the pre-election polls and surveys claiming that the race was going to be very tight, with many predicting “razor-thin margins” in favor of Vice President harris and a “near dead heat” or “very close” in the swing states. however, even as the final vote tally has yet to be known as of this writing, there’s no question that Donald trump has decisively won in a contest that can also be described as momentous for the GoP because they won the majority in the senate and most
A new day in America
likely Congress, too. this is also the first time that a republican candidate has won both the popular and the electoral college votes since 2004, when George W. Bush won against John Kerry. the only other instance in recent history of a republican winning both the popular and electoral college votes was when George h.W. Bush sr. defeated michael Dukakis in 1988. the election of former president Donald trump can be considered historic as well because he is only the second president in U.s. history to make a successful comeback for a non-consecutive second term – the first one being President Grover Cleveland (a Democrat) who lost his reelection bid to Benjamin harrison in 1888. four years later, Cleveland staged a successful comeback in the 1892 presidential election, winning in his rematch against harrison who failed in his bid for reelection.
even before the Nov. 5 presidential election, many of my friends in Philippine media have been asking if U.s. economic and foreign policies will change
in case of a win by former President trump. While the economic policy of president-elect trump may seem isolationist because of his pronouncements that he will bring American businesses back to the United states, especially those that are already or are leaving China, U.s. investors would want to be present in the AseAN region because it is a growing market, and there are products that the Philippines can supply to the United states. I am also confident that our economic managers will be able to work out deals that will be mutually beneficial for both countries. After all, business is always a twoway street.
In terms of defense and security, let’s not forget that during the visit to manila of then secretary of state mike Pompeo in 2019, he reiterated the message from President trump that as far as the 1951 mutual Defense treaty is concerned: “We have your back.” the defense establishment in the U.s. is clear about the important role the Philippines plays in helping ensure freedom of nav-
igation in the south China sea, where trillions of dollars in maritime trade pass through annually. Certainly, no nation would want to see one country taking control of that vital global artery, and many of our AseAN neighbors agree that the presence of the United states in Asia Pacific is important.
Let’s not forget, the trump administration’s free and open Indo-Pacific strategy recognized the strategic significance of the Philippines, with no less than President trump himself remarking that it was important for the U.s. to remain allied with the Philippines, which he described as the most valuable prime piece of real estate because of its geographic location.
We were pleased President Bongbong marcos’ post on X was one of the first – the seventh head of state, to be exact – to congratulate President trump on winning the U.s. presidential election. the trump campaign took note of it, and sent word they were thankful to President marcos for his message. I consider it fortunate as well
that I have been here in Washington as Philippine Ambassador to the United states since 2017 during the first presidency of Donald J. trump, giving me the opportunity to interact and network with friends and officials who worked with the president-elect at the White house. In fact, I met with them the other week and was told a number of them will likely join again the incoming administration of President trump. No doubt the 2024 election results will usher in a new day for America. But as I have said on many occasions, I am confident that our friendship with the United states will remain strong because of our shared values and the enduring people-to-people ties that have always been the bedrock of our relationship. (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: babeseyeview@gmail.com
Horizons After Trump: A Duterte comeback in 2028?
RichaRd heydaRian
As expected, the nail-biter United states elections created an unexpected outcome. In terms of popular vote, republican nominee Donald trump won just over 50 percent of the votes, while his Democratic opponent, Vice President Kamala harris, won 48 percent. But American elections are not decided by total vote tally, but instead the number of electoral college votes–a relic of the founding fathers’ aristocratic predilection. since almost all states adopt a winner-takes-all approach, a few thousand votes can make all the difference in the world. Nevertheless, trump’s stunning political comeback can’t be overstated. he is not only the first republican candidate to win
the popular vote in two decades, he also swept all seven battleground states after making huge inroads among minority groups, most especially Latino and African American male voters. And yes, it seems that filipino Americans, including some of my relatives, played a key role in swing states, such as Nevada. And not to mention, the likely republican trifecta following the ”red Wave” across congressional and senate races. Against the backdrop of a conservative supreme Court, including three trump appointees, what we may be facing is a ”make America Great Again (mAGA) Quad” with immense repercussions for America’s political system and relationship with the world. so, the question, dear reader, is this: What went wrong for the Democrats? And what are the lessons for other besieged democracies like the Philippines? to be fair, one could make the
argument that the 11th hour reshuffle in the Democratic lineup was self-defeating. the trump campaign team had sufficient time to adjust to Kamala harris’ late entry to the race, but she also lacked sufficient time to carve her own unique identity. And had Joseph Biden given way earlier this year or even last year, the Democratic Party would have been in a better position to run a proper primary to elect its most competitive candidate. In an era of ”anti-incumbency” elections amid cost-of-living crises across the West, harris’ refusal to break with Biden on contentious issues such as the economy, immigration, and the Gaza conflict sealed the deal. And clearly, her prosecutor background may have alienated certain demographic constituencies, most especially African-American male voters. But one could also make the argu-
ment that had former president Barack obama supported Biden back in the 2016 elections, a trump scenario could have been prevented altogether. After all, Biden won more than 81 million votes in 2020, with a strong performance among white working-class voters in swing states. one could imagine how a more vigorous Biden—a ”white man” with a folksy touch—could have performed back in 2016. the reality, however, is that something even more fundamental is at play here. In the words of renowned political scientist francis fukuyama, this year’s elections represented nothing less than a ”decisive” rejection by American voters of liberalism and the particular way that the understanding of a “free society” has evolved since the 1980s. the mAGA victory this year has exposed the inherent weakness of contemporary liberalism: both neo-liberalism free market eco-
nomics–and identity-based liberalism—”woke” culture—have alienated sufficient number of voters to enable trump’s stunning political comeback. Across democracies, from Argentina to Germany, ”anti-system” candidates have made tremendous inroads. from silvio Berlusconi in Italy to the thaksins in thailand, populists have repeatedly pulled off political comebacks against all odds by aptly exploiting the weaknesses of liberal-centrist rivals. In the Philippines, the Dutertes have been the ultimate manifestation of the enduring appeal of rightwing populism based on the toxic cocktail of fear, grievance, and theatrics. thanks to a distinct combination of hubris and avarice, former president rodrigo Duterte has ended up severely weakening his dynasty’s political base by triggering a losing fight with the marcoses ahead of next year’s elections. But should the notorious dynasty politically survive the coming year or two, they will be in a strong position to plot their comeback to power in President marcos’ lame duck years. Liberal-centrist forces in this country will have to step up their game, abandon vacuous and supine sloganeering, avoid anodyne ”pa-cute” candidates, and establish a robust counter-populist coalition with progressives lest they join the ash heap of history. As for mr. marcos, he will have to pin down his bête noire for good—or face the music of demagogic vengeance one he steps down from office. (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.
