Fil-Am labor leaders inducted into US Labor Dept’s Hall of Honor Young Fil-Ams invited to apply for 2025 IMPACT! internship program
The internship program offers a unique opportunity for young Filipino American adults to gain firsthand experience with the U.S. government and political system in Washington, D.C., engage civically and reflect on their potential role as future leaders in strengthening U.S.-Philippines relations. IMPACT! provides young adults with the skills and knowledge to transform into leaders
Larry Itliong, Philip Vera Cruz and Peter Gines Velasco honored for courage, perseverance in fighting for labor rights
WASHINGTON – Filipino American labor leaders Larry Itliong, Philip Vera Cruz and Peter Gines Velasco have been inducted into the U.S. Department of Labor’s Hall of Honor for their courage and perseverance in fighting for labor rights.
Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su said she was honored to induct the Fil-Am labor leaders into the Department’s Hall of Honor, “where they take their rightful place among giants in the labor movement who have shaped the fabric of American history.”
“Itliong, Vera Cruz and Velasco rallied farmworkers – who endured prejudice, low wages and poor working conditions – to courageously organize for fairer wages and humane treatment, all while providing food
PAGE 4
Winners, losers emerge as peso weakens
THERE are winners and losers when the peso is weak.
Last Thursday, Nov. 21, the local currency revisited the record-low 59:$1 it last touched on Oct. 17, 2022—back when an extra hawkish U.S. Federal Reserve propped up the dollar and set off a rampage across other currencies.
But this time, the peso slump is being fueled by global uncertainties following Donald Trump’s stunning election victory, which stoked fears of a global trade war as the president-elect had warned
of universal tariffs on all imported goods in the United States. That same unease is also tempering expectations of bigger rate cuts by the Fed, adding power to the resurgent dollar.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), for its part, blamed the peso’s fall on geopolitical tensions amid the escalating Russia-Ukraine war, which is driving “safe haven” demand for the greenback.
“The peso traded in line with the regional currencies we benchmark against,” the BSP said on Friday.
As it is, the current weakness of the peso has stoked both worries and cheers at home, depending
‘Love the Philippines’ returns to Times Square
Philippine Tourism campaign shines bright in NYC for the holidays
THE Philippine Department of Tourism in New York (PDOT-NY), in collaboration with the Philippine Consulate General, has once again brought a vibrant showcase of the Philippines to one of the world’s busiest intersections. The “Love the Philippines” campaign has launched its second annual display on a prominent LED billboard in Times Square, inviting millions of holiday season visitors to experience the country’s unparalleled offerings. Strategically located on Broadway between 44th and 45th Street, the campaign
features a series of 15-second videos that capture the essence of the Philippines. From its rich biodiversity and world-renowned beaches to its gastronomic delights and well-preserved cultural traditions, the billboard serves as a vibrant invitation to explore the country.
“We invite the world to discover the wonders of the Philippines. ‘Love the Philippines’ is more than a slogan; it’s an invitation to fall in love with the distinctive sights, stories, smiles, and experiences only our country can offer,” said Tourism Attaché Francisco Lardizabal.
Beyond the visuals, Lardizabal
‘Kill’ remark taken out of context – VP Sara
by
President Sara Duterte said on
Monday, November 25 that her remarks against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. were “taken out of logical context.”
She issued the statement in a letter to the National Security Council (NSC) which earlier declared that it considers all threats to the president as serious.
“I would like to see a copy of the notice of meeting with proof of service, the list of attendees, photos of the meeting, and the notarized minutes of meeting where the Council, whether present or past, resolved to consider the remarks by a vice president against a president, maliciously taken out of logical context, as a national security concern,” Duterte said in an open letter to the NSC. Last week, an enraged Duterte said that she told someone to kill Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez if she were killed. Duterte later
Reina C. TolenTino ManilaTimes.net
On November 26, 2024, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. meets with United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss areas of cooperation across various sectors. Photo courtesy of UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan “X”
by Dempsey Reyes, melvin Gascon Inquirer.net
by luisa cabato Inquirer.net
by ian nicolas p ciGaRal Inquirer.net
The ‘Love the Philippines’ campaign lights up the heart of Times Square in Manhattan, proudly showcasing the country’s stunning landscapes and inspiring audiences to experience its wonders firsthand. Photo by Sherlyn Roxas
by MoMar G. Visaya AJPress
Young Fil-Ams invited to apply for 2025...
PAGE 1
in the democratic and electoral processes, and civil society.
It offers a series of hands-on and interactive workshops, networking opportunities, placement in professional development and internship positions, one-on-one mentorship and the completion of a civic engagement project.
This program provides young people with the opportunity to intern on a national level in various offices of elected officials, public agencies or in organizations involved in the political, government and policy influencing arena.
This opportunity helps develop a stronger understanding of how government and the political system work by experiencing it from an insider’s perspective.
Not only is this program an invaluable professional experience, but also benefits the Filipino American community by increasing the interest of Filipino
Americans in American politics and civic engagement in the future.
The program is open to all U.S. or dual U.S./Philippine citizens of Filipino descent, aged 18 to 25, who are either fulltime undergraduate or graduate students in good academic standing or recent graduates with an undergraduate degree.
Selected participants will receive the “Filipino American Youth Political Leadership Award”
in the form of a $2,000 stipend. Participants will be responsible for all other expenses, including travel, housing, food and additional costs. After acceptance into the program, participants must also provide proof of health insurance and sign a liability waiver.
For more information, visit the USAI website (https:// www.usasiainstitute.org/ impactprogram). Applications must be submitted by Jan. 31, 2025. (Inquirer.net)
Marcos meets UAE president...
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The Philippines and the UAE marked their 50th year of diplomatic relations last August.
In line with this, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III filed Senate Bill No. 2556, or “An Act Declaring the 19th of August of Every Year as a Special Day for the Commemoration of the ‘Philippines-United Arab Emirates Friendship Day’.” Meanwhile, last July, the Department of Trade and Industry and UAE Minister of Investment Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi forged an agreement on bolstering the two countries’ economic alliance on digital infrastructure development.
Based on a Global Media Insight blog dated September 25, 2024, Filipinos constitute 6.8 percent, or about 700,000 individuals, of the UAE’s total population. From this number, around 450,000 Filipinos reside in Dubai alone, which represents approximately 21.3 percent of the emirate’s total population. It is also the second-largest employer of Philippine expats next to Saudi Arabia, making it one of the largest Filipino communities outside of the Philippines. n
Winners, losers emerge...
PAGE 1 on who’s saying it. Impact
A cratering peso is said to benefit Filipino migrant workers because the peso value of their remittances rises when the local currency depreciates. This, in turn, can boost the spending power of the families back home, which can add support to household expenditures in the consumptionreliant Philippine economy.
At the same time, Filipino exporters can see gains when the peso dips as it makes their products more competitive in international markets. But this situation can create problems for the government and corporations with large external
borrowings, which may see the peso value of their foreigncurrency denominated debts rise when the local unit is weak.
This is why fiscal planners are minimizing the state’s exposure to foreign debts—currently accounting for 31.19 percent of the P15.89-trillion debt pile of the government as of September—to avoid too many foreign exchange risks.
Zooming out, a weakening peso would push up import costs for the Philippines, something that could fan inflation. Latest estimates from the BSP show the passthrough effect of the peso’s slide on inflation is at 0.036 percentage point per 1 percent depreciation of the local currency.
BSP defense
Some analysts had flagged the risks of a rate cutting pause by the BSP should the peso remain under pressure.
BSP Governor Eli Remolona Jr. had floated the possibility of an easing delay at the Dec. 19 meeting of the Monetary Board, citing persistent price pressures.
To prevent the peso from weakening too much and fanning inflation, the BSP chief said the central bank had been intervening in the foreign exchange market recently, albeit in “small amounts.”
On Friday, the peso appreciated by 13 centavos to close at 58.87 versus the dollar, which a trader attributed to “profit-taking ahead of the weekend.” n
‘Kill’ remark taken out of context...
PAGE 1
said that her statement was not a threat.
In her letter to the NSC, Duterte expressed her desire to present before the council “the threats to the vice president, the OVP institution and its personnel.”
The vice president also asked the council to submit within 24 hours “an explanation in writing with legal basis why the VP is not a member of the NSC or why as member I have not been invited to the meetings, whichever is applicable.”
National Security Adviser Eduardo Año earlier said that the NSC “considers all threats to the president of the Philippines as serious.”
“Any and all threats against the life of the president shall be validated and considered a matter of national security,” he said in a statement.
Duterte’s assassination threat prompted the Presidential Security Command to heighten Palace security as it shifted to red alert on Monday. n
Marcos on VP Duterte’s rant...
PAGE 1
of former President Rodrigo Duterte, the vice president’s father.
The president issued the statement in response to the remarks made by the younger Duterte in a live-streamed video conference in the wee hours of Saturday, November 23, with mainly Duterte diehard supporters (DDS) as her audience.
“Don’t worry about my security because I have already contracted an individual and told him/her that if I am killed, you should also kill BBM (President Marcos), (first lady) Liza Araneta and (Speaker) Martin Romualdez. No joke. No joke,” she said in a mix of English and Filipino, responding to a question from a DDS viewer.
“I have given instructions that if I die, do not stop until you kill (the three personalities), and then he said ‘yes,’” she added.
Rule of law
The president referred to Duterte’s pronouncements as “troubling,” citing how these were “laden with brazen expletives coupled with a threat to kill some of us.”
