PNEWS 11.23-11.29,2023

1 November 23-29, 2023

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA EDITION

www.pnewstoday.com

PHL WON’T GIVE AN INCH OF ITS TERRITORY: MARCOS Sixth Annual United Against THE PREMIER FILIPINO-AMERICAN NEWSPAPER IN THE U.S. SINCE 1961

Vol.63 No.15 November 23-29, 2023

NEWS AND VIEWS YOU TRUST

US, PHL start in California joint sea, air Hate Week held

By Jun Nucum patrols; code of conduct pushed

By ALFRED GABOT and CLAIRE MORALES TRUE Editor in Chief and Managing Editor

HONOLULU/LOS ANGELES/MANILA – Stressing that the situation in the South China Sea and West Philippine was getting worse fol- California Civil Rights Deputy Director MARCOS IN HAWAII. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. visits the US Indo Pacific lowing his meeting with Chinese Becky Monroe Command headquarters a�er laying a wreath at the USS Arizona Memorial in President Xi Jinping at the sideline Hawaii. With him are First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, US Ambassador to Manila of the Asia Pacific Economic CoMaryCay Carlson, Security Adviser Eduardo Ano and other officials. operation (APEC) Summit in San Francisco, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stressed anew that the Philippines will not give an inch of its territory in the West Philippine Page 9 Sea and others.

Chair of the Assembly Budget Committee Assemblymember Phil Ting

State Treasurer Fiona Ma reflects on APEC experience

SACRAMENTO – Treasurer Fiona Ma released comments reflecting on her APEC experience.

Her statement follows: “San Francisco is privileged to serve as the Host City for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Week 2023, centered around the theme “Creating a Resilient and Sustainable Future for All.” “Since its inception in 1989 with 12 members, APEC has evolved to encompass 21 member economies, including Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Indonesia, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and the United Page 7 States.

Ex-President Rick L. Callender, ESQ., CA/HI NAACP Duterte warns of Berkeley Mayor Jesse Arreguín President - Government (UAHW) in partnership with the restive military, andBERKELEY community leaders joined the City of Berkeley, Not In Our Town, eyes political California Civil Rights Department and LA vs Hate as part of a call for (CRD) for the launch of the sixth local civic action to help put a stop comeback annual United Against Hate Week to the spread of hate andPage 21

By Be�ng Laygo Dolor, Editor

STATE TREASURER Fiona Ma shakes hand with Chinese President Xi Jinping during he APEC mee�ng in San Francisco. (Photo by Gene X Hwang)

MANILA – All of the loose talk about destabilization moves against the government by restless members of the military – confirmed by no less than the Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff last month – are aimed not at the Marcos administration, but at the House of Representatives. Page 6

One third of AAPI community faced racial abuse this year

By Gilda P. Balan, Correspondent SAN DIEGO - It may come in 2023. many forms, but one out of three According to a recent APmembers of the Asian American NORC/AAPI data poll that came and Pacific Islander (AAPI) com- out recently at the PBS News Hour, munity have faced racial abuse this despite widespread ad- Page 5

PBBM: Sara don’t deserve impeachment No ouster plot against Marcos – PNP VIEWS & COMMENTS

SHOWBIZ

Strategies to speed up immigration to the US

Zephanie tapped

by Disney for its movie ‘Wish’

PHL captures gold in World Wushu tourney in Texas

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Page 16

By A�y. Lozano

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 NATIONAL NEWS

November 23-29, 2023

2

Marcos: VP Sara Duterte does not deserve to be impeached MANILA – Take it from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. himself: Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Z. Duterte continues to enjoy his full support amid impeachment calls against her.

Marcos said that she (Duterte) does not deserve to be ousted from office.

“Binabantayan namin nang mabuti (We are watching closely) because we don’t want her to be impeached. We don’t want her to—she does not deserve to be impeached. So, we will make sure that this is something that we will pay very close attention to,” Marcos said.

He made the remarks during the Kapihan with the Media on Sunday afternoon (Hawaii time) when asked for his reaction to the reported plans to impeach the Vice President.

He added that impeachment calls against high-ranking officials are not something new as he emphasized that there would always be “an element” that wants “to change the results of an election.”

Asked if there is already a “crack” in the Uniteam, Marcos said that he does not see it coming as he emphasized that they are even getting stronger and bigger with the addition of more members.

Marcos also noted a political development in the Uniteam over the past few months.

“These are the same people that talk about impeachment. They are the same people that talk ‘wala na, nagbabaklas-baklas na ‘yung Uniteam.’ Hindi totoo ‘yun. Tingnan na lang niyo mga (‘it’s over, the Uniteam is dividing’. It’s not true. Just look at the) political developments in the past few months,” President Marcos said.

Marcos also stressed, on a personal level, that they have an excellent relationship with Duterte as he emphasized that he sees nothing but good things about her work in the Department of Education.

Duterte said Marcos knew about the impeachment rumors and reassured her before leaving for the United States that his trust in her remains.

No oust-Marcos plot, PNP assures MANILA— The Philippine National Police (PNP) reassured the public there is no brewing destabilization plot as it dismissed reports of “uneasiness” among its ranks.

PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo made the statement when asked for comment about former president Rodrigo Duterte’s statement that the military and the police are closely watching the political developments at the House of Representatives amid the allegedly emerg- Philippine Na�onal Police spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo ing alliance between Speaker speaks to reporters Martin Romualdez and ACT Teachers Party- 100 percent behind this administration,” she added. list Rep. France Castro.

During his SMNI program on Wednesday, “On the part of the PNP, hindi tayo makikilahok sa anumang attempt na i-desta- Duterte said Congress should be sensitive to bilize itong ating government. Bagama’t sabi the sentiments of the military and the police.

“Bantayan ninyo ang military pati pulis. ko nga, ang PNP ay nakahanda para i-defend ang security at sovereignty ng ating bansa Kayong nakipagkonsabo... hindi ko kayo tibut these political issues, sana ay huwag na natakot. Pero, bantayan ninyo ang military masama pa iyong PNP (On the part of the pati pulis. Ilan ang namatay at pinatay ninyo PNP we will not participate in any attempt na pulis pati militar (Watch the military and to destabilize our government. Although as I the police closely. You who are conniving… said, the PNP is ready to defend the security I am not scaring you. But watch the military and sovereignty of our country but I hope the and the police. How many soldiers and police PNP would be excluded from these political have been killed already)?” Duterte said, referring to security forces’ deaths at the hands issues),” she said.

“Mayroon tayong mandato na i-enforce of Communist Party of the Philippines-New iyong ating mga batas but kagaya ng sinabi People’s Army rebels.

The former chief executive is facing a ko kanina na as an institution, ang PNP po (We have a mandate to enforce our laws, as complaint filed by Castro, who accused him I said earlier, as an institution, the PNP is) of grave threats and red-tagging

3 November 23-29, 2023

 NATIONAL NEWS

8 ‘focus crimes’ down by 8% – PNP CAMP CRAME, Quezon City – Eight “focus crimes” decreased by 8.18 percent from January to October compared to the same period in 2022, according to the Philippine National Police.

The so-called eight focus crimes are murder, homicide, physical injury, rape, theft, robbery, car theft and motorcycle theft.

PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said there 31,864 of such crimes as of October, down from 34,702 last year.

“We can attribute this decrease in the first 10 months of the year to our efforts to improve security nationwide,” she said.

She said she believes the PNP’s strong information dissemination campaign also contributed in making the public more aware on ways they can ensure their security.

Meanwhile, she assured the public that the PNP is on alert as the Christmas season approaches, anticipating an increase in “crimes against property.”

“But the PNP, together with other security forces, are confident that we will maintain this improved crime trend through our close cooperation with other security forces,” she said.

On the slay of radio broadcaster Juan Jumalon, Fajardo said the police is close to identifying the second suspect.

She said one of the three attackers might have also figured in another shooting incident that targeted a municipal engineer in Calamba, Misamis Occidental in October 2023.

Fajardo said the gun used in the killing of Jumalon matched the one used in the municipal engineer’s case.

Hungry Filipino families fall to 9.8% in 3rd quarter of 2023: SWS MANILA – The number of Filipino families who experienced “involuntary” hunger at least once in the third quarter of the year fell to 9.8 percent, according to the latest survey by pollster Social Weather Stations (SWS).

The Sept. 28 to Oct. 1 poll found that hunger incidence in the past three months was lower than the 10.4 percent registered in second quarter and the same as the 9.8 percent in first quarter.

According to SWS, the September 2023 hunger figure is composed of 8.4 percent of respondents who said they experienced moderate hunger and 1.3 percent who experienced severe hunger.

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As of September 2023, the experience of hunger was highest among those in Metro Manila at 17.3 percent from 15.7 percent in June 2023, followed by Balance Luzon at 10.3 percent from 11.3 percent, Visayas at 6.7 percent from 9.3 percent, and Mindanao at 6.7 percent from 6.3 percent.

“The 0.6-point decline in Overall Hunger between June 2023 and September 2023 was due to declines in the Visayas and Balance Luzon, combined with a rise in Metro Manila and a steady score in Mindanao,” SWS said.

SWS said the rate of overall hunger fell among the self-rated poor from 10.8 percent in June 2023 to 7.7 percent in September 2023, as well as among the selfrated food-poor from 9.4 percent to 7 percent.

The September survey showed that 48 percent of Filipino families rated themselves as poor, 27 percent as borderline poor, and 25 percent as not poor.

Meanwhile, some 34 percent of families rated themselves as food-poor, 35 percent as borderline foodpoor, and 31 percent and not food-poor.

The survey had 1,200 adult respondents and a margin of error of plus or minus 2.8 percent for national percentages

and and Market Market Update Update Call 510-697-7750 Call 510-697-7750

 METRO NEWS

November 23-29, 2023

4

SC directs transfer of case jurisdiction from Makati to Taguig

By Jeanne Michael Penaranda MANILA – To avert further confusion over the territorial row between Makati City and Taguig City, the Supreme Court (SC) issued guidelines governing the transfer and assumption of jurisdiction of the Taguig City courts over cases and crimes committed within Parcels 3 and 4 of the Fort Bonifacio Military Reservation.

In a statement, the tribunal said the guidelines were approved Tuesday in response to

an earlier request by Taguig Mayor Lani Cayetano for the transfer of jurisdiction, originally set Oct. 16.

The tribunal said it instead set the effectivity date to Jan. 1, 2024 “to enable the courts, the prosecution, the Public Attorney’s Office, and other court users to prepare for the transition.”

Under the guidelines, all civil and criminal cases arising from the affected areas shall be filed before the Taguig Prosecutor’s Office by 2024.

Criminal complaints related to crimes and

offenses that transpired or were committed within the affected areas before Jan. 1, 2024, shall be filed before the Makati City Prosecutor’s Office.

All civil and criminal cases already filed and pending before the first- and second-level courts in Makati City before Jan. 1, 2024, shall proceed to trial, be heard, and ultimately be decided by the respective Makati City courts.

The High Court enjoined all parties, including judges, court personnel, prosecutors,

public attorneys, legal practitioners and the general public, to review and adhere to the guidelines to facilitate a smooth and orderly transition.

5 PNP officials get new assignments CAMP CRAME, Quezon City – Five ranking police officials have been included in the latest reorganization of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Based on PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr.’s order dated Nov. 17 that took effect on the same date, Director for Information and Communication Technology Management (DICTM) Maj. Gen. Bernard Banac is now the Director of the Special Action Force (SAF), replacing Maj. Gen. Rudolph Dimas, who was assigned to head the Directorate for Plans (DPL).

Brig. Gen. Neil Alinsañgan from DPL will head the DICTM in lieu of Banac, while Brig.

Gen. John Chua, former Police Regional Of-

fice – Ilocos (PRO - 1), will be the chief of the Area Police Command (APC) in the Visayas.