* * * rheydarian@inquirer.com.ph
ManilaTimes.net photo
Babe’s
Dateline philippines
OFW remittances hit $3.34 billion in September 2024 DND unfazed by China’s threat vs missile acquisition plan
by Jean Mangaluz Philstar.com
mANILA — Personal remittances from overseas filipino workers (ofWs) grew by 3.3% year-on-year to $3.34 billion in september 2024, the Bangko sentral ng Pilipinas (BsP) reported on friday, November 15. In August 2024, ofW remittances were recorded at $3.20 billion.
“Personal remittances from overseas filipinos grew by 3.3% to Us$3.34 billion in september 2024 from the Us$3.23 billion registered in september 2023,” the BsP said in a statement. the BsP said there were higher
remittances from land-based workers with work contracts of one year or more, as well as seaand land-based workers with contracts less than one year. Cash remittances coursed through banks reached $3.01 billion in september 2024. this represents a 3.3% increase compared to the $2.91 billion recorded in september 2023. the increase was attributed to higher remittances from landand sea-based workers. on a year-to-date basis, cash remittances rose by 3.0 percent to Us$25.23 billion in January-september 2024 from the Us$24.49 billion registered
in January-september 2023,” the BsP said. the central bank reported a growth in remittances from the United states, saudi Arabia, singapore and the United Arab emirates. here are the countries with the highest cash remittances:
United states: 41.3%
singapore: 7.0%
saudi Arabia: 6.2%
Japan: 4.9%
United Kingdom: 4.8%
UAe: 4.3%
Canada: 3.5%
Qatar: 3.5%
taiwan: 2.5%
south Korea: 2.5%
others: 19.9%. n
AMLC probes banks involved in Alice Guo’s money laundering case
by zacaRian saRao Inquirer.net
mANILA — the Anti-money Laundering Council (AmLC) has already begun action proceedings against banks involved in the money laundering case of dismissed Bamban, tarlac mayor Alice Guo (real name: Guo hua Ping).
senator Grace Poe made the pronouncement during the senate plenary debates on the 2025 General Appropriations Act after senate Deputy minority Leader risa hontiveros asked about AmLC’s plans against the banks.
“the AmLC opened the enforcement action proceedings against those banks involved in Alice Guo’s case to determine if they have violated the requirement under AmLA (Anti-money Laundering Act) to file strs (suspicious transaction reports) with the AmLC,” said Poe, speaking for the AmLC during the plenary session.
“these proceedings are ongoing and should the AmLC find that they indeed violated the said requirement, the AmLC will file formal charges against said banks where they may be liable [for] fines,” she added.
Poe said these fines may range from P250,000 to P500,000 per transaction, but not exceeding P10 million to P20 million.
“this is without prejudice to their criminal liability under
AmLA, if their officers are found to have knowingly facilitated a crime of money laundering,” she said.
Additional funding meanwhile, when asked by hontiveros what assistance the AmLC would need to compel the banks to flag illegal or strs and ensure that it can address such reports, Poe responded with needing additional funding for the agency’s artificial intelligence project and a subscription to an It service provider.
“this is why we added additional funding under the senate Committee report for the Artificial Intelligence Project of AmLC to help them evaluate the great number
of suspicious transactions reports that they received,” said Poe. the senator also pushed for the passage of amendments to AtLA “to ensure compliance with the financial Action task force,” which serves as the standards ensuring the Philippine government can cope with money laundering risks. Guo is currently facing 87 counts of money laundering filed by the Anti-money Laundering Council, Presidential Anti-organized Crime Commission, and the National Bureau of Investigation before the Department of Justice. other respondents included her alleged sister shiela Guo (real name: Zhang mier). n
by Javier Joe ismael ManilaTimes.net
DefeNse secretary Gilberto teodoro Jr. on friday, November 15 shrugged off China's warning against the Philippines' plan to procure mid-range missiles to bolster its defense capabilities.
speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an event at the Philippine Navy headquarters in manila, teodoro said the Philippines has the right to have a missile system if it wants to.
"We have the force of international law on our side, not purely Philippine law. China does not have the force of law on its side. It does not have right on its side. that's why they're leftist," he said.
"I think the whole world knows who is on the right path and the wrong path. Definitely, you know, we cannot take advice from people who distort the truth and nobody believes them anyway. so, I think it's a waste of air time to broadcast the claims of China because only their leadership believes in what they say anyway."
teodoro's statement came a day after Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lian Jian said the Philippines' intent to buy missiles from the United states is a "provocative" and "dangerous" move.
Lian also warned that the plan could fuel regional "tensions and antagonism."
teodoro, however, said the planned missile acquisition is not yet final and not limited to the U.s.’ typhon missile system.
"Because there must be consent to sell. however, we are planning to have such kinds of capabilities. I'm not saying the typhon. I'm saying such kinds of capabilities," he said, teodoro, nevertheless, said the Philippines and the U.s would review its bilateral cooperation during the visit of his counterpart, U.s. Defense secretary Lloyd Austin III, to manila this week.
"It is once again an opportunity to also lay down some future plans. Anyway, whatever it is, it's on an institutional basis, our bi-
lateral relations. there are mechanisms. for example, the security sector assistance roadmap, the bilateral strategic dialogue, and other mechanisms like the squad," he said. so, I think it is also an opportunity for us to thank him for what he has done to make the alliance not only bilaterally but multilaterally enduring against the face of a distorted plan of action by China. so, I once again thank the filipino people for their support for the President's (ferdinand marcos Jr.) stand on the West Philippine sea, and we also thank a bigger number of like-minded nations that are coming to realize that China's propaganda is really nonsensical actually."
Already in the country the U.s. has a mid-range capability missile system already installed in an undisclosed location in Northern Luzon. It was brought in April as a component of the annual salaknib drill between American and Philippine troops. It was reportedly the first time such a U.s. weapon system was brought in to the country. It would provide U.s. forces the ability to launch standard missile 6 and tomahawk Land Attack missiles across the Luzon strait. Defense budget deliberations During the deliberations for the Department of National Defense (DND) budget on thursday, November 14, sen. ronald dela rosa said reducing the P50 billion DND budget by P10 bil-
lion, as suggested by the house of representatives, would affect seven components of the revised Armed forces of the Philippines (AfP) modernization Program for 2025, including cyber systems, forward support equipment, aviation and engineering equipment, additional aircraft, joint tactical combat vehicles and radar-basing support systems. majority Leader sen. francis tolentino said the DND should consider leasing instead of buying military equipment. tolentino added that leasing is more cost-effective than procurement because it involves lower initial investment, reduces upfront capital expenditure, and allows flexibility and rapid upgrade without committing to long-term ownership.
sen. Juan miguel Zubiri said he was in full support of the proposed 2025 DND budget, noting it was during his time as senate president that the military's budget was increased by almost P10 billion and new vessels procured for the Philippine Coast Guard.