“If that is how easily they can make plots to kill a president, how about the ordinary citizens?”
“As a democratic country, we need to uphold the rule of law,” Marcos noted.
The president also defended the congressional investigations that zeroed in on Duterte’s use of confidential funds under the Office of the vice president (OVP) and the Department of Education (DepEd) during her tenure as secretary.
“For 12 years, I have been a legislator in both the lower and upper chambers of Congress; I recognize the mandate given to them by the citizenry and our Constitution,” he said. “As such, I respect their duty as an independent branch of our republic.”
He said all agencies of government, including those in the executive branch, cannot escape the oversight power of Congress to scrutinize the use of public funds.
Diversionary tactic
“This matter should not have ended up with all this drama if only questions raised by the Senate and House of Representatives were amply answered,” Marcos said, but without making direct reference to Duterte.
The issue would have been resolved had public officials lived up to their sworn duty of stating and not suppressing the truth, the president said.
“But instead of giving direct answers, the issue is being diverted toward ‘kwentong chicheria’ (nonsensical tales),”
referring to the findings by the Commission on Audit that the OVP had signed dubious names such as “Mary Grace Piattos,” supposedly patterned after a popular restaurant and a chips and snacks brand.
Marcos said he was unperturbed by all the criticisms hurled at his administration.
“Despite all the criticisms, I remain focused on governance.
But we cannot compromise the rule of law, which should prevail under whatever circumstances and whoever gets stung by it,” he pointed out.
“I will not allow others to succeed in dragging the entire country into the mud pit of politics,” the president added.
Fighting back Duterte has since backtracked from her earlier statements, saying in an open letter released on Monday that her remarks about the assassination plot on the president were “maliciously taken out of logical context.”
In a talk with reporters at the House of Representatives also on Monday, Duterte was also unfazed, promising to get payback for whatever the Marcos administration did to her.
Responding to the video message of the President, Duterte even recalled the assassination of former Sen. Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. in 1983 during the regime of the president’s father, which she alleged was plotted by the Marcos family. She said she had yet to see the entire statement of Marcos, but said, “I will also fight back for what they are doing to me now,” referring to the ongoing House investigations.
Duterte was at the Batasang Pambansa on Monday to join her staff summoned by the House panel, where she finally took oath, a move that she still argued was “unconstitutional.” During the hearing, Duterte made it seem as if the entire lower chamber was against her
and the OVP.
“We don’t trust anyone anymore in this country,” Duterte said, in response to queries if she has plans to take up her concerns at the Supreme Court.
“We don’t expect justice anymore in this country. This is clear political harassment. This is clear political persecution. When it comes to threats against them, it’s a matter of national security, but when it comes to us, it’s as if it’s nothing,” she stressed.
The Presidential Security Command (PSC) is not taking Duterte’s statements lightly, saying on Monday it was doubling the security detail of the president and would undertake tighter measures during his public appearances.
Maj. Nestor Endozo, PSC civil-military operations officer, said the PSC was seeking augmentation from the Philippine National Police.
“The instruction of doubling the security of the president is an offshoot of the current situation, of what was mentioned by (Vice President Duterte),” he said.
He said the PSC was awaiting instructions about proposals to put in place additional protection during the president’s public appearances, including making him use a bulletproof shield on the podium during speeches or letting him wear a protective vest.
Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. also reminded soldiers not to be rattled by the “myriad of events that transpired in our country” and to stay professional amid a widening rift between the president and the vice president.
“As soldiers, we should not be shaken by this,” he said in a speech during the flag-raising ceremony that coincided with the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women 2024 kickoff event at Camp Aguinaldo on Monday. n
HAZARD ALERT. Non-profit
PNA photo by Joan Bondoc
MESSAGE TO THE NATION. President Marcos, in a televised message on Monday, addresses the death threats made against him by Vice President Sara Duterte, reaffirming his commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety and security of all Filipinos. Screengrab from the Presidential Communications
Photo from the US-Asia Institute website
‘Love the Philippines’ returns...
PAGE 1
emphasized the campaign’s deeper focus on the warmth and hospitality of the Filipino people. “We should go beyond fun, emphasizing what we are strongest in, what our biggest asset is, which is the Filipino people itself. It comes from the heart, it evokes the hospitality, the friendliness, and warmth that comes naturally with Filipinos,” he added.
The Times Square billboard will run through December 30, 2024. Complementing this initiative are taxi-top advertisements across 2,000 New York City cabs, set to run from December 15 to 30. Meanwhile, the Philippine Center in New York will feature Philippine-themed holiday displays on its LED windows and participate in the annual Paskong Pinoy celebration.
These initiatives are part of a global “Love the Philippines” push by the Department of Tourism. Similar activations are happening worldwide, including photo booths along Santa Monica Promenade by DOT-Los Angeles, events at Manchester Arndale by DOT-London, and the Philippine Christmas Festival at Tumbalong Park by DOT-Sydney.
The campaign also includes innovative cube ads in France and participation in the Singapore Fintech Festival.
Lardizabal highlighted the strategic importance of Times Square as a focal point for the campaign. “How do we best promote the ‘Love the Philippines’ campaign? This is a no-brainer.
Times Square is where about six million people go during the holiday season, and within New York City, this is the place where we get the most number of tourists both domestically and internationally,” he explained. As the Philippines sets its sights on a strong close to 2024, tourism numbers from the United States reflect the effectiveness of such initiatives. “As of November 1, we have reached 867,000 arrivals from the United States. We are looking at a 1.1 million target; we have recalibrated our targets in terms of tourism revenue,” Lardizabal revealed. n As Tourism Attaché Francisco Lardizabal emphasized, “This is not just about promoting destinations—it’s about showcasing the heart and soul of the Filipino people, whose warmth and friendliness make every visit unforgettable.”
Downed power lines are extremely dangerous and require immediate attention. If you happen to see one, play it safe. Stay away, then call 911 and SDG&E immediately.
Learn more at sdge.com/safety
Senate ends probe on illegal POGOS, leaves Alice Guo’s fate to courts
by JavieR Joe ismael ManilaTimes.net
MANILA — The Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality concluded its investigation on Tuesday, November 26 into the illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) in Tarlac and Pampanga. It took 16 hearings before the committee closed the investigation, which highlighted some of the crimes linked to POGO such as large-scale scamming, corruption, kidnapping,
Mayor Alice Guo, a Chinese citizen, who had allegedly "defamed the identity of a Filipino, amassed wealth, and committed crimes against genuine Filipinos."
The lawmaker said that Guo abused birth certificate registration, immigration procedures, passport and visa applications, setting up businesses in the name of a company, bank secrecy, and the privilege of participating and running for office in elections. n
Marcos signs a flurry of proclamations, EOs
by Delon poRcalla Philstar.com
MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has issued several executive order and proclamations regarding various declarations across the country. They are as follows: Proclamation No. 753: Declaring the Month of October of Every Year as “National Agriculture and Fisheries Extension Services Month”
• Proclamation No. 754: Declaring Monday, 02 December 2024, a Special (Non-working) Day in the Municipality of Bonifacio, Province of Misamis Occidental Executive Order No. 75: Strengthening the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions Executive Order No. 76: Declaring the ‘Tara, Basa! Tutoring Program’ as a Flagship Program of the National Government All were signed last November 22, except for Proclamation No. 754 which was forged last November 25. They were uploaded in the Official Gazette on Tuesday, November 26. n
Fil-Am labor leaders inducted into US...
PAGE 1 for families across the country,”
Su said during the induction ceremony this week.
“These three leaders instilled and inspired change for those who valiantly labor in the fields.”
Itliong, Vera Cruz and Velasco were recognized for their service to Filipino farmworkers, starting in 1959 with the organization of the Agricultural Workers Organizing Committee at the Filipino Hall in Delano, California.
In 1965, the AWOC led the Delano Grape Strike, where more than 800 Filipino farmworkers in the grape fields went on strike against powerful grape industry growers.
In addition to the victories they achieved for farmworkers, their work is a reminder of what can be achieved when workers of all backgrounds come together to advocate for higher wages and better working conditions.
“Together we stand on the shoulders of those who struggled, labored, and organized before us, and in doing so, blazed a trail for us,” said former Cerritos
Mayor Mark Pulido, one of the Fil-Am leaders who attended the induction ceremony. “We have a shared commitment to keeping their legacies alive.”
The cast of “Larry the Musical” performed during the ceremony. The musical is based on the book
“Journey for Justice: The Life of Larry Itliong” by Dawn Bohulano Mabalon and Gayle Romasanta.
Acting Secretary Su presented medals commemorating the ceremony to the family members of Itliong, Vera Cruz and Velasco.
Established in 1988, the Hall of Honor recognizes the accomplishments and impact of dozens of groups and individuals on the nation’s workforce and workplaces. The hall is located
inside the north plaza of the department’s headquarters in the Frances Perkins Building.
U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) applauded Acting Secretary Su for commemorating “the tremendous contributions that these Filipino labor leaders made to our country and the labor movement.”
“Their leadership, determination and courage in fighting for better wages and improved working conditions continues to inspire me, and this well-deserved tribute to them is an outstanding way to ensure that our nation – and future generations – always remember the crucial work they did and the legacies they left behind,” Meng said. (Inquirer.net)
Make America healthy again: An unconventional movement that may have found its moment
by stephanie amouR KFF Health Newa
WITHIN days of Donald Trump’s election victory, health care entrepreneur Calley Means turned to social media to crowdsource advice.