Brig. Gen. Lou Evangelista, director of Police Community Affairs and Development Group (PCADG), will replace Chua at PRO – 1, while Col. Restituto Arcangel will be the PCADG director.

Acorda, who is retiring on Dec. 3, previously said he has no plans of implementing a massive reshuffle.

“If there are any changes in the command because of vacancies, if somebody is retiring or there are problems with commanders on the ground, that’s the only time we do a reshuffle.

It’s only done to fill up vacancies that will be created,” he said.

5 November 23-29, 2023

 PROVINCIAL NEWS

P50 M smuggled Big quake jolts Davao, Sarangani, Almost vegetables seized in other areas; death toll climbs to 11 Subic Freeport DAVAO CITY - The death toll following the magnitude 6.8 earthquake that hit Davao Occidental and nearby areas has climbed to 11, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).

In a report, the NDRRMC said eight of the reported fatalities, which are still for validation, were from Soccsksargen while one was from Davao.

It said 15 individuals -- 11 from Soccsksargen and four from Davao region -- were injured.

The disaster bureau said a total of 2,489 families of 12,885 persons were affected by the earthquake, which hit the waters off south of Sarangani in Davao Occidental.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has provided a total of P11,612,558.07 million worth of assistance to the affected population.

The NDRRMC said several road sections in Tboli and Tampakan South Cotabato were not passible due to the damage brought about by the earthquake.

It also reported that the number of houses totally wrecked due to the jolt increased to 97 while 729 were damaged.

A total of 118 infrastructures also incurred damage due to the earthquake, including school and government buildings and facilities.

Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) Director Teresito Bacolcol reiterated his call for the public to always be prepared for strong earthquakes, as these “will be experienced from time to time.”

His pronouncement came following the magnitude 6.8 quake off the coast of Davao Occidental last November 17,

which has generated 113 aftershocks with magnitudes ranging from 1.4 to 4.9 as of 1 p.m. Tuesday.

“We are part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, and whether we like it or not, we will experience strong earthquakes from time to time, so we really have to prepare,” Bacolcol said at the Bagong Pilipinas public briefing.

The movement of the Cotabato Trench has caused the earthquake, Bacolcol said, adding that aftershocks could continue for several days or weeks, with magnitudes and frequencies decreasing.

The strongest earthquake along the Cotabato Trench was the magnitude 8.1 tremor that happened on August 17, 1976, and which produced a tsunami as high as nine meters, according to the Phivolcs chief.

He noted that the tsunami waves arrived within two to five minutes after the main shock, thus the people were unable to prepare, and resulted to around 8,000 casualties.

Bacolcol also pointed out the need to make structures resilient.

“Ang lindol naman po ay hindi nakakamatay (earthquakes don’t claim lives). It is the collapse of man-made structures that may claim lives,” he stressed. “When you build a house, we should follow the minimum engineering standards and if necessary, it should be retrofitted to make it earthquake-resilient.”

The Phivolcs chief added that there are engineering techniques to lessen the impact of liquefaction hazards, such as soil compaction, ground piling, and deep footings, among others.

Massive floods hit Northern Samar, now under state of calamity TACLOBAN CITY – The provincial government has placed Nothern Samar under a state of calamity following the recommendation of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) members.

Members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan in a hybrid special session passed and approved the recommendation of the PDRRMC after 18 towns were reportedly inundated.

The resolution states that “70 percent of the province population equivalent to 74,500 families or 370,000 individuals from 24 towns of the province was affected by the calamity.”

The resolution did not include the estimate of damage and lists of towns affected by the massive flooding.

One..

(From page 1) vocacies and even legislation to combat anti-Asian racism, about a third of the AAPI community say they experienced an act of abuse based on their race or ethnicity. This includes being on the receiving end of verbal harassment, slurs, physical threats, and cyberbullying, among others.

The new poll from AAPI Data and The Associated PressNORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that 15 percent of the AAPI community, which includes Filipinos and FilAms, say they have been victims of some form of hate crime.

Slightly more than half believe racism is an “extremely” or a “very serious” problem in the US. The PBS News Hour report featured 29-year-old Jennifer Lee, a FilAm from San Diego. She recalled being discriminated against and being called racial slurs.

In a recent interview for a job at a tutoring service, she was twice insulted. First, she was assumed to be Japanese. Almost all Asians know that Lee is a Chinese name, and not Japanese, although it is also common for Filipinos and FilAms. Secondly, she was told that, “You people are always so obedient. Why? That’s so pathetic.”

Stephanie Chan, director of advocacy group Stop AAPI Hate, says that they are aware that Asian Americans “are among the most likely not to report the crime that they’ve experienced.”

She added: “It’s really sobering to see that even when the world seems to have returned to normal, after the pandemic, these levels are still really elevated in terms of anti-Asian American hate.”

Many in the AAPI community are pessimistic about antiAsian racism easing in the near future. Roughly half believe that they are likely to be victims of discrimination because of their ethnicity within the next five years, while about two in

With the declaration of state of calamity, the provincial government may now mobilize its resources and implement measures to address the impact of flooding and provide immediate assistance to affected communities.

On the information from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DWSD) among the flood-affected towns in the province are the capital of Northern Samar which is Catarman, Catubig, Gamay, Lapinig, Las Navas, Lope de Vega, Mapanas, Mondragon, Pambujan, Rosario, San Roque, Victoria, and Lavezares.

A report from the Philippine National Police based on monitoring of their municipal police stations, included in five believe it’s somewhat likely that they will be targets of hate crime based on their race within the same period.

Of those who have already fallen victim to some form of hate crime, one in five believe it’s “very” or “extremely likely” to happen again within the same time frame.

Chan said she hopes the poll will lessen people’s ignorance surrounding anti-Asian discrimination, adding that she further hopes people will understand it’s more than just hate crimes which tend to get the most media coverage.

She said, “People’s daily lives are impacted by things like verbal harassment or bullying in schools or online acts of hate or civil rights violations. Like not even being allowed to dine at a restaurant or stay at a hotel or being rejected for an Uber ride.”

“Pay attention to these,” said Chan, “These are the experiences that we’re having in America today.”

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/.

SBMA Chairman Jonathan Tan and Deputy Administrator for Ports Kris Roman, together with officials from the Bureau of Plant Industry and the Bureau of Customs pose for photo ops a�er having inspected the misdeclared shipment from China SUBIC BAY FREEPORT – In line with the mandate of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to run after agricultural smugglers, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC) Port of Subic apprehended nine 40-foot container trucks at the Port of Subic on Wednesday.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Jonathan D. Tan, who personally went to the Freeport’s container terminal for the inspection, said the nine containers were all declared as frozen lobster balls, which were consigned to Rianne Food Products.

The SBMA Chief added that the seized cargo arrived on November 3 with a declaration that the shipments all contained at least 40,000 cartons of frozen lobster balls. Tan revealed that upon cargo check, the SBMA and the BOC found that the shipments contained fresh potatoes, carrots, radish, and broccoli in the amount of millions of pesos. The BOC Port of Subic seized the misdeclared shipments for proper disposition and appropriate action.

Meanwhile, Chairman Tan lauded the vigilance of the two agencies, stating that both the SBMA and the BOC Port of Subic are very much serious in implementing the President’s mandate to go after agricultural smugglers and end il-

Batangas eyed as PHL’s next major logistics hub - Mandanas BATANGAS CITY – The provincial government is leveraging Batangas’ geographical advantages and the growing interest of corporate locators in its economic zones to launch this province as a major logistics hub in the country, next to the highly congested Port of Manila and those at Subic-Clark and Cebu.

Governor Hermilando Mandanas said his administration is emboldened by the province’s long and shipping-friendly coastline, coupled with its location at the center of the fastgrowing Calabarzon region, in addition to its relative proximity to the bustling and populous National Capital Region (NCR).

“The next logical step is to turn Batangas into a logistics hub. The Port of Batangas is already here in this city. There is a huge opportunity to grow the economy for the benefit of Batangueños and Filipinos in general,” he told News and Information Bureau Director Luis Morente and Philippine News Agency staffers during a meeting at the capitol.

A logistics hub is described as a centralized geographical location that brings together key business operators in logistics, such as manufacturers, shipping lines, air cargo companies, as well as third and fourth-party logistics providers, and logistics support services.

It is where raw materials and unfinished goods are stored, processed, finalized and managed before delivery to final consumers.

 NATIONAL NATIONAL NEWS NEWS

November 23-29, 2023

6

BSP: Remittances to PHL could hit $37 billion in 2023 MANILA – Remittances from overseas Filipinos could hit $37 billion in 2023.

This was disclosed by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas which said Filipinos from the United States and Canada are the top sources of rermittances.

According to the BSP, OFWs typically remit more money to the country over the holiday season and the “ber months.” There also tends to be an uptick around July, before the start of the school season.

“Last year, for the full year of 2022, we received $36.1 billion in remittances. This year, we project as of June that remittances

will grow by about 3%, that will be more than 3.13%,” said Redentor Paolo Alegre, senior director of the Department of Economic Statistics at the BSP. “As things are picking up now, we believe remittances may even hit $37 billion, on a more positive note,” he added.

The remittances in 2022 was an all-time high and accounted for 8.9 percent and 8.4 percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and Gross National Income (GNI). It was a 3.6% increase compared to the $34.8 billion recorded in 2021.

Figures from the Philippine Statistics Au-

thority from April to September 2022 showed that out of 1.96 million OFWs, 41.7% remitted between ₱40,000 and ₱100,000, while 20.7% remitted over ₱100,000.

The average remittance sent by an OFW was pegged at ₱111,000 over the same period.

However, OFWs have to pay around 5% in transaction fee to remit money back to the country.

BSP Gov. Eli Remolona said the central bank is looking to gradually bring it down to only 1%.

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(From page 1) This is if former president Rodrigo Duterte is to be believed, as he warned last week that the AFP my move against the House leadership which they perceive to be moving closer to the Left.

The elder Duterte, father of incumbent Vice President and concurrent Education secretary Sara Duterte, at the start of this week accused Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez of conspiring with the local communist movement as part of his plan to run for president in 2028.

But the Speaker rejected to claim, saying any such plan was only a rumor and that he prefers to focus on his current job.

Speaking in the vernacular in the TV interview, Mr. Duterte said, “Watch out for the military, as well as the police. I am not scaring anyone, but communists have killed

many soldiers and cops.”

The former president continued by saying: “Let’s give the country to them, and let us see what will happen to this country. Go ahead and experiment and vote for them (communists).”

He then addressed the Speaker directly, saying, “You, Romualdez. You want me to campaign for you? You want to be president?” even as he warned that “the military is always there.”

Duterte said Romualdez had become close to the Makabayan bloc of congressmen, led by ACT Teachers Partylist Rep. France Castro, who is credited with having forced VP Duterte to give up her confidential and intelligence funds to the tune of PHP650 million (about US$11.6 million).

The elder Duterte insists that all members of the Makabayan bloc are closet communists, and he threatened to kill Rep. Castro, who then

filed a lawsuit against him for serious threats.

For its part, the AFP and its major service commands refused to issue a reply or comment to the elder Duterte’s statements.

AFP chief Gen Romeo Brawner Jr had earlier caused jitters in the administration when he said that there were destabilization moves being taken by retired military officers.

Brawner told local media last month that “many were saying to change the President because of many reasons, some are saying there will be a coup’d etat again.”

The AFP later said that their chief was misquoted, or his statements taken out of context.

Whether there is indeed restlessness within the military or not, or whether any destabilization plans were aimed at either President Marcos or his cousin Speaker Romualdez, one thing became clear at the start of this week.

Former president Duterte may be eyeing a return to public office, not unlike former president Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, who ran for Congress after stepping down as president.

Arroyo even had a short stint as Speaker, although in the current Congress she was initially named as Senior Deputy Speaker before being demoted twice, first to Deputy Speaker and more recently as mere member of the House.