"I am very proud of that. It was the budget we gave to the AfP to help defend our territory within and outside our borders. so, any move by this Chamber to add to the budget of the Department of National Defense, we will fully and solidly support. We need to support our troops from all the services ... the discourse that we have in this very Chamber is due to the men and women of AfP. We cannot do this without you, gentlemen, we would have chaos in our country," Zubiri said.
Deputy minority Leader risa hontiveros said the upgrade of the country's defense should be prioritized amid modern threats.
"We currently live in a very volatile period of history with various conflicts around the globe boiling and some simmering just under the surface. While we wish it was otherwise, we can at least try to learn as much as we can from them and the current conflicts seem to underline the importance of drones, including naval drowns and anti-drone warfare, guided emissions and air defense system," hontiveros said. n
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. Manilatimes.net photo
KATHRYN Bernardo and Alden Richards’ film “Hello, Love, Again” reached a recordbreaking P85-million gross on its first day, which is the highest opening gross for a local film so far.
The movie, which is the sequel to the 2019 blockbuster film “Hello, Love, Goodbye,” reportedly premiered in over 600 local cinemas on Wednesday, Nov. 13.
“What a beautiful day!” Bernardo exclaimed in an
interview on “TV Patrol.” “Our hearts ngayon siguro punongpuno lang siya ng joy literally.”
( Our hearts now are literally filled with joy .)
“We’re very happy. Parang lahat ng pagod namin ( All our sacrifices ) from all the things that we’ve done… Lahat ( All of it was ) worth it,” Richards said for his part.
In the announcements shared through its Instagram page, Star Cinema shared that “Hello, Love, Again” will also
be shown in cinemas in the United States, Canada, New Zealand and Australia, among others.
“Hello, Love, Again” continues the love and life story of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) Joy (Bernardo) and Ethan (Richards). The film also stars Joross Gamboa, Jennica Garcia, Valerie Concepcion, Ruby Rodriguez, Kevin Kreider, Jeffrey Tam and Jameson Blake, among others. (Inquirer.net)
Planning, perseverance, and prayer achieved the ‘American Dream,’ on an encore episode of Citizen Pinoy this Sunday
IN an inspiring journey of perseverance and hope, “Citizen Pinoy” shares the remarkable story of a family’s quest to achieve the American Dream. This episode highlights how a son, through dedication and love, repaid his parents’ sacrifices by helping them secure their future in the United States.
However, this path was fraught with challenges. The family’s initial attempt at an employment-based petition was denied due to the employer’s inability to pay. This led to the family being placed in removal proceedings, creating a daunting and uncertain future. Despite
“Hello, Love, Again” stars Kathryn Bernardo and Alden Richards.
Photo from Instagram/@starcinema
WHEN I learned from GMA-7 news of Max Soliven’s passing away on November 24, 2006, just three days before Ninoy Aquino’s birthday, I was very sad and tried to control my tears. My personal encounter with Max began on August 2, 1990, the day Kuwait was invaded by Iraq. He told me to join him first in a morning breakfast at the lobby of Manila Peninsula hotel in Makati City before I interviewed him about his fond memories of Ninoy Aquino for the Philippine Daily Globe’s August 21, 1990 special focus feature entitled “… Ninoy, the Men Who Remember Aquino”. (I actually got Max’s residence phone number through Mela Soliven-Pascual who I met during the birthday of Mother Socorro Reyes, former directress of St. Paul College of Manila, sometime in September 1989 at the house of Romy Reyes on breezy Acacia Street in Valle Verde, Pasig.) Later Max brought me to the
Donald Trump, the 47th US president; Chelsea Manalo, will she be the next Miss Universe?
hotel’s La Bodega (now Nielsen) coffee shop where we saw then Trade Assistant Secretary Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo who was taking a cup of coffee. Max right away introduced me to Gloria. As I shook her hand, I candidly said to her that she would be the country’s leader in the next millennium as Max smiled to what I was predicting. Gloria just smiled at me for she had no ambition to be president someday. But I was very sure that it would come true. Meanwhile, I bade her goodbye for I had to interview Soliven, a multiawarded journalist who recalled how Ninoy used to chide him for having started Ninoy’s career by firing Ninoy from The Guidon, the official weekly college organ of the Ateneo de Manila. Max was then the managing editor while Ninoy was a cub reporter who later joined The Manila Times.
Ninoy had a keen eye and his guts were terrific, and he had what it took to be a successful
newspaperman, the ability to detect what was newsworthy and to analyze the news. “The editor of The Manila Times was so impressed with Ninoy that he would translate Ninoy’s dispatches into English,” said Max, adding that it was only Ninoy’s copy that was edited by the editorin-chief. At 17, Ninoy Aquino became Manila Times’ youngest war correspondent in Korea, a feat that had certainly made him famous.
* *
*
Former U.S. President
Donald Trump will make a dramatic comeback to the White House as the 47th president of the United States of America.
Among the celebrities who supported him are as follows: Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Harrison Ford, Mel Gibson, Joe Rogan, John Schneider, Rob Schneider, Elon Musk, Hulk Hogan, Megyn Kelly, Caitlyn Jenner, boxer Jake Paul, astronaut Dr. Buzz
Aldrin, Drae de Matteo, Dr. Phil, comedian Tony Hinchcliffe, adult film actress Richelle Ryan, model Amber Rose, Paula Deen, Brett Favre, Victoria Jackson, Joe Exotic, sportsman Harrison Butker, Britanny Mahomes, John Daly, Kelsey Grammer, Tucker Carlson, Jim Caviezel, Zachary Levi, Danica Patrick, Taryn Manning, Kanye, Dennis Quaid, Randy Quaid, Jason Aldean, Savannah Chrisley, Kodak Black, Dana White, Russel Brand, Roseanne Barr, Kid Rock, Lil Pump, Kevin Sorbo, Chris Janson, James Woods, rapper Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, Lil Wayne, rapper Sexyy Red, Trace Adkins, DaBaby, Jon Voight, Scott Baio, Steve Mnuchin, Dean Cain, Rod Blagojevich, and Vinny Guadagnino.
* * * A new cooking and talk show will satisfy viewers’ curiosity and taste buds every afternoon with GMA Public Affairs’ newest talk magazine program, “Lutong Bahay,” which intersects sumptuous yet easy-tomake recipes with feel-good and life-changing memories, bringing together people in the comfort of their homes.
