PNEWS 1.11-1.17,2024

SET TO EXPAND FORCES IN PHL AS TENSIONS MOUNT

More anti-submarine aircraft for WPS eyed

By ALFRED GABOT , Editor in Chief

MANILA/WASHINGTON – Amidst escalating tensions in South China Sea and West Philippine Sea, the American military is ready to expand its presence in the Philippines after signaling more military activities in the country in keeping with the mutual defense agreement of the two countries and its enhanced defense cooperation agreement (EDCA).

AG Rob Bonta swears in Daly City Mayor Manalo; Lions Club awarded Marcos-Duterte alliance cracks; ouster plot up?

By

MANILA – It appears there is a crack in the once strong alliance of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte.

This as the Vice President’s father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, is being linked to a rumoured destabilization plot aimed at toppling Marcos in power.

The former president branded the rumors as product of “crazy” people, as he denied any role in the so-called plot, saying he has no more political ambitions and that he is comfortable with the Marcos leadership.

The elder Duterte said he was seeking audience with Marcos to clear things up and Marcos responded that the former leader can talk to him anytime.

Duterte said he has “grown tired” of such rumors. “I do not want chaos. Let us just help each other for the sake of the nation.

Duterte said only “stupid people” will link

By

DALY CITY - Erstwhile Vice Mayor Juslyn Manalo has assumed as Daly City mayor after she was selected to be mayor for a one-year term in a special council meeting for the City Council Reorganization.

Manalo was sworn in by the State of California’s Attorney General Rob Bonta.

During the event, Bonta expressed excitement to be in Daly City to listen and celebrate Daly City’s community heroes

“I thank you for recognizing the folks that made

your city better and to see that the spirit of optimism, of hope of inspiration behind all of you just showed that the future of this great city is created by great leaders. It is a great honor as the first Filipino American legislator and Attorney General of the State of California to have the opportunity to lead the swear in the next great mayor of this city,” Bonta stressed. Bonta said that he smiled in his seat when it was mentioned that Quezon City, the city where he was born at St. Luke’s hospital in the Phil-

Remembering one of the earliest modern day cases of Asian

SAN FRANCISCO --

It has been five years since an apparent case of Asian hate saw an 88-year-old grandmother mercilessly assaulted in a San Francisco park, with the injuries she sustained causing her eventual demise.

In the five years, or half a decade, since the crime,

the alleged perpetrator has been caught and remains under detention. But he has not been tried and sentenced.

In stark contrast to “Grandma Huang’s” age is the suspect, who was a mere 18 years old at the time of the attack.

Digong Duterte seeks potentially ‘loaded’ meeting with Marcos

By Be�ng Laygo Dolor, Editor

MANILA – Former president Rodrigo Duterte is seeking a meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the latter has stated that he is willing to have a one-on-one with his predecessor.

There are, however, a couple of issues that could put the incumbent chief executive on the spot.

For one, Duterte has stated that he wants to discuss the 30-day suspension of Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI), the broadcast me-

dia organization controlled by Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, the spiritual leader of the former president.

Malacanang said Marcos “is always available to President Duterte” and would contact the former president to ask if he really wants a meeting.

Taking steps to lift the suspension on SMNI’s operations is something that Marcos may not be prepared to do, however.

Last month, the National Telecommunications Commission

DoT launches ‘Love the Philippines’ drive in

Marcos, Sara trust, approval ratings up in December – Pulse Asia

QUEZON CITY – The trust and approval ratings of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte saw an increase in December based on a Pulse Asia survey.

The December 3-7, 2023 poll showed that 68 percent of Filipinos approved of Marcos’ performance, a 3-point rise from his 65 percent rating in September 2023.

The survey also showed that at least 73 percent trust Marcos, a 2-percentage

point improvement from the last poll in September.

Vice President Sara Duterte’s approval score, meanwhile, increased from 73 percent to 74 percent, or by 1 percentage point at the national level.

Duterte’s overall trust score went up by 3 points, from 75 percent in September to 78 percent in December.

“The President and the Vice President both have majority approval scores in every area (62 percent to 74 percent and 61 percent to 93 percent, respectively) and class (63 percent to 69 percent and 72 percent to 79 percent, respectively),”

Pulse Asia said.

For the President, only 9 percent disapproved of his performance, while 22 percent were undecided.

The Vice President had an 8 percent disapproval rating, while 18 percent were uncertain.

Pulse Asia noted that majority trust ratings are enjoyed by the President and the Vice President in the different areas and classes.

Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri garnered a 49 percent approval rating, which is a 1-point drop from his September rating of 50 percent.

Speaker Martin Romualdez suffered a 2-point decline in his approval rating, from 41 percent in September to 39 percent in December.

Over 3 M devotees join rites, parade of Black Nazarene of Quiapo church

MANILA – Over three million devotees joined the “pahalik” and the annual “Traslacion” in honor of the Black Nazarene at the Minor Basilica in Quiapo on January 8 and 9 after three-year hiatus due to Covid pandemic.

Braving light rain, many Filipinos joined the procession from the Quirino grandstand at the Rizal Park to the Quiapo church believing the Black Nazarene has miraculous healing powers and that touching it, or the ropes attached to its float, can heal previously incurable ailments and bring good fortune to them and their loved ones.

This year’s parade of the image of the

Black Nazarene was orderly and peaceful and faster, police said, even as some 600 devotees got medical assistance due to various reasons.

No fatality was reported but a man was seriously injured after he fell from an attempt to climb the andas or wheeled carriage bearing the image of the Black Nazarene.

The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) said its teams treated more than 600 devotees who joined the Traslacion, many of them barefoot.

Part of the celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene, Traslacion is the procession of the 400-year-old black image of Jesus Christ or Nazareno from Quirino Grandstand

to Quiapo Church.

The image of the Black Nazarene left Quirino Grandstand bound for the Quiapo Church at 4:45 a.m.

Manila Archbishop Cardinal Jose Advincula called on devotees of the Black Nazarene to be role models by emulating the life of Jesus Christ.

In his homily during the midnight Mass marking the start of the Traslacion, Advincula urged the public to reflect on three lessons -- “to see Jesus, be seen by Jesus, and to show Jesus”.

“Ang tunay na deboto ay modelo. Makikita sa buhay niya ang mismong buhay ni Hesus. Ang deboto ay modelo ng pananalig sa Ama, at pagmamalasakit sa kapwa. Sa bahay man o sa trabaho, sa simbahan man o sa kalsada, daladala ng deboto sa puso niya ang pagkikita nila ni Hesus ” the Cardinal added.

He also urged them to show Jesus to each other during the Traslacion.

“Sa paghatak natin ng lubid, ipakita natin si Hesus na humahango sa atin at umaayos sa mga buhol ng mga problema natin. Sa pagsalya natin sa likod ng andas, ipakita natin si Hesus na tumutulak sa atin upang makausad tayo sa pagbabagong-buhay. Sa pagtukod natin sa galaw ng prusisyon, ipakita natin si Hesus

na nagliligtas sa atin upang hindi tayo mahulog sa kamalian at kapahamakan. Sa pagtimon natin sa galaw ng andas, ipakita natin si Hesus na gumagabay sa atin sa tamang landas ,” he added.

He also reminded the faithful of Christ’s healing power, noting that anyone who believes in Jesus Christ would not fall into peril but would reap eternal life.

“Sabi sa Ikalawang Pagbasa, ang Anak ng Diyos ay nagpakumbabang lubusan. Siya ay nagkatawang-tao, at nakiisa sa ating karanasan maging sa kamatayan. At ito ay para makita at makilala nya tayong lubusan (As the second reading said, the Son of God humbled himself. He lived as a human and experienced human life, even death. This is for Him to fully knows us),” he added.

Baguio declares acute gastroenteritis outbreak, nearby towns affected

BAGUIO CITY – The city government has declared an outbreak of gastroenteritis after reports started to pile since the holidays, with the numbers reaching around 1,602 as of January 10.

“I would like to officially declare that we have an outbreak,” Mayor Benjamin Magalong said during the Public Information Office-led “Ugnayan” briefing, which was streamed live over the local government’s Facebook account.

Local government unit (LGU) data show that around 729 of the victims went to hospitals, and most of these are pediatric cases, PNA’s Liza Agoot reported.

In the PNA report, Magalong said he has ordered a thor-

ough investigation through testing of water from all 67 sources of the Baguio Water District (BWD).

Three water testing laboratories -- the Baguio Water District (BWD) laboratory, the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center (BGHMC) laboratory, and the City Health Services Office laboratory -- are all working on the result of the water samples.

“A confirmatory result will take three days but we have started using the total dissolved solid (TDS) testing equipment since results of which can obtained outright. Once the result exceeds acceptable standards, we will immediately close the source,” he said.

Driver of cop linked to missing Batangas beauty queen surrender

BALAYAN, Batangas – The driver of the police officer implicated in the disappearance of Miss Grand Philippines 2023 candidate, Catherine Camilon, in Batangas province last year has surrendered fearing for safety.

In a report, Maj. Domingo Ballesteros, acting chief of the Balayan police, said 33-year-old Jeffrey Magpantay personally appeared at the station, accompanied by his live-in partner.

Magpantay turned himself in for preventive custody while facing charges of kidnapping and serious illegal detention, Ballesteros said.

Remembering...

(From page 1)

Yik Oi Huang was beaten in January 2019 at a park in Visitacion Valley. Police arrested prime suspect Keonte Gathron, who has remained in detention since.

Grandma Huang passed away a year later, in January 2020. She was 89. San Francisco honored her by renaming the park where the assault took place after her.

Her family and friends have not had the closure they seek because the case against Gathron remains pending.

Huang’s granddaughter, Sasanna Yee, says she feels helpless at the slow pace of San Francisco’s criminal justice system.

“It’s painful to still have these open and unanswered questions,” she says.

One of the mitigating factors in the delay in the case was the change in the city’s district attorney midway. The case against Gathron was also upgraded from attempted murder to murder. Huang had succumbed to numerous blows to the head.

This, after Gathron had been found to have engaged in a crime spree in the days before and after the fatal attack, including robberies and a carjacking.

He has entered a plea of not guilty.

Current DA Brooke Jenkins said she will pursue the case no matter how long it takes. She recently secured a conviction of a homicide case that dates way back to 2010.

The case of a very senior victim from San Francisco assaulted by a teenager would be repeated a couple of

The driver said he would feel safe under police custody.

Magpantay is the driver of Maj. Allan de Castro, the prime suspect in the case.

Ballesteros said Magpantay did not admit involvement in Camilon’s disappearance.

“He voluntarily submitted himself (for investigation). If there will be an investigation, he will be available. He is not hiding, he is willing [to cooperate regarding the case],” Ballesteros said.

De Castro is under PNP restrictive custody after being implicated in the disappearance of Camilon.

The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group -Calabarzon filed a case of kidnapping against de Castro, Magpantay and two John Does before the Batangas Provincial Prosecutor’s Office, which held three preliminary investigations in December.

Ballesteros admitted that they have no legal grounds to arrest Magpantay as the case is still in the preliminary investigation stage and there is no arrest warrant yet.

“He submitted himself for investigation...He wants to be in the custody of the PNP for his own safety. We are not restricting or preventing him from leaving,” he added.

Camilon, a teacher in Tuy town, was last seen alive in October at a mall in nearby Lemery.

She last made contact with her family when she called up to say she was in Bauan and was going to a meeting in Batangas City.

years later.

Thai-American “Grandpa” Vicha Ratanapakdee, 84, was pushed to death, allegedly by 19-year-old Antoine Watson. The street where he was fatally assaulted was later renamed after Ratanapakdee, while the case against Watson also remains pending.

Gathron’s next court date is this week, while Watson’s case is likely to go before a jury this spring.

Sasanna Yee says her family is ready to forgive and reconcile with Gathron.

“I hope there’s something that supports his healing,” she said, “So that he can understand what he’s done wrong.”

“He has so much life ahead,” she added, “I still want the best for him.”

This resource is supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library in partnership with the California Department of Social Services and the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs as part of the Stop the Hate program. To report a hate incident or hate crime and get support, go to https://www.cavshate.org/.

AROUND THE NATION

Batangas eyes modern food terminal

BATANGAS CITY – The provincial government is using insights gleaned from other fish ports in Calabarzon and elsewhere in the country to guide the imminent construction of a modern food terminal in Batangas. Governor Hermilando Mandanas announced that in 2024, his administration will start building a food transport hub on a sprawling coastal property in the province. The new food terminal is envisioned to expedite the transport of food throughout Southern Luzon while creating thousands of jobs for Batangueños.

Naga City gets P1 B for 2024 projects

NAGA CITY – Naga City Mayor Nelson Legacion announced that the city has acquired a P1-billion fund for the construction of various infrastructure projects in 2024. Legacion said the funds from different offices and agencies of the national government will achieve infrastructure development for the city. The various amounts of funding assistance are for the following projects: P190 million from the office of Senator Ronald dela Rosa for the construction of Plaza Quezon; P30 million from Senator Sherwin Gatchalian for the construction of structures at Paseo de San Francisco; P39 million for the construction of a farm-to-market road in Barangay Cararayan, P13 million also for a farm-to-market road in Barangay Panicuason.

AG Bonta...

(From page 1)

ippines, is a sister city of Daly City, calling the Quezon City a very special place.