Arroyo is known to be a close ally of the Dutertes, although the party she headed – PDP Laban – has lost much of its clout in the House, now having only 15 members from more than a hundred at the start of the Marcos administration.

VP Duterte said this week that she would definitely support her father’s political comeback. The former president is rumored to be eyeing either a return to the House where he once served, or seek a Senate seat in the mid-term elections in 2025.

7 November 23-29, 2023

 NATIONAL NATIONAL NEWS NEWS

Canadian dark vessel detector for WPS arriving in PHL this week

MANILA – The Philippines will receive this week Canada’s dark vessel detection system that it could use for free for the next five years.

The office of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said the state-of-the-art technology will support the Philippines’ maritime domain awareness and efforts to ward off illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing (IUUF) within its sovereign waters. “[The] Fisheries and Oceans Canada will deploy the system to multiple monitoring facilities in the Philippines as of November 20, 2023,” it said.

The Philippines and Canada formalized a deal that would include the Philippine National Coast Watch Center (NCWC) in Canada’s Dark Vessel Detection System on the sidelines of their 6th Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation in Ottawa on Oct. 12.

Philippine Ambassador to Canada Maria Andrelita Austria and Canadian Assistant Deputy Minister Adam Burns of the Programs Sector, Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) signed the Arrangement on the Dark Vessel Detection (DVD) System between NCWC and the DFO of Canada.

The DVD System is a program used to combat IUUF by vessels who deliberately turn off their Automatic Identification System.

The DFA said it utilizes layered multi-sensor satellite data from both commercial and government-owned satellite assets to provide near realtime satellite imagery.

It also incorporates historical vessel information, environmental data, and analytics to support and facilitate analysis.

The system will be jointly managed by the NCWC and Canada’s DFO

State...

Bank and Chair of the APEC Business Advisory Council.

“Last night, I had the privilege of meeting China President Xi before his official dinner at the Hyatt Regency SOMA in San Francisco. His presence at APEC underscores the significant bilateral relationship between the US and China, particularly between California and China.

‘Our world is more connected than we think. As the first and second world economies, the US and China, along with California as a significant entity, must collaborate, cooperate, and communicate effectively to build trust and prevent conflicts. I am pleased to observe the APEC world leaders and speakers

(From page 1)

“Hosting APEC in San Francisco allows us to showcase the beauty of our city, and each of the 21 APEC members maintains a relationship or presence here.

“I am honored to be appointed by San Francisco Mayor London Breed as an AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Honorary Host Committee member alongside esteemed individuals such as Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, Governor Gavin Newsom, Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis, U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein, U.S Senator Alex Padilla, City Attorney David Chiu, and Dominic Ng, Chairman and CEO of East West

focusing on Innovation, Resilience, Sustainability, and Stability for our regions and the world.”

Fiona Ma is California’s 34th State Treasurer. She was first elected on November 6, 2018, with more votes (7,825,587) than any other candidate for treasurer in the state’s history and re elected on November 8, 2022.

She is the first woman of color and the first woman Certified Public Accountant (CPA) elected to the position. The State Treasurer’s Office was created in the California Constitution in 1849. It provides financing for schools, roads, housing, recycling and waste management, hospitals, public facilities, and other crucial infrastructure projects that better the

lives of residents. California is the world’s fifth-largest economy and Treasurer Ma is the state’s primary banker. Presently, her office processes more than $3 trillion in banking transactions. She provides transparency and oversight for the government’s investment portfolio and accounts, as well as for the state’s surplus funds. Treasurer Ma oversees an investment portfolio that currently averages over $200 billion—a significant portion of which is beneficially owned by more than 2,200 local governments in California. She serves as agent of sale for all State bonds and is trustee of billions of dollars of state indebtedness.

9 November 23-29, 2023 PHL...

(From page 1)

Marcos made the statement after his a talk at the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies in Honolulu and meeting with US military leaders in the Indo Pacific Command and the local Filipino community in Hawaii on his way back to Manila.

This developed as the Philippines and United States military forces started their joint patrols in the region to ensure freedom of navigation in international waters as well as flights over its air space.

Marcos described he situation in the South China Sea “has become more dire” as China has been expanding its presence in an area where multiple nations have competing territorial claims. “China is getting closer and closer to the Philippine coast lines,” he added.

The joint US and Philippine patrols in South China Sea are a “collaborative effort between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the United States Indo-Pacific Command” in the area.

“This significant initiative is a testament to our commitment to bolster the interoperability of our military forces in conducting maritime and air patrols,” Marcos said.

“These joint patrols are part of a series of events agreed upon by the Mutual Defense Board - Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB) of both nations. I am confident that this collaboration will contribute to a more secure and stable environment for our people,” he added.

The patrols will continue through November 23, Marcos said.

The joint maritime and air patrols starte in the Matuvis island off the Batanes islands and head west to the South China Sea, according to a Philippine military statement.

Marcos had just returned to Manila from a working visit to San Francisco, Los Angeles and Hawaii where he became the first Philippine president to visit the US Indo-Pacific Command headquarters in Hawaii.

In a fact sheet released earlier by the White House, it states that under deepening interoperability, the goal is to expand cooperation on maritime security and maritime domain awareness, including through the continued conduct of combined maritime activities, including but not limited to joint patrols.

Manila will deploy three navy vessels, two FA-50PH and one A-29B Super Tucano, while Washington will send one littoral combat ship and one P8-A. Marcos said the two defense allies have launched such efforts to safeguard shared interests, although the government has earlier maintained there is no country being targeted by the joint patrols. Philippine officials have repeatedly said the basic purpose is to enhance the country’s defense capabilities and help ensure stability in the region.

Marcos said the three-day joint activity seeks to enhance the interoperability of both countries’ military forces.

“This significant initiative is a testament to our commitment to bolster the interoperability of our military forces in conducting maritime and air patrols,” he said.

“Through collaborative efforts, we aim to enhance regional security and foster a seamless partnership with the United States in safeguarding our shared interests,” Marcos added.

Marcos expressed confidence that the collaboration between the two countries will contribute to “a more secure and stable environment for our people.”

Marcos went to the US INDOPACOM headquarters during his visit to Honolulu, Hawaii, and was briefed on the regional situation and security objectives of the US and the Philippines.

In a media interview after his visit to the US INDOPACOM headquarters, Marcos said the two countries were in the process of assessing how they could improve capabilities and coordination in multiple spheres encompassing military, political, and economic.

Meanwhile, the AFP said the activity would cover Batanes and the WPS. “The activity will commence in the vicinity of

PHILIPPINE NEWS TODAY COLUMNIST lawyer Emmanuel S. Tipon poses with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Marcos in Honolulu, Hawaii. Tipon appointed lawyer Liza Marcos to the faculty of Northwestern University in the ‘90s when Tipon was a dean there.

Batanes and will end in the WPS. It will involve three Navy vessels, two FA-50PH, and one A-29B ‘Super Tucano’ from the side of the AFP while the US will send in one littoral combat ship and one P8-A,” AFP public affairs office chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said in a statement.

Trinidad said the activity pursues Philippine-US principles based on a rules-based international order.

“It demonstrates the AFP and USINDOPACOM’s (United States Indo-Pacific Command) commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific Region,” he added.

 OPINION

November 23-29, 2023

10

Raising the bar in local governance FRANCIS ESPIRITU MARILYN B. KING

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W

Victims must unite against Chinese expansion

hile Filipinos are justifiably concerned by the regular incursions of China into its waters, it should be noted that the Asian superpower is doing the same thing with some of its other neighbors.

The aggrieved Asean nations -- notably Vietnam -- would do well to act together rather than separately in order to put a stop to Beijing’s expansionist policy.

Chinese President Xi may have spoken some nice, even friendly, words during the recently concluded meeting of leaders in San Francisco, but everything he said should be taken with a grain of salt. He may say one thing, but the Chinese military does another.

The possibility that China’s military may even be acting without expressed approval

by Xi cannot even be discounted.

That being said, Philippine President Bongbong Marcos should continue meeting with his peers in Asean, but also with other nations with an interest to keep the waterways of the region safe.

This means not only Japan and Taiwan, but also the likes of South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and the US, of course.

A firm, united stand of these nations as well as the Asean countries whose territories are also under threat by China should be more than sufficient to serve as a strong reminder to Xi and/or the People’s Liberation Army that China’s plans cannot succeed.

Our motherland, the Republic of the Philippines, is under the greatest threat from the constant incursions and aggressive actions of the China Coast Guard, which sometimes acts as if it is seeking a violent confrontation with Philippine forces.

In the recent past, the China Coast Guard has used water cannons and lasers against the Filipinos. They have also collided with the smaller Philippine ships. And, as a matter of course, they have issued radio challenges.

Chinese quasi-military ships have also harassed Filipino fishermen non-stop since China laid claim to Philippine waters by virtue of their questionable nine-dash line, which they recently expanded into a 10-dash line.

It is no secret that the Philippines has the weakest armed forces in the region. This was the reason cited for former president Rodrigo Duterte to “allow” the regular incursions by China. The Philippines can never win a war against China, he said many times.

This may be true, but it is a weak excuse to take a cowardly stance.

The late president Noynoy Aquino took the right step in hailing China to an arbitration court, and winning the country’s case against its powerful neighbor.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr could also take the same step, but he could go one further. While the country may never match the military might of China, it can at the very least be strengthened to the point that the China Coast Guard will think twice about taking further aggressive acts against Filipinos.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines is reportedly bent on purchasing two submarines for use of the Philippine Navy. This is a positive step. The Philippine Coast Guard also revealed plans of purchasing faster ships.

It must be noted that Vietnam has confronted Chinese ships on multiple occasions, and like the typical bully China usually backed down.

Former president Duterte was a coward where dealing with China was concerned.

Current President Marcos now has the chance to show that he is made of the right stuff.

The choice is his and his alone.

“Public service is not just a job, it is a commitment to serve the people with dedication and integrity.”

The quote best describes the dream and hope of every constituent—public servants who will serve with dedication and integrity—and ultimately make a difference in their lives.

For public servants who are elected, performance in office is judged in the polling precincts with the achievers rewarded with another term of office. In the municipality of San Narciso in Quezon province, Mayor Florabelle Uy-Yap ran for re-election in the 2022 elections and won overwhelmingly. She is now on her third term as local chief executive.

The programs and projects she initiated have benefitted MELANDREW T. VELASCO constituents of the third-class municipality: Infrastructure projects were undertaken to generate more employment opportunities and link more barangays and communities in the municipality. Included in these projects is concreting of roads spanning more than 50 kms with a cost of about Php 800 million, as well as the opening of new roads.

The local government under Mayor Yap financed the Spring Development Project in 17 barangays to ensure the availability of clean and safe water for household use in these areas. Yap also initiated Paposo sa Sitio, a personal program in response to the needs of sitios and barangays where water is scarce.

To intensify rural electrification, the local government coordinated with the National Electrification Administration and Quezelco that resulted in 1,140 more households with electric service connection. Twenty far-flung sitios were beneficiaries of the Sitio Electrification Program.

Under Mayor Yap, other infrastructure projects undertaken include the construction of 10 covered courts, six evacuation centers, seven multipurpose halls, five day care centers and the upgrade of the Central Elementary School facilities. Municipal landmarks were installed at Sitio Bangkatan, Barangay Guinhalinan and Sitio Daniwdiw, Barangay Abuyon, both boundaries of San Narciso.

Three health centers were constructed in remote barangays to make rural health services accessible to the residents. Installation of a light house, line canals, foot bridge and hanging bridge are also among the accomplishments of the Yap administration.

Ongoing is the construction of the municipality’s Php 42.5 million convention center with terminal situated at Barangay Buenavista.

The local government’s commitment to improve the productivity of farmers, it distributed farm machinery and equipment to seven farmer associations, free seeds and fertilizers; and made irrigation available in barangays.

