Philippine News Today

BIDEN COMMITS TO ASIA, FREEDOM OF NAVIGATION

As Marcos admits no progress on ASEAN SCS Code of Conduct

By ALFRED GABOT, Editor in Chief

MANILA/PHNOM PENH – Meeting with leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and their partners during their summit meeting in Cambodia’s capital, U.S. President Joe Biden vowed his country’s commitment to the Indo-Pacific as he emphasized the importance of freedom of navigation in the East and South China seas.

By Claire Morales True, Managing Editor

By Jun Nucum

MANILA – It may be a sensitive issue, what with his vice president being the daughter of the previous president, but the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) has asked President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. not to forget the alleged human rights abuses committed by former President Rodrigo Duterte.

Foremost of those abuses are the thousands of extrajudicial killings committed in the

name of Duterte’s anti-drug war.

To this day, the number of mostly poor, young men who were killed remains unknown, but estimates range from a low of 5,000 to a high of 30,000.

Only a handful of Philippine ational Police P P o cers have been charged with executing suspected drug users and pushers, denying them the right to be charged before a court of law and given the

WASHINGTON/MANILA - In a move that is expected to raise the eyebrows of China, US Vice President Kamala Harris will visit Manila next week to meet Philippine President

GOP gov calls Trump racist, responsible for Asian hate

By Gilda Pasion-Balan, Correspondent

MARYLAND - While other party leaders always give him a free pass, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan (R) says former President Donald Trump is racist and responsible for stoking the

of Asian hate that in the last two years have resulted in ever worsening attacks on Asians and Asian Americans.

Hogan said last week that Trump’s recent verbal

First Filipino to win seat at the New York State Assembly represen ng Distri t teven aga

Filipino candidates who are on the verge of being successful in their bid for their individual run for o ce expressed their gratitude and appreciation as they prepare to embark on starting their terms with their constituents’ welfare in mind.

The candidates mainly attribute their victories to friends, families, mentors, volunteers, other supporters and, of course, the voters themselves who made their journeys to success possible.

Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte and later fl y to Palawan on the edge of the tension fi lled West Philip pine Sea and South China Sea. Harris, a former

US PRESIDENT Joe Biden and VP Kamala Harris are in Asia assuring US support

6 ‘Super Tucano’ attack planes now operational: PAF

BASA AIR BASE - The Philippine Air Force (PAF) six Embraer A-29B “Super Tucano” attack aircraft are now fully operational.

This came as one of these planes that sustained damage during a “routine maintenance check flight last year and is now repaired and operational.

PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said the damaged aircraft was made “fully operational” during the third quarter of this year.

“All our ‘Tucanos’ are all in good shape and fully operational, thus contributing to our focused military operations,” she said.

Castillo also said that the spare parts needed for the repairs arrived much

earlier and were immediately installed, bringing the damaged “Super Tucano” into service which was then subjected into a series of tests before its deployment.

Deliveries of these items were affected by the slowdown caused by the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

“The aircraft is now fully mission capable,” the PAF spokesperson added. .

She also said the spare parts were provided by Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer.

Earlier, the PAF said the damaged A-29B is repairable and will be returned immediately to service once the needed parts and technicians arrive from Brazil.

PHL visitor arrivals reach 2 M; tourism revenue hits P100 Billion

MAKATI CITY - The Department of Tourism (DOT) announced that visitor arrivals to the Philippines have reached the two million mark.

This accounted to more than P100 billion in estimated visitor receipts since February 10, 2022, when the country’s border restrictions were relaxed to foreign tourists.

“ ur latest figures have reached well beyond the 1.7 million tourist projections of the DOT. This goes to show that there is such a huge demand for travel into our beautiful country, and that the Marcos administration’s prioritization of tourism is placing our country on the right track to recovery,” said Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco.

“We therefore must meet this with the continued implementation of enabling mechanisms that will convey not only the country’s openness to welcome more tourists but also conduciveness to tourism business and livelihood oppor-

tunities for our fellow Filipinos,” she added.

The DOT’s report as of November 14, 2022 showed a total of 2,025,421 visitor arrivals to the Philippines.

Of this number, the majority or 1,487,343 (73.43 percent) are foreign tourists, while 538,078 or 26.57 percent are overseas Filipinos.

Meanwhile, according to the DOT’s statistics o ce, visitor arrivals from February to September 2022 raked in an estimated P100.7 billion, recording a 1938.14 percent increase from the P4.94 billion for the same period in 2021.

In terms of number of foreign tourist arrivals count per country, the United States of America (USA) continued to hold the first place with 3 5, .0 percent).

South Korea and Australia came in second and third, with 285,583 (14.10 percent) and 96,297 (4.75 percent), respectively.

on o the a onal ress o the hili ines ara l is sho n ith hili ine e s o a E itor in Chie Al re abot (le�) ho as an honoree at the event having been C resi ent an a aii la er E an el i on ( n ro le�) hili ine e s o a ol nist an a aii b rea hie an ol nist e olina (not in hoto) o er les Cali ornia

PHL, US eye 5 more EDCA sites

By Claire Morales True, Managing Editor

WASHINGTON/MANILA –The Philippines and nited tates have identified five more areas in critical areas near the West Philippine ea where new facilities will be built to improve both countries oint trainings, disaster and crisis response capabilities under the nhanced efense Cooperation Agreement CA .

The A P chief said the proposed new sites are still sub ect to approval by the epartment of ational efense and the epartment of oreign Affairs A .

While waiting for the approval of the five new CA sites, austino said that the completion of the five previously ap proved CA sites is expected within the next two years. These are located in Pala wan, Pampanga, ueva ci a, Cebu, and Cagay an de ro City.

t was learned the is planning to allocate 0 millionion or near ly 4 billion in the next two years to implement CA.

This was disclosed by epartment of ational efense cer in Charge ndersecretary ose austino r. on ov. 4 saying that the new proposed CA sites will be an addition to the five previously approved sites that are now undergoing construction.

Two of the new target sites will be built in Cagayan, and one each in Pala wan, ambales, and sabela once they are formally approved by both the Philippines and authorities, according to Armed orces of the Philippines A P chief t. en. artolome icente acarro.

nder the CA, the Philippine govern ment is working with the nited tates to build the future facilities in Cesar asa Air ase in lor idablanca, Pampanga ort agsaysay ilitary Reservation in ueva ci a umbia Airfield in Cagayan e ro Antonio autista Airbase in Puerto Princesa, Palawan and enito buen Air ase in Cebu.

austino said the facilities are Philip pines owned, adding that if the Ameri cans use it, “they will have to ask permis sion from us before they could do that.

austino clarified that the CA sites will not be used as military bases by the since it is not allowed under the Con stitution. t will also not be used to store weapons of mass destruction like nuclear weapons, easing the fears of the public.

“We are not building bases. We are not allowed to, austino said during the culmination of the 3rd founding anniver sary of the in Camp Aguinaldo, ue on City. “What we have are CA sites. This is enhanced de fense cooperation sites that we will use for training facilities, warehouses.

The establishment of the additional CA sites were discussed during the utual efense oard ecurity ngagement oard meet ing which was attended by austino and e fense ecretary loyd Austin III in Hawaii in eptember.

The five new CA sites were confirmed by o cials in Washing ton interviewed by visiting ilipino ournalists.

A senior defense o cial in Washington C said “There are five exist ing dca sites and five ad ditional ones we are look ing at.

Court denies heirs’ motion in late Muntinlupa mayor Argana’s forfeiture raps

MUNTINLUPA CITY – The Sandiganbayan has denied a motion filed by the heirs of the late untinlupa mayor aximino Argana in a forfeiture case initiated by the government more than 30 years ago.

The tribunal denied the motion for lack of merit in a resolution promulgated on November 11.

Argana served as mayor in untin lupa from 64 to 6 and in up to the time of his death on uly 5, 5 due to heart attack.

The heirs uestioned the ept. 5

order of the anti graft court removing a portion of an earlier pre trial order PT dated ay 3, which stated that among Argana s sources of income were from his law practice and various busi nesses that included fish pens, pawn shops, scrap metal business, bowling al leys, and billiard halls.

The PT is used by courts to abbre viate udicial proceedings by limiting the scope of the trial, by among others things, allowing the opposing parties to agree to or “stipulate facts.

The court said “there is no indica

tion that the petitioner government law yers agreed to the proposed stipulation made.

overnment lawyers, in their pre trial brief, argued that Argana s approxi mate aggregate salaries and representa tion allowance as mayor was P4 , and he “had no other known sources of income which may ustify ac uisition of assets except for his government salary and representation allowances.

The petition for forfeiture of ill got ten wealth was filed against Argana in uly .

Vhong Navarro ordered transferred to Taguig City jail

tor television host erdinand “ hong . avarro to the Taguig City ail, the ational ureau of nvestigation reported.

The said it received the order is sued by the Regional Trial Court ranch 6 on ov. 4, to commit avarro to the male dormitory of Camp agong iwa in Taguig City.

avarro will undergo a mandatory medical examination, including RT PCR test before his transfer, in compliance with the health protocol re uirements of the government.

n eptember, Taguig RTC ranch

6 Presiding udge oralie atahan is sued an arrest warrant on the actor on non bailable rape charges filed by model eniece Corne o.

Corne o sued avarro for acts of las civiousness and rape, which allegedly happened separately in anuary 0 4. arlier, Taguig etropolitan Trial Court ranch 6 udge Angela ranc esca in found probable cause that led to the indictment of avarro for acts of lasciviousness case and set a bail of P36,000.

avarro surrendered to the for the bailable case but was surprised when another arrest warrant was issued against him for rape.

The Court of Appeals ordered the fil ing of the rape and acts of lasciviousness cases after Corne o s complaints were dismissed by the Taguig City prosecu tor s o ce and the epartment of ustice

Ombudsman slaps 6-month suspension on NIA’s Antiporda

C T The ce of the mbudsman has slapped a six month pre ventive suspension without pay for a tional rrigation Administration A act ing administrator enny Antiporda due to complaints of “grave misconduct.

According to the order, complaints lodged against Antiporda include commit ting conduct pre udicial to the best interest of the service, harassment, oppression, and ignorance of the law.

“After a careful evaluation of the re cords, this ce finds that among the re spondents, Respondent enny Antiporda s guilt is strong, it said.

The order also said the case against An tiporda may warrant his removal from the service.

Antiporda allegedly applied “retalia tory tactics to A lawyers and o cials who recommended past administrator Ri cardo isaya to be retained on a holdover capacity before Antiporda should take over.

The tactics Antiporda supposedly ap plied included humiliating and berating o cials, falsely accusing the complain ants of corruption, reassignment or trans fer without valid grounds, and threatening employees for them to resign, among oth ers.

The order also said Antiporda is sus pended to prevent “further harassment of witnesses and to prevent his continued stay from affecting the investigation of the case.

Manila to release bonus for workers, readies gift boxes for city residents

A A Christmas will come early for about , 00 workers of the city government of anila as they will re ceive their year end bonus on ovember .

ayor oney acuna Pangan made the announcement during the lighting of the 50 foot Christmas tree at the arti lya ng atipunan grounds in Arroceros, anila, near the City all, where she was oined by ice ayor ul ervo and other local government o cials.

“Payout is on november , the mayor announced, which was greeted with applause from City all employees who attended the ceremony.

The year end bonus is e uivalent to a one month basic salary and a cash gift of P5,000.

acuna Pangan, meanwhile, an nounced that all residents will get Christ mas gift boxes.

“We will be distributing the Christ mas boxes on ecember for all anila residents for your holiday feasts, she added.

The giant Christmas tree is decked

with Christmas balls, accented with lights, and topped with a big star.

The mayor urged residents to cel ebrate a meaningful holiday season with their families and thank od for all the blessings.

The simultaneous lighting of other Christmas trees was conducted at the ulwagang Rodrigue and Ri al Park.

TA C T The Taguig regional trial court has ordered the transfer of ac

Vhong Navarro

Baliwag cityhood plebiscite campaign starts

BALIUAG, Bulacan – The information and campaign period in the plebiscite for the cityhood of Baliwag town in Bulacan province has started.

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) said in Comelec Resolution No. 10851 promulgated on Nov. 8, the poll body has set the information and campaign period from Nov. 17 to Dec. 15.

During this period, it said civic, professional, religious, business, youth, and any other similar organizations may hold symposia, public rallies, or meetings to enlighten the voters of the municipality.

“All government o cials and employees as well as those in government-owned or controlled corporations with original charters, may publicly express their opin-

ions on any issues related to the plebiscite,” it said. owever, Comelec personnel and o cials are pro hibited from publicly expressing their positions on the matter.

“In order to maintain an independent and non-partisan status, all Commission o cials and its deputies are prohibited from publicly expressing their opinion on any issue related to the plebiscite,” the Commission added.

Members of all Plebiscite Committees (PlebCom) must also maintain their neutrality on the issue.

“No member of the PlebCom shall, directly or indirectly, take part in the plebiscite, except to discharge the member’s duties as such, and to vote,” the Comelec said.

Baguio earmarks P472 M for socialized housing

BAGUIO CITY – The city government is looking to spend P472 million on a housing project for city hall employees and residents which it expects to commence upon the purchase of the property.

Architect Donna Tabangin, city planning and development o cer CP , said P 0 million will be used for the purchase of 1.4-hectare property and its access, P110 million for the site development and P254 million for the construction of about 13 low to medium-rise condominium type buildings.

“Considering the enormous amount required for the realization of the housing project for government workers, the local government will try to refer the matter to the Department of Human Settlement and Urban Development (DHSUD) for funding support,” she said in PNA’s Liza Agoot’s report.

Tabangin said the housing units will be offered to ualified city hall employees under a proposed 0 year payment period depending on their capacity to pay that will be coursed through the National Housing Authority (NHA).

nce finali ed, the housing pro ect in arangay Pinsao Proper will be the city’s second socialized housing project.

A housing project at the Luna Terraces in Barangay Irisan is being completed.

The city government has come up with a list of informal settlers after mapping about 60 percent of those residing in protected areas and identified city proper ties which are now being recovered for its use.

The affected residents will be prioriti ed as benefi ciaries of future socialized housing projects.

RA 11929, or the law converting the municipality of Baliwag to a city, was passed on July 29, 2022.

Cheap rice, goods now at Kadiwa stores

brunt of global challenges, including high inflation and soaring oil prices.

“Pararamihin po natin ito hangga’t may coverage na tayo na national. Bukod pa roon, kahit na ang pinangalan namin ay Kadiwa ng Pasko, kahit pagkatapos ng Pasko, patuloy pa rin ito. Hindi namin ititigil namin ito (We will expand this to ensure national coverage. Aside from that, it will continue after Christmas, even if it is named Kadiwa ng Pasko. We will not stop it),” he said.

During the event, Marcos visited the Kadiwa stalls, which featured local products of local farmers and fisherfolk, as well as micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Marcos received several gifts from the sellers, including several pairs of Marikina-made Seacrest shoes.

He thanked the participants in the Kadiwa caravan and expressed optimism that the pro ect would benefit both local suppliers and consumers.

hindi kumikita ang NFA, kung ano ‘yung pinambili nila, ganun din ang presyo kaya’t nakita ninyo ang bigas, PHP25 per kilo (The NFA gets the rice supply from the buffer stock, the price of rice only costs P25 per kg.),” he said.

The Kadiwa ng Pasko project, an initiative of the ce of the President and spearheaded by the DA, aims to promote affordable and high uality products.

The program was launched to address inflation and price surges associated with the Christmas season.

It provides a direct farm-to-consumer food supply chain to eliminate several marketing layers and help boost the income of local agricultural producers.

The Kadiwa ng Pasko caravan is being implemented in partnership with the departments of trade, interior and local government, social welfare, and labor.

MANDALUYONG CITY – President

Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has pledged to install more Kadiwa stalls in different parts of the country, to provide ilipino consumers with more affordable and high-quality local products.

This was after Marcos, who concurrently leads the Department of Agriculture (DA), said the Kadiwa ng Pasko project is an early Christmas gift to Fili-

pinos, as they may now buy cheaper basic commodities, including rice from the National Food Authority (NFA), which is only at P25 per kg.

In a speech delivered at Barangay Addition Hills in Mandaluyong City, the President expressed hope that the grand opening of Kadiwa ng Pasko outlets in 14 areas nationwide would help ease the plight of Filipinos who have to bear the

Marcos also reiterated that his goal of bringing down the price of rice to about PHP20 per kg. is already within reach.

He, however, admitted that it would take some time to realize his plan.

