Community mourns death of San Diego police officer Austin Machitar
SAN DIEGO – A procession was held Friday, August 30 to honor Filipino American police officer Austin Machitar, who was killed in a fiery crash while pursuing a suspect in San Diego.
First responders from the San Diego FireRescue and the San Diego Police Department (SDPD) stood with their vehicles on the bridges near the State route 52 interchange to pay tribute to SDPD Officer Michitar, who was on his way to his final resting place, FOX 5 reported.
Machitar’s body was being moved from the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office to El Camino Memorial in Sorrento Valley ahead of his funeral.
Community members have been mourning the loss of Machitar, bringing flowers and candles to the scene of the crash.
Others brought cards and flowers to the Northern Division police station where the FilAm officer was assigned.
The American flag was flown half-staff at the station in honor of Machitar, who served with the SDPD for about 5 ½ years.
SDPD Chief Scott Wahl described Machitar as a “San Diego kid” who “was the kind of guy you want on your team.”
“He was athletic,” Wahl said. “He was a competitor. He had a passion for training. … Austin had a very infectious smile and a character that made him one of a kind.”
Machitar was killed Tuesday, August 27 following a fiery traffic crash in San Diego that also killed a motorist, who allegedly fled from an attempted late-night traffic stop. The crash sent Officer Zach Martinez, who was in the police car with Machitar, through the windshield
US condemns China’s aggression, reminds defense treaty covers attacks
by Ian LaquI Philstar.com
MANILA — The United States has condemned the recent aggression by Chinese maritime forces against a Philippine Coast Guard ship on August 31 (Manila time).
The U.S., a treaty ally of the Philippines, called the incident "dangerous and escalatory,"
according to a statement from the U.S. State Department.
The condemnation follows a Chinese Coast Guard vessel's ramming of the Philippine Coast Guard's BRP Teresa Magbanua three times near Escoda Shoal.
"The PRC's unlawful claims of 'territorial sovereignty' over ocean areas where no land territory exists, and its increasingly aggressive
TOTAL BAN. Senator Mark Villar, with fellow senators Raffy Tulfo and Sherwin Gatchalian, presides over the public hearing to ban the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), at the Senate in Pasay City on Wednesday, September 4. During the hearing, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. said the winding down of POGOs starts next month. PNA photo by Avito Dalan
VP Sara apologizes anew for asking Quiboloy followers to back Marcos in 2022 polls
by neIL Jayson servaLLos Philstar.com
MANILA — Vice President Sara
for asking the
“I was on the mistaken belief that we were together on the platform of unity and continuity. I made a mistake and I ask for
your forgiveness,” said Duterte, who ran with Marcos under the UniTeam ticket.
Pastor Apollo Quiboloy endorsed the tandem of Marcos and Duterte in the 2022 elections.
After two years, the vice president broke free from the UniTeam, saying it was only good for the elections. Shortly after, she resigned from the Cabinet as Department of Education secretary.
Duterte said she would reveal her reason for
actions to enforce them, threaten the freedoms of navigation and overflight of all nations," the U.S. statement read.
The U.S. reiterated its call for China to align its claims and actions with international law and to desist from "dangerous and destabilizing conduct."
It also reaffirmed the 73-year-old Mutual
MANILA — A total of 13 people have so far been reported to have died following nonstop rains brought by Tropical Storm Enteng on Sunday, September 1 and Monday, reports from disaster response agencies and local governments showed.
Malacañang on Monday, September 2 ordered the continued suspension of classes at all levels as well as work in government offices in Metro Manila and Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) region on Tuesday due to the projected rains expected to be spawned by the combined effects of the southwest monsoon (“habagat”) and Enteng (international name: Yagi).
In Antipolo City, seven people were killed due to landslides and drowning.
Relly Bernardo, head of the Antipolo City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, said three people died from landslides, while the other four died from separate drowning incidents.
The landslide victims included a 27-year-old pregnant woman and two children, he said in a radio interview.
Four people—Jemimah Ibuña, 17, and Claire Dosdos, 27, of Cebu City, and Federico Sabangan Sr., 76, and his son, Federico Jr., 29, of Biri town in Northern Samar—died in separate landslides in Cebu City and Northern Samar.
In the Bicol region, the Naga City police said an 8-month-old baby girl was pronounced dead on
Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, LAS VEGAS, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
Duterte reiterated her apology
Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) to support Ferdinand Marcos Jr. when he ran for the presidency in 2022.
by The InquIrer sTaff Inquirer.net
Kuzma visits creatives house in Poblacion, gives back to Quezon City youth
MANILA – The “Kuzmania” fever went high as Kyle Kuzma of the NBA’s Washington Wizards made his first visit to the Philippines the past week for his KuzManila tour.
The 29-year-old, 6-foot-9 Wizards forward received a warm reception from his Filipino fans in a series of activities, including an event hosted by a local coffee shop chain, a press conference, back-to-back media interviews, and a visit to the NBA store in SM Mall of Asia immediately after landing at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
Amidst his hectic schedule, Kuzma visited the Navitas Learning Haus — a hidden oasis located in Poblacion, Makati City, which provides a space for creatives, designers, artists, project visionaries, hobbyists, and interest-based clubs to promote immersive learning. Navitas was founded during the pandemic by a former preschool teacher, Elo Coronel-Quiambao, with the goal of reframing learning beyond traditional boundaries.
Coronel-Quiambao toured Kuzma, a self-
confessed art enthusiast and a known fashion icon, inside the renovated 50-year-old house, particularly its renowned spaces such as the common room used for creative meetings and workshops, the kitchen used for small cooking classes, the story room used for storytelling sessions, and the “Quriocity” which is used for lectures and exhibits. Kuzma was also briefed about the various programs offered by
Navitas such as Math is Not the Villain, Auntie’s Artnest, and Teacher Jack, which are related to mathematics, arts, and counseling, respectively.
Kuzma lauded the importance of having a learning home such as Navitas. He shared his stories, on the value of play, community, gratitude, creativity, non-linear thinking, and childhood as vital foundations for one’s core.
After visiting Navitas, the NBA star went
to Belarmino Sports Complex, where he led a basketball clinic for 80 young athletes from Quezon City. Kuzma, who averaged 22.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and shot 33% of three-pointers in the most recent NBA season, played with young athletes and displayed his savvy basketball moves. The participants also performed offensive and defensive drills with the help of local coaches. The activity ended with Kuzma signing some of the participants’ sports items.
In a media interview, Kuzma emphasized the value of giving back by fulfilling his mission to help others elevate their games and themselves to the next level. He stressed that helping somebody improve is a true sign of a great player.
The basketball clinic co-sponsored by Stradcom Corporation CEO Anthony Quiambao was also graced by Quezon City Vice Mayor Gian Sotto, Quezon City Sports Action Officer Benjamin Afuang, and SK Federation president Councilor Sami Neri. (Philstar.com)
Procession held to honor... Asian American mental health: It’s time we talk about it
of the police vehicle, which then caught fire. Martinez, 29, remains in serious condition.
A fundraising campaign set up by the San Diego Police Officers Association to assist the families of Machitar and Martinez has raised more than $173,000 as of press time.
Machitar, the son of a retired San Diego County deputy sheriff, grew up in Chula Vista. He was a 2012 graduate of Otay Ranch High School, where he played varsity baseball, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.
“As a graduate of Otay Ranch High School, and a dedicated member of our community, Officer Machitar’s contributions will be remembered,” the Sweetwater Union High School District said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with all those affected by this heartbreaking loss.”
State Sen. Steve Padilla (D-San Diego), a friend of the Machitar family, described Austin as “warm, thoughtful, gentle and kind.”
“Austin had a bright, milliondollar smile that put everyone at ease. He was always willing to help and find ways to help,” Padilla said in a statement.
“I knew him in the dawn of his young adult life, when he was searching to find his calling, while never letting go of his youthful sense of adventure and zest for life. He found that calling as an officer for the San Diego Police Department, and no doubt he served with distinction.”
The Fil-Am mayor of San Diego, Todd Gloria, released a statement honoring Machitar.
“Our city mourns the tragic loss of one of San Diego’s
Officer Austin Machitar died at the scene of the collision.
Photo from Maria Arcega Dunn/Facebook
finest, Officer Austin Machitar. His distinguished service to our city makes him a hero. I offer the deepest condolences of the city to Austin’s family and loved ones,” Gloria said.
“San Diego is grateful to our brave police officers who put themselves in harm’s way every single day to keep us safe. Your sacrifices are appreciated and will never be forgotten.”
Flags are at half staff at the state capitol in honor of Machitar.
“Jennifer and I are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Officer Machitar,” California Governor Gavin Newsom said in a statement. “His loved ones, friends and colleagues at the San Diego Police Department are in our hearts during this difficult time. Our thoughts are also with his fellow officer who was seriously injured.”