Manalo, for her part, was humbled and honored to have had the opportunity to be sworn in by Attorney General Rob Bonta, a fierce advocate for California.

“I was able to share this historic moment with my husband, children, and parents by my side,” Manalo said. “To the Daly City community, I will uphold the duties and responsibilities as your Mayor. I take this role seriously and am dedicated to serving each and every one of you this coming year. I remain committed to prioritizing affordable housing (building and sustaining more rental and ownership opportunities), public safety, youth development and senior services, healthy neighborhoods, improved parks, and the intentional reimagining of public services in all facets of local government towards social justice and equity.”

Manalo also congratulated Dr. Roderick Daus-Magbual on being elected as the Vice Mayor and gushed at the sight of having Dr. Rod being sworn in by his daughter, Amianan.

The City Council reorganization also saw Raymond A. Buenaventura, Glenn R. Sylvester, and Pamela DiGiovanni as Council Members.

In the same event, the Lions Club of Daly City was adjudged as the nonprofit of the year 2023 awardee. Among its noble activities that Lions Club was the Springfest for children for decades now, eyecare program for those who need it, and raise funds for those in need in the community.

The Daly City Lions Club was started under the International Association of Lions Club in February 26 1941 making them one of the oldest clubs in the San Francisco Bay Area. It is an organization who asserts that “friendships made in Lionism last a lifetime because they are based on a commitment of service.”

“Finally the bell had tolled for the Daly City Host Lions Club. For 90 years they have been very active not only locally but also internationally. So we are proud to be a member of the Daly City Host Lions Club whose membership is through invitation and most of the members are the bigwigs of Daly City,” exclaimed Ray Satorre, also Daly City Planning Commissioner.

Miss Grand Philippines 2023 candidate Catherine Camilon

Ombudsman OKs graft raps vs ex-Comelec Commissioner Guanzon

MANILA -- The Office of the Ombudsman has found probable cause to indict former Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Commissioner Ma. Rowena Amelia Guanzon for two counts of violation of Republic Act 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

The Ombudsman Resolution alleged that Guanzon prematurely disclosed confidential information during two interviews.

Guanzon immediately filed a motion for reconsideration in relation to her in-

dictment by the Office of the Ombudsman (OMB) over complaints for violation of Republic Act 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

In a statement, Guanzon said all she asks for from the OMB is “fairness.”

She also asked for prayers for what she called “is a fight against evil.”

“Salamat po sa mga prayer warriors. Pray for me, my friends. I always pray that God will give me strength and wisdom to fight evil,” she said.

Guanzon was the Presiding Commis-

sioner of COMELEC’s First Division that handled the disqualification cases against then Presidential candidate Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.

On January 27, 2022 she granted an interview with GMA News’ Sandra Aguinaldo where she said she had voted to disqualify Marcos Jr. from the elections.

On January 28, 2022 she told Rappler’s Paterno Esmaquel II the name of the ponente in charge of writing the Resolution, and discussed her separate opinion.

Digong...

(From page 1)

(NTC) suspended Quiboloy’s station for 30 days after one of its anchors reported that Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez – first cousin of the president – had spent more than a billion pesos in his travels last year. This was proven false as House records showed that the Speaker only spent a fraction of that amount.

Another reason for the station’s suspension was Duterte having threatened to kill a member of the House, opposition leader France Castro of the ACT Teachers party-list.

After saying on his show over the network that he wanted to see her killed, the overwhelming majority of House members stood behind Castro, warning the former president to never, ever threaten any congressman/woman.

Castro has since sued Duterte for grave threats.

For its part, the NTC cited alleged violation of its franchise as the reason for the suspension.

Quiboloy is wanted in the US for various crimes, including human trafficking. Duterte, meanwhile, is the subject of an investigation of the International

COMELEC Commissioner Aimee Ferolino was the ponente.“Respondent’s contention that the information disclosed by her is not considered a confidential information fails to convince,” the Ombudsman Resolution read.

Based on COMELEC Resolution No. 10685 entitled “In the Matter of People’s Freedom of Information (FOI) Manual,” the Ombudsman said “all information acquired by respondent in the exercise of her quasi-judicial powers are considered confidential information.”

Criminal Court for his bloody war on drugs. He has been banking on Marcos to prevent the world court from possibly arresting him, along with his other cohorts on that drug war, led by former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief and now Senator Ronald ‘Bato’ Dela Rosa.

A second reason that Duterte wants to meet with Marcos is to deny any role in the loose talk of a destabilization plot supposedly in the works.

Such talk may have been spurred by an open letter released to the public last week, supposedly from active and retired officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, all graduates of the Philippine Military Academy.

That letter “suggested” that Marcos eliminate corruption in the government which they said “eats about 20 percent of the annual budget.” Otherwise, they added, “our government will likely be bankrupt before the end of your term.”

They also reminded Marcos that the old Central Bank “was bankrupt before your family left the Philippines in 1986.”

The retired and active officers also asked that the implementation of the controversial Maharlika Investment Corporation be “totally stopped” and all funds it got from the LandBank and the Development Bank of the Philippines be immediately returned.

They also asked that Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno be fired immediately. This is the one request that may be granted as a recent report said that Deputy Speaker Ralph Recto will soon take over the Finance portfolio.

Finally, they asked that all the 20 senators and 100 congressmen involved in Janet Napoles’s pork barrel scam be investigated and made to go under preventive suspension.

The AFP and the PNP both denied that there was an active destabilization plot

PNP chief Gen Benjamin Acorda blamed a small group of vloggers for spreading disinformation against the administration.

Solon claims P14 B allotted for Charter change

QUEZON CITY - Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman has claimed that congressmen from the supermajority coalition have launched a campaign for charter change via people’s initiative.

Lagman, who also serves as Liberal Party president, said that they gathered information about the development through municipal mayors of Albay.

Local executives were reportedly notified of a general meeting on January 5, 2024 by the League of Mayors of the province with an “undisclosed agenda.”

Lagman that the P14 billion allocation

will be used to fund the Charter change initiative.

Lagman said the P12 billion was inserted by the bicameral conference committee in the 2024 Comelec budget for plebiscites, among others.

House appropriations committee chairman Elizaldy CoCo dared Lagman to prove how Comelec’s P14-billion would be used to push or finance proposed amendments to the 1987 Constitution.

Co denied allegations that the additional P12-billion budget of the Comelec

4 Filipinos appointed as members of Permanent Court of Arbitration

MANILA — Four Filipino international law experts have been appointed to the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA), an intergovernmental organization based in The Hague, Netherlands, which resolves disputes among member states.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) identified the four as Raul Pangalangan, Sedfrey Candelaria, Antonio Gabriel M. La Viña, and J. Eduardo Malaya. Their names were submitted to the organization by DFA Secretary Enrique Manalo.

Pangalangan is a law professor at the University of the Philippines and was a judge of the International Criminal Court from 2015 to 2021.

Candelaria is a law professor at the Ateneo De Manila University and head of the Research, Publications and Link-

ages Office of the Philippine Judicial Academy.

La Viña, a climate justice advocate, is associate director for Climate Policy and International Relations of the Manila Observatory. From 2016 to 2022, he was a member of the PCA Specialized Panel of Arbitrators and Experts.

Malaya, the Philippines’ ambassador to the Netherlands, is the acting president of the Administrative Council of the PCA for 2023 to 2024.

The four were appointed on Dec. 22, 2023.

Member states of the PCA, determined by the 1899 and 1907 Hague Convention for the Pacific Settlement of International Disputes, may appoint four experts in international law to serve as arbitrators under the PCA for a six-year renewable term.

under the 2024 budget would be used to fund the push for Charter change.

Co said the increase was made upon the request of the poll body to restore the budget cuts made by the Department of Budget and Management in the 2024 National Expenditure Program (NEP).

In the 2024 NEP, the DBM allocated Comelec a P2-billion budget, or P17.4 billion less than the poll body’s initial proposal of P19.4 billion.

Co said the bicameral conference committee approved P14 billion, not the entire P19.4 billion originally requested

by Comelec.

Co said the balance of P5.4 billion was included in the unprogrammed funds for future funding.

“Comelec Chairman George Garcia personally appealed during the budget hearing in Congress to restore their budget. Congressman [Joseph Stephen] Paduano (of Abang Lingkod Party-list), who presided over that meeting, attests that such request was approved by the committee and reflected in the minutes,” Co, of Ako Bicol Party-list, said in a statement.

New MIAA chief vows order at airport, seeks workers’ support

NINOY AQUINO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT – Newly

overseeing the airport for several months.

appointed Manila

International Airport Authority (MIAA) general manager Eric Ines has assumed the post and immediately enjoined his coworkers to support him in addressing issues that the country’s main gateway has been facing.

Speaking in front of employees for the first time, Ines said they will address issues guided by honesty, integrity, impartiality and objectivity.

“I intend to lead by example,” he stressed during the flag ceremony, while also acknowledging that he can never please everyone.

He thanked President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for trusting him to lead the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and predecessor Bryan Co for

Ines said improvements have been done but there are still changes needed at NAIA.

“I have been here for only a few days now but I have witnessed and heard a lot of things -- misbehaving people, employees doing foolish things, employees at counters asking for high rates,” he said.

Ines also pointed out that bad experiences shared on social media ruin the airport’s image. As such, among his targets is to use social media to connect with people and share information.

“There are many faults, shortcomings that need to be addressed,” he added.

Ines aslso met with the airport’s security heads to ensure strengthened vigilance and inspection of possible drugs hidden in the terminals.

March-May possibly warmest, likely up to 40 °C

QUEZON CITY – Brace for warmer months in the Philippines.

This as weathermen project the months of March to April could be one of the warmest, with temperature reaching up to 40 °C in some areas, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

“There’s possibility that March, April and May -- which we call warm and dry season months -- could be one of the warmest in our record. Historically, we record warmer temperatures during years with prevailing El Niño,” Ana Liza Solis of PAGASA said in a televised briefing.

The temperature in some areas, partic-

ularly in Cagayan Valley Region, could reach up to 40 °C, Soliss said, adding this is apart from the high heat index or the temperature that a person feels.

Solis said PAGASA forecasts belowaverage number of tropical cyclones for this year due to El Nino.

From the usual average of 19 to 20 a year, only 13 to 19 tropical cyclones are expected in 2024.

Two to five tropical cyclones are likely in the first half of the year, while 11 to 14 tropical cyclones are possible from July to December.

Solis noted that Metro Manila could also experience reduced rainfall as early as February or March.

Feb. 12: Comelec Coast Guard completes resupply mission in Kalayaan Islands

MANILA – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has completed a week-long rotation and resupply (RORE) mission in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) despite being shadowed by China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels.

The PCG said multi-role response vessels BRP Cabra and BRP Sindangan conducted the RORE mission from Jan. 3 until Tuesday when they arrived at the Port of Buliluyan in Bataraza, Palawan.

During the mission, the vessels and their crew delivered essential supplies to

PCG personnel deployed at the Kalayaan Island Group --specifically at Lawak Island, Panata Island, and Pag-asa Island. Members of the Philippine National Police-Maritime Group also took part in the mission.

Coast Guard District Palawan (CGDPAL) Commander, Capt. Dennis Labay, lauded the PCG personnel stationed in these islands for actively serving at farflung units in the WPS, especially during the holiday season.

Voter registration resumes

MANILA

May 2025 midterms elections would resume on Feb. 12, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) announced.

Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia said the voter registration period will run for seven months or until Sept. 30.

Garcia noted that they expect some 3 million to apply for registration as vot-

ers.

“Our projected number of registered voters is around 3 million, which shall be added to the current 68 million voters,” he added

The last voter registration period was held from Dec. 12, 2022 to Jan. 31, 2023. It recorded a total of 1.6 million additional registered voters

– Voter registration for the

U.S....

(From page 1)

This as the Philippine military is eyeing to acquire more anti-submarine aircraft to detect submarines that encroach into the country’s territory and 200-mile exclusive economic zone from its nearest coast and boost the Armed Forces of the Philippines capabilities to protect and defend its areas of responsibilities.

National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano, a former Armed Forces chief of staff, confirmed for one in a statement that more joint patrols, military exercises and other activities with the US with other allied countries.

“Our joint patrols with the United States and potential future activities with other allied countries shows our mutual commitment to a rules-based international order and for promoting peace and stability of the region,” Ano said.

China immediately countered the USPhilippines joint patrols in the West Philippine Sea with its own war drills in South China Sea even as it continue to shadow US and Philippine vessels in the region.

Visiting Indonesian President Joko Widodo, for one, sought support of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for the purchase by the Philippine Navy of Indonesian-made anti-submarine aircraft during their bilateral talk in Malacanang.

Marcos and Widodo discussed a range of regional issues, including developments in the South China Sea and closer cooperation among member states of the Southeast Asian bloc during their talks.

Widodo later said in a television joint

press conference after his meeting with Marcos that they had reaffirmed and agreed to strengthen defense cooperation and existing agreements on border cooperation as they asserted the need to uphold international law amid threats of regional instability .

“We agreed to...expedite revision of joint border patrol and crossing agreements, also to strengthen the defense cooperation including on military hardware,” Widodo said, stressing on “the importance of accelerating the revisions of the border patrol agreement and border crossing agreement” signed by both countries in 1975.

“Regarding our region, we agree on the importance [...] for ASEAN to continue to uphold the principles of international law and become a positive force for peace, stability and prosperity,” Widodo said.