It is hosted by Mikee Quintos with our new kapitbahays Hazel Cheffy Anonuevo, Chef Ylyt Manaig, and Kuya Dudut. “Lutong Bahay” airs Mondays to Fridays, 5:45 p.m. on GTV. Global Pinoys can catch it via international channel, GMA Life TV.
* * * Current Miss Universe Philippines Chelsea Manalo, a dark-skinned beauty from Bulacan, extends her utmost gratitude to fellow Filipinos from all over the world for the whole-out support to her candidacy in the 73rd Miss Universe pageant in Mexico on November 16, 2024.
In preparing for the international stage, she sees to it that “whatever it is, I voice it out and act upon it with some pieces of advice
and suggestions I get from those close to me. I make sure that I keep up with the current events and I show up to my family.”
Family, the very basic unit of a society, is a vital part of her life. Her parents are very supportive of her dream. “I have always been telling them that I love them and that I am so glad that they have become my parents who are supportive of my dreams,” she says.
During weekend, she has been with her parents and friends going to Mass and dining out. She has also been supportive of charity work that deals with the youth and indigenous people. She believes that “everything happens for a reason.” As a child, she experienced bullying: “Yes, bullying doesn’t stop and still happens to anyone... I keep focusing on what I am more passionate about and on what I can only control.”
She elucidates: “I ignore them. I have always believed that bashing comes from people who are only hurt and negative.” Trials and hardships motivate her to be a better person. Through this means, she has learned to excel in whatever pursuit she does and uses this to do the right thing. “I live up to the principles of goodness, greatness and godliness and these are what help me in pursuing whatever I want to achieve in life,” says Chelsea, a B. S. Tourism alumna of De La Salle Araneta University.
“Experiences in life have molded me to look at life more beautiful than being too negative. It made me more stronger.”
She reiterates that there is “no label on who I am,” but she has always been kind to other people. Hardships and trials have motivated her to be a better person for “”t only makes me better and through it I learn on and apply it in my life.”
Thanks to 2nd Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Award recipients Usec. Robert Rivera and Lady Elyza Rivera for guesting Jamin C. Lim and me on their show “Pilipinas Ngayon Na!” on DWIZ. We enjoyed the discussion on photography and journalism. * * * I saw young artists, including Winnie Wong (partner of Patrick, the brother of Paul Soriano who’s First Lady Liza Marcos’ nephew) at Ronan Art Center in San Juan City attending a Christmas showcase that features art pieces. I also saw writers Peps Bernardo, Carlos Abalos, Queenie Ostulano, Andre Dantis, Nuel Manaligod, and Pia Lorraine Yater-Dalmazo. * * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. * * * rogeliocmedina@yahoo.com
“Lutong Bahay” hosts (clockwise, from left) Cheffy Anonuevo, Kuya Dudut, Ylyt Manig and Mikee Quintos.
Good luck to Miss Universe Philippines 2024 Chelsea Manalo!
1960 TOYM awardees (standing, from left) Oscar Yatco, Leonardo Martin, Benito Legardo Jr., Cirio Santiago, Alberto Florentino; (seated, from left) Gabriel Elorde, Ninoy Aquino, Max Soliven and Sixto Roxas.
47th American President Donald Trump at a campaign trail event at a McDonald’s franchise in Bucks County, Pennsylvania in October 2024.
At “Pilipinas Ngayon Na!” radio broadcast: (from left) Jamin Lim, Usec. Robert Rivera, Lady Elyza Rivera and Rogelio Medina.
From left: Peps Bernardo, Nuel Manaligod, Queenie Ostulano, Carlos Abalos, Winnie Wong, Pia Lorraine Yater-Dalmazo, Rogelio Medina and Andre Dantis.
Photos courtesy of Rogelio C. Medina
Rogelio Constantino Medina
CONSIDER this common factual situation. You are over 21 years old and your U.S. citizen parent petitions you while you are inside the United States. Since this is a preference category, you have to wait many years for your priority date to be current. As the years go by, your petitioning parent dies which in turn revokes the petition. Can you still apply for your green card when your priority date becomes current?
Under Section 204(l) of the immigration and nationality act, you may apply for a green card despite the death
Can I qualify for a green card despite the Petitioner’s Death?
of the petitioner once your priority date becomes current as long as 1) you were in the United States at the time of the Petitioner’s death, and 2) you continuously resided in the United States until the present time when you apply for adjustment of status. This provision does not apply to beneficiaries that are outside the United States. This provision also applies to both approved and pending petitions. This avenue is available to all family based petitions as outlined in INA section 204(l) (2). This includes 1)immediate relative petitions and 2) preference family petitions such as unmarried sons and daughters of us citizens, spouses and unmarried sons and daughters of lpr, married
sons and daughters of us citizens, and brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens. Derivative beneficiaries of pending or approved employment- based immigrant visa petitions are also covered by this section. This includes the spouse and unmarried children under age 21 of an individual who was sponsored under the employment-based category. If you fail to meet the requirements of INA 204(l) because you did not continously reside in the U.S. since the death of the Petitioner, you may still try to reinstate the Petition under 8 CFR Sec. 205.1(a)(3) Humanitarian Reinstatement. The DHS (Dept. of Homeland Security) may exercise discretion “for humanitarian reasons” to
reinstate the petition and to allow the Affidavit of Support requirements to be satisfied by the qualifying I-864 of a spouse, parent, mother-in-law, father-in-law, sister-in-law, brother-in-law, grandparent, or grandchild or legal guardian of the beneficiary, as long as the petition was “approved” prior to the Petitioner’s death. DHS discretion does not mean “guaranteed” approval. The case will be evaluated on a case by case basis. Some of the factors that the DHS may consider are 1) disruption of an established family unit; 2) hardship to U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents; 3) beneficiary is elderly or in poor health; 4) beneficiary has had lengthy residence in the U.S.; 4) beneficiary has no home to go to; 5)undue
delay by USCIS or consular officer in processing petition and visa; 6) and Beneficiary has strong family ties in the United States. The beneficiary must be prepared to show proof of the original I-130 that was filed, proof of I-130 approval if approved, a copy of the Petitioner’s death certificate, proof of substitute sponsor’s relationship to the beneficiary, and meet all the I-864 requirements.
* * *
Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would
Philippine expressions bookshop honors author of the year on its 40th anniversary celebration
IN 2014, the Santos family — husband and wife, Soler and Mona, and their three children, Luis Antonio, Carina, and Isabel — showed their work collectively at Silverlens, in their previous site, along the same road. At this point, Soler and Mona had been working on their practice for decades, while their children were newly exploring their own expressions, coming from studies and professions decidedly removed from the fine art background they grew up around.