(INQUIRER.net US Bureau)
As students across the country return to school, Asian American students are grappling with an issue they say goes largely unaddressed in their own homes
FAYE Du is conflicted. Like other children of immigrants, she’s grateful for the opportunities her parents have worked to provide her. And yet, she says, the pressure to honor their sacrifice through academic success has taken a toll on her mental health.
As students across the country return to school, Asian American students like Du are grappling with an issue they say goes largely unaddressed in their own homes.
“My parents worked so much harder than me to bring me here, and it feels like I owe academic success to them,” says Du, a high school senior. “I think this makes many Asian Americans, and immigrant children in general, fearful of failure, in and outside of school.”
For Du, that fear became paralyzing, especially during the height of the pandemic lockdown, impacting her studies as well as her personal life.
“When I struggled with my mental health, I didn’t have the opportunity or ability to reach out to a healthcare professional, which fed into a cycle of not knowing and feeling deeply uncomfortable with where I was mentally,” Du recounts. “That correlated with my academics… I wasn’t keeping the best grades and often turned in work late. At that point, the pressure of academic success became overwhelming.”
Du describes a downward spiral where the pressure to succeed in school fed into the mental turmoil she was experiencing, which in turn impacted her performance in school which again fueled her inner anguish.
And the worst part, she says, was that she couldn’t confide in her family. “In my household, poor mental health or mental disorders are seen as a disease or something that makes you less of a respectable and functioning human.”
Studies show Asian Americans are 50% less likely than other racial groups in the
U.S. to seek out help for mental health issues. A recent article in JAMA Pediatrics also noted an alarming rise in suicide rates among Asian American youth ages 1524, with a 72% increase for males and a 125% increase for females between 1999 and 2021.
Suicide is the leading cause of death for Asian American and Pacific Islander youth.
“When we’re designing policies and programs to address this problem, we need to think about which communities to focus on and how to make our mental health interventions appropriate, taking into account things like culture, language and community resources,” study author Dr. Anthony L. Bui said in an interview after the study’s release.
Advocates for disaggregating health data along racial and ethnic lines have long argued that doing so can provide a more granular understanding of the health challenges unique to specific communities. The federal government announced earlier this year that it would do just that, with new standards for data collection to be rolled out over the next five years.
But for high school student Ben Suo, efforts to address this largely silent epidemic need to start closer to home.
“What I’ve noticed is at any gathering with other Asian families, the hot topic for all the parents is to compare children and share what awards and extracurriculars
they’ve been doing,” he says. “I’ve found it to be pretty toxic.”
Like Du, Suo traces the root of his mental health challenges to the pressure he feels to live up to his parents’ – and by extension, his community’s – expectations. And, he says, cultural norms add another layer to an already tangled web.
Whether it’s the emphasis on family over the individual, common in Asian cultures, or the myth of the model minority, these entrenched norms can often make it difficult to open up about an issue that for many is deeply personal.
Suo has some advice for parents. In his own home, he says, his mom gave him the space to find outlets that helped him cope. “My mom allowed me to pursue running and even a girlfriend to ‘recharge’ academically,” he says, adding he knows other students, those he says have “the most net stress,” whose parents actively discourage such pursuits.
As a young Asian American, I’ve felt first-hand that weight of expectation and the difficulty in communicating one’s inner struggles. I remember the first time I visited a therapist while in junior high school, and how absurd it seemed when she asked me to rate my sadness on a scale of 1 to 5. Such a question would never have come up in my own home.
Looking back, I realize what that exercise revealed about the extent of my own inner struggle and how I had learned to ignore it for so long.
As more young Asian Americans succumb to depression and the silence around mental health, the need for open conversations about these issues is greater than ever.
Jeannine Chiang is an aspiring journalist and a rising senior at Burlingame High School in Burlingame, California where she is a reporter for the school paper, The Burlingame B.
(Photo via Unsplash)
NBA star Kyle Kuzma (center, left photo) joined Quezon City Vice Mayor Gian Sotto and Stradcom Corp. CEO Anthony Quiambao in a basketball clinic sponsored by Navitas for 80 young athletes at the Belarmino Sports Complex. Healso met with Elo CoronelQuiambao, founder of Navitas Learning Haus in Poblacion, Makati City (right photo).
13 dead as storm Enteng...
PAGE 1
arrival in a local hospital after she was found unconscious and floating in the flooded bedroom of their house in Barangay Calauag on Monday morning.
A second fatality, identified only as “Juancho,” was electrocuted while checking his shop in the flooded street of Barangay Concepcion Pequeña in Naga on Sunday.
Injured, missing Rescue operations were also ongoing to look for three missing fishermen—Fidelino Amboy from Borongan City and Ernesto Ayaton, 63, from Taft in Eastern Samar; and Lorenzo Gasque, 62, from Kawayan town in Biliran.
According to their families, the three have not returned to their homes since Saturday, August 31, when they separately went out to the sea to fish.
According to Rei Josiah Echano, head of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office in Northern Samar, four residents of the village were also injured and were all taken to the Biri District Hospital for treatment.
At least 1,395 families were affected by the floods after Enteng brought an extraordinary amount of rainfall.
“Based on the climatological analysis of Pagasa, around 230 millimeters (mm) of rain was expected for September 2024. However, in just the first day of the month, and in less than 18 hours, Enteng dropped that entire projected rainfall volume, flooding 60 percent of the affected local government units,” he said.
Seaports closed
According to the partial report from the Office of the Civil Defense, Enteng has affected 4,155 residents in Camarines Sur, Albay, Sorsogon, Catanduanes and Masbate.
The heavy downpour also forced more than 900 people to evacuate on Monday after massive floods submerged lowlying areas in the provinces of Albay and Camarines Norte.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council also said on Monday that 14 seaports in the Calabarzon and Bicol regions were nonoperational due to bad weather and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said more than 2,400 people were stranded in ports in Eastern
US condemns China’s...
PAGE 1
Defense Treaty, stating that it covers any attacks on Philippine assets.
"The United States reaffirms that Article IV of the 1951 United States-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty extends to armed attacks on Philippine armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft – including those of its Coast Guard – anywhere in the South China Sea," the statement read.
The ramming caused damage to the Japan-made Coast Guard ship, according to Philippine Coast Guard Commodore Jay Tarriela.
Visayas and Bicol. Critical areas
National Capital Region
Police Office chief Maj. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said 434 police personnel have been deployed to critical areas to secure vital installations and to assist in traffic management, while another 597 police personnel were on standby to respond to emergencies, including search and rescue.
Bad weather also forced the suspension of the siphoning operation for sunken motor tanker Terranova that sank off Bataan province in July, according to the PCG.
A passenger vessel also caught fire off Navotas City on Monday following an allision with a cargo vessel amid heavy rains, the PCG said. MV Kamilla was stationary when it was hit by cargo vessel LCT GT Express at the Navotas anchorage area.
The 18 crew members abandoned the distressed vessel and were later rescued.
In Marikina City, Mayor Marcelino Teodoro said 1,617 families or 4,587 people were in evacuation centers.
Power outage, canceled flights
More than 28,000 consumers of Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) also suffered power interruptions on Monday due to heavy rains and strong winds brought by Enteng.
In an advisory as of noon on Monday, Meralco said the bulk of the affected customers live in Metro Manila and Cavite, with the rest in Laguna, Rizal, Bulacan, Batangas, and Quezon provinces.
The Department of Energy said four electric cooperatives in Calabarzon, Bicol, and Eastern Visayas faced outages and restoration efforts were ongoing.
Meanwhile, at least 67 domestic flights on Monday in different airports in Luzon were canceled due to the inclement weather.
According to the Manila International Airport Authority, which operates Ninoy Aquino International Airport, 29 flights were canceled going to and from Manila, Daraga, Calbayog, Busuanga, Zamboanga, Masbate, Virac, Caticlan and Iloilo.
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (Caap) said 38 flights of Caap-operated airports were suspended, leaving more than 300 passengers stranded as of 5 p.m. on Monday.
New cyclone coming
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) reported that Enteng made its first landfall over Casiguran, Aurora province, at 2 p.m. on Monday.
Enteng, which is forecast to enhance the southwest monsoon, bringing gale-force gusts in several parts of Luzon, including Metro Manila, is expected to exit the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) by Thursday.
However, state meteorologists also pointed out that there is a possibility of another tropical cyclone to develop in the next two weeks. Pagasa said that this might develop within the eastern portion of the monitoring area covered by the weather bureau and is expected to enter PAR within the weeks of Sept. 9 to 15. (with reports from Melvin Gascon, Frances Mangosing,
K.
“These are the damages sustained by BRP Teresa Magbanua due to the unprovoked ramming by China Coast Guard 5205,” Tarriela shared on X (formerly Twitter).
