PNEWS 9.14-9.20,2023

1 September 14-20, 2023

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PHL CONDEMNS CHINA ANEW OVER SEA ACTIONS THE PREMIER FILIPINO-AMERICAN NEWSPAPER IN THE U.S. SINCE 1961

Vol.63 No.5 September 14-20, 2023

NEWS AND VIEWS YOU TRUST

With its Spinnaker project, Landco keeps firm grasp on leisure market

Beijing ships moves ‘irresponsible;’ warning on ‘New Cold War’ out

By ALFRED GABOT, Editor in Chief

By Be�ng Laygo Dolor

MANILA – Amid a warning by Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the just concluded Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit in Indonesia on the need to avoid a “new Cold War,” the Philippines kept up its “word war” with China over its what it calls as “irresponsible” and “dangerous” maneuvers in South China Sea and intrusion into the West Philippine Sea and the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. Page 9

Union City sister cities group gets $10,000 to boost program Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro

By Jun Nucum UNION CITY - The spirit of representing this city’s nine Sister friendship among nations filled the Cities in eight countries, exchanged Mark Green Sports Center here on food and showcased traditions and August 20 as local communities, cultures in what was Page 7

Sacking of key Finance usec exposes infighting in Marcos Cabinet

By Be�ng Laygo Dolor, Editor

MANILA – For stating what the majority of economists in the workplace and the academe say is nothing more than gospel truth, a respected undersecretary of the Department of Finance was forced to resign last week.

This despite efforts of her direct superior, Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno, reportedly asking her to stick to her job and just ignore the pressure to quit.

But Cielo Magno said she was better off in the academe where she belongs. In fact, she had only been Union City Friends of Sister Ci�es (UCFSC) President and former City Council “on loan” from the UP School of Member Pat Gacoscos (extreme right) receives a $10,000 check from Alameda Economics when she accepted the County District 2 Supervisor Eliza Marquez (center), with Mayor Carol Dutra- offer to join the DOF. Vernaci (extreme le�) Undersecretary Magno drew the

ire of powerful figures in the Marcos regime, who took issue with her lambasting President Ferdinand Marcos’ Executive Order #39, which places price caps on rice.

She not only said the EO made no economic sense but that it would result in negative effects on the staple’s price and supply.

The infighting in the Cabinet was all but confirmed by Diokno, who told local media at the start of this week that the economic cluster had not been consulted on the now controversial rice price cap.

Diokno said he was “surprised” by the announcement of the EO by Executive Assistant Lucas BersaPage 6 min.

Landco CEO Erickson Manzano It may not be as the big as the taipan-owned developers like SM, Ayala, or Robinsons, but Landco Pacific Corp. is firmly entrenched as leader of the segment it concentrates on – the leisure resort and residential Page 13 market.

Misusing humor to foster Asian hate

By Gilda P. Balan, Correspondent SAN FRANCISCO - Humor comes in many forms, from the simplest play on words or puns, all the way to irony and satire, which often require some intelligence to be appreciated.

In recent decades, insult as a form of humor has been used, mostly by stand-up comics ap- Page 6

PHL debt now P14.24T, may hit P15.8 T 14 Filipinos confirmed dead in Maui wildfire VIEWS & COMMENTS

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 NATIONAL NEWS

September 14-20, 2023

2

Rumors fly as ex-president Arroyo meets ex-leader Duterte, Robredo QUEZON CITY - Former Philippine president Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has confirmed meeting with former President Rodrigo Duterte and former Vice President Leni Robredo but indicated the meetings were mere socials.

Reports showed Duterte was urged by Arroyo to return to active politics during their meeting that triggered a frenzy among the retired strongman’s supporters.

Rumors are also flying FORMER PRESIDENTS Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and that a new political alliance Rodrigo Duterte meet in Manila with Sen. Christopher maybe in the offing for the Go, former Senate President Vicente So�o III. Speculacoming elections. �ons indicate they have poli�cal plans which they deDuterte, however, doused nied. hopes by supporters for a run asked him to get back to politics during a dinsaying he has no political ner in Manila that was also attended by Go, plans.

The meeting of the two former presidents former Senate president Vicente Sotto III and came after Duterte criticized President Fer- Medialdea.

But according to Medialdea, who has redinand Marcos Jr.’s foreign policy, including his decision to grant Washington access to mained close to Duterte, he doubts if the former president will run again, not even for senmore military bases in the archipelago.

Former executive secretary Salvador Me- ator in 2025 as has lately been talked about.

Arroyo issued a statement on a recent dialdea said Duterte has not contemplated a political comeback after spending 40 years of photo of her with former Vice president Leni Robredo. his life in politics.

“I recently had a social dinner with for“Nothing, he has no plans for politics,” said Medialdea, who was Duterte’s long-time mer Vice President Leni Robredo and mutual friends from Bicol,” said Arroyo. “We chatted legal counsel.

Sen. Christopher Bong Go said that Ar- about Bicol politics.”

Robredo served as Camarines Sur’s Third royo encouraged Duterte to go back to poliDistrict Representative from 2013 to 2016. tics.

Her late husband, Jesse Robredo, served “I’ll talk to my family about it,” Duterte as Naga City mayor from 2001 to 2010. was reported to have quipped after Arroyo

Pinoys told to be ready for strong quakes QUEZON CITY – Following the magnitude 6.8 earthquake that struck and killed over 2,000 people in Morocco, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) called on Filipinos public to be prepared for strong earthquakes.

In a public briefing, Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol said while he believes the Philippines is more prepared now compared to 20 or 30 years ago, he noted that people should still prepare in case a strong earthquake hits the country.

“Follow the building code, make sure to follow the minimum engineering standard,” he said.

Bacolcol also advised the public to prepare an emergency bag and food that

could last for at least three days.

“I think we’re more prepared now than before, say 20 or 30 years ago.

People are more aware now. One of the reasons, I think, is the quarterly (earthquake) drill being organized by the NDRRMC (National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council),” he said.

Bacolcol also cited the initiatives of local government units (LGUs) in preparing their communities against possible strong earthquakes.

The Quezon City government, for instance, constantly reminds homeowners and residents affected by the West Valley Fault to move out and transfer away from the fault line, he said.

PHL mulls expanding West PHL Sea patrols MANILA – The Philippines is looking at the possibility of increasing the number of its ships patrolling the West Philippine Sea (WPS) as part of efforts or options to prevent the swarming of Chinese vessels in the area.

“That is one thing that the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTFWPS) is considering right now. There are many options on the table. One option,

of course, is to increase also our number of ships patrolling in the WPS, both gray ships and white ships,” National Security Council Assistant Director General and NTF-WPS spokesperson Jonathan Malaya said.

Malaya made the statement when asked on what the Philippines could do to deter or prevent the massing of Chinese ships, especially its maritime militia, in the WPS.

 METRO NEWS

September 14-20, 2023

4

Roxas Boulevard promenade development under way

PASAY CITY – The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) led in breaking ground to develop the Roxas Boulevard promenade in Pasay City.

The park is expected to open before Christmas this year when families gather for quality time.

Located at the Libertad Pumping Station up to EDSA corner Roxas Boulevard, the urban social spot has a length

of 800 linear meters and a width of 22 meters with an approximate development area of 17,495 square meters.

The pet-friendly park will feature a futsal area with mini-futsal field, artificial turf, benches, bleachers and fences.

It also has a jogging path and bike lane, seating area and solar lamp posts.

MMDA acting chair Don Artes said the development of the park aims to promote an active lifestyle and contribute

to the overall wellness of Metro Manila residents.

“The Roxas Boulevard Promenade Project is not just about creating a park; it is about creating a space where families can bond, advocate fitness, a place of recreation and leisure, and a place to breathe. This project is the first of many projects that will represent a harmonious blend of urban development and green spaces, designed to enhance the quality

of life for all residents of Metropolitan Manila,” Artes said.

The MMDA and the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA) also signed a memorandum of agreement for the park’s development.

Under the MOA, the PRA, being the owner of the site, has agreed to use the area to help promote urban greening open spaces development in the metropolis.

Marikina rice retailers thank gov’t for subsidy MARIKINA CITY – Small rice retailers in Marikina City thanked the national government for a “much needed” P15,000 subsidy that would help them lessen the impact of the temporary rice price caps.

“Malaking bagay po ito. Pangdagdag po sa puhunan kasi mataas po talaga masyado puhunan ngayon sa bigas. Saka mabuti na nga lang po at meron kaagad ganitong programa ng subsidy kasi kailangang-kailangan namin ito,” Joel De Mesa, a small rice retailer, said after receiving the cash aid.

De Mesa admitted that initially, he felt frustrated when the mandated price ceilings of P41 per kg for regular milled and PHP45 per kg for well-milled rice were imposed on Sept. 5 to avert the surge of rice prices.

He said the cash subsidy is a big help for small rice retailers like him.

“Siguro yung iba na may malalaking puhunan posibleng kontra, pero sa akin, okay po ito kasi maliit lang po ang puhunan ko at sabi ko nga po, malaking tulong sa akin ito (Perhaps for others who have big capital, they are against it, but for me, this is okay because I have small capital and this subsidy will help me a lot),” De Mesa said.

“Saludo po ako sa programang ito at nagpapasalamat po ako sa mga kinauukulan (I salute this program and we are thankful to the authorities),” he added.

Josie Alcober, a rice retailer from Barangay Parang, also commended the government, particularly the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for distributing cash assistance through its Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP).

5 September 14-20, 2023

 PROVINCIAL NEWS

Bulacan governor suffers medical emergency, now in good condition CITY OF MALOLOS – Bulacan Governor Daniel Fernando is now in stable condition after suffering a medical emergency due to overfatigue and dehydration while speaking at an event here as part of Singkaban Festival 2023.

During the event on Sept. 11 at the Bulacan Capitol gymnasium, Fernando suddenly halted and canceled his speech, apparently feeling unwell. He was immediately brought to a hospital.

Fernando was attended to by his car-

diologist, Dr. Berwyn Flores, who confirmed that the reason for the governor’s “irregular gestures at the event was exhaustion, overfatigue and dehydration.”

An official statement of the provincial government dated Sept. 13 said, “Sa ngayon po ay kasalukuyang nagpapahinga at maganda na ang kalagayan sa tulong ng Panginoon. Ayon po sa kanyang doktor ay nasobrahan lamang po sa pagod at dehydrated ang ating People’s Governor (At present, [the governor] is resting and

already in good condition by the grace of God. According to his doctor, our People’s Governor was just overfatigued and dehydrated.”

Doctors also advised Fernando to undergo medical workups to ensure his overall good health.

In the past couple of weeks, Fernando had been actively conducting daily relief operations in various locations all throughout the province to ensure the welfare of his constituents affected by a

series of typhoons and monsoon rains.

The provincial government’s statement said Fernando expressed deep gratitude for the good wishes, prayers and messages of concern from his family, friends, fellow public servants and his constituents.

Flores said the governor, even while resting, is able to carry out his public duties “without disruption” and is expected to come back in full swing after a few days of adequate rest.

TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan – A 6.4 magnitude earthquake jolted Cagayan on Tuesday, resulting to injuries to at least five persons.

The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) said the five people were injured due to a collapsed wall.

The earthquake centered on Dalupiri Island in Calayan town, Cagayan.

In its latest bulletin, the agency said it has yet to receive reports of fatalities from the tremor.

Of the five, three sustained minor injuries while the other two suffered

brain trauma and head concussions and are still undergoing confirmation.

“No families/persons are currently being catered to inside or outside evacuation centers. No major damage or infrastructures are reported as of this time,” the OCD said.

It also added that OCD Region 2 (Cagayan Valley) along with the Cagayan and Isabela provincial disaster risk reduction and management councils are still monitoring and assessing

BATAC, Ilocos Norte – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has vowed to his father, the late former President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., that he would continue what he started for the nation.

“Your legacy lives on, and for as long

as I’m here, I will use everything I learned from you to continue your work,” Marcos said as he led the commemoration of his father’s 106th birth anniversary in Batac, Ilocos Norte on September 11.

The President also led the wreath-

laying ceremony at the monument of his father, who he described as “a true Filipino and an Ilocano icon”.

“For the peace and order that he fought and stood for, the development that he inspired our own citizens to build,

and the dreams that he left in the hearts of many, he remains a true Filipino and Ilocano icon whose exceptional mind matched the nation-loving spirit that he possessed and that he demonstrated,” he said.

5 injured, no deaths as strong quake rocks Cagayan

Marcos airs vow as he leads commemoration of father’s 106th birth anniversary

6  NATIONAL NATIONAL NEWS NEWS House panel completes hearings on proposed P5.7-T 2024 nat’l budget September 14-20, 2023

QUEZON CITY – The House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations has concluded its deliberations on the proposed P5.768 trillion budget for 2024.

Committee chairman, Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Elizaldy Co, thanked his colleagues for their exhaustive efforts and diligence in scrutinizing the proposed budget for next year.

Co noted that the budget deliberations have been marked by transparent and rigor-

ous discussions to effectively cover all sectors and address the country’s priorities.

Various government agencies presented their budget proposals, after which the committee members took turns scrutinizing the figures, questioning methodologies, and proposing amendments.