Fisher folk were recipients of fishing nets, boat motors and equipment. The local government has a cash for work program for fishermen when fish harvest is minimal. This usually occurs during the prevalence of the northeast monsoon (amihan). It also has a Bantay Dagat program.

The local government is helping out-of-school youth in job placements as it identifies vacancies in companies located in the municipality. It continues to coordinate with different government agencies for the TUPAD program of DOLE. Cash for Work program in San Narciso has logged 5,804 beneficiaries.

In the promotion of social welfare, the local government has programs for senior citizens, nutrition and medical, housing, and education. With an improved database of senior citizens in the municipality, the number of pensioners (Continued on page 20)

THE OUTSIDER

Philippine News Today is published weekly by Philippines Today LLC with business and editorial offices at 156 South Spruce Ave Ste 205 South San Francisco CA 94080 Phone no . 650-872-3200 E-fax # 650-745-1442 and website address www.pnewstoday.com and email address advertising@philippinestodayus.com or editor@philippinestodayus.com MANILA OFFICE: Le Marquis Townhomes, 51 P. Tuazon Blvd. Quezon City 1112, Tels. 8546.8426, 8451.1892, 8546.8421

Trust in the Lord Many times in the past, like most people, I have railed against the misfortunes that have come my way.

I have lost beloved ones, friends who proved disloyal, elections that were “stolen” from me.

Speaking of elections, what if I had won the presidency of FAMAS in 1976? Because I lost, I founded another organization, the first of its kind, the Aliw Awards Foundation, Inc. ! I wonder where FAMAS would be today, had I won.

What if I had succeeded to be the first woman President of the National Press Club in 2005? Would I have survived the pressures of the job that could have cost me my life?

Though I initially questioned why I had to lose, eventually I accepted such losses as God’s will , for me.

I have consequently outlived many of my peers and today, I continue to steer the Foundation towards the achievement of its long-term goals.

My trust in God has guided me and enabled me to overcome the obstacles in my way. There have been detractors, people with malice, who have sought my downfall . Today, I harbor no ill will against them and wish them well. I pay that they will one day banish the rancor in their hearts.

I look forward to launching a monumental project, almost five years in the making, the Walk of Fame for Live Entertainers, before the foundation marks its 5oth year.

As in the past four and a half decades, I place my trust in the Lord, Wgo has never failed me.

To Him be the glory!

11 November 24-30, 2023

 OPINION

A

Accidents happen, for better or for worse – the Alvarico way!

They’re both lying

T

Offline

Health & Wealth

here are two persons s an accredited and comwidely believed to be missioned Notary Public eyeing the presidency and a licensed Real Esafter Bongbong Marcos. Untate Broker in California (DRE fortunately, both are playing #00635976) since 1981, I’m decoy about their future plans. lighted to know that two of our Actually, they’re plainly out old clients were able to sell their and out lying about what they properties back home without want to happen when Marcos traveling to the Philippines.

Jr steps down.

Last week, Lawrence and his The two are none other wife, clients from Vallejo/North than Vice President Sara Bay had an appointment with me ART GABOT MADLAING Duterte and Speaker Ferdiin our home office in San FranBETING DOLOR nand Martin Romualdez. In cisco for the signing and notarizathe past few days, both have tion of Special Power of Attorney (SPA) needed in the sale of several parcels of land and house and lot stated that they have no interest in running for president in 2028. located in Dumangas, Iloilo and Iloilo City.

I have a compound word for their statements. Half of the word is During preliminaries, Lawrence informed me that their property in Pangasinan was already sold through the Special Power of Attorney bull and the other half is sh!t.

The pair are typical Filipino politicians who say one thing and I notarized and had apostille follow-up at the Secretary of State, Notary “ mean the exact opposite.

Public Section, in Sacramento the other month.

When the time comes, they will both claim that they have no “Nabenta na pala yung property ko sa Pangasinan. Salamat sa inyong tulong sa pagnotarize at pag-apostille ng Special Power of Attor- choice but to heed the clamor of the Filipino people.

They are typical of the worse of the worst of Filipino politicians ney. (My property in Pangasinan was already sold. Thank you for your help in the notarization and apostille follow-up of the Special Power of who believe it’s some kind of crime to be honest and say that yes, they would like to be president.

Attorney).

In a perfect world, targeting the presidency is a valid goal for Mabilis pala ang pagbenta. Hindi na kailangan ang escrow kagaya dito sa California.. (It was quick to sell. There was no need for escrow politicians who have a record to fall back on. All they need do is to convince the electorate that they are the best person to handle the unlike here in California.)

“Malaking conveniente at savings dahil hindi na kami umuwi sa Pil- extremely difficult job.

In some rare instances, they can be honest just like then Davao ipinas,” (It was very convenient and we got savings because we didn’t’ City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte. He did say that the people would regret go to the Philippines anymore).

Last week, Patricia and her 89-year-old husband, another old clients electing him to the highest post in the land, and he was absolutely from South San Francisco/Peninsula, called Mobile Signing Services right.

What Duterte did not say was that he was a maniac who had no (MSS) for the signing and notarization of Special Power of Attorney (SPA) needed in the sale of their property in Las Pinas City, Metro Ma- respect for human rights and who was perfectly willing to sell the country down the drain to China. Oh, and his spiritual leader was a nila, Philippines.

I met Patricia and her husband last Saturday, November 11, 2023 for money hungry lecher who would be involved in all sorts of crimes the signing and notarization of the SPA prepared by their lawyer. After in the US. There was also some uncomfortable talk by both Digong and some preliminaries, Patricia informed me the good news.

“Nabenta na yung property namin Art. Itong SPA na lang ang kai- Sara involving rape, which made for some very awkward conjecture langan para matapos ang bentahan (We just sold our property Art. We regarding father and daughter. But everything that Daddy Duterte actually did was bothersome enough, and practically says that he did only need this SPA to complete the sale.).

“Salamat sa inyong tulong dahil hindi na kami makalabas. “(Thank not raise any of his kids right.

Sara has not helped when her actions from the start said that she you for your help because we can’t go out anymore).

I had Patricia and her elderly husband signed the SPA prepared by was more than willing to take a job that had a huge budget and for their lawyer. Then I had them sign my Journal of Notarial Acts and put which she had no qualifications.

Assuming the Education portfolio which has either the biggest their right thumb marks.

After notarization, my beloved wife Virginia Jimenez Madlaing and or second biggest budget among all government agencies was someI submitted the notarized SPA for apostille at the Secretary of State No- thing that didn’t quite smell right.

To paraphrase an old saying, if it looks like a skunk and it acts tary Public Section, in Sacramento, California last Tuesday, November 14, 2023. We waited at the Front Desk for the release of the apostilled like a skunk, it must be awful smelly.

At least Sara did not get the Defense portfolio that she was origiSPA in the afternoon.

We subsequently delivered the apostilled SPA to Patricia at their nally eyeing. Marcos Jr may not be the sharpest knife in the kitchen, residence in South San Francisco, California. Patricia and her elderly but at least he knew enough not to give her what is turning out to be husband were very happy for the prompt, efficient and complete services the single most important portfolio these days.

I shudder to think what she would have been capable of had she at MSS. We, at MSS, are committed and dedicated to assist and help old and been named Defense chief. The country would have taken multiple new clients, especially the elderly, veterans and those physically handi- steps to become a province of China, for sure.

During the budget hearings, Sara showed that she was capable capped, in the signing and notarization of Affidavits, Special Power of Attorney (SPA) DEED OF ABSOLUTE SALE, Proof of Life, Deed of of not lying but also not speaking the truth. Her flaws became all Extrajudicial Settlement of Estate, DEED OF DONATION, Parental too obvious when she refused to answer the simplest of questions, Travel Permit (PTP) and other documents needed in the Philippines and preferring to pass the buck to her undersecretaries and assistant secthe other member nations of the Hague Apostille Convention. Here are retaries.

The Speaker, on the other hand, has been playing it smart, if also some advantages and benefits of MSS: 1.

AVOID TAKE OFF FROM WORK – You don’t need to take quite devious.

Romualdez has stated the standard replies to most questions off from work and drive to Sacramento, California just to submit notarized documents for apostille at the Secretary of State, Notary Public asked of his future plans. He says again and again that the job of Section. MSS will take care everything for you just like what we did for Speaker is the most important task at hand. Correct, of course. It’s the best generic reply that he can give.

Patricia and her elderly husband.

But his actions – done in his behalf by his subalterns – show 2.

DISCOUNTS FOR THE ELDERLY AND VETERANS – that he is paving the way to a presidential run, and it all began with We offer special discounts for the elderly and veterans.

3.

VERY FLEXIBLE APPOINTMENTS – We have very flex- demoting Sara’s #1 supporter, Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. Romualdez ible appointments for old and new clients during regular office hours, knows that the sly ex-president is more than capable of playing dirty, which is why he originally gave her a cushy sounding title at the after office hours and weekends except on Sundays.

4.

FREE PARKING – When we had our Office at the Philip- House, then demoting her twice.

Romualdez has also cut the already short lady down to size by pine Center near the Philippine Consulate Office, our old clients were complaining for the expensive parking fees. With our home office in San pirating the majority of Macapagal-Arroyo’s partymates to join his Francisco, California, old and new clients can now have FREE parking Lakas-CMD. The PDP Laban of Arroyo and Duterte senior used to have more than a hundred congressmen in its fold. Now there are in our driveway and the available street parking spaces nearby.

5.

FLEXIBLE LOCATIONS - For those who can’t come to only 15 left, and that number is expected to shrink further.

Thus, Sara’s hold on the House of Representatives is so weak our home office in San Francisco, we can do signing and notarization in the privacy of homes (like what we did to Patricia and her elderly hus- now that loose talk of impeaching her may come to fruition sooner band), offices, hospitals, schools, BART lobby, restaurants, Post Office rather than later.

Sara’s hold on power has become so precarious that Daddy DiStation lobby and other locations.

6.

SAVINGS ON GAS AND MILEAGE FEES – For those gong last week warned that the Armed Forces and the Philippine Nawho can drive, we encourage old and new clients to come to our home tional Police were “uneasy” now, even as he further warned that the office in San Francisco, California for savings on gas and mileage fees. Speaker was forging links with the underground communist moveLawrence and his wife drove to San Francisco and came to our home ment in preparation for 2028.

He, or course, should be the last one to talk. During his time office for savings of $90 on gas and mileage fees.

7.

DISCOUNTS ON MULTIPLE DOCUMENTS AND MUL- as Davao City mayor, Digong Duterte openly welcomed the New TIPLE SIGNATURES – We offer 5% to 10% discounts for old and new People’s Army top his turf, going so far as to attend the founding (Continue on page 20) (Continue on page 20) anniversary of the armed wing of the clients on multiple documents and

Y

es, they do happen, for better or for worse! In the case of 2024 California Teacher of the Year Joseph Alvarico, it happened for the better.

Alvarico is a FilAm resident of Antioch, California and an engineering teacher and robotics instructor at Ygnacio Valley High School. He was selected one of five 2024 California Teachers of the Year, according to Contra Costa County Office of Education (CCCOE) Superintendent of ELPIDIO R. ESTIOKO Schools Lynn Mackey.

Mackey acknowledged that Alvarico’s achievement made the county proud and served as a living example of quality education in the area. “I am proud that one of our Contra Costa County teachers of the year has been named one of the state’s top educators. Joseph is a great example of the high-quality teaching and learning going on in Contra Costa County schools every day and it’s a great honor for him to be selected as a California Teacher of the Year. Congratulations to him, his colleagues and Mt. Diablo Unified School District (MDUSD) for the support they have given him throughout this process and the career,” Superintendent Mackey said.

Alvarico was born in his parent’s ancestral home in Guiguinto, Bulacan but was raised in Manila where he took his elementary and high school in private and public schools.

His parents Oscar and Gloria Alvarico are both public school teachers in Metro Manila, but Joseph never dreamed of being one like them until such time that he got a full scholarship in De La Salle University.