“President Widodo and I had a fruitful and honest discussion on regional events of mutual interest, such as the developments in the South China Sea and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) cooperation and initiatives,” Marcos said in a speech.

Marcos and Widodo affirmed the universality of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which lays down rules governing all uses of the seas and the oceans

During their bilateral meeting at Malacañan Palace in Manila, Marcos and Widodo acknowledged that complying with the UNCLOS is crucial to maintain peace and stability in the oceans and the seas, including the SCS.

“President Widodo and I held a fruitful and honest discussion on regional events of mutual interest, such as the developments in the South China Sea and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) cooperation and initiatives,” Marcos said in a joint statement delivered after his bilateral meeting with Widodo.

“The Philippines and Indonesia affirmed our insistence on the universality of UNCLOS, which sets out the legal framework that governs all activities in the oceans and in the seas,” he added.

Widodo said he and Marcos also emphasized the need to strengthen ASEAN Unity and Centrality, as well as to uphold the principles of international law and become a “positive force for peace, sustainability and prosperity.”

In 2023, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said it would deploy an anti-submarine helicopter in the West Philippine Sea as maritime tensions continue to broil between the Philippines and China.

The AFP has procured two anti-submarine helicopters from United Kingdom, including an AW159 Wildcat chopper, which can detect and strike any submarine illegally entering Philippine waters.

The Philippines plans to procure four more anti-submarine choppers in the coming years, AFP officials had said.

Malacañang has yet to release Marcos Jr.’s response to Widodo’s proposal.

Widodo also urged the Philippines to further strengthen its partnerships with Indonesia, especially in the fields of security and economy.

Marcos....

(From page 1)

him to destabilization efforts against the administration as he urged Filipinos to observe the rule of law.

Earlier, former senator Antonio Trillanes IV said the people agitating active military members were “allied with the Dutertes.”

“Who in their right mind — police or military — will meet with me to talk about destabilization?” Duterte said during a press briefing streamed live on Facebook. “Why should I do that? To find someone to replace Marcos? I am comfortable with Marcos, why should I replace him?”

After having monitored attempts by various persons to use the Philippine National Police against the government, PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. ordered a crackdown on content creators spreading disinformation on social media platforms to d e s t a b i l i z e t h e M a r c o s administration.

Acorda, who is also being linked to the destabilization plot, has directed the AntiCybercrime Group and other police units to intensify their cyber-patrolling to unmask the people behind moves to bring down President Marcos from power through social media.

Col. Jean Fajardo, the PNP chief spokesperson, said Acorda has filed criminal complaints against those who linked him to the alleged plot and using the police organization to destabilize the government.

She warned that content creators using their platforms to destabilize the government and spread false information could be held liable for unlawful use of means of publication

MARILYN B. KING Vice President for Sales and Marketing

FRANCIS ESPIRITU

Publisher/President

THELMA L. CRUZ

NEIL GONZALES Chief Correspondent Northern California

LYDIA SOLIS Chief Correspondent Southern California

VAL G. ABELGAS, HOMOBONO A. ADAZA, PERRY DIAZ, JOJO LIANGCO, JO ERLINDA G. NEBRES, ROY C. MABASA, ART G. MADLAING, FR. JOEPEL PADIT, RODEL E. RODIS, LOURDES TANCINCO ESQ, MELANDREW T. VELASCO, DANTES & CYNTHIA VELUZ, CRISTINA OSMENA, LUDY ONGKEKO. COLUMNISTS

A momentous decision is forthcoming

For better or worse, the Supreme Court headed by Chief Justice John Roberts is soon expected to make a momentous decision, one that will not only decide the political fate of one Donald J. Trump, but more importantly US democracy itself.

The question to be decided is simple enough. Is he or isn’t he qualified to again run for president?

One side says he should be allowed as it gives the electorate the opportunity to decide whether he deserves a second term in the White House.

On the other hand, the other side says that he has disqualified himself through his actions of January 6, when he is said to have engaged in an insurrection against the country.

The Supreme Court is expected to decide purely on the legal merits of the case. There should be no room for politics on their decision.

Whichever way the US Supreme Court decides, however, there will most definitely be a large segment of the people who will not agree, or even accept the decision.

This is a classic case of being stuck between a rock and a hard place. Or damned if you agree, damned if you disagree that Trump should be deemed disqualified.

Legal luminaries are divided on the case, with one side stating that Trump very definitely disqualified himself by defying Section 3 of the 14th Amendment to the Constitution, which bars insurrectionists from holding public office.

Another side cites various technical reasons to allow the 45th POTUS to run for president this year.

It goes without saying that the day the high court announces its decision, there will be much public debate and disagreement. The possibility of violence erupting is not to be discounted, given the mental state of Trump and the odd influence he has on his followers that borders on fanaticism.

The probability that Trump will resort to something unexpected is not 99 percent, it is 100 percent, an absolute certainty.

This is because Trump still insists that he is or was entitled to absolute immunity against charges for any and all acts he committed while an incumbent president.

Here, he has few agreeing with him, save for his lawyers and paid apologists.

The silliness of this idea is truly mind boggling. If Trump had absolute immunity, then he could have gone to any extreme, from accepting billions of dollars in bribes from the likes of Vladimir Putin or Xi Jinping. He could have ordered the nuclear bombing of North Korea if he had woken up on the wrong side of the bed. He could have ordered the arrest of all Democrats holding Senate and House seats, thereby giving him absolute power over the entire US.

The scary thing is that Trump stands a fairly good chance of returning to the Oval Office, given the seeming fickleness of an electorate that considers Joe Biden “too old” to be president, disregarding the fact that Trump is only a few years younger than POTUS 46, and has in fact shown more signs of impending dementia that old Joe.

No one can or should exert any form of pressure on the Roberts Supreme Court. We the people can only hope and pray that the high tribunal decide wisely. Our very existence and way of life is at stake.

TFarewell to community giants

HE Filipino America community lost two giants recently with the passing of Andre Pontevedra Belarmino and Purita Bulos Quema.

Mr. Belarmino died on Dec. 15 at the age of 99. Mrs. Bulos Quema was 89 when she lost her life on Dec. 28 in Rio Vista; viewing will precede service on Sunday, Jan. 14 at Duggan’s in Daly City.

Both were leaders in their home counties: Belarmino in San Mateo and Bulos Quema in San Francisco.

Where Belarmino left his legal and human resource profession when he came to this country in 1969, Bulos Quema pursued higher education and carved an illustrious teaching career after she arrived with her mother in 1951.

Belarmino worked for 21 years as cashier manager at the UCSF Hospital. In retirement he became a most visible and highly respected figure in the community.

CHERIE M. QUEROL MORENO

He served as: President of the Pilipino Bayanihan Resource Center, Marinduque Association of Northern California and the Serramonte Homeowners Association. He was chair of the Daly City Park & Recreation Commission, and Treasurer & Advisor of the Filipino American Democratic Club of San Mateo County. He was the first Filipino American commissioner with the San Mateo County Commissioner on Aging.

Belarmino was qualified to run for office with legal expertise and his networking skills, but he opted instead to be a strong supporter Filipino Americans aspiring for elected office. He was quick to donate to campaigns, offer advice and walk precincts with the candidates.

Bulos Quema earned her BA in Psychology minor in child psychology at s.f. state university before receiving her masters in counseling and child psychology at the same. She gained her teaching credentials at the University of San Francisco, with lifetime credentials in secondary teaching, pupil services & personnel and certification in bilingual studies and competence.

She was a Bilingual Resource Specialist at the SF Unified School District Board of Education, ESL/bilingual high school teacher; a counselor for K-12 Grade students; a resource specialist at the Intake Center Foreign Students’ Admissions Office at the SFUSD.

Purita’s professional affiliations were varied: she was President of the Organization of Filipino Educators; member of UPA/UP Alumni, the California Teachers Association, Thomasians-USA and the National Association for Foreign Student Affairs.

With her husband and fellow educator Ross Quema, Principal of the trailblazer Filipino Education Center in San Francisco, she shared her time and organizational skills with the South of Market Association, Canon Kip Community House, WestBay Pilipino Multi-Services Agency, SF Community Mental Health Services, Human Rights Commission-Reading Panel; Commission on Delinquency Prevention, SF International Institute, Sunset-Parkside Education Action Committee and the Asian American Communities for Education which conferred her with its 1987 Leadership in Education Award. They first lived in San Francisco and moved to Pinole where they spent their final years.

Her obituary described her lovingly as a “devoted wife and mother, a doting grandmother, mom-in-law, sister, aunt, cousin, friend” and “life of the party, a leader, social person, and people would gravitate toward her” until she lost her husband Ross on New Year’s Eve 2001. It stated:

“Purita was a very independent, courageous and strong-willed woman, who was never afraid to speak her mind and voice her opinion.”

“Andre enjoyed traveling the world with his second wife, Herminia. They kept meticulous travel diaries, documenting their adventures. Andre’s love for travel inspired his children and grandchildren to explore the world. He was an avid reader and excellent writer. He was stoic, reserved, yet sociable and enjoyed entertaining,” according to his obituary.

Andre Pontevedra Belarmino was born Oct. 18,1924 in Santa Cruz, Marinduque, to Natalia and Tomas Belarmino. He studied law at Lyceum of the Philippines. He is survived by his sons Ruben and wife Charing Belarmino and Andrew and wife Maribel Belarmino, 10 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Roman and his wife Josephine Belarmino. He was preceded in death by his son Oscar Belarmino, M.D., his first

Long live JoKoy

If the slap Chris Rock had to endure while hosting the Oscars was not proof enough, listen to Ricky Gervais’ monologue at his fifth and final time hosting the Golden Globes. He was basically telling the audience “good riddance” and “get over yourselves—you’re not that important.” And with ten days to the show and the Golden Globe Awards show runners still without a host (because everyone else they asked, including Chris Rock, turned it down), they find our very own JoKoy and throw him under the bus.

When I first heard the monologue, I laughed out loud in several places. His Oppenheimer jokes were good, like the New Year’s resolution to finish Oppenheimer in 2025 and the comment about scientists getting laid. Let’s face it—those were some gratuitous sex scenes in a movie about a physicist. The best one was when he asked Robert DeNiro, “How’d you get her pregnant at 80?”

(Continued on page 20)

If the audience had been different, or not there at all to throw cold water on his jokes, JoKoy’s monologue was pretty funny. But it was a tough room and they made him nervous. They smelled blood in a performers way and went in for the kill. There might have been one too many allusions to private parts, but, mostly, JoKoy seemed to me like he was straining not to offend when he wrote his jokes. It brings me to my ultimate point: overwoke cultures like Hollywood are eating their own. They have lost their sense of humor and overgrown their sense of importance. As Ricky Gervais said to them at the 2020 awards, they are not particularly erudite and no one wants to hear their political speeches. For a while, most of these people have fame and money and everyone’s attention.

(Continue on page 20)

In memory of Madam Lourdes Gadong Medios

My beloved wife Virginia Jimenez Madlaing and I were blessed and fortunate to attend the funeral and memorial services of Madam Lourdes “Dodie” Gadong Medios last Thursday December 14, 2023 4:00pm-9:00pm at the Cypress Lawn-Olivet Chapel, 1651 Hillside Blvd., Colma, California.

During the Vigil Service, Opening Prayer and Rosary was led by Deacon Nestor Fernandez of St. Augustine Catholic Church in South San Francisco, California.

After the Rosary, Special Dedication (in Tagalog song) was performed by granddaughter Sarah Jones. Eulogy was shared by daughter Esther Przybus and granddaughter Samantha Rescino.

Well Done presentation (with specially selected pictorials) was done by grandson Anthony Medios and granddaughter Stephanie “Bing” Przybus.

Special Tribute was shared by Celestino Medios who emotionally narrated how Lourdes Gadong Medios and husband Pol Medios helped him finished college and then encouraged him to immigrate to the United States together with his family.

I was also fortunate to share my Special Tribute to Madam Lourdes Gadong Medios. I would like to share to our readers and the general public my Special Tribute as follows:

“Magandang gabi sa inyong lahat. Maong ya labid sikayon amin. Naimbag a rabii kadakayo amin. Good evening to everyone!

I am Art Gabot Madlaing, book author, columnist, accredited and commissioned Notary Public and licensed Real Estate Broker from San Francisco, California. I was requested to speak in 5-7 minutes to share my tributes to Madam Lourdes Gadong Medios.

MADAM LOURDES was a devoted wife, loving mother, caring grandmother and great educator and teacher. It was both my privilege and opportunity to have her as my favorite teacher in the elementary grades way back in our hometown of Binalonan, province of Pangasinan in the Philippines.

My beloved wife Virginia Jimenez Madlaing and I were blessed to have her as our partner together with her husband Pol Medios, with the International Land Investment Company, Inc. for several years.

My wife and I were fortunate to be with her and her husband Pol Medios during our Princess Cruise from San Francisco to Alaska and Canada in August, 2005, together with two other couples namely: Demie & Trinidad Tuliao from Daly City, California and Justo and Cely Querido from Honolulu, Hawaii.

We also enjoyed her company during the annual July 4th Picnic of the Binalonian Association of Northern California (BANC). July 4th is the birthday of Madam Lourdes so we also celebrated her birthday during the annual BANC. I’m glad that Romualdo “Waldo”Cerezo, BANC President, is here with us this evening.