“First 100 days,” said Means, a former consultant to Big Pharma who uses the social platform X to focus attention on chronic disease. “What should be done to reform the FDA?”
The question was more than rhetorical. Means is among a cadre of health business leaders and nonmainstream doctors who are influencing President Donald Trump’s focus on health policy.
Trump’s return to the White House has given Means and others in this space significant clout in shaping the nascent health policies of the new administration and its federal agencies. It’s also giving newfound momentum to “Make America Healthy Again,” or MAHA, a controversial movement that challenges prevailing thinking on public
health and chronic disease.
Its followers couch their ideals in phrases like “health freedom” and “true health.”
Their stated causes are as diverse as revamping certain agricultural subsidies, firing National Institutes of Health employees, rethinking childhood vaccination schedules, and banning marketing of ultra-processed foods to children on TV.
Public health leaders say the emerging Trump administration’s interest in elevating the sometimes unorthodox concepts could be catastrophic, eroding decades of scientific progress while spurring a rise in preventable disease. They worry the administration’s support could weaken trust in public health agencies.
Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association, said he welcomes broad intellectual scientific discussion but is concerned that Trump will parrot untested and unproven public health ideas he hears as if they are fact. Experience has shown that
people with unproven ideas will have his ear and his “very large bully pulpit,” he said. “Because he’s president, people will believe he won’t say things that aren’t true. This president, he will.”
But those in the MAHA camp have a very different take. They say they have been maligned as dangerous for questioning the status quo. The election has given them an enormous opportunity to shape politics and policies, and they say they won’t undermine public health. Instead, they say, they will restore trust in federal health agencies that lost public support during the pandemic.
“It may be a brilliant strategy by the right,” said Peter McCullough, a cardiologist who has come under fire for saying covid-19 vaccines are unsafe. He was describing some of the election-season messaging that mainstreamed their perspectives. “The right was saying we care about medical and environmental issues. The left was pursuing abortion rights and a negative campaign on
CYCLING PROMOTION. ALT Mobility PH transport planner director Ira Cruz (center) answers question from the media
From left: Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su with Larry Itliong’s daughters Sandra Itliong Bowman and Patty Itliong Serda, and Deborah Vollmer. Contributed photos
Fil-Am community leaders attend the induction ceremony.
From left: Filipino American labor leaders Peter Gines Velasco, Larry Itliong and Philip Vera Cruz. File photos
Dateline PhiliPPines
AFP mum on reported US plan to deploy missiles for Taiwan emergency
by cRistina chi Philstar.com
MANILA — The Armed Forces of the Philippines
sidestepped questions on Tuesday, November 26, about the United States’ plans to deploy missile units in the country in the event of a crisis in the Taiwan Strait. It disclosed however that it has contingencies ready to secure 200,000 Filipinos if China invades the self-ruled island.
A Kyodo News report on Monday, November 25, citing sources familiar with Japan-US relations, said the U.S. Army would deploy the Multi-Domain Task Force’s long-range fire units in the Philippines as part of its joint operation plan with Japan to prepare for a Taiwan contingency.
The AFP dodged questions about the matter in a press conference on Tuesday, choosing instead to highlight its own separate contingency plan to evacuate Filipino nationals working or residing in Taiwan in case Beijing invades.
“We’ve seen the article, sir, and if you read it closely, it states that there is still unverified sources in terms of the details that were given,” AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said.
“We respectfully defer that question to the proper sources of information for them to clarify,” Padilla added.
Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, the Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, confirmed the military has drawn up plans separate from the reported US-Japan preparations.
He did not respond to a question on whether U.S. forces are allowed to deploy missile units at Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites.
“That particular article mentioned the contingency planning of the U.S. and Japan in the event of escalation in the Taiwan Strait... The AFP has its own contingency plans and our forces will be deployed appropriately,” Trinidad said.
“Our engagements with other countries are all part of the contingency plans of the AFP,” he added.
Trinidad said protecting Filipinos in Taiwan is a constitutional mandate. “There are approximately 200,000 Filipinos there so we have to be ready to take care of the welfare of the Filipinos in as much as this is the third leg of our mandate in the constitution.”
The Navy official added that the military’s contingency planning involves coordination with regional partners and allies.
China on Monday condemned reports of the U.S.’ missile deployment plan. Beijing’s foreign ministry said through its spokesperson that China “firmly opposes countries using the Taiwan issue as a pretext to increase military deployments in the region, which only stirs up tensions, fosters confrontation, and undermines regional peace and stability.”
Before this, China had voiced serious concerns over the Philippines’ decision to hold onto a U.S. mid-range missile system it received earlier this year that can reach mainland China when fired from northern Luzon.
Philippine and U.S. officials had agreed to keep the Typhon missile system in the country to act as a deterrent against China, which considers Taiwan a rogue island that it will one day bring under its control.
The Philippines in 2023 granted U.S. forces access to four more military sites under EDCA. Three of these are in northern Luzon facing Taiwan, while one is in Palawan facing the South China Sea. n
CHR demands transparency from media companies as layoffs increase
by cRistina chi Philstar.com
MANILA — The Commission on Human Rights
urged media companies on Tuesday, November 26, to be more transparent about their layoff decisions and provide adequate support to displaced workers after job cuts hit around 400 this year.
The call follows ABS-CBN’s layoff of 100 employees this October and CNN Philippines’ shutdown in January that displaced an estimated 300 media workers.
“While we acknowledge that traditional media outlets face revenue declines due to shifting audiences and the growth of new media, the Commission emphasizes the employees’ right to transparency from their companies’ management,” the human rights body said in a statement.
ABS-CBN, whose franchise renewal bid was killed in 2020 during the Duterte administration, laid off 3% of its workforce in October due to declining advertising revenues.
This follows the shutdown of CNN Philippines earlier this year, which closed its operations due to “serious financial losses” that were worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The CHR expressed concern that “media workers are being forced to accept abrupt job losses as
employees continue to face uncertainty following the network’s franchise denial in 2020.
“The CHR has previously stressed that this decision—lacking fairness and justice—has inevitably cast a chilling effect on press freedom,” the human rights body said.
While acknowledging that media outlets operate as businesses, the CHR emphasized that “journalism is a vital public service.
“The CHR also said media companies must strike a balance between their business interests and their responsibility to their workers, particularly given the media’s crucial role in democracy and the approaching 2025 elections.”
With the 2025 local and national elections approaching, timely and credible information is even more crucial in empowering Filipinos to choose competent public servants. We cannot uphold a firm standard of truth in the country if journalists are unable to carry out their duties,” it said.
“Just as the media has consistently played its valuable role in shaping communities and societies, it is now imperative that we equally ensure the protection of their rights as workers and as bastions of truth,” it added.
Irene Khan, the United Nations special rapporteur on freedom of expression and opinion, said in February that CNN Philippines’ closure was a “worrying sign” for media freedom in the country.
After her 10-day assessment of human rights and press freedom in the country, Khan noted that media’s essential function in public information and dialogue was being undermined by powerful economic and political interests, which she said was eroding media and editorial freedom both in the
UNiTE vs violence
IT’S unfortunate that the nation’s highest ranking female official threatened to unleash lethal violence against the president, his wife and his cousin who is the Speaker of the House as the world prepared to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
Vice President Sara Duterte should have been leading the events in the country marking the special day on Monday, November 25, during which the United Nations kicked off the 16day UNiTE campaign, from Nov. 25 to Dec. 10, to end violence against women.
Editorial
Violence against women and girls persists in this country, despite the existence of laws including one of the world’s toughest against domestic violence – Republic Act 9262, the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act of 2004.
UN Women reports that worldwide, a woman was murdered every 10 minutes by partners and family members, with the problem exacerbated by conflicts and climate change. UN Women describes violence against women and girls as “one of the most prevalent and pervasive human rights violations in the world,” with one in three women worldwide having been subjected at least once in life to physical or sexual intimate partner violence, non-partner sexual violence, or both.
Accountability requires victims seeking help, identifying their oppressors and pursuing complaints. This, however, is a problem in many societies. Because of poverty and undereducation, too many Filipino women are unaware of their rights under the
The escalating war in Ukraine is already sending chills down the spine of many people, most especially those in Europe.
Shortly after U.S. President Biden gave the greenlight for the use of U.S.-made longrange missiles, Ukraine fired eight ATACMS (Army Tactical Missile System) missiles that hit a Russian weapon arsenal in Bryansk Oblast on Tuesday, November 26.
In response to the ATACMS firing, President Vladimir Putin approved changes to Russia’s nuclear doctrine that says an attack from a non-nuclear state with the backing or support by a nuclear country would be considered a joint attack – giving Russia the right to use nuclear weapons as a response.
Clearly, the war seems to be “escalating quickly and unpredictably” as New York Times’ German Lopez described it, with Ukraine also firing the UK-provided, longer-range Storm Shadow missiles at
ALL hell broke loose, so to speak. It was like seeing a dormant but active volcano called Mt. Apo in Davao City erupt without warning over the weekend. Also known as the highest point in the Philippines, Mt. Apo last erupted in 1640 and thankfully has been calm for so many years. Smouldering in wrath, Vice President Sara Duterte unleashed her bottled up fury. The volcanic-like temper of VP Sara cut down to pieces the people who blocked her path. Blinded by rage, the VP unfortunately forgot her role as the second highest elected official of the land. As such, she must be responsible for the welfare and national interest of our people and country over and above anything else, come what may. But her personal gripes, frustrations and disappointments over politics got the better of her.