For now, he said, Filipinos may purchase more affordable rice at the adiwa outlets.

“‘Pag bibili ng bigas, kinukuha sa A, kinukuha sa buffer stock, doon lang

Fourteen Kadiwa stores opened nationwide – 11 in Metro Manila, one in Tacloban City, one in Davao de Oro, and one in Koronadal City, South Cotabato.

First Lady Louise “Liza” AranetaMarcos led the grand launch of the Kadiwa ng Pasko project in Parañaque City, presidential son Ilocos Norte 1st District Rep. Ferdinand Alexander ‘Sandro’ Marcos III in Quezon City, and presidential son Joseph Simon Marcos in San Juan City.

Tax lawyer named BIR commissioner, Tugade as LTO chief

anti-red tape body.

Tugade, son of former Transportation Secretary Art Tugade, was previously appointed by Marcos as general manager of the Manila International Airport Authority.

The president also appointed Eric Tayag undersecretary of the Department of Health. Tayag, known as dancing doctor in promoting health campaigns, was formerly DOH assistant secretary and spokesman.

Lumagui was also designated to project management and implementation service, which develops and oversees the implementation of the overall reform or modernization program of the BIR.

ticed taxation, among others.

He eventually established his own law firm together with former yCip Law partners.

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed tax lawyer Romeo “Jun” Lumagui Jr. as commissioner of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). Marcos also named lawyer and businessman Jose Arturo “Jay Art” Tugade as the new Assistant Secretary of the Land Transportation ce and former Anti Red Tape Authority o cer in charge Ernesto Perez as Director General of the

Lumagui took his oath before Marcos in Malacañang Palace.

Before his new appointment, Lumagui served as BIR deputy commissioner.

He has been designated to various posts and functions, such as the technical assistant to the commissioner, and tax fraud head for Revenue Region No. 6, Manila, Revenue Region No. 4, Pampanga, and Revenue Region No. 7B, East NCR.

He headed several task forces to boost collections, such as the Assets Recovery Task Force, where total collections amounted to P833.69 million, and the Task Force on Direct Selling/MultiLevel Marketing and Investment Scams, where assessments totaled P792.56 million in just around one year.

Lumagui graduated from De La Salle University in 2000 with a Bachelor of Commerce degree and studied at the Ateneo Law School and obtained his Juris Doctor degree in 2005.

Lumagui ranked 19th place in the Philippine Bar examinations.

After passing the Bar, he joined SyCip Salazar Hernandez Gatmaitan aw ces yCip aw where he prac

Lumagui is also professorial lecturer at the Lyceum of the Philippines University College of Law.

The Lumaguis are not strangers to the current presidential family, Rappler reported. Lumaguis’ wife Carmela Esquivas-Lumagui was part of First Lady Liza Araneta arcos law firms, Associ ates in 2019, and MOST Law in 2015.

The Lumagui couple was active in the Marcos’ campaign, with EsquivasLumagui hosting rallies and Romeo himself reportedly heading Marcos’ policy team during the campaign period, Rappler reported.

The Marcoses were also the couple’s wedding sponsors in 2019, Rappler added.

Agri, infra damage from Paeng nears P12-B

QUEZON CITY – The amount of damage to agriculture and infrastructure due to Severe Tropical Storm Paeng is nearing the P12 billion mark, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).

In its situational report, agriculture damage was placed at P6.30 billion and these were recorded in Ilocos Re-

gion, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Davao Region, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), and the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR).

Affected farmers and fisherfolk were placed at 146,927.

Meanwhile, infrastructure damage was estimated at P5.6 billion and these were sustained in Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Northern Mindanao, Davao Region, Soccsksargen, BARMM and CAR.

Damaged houses are now at 64,249 -- 57,888 of which were classified as

: NDRRMC

“partially damaged” and 6,361 were categorized as “totally damaged”.

The total number of reported deaths is placed at 162, with 132 confirmed, while injured persons are at 270, with 232 validated.

Missing individuals due to Paeng are placed at 29, 19 of whom were already confirmed.

Tax lawyer Romeo “Jun” Lumagui Jr. is new BIR commissioner.

‘KADIWA NG PASKO’. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. looks at products being sold at the a i a ng as o la n h in aranga A i on ills in an al ong Cit

Marcos dared to ban imported fish from China

MANILA – “Higit na dapat ipagbawal ang pagpasok ng mga imported na isda galing China lalo’t talamak ang mga barkong pangisda nito at nagpapatuloy ang pangangamkam sa West Philippine Sea,” the progressive fisherfolk group Pamban sang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (PAMALAKAYA) told the Marcos Jr. administration.

PAMALAKAYA said it opposes the importation of 5, 000 metric tons of fish, mostly galunggong round scad , from ovember this year to anuary next year. Citing the data of the nited tates epartment of Agriculture A , the fishers group said that China is the larg est source of seafood products exported to the Philippines with 78% market share.

alunggong is mostly caught off the

waters of the West Philippine ea, and other major open seas in the Philippines such as Batangas, Mindoro, and Palawan. The fishers group said that China, Tai wan, and Vietnam, the countries where the Philippines usually import, are the same countries that fre uent the Philip pine waters.

“Nakakabahalang pangunahing pinanggagalinan ng ating inaangkat na isda ay China, ang bansang nangangamkam at laganap ang mga malalaking barkong pangisda sa ating karagatan. Doble insulto ito sa atin bilang isang arkipelagong bansa,” Ronnel Arambulo, PAMALAKAYA National Spokesperson,said in a statement.

The fishers group said that it is a double insult to ilipino fishers that while

they are being restricted in their traditional fishing grounds, China is the top source of the country s imported fish.

“Kung hindi man direktang pinipigilan ay lumilikha naman ng takot ang presensya ng malalaking barko ng China sa mga Pilipinong mangingisda. Ito ang isang dahilan kung bakit karamihan sa mga mangingisda ay pinanghihinaan ng loob na bumalik sa West Philippine Sea,” Arambulo added, saying that Filipino fishermen in ambales have been los ing 0 of their income due to Chinese presence in Panatag Shoal (Scarborough Shoal).

The fishers group have been seeking these measures to address the crisis in the fisheries production, and ultimately do away with import-liberalization policies:

mmediate and ade uate assis tance in a form of relief and livelihood rehabilitation in times of devastating ca lamities like typhoon;

Rollout of su cient production subsidy to abate the impacts of inflation nsure the exclusive rights of ilipino fishers in their traditional fishing grounds; and

Prohibit all types of conversion and reclamation of coastal communities that massively displace fisherfolk and de stroy marine and a uatic resources.

PAMALAKAYA said that Marcos Jr. being a concurrent agriculture secretary, is accountable to the fisherfolk who will be put at a disadvantage due to entry of cheap imported fish in the local market.

Moody’s Analytics forecasts 75 bps hike in BSP rates

A A oody s Analytics fore casts a 5 basis points ump in the angko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) key rates, in line with the earlier statement by BSP Governor Felipe Medalla.

“ angko entral ng Pilipinas is ex pected to raise the overnight borrowing rate by 5 basis points to 5 percent, it said in its Asia Pacific economic preview for the week covering Nov. 14-18.

The BSP’s policy-making Monetary Board (MB) will have its second to the last rate setting meeting for this year on Thurs day.

It already hiked the central bank’s key policy rates by 5 basis points since last May in a bid to help tame the soaring domestic inflation rate and help tame the peso s weakness against the nited tates dollar.

The rate of price increases further ac celerated to 7.7 percent last October, the highest since ecember 00 , because of continued upticks in the prices of oil and non-oil commodities in the international market which is partly due to the ongoing conflict between Russia and kraine.

The average inflation rate in the first 0 months this year stood at 5.4 percent, way above the government s 4 percent target

band.

Monetary authorities have stressed the need to hike the central bank’s key rates to help address the rising inflation rate since it has already resulted to second round ef fects, such as increase in minimum public utility fare and wages.

They said the impact of the rate hikes are expected to the cushioned by the con tinued recovery of the domestic economy, which further expanded by .6 percent in the third uarter of this year.

The rising inflation rate has affected monetary policies around the world. or one, the ederal Reserve ear lier this month delivered another 5 basis points increase in its key rates, which has affected currencies, such as the Philippine peso.

Following the latest Fed rate hike announcement, BSP Governor Felipe Medalla said the BSP will also increase its key rates by the same level to ensure ade uate interest rate differential with the .

The local currency started the week’s trading at 5 .3 but it already closed to its weakest of 5 .00 to a dollar several times last ctober given the strengthening of the greenback due largely to the Fed rate hikes.

UN urges...

(From page 1)

chance to prove their innocence.

During its Universal Periodic Review in Geneva, Switzerland early this week, the UNHRC issued the recommendation to the Marcos administration, which has taken a softer stance against drug users.

The Review evaluates a country’s human rights performance.

UN member states had asked the Philippines to solve the cases of the killings. During Duterte’s time, he had gone so far as to threaten for the country to pull out of the UN because of what he called its “interference in purely internal aff airs.

France and Canada, in particular, had asked the Marcos administration to take the necessary steps to stop future illegal acts of local authorities, while Belgium and Ireland further noted that the killings of journalists must stop.

Ireland also expressed its regrets that the Philippines under Duterte had withdrawn its membership with the International Criminal Court, reminding the country of its “obligation to cooperate with the prosecutor’s ongoing investigation into alleged international crimes commission” and ensure justice for the victims of EJKs.

On a positive note, China commended the Philip-

GOP...

pines for protecting and promoting human rights.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, who attended the UN event, said the Marcos administration “will dispel the mistaken notion that there is a culture of impunity in the country.”

It is not yet clear if the Philippines will rejoin the ICC under Marcos’s watch.

Considered as the architect of the Duterte regime’s “Oplan Tokhang” where suspects were often picked up in their homes without a warrant is now Senator Ronald ‘Bato’ Dela Rosa, who was then chief of the PNP.

The Duterte regime was widely condemned for targeting only the poor, often ignoring the drug lords, most of whom are known to the PNP as well as the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.

Now a civilian, Duterte faces arrest by the ICC for his role in the EJKs that he allowed to take place during his six-year term as president. (From page 1)

attacks on Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin was the latest example, with the 45th president fomenting “Asian hate against a White governor.”

Trump -- who supported a number of election deniers in the recent mid-term elections, most of whom lost – took a swipe at Youngkin, widely seen as a rising star in the P firmament who could launch a presiden tial bid in 2024.

Trump wrote that “Young Kin (now that’s an interesting take. Sounds Chinese, doesn’t it?) in Virginia couldn’t have won without me. I endorsed him.”

Hogan’s wife and daughters are Korean American and he has taken a firm stance versus Asian hate in his governorship.

Said Hogan: “I don’t think my friend Glenn Youngkin deserved to be attacked like that, but it was also…I mean, it’s Asian hate against a White governor, and making fun of Asians.”

Throughout his presidency, Trump had insulted China and Chinese Americans, blaming the Asian country for the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. He even called it “Kung Flu” and “the China virus”

on several occasions.

Hogan said in an interview on CNN that Trump’s words were “definitely distasteful and inappropriate.

Worst of all, the twice impeached former president “didn’t even have his nationalities right.”

Young Kin, according to Hogan, “would be Korean, as opposed to Chinese.”

The Maryland governor blamed Trump for the poor showing of the Republicans in the 2022 mid-terms. The party had been expecting and even boasting of a “red wave,” where they would take over the House of Representatives with a 60-vote majority, while also taking control of the Senate.

Instead, the GOP is set to hold a small majority in the House of three votes or so, while failing to take control of the Senate.

Hogan said that Trump was the reason why the party is in such bad shape because the former president constantly resorts to “insults and attacks.”

As a result of Trump’s politics of hate, the Republicans have lost three elections in a row, and as far as Hogan is concerned it’s “three strikes you’re out.”

Trump has conveniently ignored the fact that during his term, one of his most dependable supporters was Senate minority leader Mitch McConnell, whose wife is Asian American, and even one of his most trusted advisers and spokespersons, Kelly Ann Conway, is married to a FilAm, conservative lawyer George Conway.

The Republican Party has been unable to recruit minorities to the fold in large numbers, including Asian Americans. And while there are FilAms who are members of the GOP, their numbers pale in comparison to those who declare themselves to be Democrats.

Comelec, partners ink MOA for holding of nat’l election summit

MANILA – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with its partners and stakeholders for the holding of the National Elections Summit in January next year.

Comelec chairperson George Garcia led the MOA signing at the Justo Albert Auditorium, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila in Intramuros, Manila.

The event was also attended by the Comelec senior o cials and representa tives from academe, civil society organizations and industry partners.

The summit aims to provide a platform for a national dialog and interaction, including consultation and partici-

pation of election stakeholders.

It will also review, formulate, or enhance policies, plans and programs in election administration and electoral enforcement and adjudication.

Garcia said the Comelec decided to push back the holding of its annual planning session to give way to the holding of the summit.

“We deferred this planning session. We will just conduct the planning session by February to give way to the conduct of the election summit,” he said in his speech during the MOA signing.

He said the results of the summit will be included in the internal planning discussions in February

Biden...

(From page 1)

Biden’s pledge was made amid the growing tensions between the United States and China over Beijing’s allegedly excessive maritime claims, massive reclamation and military buildup in the South China Sea which had encroached on the West Philippine Sea.

China has lately also increased it pressure on Taiwan, while North Korea continues with a barrage of ballistic missile tests over its rival South Korea.

This developed as Biden pledged “iron clad” protection of the Philippines under its military agreement with that country amid the tensions with China.

At the same time, President Marcos reported after attending the ASEAN leaders summit that the regional group has not hastened the approval of a proposed Code of Conduct of nations in South China Sea.

Marcos, however, said that China has assured him of peace and cooperation, and discounted possible attacks on Taiwan and the Philippines.

Biden, who will next attend the G20 summit in Bali, Indonesia, has sent the highest o cial so far, Vice President Kamala Harris, to Manila and Palawan to discuss economic and security concerns.

Meanwhile, the United States has earmarked $66.5 or around P3.8 billion for the construction of facilities in Armed orces installations in five more sites covered by its Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) in Pampanga, Nueva Ecija and Cagayan de Oro City starting next year.

The five new sites is in addition to five earlier sites covered by CA to help the Philippines prepare for disasters or possible conflict with its neigh bors.

EDCA, which seeks to bolster defense relations between the two countries, allows US to pursue activities at “agreed locations” for training, transit, support and related activities, refueling of aircraft, bunkering of vessels, temporary maintenance of vehicles, vessels, and aircraft; temporary accommodation of personnel; communications; prepositioning of equipment, supplies and materiel; deploying of forces and materiel and other activities approved by the two sides.

The two sides acknowledged in the agreement that prepositioning of equipment, supplies and materiel enhance their “individual and collective defense capabilities.”

Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff t. en. artolome a carro said the US proposed the inclusion of five more A P facilities added to the list – two in Cagayan, and one each in ambales specifically ubic ,

Palawan and Isabela. Bacarro, however, said the proposal is still subject to the approval of the defense and foreign affairs departments.

“Currently, $66.5 million is earmarked for the implementation of approved EDCA projects at the Agreed ocations. These are pro ects that are slated for implementation in the next two years,” said Andolong.

“The projects include construction of training, warehouse and other facilities at Cesar Basa Air Base in Pampanga, Fort Ramon Magsaysay in ueva ci a, and umbia Airport Base Station in Cagayan de Oro,” said Arsenio Andolong, the AFP spokesman.

Earlier, the United States also offered to upgrade at least 12 of the military choppers that the Philippines is acquiring after scrapping a deal to buy heavy-lift aircraft from Russia.

The upgrade could be done using the $100 million in foreign military financing that the tate e partment wants to provide the Philippines after it terminated a deal for 16 Mi-17 helicopters from Russia, said Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez

Marcos said no progress has been made on the conclusion of the Code of Conduct on the South China Sea, even as ASEAN leaders have raised the need to finali e one during the ASEAN Summits in Cambodia

“Well, nothing new actually has happened in terms of the code of conduct. We all just restated over and over again. Kailangan na magkaroon ng code of conduct. Because to be very, very clear about what it is that we are agreeing upon, eh kailangan may code of conduct na tayo. So ‘yun lang. That’s as far as you can go especially pagka ganyan,” Marcos explained upon arrival from the ASEAN meeting.

Marcos was among the ASEAN leaders who had pressed on the matter during his interventions in the ASEAN-China Summit and ASEAN-East Asia Summit.