The last time we saw Madam Lourdes very much alive was when my beloved wife and I attended her 93rd Birthday celebration last Sunday, 2-4 pm, July 3, 2022 at the Basque Cultural Center in South San Francisco, California. I serenaded her with my signature song “HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADAM.”

MADAM LOURDES GADONG MEDIOS is gone but not forgotten. Her memory lives in our hearts.

So, to cherish her memory, I would like to share and read the poem entitled “THE DASH” written by Linda Ellis, as follows:

I read of a man who stood to speak

At the funeral of a friend

He referred to the dates on the tombstone

From the beginning . . . to the end.

He noted that first came the date of her birth

And spoke the following date with tears

But he said what mattered most of all

Was the dash between those years.

For that dash represents all the time

That they spent alive on earth

And now only those who loved them

Know what that little line is worth.

For it matters not, how much you own,

The cars, .. the house . . .the cash

What matters is how we live and love

And how we spend our dash.

So, think about this long and hard.

Are there things you’d like to change?

For you never know how much time is left

That can still be rearranged.

If we could just slow down enough

To consider what’s true and real

And always try to understand

The way other people feel.

Energizing the provinces

Just before Christmas day, we were greeted with the good news that by January, San Miguel Corporation hopes to complete its 1,000 megawatts capacity Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) network.

In a previous column, I have written about the need for our country to achieve energy security to be able to attract more investments and boost industrialization especially in the countryside.

It is undebatable that being energy-secured will have a transformative impact on the country’s economy and help stabilize power supply.

The use of BESS technology in the country was introduced in 2016 in Masinloc. In 2018, it was procured by San Miguel Corporation. In March this year, SMC inaugurated its BESS in Limay, Bataan. The presence of no less than President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. underscored the importance of the project in the country’s economic development.

BESS refers to an energy storage system that utilizes batteries to store excess energy and distributes the stored energy in the form of electricity.

BESS, undertaken by SMC subsidiary San Miguel Global Power Holdings Corporation, is the first of its kind in the Philippines and considered one of the largest integrated grid-scale battery energy storage pro

There are 32 facilities nationwide that comprised the BESS network under SMC, 31 of which are in the completion stage. The network has an aggregate capacity of 1,000 MWh. And according to SMC President and CEO Ramon S. Ang, the number could be increased “if there is a demand.”

For this initiative, SMC has partnered with ABB Philippines, Fluence and Wartsila as its engineering, procurement and construction contractors. Cost of the BESS initiative is around $1 billion.

According to the Department of Energy website, Summary of Committed Projects by plant type as of 31 October 2023 comprised of coal, oil-based, natural gas, renewable energy and energy storage systems. Annual summary of target commercial operation (MW) for BESS is 2,024.00 MW for the period 2023-2028. Of this number, Luzon accounts for 1,394 MW; Visayas, 370 MW; and Mindanao, 260 MW.

BESS project sites were identified to include Isabela, Cagayan, Tarlac, Laguna, Pampanga, Batangas, Albay, La Union, Pangasinan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Bataan, Ilocos Norte, Navotas, Quezon, Zambales, Nueva Vizcaya, Camarines, Cavite, and Benguet in Luzon.

In Visayas, sites are in Bohol, Leyte, Iloilo, Cebu, Antique, Samar, Negros Oriental, and Negros Occidental. Meanwhile, Mindanao sites are in Misamis Oriental, Davao del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Bukidnon, South Cotabato, and Davao.

Among the benefits of utilizing BESS include: grid stabilization, renewable energy integration, peak shaving, back-up power during power outage, and support for electric vehicle charging.

Utilizing BESS is suitable especially with intermittent renewable energy sources like wind and solar. “With battery energy storage, we can solve the problem with most renewable energy sources, which is intermittence, due to the irregularity or seasonality of solar and wind power sources,” RSA said. Aside from storing excess energy from renewable sources, it can also store excess energy from traditional sources. “Our facilities can support the integration of over 5,000 MW of renew able power sources into the grid,” he added.

It lessens demand on grid during peak periods and cuts down the demand from plants that are usually dependent on fossil fuels.

The use of BESS is aligned with the goal of addressing the challenge of climate change and global warming as more countries are redirecting their efforts to confront these global environmental realities.

According to RSA, SMC’s ongoing investment into BESS “will greatly benefit power consumers all over the country, because this will mean that even faraway provinces or areas, can have the same stable and good quality power supply as everywhere else.”

More stable power supply in the provinces will be a stimulus for progress. Where no industrial plants would relocate because of poor power quality, the presence of BESS can even support equal-opportunity industrialization in these areas. Further, this will encourage the growing middleclass based in the provinces to invest in projects that can be engines for growth as well as provide employment opportunities to the locals.

“This means that provinces and islands will have better and more equal opportunities for industrialization and economic growth. If previously some areas could not attract investments because of unstable or poor power supply, battery energy storage will make power supply more stable and reliable,” RSA said.

Additionally, the use of battery energy storage system helps in the reduction of energy cost which is essential in revitalizing industries.

Statue of Liberty: A Taste of History

I have been hearing the greatness of the Statue of Liberty in New York even when I was still in high school up to college in the Philippines. When my family immigrated to the US in 1997, I thought I will be able to visit and see the Statue the soonest possible time to appreciate its significance and symbolism, but 24 years past, I haven’t been in New York and had no chance of seeing and visiting the Statue of Liberty in the Liberty Island and adjoining Ellis Island.

(Continue on page 20)

As the country continues to strive for economic growth and development, we should be grateful to the private sector participation in creating an environment conducive to the attainment of our goals.

This 2024, let us move forward with determination to achieve our aspiration as a nation.

At the end of the year 2023, however, a perfect 5-day holiday vacation for the family was organized and funded by my children to visit New York, New Jersey and Atlantic City. On December 25 – 31, 2023, with two rented vehicles with a total passenger of 12 (my wife Delia, myself, 5 of my 6 children, 2 sons-in-law, and 3 grandchildren from Hawaii, South Carolina, Manteca, Milpitas, and Florida), we drove to New York, from Blythewood, South Carolina, home of my daughter Tweety, her husband Jonathan and 3-year-old daughter Ellie, and getting our hotel in New Jersey (Delta Hotels/Marriot), just in time for the weekend escapade of New York, Atlantic City and New Jersey.

From there, we appreciated the singular symbol of hope and spirit: the Statue of Liberty.

We were part of millions of visitors/travelers all over the globe, who lined up for the cruise. I learned that the Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation honors the American experience through its preservation and support of these two great monuments and restoring the Statue to creating a world-class museum and much more.

To get to Liberty and Ellis Islands, we took a ferry from Liberty State Park in New Jersey. We were told that the Statue City Cruises is the only authorized concessionaire permitted to sell tickets and provide ferry access to Liberty and Ellis Islands. Tickets were purchased ahead of time by my children May/Steve from Manteca, Jason from Milpitas, Paul from Hawaii, Jojo/Kayla/Bibay from Florida, and Tweety/Jonathan/Ellie, from South Carolina. My daughter Gigi with her husband Eric from Sydney, Australia also chipped in to make the 5-day holiday vacation possible.

My 3-year-old granddaughter Ellie enjoyed seeing the statue standing at 305 feet (93 meters) high including its pedestal. Her mom Tweedy explained to her what the woman holding a torch in her raised right hand and a tablet bearing the adoption date of the Declaration of Independence (Jul 4, 1776) in her left what it represents. My wife Delia said “awesome” seeing the torch which measures 29 feet (8.8 meters) from the frame tip to the bottom. My son Paul from Hawaii explained the statue commemorated the friendship of the peoples of the United States and France.

The Statue of Liberty (officially named Liberty Enlengthening the World and sometimes referred to as Lady Liberty) is a monument symbolizing the United States. New York’s Statue of Liberty was a gift of international friendship from France to the United States, and is one of the most universal symbols of democracy.

Located on the 12-acre Liberty Island in New York Harbor, The Statue of Liberty was dedicated on October 28, 1886 and was designated a National Monument on October 15, 1924.

The Statue of Liberty is located in New York on Liberty Island. It is a statue of a woman holding a torch in her right hand and a tablet in her left hand with the date of the Declaration of Independence in Roman numerals: July 4, 1776. Her crown has seven points that represent rays of light and also the seven seas and continents; the original name for the statue is “Liberty Enlightening the World.” There are broken chains, or shackles, at her feet that also symbolize her freedom.

In 1865, French historian and professor Edouard de Laboulaye proposes the idea of presenting the United States with a monument to commemorate the young country’s upcoming centennial. Early 1870s - Sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi travels to the United States to drum up support for the project. November 1875 - The Franco-American Union forms to raise funds and carry out the project. It is decided that France will build the statue and the United States will build the pedestal upon which the statue will stand.1875-1882 - French citizens are enthusiastic about the project and raise approximately $250,000 through fundraisers and lotteries. The French government does not contribute to the building of the statue.1876 - The completed torch and the right forearm of the statue are displayed in Philadelphia and New York to encourage donations.1883-1885 - Publisher Joseph Pulitzer champions the project in the pages of his New York World (Continue on page 20)

ELPIDIO R. ESTIOKO

ART GABOT MADLAING

MELANDREW T. VELASCO

IMF sees PHL growth at 5.3% in 2023

MAKATI CITY – The International Monetary Fund (IMF) expects the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) to grow faster in the second half of the year and further accelerate in 2024.

“Real GDP growth is expected to bounce back in the second half of 2023 and reach 6 percent in 2024, supported by an acceleration in public investment and improved external demand for the Philippines’ exports,” according to the IMF 2023 Article IV Consultation report released over the weekend.

For this year, the IMF projects the Philippine economy to grow by 5.3 percent.

“The government’s infrastructure program, opening up of sectors to greater foreign investment, and private sector participation through PPP (public-private partnership) modalities will gradually crowd in private investment and help realize a growth potential of about 6 to 6.5 percent over the medium term,” it said.

Meanwhile, headline inflation is forecast to average 6 percent this year.

For 2024, the IMF revised upward its projection to 3.7 percent from the previous 3.5 percent.

“Inflation is projected to gradually approach the target in early 2024, though recurrent supply shocks cloud the disinflation trajectory,” it said.

The report said the current account deficit is expected to narrow to 3 percent of GDP this year and 2.6 percent in 2024, supported by lower global commodity prices and a pickup in electronics exports in the second half of the year.

The fiscal consolidation is also expected to continue next year.

Meanwhile, the IMF said risks to the near-term growth

outlook are tilted to the downside.

It said elevated inflation, both globally and locally, can necessitate a further tightening of monetary policy while the projected global slowdown in China could also affect trade.

“Intensification of geopolitical tensions and fragmentation could disrupt supply chains and investment. On the other hand, a more resilient US economy could propel the Philippines’ electronic and service exports alongside a rebound in domestic demand supported by an easing of financial conditions,” the IMF said.

Risks to inflation are tilted to the upside, it added.

The IMF said higher global oil prices could result in inflationary pressure, while global or domestic food prices and the El Niño weather phenomenon could exert renewed price pressures.

“Even though the outcome of the wage negotiations for Metro Manila in July 2023 was not as high as initially anticipated, risks of second-round effects and continued political pressure to further raise the minimum wage remain,” it said

PHL to continue to post strong growth: World Bank

MANILA – The Philippines is projected to continue to be one of the fastest growing economies in East Asia and the Pacific over the next two years, according to the World Bank.

In its Global Economic Prospects report, the World Bank maintained its Philippine economic growth forecasts for 2023 to 2025.

For 2024 and 2025, it expects the country’s economic growth to accelerate to 5.8 percent

The World Bank earlier said the services sector is expected to be the main growth driver for this year, supported by the ongoing recovery of the tourism sector and the consistent performance of the information technology and business process outsourcing in-

dustry.

“We anticipate that the Philippine economy will continue to exhibit strong performance in the next few years,” World Bank country director for Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand Ndiame Diop earlier said.

For 2023, the Philippine economic growth is projected to settle at 5.6 percent, the third highest forecast among countries in East Asia and the Pacific.

The growth forecast for the Philippines exceeds that of China (5.2 percent), Cambodia (5.4 percent), Indonesia (5 percent), Vietnam (4.7 percent) and Malaysia (3.9 percent).

Strategies for faster unification

There are many strategies that you can make for you and your family to be united faster in the United States. For most of the immigrants, family unity is the most important part of staying in the United States. However, many failed to use strategies or processes that will make them united faster than what is happening. Some of them are discussed below:

1. For an adult child of a permanent resident, it is faster to petition a child as permanent resident than petition by a U.S. citizen parent. The priority date for F2B petition for an adult child is Oct. 2011 while under F1 as a married child of US citizen is March 2012.

2. It will be better and faster if the adult child is not married because a petition for a married child takes longer than that of a single child. This can also be facilitated by an annulment of marriage so that a child can be considered as single.

3. Fling a petition for spouse and all qualified children once an immigrant received his green card. Remember that even if you are a green card holder, you can petition your spouse and children as soon as you received your green card, even a conditional green card. You do not have to wait for you to become a U.S. citizen to petition a wife or husband and children. There are many cases when a minor child could have been included in the petition but for some reason they were left behind and aged out. This is primarily due to waiting to be a citizen before filing a petition.

