PNEWS 3.21-3.27,2024

U.S., MARCOS AIR WARNING ON GROWING CHINA THREAT

PHL avoiding war, seeks peace as White House summit looms

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

MANILA/WASHINGTON - As Chinese warships, Coast Guard and militia vessels continue to swarm in the West Philippine Sea following China leader Xi Jinping prepping up its military for “wider conflict” after dangerous maneuvers with Philippine vessels resulting in collision, the United States, Japan and the Philippines strengthened further their alliances expected to be boosted by trilateral summit in the White House on April 11 hosted by US President Joe Biden.

Newsom names FilAm as judge of Solano County Superior Court, bares other judicial appointments

By Claire Morales True

SACRAMENTO –California Governor Gavin Newsom has appointed seasoned Filipino American lawyer Marlo Selina Nisperos as a judge in the Solano County Superior Court. Newsom also announced his nomination of two Court of Appeal Justices – Judge Tara Desautels as an Associate Justice of the First District Court of Appeal, Division Two and Justice Gonzalo Martinez as Presiding Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Seven.

U.S. ASSURANCES. United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken assures President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ‘iron-clad’ support in the wake of China’s aggressiveness in the West Philippine. US officials and Ambassador MaryKay Carlson accompanied Blinken in Malacanang.

Quiboloy arrest ordered, faces non-bailable raps

By Be�ng Dolor and Jeanne Michael Penaranda

MANILA – Law enforcement agencies are poised to serve warrants of arrest for controversial Pastor Apollo Quiboloy signed by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and also by the House of Representatives even as both houses of Congress separately readied his possible detention room once he is collared.

This as the Department of Justice (DOJ) announced indictments before the Davao and Pasig courts against the embattled pastor of the Kingdom of Jesus

By Gilda P. Balan, Correspondent

SAN

Is this a serious case of miscarriage of justice, or were the judge’s hands tied resulting in an incredibly light sentence?

These are the questions surrounding the case of a 94-year-old Asian woman who was stabbed in broad daylight multiple times in June 2021.

UPSIDE

by Cherie M. Querol Moreno

LIKE their predecessors in the struggle for liberation from the Spanish colonizers, Fil-

ipino American “sheroes” have embraced efforts to free their community from oppression.

14 countries joining Balikatan war drills

FWN founder Marily Mondejar seeks to increase the Filipina influence as leader and policymaker throughout the world.

PIA founder Mona Lisa Yuchengco’s philanthropy extends to fellow Filipina organizers.

Judge Marlo S. Nisperos

Quiboloy Page 4

11K US soldiers plus troops from 14 countries joining Balikatan war drills

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City –

Some 11,000 American military personnel and their support staff along with 5,000 troops from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will join this year’s “Balikatan” exercise starting on April 22 to May 8 this year.

“As of (today), the running total that we have as of the moment is 16,000 participants. That means 11,000 US personnel (compared) to 5,000 AFP personnel. It might seem like a disparity pero (but) the 11,000 includes (their) (exercise) support (personnel),” said Balikatan 2024 executive agent Col. Michael Logico at AFP headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Aside from the US military, the Australian Defense Force will be sending a 150 contingent while France will be sending a frigate to participate in the “group sail” phase of the Balikatan.

Logico said 14 countries, mostly from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), including France, Australia, Japan and India, will be sending observers to witness the Filipino and American troops in the exercises.

The military exercises which will feature group sails and “ship attack” and the use of missiles will be held beyond the country’s 12-nautical-mile territorial wa-

ters in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), Logico said.

France will be participating in the “group sail” in international waters, where Chinese military and coast guard ships have been roaming around and blocking Philippine rotation and resupply missions to the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal and other features within the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

“We will be utilizing the western side of Palawan, extending beyond our 12 nautical miles so this is also a new thing… We’ve done group sails before… In previous exercises, we’ve been limited to just 12 nautical miles, now we are encouraging or we are venturing outwards,” he said.

Australia and Japan will not be directly participating in the naval exercises, but are sending observers to the event that will see the Philippine Navy, US Navy, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), US Coast Guard alongside the French Navy.

He said the Australian Defense Force will also be participating in the Balikatan exercises while the Japan Self Defense Force will be sending a larger observer contingent along with at least 13 other countries.

Logico said this year’s joint military exercises will again involve a sinking exercise off the coast of Laoag in Ilocos

Norte, where joint military forces will attack and sink an “enemy ship,” much like last year’s exercise in the waters off Zambales.

The US support personnel also include those from the US military’s “selfcontained logistics” and also American civilian contractors and members of the US government coming in to witness the Balikatan drills.

Logico said participating US troops are starting to come in and that there will be Balikatan-related activities starting next week.

These activities are so-called humanitarian civic assistance (HCA) related to engineering civic action (ENCAP) projects all over the country.

For this year, Logico said ENCAP projects are to be done in Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte; Punta Baja, Rizal, Palawan; and San Fernando, La Union.

On April 1, Logico said an “information warfare exercise” (IWX) will be held at AFP headquarters. IWX refers to the battlespace use and management of information technology “in pursuit of a competitive advantage over an opponent.”

And though it will be held much earlier, Logico said the IWX is still part of this year’s “Balikatan” as to “deconflict that space for other events in ‘Balikatan’.”

A group sail is defined as a maritime exercise and events that take place are a combination of division tactics, search and rescue, visit, board and search and seizure exercises, gunnery exercises, and flight deck operations.

Logico said the group sail will be taking place on the western side of Palawan and extending beyond the country’s 12 nautical mile limitation (also known as the territorial sea).

“Like I said, in previous exercises we have been limited to just 12 nautical miles, now we are encouraging or we are venturing outwards, beyond that,” he added. Other group sail participants include the Philippine Navy, US Navy, Philippine Coast Guard, the US Coast Guard, and the French Navy.

Padilla’s medical cannabis bill reaches Senate plenary

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City

– Some 11,000 American military personnel and their support staff along with 5,000 troops from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will join this year’s “Balikatan” exercise starting on April 22 to May 8 this year.

“As of (today), the running total that we have as of the moment is 16,000 participants. That means 11,000 US personnel (compared) to 5,000 AFP personnel. It might seem like a disparity pero (but) the 11,000 includes (their) (exercise) support (personnel),” said Balikatan 2024 executive agent Col. Michael Logico at AFP headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Aside from the US military, the Australian Defense Force will be sending a 150 contingent while France will be sending a frigate to participate in the “group sail” phase of the Balikatan.

Logico said 14 countries, mostly from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), including France, Australia, Japan and India, will be sending observers to witness the Filipino and American troops in the exercises.

The military exercises which will feature group sails and “ship attack” and the use of missiles will be held beyond the country’s 12-nautical-mile territorial waters in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), Logico said.

France will be participating in the “group sail” in international waters, where

Chinese military and coast guard ships have been roaming around and blocking Philippine rotation and resupply missions to the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal and other features within the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

“We will be utilizing the western side of Palawan, extending beyond our 12 nautical miles so this is also a new thing… We’ve done group sails before… In previous exercises, we’ve been limited to just 12 nautical miles, now we are encouraging or we are venturing outwards,” he said.

Australia and Japan will not be directly participating in the naval exercises, but are sending observers to the event that will see the Philippine Navy, US Navy, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), US Coast Guard alongside the French Navy.

He said the Australian Defense Force will also be participating in the Balikatan exercises while the Japan Self Defense Force will be sending a larger observer contingent along with at least 13 other countries.

Large contingent of foreign observers to participate.

Senate, House reach Cha-cha talks ‘consensus’

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said both Houses of Congress are now on the same page in the push to amend the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution.

“So, that is the legislative state of play as it were. The Senate is continuing with the hearings. The House (of Representatives) has already passed on second reading. What is more important than all of that for me, is that it is practically the same resolution. And that is that’s for me is the key point in this process. We have arrived at a consensus,” President Marcos said.

“We all knew how this when this began, how contentious this was. Well, we seem to be going down a common road now between the two Houses. So, that’s the, that for me is the important thing,” he said.

House Speaker Martin Romualdez said the lower chamber has consumed a substantial amount of time deliberating on the RBH 7 and he will let the discussions focus on that.

The House of Representatives approved on Wednesday Resolutions of Both Houses No. 7 (RBH 7) which seeks to allow increased foreign ownership in vital industries.

Meanwhile, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said the Senate is on track and has about three more hearings left, and “then we’ll be taking it up on the delivery.”

The President earlier pointed out that the existing economic provisions are hindering potential investors from proceeding with their operations in the country.

New PHL archipelagic defense pushed to protect sea lanes

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City

– The Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC) now being operationalized by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will allow it to defend the country’s sea lanes of communication and all of its maritime territories.

“That’s why the shift is now towards external defense, we have the CADC, we would have the capability to protect and to secure Benham Rise (now the Philippine Rise), all around the country. On the international level, we have a responsibility (to protect), that the sea lanes of communication, (so that) the international rules-based order will re-

main,” Philippine Navy (PN) spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea (WPS) Commodore Roy Vincent Trinidad said. With the CADC, the Philippines will be able to access its northern islands no matter what China does.

When asked on whether the CADC will change China’s behavior, Trinidad said as far as the PN and the AFP are concerned, this strategy will allow them to be able to protect the integrity of the national territory, the country’s sovereignty and the Filipino people.

The CADC aims to develop the country’s capability to protect its entire territory including its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) to ensure that the next generation of Filipinos will be able to enjoy its natural resources.

“In plain language, we are developing our capability to protect and secure our entire territory and EEZ in order to ensure that our people and all the generations of Filipinos to come shall freely reap and enjoy the bounties of the natural resources that are rightfully ours within our domain,” Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. earlier said.

The DND chief in a forum in January said the CADC will allow the AFP to protect and guarantee “Philippine nationals, Philippine corporations, and those authorized by the Philippine government the unimpeded and peaceful exploration and exploitation of all natural resources within our EEZ and other areas we have jurisdiction.”

Customs bureau seizes P158.7-M kush in balikbayan boxes

MANILA— The Bureau of Customs has confiscated 132.3 kilos of dried kush valued at P158.7 million smuggled into the country in six balikbayan boxes sent from Thailand.

In a statement, BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio said the kush, a type of high-grade marijuana, were reportedly consigned to Mary Gail Quesada and

Rainier Quesada via the Marcelo Laylo Cargo Forwarders.

The BOC said the consignees, senders and recipients of the six balikbayan boxes face criminal charges of violating Section 118 (prohibited importation and exportation) and Section 1400 (misdeclaration) in relation to Section 1113 (property subject to seizure and forfeiture) of the Customs

Modernization and Tariff Act and Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002).

Rubio said the packs of kush were discovered by the BOC’s Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) during the physical examination of the balikbayan boxes at the Manila International Container Port on March 18.

BOC-CIIS director Verne Enciso said their office received a tip about the consolidated shipment, prompting them to request the issuance of an alert order on Feb. 28.

The BOC said it has forwarded confirmatory samples to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, while all six balikbayan boxes were returned to the shipping container for safekeeping.

11,000 NCR cops to secure Lent, summer break BuCorchief’scarshotinQC; driver,companionunhurt

MANILA – Starting the Holy Week on March 25 and within the summer vacation, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) will deploy over 11,347 police officers and force multipliers to ensure order and safety.

NCRPO director Maj. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said police officers will be more visible and will help manage traffic and other related public safety services near transportation terminals, places of worship, malls, markets, commercial areas, and parks.

Quiboloy...

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Christ arising from allegations of sexual, child abuse and others.

Lawyers of Quiboloy, meanwhile, said they may question the arrest warrants before the Supreme Court, saying the judiciary could “interpret the constitutional limitations on the power of Congress to conduct investigations.”

Elvis Balayan, lawyer for the pastor, said that while they respect the decision of the Senate to issue an arrest order, Quiboloy would “exert all available legal remedies to protect his constitutional rights.”

Quiboloy and his key leaders are also facing various charges, including rape, child abuse, human trafficking, and dollar smuggling, in the California court and has been placed in the Most Wanted List of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

This as more multi-million properties of Quiboloy reportedly worth about P300 million were unearth in Hawaii and Las Vegas.

Nartatez said the NCRPO expects a surge of travelers to and from Metro Manila.

Nartatez said they have collaborated with local government units, other law enforcement agencies and private stakeholders to establish a comprehensive security framework.

There will also be Police Assistance Desks in places of convergence.

“As the nation observes these significant occasions, the NCRPO stands ready to uphold its duty to maintain law and order,” Nartatez said.

His alleged luxurious mansion in Las Vegas was estimated to be worth P165 million, according to a Rappler report.

Zubiri said in a statement that signing the arrest warrant was “ministerial” after Sen. Risa Hontiveros, who chairs the Senate committee on women and gender equality, found “no merit” in Quiboloy’s reasons for refusing to attend hearings about his alleged sex crimes, among other allegations.

Quiboloy, through his lawyer Melanio Balayan, had argued a number of legal justifications for why he should not be arrested, saying that the committee’s investigation is “incriminatory” and already assumes guilt on the part of the embattled preacher.

In a statement, DOJ spokesperson Undersecretary Mico Clavano said the charges filed before the Pasig regional trial court are non-bailable.

The legal proceedings against Quiboloy and several associates began from the resolution issued by DOJ Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on March 5.

QUEZON CITY – Death threats in recent months culminated in a gun attack on the vehicle of Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. at the Skyway in Quezon City on Tuesday morning.

The bulletproof pickup truck with plate no. WDQ 811 was on its way to pick up Deputy Director General for Administration Al Perreras.

Driver Cornelio Colalong and companion Leonardo Cabaniero, both Corrections Officers 1, were unharmed.

The BuCor report said unidentified suspects on board a gray sedan overtook the

Quiboloy faces charges under Section 5(b) of Republic Act No. 7610 (Other Sexual Abuse), focusing on the protection of children against abuse, exploitation, and discrimination.

Additional charges under Section 10(a) of the same act (Other Acts of Child Abuse) were filed against Quiboloy, along with Jackielyn Roy, Cresente Canada, Paulene Canada, Ingrid Canada, and Sylvia Cemanes, aimed at safeguarding children’s psychological and emotional health.

The Davao City Prosecutor’s Office also endorsed a complaint for qualified trafficking in persons to the DOJ main office.

Meanwhile, in the information filed before the Pasig City court, Quiboloy and his fellow respondents were charged for qualified human trafficking under Section 4 (a) of Republic Act No. 9208, as amended, pursuant to the Resolution promulgated on March 5, 2024 by the Secretary of Justice.

“The Department of Justice is dedicated to the enforcement of our laws and the protection of our children from exploitation and abuse. This case underscores our commitment to hold accountable those who would harm our society’s most vulnerable. Let this serve as a reminder that no individual, regardless of their position, is above the law,” Remulla said in the statement.

As the good book says, as you sow, so shall you reap.

This may be what his reported victims are thinking after Pastor Apollo Quiboloy faced a fourth warrant for his arrest this week, the most recent of which is for a non-bailable offense of human trafficking.

His latest cases are alleged human trafficking filed before a Pasig City court; sexual abuse and child abuse cases in Davao City; the Senate authorizing his arrest for constant failure to show up at hearings regarding similar crimes; and the House also ordering his arrest for failing to attend hearings regarding the operations of his Sonshine Media Network International.

Quiboloy has been in hiding since last

back-up car, carrying BuCor officers Edwin Berroya and Michael Magsanoc, and fired at the pickup.

The vehicle was hit at the rear windshield, which shattered the bullet proof glass without penetration.

The suspects’ car fled toward the Nagtahan exit going to Manila.

“Catapang said that both he and Perreras have been receiving death threats since they implemented various reforms in the agency and this incident will not deter them from continuing what they started,” BuCor said in a statement.

month even before facing non-bailable offenses.

On Tuesday, March 19 (Manila time), Senate President Miguel Zubiri ordered the Senate Sgt-at-Arms to apprehend Quibiloy within 24 hours.