In “Gathered Narratives,” both Soler and Mona created large scale paintings drawing from nature, with Soler refiguring flora and detritus into geometric abstractions and Mona recreating the same chiaroscuro effect of her carefully painted flowers in the still life of a bed and rest. Luis Antonio’s photorealistic oil paintings of skulls were at the forefront of his artistic practice at this time, but the inclusion of galvanized iron sheets (painted in perfect precision) and photographic impressions on non-traditional materials are early indications of where his interests are currently and have continued to move towards. At this time, Carina’s work was less painterly, only working with found materials, mixed media, and personal ephemera to reference references.
Isabel began developing her visual language, populating this personal alphabet with distinct imagery and text that she still employs in her work today. Ten years later, the Santoses are returning to Silverlens for their only group exhibit since then, occupying the entirety of Silverlens’ new site, with new work that encompasses all their current practices, a catalogue of their individual progressions in the last decade. “To See A Landscape As It Is” provides a view of the five artists’ different trajectories — with 2014’s “Gathered Narratives” as the last save point — and the
ways in which these particular oscillations between mediums and genres provide markedly different expressions which are often expansions of their initial curiosities.
The five artists’ work move in different directions, engaging with one another, in less visible ways, as most communication between families goes, creating a singular language that eludes complete comprehension.
“To See A Landscape As It Is,” curated by Nilo Ilarde, will be on view from November 21 through December 21, 2024 at Silverlens Manila. n
SAN PEDRO — Philippine Expressions Bookshop, a beloved cultural treasure, proudly announces its 40th anniversary celebration. It will be highlighted by the Authors’ Day event and the 2024 Author of the Year Award ceremony, honoring Jocelyn Francisco, Ph.D., whose work as publisher and writer contributed to the promotion of Filipino language and culture to the youngest Filipino Americans.
This significant milestone will be held on Saturday, November 23, 2024 from 1-5pm at the bookshop which is located at the beautiful Arcade Building on 479 W 6th Street, Suite 105, San Pedro, CA 90731. Awarding ceremony will be at 3Pm, to be followed by a merienda. Since seats are limited, please RSVP on eventbrite https://bit. ly/AuthorsDay_2024 or email lnl. philippinebookshop@yahoo.com
The Author of the Year Award recognizes individuals who have made remarkable contributions to the Filipino American community through their writings. Dr. Jocelyn Francisco’s exceptional work exemplifies the values and mission of Philippine Expressions Bookshop, making her a deserving recipient of this honor. The San Diego-based Licensed Clinical Psychologist
is a passionate advocate for cultural awareness, mental health, and lifelong learning. As Founder of Little Yellow Jeepney, an independent publishing company dedicated to make Filipino cultural resources accessible, she has written and published ten books including “Little Yellow Jeepney “ and the fun and colorful series of first word bilingual books in Filipino and English with themes of family, food, shapes, colors, body parts and feelings. These books give the Filipino American children their first taste of the u PAGE B7
Carnegie, Vallejo top winners in UHSF golf tourney
by Dan E. niño / Contributor
BURBANK
– Luke Carnegie, a Geology Major student currently attending Los Angeles Valley College from Burbank, was the overall winner of the recent 4th United Specialist Healthcare Foundation’s Golf For A Cause tourney at the scenic DeBell Golf Course just below the Verdugo Mountain north of Los Angeles where herd of deer roam in wild abandon. The young par buster whose parents are both golfers, carded a gross 75. With a handicap of nine, Carnegie’s net score was 66.
“I haven’t played for two months and I didn’t expect to win,” the youthful Luke told this writer. “I just relied on my fundamentals, played my best and just have fun. I’m looking forward to the future.” But his fear was dashed when he turned in two birdies on holes two and three then capped three more birdies on the last three holes. This tournament victory for Carnegie is his first championship title.
Although his parents are golfers themselves, Carnegie said that nobody had influenced him and got hooked playing golf since he was 14. “It was my choice,” he asserted matter-of-factly. He works parttime in Geosystems in San Fernando Valley. Other major winners include overall runner-up and Class A champion Dylan Vallejo and Class B champion Capt. Bong Silva, and Class C champion Jun Capistrano. The closest to the pin went to Dr. Willie Del Mundo.
Carnegie and Vallejo both grossed 75 and a handicap of nine with similar net score of 66. But due to tie breaker rules on the last nine holes established by the U.S. Golf Association, Carnegie won with 35 total strokes while Vallejo had 39.
There are quaint coincidences and similarities between the top-tier winners: both Luke Carnegie and Dylan Vallejo are 20 years old, are both junior college students, and have been good friends.
Vallejo started taking an interest in golf at age six accompanying his grandpa retrieving practice golf balls at the driving range. Before participating in this Golf For A Cause, Vallejo has been a golf champion in several tournaments around the Los Angeles area. He is pursuing Film Production at Glendale Community College. Bong Silva, a PMAyer retired captain, grossed 86 with a handicap of 18 and netted 68. Jun Capistrano grossed 96 (handicap: 25) with a net score of 71. The funds raised are earmarked to indigents in some barangays of Guinsiliban, Camiguin, an island province off the northern coast of Mindanao, Philippines where the active volcano Mt. HibokHibok is mightily standing.
USHF founded on Sept. 9, 2014 by prominent Los Angeles physician Dr. Joselito Babaran is a charitable and a public benefit nonprofit organization engaged in wellness, medical missions and livelihood projects in far flung rural areas of the Philippines as well as relief programs caused by natural calamities, like what occurred during the flood in Bangued, Abra in 2023. Dr. Babaran thanked the sponsorship and participation of Superior Golf Club International (SGCI) that “has always supported us in our tournaments for four years in a row.” This golf tournament was co-organized by renowned Los Angeles impresario Freddie Castañeda. (denino1951@gmail.com)
Pastor’s Notes
reverend rodel G. BAlAGtAs
On Communal Discernment
WE must discern the signs of the times. This is what the Gospel (Mark 13:24-32) reveals to us this Sunday (November 17) when Jesus told his disciples, “Learn a lesson from the fig tree. When its branch becomes tender and sprouts leaves, you know that summer is near.” A significant part of the discernment process involves praying for guidance on where God is leading us and how He is speaking to us. It is about understanding His will in the Spirit of the Gospel, perceiving the heart and mind of Jesus amidst the events and challenges of our times, and acquiring a fresh perspective to see clearly what our society should pursue. This process encompasses quiet prayer, listening to God, and
conversing with one another. The call for discernment is not only personal but also communal. Where is the Lord leading the Catholic Church, other Christians, our parish, and society? To address these questions, we must foster a spirit of dialogue and intentionally dedicate time to listen attentively to one another. This is what the recent Synod on Synodality has accomplished over the past three years, as Pope Francis consulted with bishops, priests, religious men and women, and laity from different parts of the world regarding the future of the Catholic Church. The synod concluded on October 26, 2024, highlighting the institution’s challenges and proposing ways for all the baptized to be involved in charting a path forward.