Example: Jose and Maria have a relationship but are not married. They have a minor child, Peter who is ten years old. Jose was petitioned by his father as single under F2B. When his priority date becomes current, he and his son below 21 years may accompany him and get a green card. Once he received his green card, he immediately travelled to the U.S. and went back to the Philippines to marry Maria. He then filed a petition for Maria. The priority date for F2a for spouse of green card holder as of October 1, 2023, is February 8, 2019. This means the wait time is only 4 years. Note that the strategy here is not marrying Maria as wife to allow the son Peter to accompany Jose to the U.S. and later petition for Maria. The F2b usually has a waiting period of 11 years as single adult son whereas for a married child under F3, the waiting period is usually 21 years. In summary, Jose saved time as a single by about 10 years. Peter saves time by about 21 years if the petition for Jose is as married. Maria saves 17 years if they were married when Jose was petitioned by his father.

Note: This is not legal advice and presented for information purposes only.

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT

1. PETITION FOR CAREGIVERS

Our Law Firm entered into agreement with Care Home Facilities in the U.S. to process applicants for Caregivers in the US

You may qualify if you six months experience as Caregivers Applicants Inside the United States or in the Philippines or other countries may qualify.

Bankruptcy Basics

We also process Bankruptcy cases.

1. Bankruptcy will actually improve your credit within one year because your unsecured debts are discharged. Although the bankruptcy will be in your records for 10 years, not filing bankruptcy will make your credit even worse until most of your debts are paid.

If you have immigration problems the Law Offices of Crispin C. Lozano can help you find a solution before your problem gets worse, which could lead to deportation and family separation.

Myrna Bulos (right, standing) receives rousing gree�ngs from her churchmates when she celebrated her birthday Jan. 7 at Original Joe’s of Westlake in Daly City. Bulos, 78, is a re�red teacher in San Francisco. She is a member of a family of teachers including Alice Bulos, Purita Bulos Quema and Ross Quema (see Upside). CMQM

Court favors TVJ in ‘Eat Bulaga’ copyright case vs. TAPE, GMA

There is now only one “Eat Bulaga” noon-time television show.

This as the Marikina City Regional Trial Court (RTC) has affirmed that television hosts Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon own the trademarks “Eat Bulaga” and “EB” in a ruling that came weeks after the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPO) similarly issued a decision sid-

ing with the trio.

With the court decision, the trio of Tito, Vic and Joey, known popular as the “TVJ” use the complete name “Eat Bulaga” in their TV 5 show which started only as “E.A.T” following their breakaway with their producer TAPE on GMA 7.

TAPE and GMA 7, for their part, dropped the name “Eat Bulaga” and change

their noontime show to “Tahanang Pinakamasaya” with former Manila Mayor Francisco Isko Moreno Domagoso still leading its hosts.

The January 6 episode of “Tahanang Pinakamasaya” began with Moreno acknowledging the court decision and that the network would follow suit even as TAPE plans to file an appeal.

“Pero, fresh episode tayo mula ngayon! Laging good vibes lang at love, love, love dahil ang mahalaga, hangga’t nandiyan po kayo, kami ni Paolo [Contis] at ang aming mga kasama dito sa ‘Tahanang Pinakamasaya,’ tuluy-tuloy ang tulong at saya at sorpresa, all unli-sorpresa,” Moreno said.

Behind Moreno and Contis were audience members holding up balloons and banners in support of Contis, Alexa Miro, and twins Cassy and Mavy Legaspi, who were celebrating their 23rd birthday.

TAPE’s Facebook page has also changed its cover photo with the image of the title card that reads: “Tahanang Pinakamasaya.”

TVJ, meanwhile, celebrated their victory by singing the “Eat Bulaga” theme song while wearing t-shirts that bore the show’s name on today’s episode of their noontime show on TV5.

“Eto ang totoo. Eto ang tinadhana. Eto

ang tunay na ‘Eat Bulaga,’” said Vic.

TAPE said that it is seeking to appeal the court ruling in a statement released to GMA News.

TVJ announced on Friday that they won in the copyright infringement and unfair competition case they filed against Television and Production Exponents Inc. (TAPE) and GMA-7.

According to a statement of Tito Sotto, the Marikina City RTC Branch 273 handed down the decision on Dec. 22, although TVJ’s lawyers only received a copy on Friday.

It said the court ruled that Joey de Leon came up with the name “Eat Bulaga,” as it noted TAPE’s “failure to make a categorical and specific denial of the claim of Joey.”

A portion of the ruling stated that TAPE and GMA are permanently barred from using “EB” and “Eat Bulaga,” as well as the popular noontime show’s jingle.

They were also prohibited from airing and broadcasting a playback of any and all recorded episodes of the show prior to May 31, 2023.

The court further directed TAPE to pay the plaintiffs a total of ₱3 million “for committing unfair competition and copyright infringement,” as well as for exemplary damages and attorney’s fee.

Manila int’l film festival opens in LA on Jan. 29 with MMFF stars, filmmakers

LOS ANGELES – All is ready for the inaugural Manila International Film Festival (MIFF) in Los Angeles.

This as organizers unveiled its official poster honoring Hilda Koronel, the festival’s Monty Manibog Lifetime Achievement Awardee (named after the late outstanding Filipino American leader, lawyer and mayor), and representing the best of Philippine cinema.

The poster image is made up of hundreds of stills from Koronel’s movies with Lino Brocka, including “Insiang” and “Maynila: Sa Mga Kuko ng Liwanag,” which are considered among the most important works in Philippine cinema.

A closer look at the poster, designed by Elton Lugay and Adam Lang, shows that Brocka is beside Koronel, a detail that symbolizes the Philippines’ excellent filmmakers and talents.

The MIFF actually had its first launch at the Directors Guild of America in Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, California, last November.

The MIFF said it plans “to showcase, promote, and help uplift Filipino films from the Philippines in Hollywood and beyond.”

It also aims to “bridge the gap between the two worlds and connect the Philippine entertainment industry with that of Hollywood and the international stage.”

MIFF, whose mission is to showcase, promote and help uplift Philippine cinema, has invited the filmmakers and stars behind the 10 Metro Manila Film Festival entries which make their American premiere in the LA festival to be held from January 29 to February 2.

The talents from the Philippines are invited to attend MIFF events, including Q&As and personal appearances at select screenings, at the TCL Chinese Theatres in Hollywood and the Directors Guild of America on Sunset Boulevard.

The 10 films debuting in America at MIFF, including the biggest winners and most nominated in the MMFF awards ceremonies held in Quezon City last December 27, are: Jun Robles Lana’s “Becky and Badette,” starring Eugene Domingo and Pokwang; Lemuel C. Lorca’s “Broken Heart’s Trip” (Christian Bables); Nuel Naval’s “Family of Two (A Mother and Son Story)” (Sharon Cuneta and Alden Richards); Zig Dulay’s “Firefly” (Alessandra De Rossi and Euwenn Mikaell); Pepe Diokno’s “GomBurZa” (Enchong Dee, Dante Rivero and Cedrick Juan); King Palisoc’s “(K)Ampon” (Beauty Gonzalez and Derek Ramsay); Derick Cabrido’s “Mallari” (Piolo Pascual and Janella Salvador);Jason Paul Laxamana’s “Penduko” (Matteo Guidicelli and Kylie Verzosa); Mae CruzAlviar’s “Rewind” (Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes); and Conrado Peru, Rommel Penesa and Christopher de Leon’s “When I Met You in Tokyo” (Vilma Santos and Christopher de Leon).

Screenings and events will be held mainly at the TCL Chinese Theatres. TCL Chinese Theatres is located on the third level of the Ovation Hollywood (formerly Hollywood & Highland), 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, CA 90028.

On the MIFF’s closing day on February 2, the screenings will both be at the TCL Chinese Theatres and the DGA, located at 7920 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles.

Metro filmfest 2023 earns new record of P1.069 B, extended to another week

The theatrical run of the 49th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) has been extended to another week due to moviegoers demand after the festival earned a new record P1.069 billion since its opening on Dec. 25, 2023 until Jan. 7, beating the previous record set in 2018.

Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) acting chairman Don Artes, who is also the MMFF chairman, said the 2023 edition is now the top earning year for the festival, although its 10 film entries were being shown only in 800 cinemas compared to 1,200 cinemas in 2018 that earned a record then of P1.061 billion.

“We received reports that moviegoers watched multiple films while others watched films repeatedly. Hopefully, we can sustain this beyond the festival so that our film producers can offer quality movies all year round. We also encourage filmmakers to create better films for the MMFF’s 50th edition,” Artes said.

The MMFF 2023 was supposed to run only until Jan. 7 but was extended for another week or until Jan. 14.

Artes attributed the success of the film festival to the quality of the films offered and the wider range of moviegoers targeted by the films.

“We at the MMFF would like to express our deepest gratitude to all who have supported us and watched the movie entries, particularly those who requested for the MMFF movies to extend beyond its original run,” said Artes.

“Marami pong salamat sa inyong patu-

loy na pagtangkilik. Moviegoers, may mga karagdagang araw pa para panoorin lahat ng MMFF entries,” he added.

“This is a good sign as we gear up for the Manila International Film Festival (MIFF),” said Artes.

The MMFF movies were honored in an awards night on December 27, with “Firefly” emerging as the Best Picture while Vilma Santos [“When I Met You in Tokyo”] and Cedrick Juan [“Gomburza”] hailed as the Best Actress and Best Actor, respectively.

After the festival, all ten MMFF movies will be brought to Los Angeles, California for the Manila International Film Festival set for January 29 to February 2.

MMFF spokesperson Noel Ferrer earlier thanked the moviegoers as the box office gross of the 49th MMFF reached P1-billion, exceeding their performance in 2022 when the movies combined for P500-million.

“ISANG BILYONG PASASALAMAT …

We have reached the 1 BILLION MARK sa box office gross ng 49th METRO MANILA

FILM FESTIVAL,” Ferrer said in a statement.

The combined gross ticket sales of the ten MMFF movies reached P700million as early as last Wednesday, January 3.

After the festival, the MMFF committee will focus on the maiden Manila International Film Festival (MIFF) that will screen 10 films in Los Angeles, California in the United States from Jan. 29 to Feb. 2.

Winston Emano, MIFF consultant and spokesperson, said there will be a series of gatherings and dialogues of Filipino celebrities, filmmakers, and scriptwriters with their American counterparts.

“There will be an exchange of ideas and knowledge sharing. We hope to bridge the gap and connect the Philippine entertainment industry with that of Hollywood and the international stage,” he said.

The MIFF will hold a separate awards night with a different set of judges that may or may not have the same conclusions as the MMFF’s ‘Gabi ng Parangal (awards night)’ in December 2023.

The MMFF committee will also hold a student short film caravan, publish a coffeetable book, and ‘Cine 50,’ where the top 50 MMFF films for the last 49 years will be screened in select theaters for only P50.

“We are expecting to feature bigger and better films for our 50th edition as we celebrate the cinema-goers return to theaters and patronize local movies,” Emano said. (with Jennifer T. Santos)

Storms are again affecting California and residents should be ready

By Cesar Antonio Nucum Jr.

It may have been a year since but not a few still remember that in 2022-23 that California experienced more than a dozen atmospheric rivers, impacting nearly every community statewide.

And it is of paramount importance that vulnerable populations are informed ahead of time especially since there is a predicted 75% to 85% chance of a strong El Niño event developing that are projected to result in more torrential rains and higher temperatures across California during the 2023-24 rainy season.

It is for this reason that Ethnic Media Services and California Black Media presented a statewide ethnic media briefing on Storm Season Safety in partnership with Listos California at the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) to serve as a platform to both increase awareness around the danger that this Storm Season poses and provide California’s most vulnerable communities with clear tips and information on how to stay safe by preparing Californians for more stormy days ahead.

On hand to serve as resource persons were Assistant Director, Crisis Communication & Public Affairs at the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services Diana Crofts-Pelayo, Meteorologist from the National Weather Service’s Western Region Headquarters Bianca Feldkircher, Deputy Press Secretary with the California Department of Insurance Jazmin Ortega and CEO and Chief Digital Strategist of LaMont Digital Alf LaMont who all lent their expertise and time to hopefully minimize the disasters that extreme weather can bring by offering safety tips, advice and resources to help Californians prepare for the flooding, high winds and cold temperatures that will likely occur in various parts of the state.

In the briefing, Pelayo emphasized there is no substitute with being prepared for the expected disaster and it “starts with simple but important actions you can take now before storms hit,” said Diana Crofts-Pelayo, of OES:

● Sign up for locally specific, potentially life-saving emergency alerts at safelistoscalifornia.org/alerts.

● Make plans for where you and your household will meet, so that even if you’re in disparate locations when a crisis occurs, you’ll be able to reunite.

● Have a “go bag” with essential things you can quickly take with you if you have to leave your home in a hurry.

“And don’t forget to use simple common sense. For instance, if you’re driving and encounter barricades, don’t drive around them! A car can be swept away in as little as 12 inches of water,” Crofts-Pelayo warned. “If there’s a barricade there, it’s there for a reason. Do not cross it!”

Crofts-Pelayo laments that “there were too many sad stories last year of people getting trapped through flooded areas.

“Along similar lines, pedestrians can be swept away by the force of as little as 6 inches of rushing water. Stay indoors during storms and high-wind events,” Crofts-Pelayo cautioned. “We had too many people hurt by falling trees “out trying to walk their dogs in 70 mph winds.”

Also be reminded to contact your power company to make arrangements that if you or someone in your household relies on electricity for essential medical equipment. The power company can also prioritize keeping the power on for specific customers or help arrange backup power sources if the company needs to cut off power in an area due to fire risks such as falling trees.