This, as the House of Representatives legislative franchises committee also ordered the Davao-based church leader’s arrest for ignoring its hearings on SMNI’s alleged franchise violations.

The House went so far as to say that it was willing to have Quiboloy detained at the Senate as a matter of parliamentary courtesy if the upper chamber so desired.

Otherwise, the pastor will be detained at the House’s own detention facility.

Of the two other criminal cases he faces, the one in Davao allows Quiboloy to post bail of P260,000 for all charges. The Pasig case, on the other hand, should see him initially placed in a city jail. If found guilty, he will eventually land at the national penitentiary.

The detention waiting for him in the Senate and the House can last for as long as the lawmakers want.

An example, executives of the Pharmally corporation were detained in the Senate for several months, before they were released on humanitarian grounds.

Quiboloy’s lawyers can cite his advanced age -- he’s 73 – as a possible reason to place him under house arrest, but his non-bailable case is another matter.

The Justice department did not release details of the cases the founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ church faces in Pasig and Davao City, only saying that the pastor was being charged along with five of his associates identified as Sylvia Cemanes; Jackielyn Roy; and Crescente, Pauline, and Ingrid all surnamed Canada.

In a statement to media, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said the cases underscored “our commitment to hold accountable those who would harm our society’s most vulnerable.”

El Niño worsens, to affect over 70 provinces in next 3 months

SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga – The number of provinces to be affected by El Niño is expected to rise to over 70 in the next three months despite the reported weakening of the phenomenon.

“Meron pa ring mga probinsiya na maaapektuhan (There are still provinces that will be affected),” Task Force El Niño Spokesperson and Presidential Communications Office Assistant Secretary Joey Villarama said.

“In fact, doon sa projection ng PAGASA ay tataas pa mga to mid-70s, mga 76 pa po ang puwedeng maapektuhan na probinsiya in varying degrees in the next three months ,” he added.

Currently, 67 provinces across eight regions –Regions 1 (Ilocos Region), 2 (Cagayan Valley), 3 (Central Luzon), 4-A (Calabarzon), 4-B (Mimaropa), 6 (Central Luzon), 9 (Zamboanga Peninsula) and 12 (Soccsksargen)– are being affected by the phenomenon, 30 of which are experiencing drought.

The Department of Agriculture earlier reported that

the total damage of El Niño to the agriculture sector has reached P1.75 billion.

The weather bureau said El Niño may continue to weaken until the March-April-May season.

VP Sara: Terrorism remains a problem

DAVAO CITY – Vice President Sara Z. Duterte has called for a collective action against terrorism following the death of four soldiers in an ambush in Datu Hoffer, Maguindanao del Sur.

Duterte said the lives of soldiers sacrificed to main-

tain peace in the country should be reciprocated with the willingness of everyone to fight terrorism.

“The death of four soldiers in an ambush in Maguindanao del Sur points us to the painful truth that terrorism remains a fundamental problem that requires our collective action as a nation,” Duterte said, noting this could be done by supporting education.

“Suportahan natin ang ating kasundalohan sa pamamagitan ng pagbigay impormasyon tungkol sa kalaban (Let us support our soldiers by providing information about the enemy),” she added.

As a Mindanaoan, Duterte said she witnessed how violence spawned poverty, lack of livelihood, internal displacement and inequitable access to education opportunities for children and the youth, which ultimately made radicalism more appealing.

She said there are a lot of problems that need to be addressed apart from terrorism which are quality of education, prices of commodities, security and criminality.

DENR’s ‘silence’ on China dredging in Zambales hit

OLONGAPO CITY/QUEZON CITY — “Why

is the DENR still not revoking the environmental compliance certificate (ECC) of the Chinese dredging operations in several towns in Zambales despite the opposition from the affected residents?

It must be imperative for any environment secretary to cancel any project that has been proven to be destructive to the environment, more so to the livelihood of coastal communities,” according to the progressive fisherfolk group Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (PAMALAKAYA).

PAMALAKAYA is denouncing the ‘silence’ of the DENR over the ongoing dredging activities of China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd. (CHEC) in San Felipe and San Antonio towns in Zambales.

The said dredging company is a subsidiary of stateowned China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) that is engaged in ‘environmental destruction through massive reclamation activities’ in the South China Sea, including the artificial island construction in the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

“Wala talagang maasahang kagyat na aksyon mula sa DENR sa gitna ng malakas na hinaing ng mga mangingisda laban sa proyektong sumisira sa kanilang pangisdaan at kalikasan. Sinumang kalihim ng DENR na talagang may malasakit sa kalikasan ay hindi mag-aatubili na kanselahin ang ECC ng nagaganap na dredging sa Zambales na lubhang nakakaapekto sa yamang-dagat

at kabuhayan ng mga residente,” the group stated.

“Lalo pa’t ang nasabing dredging ay ang pinagkukunan pala ng buhangin na panambak sa dalawang malaking reklamasyon sa Manila Bay – ang Aerotropolis Project sa Bulacan at ang reklamasyon sa Pasay City,” it added.

“Sumasalamin ang pananahimik ng DENR sa malinaw na pagpabor ng administrasyong Marcos Jr. sa mapanirang reklamasyon,” Fernando Hicap, PAMALAKAYA National Chairperson, said in a statement.

The said Chinese dredging operation acquired its ECC in 2021.

Council okays Dagupan City’s P1.3-B budget

DAGUPAN CITY – Mayor Belen Fernandez was elated by the Sangguniaang Panlungsod’s (SP) (City Council) approval of the city’s P1.385 billion budget for this year, noting financing for various government programs will now push through.

Mayor Fernandez said the budget would cover the increased allowances of front-liners such as the village’s health workers, village nurses, village peacekeeping action team members, librarians, and day care teachers.

Fernandez said the wage of job order (JO) workers of the city government will also increase from P9,000 to P12,000 per month.

She said the flood mitigation projects, different projects in schools and waste management programs will be covered under the 2024 annual budget.

“We would now be able to purchase dump trucks, backhoes and other heavy equipment for our solid waste management programs. And for the purchase of other equipment for calamity preparedness,” she added.

With the approval of the budget, Fernandez said the city government employees can now get their service recognition incentive, which was supposed to be given starting Dec. 15 last year.

Fernandez said the budget also covers the PHP1,000 aid for solo parents in the city and the aid for the 31 villages.

“We will ensure that every centavo will go back to the people through services,” she said.

Iloilo City 4th richest city outside NCR

ILOILO CITY – The local government here is hoping to sustain its gains after placing fourth among the pilot highly urbanized cities (HUCs) outside of the National Capital Region (NCR) based on the results of the Provincial Product Accounts (PPA) for 2022.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said Iloilo City’s per capita gross domestic product (GDP), or the average contribution of individuals to an economy’s output for a certain period, in the first-ever PPA stood at P306,444, higher than the national average of P178,751.

“We worked very hard for that and it showed in the result. We are very happy that Iloilo City is gaining ground… Hopefully, this will continue because we have so many plans for Iloilo City,” Mayor Jerry Treñas said.

Iloilo City followed the cities of Baguio, Cagayan de Oro and Lapu-Lapu, which are the top one to three, respectively.

Velma Jane Lao, head of the Iloilo City Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion (LEDIP) office, said that the result of the PPA means that Iloilo City has a strong economy.

“The strength of its economy is one of the elements investors look into. The high GDP per capita of Iloilo City indicates that the population is productive,” she said

CAGAYAN DE ORO/MANILA — Police have arrested two of the three suspects in the November 2023 killing of Misamis Occidental broadcaster Juan Jumalon, the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) announced.

Citing the report from Misamis Occidental police director Col. Dwight Monato, PTFoMS executive director Undersecretary Paul Gutierrez identified the arrested suspects as Boboy Bongcawel (alias Boboy) and Renante Bongcawel (alias Inteng).

Gutierrez said the two were arrested Friday in Barangay Poblacion, Sapang Dalaga town by the Calamba and Sapang Dalaga Municipal police.

House approves bill revoking SMNI franchise on final reading

QUEZON CITY - The House of Representatives has approved on third and final reading a measure revoking the legislative franchise granted to Swara Sug Media Corporation, which operates under the business name Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI) and identified with presumptive owner Pastpr Apollo Quiboloy..

During the plenary session on Wednesday, the chamber approved House Bill 9710 with 284 affirmative votes, four negative votes, and four abstentions.

The bill seeks to repeal Republic Act No. 11422 or the law granting Swara Sug’s 25-year franchise.

1-Rider Party-list Rep. Ramon Rodrigo Gutierrez, the

author of the bill, said SMNI has committed several franchise violations, which should not be “countenanced.”

Gutierrez said the network violated Section 4 of its franchise grant on its responsibility to the public for its failure to deliver truthful and balanced reporting to its audience.

He said SMNI also violated Section 7 on self-regulation about the numerous allegations, indictments and findings surrounding SMNI’s involvement in red-tagging and fake news peddling.

He further claimed the network breached Section 10 on the provisions for sale, lease and transfer of ownership, as well as Section 11 on the dispersal of ownership requirement.

“Sections 10 and 11 carry with them ipso facto provisions for their revocation,” he said.

Camarines Sur Rep. Gabriel Bordado voted in

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favor of the bill, emphasizing that while he values press freedom and free expression, these liberties require responsibility.

“When you trifle or do away with this responsibility however, then we transform freedom into systematic oppression and repression,” Bordado said.

Investigations against the network began after Quezon Rep. David Suarez called on the House legislative franchises committee to look into allegations made by SMNI hosts that Speaker Martin Romualdez has a P1.8 billion travel fund.

Daniel Cauich stabbed Anh ‘Peng’ Taylor, but the assailant’s defense attorney Lisa DewBerry was able to convince Judge Kay Tsenin that her client was not of sound mind, being a homeless person who had recently been hit by a car.

Critics, however, accused the judge of being soft on crime.

A report from Breitbart News that came out in the Daily Mail referred to the victim as a Chinese-Vietnamese immigrant residing in San Francisco.

In a separate news report that came out in the San Francisco Standard, lawyer DewBerry said that when they were able to get through to Cauich regarding what he had done, her client cried.

“He couldn’t believe he did such a thing to her,” DewBerry said.

Assistant District Attorney Phoebe

Maffei, who had sought a 12-year prison sentence, said the five years of probation meted by the court was far too light.

Instead of incarceration, Cauich will undergo a “behavioral and mental health treatment program.”

At his sentencing, Cauich – who is facing a separate and unrelated burglary charge – was told by Judge Tsenin: “I am giving you one last chance to stay out of state prison.”

But Asst DA Maffei said the stabbing “was senseless and horrifying and suggests a quick willingness to do harm to vulnerable people within our community.”

By some miracle, victim Taylor survived the attack.

Her daughter said that after the attack, “we moved her to an assisted living home.”

“She is well recovered and doing fine now,” her daughter added.

The attack took place at a time when Asian Americans were particularly targeted as hate crime victims. News reports at that time said it sent “shockwaves” through the city.

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

In preparation for the White House summit, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken flew to Manila and met President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and other officials, including US Ambassador MaryKay Clarkson, as he renewed assurances of an “ironclad” support to the Philippines in case of an armed conflict in the disputed South China Sea waters in keeping with the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty between US and the Philippines.

Marcos, for his part, noted the widening dispute and growing threat amid China’s aggressive activities in the West Philippine Sea, but still shrugged off the Beijing threat, saying he wants peace by respecting freedom of navigation not only for the Philippines , the US and China but the rest of the world.

Interviewed by Bloomberg Television in Malacanang, Marcos said the threat to his nation from China’s sweeping claims in the South China Sea is growing but maintained that his government’s efforts to assert sovereignty over disputed areas are not meant to start a conflict by “poking the bear.”

“We are trying to keep things on an even keel,” Marcos told Bloomberg Television’s Haslinda Amin, the challengeis that “since the threat has grown, we must do more to defend our territory.”

In Manila, Blinken criticized China’s “provocative actions” in the South China Sea as he reaffirmed the US security commitment to the Philippines.

Blinken said the US is committed to and focused on dealing with the pressing issues in the Indo-Pacific, adding that its engagement with the Philippines is crucial to work on a number of challenges.

He also emphasized that the alliance between the US and the Philippines is “more than rock solid.”

“It’s absolute a priority of [US] President [Joe] Biden, that’s why he asked me to leave [to] visit [here],” Blinken said. “Our relationship, I would say is hyperdrive. That is so true, we see it across every domain.”

Blinken also expressed confidence that Marcos’ visit to the US on April 11 for a summit with Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida will open an opportunity for

SC ruling may delay Comelec prep for 2025 polls

MANILA – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) preparations for next year’s midterm election maybe in for a delay,

This as the Comelec said it is ready to comply with the decision of the Supreme Court (SC) on the case filed by its former service provider Smartmatic Philippines.

Comelec chairperson George Erwin Garcia said they have yet to receive an order from the High Court halting any of their preparations for next year’s midterm polls.

In December last year, Smartmatic contested the legality of its disqualification from the poll body’s bidding process for the 2025 automated election system before the SC.

Garcia, however, ruled out the possibility of holding manual elections.

“Again we cannot resort to manual elections. Because otherwise, the Comelec will be violating the law. We can only resort to automated elections in 2025 because that is what the law provides. You have to automate the national and local elections. So kung ano po yung magiging (whatever is the) disposition, iyan naman po ay part ng proseso (that is part of the process) pero in the meantime, the Comelec will have to proceed,” he said in a press briefing.

Garcia noted that the dealings of the Comelec are in order and are compliant with the country’s laws, particularly the Government Procurement Reform Act.

On Monday, the Comelec, together with the joint venture of Miru Systems Co. Ltd., Integrated Computer Systems, St. Timothy Construction Corporation, and Centerpoint Solutions Technologies Inc. (MIRU-ICS-STCC-CPSTI), signed the over P17 billion poll automation contract for the May 2025 polls.

Miru Systems tendered a bid of P17.98 billion for the project which includes the manufacturing of 110,000 automated counting machines and ballots, among others.

a new cooperation with the Philippines and Japan.

The White House announced earlier that Marcos, Biden, and Kishida would hold a trilateral leaders’ summit in the US on April 11 to discuss a broad range of areas, including economic and security cooperation.

“I think that will arise new cooperation. It’s also incredibly promising but it’s building on the very strong foundation of our countries where we have the same priorities, whether it’s on economic development, whether its with climate change, with food security, of course, upholding international law,” he said.

Blinken said the US and other nations have rallied to support the Philippines after Chinese vessels have blocked, closely shadowed and used water cannons on Philippine vessels in the disputed waterway. He also said the world has seen China’s actions in the South China Sea as a violation of international law.

“We have a shared concern about the PRC’s actions that threaten our common vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific, including in the South China Sea,” Blinken said with the Philippines’ Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo.

Marcos Jr. expressed optimism that the actions taken by the Philippines and the United States (US) will be successful in lowering the tension in the Indo-Pacific region as he thanked Blinken for visiting Manila despite his busy schedule.

“I hope that all these efforts we are making are making

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some success because it is of great importance to us too, as you well know. We have spoken about this before,” Marcos added

A Chinese warship was spotted in the vicinity of the Pag-asa Island on Tuesday while other Chinese vessels kept crowding around Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal and other parts of the West Philippine Sea (WPS), according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Col. Francel Margareth Padilla, the AFP spokesperson, told a press briefing that as of March 19, six China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels and eight Chinese maritime militia ships remained in the waters of Panatag, also known as Bajo de Masinloc.

The shoal lies within Manila’s 370-kilometer exclusive economic zone (EEZ), some 220 km west of Zambales province.

Aside from Panatag, Padilla said one People’s Liberation Army Navy vessel, a CCG ship, and six Chinese fishing vessels were sighted near Pag-asa Island, one of the nine features occupied by the Philippines in the Kalayaan Island Group, or the Spratly chain.