Methinks, VP Sara let her
law. And even when the awareness is there, too many women are scared of seeking help, wondering if the law will protect them from their abusers. There have been numerous reports of battered women complaining that barangay officials, who are mandated by law to provide the first line of assistance to victims of domestic violence, refuse to help the women, dismissing the complaints as private matters. For other women, including those with sufficient education and financial means, domestic violence still carries a stigma. Fearing public humiliation, they eschew seeking help or filing a complaint against their oppressors. Some simply relocate to other cities or move to another country to escape further abuse. These are among the hurdles that must be overcome as the international community intensifies efforts to end violence against women and girls, and to hold the perpetrators accountable. In the Philippines, women occupy high office, and it doesn’t look like the vice president is a victim of domestic violence. But millions of other Filipino women face physical, sexual and other forms of abuse. With a woman being murdered every 10 minutes by abusive spouses, partners or male family members, the world must race to stop further violence. (Philstar.com)
Anticipating the Trump immigration policy
targets inside Russia for the first time. According to the BBC, the Storm Shadow is an “AngloFrench cruise missile” with a high-explosive warhead and is called “Scalp” by the French. The Biden administration’s decision allowing Ukraine to use the ATACMS is perceived to be in response to North Korea’s sending of thousands of soldiers to Russia. Reports say over 100,000 North Koreans may be deployed as the relationship between Moscow and Pyongyang deepens. North Korean President Kim Jong Un reportedly told troops to “go all out” – not surprising since Russia is reportedly paying each soldier $2,000 a month.
U.S. ambassador to the UN Robert Wood had warned that North Korean forces entering Ukraine would “return in body bags,” while South Korea said it will not sit idly by and is prepared to do what it takes, including the option to directly supply weapons to Ukraine. Seoul has been providing financial and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, sending non-lethal military supplies and artillery shells indirectly through the U.S. But all of this could change, said South Korean President Yoon
Suk-yeol.
According to an article titled, “How Should Seoul Respond to North Korea’s Soldiers in Russia?” published by the United States Institute of Peace, the greatest threat to South Korea is the possibility that Russia might provide North Korea with advanced military technologies that include nuclear-powered submarine technology; highresolution satellite imaging for improved intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities; and combat aircraft to reduce the gap with South Korea’s air superiority.
Foreign ministers from France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain and the United Kingdom have also expressed tremendous concern about Russia’s “hybrid warfare” and issued a joint statement accusing Russia of “systematically attacking European security architecture.”
Last week, two fiber-optic internet cables in the Baltic Sea – one connecting Sweden and Lithuania and the other connecting Finland and Germany – were cut, with European officials suspecting Russia of sabotage and accusing it of stepping up its hybrid attacks across allied territories
Money politics
unhinged self pour her deepseated hurt when she had a zoom conference with known social media vloggers of DDS (diehard Duterte supporters). She apparently did not know the entire video zoom conferencing of her ranting and harangue were shared online by the likes of Maharlika, Lorraine Badoy, the SMNI network identified with detained Pastor Quiboloy, who were among those seen in the video screen behind her.
Aside from the cussing, the visibly incensed VP Sara nonchalantly announced having hired an unnamed “assassin” to specifically kill President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.(PBBM), his wife First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, Speaker Martin Romualdez. That is, in case she is killed.
Armed Forces chief of staff Gen. Romeo Brawner was not even spared, as VP Sara accused him of “comfortably speaking” while the country is supposedly in turmoil. It was short of asking the military to intervene anew ala 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution. VP Sara though would later clarify
the people only need to go to Malacañang Palace. Still sounds like inciting to sedition.
But there was a notable shift back to VP Sara’s public statements and official demeanor hours later, when the mainstream media covered the ensuing “drama” at the Batasan Pambansa complex in Quezon City. As a lawyer and politician, she turned to her legalistic self and calculated public statements. What gives?
It was too late to backpedal now that all security authorities have doubled down against the assassin’s threat on PBBM. And the chief executive himself is not taking any chances. While proceeding on his scheduled state visit tomorrow morning in the United Arab Emirates, PBBM and the first lady will return to Manila later on the same day.
PBBM earlier begged off from attending the annual APEC Leaders’ Summit in Peru in deference to the victims and destruction from the series of typhoon calamities that hit the Philippines one after the other. With no less than the VP kicking up dust, PBBM could not afford
– although the presence of a Chinese ship in the area has also raised suspicions.
First defined by Frank Hoffman in his December 2007 paper titled “Conflict in the 21st Century: The Rise of Hybrid Wars,” hybrid warfare “incorporate a range of different modes of warfare” such as physical or military conflict, disinformation, cyberattacks, economic coercion and political interference to undermine or destroy a target.
Many are now looking to President-elect Donald Trump to end the war in Ukraine, who had said this will be a priority of his administration. “It’s got to stop,” Trump said, lamenting the death of thousands because of the conflict that has already gone on for more than a thousand days. Trump also vowed to work in bringing peace to the Middle East.
Our friend Lisa Curtis, director of the Indo-Pacific Security Program at the Center for a New American Security who served as deputy assistant to Presidentelect Trump during his first term, said ending the war needs to be “done in a way that doesn’t encourage other U.S. adversaries to try to illegally invade their
to be out of the country to foil any political instability from another coup attempt or any destabilization plot.
At the rate of deep division being sown upon us, it is incumbent upon PBBM, as the father of the Filipino nation, to reach out to disgruntled and feuding children, including his 46-year-old VP Sara.
In her rage-filled narratives, VP Sara recalled it all started after the Speaker, PBBM’s first cousin, met with the Makabayan bloc late last year. Brutally frank, she berated Manila Rep. Joel Chua and the left-leaning House Makabayan bloc.
From then on, according to VP Sara, this “drama” unfolded.
The House of Representatives started its legislative inquiry into the questioned use of P612.5 million in confidential and intelligence funds (CIF) in the 2023 budgets of Office of the Vice President (OVP) and the Department of Education (DepEd). As DepEd secretary, VP Sara used to concurrently serve as co-chair of the National Task Force to End the Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).
This was until June this year when she resigned from the Cabinet of PBBM.
The House committee on good
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neighbor’s territory.”
The situation in Europe has raised concerns that the same thing could happen in the Indo-Pacific region with North Korea ratcheting up its nuclear threats and China’s continued aggression particularly against the Philippines.
According to a recent Foreign Affairs magazine article, “The True Aims of China’s Nuclear Buildup,” our giant neighbor has “initiated a short-of-war coercion campaign to dissolve the U.S. alliance system in the Pacific, and its increasingly sophisticated nuclear arsenal gives it more leverage to achieve this objective without igniting a catastrophic great-power war.”
If World War 3 were to ever break out, everyone knowledgeable recognizes it would be more devastating than World War 2 and could literally spell the end of the world.
Undoubtedly, technologically advanced nuclear weapons have become more lethal and whose impact will be far greater than Hiroshima.
In his speech before a Joint Meeting of the U.S. Congress last April, former Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida – who knows it only too well being a
government chaired by Rep. Chua tried but failed to summon VP Sara to appear before them to explain the CIF expenditures of the OVP and the DepEd.
Although they failed to get the VP to cooperate with them, DepEd and OVP officials under her were invited to testify. Initially, six of the OVP officials refused to attend.
One of them, OVP chief of staff lawyer Zuleika Lopez, however, left the country purportedly to visit relatives in the United States.
Under pain of contempt charges, the six OVP officials subsequently showed up at the House hearing, including Lopez who flew back home last week.
For allegedly “lying” under oath during her testimony last Thursday, November 21, Lopez was cited for contempt upon the motion of another Makabayan bloc member, ACT party list Rep. France Castro.
Upon learning this, VP Sara wrote two letter requests to Rep. Chua. In her first letter, she asked to be allowed to visit Lopez. And in the second letter, she asked to be allowed to stay with Lopez, who was being detained at the House Legislative Security Building at Batasan. That very Thursday night, VP Sara slept at the House office of her brother, Davao City
native of Hiroshima – said he has devoted his political career to bringing about a world without nuclear weapons. During the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony last August, he talked of the human suffering caused by the atomic bomb, saying the horror of nuclear devastation must never be repeated.
As a country, the Philippines has never provoked or instigated conflicts, always trying to resolve issues through peaceful means. We also continue to reach out to allies and friends, not only the U.S. but other like-minded nations, through bilateral engagements and even multilateral coalitions which has always been the approach taken by President Marcos Jr. Being a nation of deep Catholic faith, we strongly believe in prayer – which to many of us can often be the more powerful weapon.
God bless our country! (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
Rep. Polong Duterte. What finally made VP Sara blow her top was the sudden and hasty House committee order to transfer Lopez to the Women’s Correctional in Mandaluyong City. Nine members of the House sergeant-at-arms fetched Lopez midnight of Friday, November 22. Acting as the lawyer for Lopez, the VP tried but failed to stop the House from implementing the transfer order.
Stress-stricken Lopez vomitted. Fearing Lopez had a heart attack of sorts drove the feisty VP crazy angry. It was at this juncture that all hell broke loose.
From a legal standpoint, the VP camp had valid arguments. But for us ordinary Filipinos, VP Sara’s revelations show that all of her woes trace their roots to “money politics.” Alas, it’s our taxpayers’ money that they are all fighting about.