“We have taken significant strides towards finalizing the 2024 budget, which promises to be a landmark budget focused on national

growth and the welfare of the Filipino people,” Co said. “I want to express my deep gratitude to my esteemed colleagues in the Appropriations Committee and the dedicated congressmen who have worked meticulously in reviewing and suggesting valuable inputs for the budget.”

Co also emphasized the importance of timeliness in passing the budget to ensure that government programs and services do not ex-

perience any disruption, committing to meet their target of approving the budget on final reading before the month-long congressional break from Sept. 30 to Nov. 5.

“I remain committed to my promise to expedite the passage of the 2024 GAA (General Appropriations Act). It is our moral and civic duty to ensure that the budget is enacted efficiently, but also effectively, so as to better serve our fellow Filipinos,” he said.

Sacking...

measure caused by hoarding of rice that caused prices to rise to as much as PHP70/ kilo.

It was Magno’s public declaration on social media, however, that caused palace officials to say she was “asking to be terminated.”

Magno also never hid the fact that she was a supporter of former vice president Leni Robredo, who is both a lawyer and an economist.

One of the country’s most well-known economists, Winnie Monsod also said the EO would not solve the country’s skyrocketing prices of rice for the most basic of reasons. It defies the law of supply and demand.

Still, Magno’s exit, whether forced or voluntary, revealed that infighting within the Marcos Cabinet was very real.

Diokno and Balisacan said the price cap could work under certain conditions, but did not specify what those conditions were. They also admitted that the recommendation for a price cap came from officials of the Agriculture as well as Trade and Industry departments.

Because small rice retailers will be the worst hit by the EO, the administration is softening the blow by granting them a one-time financial assistance of PHP15,000.

This, in effect, is paying them to lose

money when they sell their stocks at below the price that they purchased them.

A big obstacle to the assistance is the fact that the majority of rice retailers are small grocery and sari-sari stores, most of which are not registered with the Bureau of Internal Revenue.

The Department of Trade, however, insists that only registered business owners are entitled to government assistance.

Marcos, meanwhile, is constantly hounded by his campaign promise of bringing down the retail price of rice to PHP20/kilo, now widely seen as virtually impossible.

population – and when it becomes dangerous, because it serves as the beginning of hate towards certain groups.

Former president Donald Trump and his followers believed it was funny when he referred to COVID-19 as “kung flu,” but this easily degenerated to unfunny insults first at the Chinese people, in particular, then towards Asians and Asian Americans, in general.

Mocking Asian Americans soon turned to verbal assaults, eventually worsening to physical attacks, which resulted in deaths in some instances.

In the first half of the last century, a common “joke” was that all Chinese or Japanese looked alike. They were portrayed as yellow skinned, slant eyed and buck toothed. This is

how they were portrayed in numerous movies and television shows.

“The use of humour that relies on ethnic and racial stereotypes promotes cultural racism,” the TBS article says.

Trump’s insults veiled as humor is believed to have served as a catalyst for “igniting the fuel of online white supremacy.”

The rise of attacks on Asian Americans during the pandemic era could to a certain extent be blamed on Trump.

That he is a viable candidate for next year’s presidential elections may serve as a warning that more Asian hate may be coming if Trump wins.

And that is no joke.

(From page 1)

It was Bersamin’s office that said Magno had to go because “she clearly does not support the administration and its programs.”

Speaking in the vernacular, the Finance chief said he was seated beside National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan when informed of the news. “Magkatabi kami, nagulat kami,” he said.

Diokno agreed that the price cap was not sustainable, but was a necessary emergency

Misusing... (From page 1)

pearing on late night talk shows or in comedy clubs. This, however, has fallen out of fashion of late, and for good reason.

A recent article at The Business Standard points out that Humor, “typically regarded as positive or harmless, can sometimes contribute to a greater acceptance of prejudice against the individuals being mocked.”

The article entitled ‘That’s not funny!’: The art of dehumanization through humor, says that the most fundamental type of humor “is based on stereotypes, which act as a convenient way to understand and interpret the world.”

There is, however, no dividing line when a joke is funny – at least to a segment of the

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7 September 14-20, 2023 Union...

 NATIONAL NATIONAL NEWS NEWS (From page 1)

billed as Union City’s 11th Sister Cities Festival.

The festival featured cultural presentations mostly in the form of songs and dances, and numerous booths that showed the various cities’ produce, arts and crafts, images of the famous tourist spots and cuisines of home countries.

Union City’s sister cities which joined the festival were Pasay City in Metro Manila and Baybay City, Leyte in the Philippines; Sta. Rosalia in Mexico; Chiang Rai, Thailand; Jalandhar, India; Liyang, China; Asadabad, Afghanistan; Mushin Lagos, Nigeria and newest member Khushab in Pakistan.

The sister cities of Union City have grown thanks mainly to the efforts of a group of leaders, friends and volunteers called Union City Friends of Sister Cities (UCFSC) representing the city’s diverse populations.

The city of Guro in South Korea, meanwhile, is Union City’s friendship city.“This is one of my favorite events of the year as it honors and celebrates the people of our gloriously diverse community. It helps us to appreciate that we have that we have much in common with our neighbors around the world,” said Union City Mayor Carol Dutra-Vernaci.

“Today, we proudly announce the development of our newest Sister City relationship with Khushab, Pakistan. This is our first relationship in Pakistan but many of our residents hail from that country,” she added.

UCFSC President and former City Council Member Pat Gacoscos said the last celebration was one of the most successful festivals because there were so many guests both local and international.

During the event, UCFSC President Gacoscos received a $10,000 check from Alameda County District 2 Supervisor Eliza Marquez with Mayor Carol Dutra-Vernaci to boost its plans and programs for sister cities.

“I could feel the friendship among the people who attended serving our purpose of educating and entertaining them.

Educating means learning our similarities and differences, especially with the current racial tension; hatred against Asians and other people of color. Entertaining is for them to

Pasay City officials led by Mayor Emi Calixto (in light pink center) with Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco Baybay City Councilor Rommel Peñaranda came along with city officials led by Consul General Neil Frank Ferrer (to Calixto’s right) councilors Filemon Avila and Ramon Veloso.

experience the cultures of others through dances and music and stories of our speakers and tasting the variety of food we serve,” Gacoscos said.

In his speech, special guest Philippine Consul General to San Francisco Neil Frank Ferrer talked on the celebration of Union City with two Philippines cities, Pasay City and Baybay City, the capital of Leyte.

“Pasay is the de facto “gateway to the Philippines,” playing host to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. It is also a premier cultural, commercial, and tourism hub where the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the Philippine International Convention Center, the World Trade Center, the SM Mall of Asia Complex, and the Newport World Resorts (formerly known as Resorts World Manila) are located,” Ferrer said.

“Meanwhile, Baybay in Leyte Province is the home of Visayas State University, one of the Philippines’ leading schools in agricultural research and itself a traveler’s paradise, nestled between the biodiverse Mount Pangasugan and Camotes Sea,” Ferrer said.

Pasay City was represented in the event by Mayor Imelda Emi Calixto-Rubiano who was accompanied by First Gentleman, Vice Mayor Waldetrudes S. Del Rosario, city coun-

cilors and department heads.

“We can share best practices that we have and we can do them in our country also. We can learn from their traditions, culture. This is really an important event for us since we are sister cities for a long time now and this is our first time to visit this festival here in Union City,” Calixto said as she cited the importance of Pasay City being sister cities with Union City.

On the other hand, Baybay City Councilor Rommel Peñaranda came along with other city councilors Filemon Avila and Ramon Veloso.

“Actually, this is my third time. We have been sister cities with Union City for ten years now. We started this in 2013 and I was the first one to come here,” Peñaranda shared. “It started as a proposal from our end, in Baybay City Chamber of Commerce coordinated with some Filipinos here and we came up with an idea to have a twinning sister city and our local government approved the idea.”

Peñaranda also acknowledged that they got a lot of help from Union City especially from Filipinos here particularly at the time we were hit by storm Yolanda in 2014 as Filipino Americans provided assistance that helped a lot.

9 September 14-20, 2023

14 Filipinos confirmed dead in Maui wildfire, many still missing HONOLULU - Fourteen Filipinos and Filipino-Americans have been confirmed to have died in the wildfire in Maui, Hawaii and the number may still rise as more Filipinos and FilAms are still missing.

It was reported that the Filipinos compose the second largest ethnic group in Maui, with nearly 48,000 residents tracing their roots to the Philippines, 5,000 of them in Lahaina, which was badly destroyed by the wildfire. Overall, 25 per-

cent of Hawaii’s 1.4 million population are of Filipino descent.

This as Hawaii Consul General Emil Fernandez said another Filipino, 48-yearold Glenda Yabes from Ilocos province, has been added to the list, GMA’s Dave Llavanes stated in a report.

The report added seven other members of the Yabes household are still missing, namely: Angelic Baclig, Joel and Adela Villegas, Junmark and Felimon Quijano,

Lydia Coloma, and Luz Bernabe.

The other Filipino fatalities identified by the consulate based on their records are: Rogelio Mabalot, 68, Salvador Coloma, 77, and Rodulfo Rocutan, 76, all of whom are from Ilocos.

Ten Filipino-Americans are among the 55 fatalities that have been identified by authorities, these are: Conchita, 74, and Danilo Sagudang, 55, Narciso, 67, and Vanessa Baylosis, 67, Carlo Tobias,

54, Joseph Lara, 86, Buddy Jantoc, Alfredo Galinato, 79, Pablo Pagdilao, 75, who is allegedly related to the Pagdilao family in Pinili, Ilocos Norte, and 50-year-old Eugene Recolizado originally from San Juan, Metro Manila.

Recolizado’s wife, Victoria, and their child, Justine, are still missing.

While the search and recovery operation is nearing completion, many individuals remain unaccounted for.

Philippines’ debt balloons to record P14.24T, may hit P15.8 T in 2024

By Jennifer T. Santos MANILA - The Philippines national debt has swelled to a new record high as of end-July of P14.24 trillion and experts expect it to hit P15.8 trillion by 2024.

Data released by the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) showed the national government’s running debt stock stood at P14.24 trillion, up 0.7% from P14.15 trillion as of end-June.

The Treasury said the increase was

“primarily due to the net issuance of domestic securities.”

Majority or 68.9% of the outstanding debt were sourced locally, while the remaining 31.1% were external borrowings.

Last month, National Treasurer Rosalia de Leon said the country’s sovereign debt is expected to increase to as high as P15.8 trillion in 2024.

As of end-June, debt-to-GDP ratio — represents the amount of the govern-

ment’s debt stock relative to the size of the economy — stood at 61% from 62.1% in the same period last year “as economic conditions continue to recover from the impact of health and geopolitical events,” according to the BTr. Broken down, the P14.24 trillion outstanding debt was composed of P9.81 trillion in domestic borrowings and P4.43 trillion in foreign obligations.

Domestic debt saw an increase of 1.1% from the end-June level of P9.8 tril-

lion due to “the P110.39 net issuance of government bonds driven by the national government’s financing requirements, offsetting the P850 million effect of local currency appreciation against the US dollar on onshore foreign currency-denominated securities.”

Meanwhile, external debt decreased by 0.3% from P4.4 trillion as of endJune “due to the effect of peso appreciation against the US dollar amounting to P42.87 billion.”

Teodoro, 4 other officials get CA nod; 11 AFP officers promoted PASAY CITY – The Commission on Appointments (CA) confirmed the ad-interim appointment of lawyer Gilberto Teodoro Jr. as Secretary of the Department of National Defense (DND), along with four other officials and 11 officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Teodoro was first appointed as DND Secretary during the term of then-President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. He was the youngest to hold the post at 43. He ran for President in 2010 but lost to his cousin, the late Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III. He

also tried to win a Senate seat in Eleksyon 2022 but was unsuccessful.

Also confirmed by the CA were Ms. Catherine Cruz Sy as Foreign Service Officer Class IV of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA); Atty. Erlinda Pinera-Uy a member of the Judicial Bar Council (JBC) representing the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP); Kira Christianne Danganan Azucena as Ambassador to Niue, in addition to being Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to New Zealand; and Charlie Pacana Manangan, Chief of Mis-

sion Class 1, Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary.

Confirmed to the rank of Brigadier General were Lloyd S. Cabacungan, Fernando Ventura, Jose Jesus Lontok, Ramon Flores, Dennis Pacis, Nasser Lidasan, Ivan DR. Papera, and Benedict Balaba.

Confirmed to Major General was Arvin Lagamon, while Steve Crespillo was confirmed as Lieutenant General. Also confirmed was Peter Jempsun de Guzman as Commodore.

Senator Risa Hontiveros questioned

Teodoro during the hearing.

Teodoro topped the Bar exams in 1989 after graduating at the top of his class at the University of the Philippines College of Law. He earned a degree in commerce with a major in financial institutions from De La Salle University and a master’s degree in law from Harvard University.

Senate President Juan Miguel ‘Migz’ Zubiri applauded the confirmation of Teodoro, vouching for the Defense chief’s integrity and capability.

PHL CONDEMNS...

On September 11, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. called out the China Coast Guard for its “irresponsible behavior” after its ships and those of its militia performed dangerous maneuvers to stop latest resupply efforts to the Philippine detachment manning the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal last week.