The incident marks the
seventh instance of aggression by Chinese forces in the West Philippine Sea. Before this, multiple Chinese vessels fired water cannons simultaneously on a Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources
vessel on August 25. Three of the seven incidents involved Chinese multi-role fighter jets harassing BFAR survey planes. n
VP Sara apologizes anew for asking...
1
seeking the vice presidency.
“In another forum, I will thoroughly explain myself on what happened and what led me to decide (to run as vice president),” Duterte said.
She disclosed that she had been discouraged from making an appearance at the KOJC celebration due to its political implications, but said she chose to ignore them as she believes the sect is facing an “assault.”
She explained why she did not come sooner to them as police raided their compound last week.
“The assault on the Kingdom Nation has been going on for nine days. I could not come earlier because there was also an assault on the Office of the Vice President and I could not leave my co-workers at the Office of the Vice President,” Duterte said.
The Office of the President is facing scrutiny from Congress and the Senate over its proposed 2025 budget. Duterte is also being questioned for the P10-million budget for the book she authored titled “Isang Kaibigan.”
She said that even if she is not always present, she will always be with KOJC members in their “darkness.”
“As vice president and as a Davaoeño, I will be there to comfort them. I have a moral obligation to assist them if they see that they are persecuted, even if there are so few of them. That’s my duty as vice president,” she said.
Duterte encouraged the KOJC members not to fear the thousands of police in their compound, and to refrain from violence.
“It is wrong to fear. Why? Because you were sent 5,000 police that you can talk to and enlighten on what’s happening in our country, and ask where the rule of law now is,” she said.
“This is about Kingdom of Jesus Christ and the assault on the Kingdom Nation. Always remember that you are not to be pitied. If they come from a place of violence, the Kingdom of Nation is the expert on peace. Davaoeños are
peace-loving Filipinos,” Duterte added. She said that the operations to find Quiboloy are an “abuse of power and an assault on freedom of religion.”
Meanwhile, Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte said the police should state how long they plan to stay at the KOJC property, saying their presence has been causing inconvenience to the public.
The younger Duterte said while he respects the implementation of the arrest warrant on Quiboloy, it should adhere to the law.
“We have observed that the PNP personnel led by General Marbil and General Torre are no longer following proper procedure in implementing the warrant, especially the use of excessive force against innocent citizens, and their unauthorized occupation at the KOJC compound,” the mayor said in a social media post.
“This situation has already caused inconvenience to motorists, businesses and the public. The public seeks clarification from the PNP, how long do you intend to stay at the KOJC property,” he said. (Diana Lhyd Suelto, Edith Regalado)
This frame grab from handout video footage taken and released on August 31, 2024 by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) shows a Chinese coast Guard ship (L) colliding with Philippine Coast Guard ship BRP Teresa Magbanua near the Sabina Shoal in disputed waters of the South China Sea. China and the Philippines accused each other on August 31 of deliberately ramming their coast guard ships near a flashpoint shoal in the South China Sea, the latest in a spate of similar incidents in recent weeks. Photo by handout / Philippine Coast Guard / AFP
The UniTeam alliance of Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Sara Duterte-Carpio draws thousands of supporters at their campaign rally in Cagayan de Oro City on April 26, 2022. The STAR / Jesse Bustos, file
(BFAR)
Nestle Semilla-Dakay, Joey Gabieta, Ma. April MierManjares, Rey Anthony Ostria, Carmela Reyes-Estrope, Lisbet
Esmael, Carla P. Gomez, Dexter Cabalza and Dempsey Reyes)
SHIP WRECK AT NAVOTAS. Residents of Barangay Bagumbayan North in Navotas City walk past the barge ASC Regine, which ran aground the village coast on Monday morning, September 2 as heavy rain and severe winds brought by Tropical Storm Enteng (international name: Yagi) and the enhanced southwest monsoon battered Metro Manila and other parts of Luzon. Inquirer photo by Grig C. Montegrande
Features OpiniOn
Not a blank check for Sara
Twelve months ago, no less than President Marcos’ son, Ilocos Norte Rep. Sandro Marcos, shielded Vice President Sara Duterte from hostile questions during the House appropriations committee’s discussions on her office’s 2024 spending program.
Editorial
Opposition lawmakers had hoped to quiz her on the Office of the Vice President’s (OVP) share of confidential funds in prior fiscal years, including in 2022, when it spent P125 million of the hard-to-audit allocation in 11 days. But on the strength of the young Marcos’ intervention, all questions were torpedoed in the guise of parliamentary courtesy, and it took 15 minutes for Duterte to hurdle the hearing.
Had the panel allowed former President Rodrigo Duterte’s daughter to be interrogated on the secret appropriations earmarked for her office, along with those for the Department of Education (DepEd), which she headed concurrently until she quit in June, perhaps the issue would have
ON Aug. 26, 2024, the Senate of the Philippines did something monumental, if not unusual. The 24-member chamber unanimously paid tribute to five-term speaker of the House of Representatives Jose de Venecia Jr.
In sponsoring Resolution 1142, Sen. Loren Legarda called JDV “a towering figure in Philippine politics and
been sufficiently ventilated and put to rest.
Alas, that was not the case.
Spoiling for a fight
One year later, the vice president faced a House panel that was much less friendly than in 2023. This time, no Marcos relative was present to back her up, as she presented the OVP’s budget for next year. But it was obvious, too, that the country’s No. 2 official had come spoiling for a fight, hackles raised and bristling with non-answers.
Setting aside the testy exchanges that have become fodder for impeachment talk, the questions asked during the Aug. 27 hearing — to which Duterte had no useful responses — betray a systemic problem that extends beyond her office: the lack of rigorous oversight mechanisms for confidential and intelligence funds (CIF) in civilian agencies.
The heart of the matter may lie in the nature of CIF itself. By design, these funds are meant to be used discreetly to protect
governance. Hailing from Dagupan City, JDV’s journey in public service is marked by steadfast dedication, resultsdriven leadership and a relentless pursuit of peace and lasting progress…a stalwart of legislative leadership and political acumen.”
“JDV’s coalition-building efforts during the post-Martial Law era were instrumental in promoting unity and stability. Economic, political and social reform laws were passed under his stewardship during
President Fidel V. Ramos’ administration, laying the groundwork for the country’s growth. It is worth noting that, if I may, my own political journey began under the guidance of JDV,” the famous broadcaster turned legislator added.
In November 2019, at its 18th anniversary, the business weekly BizNewsAsia honored JDV with a “Visionary Public Service Excellence Award.” He is the epitome of the Global Filipino.
national security interests. However, the ambiguity in the guidelines governing the funds has given non-security-related offices, such as the OVP, an undeserved access to them.
Prone to abuse
Under a joint 2015 budget and audit
Confidential expenses are for surveillance operations to thwart illegal acts and prevent harm to an agency, while intelligence expenses are for gathering information with a direct impact on national security, often by military and police.
JDV
My good friend Joe turns 88 this year (he was born after Christmas Day). So his saga encompasses more than eight decades.
I like JDV and feel close to him because he began his professional life as a newsman. He went on to become an excellent diplomat, a pioneering labor exporter to the Middle East and North Africa (which opened jobs for millions), our very own first billionaire oil baron with his Basic Petroleum and Landoil
Resources and a statesman of great vision and excellent execution.
As the longest-serving postwar speaker, JDV was a visionary legislator, authoring many of the greatest pieces of political, social and economic legislation of his time. He held the notion that any major problem could be solved by legislation. That practice is still in vogue.
To me, the biggest contributions JDV has to nation-building are two: 1) he
conceived and implemented the remittance program for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), today numbering 12 million in over 130 countries, from Algeria to Zimbabwe, with the biggest share, 40 percent, coming from the US; and 2) peacebuilding.
After centuries of conflicts, if the country has not been torn asunder, credit should go to JDV in many ways. The OFW remittances dramatically enrich the
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Dateline philippines
No guarantee Quiboloy won’t be handed over to US – DOJ exec
by JuLIe M. aureLIo Inquirer.net
MANILA — The government is unlikely to grant the request of fugitive televangelist Apollo Quiboloy for a written declaration that he will not be turned over to the United States, where he is also a wanted man, as it would mean reneging on Manila’s obligations under its extradition treaty with Washington.
This was according to Justice Undersecretary Raul Vasquez, he said the request of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KJC) founder was “a legal issue that needs to be carefully studied.”
In a media forum in Quezon City on Saturday, August 31, Vasquez said he did not want to preempt the highlevel decision on the matter, but took note of Philippine commitments under the 1994 pact “regardless of whoever is in the leadership.”
“We have an extradition treaty. So no one in that government can give that guarantee, strictly speaking. It’s just optics,” Vasquez said.
“In the first place, no government official would want to violate the law. Our treaties have the force of law once they are signed and concurred in by the Senate.
That’s part of our legal obligation,” Vasquez said.