According to Padilla, one CCG ship and six Chinese fishing vessels were also spotted in Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal, a low-elevation feature to which Manila stakes its claim through the grounded World War II-era ship BRP Sierra Madre, which serves as a military outpost in those waters.

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(From page 1)

Newsom recently appointed Filipino American judges in Southern California, including Los Angeles County Superior Court Judges Christine Gonong, Cristina Legaspi and Lowrie Mendoza, and Orange County Superior Court Judge Bryan Clavecilla.

In San Bernardino County, Fil-Am deputy district attorney Michelle Lauron won by landslide as Superior Court judge in the March 5 primary election.

Nisperos has served as an Administrative Law Judge at the Office of Administrative Hearings since 2019. She was a Sole Practitioner from 2016 to 2019 and a Partner at the Law Offices of Nisperos and Small from 2015 to 2016 specializing in immigration and family law.

Nisperos served as a Deputy District Attorney at the Solano County District Attorney’s Office from 2006 to 2015.

Nisperos, who earned in 2005 a Juris Doctor degree from Loyola Law School, Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Earl B. Nelson. She is a Democrat.

Judge Nisperos belongs to a family of lawyers. Her parents Michael A. Nisperos Sr. and Eleanor, who earned a law degree from the University of California Berkeley’s Boalt Hall, School of Law, both served as Assistant Attorney General in Marianas.

The National Filipino American Lawyers Association (NFALA) congratulated Nisperos, who has served on the Board of NFALA affiliate, the Filipino Bar Association of Northern California.

Governor Newsom said others he had appointed are:

First District Court of Appeal

Judge Tara Desautels, of Alameda County, has been nominated to serve as an Associate Justice of the First District Court of Appeal, Division Two. She has served as a Judge at the Alameda County Superior Court since 2010. Judge Desautels was a Senior Associate at Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP from 2005 to 2010. She served as a Deputy District Attorney at the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office from 1997 to 2005. She earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco. She fills the vacancy created by the elevation of Justice Therese Stewart as Presiding Justice. This position requires confirmation by the Commission on Judicial Appointments, which consists of Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, Attorney General Rob Bonta and Senior Presiding Justice Jim Humes. Judge Desautels is a Democrat.

Second District Court of Appeal

2019 to 2023. He served as a Deputy Solicitor General in the California Attorney General’s Office from 2017 to 2019 and was a Partner in the Appellate and Supreme Court Practice Group at Squire Patton Boggs from 2007 to 2017 and in 2019. Justice Martinez served as a Law Clerk at the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California in 2010 and at the U.S. District Court, Eastern District of California in 2007. He was an Associate at Coblentz Patch Duffy and Bass LLP from 2005 to 2007 and at Morrison & Foerster LLP from 2003 to 2005. Justice Martinez earned a Juris Doctor degree from Harvard Law School and a Master of Arts degree in English from Stanford University. He fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Presiding Justice Dennis M. Perluss. This position requires confirmation by the Commission on Judicial Appointments, which consists of Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, Attorney General Rob Bonta and Senior Presiding Justice Arthur Gilbert. He is a Democrat.

The compensation for each of these positions is $272,902.

Contra Costa County Superior Court

Nichelle Holmes, of Solano County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Contra Costa County Superior Court. Holmes has served as a Deputy District Attorney at the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office since 2012. She was an Attorney at the Law Offices of Rosario Bacon Billingsley in 2011 and a Post Bar Fellow at the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office from 2010 to 2011. Holmes earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of San Francisco School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Leslie Landau. Holmes is a Democrat.

Jesse Jen-Yen Hsieh, of Alameda County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Contra Costa County Superior Court. Hsieh has served as a Deputy Public Defender at the San Francisco Public Defender’s Office since 2021. He served as a Deputy Public Defender at the Contra Costa County Public Defender’s Office from 2012 to 2021. Hsieh was a Staff Attorney at the East Bay Community Law Center from 2009 to 2012 and at A New Way of Life Reentry Project in 2009. He earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Law. Hsieh fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Laurel Brady. He is a Democrat.

Honorable Dolly M. Gee at the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California from 2020 to 2022. Kim served as a Senior Trial Attorney and Trial Attorney at the U.S. Department of Labor from 2009 to 2020. She served as a Law Clerk for the Honorable Arthur L. Alarcón at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit from 2008 to 2009, for the Honorable Gary Allen Feess at the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California from 2007 to 2008 and for the Honorable Carolyn B. Kuhl at the Los Angeles County Superior Court from 2006 to 2007. Kim earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Allen Webster. Kim is a Democrat.

Ashley M. Price, of Los Angeles County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Price has served as a Commissioner at the Los Angeles County Superior Court since 2021. She served as a Deputy Public Defender at the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office from 2005 to 2019 and was a Senior Law Clerk there in 2005. Price served as Law Clerk at the Federal Public Defender’s Office for the Central District of California in 2005. She earned a Juris Doctor degree from Loyola Law School, Los Angeles. Price fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Rafael A. Ongkeko. She is a Democrat.

Placer County Superior Court

Glenn MacNeur Holley, of Sacramento County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Placer County Superior Court. Holley has served as a Commissioner at the Placer County Superior Court since 2019. He was a Partner at Schuering Zimmerman & Doyle LLP from 2006 to 2019 and an Attorney at Tweedy & Holley, A Law Corporation from 2003 to 2006. Holley was an Attorney and Partner at Bolling Walter and Gawthrop PC from 1989 to 2003. He was an Attorney at Jacoby and Meyers LLC from 1987 to 1989, at Jensen and Roggeveen from 1986 to 1987 and at the Law Office of Joan Poulos in 1986. Holley earned a Juris Doctor degree from the Western State College of Law. He fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Eugene S. Gini, Jr. Holley is a Democrat.

Riverside County Superior Court

Sophia Choi, of Riverside County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Riverside County Superior Court. Choi has served as a Deputy District Attorney at the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office since 2020 and has served as a Senior Deputy District Attorney since 2023. She served as a Deputy County Counsel at the Riverside County Counsel’s Office from 2007 to 2020. Choi earned a Juris Doctor degree from Southwestern Law School. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge John G. Evans. Choi is a Democrat.

Sacramento County Superior Court

She earned a Juris Doctor degree from the New York University School of Law and a Master of Science degree in Education from Mercy University. Zipp fills the vacancy created by the elevation of Justice Jose Castillo to the Court of Appeal. She is a Democrat.

San Joaquin County Superior Court

Chrishna M. Martinez, of San Joaquin County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the San Joaquin County Superior Court. Martinez has served as a Deputy Public Defender at the San Joaquin County Public Defender’s Office since 1999. She earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California, Davis School of Law. Martinez fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Bernard J. Garber. She is a Democrat.

San Mateo County Superior Court

Rosendo Padilla Jr., of San Mateo County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the San Mateo County Superior Court. Padilla has served as a Commissioner at the San Mateo County Superior Court since 2022. He served as a Deputy County Attorney at the San Mateo County Attorney’s Office since 2018. Padilla was a Hearing Officer and Staff Attorney at the San Mateo County Superior Court from 2017 to 2018 and was an Associate at the Cohen Law Office P.C. from 2013 to 2017. He served as a Group Supervisor at the San Mateo County Probation Department from 2006 to 2013. Padilla earned a Juris Doctor degree from the Lincoln Law School of San Jose. He fills the vacancy created by the elevation of Justice Danny Chou to the Court of Appeal. Padilla is a Democrat.

Santa Clara County Superior Court

Vincent I. Parrett, of Santa Clara County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Santa Clara County Superior Court. Parrett has been a Partner at Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP since 2021. He was a Partner at Bergeson LLP from 2014 to 2021 and a Member at Motley Rice LLC from 2007 to 2014. Parrett was an Associate at Kreindler & Kreindler LLP from 2003 to 2007. He served in several roles in the U.S. Navy Judge Advocate General’s Corps from 1999 to 2003, including Lieutenant, Naval Officer and Lawyer. Parrett was an Associate at Hale and Dorr LLP from 1998 to 1999. He earned a Juris Doctor degree from the New York University School of Law. Parrett fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Patricia M. Lucas. He is a Democrat.

Justice Gonzalo Martinez, of Los Angeles County, has been nominated to serve as Presiding Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Seven, where he has served as an Associate Justice since 2023. Justice Martinez served as Deputy Judicial Appointments Secretary in the Office of Governor Gavin Newsom from

Los Angeles County Superior Court

Grace A. Kim, of Los Angeles County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Kim has served as a Commissioner at the Los Angeles County Superior Court since 2022. She served as a Law Clerk for the

Renuka George, of Sacramento County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Sacramento County Superior Court. George has served as a Senior Assistant Attorney General at the California Department of Justice, Office of the Attorney General since 2020 and has served in several roles there since 2013, including Supervising Deputy Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General. She was an Associate at Wilson Sonsini Goodrich and Rosati from 2008 to 2011. George earned a Juris Doctor degree from Cornell Law School. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge John P. Winn. She is a Democrat.

San Diego County Superior Court

Rebecca F. Zipp, of San Diego, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the San Diego County Superior Court. Zipp has been Of Counsel at Seltzer Caplan McMahon Vitek since 2023. She served as a Chief Deputy City Attorney at the San Diego City Attorney’s Office from 2019 to 2023. Zipp served as a Deputy District Attorney at the San Diego District Attorney’s Office from 2008 to 2019.

Matthew W. Pritchard, of Alameda County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Santa Clara County Superior Court. Pritchard has served as a Senior Deputy City Attorney at the San Jose City Attorney’s Office since 2020 and was a Deputy City Attorney there from 2016 to 2020. He was Adjunct Faculty at San Jose City College from 2017 to 2021. Pritchard served as a Trial Attorney with Federal Defenders of San Diego from 2012 to 2016 and served as a Law Clerk for the Honorable Procter Hug, Jr. at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit from 2011 to 2012. He earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law. Pritchard fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Deborah A. Ryan. He is registered without party preference.

Elizabeth Manassau Sanada, of Santa Clara County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Santa Clara County Superior Court. Sanada has served as an Administrative Law Judge for the California Unemployment Insurance Appeals Board since 2020. She served as an Attorney-Advisor at the U.S. Social Security Administration from 2017 to 2020. Sanada was an Adjunct Professor at the Santa Clara University School of Law in 2017 and at the University of Phoenix from 2012 to 2020. She was a Sole Practitioner from 2004 to 2017. Sanada earned a Juris Doctor degree from the Thomas Jefferson School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Shelyna V. Brown. Sanada is a Democrat.

MARILYN B. KING Senior Account Executive

NEIL

FRANCIS ESPIRITU

Publisher/President

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

Last issue highlighted the dedication of Cynthia Arnaldo Bonta, a former missionary from Dumaguete, Philippines, who joined the successful fight of California farm workers to unionize. She honors PH heroes in the middle name of her son Attorney Gen. Rob Bonta after revolutionary hero Andres Bonifacio and the AG named his daughter filmmaker-soccer player Reina Gabriela Bonta after the Ilocana woman warrior.

Along with her sister community advocates who followed suit in the 1980s and 1990s, she continues to speak out, act up and battle for change for equality, equity, dignity and change for the better.

CHANGING FACE

Because of Marily Mondejar, the world’s perception of the Filipina has changed.

No longer the “mail-order brides, sluts, exotic, sexy, and submissive wives” that popped up on internet searches and appalled her almost three decades ago, the Filipina is viewed as a power player and decision maker, leader and problem-solver. Like Mondejar herself.

She witnessed from her first involvement in a 1998 political campaign the conspicuous absence of Filipino Americans where it matters, if they are to gain empowerment. She learned about strategy and the need to organize, build a support network – a sisterhood –and decided to make it happen.

She crafted a plan and in 2001 launched the Filipina Women’s Network as a nonprofit professional organization.

In 2003 Mondejar made friends with Eve Ensler, creator of “The Vagina Monologues,” and proceeded to stage the collective testimonies of women’s sexual awakenings that helped them understand and overcome their low self-esteem borne of patriarchy. Each production united Filipinas who shared their own stories including those of intimate partner violence, eventually shedding shame and self-blame after learning its dynamics. Proceeds from the presentations were donated to domestic violence agencies in the area.

Now, he’s threatening everyone to vote for him, or else

Perhaps we have said it before, but now we need to say it again. Whom the gods would destroy, they first make mad.

Former president Donald Trump’s latest statement shows that he has become dangerously delusional. Over the weekend, he threatened the American public that there will be “bloodshed” if they do not elect him president this November.

We do not use the word threat lightly, but is necessary because what he said was a clear threat to all independent, Democratic, and anti-Trump Republicans who plan to vote for someone else in this year’s presidential elections.

If he loses, when he loses, he will call on his supporters to against take to the streets and head for the Capitol to prevent the winner – almost certainly President Joe Biden – from taking his oath.

He will seek a repeat of January 6, but this time it will be with maximum use of violence. And he will do anything and everything else to be installed in the White House, no longer as mere president but as de facto dictator as he has said he would very likely be.

So should we be afraid? Very afraid?

It will all be up to President Biden, who must be willing to act decisively to not only prevent that threatened bloodbath, but to put Donald Trump in his place once and for all.

Biden must never, never follow the path taken by former President Gerald Ford, who granted absolute pardon to disgraced president Richard Nixon, who was forced to resign following the Watergate scandal.

Ford gave the reason or excuse that the nation needed healing that the US had to put the pain of Watergate behind it and move forward.

Trump’s case is different. Unlike Nixon, Trump is a twice impeached president facing multiple civil and criminal cases. He is already a convicted rapist and has been proven to have cheated on his business dealings in New York City.

He stands accused of trying to overturn and election he lost to Biden fair and square, and Trump also tried to hide classified documents in his Mars-A-Lago home.

Any normal person would be sickened at his endless insults and name calling aimed at anyone who disagrees with him. Why he still has millions of rabid followers is a mystery to us.

For now, the US is a divided country. Even the GOP is likewise divided into two camps, whom we can refer to as the decent, conservative, law-abiding Republicans, and the MAGA fanatics unable to think clearly if their lives depended on it.

We can only agree with the overwhelming majority of Trump’s former Cabinet who say that he is no longer fit to be president, if he ever was.

We must also disagree most vehemently that Joe Biden is no longer mentally and physically fit to be president. He disproved haters and non-believers wrong in his last State of the Nation Address.

In truth, the elections will not be Biden vs Trump, but between sanity and the sheer craziness of would-be dictator Trump.

Voters of sound mind only have one choice, don’t they?

The tight sisterhood led Mondejar to establish Foundation for Filipina Women’s Network as the organization for the Most Influential Filipina Women Awardees. “They are leaders in the public and private sectors from 34 countries selected yearly from a worldwide search for Filipina women with a track record of accomplishments with a lasting global imprint through their work in their professional fields, industry sectors, and local communities,” she said.

Her organization, the Foundation for the Filipina Women’s Network “provides leadership and opportunities for Filipina women to achieve professional competence and personal fulfillment. FFWN supports the conditions for success for Filipina women.”

FWN’s vision is to be a “resource for leadership, personal and professional development for Filipina women worldwide,” which is today, and more. As is the work.

“Progress for women in the US is slow.,” Mondejar told Inquirer.netUSA. “After #MeToo, overturning Roe v Wade and electing a woman US Vice President we are becoming more visible and heard by the media. (But) We need to do more – women’s organizations are now forming coalitions but we need to stay vigilant. Emerge America is doing a great job with encouraging women to run for office.”

She cited “two major wins in Super Tuesday” and predicted that the two “Filipina women top vote getters will crush the November elections - Jessica Caloza for California State Assembly D52 and Nikki Fortunato Bas for Alameda County Board of Supervisors after terming out as president of the Oakland City Council.” (Continue on page 20)

On the power of prayer

For people of faith, there is no denying the efficacy of prayer.

In fact, as Fr. Patrick Peyton used to say:”More things are wrought by prayer than this world dreams of.”

Prayer is simply lifting our hearts and minds to God, recognizing His omnipotence,love and mercy.