The Philippine government had protested in the past the presence of Chinese vessels near other Philippine features in the West Philippine Sea, including the Scarborough Shoal and Julian Felipe Reef -- all of them are within the 200-nauticalmile exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of the country.

The Philippines task force for the South China Sea, an inter-agency government body, said in a statement the supply boats had reported “harassment, dangerous manoeuvres, and aggressive conduct” of Chinese vessels as they carried out a “legitimate” operation.

Teodoro maintained that the resupply efforts to the BRP Sierra Madre and its detachment will continue.

“And of course the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessels were once again dangerously harassed, this is to me irresponsible behavior on the part of the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) and I think that the world knows who is in the right here, so it

doesn’t need much more saying, or talking about, the world has reacted before to the water cannoning,” he said after the christening and commissioning of the two more ships of the Philippine Navy’s Alvarezclass patrol vessels which were supplied by the US Navy.

Teodoro said that while no water cannoning took place during the latest resupply mission, the Chinese vessels’ dangerous maneuvers against the PCG vessels escorting the two resupply boats are an “egregious violation (of) maritime safety”.

“Hindi ako kapitan ng barko pero kita mo naman ang panggitgit nila at kung may mangyari sino ang sasagot? Ano ang mangyayari? (I am not a ship’s captain but you can see how closely they tried to corner and tail our ships, and should something happen, what will happen then?),” the Defense chief noted.

Despite this, Teodoro said the Philippines will continue to escort supply boats involved in the “RORE” (rotation and resupply) mission .

Asked on whether it is about time to let PN ships escort the RORE missions, Teodoro said he is more inclined to wait first for the recommendation of the PN chief, the Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff, and National Security Council.

Several senators, meanwhile, reiterated

their call to beef up the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), more so after the series of harassment experienced by the Philippines during its recent trips to the West Philippine Sea. Sen. Robin Padilla said the PCG must be given a bigger budget in 2024 so it would not be “forced to depend” on US assistance.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), meanwhile, said the latest Philippine mission to Ayungin Shoal confirmed the active participation of “Chinese maritime militia (CMM) vessels” disguised as fishing vessels in blocking resupply ships en route to the BRP Sierra Madre.

PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela said the ships’ participation were notably “covert” in previous operations.

“But for this particular resupply mission, it has been very clear that the Chinese maritime militia are performing active role to block the resupply mission,” he said.

National Security Council Deputy Director Jonathan Malaya, meanwhile, said it is critical for Manila to strengthen partnership with like-minded countries and show China that “we have this network of alliances that support our position in the West Philippine Sea”.

(From page 1)

This as United States and Philippine officials inspected new bases for the EDCA (Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement) in Cagayan and Pampanga as they ramp up plans to bolster defense and security plans as well as humanitarian mission in the wake of the heating tensions in the Indo-Pacific region triggered by China’s new 10-dash-line expansive map which now claims parts of Russia and India.

In a related development, the United States and Vietnam warned against the “threat or use of force” in the disputed South China Sea, days after the latest clash involving Chinese vessels.

President Joe Biden and Vietnam’s Communist Party chief Nguyen Phu Trong said the competing claims on the strategic waterway must be settled under international norms.

“The leaders underscored their unwavering support for the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, without the threat or use of force,” Biden and Trong said in a joint statement.

They also called for “freedom of navigation and overflight and unimpeded lawful commerce in the South China Sea”.

 OPINION

September 14-20, 2023

FRANCIS ESPIRITU MARILYN B. KING

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Discrimination against LGBTQ community still strong in PHL

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n the surface, it would seem that the LGBTQ community in the Philippines has experienced major strides in recent years and decades to attain general and widespread acceptance.

Sadly, this may not be the actual case. While the LGBTQ community has firmly entrenched itself in such areas as business, the academe, the arts, even in politics -- where a transgender is an elected member of the House of Representatives -- glass ceilings still exist in many quarters.

The youth, specifically high school and college students, still face the same issues that members of the LGBTQ community have in the past, whether in the Philippines or in the US. The face bullying, discrimination, lack of access to LGBTQ-related information, and in worst cases even physical and sexual assault.

These young ones will have to live with the mental and emotional scars from their experiences for the rest of their lives. The exception would only be those who have been driven to the most tragic of all solutions -- suicide.

While there have been real attempts at correcting the problems this distinct community faces in our motherland, more steps are needed.

Yes, there is a Child Protection Policy of the Education Department that has been in place for more than a decade, with the bicameral Congress even passing the Anti-Bullying Law of 2013. Still, bullying and discrimination in schools based on one’s sexual orientation remains all too common.

One need only ask any Filipino teenager, circa 2023, if he or she is aware of any mistreatment of their peers who do not hide their being gay or lesbian, and the answer will almost always be yes.

One study concluded that while such protective policies are “strong on paper,” they have not been adequately enforced.

Bullying serves as the best example. While almost universally prohibited in all schools, it is still practiced in a variety of forms, ranging from verbal bullying (the most prevalent says the study), physical bullying and sexualized harassment is likewise not unheard of.

At worst, teachers and school staff either ignored it when they witnessed it, or worse, even took part in the bullying, perhaps to gain easier acceptance with the rest of the student body who are not of the LGBTQ community.

There is no quick and easy solution to a problem that has been festering for the longest time. Look at all the print and broadcast media from the not-too-distant past, and see that gays have been the butt of jokes, all in the name of “entertainment.”

One thing that has been missing in all attempts by schools, lawmakers, and local government officials in seeking ways to alleviate the sufferings of the LGBTQ community has been comprehensive and intensive dialogues with the community itself.

Occasional inputs may be asked for sometimes, but for the most part the gay community itself has rarely been active participants in the process of crafting policies to give them the equal treatment that they deserve Sadly, the US has had greater strides in providing equal treatment for the LGBTQ community – note that a gay man had a recent shot at being the presidential bet of one party, and is now a member of the Biden Cabinet – than the Philippines, where gays and lesbians have many battles ahead to gain what is theirs by birthright: full equality in the eyes of the law and their fellow Filipinos.

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Antidote to loneliness

UCKY are you if you drive, have someone who can drive you around, or if you are registered with on-demand transportation programs provided by your city or private service agencies. That’s your ticket to mobility, the freedom to rise and shine, go out and have some fun.

If you live in the City of San Mateo you have Get Around (650-522-7490) and in Pacifica there’s Connect A Ride (650738-7350). Peninsula Jewish Community Center Get Up & Go (650-378-2750), is a free service with volunteers doing the driving. Each program has its parameters and fares. Call for eligibility requirements and more information.

Peninsula Family Service program Got Wheels (650-403- CHERIE M. QUEROL MORENO 4300 Ext. 4329) is for Daly City, Colma, Brisbane, South San Francisco, San Bruno, Millbrae, Burlingame, Hillsborough, Half Moon Bay, El Granada, Moss Beach and Montara residents 70 years and older. Registration is closed at this time.

You could say transportation programs is a cure for loneliness because it gives access to mobility and therefore social interaction.

Socializing – the act of spending time with fellow humans be they family, friends, coworkers – even strangers - enhances our lives. Remember: Strangers are friends waiting to be made. Social engagement gives us a sense of purpose and belonging, builds understanding and empathy, allows opportunity to help, and get help.

There’s nothing like a smile or a hug to greet you. Transportation, after all, is an antidote to what US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy called the “epidemic of loneliness” in his May letter endorsing the “healing effects of social connections and community.”

(See https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory. pdf) He said: “Each of us can start now, in our own lives, by strengthening our connections and relationships. Our individual relationships are an untapped resource—a source of healing hiding in plain sight. They can help us live healthier, more productive, and more fulfilled lives.

Answer that phone call from a friend. Make time to share a meal. Listen without the distraction of your phone. Perform an act of service. Express yourself authentically. The keys to human connection are simple, but extraordinarily powerful.”

Murthy endorsed social connection that promotes lifestyle behaviors, such as: ü taking medication ü seeing the doctor ü getting exercise ü eating balanced meals ü learning a hobby ü sleeping well and ü avoiding risky habits like smoking.

In contrast, he said, social disconnection results in isolation and loneliness and can lead to depression and anxiety. People who are less socially connected may have increased susceptibility and weaker immune responses when they are exposed to infectious diseases.

Indeed, mobility improves our quality of life. To request a Senior Mobility Guide call Samtrans 1-800-660-4287. *** PNews Today Executive Editor Cherie Querol Moreno is Got Wheels! program manager.

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Upside

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

10

Leonor ‘Bobby’ Cleofas” Making history at MWSS

eonor Cleofas, known to friends as “Bobby” , made MWSS history when she was appointed MWSS Administrator in October, 2021.

She became the first female head of the government agency mandated to provide potable water supply, which is adequate, reliable and sustainable as well as sewerage services to Metro Manila, the provinces of Rizal and Bulacan and parts of Cavite.

I remember Bobby Cleofas from my stint at the MWSS as its Public Affairs head. She was the reliable, right hand assistant of then Engineering Department Manager Macra Cruz. She was a petite and charming and ever efficient employee who, I thought then, would go far.

After I left the MWSS in 2002, I lost touch with my former coemployees, especially those outside the Public Affairs Department.

Recently,I was pleasantly surprised and glad to hear that fortune had smiled on Bobby Cleofas and that she indeed now heads the MWSS. Bobby Cleofas is a Civil Engineer , the only Career Executive Officer with the rank of CESO in the MWSS. Her journey , rising from the ranks, is remarkable. Her dedication and hard work ,after 41 years in the agency ,has borne fruit. Before her latest appointment, she was appointed Deputy Administrator for Engineering and Technical Services and Deputy Administrator for Administration, Finance and support services.

People who have worked with her know her to be passionately driven and innovative, assets suited for a leader. She is also firm in making decisions , only after thorough risk assessment , using her technical skills and experience.

Since MWSS is the asset owner , Bobby Cleofas interacts daily with the MWSS Regulatory Office and the two concessionaires, Manila Water Company and Maynilad Water Services.

As MWSS Administrator, she plays a vital role in numerous major projects such as the Angat Water Supply Optimization Project, the Umiray-Angat Transbasin project, the Angat Water Utilization and Aqueduct Improvement Project, the Bulacan Bulk Water Supply Project, the Angat Water Supply Transmission Project, the Kaliwa Dam project, the Bigte-Novaliches Aqueduct No. 7 Project, the Ipo Dam 3 project and the proposed Long Term Water Service Phase 11 of the NCWS-Kaliwa Project , which will secure the availability and sustainability of the water supply for the MWSS area for the next 50 years.

All the above projects are what keep the energetic lady Administrator on her toes, day in and day out.

I am truly proud of MWSS Administrator Bobby Cleofas, who has reached the pinnacle of success, in the agency which she loves and which has become her home.

Belated congratulations, Bobby!

11 September 14-20, 2023

 OPINION

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Volunteer nurses join medical mission in PHL

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Health & Wealth

Offline

s book author, columnist, he confidential and inaccredited and commistelligence funds that sioned Notary Public, the Office of the Presifounder of Mobile Signing Serdent and the Office of the vices (MSS) and active EvanVice President have lusted gelist with the GOLDEN GATE CHURCH OF CHRIST in San for are now theirs, thanks in Francisco, California, I was large part to a Congress that is blessed and fortunate to notamore than willing to give Ferrize and follow up the apostille dinand Marcos Jr. and Sara of important papers needed by Duterte anything they want. three volunteer nurses for their ART GABOT MADLAING Because such funds are medical mission in the Philipnot subject to review by the BETING DOLOR pines.

Commission on Audit, they Last week, Marissa Abordo are effectively the single best Biteng called me and requested help for the notarization and apostille follow up of “APPLICATION FOR AUTHORITY TO PRACsource of graft and corruption TICE BY A FOREIGNER” for her and two other volunteer nurses. by the country’s two highest officials.

They can, if they so desire, have the entire sums granted Marissa scheduled for appointment after office hours last Tuesday, them by their fawning subjects in both the House of Repre- August 29, 2023 in my home office in San Francisco, California.

I met Marissa Abordo Biteng and her fellow volunteer nurses sentatives and the Senate deposited directly to their personal “ Lourdes L. Gatchalian and Amparo V. Madrigal last Tuesday, 6:30 accounts and doled out as they see fit without question. pm, August 29, 2023. After some preliminaries, I found out that they Last week, the Senate – which used to have a better repu- will be joining the medical mission work with volunteer doctors at tation than the House where honesty and probity is concerned resettlement areas in Quezon City, Philippines in January, 2024.

– went overboard by releasing rules to prevent disclosure of They will help the volunteer doctors in giving free medical checkups, checking blood pressures, provide medicines and other medical details on how Marcos and Duterte use their funds.

Here’s the huge catch. “Senators face suspension and ex- assistance to indigent and poor families in the area.

After reviewing the completed “APPLICATION FOR AUpulsion for any violation.”

This is all on Senate President Migz Zubiri, who clearly THORITY TO PRACTICE BY A FOREIGNER” and enclosures, I the needed papers for Marissa Abordo Biteng, Lourdes L. wants to muzzle the two-member minority in Senators Koko notarized Gatchalian and Amparo V. Madrigal. Then, I had them signed my Pimentel and Riza Hontiveros from doing their job.