“You can just imagine if we would renege on our international obligations in favor of an individual. That is a matter that we will carefully study and focus on.”
‘Extraordinary rendition’ Vasquez made these points in response to a statement from KOJC lawyer and spokesperson Israel Torreon on the possible steps to be taken by Quiboloy, currently the target of a massive, weekold police manhunt inside the sprawling KOJC compound in Davao City.
Torreon said the pastor would agree to face charges of human trafficking and child abuse in the Philippines if President Marcos would issue a written declaration that Quiboloy would not be “extraordinarily rendered” to the U.S. without being given a fair chance to prove his innocence in the country.
The KOJC lawyer also expressed fears of Quiboloy being subjected to “extraordinary rendition” or kidnapped and taken to another country.
The Department of Justice said it had not received any request from the United States to extradite Quiboloy, the spiritual adviser of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Lawmaker hopes Duterte, de la Rosa will attend House probe
SANTA Rosa City Rep. Dan Fernandez on Sunday, September 2 said he hoped former president Rodrigo Duterte, Sen. Ronald de la Rosa, a former Philippine National Police chief, and Sen. Bong Go would attend the hearing being conducted by the House of Representatives' quad committee.
Fernandez chairs the Committee on Public Order and Safety, part of the quad panel.
"It has come to public attention that serious allegations have been made against former President Rodrigo Duterte and Sens. Bong Go and Bato de la Rosa in the Quad Comm probe, and given the gravity of these accusations, we hope they attend the hearings to address these claims directly," Fernandez said.
In the quad committee's hearing last August 22, a prisoner, Leopoldo Tan Jr., linked Duterte to the 2016 killing of three Chinese drug convicts in the Davao Prison and Penal Farm.
Police Col. Jovie Espenido also exposed what he said was a reward system
in the implementation of the Duterte administration's war on drugs.
Espenido, a key figure in the drug war, claimed that funds were funneled through Go.
De la Rosa, who led the Philippine National Police during the early years of the drug war, has been accused of instructing police officers to neutralize drug suspects, which has been interpreted as an order to kill.
Fernandez said the attendance of Duterte, de la Rosa and Go "would provide them a crucial platform to defend themselves and clarify their roles in the previous administration's anti-drug policies."
De la Rosa had alleged that Espenido's affidavit was "concocted."
Manila 6th District Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr., chairman of the House Committee on Human Rights, which is also a part of the quad committee, said Duterte, Go and de la Rosa should take the opportunity to defend their reputations. (Reina C. Tolentino/ ManilaTime.net)
Aside from his criminal cases filed in Philippine courts, Quiboloy is facing an arrest warrant in California on charges of conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking by force, fraud, coercion, sex trafficking of children, conspiracy and cash smuggling.
Denying the charges, he had accused the U.S. government of plotting to “eliminate” him once he is turned over to American custody.
Best option
According to Vasquez, still the best option for Quiboloy would be “to come out, present himself and his evidence, and address the charges. He will be given a fair and impartial trial.”
“If there’s an extradition request, that could be the subject of legal processes. He can still question that and claim that he still has pending cases here. But we cannot give a guarantee to him because it’s a matter that is outside of our prerogative because the U.S. will be requesting it, not us,” Vasquez said.
A personal guarantee from the President or Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla is a “personal act that won’t be given much weight” in view of the country’s treaty obligations. n
Fugitive televangelist Apollo Quiboloy
Not a blank check for Sara...
circular, agencies must present plans and submit a quarterly accomplishment report on CIF use, while the Commission on Audit (COA) performs a post-audit of the liquidation of disbursements based on the offices’ own submissions.
Except for internal controls and auditing protocols, how agencies use CIF is generally kept secret. But as the OVP’s case makes evident, such opacity in the system is not only vulnerable but prone to abuse.
In fact, it took a subpoena by the House committee to compel the COA to release — to lawmakers and not the public — its audit reports on the OVP’s and DepEd’s respective confidential funds spending under Duterte.
At last week’s hearing, ACT Teachers Rep. France Castro gave a breakdown of how the OVP’s P125 million in secret funds were spent in 2022: P14 million in purchase of information, P10 million in payment of rewards, P16 million in rental
of safe houses, P35 million in purchase of supplies, P40 million in food aid, and P10 million in travel expenses.
It was further revealed that the COA ordered the OVP via a notice of disallowance to return P73 million of the amount, as the office had failed to document its purported surveillance operations.
A double violation
But as constitutional law expert Michael Henry Yusingco noted, Duterte’s office had no inherent mandate to engage in such activities. “In the first place, it was not appropriate to give the vice president confidential and intelligence funds,” he said.
“And now, we find that it wasn’t even spent on intelligence gathering and law enforcement operations. So, it’s a violation twice over, a double violation,” Yusingco said.
It took political headwinds to force lawmakers to confront Duterte about her secret funds, which shows how the system was built on a house of cards. Consider
this: If the Dutertes were still in the good graces of the administration, would these matters have been raised at all?
Granted, the OVP withdrew its request for CIF last year and made no new request for CIF in its proposed 2025 outlay, but what about when the political tides shift yet again?
Which brings us to the crux of the issue: The CIF is not a blank check for any public office, let alone civilian ones with zero security-related mandates like the OVP.
The revelations at the House are a wake-up call for lawmakers to revisit the rules governing CIF. Their challenge is to strike a balance between the demands of secrecy and transparency, and ensure that the funds are serving their lawful purpose—protecting the nation from security threats. This is not only about holding Duterte accountable, but more critically, safeguarding the integrity of taxpayer money.
(Inquirer.net)
DFA urged to bring China's 'concerning' acts to UN
by Mark ernesT vILLeza Philstar.com
HOUSE Speaker Martin Romualdez urged the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to bring China's "concerning actions" in the West Philippine Sea before the United Nations.
In a statement on Sunday, September 1, Romualdez said it was time "to consider stronger measures" as he condemned the ramming by the China Coast Guard (CCG) of a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel Saturday.
"With a heavy heart and unwavering resolve, I strongly condemn the recent acts of aggression by the China Coast Guard in the West Philippine Sea. The ramming of the BRP Teresa Magbanua, one of our largest and most modern patrol vessels, is a troubling incident that raises serious questions about respect for international law and our nation's dignity," Romualdez said.
"This event, the fifth of its kind this month alone, represents a significant escalation in tensions over the Escoda (Sabina) Shoal — an area clearly within the Philippines' 370-kilometer exclusive economic zone (EEZ)," he said.
Romualdez said the CCG's actions "are cause for serious reflection" and prompt the Philippines must reassess how it protects its maritime rights and interests.
"It is time for us to consider stronger measures. We should enhance our presence in the West Philippine Sea, reinforce our alliances, and ensure that our capabilities are sufficient to protect our sovereign rights," he said.
SEA PROTEST. Fishermen from Batangas, Zambales, Bataan, Bulacan, Laguna and Cavite gather in Calatagan, Batangas, on Sept. 1, 2024, to condemn the recent collision between a China Coast Guard vessel and the Philippine Coast Guard’s BRP Teresa Magbanua.
Photo by Ismael De Juan
Bangko Sentral foreign exchange reserves, killed the once rampant black market and financed the economy and countless homes for Filipino overseas worker families nationwide. The program became a model for many Third World countries.
In the past four years alone, remittances totaled over $128 billion, four times the foreign direct investments during the same period. The $128 billion is 100 percent value added, unlike FDIs for which the government absorbs costs in the form tax incentives, concessions and even land grants. Also, the $128 billion could pay for the entire $128-billion foreign debts of the Philippines. One of every three households in the Philippines has an OFW. Were it not for the remittances, the Philippines would be in deep s**t today.
As an inveterate peacemaker, JDV has no peers. He has this unbridled optimism in the goodness of man and nations, and an unceasing passion in his diplomacy to find pathways to compromise to nagging ageold problems, like territorial disputes and extended rebellions.
He proposed joint exploration by claimant nations in the South China Sea. He also conceived a “Third Route” to complement China’s great “Belt-and-Road” initiative.
JDV negotiated ceasefire with the RAMYOU rebel leaders Col. Gregorio Honasan, then in the underground, General Abenina, Commodore Calahate, both in prison, which led to the final peace agreement, ending RAM’s many coup attempts; he crossed the Sahara Desert twice, with wife Gina, for peace talks with Libyan leader Moammar Gaddafi and MNLF leader Nur Misuari in North Africa, ending in the 1996 peace pact. JDV was the first Christian leader to enter the MILF mountain lair at Camp Abubakar for initial talks with MILF chair Hashim Salamat and his deputy, now MILF chairman Gen. Ebrahim Murad. He was accompanied by Deputy Speaker Simeon Datumanong. Final peace with the MILF is still pending.