With the May 2025 national and local elections just around the corner, we dread the thought of more “drama” ahead of us. (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.
Make America healthy again...
PAGE 4
Trump. But everyone should care about health. Health should be apolitical.”
The movement is largely anti-regulatory and anti-big government, whether concerning raw milk or drug approvals, although implementing changes would require more regulation. Many of its concepts cross over to include ideas that have also been championed by some on the far left.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an anti-vaccine activist Trump has nominated to run the Department of Health and Human Services, has called for firing hundreds of people at the National Institutes of Health, removing fluoride from water, boosting federal support for psychedelic therapy, and loosening restrictions on raw milk, consumption of which can expose consumers to foodborne illness. Its sale has prompted federal raids on farms for not complying with food safety regulations.
Means has called for top-down changes at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which he says has been co-opted by the food industry.
Though he himself is not trained in science or medicine, he has said people had almost no chance of dying of covid-19 if they were “metabolically healthy,” referring to eating, sleeping, exercise, and stress management habits, and has said that about 85% of deaths and health care costs in the U.S. are tied to preventable foodborne metabolic conditions.
A co-founder of Truemed, a company that helps consumers use pretax savings and reimbursement programs on supplements, sleep aids, and exercise equipment, Means says he has had conversations behind closed doors with dozens of members of Congress. He said he also helped bring RFK Jr. and Trump together. RFK Jr. endorsed Trump in August after ending his independent presidential campaign.
“I had this vision for a year, actually. It sounds very woowoo, but I was in a sweat tent with him in Austin at a campaign event six months before, and I just had this strong vision of him standing with Trump,” Means said recently on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast.
The former self-described never-Trumper said that, after Trump’s first assassination
attempt, he felt it was a powerful moment. Means called RFK Jr. and worked with conservative political commentator Tucker Carlson to connect him to the former president. Trump and RFK Jr. then had weeks of conversations about topics such as child obesity and causes of infertility, Means said.
“I really felt, and he felt, like this could be a realignment of American politics,” Means said. He is joined in the effort by his sister, Casey Means, a Stanford University-trained doctor and co-author with her brother of “Good Energy,” a book about improving metabolic health. The duo has blamed Big Pharma and the agriculture industry for increasing rates of obesity, depression, and chronic health conditions in the country. They have also raised questions about vaccines.
“Yeah, I bet that one vaccine probably isn’t causing autism, but what about the 20 that they are getting before 18 months,”
Casey Means said in the Joe Rogan podcast episode with her brother.
The movement, which challenges what its adherents call “the cult of science,” gained significant traction during the pandemic, fueled by a backlash against vaccine and mask mandates that flourished during the Biden administration. Many of its supporters say they gained followers who believed they had been misled on the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines.
In July 2022, Deborah Birx, COVID-19 response coordinator in Trump’s first administration, said on Fox News that “we overplayed the vaccines,” although she noted that they do work.
Anthony Fauci, who advised Trump during the pandemic, in December 2020 called the vaccines a game changer that could diminish COVID-19 the way the polio vaccine did for that disease.
Eventually, though, it became evident that the shots don’t necessarily prevent transmission and the effectiveness of the booster wanes with time, which some conservatives say led to disillusionment that has driven interest in the health freedom movement.
Federal health officials say the rollout of the covid vaccine was a turning point in the pandemic and that the shots lessen the severity of the disease by teaching the
immune system to recognize and fight the virus that causes it.
Postelection, some Trump allies such as Elon Musk have called for Fauci to be prosecuted. Fauci declined to comment.
Joe Grogan, a former director of the White House’s Domestic Policy Council and assistant to Trump, said conservatives have been trying to articulate why government control of health care is troublesome.
“Two things have happened. The government went totally overboard and lied about many things during covid and showed no compassion about people’s needs outside of covid,” he said. “RFK Jr. came along and articulated very simply that government control of health care can’t be trusted, and we’re spending money, and it isn’t making anyone healthier. In some instances, it may be making people sicker.”
The MAHA movement capitalizes on many of the nonconventional health concepts that have been darlings of the left, such as promoting organic foods and food as medicine. But in an environment of polarized politics, the growing prominence of leaders who challenge what they call the cult of science could lead to more public confusion and division, some health analysts say.
Jeffrey Singer, a surgeon and senior fellow at the Cato Institute, a libertarian public policy research group, said in a statement that he agrees with RFK Jr.’s focus on reevaluating the public health system. But he said it comes with risks.
“I am concerned that many of RFK Jr.’s claims about vaccine safety, environmental toxins, and food additives lack evidence, have stoked public fears, and contributed to a decline in childhood vaccination rates,” he said.
Measles vaccination among kindergartners in the U.S. dropped to 92.7% in the 202324 school year from 95.2% in the 2019-20 school year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The agency said that has left about 280,000 kindergartners at risk.
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.
Harry Roque may be overseas – NBI
by ZacaRian saRao Inquirer.net
MANILA — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on Tuesday, Nov. 26 said it has information that former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque has left the country.
Roque is facing an arrest order from the House of Representatives after being cited for contempt and ordered to be detained due to his failure to submit documents that would supposedly justify his sudden increased wealth.
He is also facing human trafficking complaints before the Department of Justice due to his alleged “active participation” in the operations of Philippine offshore gaming operator Lucky South 99 in Porac, Pampanga.
“That is the same information we have but it’s not yet confirmed,” said NBI Director Jaime Santiago said in an interview over DZBB, when asked to comment on Vice President Sara Duterte’s statement that Roque has left the country.
Santiago then refused to
further discuss the topic as the NBI’s investigation is still ongoing.
In an online press conference last Saturday, November 23, Duterte—a known ally of Roque—accidentally said that Roque left the country.
“Ayaw umalis niyan noon sa bansa kasi ‘yung mga anak niya maiiwanan. Pero look at him,
Former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque is facing an arrest order from the House of Representatives after being cited for contempt and ordered to be detained due to his failure to submit documents that would supposedly justify his sudden increased wealth. Senate photo
umalis na lang,” Duterte said. (He didn’t want to leave the country because his children would be left behind. But look at him, he still left.) While Roque’s whereabouts have been unknown, he regularly posts on his social media and even holds online press conferences from time to time. n
Crowd gathers at EDSA Shrine ‘for reasons unknown’
by Daphne GalVez Philstar.com
MANILA — About 100 people massed in front of the EDSA Shrine in Pasig City on Tuesday, Nov. 26 although the reason for their presence was not clear and who their leader was.
Rector Rev. Fr. Jerome Secillano said in a Facebook post, that the people were at the Shrine as early as 6 a.m. for “reasons only known to them, and for some, unknown to them.”
“They were warmly allowed inside the Shrine and they participated in the celebration of
the 7:00 a.m. mass,” he said.
Secillano also said those who flocked to the shrine opted to stay inside, and were accommodated and not “shooed away.”
The same people attended the 12:15 p.m. mass, but were allowed again to stay inside the church, given that they were praying and not doing anything else.
Secillano said, however, that they “won’t be allowed to eat, drink, carry slogans, shout, vlog, sleep, make noise, debate and loiter in the areas leading to the doors of the shrine. The latter will give the impression to mass-goers, pilgrims and devotees that the
Shrine is not available for worship and prayer.”
“We insist that proper decorum be practiced in this sacred place, a house of worship and a repository of the Blessed Sacrament,” he added. He warned that the Church “won’t tolerate any unruly behavior and untoward activities that may compromise the sanctity and dignity of the House of God.”
The Sonshine Media Network Inc. (SMNI), a network known to be loyal to the Dutertes, live streamed the gathering.
No other details are available as of posting time. n
‘Get ready to rumble’ in case VP Duterte is arrested
by Faith aRGosino Inquirer.net
MANILA — Is Vice President Sara Duterte ready in case she faces arrest for her recent kill threat against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and Speaker Martin Romualdez?
“Let’s get ready to rumble, The more you hurt her, the more she [will] fight back,” Sen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa said in an interview, reacting to a media question on Tuesday, Nov 26.
Also on Tuesday, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) issued a subpoena to Duterte for her threat.
The subpoena commands
Duterte to appear before the NBI Main Office in Pasay City at 9 a.m. on Friday, November 29. She was asked to present evidence on the investigation of alleged grave threats under Article 282 of the Revised Penal Code in relation to Section 6 of the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 (Republic Act No, 10175). The document further states that Duterte may have violated the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 (RA 11479).
In a separate interview at the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC), the vice president refused to comment about the NBI’s subpoena, saying she had not read it. She and Dela Rosa were
among those who accompanied Office of the Vice President Chief of Staff Undersecretary Zuleika Lopez at the VMMC in Quezon City. Lopez was confined at the center after experiencing medical issues caused by a panic attack.
Prior to this, Lopez was cited for contempt by the panel investigating the alleged misuse of funds for OVP and DepEd after lawmakers found her committing undue interference during the committee’s sixth hearing.
The vice president also stayed at the House premises last Friday night to accompany Lopez before she was transferred to the VMMC. n
Government urged: Expand aid program for students
by Red mendoza ManilaTimes.net
A GROUP of Christian schools, colleges and universities urged the government to expand the Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education (Gastpe) initiative that helps address overcapacity in public schools.
In a statement, Association of Christian Schools, Colleges and Universities (ACSCU) head and Silliman University president Dr. Betty CernolMcCann reaffirmed the group’s commitment to the program, as it has empowered its members to provide accessible, quality education to students for the past 35 years.