“But don’t run a generator indoors as those fumes are deadly. And along those lines, don’t rely on your kitchen stove as a heat source. And don’t forget to check on your neighbors and loved ones,” Crofts-Pelayo urged. “Other simple things to take care of ahead of time include having working flashlights and gas in the car.”

Crofts-Pelayo added that one can have fun in the snowy mountains as long as he/she is adequately prepared.

“Don’t go during a storm if your clothing and car aren’t appropriate for extreme weather, especially if you don’t live there. Don’t put first responders in the position of “trying to save too many people at one time,” Crofts-Pelayo advised.

ListosCalifornia, a “Number One resource,” with its storm safety information available in 13 languages at: Listoscalifornia. org/StormSeason is where you’ll find information on warming

shelters and public shelters for specific disasters if it’s too cold and if the weather is too intense. Importantly, using these resources comes without ID requirements or any questions about someone’s immigration status.

“Accepting any kind of aid during a disaster is not counted in ‘public charge’ considerations around immigration applications,” Crofts-Pelayo claims. “All we care about is for Californians to stay safe.”

There’s also a text-based educational program on public safety available in English, Spanish, Hmong and Punjabi accessible by texting CAWINTER to 20202.

For her part, meteorologist Feldkircher of the National Weather Service’s Western Region, provided some details on El Niño and La Niña, which are highly predictable months ahead of time based on Pacific wind patterns and water currents coming off the coast of South America.

“The National Weather Service foresees a 35% possibility of an “historically strong” El Niño season, rivaling those of 1997-8 and 2015-16, that could extend all the way till June,” Feldkircher updated. “When the winds are weak, as they’ve been this year, the currents turn eastward, away from the western Pacific, and draw the jet stream to the south, bringing more severe weather along with it, and leading to more moderate temperatures in northern parts of the U.S.”

Ortega of the state Department of Insurance provided some suggestions for how to best navigate the too-often-lengthy process of filing insurance claims after weather-related calamities as her office has worked to extend the grace period for people to both pay

their insurance bills and access benefits if they’ve been put out by the weather – including greater allowances for living expenses for people who’ve had to evacuate their homes.

“I want people to be aware that flood insurance, just like earthquake insurance, is typically not covered in standard California home insurance policies. Less than 2% of Californians have it,” she rued. “Flood insurance is available via the National Flood Insurance Program overseen by FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, at floodsmart.gov, but you should have it in place at least 30 days before you might need it.”

Ortega recommends those struggling to find fire insurance at California Fair Plan (https://www.cfpnet.com/).

The Department has been a familiar presence at disaster assistance sites helping people navigate their policies and is available to help people process their claims at insurance.ca.gov or through 1-800 927-4357. It also does not concern itself with people’s immigration status.

LaMont described Listos California’s emphasis on emergency preparedness as “prepositioning resources prior to an event.”

“In preparation for what may come ahead with El Niño and potential storms, we have created a social media toolkit (socialpresskit.com/wetwinter) specific to storms using some of the most popular and useful information from last year’s storms,” LaMont announced. “We have 25 total assets that are immediately available 10 static graphics, 7 videos, 6 motion graphics, and two commissioned works of art of local California artists Nina Yagual and Kelly Mocka, and is published in a dozen languages that belong

people of California.”

to

Assistant Director, Crisis Communica�on & Public Affairs at the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services Diana Cro�s-Pelayo

Meteorologist from the Na�onal Weather Service’s Western Region Headquarters Bianca Feldkircher, Deputy Press Secretary with the California Department of Insurance Jazmin Ortega CEO and Chief Digital Strategist of LaMont Digital Alf LaMont

Before Mayweather rematch, Pacquiao to face Buakaw in April

MANILA — After announcing in Japan that he will have a rematch with American boxing icon Floyd Mayweather Jr., Filipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao disclosed he is set to get in the ring with Muay Thai icon Buakaw Banchamek in an exhibition match in April.

Event organizers said the bout, dubbed “The March of Legend,” would have a budget of $25 million or ₱1.36 billion. The match was first anounced in July 2023. It will be scheduled before the rematch with Mayweather this year.

Pacquiao, 45, will face Buakaw, 41, in a bout of six three-minute rounds, two-minute breaks, and under boxing rules, the former senator’s team said.

It will be fought under a catchweight of 70 kilograms or 154 pounds.

Buakaw, who is known for his devastating switch kick, will be unable to utilize his mastery of the art of eight limbs against the Filipino boxing legend, who holds a professional record of 62 wins including 39 knockouts, eight losses, and two draws.

Earlier, Paccquiao announced his rematch with Mayweather Jr. is happening this 2024.

Pacquiao made the announcement on the rematch during an appearance at Rizin 45 in Japan, along with Rizin chief executive Nobuyuki Sakakibara. Pacquiao has signed up with Rizin Fighting Federation as early as in April 2019.

“Can you please fight Floyd Mayweather next year?” Sakakibara asked Pacquiao, in a video posted on Rizin’s social media accounts and reported by various media, including ABS-CBN and Sports Illustrated.

In response, the 46-year-old former Senator Pacquiao said: “Thank you so much for inviting me here again. I’m sorry for the last time that we promised we were going to fight this year, but like Sakakibara explained, this year I will see you here in Japan again with a big fight against …”

The former Philippine senator trailed off, and Sakak-

ibara stepped in to say: “Floyd Mayweather.”

“Floyd Mayweather, yeah,” Pacquiao said. “I thought you didn’t want me to say that. But I’m excited for that. Thank you for always supporting Rizin, and thank you Sakakibara-san.”

The fight has been in the pipeline for many years and Mayweather simply shrugged off the proposed rematch. Saudi Arabians were among those who wanted to stage the rematch as early as 2020.

After the Rizin announcement, Mayweather, 47, has not made any response, but the boxing world is said to be hopeful the rematch would happen this time.

POC eyes 19 athletes for 2024 Paris Olympics

MANILA — The Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) plans to have at least 19 athletes to compete in the 2024 Paris Olympics from July 26 to August 11.

“It will be very good if we again have 19 Olympians, but if we don’t have those numbers, the focus will be on the podium. Hopefully, we haul more in Paris,” POC president Bambol Tolentino said in a statement.

The Philippines sent 19 athletes in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, which was highlighted by weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz capturing the country’s first-ever gold medal, CNN Philippines reported.

The Summer Games in Paris marks the centennial participation of the Philippines in the Olympics.

Four Filipinos are bound for Paris so far — pole vaulter EJ Obiena, boxer Eumir Marcial, and gymnasts Carlos Yulo and Aleah Finnegan.

With athletics and aquatics offering universality slots, the country is guaranteed with at least three more qualifiers.

Universality slots are given to athletes from countries that struggle to secure tickets in the Olympics through normal qualifications.

“We’re not only the country preparing for Paris, everybody else is preparing hard for the Olympics. We need all the support—moral, financial, among others,” Tolentino said.

Meanwhile, the International Olympic Committee will release its decision on whether to allow boxing legend and former Senator Manny Pacquiao to compete in Paris by March.

Philippine Department of Tourism’s Love the Philippines Event Showcases the Best of Filipino Culture at the Ferry Building

San Francisco, CA - December 30, 2023 - The Philippine Department of Tourism (PDOT) successfully launched its “Love the Philippines” campaign at the iconic Ferry Building, culminating in a vibrant and culturally rich event on December 30, 2023. This spectacular gathering brought together almost 2,600 attendees who immersed themselves in the essence of Filipino music, culture, food, fashion, and community.

The event featured a diverse array of Filipino-owned vendors, showcasing the talents of artisans and offering delicious food and beverages to the attendees. The atmosphere was electric as performers such as CRSB & Adrian Marcel, DJ Umami, Drop N Harmony, One Vo1ce, DJ Shortkut, Elmer Abapo, and Nate Guinto took the stage, providing an unforgettable musical experience that resonated with the crowd. Highlighting the fashion show were the exquisite creations of renowned Filipino designer Francis Libiran. Miss Universe 2022 R’Bonney Gabriel graced the runway, adding glamor and prestige to the event, captivating the audience with her presence.

Tourism Attache Soleil Tropicales, in her inspiring speech, expressed the department’s enthusiasm, stating, “Today, we are thrilled to immerse you in the essence of Filipino music, culture, food, fashion, and community. We are proud to be showcasing the Philippines on a world stage. We hope the experiences that we’ve shared today and this month have inspired you all to discover why there’s more to love about the Philippines.”

PDOT extended its gratitude to the attendees, supporters, and sponsors who made the event possible. United Airlines, Philippine Airlines, and Starlux Airlines generously contributed to the festivities, with roundtrip tickets from San Francisco to the Philippines being raffled off to lucky winners.

To further express appreciation to the visitors who supported the vendors, PDOT distributed giveaways, creating lasting memories for those who participated in this celebration of Filipino culture.

As the “Love the Philippines” campaign continues to unfold, the Philippine Department of Tourism remains committed to showcasing the beauty and richness of the Philippines on the global stage, inviting everyone to explore and discover the many reasons to love this extraordinary country.

About the Philippine Department of Tourism: It is the principal government agency responsible for the promotion

of tourism in the Philippines. With a commitment to showcasing the country’s unique culture and attractions, the department aims to make the Philippines a must-visit destination in Asia.

Newsom presents 2024-25 state budget proposal

SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom introduced his 2024-25 state budget proposal, a balanced funding plan that maintains the state’s fiscal stability while preserving key investments for education, public safety, addressing homelessness, mental health care reform, climate action, and other priorities.

Using some of the unprecedented budget reserves built up over the years and other tools, this budget responsibly closes a projected $37.86 billion shortfall.

Recognizing increased uncertainty due to a decline in the stock market and federal tax deadline delays, the 2023-24 state budget passed in June set aside record reserves of close to $38 billion to prepare for a potential shortfall.

Despite the downward revision, 2022-23 revenues are estimated to still be 23 percent higher than pre-pandemic levels. California’s GDP remained strong in 2023, and the state’s big three revenues are projected to return to levels consistent with a normal revenue growth trajectory.

“Thanks to the record reserves we have built up and a commitment to fiscal discipline over the years, our state is in a strong position to close this shortfall while protecting key priorities and programs that millions of Californians rely on. This balanced budget plan keeps California on firm economic footing while continuing our work to tackle homelessness, keep communities safe, expand access to high-quality education, overhaul behavioral health care and fight climate change. I look forward to partnering with the Legislature to meet this moment with a balanced approach that meets the needs of Californians and safeguards our state’s future,” said Governor Newsom

Even after the proposed withdrawals, this budget plan reflects $18.4 billion in total budgetary reserves, including $11.1 billion in the Rainy Day Fund.

In addition to addressing the budget shortfall through a balanced package of solutions that avoids deep program cuts, the January budget proposal maintains investments in several priority issues, including:

TACKLING HOMELESSNESS. Governor Newsom has advanced a multi-year $15.3 billion plan to address homelessness – more than ever before in state history. This budget proposal maintains billions of dollars for an all-of-the-above approach including $400 million for encampment resolution grants and $1 billion for Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention program grants.

KEEPING CALIFORNIANS SAFE. The budget invests $1.1 billion over four years to increase the safety and security of our communities, including $373.5 million to combat or-

ganized retail theft; over $230 million for opioid and fentanyl interdiction and enforcement, naloxone distribution, recovery and support services and more; $302 million to enhance community public safety through nonprofit security grants, officer training and more; and $197 million to tackle gun violence.

TRANSFORMING EDUCATION. The budget maintains investments that are critical to improving supports for students, including funding for community schools, universal school meals, expanded learning opportunities, education workforce, and continued implementation of universal transitional kindergarten. Proposition 98 funding for K-12 schools and community colleges is estimated to be $109.1 billion in 2024-25 and per-pupil funding totals $23,519 per pupil when accounting for all funding sources.

MENTAL HEALTH REFORM. California has advanced a major transformation of the state’s behavioral health services system. This budget includes funding to make wellness coaches available to support children and youth behavioral health and maintains $7.6 billion from various funds to implement the Behavioral Health Community-Based Organized Networks of Equitable Care and Treatment (BH-CONNECT) demonstration.

CALIFORNIA’S CLIMATE COMMITMENT. California is advancing a $48.3 billion multi-year commitment, alongside over $10 billion from the Biden-Harris Administration in federal climate funding, to implement its nation-leading initiatives to slash pollution and achieve carbon neutrality by 2045, protect communities from harmful climate impacts, deliver 90% clean electricity by 2035, hold big oil accountable, and more.

The Philippine Department of Tourism’s “Love the Philippines” launch event held at the iconic Ferry Building.

The event produc�on crew worked �relessly to bring together a unique event to launch the 2024 “LOVE THE PHILIPPINES” campaign.

The atmosphere was electric as performers such as CRSB & Adrian Marcel, DJ Umami, Drop N Harmony, One Vo1ce, DJ Shortkut, Elmer Abapo, and Nate Guinto (above) took the stage, providing an unforgettable musical experience..

The event showcased 16 local Filipino vendors showcasing the talents of ar�sans and offering delicious Filipino food.

The event was well a�ended with people lined up for blocks outside the venue.

The event was highlighted by a fashion show by Francis Libiran featuring Miss Universe 2022 R’Bonney Gabriel as one of the models.