A 30-year diplomat, minister and economic counselor during the Vietnam War, then based
in Saigon, now Ho Chi Minh City, JDV pushed the creation of the first Philippine Helicopter Squadron and first Armalite Battalion in the AFP with his friendship with the then famed U.S. Military Commander, Lt. Gen. Creighton Abrams, after whom the U.S. Abrams Tank was named.
In UN speeches, JDV pushed the ChristianMuslim and Inter-faith Dialogues approved by the United Nations to reduce politico-religious tensions and conflicts in various parts of the world. This was a breakthrough because interreligious issues were, before, taboo in the UN system. Today an Inter-Faith unit functions in the Office of the UN Secretary General.
As a Pangasinan congressman, JDV designed and authored the conversion of the U.S. military bases Clark Field, Subic Naval Base, Camp John Hay in Baguio City, Camp Wallace in San Fernando, La Union, into free ports or special economic zones, and simultaneously converted the Filipino military camps in Fort Bonifacio and Nichols Air Base into major business cities under one classic law, a dramatically successful “game changer” for the Philippines, the Bases Conversion Law.
JDV also initiated the Asian Parliamentary Assembly (APA) and is president of the Centrist Asia Pacific Democrats International (CAPDI) and co-chairman of the International Ecological Safety Collaborative Organization (IESCO), based in New York and Beijing, and which enjoys Consultative Status in the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
In 1998, JDV exhausted most of his lifelong earnings for an ambitious attempt at the presidency. He lost, to Erap Para sa Mahirap, Joseph Estrada, by a wide margin.
Ever the statesman, Speaker JDV quickly proclaimed Estrada as the duly elected president.
*
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.
biznewsasia@gmail.com
Hontiveros warns of Pogo ‘rebranding’ amid Marcos ban order
by CharIe abarCa Inquirer.net
MANILA — Senator Risa Hontiveors flagged on Monday what she dubbed as possible “rebranding” of Philippine offshore gaming operators (Pogos) following President Bongbong Marcos Jr.’s pronouncement to completely ban such firms in the country.
In a statement, Hontiveros said Senate hearings have established that Pogos are run by organized and syndicated criminal groups complicit with some public officials.
“Kaya tayo nagsusumikap sa ating mga hearing sa Senado ay upang makahanap ng mabisang solusyon para tuluyan na ngang mapasara an g mga Pogo sa Pilipinas,” she said.
(That’s why we are working hard in our hearings in the Senate to find an effective solution so that Pogos in the Philippines can be shut down.)
“Kaya determinado rin tayong panagutin ang mga opisyal na nagbigay-daan at patuloy na nagpapatakbo sa mga ito,” she added.
(That’s why we are also determined to hold accountable the officials who allowed and continued to operate them.)
Hontiveros proceeded to lament the “continuous underground operations” of Pogos in the country, prompting her to call on law enforcement agencies to step up in acting on the total ban ordered by Marcos “Dapat hindi na maulit pa ang mga ganitong modus, kabilang na ang pagsulpot ng iba’t ibang ‘rebranding’ ng Pogo. Andyan ang mga balitang magiging call center daw ang mga Pogo o itatago sila sa special economic zone, at iba pang mga hocus-pocus na hindi dapat mapahintulutan,” she said.
(Such modus operandi should not be repeated, including the apparent rebranding of Pogo. There are reports that the Pogos will be called call centers or they will be hidden in the special economic zone, and other hocus-
pocus that should not be allowed.) Hontiveros’ remarks came following the discovery of Visayas’ first illegal Pogo hub in Cebu. Authorities said 162 foreign nationals were rescued from the Pogo firm, including six Indonesians the authorities were initially searching for.
For the opposition senator, the rescue of these individuals highlights the urgent need to enforce Republic Act No. 12010 or the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA).
Hontiveros said the government should not allow the country to become a headquarters for scammers.
“These cunning scam hub operators are transnational. Sa mga hearing sa Senado, nabanggit na nabubuhay ang mga hubs na ito dahil sa forced labor ng mga biktima ng human trafficking, Pilipino man o dayuhan. Under AFASA, this is economic sabotage,” Hontiveros pointed out.
(It was mentioned in Senate hearings that these hubs survive because of the forced labor of victims of human trafficking, whether Filipinos or foreigners. Under AFASA, this is economic sabotage.)
In a separate statement also issued Monday, Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian said the presence of a Pogo hub in Cebu proves that there is a lot more to be done to combat such firms.
“The presence of former Pogo workers from Bamban and Porac at the recently raided Pogo hub in Cebu suggests that we may have only scratched the surface of the issue. A deeper probe is clearly necessary,” said Gatchalian.
Similar to what was stated by Hontiveros, Gatchalian said Pogo operators and agents appear to only “flout the law” by only shifting from one location to another.
“We need stricter enforcement and more comprehensive measures to ensure that these operations are permanently shut down,” he said. n
DFA urged to bring China's 'concerning' acts...
Romualdez said the global community, including the United Nations, "should be made aware of these concerning actions."
Surigao del Norte 2nd District Rep. Robert Ace Barbers condemned what he described as "bullying" by the CCG.
"While our PCG still practices maximum tolerance, we should all stand our ground against the China Coast Guard's brazen bullying and violence against our sailors," Barbers said in a statement on Sunday.
In a statement on Saturday, August 31, U.S. Department of State spokesman Matthew Miller said the "United States stands with its ally, the Philippines."
Miller reiterated the U.S.' call for China "to comport its claims and actions with international law and to desist from dangerous and destabilizing conduct."
The U.S. condemned Beijing's "dangerous and escalatory actions ... against lawful Philippine maritime operations in the vicinity of Sabina Shoal in the South China Sea on August 31."
China's "unlawful claims of 'territorial sovereignty' over ocean areas where no land territory exists, and its increasingly aggressive actions to enforce them, threaten the freedoms of navigation and overflight of all nations," Miller said.
He said that a China Coast Guard vessel "deliberately collided three times with a Philippine Coast Guard vessel exercising its freedom of navigation in the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, causing damage to the vessel and jeopardizing the safety of the crew onboard."
"On multiple occasions throughout August 2024, the PRC (People's Republic of China) has aggressively disrupted lawful Philippine aerial and maritime operations in the South China Sea, including at Sabina Shoal," he said.
Japanese Ambassador to Manila Endo Kazuya said Japan stands with the Philippines in upholding the rule of law as he expressed concern over China's repeated dangerous actions in the South China Sea.
Endo on Sunday said as a stakeholder of the South China Sea, Japan was seriously concerned over the repeated incidents, including the collision by a CCG vessel against a Philippine vessel."
"Japan opposes any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion," Endo posted on X.
He said Tokyo would "continue working in coordination with the international community to maintain and strengthen the free and open international order based on the rule of law."
The envoy said the issue "with regard to the South China Sea is directly related to the peace and stability of the region and is a legitimate concern of the international community."
"The issue is also an important matter of interest for Japan, which depends on sea transport for most of its resources and energy," he said.
Japan raised the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation and overflight consistent with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos).
Endo said Unclos "sets forth the conditions for the application of baselines in a specific and exhaustive manner, whereas China has failed to invoke the relevant provisions of Unclos in asserting the lawfulness of the baselines in question."
The Permanent Court of Arbitration in July 2016 ruled that the "historical rights" based on the "nine-dash line" claimed by China were found to be contrary to Unclos and were clearly denied.
"Regrettably, China has not changed its position of not accepting the Arbitral Tribunal's award to the Philippines and China and has continued to assert maritime claims that are inconsistent with the Unclos," he said. n
THIS week’s Citizen Pinoy brings “Your Tanong , My Sagot ” to the Seattle branch of Valerio’s Tropical Bakeshop. This beloved chain, known for its authentic Filipino baked goods, is the perfect place to find Filipinos who have some immigration questions.
In this episode, leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel is joined by both Jean Valerio, production manager of Valerio’s Tropical Bakeshop,
COMMUNITY JOURNAL
and Elaine Valerio, manager of the Seattle branch.
Lola Maria wants to know if her granddaughter and her husband, currently in the U.S. as tourists, can obtain work permits and if her granddaughter can become her caregiver. Romeo asked about his brother’s 2004 petition for his married daughter, wondering why there has been no update from USCIS. Carmen was there to ask a question on behalf of her
PAGE 12
J. GURFINKEL ON
TANONG, MY SAGOT’ FROM THE SEATTLE BRANCH OF VALERIO’S TROPICAL BAKESHOP. Atty. Gurfinkel (top right) was joined by Seattle Branch Manager Elaine Valerio (top left) in this episode. Some of the questions that were asked were – From Romeo (bottom left): How come we have not heard anything from the USCIS regarding my brother’s petition for his married daughter filed in 2004?; Carmen (bottom right) asked a question on behalf of her friend, Dionisia: Dionisia’s husband petitioned their children in 2015. However, he died in 2020 and now all the children have been denied. Is there anything else they can do to get the children to the U.S.?; Lola Maria (not in photo): My granddaughter and her husband are in the U.S. as tourists. Can they get work permits? Can my granddaughter be my caregiver? Be sure to tune in for the answers to these questions and more from Kapamilya in Seattle on an encore episode of “Your Tanong, My Sagot” on Citizen Pinoy on Sunday, September 8 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. (Advertising Supplement)
COMMUNITY JOURNAL
Citizen Pinoy visits Max's Fried Chicken...
friend, Dionisia. Dionisia’s husband petitioned their children in 2015. However, the petitioner died in May 2020. After his passing, all the children have been denied. Dionisia wants to know what else can be done for the children to come to the U.S.