“Through Gastpe, countless students, particularly [the poor], have been able to access the transformative power of a
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NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9021475
Sharetea Mira Misa located at 9827 Mira Misa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92131. Registrant: H & T Investment Group LLC, 8491 Lower Scarborought, San Diego, CA 92127. This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 10/24/2024. Signature: Tom Ta. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 10/25/2024.
AJ 1555 11/15, 11/22, 11/29, and 12/06/2024. AJSD 1555
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9022894
Suki Cleaning located at 121 Orange Ave Spc 91, Chula Vista, CA 91911. Registrant: Angelica Obeso Castro, 121 Orange Ave Spc 91, Chula Vista, CA 91911. This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE.
Signature: Angelica Obeso Castro. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 11/18/2024. AJ 1561 11/22, 11/29, 12/06, and 12/13/2024. AJSD 1561
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9021312
Solecito Childcare located at 4336 Mayberry St, San Diego, CA 92113. Registrant: Yadira Salazar, 4336 Mayberry St, San Diego, CA 92113. This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE. Signature: Yadira Salazar. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 10/23/2024. AJ 1556 11/15, 11/22, 11/29, and 12/06/2024. AJSD 1556
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VR Couture located at 320 Shady Ln. Apt 27, El Cajon, CA 92021. Registrant: a. Veronica Nissan, 320 Shady Ln. Apt 27, El Cajon, CA 92021. b. Rotana Elia, 320 Shady Ln. Apt 27, El Cajon, CA 92021 This business is conducted by A General Partnership. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE.
Signature: Veronica Nissan. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 11/19/2024. AJ 1562 11/22, 11/29, 12/06, and 12/13/2024. AJSD 1562
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9021882
Meez And Deez Nutz located at 1723 Division Street, National City, CA 91950. Registrant: Shirley Anne Cirignano, 1723 Division Street, National City, CA 91950. This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 11/01/2024. Signature: Shirley Anne Cirignano. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 11/01/2024. AJ 1557 11/15, 11/22, 11/29, and 12/06/2024. AJSD 1557
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Purin Village located at 1742 Bramblewood Ct, Chula Vista, CA 91913. Registrant: Nathaniel Desilva, 1742 Bramblewood Ct, Chula Vista, CA 91913. This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE.
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Amazing Hair And Nails located at 9918 Campo Rd, Spring Valley, CA 91977. Registrant: Trung Nguyen, 5439 Timothy Dr, Sn Diego, CA 92105. This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 02/01/2024.
Signature: Trung Nguyen. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 10/21/2024.
AJ 1558 11/15, 11/22, 11/29, and 12/06/2024. AJSD 1558
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9023143
AUTO MAX INC. located at 8045 Raytheon Road #11, San Diego, CA 92111. Registrant: AUTO MAX INC., 8045 Raytheon Road #11, San Diego, CA 92111. This business is conducted by A Corporation. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 11/06/2024. Signature: Assadullah Haqjoo.
Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 11/20/2024. AJ 1564 11/22, 11/29, 12/06, and 12/13/2024. AJSD 1564
Christian education,” CernolMcCann said.
She added that with its critical role in sustaining private Christian education in the country, Gastpe aligns with its mission to serve with compassion and integrity.
The program covers junior and senior high schools; it provides financial assistance to students and teachers, improves access to quality education, and decongest public schools.
Cernol-McCann said that in the last school year, member schools served more than 3,600 beneficiaries under Gastpe, attesting to the program’s reach and impact.
“Many of our graduates, who were once Gastpe beneficiaries, have become leaders in their communities and industries. Their successes speak of the quality of education they received and the opportunities made
possible by Gastpe,” she said.
Programs under Gastpe include education service contracting (ESC), teachers’ salary subsidy, senior high school voucher program (SHSVP), and in-service training (INSET).
The ESC allows public schools to enter service contracts with private schools to accommodate overflow students from public schools and from communities with no public schools.
“The program has also provided significant support to our teachers and educational staff. Financial resources have facilitated training and development programs, ensuring that our educators can continually adapt to evolving educational needs,” Cernon-McCann added.
ACSCU has 118 memberschools across the Philippines, serving 12.45 million studentgrantees since 1989. n
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9022624
Romero Glass located at 1151 4th Ave Apt #616, Chula Vista, CA 91911. Registrant: Jose Romero, 1151 4th Ave Apt #616, Chula Vista, CA 91911. This business is conducted by An Individual.
REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE.
Signature: Jose Romero. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 11/13/2024. AJ 1559 11/15, 11/22, 11/29, and 12/06/2024. AJSD 1559
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9022501
MAJESTIC CPR LLC located at 2013 Manzana Way, San Diego, CA 92139. Registrant: MAJESTIC CPR LLC, 2013 Manzana Way, San Diego, CA 92139. This business is conducted by A Limited Liability Company.
REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT
BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 05/02/2023. Signature: Rex Bautista. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 11/12/2024. AJ 1565 11/29, 12/06, 12/13, and 12/20/2024. AJSD 1565
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a. Marilyn Winslow located at 2002 Jimmy Durante Blvd Suite #100, Del Mar, CA 92014. b. Marilyn Winslow Realty located at 2002 Jimmy Durante Blvd Suite #100, Del Mar, CA 92014. Registrant: Marilyn Joyce Christopher, 2002 Jimmy Durante Blvd Suite #100, Del Mar, CA 92014. This business is conducted by An Individual.
REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE.
Signature: Marilyn Joyce Christopher.
Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 11/12/2024. AJ 1560 11/22, 11/29, 12/06, and 12/13/2024. AJSD 1560
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2024-9023104
Bautista Gardening Services located at 16175 Adams Dr, Pauma Valley, CA 92061. Registrant: Jose Bautista Antero, 16175 Adams Dr, Pauma Valley, CA 92061. This business is conducted by An Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 06/10/2000. Signature: Jose Bautista. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 11/20/2024. AJ 1566 11/29, 12/06, 12/13, and 12/20/2024. AJSD 1566
HEALTH ISSUES. Senator Christopher Go, chair of the Committee on Health and Demography, and Senator Raffy Tulfo conduct a hearing
on the transfer of the excess funds of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation to the Bureau of the Treasury, among other topics, on Monday, Nov. 25. After the Supreme Court issued a temporary restraining order last month on the transfer of PHP29.9 billion to the national budget, some senators including Go seconded that health care funds must be used directly for the benefit of PhilHealth members.
PNA photo by Avito Dalan
Presidential aspirant Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio. FILE PHOTOS/Inquirer.net
SAN DIEGO
Filipino craftsmanship showcased in ‘Wicked’ costume design
Senior Milliner Harvy Santos creates the film’s iconic hats
AT the very start of the screen adaptation of the Broadway classic “Wicked,” viewers are swept into a decrepit-looking hall towards a wide-brimmed conical shaped hat, if a little askew, resting on a puddle of water, with a big round window as backdrop.
This iconic witch’s hat owned by Glinda Upland (played by Ariana Grande) and eventually given to Elphaba Thropp (Cynthia Erivo) happened to have a Filipino connection, as did other hats in the film, courtesy of its senior milliner Harvy Santos, who is a Filipino now based in the United Kingdom.
Santos came a long way and found his own yellow brick road to the Land of Oz, now working on the film’s most iconic costume pieces. “I originally came from the Philippines. My fascination
for costume started when I was six,” he said in a mini feature released by Universal Pictures
Like many dreamers wanting to break into Hollywood, Santos started his career in a completely different path, as a dancer at the Hong Kong Ballet, then saved enough money to start educating himself on costumes.
“I used to be a ballet dancer.
All of the money that I got from dancing, every payday I would buy myself books on garment construction and costume design.” He went on to study millinery at Kensington and Chelsea colleges, and his awardwinning hats have been featured in magazines such as Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and other fashion publications.
Working on “Wicked,” Santos found the process of creating hats that become symbols of empowerment and strength enjoyable.
“Millinery is like sculpture, we started playing with materials, to experiment with shapes,” he said. “Until this post, it’s still fascinating, it’s still challenging, and I quite like those challenges because I get to be inventive and creative with it.”
Santos said he is thrilled to be part of putting the magic inside the world of Wicked through his work. “Every day, I’m part of what I have accomplished, and knowing the fact that you are contributing on an epic film, that’s very exhilarating.” he says.
“Wicked,” the first of two Universal Pictures films based on a Broadway prequel to “The Wizard of Oz,” is currently being shown in local cinemas and abroad. It topped the U.S. and global box office, pulling in $114 million at U.S. and Canadian theaters, plus $50.2 million in international markets, for a global total of $164.2 million.
Liza Soberano graces F1 Grand Prix in Las Vegas
by JeSSica ann evangeliSta Inquirer.net
Soberano is certainly living her dream in the fast lane after becoming the latest Filipino celebrity to attend the Formula One Grand Prix in Las Vegas.
Soberano took to Instagram on Monday, November 25, to share her photos at the event, where she sported a red and black patterned jersey shirt, while another photo showed her in a black leather Formula 1 jacket.
“On this week’s episode of Where is Liza? I’m in Las Vegas for F1! Can’t believe I’m watching my second race this season with Puma! Truly grateful to be living life in the fast lane,” she captioned her post.
Soberano recently teamed up with Thai actor-singer Bright Vachirawit’s for the music video of the latter’s “Long Showers.”
The 26-year-old actress is actively expanding her career abroad, specifically in Hollywood. She previously starred in the 2024 horror comedy “Lisa Frankenstein,” which marked her international on-screen debut. She also
recently signed with Singaporebased management group WILD.