Governor Newsom presents 2024-25 January budget proposal

Selling your house here in the US and Retiring back Home

Selling your house here in the US and Retiring back Home If you want to spend your retirement in year-round warmth with your family and old friends, comfort food you had growing up, coffee get together every morning in a park with a brisk walk and an look back memory lane, your mother land should be your ideal option, for us Filipinos the Philippines. The cost of living in the Philippines is significantly lower than in the U.S., and the government takes steps to make it especially welcoming to Balikbayan. But there are some pitfalls related to this move that you’ll want to avoid. Before you decide to settle down and retire in the Philippines, it may be beneficial to speak with a financial advisor. Cost of Living in The Philippines If you’re finding it hard to stretch your dollar in the U.S., you might want to consider the the Philippines for your golden years. Numbeo, a major database of economic conditions in different countries, reports that the cost of living in the Philippines is significantly lower than it is in the U.S. Below, we compare the Philippines and the U.S. in terms of specific costs, as of March 2022:

• Rent Prices: 77.95% lower than in the U.S.

• Consumer prices with rent: 58.64% lower than in U.S.

• Restaurant meal prices: 70.99% lower than in U.S

• Grocery prices: 47.71% lower than in U.S. International Living, a magazine that extensively covers the costs of residing in different countries, reports that most expats can live comfortably with $1,000 to $2,200

a month. That includes housing and going out to enjoy what the Philippines has to offer. You have your options of how you want to live in the Philippines and only a Filipino would know that. Various standards in a country that has a vast income disparity. One could say living in the Philippines like a “King” would be much more expensive that living in America? As high end Real Estate is definitely much

higher than an average home in the US. Or you can stretch your dollar but have to settle for how you lifestyle is, by living in a smaller condo perhaps, dining in local places and shopping in markets as suppose to department stores. People are adoptive and who is to say How you can live like a King is definitely a personal view point. Retiree Housing in the Philippines Securing housing as a retiree expat in the Philippines would take some strategy. You can purchase a condo or townhouse. However, you can’t buy a fully detached home. The good news is you can use the $20,000 deposit for the visa to purchase one of these homes if your overall investment in the country is at least $100,000. So you may want to rent until you can purchase your own home. That said, it’s important to research a potential location with laser focus. Some areas in the Philippines lack sufficient infrastructure. This means power outages and water stoppages can become the norm in some places. You’re also going to want to have easy access to healthcare, banks and entertainment. Access to Healthcare in the Philippines Obtaining healthcare may be a challenge in the Philippines depending on where you stay. If you live in the capital, Manila, it’s very easy to get access to healthcare. However, other areas lack sufficient healthcare facilities. This can pose a serious issue for those with chronic conditions or expats who require frequent medical attention. But if you have easy access to hospitals, healthcare costs significantly lower than it does

Daly City Host Lions Club is 2023 Daly City nonprofit awardee

The Lions Club of Daly City was adjudged as the nonprofit of the year 2023 awardee. Among the very noble activities that Lions Club has done include Springfest for children that they have done for decades now, eyecare program for those who need it, and raise funds for those in need in the community.

The Daly City Lions Club was started under the International Association of Lions Club in February 26 1941 making them one of the oldest clubs in the San Francisco Bay Area. It is an organization who asserts that

“friendships made in Lionism last a lifetime because they are based on a commitment of service.”

“Finally the bell had tolled for the Daly City Host Lions Club. For 90 years they have been very active not only locally but also internationally. So we are proud to be a member of the Daly City Host Lions Club whose membership is through invitation and most of the members are the bigwigs of Daly City,” exclaimed Lion Ray Satorre, also Daly City Planning Commissioner.

in the U.S. and you can easily sign up for a local health insurance plan. You can also apply for the government healthcare program PhilHealth. Unfortunately, however, hospitals in the Philippines don’t accept traditional Medicare. Plus, many hospitals require payment at the point of service. But if you’re in the military, you may be able to access local VA clinics. Taxes for Retired Expats in the Philippines

The tax code in the Philippines is particularly friendly to expats. Resident aliens are taxed only on income they get from sources within the Philippines. The rates vary depending on what type of income you receive. The Philippines government classifies income as compensation, income subject to final tax and other income. Compensation is basically paycheck income, which is taxed at a rate ranging from 20% to 35%. Income subject to final tax is typically passive income. The maximum rate for this is 20%. Again, this applies only if you work in the Philippines. If you plan to take a full retirement, the Philippines government won’t tax the income you receive from a pension, 401(k), individual retirement account (IRA) or other type of retirement plan. Retiring in the Philippines can be a great escape when done right. Overall, you’re going to notice goods and services are cheaper than they are in the U.S. You can also find affordable healthcare as long as you retire in a location close to hospitals. However, certain parts lack infrastructure and investment. Therefore, you’re not likely to find easy access to healthcare in these places. For some people, the value of your Social Security benefit is enough to cover your costs of living in retirement. Taking your equity and retirement savings back home to be with your friends and family might be what you deserve. Thanks for your inquiries, call Ken Go of 1st Innovative Finance Group 562-508-7048 or write to kennethgo@ verizon.net CABRE 01021223 NMLS 238636

Adjudged as the nonprofit of the year 2023 awardee the Daly City Host Lions Club

As I See It

(From Page 11)

newspaper and Americans grow enthusiastic about the statue.1883Poet Emma Lazarus writes the sonnet, “The New Colossus” to raise money for the pedestal. It ends with lines added to the base of the statue in 1903: “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door!” It becomes a symbol of welcome for immigrants. July 1884 - The statue is completed in France. June 1885 - The statue arrives in New York Harbor aboard the French ship “Isere.” April 1886 - The pedestal is completed. October 28, 1886 - President Grover Cleveland dedicates the Statue of Liberty. (Wikipedia)

With our visit to New York, New Jersey and the Atlantic City, during the 2023 5-day children-sponsored holidays, I had a taste of history which I have been longing for!

Thank you, children! Happy Holidays!

(Elpidio R. Estioko was a veteran journalist in the Philippines and an award-winning journalist here in the US. He just published his book Unlocking the chain of Poverty: In Pursuit of the American Dream which is now available with Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Xlibris Publishing. For feedbacks, comments… please email author at estiokoelpidio@gmail.com).

Health & Wealth... (From

Page 11)

And be less quick to anger

And show appreciation more

And love the people in our lives

Liked we’ve never loved before.

If we treat each other with respect

And more often wear a smile.

Remembering this special dash

Might only last as little while

So, when your eulogy is being read

With your life’s actions to rehash. . .

Would you be proud of the things they say

About how you spent YOUR DASH?

Thank you for the memories MADAM LOURDES. We’ll miss you!

Funeral Mass was held last December 15, 2023, at 11:00am at the St. Augustine Catholic Church, 3700 Callan Blvd., South San Francisco, California.

After the Funeral Mass, Interment was at Skylawn Memorial Park, Court of Eternal Life Mausoleum, CA-35, Highway 92, San Mateo, California. After the burial, Lunch Celebration was held at the Basque Cultural Center, 599 Railroad Avenue, South San Francisco, California.

(ART GABOT MADLAING is accredited and commissioned Notary Public and licensed Real Estate Broker (DRE #00635976) in California since 1981. He is the founder of MOBILE SIGNING SERVICES, FITNESS FOR HUMANITY (aka FITNESS FOR CHRIST) and ACAPINOY. Art is active Evangelist with the GOLDEN GATE CHURCH OF CHRIST in San Francisco, California USA. He can be reached at (650) 438-3531 or (415) 584-7095 or email:artmadlaing@hotmail.com)

Generation Exile

(From Page 10)

The fame will likely fade. The money will most likely fade with the exception of a few smart ones with honest business and money managers (how many of those exist in Hollywood?). The very real notion that many of those actors sitting at tables at the Golden Globes Award are there on pure dumb luck, good looks, and very little talent must weight heavily on them as they sit there and takes themselves way too seriously. As my daughter has pointed out several times, every Taylor Swift song is based on the same four chords. Every song.

Compare the talent required to come out in a movie like Barbie with what is required to be a comedian. A stand-up comic has to be able to read the room, has to be able to point out the ironies in a way that is funny but doesn’t provoke violence. That takes some serious smarts. The following morning, Whoopi Goldberg, a former host of several awards ceremonies said, “If you don’t know the room, it’s hit or miss.”

And so a very unintelligent but high-profile crowd ganged up on one of our own. We’re the 13th most populated country with a diaspora that is almost 120 million people strong.

Let’s cancel them back.

The minute I press send on this column, I’m going into my playlists and deleting all my Taylor Swift songs (unlike my daughter, I never noticed that they were all based on the same four chords). This is personal. I stand behind JoKoy.

Jersey City FilAm still missing for weeks now

“You’re always in my heart my sweet ‘Lee” Please know that you are loved unconditionally by us. We will never give up searching for you and always pray for your safe return home.”

Thus says the message of mother Portia Alvarado via Facebook to 18-year-old daughter Hayley that she yearns for almost a month now since Hayley left their Jersey City home early December 17 morning.

In an interview, Portia intimated that Hayley she left home without telling anyone where she is going and turned off her phone after leaving making her unreachable through the easiest way she can be contacted.

“She left home through our backdoor as our CCTV showed and when her Dad check on her room, he found out she is no longer there. He tried looking for her to no avail. Usually, she knows not how to use public transport. She may have asked her brother Harley 17 years old if he ask her if she has the exact amount for bus fare and I guess my son gave it to her on Friday night I guess. That’s the only amount she has with her I guess. It looks like she did not bring enough extra clothing with her because the backpack she brought looks empty,” added Portia who describes herself as a wife, nanay, daughter, sister, and friend who works as a registered nurse.

Hayley also has a laptop she uses at Montclair State University where Hayley as a freshman is very optimistic taking up Linguistics. Said laptop that was also left at home.

“Hayley had an episode of running away two years ago when she was 16 and in junior high. It was just for a few hours. She skipped school and we found her at a park around 8 p.m. already,” revealed Portia. “She is battling with depression and anxiety. She underwent therapy and had medications before. When that happened while in junior high, she had consulted with several psychiatrist already, one of whom told me she was just undergoing a phase in her young life and she doesn’t need any medication but underwent therapy. It went good and graduated from senior high summa cum laude.”

Shortly before Hayley left, Portia noticed that Hayley on the room all the time like any other children but she stayed in the room for three days already from Thursday.

“Then Saturday evening before I went to work, I knocked on her door and asked, Heyley are you ok? Yes Nanay it’s just that my stomach is aching….” Portia broke down letting her husband Stephen take over the interview.

Upside...

(From Page 10)

Stephen, a U.S. Marine for 16 years and was chief officer of a merchant vessel (merchant ship so I was in commerce) and was usually posted at the Persian Gulf then proceeded saying that he handed to the detective assigned her laptop and tablet that the police are now looking at what for information they can gather as evidence.

“As of late, they also have been checking at all cameras in buses, the bus stations in coordination with the Department of Transportation and cameras at opened establishments during those time and those trained at the park,” Stephen conveyed. “I was forced to post December 22 a message on Facebook on our daughter’s disappearance to get a wider reach hoping someone may know and give tips on where she may be. I also posted a wish that the spirit of Christmas giving will give us with return of our daughter Hayley.

She left without bringing an ID with her just like many of those who leave to be recruited. She even left her ATM behind. She has around $100 with her. The police tried to contact the most frequently called numbers she had but got no leads from them.

We are always checking on hospitals, shelter places, and the police is checking on the places in New York and New Jersey that she goes to as part of her routine. But all of them turned negative. We are also aware that if a patient is admitted without any identifying papers with, he/she is considered as unknown.

Stephen also intimated that although they have not stopped from looking for Hayley, they cannot stop from working as the needs of the family do not stop and the bills continue to pile up. We also have to continue to take care of our two other children.

Stephen then issued an appeal as a father very worried about our daughter who has been missing for three weeks now.

“Anyone who has been and/or who has information about Hayley, please call up 911 or the Jersey City Police Department at (551) 227-8511 right away or the nearest police station. We only want that our daughter goes back to us safely especially classes again on January 16. Even if we were not with her in time for Christmas and New Year we hope she will be back with us for start of their classes in new year 2024. We are still hoping she is staying with a friend who we really do not know personally.” Stephen pleaded.

Stephen stressed that what they are after and are hoping for is that Hayley has someone with her, she has a roof above her head, and is well-fed.

“At least we’d know that she is alive and not simply wandering around trying to brave and survive the weather especially at these very cold times of snow,” Stephen wanted to be assured.

wife Dominica, and his second wife Herminia.

Purita Bulos Quema was born on Jan. 30, 1934 in Manila, to Herminio and Maria Dolores Barlaan-Bulos. She is survived by her children: Eric B. Quema, his wife Linda, their children Derrick, Michelle, Darlyn, and granddaughter Madelyn; Bev B. Quema-Moncada and her husband Tottie, and their children Kelsey and Ryan. She was predeceased by her youngest child Jennifer Quema-Filamor and is survived by Jennifer’s children Leah, Zac, Craig and Justine.

Mrs. Bulos Quema is also survived by her siblings Conrad Bulos, Minerva Bulos-Behrendt, Cleofe Bulos-Aldana, Lilia Bulos-Ramos and and Susan Bulos-Moral and families, nieces, nephews and their families and extended family.