Atty. Gurfinkel answers these questions and more in “Your Tanong , My Sagot ” at the Seattle branch of Valerio’s Tropical Bakeshop. Watch this encore episode of Citizen Pinoy on Sunday, September 8 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET through select Cable/Satellite providers), right after TV Patrol Linggo. Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the free app. (Advertising Supplement)
Iya Villania pregnant with baby No. 5
IYA Villania and her husband Drew Arellano are set to welcome once again another addition to their family, as the former is pregnant with their fifth child.
The couple made the announcement through a video on their Instagram page on Wednesday, Sept. 4. In the clip, the family of six was lipsynching and dancing to Lou Bega’s hit song “Mambo No. 5.”
The video then transitions to the baby’s sonogram in which its hand is seen widely open, making a number five gesture.
Surprised fans and fellow celebrities took to the comments section to congratulate the couple, with fellow TV host Bianca Gonzalez quipping that pair’s family can already pass as a basketball team.
Villania and Arellano had been together for 10 years
Health@Heart
PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS
THIS vital issue is trending. The intense desire to have a healthy body and maximal longevity is a universal dream more sought for than ever before. Besides daily physical exercise (walking, moderate or brisk, as tolerated, at least 5 times a week, is recommended over the joint-busting jogging), various diets have been developed for better health, like Adkins, South Beach, Mediterranean, Vegetarian, Ducan, Pescatarian, Flexitarian, etc.
Many of the so-called “health or weight loss supplements” in the trilliondollar food industry are fraudulent, not having evidence-based medical data to support their advertised hyped-up claims on the benefits and safety of the thousands or so advertised products. More than 90 percent of those marketed supplements are basically “modern snake-oil remedies,” purely useless, a waste of money, and potentially dangerous down the road among chronic users. Liver and kidney complications have been reported as side-effects. With good nutrition, we do not need any food supplements, not even vitamins. Caveat emptor ( let the buyers beware), indeed!
The latest diet, which has skyrocketed in popularity because of several celebrities on it, is the ketogenic diet which includes Halle Berry, Alicia Vikander, Gwyneth Paltrow, Tim Tebow, Kim and Kourtney Kardashian, Vanessa Hudgens, Lebron James, Megan Fox, Adriana Lima, Vinny Guadagnino, Katie Couric, and a host of others.
High fat, low carb
risk for obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and other metabolic and cardiovascular illnesses. Soft drinks are actually toxic to the body in the long run. What is ketogenic diet?
Ketogenic or Keto diet is a nutrition plan that severely minimizes carbohydrate intake (rice, bread, no soft drinks, sweets, sugars, starches, etc.). Keto diet includes 75 percent of the total daily calories from fat, 20 percent from protein, and reduced carbohydrate intake to 5 percent. After a few days on this diet, the body system enters ketosis, a metabolic state where the body starts burning fats efficiently instead of carbohydrates for fuel. Normally, the body burns and uses carbohydrates to a great degree for fuel to produce energy. The faster and more efficient weightreducing fat-burning feature of the keto diet is the one attractive “side-effect” that captivates avid keto-dieters. Effects on glucose metabolism
The keto diet induces ketone (beta-hydroxybutyrate) formation. If one eats very little carbohydrates, which leads to lower glucose (sugar) storage level in the system, the body taps into fat stores instead for production of energy, using the ketones as an alternative metabolic fuel, a process called ketosis. This assists in weight loss, blood sugar, triglyceride, and cholesterol control, and in preventing or reducing the risk for a host of illnesses including acne, diabetes, polycystic ovary, heart disease, stroke, epilepsy, Parkinson’s, dementia, and even cancer. Ketones in the liver also supply energy to the brain.
Which foods are included?
The keto diet allows the following: chicken, lean red meats (from grass-fed animal sources), seafood (not farmraised, where antibiotics or other chemicals are used) like salmon, sardines, mackerel, shrimps, oysters, crabs, mussels, clam, squid, lobster, virgin olive oil, broccoli, avocado, onions, garlic, Brussel sprouts, cauliflower, zucchini, and other antioxidants (antiinflammatory) foods that protect the body from the cell-damaging free radicals. Which are the foods to avoid?
In June 2023, the couple opened up about parenthood and said that they were already
“good” with having four kids. Arellano even quipped at the time that Villania was just waiting for him to get vasectomy.
Three months later, Villania was speculated to be pregnant although the TV host immediately dismissed this.
(Anne Pasajol/INQUIRER.net)
As a cardiac surgeon who is a health nut, I am fond of the ketogenic diet, altering it a bit for my personal preference for gluten and lectin-free meals, to help maintain a healthier microbiome and my general health. It is really my modified version of the Adkins/Mediterranean diets which I started in the mid80s. The ketogenic diet leads to a more rapid weight loss than Adkins. Minimizing rice and other carbs dramatically helped. Carbohydrates, especially rice, increase the
One side effect is termed “keto flu,” which includes irritability, headache, sense of hunger, mild sleep impairment, slight digestive discomfort, sometimes nausea, and tiredness, which is reported as temporary (for 2 weeks or so), while the system is adjusting and getting used to this diet. The severity varies among individuals. I have abstained from a lot of carbs for decades, but the craving for rice is still there, especially at restaurants or parties, having tapa, pork sinigang, adobo, callos, kaldereta, kare-kare, sisig, laing, etc. I limit rice to half a cup.
In the keto diet, any high carbohydrate (high glycemic index) foods are to be avoided, like rice, soft drinks of any variety (poisonous!), ice cream, smoothies, candy, sweets in general, French fries, wheat-based starches, bread, pasta, cereal, fruits (except moderate portions of all berries), processed foods in general, roots and tubers (potatoes, parsnips, sweet potatoes, carrots), legumes (beans, chick peas, lentils), corn and corn oil, high-fructose corn syrup, diet products, mayonnaise, sugar-free foods – basically eliminating carbohydrates and food additives. Is ketosis the same as ketoacidosis? No, ketosis results from fasting from carbohydrates, a controlled insulin regulated process that releases fatty acids, while ketoacidosis (seen among diabetics) is a dangerous state due to lack of insulin, causing the blood sugar to catapult to a life-threatening level. One good feature of the keto diet is in reducing cellular resistance to insulin (increasing sensitivity to insulin by 75 percent), thus allowing insulin to enter the cells more easily to aid (more efficiently) in glucose metabolism. Consult your physician first before changing your diet.
The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people to live a healthier lifestyle, to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve a happier and more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation, or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable to or appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute for your
Iya Villania and Drew Arellano with their four kids, and a sonogram of their fifth child. Photo from Instagram/@iyavillania before they tied the knot in 2014. The couple welcomed their firstborn Primo in 2016, their second son Leon in 2018, their daughter Alana in 2020, and their fourth child Astro in 2022.
Janine Gutierrez wears
Inno Sotto, Vania Romoff to Venice Film Festival debut
by krIsTofer PurneLL Philstar.com
MANILA — Actress Janine Gutierrez made a stunning debut at the Venice Film Festival where her film "Phantosmia" by Lav Diaz premiered out of competition.
The actress arrived in the Italian city last week and shared in several social media posts that it was her first time in Venice.
During the photocall for "Phantosmia," Janine wore a black slimming sheer longsleeved dress by Inno Sotto with a boat neckline.
Accompanying Janine at the photocall were Lav, Ronnie Lazaro, Hazel Orencio, Dong Abay, Paul Jake Paule and Paul Soriano.
The group later appeared on the red carpet for the film's premiere, with Dong holding up a Philippine flag and Janine changing into a new dress.
Janine's second outfit was a blue tulip skirt gown by Vania Romanoff with a deep neckline, slim straps, and a low back which made her look like modern Filipina Cinderella.
The actress shared several photos from both the photocall and red carpet
on her Instagram account, calling the entire experience "a dream come true."
A synopsis for "Phantosmia" says Ronnie's character has a recurring mysterious olfactory problem, which a counselor believes is a phantom smell caused by trauma, meaning the character must deal with his military past.
"Reassigned in the very remote Pulo Penal Colony, he must also confront the horrific realities of his present situation."