JOURNAL OF NOTARIAL ACTS and put their right thumbmarks.

Indeed, Zubiri and all the remaining senators in the major- I, subsequently, submitted the notarized documents to the Secretary ity should be ashamed of themselves. of State, Notary Public Section, in Sacramento, California for aposDo they need to be reminded that those funds come from tille. After notarization of the documents, I expressed my appreciataxpayers’ hard earned money and that the government con- tion to the three volunteer nurses, who are registered nurses with tinues to borrow funds year in and year out just to stay opera- Kaiser Permanente in South San Francisco, California.

“I personally commend and thank you for your spirit of voluntional?

This legalized waste of public funds goes beyond unfor- teerism in joining the medical mission in Quezon City next year. God bless you all for your humanitarian efforts in helping our indigent giveable. and poor countrymen back home,” I echoed.

Duterte did pay some lip service to her sacred funds by “I fully appreciate your humanitarian efforts to help alleviate the telling a budget hearing that her office could live without the physical conditions of the poor and indigent families because my intelligence funds allowed her. beloved wife Virginia Jimenez and I have been involved since 2012 This was empty talk on her part since she was only re- in the annual WE CARE Evangelism Campaign & Workshop in the ferring to the intelligence funds set aside for the Education Philippines to help alleviate the spiritual conditions and health of department, which she concurrently heads. The same funds Filipinos in our home country,” I explained.

We, at MSS, are committed, dedicated and will continue to assist for the OVP must remain intact because, well, because she says so. She wants those funds no matter what, and she must and help our old and new clients especially the elderly, veterans and physically handicapped in the signing, notarization and aposnever, never be questioned on how she in her infinite wisdom those tille follow-up of Affidavits, DEED OF DONATION, Special Power chooses to spend it. of Attorney, DEED OF ABSOLUTE SALE, Proof of Life, Deed of Any person of average intelligence – wrong choice of Extrajudicial Settlement of Estate and other documents needed in word? – who is also aware of how rampant graft and corrup- the Philippines. Here are some advantages and benefits with MSS: tion is in the government can only come to one logical con1.

AVOID TAKE OFF FROM WORK – You don’t need to take off from work and drive to Sacramento just to submit the noclusion.

Those confidential, audit-exempt funds are a legalized tarized documents for apostille by the Secretary of Estate, Notary form of thievery. They are not used for intelligence gathering, Public Section. MSS will take care of everything for you.

2.

VERY FLEXIBLE APPOINTMENTS – We offer very which is a job of the police and the armed forces, but at best exible appointments for old and new clients during regular office are used to spy on real or imagined enemies of the president fl hours, after office hours (like what Marissa, Lourdes and Amparo and/or the vice president. did) and weekends except on Sundays.

Nothing but nothing stops either leader from also using 3.

DISCOUNTS FOR THE ELDERLY AND VETERANSthe funds to pay off anyone in media to seen things their way. We offer special discounts for the elderly and veterans.

It can be in the form of a one-time payment or can be a regular 4.

FREE PARKING – When we had our Office at the Philipdeposit to their bank accounts. These payoffs can be justified pine Center near the Philippine Consulate Office in downtown San as a form of intelligence gathering, should anyone dare ask Francisco, our old clients were complaining about the expensive parking fees. With our home office in San Francisco, California, old how the funds are being spent.

As has been pointed out in social media, before Duterte and new clients can have FREE parking in our driveway and the street parking spaces nearby. the country’s two previous vice presidents had little, if any, available 5.

FLEXIBLE NOTARIZATION LOCATIONS – For those funds allotted to their offices for “intelligence.” For Jejomar who can’t come to our home office in San Francisco, we can do the Binay, it was a few millions, and not for his entire six-year signing and notarization of documents in the privacy of your homes, term. offices, hospitals, restaurants, BART lobby, Post Office Station lobby For Leni Robredo, the grand total of intelligence funds she and other locations.

6.

SAVINGS ON GAS AND MILEAGE FEES – We enreceived during her six years as VP was zero. And yet who can courage old and new clients to come to our home office in San Franquestion that Robredo was an exceptionally effective veep?

Throughout her term, she always received the highest cisco, California for savings on gas and mileage fees ($60-$130) 7.

DOCUMENTS PREPARATION DISCOUNTS - With scores from the Commission on Audit. What small funds she help of our paralegal and lawyer-friends, we offer special disreceived from the national budget were always used judi- the counts in the drafting, preparation and copying of documents for old ciously. and new clients.

One more thing that needs to be pointed out about VP 8.

DISCOUNTS ON MULTIPLE DOCUMENTS AND Duterte is the fact that she needs 300 to 400 bodyguards, mak- MULTIPLE SIGNATURES - We offer to our old and new clients ing her the most guarded leader anywhere in the world.

5% to 10% discounts on multiple documents and multiple signatures.

9.

CONVENIENCE AND PEACE OF MIND- With my I doubt if the likes of Vladimir Putin, Xi Jinping, or even the king of England has as many gun-toting bodyguards as experience and accredited and commissioned Notary Public and her. Only North Korea’s Kim would have a bigger private licensed Real Estate Broker (DRE#00635976) in California since 1981, you can have total convenience and peace of mind with the army. complete ad prompt services at MSS. And that is precisely what Duterte has, a private army. It is efficient, For immediate assistance and help in the signing, notarization one that protects her at all cost, (Continue on page 20) and apostille follow up of all docu(Continue on page 20)

Disasters everywhere, global warming, earthquakes

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hat’s happening in our world today?

We hear of news mishaps, calamities, atrocities… every now and then.

“Is this the effect of global warming? Is it another 9/11?”

The latest disaster worldwide was the 6.8 earthquake that happened in Morocco.

About 2,500 (2,496 to be exact) were killed due to the ELPIDIO R. ESTIOKO calamity that hit the North American country that overlooks the Mediterranean Sea to the north and the Atlantic Ocean to the west, and has land borders with Algeria to the east and the disputed territory of Western Sahara to the South.

Residents were caught unaware and the death toll is still rising. International aids of many forms are coming in from various parts of the globe to be able to support the victims of the disaster. This must be the deadliest event in the history of Morocco.

Immediately, a question came into my mind: “Is there a connection between earthquakes and global warming?” I have the crazy idea that there was none, but there seem to be a logical connection when I tried to ponder on it for a moment.

According to Kori Williams in her published article lately, climate change and earthquakes are connected! She said: “There is actually some evidence that supports the idea that weather and global warming can affect seismic activity under the Earth’s surface. None of it is concrete, though, so experts can’t say for sure that the climate crisis actually causes earthquakes. But there is a connection!”

So, there is a connection, but how are they connected?

Does global warming really cause earthquakes? “Although there is evidence of a connection between the weather and earthquakes, it’s probably not what you think, Williams said.

In fact, there’s still a lot of research into this topic that needs to be done. But what we already know does give us additional insight into the negative effects of the ongoing climate crisis.”

While there is actually some evidence that supports the idea that weather and global warming can affect seismic activity under the Earth’s surface, none of it is concrete, so experts can’t say for sure that the climate crisis actually causes earthquakes. “But,” Williams said, “there is a connection.”

She based her story on NASA research and statistics.

According to NASA, many earthquakes are caused by large downpours, like heavy rain or snow. They mess with fault lines, but this results in earthquakes so small that people often can’t even feel them. Still though, they are technically earthquakes.

NASA said there is a small connection, but the question is: Is it critical? Well, although just because weather affects earthquakes on a small scale doesn’t mean the same can be said for these kinds of life-changing events, the study contends.

Geophysicist Paul Lundgren who works in NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California said: “We’re simply not in a position at this point to say that climate processes could trigger a large quake. Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. The climate crisis may not directly cause earthquakes, but it has caused more extreme weather over the years. And it’s this intensity that can trigger earthquakes. All of this activity puts stress on fault lines, which is the basis for how quakes occur.”

On top of that, Williams also said that “we know that fracking, a process that contributes to global warming, has also caused earthquakes.” Fracking caused daily quakes in 2018 and 2019 in the U.K. France has even banned it in all its territories. Fracking itself is already dangerous to the environment because it releases methane, a greenhouse gas, into the air.

Fracking activities in the US is rampant, so this even makes the situation worse.

So, does fracking also cause earthquakes? According to the United States Government Survey (USGS), while most induced earthquakes are not directly caused by hydraulic fracturing (fracking), there are still many earthquakes induced by hydraulic fracturing (fracking). The recent increase in earthquakes in the central Unit- (Continue on page 20)

As I See It

Robbery in broad daylight by the OP and the OVP

 BUSINESS | IMMIGRATIONS Your relatives may qualify for caregiver petition

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ost care home facility owners have relatives that are in need of green card. While family petition may take longer for F1, F2B, F3 and F4 for your relatives, a petition for caregivers may take a shorter wait time of three years.

As of September 2023, the priority date under processing for caregivers is May 2020 or about three years waiting time. Caregivers are classified as EB3 – other workers.

Petitioning caregivers is a long and complex process that you should be aware of. You need to know this to save time and money. This is a very challenging time for those Care Home Facility owners because of the shortage of Caregivers. Many caregivers can be petitioned by the facility owners whether they are coming from the Philippines or already in the United States.

Our Law Firm can handle the process from start to finish.

What are the requirements for EB-3 Green Card for Skilled Workers, Professionals, or Other Workers?

Answer: The EB-3 green card covers a wide range of applicants and has less stringent requirements compared to the two categories above. To qualify as a skilled worker, you must demonstrate that you have at least two years of job experience or training in the job you are applying for.

To qualify as a professional, you must have at least a U.S. bachelor’s degree or its foreign degree equivalent in the field you are working in.

Other workers are usually unskilled workers who are able to demonstrate the ability to perform unskilled labor that is not seasonal or temporary in nature. Caregivers usually need only three months experience as a caregiver.

What is needed to start a caregiver petition?

Answer: An EB-3 applicant must have a job offer from a U.S. employer and fulfill the PERM Labor Certification requirements, which will likely mean a longer application timeline than other categories where the PERM can be waived.

Note that since some cases require additional paperwork to be filed, it’s best to contact a qualified employment immigration attorney.

What is the processing time for employment based green card?

Answer: The employment-based green card timeline varies depending on the category you qualify for. Generally, however, here are the steps you need to take if you are working toward getting an employment-based green card: 1. Have a U.S. Employer 2. Complete PERM Labor Certification Process: Average of Six to Nine Months Once you have a qualifying job offer and an employer who is ready to sponsor your green card, the next step is to complete the Program for Electronic Review Management (PERM) Labor certification. This is a process that requires your employer to demonstrate that the foreign worker (you) is not taking a job position away from qualified U.S. workers.

What should an employer do to process PERM? Answer: Your employer with the support of an immigration attorney will conduct a recruitment process to ensure that you are not displacing any qualified U.S. workers The PERM can take between six months and a year and a half to obtain depending on whether or not your employer is subjected to an audit. Here is the breakdown of the timeline for PERM Labor processing times: • Prevailing Wage Request: six months • Recruitment Process: eight to nine weeks • ETA-9089 Application: 24 weeks After getting approved on the PERM Labor Certification, what is the next step?

Answer: Your employer will need to file a Pettion for Alien Worker Form I-140. Once your Form I-140 is approved, and your priority date becomes current, you can file for an Adjustment of Status by submitting an I-485 form. The I-485 is the last stage along the employmentbased green card timeline, but in most cases, it has the longest waiting period. However, you will be issued a work authorization document after submitting Form I-485 in about five months.

If you are outside the United States, you will be processed for interview at the U.S. Consulate.

Your attorney will submit all required documents to the National Visa Center once your priority date is in process.

Note:This is not a legal advice and presented for educational purposes only. Our office successfully obtained green card for caregivers.

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT 1.

PETITION FOR NURSES LVN AND CAREGIVERS Our Law Firm entered into agreement with nursing facilities in the U.S. to process applicants for Nurses, LVN and Caregivers in the US You may qualify if you have RN or LVN license. Caregivers will need a year of caregiving experience.

Applicants Inside or outside the United States may qualify.

Bankruptcy Basics We also process Bankruptcy cases.

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

2. If you are being sued by your creditors, most money judgment can be eliminated in bankruptcy.

3. Collection actions continue and you can be sued if you are in debt settlement.

4. Chapter 7 will eliminate all unsecured debts. If you are near retirement age, you must eliminate most of your debts.

FAMILY LAW We also handle uncontested DIVORCE. ITIN and INCOME TAX PROBLEMS We can help you if you need an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer ID number) We also prepare income tax returns and if you are under IRS audit, and need a representation with IRS, need to reduce your tax liability or need to offer a payment plan to IRS, we can help you with that.