During the synod’s closing Mass, Pope Francis, surrounded by the summit’s global delegates, encouraged the Church to be attentive to “the challenges of our time, the urgency of evangelization,
and the many wounds that afflict humanity.”
“A sedentary church that inadvertently withdraws from life and confines itself to the margins of reality risks remaining blind and becoming comfortable with its own unease,” said the Pope. “If we remain stuck in our blindness, we will continuously fail to grasp the urgency of providing a pastoral response to the many problems of our world.” The Holy Father has illuminated for us this process of discernment. May we, as a parish, exercise this communal discernment as we move forward in the coming years.
Yours truly, Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas * * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
Planning, perseverance, and prayer...
these setbacks, their resilience and faith carried them through.
Leading U.S. Immigration
Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel prepared a long-term strategy for Julius and Amelita’s green cards that involved long-term planning and dedication. It required son Nikko to obtain his green card and U.S. citizenship through marriage to his girlfriend, Joyce. Upon Nikko’s naturalization, he was able to petition for his parents, culminating in his parents receiving their green cards. Julius and Amelita’s journey to legalization spanned 15 years and the use of the three P’s: Planning, Patience, and Prayer. They also had the strategic planning of the Law Offices of Michael Gurfinkel. But with unwavering patience, and steadfast prayer, Julius and Amelita’s dream has finally been realized. Watch this success story on an encore episode of Citizen Pinoy on Sunday, November 17 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET)
Two youthful golf champions with their trophies: Dylan Vallejo (left) and Luke Carnegie in the recent USFH Golf For A Cause Tourney.
Overall golf Champion Luke Carnegie (center) is flanked by golf impressario and co-organizer Freddie Castañeda (left) and USFH CEO Dr. Lito Babaran (right).
through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. Citizen Pinoy is also
Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas is the pastor of Incarnation Church in Glendale, California.
CCHC celebrates urgent care clinic inaugural and ribbon cutting ceremony
GLENDALE – Comprehensive Community Health Centers (CCHC), a leading Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) operating in Los Angeles County, conducted and celebrated its Urgent Care Clinic’s inaugural and ribbon cutting ceremony on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 at 801 S. Chevy Chase Drive, Glendale, CA 91205.
CCHC is a California nonprofit public benefit corporation and a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) that operates and administers six community health centers across Los Angeles County. Since its establishment in 1990, CCHC has grown to become one of the largest FQHCs in the region, serving diverse and underserved communities with medical, dental, and behavioral health services. CCHC is dedicated to providing healthcare access to all, regardless of immigration status, and improving the overall well-being of the communities it serves.
Glendale Mayor Elen Asatryan, together with Consul General Karen Israyelyan of the Consulate General of the Republic of Armenia in Los Angeles, were the event’s guests of honor and speakers. The event was also attended by an array of local community leaders.
CCHC has over 20 years of experience providing healthcare services to diverse and underserved communities regardless of immigration status. The organization operates and administers six community health centers across LA County, including Glendale, Eagle Rock, Highland Park, Sunland, North Hollywood and Arleta. In 2025, CCHC is adding clinic locations in Long Beach and Las Vegas.
The center also administers a Mobile Clinic bringing health care professionals together to address the needs of underserved adult, children, youth and family members or the broader school and community.
The Urgent Care Clinic inaugural and ribbon cutting ceremony exemplify CCHC’s commitment to its mission of providing accessible primary care, health screenings, and education to low-income and underserved individuals. This event represents a significant milestone in the organization’s journey towards enhancing healthcare access in the local community.
Guest of honor Mayor Asatryan presented to CCHC President and CEO David Lontok the Mayor’s Commendation Certificate for CCHC investment and commitment in providing excellent services to members of the community. “The new urgent care clinic represents more than just a building or a set of services; it represents a commitment to health, accessibility, and care for everyone in our community”, Mayor Asatryan said.
The presence of Consul General Israyelyan as esteemed guest of honor for the momentous occasion also inspired not only CCHC community partners but also highlighted the importance of collaboration in advancing the cause of healthcare accessibility.
For more information, please contact (818) 630-2204 or email ccc_outreach@cchccenters.org.
(CCHC Release)
Pechanga Resort Casino the only US resort/casino on Condé Nast Traveler’s 2024 Readers’ Poll
Of 169 resorts rated, Pechanga Resort Casino is the only casino on the list
TEMECULA – With the polls closed and votes tallied, Pechanga Resort Casino outside of Temecula, California came away the clear winner among resort-casinos in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2024 Readers’ Poll.
Pechanga Resort Casino was the only one of its kind in the entire United States to have been ranked in the prestigious publication’s 2024 poll for the Best Resorts. In the U.S., 169 resorts across 13 regions made it onto Condé Nast Traveler’s sought after list. Pechanga ranked among the top in the Southern California region.
Condé Nast asked its readers online to rate their favorites among the travel industry –resorts, airlines, ski resorts, spas and more. Across the world, 443 resorts ranked in the Best Resorts category of the admired travel publication. Pechanga Resort Casino, owned and operated by the Pechanga Band of Mission Indians, ranked on the list of the 169 resorts rated with in the U.S., and more specifically, in Southern California. No casino-resorts in other established gaming areas or California ranked on the resorts list.
“We are beyond grateful to all of our amazing and loyal guests who voted for Pechanga Resort Casino in this celebrated readers’ poll,” said Ken Perez, president of Pechanga Development Corporation.
“Making the list with some of the most prestigious properties in the country is truly and honor and a testament to our wonderful team members at Pechanga and the vision of our Tribe.”
Visitors come to Pechanga Resort Casino from across Southern California, but also from around the world to experience elevated resort/ casino excitement. Guests from Korea, China, Europe, South and Central America plus many other regions of the United States have chosen Pechanga Resort Casino as a destination resort in the last year.
“Pechanga Resort Casino’s singular ranking speaks to the supreme level the Pechanga Tribe sets their hospitality bar,” said Scott A. Wilson, CEO of Visit Temecula Valley. “Every time you set foot inside the expansive resort, it’s incredibly clean and the team members can’t wait to be helpful. We’re fortunate to have Pechanga as a
destination within the Temecula Valley. Their ranking will further the region’s tourism efforts.” Temecula Creek Inn, a Pechanga portfolio property, also ranked among the top Southern California choices in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2024 Readers’ Choice Hotels category.