“Paulit-ulit na sa sinabi ko, it is urgent. It is becoming more and more urgent and we really should, the negotiations and the finali ation of the code of conduct. There’s been some progress in the past year but we really need to have the actual code of conduct, already finali ed and already in place as soon as possible,” Marcos said.

The Philippines and many other nations have in the past been calling on China to adhere to the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, which partly states that they “undertake to exercise self-restraint in the conduct of activities that would complicate or escalate disputes and affect peace and stabil ity including, among others, refrain-

ing from action of inhabiting on the presently uninhabited islands, reefs, shoals, cays, and other features and to handle their differences in a construc tive manner.”

“Pretty much everybody” raised the importance of maintaining peace, stability and prosperity in the South China Sea, Marcos said.

What was common also among the ASEAN leaders, Marcos noted, was the need to follow the international laws when dealing with the South China Sea issue.

“Everybody, including the Chinese, says we follow C and the international law. So at least that position of ASEAN is clear,” he said.

On the issue of Taiwan’s independence from China, Marcos voiced out that ASEAN should not interfere in the matter.

“So sinasabi namin, okay, we are still following the One China Policy but it is, we just want to peace. ‘Yun ang aking ano, sinasabi ko. It is, we follow the One China Policy, dapat wala kami --- it’s an internal matter,” Marcos said.

“We believe that Taiwan is part of China but you must resolve those issues peacefully. ‘Yun lang naman ang hinihingi ng ASEAN. Huwag magkagulo,” he added.

Marcos also appealed to the Unit-

ed tates to use its global influence to contain soaring fuel prices which have already affected businesses and livelihoods.

Marcos made the appeal in Phnom Penh, Cambodia while attending the 40th and 41st Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summits and Related Summits.

“We appeal as well to the United tates to use its global influence to help ease the current global plight of rising fuel prices that we all have to deal with,” the Philippine leader said during the 10th ASEAN-US Summit led by US President Joe Biden.

“We also encourage the US’ longterm support for the implementation of the ASEAN Plan of Action on Energy Cooperation,” he added.

The OPS attributed the spike in pump prices to the war between Russia and Ukraine, citing “fears of supply disruptions amid the imposition of Western sanctions targeting the Russian economy.”

t added that the ongoing conflict poses a threat to global food and fertilizer supply which could subsequently affect arcos drive to revitali e the agriculture industry to achieve food self su ciency.

Marcos also sits as the country’s agriculture chief.

OFW remittances up by 3% in Q1 at $23.8 billion: BSP

A A oney sent home by overseas ilipino workers Ws rose by 3. percent year on year in eptember 0 to . 4 billion, with the angko entral ng Pilipinas P citing robust growth both from land based and sea based workers.

ata from the angko entral also showed that in the first three uarters of this year, total cash remittances grew by 3. percent to 3. 3 billion compared to the same period in 0 .

nflows from land based workers umped by 4. percent to . 5 billion in the ninth month this year while those from sea based workers grew by .5 per cent to 5 million.

The P said bulk of the remittances

in the first three uarters of this year came from the nited tates, audi Arabia, ingapore, and atar.

eanwhile, Ri al Commercial ank ing Corporation RC C chief economist ichael Ricafort, in a P A report, said growth of remittances last eptember is slower than year ago s 5. percent.

Ricafort attributed this partly to el evated inflation rate and interest rates in the “that somewhat slowed down weighed on the recovery in the global economy and also partly weighed on both W employment and incomes.

“ evertheless, the continued growth in W remittances may be attributed the need to pay for higher prices inflation locally for Ws and their dependents

families, as well as to finance more of their local spending with the further re opening of the economy, he said in a re port.

Ricafort said while the peso amount of the remittances has increased because of the depreciation of the local currency compared to the greenback, this is coun tered by the continued rise of domestic inflation rate which rose to its almost 4 year high of . percent last ctober.

“Thus, there may still be a need to send more W remittances due to high er prices inflation, which erodes offsets whatever foreign exchange gains due to the stronger dollar vs. ma or global currencies, he said.

Ricafort said he expects the peso to get additional boost from the seasonal increase of remittances during the Christ mas season. (From page 1)

Senator and Attorney General from California, will be the highest American o cial to visit the Philippines when she arrives on ovember 0. er husband, oug mhoff , headed the delega tion which included two lawmak ers and the highest ilipino o cial in the White ouse sent by President oseph iden r. to the inauguration of President arcos at old egislative uilding, now the Philippine ational useum of ine Arts in anila.

cials said the visit by the number two leader shows the importance the

is making of the Philippines and the ndo Pacifi c region amid growing ten sion over outh China ea and West Philippine due to confl icting claims by some countries and the alleged militari ation and reclamation by China.

China has reclaimed some islands, reefs and shoals in the wide waters and built military airstrips and ports, includ ing in parts of the pratlys chains, por tions of which are also claimed by the Philippines, runei, alaysia, Taiwan and ietnam.

arris will fl y from angkok, Thai land on ovember 0 after attending the Asia Pacifi c conomic Cooperato

ion AP C summit which is also at tended by President arcos.

n anila, arris will meet Presi dent arcos in alacanang and P uterte the following day, ovember , in alacanang. xpected to be part of their dialogue are plans to enhance security and economic ties of the Phil ippines and .

arris will fl y to Puerto Princesa City in Palawan. ei ing claims some territories in the waters off Palawan and much of the outh China ea, citing do mestic historical maps. A 0 6 interna tional arbitration ruling, however, said the Chinese claims had no legal basis,

in a victory for anila that has yet to be enforced.

According to a briefi ng in the White ouse, in Palawan, arris is expected to meet with “residents, civil society leaders and representatives of the Phil ippines Coast uard.

The trip will show the administra tion s “commitment to stand with our Philippine ally in upholding the rules based international maritime order in the outh China ea, supporting mari time livelihoods and countering illegal, unregulated and unreported fi shing, a White ouse o cial said.

EDITORIAL

A changing of the GOP guard has become a must

Even his closest friends are calling former president Donald Trump the biggest loser in last week’s mid-term elections.

Not only did it not go the Republican Party’s way, in so many ways some of their key losses could be blamed squarely on the 45th president, who by and large chose poor, mediocre or questionable candidates.

Those Trump-picked bets were election deniers who were counting on what they believed to be the popularity of the real estate developer-turned-president to carry them to victory.

Alas, their losses cost the GOP what should have been a supermajority in the House and at least control of the Senate. Indeed, the Republicans may have taken control of the House, but only barely, while the Senate remains in Democratic hands for the near future.

Theirs was a victory that had no massive celebrations, and it was actually the Democrats who were pleased with the results of the vote.

Mr. Trump had said that he would make an important announcement next week. Had the GOP won big last week, it would not have been too hard to guess what that announcement would have been.

Mr. Trump would have announced his plan to again run for president in 2024.

Now his own partymates are telling him to defer his announcement, and the expected run off elections in eorgia is not the only reason for doing so. The mood within the party may not be totally grim, but conventional wisdom says they should at least review the reason reasons for their unexpected losses in 0 and find the best path moving forward.

He may still have his rabid followers, but their numbers are clearly not enough to bring him back to the White ouse. The party must find a way to bring in the inde pendents, the undecided voters, and the traditionally Democrat-leaning groups like Latinos, African-Americans, and Asians.

Then there are the women and the youth who rightly or wrongly still perceive the GOP as the party of old, rich, White men.

Even the LGBTQ sector does not have many card-carrying Republicans, at least not as much as the Democrats.

There is a need for a changing of the guard within the party that still represents traditional, conservative values, whose attempts at being more inclusive have not always met with great success.

The party can opt to stay its present course and even consider letting Mr. Trump run again for president. But this early, it is clear that he will most likely lose the popular vote for the third consecutive time.

The voters who voted against him in 2016 and 2020 will not suddenly decide that onald Trump deserves another four years in the val ce.

The Republicans should look deeper at their past and present elected leaders and determine if they have one who has a good chance of winning two years from now, regardless of who the emocrats field as their bet.

President Joe Biden has indicated that he wants to run again, and says his age should not be a hindrance.

A Biden vs Trump battle does not really appeal to too many voters, but if push comes to shove, such a mano a mano will produce the same results as their first en counter. And we all know how that went. In a fair and free election, Trump is always a big loser.

Daly City lauds ALLICE

Part 2 Conclusion

DALY CITY Council Member Juslyn Manalo coordinated A C s first ever presentation and resource fair at a City Council Chambers when the Council under then-Mayor Buenaventura hosted the organization in October 2019, its last in-person event before the pandemic.

“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for providing tools and a safety net for those suffering in abusive homes, she said after 2022 president Junior Flores received the proclamation of Domestic Violence Awareness Month at the Oct. 24 Council meeting. She prodded the team to “continue with your advocacy.”

ike most nonprofits, A C pivoted to virtual events for its traditional spring elder care and abuse prevention and fall intimate partner violence presentation-resource fairs. They collaborated with founding partners like the Philippine Consulate General and the Towns of Daly City and Colma, the County of San Mateo and Filipino Mental Health Initiative. They welcomed new partners like the County of Marin, Peninsula Family Service and Philippine International Aid.

n the past two years, A C fulfilled its mission by posting a ove etter to Survivors empathizing with the compounded challenge of being stranded with their abusive partners during the lockdown, giving tips on how to reach out cautiously to resource providers through tech devices. They spoke at in early 2020 at “Tanong Kay Congen,” a Facebook Live program of then-Consul Gen. Henry Bensurto.

Later in year, they headlined the program as their new edition of their annual “Free From Violence” presentation when Bensurto dedicated his hourlong show – one of the last before the end of his term - to educate viewers on the root causes and examples of abuse and signs for abusive behaviors. ALLICE also issued a statement in solidarity with the lack ives atter movement, defining racism as an example of abuse.

ast year their first virtual presentation of their annual “ ur amily, ur uture focused on the surging hate crimes against Asian Americans and Pacific slanders as a result of the scapegoating by public o cials. Toward the end of 0 , they facili tated the first ever training of Philippine oreign ervice Personnel upon invitation of newly assigned Consul General Neil Frank Ferrer, attended by the management and staff of six consulates and the Philippine mbassy in Washington C.

This year ALLICE published the fourth edition of the A-List, their free guide for family resource providers vetted for Filipino and LGBTQ cultural and linguistic competence. The directory is the first of its kind in the ilAm community.

With immunization and treatments keeping COVID more manageable, ALLICE is planning to hold its first in person event since the worldwide calamity, lores an nounced in his response to the proclamation.

Council Member Pamela DiGiovanni applauded the idea, saying she would be in attendance. For survivors to see for themselves the many individuals and groups that believe in and support them is “impactful,” she said. ALLICE

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

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CHERIE M. QUEROL MORENO

FilAm lawyer joins Milpitas City Council

It is with great pride that this columnist received the news that our compatriot lawyer GARRY BARBADILLO got elected back to his old post as Councilman or Member of the City Council in the City of Milpitas in California.

Breaking Through

Our always ahead of the pack Editor-inchief red abot was the first to break outthe news to me last week.

And so when he texted me about Garry’s victory, I kind of jumped with joy, happy over the outcome of the hotly contested council race where a fellow Ilocano from Bangued, Abra captured one of two Council seats that was up for grabs in the recent elections.

I’m not sure how many of Milpitas’ big block of FilAms voted despite erstwhile and repeated appeals including mine for them to cast their ballots. I have yet to check on that.

But I have heard complaints from former Milpitas six- term FilAm Mayor Jose Esteves that their voting presence had been pretty bad.

It’s as if they have developed what’s natively said as “walang paki” attitude or “walang pakialam.”

I hope that behavior has reversed in Milpitas and nationally especially where Pinoys converge in big numbers.

There are, of course, other places like in the state of Hawaii, where Pinoys dictate, more often than not, the results of the elections.

awaiian Pinoys know how to flex their muscles, politically, by uniting and voting as a block during elections.

Thus, we have Pinoys in the Hawaii State Senate and the State Assembly for years now. The last election in Hawaii was likewise impressive for Filipinos as per report of lawyer Emmanuel Tipon, our fellow Philippine News Today columnist.

Going back to Milpitas, another Filipino, Evelyn Q. Chua, is also in the City Council. Our editor in chief who is her high school classmate back in Manila is proud of her achievements.

The FilAms, thus, have potential candidate for mayor in the coming elections, in Garry Barbadillo or Evelyn Chua, if they so desire and Pinoys will rally behind them like Mayor Esteves in the past. Congratulations!

PNT Editor-in-Chief reviews, recommends ‘Longevity Tips’

Defeating the Communist insurgency

Wealth

Health &

As book author, columnist and founder of FITNESS FOR HUMANITY, I sent the manuscript draft last week of my upcoming book LONGEVITY TIPS subtitled FREE “Secrets” You Can Discover Do for Good Health and Longevity to my cousin Alfred Gabot, Editor-in-Chief of PHILIPPINE NEWS TODAY, Professor and Regent of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, past president of the National Press Club of the Philippines, former Commissioner of the National Commission of Culture and the Arts, former senior editor of Manila Bulletin, and former Chairman of the Board, Philippine Postal Corporation, among others.

Unexpectedly, I received few days ago an excellent review and endorsement of my upcoming book from my cousin. I would like to share to our readers and the general public excerpts of the review and endorsement of LONGEVITY TIPS, as follows:

“Many people aspire for long life. With long life, one can achieve more, learn from and have time to correct mistakes and make living more colorful and meaningful.

Some of the secrets of long life were practiced by my father Silvino’s sister, Elena Gabot Madlaing, and I’ve witnessed it in our barrio in Binalonan, Pangasinan and in the many years that I have been coming back and forth to San Francisco and San Jose in California.

The same secrets of my aunt she may have inherited from my grandmother (Elena’s mother) Bai Sil-lit (Cecilia Mabini Sampayan Gabot) who reached the age of 113. Bai Sil-lit was industrious enterprising with her “bagoong fish sauce making business keeping the brew in big “burnay “ (clay pot) under and around her house and starting her own version of Divisoria market in our barrio.

Although she could well afford meat for her meals, “pinakbet and mongo beans with fish or dried shrimps, am palaya and malunggay leaves were her favorite and I used to join with that meal in that short span of time that I stayed in her house. Sometimes, she would pump the deep well in the “batalan” to get water for cooking and washing.

I saw her regularly walk to the river to wash her clothes and take a bath. In her younger days, she taught me how to mill the palay with a pestle in her round or long wooden “lusong” and then winnow and clean the rice using a round bamboo “bilao.” She was frugal and strict.

The author offers some of the secrets of long life through this book. Read it, understand it and practice the simple ways to longevity and meaningful life.”

Here are other reviews and comments on my upcoming book LONGEVITY TIPS subtitled FREE “Secrets” You Can Discover Do for Good Health and Longevity as follows:

“As nursing educator and practicing nurse, I commend Art Gabot Madlaing, founder of FITNESS FOR HUMANITY, for writing this timeless book. It is a must reading for everybody,” said DEBORAH QUINIONES MARCOS, Registered Nurse with KAISER PERMANENTE, San Francisco, California USA.

“I commend and salute Art Madlaing for writing his latest book LONGEVITY TIPS. Every Christian couple and family must read, dsicover and do the FREE ‘secrets’ for good health and longevity,” echoed FELIX L. OLIDAN, JR., Evangelist Minister, WANCHAI CHURCH OF CHRIST, Wanchai, Hongkong

“This latest book of Art Madlaing LONGEVITY TIPS is a must reading for anyone interested to have good health and longevity in life,” said FELIX L:. OLIDAN, JR. Evangelist Elder, SURREY CHURCH OF CHRISt, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

“Kudos to Art Gabot Madlaing, founder of FITNESS FOR HUMANITY, for writing this timeless book on good health and longevity. Every library in the Philippines and other countries must have copies of this important book for the reading public,” echoed CORAZON M. NERA, Former Chair, Regulatory Board of Librarians, Director of Libraries, Lyceum of the Philippines University, Manila, Philippines.

As founder of WE CARE MINISTRIES, I am glad that Art Madlaing wrote this book. I encourage everybody to order a copy, read it, heed it and be

There are no more reasons for Lorraine Badoy and former general Antonio Parlade to scare the public about the Communist menace. These two rabid anticommunist mouthpieces have been arbitrarily linking political and show business personalities to the Maoist-led guerrillas without any sound basis.

They screamed and panicked as if the Communists were about to overthrow the government when the real situation was really very far from the scenario they were trying to picture.

Maoist-led guerilla activities have gone down and mass actions in urban centers led by left-leaning organizations could not muster enough numbers similar to what happened during the iron fisted arcos regime.