From childhood, I learned to pray not only in times of need but also after achieving success.

Through the ages, people have experienced the power of prayer, which has resulted in miraculous cures, stayed the hand of dictators, prevented the loss of lives.

Because man is a social being, praying in groups is highly recommended, though praying alone is just as effective when done with faith and humility.

Not all prayers are answered in the manner that one wishes.

One has to remember that God writes with crooked lines and whatever happens, happens for a reason which man’s finite mind cannot comprehend.

It is a sad commentary of our times that many people do not pray and if and when they do, it is only to seek help in their desperation.

Despite such a circumstance, prayers have been answered by a loving God.

Prayers can work miracles, to be sure. They can change men’s hearts and minds. They can turn loss into victory. They can even end wars.

Pity the person who denies the existence of a Supreme being , Who keeps the sun and stars in their place and waits for mankind to seek His help.,

Prayer is certainly not in the atheist’s vocabulary!

Happily, people of faith, whatever their chosen religion, believe in the power of prayer.

To God or Allah or Jehovah be the glory!

CHERIE M. QUEROL MORENO

Historicity of Jesus – a must reading this Lenten Season

This Lenten Season, many will be observing Palm Sunday (March 24), Good Friday (March 29) and Easter Sunday (March 31).

To fully understand and have deeper appreciation on the sacrifice of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ - His Death, Burial and Resurrection, the updated “HISTORICITY OF JESUS” subtitled “Facts and Evidences for Agnostics, Atheists, Believers and Christians” is a must reading for everybody during this Lenten Season.

The updated “HISTORICITY OF JESUS” (345 pages) is now available at Amazon in Hardcover, Paperback and E-book. Foreword was written by Atty. Junas T. Sagurit, President, Asian Christian University (ACU) in Bugallon, Pangasinan, Philippines. Here are some comments and reviews on the updated book:

“This book can help bring millions of Filipinos to Jesus, the Prince of Peace, for salvation and spiritual awakening. Jesus is the solution to the sin problem to produce a new heart of discipline, honesty and morality in a becoming materialistic and corruption-stricken nation,” wrote CORAZON M. NERA, Former Chair, Regulatory Board of Librarians and Director of Libraries, Lyceum of the Philippines University, Manila, Philippines.

“I was blessed to meet and had prayer session with Evangelist Art Gabot Madlaing and the members of the WE CARE Ministries Team in our home in General Santos City, Mindanao, Philippines last February 19, 2016. For reformation, moral and spiritual regeneration, I recommend this book to everyone especially to Filipinos in our country and abroad,” echoed EMMANUEL “MANNY” PACQUIAO, boxing legend and former Philippine Senator, General Santos City, Sarangani, Philippines.

“I urge ownership of this book. For faith building and antidote to fear and worry, many benefits can result in reading the vital information under any circumstances and most doubtlessly now with the world in such turmoil from diseases and uprisings and all manner of afflictions, “ said DARLENE GAMBLE, Teacher who finished BA in Special Education and MA in Reading at Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas, USA.

“This is a special book which merits devoted attention. The devastation caused by COVID-19 and the following new strains, reveals more than ever how desperately we need to fellowship with our Lord and Savior,” wrote HENRY T. BRAVO, Elder, SURREY CHURCH OF CHRIST, Vancouver, B.C. Canada.

“My faith in the reliability of the Word of God, and the actuality of the resurrection of Christ, and the Truths presented by Apostle Paul, have been enhanced and encouraged,” said JUDY MILLER, Author of 19 motivational and Christian books, Pasadena, Texas, USA.

“This timely book is a must read for agnostics, atheists, believers and Christians. I encouraged my INC friends to purchase their own copies, read it with an open mind and then share with others,” echoed FELIX L. OLIDAN, JR., former INC member and now Evangelist and former Minister, WANCHAI CHURCH OF CHRIST, Wanchai, Hongkong

“As founder of WE CARE Ministries, I am glad that Art Madlaing wrote this book. I encourage ---the agnostics, atheists and of course strayed or straying Christians, to read it, heed it and be blessed, “ wrote LARRY WEST, Evangelist & Founder, WECARE Ministries, West Monroe, Louisiana, USA.

“I eagerly recommend this book to all, notably to our Roman Catholic friends,” said JAMES QUITORIANO, former Roman Catholic, now Minister, GOLDEN GATE CHURCH OF CHRIST, San Francisco, California USA.

“Informative document. Completely thorough and enjoyable reading,” wrote MIKE GAMBLE, Evangelist, Keithville, Louisiana USA.

“It is easy to understand. For faith building, every Christian mother should read this book and encourage their children to read the same,” echoed WYNEMA JOY GACUSAN, Mother & Registered Nurse, Glendale, Arizona USA.

Copies of the updated “HISTORICITY OF JESUS” subtitled “Facts and Evidences for Agnostics, Atheists, Believers and Christians” are now available at Amazon in Hardcover ($18.95 per copy plus shipping and handling) Paperback ($14.95 per copy plus shipping and handling) and E-book ($8.95).

Through our BOOKS MINISTRY, you can order your autographed paperback copy at a special discounted price of only $10 (with FREE shipping and handling). For your autographed copy, just send $10 (in check or money order to: ART G. MADLAING, 730 Madrid Street, San Francisco, CA 94112 Tel. (650) 438-3531 or (415) 584-7095 or email:artmadlaing@hotmail.com

You can also order extra copies as lasting gifts to your FRANC (Friends, Relatives, Acquaintances, Neighbors, Co-Workers). This Special Offer is only good in the United States until August 18, 2024 to commemorate my 77th Birthday.

Remembering FVR, the man and his legacy

March 18 is the birthday of former President Fidel V. Ramos. He should have turned 96 having been born in 1928.

To celebrate his natal day and a continuing tribute to the man and his legacy, two important events were staged. One is the 2nd FVR Golf at Mararayat Golf Course in Lipa, Batangas organized by his first Special Action Commander, Gen. Reynaldo V. Velasco, Gen. Avelino Razon, Col. Katigbak, Mel Bergado, among others. The second event is the launch of the UP NCPAG-FVR LEAD4R Fellowship Program at the International Center for Public Administration (ICPA), UP NCPAG, R.P. De Guzman St., UP Diliman, Quezon City.

Incidentally, March 18 is the second anniversary of the Million Trees Nursery and Eco Learning in whose honor the 5-hectare area inside the La Mesa Watershed was dedicated. A training center called Eddie’s Barn funded by San Miguel Corporation President and CEO Ramon S. Ang is also inside the premises of the eco learning center. It’s a tribute to his legacy to environment and sustainable development having left behind to his countrymen 4Ms - MakaDiyos, Makabayan, Makatao at Makakalikasan.

On a personal note, not all are privileged to work with a former Philippine president. But for over 20 years, I’ve had the blessing of serving alongside former President Fidel V. Ramos whose love for our country and heart for good governance remained firm until his death on July 31, 2022.

FVR, as fondly called by his peers and constituents, was known not just for his thumbs-up sign, “Kaya Natin Ito” slogan, his ears or his tobacco but also for his push-ups and crunches and his programs of his administration especially with Philippines 2000.

Even in his nonagenarian years, he never failed to carry on what he had started, always a good soldier who liked to say that he would rather die serving his country with his boots on than sit idly to enjoy his retirement.

Until his passing, FVR continued to inspire and stimulate, stir and enthuse, define and redefine, challenge and defy.

Even after he finished his term as President, Fidel V. Ramos, FVR or Eddie, the private citizen, refused to be “tired even while retired.” He continued to be “a reformer despite being a former President,” and “ex” but not excess and not yet expired.

Other former chiefs of state write their memoirs and then fade into the sunset. He had written more than 30 books while in retirement and through keynote speeches, roundtable discussions, university convocations, etc., kept reminding his successors and other leaders of the urgent things that need to be done for our country and people to achieve a better future.

Our relationship can be described as a wonderful journey that transcends beyond the books we have done together. Since 2000, FVR has commissioned me to write on the biographies of his loved ones: “Enduring Legacy,” on his father Foreign Affairs Secretary Narciso Ramos; “ In A Class of Her Own,” on his mother Angela Valdez Ramos; “Mommy: The Pillar of Social Work” on his mother-in-law Josefa Jara Martinez; “Simply Ming,” on First Lady Amelita “Ming” M. Ramos; “Uncle Sim” on Simeon Marcos Valdez; and, “Colors of Light” on his artist, poetess and ambassador’s spouse auntie Lucia Mangapit Valdez.

Among the best book projects we worked and produced together are: Silver Linings, a story on the 25 Years of the 1986 Revolution with Raffy Alunan III and Gen Reynaldo V. Velasco; RPDEV @ 15: Our Continuing Voyage for Enduring Peace and Sustainable Development and the first volume, Teamwork for Enduring Peace and Sustainable Development chronicling ten years of the Ramos Peace and Development Foundation (RPDEV), a non-profit, non-political, non-partisan non-government organization where he served as chair.

My last book published in 2021, co-authored with then PVAO Administrator Gen. Nesty Carolina and Gen. Pol Bataoil, former Congressional Chairman for Veterans Affairs and now Lingayen mayor, was launched on August 31, 2021 in time for National Heroes Day at the height of COVID pandemic.

It is not only a singular honor and privilege writing books but I always consider it is a gift and a blessing from the Almighty and from FVR himself who had served as a constant guide, inspiration, editor and prime mover of said book projects.

The past 24 years and the several book teams formed have been a great journey of rediscovering FVR and RPDEV. Together, we now form part of a select group called Fidelistas, ardent students of Fidel V. Ramos.

Working with him has allowed the various book teams, notably the millennials, to experience some of FVR’s core values and best practices such as CSW (Completed Staff Work), CSD (Caring, Sharing and Daring), and UST (Unity, Solidarity and Teamwork) – all advocated by FVR.

FVR also became my loving mentor and my second father having earlier lost my own when he succumbed to cancer in 1994.

What if Trump wins the presidency, will he become a dictator?

National polls, at this point in time, are showing that former President Donald Trump is leading president Joe Biden, despite his indictments and about 96 civil and criminal cases pending in various courts.

What if he loses, will he accept the result of the election?

During the 2020 elections, he did not concede, he did not accept the result of the election. Will he do that again in 2024… if he loses?

In 2020 presidential elections, despite election results showing former U.S. Vice President Joe Biden as the presidentelect in which he won the popular votes with more than 3 million votes; won the electoral votes with 306 against Trump’s 232, Trump still held on to the presidency and did not concede the election.

Then, he started telling audiences that the system was “rigged” back when he was losing the election and threatened not to accept the outcome if he lost, which he did. Up to present, he is still saying that the 2020 election was “rigged”.

As early as that time, As I See It, he was already moving towards an authoritarian direction, a “dictator” in a democratic society!

His actions were signs of a dictator, actually… According to the editor of Diggers: “Dictators often rise to power out of conflict or a coup d’état. However, there have been dictators who got into power democratically or legally. Adolf Hitler, for example, was appointed chancellor, or head of government, by President Paul von Hindenburg in 1933. After Hindenburg died, Hitler made himself “Führer” (a combination of president and chancellor).”

In the case of Trump, he was elected president in 2016 and within the four years that he was president, he has shown some qualities of dictatorship in most of his tweets and actions in governing the country. In managing the country, the way I see it, he employed MBI (management by instinct) instead of MBO (management by objective). In most cases, he is thinking of his own interest (I, me and myself doctrine) instead of the citizens, just like how he mishandled the COVID-19 pandemic, which is known to be seven times deadlier than pneumonia. In his government functions, he is using his hotels as venues, so he is earning revenues at the expense of taxpayers’ money.

“How can you tell if your President is a dictator?” the editor of Diggers asked.

First, he said that “Dictators foster cults of personality, a form of hero worship in which the masses are fed propaganda declaring their leader to be flawless and divine.” I agree with the author because the GOP revolves around Trump. People around him glorify him and defend him even if they know that he is wrong, lying and advancing conspiracy theories. They find a way to justify his actions and are afraid of how he will retaliate if they will not follow him. His famous phrase in television “You’re fired!” takes shape in his executive function by firing cabinet members and other key officials if they do not follow him or go against him. The latest was when he fired his defense secretary and the election officer who went against his theory that the election is rigged.

Second, the editor wrote: “Political power is concentrated in the hands of few people or just one person.” The political power rests in Trump’s hands… sometimes encroaching on legislative and judicial processes. He wields power in the GOP-controlled Senate and tries to woe the Supreme Court appointing conservatives where he now has three appointees.

Another author, Stephen M. Walt said on Nov. 23, 2016, “Just because the United States is a democracy now, it doesn’t mean it will stay that way… But if you live in the United States, what you should really worry about is the threat that Trump may pose to America’s constitutional order. His lengthy business career suggests he is a vindictive man who will go to extreme lengths to punish his opponents and will break a promise in a heartbeat and without remorse. The 2016 campaign confirmed that he has little respect for existing norms and rules – he refused to release his tax returns, lied repeatedly, claimed the electoral and political systems were “rigged” against him, threatened to jail his opponent if he won, among other such violations – and revealed his deep contempt for both his opponents and supporters. Nor does he regret any of the revolting things he did or said during the campaign, because, as he told the Wall Street Journal afterward, “I won.” For Trump, just like any dictator, it seems, “the ends really do justify the means.”

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(ART GABOT MADLAING is accredited and commissioned Notary Public and licensed Real Estate Broker in California since 1981. He is the founder of MOBILE SIGNING SERVICES, FITNESS FOR HUMANITY(aka

He scolded me when he needed to especially when coming in late for our appointed meetings; reprimanded me when I was not up to his high and excellent standards; and, he patted my back in times of appreciation and satisfaction on good works done.

During regular visits to his of-

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Walt offered some warning signs that American democracy is at risk. His first warning sign was Trump’s “Systematic efforts to intimidate the media.” Trump, Walt said, “sailed to the presidency on a The Top of lies and exaggerations, and there is no reason to think he will discover a new commitment to the truth as president. The American people cannot properly judge his performance without accurate and independent information, and that is where a free and adversarial press is indispensable. If the Trump administration begins to enact policies designed to restrict freedom of the press, or just intimidate media organizations from offering critical coverage, it will be a huge (or if you prefer, yuge) warning sign.”

Walt said, in Trump’s ideal world: “Americans would get their news from some combination of Breit-

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ART GABOT MADLAING

ELPIDIO R.

MELANDREW T. VELASCO

DA chief eyes changes in 2025 agri budget to boost food production

QUEZON CITY -- Agriculture Secretary Francisco

P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. will propose significant changes in the department’s 2025 budget to achieve President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s goal to modernize agriculture, increase food production and ensure food security.

“The budget in 2025 will be very different from this year,” the agri chief told members of the Philippine Chamber of Agriculture and Food Inc. (PCAFI) recently.

Apart from pushing the production of rice, the country’s national staple, Sec. Tiu Laurel envisions a budget that will increase livestock, poultry and high value crop output, widen irrigation coverage using solar-powered systems, improve post-harvest facilities for rice and corn, and rationalize use of fertilizers.

The agri chief wants to undertake extensive soil mapping and testing to determine which areas in the country are better suited for cultivation of rice, corn and other crops, and which locations could be used for other agricultural purposes.

He said the budget for fertilizers needs to be reviewed since fertigation—using fertilizer solutions with irrigation water—has proven a more cost-effective agriculture practice. “Fertigation saves 40 percent of fertilizer while doubling production,” he said.

Since it takes several years for large irrigation projects to be completed, Sec. Tiu Laurel said he is looking to quickly irrigate 180,000 hectares by using solarpowered irrigation systems. He earlier estimated that these additional irrigated area will yield as much as 1.2 million metric tons of palay per year or more than 6 metric tons per hectare a year compared with the na-

tional average yield of 4.1 metric tons in 2023.

The DA was given a budget of P197.84 billion this year, with P118.66 billion earmarked for rice-related initiatives.