In a telephone interview in his residence in Antioch, he said that he landed as an educator just like his parents by accident. “Actually, I applied at DLSU to take up medicine, but I was informed by the admissions office that with both parents in public school as teachers it may not sustain a medical course at DSLU. However, when they saw my grades in my high school in Manila Science High School, they offered me a full scholarship on condition that I have to take education courses and teach in the university for at least a year after graduation.

I agreed and that’s how, by accident, I landed in education, although after teaching for a year, I learned to love the profession.”

While under scholarship, he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology (BS-Biology) and a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education (BSSE).

Alvarico went to Francisco Balagtas Elementary School; Manila Science High School; and De La Salle University - Manila.

His students were lucky because he combined real world experiences with his on-the-job training in the tech industry into his lessons beyond what the book says because to him “teaching is more than just textbooks.” He spent many years in instructing his middle and high school students in the subject of robotics at Ygnacio Valley High School belonging to the Mt. Diablo Unified School; district (MDUSD). He spent time with them building robots and joining robotic competitions in the district and neighboring communities.

His strength as a teacher is involving his community. He said: “I work with non-profit organizations (like Mount Diablo Education Foundation, Rotary Club, and Bay Area LEEDS); large and mid-size corporations (Chevron, Marathon, PG & E, Bishop Wisecarver); and local businesses to bring industry partners in my classroom for guest speaking, informational interviews, mentorship, and internships.

These community collaborators also help with providing funds for the different programs I run in school.”

Alvarico said “My job experiences while I was in the Philippines were: Philippine Cultural High School - high school biology teacher (1996-1997); Chiang Kai Shek College high school biology teacher (1997 - 2000); Programmer for Fujitsu; and Technology Integration Specialist for Net Curricula, Inc.; and Multimedia Designer for Universal Worker, Inc. I currently work for the Mount Diablo Unified School District as an engineering teacher at Ygnacio Valley High School. I am the advisor for the FIRST Robotics team 7137, Femineer - an all-girls engineering club, and Interact - Rotary International’s service club for young people. I am also the coordinator for the College and Career Access Pathway (CCAP) STEM at Ygnacio Valley High. The CCAPSTEM program is a dual enrollment program in partnership with Diablo Valley College, where students earn college credits while in high school. I am also an adjunct professor at DVC.” He is also an adjunct faculty at Diablo Valley College.

He worked for four years at De La salle University and then spent four years in the tech industry. He was employed as a programmer, a graphic designer and as a Trainor for teachers by a start-up company, NetCurriculla based in MM, sending teachers and nurses abroad.

He also worked at Universal Worker, a company involved in nurse recruitment abroad, doing print ads, preparing curriculum for nurses and producing multimedia materials. “It is here where I saw the ad from Mt. Diablo looking for teachers. As a media tech submitting materials to the various daily newspapers for publication, I buy the copies and submit the ad materials for publication myself. I responded to the ad and then Mt. Diablo recruiter came to the Philippines to interview me. Then the rest is history,” Alvarico said.

Alvarico is married with one child (Continue on page 20)

As I See It

Old clients sell properties in PHL without going home

 ENTERTAINMENT

November 23-29, 2023

14

Zephanie releases Filipino song for Disney movie ‘Wish’

Young Filipino singer Zephanie has been tapped by Disney to perform “Aking Hiling,” the Filipino rendition of the song “This Wish” from the latest Disney animation film “Wish.”

“Aking Hiling” was released in all music platforms on Nov. 17.

Zephanie Dimaranan of Binan City, Laguna, who was the first winner of reality singing competition “Idol Philippines,” expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, according to CNN Philip-

pines.

“I believe that great things truly come at the right time and season of our lives.

And I just can’t put into words how happy and grateful I feel for being given the opportunity to sing ‘Aking Hiling’ – the localized version of ‘This Wish’ from the soundtrack of Disney’s ‘Wish’,” the 20-year-old singer said in an Instagram post, the CNN Philippines report added.

“Thank you to everyone who made it possible! Thank you to all the people

who believe in me,” she added. “I am so grateful for all the love and support you have given me since day one, so I wanna share this blessing with all of you!”

It was reported that Zephanie already collaborated with the entertainment giant last year as she, Janella Salvador, and Stell of SB19 performed classic songs from hit Disney movies for the launching of the streaming service Disney+.

In 2019, she also performed a medley of some of her favorite Disney shows.

Disney has tapped Filipino singers in the past to perform their own rendition of songs from some of their movies.

Salvador performed her own version of “How Far I’ll Go” from “Moana” in 2016 and Moira dela Torre covered “Reflection” for the live action remake of “Mulan” in 2020.

Meanwhile, GMA Integrated News reported that Zephanie sounds like a true princess in her latest single.

Titled “Aking Hiling,” it is the Tagalog version of “This Wish,” from the soundtrack of the Disney animated musical fantasy film “Wish,” GMA News reported Zepahnie has lent her voice to a pop song that advocates for standing up for what’s right and pursuing the greater good despite the fear and challenges that may arise.

Zephanie’s Instagram posts revealed her visit to the Disney Philippines office, expressing her joy at the opportunity to

sing “Aking Hiling” The artist first looked back on the launch of Disney+ in the Philippines in 2022. She sang “When You Wish Upon a Star” from the movie “Pinocchio.”

“It was such a magical and surreal moment for me,” Zephanie said.

Now that she has another project with Disney, Zephanie said, “I believe that great things truly come at the right time and season of our lives. And I just can’t put into words how happy and grateful I feel for being given the opportunity to sing ‘Aking Hiling’ — the localized version of ‘This Wish’ from the soundtrack of Disney’s ‘Wish.’”

She then thanked everyone who believed in her and made the project possible. “I am so grateful for all the love and support you have given me since day one, so I wanna share this blessing with all of you!”

Zephanie said, “@disneystudiosph you are one of my biggest blessings this year! Thank you for making my dream come true!”

She also thanked Sparkle GMA Artist Center, Cornerstone, and UMG Philippines “for being with me as I grow in this industry and achieve my dreams!”

Finally, to her supporters Zephanatics, Zephanie said, “I wouldn’t be here without you all! Thank you for sticking with me in this journey!”

She added, “I thank God for all of you! I love you all!”

Cloud ID expands APAC presence with ABS-CBN’s The Filipino Channel BUFFALO, New York – Synacor recently expanded its relationship with a leading international Filipino content provider, significantly increasing the footprint of Synacor’s Cloud ID identity and access management platform in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region.

ABS-CBN Australia Pty. Ltd. (“ABSCBN”) is now using Synacor’s Cloud ID to authenticate cross-platform delivery of ABS-CBN’s The Filipino Channel (TFC) via StarHub in Singapore, thus entitling verified TFC subscribers to avail of TV Everywhere (TVE) viewing.

Synacor’s expanded agreement builds on ABS-CBN and its affiliates’ existing use of Cloud ID to authenticate TFC in the United States and elsewhere in the APAC region.

Cloud ID streamlines the login process StarHub subscribers use to access TFC on smart TVs and devices via ABSCBN’s iWantTFC. StarHub is a leading homegrown Singapore company that delivers world-class communications, entertainment and digital services. Synacor’s SaaS-based managed services solution removes the complexity of in-

tegration, allowing TFC and StarHub to focus on delivering content experiences that drive consumer engagement and monetization.

“Our goal is always to provide the best subscriber experience for our customers while maintaining a competitive and profitable content business,” said ABS-CBN Managing Director for Asia-Pacific Maribel Hernaez. “TV Everywhere and direct-to-consumer options are critical components of that experience. Synacor’s Cloud ID guarantees a secure solution and seamless deployments for our customers to enjoy streamlined viewing of TFC at home or on the go.”

“As multi-platform viewing increases, identity and access management is becoming increasingly important for the global video industry,” said Dana Golden, Senior Vice President of Business Development for Synacor. “ABS-CBN Australia Pty. Ltd.is on the front lines of implementing cloud-based solutions for reaching more users and we are making it easy for any content provider to replicate this success with their distribution

partners around the world.”

Cloud ID is a managed service running on Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI), providing a modern, custom and turnkey identity management platform for premium, globally renowned streaming entertainment, content and service provider companies, for use cases spanning traditional MVPDs, telcos, hotels,

airlines, rewards programs and more.

The platform’s simple, secure, and frictionless customer experience reaches more than 150M subscribers, managing more than 30M unique sign-ins per month, with the ability to scale to millions of users and support outsized access demand.

15 November 23-29, 2023

 ENTERTAINMENT

‘Batang Quiapo,’ ‘Can’t Buy Me Love’ score viewership records

Good news to the fans of Coco Martin, Bell Mariano and Don Pangilinan.

Their respective ABS-CBN series continue to get record live viewers via the web.

Tanggol’s (Coco Martin) new adventure boosted “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo” to a

new viewership record last Wednesday, ABS-CBN reported.

Based on figures by Dreamscape Entertainment, the show reached 492,836 peak concurrent viewers -- or those watching on Kapamilya Online Live at the same time.

The Wednesday episode, shows Marsing (Pen Medina) and Nita (Susan Africa) raising their rent to P750. This does not sit well with Tindeng (Charo Santos) and Marites (Cherry Pie Picache) as they felt that their former friends have changed since becoming rich.

Meanwhile, Santino (Ronwaldo Martin) wins his first boxing match, sealing his name in the sport, and Edwin (Ping Medina) discovers Ramon (Christopher de Leon) drug business which puts his life in danger.

This marks the start of Tanggol’s new mission as they attempt to kill the members of Red Phoenix Group.

“FPJ’s Batang Quiapo” airs every Monday to Friday, 8 p.m. on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, Cinemo, A2Z, TV5, iWantTFC and TFC. Meanwhile, ABS-CBN also reported that its series that stars Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano “Can’t Buy Me Love” has reached a new milestone as secrets of Irene (Maris Racal) were unveiled in the latest episode aired Wednesday.

Based on figures by Star Creatives released on Thursday afternoon, “Can’t Buy Me Love” peaked at 475,131 concurrent viewers or those watching on Kapamilya Online Live at the same time.

In the latest episode, Irene’s secrets are revealed by her supposed friend Kara (Shaniah Gomez) as Caroline (Mariano) looks for her.

She is joined by Stephen (Darren) who questions her trust to her newfound friend Bingo (Pangilinan).

Kara reveals that Irene is in debt but wants to build her own bar, thus trusting Felix (Alex Medina).

However, Bingo still suspects that Felix could be friends with Caroline’s kidnappers.

“Can’t Buy Me Love” airs new episodes on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, Jeepney TV, TFC, iWantTFC, Netflix, A2Z, and TV5.

‘A Very Good Girl’ cast, ABS-CBN execs celebrate film’s success weeks since its release on theaters.

“A Very Good Girl” also stars Jake Ejercito, Angel “Thank you for making a very good choice to get our Aquino, and Chie Filomeno, Donna Cariaga, Gillian Vilocal cinemas up and running again. Let us keep up the cencio, Ana Abad Santos, Kaori Oinuma, Althea RuePhilo-menal support for our local films,” Star Cinema das, Nathania Guerrero, and Nour Hooshmand. said in a caption.

The cast of “A Very Good Girl” reunited to celebrate the success of the film along with the executives of ABS-CBN. In photos posted by Kathryn Bernardo, the lead star was joined by Dolly de Leon, Gillian Vicencio, Kaori Oinuma, Chie Filomeno, and Donna Cariaga.

“POV: You’re with Team AVGG in front of the ABS CBN tower,” Bernardo said in the caption as reported by ABS-CBN. “Celebrating all the good things that happened to AVGG with our home network. This moment was just so heartwarming. Thank you!” she added.

ABS-CBN Corp. CEO Carlo Katigbak and COO for Broadcast Cory Vidanes were also present, along with director Petersen Vargas and the film’s creative team.