Pechanga Resort Casino offers one of the largest and most expansive resort/casino experiences anywhere in the United States. Rated a Four Diamond property by AAA since 2002, Pechanga Resort & Casino provides an unparalleled getaway, whether for the day or for an extended luxury stay.
Offering 5,500 of the hottest slots, table games, world-class entertainment, 1,100 hotel rooms, dining, spa and golf at Journey at Pechanga, Pechanga Resort Casino features a destination unmatched in California. Pechanga Resort Casino is owned and operated by the Pechanga Band of Indians. For more information, call toll free (877) 711-2946 or visit www.Pechanga.com. Follow Pechanga Resort Casino on Facebook, Instagram and on X @PechangaCasino. (Advertising Supplement)
At the ribbon-cutting ceremony: (from left) Dr. Ara Airapetian, Chief Medical Officer; Jessica Cardoza, Clinic Supervisor; Glendale Mayor Elen Asatryan; Araceli Lopez, Clinic Administrator; and Pedro Ramirez, Director of Outreach and Community Engagement.
Pechanga Resort Casino Resort & Casino Towers with The Cove pool oasis in foreground.
Photo courtesy of Pechanga Resort Casino
Miss Universe officially unveils 1st Filipino-made ‘Light of Infinity’ crown
by Kristofer Purnell Philstar.com
MANILA — The Miss Universe Organization shared a sneak peek of the creative process behind the first Filipino-made crown to be worn by the winner of the pageant’s 2024 edition.
The Filipino-crafted crown made by international brand Jewelmer is the “Lumiere de L’Infini” or “The Light of Infinity.”
Established in 1979 by a French pearl farmer and a Filipino entrepreneur, Jewelmer is renowned for its South Sea pearls, which adorn the new crown.
“Countless hands have contributed to this masterpiece — from Jewelmer’s dedicated pearl farmers to the Filipino master craftsmen — making it a striking emblem of the magic that transpires when man works in harmony with nature,” the brand said.
The new Miss Universe crown, the “Lumiere de L’Infini” or “Light of Infinity” Miss Universe Organization
A video of posted by the Miss Universe Organization shows how the golden crown was shaped from scratch, slowly designed by pearls and diamonds of different sizes. The final crown makes use of 20 pearls spread out in a golden and diamond pattern, with one pearl in the middle of a sun-like centerpiece with more diamonds in its “rays.”
The “Lumiere de L’Infini” is the successor of the “Force for Good” crown worn by FilipinoAmerican R’Bonney Gabriel and current Miss Universe titleholder Sheynnis Palacios from Nicaragua. Chelsea Manalo is vying to be the first wearer of the “Lumiere de L’Infini” and be the Philippines’ fifth-ever winner after Gloria Diaz, Margie Moran, Pia Wurtzbach, and Catriona Gray. She faces competition from nearly 130 other delegates, including three half-Filipinas, for the coronation in Mexico on November 16 (the 17th in the Philippines).
Nadine Lustre gushes over Christophe Bariou, sparks engagement rumors
FANS of couple Nadine Lustre and Christophe Bariou were abuzz with engagement speculations, after the actress shared a note from the latter about conquering the world together.
Lustre showed moments of her island life with Bariou through her Instagram page on Sunday, Nov 10. One of the photos shows a note she received from Bariou which reads: “Can’t wait to discover and conquer the world with you.” “Man, oh man, you’re my best friend. I scream it to the nothingness,” Lustre captioned her post. Netizens then took to the comments section to gush over the couple, with some speculating if Bariou had already popped the question. Lustre as well as Bariou did not immediately comment on the engagement speculations as of this writing.
Lustre and Bariou’s relationship was revealed in January 2022. The pair then made their first public appearance as a couple in August 2023. In October of the same year, the couple launched their wine business, which they regard as their passion project and their “new baby.” The couple also opened a vegan restaurant last July, then introduced their plant-based milk earlier this month.
Bariou previously opened up about his relationship with Lustre, saying what he loves the most about them is that they both “deeply care”
about a lot of things. “We both deeply care about a lot, and we can’t stand injustice and how the Philippines has so much potential but is stuck and slow because of corruption and manipulation,” he said. (Inquirer. net)
Piolo Pascual shares fatherhood lessons from ‘Pamilya Sagrado’
by Charmie Joy Pagulong Philstar.com
ESSAYING the role of President Rafael in the ABSCBN’s family drama “ Pamilya Sagrado ” has posed some challenges for Piolo Pascual but he nevertheless gleaned some valuable lessons from his character and the series.
“(It was a challenge) playing the president, playing the father of these two kids (Grae Fernandez as Justin and Kyle Echarri as Moises).
And playing alongside the greats (actors), Tirso Cruz III, John Arcilla, and of course, watching them, Shaina (Magdayao), Aiko (Melendez), they brought so much passion
in their work. Ang sarap ‘pag kasama ka dun ,” he said at a presscon. “ So yun lang yung nakaka -challenge every time to come to the set and you have to prepare for scenes.”
He added that he was able to learn a lot from the show and was also able to apply it to real life. “Being a father, being a person, being a human being, (and) being a son. I guess dedication to the craft, and being willing to learn and be told what to do. I guess, the attitude is important.”
He further cited the younger actors that he was able to collaborate with in the series and shared how they got close
‘Get it, girl’: Tyra Banks shows support for Chelsea Manalo
by Kristofer Purnell Philstar.com
MANILA — From one Black woman to another.
Model-host Tyra Banks expressed her support for Miss Universe Philippines 2024 Chelsea Manalo, just days before the 73rd edition of Miss Universe is set to take place.
On Chelsea’s pinned headshot photo — taken by Seven Barretto — on Instagram, which she posted last month, Tyra commented: “Get it, girl!!!!!”
Chelsea liked and pinned the comment which as of writing has earned nearly 20,000 likes, easily trumping the past comments by fellow beauty queens Catriona Gray, Pauline Amelinckx, Ahtisa Manalo, Angelique Manto, and Hannah Arnold.
On another photo set documented by Seven which Chelsea posted last week, Tyra commented: “Work!!!” and a fire emoji. Tyra also now even follows the Filipino beauty queen.
The Philippine delegate also liked that comment, which now has up to 7,600 likes, the only other comment with four digits apart from the one left by Chelsea’s roommate Miss
Chelsea was clearly surprised and ecstatic to see Tyra’s comments, putting up the first one in an Instagram story with accompanying text that read, “OMG!!!!!!”