PCAFI has recommended a reduction in rice-related budget and redistribute it to high-value and other crops and livestock and poultry, whose contributions to agriculture output of 33.8 percent and 30 percent, respectively, are higher than rice’s 23 percent share.

The 2024 budget of the DA has set aside P5.03 billion of high-value and other crops and P6.15 billion for livestock and poultry.

Sec. Tiu Laurel acknowledged the industry group’s recommendations and even invited PCAFI to send a representative during the DA’s budget preparation conference.

Google sees ‘amazing growth’ in Philippines economy

MANILA - Giant technology company, Google Philippines lauded the robust and “amazing growth” of the Philippine economy under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

“Our reports reflect a lot of what you mentioned

about the growth potential and the amazing growth that we’ve seen in the Philippines,” Google Philippines Country Manager Jackie Wang said.

Can a C-1 visa holder adjust status?

Many Filipinos are Crewmember of a vessel whether cargo or passenger vessel. They are usually issued with C-1 visas. However, recently C-1 visa is also issued to those nonimmigrants transiting to the U.S. If they married to a U.S. citizen, then the question comes to mind is whether they can adjust their status in the U.S.

In general, C-1 visa refers to Crewmen who were barred from adjusting status in the U.S. However, C-1 visa are also issued to those non-immigrants who are transiting to the United States to go to other countries. The USCIS Policy Manual clarifies this matter as stated below:

“A nonimmigrant crewman is barred from adjusting status. This bar applies to an applicant serving as a crewman who is permitted to land as a D-1 or D-2 nonimmigrant, as shown on the applicant’s Arrival/ Departure Record (Form I-94) or Crewman’s Landing Permit (Form I-95), and by the corresponding visa contained in the crewman’s passport. The bar also applies to an applicant who was admitted as a C-1 nonimmigrant to join a crew.

In addition, the applicant’s service as a crewman is controlling regardless of the applicant’s actual nonimmigrant status, if any. For example, an applicant admitted in B-2 nonimmigrant visitor status while serving as a crewman is barred from adjustment.”

To summarize, the controlling factor is the type of work the person intending to adjust status. If he is employed as a crewman regardless of the nonimmigrant visa issued, he is barred form adjusting status. On the other hand, even if the visa issued is a C-1 he can still adjust status if he is just transiting to the U.S. to go to other country, provided he is not a member of the crew intending to work in a vessel as crewman.

Wang made the remarks during the question-andanswer portion of the “World Economic Forum” on Tuesday where she asked President Marcos on how he can help in the digitization journey and make “a digital Philippines.”

She said that Google’s own digital economy report reflects a lot of what the President mentioned about the growth potential in the Philippines.

Since 2023, the Philippines’ digital economy is as big as US$23 billion in growth in merchandising value and has a compound “giga growth” of 16 percent, as described by the Google official.

In response, President Marcos Jr. invited the private sector to help the government in improving the country’s internet connectivity and fortifying critical infrastructures against cyber-attacks.

“Well, we are still at the level where we are worried about connectivity and we are working very hard because being an island nation that becomes a real factor, that becomes a real challenge. And–to start with government when I first came, when we first came into office,” the President said.

“We conducted a survey and on how–what are the consumers’ habits when it comes to the use of the internet and we got back statistics which was really rather worrisome and that was that 95 percent of an ordinary Filipino citizen’s activities in terms of payment, for example, clearances and all that, 95 percent of the activity is over the internet. The last five percent was government and that’s why we still are falling behind,” he pointed out.

The President described the cyber security problem as “the darker side of the technology,” which has become quite pronounced prompting the government to respond.

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

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Exciting March Promotions at Sky River Casino

Grand Opening of Humidor – Superb Bourbon and Cigar Lounge

Lucky Draws for A Porsche Macan & Jeep Wagoneer

Sky River Casino proudly announces the grand opening of The Humidor, a bourbon and cigar lounge for aficionados in the Sacramento region. This elegant establishment is the latest feather in the cap of the casino, which already boasts an array of 18 upscale bars, restaurants, and lounges, including SR Prime Steakhouse, 32 Brews Street, Dragon Beaux, and the dynamic culinary marketplace, The Market.

The Humidor stands as a haven for those who appreciate the finer things in life, featuring a meticulously curated selection of over 50 rare and soughtafter spirits. The collection showcases prestigious names such as Macallan, Pappy Van Winkle Family, WhistlePig, and Louis XIII, which guests can savor in a setting that exudes luxury and comfort.

Sky River Casino is thrilled to roll out exciting March promotions including two guaranteed car giveaways! The “Table Games Exclusive Porsche Giveaway” invites guests to engage in the lively atmosphere of table games with the chance to win a 2024 Porsche Macan! Or you can get “Out on the Open Road” with a new 2024 Jeep Wagoneer, by simply playing Slots or Table Games with your Sky River Rewards Card. Earn entries all month long and join us on Friday, March 29 for the Porsche Giveaway and Saturday, March 30 for the Jeep Wagoneer Drawing.

Adding to the allure of Sky River Casino’s offerings is The Breakfast Counter, now serving up the comfort of breakfast around the clock. Located in The Market, the diner-style venue caters to patrons

with any schedule, offering a scrumptious array of breakfast staples, including the opulent Million Dollar Stack, the hearty Three Pointer, and the classic Chicken Fried Steak. To complement these dishes, a selection of beverages from aromatic coffees to refreshing mimosas and Bloody Marys are available to enhance the dining experience.

Sky River Casino invites you to explore these latest ventures that further solidify its position as the

leading entertainment destination in the Sacramento Valley. For additional information on The Humidor’s offerings, the exciting March promotions, or the delightful fare at The Breakfast Counter, please reach out to Sky River Casino at 916-866-0200 or visit their website at www.SkyRiver.com. Join us for a taste of luxury, excitement, and culinary excellence.

*Must be at least 21 years of age or older and a Sky River Rewards member. Visit Sky River Rewards Club for complete details. Management reserves all rights. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

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‘It’s Showtime’ to start airing on GMA Network in April

This is something many thought would be impossible to happen.

ABS-CBN’s top noontime show “It’s Showtime” will be officially airing on once rival station GMA Network, replacing the timeslot of now-defunct noontime program “Tahanang Pinakamasaya”.

Starting on April 6, the Kapamilya noontime show will be available on the Kapuso network’s main channel from Monday to Saturday, at 12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

ABS-CBN and GMA executives sealed the monumental collaboration in the contract signing ceremony held at the GMA Studio 7, with the presence of “It’s Showtime” mainstays Vice Ganda, Anne Curtis, Vhong Navarro, Jhong Hilario, Kim Chiu, Ogie Alcasid, Karylle, Amy Perez, Teddy Corpuz, Jugs Jugueta, Darren, Ryan Bang, Ion Perez, Jackie Gonzaga, MC, Lassy, and Cianne Dominguez.

ABS-CBN’s president and CEO Carlo Katigbak humbly thanked GMA for welcoming and giving “It’s Showtime” a new home.

“Cory (Vidanes) really wanted us to come here today, to the GMA building, because we wanted to prove to you how special this partnership is to us,” Katigbak said in a speech.

“In our 30 years working in ABSCBN, we have never walked through your doors, so thank you for this historic occasion,” he added.

Vice Ganda, meanwhile, wholeheartedly expressed his gratitude to the GMA Network for the support they showed them following the difficulties they faced after ABS-CBN’s shutdown in 2020.

“Ang laki ng tulong at suportang ibinibigay n’yo sa amin. We have been humble expressing that. Hindi naman lingid sa kaalaman nating lahat kung gaano kasadsad ang isinadsad ng Ka-

pamilya, pero nariyan kayo ‘di para tapakan kami at saktan pa sa mga panahong sadsad na sadsad kami.

“Inialay n’yo ang mga kamay n’yo sa amin para unti-unti kaming makabangon. Maraming, maraming salamat,” he added.

The noontime show teased about the “good news” prior to the show’s episode run on Tuesday, with an emphasis on the letter G.

Pilipino Star Ngayon first reported about the programming movement last week following Vice Ganda’s “better days are coming” remark.

“It’s Showtime” has been airing on A2Z on free TV following ABS-CBN’s shutdown in July 2020 and eventually became available on Kapamilya Channel and Kapamilya Online Live.

It also previously aired on TV5 from July 2022 to June 2023 and currently airs on GMA’s GTV channel.

Marc Logan moves to TV5

Broadcaster Marc Logan has joined the roster of TV5 talents in a recent contract signing attended by the Kapatid Network’s top executives.

The popular “Pambansang Pantanggal ng Umay” will soon be seen on TV5 via his new show “Top 5 Mga Kwentong Marc Logan,” which will start airing on April 6. TV 5 sister company Philippine Star report-

ed.

Known for his wit, charm, and unique brand of humor, Marc, once a top feature in ABS-CBN’s daily news program TV Patrol, promises to deliver a program that will provide audiences with much-needed laughter and relief from the stresses of daily life, the report added.

In “Top 5 Mga Kwentong Marc Logan,” he will be taking viewers on

an amusing journey from trending topics to interesting stories of people, places and events. This exciting new show offers a unique blend of humor, entertainment, and insightful storytelling, showcasing Marc’s undeniable talent and charm to a wider audience.

Apart from the featured top 5 stories, the program will also have three special segments: “Taba ng UTalk Naisip mo pa yun?” that highlights the Filipinos’ sense of humor; “ManOpet!” that showcases people or pets with extraordinary talents; and “Pakitalk-kitalk,” which gives a rundown of social media’s weekly viral videos.

TV5, in a statement, said that as a seasoned broadcaster and host, Marc knows how to captivate viewers and keep them coming back for more. Whether he’s interviewing celebrity guests, exploring quirky news stories, or engaging in hilarious skits, viewers can expect lots of laughter and fun-filled moments in every Marc signature presentation.

Filipinos based in the United States and Canada can now watch the Philippine adaptation of “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim” as the ABS-CBN and Viu co-production series is now available for streaming on iWantTFC, the home of Filipino stories, in the two territories starting last March 18.

During the pilot week, the first five episodes of the romantic-comedy series are made available on March 18 as a special treat to standard and premium subscribers of the platform. Succeeding episodes will drop every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday beginning March 25.

“What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim” follows the story of Secretary Kim (Kim Chiu), a highly-qualified secretary, and her narcissistic boss, Brandon Manansala Castillo or BMC (Paulo Avelino). When Secretary Kim resigns from her position, a romantic push and pull between the two happens as they start catching feelings for each other.

The series, directed by Chad V. Vidanes, also stars Jake Cuenca, Janice De Belen, Romnick Sarmenta, Angeline Quinto, Pepe Herrera, Franco Laurel, JC Alcantara, Kaori Oinuma, Gillian Vicencio, Yves Flores, Cai Cortez, Phi Palmos, Kat Galang, and Brian Sy, with the special participation of Korean actor, Kim Won Shik.

To sign up for an account, visit the discover page of iWantTFC. Catch all your favorite Filipino content via the iWantTFC app (iOS and Android) and on its website (iwanttfc.com).

For more details, follow iWantTFC on Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube.

For other updates, follow @ABSCBNPR on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and Threads, or visit www.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.

Marc Logan with TV5 execu�ves

Caroline Julia Cabading Weaves Epic Poetry with Filipino-American History in Musical Album “Sugilanon”

Jazz ar�st Caroline Julia Cabading tells the story of four genera�ons of San Franciscans through the lens of family and community in her latest musical suite and CD release on March

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (February 22, 2024) – Indigenous Philippine percussionist, Jazz and R&B vocalist/composer, and traditional arts educator Caroline Julia Cabading paints a rich tapestry of Filipino-American history in her new album Sugilanon. A distinguished and powerful cultural talent, Cabading will proudly debut the musical suite and celebrate the CD release at a San Francisco community event hosted by the Manilatown Heritage Foundation on March 22.

Titled after the Cebuano word for “story,” the anticipated album is inspired by the Philippine Kalinga Epic Poem di Ullalim. The original poem by the Kalinga people serves as a remembrance of their history, heroes, and families. Honoring the traditions taught by tribal Culture Bearers, Cabading transforms the epic poetry format into a musical performance representing the Filipino-American experience in San Francisco. The album heralds stories of her family’s migration to America in 1904 leading up to the fall of the International Hotel in 1977. Song and spoken word alternate to relay a “hero’s journey” across four generations of family and community that illustrate the universal story of migration.

“Even as Sugilanon tells

While the economic landscape for the United States in 2024 is complex and nuanced, signs suggest that the country may face the looming specter of a recession. Various economic indicators, such as the yield curve spread and consumer sentiment, paint a picture of uncertainty and caution among investors and consumers alike.

The economist David Rosenberg’s “full model” highlights an 85% chance of a recession within the next 12 months. This prediction is further reinforced by the New York Fed model, which historically has been a reliable predictor of recessions based on yield curve data.

Despite a recent shift in sentiment, with some investors hopeful for a soft landing facilitated by Federal Reserve interest rate hikes, many remain cautious. The divide is apparent across different sectors of the economy. While the Federal Reserve staff no longer forecast a recession, economists are split, with 48% predicting a recession within the next year. Consumer sentiment on Main Street leans toward caution, with over 69% believing a recession is likely.

In contrast, certain segments of corporate America, such as Goldman Sachs and Bank of America, have revised their recession forecasts downward. However, a significant majority of CEOs are still preparing for a potential downturn in the next 12-18 months.

The economic tug-of-war is further complicated by mixed signals in the wider economy. While retail sales remain solid, household debt has surged to record highs, and corporate defaults are on the rise. This dichotomy underscores the uncertainty surrounding the potential impact of higher interest rates on consumers and businesses.

Amidst this economic uncertainty, certain companies have emerged as beacons of success. Nvidia and Meta have soared to new heights, with Nvidia becoming the world’s third most valuable company and Meta re-entering the trillion-dollar club. However, other tech giants like Apple and Tesla have faced challenges, with Tesla losing over a quarter of its value year-to-date and Apple struggling with weakening demand and setbacks in its AI and electric car endeavors.

Overall, while the economic landscape in 2024 is fraught with uncertainty and mixed signals, the looming possibility of a recession underscores the need for vigilance and careful economic management in the months ahead.

As the housing market heats up and late homebuyers rush to seize the opportunity, it’s essential for them to carefully consider their readiness and financial preparedness before jumping into the pool of home ownership. Reflecting on the lessons learned from past housing crises, such as the one in 2008, can help potential homebuyers make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls. Here are some key factors that homebuyers should consider:

1. Long-Term Commitment: Homeownership is a long-term commitment, and buyers should assess whether they are prepared to put down roots in a particular location. Consider your life goals, relationships, and interests. How long do you envision yourself living in this home? Ideally, buyers should plan to stay in the home long enough for property values and equity to grow sufficiently to offset buying and selling costs.

2. Job Security: A mortgage is a significant financial commitment, and job stability is crucial. Buyers should wait until their employment situation is stable before considering homeownership. A job loss shortly after purchasing a home can lead to financial stress and potential difficulties in making mortgage payments.

3. Financial Preparedness: Assess your financial readiness by eval-

the story of my family, it also tells the story of the larger Filipino-American experience in San Francisco since the early 1900s,” explains Cabading. “It is an American story, with similarities to other cultures. When I would get on stage, family, friends, and non-Filipinos would say, ‘That’s also my family’s immigration story.’”

As an original composition, Sugilanon presents a FilipinoAmerican jazz suite informed by ancestral Philippine musical motifs and instrumentation of the Maguindanao and Kalinga ethnolinguistic groups. Cabading composes each number with the Kalinga rhythm of “7” compared to the western “8” count, while incorporating standards of jazz music. In the making of Sugilanon, Cabading facilitated cross-cultural learning between the jazz and ancestral ensembles as a part of the creative process. The result is a captivating fusion of Filipino-American jazz paying respect to its ancestral origins and contemporary influence.