Recently, her former onscreen partner Enrique Gil expressed his desire to work with Soberano again. They were last seen in the 2019 romantic drama film, “Alone/Together.”
Meanwhile, actor John Estrada and estranged wife Priscilla Meirelles were also previously spotted in Singapore to watch the F1 Grand Prix in September amid their marital problems. They were seen with another Filipino celebrity couple, Aubrey Miles and Troy Montero.
‘I was somehow challenged’: Vilma Santos on her role in MMFF 2024 entry ‘Uninvited’
“STAR For All Seasons” Vilma Santos admitted that her role in the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entry “Uninvited” is challenging.
During the recent press conference for the film, Vilma said she’s really looking for a role that will challenge her.
“It’s been hard for me to find a role that will be suitable for my age and the role that will challenge me because, in my more than 62 years in the industry, I feel like I’ve already done every role and most of the characters appear to be
repetitive,” Vilma said.
“But with ‘Uninvited’ and my role, I feel I was somehow challenged,” she added.
Leading the powerhouse cast are Vilma, Aga Muhlach and Nadine Lustre supported by RK Bagatsing, Mylene Dizon, Lotlot de Leon, Gabby Padilla, Elijah Canlas, Ketchup Eusebio, Gio Alvarez, Cholo Barretto, Ron Angeles, and Tirso Cruz III.
From Mentorque Productions — the makers of the mostawarded Filipino horror movie of all time, “Mallari” — comes a remarkable cinematic milestone Filipino audiences can’t afford to miss. Adding even more prestige, the film is distributed by Warner
Bros. Pictures, which also helped catapult last year’s MMFF to success. Joining the team is Project 8 Projects in their first collaboration with Mentorque. The tagline “Hindi lang ’to basta party!” teases the gripping mystery at the heart of “Uninvited.” What are the real stories and secrets behind the characters, and how are they connected?
Directed by Dan Villegas in his comeback directorial film after six years, “Uninvited” showcases an unforgettable collaboration of some of the most celebrated actors in Philippine cinema, with a screenplay written by Dodo Dayao.
by Jan Milo Severo Philstar.com
Love, Again’ stars Kathryn Bernardo and Alden Richards are joined by director Cathy Garcia- Sampana
Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda in “Wicked”
Photo from instagram/@arianagrande
Vilma Santos, Aga Muhlach and Nadine Lustre in the MMFF 2024 movie ‘Uninvited’ Screengrab from Mentorque YouTube channel
LIZA
Liza Soberano attends F1 Grand Prix in Las Vegas Photo fromInstagram/@lizasoberano
April Boy Regino’s true-to-life story on the big screen
DIRECTOR and Associate
Producer Armando A. Reyes
said that Efren Reyes Jr. knows what he is doing as a director, and that is very vital in order to have a successful film.
Efren Reyes Jr. is the directorwriter of “Idol: The April Boy Regino Story,” based on the life story of singer-songwriter April Bariso Regino (not Dennis Magloyuan Regino as what is mistakenly posted in Wikipedia) who passed away on November 29, 2020, and known for his songs “Di Ko Kayang Tanggapin,” “Umiiyak ang Puso,” and “Sana’y Laging Magkapiling.”
The father of Efren Jr. was Efren Ongpin Reyes Sr., the original Pedro Penduko in the film with the same title. The grandfather of Efren Sr., Severino Reyes, was the author of “Lola Basyang” and of zarzuela “Walang Sugat.” Included in Water Plus Productions’ “Idol: The April Boy Regino Story” are John Arcenas (as April Boy), Kate Yalung, Tanya Gomez, Rey PJ Abellana, Dindo Arroyo, Irene Celebre, Jaden Yago, Jimsen Austria Jison, Migz Coloma,and JC Regino. Marynette Gamboa is the executive producer. It started showing on November 27 in different Philippine cinemas.
* * * Atty. Bienvenido O. Benitez Jr. is a former classmate at De La Salle University in Manila. Aside from being a gifted artist, he is the administrator of the Parole and Probation Administration of the Department of Justice. I am a witness to how kind he is. He has been quietly helping the kids with cancer at the East Avenue Medical Center and the CHILDHaus at Quezon City’s Mapang-akit Street in Barangay Pinyahan.
That is simply Bien, a man with a golden heart and a talented painter to watch for he explores the abstract possibilities of hues that remind the countryside of the archipelago.
* * * First Lady Louise AranetaMarcos expressed her support to Miss Universe 2015 and UNAIDS Goodwill Ambassador for Asia and the Pacific Pia Wurtzbach in spreading awareness on HIV-AIDS through supporting a non-government organization, “LoveYourself.” She met with Pia in Bahay Pangulo in preparation for World AIDS Day.
“Thank you for creating safe, compassionate spaces and offering life-changing resources to empower those who need it most,” said the First Lady. It should be recalled that the former beauty queen said this program aims to raise awareness on HIV-AIDS through social media campaigns, educational videos and training sessions, including online testing, resource centers, and mental health services.
On December 3, there will be a LoveYourself Love Gala, dubbed as “Eternal Elegance: A Night of Timeless Love” at Marquis Events Place in BGC, Taguig.
*
* * Congrats to my good friend, Andrew De Real, owner of noted comedy bar, The Library, for being one of the awardees in the 2nd Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Award to be held on December 8, 2024.
“When I opened the first few pages of The Library Comedy
Bar in 1986, I never knew that it would become a hit because my only intention then was to build a safe space for the LGBTQIA community and to make people happy with our brand of entertainment,” said the Godfather of Comedy Entertainment.
*
* * I had a recent chat with my uncle Joselito Constantino, father of singer Yeng Constantino. He is now based in Unisan, Quezon. My uncle worked at Ateneo de Manila University’s Rizal Library as library assistant for 34 years. He studied at Florentino Torres High in Gagalangin, Tondo, Manila and at the University of the East.
He often updates me on my cousin Yeng, a good daughter who during her young age upon listening to her voice would be famous and it came true years after.
* * *
GMA Network celebrates the Christmas season with its 2024 Christmas Station ID, “ Ganito Ang Paskong Pinoy: Puno ng Pasasalamat .” It embraces a culture of gratitude as Filipinos come together to celebrate the season with and give thanks to the Lord, family, friends, and loved ones. It also aims to express its gratitude by continuously giving back: through GMA Kapuso Foundation’s Christmas project “Give A Gift: Alay sa Batang Pinoy,” donors are encouraged to spread more cheer and hope during the holiday season with donations that will provide children and their families with noche buena food packs.
Lea Salonga releases Holiday album and brings Holiday tour to San Diego
Celebrate holiday magic with Sounding Joy Tour Live in San Diego’s Balboa Theater on December 11
CENTER Stage Records has officially released “Lea Salonga: Sounding Joy – The Holiday Album,” marking the Tony Award winner’s first holiday album in over 20 years. Fans can order the album on Amazon and CenterStageRecords.com, with a limited number of signed copies available exclusively on the label’s website.
Now available on digital platforms and CD, the highly anticipated album by the international icon and Disney legend features reimagined Christmas classics, brand-new original songs, and a special duet with American Idol star Clay Aiken. “Sounding Joy” promises to enchant listeners with Salonga’s heartfelt interpretations and flawless vocals, offering a perfect soundtrack for the holiday season.
“We are so thrilled to reunite with Lea, having previously worked with her on ‘Once On This Island,’ ‘Allegiance,’ and her live album with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra,” said Van Dean, Center Stage Records president. “There’s something so special about pairing her voice with these songs. We can’t wait for everyone to hear the magic that Lea and her musicians have created.” In support of the album, Salonga will be hitting the road again this winter. Salonga will bring “Sounding Joy | The Holiday Tour,” her celebrated holiday concert to San Diego on Wednesday, December 11, at 7:30 p.m. at the Balboa Theater. This highly anticipated performance is part of her limited winter tour, which also includes stops at The Warfield Theatre in San Francisco on December
7 (sold out), Arizona MusicFest in Scottsdale on December 9, The Soraya in Northridge on December 15, and The Town Hall in New York on December 20 (sold out). Fans can expect an evening filled with holiday classics, new songs, and Salonga’s signature charm and artistry. Tickets are available now at leasalonga.com. Recently, Lea starred in the new musical “Here Lies Love” at the Broadway Theater and headlined “Old
This station ID gathers its biggest stars and personalities, together with the executives, led by GMA Network Chairman Atty. Felipe L. Gozon and President and CEO Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr., showcasing the Kapuso family’s deep bond. Making it more festive are Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera, Alden Richards, Michael V., Dennis Trillo, Jennylyn Mercado, Rayver Cruz, Bea Alonzo, Carla Abellana, Sanya Lopez, and David Licauco. Also joining them are some of the country’s most awarded broadcast journalists – Jessica Soho, Arnold Clavio, Vicky Morales, Howie Severino, and Mel Tiangco, together with other personalities from GMA Integrated News and GMA Public Affairs.
Other artists taking part in the celebration include 2nd Philippines Finest Business Awards and Outstanding Achievers love team Sofia Pablo and Allen Ansay, Gabbi Garcia, Khalil Ramos, Christian Bautista, Mark Bautista, Richard Yap, Michelle Dee, Rhian Ramos, Glaiza de Castro, Rabiya Mateo, Elle Villanueva, Derrick Monasterio, Megan Young, Mikael Daez, SB19’s Pablo and Stell, Billy Crawford, Rocco Nacino, Katrina Halili, and Kim Atienza, among many more. Helping to spread the spirit of gratitude further are other GMA Network officers and employees, plus members of the Kapuso Brigade.