But Badoy and Parlade would want to bring back the memories of the 1950s when former US senator Joseph McCarthy was on a rampage, accusing people of links to the Communists at a time when the Cold War was starting at the end of the Second World War.

At that time, the old Soviet Union was rapidly expanding its influence in astern urope and Communist China helped North Korea when it tried to invade Seoul in the 1950s.

In the 1970s, the Communist menace was real in Southeast Asia and several states fell like dominoes, like Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, but the Reds were stopped from marching in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore.

At that time, University of the Philippines professor Jose Maria Sison revived the Communist Party of the Philippines more than a decade after the agrarian-based Hukbalahap rebellion was quelled by former president Ramon Magsaysay in the 1950s.

The Communist insurgency grew bigger during dictator Ferdinand Marcos’ repressive and corrupt regime from 1972 to 1986. Just before he was removed from power in a nearbloodless popular uprising in February 1986, the military said the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels had a guerrilla force of nearly 26,000.

The communist insurgency affected at least 0 percent of the country’s 42,000 villages or barangays. The New People’s Army rebels were operating and engaging the military in large company-size formations in some provinces, like Samar, Davao, Quezon, and Negros Occidental.

Trained urban hit squads, called Sparrow Units, roamed freely in Metro Manila and Davao City that many police officers refused to wear uniforms when off duty.

But that was a generation ago. After Marcos was removed, succeeding governments, from that of the late Corazon Aquino to Rodrigo Duterte, succeeded in pushing back the Communist insurgency through a combination of the government’s left and right hand approaches of intensified military opera tions and development approaches to drain the pond of water that breeds insurgents.

After Duterte stepped down from power in June 2022, one could not simply understand why Badoy and Parlade continued hyping the anti-communist rhetoric. The government was clearly winning against the insurgents as the military made vast improvements in its fighting capability against the PA rebels.

t has better battlefield awareness through drones and oth er intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) equipment. t also has modern helicopters and fixed wing assets armed with precision-guided bombs and short-range missiles.

The military displayed its awesome firepower when it killed top NPA leaders – Benito Tiamzon and Willma Austria – in Northern Samar as they tried to escape by boat.

The rapid decline in the Communist guerrilla forces could be attributed to Duterte’s creation of the National Task Force to nd ocal Communist Armed Conflict T CAC , an improved version of the anti-insurgency strategy developed by former president Fidel Ramos in the in the 1990s – the clear-hold-consolidate-develop (CHCD) strategy.

Hermogenes Esperon, a retired general who served as Duterte’s National Security Adviser, learned a lot from the Ramos-era counter-insurgency strategy.

Except for engaging the rebels’ political arm, the National Democratic Front, the NTF-

ART GABOT MADLAING

MANNY MOGATO

TEDDY P. MOLINA

Growing old and staying sane

As can be expected, some of my close friends are making fun of me as I turn 69 this week.

Not that they’re not near that age too. ut fine. t s a ‘naughty’ number because it’s also used to mean the French style of sexual intercourse. AKA mutual fellatio and cunnilingus.

And yes, ladies and gentlemen, this column of mine is for mature audiences only. Mostly.

But I am to be forgiven since I only turn 69 this one time. And I do look forward to turning 70 next year, because as a Makati resident, all my medical needs will be 100% taken care of by the city where I live. For now, since I became a senior, Makati only gives 50% of my maintenance med needs every month, insulin injections included.

I thought I would be sad or even depressed as I turn one year older, because like it or not, 69 IS old. It’s not young old. t s not middle aged old. am o cially old old.

Or will somebody now say that 70 is the new 50? I would be cool with that, but so far nobody has said it yet. So mayhap can be the first. o, folks, listen up. tarting next year, 0 will be the new 50.

And as for getting depressed, it didn’t happen because I and some of my high school batchmates held a mini- reunion in Bacolod over the weekend. And as could be expected, all nine of us all talked and acted like it was 1971 all over again.

We ate and drank too much, got unusually rowdy at places where some decorum was expected. And even, uh, attempted to do sinful things. I need not explain what I mean by that, ok? Use your imagination.

But there’s been a noticeable change since the last time I saw most of the guys.

Indeed, old age has crept up on us. One guy looked a lot older than 69. He could have passed for 80. But he still has a wicked sense of humor, although his gait has been affected. e suffered a strong some years back, but it hasn t stopped him from continuing to enjoy our golden years.

One of the guys did surprise me in that while he still looked the same as before, still wearing his hair long, but he was now having some di culty walking. think it s probably because he is still near or even over 200 pounds while standing between 5’10” and feet tall.

ne friend actually flew in all the way from Ari ona. e is still 6’2” unlike many who lose an inch or more as they age because of stooping or experiencing loss of bone density.

The man is some sort of sports hero for us because he actually won two championships with DLSU as a Green Archer, which was still C when we first entered college.

Our host was and is one of my closest friends, who comes from a respected clan from Bacolod. I do not know if he himself is a respected figure because he was in many ways the wildest of the bunch. But he is the one I am closest too. Birds of a feather, maybe?

And for some reason, he is the last man standing who still smokes. All the rest of us gave up the evil vice anywhere from a couple of years to more than a decade ago.

As can be expected, more than half can be described as retired businessmen. One owned a franchise of a school, and even had a building erected for his institute of learning down south. He gave that up when the pandemic hit, but still has rental generating properties to keep body and soul together.

I can almost hear him advising the gents who are bordering on obesity, “Lose some weight, coño!”

Then there are those who cannot retire because they have thriving businesses which they feel their kids are not yet ready to take over. One has a large security agency while the other has a cannery. It’s hard to imagine them as serious executives once you’ve seen them get drunk and laughing like hyenas.

Somewhere in between is yours truly, who until I unretired last June, was blissfully semi-retired. I was pretty ok in that state, mostly working from home but occasionally needing to do some necessary field work to do some research or conduct interviews.

The four-day vacay in Bacolod was such a hit that even before it ended, we were already seriously talking about when and where the next mini reunion will be.

We finally agreed on uma

1st Congress-BARMM Parliament forum held

COTABATO CITY –

The Inter-Governmental Relations Body (IGRB) under the Marcos administration has held a first Philippine Congress Bangsamoro Parliament Forum (PCBPF) forum to pursue strides for smooth operations of the transitional governance of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

The IGRB is a bilateral body tasked to facilitate the full devolution of concerned national agencies’ functions, powers and assets to counterpart entities in the autonomous region as prescribed under R.A. 11054, known the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), and the 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman and BARMM Education Minister Mohagher Iqbal, sitting as IGRB co-chairpersons for the government and the MILF-led parliamentary bureaucracy, respectively, presided over the forum on Tuesday, November 5 at the ofitel hotel in Pasay City.

In her opening message, Sec. Pangandaman, who took over from inance ecretary onny omingue as R co-chair under the Duterte government, echoed the commitment of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for “utmost” support to lasting peace, inclusive growth, and unity in the southern Philippines, particularly in the autonomous region.

“This is why on our end, following the President’s agenda for prosperity, we will do all that we can and endeavor to convene all mechanisms to support the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) and ensure the success of BARMM,” Sec. Pangandaman told the forum.

BTA is the BARMM interim legislature mandated to enact basic laws in the autonomous region, seven of which are deemed priorities such as the regional codes on education, administrative, civil service, electoral, local government, revenue, and indigenous people’s concerns. It has already enacted the education, administrative and civil service codes.

Tuesday’s forum was held by the IGRB to “discuss (the remaining) key legislative measures” for BARMM, namely the electoral, local government, revenue, and Indigenous Peoples (IP) codes, among other important legislative agenda, the DBM statement said.

Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and House Speaker artin Romualde led their respective chambers to renew congressional backing to BARMM’s related concerns and acknowledge the essence of legislation already passed by the BTA.

IGRB Co-Chair Iqbal, joined by BARMM interim Chief Minister Ahod “Hadji Muirad” Ebrahim, other BTA members, and regional o cials, batted for an extension in the pe riod for amnesty application of MILF and MNLF members, clear cut ualification of hari ah circuit court udges, and continued Congress-Bangsamoro parliament rapport. cials and participants in Tuesday s forum agreed to create technical working groups that will study the feasibility of addressing bilateral concerns, it was learned.

The forum was attended by Senators Loren Legarda and Robinhood Padilla, House Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe, House Committee on Ways and Means Chair Joey Salceda, Representatives Rex Gatchalian, Yasser Alonto Balindong, and Maximo Y. Dalog, Jr. for Congress; and Chief Minister Ebrahim, BTA Speaker Pangalian Balindong, deputy speakers, and parliament members of the BARMM, the DBM statement said.

Iqbal underscored the need for the PCBPF to chart a blueprint for the BARMM transitional operations, even as alindong a rmed that the forum “will put into fruition the many initiatives endeavored to be put into motion.”

Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity Carlito alve r. delivered the closing remarks, expressing the belief that the forum “will be the beginning of a strong, inclusive, and productive partnership between the Philippine Congress and the Bangsamoro Parliament in uplifting the lives of our Bangsamoro people.”

Is bloodless surgery possible?

Is bloodless surgery possible? Why not?

According to Manuel R. Estioko, MD, Surgeon, cardiologist: “It is not only possible to do surgery without blood transfusion, but it can be performed safely with superior results.”

In his article State of the Art of Bloodless Surgery documented in the Society of Philippine Surgeons in America (SPSA) Golden Anniversary Book “Uncharted Journey” Legacy, Issue 3, he explained that “The fact that major surgery, complex heart operations, even in redo operations can be performed successfully, it encouraged others in the differ ent surgical specialties to follow. Bloodless surgery is now a well-established and is widely accepted not only in the US but worldwide.”

In a conversation over the phone, he further explained that: “To hospitals, bloodless surgery is cost effective and can save millions of dollars from the cost of blood. It is available as a personal choice to those who want the advantages of better clinical results with less complications and avoid the ha ard of disease transmission. In addition, there have been fatal outcomes of blood banking misadventures. It has been proven beyond a doubt that blood transfusion negatively affects the body’s immune system which is essential to avoid infection.”

Bloodless surgery is a surgical specialty where blood transfusion is not given during or after the operation relying solely on the patient’s own blood. It is meticulously performed to avoid blood loss. If there is or vey minimum of blood loss, there is no need for blood transfusion. It is called, Dr. Estioko said, Transfusion Free Surgery.

This has been his contributions to medicine and surgery, in addition to his contributions to the SPSA’s Continuing Medical ducation C conducting more than a do en lectures at the Annual Convention of CME Conferences.

Still in the article, he mentioned things we learned in the advancement of bloodless surgery, such as -- better understanding in perfusion and the ama ing compensatory function of the human body; improvement in anesthesia and ICU postoperative care; better understanding of blood properties related to bleeding and clotting; treatment of anemia; and overall progress in medical care.

This has been significant information for me considering that before, I didn’t know bloodless surgery was possible. I know my readers will also benefit from this information.

In his autobiography titled Career Autobiography, A Third Person Account, he obtained a Doctor of Medicine Degree, graduating with honors from the University of Santo Tomas, Philippines. He was a young man with full of idealism and ambition, anxious to pursue postgraduate training in the United States. He was accepted to a competitive 5-year residency program in General Surgery at a prestigious institution, Mount Sinai Hospital in New York.

After successfully finishing his 5 year residency program with great determination and effort, his interest turned to the dynamic, rapidly emerging specialty of Cardiac Surgery. It took three years of training at the same hospital under the guidance of an energetic, innovative, and visionary Chief Cardiac Surgeon, Dr. Robert S. Litwak. He completed the program, passed the examinations of both the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Thoracic Surgery, so he became certified iplomate in both specialties.

Then, he joined a private practice in Philadelphia, to gain surgical experience, with an excellent Filipino cardiac surgeon r. ariel . Abla a. r. Abla a introduced him to P A where he developed a good working relationship with the members of the association.

He became interested in the challenge of operations without blood. Advances in perfusion technology with no blood prime and limiting blood loss with improved techniques proved to be the key factors in the solution. He continued for many years at Mount Sinai Hospital and gained expertise in doing various operations: valve repair/replacements, coronary artery bypass, aortic surgery, pacemaker defibrillator implantations and lung procedures.

Then he joined the Kay Medical Group (KMG), a highly regarded group of surgeons in Los Angeles, headed by renown surgeon Dr. Jerome H. Kay. He

BETING DOLOR

ELPIDIO R. ESTIOKO

ALI G. MACABALANG MINDANAO VOICE

Who needs a waiver of inadmissibility?

BREAKING NEWS

N-400 Application for Naturalization

The USCIS is now giving priorities to application for naturalization . The reason is obviously to allow ualified immigrants to vote in the coming midterm and presidential election. There are cases when the waiting time is only six months compared to prior years. Pres. iden is encouraging all ualified to file for naturali ation. This is a rare opportunity that all ualified should take advantage of.

ACA reinstated

Pres. iden reiterated to renew the ACA processing as of August 31, 2022

Petition for Caregivers

The priority date for “ ther workers for inal Action date is ay , 0 , which is about 3 years waiting for the visa. The priority date for ate of iling of Ad ustment of tatus for those in the . . is now current. This means that when the petition is approved an ad ustment of status can be filed. This process is good for those who need caregivers.

Arrest and removal of undocumented is now up to the discretion of C o cer upreme Court did not allow Pres. iden to overturn the immigration policy of Trump with regards to priority in arrest and removal. With increasing migrants at the border White ouse is now re uiring C to deport more migrants under political pressure. t is now a decision to be made by the C o cer which could include arrest of anyone who is undocumented. t is time to work on your green card now.

Who needs a waiver of inadmissibility f you entered the nited tates using a different name or committed a crime then you need a waiver of inadmissibility under orm 60 so that you can process your green card. What grounds of inadmissibility may be covered by a waiver

A The following grounds of inadmissibility under the mmigration and aturali ation Act A are as follows health related grounds, criminal and related grounds, immigrant membership in a totalitarian party, misrepresentation in immigration matters, smugglers, sub ect to civil penalty, and unlawful presence in the . . for at least 0 days, beginning on or after April , , followed by departure from the . . ow long is the validity of the waiver

A f the waiver is granted, then, except for and nonimmigrant s and conditional permanent residents, the grant permanently waives fraud or willful misrepresentation included in the application for purposes of any future immigration benefits application, whether immigrant or nonimmigrant. The waiver remains valid even if the person later abandons or otherwise loses PR status.

f you are a conditional permanent resident, is the waiver also permanent in nature

A or conditional permanent residents, the waiver only becomes valid indefinitely if and when the conditions are removed from his or her permanent resident status. Conversely, termination of the conditional permanent resident status also terminates the validity of the waiver. oes the waiver cover all grounds of inadmissibility

A A waiver applies only to the specific grounds of inadmissibility and related crimes, events or in cidents specified in the waiver application. f, in the future, the applicant is found inadmissible for a separate incident of fraud or willful misrepresentation not already included in an approved waiver application, he or she will be re uired to file another waiver application. C may reconsider an approval of a waiver at any time if it is determined that the decision has been made in error.

Are there conditions for the grant of a Waiver to or nonimmigrant visa applicants

A f the applicant seeks a waiver to obtain a fianc e visa or , the waiver s approval is conditioned upon the nonimmigrant marrying the . . citi en who filed the fianc e petition. The waiver becomes permanent once the marries the petitioner.

What happens to the waiver if the nonimmigrant does not marry the petitioner

A n general, if the nonimmigrant does not marry the petitioner, the and if applicable will remain inadmissible for purposes of any application for a benefit on any basis other than the proposed marriage between the and the nonimmigrant visa petitioner.

What happens if at the time of entry, the immigration o cer declares the visa holder inadmissible based on documentary re uirements

A f an applicant procured an immigration benefit by fraud or willful misrepresentation, the applicant may also be inadmissible for lack of documentary re uirements at the time of entry. When an applicant is granted a waiver for fraud or willful misrepresentation, inadmissibility based on lack of documentary re uire ments at the time of entry is also implicitly waived.

Can you give an example of the above

A or example, an applicant misrepresents a material fact during the overseas nonimmigrant visa application process. The epartment of tate, however, grants her a visa. ater, she applies for ad ustment of status. uring her ad ustment interview, an o cer discovers her misrepresentation and finds her inadmissible for both willful misrepresentation and failure to comply with documentary re uirements. The applicant then applies for a waiver of inadmissibility for willful misrepresentation. Approval of the waiver has the effect of waiving inadmissibility for willful misrepresentation and for the lack of a valid visa at the time of entry.

ote This is not a legal advice. ou should consult with an immigration attorney about the specifics of your case.

ankruptcy asics

ankruptcy will actually improve your credit within one year because your unsecured debts are discharged. Although the bankruptcy will be in your records for 0 years, not filing bankruptcy will make your credit even worse until most your debts are paid.

f you are being sued by your creditors, most money udgment can be eliminated in bankruptcy.