Like most Lav films, the runtime of "Phantosmia" clocks at 245 minutes or just over four hours. This is the director's eighth movie to be part of the Venice Film Festival, now on its 81st year.
Lav's first entry "Kagadanan Sa Banwaan Ning Mga Engkanto" in 2007 received a Horizons Special Mention, "Melancholia" won the Horizon Best Film award the following year, "Ang Babaeng Humayo" starring Charo Santos-Concio won the 2016 Golden Lion, and in 2020 Lav won the Horizons Best Director plum for "Lahi, Hayop." n
Born to actor parents, Olympic gymnast Levi Jung-Ruivivar enters showbiz
by CharMIe Joy PaguLong Philstar.com
MANILA — Filipina American Olympic gymnast Levi Jung-Ruivivar is thrilled to explore acting, modeling and endorsement opportunities after inking a deal with Viva Artists Agency.
Levi always had a passion for the entertainment industry since both of her parents are actors, Anthony Ruivivar (“Third Watch,” “Banshee,” “Criminal Minds,” “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation”) and Yvonne Jung (“Third Watch,” “ER”).
“I don’t know if that’s just the way I was born or it had to do with my parents being actors. But I was actually really pushing both my parents to be able to get more involved in the entertainment industry,” she told the press during a contract signing at Viva’s office.
Now that she’s part of Viva, she’s keen on projects related to acting, modeling, brand deals and social media content.
“Since I was like a younger gymnast, I really made it (a point) to be able to post more consistently and kind of like put myself out there. And I felt that starting with Viva was gonna help me more in that field. And that I would be able to achieve more of my higher goals by working with Viva,” she maintained.
“’Cause there’s always so much that you can do on your own through things like social media. So I was really hoping that by signing with Viva I will be able to reach a larger audience and the audience, specifically in the Philippines as well.”
Right after the presscon, the 18-yearold, L.A.-born athlete left to catch her flight to the United States where she will pursue her college education at Stanford University. She will also be busy training for the 2028 Los Angeles (L.A.) Olympics. The youngest Filipina athlete of the Philippine Centennial Team represented the Philippines at the 2024 Paris Olympics and is looking forward to doing it again in the 2028 Olympics.
On how she will balance her school, Olympic preparations and Viva projects, she said, “If there are little projects that come up here and there, and then that work in my schedule that would be something that I will discuss with Viva and try to kind of figure out how that would be possible.”
“But bigger projects would have to be after L.A. because I do train almost 34 hours a week sometimes. But now that I’m going to college, I will have a little bit more time because the training hours are a little bit less,” she added.
The actors she looked up to in the industry are her parents and comedian Jack Black. But she would love to collaborate with Julia Barretto, given the chance.
“In terms of filming, movies and stuff like that, I would have to do more research. But a lot of people say that I look like Julia Barretto, which is, I guess, my ‘long-lost sister.’ So it would be incredible to really work with her actually.”
Does she also have plans of venturing into music since her grandfather, Tony Ruivivar, was a founding member of the musical group Society of Seven?
“I wish I could say yes but unfortunately, my voice is not the best. It’s not very good at all,” she told The STAR. “So I’m gonna say no to that. Well, I scream in karaoke though. Even though it’s not the most beautiful thing to hear.”
Levi, nevertheless, is a fan of Billie Eilish and Martin Nievera. The latter is also good friends with her dad.
Meanwhile, she appreciated the apology issued by Gymnastics Association of the Philippines (GAP) president Cynthia Carrion to her, along with other Filipino gymnasts, for missing the Aug. 14 homecoming parade for Filipino athletes at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Levi’s dad explained that the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), and GAP have been “incredibly supportive and helpful” to his daughter.
“Levi wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for them. So don’t get this wrong,” he stated.
“I think she’s specifically talking about a very specific thing. But the POC, the PSC, the President’s office, GAP all in different ways have been incredibly supportive. Again, she wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for them. So just to clarify, it’s not that in general. It’s not across the board. I think she was asking that question (about) something very specific that happened.”
Levi, meanwhile, didn’t comment on the issue surrounding Filipino gymnast and Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo and his mother, but she went on to praise her fellow athlete.
“I don’t know exactly what is going on with that issue. But I do know that Caloy is an incredible gymnast and worked really, really hard to get where he was and he had an incredible performance at the competition,” she said.
“I think everyone in the Philippines is celebrating his success and is very supportive of him — what he was able to do or he was able to bring to the Philippines. So, I think… I mean, everyone should be celebrating his success and his ability to compete with such high-level pressure and then win two gold medals at the Olympics. That’s just amazing!”n
Janine Gutierrez wears Inno Sotto, Vania Romoff to Venice Film Festival debut
Fil-Am Olympic gymnast Levi Jung-Ruivivar is interested in exploring acting, modeling and brand deals after signing with Viva Artists Agency.
Photo from Viva Artists Agency Facebook page
Levi with her dad, Hollywood actor Anthony Ruivivar, at the Viva office in Ortigas.
Photo from Viva Artists Agency Facebook page
Jose Mari Chan and the ‘Ber’ months
My P.E.P. (People, Events,Places)
WHEN the “Ber” months come, OPM icon Jose Mari Chan’s “Christmas In Our Hearts” is in vogue in Philippine AM and FM radio stations.
I remember I was the one requested by Mr. Chan each year to help him distribute the presents he would give to the different radio stations in Metro Manila during the yuletide season.
For years, the songs of Jose Mari Chan have served as landmarks of original Pilipino music because he has been a consistent hitmaker. Perhaps, much of the blessings he has now in life must have come because there was a time that his wife Mary Ann and he served in Japan as lay missionaries.
“God expects you to do your best... Life is short, and we cannot always just think of ourselves. The quality of our lives will be measured by how much we have shared with others and by what we have contributed to society,” said Joe, who enjoys what he does and gets a great deal of satisfaction from it.
Asked what he would want his legacy to be, Jose Mari Chan, promptly said, “As a businessman, to substantially improve the lives of all those who work for me. As a father, to bring to this world responsible citizens who will constructively contribute to our society. As an artist and songwriter, to be able to write songs that not only touch lives but will live on long after I’m gone.”
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DZRH’s Radyo Balintataw host Cecile Guidote-Alvarez joined with Volt Bohol of ATOM, Atty. Chel Diokno of Bantayog ng mga Bayani Foundation, Patrick Claudio of Human Rights Violations Victims’ Memorial Commission, Karl Patrick of Project Gunita, Rebecca Quijano (the lone witness who saw Ninoy Aquino shot by a soldier), National Historical Commission of the Philippines officers Alvin R. Alcid and Gina Batuhan, and MIAA officials Arnel B. Atis and Feliciana Santos in laying wreaths of flowers to observe Ninoy Aquino’s death anniversary at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1 in Pasay City. Other groups who joined were the Spirit of EDSA Foundation and the
Ninoy and Cory Aquino Foundation.
* * * Gymnastics had molded a Filipino Canadian athlete, Anna Gamelo, to be hardworking. “I’ve developed the need to persevere through the challenges presented in gymnastics.”
At 11, she won her first international medal (bronze) in 2008 at the International Gymnix Cup competition in Montreal, Quebec. Years later, she placed 3rd at the Canadian National Championships. As a national senior, she moved to Gemini Gymnastics under the guidance of her two coaches, former Olympic all-around gold medalist Elena Davydova and Valery Yahchybekov, who honed her to win 4 All-Around National Open Championship Titles, specifically at the Ontario Provincial Championships and at the Canadian National Championships in 2014.
As a scholar at USA’s Michigan State University, she pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree major in Experience Architecture
and minor in Chinese, and graduated with honors in 2019, the year she retired from gymnastics.
Since then, she has been hiking in places across Canada with her big sister. She did some jujitsu, kickboxing, swimming, and ran 5K/10K races with the family to stay active.
She is proud of her Filipino heritage. “I’m proud that Filipinos are known for their talents, being innovative, hardworking and humble. And I love Filipino foods and desserts...I’ve been to Manila for a couple of weeks with my family.”
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House Speaker Martin Romualdez described Carlos Yulo as a “once-ina-century Filipino athlete” following his exceptional double gold victory in France.
“Carlos’ achievements have not only brought glory to the Philippines but have also highlighted the potential of our athletes to excel in the international arena... We will continue to support and invest in our sports programs to nurture and develop more world-
class athletes like Carlos. His success is a shining example of hope and a source of inspiration for all of us,” said Romualdez.