The station’s ID was performed by Julie Anne San Jose, Aicelle Santos, Rita Daniela, Jessica Villarubin, Hannah Precillas,
Mariane Osabel, Garrett Bolden, Anthony Rosaldo, Thea Astley, John Rex, and Cloud 7.
* * * Volunteerism, the practice of doing work for good causes, is alive in times of natural disaster. It is certainly the act of contributing free labor to conduct community service or support an NGO. Rather than receiving a financial reward, volunteers change the lives of their community members out of feelings of social responsibility and a desire to give back.
* * * Thanks to Cosmo Digest International Magazine, published by Global Asia InsiderUSA-UK-Dubai, for featuring me in its November 2024 cover issue. Thanks also to Pradash M. Nanimba’s “The Heartbeat of a Journalist – The Inspiring Journey of Rogelio Constantino Medina.”
* * * Nirro Marcelo, Saleha Pangarungan Sacar of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos and I were guests on November 28 at Rise and Shine Pilipinas at PTV. * * * 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
Left photo shows (from left) John Arcenas, Armando Reyes, Marynette Gamboa and Efren Reyes Jr.; Right photo shows (seated, from left) Madelyn Regino, April Boy Regino, Marynette Gamboa, Efren Reyes Jr. and (standing, from left) Obette Serrano and Lyn Madrigal.
GMA Network recently unveiled its highly-anticipated Christmas Station ID, “Ganito Ang Paskong Pinoy: Puno ng Pasasalamat.”
Clockwise, from bottom left: ATOM members at Museo ng Pag-asa; Ilocos Norte Gov. Matthew Manotoc attends to evacuees; Rogelio Medina at Biyaya Animal Sanctuary in Alfonso, Cavite; Former VP Leni Robredo at flooded Naga City.
Saleha Pangarungan Sacar, Rogelio Medina and Nirro Marcelo were guests at PTV’s “Rise and Shine Pilipinas” last November 28.
First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos (left) and 2015 Miss Universe winner Pia Wurtzbach
Joselito Constantino with daughter, singer Yeng Constantino
Joselito Constantino with daughter, singer Yeng Constantino Andrew De Real
Artist Atty. Bienvenido O. Benitez with some of his artworks. Photos courtesy of Rogelio Medina Screen capture from web
Be like Santa, double-check your receipts
BREAK out your wallets and purses — but protect them too — the holiday shopping season is back!
The holiday season is the perfect time to remind everyone to remember to always, always double-check your receipts to make sure you’re not accidentally overcharged by faulty cash registers and price scanners.
The holidays are definitely the shop-shopping-est time of the year. And even though online buying has gotten huge, most of us are still heading off to our local stores to buy stuff.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s E-Commerce Second Quarter 2024 report, online sales made up 15.2% of all retail sales. That means most of us are still going to, and spending money in, shopping malls and stores. And being overcharged can happen.
The county’s department of Agriculture, Weights and Measures inspects more than 1,420 local businesses and 21,400 price-scanning devices every year to make sure customers are being charged accurately. That includes scales that charge for items by weight, and other price-setting equipment.
And every year, even the best businesses have occasional overcharges.
In 2024, between January and October, 19% of every business inspected — nearly one out of every five — had overcharge errors. And the average overcharge was $1.52. An extra buck-and-a-half doesn’t sound like much. But even tiny overcharges can add up to make big dents in your wallet or purse, especially during the holiday shopping season.
So, take a lesson from Santa! Check your receipts; check ‘em twice. That will help make sure your holiday season is merry and nice.
Here are some other tips to help you shop smartly and safely: Protect against overcharging
• Always verify receipts and immediately notify store management of any price discrepancies.
• Stores are required to display the price of an item, as you are buying it, before the transaction is complete. Watch the display screen as your items are scanned.
• Take sales advertisements with you when shopping to verify prices.
• Know that stores cannot legally charge more than their lowest advertised, posted or quoted price.
Shop smart
• Plan ahead. Start watching for store sale flyers, flea markets, garage sales, clearance sales, etc. Make a list of what you need.
• Comparison shop with at least five different sources for the best values.
• Don’t buy everything at once. Establish a spending plan and timetable to buy what you need over several weeks or months to take full advantage of future sales and true bargains.
County’s Tell Us Now app (https://www.sandiegocounty. gov/content/sdc/dmpr/gfx/ appcenter/index.html) to contact Agriculture, Weights and Measures, or call AWM at 1-888-TRUE SCAN (1-888-8783722) or email to wm.awm@ sdcounty.ca.gov to report overcharges you can’t resolve with a store.
For more information, go to Agriculture, Weights and Measure’s Consumer Protection webpage at https:// www.sandiegocounty.gov/ content/sdc/awm/WM_New/ price-acuracy.html?cq_ ck=1422556484429. And you can check out our archived video about scanner inspection program.
(Gig Conaughton/County of San Diego Communications Office)
IT’S the ship-shipping-est time of the year! And you want to make sure you’re not sending someone you love something nobody wants — a harmful pest.
The holiday season is back. It’s the time when many of us are personally mailing and shipping packages and gifts to faraway family and friends. Or maybe even traveling to deliver presents and bring back home gifts in return.
Just remember — don’t pack a pest! It can happen. The gifts you send or receive could be carrying hitchhiking pests or plant diseases that could potentially damage the county’s $1.66 billion agricultural industry and our local environment.
Here’s how. That homemade wreath you brought home from your favorite aunt could be carrying spongy moth eggs. Or that citrus you picked from your backyard to send to a friend could be carrying “citrus greening” — huanglongbing — a destructive citrus disease. Or the beautiful fruit basket you and the kids made from scratch to send to a friend could be hiding mealybugs.
Every year San Diego County’s Department of Agriculture, Weights and Measures inspectors — human and detector dogs — work hard to stop the spread of invasive pests. From exotic fruit flies to
the emerald ash borer, glassywinged sharpshooter and South American palm weevil. And you can help. Just follow these simple guidelines: Don’t pack a pest If you’re traveling — whether it’s out of state or out of the country — leave what you find behind. Don’t bring home a keepsake clipping from your grandmother’s holiday wreath, or those bulbs you found in Florida. And don’t bring home or avocado leaves from Mexico, or any citrus branches, leaves or stems from anywhere.
Don’t transport any fresh, raw, uncooked and untreated foodstuffs. That goes for seeds, beans, nuts, rice, dried fruit, decorative greenery, untreated wood items, animal products
If you are traveling and think you may have accidentally packed some plant or animal item away? Declare them when an agricultural inspector asks you if you have anything in your luggage.
For more information about harmful insects, plant diseases, Agriculture, Weights and Measures and everybody’s role in protecting our local environment and agriculture, visit the department’s Insect and Plant Disease Information webpage at https://www. sandiegocounty.gov/content/ sdc/awm/ipd_info.html.
(Gig Conaughton/County of San Diego Communications Office)
• Download and use the or soil from almost any foreign country.
NAPCA hosts ‘Confronting Obesity’ within the AA&NHPI communities congressional briefing
WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Wednesday, November 20, NAPCA hosted the Confronting Obesity and Obesity Related Illnesses briefing in Washington, D.C., bringing together Congressmembers, over 60 attendees, and healthcare experts to address obesity and related illnesses in Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AA&NHPI) communities.
During the event, NAPCA’s President & CEO Clayton S. Fong expressed deep gratitude for Congresswoman Michelle Steel and Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland. “We thank Congresswoman Steel for hosting this briefing. She has always been a steadfast champion for tailored and in-language access for AA&NHPI communities,” Fong said.
Highlighting Congresswoman Strickland’s exceptional opening remarks, he added,
“Representative Strickland shared a moving story of helping her Korean-speaking mother navigate healthcare growing up, powerfully highlighting her deep understanding of the need for linguistically and culturally inclusive services. We are honored by the support and leadership both Congresswomen bring to these critical conversations.”
Dr. Soo-Young Chin, obesity researcher and co-founder of Ethnoworks, started the panel off with findings from NAPCA’s study, “Understanding Obesity Among Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Americans.” Dr. Chin revealed that obesity
prevalence among Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Americans exceeds that of the overall U.S. population and remains persistently high, often masked by aggregated data.
Ofa Matagi, executive director of UPIHC: Utah Pacific Islander Health Coalition, called for disaggregated data and emphasized the importance of not treating AA&NHPI communities as a monolith.
Matagi also highlighted the need for prevention and intervention strategies that integrate cultural practices and linguistic nuances.
Ka Hei Karen Lau, registered dietitian and certified diabetes care and education specialist at Joslin Diabetes Center, highlighted tailored solutions such as culturally relevant recipes provided by the Joslin Diabetes Center. Lau also discussed how despite having a lower average BMI, Asian Americans face a high rate of obesity-related illnesses. This shows how Eurocentric BMI measures may not adequately capture health risks for AA&NHPI individuals and the need for screening at a lower BMI threshold (BMI 23) to enable early prevention and care.
Fong concluded, “Contrary to stereotypes, not everyone in our community is wealthy, an Ivy League graduate, or thin. Obesity and obesity related illnesses is a growing and critical issue. And as we work to improve our nation’s health, it’s essential to advocate for and include the diverse needs of our AA&NHPI communities in the conversation.”