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

September 14-20, 2023

12

PHL open to full foreign ownership of renewable energy projects: PBBM SINGAPORE – The Philippines is open try’s growth. to full foreign ownership of the renewable “Our commitment to connectivity is energy projects, President Ferdinand R. unwavering, with ambitious projects that Marcos Jr. said at the 10th Asia Summit, enhance trade and investment opportunias he prodded foreign business leaders to ties through our Build, Better, More Ininvest in the particular power sector. frastructure Program. Our ports, transport “On the power side, we have also at the networks, and energy facilities are poised same time, in trying to increase our supply to elevate business operations and facilitate of electricity have to move the mix of fos- trade with the world,” Marcos said. sil fuels to renewables and so that’s why we Marcos also emphasized the importance continue to court investment in that regard,” of improving the agricultural sector to proMarcos said during his participation at the vide Filipinos with affordable and sufficient summit hosted by the Milken Institute in food.

Singapore.

He said the Philippine government in“As stewards of the environment, we tends to forge public-private partnerships are committed to sustain development in and government-to-government transacthe fight against climate change. The Phil- tions “without a worrisome increase of our ippines is embracing renewable energy, borrowings and with hopefully a sufficient welcoming 100-percent foreign ownership fund.” of renewable energy projects,” he added.

“So, those are the ways that we see. This The Philippines’ journey towards a digi- will go into infrastructure, into power detal future is “in full swing,” Marcos said. velopment. Again, those main elements are “The Philippines’ tech ecosystem is healthcare — all of the areas that we have thriving, marked by a dynamic start-up identified as priorities. So, to make a list, for culture and advancements in e-commerce, us, it’s agriculture, it’s energy, it’s ease of in fintech, in digital services, which have doing business, it is also the tax structure flourished during the pandemic,” Marcos that we have to transform,” Marcos said. said.

“I used the word transform. I don’t Marcos said the growth of the country’s use the word recovery because we have to digital economy bodes well for internation- transform the economy into something else al companies that wish to take advantage of not what it was before,” he added. it.

Acknowledging the Philippines’ “high” Citing the 2023 Global Digital Report borrowings, Marcos said MIF would enable

by Meltwater and We Are Social, Marcos the country to invest more without increassaid Filipinos are “one of the highest users ing its borrowings. of the internet and of social media.”

Marcos ensured that the MIF is not run Marcos noted that there are 85.16 mil- by the government but by professional fund lion internet users in the Philippines, rep- managers to ensure the efficient manageresenting a high internet penetration rate of ment of the country’s wealth fund.

73.1 percent of the total population.

In the same event, Marcos made a strong pitch for the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF), the country’s first-ever sovereign wealth fund, before the top business leaders and investors.

Marcos told the select group of chief executive officers and investors that the MIF would help accelerate the development of the priority sectors and propel economic growth in the Philippines.

“The fund (MIF) is designed to consolidate investible funds from government financial institutions to further drive economic development through strategic investments both domestically and overseas,” Marcos said.

Marcos said the MIF would be used to improve various areas in the country, including agriculture, infrastructure, energy and healthcare.

He said infrastructure DOJ SELLER OR TRAVEL # 2025230-40 development plays a pivotal role in unlocking the coun-

13 September 14-20, 2023 With its Spinnaker...

(From page 1)

And quite incidentally, Landco is also majority owned by one of the Philippines’ biggest business titans, none other than Manny V. Pangilinan himself. MVP was initially a minority owner when the company was set up in the ‘90s, before eventually taking a majority stake later.

In a recent interview with Philippine News Today, Landco CEO Erickson Manzano revealed some details of their latest project, including a recently-approved plan by MVP which the company plans to fast-track.

The ongoing project is called The Spinnaker at Club Laiya in Batangas.

Not only will it have the luxurious accommodations that clients have come to expect of past Landco projects, there will be a little something extra that will make it not only stand out, but could well become a landmark in the seaside town in the years and decades to come.

The Spinnaker, a residential beachfront condo, he said, “is shaped like a yacht,” while another project in Calatagan is shaped like a cruise ship and is to be called The Nautilus.

These, aside from what he calls “unconventional hotel rooms” in Calatagan gives the company the unique identity that Manzano seeks.

“People are willing to pay a premium for the unconventional,” he says, which includes the “cocoon” type rooms they also offer.

 ENTERTAINMENT More recently, Manzano revealed a meeting he had with MVP, who told him that their next big project should be in Baguio City.

The fact that the city of pines is already host to a large number of resort hotels does not faze the Landco executives. They will continue to bank on their luxury reputation to entice wouldbe owners.

As he is wont to do, MVP wants the Baguio project done ASAP, and Manzano has given himself a mere three years or so to deliver at least a partially completed one. The site has already been picked and Manzano says it will avoid the pitfalls of other resort hotels due to its location at a less crowded part of the country’s summer capital.

Of course, it will be a five star hotel “with 150 to 200 rooms,” he said.

The possible name while not yet registered will have a Lord of the Rings feel to it, as Manzano admits to being a huge fan of the JRR Tolkien books and the movies they were based on.

And while it is still too early to talk about his legacy, the 52-year-old Manzano said the ongoing and the incoming new projects should fulfill part of his vision to leave behind projects that will stand the test of time.

“Until my time (with the company) ends, all we will do is beach properties and mountain properties,” he said.

Further, Landco will stick to its policy of building only one or two projects a year.

Before finding his way to Landco via a headhunter, Manzano has had a variety of jobs in the industry. A civil engineer by profession like his dad, he counts a lengthy stint at Ayala Land, and a shorter – three and a half years -- but equally colorful time at Century Properties as two past jobs that he was happiest in.

“I actually live in a Century property,” he shared.

The stint at Century showed him that there was room for an upscale developer. As the old Kevin Costner movie said, if you build it, they will come.

“I joined Landco in 2015,” he said, at a time when he was quite content at Century. At that point, “all I’ve ever done was engineering and real estate.”

He also had stints in such companies as SM Prime Holdings and Shangri-la Properties, among others.

He does not see himself moving elsewhere, unless he receives an offer he can’t say no to. He does, however, consider

sharing what he has learned through the decades by turning to teaching, when retirement time comes, probably at AIM where he earned his masters’ degree.

For now, he says he is enjoying his “fun job” at Landco.

As for the foreseeable future, Landco is seeking to establish the first Filipino hotel brand in the global market.

They started small, with only three local hotels, Manzano said. But the growth of their planned hotel chain is already past the planning stage. This should therefore come to fruition by the time he steps down sometime in the 2030s.

“Before I retire, I’d like to see us have an international presence,” he told Philippine News Today.

According to Manzano, almost all of Landco’s projects have been gobbled up by the local market, with only a smattering of foreigners.

These include residential communities in San Fernando, Pampanga, and what he calls “the Forbes Park of Baliuag,Bulacan.”

This month, the company will be sending a team to the US West Coast to at the very least introduce their products to the FilAm community.

While there really is no absolute need to sell Landco’s developments abroad, the US trip serves a second purpose of also testing the waters for future projects.

(Note: Launched only at the start of this year, The Spinnaker has already sold half of its 244 available units.)

It is no secret that most FilAms dream of one day heading home to the motherland, and owning a property is a must for them.

“OFWs is still a great source or sales,” he realized, thus their first roadshow to the US takes place this month.

The Nautilus will be the project to be offered to the US market.

Condos within Metro Manila, a common enough investment, are not Landco’s cup of tea. Beach or mountain resort homes would be more to their liking, as it provides something that the metropolis cannot – fresh and clean air.

Incidentally, Landco is a privatelyheld company. It is not listed in the stock market.

There’s a huge advantage in this, says Manzano. For one, there is no need to try and please large numbers of stockholders with ever growing income, year after year.

The recent pandemic showed that while the Philippine real estate industry is still growing, there can be periods of ups and downs.

Just like its ship-themed projects in Laiya, Landco can be likened to a sea vessel that has survived many storms, and is still afloat sans problems.

And with Erick Manzano at the helm, this ship can expect smooth sailing in the foreseeable future.

 ENTERTAINMENT

September 14-20, 2023

14

KC CONCEPCION NEW FIL-AM MOVIE, TALKS ABOUT RELATIONSHIP WITH MOM SHARON

I

f actress KC Concepcion ever will ever have a chance to “rewrite a part of her life,” she will seek to be “best friends again” with her mother, seasoned actress-singer Sharon Cuneta.

In a recent interview, KC was asked if there’s ever a part of life that she would like to rewrite if she has the power to do so.“Wow, good question,” answered KC. “I mean, of course, there are. You know, I really would like for my mom and I to be best friends again,” she said without going into details.

“There’s a lot of years that have gone by. You know, siyempre, may mga destructions kami. (Of course, we had a lot of destructions) and I know later on in life, we will be better than ever,” she said.

The actress said she looks forward to special moments when her relationship will her mother will become better.

“Hindi mawawala ‘yung pagmamahal namin sa isa’t isa.

Siguro, one day, ‘pag ikinasal na ako and ‘pag nagka-anak na ako, I think that would bring my mom and I closer than ever,” she said.

“I want her to know na mahal na mahal ko siya and loyal ako sa kanya. ‘Yung talaga. Nanay ko siya! Dugo niya, dugo ko,” she said “Kung ang lola ko nga, inalagaan naming mag-nanay, what more siya? Yun lang yung sa ‘kin,” she recalled.

KC’s statement comes, days after she confirmed unfollowing her stepfather Kiko Pangilinanand stepsister Kakie on Instagram.

However, she clarified they have “enough love” to overcome their hurdle.

Prior to the interview, Sharon caught the attention of fans after making a cryptic post addressed to “one of her children” who supposedly talks about love that “doesn’t happen.”

KC Concepcion also makes acting comeback via Hollywood indie “Asian Persuasion.”

While she thinks show business in the Philippines “can be very invasive,” actress KC Concepcion says she is grateful to be a part of it because acting is her way of “making a mark” for herself.

KC plays the lead in the Hollywood indie movie, “Asian Persuasion,” alongside Filipino American actors Dante Basco and Paolo Montalban, under the direction of Tony and Grammy winner Jhett Tolentino. The romantic comedy will premiere at the 2023 Soho International Film Festival in New York later this month.

“It’s not easy for someone like me who already had a role right after she was born. My life is like a reality show. From the moment I was born, I was already the star of the show of my life.”

“I don’t see it in the same way as a lot of artists see it.

Others chose this kind of life. For me, I didn’t really have a choice not to involve the public in my life. Admittedly, there

were times when I tried to keep my life private. I kept saying, ‘Just give this one chance for me to think of myself first, to allow myself to make mistakes and learn from them,” explained KC as to why she chose to stop working in the biz temporarily.

KC started working on “Asian Persuasion” in 2021.

“I was in Los Angeles working on my gemology diploma and for some reason, I kept getting invited to events like movie premieres and TV series launches. I also got a call from Jhett saying he had a script he wanted me to read. He first got in touch with my mom, who later gave her blessing for me to do the project. My mom encouraged me to do it because it’s something new. We always joke that the biz is a family business, but this is really our world. It’s more than just a business for us,” she stressed.

KC immediately liked the material. “I didn’t even ask for a talent fee. I just said, ‘I’ll do it. It’s mine!’ In the past, I had to attend workshops to improve my Tagalog. When I got the script, nalula ako because it’s all-English. This meant that I had to unlearn acting in Tagalog and relearn acting in English,” she said. “I hope that people will enjoy it because it’s a fun film\ “Asian Persuasion” is the story of a down-on-his-luck chef, Mickey (Dante), who cooks up a crazy scheme to marry off his ex-wife, Avery (KC), by setting her up with a fake internet dating profile in an attempt to find her a suitor to remarry in order to avoid his substantial alimony obligations.

With the help of his trusted (Continue on page 20)

Shyrill Fortez was approved for green card with her daughter Jasmine Fortez based on pe��on by a Care Home Facility. A�y. Chris Caday Lozano represented her case with the USCIS and US Consulate successfully.

15 September 15-21, 2023

 ENTERTAINMENT

Julia Barretto, Gerald Anderson are secretly married?

Is actress Julia Barretto secretly married to her FilipinoAmerican boyfriend and former co-star Gerald Anderson?

Speculations swirled in Manila about the rumors that the couple is supposedly “secretly married” but the actress daughter of actor Dennis Padilla and Marjorie Barretto doused the speculations on the sidelines of the Preview

‘It’s Showtime’ hosts Vice Ganda and Ion Perez face cybercrime case Popular television host and singer Vice Ganda, alongside her real-life partner Ion Perez, are facing charges under the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.

The case was filed before the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office by the Kapisanan ng Social Media Broadcasters ng Pilipinas Inc. (KSMBPI).

In a report by entertainment news outlet Philippine Entertainment Portal (PEP), one Atty. Leo Olarte, along with some members of the KSMBPI, submitted their complaints to the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office last Monday, Sept. 11.

Based on the record, Vice Ganda, who is Jose Marie Borja Viceral in real life, and Perez, whose legal name is Benigno Perez, werer accused of allegedly breaching Section 6 of Republic Act No. 10175.

While the precise details of the case remain undisclosed, lawyer Mark Tolentino, representing the KSMBPI, indicated that the group will expound on the case.

It was reported later that the case filed by the organization involved the violation of Article 201 of the Revised Penal Code, which is related to Section 6 of Article 201 and Republic Act No.10175, or Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.

Under the Philippine law, Article 201 penalizes “immoral doctrines, obscene publications and exhibitions, and indecent shows”.