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

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

CAR ACCIDENTS

ur aw irm successfully settled a car accident for 6 5.000.

A AW

We also handle uncontested RC .

C TA PR

We can help you if you are under R audit, need a representation with R , need to reduce your tax li ability or need to offer a payment plan to R ,

CC T R

or the month of ctober 0 , we received an approvals from the mmigration Court a waiver of misrep resentation for an immigrant in removal proceeding who entered the . as single but actually married. The waiver allows him to stay in the . . permanently. We also received approval from C six naturali ation applications, two ianc e visa petition, three removals of condition on residence and three ad ustment of status applications.

ote f you have immigration problems write us a letter and we will reply to you with no initial obliga tion. The aw ces of Crispin C. o ano can help you find a solution before your problem gets worse which could lead to deportation and family separation.

PHL economy grows faster at 7.6% in Q3

C T The Philippine economy grew at a faster rate in the third uarter of the year at .6 percent, higher than the revised gross domestic product P growth in the second uarter at .5 percent, the Philippine tatistics Authority P A reported last week.

P A ndersecretary ennis apa said this is the sixth consecutive uarter that the economy recorded expansion.

The country s P growth from uly to eptember 0 is also higher than the percent increase in the same period in 2021.

“The third uarter s P exceeded the median analyst forecast of 6.3 percent, ational conomic and evelopment Au thority A ecretary Arsenio ali sacan said.

alisacan said the average P growth for the first nine months of the year stood at . percent.

“With this, we are on track to achiev ing the government s growth target of 6.5 to .5 percent for 0 . iven the latest P outturn, our economy needs to grow by 3.3 to 6. percent in the fourth uarter, he said.

The P A reported that all ma or indus tries improved their performance in the third uarter of 0 compared to the same period last year, with agriculture, forestry and fishing growing by . percent indus try, rose to 5. percent and services, up by 9.1 percent.

ervices contributed 5. percentage points to the .6 percent P growth in the third uarter, followed by industry which shared .6 percentage points, and

agriculture, forestry and fishing at 0. per centage points.

y industry, wholesale and retail trade, repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles contributed . percentage points to the P growth in uly to eptember period, followed by financial and insurance ser vices at 0. percentage points and con struction at 0. 6 percentage points.

Compared to last year, the sector of ac commodation and food service activities expanded by 40.6 percent, which is the largest across industries. Transportation and storage also improved by 4.3 percent and construction increased by . per cent.

“This economic performance largely benefitted from the further easing of mo bility, including the resumption of face to face classes, which boosted consumption among ilipinos, alisacan said.

The A chief added that the relax ation of borders and simplifying travel pro tocols supported the recovery and growth of local tourism and other sectors.

n terms of spending, household final consumption expenditure is the largest contributor to P in the previous uar ter at 5. percentage points, exceeding the share of construction at .5 percent per centage points, durable e uipment at 0. percentage points, and government final consumption expenditure at 0. percent age points.

“This turnout signifies that ilipino families are close to returning to pre pan demic life, as more people visit restaurants and hotels and engage in recreational ac tivities within the country, alisacan said.

Gov’t loses P26 B in revenue yearly due to illicit tobacco trade

C T A party list law maker said at least P 6 billion in rev enue is lost each year by the government to the illicit trade of tobacco products, which deprives the country of much needed funds to support various govern ment programs.

uring the hearing of the ouse Committee on Agriculture and ood, P A Party list Rep. argarita gnacia ograles said the government is losing billions in revenues because of the uncollected excise taxes from these smug gled tobacco products.

“The government revenues are lost from smuggled, unregistered, and un regulated cigarettes which are being sold via container vans shipments. This resulted in an estimated P 6 billion in fi nancial losses annually. If this continues, it will affect our local tobacco industry and roughly . million kababayans will be affected, ograles said.

ograles, together with Presidential son and locos orte Rep. erdinand “ andro arcos, pushed for the pas sage of bill imposing tougher penalties against tobacco smuggling by amending some provisions of Republic Act 0 45 or the Anti Agricultural muggling Act of 0 6.

The bill seeks to include raw and fin ished tobacco as agricultural commodi ties whose illegal importation constitutes economic sabotage, which is punish able with life imprisonment and a fine of twice the fair value of the smuggled agricultural product and the aggregate amount of the taxes, duties and other charges avoided.

The panel, chaired by ue on Rep. Wilfrido ark nverga, approved the measure.

n sponsoring the bill, ograles said tobacco farming remains a primary source of livelihood for so many ilipi no farmers despite the increase in excise taxes for the sale of tobacco products.

“The tobacco industry is a common source of income for many ilipinos. This contributes to around 5 6,000 la bor force in 0 and around . mil lion ilipinos generated earnings from the industry. The significant impact was it accounts for 6 percent of tax revenue in 0 0, and 5 percent of so called sin tax receipts are being used to finance the national health budget including the universal health care resulting in 8 million more low income families re ceiving health care under this program, ograles said.

Maricel on tv comeback, in lead cast of ‘Linlang’

the Kapamilya series, “Linlang,” that will also star Paulo Avelino, JM de Guzman and Kim Chiu.

“Linlang” will be under Dreamscape Entertainment of Deo Edrinal. Dreamscape, of course, is the production unit behind such hit soaps as “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano,” “The Broken Marriage Vow” and “Flower of Evil.”

“Linlang,” according to insiders, will be about lies, secrets and betrayal. The title denotes deception so viewers won’t be surprised if the soap will be a heavy drama on people hiding their true intentions and characters.

“Ang Sa Iyo Ay Akin” and “The General’s Daughter” on the small screen, reported Ethel Ramos in her latest column.

“Excited din ako,” she said in an interview, “Ang gagawin ko ‘yung isang way, hindi ‘yung the normal way.”

Paulo, who is in “Flower of Evil,” which is currently airing on Kapamilya primetime, said his role will surely send tongues wagging.

Kim, who is seen daily on “It’s Showtime” and the reality show, “Dream Maker,” will have the chance to act with Paulo and for the first time.

The Diamond Star Maricel Soriano is set to return on the small screen.

Maricel, who is looking young and refreshed after a brief hiatus based on a description of a columnist Ethel Ramos, will return on television via

The cast also includes veteran actors Jaime Fabregas and Raymond Bagatsing, young stars Vance Larena, Heaven Peralejo, Adrian Lindayag, Race Matias, Anji Salvacion, Kice, and acclaimed actress Ruby Ruiz.

“Linlang” will be the comeback project of Maricel. The award-winning actress was last seen in

“We’re up for the challenge. Sobrang iba talaga, ibang-iba and it needs a lot of hard work,” she said.

Meanwhile, JM said he is excited to be part of the series, which is his first teleserye under ream scape.

Set to air in 2023, “Linlang” will be directed by Jojo Saguin and Manny Palo

FilAm Billy Crawford is grand winner of ’Dancing with the Stars’

Filipino American actor, singer and television host Billy Crawford has won the 12th season of “Danse avec les Stars,” the French edition of hit television competition series “Dancing with the Stars.”

Billy’s wife, actress Coleen Garcia, shared the good news in a social media post over the weekend and publicized in local media.

“Words cannot express how PROUD I am of you!” Garcia wrote. “Not just for WINNING this di cult competition, but for growing into the per son you have become: a kind, humble man who works hard, dreams big for his family, shoots for the stars and makes sure to lift as many people up

with him along the way.”

“You deserve all of this and more,” she added as CNN Philippines reported.

Crawford’s colleagues in the Philippine entertainment industry also congratulated him on his feat, according to the report.

After his victory, the 40-year-old Billy immediately took to Instagram and thanked all the love and friendships built throughout his journey.

He also thanked his dance partner, Fauve Hautot for her “patience and amazing talent,” GMA Network reported.

“I am forever grateful to have worked with someone as dope as you!” he said.

The singer-host and his partner, French dancer Fauve Hautot, clinched the coveted trophy after garnering 53.5% of public votes, French media reported.

“I don’t believe it, it’s a dream for me,” a tearful Crawford said upon accepting the trophy.

Crawford first announced he was oining the dance contest back in July.

e first found success in rance and other u ropean countries with the release of his first single “Trackin’” from his album “Ride.”

t was certified platinum and put him on top of the French charts.

Billy, who is “The Wall Philippines” host, also thanked his co-contestants, plus the show’s team who brought the show to life.

“To all the pro dancers who helped each other to give an amazing show to the French public, salut and respect to all of you! The judges, thanks for encouraging us that we could always be better no matter what the circumstances are!” he added.

Billy also thanked Filipino fans who tried to follow updates despite the time difference.

He thanked his wife Coleen Garcia and his family. “Never could’ve done it [without] you guys sacrificing being here.

To end his post, Billy said, “I will miss ALL of you tremendously. With all the love in the world, before the trophy, I have already won [because] of the relationships we have built! Till next time, A TRES BIENTOUT! [see you soon!]”

#SuperAte Imee celebrates her most meaningful birthday yet

veggies, and enhanced Nutribun.

She also joined Vice President Sara Duterte and enator ong o in handing out Certificates f and wnership Award C A from the epart ment f Agrarian Reform AR to various farmer beneficiaries.

Imee also bonded with the kids of Davao’s Crisis Intervention Center over hearty servings of Nutribun with VP Sara and Davao City Mayor Baste Duterte.

In Cagayan de Oro City and Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental, Senator Marcos facilitated the release of Assistance To Individuals In Crisis Situation A C from the W where recipients were given Php3,000 each.

Imee with Vice President Sara Duterte and Davao City Mayor Baste Duterte

In a brand new vlog that is set to stream for free on her o cial ouTube channel on ov. ri day), her followers can get an exclusive glimpse of her southern sojourn where she spread cheer in Davao City, Cagayan de Oro City, and Tagoloan, isamis riental, distributing financial aid, fresh

Imee capped her visit with a simple dinner attended by former President Rodrigo Duterte, Vice President Sara Duterte, Senator Bong Go, Davao Oriental Governor Corazon Malanyaon, and SMNI Honorary Chairman Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, among many others.

n ov. aturday , mee takes a break from her advocacy work as her trending #Imeesolusyon returns for a brand-new episode that is centered on love and life.

Here, the Senator gives helpful advice on love

Carla Abellana on the real reason behind her and TombreakupRodriguez’s

The actress didn’t elaborate further.

As to why she kept her silence for the longest time, Carla maintained she simply wasn;t ready to discuss the matter in public.

https://mb.com.ph/2022/11/12/ carla-abellana-on-tom-rodriguez-hindi-ko-kakayaning-kausapin-siya/

Carla Abellana has opened up on her controversial split with Tom Rodriguez in an interview with Nelson Canlas.

When asked to shared the real rea son behind their split, Carla answered, “Hindi ko masasabi yan kasi hindi po siya isang bagay lang.”

https://mb.com.ph/2021/10/26/ carla-abellana-and-tom-rodriguezssweet-wedding-vows-will-melt-yourheart/

She continued, “Madami pong dahilan. Hindi po mababaw. Hindi po ganun kadali. Hindi po iisang bagay lang. Talagang maraming reasons as to why.”

“I knew how important it was. Ayokong lang na may masasabi akong hindi maganda or hindi tama, she said, relating it was “too soon.”

“Ayoko namang at the height of whatever events or situaion magsasalita ka tapos baka may masabi kang hindi maganda or dala ng emotions mo or whatever it is that you’re going through that time,” she added.

“Ang hirap din naman nung ganun na hindi mo binigyan yung sarili mo ng time… kung ano man yung nangyayari hindi mo pa napo-proseoso. o mahirap din. We have to be care ful with what we say, when we say it. We cannot forget na celebrities pa rin kami.”

and life as she talks about the bills she has filed as well as the programs that she spearheads aimed at helping people deal with life in general.

Witness the highlights and sidelights of mee s birthday celebration and learn about her views on love and life, and subscribe to https://www.youtube.com c mee arcos cial featured

SENATOR Imee Marcos marked her Nov. 12 birthday in the South, bringing with her the friendship and hospitality of the North, in a show of gratitude and thanksgiving.

Richard Gutierrez finally in his first ABS-CBN series as lead star

Actor Richard Gutierrez has taken his biggest role in an ABS-CBN television series as he plays the lead character in the star-studded action drama “Iron Heart.”

The story revolves around Apollo (Richard), who is known for his super strength, and how his mission leads him in finding out his identity and his deeper connection with his enemies.

Richard took part in the series’ creative process and emphasized his desire to showcase a modern action series led by directors Lester Pimentel Ong and Richard Ibasco Arellano.

“We wanted to do more hand-tohand combat. A more modern approach in terms of cinematography. We wanted to show something different in terms of action. Matagal na akong hindi napapanood gumawa ng aksyon na ganito,” he said during the series grand launch held at the Dolphy Theater.

Joining him in the series is Maja Salvador for a special participation two years after her last starring role in The Killer Bride.

“Hindi siya bago sakin pero sobrang importanteng ito because it’s ABS-CBN. Ang ABS-CBN ay ang

ganda gumawa ng isang teleserye. Na-miss ko gumawa ng isang love story. Madali lang ako napapayag,” she explained.

Sue Ramirez, who will play Apollo’s other love interest named Venus, promises viewers that they will see another version of her after earning praises for her portrayal as Lexy Lucero The Broken Marriage Vow.

“I think masu-surpass nito ang pagiging daring ko sa last role ko. ot only the outfits as seen in the trailer but ibang iba yung character. Iba yung upbringing,” she shared.

Viewers can also look forward to the beauty of Cebu as the creative head, Jay Fernando, said that they will utilize every part of the province.

Maja said that she did not hesitate to be part of the show after it was pitched to her.

“If they are the best characters or players of this game, Cebu is the best playground to do this show. You have the pristine beaches, the longest bridge, and high-rise buildings in one town,” he said.

Also joining this series are Jake Cuenca, Albert Martinez, Dimples Romana, Pepe Herrera, Baron

QCinema int’l film festival opens

The digitally-restored “Itim” will screen at the 10th QCinema International Film Festival.

“Itim” (“The Rites of May”) is by renowned director Mike de Leon and was the fi lm that won for actress-producer Charo Santos her fi rst est Actress award at the 1978 Asian Film Festival. It also starred seasoned actors Tommy Abuel, Mario Montenegro, Mona Lisa, and Susan Valdez.

“Itim” retells the story of a budding photographer Jun (Tommy), and how he documented the locals’ Lenten rituals during his return to his provincial hometown. He then met and befriended a mysterious woman named Teresa (Charo). But as soon as she opened up to him about her life, she was suddenly possessed by the spirit of her sister Rosa (Susan), whose untimely death was unknown

to their family. Through her sister’s restless soul, Teresa recounts the unsolved mystery behind Rosa’s disappearance.

Since its release in 1976, “Itim” continues to gain recognition from international audiences.

It was most recently selected as one of the classics to be screened at Cannes Film Festival last May 2022.

This year’s QCinema International Film Festival will run from November 17 to 26 at Gateway and Power Plant.

eisler, ofia Andres, yle charri, iether campo, n o Pineda, Al thea Ruedas, and Meryll Soriano.

Iron Heart is show at 8:45 pm

on A2Z, Kapamilya Channel, TV5, Kapamilya Online Live on Facebook and YouTube, Jeepney TV, and TFC IPTV.

Boy Abunda rumored to return to GMA-7, says he wants to go back to television

And oy had a ready answer “ keep on moving. ust wanna move, he said.

“ isa lang, have not much to say, but sabi ko nga, that s for another presscon, he said.

“ ut wanna go back to televi sion, he said. “That much will say wanna go back to television.

“Ako ay napunta sa digital plat form by circumstance. indi naman ako digital expert, hindi naman ako digital native, he explained.

“ atuto ako because wanted to do my interviews at sa awa ng iyos, napagbigyan tayo nang konti. apag bigyan tayo nang malaki, actually, he added and reported by Pep.ph.

wala pa, he admitted.

“I have not signed a contract. m in a conversation with various groups, but that will be in another presscon, he said.

e said that in case he makes a big decision, oy assured that “walang “tulay na masusunog dahil malaki ang pagpapahalaga niya sa kanyang mga relasyon.