Hayley Alvarado

SouthCal Filipino journalists form new media group; induction on Feb. 10

LOS ANGELES – A group of seasoned Filipino journalists and news photographers have formed a new media group to help professionalize the Filipino-American media industry in their efforts to serve the information needs of the Filipino community.

The Philippine Global Media Group, Inc. (PGMG) brings together journalists in print, broadcast and social media, initially in Southern California, with hopes of including media professionals from all over the United States and the global Filipino diaspora to better serve Filipinos in their respective communities, according to veteran journalist Val G. Abelgas, publisher-editor of the Philippine Post and president of the new group.

“Filipinos play a very important role in the US and in other countries all over the world, and it is paramount that the Filipino media professionals come together and help inform their countrymen in the

global diaspora of news developments in their respective communities and in our homeland, the Philippines,” said Abelgas.

“By sharing a common goal of rallying fellow Filipinos to play an even more pro-active role in their communities, Filipino journalists can help improve the image of Filipinos before the world and, at the same time, support the Philippines’ development goals,” he added.

The PGMG will hold its inaugural induction and gala night on February 10, 2024 at 6 p.m. at the Vineyard Ballroom of Double Tree by Hilton-Norwalk at 1311 Sycamore Drive, Norwalk, CA 90650.

Consul General Edgar B. Badajos will be the inducting officer and keynote speaker, while T. J. Manotoc, North America bureau chief of ABS-CBN International, will deliver an inspirational address.

The officers of the PGMG are: Val G.

Abelgas, president; Lydia V. Solis, associate editor of the Philippine Post and Weekend Balita contributor, and Nimfa U. Rueda, US Bureau chief of the Philippine Daily Inquirer, vice presidents; Dan E. Nino, columnist of the Philippine Post and freelance journalist, secretary; Rick Gavino, photographer of Philippine Post, treasurer;

Manny Ilagan, former Philippine Department of Tourism regional director and freelance writer, chairman of the board; and the members of the board: Ruben V. Nepales, Rappler columnist; Meh M. Guevarra, editor of Philippine Tribune; Bobby Crisistomo, chief photographer of the Philippine Post; Marc Pijuan, publisher of San Gabriel Examiner; Julian Oriel, publisher of Philippines & Asian Reports (San Diego); Abner Galino, former news editor of Weekend Balita and now associate editor of the Post; Donnabelle Gatdula Arevalo, correspondent of Asian Journal;

Joe Cobilla, photographer of Philippine Post; and Ella Wagner, former Editor of California Examiner and freelance journalist.

The PGMG plans to hold seminars and workshops to uplift the professional and ethical standards of its members, launch scholarships for deserving Filipino journalism students, hold press forums for community organizations, FilipinoAmerican local officials, and visiting Philippine officials in coordination with the Philippine Consulate General.

Early sponsors of the Induction Night are Philippine Airlines and Rajah Tours.

For ticket and sponsorship inquiries for the Induction and Gala Night, please call or email Val Abelgas (562) 469-8030 val.abelgas@aolo.com ; Manny Ilagan (213) 447-7087 manilagan@gmail.com ; Rick Gavino (323) 868-9932 rick1434@ yahoo.com ; Dan E. Nino (562) 508-8099 denino1951@gmail.com .

Heart of Hope

Juices: bad for babies

The American Academy of Pediatric strictly recommends no fruit juices for babies, absolutely no fruit juices at all, before age one, and very limited, if at all, for toddlers and older children. This is a major shift from the recommendation of the AAP some 20 years ago. The academy today also recommends doing away with the beloved sippy cup for children, which is a contributing factor in childhood obesity and T2 diabetes.

There is no evidence of any health benefit of fruit juices in infancy and the high sugar load in them is actually harmful. One of the authors of a study, Dr. Steven Abrams, Chair of Pediatrics at Dell Medical school at the University of Texas, Austin, also said “offering babies juice could keep them from getting enough breast milk or formula -- and the needed protein, fat and other nutrients they contain. Once babies start eating solid foods, they should have whole fruit that is mashed or pureed, rather than juice.”

Fruit juices, which are loaded with sugar, and artificial fruit drinks, are actually unhealthy. The only worse beverages are soft drinks, which are toxic for both adults and children, increasing the risk for Metabolic Syndrome. The bad health effects are not obvious right away. They take years to manifest in various organs. By then, the damage is done, and different ailments start to appear.

Metabolic Syndrome is a cluster of major risk factors that contribute to the development of cardiovascular diseases like high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, Alzheimer’s, and arthritis, T2 diabetes, thyroid problems, and even cancer. Soft drinks are inflammatory food items, like sugars and sweets.

Once babies are started on solids at 4 to 6 months old, they do not need additional liquids besides breast milk or formula. Filtered water, maybe, from time to time, but certainly not fruits juices.

For older children, the Academy recommends restrictions on fruit juices, if given at all: 4 ounces daily for toddlers age 1 to 3; 6 ounces or less for 4 to 6 year

olds; and less than 8 ounces for older children and teens. Fruit juices may be omitted altogether, and instead, fresh fruits, or freshly squeezed juices, are better alternatives.

The bad thing about fruit juices from powder mixes or from concentrates, is not only because are they practically only sugar and water, and the fact that many children drink these as replacements for (and not consume) fruits and vegetables, and, therefore, miss the fiber, nutrients and vitamins in them.

The healthier drinks are clean filtered water and milk (with no sugar additive), green tea, coffee. Staying away from soft drinks and limited intake of fruit juices could also help reduce the risk for obesity.

It is best for children to develop the habit of eating fruits and vegetables, drinking water and milk at their early ages, instead of sugary fruit juice mixes, like smoothies. The healthier smoothies are made of all berries (blue, red, strawberry, raspberries), celery, spinach, pineapple, papaya, with no sugar added. Collagen protein powder may be added, especially for seniors.

Sippy cups (non-restricted sipping of sugary drinks and high risk of tooth decay among users) are bad for children; drinking from a cup is what the Academy recommends. If sippy cup is used, it should only be filled with water and or measured milk at a fixed schedule of feeding.

Risky red meat

A new clinical investigation published in the British Journal of Medicine (BMJ) reveals “the more red meat you eat, the greater your risk is of dying from one of 8 diseases.”

The research involved 536,000 men and women, ages between 50 and 71, whose diet and health were tracked for 16 years. Their food intake, total meat, processed and unprocessed red meats (beef, pork, lamb), and white meats (poultry and fish).

“Compared with the one-fifth of people who ate the least red meat, the one-fifth who ate the most had a 26 percent increased risk of death from various causes (pancreas, colon, breast, prostate, etc.). High red meat consumption increased the rate of dying, not only from cancer, but also from heart disease, respiratory disease, stroke, diabetes, infections, kidney disease and liver disease,” according to BMJ.

The study pointed out that white meat (fish, chicken), on the other hand, may be good for people because “those who ate the highest proportion of white meat had a 25 percent reduced risk of dying from various causes, compared with those who ate the least white meat.” (Note: Ads portraying pork meat as white meat is a lie; pork is RED meat, more dangerous than beef.)

Which fish is better?

The oily darker fleshed fish like herring and salmon are loaded with heart-healthy polyunsaturated, omega-3 fatty acids. Salmon, mackerel, anchovies, shad, trout and sardines, and other fish also have these wonderful cardio-protective fatty acids. Saty away from giant or large varieties of fish, like king mackerel, shark, swordfish, large albacore tuna, which contain more methyl mercury and therefore not recommended for consumption.

But these good fats are not the only reason why fish is better for us, compared to red meat. US-FDA dietary guidelines encourage adults to partake at least 8 ounces of a variety of fish and seafood 3 times a week to benefit from the “total package of nutrients in fish.” This includes lean protein, vitamin Bs, A and D, and minerals like iodine, selenium, zinc, and iron.

Several independent studies have shown that individuals who eat fish regularly are less likely to die of a heart attack compared to those who do not eat fish. A Harvard clinical review “concluded that eating one to two servings of fish rich in omega-3s every week cut the risk of dying of a heart attack by one-third.” Those on Mediterranean style diet that includes seafood also have lower risk and rate of obesity.

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 decorated recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, conferred by then Indiana Governor, later Senator, and then presidential candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry Truman, President George HW Bush, Muhammad Ali, Astronaut Gus Grissom (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday. com, and philipSchua.com Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com

PHILIP S. CHUA

Recipe of the Week

Pork and Chicken Afritada

Pork and Chicken Afritada. Afritada is one of the Pinoy dish that is as popular with adobo and kaldereta to non-Filipino. In fact it would be safe to say that it is more acceptable to a nonFilipino because it is milder in taste compared to the tangy adobo and spicy kaldereta. Manila.

Ingredients:

1 kilo pork belly or pork chop, cut into cut into serving pieces

1/2 kilo chicken tights, cut into serving pieces

1/2 head garlic, chopped

2 medium size onion, chopped

1 big canned crushed tomatoes

3 medium sized potatoes, quartered

1 medium size carrot, cut into wedges

2 large red bell pepper, cut into trips

1 cup tomato sauce

1/4 cup patis

3-5 pcs. bay leaf

2 tsp. dried parley flakes

1 tsp. peppercorns

salt and pepper

1/2 cup cornstarch

3 slices loaf bread, trimmed, soak with water, mashed cooking oil

Cooking procedure:

In a bowl marinate pork and chicken with light dust of salt and pepper for 15 to 20 minutes before cooking. In a sauce pan fry the pork and chicken for 1 to 2 minutes or until colour turn to light brown each side in batches. Remove from pan and set aside. In same sauce pan sauté garlic and onion, add pork and chicken and stir fry for 2 to 3 minutes, Add patis canned tomato and tomato sauce, stir cook for another 1 to 2 minutes. Pour in 6 to 8 cups of water add in the peppercorns, parsley flakes bay leaf and the mashed loaf bread, simmer for 15 to 20 minutes or until liquid is reduced to half. Add potatoes and carrots simmer for another 5 to 10 minutes or until pork and vegetables are cooked and tender. Add bell pepper, season with salt and pepper to taste, thicken sauce with cornstarch dissolve in 1/4 cup of water, cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. Serve hot with a lot of rice.

5.45 M int’l visitors in PHL in 2023 with Koreans, Americans topping list

MAKATI CITY – The Philippines welcomed 5,450,557 international visitors in 2023, well above the 4.8 million target arrivals the Department of Tourism (DOT) set for the year.

Of the arrivals, 91.80 percent or 5,003,475 are foreigners while the remaining are 447,082 overseas Filipinos.

From January to Dec. 31, 2023, the country also generated an estimated P482.54 billion in international tourism revenue, more than double the receipts it recorded in 2022, PNA’s Joyce Ann L. Rocamora reported.

“My deepest appreciation goes to every tourism stakeholder, collaborative partner, and passionate contributor who propelled our shared aspirations forward. Under President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr.’s guiding vision and leadership, tourism has become a pivotal force driving our nation’s economic resurgence,” Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said in a statement.

“These numbers speak very well of the performance of the tourism industry under the Marcos Administration,” she added.

She said the DOT will continue its work to “realize the vision of this administration to make tourism a catalyst for economic growth and resurgence.”

More than a quarter or 1,439,336 of the arrivals came from South Korea, retaining its spot as the country’s main source of international visitors.

This was followed by the United States with 903,299 tourists (16.57 percent) visiting the country; Japan with 305,580 (5.61 percent); Australia with 266,551 (4.89 percent); and China with 263,836 (4.84 percent).

Ranking sixth was Canada followed by Taiwan, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and Malaysia.

Frasco said the 2023 visitor receipts also show that the tourism industry is “recovering faster than expected.”

The country’s 2023 international tourism receipts grew by 124.87 percent compared with the P214.58 billion estimated visitor receipts from 2022.

Before the pandemic in 2019, the DOT recorded P482.15 billion in international tourism receipts.

READ: PH tourism, a year of exceed-

ing expectations

In 2023, the DOT’s marketing arm the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) generated P6.317 billion in total sales leads both from international and local business-to-business and promotional events.

While reintroducing Filipino destinations before the global tourism arena, the Philippines represented by Frasco last year was also elected Vice President of the 25th General Assembly of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), a prestigious global position last held by the country more than two decades ago.

She was also elected as chair of the Commission for East Asia and the Pacific, allowing the country to host the Joint Regional Meetings of the Committee for East Asia and the Pacific and South Asia in Cebu in 2024.

The Philippines in 2023 bagged at least 15 travel and tourism honors from prestigious award-giving bodies in diving, beach, cruise, culinary, retirement, and Muslim-friendly tourism, “a testament that the Philippines is indeed an emerging tourism powerhouse.”

“The extraordinary journey of Philippine tourism in 2023 saw the world express its love for the Philippines with our country’s rise to global prominence as the World’s Leading Beach and Dive Destination, and Asia’s Best Cruise Destination, among many other accolades,” Frasco said.

“The indomitable spirit of the Filipino has been globally acclaimed with the Philippines receiving the Global Tourism Resilience Award with our country seen as a benchmark for innovation amidst trials and challenges,” she added.

By 2024, the DOT targets 7.7 million international visitors, around 500,000 lower than the country’s pre-pandemic arrivals of 8.2 million.

“Looking ahead to 2024, our commitment to the transformation of Philippine tourism is unwavering. Guided by our National Tourism Development Plan 2023-2028, we are poised for a thriving tourism landscape, evident in surpassing our targets in international and domestic arrivals and receipts, fostering economic prosperity and further job creation for our people,” Frasco said.