Latest figures from Star Cinema showed that “A Very Good Girl” earned more than P100 million, nearly two

 SPORTS

November 23-29, 2023

16

PHL captures gold in World Wushu Championships in Texas FORT WORTH, Texas – The Philippines ended its campaign in the 16th World Wushu Championships with six medals, including one gold from Mark Lester Ragay, Mark Anthony and Vincent Ventura in the men’s Taolu Duilian event, at Forth Worth Convention Center in Texas, USA on Monday.

The Philippines also bagged four silver medals courtesy of Agatha Wong (women’s Taolu-Taijiquan), Jenifer Kilapo (women’s Sanda 48kg), Arnel Roa Mandal (men’s Sanda 52kg) and Clemente Tabugara Jr. (men’s Sanda 65kg), and a bronze from Russel Diaz (men’s Sanda 48kg) to finish seventh overall.

China topped the medal table with 15 golds while Vietnam was second with five golds, three silvers and three bronzes.

Macau placed third with five golds, two silvers and four bronzes followed by Hong Kong (3-2-3), Singapore (2-3-2) and Malay-

sia (1-7-4).

Indonesia finished eighth with one gold, three silvers and seven bronzes while Chinese Taipei and South Korea were tied for ninth with one gold, two silvers and one bronze.

Meanwhile, Wushu Federation of the Philippines (WFP) secretary general Julian Camacho was reelected one of the members of the International Wushu Federation (IWUF) executive board for 2023 to 2027.

Camacho, a former WFP president, is a member of the IWUF ethics and supervisory committees.

In other development, the Philippines was awarded the hosting of the World Wushu Championships in 2027.

It will be the country’s first time to host the biennial tournament, which is expected to draw more than 1,000 athletes from at least 80 countries. (Jean Malanum)

2 Pinoy chess players off to good start in world youth tourney in Italy ITALY/MANILA – The Philippines kicked off its campaign note as FIDE Masters Christian Gian Karlo Arca and Mark Jay events on Monday. in the FIDE World Youth Championships in Italy on a good Bacojo won their respective first-round matches in the standard Arca defeated India’s Wadhawan Daaevik in the boys’ U-14 category while Bacojo also prevailed over Albania’s Kelvin Kosta in the boys’ U-18 class at the Pala Dean Martin Centro Congressi in Montesilvano, Italy, PNA’s Jean Malanum reported.

“The first round is one of the toughest rounds in any tournament. It usually sets the tone of how you’re going to perform,” said Arca, who will face Lithuanian FM Gustas Morkunas on Tuesday.

“We hope to perform well in this event and gain some Elo (a New Funeral home with Reception Center Flower Shop rating system used in zero-sum games) rating points, as well as the coveted IM (International Master) Norms,” Bacojo added.

Beautiful Garden Memorial Park Cremation Services His next match will be against Poland’s Tymon Ochedzan.

We transfer your loved ones to and from the Philippines Arca and Bacojo are playing under the guidance of Dasmariñas Mayor Jenny Barzaga, Rep. Elpidio “Pidi” Barzaga Jr., and national coach FIDE Master Roel Abelgas. They both earned the first of three IM Norms during the 18th IGB Dato’ Arthur Tan Malaysian Open Chess Championship in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in September.

In the girls’ division, Jirah Floravie Cutiyog triumphed over German Veronika Lorenz in the U14 category.

“It was a tough match,” said Cutiyog, who won after 42 moves of the Sicilian Defense, Rossolimo Variation. She will next meet Poland’s Zuzanna Gaszka.

Other winners were Woman National Master Kaye Lalaine Regidor over Austrian Emilia Deak-Sala (girls’ U16) and Woman National Master Franchesca Largo over Czech Republic’s Anna Voriskova (girls’ U18) while Anica Shey Dimatangihan drew with Turkmenistan’s Mahri Gamyradova (girls’ U14).

Regidor will battle Mongolian Erdenebayar Khuslen, Largo will tackle Slovakian Jana Sosovickova and Dimatangihan will take on Armenian Ani Avetisyan in the second round.

Meanwhile, Mark Gabriel Usman bowed to Canadian Leo Lin and Charly Jhon Yamson lost to New Zealand’s Candidate Master Kendrick Botong Zhang (boys U14), National Master TTT BBBBBBBBB NNN FFFFFFF HHHH RRRRRRRRR CCCCCC CCCCCCC LLLL Oscar Joseph Cantela succumbed to German John Heinrich (boys U-16), Woman National Master Bonjoure Fille Suyamin surrendered to American Woman International Master Iris Moe and Maureiin Lepaopao fell to Mongolian Bayarsaikhan Khulan (girls U14) in the first round.

The Philippine team, coached by Arena Grandmaster Almario Marlon Quiroz Bernardino Jr., Woman FIDE Master Shania Mae Mendoza and Ederwin Estavillo, is supported by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp.; Cavite Vice Governor Athena Bryana Delgado Tolentino; General Trias City Mayor Luis “Jon Jon” Ferrer IV and Vice Mayor Jonas Glyn Porto Labuguen; National Chess Federation of the Philippines chairman/president, Rep. Prospero “Butch” Pichay Jr.; CEO Grandmaster Jayson Gonzales; and Philippine Olympic Committee president and Tagaytay City Mayor Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino.

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 COMMUNITY NEWS

November 23-29, 2023

18

School bullying seen as worsening divisiveness and racism especially at this age of social media

By Jun Nucum SAN FRANCISCO - Even at a very young age in elementary school, kids are somehow inevitably get involved in bullying, either as the bully, or worse, as the victims who are often hesitant to seek help in healing by talking about their sad if not traumatic experiences shoes impact can last for years and even decades.

Lucky are the ones who have been spared of this so-called ‘coming of age’ stage in a youngster’s life for they are the very rare ones.

In this time of social media anyone can just post anything nasty and hurtful thereby encouraging anonymous cyber bullying to further worsen racial and ethnic relations that are on edge and ever-more polarizing, an Ethnic Media Services briefing examined what’s happening with bullying in schools today, who the prime targets and perpetrators are, and what insights bullying can provide about racial and ethnic tensions among youth.

Those who participated in discussing about this often-sensitive subject included Deputy Director of Strategic Initiatives and External Affairs, California Civil Rights Department Becky Monroe, New York Times Journalist Dashka Slater, author of Youth Wellness Coordinator, One Community Action Anahí Santos, and Founder and Executive Director of AAPI Youth Rising Mina Fedor.

Monroe strongly believes that civil rights issues are at the heart of bullying issues and some are even acts of hate crimes although not all forms of bullying represent unlawful discrimination.

“These acts of hate inflict physical and emotional harm on students and their school communities and schools have a legal obligation to ensure that students are not denied opportunities, treated differently, discriminated against, or harassed because of their race,” Moore stressed. “Conversely, when there is tension and an increase in acts of hate in the greater community, it will be reflected in schools and among students.”

Slater in her book “Accountable: The True Story of a Racist Social Media Account and

the Teenagers Whose Lives It Changed” wrote about how one Albany High School student’s racist Instagram account sent the whole community into a six-year saga of interpersonal hate acts and legal tensions.

“The Instagram account featured “images of lynchings and slurs, antisemitism and body shaming, and it was specifically racist towards Black girls at the school, who were friends with the creator of the account, a Korean American junior,” shared Slater. “It was a massive rupture in the community that included a demonstration at school which devolved into violence, and subsequent lawsuits over free speech.”

“We often see kids of color harassed for their identity, who harass someone else for their identity,” she explained. “Many kids are playing both roles, both the bully and the bullied. The radicalization happens online, as social media algorithms serve kids, many who consider themselves anti-racist, extremist content. There is an insane disconnect between what they were doing and who they thought of themselves as being.”

But Slater advised against punishing kids out of bullying as a response to this extremism, schools often rush to disciplinary codes, but Slater said they can’t punish kids out of bullying.

“The same people who have been marginalized by the justice system are not likely to be helped by it. Schools need to be supporting the victims and not think their work is done once they’ve punished the perpetrators,” Slater disclose.

Government Accountability Office reported that three out of four Americans aged 15 to 25, have encountered extremist content online, and half of this content focuses on race or ethnicity, according to the Government Accountability Office.

A Sophomore at Piedmont High School and the Founder and Executive Director of AAPI Youth Rising, Fedor believes that school bullying is pervasive even in progressive areas where, sadly, “a lot of it is Asian students making fun of other Asian students, and trying to bring down other AAPI groups to seem like they can fit in more, or else it’s seen as a big joke that people adhere to.”

Deputy Director of Strategic Ini�a�ves and Ex- New York Times Journalist Dashka Slater ternal Affairs, California Civil Rights Department Becky Monroe

Founder and Execu�ve Director of AAPI Youth Ris- Youth Wellness Coordinator at One Coming Mina Fedor

munity Ac�on Anahi Santos

Fedor first began experiencing this hate while attending seventh grade in Berkeley during the COVID-19 pandemic when many Asians were being blamed for a virus that doesn’t discriminate made worse as social media accounts are often hidden from adults as they can become platforms for particularly cruel and aggressive bullying.

“Comments target our sense of belonging were heard, — ‘Go back to where you came from,’ the idea that we’re perpetual foreigners, model minorities that are too successful.”

To combat this hate, Fedor said she “organized a small community gathering at Berkeley’s aquatic Park hoping for about 70 attendees. Instead, over 1200 people showed up for the rally. That day, I realized that I can make a difference by taking these small actions … and I formed AAPI Youth Rising.”

Santos, who calls herself a Mixteca coming from the Mexican state of Oaxaca revealed that most of them who migrate come to California and are victimized by Latino youth bullying indigenous peers.

“The closer you are to whiteness the safer

you are. In our communities it’s easier being a bully than it is being bullied,” she admits, “because by the age of 12 we’re already worrying about being a caretaker in our family, having to work to survive. It’s easier to navigate school through that violence, and in the long term it turns into gun violence, drug abuse, even jail.”

Santos laments that “there’s just a lot of racism that’s embedded within Latino culture, and it’s our own community hurting itself.

Even though we’re from the same country, we’re not experiencing the same things, not learning what it is to be proud of ourselves and where we come from. When youth can express themselves in healthy ways, they can care for themselves in healthy ways.”

“When youth can understand peers’ different cultural backgrounds,” she added, “although we can’t 100% experience it ourselves — whether that be the hatred or the joy in being other — students can connect in the sense of being proud of themselves, their history and future.”

tices and community well-being. Additionally, the collaboration includes Mina De Oro Center for Sustainable Community Economic Development, Inc., renowned for its dedication to fostering economic growth both in urban and rural communities in the Philippines.

Through this visionary partnership, the organizations envision a future where technological innovation not only enhances lives but also supports the preservation of the environment and stimulates economic growth in local communities.

“Fostering a Healthy Environment and Cultivating a Robust Economy” serves as the guiding principle of this collaboration.

Together, these organizations will implement initiatives that promote eco-friendly practices, reduce waste, champion renewable energy solutions, and empower individuals through digital literacy, vocational skills training, and entrepreneurial support.

“Our collaboration with Voice of the People and Mina De Oro represents a pivotal moment in our pursuit of a sustainable and prosperous future. By harnessing our col-

lective strengths, we aim to create tangible, positive impacts on both the environment and local economies,” remarked Demos Punsalan, Executive Director and Co-Founder of CTC. This partnership stands as a testament to the power of collective action. “We believe that through joint efforts, we can drive transformative change that benefits communities today and for generations to come,” shared Jennifer Reloj, President of Voice of the People.

Margarito Porras, President of Mina De Oro expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “we are excited to combine our efforts and resources with CTC and Voice of the People to promote sustainable economic growth and development within communities.”

About California Technological Care (CTC) CTC is making a significant impact in the lives of under-resourced communities by giving them the tools they need to succeed in the digital world. Their work is helping to close the digital divide and create a more equitable and inclusive society.