The complaints were reportedly related to the viral cakeicing-eating incident between Vice and Ion during the noontime program’s segment Isip Bata.

PEP quoted a statement from Atty. Olarte, “Nowadays, there have been countless proliferation of immoral, indecent, lewd, and vulgar shows, clips, TikTok, Vlogs etc. that are being streamed on social media and sometimes in the traditional media.”

Ball at the Manila Marriott Hotel on September 8.

Julia, 26, who is Julia Francesca Barretto Baldivia in real life, told the media that she would prefer to announce such a milestone only when they are ready rather than be constantly asked about it.

“No, walang gan’un! Walang gan’un, walang secret-secret. Mahirap nang magka-secret sa mundong mabilis ang balita (No, nothing like that! There’s no such thing as that, there’s no secret. It’s hard to have secrets now in a world where news travels fast.),” Julia said.

“Sobrang excited [niyo]. Bakit niyo ba kami minamadali? You know, we’re just really happy where we are in life. It’s something to look forward to, pero bakit niyo ba kami minamadali? (You’re all so excited. Why are you rushing us?… It’s something to look forward to, but why are you rushing us to get married?),” she added seemingly irritated but with a big smile.

“I don’t know why everybody is rushing us. We’re really happy where we are, I’m really happy where I am in my life. I don’t know, you’ll just find out one day,” she added.

Earlier, the Subic-born Gerald, 34, declared that he has seen in Julia the girl he wants to marry.

Gerald opened up about his relationship with Julia a recent interview on former Manila mayor Isko Moreno’s vlog Iskovery Night Detailing how “happy” and “at ease” it’s been, he shared that he didn’t even feel that their romance has been going strong for three years now.

“Three years na ‘yun? Saya, magaan—iwan na lang natin ‘dun. Nagulat nga ako, eh. Parang ‘really? That long na?’” he said.

“I think dun mo talaga malalaman na masaya ka talaga, kasi hindi mo na binibilang eh, hindi mo nararamdaman

[na ganun katagal na],” he added.

Isko then asked Gerald about the things he likes the most about Julia, to which the actor answered: “Ang pinakamaganda sa kanya, sobrang secure siya sa pagkatao niya, maganda siya, pero ‘di mo maramdaman. Napakasimple, magaan kasama.”

“Very supportive sa ibang kalokohan ko. Like, you know, magpa-practice ako ng basketball four hours a day, mag-aano ako ng negosyo ilang oras sa isang araw. Noong pandemic, ang dami ko ring trabaho na tinanggap,” he went on. “Hindi nanunumbat, walang ganun eh.”

Although Julia hints about wanting to go on dates at times, she never felt like an “obligation” to him. “Hindi mo maramdaman na obligasyon siya. Minsan sobrang busy ako, ako na nagsasabi na ‘Ay, kailangan ko na siyang idate.’ Bumawi, ganun.”

The Pinoy Big Brother alum then referred to Julia as “the one” in an “unexplainable feeling.”

While Julia denied “secret marriage,” she confirmed that she is happy with how her relationship with Gerald works.

Julia said there is a right timing to talk about marriage.

“But I feel, like, when that moment comes, it’s... I don’t know... I feel, like, it’s something to be shared when two people are ready to share,” she said.

“I don’t think it’s something that should be asked constantly. I feel, like, when the time comes, it comes,” she added.

“I don’t know why everybody is rushing us. And yeah, we’re really happy where we are,” she said..

“I’m really happy where I am in my life. I don’t know, you’ll just find out one day, but it’s not gonna come from an interview,” she added. (Jennifer True Santos)

 SPORTS

September 14-20, 2023

16

Obiena favored to win medal in Hangzhou Asian Games

MANILA – All eyes will be on pole vaulter Ernest John “EJ” Obiena as the Philippine athletics team seeks to end a three-decade medal drought in the 19th Asian Games scheduled from Sept. 23 to Oct. 8 in Hangzhou, China.

Long jumper Elma Muros is the last Filipino to win a medal in athletics in the Asian Games, winning the bronze in Hiroshima, Japan in 1994.

“EJ is our best bet to win a medal,” said national coaches Isidro Del Prado and Dario De Rosas during the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) forum at the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) conference hall inside the Rizal Memorial

Sports Complex.

The world’s No. 2 Obiena has qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics after clearing 5.82 meters at the Diamond League-Bauhaus Galan in Sweden last July 3.

He duplicated his Asian record of 6.0m to win the silver medal at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungary in Au-

gust.

During the 2018 Asian Games in Indonesia, Obiena finished seventh.

Long jumper Janry Ubas, a protégé of De Rosas, is also determined to perform well after winning the gold medal in the Cambodia Southeast Asian Games last May. “Ready kami ngayon sa Asiad. Hopefully, maka-sungkit ng medalya (We are now ready for Asiad. Hopefully, be able to win a medal),” said De Rosas in the weekly session presented by San Miguel Corporation, MILO, PSC, Philippine Olympic Committee and Philippine

Amusement and Gaming Corporation.

The 29-year-old Ubas of Misamis Oriental won the bronze medal in heptathlon at the Asian Indoor Athletics Championship in Kazakhstan early this year. He bagged the gold medal in long jump in two European tournaments in Italy and Finland.

De Rosas believes that Ubas, a national record holder in long jump with 8.08m, can win the bronze medal if he surpasses his personal best.

“Hopefully, kung makukuha niya ulit yan, puwede tayong mag-bronze medal siguro (Hopefully, if he gets that again, maybe we can win a bronze medal),” said De Rosas, who also coaches Sarah Dequinan (heptathlon) and Ronnie Malipay (triple jump).

Del Prado said winning a medal at the Asian Games will be a big challenge for the quartet of Fil-Am Umajesty Williams, Frederick Ramirez, Joyme Sequita and Michael Carlo Del Prado, which claimed the gold medal in the Cambodia SEAG. “Malakas ang India, Japan, China, and Sri Lanka sa 4x4. Kaya nauna kong sinabi sa kanila na to give their best to

break the Philippine record of 3:06.47 (India, Japan, China and Sri Lanka are strong in 4x4. So I told them first to give their best to break the Philippine record of 3:06.47),” said the former anchor of the famed “Bicol Express” 4x400 men’s relay team in the ‘80s.

“Hopefully, makapasok tayo sa finals (Hopefully, we can enter the finals),” Del Prado said.

The semifinal will be on Oct. 3 and the finals the following day.

Other members of the national team are Asian Athletics Championship gold winner Robyn Lauren Brown (400m hurdles), John Tolentino (110m hurdles), Eric Cray (400m hurdles), Kristina Knott (100m and 200m) and William Morrison (shot put).

Brown won the 400m hurdles gold medal in the 25th Asian Athletics Championships at the Supachalasai National Stadium in Thailand last July. She clocked 57.50 seconds followed by Japan’s Eri Utsunomiya (57.73s) and Ami Yamamoto (57.80s), (Jean Malanum/PNA)

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MANILA – Only three tennis players will represent the Philippines at the 19th Asian Games scheduled from Sept. 23 to Oct. 8 in Hangzhou, China.

United States-based Ruben Gonzales and homegrown Francis Casey Alcantara and Alex Eala comprised the team, which includes coach Cris Cuarto.

Alcantara is entered in the men’s singles and doubles (with Gonzales) while Gonzales will team up with Eala in the mixed doubles. Eala is also competing in the women’s singles.

The 18-year-old Eala is excited on her Asian Games debut. She bagged three bronze medals --singles, mixed doubles (with Fil-American Treat Huey) and women’s team (with Shaira Hope Rivera, Marian Capadocia and Jenaila Rose Prulla) on her first Southeast Asian Games appearance last May in Cambodia.

“I am confident that I will bring on the best level of tennis I can bring. My main priority is to enjoy the opportunity and fight every point. I don’t like to create expectations in terms of results, especially because this is my first time joining the Asian Games,” the 5-foot-9 player from Quezon City told the Philippine News Agency on Wednesday.

Eala, a graduate of the Rafael Nadal Academy in Mallorca (Spain), is currently at No. 192 in the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) singles rankings, a career-high after reaching the final of the US$25,000 event in Aldershot, Great Britain.

She lost to Australian Destanee Aiava, 6-3, 4-6, 1-6.

In Roehampton, which is another US$25,000 event, Eala defeated Australian Arina Rodionova, 6-2, 6-3, to clinch her fourth pro title.

 COMMUNITY NEWS

September 14-20, 2023

18

Statewide multilingual ad campaign to increase awareness of anti-hate resources launched The California Civil Rights Department (CRD) is launching a statewide multilingual ad campaign to increase awareness of the “California vs Hate” initiative that provides a safe, anonymous reporting option for victims and witnesses of hate and connects people with resources.

Included in this ad campaign are a new hotline, website, and network, this major step aims to build awareness of the resources available to Californians impacted by hate statewide with a focus on traditionally hard-to-reach communities.

In his message, CRD Director Kevin Kish underscores that in California, “we’re committed to doing the necessary work of supporting all our communities.”

“California vs Hate is not just about fighting bias and discrimination, but also about building coalitions and inclusivity.

This new ad campaign is part of our ongoing efforts to support healing for all those targeted by hate and reach people who have historically been underserved. Whether it’s violence motivated by bias, racial slurs, name-calling, or discriminatory refusal of services, there is no place for hate in California. I urge every person in our state to make use of the hotline, get support, and share these resources. Together, we can fight hate.”

“CA vs Hate” is in direct response to the rise in reported

hate crimes in California, which, in recent years, reached their highest levels since 2001 — jumping more than 20% from 2021 to 2022.

The new ad campaign that is now underway and is set to last through the end of the year builds on the success of the program’s initial launch and outreach efforts, including a mini ad campaign launched during Pride Month.

The new campaign includes radio, print, and digital across the state that will be available in English, Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Tagalog, Korean, Hmong, Tongan, and Mixtec across more than 30 different outlets.

This new effort is in addition to the CA vs Hate online resource hub, which includes graphics for social media, flyers and posters, and customizable content in seven different languages.

These resources are available to all members of the public and partner organizations.

Throughout the year, “CA vs Hate” will continue to release targeted ads aimed at supporting all of California’s communities. For instance, “CA vs Hate” has also newly developed a targeted campaign geared towards youth as they head back to school, featuring shareable content that addresses how hate can manifest in school and empowers students to report.

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Among the variety of factors that many hate crimes have historically gone unreported include fear of retaliation, lack of culturally competent resources, concern around potential immigration consequences, and distrust of law enforcement.

“CA vs Hate” aims to help address some of these issues by offering people targeted for hate — and their communities — additional resources to report acts of hate through a community-centered approach that does not require engagement with the criminal legal California Civil Rights Desystem. In addition, hotline partment (CRD) director services are confidential and Kevin Kish provided for free, regardless of immigration status.

Whether individuals report to “CA vs Hate” online or by phone, they are eligible to receive care coordination to ensure people impacted by hate are able to access resources and support, including legal, financial, mental health, and mediation services. “CA vs Hate” accepts all reports of hate acts and is not limited to only receiving reports that rise to the level of a criminal offense.

“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-NOHATE, 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.

CRD is the state agency charged with enforcing California’s civil rights laws. Formerly known as the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH), the mission of CRD is to protect the people of California from unlawful discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations, and state-fund programs and activities, and from hate violence and human trafficking. For more information, visit calcivilrights. ca.gov.

19 September 14-20, 2023

 COMMUNITY NEWS

North East Medical Services (NEMS) Celebrates the Official Openings of its Internal Medicine Residency Program and Sullivan Clinic at AHMC Seton Medical Center and Calls for Congress to Extend Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education Funding

Daly City, CA—North East Medical Services (NEMS), AHMC Seton Medical Center, Congressmember Kevin Mullin, San Mateo County Supervisor David Canepa, and other health and community leaders celebrated the official openings of the NEMS Internal Medicine Residency Program and Sullivan Clinic at AHMC Seton Medical Center.

NEMS Internal Medicine Residency Program at AHMC Seton Medical Center is funded in part by the Teaching Health Centers Graduate Medical Education (THCGME) program. Unless Congress enacts new legislation, funding for the THCGME program will expire on September 30, 2023. Established in 2010, the THCGME program is the only federal program that invests in the training of physicians in community settings other than hospitals. For more than a decade, more than 80% of graduates of the THCGME program have remained in primary care practice compared to 23% of traditional residents. Today, there are 81 Teaching Health Center programs across the United States that are training approximately 1,096 medical residents. The uncertainty of the program’s continued funding may impede NEMS and other programs’ ability to plan and recruit future residents, which is why it is critical that Congress extends funding for THCGME along with funding for the Community Health Centers Fund and the National Health Services Corps, which also expire on September 30, 2023.

U.S. Congressmember Kevin Mullin, who represents Congressional District 15, highlighted the importance of this program for the community. “Since 1893, Seton Medical Cen-

ter has provided essential health care services to some of the area’s most vulnerable populations in my district,” stated Congressman Mullin. “I am excited to see Seton continue this legacy by partnering with NEMS to train the next generation of community-based primary care physicians. As Congress resumes later this month, I remain committed to advocating for more resources that will help support community initiatives in the Peninsula, like the NEMS Internal Medicine Residency Program at Seton Medical Center.”