“ akikipag usap ako nang ma tino, he said in the Pep report. “ value relationship. That makes this whole process di cult.

By Jeanne Michael Penaranda

Is popular television host Boy Abunda returning to television soon?

oy, appearing in the first press con since the C pandemic retrictions, on ovember 4, hinted his return to television soon.

ut rumors have it that he will be oining A etwork instead of A C . oy actually started his television career with A et work.

“Are you moving a veteran T host asked oy during the face to face presscon.

5th EDDYS Awards

The ociety of Philippine ntertainment ditors has announced the list of nominees for the 5th nter tainment ditors Choice Awards, to be held in person on ovember at the anila etropolitan Theater with oy Abunda as host and Ice Seguerra as director. Topping the nominees for best actor ohn Arcilla n The ob The issing , Christian ables ig ight , ingdong antes A ard ay , aniel Padilla un au pay an t Panahon and Piolo Pascual y Amanda . ying for the est Actress award are anine utierre ito at oon , im olina Ang abaeng Walang Pakiramdam , a a alvador Arisaka , Charo antos un aupay an t Panahon and Alessandra de Rossi y Amanda .

The complete list of nominees in the different catego ries follows

est ilm

Arisaka Ten Productions ig ight dea irst Company ito at oon T A tudios un aupay an t Panahon lack heep, lobe tudios, reamscape ntertainment n the ob The issing Reality ntertainment .

Best Director rik atti n the ob The issing ikhail Red Arisaka un ana ig ight Carlo Francis Manatad un aupay an it Panahon P abac ito at oon

Best Actress anine utierre ito at oon im olina Ang abaeng Walang Pakiramdam a a alvador Arisaka Charo antos un aupay an t Panahon Alessandra de Rossi y Amanda

“ ut as to what s gonna happen in the future, a lot of things are gonna happen. A lot of movements within or without wherever am, but wan na go back to television, he said in the Pep.ph report.

“ indi ko itatatwa na may mga pag uusap sa iba t ibang mga ista syon, sa iba t ibang mga tao, pero

“ ag umpisa ako ng karera ko sa telebisyon sa Channel 7. Parati kong sinasabi na doon ako natuto maglakad, at natuto akong lumipad sa A C , he recounted.

“ ahirap dahil may mga relasyon ako na pinangangalagaan, he said Boy started his television career in A through the talk show “ how Tell in 4. e was also host to the showbi oriented talk show “ tartalk from 5 to .

announces nominees

O’Farrell’s $3 million rental aid program now open

LOS ANGELES - As Los Angeles emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic, City Council President Pro Tempore Mitch O’Farrell opened a new program that will provide $3 million in rental aid for eligible residents in Council District 13 (CD13), represented by O’Farrell.

“My rental aid program will help renters in the 13th District stay housed, and that’s my top priority,” said Councilmember O’Farrell. “I’ve been a renter for most of my life and my family repeatedly faced eviction when I was a child, so know firsthand the burdens faced by some rent ers. That’s why we’ve worked so hard during the pandemic to provide relief to people affected by C .

The CD13 Rental Aid Program is now open and will accept applications for two weeks, through November 4, 2022. Eligible tenants and small “mom and pop” landlords can apply online at http://cd13.com/rentalaid. If a tenant or landlord does not have access to a computer, applications can be submitted by calling the CD13 Rental Subsidy Hotline at (855) 490-3481. The hotline is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. O’Farrell’s istrict ce, located at unset oulevard in cho Park, is also accepting applicants who prefer to complete their application in person and who need help doing so.

To be eligible, a tenant’s household income for 2021 or 2022 must be at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI), and a tenant must owe their landlord unpaid rent on or after April 1, 2022. For example, a family of two with an annual household income of up to 6, 50 would ualify. A family of four with a household income of up to $95,300 would also ualify. oth tenants and “mom and pop land lords can apply, and tenants must live within the boundar-

ies of CD13. Landlords must be a “mom and pop” landlord of a rental property in C 3 with a tenant who ualifies for the program. A “mom and pop” landlord may own no more than four rental units plus a single-family home in the City of Los Angeles.

O’Farrell is partnering with several community organizations to assist with outreach and the completion of applications, including the resee oundation and oreatown outh Community Center CC , and Armenian Re lief Society (ARS). Applicants will be provided assistance in multiple languages including nglish, panish, orean and Armenian.

“The Housing Department shares Councilmember O’Farrell’s commitment to keeping people housed,” said Ann Sewill, General Manager, Los Angeles Housing Department. “The Council District 13 Rental Aid Program is going to go a long way to helping Councilmember O’Farrell’s constituents endure the ongoing challenges of the pandemic.”

Since the beginning of the pandemic, O’Farrell has been a leader in establishing rental assistance programs. His $1 million in initial rental assistance helped 500 CD13 households stay in their homes, and was used as a model for additional citywide relief programs, beginning with the $100 million citywide Emergency Rental Assistance Subsidy, launched in 2020, which provided approximately 4 ,000 applicants , 3 in C 3 with subsidies of $2,000 each. Then, in 2021, The City launched the $221 million citywide Emergency Rental Assistance Program, which provided approximately 18,000 applicants citywide with an average payment of $12,000 each.

Higher rates in due to high inflation

Higher prices which is typically called “ nfla tion” escalated in early 2022, with gasoline prices spiking, housing prices reaching unprecedented levels and a sharp increase in grocery prices. Consumers bought less and dug deeper into their pockets to pay for their daily needs.

ur government thought the inflationary environ ment was temporary due primarily to supply chain issues caused by the pandemic. While the disruptions in the supply chain were an important factor, it was not the only one.

Government spending and the Russia-Ukraine conflict also played a role. Add in the fact that Chi na continues to lock down due to its zero-COVID policy, and inflation is here to stay. n response, the Federal Reserve started a series of interest rate hikes to combat inflation and reduce the amount of money circulating in the economy.

What should home buyers do?

t s di cult to time the market, but that s especial ly true for the housing market. No one wants to feel like they paid too much for their home, yet buying a home is a major life decision that provides a feeling of security and stability. With these rates touching I think you know what a lot of people are thinking?

Should potential homebuyers wait for housing prices to decline, or should they find the house that works for them and refinance when interest rates go lower The final decision comes down to doing what makes sense ( Dollar and cents) for the homebuyer, but some buying strategies make it easier to know when to buy.

Wait until mortgage rates drop

This strategy is best for those in a stable living situation who can handle rent increases until the time is right to buy. Even though many see rent as throwing money away, it also means a roof over your head until you can plan your next best move. eep an eye on interest rates and housing prices in the meantime, and be ready to move uickly when you find a house at a price you like and interest rates are lower.

The bottom line

Overall, economists don’t believe there will be a radical move toward higher or lower mortgage rates soon. ou can expect them to remain around for the foreseeable future. ecause of this, you need to take some time to decide if now is the right time for you to buy a home or if renting makes more sense.

They say, you should not do is wait for a house prices to crash. While there is always a chance of this happening, the odds are slim. 2008 was the only time that housing prices fell significantly. n all oth er recessions, home price gains slowed but they did continue upward. Of course, your area could experience a slight decline while other parts of the nation see increases. However, you most likely won’t see a major decrease in prices. I disagree with these statements from the some of the Economist, but they may be right?

Thanks for your in uiries, please call en o of st nnovative inance 56 50 04 or write to kennethgo@verizon.net

238636

PHL’s Gilas sweeps FIBA World Cup fifth window

put up a valiant fight as it did not al low ilas to pull away in the second half, thanks to its fast break plays and 3 second chance points.

CJ Perez provided the spark for Gilas off the bench with 0 points and four rebounds, according to reports.

Gilas picked up its third straight win and improved to 5-3 in the team standings, while audi Arabia dropped to 6 in roup .

The Philippines will close out their A World Cup ualifiers at home when Gilas will face Lebanon and ordan on eb. 4 and eb. , respec tively.

the 76-63 win was formalized as if it was held in the Philippines, PNA reported.

“ think we got a lot of energy from the crowd. They really gave us a huge boost, Reyes said after the game.

audi was poised for a huge upset early on after forcing a 6 all tie at the end of the first uarter.

However, with their fans cheering, ilas slowly pounced on the hosts, es pecially in the second half, where they began to finally make their shots.

MANILA/JEDDAH Will the Philippines’ national basketball team Gilas Pilipinas be able to salvage a berth in the FIBA World Cup championship?

After several setbacks, chances for the berth are brighter as the team swept the fifth window stint in the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup Asian ualifiers after beating audi Arabia, 76-63, on November 14 at the ing Abdullah port City in eddah.

wight Ramos and RR Pogoy led the attack for Gilas with 13 points apiece.

ai otto chipped in points, nine rebounds, and five blocks for the Philippines.

Unlike in their previous meeting where ilas demolished audi with a 38-point rout at the Mall of Asia Arena, the Filipino cagers had to work hard to get this victory.

Published reports stated that audi

CR W . ilas Pilipinas thanks its fans in Jeddah for showing up in its game against host audi Ara bia at the ing Abdullah ports City on ov. 4. The Philippines won, 6 63, to the delight of the huge crowd, mostly ilipinos working in audi Arabia. Photo courtesy of A ilas Pilipinas coach Chot Reyes lauded the Filipino fans who trooped to the ing Abdullah ports City in Jeddah to support them in their FIBA World Cup ualifiers game against audi Arabia.

While audi Arabia is the designat ed host for the match, the Gilas fans were more raucous especially when

“They ust wouldn t allow us to lose until we hit our stride and finally hit some shots in the third quarter,” Reyes said.

ilas actually set things up in the second uarter after holding audi to ust nine points to take a 3 5 half time lead.

“We were able to use our defense essentially to pull off the victory, Reyes added.

RR Pogoy and wight Ramos each scored 13 points for Gilas, which swept the fifth window and moved up to 5 3 in roup play.

athna Al arwani led audi Arabia, which dropped to 2-6, with 19 points, eight rebounds, one steal, and one block.

Nat’l boxers assured of support until Paris Olympics

A A The Philippine ports Commission P C has pledged sup port to national boxers all the way to the 0 4 Paris lympics.

awyer oli ala, P C Chair, made the commitment during the courtesy call of Asian lite oxing Championship gold medalist Carlo Paalam and bron e medalists esthy Petecio and ergie acyadan at Ri al emorial ports Complex in anila.

The boxers were accompanied by As sociation of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines A AP president d Picson and secretary general arcus arwin analo, P A s ean alanum reported.

“We are in full support of our national boxers all the way to Paris lympics, ala said in a statement. “We ve already discussed the plans with ABAP as to how we can level up the support and programs for our elite athletes.

Aside from funding the team’s training and foreign trips next year, the P C will study the possibility of building a team composed of coaches

and sports science experts, similar to what the agency created for Tokyo lympics gold medalist idilyn ia and World o. 3 pole vaulter bi ena.

e told Paalam, Petecio and acy adan to never give up on their dreams of winning the lympic gold.

“ ahit na nandon na kayo sa taas ng tagumpay, wag kayong bibitaw. Ganun pa rin ang level ng gutom and motivation na manalo. Ang panalo nyo, ay panalo ng buong bayan ven if you are in the peak of success, don t let go. The level of hunger and mo tivation to win should be the same. our victory is also the victory of the whole country , ala said.

Petecio, an lympic silver medal ist also in Tokyo, said they will con tinue their sacrifices for the country s glory.

The national boxers will take a break and resume their training on ec. 4.

“ ur boxers have a nice facility in aguio, which we thank the P C for.

E a onal bo ers ergie a a an esth ete io an Carlo aala ( r to th ro le�) all on hili ine orts Co ission o ials ho vo e to s ort the bo ers all the a to the aris l i s

We are making that sacrifice now, in the lead up to tournaments happening as early as ebruary next year, prior

to the ay 0 3 Cambodia outh east Asian ames, and eventually to Paris, Picson said.

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. With colder weather months approaching, Pacific as and lectric Company P is reminding customers to call to schedule a free in home safety inspection of their gas appliances. uring the visit, P will also relight pilot lights for customers who have heaters or other appliances that have been turned off during warmer months.

Inspections help ensure that gas appliances, including water heaters, furnaces and ovens, are operating safely and e ciently, reducing the risk of carbon mon oxide poisoning within the home. Carbon monoxide is especially dangerous due to the fact that it can’t be seen, smelled or heard. According to the Center for isease Control, every year in the . . at least 430 people die from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning and approxi-

mately 50,000 people will be sent to the hospital.

“ eep your family safe from the dangers of carbon monoxide by calling P to schedule a free gas appliance safety check, and we will send a uali fied P technician to your home to inspect your appliances and to relight pi lot lights. said oe orline, P vice president of as perations.

Before the colder winter months when natural gas appliances typically see the most use, P encourages customers to schedule an inspection by calling the cus tomer helpline at 00 43 5000.

elpful Winter as afety Tips

Install carbon monoxide detectors to warn when concentration levels are high.

All California single family homes are re uired to have carbon monoxide de tectors.

Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed on every floor, near sleeping ar eas and common areas.

These devices should be tested twice a year, and batteries replaced if necessary.

Check the expiration date most car bon monoxide detectors have a shelf life of five to seven years.

Never use products inside the home that generate dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, such as generators, outdoor grills, or propane heaters.

ever use cooking devices such as ov ens or stoves for home heating purposes.

When using the fireplace to stay warm, make sure the flue is open so venting can occur safely through the chimney. ake sure water heaters and other natural gas appliances have proper ventilation.

Click here for more winter heating

Social Security Update

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

eterans ay is on riday, ovem ber , 0 . very year on this day, we honor all veterans who served our country and risked their lives to protect us.

Our Wounded Warriors webpage is an important resource for military members who return home with injuries. f you know a wounded veteran, please let them know about our Wound ed Warriors webpage at www.ssa.gov/

woundedwarriors.

The page shares information about our ocial ecurity isability nsurance benefi ts for veterans, including ow benefi ts are diff erent from benefi ts available through the e partment of eterans Aff airs and re uire a separate application.

How we expedite the processing of ocial ecurity disability claims for service members. f they develop a disability while on active military ser vice on or after ctober , 00 , they can fi le a disability claim regardless of where the disability occurs.

Answers to uestions asked

about ocial ecurity.

f active duty military service members are unable to work due to a disabling condition and continue to receive pay while in a hospital or on medical leave, they should consider applying for . Active duty sta tus and receipt of military pay doesn t necessarily prevent payment of benefi ts.

ur webpages are easy to share on social media and by email with your friends and family. Please con sider passing this information along to someone who may need it.

safety and savings tips.

f you suspect carbon monoxide in your home, you should get out immedi ately and call . f a P customer ever smells the distinctive “rotten egg” odor of natural gas in or around their home or business they should immediate ly evacuate and then call and P at 00 43 5000.

About PG&E Pacific as and lectric Compa ny, a subsidiary of P Corporation PC , is a combined natural gas and electric utility serving more than 6 million people across 0,000 s uare miles in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit www.pge.com/ and http www.pge.com about news room/.

CALIFORNIA HATE CRIME RESOURCES

California Civil Rights Department (CRD)

Contact:StopHate@CalCivilRights.CA.gov; 833-8-NO-HATE (833-866-4283)

Website: https://stophate.calcivilrights.ca.gov

The California Civil Rights Department will host the CA vs. Hate Resource Line and Network (CA vs. Hate) will begin providing services on November 1, 2022 through a “soft launch.” During this time, CA vs. Hate will: (1) help individuals and communities targeted for hate identify options for next steps after a hate incident or crime, (2) connect people targeted for hate with culturally competent resources; and (3) collect data that people feel comfortable sharing regarding hate incidents and crimes to support ongoing efforts to improve hate incident and crime reporting and data to enhance hate crimes prevention and response.

CA vs. Hate will welcome input and suggestions on its portal, resource line and network, and services during the soft launch. In early Spring 2023, CA vs. Hate will have a “hard” launch that will incorporate community and user feedback and will be accompanied by a statewide multilingual outreach and marketing campaign.

CRD is a state department with a long history of enforcing civil rights protections outside the context of the criminal legal system. This includes enforcement of the Ralph Act; if you have been targeted for hate violence and threats, you can file a civil com plaint with CRD against the person who harmed you.

You may be able to collect money damages or obtain a restraining order. If you contact CA vs. Hate, CRD will help identify these and other options for next steps that respect the needs of the people seeking support. For those who would like to connect with law enforcement, CRD can help provide information about the process and connect with law enforcement. For those who do not feel safe connecting with criminal law enforcement authorities, CRD will identify other civil legal options (both through CRD and other agencies) and other ways to access resources and support.