California Technological Care (CTC) Forges Innovative Collaboration for a Healthy Planet and a Thriving Economy

[Milpitas, CA 11-16-23] – California Technological Care (CTC) is proud to announce an unprecedented collaboration fostering a healthy planet and a robust economy through partnerships with Philippine-based Voice of the People for a Healthy Planet

and Healthy Environment, Inc. (VOP), and Mina De Oro Center for Sustainable Community Economic Development, Inc. (Mina De Oro).

This groundbreaking alliance unites the expertise and resources of CTC, VOP, and Mina De Oro, dedicated to driving positive change in environmental sustainability and community economic development.

CTC, a Philippine Presidential recipient of the prestigious “Kaanib Ng Bayan Award” (Partner in Progress and Development), and a renowned for its commitment to leveraging technology for transformative impact, joins forces with Voice of the People, a dynamic advocacy group promoting sustainable prac-

19 November 23-29, 2023

 COMMUNITY NEWS

Many new ways to apply for a home loan: Self employed Bank statement programs Borrowers who are self-employed, who own small businesses, who have volatile or irregular income, retirees, seasonal and gig workers, real estate investors, owners and employees of cash businesses, newly self-employed, those transitioning from recent health, family or other life events, those looking to use steady monthly deposits from their clients as a way to show the lender a steady stream of income that could be use to help pay the mortgage. Lenders will have the option to either use 12 or 24 months of your business bank statement to establish an income to help you qualify for a home loan.

Investor Program If you want to invest in a property

without using traditional debt-toincome qualifying requirements, our Investor Program offers unique qualifying options as well as rates closer to Prime. As a borrower, you can use your property’s rental income cash flow or choose lower loan-to-value ratios as alternatives to conventional limitations.

This is a Debt Service Ration program where if you are buying an investment property, we will use the actual income of the rent to off set the total mortgage payments including taxes and insurance. Usually it’s a 1 to 1:15 ratio that would meet lender guidelines. Loan to value ratios are depending on terms, fico scores, types of properties and debt service ratio.

This would be ideal for Borrowers who prefer not to use debt-to-income criteria or are unable to qualify using conventional loan requirements.

Prime Plus Program When buying or refinancing a home, it’s possible the cost could fall just outside conventional financing guidelines. There are some exclusive Prime Plus Program goes one step

beyond traditional jumbo loans by offering additional, flexible options to help finance your dream home. Some lenders will use only a Verification of employment program, where you will not have to provide paystubs and W2s.

Ideal for: Borrowers who struggle to meet conventional loan requirements.

Foreign National Program Qualifying for conventional financing for a U.S. property can be challenging for Foreign Nationals due to traditional asset documentation requirements. Change Home Mortgage has designed a mortgage program that serves non-U.S. citizen borrowers who want to buy or refinance a second home or investment property. Homebuyers can qualify based on the rental income of the property - credit scores are not required to qualify.

Ideal for: Non-U.S.-citizen borrowers who want to purchase a second home or investment property. This program serves non-resident aliens who holds a

visa for temporary residency, not NonPermanent Resident Alien status.

Bridge Loan When you’ve found the home you want to buy but your funds aren’t freed up from a previous property, Bridge Loan can close the gap. This shortterm, interest-only financing helps borrowers purchase an investment property without having to wait for another property to sell, a commission to come through, or another source of funds to become available.

Ideal for: The Bridge Loan is ideal for borrowers who are ready to buy an investment property and prefer to use shortterm financing.

These types of loan will most definitely carry higher mortgage rates and will cost you more points and fees, therefore be careful in analyzing and agreeing to use them to avoid becoming under water with your finances.

Please call Ken Go of 1st Innovative Finance at 562-508-7048 or write to kennethgo@verizon.net CABRE01021223 NMLS238636.

November 23-29, 2023

As I See It

(From Page 11)

who are both in the Philippines but will be joining him soon here in the US. He came to the US in 2004 at the age of 28 and is now a Permanent resident in the US waiting to be a US citizen.

Ygnacio Valley High School (YVHS) is a public secondary school located in Concord, California, United States. Aside from Concord, it draws enrollment as well from the neighboring communities of Walnut Creek and Pleasant Hill. The school opened in 1962, and its first senior class graduated in 1964. Originally conceived as a temporary facility, the school currently has an enrollment of over 1,500 total students for grades 9 through 12.

Again, congratulations to Joseph Alvarico! You deserve the best accolade on earth. Your students are very lucky to have you, a distinguished graduate of the University of Hard Knocks in the field of engineering and robotics!

As I See It, it was indeed a blessing for Alvarico to have accidentally went into education because it paved his way to being an outstanding teacher and was selected as one of five California’s 2024 Teacher of the Year!

Offline

(From Page 11)

multiple signatures.

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The Outsider...

Philippine Trade, Energy, and Science and Tech officials meet with U.S. businesses on sustainability

(From Page 11)

If it was his version of reverse psychologically, thereby forcing the men and women in uniform to pledge their allegiance to the VPcum-Education secretary, it did not work.

The worsening problem caused by China’s non-stop intrusions into Philippine waters has made the Armed Forces uneasy. And they may not see the desired leadership from either Marcos Jr or Sara Duterte.

Here is where Speaker Romualdez comes in. He can present himself as the strong leader that the country needs to prevent China from encroaching further and further into Philippine territory.

He very likely has the edge here, as Sara’s eagerness to become president despite her lack of performance as both VP and Education sec will be used against her.

This is not to say that Romualdez is the better person to lead the country five years from now. But at the very least, he can present himself as the more decisive leader than cousin Bongbong.

I can’t say that between him and Sara that the Speaker is the lesser evil. What I’m still waiting for is a young leader to emerge who can say he or she is seeking the presidency in order to undo the mess that Digong and Bongbong left behind, and mean it.

A Sara or Ferdinand Martin presidency in 2028 will only mean that the Philippines is nothing more than a banana republic which can never attain developed nation status, because it cannot produce honest and competent political leaders on a regular basis.

Health & Wealth...

20

(From Page 10)

increased to 2,275 from 750. Burial and medical assistance are ready available to senior citizens. Free medicines, vitamins and immunizations are given to the constituents. Scholarships are given to students belonging to financially challenged families. Around 2,000 students are beneficiaries of the scholarship program of Mayor Yap. Eighteen families are beneficiaries of house and lot donated by Mayor Yap and her husband.

Following in the footsteps of her parents, she is giving her constituents the public service they deserve—going the extra mile of sharing what she personally has to people in need. “We should realize how blessed we are and as for me, one of the most important lessons I learned from my parents is to share our blessings.”

The accomplishments of Mayor Yap should inspire other local government officials.

The municipality of San Narciso is one of the 12 municipalities in the Bondoc Peninsula located in the southeastern part of Quezon Province. It has a land area of 263.58 sq. kms. and 24 barangays. Its geographical attributes make the municipality ideal as an eco-tourism destination.

Philippine Trade, Energy, and Science & Tech Officials Meet with U.S. Businesses on Sustainability L-R: Ms. Verinda Fike, Regional Director of Indo-Pacific, U.S. Trade and Development Agency, Philippine Consul General in San Francisco Neil Frank R. Ferrer, Mr. Rod Hirsch, Director of the Oakland Export Assistance Center, U.S. Commercial Service, Mr. Joseph Scherer, GreenFire Energy CEO, Ms. Hollis Chin, GreenFire Energy Vice President Marke�ng, and Mr. Harish Chandasekar, GreenFire Energy Engineering and Project Development Head

Philippine Trade, Energy, and Science & Tech Officials Meet with U.S. Businesses on Sustainability on the Sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Coopera�on (APEC) Summit 2023 in San Francisco

Philippine Trade, Energy, and Science & Tech Officials Meet with U.S. Businesses on Sustainability L-R: Philippine Department of Science and Technology Undersecretary Maridon Sahagun, Philippine Energy Secretary Raphael P.M. Lo�lla, Philippine Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual recurring theme in the Department of Science and TechnolPhilippine Trade, Energy, and Science & Tech Officials Meet ogy’s priority programs.

Rod Hirsch, Director of the Oakland Export Assistance with U.S. Businesses on Sustainability on the Sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Coopera�on (APEC) Summit 2023 in Center, facilitated the introduction of companies interested in establishing a presence in the Philippines.

San Francisco Attendees included NorCal DEC members, Fremont Vice SAN FRANCISCO -- The Philippines’ Secretaries of Mayor Teresa Cox, representatives from the office of ConTrade and Industry and Energy and Undersecretary of Sci- gressman John Garamendi (CA-08), and CEOs from various ence and Technology engaged with American companies in sustainability-focused industries such as waste management, a sustainability roundtable on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific renewable energy, and high-tech firms with environmental, Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit 2023. social, and governance (ESG) goals. Ms. Verinda Fike, RePhilippine Consul General Neil Frank R. Ferrer said that gional Director of Indo-Pacific, U.S. TDA was also present the Secretaries were part of the official delegation of Presi- in the roundtable. The Port of Oakland and the National Ocedent Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to the APEC Economic Leaders anic and Atmospheric Administration Marine Debris Program Week in San Francisco. The President also led the 2023 Phil- California Regional Coordinator were also represented. ippine Economic Briefing (PEB) in San Francisco, which had Companies that participated in the roundtable included the theme, “Think Growth. Think Philippines.”

UltraScale Digital Infrastructure, Equus Computer Systems, Hosted by the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in GreenFire Energy, Amber Kinetics, Enact Systems, Inc., LiSilicon Valley, in collaboration with the Philippine Consulate lac Solutions, Hadal, Calwave, KCCTech, LLC, Stellar3, and in San Francisco and the Oakland Export Assistance Center of Ocean Power Technologies. The roundtable also saw reprethe U.S. Commercial Service/U.S. Department of Commerce sentation from the Peralta Community College District, in& Northern California District Export Council (DEC), the cluding Laney Community College. event focused on renewable energy, innovation, and sustainable solutions in the face of climate change.

Trade Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual encouraged U.S. companies to invest in the Philippines, emphasizing the dual benefit of supporting the country and contributing to a sustainable future. He highlighted incentives available under the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Act (CREATE) law and investment opportunities aligned with the Strategic Investment Priority Plan (SIPP).

Energy Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla acknowledged existing U.S. companies operating in the Philippines’ energy sector and noted new technologies available to harness renewable energy.

Consul General Ferrer recognized Amber Kinetics for manufacturing flywheel batteries and establishing the world’s first flywheel innovation hub in the Philippines, in cooperation with De La Salle University. He also congratulated GreenFire Energy for receiving an Export Achievement Certificate for its U.S. Trade and Development Agency (TDA)-funded geothermal project in the Philippines.

Undersecretary Sahagun highlighted sustainability as a

21 November 23-29, 2023 Sixth ...

 COMMUNITY NEWS | HEALTH

(From page 1)

hate and discrimination, which remains a threat to our neighborhoods, towns, and cities.

Dozens of anti-hate events were hosted during the UAHW across California from November 12-18 by local government and community partners from poetry slams to rallies and more that followed the announcement by CRD of the release of new preliminary statistics showing approximately 513 reports of hate to California vs Hate, the state’s anti-hate hotline and resource network, in the first six months since its official launch.

In the first six months since its official launch, CA vs Hate has been contacted by hundreds of individuals. Key preliminary statistics from May through October include: CA vs Hate received 513 reports of hate acts across California. Of those reports, 233 were made over the phone and 280 were made via the online portal.

More than 60% of all individuals who reported an act of hate accepted care coordination services, including direct and ongoing support accessing legal aid or counseling.

More than 75% of California’s counties were represented in the preliminary data, up from approximately 40% in the first month following the official launch.

Among the reasons cited for the report of hate, race (27%) and ethnicity (18%) continued to be the most reported bias motivations, followed by religion (13%) and sexual orientation (11%).

Approximately one in six reports were made by a witness or advocate. Most reports were made by an individual who reported being targeted for an act of hate.