A fourth-generation San Franciscan, Caroline Cabading has over 20 years of experience performing, touring, and teaching as a jazz artist and steward and student of Philippine ancestral music and dance. Cabading currently leads the jazz ensemble “The Autonomous Region” and the traditional

A Recession coming in 2024-2025

uating three main factors:

• Savings: Determine whether you have enough savings for a down payment, closing costs, and other expenses associated with homeownership. The more you can put down as a down payment, the lower your monthly mortgage payments will be.

• Credit Score: Lenders typically offer the best mortgage rates to borrowers with high credit scores. Evaluate your credit score and work on improving it if necessary before applying for a mortgage. A higher credit score can result in better loan terms and lower borrowing costs.

Philippine ensemble, the “Manilatown Ancestral Ensemble.” Cabading has been commissioned by the San Francisco Arts Commission, California Arts Council, Zoo Labs, and the Asian Pacific Island Cultural Center to compose original music contributing to the Filipino-American jazz genre.

The commission and production of the March 22nd CD release is made possible by the Gerbode Foundation Special Award in the Arts program as one of only eight musical commissions funded by the prestigious foundation last year.

Produced by their resident composer and executive director, Sugilanon is also the first of three community engagement projects launched by the Manilatown Heritage Foundation this year. The Manilatown Heritage Foundation incubates community-based creatives telling stories of the FilipinoAmerican community and offers community culture-bearer informed instructions on pre-colonial Philippine ancestral music.

The Manilatown Heritage Foundation invites you to the official album debut on Friday, March 22, 6 pm at the International Hotel on 868 Kearny Street in San Francisco, CA. Register for the event at http://tinyurl.com/sugilanon03222024.

• Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI): Lenders assess your DTI to determine your ability to repay a mortgage. Aim for a DTI below 36%, although higher ratios may still qualify for a mortgage. Lowering your DTI by reducing debt or increasing income can improve your chances of qualifying for a mortgage with favorable terms.

By carefully considering these factors and ensuring readiness in terms of commitment, job security, and financial preparedness, late homebuyers can make informed decisions and mitigate risks associated with entering the housing market during a period of heightened activity and potential economic uncertainty. Taking the time to assess readiness can help buyers avoid the pitfalls of the past and achieve successful homeownership in the long run.

Hidilyn leads PHL lifters in final Paris Olympic qualifier in Thailand

MANILA – Tokyo Olympics gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz-Naranjo will lead the country’s bid for Olympic berths in the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) World Cup scheduled in Phuket, Thailand from March 31 to April 11.

Joining the 2020 Tokyo Olympic gold medalist in the tournament, which is the final qualifier for the Paris Olympics, are fellow Zamboangueñas Rosegie Ramos (W49kg.) and Kristel Macrohon; Lovely Inan of Angono, Rizal (W49kg.); John Febuar Ceniza (M61kg.); Elreen Ann Ando of Cebu City; and Vanessa Sarno of Bohol.

Macrohon and Sarno are both competing in the W71kg. while Diaz-Naranjo and Ando are in the W55kg. category.

The athletes, accompanied by Samahang Weightlifting ng Pilipinas (SWP) president Monico Puentevella and coaches Antonio Agustin Jr. and Diwa delos Santos (Zamboanga City), Nicolas Jaluag (Bohol), and Christopher Bureros (Cebu City), will leave on March 29.

Based on the IWF Olympic qualifying rankings, Ceniza is 6th; Sarno, 5th; Diaz-Naranjo, 8th; and Ramos, 9th.

Only the Top 10 lifters will earn a quota place for their

respective country and bodyweight category through the IWF Olympic Qualification Ranking tournaments from Aug. 1, 2022 to April 28, 2024.

The World Cup will be the first tournament for DiazNaranjo after sustaining a knee injury while competing at the 2023 IWF Grand Prix II in Doha, Qatar.

She skipped last month’s Asian Championships where the Philippines bagged two silver medals courtesy of Ramos and Ando, a bronze medalist at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games.

At the SEA Games, Sarno won the gold medal in Vietnam (2022) and Cambodia (2023) while Macrohon triumphed in Manila (2019).

Sarno also bagged two medals at the Asian Championships -- a gold in Tashkent, Uzbekistan (2020) and a silver in Jinju, South Korea (2023).

Ceniza, 25, got the silver medal at the 2023 World Grand Prix II in Qatar. He registered a total of 298kg. despite finishing fourth in snatch (133kg.) and fifth in the clean and jerk (165kg.). His lifts are new national records. (Jean Malanum)

Eala, Bolden named Women in Sports Awards’ Athletes of the Year

MANILA – Tennis’ Alex Eala and football’s Sarina Bolden were named Athletes of the Year of the inaugural Women in Sports Awards which will be held at Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila.

Eala, 18, bagged the women’s singles and mixed

doubles bronze medals at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou, China.

She also won the Australian and French Open junior doubles and a US Open junior singles title two years ago.

PACQUIAO-ELORDE AWARDS. World Boxing Council (WBC) president Mauricio Sulaiman arrives in Manila to a�end the inaugural Pacquiao-Elorde Awards Night on March 24 as guest of honor and speaker at Okada. Sulaiman will also pay tribute to WBC Champion Gabriel Flash Elorde in a wreath-laying ceremony at his Manila Memorial Park tomb. (Wendell Alinea)

Bolden, on the other hand, saw action in 44 international matches and scored 28 goals since joining the national football team in 2018.

She delivered the goal in the country’s 1–0 win over World Cup co-host New Zealand at the Sky Stadium in Wellington on July 25, 2023.

“The decision to award both Eala and Bolden as Athletes of the Year was quite unanimous. Both are deserving of recognition for not only making us proud of their achievements but also for serving as positive role models as Filipina athletes,” PSC Commissioner Olivia “Bong” Coo, who conceptualized the awarding ceremony, said.

Coo will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award, along with track and field standouts Elma Muros-Posadas, Erlinda Lavandia and the late Lydia de Vega backto-back Asian Games 100-meter sprint queen; powerlifter Adeline Dumapong; and gymnast and taekwondo jin Bea Lucero-Lhuillier.

The awardees were nominated by the national sports associations under the Philippine Olympic Committee and went through a stringent selection process by the five-person panel composed of Stephen Fernandez of the Philippine Olympians Association, Nikko Huelgas of the POC Athletes Commission, Judith Staples of Masters Athletics, Carlo Sampan of Milo Philippines and Judith Caringal from the sports media.

They came up with the criteria for selection with support from the Philippine Commission on Women.

Alex Eala

Crucial participation of ethnic votes given emphasis for coming elections

It has always been an age-old saying that the only thing in the world that has not change is change itself.

And in an issue that is much talked-about and that occupies the mind and time of Americans in the past many months is the elections especially since 2024 is an election year and one crucial factor to consider is the so-called ethnic votes, the actual participation of ethnic voters and how it can impact the coming elections.

Efforts to register and turn out low propensity voters are specific gains that community organizers seek to work on that neighborhoods and disadvantaged populations are often linked to. The struggle in mobilizing people by knocking on doors and actively engaging with communities aside from fundamental to successful labor and community organizing, demonstrating how electoral participation directly connects to tangible outcomes including electing policymakers who will help/defend gains or changing a policy maker who doesn’t- serves as a powerful means to illustrate to individuals that their votes matter.

To further elucidate on the importance of ethnic groups members to participate in elections, Ethic Media Services held a national briefing Voting for Change Why it Works: Community Advocates Make a Case for Ethnic Votes to hear from speakers who work in communities across the country and talk about how the power of the vote can help generate change.

In the panel were Integrated Voter Engagement Organizer with Strategic Concepts in Organizing and Policy Education (SCOPE) in South Los Angeles Ernie Serrano, Houstonbased community activist and Executive VP with the National OCA, Asian Pacific American Advocates Debbie Chen and Executive Director of Alabama Values Anneshia Hardy.

Serrano started with his belief that social change has to be through the people that are most affected by it to begin with “because the powers in our communities weren’t investing in us.

“There was heavy redlining, policing, failed responses to the crack epidemic and corporate and environmental exploitation. We wanted to have a say in how our elected leaders were governing us,” stated Serrano, whose

OAKLAND, Calif. — In April, more than five million Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) customers will automatically receive the California Climate Credit on their energy bill.

Residential households with an active electric account will automatically receive an electric credit of $55.17, an increase from last year’s credit of $38.39. Residential households with an active gas account will automatically receive a credit of $85.46, an increase from the $52.78 credit in 2023. That is a total credit of $140.63 for customers receiving both gas and electric service from PG&E.

“This credit highlights our partnership with the state to champion environmental responsibility,” said Vincent Davis, Senior Vice President, Customer Experience. “It encourages sustainable practices, moving our communities toward a brighter, greener future.”

The California Climate Credit is part of the state’s efforts to fight climate change and is distributed by PG&E to customers as

By Jun Nucum

In sharing the success of his organizations efforts to have toxic oil wells shutdown in Inglewood, CA Serrano explained that “because communities of color are often disenfranchised, many members are not as politically informed, and so “the grassroot effort to have a voice at the table requires telling our community why it’s important to vote, showing what it can win.”

One major recent victory by SCOPE involved the 2022 election of LA Mayor Karen Bass, who gave up her congressional seat to run a grassroots campaign against billionaire Rick Caruso.

“So, you have a grassroots leader, with only $10 million in budget, against someone who spent $109 million dollars with big business support … recreating her through ads to the point that people thought she was an entirely different person than who she was,” Serrano added. “These are odds that, historically, people don’t beat, and we won.”

“Because Caruso didn’t have a concept of what it meant to reach the demographic that he needed to reach in order to gain the seat,” added Serrano. “If he was really interested in bettering conditions in LA like homelessness and environmental issues, he would have invested in LA residents …who are often disengaged from the voting process because they don’t believe the system was designed for us, that it’s already rigged for the powers that be. But that’s not necessarily true.”

For her part, Chen shared “the power of community voting “starts with the Census and not simply ‘Come election time, go vote,’ because redistricting is actually the best way to

conduct mass voter suppression.”

“The Census determines who gets counted for redistricting, which determines who gets to govern, vote and spend in certain areas.”

Redistricting is the process through which congressional districts are drawn every ten years, following the decennial Census count.

“For the average first-generation immigrant, the importance of ‘being counted’ doesn’t necessarily resonate,” Chen continued. “But when you approach it from the perspective that being counted lets you decide who gets to spend your tax dollars, how much of your money comes back to your area to get roads built, schools, nice sidewalks as opposed to ditches — everybody understands money.”

“Many people in the new immigrant AAPI community don’t realize how your vote gives you power to influence your community this way,” Chen added. “Although AAPI are the fastest-growing U.S. ethnic group, neither party has traditionally invested in outreach to the AAPI community, despite the fact that in many areas our vote can make that margin of difference in closer races.”

In Texas, for instance, eligible AAPI voters grew by 74% between 2010 and 2020, compared to a 21% increase in overall eligible voters statewide.

“The power of voting lies in “making sure that we get counted, that our influence over our community doesn’t get diluted through racial gerrymandering,” Chen stressed. “It should come down to who can best invest in where we live.”

Hardy emphasized that politics is local and the the message of ‘If your vote wasn’t important, they would stop it’ doesn’t ring true because of these coordinated efforts to dilute our vote, the value of it.”

“White men, for example, are 30% of the population but hold 62% of U.S. elected offices, often as a result of incumbency and racial redistricting such as in the Milligan fair mapping case, which Alabama Values helped win last year in favor of two newly redrawn majority-minority districts reflecting the state’s growing Black electorate,” Hardy disclosed.

According to Pew Research, although white voters are historically more likely to turn out than other ethnic groups, ethnic voters make up increasingly decisive electorates in battleground states, while the share of nonHispanic White eligible voters has been declining since 2000.

“By helping voters see themselves in the solution to issues that matter to them — social justice, health care, education,” noted Hardy. “Who controls the narrative has power over tangible community outcomes.”

“The notion that voters of color abstain because they feel their vote doesn’t matter fails to acknowledge the deeper issue at play,” Hardy continued. “Many of these voters are disappointed not because they undervalue their vote, but because they see unkept political promises that persist despite their vote.”

Currently, Hardy’s Alabama Values is battling Senate Bill 1, a piece of state legislation that makes absentee ballot voting a felony — worsening the ability of many Alabamians, particularly those of color living in remote areas, to vote at all.

“Even in the midst of trying to get people to vote, we’re fighting to ensure that everyone has access to the ballot at all,” added Hardy. “To engage these voters, particularly voters of color, we must address their legitimate concerns about the democratic process by working to make it more responsive to what they want.”

directed by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). This credit is from the California Cap-and-Trade Program, which requires power plants, fuel providers, and large industrial facilities that emit greenhouse gases to buy carbon pollution allowances. The bill credit is designed to help utility customers during the transition to a low-carbon future.

Residential customers receive biannual electric credits during April and October, while natural gas customers receive an annual credit in April. Eligible small business customers receive identical electric credits, distributed twice a year. Both sets of customers will receive the second electric credit in October. PG&E will also distribute over $36 million to eligible industrial customers on behalf of the CPUC. Eligibility requirements and other details are online here.

In addition to the California Climate Credit, customers are encouraged to explore other ways to save energy, reduce costs on monthly bills, and contribute to building a sustainable future.

PG&E Assistance Programs for Incomeeligible Customers

California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE): offers a discount of 20% or more each month on energy bills.

Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA): offers a monthly discount of 18% on electricity bills for households with three or more people.

Energy Savings Assistance (ESA): provides energy-saving improvements at no charge.

Relief for Energy Assistance through Community Help (REACH): offers a onetime energy credit of up to $1,000, doubling the previous amount of up to $500 based on past due balances. This is to help with sudden hardship and to prevent service disconnections.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP): a federally funded assistance program overseen by the state that offers a one-

time payment to help low-income households pay for heating or cooling in their homes, provides emergency assistance in energy crises, and home weatherization.

PG&E’s Energy Efficiency DIY Tool Kit

Did you know you can lower energy bills and save money with PG&E’s Energy Efficiency DIY tool kit? With a $200 investment in energy-efficient materials, customers can save nearly $1,000 each year.

For more ways to manage your monthly bills, visit: Save Energy & Money.

About PG&E Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation (NYSE: PCG), is a combined natural gas and electric utility serving more than sixteen million people across 70,000 square miles in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit pge.com and pge.com/news

You can read about PG&E’s data privacy practices at PGE.com/privacy.

Ernie Serrano

SCOPE first formed to mobilize South Los Angeles communities after the Rodney King riots in 1992.

Debbie Chen Anneshia Hardy

Remains of missing Filipino teenager in New Jersey found in Newark Bay

The search for missing Filipino teenage in New Jersey ended on a sad note after the body of 18-year-old Hayley Alvarado who has left their home three months ago before Christmas last year was found at Newark Bay in Bayonne, New Jersey on Tuesday March 5

According to the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, a woman’s body, then unidentified, was recovered from the Newark Bay while the Hudson County Sheriff’s Department confirmed that they got a call that a woman was found in the water near Stephen R. Gregg Park around 1:30 p.m. The woman was pronounced dead at the scene and has not yet been identified, officials added.

There were no visible signs of trauma on her body and that the cause of death is still pending the results from the medical examiner.

In a phone interview, Hayley’s father Stephen Alvarado intimated that what happened in the last week is still heavy in their heart even if they are comforted that they at least had a closure with what happened unlike that of families of other missing children whose whereabouts have not known for years and even decades if at all they are found.

“Last weekend March 9th, I received devastating news. After nearly three agonizing

months of searching, my daughter Hayley has been found deceased in Bayonne, NJ. The authorities requested my entire family to report to the Hudson County Prosecution’s Office in Secaucus, where they informed us about the discovery of her body in Bayonne. The clothing they showed us, including a blue T-shirt marked Delaware that I distinctly remember buying for her during a visit to Maryland two years ago, matched what she was last seen wearing, along with the pants and shoes,” Stephen recalled. “ My wife, Portia, and my sons, Harley and Hanson, and I were overwhelmed with grief upon seeing those items, confirming our worst fears. The police are asking us to wait for the results of the autopsy and DNA test.