CRD is also proud to be home to the Commission on the State of Hate, a nine-member statewide com-

mission appointed by the Governor, the Speaker of the Assembly and the Senate Committee on Rules. Beginning next year, the Commission will do the following: (1) Develop a rigorous, comprehensive accounting of hate activity in California; (2) Host community forums on the state of hate in California; and (3) Provide resources and guidance to communities and government o cials on how to effectively reduce and respond to hate activity.

California epartment of ustice ce of the At torney General

California Department of Education (CDE) Contact: antibiasgrants@cde.ca.gov Website: https://www.cde.ca.gov/pd/ps/antibiasgrant.asp

Antibias Education Grant Program

The purpose of the Antibias Education Grant Program is to prevent, address, and eliminate racism and bias in all California public schools, and making all public schools inclusive and supportive of all people.

An Antibias Education Grant shall be used for training and resources to prevent and address bias or prejudice toward any group of people based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, immigration status, language, or any actual or perceived characteristic listed in

Section 422.55 of the Penal Code. Emphasis shall be on preventing anti-Semitism and bias or prejudice toward groups, including, but not limited to, African Americans, Asian Pacific slanders, atinos, and people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or questioning youth.

California Department of Justice (CA DOJ) Contact: care@doj.ca.gov Website: https://oag.ca.gov/hatecrimes

The California Department of Justice (CA DOJ) provides tools and resources to aid and assist local, state, and federal law enforcement authorities in the investigation of possible hate crimes, including the identification, arrest, prosecution, and conviction of the perpetrators of those crimes. CADOJ takes action to support public safety through a variety of approaches, including through:

(1) Guidance to law enforcement to ensure state and local o cials across California have the neces sary information and tools to continue to respond appropriately and swiftly to hate crime activity;

(2) Guidance to prosecutors to help strengthen prosecution and enforcement statewide;

(3) Brochures and fact sheets in more than two dozen languages to assist members of the public in identifying and responding to hate crime events; and

(4) Collecting and reporting statewide statistical data on hate crime to inform state efforts to combat hate crime.

California Department of Social Services (CDSS)

Contact: HIU@dss.ca.gov

Website: https://cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/cdssprograms/civil-rights/care-funding

Stop the Hate Program Funding

California Government Code 8260 authorizes the CDSS, in consultation with the Commission on Asian and Pacific slander American Affairs CAP AA , to provide grants to ualified organi ations to provide support and services to victims and survivors of hate

incidents and hate crimes and their families and facilitate hate incident or hate crime prevention measures.

Funded Activities may include:

Direct services for victims and survivors of hate incidents and their families, including legal services; navigation and case management; mental and complementary health services; and wellness and community healing;

Attorney General

Prevention activities, including arts and cultural work, youth development, senior safety and escort programs, safety planning training; and cross-racial alliance work; and

Interventions, including outreach, training, restorative justice, and coordination with local government and institutional partners.

California State Library (CSL)

Contact: ethnicmedia@library.ca.gov

Website: https://www.library.ca.gov/grants/ethnicmedia/ Ethnic Media Outreach Grants

The California State Library, in partnership with the California Commission on Asian and Pacific s lander American Affairs CAP AA , allocated funding to help ethnic media outlets and organizations that serve communities that are historically vulnerable to hate incidents and hate crimes because of their ethnic, racial, religious, gender/gender expression, sexual orientation, or other identities.

lOES)

Contact onprofit ecurity rant Program on Profit. ecurity. rant Cal .ca.gov

California tate onprofit ecurity rant Program CSNSGP@caloes.ca.gov

Website https www.caloes.ca.gov o ce of the director policy administration finance administration grants-management/homeland-security-emergencymanagement-programs/infrastructure-protectiongrants/ onprofit ecurity rant Program P

NSGP funding is focused on target hardening activities, and to support physical security enhancements and other security activities to nonprofit organi ations that are at high risk of a terrorist attack. NSGP funds may also be used for security-related training courses and programs, exercises, and planning activities.

ligible nonprofit organi ations are those organi a tions that are described under section 501(c)

(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (IRC) and exempt from tax under section 501(a) of such code.

The NSGP also promotes emergency preparedness coordination and collaboration activities between public and private community representatives, as well as state and local government agencies.

California tate onprofit ecurity rant Program (CSNSGP)

The purpose of the CSNSGP is to provide funding support for physical security enhancements and other security related activities to nonprofit organi zations that are at high risk for violent attacks and hate crimes due to ideology, beliefs, or mission. The CSNSGP seeks to integrate the preparedness activities of nonprofit organi ations with broader state and lo cal preparedness efforts. The C P also promotes emergency preparedness coordination and collaboration activities between public and private community representatives, as well as state and local government agencies.

L.A. County Officials Launch United Against Hate Week

esi ents rge to e e t ate ro ote In l sion

LOS ANGELES - Renowned leaders from diverse racial and cultural sectors of the community will gather to kick off the annual United Against Hate Week on Monday, November 14 at the Kenneth Hahn Hall of Administration.

United Against Hate Week, which runs from November 13-19 is intended to urge local communities to reject hate and bigotry and promote inclusion through a unique, community-building blend of art, social media, and educational resources. The annual event is part of LA vs. Hate - a project of the LA County Commission on Human Relations.

The press conference, which will kick off at a.m. at the rand Park entrance of the Hall of Administration will feature a “Wishing Tree” art intervention that will be displayed as a tree hung with paper tags expressing County residents’ wishes for a hate-free Los Angeles County.

It will also include 10 speakers including Chair of the Board of Supervisors,

Holly J. Mitchell and honorary co-chairs for United Against Hate Week Dr. Debra Duardo, Superintendent of Los Angeles County ce of ducation and aria S. Salinas, president and CEO of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce.

“With recent events reminding us that hate and prejudice in our County continue to be highly visible and hidden in private meetings, we need LA vs. Hate’s United Against Hate Week more than ever,” stated Robin Toma, Executive Director of the LA County Commission on Human Relations.

Toma noted that residents are called on this week to take action against hate by going to LAvsHate.org and using the toolkits, participating in one of the week’s events, and getting involved at the community level in light of the recent rise of anti-Semitism and hate speech.

“We need to turn acts of hate into changes in our own behaviors and in the practices, culture and systems around us,

which perpetuate racism and prejudice in all its forms,” added Toma, who will release the annual 2021 Hate Crime Report next month.

“While I am proud of our innovative LA vs. Hate program, the soon-to-bereleased 2021 Hate Crime Report will show that we have much more work to do,” said LA County Board of Supervisors Chair Holly J. Mitchell, Supervisor to the Second District. “We must have a shared commitment to address hatred and implicit bias every day, LA vs. Hate provides the tools and resources to help us do this. Our strength is in our diversity, hatred of any form will not be tolerated. We must ensure that Los Angeles County is truly a place where everyone can be who they are without fear.”

For more information, including shareable community-centric graphics readymade for social media, or a complete list of United Against Hate Week activities in LA County, visit www.LAvsHate.org.

About LA vs.Hate

In response to the rise in hate, the LA County Board of Supervisors directed the LA County Commission on Human Relations to develop a program to prevent and respond to hate incidents in the County, which resulted in LA vs Hate.

The initiative has three components: an arts-led public engagement campaign to encourage residents and organizations to unite against and report acts of hate the fi rst government hotline via 211 LA) for reporting acts of hate and providing assistance to hate victims; and a network of community agencies that provide hate prevention and rapid response services.

Since September 2019, LA vs. Hate has received nearly 2,000 reports of hate acts. The LA vs. Hate Action Committee includes civic leaders, educators, County departments, artists, health plans, immigrant rights groups, and more.

California releases world’s first action plan to achieve net zero carbon pollution

o Erlin a a t Correspondent

SACRAMENTO - In keeping with Governor Gavin Newsom’s push to move faster to achieve new and ambitious climate goals, the California Air Resources oard CAR released its updated proposal to implement an action plan, taking unprecedented steps to drastically slash pollution and accelerate the transition to clean energy.

No economy in the world, much less the soon-to-be fourth largest, has put forth such a comprehensive roadmap to reach carbon neutrality, it was disclosed.

The updated plan sets new targets for renewable energy, clean buildings, carbon removal, and clean fuels in the transportation sector.

If adopted by CARB, the plan will be a critical component of Governor Newsom’s California Climate Commitment – a set of world-leading actions to build out a 100% clean energy grid, achieve carbon neutrality by 2045, ramp up carbon removal and sequestration, protect Californians from harmful oil drilling, and invest $54 billion to forge an oil-free future while building sustainable communities throughout the state.

n a statement released to Philippine News Today, it was gathered that the updated coping Plan would achieve car bon neutrality by 2045, in addition to: Cutting air pollution by 71%;

Slashing greenhouse gas emissions 85% by 2045;

That includes a 48% reduction of greenhouse gasses by 2030, surpassing the statutory mandate to reduce emissions 40% below 1990 levels in 2030;

Reducing fossil fuel consumption to less than one-tenth of what we use today, a 94% drop in demand for oil and 86% drop in demand for all fossil fuels; Creating 4 million new jobs;

Saving Californians $200 billion in health costs due to pollution.

“California is drastically cutting our dependence on fossil fuels and cleaning our air – this plan is a comprehensive roadmap to achieve a pollution-free future,” said Governor Newsom. “It’s the most ambitious set of climate goals of any jurisdiction in the world, and if adopted, it’ll spur an economic transformation akin to the industrial revolution. While big polluters focus on increasing their profits at our expense, California is protecting communities, creating jobs and accelerating our transition to clean energy.”

The plan would also raise the stakes for clean energy and climate resiliency, calling for:

At least 0 W offshore wind capac ity built by 2045;

3 million climate-friendly homes by 2030 and 7 million by 2035; million heat pumps deployed by 2030;

Carbon removal/capture targets of 20 million metric tons CO2 equivalent

TC e by 030 and 00 T CO2e by 2045;

Achieve 20% non-combustion in the aviation sector by 2045, with the remaining demand met with sustainable aviation fuel;

Light-duty vehicle miles traveled

T target of 5 per capita below 1990 levels by 2030 and 30% per capita below 1990 levels by 2045.

The plan’s release follows the latest Greenhouse Gas Inventory, showing that 2020 had the steepest recorded drop in pollution in California history due to the pandemic, and including updated data showing California reached its 2020 climate targets six years ahead of schedule in 2014 rather than the initially estimated four.

Throughout California, leaders from

the environmental, clean energy, academic, labor, and business communities have weighed in on the proposal:

“Finally there is a climate action plan that has the potential to bend the warming curve in time. The plan contains all of the essential ingredients of climate resilience: fossil free energy generation; reduction of short lived super pollutants; air pollution abatement; climate justice; restoration of nature’s role as carbon sink. t integrates effortlessly mitigation, adaptation and transformation. This is the new way to address the climate crisis. The health benefits of these actions alone will pay for the huge investment by the state. Having worked on climate change science since 5, am finally seeing a climate solutions plan that recognizes the grave risks posed by the climate crisis; I hope the rest of the planet will follow the California example. . Ram Ramanathan, istinguished Profes sor Emeritus, University of California at San Diego

“The science is clear: to avoid the worst impacts of climate change, the world must rapidly cut greenhouse gas emissions in the current decade. Governor Newsom understands the importance of near-term ambition, and his Administration is to be commended for delivering a coping Plan that exceeds California’s 2030 emissions reduction goal while providing necessary air quality and public health benefits for all Cali fornians. EDF looks forward to working with the Air Resources Board and partner agencies to adopt policy in the coming year – including a more ambitious emissions cap – that locks in these necessary reductions.” – Katelyn Roedner Sutter, California State Director, Environmental efense und

“We stand ready to partner with the Governor on implementing this ambitious plan while growing living-wage

clean energy jobs. IBEW’s close partnership with the state will help California lead the world in building a clean energy future for decades to come.” – Joel Barton, Secretary Treasurer of the State Association of Electrical Workers

“The Yurok Tribe applauds CARB for establishing a progressive Scoping Plan to implement the state s climate goals. We especially appreciate efforts to include Tribal voices in the development of the plan. We now look forward to moving to implementation of the plan in the years ahead.” – Chairman James, The Yurok Tribe

“The coping Plan contains many ambitious goals that will create major benefits for California and the world if we succeed in reaching them. But until we take action, it is just a report. It is our job as an advocacy community to turn seemingly impossible goals into realities and to prevent outcomes that continue the legacy of environmental racism at the hands of polluting fossil fuel companies. NextGen stands ready to work with the State to build a California that we can all be proud of.” – David Weiskopf, enior Policy Advisor, ext en Policy

“We have an urgent call to action and unless we act decisively, many of our communities will continue to experience severe impacts of a worsening climate. We know smart land management across California is essential to every region in the state. To advance a healthier and thriving California, we must double down on our efforts to accelerate nature based climate solutions that increase access to nature and protect our public health. The Trust for Public and, in partnership with the State of California, is ready to advance and deliver on this agenda.” – Juan Altamirano, Director of overnment Affairs, Trust for Public Land

Winning Filipino...

Leading the Filipinos, all of whom but one are in California, are reelection seekers current California State Attorney General Rob Bonta who got almost 60% of the estimated total votes (ETV), South San Francisco Council Vice Mayor Buenaflor icolas of istrict 3 with 00 T , ikki ortunato as istrict akland City Council tallied 60 of the estimated total votes first ilipino American l Cerrito ayor abriel uinto with 36 T , first ilipina American Artesia City ayor e lissa Ramoso, aly City Council embers Ray uenaventura T and Rod aus agbual T , and young trail bla ers teven Raga ew ork tate Assembly istrict 30 with almost 60 T and Cameron asai Pinole City Council of ETV, among others.

ther winning candidates in orthern California include tate Attorney eneral Rob onta s wife ia onta T of istrict Alameda County, avid ro American Canyon City Council with 35 T , oanne el Rosario of Colma City Council 35 T , Tony aysog of Alameda City Council 30 T , arry arbadillo of ilpitas City Council 0 T , and ike uingona for an ateo County Community College is trict ember, overning oard, Trustee Area .

In Southern California, Filipino candidates winning are Arleen Ro as of Carson City Council, ed eano of Claremont City Council, and Phil Bacera of Santa Ana City Council.

In his message. Bonta stated that he is so humbled and deeply honored by the vote of confidence on him delivered at the bal lot box and proceeded to enumerate the accomplishments he had while in o ce of the tate of California epartment of ustice.

“Tonight s returns reflect our results public safety, for free dom and for working families. But our work isn’t done,” admits Bonta. “What is next for our nation remains unknown, but what is known is that no matter what happens in Washington C . o matter what radical Republicans try to throw our way in state houses your Attorney eneral will go to court, sue, and fight back!”

ew Pinole City Council member 4 year old asai, whose mother hails from ingayen Pangasinan and has a apanese American father from a family of farmworkers, won the race that included seven candidates including incumbents and 3 former mayors will assume o ce as the first ilipino American and the youngest councilmember in the City of Pinole s 00 year his tory.

“It will be an honor to serve as one of the very few FilipinoAmerican mayors in the ast ay Area during my 4 year term. My family here in Pinole and Lingayen Pangasinan as well as in ue on City in the Philippines are ecstatic about our vic tory and the unique opportunity to advocate for and represent our Fil-Am community,” Sasai jubilantly stated. “My campaign

was initially considered to be a long shot candidacy: some discounted my ideas and refused to endorse me. However, with hard work and the support of our community, we drove our campaign to the finish line.

Aside from the people of Pinole City, Sasai is also thankful for the Filipino-American elected o cials like l Cerrito ayor abe uinto and Cali fornia Attorney General Rob Bonta who not only endorsed his campaign but also mentored him in navigating politics as a Filipino-American.

Touted as the first ilipino to win a seat at the ew ork tate Assembly representing istrict 30, Raga thanked all his volunteers and to TeamRaga for being with him since the very beginning of the fight and for preparing for the elections.

They were the ones, Raga stressed, that for the past eight months, that have been knocking on doors, calling voters, registering people to vote, and building coalitions throughout our communities together with the grassroots team of volunteers, activists, and community leaders.

“Two words. We Won. As a kid from ueens who grew up with a single mother, working three jobs while pursuing my education, the overwhelming support from all corners of the district means a lot to me. Thank you, Assembly istrict 30 Raga beamed. “I am honored and proud to have your trust and support. am honored to become the first ever ilipino American to be elected in ew ork tate history.

as representing akland City Council istrict expressed her “huge appreciations to our volunteers and supporters who engaged countless voters. It was a joy to talk with and campaign with each of you.”