This is in addition to reports that hate crimes have continued to rise in recent years in California, reaching their highest levels since 2001 — jumping more than 20% from 2021 to 2022.

“California continues to lead the charge in pushing back against hate,” shared CRD Acting Director Mary Wheat. “From civic engagement at the grassroots level to historic statewide investments, the Civil Rights Department is proud to be part of a new generation of leaders in the fight for greater inclusion and equity for all. During United Against Hate Week, we encourage all Californians to take advantage of existing resources — like California vs Hate — to push for change from the ground up for all our communities.”

Chair of the Assembly Budget Committee Assemblymember Phil Ting emphasized that “with hate crimes increasing in California and different views spurring debate that sometimes turns hostile, movements like United Against Hate Week become more vital.”

“It is my hope that providing awareness about nonprofit services available to victims or other resources, such as the Civil Rights Department hate crime reporting hotline, we can spread the message that hate is not okay and that there is support available for those

who need it,” trust Ting.

“Berkeley is proud to have a founding role in United Against Hate Week,” announced Berkeley Mayor Jesse Arreguín.

“Over the last few years, we have seen this event grow exponentially, yet there is still so much work to be done. Now more than ever, in the face of growing hate crimes, we must take a stand to bring our communities together against hatred.”

“Black people are disproportionately impacted by hate crimes in California, which is why the NAACP California Hawaii State Conference is proud to participate in the sixth annual United Against Hate Week,” disclosed Rick L. Callender, ESQ., CA/HI NAACP President. “The NAACP CA/HI State Conference, in conjunction with our 57 branches across California, is dedicated and committed to eradicating hate within our state through community action and by supporting bills such as AB 449 (Ting), the CA vs Hate Hotline, and our collaborative efforts with the CDSS Stop the Hate grant.”

Initially created by local government and community leaders in the Bay Area in response to white supremacist rallies in Berkeley and San Francisco, UAHW is an opportunity for local residents to take action in their communities under the simple, yet powerful principle that, when cities and their residents work together against hate, we can restore respect and discourse, embrace the strength of our diversity, and build inclusive and equitable communities for all.

CA vs Hate is a non-emergency, multilingual hate crime and incident reporting hotline and online portal. Reports can be made anonymously by calling (833) 866-4283, or 833-8-NO-HATE, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. PT or online at any time. Hate acts can be reported in 15 different languages through the online portal and in over 200 languages when calling the hotline. For individuals who want to report a hate crime to law enforcement immediately or who are in imminent danger, please call 911. For more information on CA vs Hate, please visit CAvsHate.org.

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/.

Queries From Readers

Heart of Hope

One of the great advances in medical science is the discovery that Ultraviolet C (UVC) rays effectively kill bacteria, and neutralize viruses, fungi and molds. This has led to the introduction of UVC lamps for cleaning and sterilization of medical/ dental instruments and accessories. The expanded use was approved by the US-FDA to PHILIP S. CHUA include sterilizing food items, baby pacifier, bibs, utensils, cups, toys, toothbrush, nail cutters, etc., even cell phones, headsets, and earbuds, chargers, cords, CPAP masks and tubing.

How long does it take to sterilize?

Disinfection using UV light is called ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI), which has been found very effective killing power against a broad spectrum of bacteria. Viruses, fungi, and spores require repeated treatments, perhaps 15 minutes instead of 5 minutes, the standard time of irradiation it takes to kill for bacteria.

What are the common types of UV rays?

The 3 spectra of UV wavelength are: UV-A (320 to 400 nm), UV-B (280-320 nm), and UV-C (200-280 nm). UV-C has the strongest germicidal power and popularly used as mercury lamps to inactivate microorganisms in food items, baby eating utensils, bibs, pacifier, CPAP masks and tubing, medical/ dental instruments, toothbrushes, combs, shavers, hair curlers, jewelries, watches, keys, cellphones, headsets, earbuds, paper money and coins, and practically anything that fits into the UV-C sterilizer bag or box.

How does UV-C light kill microbes?

The UV-C rays inactivate/kill microorganisms by destroying their nucleic acid and disrupting their DNA, disabling their vital cellular function and ability to replicate. And all it takes is between one 5-exposure for bacteria, and three 5-minute exposures for viruses, fungi, and molds. This same UV-C light is used to disinfect and sanitize our drinking water and food items (meats, especially chicken, fruits, vegetables, and seafoods) as a standard safety procedure in the United States

and other countries in the world.

Could these UV-C lamps sterilize a room?

Yes, UV-C lamps can sterilize an entire room, and routinely used daily to sterilize hospital operating rooms, ICU, individual rooms, to reduce HAI (hospital acquired infections) which victimize in 2 million patients every year, with an estimated death of 90,000 as a result. In the past two decades, there was an increase of 36 percent of HAI in the USA, with an economic burden up to $45 Billion a year. The latest advance is the Robot sterilizer technology, also using UV-C lamps, for all rooms in the hospital.

Is UV-C light safe?

Used properly, UV-C lamps or irradiation are safe for humans and animals. As long as the UV-C rays do not hit the eyes or the skin, no injury will result. This is why UV-C lamps are self-contained in a zippered tote, bag, locked box, preventing any leak of rays. They are turned on only after the container lid is zipped or sterilizer door is closed securely. As for the UV, UV-C operating room, all other rooms, sterilization, the area is sealed to prevent exposure to people, with signs indicating the room is being sanitized and warning that UV sterilizer lamps are on and dangerous to the eyes and the skin.

What blocks UV rays?

Most any solid material, like cardboard, aluminum foil, wood, concrete, etc. block UV rays. If you do not see any UV light at all, it means the rays are effectively blocked. Dark eyeglasses do not totally block UV lights.

How much microbes are in our home?

It is mind-boggling but there are trillions of microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi, molds, algae, protozoa) in every home, no matter how we clean it in the conventional way.

Indeed, there are more microbes in one home than all humans (8.1 Billion current world population) in the galaxy. While not all of them are pathogens, a significant number of them can cause illnesses of varying degrees, some silent infections, resulting in continuous inflammation in our body system we do not even know or sense. This inflammation increases our risk for the development or aggravation of cardiovascular, pulmonary, metabolic illnesses, Alzheimer’s, and even cancer. Any form of inflammation in us is the enemy of our body, negatively impacting our immune system. Besides microbes, stress, tobacco, vaping (e-cigs), alcohol, lack of exercise, loneliness, bitterness, also cause inflammation within us.

Could UV-C lamps be useful at home?

Do a due diligence on this subject and discuss it with your physician about the benefit of adding this sterilization method in sanitizing your home to prevent illnesses in your household, by eliminating or minimizing viruses (colds, herpes simplex) bacteria, fungi and molds through UV-C sterilization. The home UV-C sterilization bag (about 8x10x8) emits no ozone and could be used to sterilize almost any item at home (baby’s food utensils, bibs, pacifiers, toothbrush, etc.), following the accompanying instructions on safe handling of this sterilizer. The UV-C bulbs last for about 9,000 to 12,000 hours’ use, roughly one year. This small portable collapsible (for travel) bag sanitizer is available at a discounted price on amazon. For info, email: steriletote@hotmail.com When was UV sterilization first used?

UV light has been used for more than 5 decades by the food manufacturing industry with excellent effectiveness, preventing illnesses and deaths from ingestion of infected food items. Actually, the first use of UV-C as germicidal agent was in the late 1800 and has been utilize for sanitizing drinking water and food items for 219 years now. The method, which is effective against E. coli, Salmonella, Listeria and other foodborne pathogens in meats, vegetables, fruits, etc., also helps preserve food items longer. It is a legal requirement for the food industries to follow the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) controls, using UV-C as an acceptable method. It is clear that UV-C sterilization method for CPAP masks and tubing, food items, and practically any item is most effective and safe in our fight against infection, even in our home.

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, David Letterman, Astronaut Gus Grissom (Wikipedia).

Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday.com, and philipSchua.com Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com

23 November 23-29, 2023

 FOOD & TRAVELS

Recipe of the Week Buko Melon Salad Buko Melon Salad. If you are looking for buko salad for your events but tired of the usual buko pandan salad try these buko and melon combination topped with a buco melon sorbetes.

Ingredients: 20 pcs. buko, grated, buko water keep aside for other use 4 pcs. Melon, grated 3 cups condense milk 1 cup all-purpose creamer For the Ice Cream: 1.3 liters Nestle’s Buco Melon Sorbetes ice cream Method: Combine and mix thoroughly all the ingredients in a big bowl. Chill in a refrigerator until ready to serve.

VISIT SAGADA. Sagada y has launched the southern Sagada nature treat, tour and adventure that formalizes tours and visits to the Obwa Canyon waterfalls, the Taccong tradi�onal burial grounds, Balangagan caves and the Pinumdeng skyline sunrise as among the a�rac�ons.

Sagada opens new tourist hubs, relaxes entry rules

BAGUIO CITY – Sagada, a town in Mountain Province famous for its hanging coffins on high cliffs and centuries old burial sites, has opened new places to visit for domestic and foreign tourists.

This was disclosed by Mayor Felicito Dula who said the new destinations are in the town’s southern zone composed of four villages -- Ankileng, Nacagan, Takkong and Suyo (ANTS) which launched what they called as the “Southern Sagada nature treat, tour and adventure.”

“Marami pang destination at kasama natin ang community sa pagbubukas at pag-welcome ng mga bisita para ma enjoy din nila ang iba pang magagandang lugar sa Sagada (there are still other destinations and we are one with the community in opening them and welcoming the visitors to enjoy the other beautiful places in Sagada),” Mayor Dula said in PNA’s Liza Agoot report.

Sagada, considered the Shangrila of the North, earlier relaxed entry rules that used to make visits to the town difficult and expensive for tourists.

The opening of additional tourist attractions in Sagada was earlier proposed to attract more tourists and put Sagada on the bucket list of local and international tourists.

Southern Sagada has the Obwa Canyon waterfalls, Takkong traditional burial grounds, Balangagan caves and the Pinumdeng skyline sunrise as among the attractions.

A camp site has been set up near the barangay hall of Suyo, which will have a tourist information center where coordination can be done and tour guides will be provided for the safety of the visitors aside from a ComPAC (Community Police Assistance Center).

Sagada, which has 19 villages, is divided into five zones -- central, south-central, northern, eastern, and southern zones.

The eastern zone, where the Marlboro Hills is located, is expected to be launched anytime.

Dula said most of the existing and pop-

ular tourist destinations are located in central and south central zones like the EchoValley, Hanging Coffins, pottery, Sagada weaving, Bokong Falls and the Kiltepan sunrise, same as the town proper or Poblacion.

“They are ready to receive the tourists.

The tour guides have been trained and accredited to bring the visitors and make them safe while in the village,” the mayor said.

Sagada has expressed confidence that its tourism industry will flourish anew, according to Mayor Dula, who said every weekend for about four weeks now, tourist arrivals are on the rise.

“We have recorded a total of 39,866 tourists who arrived from January 1 to September 30. There are also a small number of seminars and conferences already being held here,” the mayor said.

Pre-pandemic, Sagada averaged 140,000 tourists per year.

Sagada has lifted all entry requirements for tourists, including registration, Covid-19 test, and proof of full vaccination.

“We have decided to ease the restrictions because they prevent tourists from putting us on their list of areas to visit,” Dula said. “We had to move because tourism is the number one livelihood of the people in Sagada and making it difficult for tourists to enter our town will make it difficult also for our people to recover from the financial losses that resulted from the lockdowns.”

The mayor said locals own restaurants, inns, and souvenir shops while others are engaged in making processed items or serve as tour guides.

Based on a 2021 survey, Sagada has 12,300 residents who are directly engaged in tourism or related business activities Culture preservation thru tourism Councilor Jaime Dugao, the Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) of the town, said during the launching of the southern Sagada nature treat, tour and adventure that Sagada’s tourism is not just about the place but most especially about the people and the culture.