NEMS achieved the Sponsoring Institution accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) in January 2022, and they received ACGME accreditation on September 9, 2022.

After an intense review with the recruitment committee, the first class of five residents started their three-year journey to become primary care physicians earlier this year; they are expected to graduate from the program in 2026. The residents hail from New York, Florida, and California and can speak various languages including Mandarin, Cantonese, and Burmese.

“At a time when the shortage of primary care physicians is expected to worsen,” said NEMS Chief Health Officer, Dr. Kenneth Tai. “We are doing what we can to address this problem by training the next generation of primary care physicians through the NEMS Internal Medicine Residency Program. This program has taken almost a decade to come to fruition, and I am grateful to each person who worked diligently to make this program a reality.

We are excited to train the next generation of primary care physicians in a communitybased setting here in the San Francisco Bay Area.”

Tim Schulze, AHMC Seton Medical Center’s Associate Chief Operating Officer (COO), added, “AHMC Seton Medical Center is delighted to be the teaching facility for NEMS’ residency program. This milestone reflects our unwavering commitment to training the next generation of primary care physicians to fill the growing need in our community.

Our dedicated team has put countless hours into preparation for this residency program, and we are excited to see the resident physicians embark on their journey here at AHMC Seton Medical Center.”

Additionally, NEMS recently opened a clinic located at 1850 Sullivan Avenue, Suite 150, which is in AHMC Seton Medical Center’s Medical Office Building (MOB). The clinic offers primary care, acupuncture, and behavioral health services and is expected to serve an estimated 2,500 additional patients.

NEMS is also in the process of remodeling its clinic located at 211 Eastmoor Avenue in Daly City, which will add 10 additional medical exam rooms as well as dental and optometry

services at this location.

“As the Medical Director for both NEMS’ Eastmoor Clinic and the new Sullivan Clinic at Seton,” shared NEMS Medical Director Dr. Helen Wong, “I am excited to expand primary care, behavioral health, and acupuncture services in North San Mateo County. I am proud to be part of an organization that provides high-quality, linguistically appropriate, and culturally competent healthcare services for people who have Medi-Cal or who may not have insurance in this community.”

In March 2020, when the future of AHMC Seton Medical Center was uncertain, the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors voted to approve $20 million in funding to keep the Daly City hospital open. Supervisor David Canepa, whose District represents AHMC Seton Medical Center and North San Mateo County, played a important role in keeping the

hospital open during this critical time. “San Mateo County is fortunate to have partners in Daly City and North County such as NEMS and AHMC Seton Medical Center; they provide high-quality patient care from top to bottom.” Supervisor David Canepa said. “I’m proud of the collaboration that exists between the county and all our healthcare providers in North San Mateo County to prioritize public health and keep our communities healthy and safe. I am particularly excited about the launch of the NEMS Internal Medicine Residency Program at Seton as five of its residents start their three-year journey to become doctors. Without NEMS and Seton, there would be a healthcare void in North San Mateo County, which would jeopardize the public’s health and endanger our most vulnerable.

Simply put, we need NEMS and Seton in our communities.”

September 14-20, 2023

Offline

(From Page 11)

and the contingent has been approved by the powers that be on the simple premise that she will be the next president after Marcos.

Heck, she may even have designs of taking over the presidency from Marcos Jr if the country’s food crisis gets any worse. She will simply offer herself as the savior of Filipino farmers and consumers.

But like Marcos Jr, she too has none of the necessary experience that the country needs at this time. Or at any time.

Like her father before her, Sara Duterte is only fit to be mayor of Davao City. Her father has turned the city into their personal fiefdom, much the same way that the Marcoses’ rule over Ilocos Norte was established decades ago, and not even a people’s revolution could put an end to that sad state.

More than a year after assuming the presidency, it has become clear that Marcos Jr is a weak leader who lets his Cabinet do all the work, while he seeks every opportunity to travel, courtesy of the people’s tax money.

Sara Duterte, on the other hand, has made it clear that she is never to be questioned, and any “request” she makes, especially in terms of budget allocation, is never to be denied.

It was quite sickening to witness the spectacle of the House practically kneeling before her during the budget hearings, questioning none of the items in her submitted budget.

The House cited some non-existent law or rule about respecting her position as the reason for not poring over her bloated budget, both as VP and as Education secretary.

The Senate, at least, was nominally better, with the two minority lawmakers being given the opportunity to question parts of her budget.

Still and all, both the president and the vice president of the republic have been given a free hand to amass a fortune without having to do it the old-fashioned way – through good, old fashioned graft and corruption practiced via kickbacks from government contracts.

Congress has set the worst precedent possible, as all future presidents and vice presidents will have tons of money at their disposal, and charge it all to their confidential intelligence funds.

Only another abrupt change in government will ever have the chance to see how the hundreds of millions allotted to Marcos and Duterte were really spent. And no one will be surprised to find out that those precious funds somehow found their way to foreign bank accounts.

Grand larceny as practiced in the Philippines has never been grander.

Flipside

(From Page 14)

wingman, Lee (Paolo), Mickey gets off to a hot start, until he realizes that he wants a second chance with Avery.

KC shot the film for a month and a half in New York City, but she ended up staying there for six months.

“Asian Persuasion,” made with a budget of $2 million, will have its nationwide theatrical release in the Philippines on Nov. 29. The film, written by Mike Ang, will participate at the Soho IFF from Sept. 16 to 17.

As I See It

(From Page 11)

still many earthquakes induced by hydraulic fracturing (fracking). The recent increase in earthquakes in the central United States, however, is primarily caused by disposal of waste fluids that are a byproduct of oil production.

USGS said wastewater disposal wells typically operate for longer durations and inject much more fluid than is injected during the hydraulic fracturing process, making them more likely to induce earthquakes. In Oklahoma, which has the most induced earthquakes in the United States, 2% of earthquakes can be linked to hydraulic fracturing operations. Given the high rate of seismicity in Oklahoma, this means that there are still many earthquakes induced by hydraulic fracturing. The remaining earthquakes are induced by wastewater disposal. The largest earthquake known to be induced by hydraulic fracturing in the United States was a magnitude 4.0 earthquake that occurred in 2018 in Texas.

Another dilemma we are faced is the recent wild fires in Hawaii. The devastating wildfires that erupted on the Hawaiian island of Maui on Aug. 8 have claimed the lives of at least 115 people

while many more remain missing, according to authorities.

The deadly blaze in Lahaina started as brush fires and exploded into the town becoming the country’s deadliest wildfire in more than 100 years.

Locating remains and identifying victims has been a difficult process. Experts in examining human remains have been dispatched to Maui to help the local authorities.

Officials say the wildfires that erupted on Aug. 8 have become the deadliest natural disaster in Hawaii history. Climate change may have amplified the conditions that led to the deadly inferno on the Hawaiian island of Maui but it cannot be blamed entirely.

The story of this week’s blaze arguably began decades ago, when Hawaii started experiencing a long-term decline in average annual rainfall. Since 1990, rainfall at selected monitoring sites has been 31 percent lower in the wet season, and 6 percent lower in the dry season, according to work published in 2015 by researchers at the University of Hawaii and the University of Colorado.

There are multiple reasons for that change, according to Abby Frazier, a climatologist at Clark University who has researched Hawaii.

One factor is La Niña, a weather pattern that has usually led to significant rainfall but began delivering less precipitation beginning in the 1980s. Those weaker La Niñas “are not bringing us out of drought,” Dr. Frazier said in an interview earlier this year.

Another change: As temperatures increase, the clouds over Hawaii are thinner, Dr. Frazier said. And less cloud cover means less precipitation. On top of that, big storms have been moving north over time — delivering less of the rainfall that they typically bring to the islands.

All three changes are probably related to rising temperatures, Dr. Frazier said. “There’s likely a climate change signal in everything we see,” she said.

Almost 16 percent of Maui County, where the wildfires are burning, is in severe drought, according to data issued by the U.S. Drought Monitor on Thursday; and an additional 20 percent is in moderate drought.

Today also, marks the anniversary of the tragic events on September 11, 2001.

Davina Hernandez, SJJC Center Director addressed the San Jose Job Corps Community by saying: “Good Morning, San Jose Job Corps Community! Today marks the 22nd anniversary of the tragic events of September 11th, 2001.

The attack on our country that took the lives of nearly 3,000 people is considered the worst attack against the homeland in our nation’s history. Two planes were hijacked by the Al Qaeda terrorist group and flew into the World Trade Center’s Twin Towers in New York, while another plane was flown the Pentagon. A fourth plane crashed into an open airfield and never made it to its intended destination after the heroic passengers of that flight fought back. Even after over two decades after the attack, the process of identifying the remains of all killed at the World Trade Center still continues.

Freedom comes at a very steep price. For that price and sacrifices, we must remember the importance of appreciating the rights that this wonderful country has provided us.

In remembrance of this day and to honor all of the lives taken, I call for a center-wide moment of silence at 1:00 PM today.”

Hernandez ended her message by saying: UNITED WE STAND!!! I like the message because it applies to all disasters, calamities, atrocities, etc., just like the Bayanihan concept of the Filipinos!

Pronounced like “buy-uh-nee-hun,” bayanihan is a Filipino word derived from the word bayan meaning town, nation, or community in general. “Bayanihan” literally means, “being a bayan,” and is thus used to refer to a spirit of communal unity and cooperation… united we stand!

Health & Wealth

(From Page 11)

ments needed in the Philippines and the other member nations of the Hague Apostille Convention, just write or contact: MOBILE SIGNNG SERVICES, 730 Madrid Street, San Francisco, CA 94112 Tel. (650) 438-3531 or (415) 584-7095 or email: artmadlaing@hotmail.com If you live in San Jose/Silicon Valley and need immediate help for the signing, notarization and apostille follow up of documents needed in the Philippines, just visit or contact our partner JEVI ESPANOLA OCLARIT at: Farmers Insurance, 16 Corning Avenue, Suite 266, Milpitas, CA 95035 Tel.(408) 854-4274.

(ART GABOT MADLAING is accredited and commissioned Notary Public and licensed Real Estate Broker (DRE#00635976) in California since 1981.He is founder of MOBILE SIGNING SERVICES, FITNESS FOR HUMANITY (aka FITNESS FOR CHRIST) and ACAPINOY. Art is active Evangelist with the GOLDEN GATE CHURCH OF CHRIST in San Francisco, California USA.)

20

LA County assessor receives National Award for Excellence

LOS ANGELES, CA - For the second time, the Los Angeles County Assessor’s Office has received the highest honor that can be granted to a government assessment agency.

The International Association of Assessing Officers (IAAO) recognized Assessor Jeff Prang’s Office with its prestigious Certificate of Excellence in Assessment Administration (CEAA) during the recent annual IAAO conference. The IAAO is the preeminent authority on assessment administration in North America and the CEAA is the highest recognition that can be bestowed upon a governmental property assessment agency in the United States. Los Angeles County is the only California County to ever receive this designation, and one of only 58 of more than 2,200 jurisdictions nationwide to be so honored.

Assessor Prang, along with members of his staff, were recognized on stage during the IAAO awards ceremony in Salt Lake City on August 29.

The Office was first awarded the certification of excellence in 2017 following a rigorous yearlong review of Office operations, policies, and protocols. The initial certification extended for a five-year period. The IAAO determined that the Assessor’s Office demonstrated the highest level of proficiency in assessment and appraisal disciplines.

Following a comprehensive follow-up review, the IAAO has recertified Los Angeles County’s CEAA award. It further cements the Office’s status as a leader among governmental appraisal agencies with IAAO representing more than 2,000 jurisdictions nationwide.

Furthermore, Assessor Prang’s Office is the only county assessor’s office in California ever to receive this designation.

The IAAO explains the strenuous yearlong process this way, “Jurisdictions that earn this designation will demonstrate a high level of proficiency in the assessment and appraisal disciplines to both their constituents and their peers. Since the program is directed at an entire jurisdiction rather than an individual, the requirements place a strong emphasis on teamwork and group achievement.”

Although the effort was intense, Assessor Prang believes there is great benefit in the thorough review and self-examination that are necessarily required to answer, explain and demonstrate the ways in which the Office meets the IAAO standards and best practices.

I want to congratulate each member of our Office, whose service to the public and outstanding work in meeting the highest standards made this award possible,” Assessor Prang said. “This recognition is a testament to their commitment to making the Los Angeles County Assessor’s Office the prominent assessment agency in the nation. Not only are we the largest assessment agency in the nation but we are among the best as well. Our employees should feel very proud of this accomplishment and the public can feel confident that they are receiving fair, professional and transparent services from this Office.”

21 September 14-20, 2023

 COMMUNITY NEWS

ADUs Could Play Greater Role In CA’s Housing Crisis As a Result of Ting’s Bills & Budget Action Sacramento – A “backyard revolution” is underway in California, thanks to the policy and budget actions taken by the state Legislature in recent years on Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) – affordable housing more commonly known as backyard cottages, granny flats or in-law units. They are now poised to play an even great role in easing these state’s housing shortage.