Stephen also mentioned that on March 11, he received a call from police authorities “informing us that Hayley’s dental records match the body that was discovered. We are struggling to come to terms with this heartbreaking news. Your understanding and support during this incredibly difficult time would mean a lot to us.”

The obituary for Hayley read: Hayley Erin Alvarado October 9, 2005 - March 5, 2024

”Hayley Erin Alvarado, sweetly known by her nickname “Lee” among her close circle, passed away on March 5, 2024, in Jersey City, New Jersey, leaving a legacy of kindness, brilliance, and passionate advocacy. Born on October 9, 2005, in Tacloban City, Philippines, to proud parents Portia and Stephen Alvarado, Hayley was a beacon of light for those privileged to know her.

Despite her young age, Hayley was a remarkable individual with a soul far wiser than her years would suggest. Her dedication to her studies at Montclair State University,

Social Security Update

STAY HEALTHY AND INDEPENDENT WITH THE SENIOR NUTRITION PROGRAM

By G. Samson Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in the Bay Area

Are you eligible for Social Security retirement benefits or already receiving them? Did you know that you can also receive healthy meals and other nutrition services through the National Senior Nutrition Program? Local meal programs in communities across the country are waiting to serve you.

As we age, we have different needs, different ways we take care of our health, and different nutrients we need to get from our food. But we don’t always have enough healthy food or the desire to prepare or eat a meal. Whether you need more food, healthier food, someone to share a meal with, or just want to learn about good eating habits, a meal program can help.

save time and money with less shopping and cooking.

• Offer opportunities to connect and socialize, which can help improve your mental and physical health.

• Teach you how to create a healthy eating plan. You can learn about healthy food recommendations based on your age, unique needs, and preferences.

• Connect you with other resources like transportation or homemaker services. This helps you stay connected and engaged in your community.

where she was a freshman studying for a BA in Linguistics, exhibited her passion for learning and understanding the world around her. She was a wide reader, an eloquent speaker, and a good leader. Beyond academics, her vibrant spirit shone brightly through her love to give hugs and small stuff or gifts to her family and friends. She loves singing, violet color, colognes, food-”sisig,” animes, and video games. These brought her immeasurable joy and allowed her to connect with others uniquely and meaningfully.

Hayley was a jewel in her family’s lives. As a daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, and friend, she radiated love, compassion, and an indomitable spirit that inspired everyone around her. Her unwavering generosity and brilliant mind left an indelible mark on those fortunate to have crossed paths with her. She survived and was forever missed by her loving parents, Stephen and Portia; her brothers, Harley and Hanson; and a community of friends touched by her warmth and grace.

In remembrance of Hayley’s extraordinary journey through life, her brother Harley poignantly stated, “It is said that a person dies twice: once physically and once when they are forgotten. Hopefully, that second death will come long after we pass on.” This sentiment encapsulates the desire of those who knew Hayley to perpetuate her memory through their actions and the love they carry in their hearts for her.

Lee’s earthly departure has left us with heavy hearts. Yet, we are encouraged by her cherished memories and the positive impact she made on each life she touched. As we celebrate Hayley Erin Alvarado’s life, let us honor her by living as she did—with kindness, compassion, and a commitment to improving

the world.

Hayley was an undone melody, a book left open—a life so beautifully started yet so heartbreakingly cut short. In her absence, we find solace in the love she shared and the light she brought into our lives. Farewell, dear sweet Lee, until we meet again

Hayley’s remains were cremated last Thursday after last sacraments were administered to her by a Catholic priest while visitation is scheduled tomorrow Monday March 18 from 5:00 PM - 9:00PM at the Greenville Memorial Home located at 374 Danforth Ave. Jersey City, NJ 07305

Funeral mass will be held on 11:30 AM Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at the Our Lady of Mercy Roman Catholic Church 40 Sullivan Dr. Jersey City, NJ 07305

After the funeral service here in New Jersey, the Alvarado we will be burying Hayley’s remains in Tacloban as her final resting place.

Every day, senior nutrition programs serve almost one million meals to people age 60 and older. With home-delivered and group meal options, you can get the food you need in a way that works best for you. Senior nutrition programs can:

• Help you avoid missed meals – and

It’s no surprise that 9 out of 10 participants would recommend a senior nutrition program to a friend. Find a senior nutrition program in your area and help us spread the word by sharing it with your loved ones, neighbors, and community. Visit eldercare.acl.gov/Public/Index.aspx for more information.

The Senior Nutrition Program is administered by the Administration for Community Living, part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Hayley Alvarado

Stephen Alvarado

As I See It

(From Page 11)

bart, Fox News, and the president’s own Twitter feed, which would keep the public bamboozled and go a long way toward insulating him from the consequences of his own mistakes. Congress would probably refuse to fund a public broadcaster that was reliably in Trump’s pocket, but if it did, look out.”

The second is “Stacking the Supreme Court.” Again, Walt commented: “Trump will likely get the opportunity to appoint several Supreme Court justices, and the choices he makes will be revealing. Does he pick people who are personally loyal and beholden to him or opt for jurors with independent standing and stellar qualifications? Does he pick people whose views on hot-button issues such as abortion, gay marriage, and campaign financing comport with his party’s, or does he go for people who have an established view on the expansiveness of executive power and are more likely to look the other way if he takes some of the other steps I’ve already mentioned? And if it is the latter, would the Senate find the spine to say no?” to date, Trump has already three justices he appointed in the Supreme Court.

“The bottom line,” Walt commented, “I am by no means predicting the collapse of democracy in the United States under a President Donald J. Trump. What I am saying is that it is not impossible, and there are some clear warning signs to watch out for. Now, as always, the price of freedom is eternal vigilance. Or to use a more modern formulation: If you see something, say something.”

Trump was indicted and have about 96 pending criminal and civil cases. Lately, there were court decisions against him, but he appealed them to higher courts, so the case will still be pending. That’s what he does – appeal every adverse decision – to delay the verdict until the November general elections that will pave the way for his winning the presidency.

Despite the gag law imposed on him to stop talking about the merits of the case, he kept on finding a way to avoid it and used it in his campaign to generate campaign funds which most people/entities are buying it. His war chest has swelled after every decision made and has been gaining supporters and other GOP leaders endorsing him.

Now that he is the official party candidate of GOP, which has to be validated come the July GOP party convention with former South California governor and former UN ambassador Nikki Haley, who was the last man standing of the original 14 candidates that opposed Trump, suspending her presidential campaign, he has to face president Biden, who will likely be the Democratic Party nominee.

He made it a point to go after those who wronged him and make it hard for them once he becomes the president the second time around. It’s scary… he is vindictive! Would you like to be a president like that?

So, is Trump moving towards an authoritarian direction in a democratic society? Your guess is as good as mine!

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

The Outsider

(From Page 11)

fice, he personally saw to it that my team was served with his “coffee royale” laced with virgin coconut oil because according to him, it does well for one’s health and vitality. We all have to agree.

After coffee, he always treated us either with a glass of red wine or his special “FVR cocktail drink” invariably laced with soda, rum, cognac, whiskey or brandy while watching some documentaries or FVR taped interviews showcasing his milestone presidency and continuing work as senior statesman.

As for his many sorties overseas wherein I was privileged to join, he was always admired, respected and adulated as former President and head of state.

But there’s one unforgettable experience I had with him that showed the stuff he was really made of. I remember one incident in June 2013 when we staged the Pilipinas Roadshow with my co-book authors former DILG Secretary Rafael M. Alunan III and Gen. Reynaldo V. Velasco featuring our book “Silver Linings: 25 Years of the 1986 People Power Revolution,” and “Tagaligtas: A Documentary on the Spercial Action Force” (long before the Mamasapano massacre happened) in eight key cities in the United States to promote Filipino values and instill patriotism to the Fil-Ams in time for the Independence Day celebration.

Inspite of the debilitating pain on his back and leg when he injured himself in San Diego, California while doing his usual crunch with some Fil-Ams, FVR, who was very well beyond his years, withstood the pain and committed to continue the 8-city tour to Atlanta, Georgia, Washington D.C., Virginia, New Jersey and New York without any complaints or grievance.

Beyond the pain, the show must go on. Such a kindred and brave soul and he taught the Pilipinas Roadshow Team a lesson or two on pain management, mind over matter, professionalism and honoring one’s commitment.

Through the years that I’ve known him, the many young and not so old writers that have been involved with the book projects have also seen the other human side of FVR – comical, witty and a tad bit serious when needed. I recalled when he shook the hands of one lady writer and FVR feigned sickness to the lady writer’s great concern. Obviously,

-- Guests Can Make A Splash at The Cove, Pechanga’s Pool Complex, The Size of 5 Football Fields -GET SET FOR SPRING & SUMMER! PECHANGA RESORT CASINO ANNOUNCES ITS 4.5-ACRE POOL OASIS OPENING MARCH 11 FOR THE SEASON

Just in time for Spring Break this March, one of the largest resort pool complexes at one of the country’s biggest resort/casinos reopens for the season Monday, March 11.

This year, pool-goers everywhere will have access to The Cove’s oasis-like environment that’s the size of five football fields. Pechanga Resort Casino’s Cove management makes day passes, cabana and daybed rentals available for non-hotel guests, as well as to Pechanga hotel, Pechanga RV and Temecula Creek Inn guests.

Day passes are priced at $50 plus tax for non-hotel guests. These are available at The Cove check in area. Cabana and daybed reservations may be made in advance by hotel and non-hotel guests by calling (888) 732-4264. Cabana and daybed rental rates vary based on day of the week and availability.

Pechanga Resort Casino’s 4.5-acre pool complex, The Cove, equals in size to five American football fields. Guests can enjoy four pools, two spas, two twisty waterslides, 27 cabanas, six oversized daybeds that skim the main pool, a swim up bar with 18 submerged seats and Baja ledges.

The main pool spans 7,500 square feet and features the swim up bar with bartenders blending up the freshest and sweetest poolside drinks. The Cove’s main pool is a 21 and older area. The family area includes six cabanas around its perimeter and the two twisty waterslides that empty into the deep end of the 4,358 square foot pool.

Many guests rave about The Cove’s food and beverage menu. Specialty cocktails, as well as tried and true favorites are available from The Cove’s two bars – in the lounge or the swim up bar – and from servers throughout the venue. Poolside favorite eats include burgers, fries, nachos, wings, salads, sandwiches and of course, mouthwatering ice cream delights.

By the Numbers:

-The Cove’s area equals 4.5 acres. That’s more than 5 football fields combined.

-4 pools. The largest is the 21 & older main pool at 7,500 square feet. The family pool is 4,358 square feet.

-2 twisty waterslides at the family pool

-18 underwater seats at the swim-up bar at the main pool

-27 Cabanas & 6 Daybeds

Since opening in 2019, The Cove has proved a popular oasislike spot for guests celebrating birthdays and bridal showers, and of course, for those who just want to soak up the Southern California sun in style. Grabbing a bite to eat or a refreshing drink at The Cove is easy with dedicated cabana servers, as well as poolside service at

he was just joking. Such incidents would make most of them wonder how at his age, he still continued to work and contribute to nation building with his wealth of ideas, wisdom and experience.

I believe that FVR was one of the greatest Philippine Presidents this country ever had, being a historian and eyewitness to Philippine history over the last 50 years.

Having served as 12th President of the Philippines from 1992 to 1998, FVR is best remembered for promoting the principles of people empowerment, a culture of excellence, and global competitiveness, focusing on programs to alleviate poverty and improve the lives of ordinary Filipinos. This is evident in the 229 structural/reform laws enacted by the 9th and 10th Congress during his term, achieved principally by building unity, solidarity and teamwork among government and civil society leaders.

As a soldier who served for 42 years, including stints in Korea, Vietnam and in the counter-insurgency campaign, FVR retired as a 4-star General and Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces. He served as Defense Secretary from 1988 to 1991.

As President and thereafter, he is better known as a peace builder with the forging of the peace agreements with the rebel-soldiers in 1995 and with the Moro National Liberation Front in 1996.

The former President who has been in public service since beginning his career as a cadet in the U.S. Military Academy in 1946, continues to practice his distinct brand of public service through the non-government RPDEV Foundation which he and key members of his former Presidential family organized only months after they left office.

His legacy of public service before, during and after his six year presidency are unmatched: West Point honor graduate, Korea and Vietnam War veteran, AFP Vice Chief of Staff, PC-INP Chief, EDSA 1 hero, AFP Chief, Defense Secretary, Philippine President, RPDEV and Boao Forum Chairman, EDSA 2 hero and Senior Statesman.

Truly, Fidel V. Ramos has left an endearing legacy to our nation and he continues to give his indelible imprints on patriotism that celebrate a milestone of life, love, learning for his people and service to our beloved Philippines.

Happy birthday in heaven Mr. President!

FITNESS FOR CHRIST) and ACAPINOY. Art is active Evangelist with the GOLDEN GATE CHURCH OF CHRIST in San Francisco, California USA.)

your lounger or at the walkup food bar.

Inside the Cove complex, guests will also find several modern fire pits perfect for sitting by and sipping a refreshing beverage, men’s/women’s locker and changing rooms, the walk-up Coveside Grill restaurant, luxury cabanas with personalized food and drink service, and a 26,140 square foot lush green lawn for private events.

Other important info:

-Pechanga hotel guest admission to The Cove – complimentary

-Non-Hotel Guest day passes - $50

-Pechanga RV and Temecula Creek Inn guest admission to The Cove - $30 day pass

-Cabanas & Daybeds – rate varies based on weekday/weekends and on availability.

For more information on the Cove, visit Pechanga.com/indulge/the-cove or call (951) 770-8457.

About Pechanga Resort Casino

Pechanga Resort Casino offers one of the largest and most expansive resort/casino experiences anywhere in the country. Voted the best casino in the West by USA Today and rated a Four Diamond property by AAA since 2002, Pechanga Resort Casino provides an unparalleled getaway, whether for the day or for an extended luxury stay. Offering 5,500 of the hottest slots, 152 table games, world-class entertainment, 1,100 hotel rooms, dining, spa and golf at Journey at Pechanga, Pechanga Resort Casino features an unparalleled in California. Pechanga Resort Casino is owned and operated by the Pechanga Band of Indians. For more information, call toll free (877) 711-2946 or visit www.Pechanga.com. Follow Pechanga Resort Casino on Facebook, Instagram and on Twitter @PechangaCasino.

Upside...

EDUCATION IS POWER

(From Page 10)

For nearly 40 years, Philippine International Aid (PIA) has been giving children a path to the future. What began as an effort to give refuge to young children selling sampaguita garlands in the streets of Manila flowered into an educational organization with a tax-exempt US public charity. It is one of the oldest nonprofits in California focusing on the Filipino community by providing scholarships.

Under the leadership of founder Mona Lisa Yuchengco, PIA could not but grow.

No one can gather people together and open their wallets for a cause like the daughter of the late Philippine industrialist-diplomat Alfonso Yuchengco, whose philanthropic gene she clearly inherited.

Every year PIA holds the biggest FilAm humanitarian event uniting Filipinos on both sides of the Pacific. On the surface a fashion show typically headlined by a PH-based designer, each event also showcases art and food products crafted locally and beyond.

Yuchengco is no less known for supporting journalism, having published “Filipinas,” the first FilAm glossy magazine “for all Filipinos” to feature creative writing. Ever au courant, she ventured into digital publishing with “Positively Filipino” comprising the Filipinas core team after she sold the publication to advertising ace Greg Macabenta.

To some, her most important gift to the community is her willingness to share. Two years ago, she offered to be the fiscal sponsor of another woman-led nonprofit focused on her favorite cause - education, this time to combat family and intimate partner abuse.