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The recent 1st Sovereign Seal of Business Triumph and Remarkable Achiever awards ceremony at Dusit Thani Manila was wellorganized with a press conference attended by some media persons, like Peps Bernardo of Malaya Business Insight, Cheska Itable of Amazing Manila Journal, blogger Mac Vasquez, Yuan Santos of Business World, Queenie Ostulano of Philippines Graphic Magazine, Carlo Abalos of Business Mirror, Vivian Yjares and ChaCha Bantug of People’s Television Network, blogger Rain de Ocampo, James Humarang of Tech and Lifestyle Journal, and Guia Cruz Buenaventura of Media House Express. Video messages of congrats for SSBTRA awardees came from Sen. Jingggoy Estrada, former Sen. Bam Aquino and Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian.
My heartfelt thanks to La Visual Corp., Ms.
Lalaine Geronimo, awards chairman Nirro Marcelo of Sirbisu Channel, the awards production staff as well as to singers Lae Manego with her supportive daughter Mica Chely and RTU Himig Rizalia, entrepreneur Salvie Collado Paparon (with the support of her hubby Raymond Pedroso and children Sheanne Marie Faye and Shawn Raymond Lue), and Wej Cudiamat of Net 25 Radyo Agila 1062 KHZ.
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Thanks to Australiabased Blarneystine Serrano and Ms. OJ Arci for the kindness they extended to this columnist and child actress Elia Ilano (co-host of People’s TV Network’s Artsy Craftsy show every Saturday) during the 50th birthday celebration of Vince M. Tanada in Tagaytay City.
All guests were ready for “The Golden Shindig: A Masquerade Ball.” As my friend Ymman Biaco wrote: “Vince made a grand entrance on horseback before entering the hotel’s grand ballroom. Everyone dressed in their finest white outfits for this royal and Greek mythology-inspired event.”
To brings joy to the night, Generation Z singers Pia Caduyac and Regin Lanz entertained the guests with their powerful voices that caught my eyes’ cynosure. Later, Vince made an
address that night that left an indelible mark in my mind. Despite being a “renaissance man,” he remains humble and knows how to look back to thank people, from his parents Emy and the late Tony and his siblings Anna, Elaine and Cocoy, his son Peter Parker, to the members of Philstagers who have been with him through thick and thin.
Celebrities like former Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, Dindo Arroyo, Mon Confiado, Eric Quizon, Mercedes Cabral, Ynez Veneracion, Snooky Serna, Gazini Ganados and overseas Philstagers sent him video birthday greetings, and some friends from other sectors greeted him and presented gifts. As a highlight, everyone sang the happy birthday song to the golden boy who still looks young and strong. Members of Philstagers continued to make splendid performances that evening of continuous music, dance, food and drinks. OJ Arci was the person in charge of the overall preparation, stage design and event execution.
* * * 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
From left: Rogelio Medina, Salvie Paparon, Nirro Marcelo and Lae Manego.
Blarneystine Serrano and child actress Elia Ilano Celebrant Vince M. Tanada, the golden boy
House Speaker Martin Romualdez with U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson Photos courtesy of Rogelio Medina
The Gamelo family members – (from left) Angela, Anna, mom Maria, Marco, dad Michael and Alyssa – at the Oasis Zoo Run in Toronto in 2023.
DZRH Radyo Balintataw host Cecilia Guidote-Alvarez (center, in multicolored dress) at a recent Ninoy Aquino death anniversary observance.
Jose Mari Chan (left) and Rogelio Medina at the former’s Forbes Park home in Makati City.
From left: Rain de Ocampo, James Humarang, Mac Vasquez, Yuan Santos, Peps Bernardo, Rogelio Medina, Queenie Ostulano and Cheska Itable.
Meryll Soriano, Chai Fonacier
join Dennis Trillo, Dolly de Leon in 'Severino'
by krIsTofer PurneLL Philstar.com
MANILA — Actresses
Meryll Soriano and Chai Fonacier have joined the cast of the upcoming series "Severino: The First Serial Killer" headlined by Dennis Trillo as the titular murderous priest.
Trillo posted on his Instagram account a photo of himself with Soriano and Fonacier with Dolly de Leon, who was confirmed to be part of "Severino: The First Serial Killer" earlier this year as Severino's mother.
The actor also shared a picture with filmmaker Yam Llaranas who is helming the show on a script by Dodo Dayao, Rody Vera, and Rona Co.
Both photos were taken in front of the logo of CreaZion Studios, the production company behind the series.
The Catholic priest Mallari, who predated Jack The Ripper, is said to have killed more than 50 people in Magalang, Pampanga during the Spanish colonial
era. A movie on Mallari starring Piolo Pascual as the priest came out in the most recent Metro Manila
Maris Racal still hoping to attend Toronto film fest for ‘Sunshine’
by hannah MaLLorCa Inquirer.net
MARIS Racal may not be able to attend the 2024 edition of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), which will begin this Friday, Sept. 6 in Ontario, Canada, to promote her movie, “Sunshine.”
Film Festival where it won four awards, including Best Supporting Actor for JC Santos. n
Kris Aquino shows jolly self, makes mention of PH return
by anne PasaJoL Inquirer.net
KRIS Aquino’s fans were delighted after seeing the Queen of All Media in good spirits and looking forward to coming home to the Philippines.
In a video shared by one Kimora Bernabe on her Instagram page on Sunday, Sept. 1, Aquino dedicated a message to a certain Jelly. Jelly is apparently a jeweler who was introduced to Aquino by the video uploader.
“Is it Jelly as in jelly beans, or is it Jelly as in jealous?” Aquino quipped. “No, I’m sure Jelly because you are generous and loving.”
“ Ako naghahanap ng bracelet pero as you can see, super teeny-tiny [ ng wrist ko ] so give me a good price when we go home,” she continued.
Fans then flocked to the comments section to admire Aquino and thank Bernabe as well for sharing the video.
Aquino’s ex-boyfriend, Batangas Vice Governor Mark Leviste, also gushed over the Queen of All Media by sending hearteyes emoji.
“I’m happy you are getting better now. [Good] to see you. I’m always waiting for your post,” Instagram user @mhel_villa50 commented.
“Kris is still one of a kind. [Her] kakikayan is positive in all aspects. Kris will always be Kris. She is [an] icon,” one @lakbaywithnikki said.
Aquino is currently in the United States for her medical treatments for her autoimmune diseases. She earlier disclosed that she might be cleared to return to the Philippines before Christmas 2024 if her medical tests yield favorable results. n
On X, Racal addressed queries if she would be able to attend the screening of her movie on the TIFF stage, but said that she still isn’t sure, citing a conflict in her schedule due to previous work commitments. She, however, remained hopeful that another opportunity will come along to be able to represent the Antoinette Jadaone-helmed film.
“Alam ko, alam ko sino mga nandun iiyak na ako. Please may conflict lang talaga sa schedule. Next time ko nalang siguro ma-meet asawa ko huhu. Love you Cate Blanchett,” she said, she said of the Australian Hollywood
actress. “Ilalaban pa rin natin ang mga Filipino movies! Marami pang chances!! (This is what I tell myself para mawala yung inggit huh).”
(I know who will be there. I feel like I want to cry. It’s just that there was a conflict in the schedule. Hopefully, I’ll meet my wife soon. I love you, Cate Blanchett. We will still fight for Filipino movies. There are still a lot of chances. This is what I tell myself so I wouldn’t be too envious.)
“Sunshine” tells the story of a teen gymnast named Sunshine, played by Racal, who’s having a dilemma of whether to continue carrying her unborn child or resort to abortion so as not to derail her flourishing career.
In a separate post, the actress hinted to one @ tiabloomonsoon that discussions are being made concerning her schedule. It remains unknown, however, if she will have a chance to attend the festival.
The aforementioned X user, who asked Racal if she would attend the festival, set their account to private, as of press time.
In an interview with entertainment platform Variety Philippines, Racal hoped the film would spark conversations about abortion, as it’s a “sensitive topic” in the country.
“I am grateful to have played this important role especially since abortion is such a sensitive topic in the Philippines,” she was quoted as saying. “I learned the weight that you carry when you are an athlete, the things that you have to give up, and the hours that you have to dedicate to training.”
The Project 8 Projectshelmed film also stars Elijah Canlas, Xyriel Manabat, and Jennica Garcia.
Racal is also set to star in the upcoming drama “Incognito” and the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) 2024 entry “And The Breadwinner Is…” n
High fat, low carb...
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physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health.
* * *
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
* * *
The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people to live a healthier lifestyle to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve a happier and more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation, or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable to or appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute
for your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health.
* * *
Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, newspaper columnist, and chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He was a recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, presented by then Indiana Governor, US senator, and later a presidential candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry Truman, President George HW Bush, Muhammad Ali and Astronaut Gus Grissom (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday.com, and philipSchua. com; Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com.
From left: Meryll Soriano, Chai Fonacier, Dennis Trillo, and Dolly de Leon Dennis Trillo via Instagram
Kris Aquino. Photo from Instagram/@kimorabernabe
Maris Racal and a poster of her new film “Sunshine.” Photo from Netflix Philippines, Instagram/@mariesteller