In SB 104, a budget bill now headed to the Governor, there’s an additional $25 million for the highly successful ADU Grant Program, which provides approved homeowners with up to $40,000 in pre-development costs like design and site prep. This funding would complement the $100 million allocated last year and could result in up to 2,500 new ADUs. But these funds were exhausted within months because of demand.

“California needs more housing. ADUs can be built quickly and fit into existing neighborhoods,” said Assembly Budget Chair Phil Ting (D-San Francisco).

“Homeowners can be part of the solution. Their family can live nearby or rental income can generated, while providing some housing relief in their communities.”

Ting also has three ADU bills pending this session: AB 932: Directs CalHFA to explore ADU financ-

ing options to create more housing and report back to the Legislature by 2025; signed by the Governor on September 8, 2023.

AB 976: Removes requirement that ADUs be owner-occupied; sent to the Governor today.

AB 1033: Allows ADUs to be sold separately as condominiums, opening the door to affordable homeownership; sent to the Governor today.

“California’s leadership on ADUs is crucial for homeowners who cannot achieve their ADU dreams alone. The Casita Coalition is proud to partner with legislative leaders by sponsoring bills that promote greater financing options and policies for homeowners, families, and critical workers. This collaboration leads to more and better housing choices. We want to express our appreciation to Assemblymember Ting for his generational leadership on ADU bills and for defending the

ADU Grant Program,” said Denise Pinkston, President of The Casita Coalition.

Ting hopes this year’s actions build on his 2019 legislation, AB 68, which has made it easier and faster to build an ADU. It was among a group of laws that expedite the permit approval process, allow for larger units, ease parking requirements, and reduce fees. These efforts are credited with starting an ADU construction boom.

The Governor has until October 14th to act on all bills sent to his office this week.

The new vaccine Heart of Hope

The resurgence of COVID-19 in the form of its new strains, XBB.1.5, EG.5, FL.1.5.1, and the highly mutated BA.2.86 (Pirola), with 18,871 hospitalized from August 27 to September 2, 2023, and a death rate of about 700 per week in the United States, a 10.5 perPHILIP S. CHUA cent increase from prior weeks, prompted PfizerBioNTech and Moderna to come out with a monovalent vaccine (by September 14th) to target the dominant XBB.1.5 Omicron subvariants, following FDA advisory panel recommendation in June. All previous vaccines, including the bivalent boosters, are no longer authorized in the United States. The new vaccine appears to be effective also against EG.5 and FL.1.5.1, and possibly against the BA.2.86 mutant.

“The updated vaccines -- approved for people 12 years and up and under emergency authorization for kids 6 months to 11 years of age -- can be used for primary series or booster vaccinations, and with this new action,” according to CDC. According to the FDA, “people 5 years and older can receive a single dose of the updated mRNA vaccines at least 2 months since their last dose of any COVID vaccine, and 3 months following a COVID-19 infection.

“For kids 6 months to 4 years, those who have been previously vaccinated will be eligible for one or two doses of the new products, depending on how many previous doses they have received. Those currently unvaccinated can receive three doses of Pfizer’s vaccine or two doses of Moderna’s vaccine.

“Under the new approval, primary series vaccinations in people 12 years and older for Moderna and Pfizer’s products call for a single dose (down from two doses).”

As expected, “the CDC recommends the updated boosters for older adults and other vulnerable groups -- such as immunocompromised individuals and those with established medical conditions placing them at high risk for severe outcomes from COVID-19 -- though it’s less clear how forceful recommendations will be for younger, healthy populations.”

The number of new cases, hospitalization, and death rates are still very significant. Let us be safe, get vacci-

nated and utilize mask and do social distancing, avoiding crowds. Even those fully vaccinated or have had previous COVID-19 infections are not guaranteed to be immune from these new strains. Covid-19 deaths are up 10.5 percent!

Coconut oil: unhealthy In my newspaper articles since the early 1980s, I have pointed out that coconut oil was NOT a healthy oil, not even a healthy food item, although I love its taste in many recipes. An old study at the University of the Philippines claimed coconut to be “essential for health,” but several studies, including this latest one, suggest otherwise.

The recent laboratory findings revealed that “coconut oil disrupted mice’s ability to use leptin and insulin, two critical hormones, with insulin resistance being a primary characteristic of type 2 diabetes.” Instead of saturated oil like coconut oil or oil from animal fats, especially from pork, nutritionists recommend unsaturated or polyunsaturated oil, like extra virgin oil, avocado oils, sesame, flaxseed, walnut oils, the healthy oils.

Coconut oil “alters the metabolism, leads to obesity, disturbs our ability to properly use leptin and insulin, two vital hormones that regulate energy expenditure, hunger, and how the body handles fats and sugar,” which the new study reconfirms. Saturated fatty acids consumption leads to leptin resistance also.” Coconut oil also increases LDL (bad cholesterol) according to the American Heart Association. It is worse than butter, lard, and other animal-derived fats.

Coconut oil produced a central and peripheral inflammatory response, weight gain, a higher percentage of fat, reduced energy expenditure, and anxious behavior, suggesting a systemic imbalance.” (Journal of Functional Food).

Diet warning There is no longer any doubt that diet affects our health, our entire body, from head to toe, and our longevity. There was a time when everyone thought physical exercise was more important in our overall health and well-being. People started to reduce caloric intake and concentrated more on physical exercises. Several recent peer-reviewed studies have shown that diet is a greater factor in our well-being and life span, physical exercise is a close second. The combination of the two is superior.

While low-carbohydrate and low-fat diets was the trend the past 3 or more decades, new research in Japan

revealed that “consuming too little (less than 40 percent of their daily calories from) carbohydrates and fats can shorten one’s lifespan.” More specifically, “men who eat too few carbohydrates daily may increase their risk of dying (all-cause mortality); men who got more than 35 percent of calories from any kind of fat were at a higher risk for cancer and cardiovascular mortality; and, women who consume insufficient quantities of fat may have a marginally higher risk of all-cause mortality and cancer-related mortality…women who got more than 65 percent of their calories from carbohydrates were at a higher all-cause mortality risk, and those consuming more saturated fats decrease their risk of all-cause and cancer mortality,” reports the new study of 34,893 men and 46,440 women, ages 35-69, from Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine in Japan, published in The Journal of Nutrition.

Warning: Before Americans and others take the wrong message from the above findings, let it be clear that these conclusions may not apply to peoples of other nations. Future studies involving the west and other countries are needed to confirm or negate these surprising but interesting findings.

As far as dining discipline is concerned, as it relates to health, well-being, and longevity, I follow the advice of our former medical school professor and friend, Dr. Fe del Mundo, world-renowned pediatrician from the Philippines, one of the first women admitted for graduate works at Harvard School of Medicine in the mid30s, who was practicing pediatrics in a wheelchair up to age 94 and who died at almost 100 years-old: She told my pediatrician wife, Farida, and me, that her secret to health and longevity was “leaving the table less than full.”

Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He was a decorated recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, conferred by then Indiana Governor, later Senator, and then presidential candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry Truman, President George HW Bush, Muhammad Ali, Astronaut Gus Grissom (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday.com, and philipSchua.com Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com

23 September 14-20, 2023 Recipe of the Week Beef Meatballs Kaldereta Ingredients: 1/2 kilo regular beef meatballs 6 small size egg, hard boiled 6 medium side baby potato, peeled 1 large size carrot, cut crosswise into 6 parts, peeled 200 grams large size button mushroom 1/2 cup pitted green olives 3-4 small size Spanish chorizo, cut diagonally 4 to 6 small size sweet pickled jerkins, cut diagonally 4 to 6 small size sweet pickled jerkins, finely diced 1/2 cup syrup from the sweet pickled jerkins 2 small can liver spread 1/2 head garlic, chopped 2 large size onion, chopped 1 tsp. dried parsley flakes 1 large size bell pepper, dice into large square 1 tsp. peppercorns 1 cup tomato sauce 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce 2 tbsp. soy sauce 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese 2-3 pieces bay leaf 2-3 pieces green/red chilli, sliced salt to taste cooking oil Cooking procedure: In a frying pan fry the beef meatballs on all side until seared, keep aside. In a large sauce pan sutee garlic and onion add in the Spanish chorizo and stir cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Add in the potatoes, carrot, tomato sauce, soy sauce, peppercorns, bay leaf, and dried parsley stir cook for 1 to 2 minutes. Add in 2 to 2 1/2 cups of water bring to a boil and simmer for 5 to 8 minutes. Add in the meatballs, liver spread, diced pickled jerkins, pickled jerkins syrup, Worcestershire sauce, chili and continue to simmer for 8 to 10 minutes. Add in the boiled eggs, button mushrooms, olives, cut jerkins and continue to simmer for another 5 to 8 minutes or until the liquid has reduce to a thick consistency. Correct saltiness if required. Add in the cheese and bell pepper and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes or until the cheese has melted.

Serve.

 FOOD & TRAVELS

PHL opens up further for travel, tourism as 5-year plan approved

By Jennifer T. Santos MANILA - The country has a new National Tourism Development Plan for 2023 to 2028, which in gist aims for an accumulated total of 51.9 million tourist arrivals and 34.7 million tourism-related jobs by 2028.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. approved the plan tol serve as the administration’s blueprint and the development framework for the tourism industry, said Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco.

The approval came following a meeting of Marcos with the Department of Tourism and concerned agencies in Malacanang. .During the meeting, Frasco reported the tourism industry earned no less than P1.74 trillion in 2022 as a composite of domestic visitor seats as well as foreign visitor receipts and also generated at least 5.2 million local jobs.

Frasco said the country is geared towards promoting the country’s tourism industry while maintaining the health protocols against COVID-19.

This developed as the Philippines breached the two million mark in international arrivals for the first five months of 2023, surpassing last year’s baseline target.

The DOT announced the good news over the weekend, citing the latest data of 2,002,304 international visitor arrivals from January 1 to May 12 that exceeded the entire 2022 target of 1.7 million foreign visitors.

“Notwithstanding the challenges and difficulties that our country faced, a pandemic and the various calamities that come into our shores, the good news is that these have done nothing to break the Filipino spirit or to diminish the beauty of the Philippines,” Secretary Frasco said.

“We’re very optimistic for the prospects in out country in terms of being a tourism powerhouse in Asia, anchored on the strength of our Filipino culture as well as the values of sustainability, resilience and global competitiveness,” she said.

South Koreans made up almost a quarter of the total number of visitors with 487,502 (24.35 percent); followed by Americans with 352,894 or 17.62 percent; Australians, 102,494 (5.12 percent); Canadians, 98,593 (4.92 percent); Japanese, 97,329 (4.86 percent); Chinese, 75,043; Taiwanese, 62,654; British, 62,291; Singaporeans, 53,359; and Malaysians, 36,789.

The DOT recorded P168.52 billion in inbound visitor receipts from January to April, or 782.59 percent higher than the P19,093,427,035.59 generated during the same period last year.

“We’re very grateful to our President for articulating very early on in his administration his priority for tourism development, and this has resulted in a convergence among government agencies as far as giving full support to the development of the industry recognizing the losses that have been ensued as a result of the pandemic and various calamities,” Secretary Frasco said.

“We’re very excited to launch in a few short weeks the Philippine experience which gives our fellow Filipinos an opportunity to experience not just our destinations but also re-introduce them to the heart and soul of the Filipinos through our festivals, our food, and the like,” she added.

Frasco stressed it is just one of the programs of the President aimed at maximizing domestic tourism, boosting the economy, as well opening up the country to international tourists.

Frasco also expressed gratitude to the President for approving the NTDP, saying they are looking forward to instituting all of the tourism programs towards ensuring that Filipinos enjoy gainful employment and livelihood from successful tourism industry, and positioning the Philippines in a primary role in Southeast Asia and the world.

As a result of consultations among the Tourism Coordinating Council, as well as various tourism stakeholders from different regions all over the Philippines, the NTDP laid down the seven DOT objectives that focus on the essential pillars of development which could give the Philippines a fighting chance at becoming a tourism powerhouse.

The NTDP provides a framework to guide the development and implementation of programs, projects, and activities towards a sustainable, innovative, inclusive, and globally competitive tourism industry.

NTDP’s seven strategic goals include improvement of tourism infrastructure and accessibility; cohesive and comprehensive digitalization and connectivity; enhancement of overall tourist experience; equalization of tourism product development and promotion; diversification of the tourism portfolio through multidimensional tourism; maximization of domestic and international tourism; and strengthening tourism governance through close collaborations with national and local stakeholders.

Asked by reporters on the DOT’s focus on how to make the Philippines a tourism powerhouse, Frasco said the department will not only focus on promotions but more importantly, product development to unlock the roadblocks that prevent the Philippines from occupying a more primary role in Southeast Asia.

“Kasali na po diyan iyong pinaka-basic infrastructure, building more quality roads towards our tourism destinations not just in our key destinations but also our lesser known and emerging destinations taking a look at the capacity of these destinations to handle drainage, storage, water treatment and the like since the direction of the Marcos administration is towards sustainable tourism development,” Frasco said.

The DOT will also address connectivity, to make the country at par with its ASEAN neighbors,” Frasco said, adding the Marcos administration has engaged with both international and domestic airlines to resume flights halted during the pandemic, as well as adding more flights not just into Manila but importantly to the different destinations across the country.