The Miss Universe Philippines Organization even posted Tyra’s initial comment on Chelsea’s headshot on its own account.
“When the legend herself, Tyra Banks, notices our very own Miss Universe Philippines, Chelsea Manalo. You deserve all this!” the caption for that post said.
She joins nearly 130 candidates in vying to succeed Sheynnis Palacios as Miss
2024 this November 16 (the 17th in the Philippines).
Nadine Lustre Photo from Instagram/@nadine
Piolo Pascual during a mediacon for ABS-CBN’s family drama ‘Pamilya Sagrado.’ Philstar.com photo
Universe Peru 2024 Tatiana Calmell.
It can be recalled that Tyra previously expressed her support for past Miss Universe Philippines queens Pia Wurtzbach and Catriona Gray, who both went on to win their respective competitions. Chelsea is the first FilipinoBlack American to represent the Philippines at Miss Universe as she guns to be the country’s fifth winner after Wurtzbach, Gray, Margie Moran, and Gloria Diaz.
Universe
Composite images of Chelsea Manalo and Tyra Banks Miss Universe Philippines, Tyra Banks via Facebook
Filipino language and a great introduction to Filipino culture. To support communities affected by natural disasters in the Philippines, Dr Francisco had raised funds through a digital book “Balikbayan Box: Journey to the Philippines.” Through her work as a psychologist and author, she empowers individuals to connect with their heritage, embrace their emotions, and create positive change.
Past recipients of the Author of the Year Award were Paulino Lim, Jr., Ph.D. in 2019, and Rhacel Salazar Parrenas, Ph.D. in 2021. Dr. Lim won the award for his contributions to the community through his notable literary works - novels, short stories, plays and his dedication in molding the minds of his students as professor (now Professor Emeritus) at California State UniversityLong Beach. As a criticallyacclaimed writer and professor of English literature, he was one of the twenty-three honored with the 2016 Presidential Award for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas—for his fiction and scholarly essays that are constructive criticisms of the political, social and religious problems in the Philippines. Also in 2016, he was honored with a lifetime achievement award for his significant contributions to Philippine literature from his alma mater University of Santa Tomas. Rhacel Salazar Parrenas, Ph.D. has done dedicated research on the plight of Filipino domestic workers which opened the eyes of the world to the plight of overseas foreign workers. (OFWs). She holds the Doris Stevens Professor of Sociology and Gender and Sexuality Studies at Princeton University. And have previously taught at the University of Southern California. Her research has been featured in NPR’s “The World”, Bloomberg News, The New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, de Volkskrant, and the American Prospect. She has written five monographs, co-edited three anthologies, and published a number of peer-reviewed articles. Dr Parrenas holds a BA degree in Peace and Conflict Studies from UC-Berkeley where she also received her Ph.D. in comparative ethnic studies with a designated emphasis in women, gender and sexuality. She works on issues such as gender,
migration, and globalization, particularly the international division of reproductive labor, also known as the care chain. Her work has inspired books and studies, including reports released by the United Nations. The idea of the care chain also inspired the production of the documentary “The Care Chain” by VPRO-TV in the Netherlands. Authors based in CA who have done Book Talks at the bookshop have been invited to the event and they will likewise sign their books. Our FilAM community has been blessed with talented authors and guests will have a chance to buy their signed books as Gifts of Culture this Christmas! Visit the FaceBook page of the bookshop for more details. Also visit their online bookshop: www. philippinebookshop.com
Philippine Expressions Bookshop, established in 1984, has been a cornerstone for Filipino writers and readers, fostering a community that cherishes the rich tapestry of Filipino literature and culture. With a wide selection of books, art, and cultural materials, the
bookshop serves as a hub for literary and cultural exchange. Over the years, it has served as a vital platform for both established and emerging authors, bridging cultural ties and promoting the vibrant narratives of the Filipino diaspora. For four decades, the bookshop has been committed to providing a platform for Filipino voices and fostering a love for reading among people of all ages.
Founder Linda Nietes-Little has received the 2022 Banaag Award, a Philippine Presidential Award conferred on overseas Filipino individuals or organizations for their significant contributions in the host country that have benefited and advanced the cause and interest of the Filipino diaspora/overseas FIlipino community. Banaag in Filipino translates to a “glimmer or ray of light, an inspiration.
Whether you are a long-time patron or a first-time visitor, Philippine Expressions Bookshop welcomes you to enjoy a day of cultural enrichment, inspiration, and community spirit. The event is free and open to the public but RSVP as needed. n
while filming.
“It’s very refreshing,” he offered. “’Cause you know growing up, you look up to the senior actors and now you’re working with the younger ones.”
He was amazed by their commitment and their professionalism, he mentioned. “Because it’s difficult to work with some na malaki ulo or may attitude. And I must (say) with these two, wala akong naramdaman na ganung ere .”
“They’re always willing to learn, to grow and just to commit, so masaya . It was a good set to be in kasi nagenjoy kami lahat sa process,” he continued.
Piolo and the other members of the cast have also developed a special bond among them. He recalled having a small get together with “ Pamilya Sagrado ” friends, like visiting Mylene Dizon in Sta. Rosa and holding a reunion gathering with Kyle, Shaina, Joel Torre, among others.
“We are that close. This is the show na talaga tapos na yung show, we are still friends. We have a group chat and we see each other constantly. Ma-mi- miss mo katrabaho . You will miss your work kasi iba talaga yung binibigay nila . I’ve known Mylene for so long and we became close (through the show).”
“ Pamilya Sagrado ” is now down to its last few episodes. The finale of the series will air on Nov. 15 at 9:30 p.m. on Kapamilya Channel, A2Z, TV5, Kapamilya Online Live, and TFC.
The latest episodes can be enjoyed on-demand for up to 21 days after they are first streamed on Kapamilya Online Live on YouTube. The series also streams 48 hours before its TV broadcast on iWantTFC. The show is also available to viewers in and out of the Philippines on iWantTFC, while viewers outside of the Philippines can watch on The Filipino Channel on cable and IPTV.
The viewers can watch out for “very explosive revelations and a lot of
touching and moving scenes,” Piolo teased. He even sobbed while watching the remaining episodes. “I cried at my own scenes,” he shared. “Because it’s that heavy, intense yung mga nangyayaring revelations.
And of course, when you found (out that) he’s my son (Moises) and then he confronted (me) and then I’m estranged with my real son.
Of course, they’re both my sons.” “It’s tough, you’re on the run, you’re a fugitive, and then you have to deal with these things and it was a difficult journey. So, it needs to have a great ending. And asahan ng mga tao na mapapasaya naman sila sa ending because even my mom would tell me, ‘Son, ang bigat bigat naman ng show mo .’”