“We have had some victories but we have had setbacks too,” she assessed the status of US women with Inquirer.netUSA. “In general, women still lag behind men in terms of pay, rights and benefits, social standing and representation. We still have quite a way to go to achieve equality, to end racism and discrimination in all forms, and we need to support each other so that our voices can be heard in the halls of power and decision-making.”

She echoes the words of the country’s first Black, first Asian, and first woman Vice President Kamala Harris: “the status of women is the status of democracy” as the ability of women to participate safely, freely and equally in political life and in society is “a defining feature of democracy.” – Adapted from original reprinted with permission from INQUIRER.NETUSA

Cherie Querol Moreno is Executive Editor of Philippine News Today.

Green card applicants’ woes may have to stay until essential measures are adopted

Tens of millions of green card applicants continue to suffer anxiety and hopelessness as they await their much-awaited and anticipated moment to have a permanent status.

But they have to wait much longer as only about 3% of the people who have submitted green card applications, or about 1.1 million people are expected to receive green cards this year as close to 35 million applications are pending, up from 10 million in 1996.

The first backlogs were said to have started a century ago, when the first immigration caps were applied, and they have quickly accelerated as the immigration laws became more restrictive and complicated because of politics.

Caps and quotas, processing delays, and waste of available green cards are par for the course in a system that discourages legal and orderly immigration.

Experts suggest that the best solution would be to lift caps and significantly expand legal immigration, and argue that the US economy would benefit tremendously, as would the Social Security fund.

To further explain what is currently happening, Ethnic Media Services conducted a national briefing A Century of Green Card Backlog Cripples the Immigration System and Threatens the US Economy Can it be Fixed? where speakers discussed why we reached this crisis point in our legal immigration system, what the solutions are, and why the United States can easily absorb and benefit from the newly legalized population.

Those who spoke included Associate Director of Immigration Studies at the Cato Institute David J. Bier, Senior Policy Analyst, Immigration and Workforce Policy at Bipartisan Policy Center Jack Malde, and Immigration Lawyer and the Founder and Managing Partner of Cyrus D. Mehta & Partners Cyrus Mehta.

The green card issuance problem that was said to have started a century ago are only worsening under politically polarized immigration laws and has been characterized by slow-growing U.S. green card caps, delays and waste have characterized the system.

Bier owes the low approval rate not to the convoluted process of applying for a green card but

David J. Bier

to green card caps saying that until 1922, when backlogs began, about “98% of the applicants who tried to get the then-equivalent of legal permanent residence were approved.”

Bier, who also advocates for increasing legal immigration as the key to solving the border crisis, continued that by the mid-1920s, the approval rate was about 50% due to the Immigration Act of 1924, setting “very low numerical limits based on country of birth, particularly restricting legal immigration from Eastern Europe and Asia.

“In the early ‘30s, we adopted a later phasedout public charge rule that banned almost all applicants,” explained Bier. Approvals remained below 20% during and after World War II, “and this is how we got from open borders to what we have now, which is almost closed borders — a 98% approval rate down to 3% for the last few years.”

Despite the fact that green card applications have more than tripled from about 10 million in 1996 to 35 million now, modern caps — which were originally set by the Immigration Act of 1990 — have barely risen, from 357,000 annually in 1922 to just over 575,000 in 2024.

“The caps are arbitrarily determined by the President in consultation with Congress, they have no basis in reality,” divulged Bier noting that U.S. population growth — which was 0.1% in 2021 and has been roughly 0.25% this decade so far — has never been lower.

“Even if after accepting the 35 million pending green cards, we increased ongoing legal immigration five-fold, we still wouldn’t catch up to Canada’s foreign-born population share,” Bier added. “The U.S. is a huge country, there’s no reason

Malde Cyrus Mehta

population wise we can’t welcome these people.”

Malde, for his part, believes that clearing green card backlogs by welcoming more legal immigrants makes major economic sense as 89% of the employment-based backlog involves people currently in the U.S. on temporary, work-restricted visas, “removing those labor market restrictions allows them to advance in their likely higher-skilled careers.

“On the other hand, most of the family-based backlog are currently outside of the country, so green cards would allow them to contribute to our economy by paying taxes and entering our labor force, which is in dire need of new workers with shortages across industries and an aging population dependent on federal benefits,” Malde continued

As of March 2023 the employment-based adult backlog is 1.4 million (1.8 million total, across ages) and the family-based adult backlog is 4 million (5.8 million total), per a Bipartisan Policy Center report.

Clearing current employment and familybased backlogs, not including future ones, would result in a moderate projection of $3.9 trillion in GDP gains in the next 10 years — though as low as $2.8 trillion or as high as $4.9 trillion.

U.S. immigrants who arrive at age 25 as high school dropouts have a net fiscal impact of +$216,000, not including descendants, which reduces their net fiscal impact to +$57,000. By comparison, American-born dropouts of the same age have a net fiscal impact of −$32,000 that drops to −$177,000 including their descendants.

“It’s a mistaken perception that there are a fixed number of jobs in the economy. When immi-

grants enter the country, they create more jobs for U.S.-born workers, because they contribute their skills,” Malde believes.

Mehta revealed that “working legal immigrants and their children are in danger of falling out of status in a never-ending limbo.”

Employee-sponsored temporary visas like an H1 “get them in backlogs that last forever with extension after extension as non immigrants bound to employers, and in the process, the US loses,” Mehta continued. “They get frustrated and go to countries with much more attractive immigration benefits and systems, like Canada, and so the US may not be able to maintain its world leadership with respect to attracting the best and brightest.”

Alongside spouses, the children of these sponsored immigrants get temporary H4 visas until 21, when they’ll most likely age out “due to horrendous backlogs,” Mehta explained. Even if the child gets a student F1 visa for college, “it requires them to have a non-immigrant intent to return to the foreign country.”

Meanwhile, there’s an H1 cap for employees with U.S. master’s degrees if the child continues to graduate school — and if the child is lucky enough to get one, they start the green card process again. The parent’s priority date cannot be transferred.

As a policy fix, Mehta suggested counting unified family units rather than discrete family members for caps in the employment and family-based categories, or allowing temporary visa holders already in the U.S. to file for early status adjustment before their priority date, so their children’s ages are frozen.

Heart of Hope

and wisest thing to do with the present scary global and domestic outbreaks of measles is to be vaccinated soonest, if your vaccine is not current. Measles could lead to blindness, encephalitis, pneumonia (common among children under 5 and adults over 20) and could be deadly (with a mortality rate as high as 15 percent). Are you current on your MMR vaccines?

Habits

The healthiest habits: eating a healthy diet, avoiding/minimizing intake of sugar and sweets, drinking at least 8 glasses of filtered water, exercising daily, and sleeping 8 hours (when possible) daily; taking mini vacation/staycation to de-stress, doing charity work, and having regular medical/ dental checkups.

Fruits

The healthiest fruits are lemons, strawberries, blueberries, oranges, limes, grapefruits, blackberries, avocados, apples, pomegranates, pineapples, bananas

Vegetables

Asparagus, beetroot, broad beans, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, butternut squash, carrots, cauliflower, celery, chard, garlic, kale, Bokchoy, cabbage

Drinks

Besides pure filtered water, milk, coffee, tea, kombucha, and vegetable smoothies are the healthiest drinks. The worst beverages are soft drinks –they are poison to our body, especially to children, increasing the drinkers’ risk for metabolic syndrome. Thirst quencher sport drinks, like Gatorade and others, contribute to childhood obesity. Drink-

The healthiest…

ing hot water upon rising in the morning is healthiest, instead of cold drinks.

Recreation

Non-drug is the healthiest: Gardening, swimming, volleyball, skiing/snowboarding, horseback riding, hiking, yoga, paddling, meditation. Find a practical choice for yourself and your circumstance.

Exercise

Healthiest: Swimming, tai-chi, tai-bo, normal or brisk walking (jogging eventually damages joints). Personally, I find tai-bo a personal preference, tailoring duration and intensity to what my senior body could take and endure with safety.

Diet

The healthiest: Mediterranean Diet - Plantbased diet of a lot of variety of vegetables, olive oil, whole grains, beans, legumes, nuts, herbs, and spices. Fish, other seafood, lean beef, lean poultry, a glass or two of wine with dinner, and sweets sparingly. Besides quality of food items, quantity is vital to good health, and a joyful mindset during meals, with family and friends. Maintain a normal weight and live longer.

Attitude

The healthiest attitude includes waking up cheerful, being positive and always hopeful, loving, and compassionate, forgiving, showing courage under fire, with malice towards none, bringing your own sunshine to people everywhere you go.

Brain exercise

The healthiest: Solving memory games, jigsaw puzzle, crossword puzzle, reading stimulating books, writing letters/stories, playing chess, sports competitions for seniors, social interactions with people. Travelling, seeing new places and meeting new people, stimulate the mind.

Active joints

The healthiest exercise that minimizes damage to the spine, hip, knee, and ankle joints are walking, bicycling, swimming, and water aerobics. Jog-

ging is becoming less popular because it has been linked to damage of the hip, knee, and ankle joints over time.

Sleep Apnea

The healthiest way to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), frequent prolonged breath-holding while asleep resulting in hypoxemia (low blood oxygen level), is with the use of a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine. Using items advertised as treatment (nose clips, mouth guard, medications, etc.) are unhealthy and dangerous. CPAP addresses the pathology of OSA and effectively keeps the collapsing airway passage in the throat wide open with air pressure for normal air exchange. Don’t be fooled by advertisements. Surgically implanted Inspire is only (a second choice) for those who cannot tolerate CPAP, which is the gold standard in the treatment of OSA.

Cities in the world

The top eight healthiest (and happiest) cities: Copenhagen, Denmark; Frankfurt, Germany; Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Helsinki, Finland; Berlin, Germany; Stockholm, Sweden; Fukuoka, Japan; and Geneva, Switzerland. The people of the United States were the unhappiest in 50 years, according to the mid-2020 study by NORC at the University of Chicago.

Cities in the USA

The ten healthiest cities in the USA according to the Mindbody + Class Pass Annual Wellness Index, in this order: San Francisco, not the safest but ranked the healthiest; Miami, Florida; San Diego, CA; Atlanta, GA; Chicago (the murder capital?), Illinois; Albuquerque, NM; Los Angeles, CA, (despite air pollution?); New York, NY; Oakland, CA; and Tampa, FL.

And finally, I challenge all of you and your loved ones to enjoy life and be the healthiest and happiest possible!

Warning on supplements

Calcium and vitamin D supplements are often

prescribed for postmenopausal women to prevent bone loss.

A clinical study published in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine reports that “women who took calcium and vitamin D supplements had a 7% lower risk of death from cancer but a 6% higher risk of death from cardiovascular disease.”

“Our study, which included 36,000 postmenopausal women, also found an 11% lower risk for total cancer, including 31% and 19% lower incidences of colorectal cancer and invasive breast cancer,” the study authors wrote.

Some supplements to discuss with your physician for approval: Protein collagen, Vitamin D3, Pre and Pro-biotics, zinc to boost the immune system, multi-vitamins and minerals for seniors and poor-eaters, folic acid and B12 for those on antireflux (GERD) medications, and potassium-magnesium capsules for those on water pills.

All other supplements and herbals, although sold over-the-counter, should be taken with the knowledge of your physician. Some of them may not be compatible with your prescription medications and pose dangers to your health.

Each individual is different and reacts to medications differently. Discuss any concerns with your attending physician, who is your best ally when it comes to your health and well-being.

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. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry Truman, President George HW Bush, Muhammad Ali, Astronaut Gus Grissom (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday.com, and philipSchua.com Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com

PHILIP S. CHUA

Jack

Recipe of the Week

Papaitan Baka / Pinapaitan Baka

Ingredients:

1 k. ox tripe/innards

1/2 c. diluted ox bile

1 head whole garlic

1 thumb size ginger, crushed

2 thumb size ginger, cut into strips

1 head garlic, chopped

2 medium size onion, chopped

1 bundle spring onion, chopped

1 small packet, sampalok sinigang mix

2-3 siling labuyo, chopped

1/2 c. patis

salt and pepper

Cooking procedure:

Wash thoroughly ox innards, drain and cut into small slices, set aside liver. In a sauce pan put all innards, whole garlic and crushed ginger cover with water and boil for 15 minutes, drain and discard liquid. Rinse and add fresh water and boil for 1-2 hours or until innards are tender. Remove from pan separate broth and keep aside. In same sauce pan sauté onion, garlic and ginger. Add innards including liver stir for 3-5 minutes, add patis and cook for another 3-5 minutes. Pour in broth and simmer for 10-15 minutes, add siling labuyo, sinigang mix and goat bile (half quantity at time and taste sourness and bitterness add more if required). Simmer for another 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with spring onion. Serve hot.

P170-B modernization of PHL’s int’l airport set

MANILA – Expect a modern and nohassle international airport soon.

This was assured by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista and San Miguel President and COO Ramon S. Ang at the signing of the P170.6-billion Public-Private Partnership (PPP) agreement for the rehabilitation of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Malacanang.

The airport modernization and expansion under the agreement is expected to herald economic growth through better collaborations with both local and foreign investors, Secretary Bautista said.

At the signing of the concession deal between the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), a consortium led by San Miguel, Bautista said the PPP project would “open floodgates” of opportunities from investments, business, tourism, and employment.

“We welcome this development for the NAIA PPP Project as this will not only generate revenue for the government but it will also create opportunities for Filipinos. With a modernized NAIA, we are elevating the airport’s facilities and services to international standards,” he said.

The agreement, Bautista said, would send signal to the international business community about the viability of government infrastructure projects.

“This radical transformation comes at no small price Substantial investments in infrastructure and technology will necessitate collaborations with local and foreign partners,” he added.

San Miguel Corporation’s Ramon Ang, for his part, said the NNIC would not only rehabilitate but also improve the airport’s functionality and “establish a new standard in serving excellence.”

“Together with our partner, Incheon, we have assembled a team of experts, focused on implementing immediate improvement, and help us achieve our longterm goal for NAIA,” Ang said.

President Marcos witnessed the signing and described the pact as an “invest-

ment in our future.”

“This undertaking is not just about revenues that will be remitted to treasury alone, but resources invested in the airport,” Marcos said.

Meanwhile, the Department of Tourism (DOT) expressed its support for the signed agreement that plays a “pivotal role” in the government’s commitment to elevate the standards of transportation and tourism infrastructure in the Philippines.

“With the redevelopment going beyond the physical design and structure of the Philippines’ primary gateway, the NAIA PPP Project symbolizes the Marcos Administration’s dedication to improving infrastructure and enhancing the overall passenger experience and service quality at the country’s primary gateway which our National Tourism Development Plan 2023-2028 concretely envisions,” the department said in a statement.

The DOT emphasized that the privatization of the NAIA was the first of the many initiatives that the national government and the private sector should pursue to improve the country’s gateways including secondary airports and seaports.

“The DOT has fostered a strong alliance with agencies such as the DOTr and private sector partners since the early days of the Marcos administration, fully realizing that tourism, an industry that contributed a remarkable 6.2 percent to the country’s Gross Domestic Product and employed over five million in 2022, can only continue to thrive and take its rightful standing globally through a multi-dimensional approach and by improving infrastructure, foremost of which is our gateways, which serve as the first and last impression of tourists,” it said.

The agreement, signed by Bautista, Ang and Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) General Manager Eric Ines, covers 15 years with an option for a 10-year extension.

The NNIC is composed of San Miguel Holdings Corp., RMM Asian Logistics, Inc., RLW Aviation Development, Inc., and Incheon International Airport Corp.

AIRPORT MODERNIZATION. President Marcos witnesses the signing of an agreement on the moderniza�on and expansion of the Ninoy Aquino Interna�onal Airport, the country’s main gateway between Transporta�on Secretary Jaime Bau�sta and San Miguel President Ramon Ang.