“The returns rea rmed the love and hard work with which approach my leadership in akland and are a testament to the hard work of our campaign volunteers who walked their blocks and called their neighbors to have conversations with voters about the future of our neighborhoods and city,” Bas believed. “These conversations and our ongoing neighborhood organizing and coalition building will chart a hopeful path forward for our vision of akland for All.

While thanking his supporters and voters, aly City Council Member Buenaventura confessed that his job on the city council

is not done and re-electing him gives him the chance to do more.

“ will continue to make aly City a better place for every one. We have a great community and I will strive to make it even better. Thank you to everyone that made this victory possible. our vote mattered and together we can make a difference in the next four years,” Buenaventura pledged.

outh an rancisco istrict 3 s icolas fully accept the four-year mandate that she just received as she is “truly humbled and grateful for the support that I received.

“ ast year, we made history when ark agales became the first ilipino ayor and this year, od willing, will be the first ilipina ayor of outh City and the fourth woman in the 4 year history of our City. look forward to working together with everyone to continue making South San Francisco a truly inclusive and e uitable city where everyone thrives icolas remarked.

Artesia City Mayor Ramoso is grateful for the residents of Artesia for being the top vote getter.

“I thanked all residents and voters for believing in me as much as I have believed in them and our wonderful city. It is an honor and a privilege to serve a city that has given so much to me through the years. I am hopeful for brighter days ahead and will govern to the best of my abilities,” Ramoso proudly proclaimed.

l Cerrito ayor uinto look forward to continue the work that residents have trusted him

“Thank you to the voters in El Cerrito who voted for me. I will begin my third term on the l Cerrito City Council on e cember 0th and will have the first ilipino American uperior Court udge for Alameda County and l Cerrito igh raduate, on udge Pelayo lamas, r. read the oath of o ce to me, as well as incoming Mayor Lisa Motoyama and Councilmemberelect Carolyn Wysinger, uinto shared.

California is Hungry for New Contractors

By Mark Hedin

ree program offers extensive help, from ob leads to training, and more.

or 5 years, California s Contractor evelopment and onding Program has been working to expand and diversify the state’s contracting industry.

It’s a win-win.

Taxpayers save money on public projects when a larger pool of ualified bidders compete for government contracts, which go to which ever one offers the lowest price.

And the ability to do those jobs provides security for people who may not have college educations, financing or anything more than their skills whether as painters, landscapers, electricians and so on and a willingness to work hard.

Even in times of economic ups and downs, contracting work persists, often planned years before, for completion years later.

But small local, minority, and woman-owned contractors nonetheless have to overcome many challenges as they develop their businesses.

To help them succeed and grow, C A P has an array of programs available at no charge, that can take them all the way from completing their contracting license to submitting winning bids for government contracts and partnering with other businesses.

The insurance brokerage Merriwether Williams, itself a women and minority owned business, oversees C A P, forming relationships with clients that can continue for years as their work progresses and business grows.

“Right now, we have a shortage of an adequate number of contracting firms for the level of work being done and being contemplated over the next few years,” Ingrid Merriwether said in an interview with Ethnic Media Services.

“Whenever you have a supply and demand imbalance, it’s going to

cost the taxpayers, because contractors can charge higher prices because there’s just an inadequate number of them in a position to compete.”

“For smaller contractors, minority contractors who haven’t been participating at an adequate level or an equity level, this is an opportunity to address that. The need is there,” she said.

athryn arger, istrict 5 County upervisor, recently pointed out, for instance, that os Angeles has 0 billion worth of pro ects in the pipeline, such as for the 0 lympics and A etro transit expansion, funded by easure , from 0 6.

C A P can help clients access other policies intended to encourage small and minority business participation in government contracts, too, along with training on estimating jobs, successful contract bidding, obtaining insurance including by arranging collateral pledges partnering with other contractors and navigating the diverse requirements of different government agencies.

Government contracting opportunities extend far beyond heavy industrial work such as repaving roads or extending subway lines.

The epartment of Public Works website, for instance, lists thou sands of open contracts for needs as varied as gra ti removal, tree trim ming, waste-hauling and advertising signage.

And among hundreds of county listings are contracts for working with bloodhounds on investigations, transporting bodies from hospitals to crematories and for a vendor to supply 50,000 legal folders

A key challenge in securing government contracts that C A P can help with is state and federal laws that bidders be “bonded” have insurance to protect taxpayers if the contractor can t finish the work.

“In a commercial or private marketplace, it’s just optional for the owner, but in public construction, it’s not optional, because these are taxpayer dollars,” Merriwether explained.

“When a public agency hires a contractor to build something, there’s a risk.

“If the contractor, let’s say, halfway through the contract, he’s like,

‘forget this, I’m not going to make any money on this job, I’m going to just walk,’ well, now the taxpayers are left hanging and they need some remedies.

“So a bond coming from a bonding company then gets triggered, and the bonding company shows up and says, , we bonded this ob, we’re now responsible.’

“So the bonding company will bring in a new contractor and complete the work at their expense. If you’re a subcontractor, the bonding company is going to make sure that if you have a legitimate invoice, you’re paid for the work that you did.”

ut over the years the C A P has been running, erriwether said, “out of , 00 bond transactions covering 33 million of public con struction work, we’ve only had two contractors ever fail to complete their projects.

“That’s where that term came from, that my word is my bond.”

etworking events and training programs, such as a recent one on meeting A re uirements, can lead to subcontractor relationships with the bigger companies sometimes conducting them.

Merriwether also provides clients with weekly updates on state bidding opportunities.

Workshops on how to successfully submit bids are followed up with document reviews as bids are made, and help getting audits by accounting firms when re uired.

C A P can offer start up contractors all these services for free in part because the state has a mandate to ensure that companies working for the government are reflective of their communities.

“We are advocates for small businesses. It’s our job to make sure you can do business with us,” Keith Compton, director of diversity and economic opportunity for LA Metro said at the event Barger hosted. “We’re very serious about this.”

Those interested in oining C A P can contact erriwether Wil liams at mwisinfo imwis.com or by calling 3 5 3000.

New Pinole City Council Member Cameron Sasai

Oakland City Council Member Nikki Fortunato Bas

South San Francisco Vice a or ena or i olas

Upside...

(From Page 11)

As I See It

(From Page 12)

became engaged in heavy workload of operations in a high-volume surgical practice especially with patients not accepting blood transfusion for religious reasons.

In 2001, he presented at an International Conference in Moscow, Russia the topic: “Patient Blood Management in Cardiac Surgery,” and also in Russia, he participated in an International Conference on Successful Open-Heart Operations Without Blood Transfusion. In 2010, he operated on a patient, Aortic Valve Replacement with invited Australian Surgeon Observers in the Operating Room at Fremantle Hospital, Fremantle, Western Australia and obtained a Western Australia Medical License with hospital privileges. He later became a faculty member, BioSurgery Conference at CTEC Western Australia University on the topic: “Patient Blood Management: Surgical Perspective” in Perth, Western Australia. Then in 2022, he became a contributing author to a book: “Blood Works,” by Shannon Farmer et al editors, published by Human Touch Media 22Chippenham Mews, London, W9 2AW.

Now with great experience and wide practice in the program of surgery without blood transfusions, he founded the Transfusion Free Medicine Surgery at Good Samaritan Hospital in 1995 and served as the Medical Director.

Like Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand, the Philippines can put behind the insurgency problem under the second Marcos administration if it pours more funds to develop the rural areas with more roads, schools, and clinics.

But the most important is to improve the social justice system, remove corruption, and hold accountable absentee local o cials.

There will be a never ending cycle of rebellion in the country as long as the civilian government does not address the root causes of insurgency – inequality, neglect, and injustice. Even if the government pours billions of pesos in development funds, it will mean nothing to the ordinary Filipinos if they feel alienated and the government is too distant from them.

The military has been successful in decimating the rebel ranks but as long as the conditions for taking up arms remain, there will be no end to insurgency in the country.

(PULITZER PRIZE-winning journalist Manny Mogato wrote this column for pressone.ph)

Health & Wealth

Page 12)

CARE MINISTRIES, West Monroe, Louisiana, USA

Marriage and family therapist Jennifer Jimenez Wong (le�) has been giving DV trainings as ALLICE 2022 secretary.

events “take away the shame” and show that “abuse can happen to anyone” in various walks of life, if they enter a relationship with someone who learned the behavior. – ADAPTED FROM ORIGINAL REPRINTED WITH PERSMISSION FROM INQUIRER.NET.

The A-List is available upon request by emailing malou.aclan@gmail.com. For more information on ALLICE, visit www.allicekumares.com.

Offline

(From Page 13)

guete, although for a while Cebu was under strong consideration.

A side trip or even an overnighter was planned for Syquijor, but I said I would not be joining that phase. Too scary, I told them.

Yes, yes, I know that all those tales of night creatures lording it there are probably nothing more than tall tales meant to scare the young into eating their veggies, or else the mangkukulams of Syquijor will get them while they sleep. I have my reasons for not wanting to go there, which are too numerous to mention.

Incidentally, we all have our health issues, with diabetes pretty common, but also hyperacidity and high blood pressure.

The unspoken truth is that we need these mini reunions to keep going, to hold on to what’s left of our long-lost youth.

Our family will always be our family. But in my case, of us six siblings one has been in the States for two decades now, while my older brother leaves this week for Australia, where he will be calling home for the foreseeable future.

The importance of having friends has become of paramount importance in these twilight years, but no, no, no, we will not be doddering old men whenever we meet.

For as long as we can still enjoy life, regular meet ups with old buddies is a must. It is almost a drug that we have become addicted to.

And sorry to say, or rather I’m not sorry to say, that there are still batchmates whom we would rather not invite to these mini reunions.

Some, we feel, are just too damn cocky even in our old age. There are still some who went to our school whose presence we still cannot appreciate.

Take it from this 69er, they are idiots. But I will not name names, so they can sleep at night should they get to read this, which is not impossible.

True friends are treasures, folks. Enjoy their presence every chance you get. Try to make it to 100, if you can. See, in my book, 100 is the new 70. It’s an achievable target, iznit?

“Cardiac Surgery,” Dr. Estioko said, “is truly a demanding endeavor, not for those with faint of heart… It is very rewarding to help save lives and exceedingly gratifying to see patients return to their families and resume their productive lives.”

After eight years of postgraduate training and 42 years of the practice of Medicine and Surgery, Dr. Estioko retired his scalpel and needle holder!

Reflecting on his long practice, he believes that all good things happen and are possible because of Divine blessings. He is forever thankful and grateful for the opportunity to serve. Above all, he is most thankful to his loving wife Bobbie, who supported him valiantly showing kindness when she brought food and spent time with the families while they were anxiously waiting during surgery.

Most importantly, Dr. Estioko thanked the multitude of fine people who helped him and valued the rich relationships with friends he met in his journey.

So, dear readers, is bloodless surgery possible? Why not… especially if performed by experienced and tested surgeons like Dr. Manuel “Manny” R. Estioko!

(ELPIDIO R. ESTIOKO was a veteran journalist in the Philippines and a multi-awarded journalist here in the US. For feedbacks, comments, email the author at estiokoelpidio@gmail.com.)

In The

Trenches

T T P , another bestseller, is a magnificent read for you to discover and do the FREE ‘secrets’” for good health and longevity. I recommend it highly, “ said ERLINDA A. BIANAN, RN, author of the best selling book “Nurses Notes o n Medical, Surgical and Critical Care Nursing,” Sacramento, California USA.

“I am excited to recommend and share LONGEVITY TIPS, another bestseller, to my classmates, friends and fellow millennials,” wrote KENNETH WILSON, Young Evangelist Speaker, “VOICE OF THE MILENIALS” segment of the global MY ANGEL RADIO SAN FRANCISCO every Saturday 1-3pm (PST)

“I am glad that Art Gabot Madlaing wrote his latest book LONGEVITY TIPS. I personally recommend this book to every individual and family who desire to have good health ad longevity,” echoed ATTY. JUNAS T. SAGURIT, Evangelist President, Asian Christian University, Bugallon, Pangasinan, Philippines.

“I am delighted to recommend this latest book of Art Madlaing, founder of FITNESS FOR HUMANITY (aka FITNESS FOR CHRIST). This is the best and lasting gift you can give to your children and grandchildren,” said MILDRED WARD, Chlldren’s Bible Class Teacher, GOLDEN GATE CHURH OF CHRIST, San Francisco, California USA.

“Congratulations to Art Gabot Madlaing for writing LONGEVITY TIPS. Every Hispanic family must order a copy, read it, discover and do the FREE “secrets” for good health and longevity,” wrote ALBERTO RODRIGUEZ, Evangelist, HISPANIC COMMUNITY, San Francisco, California USA.

(From Page 12)

ELCAC did not believe in peace negotiations. It was scrapped in 2017 but the government has an amnesty program for rebels who wanted to surrender.

At a recent NTF-ELCAC meeting, chaired by National Security Adviser Dr. Clarita Carlos, the military boasted that it had further cut down the NPA strength to a little over 2,100 fighters in 4 guerrilla fronts nationwide. The rebels had , 00 firearms, mostly small arms. The slamist militants in indanao had more firepower, like home made sniper rifles, rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs), and crew-served weapons, like mortars and heavy machine guns.

When the NTF=ELCAC started in 2018, there were still about 4,000 fighters scattered in guerilla fronts or bases of operations nationwide.

n four years, the Armed orces chief of staff, t. en. Bartolome Vicente Bacarro, said, the military has succeeded in dismantling 65 guerrilla fronts. Only 24 guerrilla fronts remained but the military was targeting to dismantle 19 guerrilla fronts within the year.

acarro is confident the remaining five guerrilla fronts in at least 154 barangays in the provinces of Samar and South Cotabato would be cleared within his three-year term.

The NTF-ELCAC has poured billions in development funds to barangays affected by the insurgency but it was still uncertain if the people had felt the improvements in their lives.

The improvement in military operations was more felt in the far flung rural areas as air force planes bombed rebel lairs, but the civilian government’s role in the NTF-ELCAC remained lacking.

On paper, the NTF-ELCAC was a sound counter-insurgency strategy. Even former vice president Leonor Rodredo found the concept effective.

However, Badoy and Parlade gave the NTF-ELCAC a bad name for red-tagging everyone. There was overemphasis on military operations that rural development was left behind.

“LONGEVITY TIPS, a new bestseller, is the best and lasting gift for Christmas, graduation and other occasions. I highly recommend this timeless book to everybody especially to our students and Chinese friends,” said KEVIN KIM COLLADO, Academics Dean Chinese Language Professor, Asian Christian University, Bugallon, Pangasinan, Philippines.

LONGEVITY TIPS subtitled FREE “Secrets” You Can Discover DO for Good Health and Longevity will be available through Amazon (Hardcover, Paperback or Ebook) on November 30, 2022. YOU can order NOW for the pre-publication price of only $9.95 for the Hardcover copy and $7.95 for the Paperback copy. For autographed copies of the book as affordable and lasting gifts to your RA C (Friends, Relatives, Acquaintances, Neighbors, Co-Workers) this Christmas and other occasions, write or call: ART GABOT MADLAING, 730 Madrid Street, San Francisco, California 94112 USA Tel. (50)438-3531 or (415)584-7095 or email:artmadlaing@gmail.com

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

(From

WHO updates recommendations to guide family planning decisions

PATTA A, ovember 5 The World ealth rgani a tion W has released important updates to its landmark Family Planning Handbook, which provides health workers and policy makers with the most current information on contraceptive options.

Drawing on lessons from recent outbreaks, this new edition details tangible measures for frontline health workers to protect access to family planning services during emergencies, such as wider access to self-administered contraceptives and the use of digital technologies by providers. It also expands guidance for women and young people at high risk of HIV.

“ amily planning promotes self actualisation, empower ment, as well as health and wellbeing, and reduces maternal and infant deaths through the prevention of unintended pregnancy and unsafe abortion, said r Pascale Allotey, W s Director for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights. “This updated amily Planning andbook is a vital resource, helping health workers support contraceptive users around the world in making informed choices about the right contraceptive options for them.

Experience from recent outbreaks shows that family planning services can be severely compromised during emergencies. During the initial phases of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, approximately 70% of countries reported disruptions to these vital services - intensifying risks of unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections.

To help avoid such outcomes in the future, the manual de-

tails practical measures that support continuity of family planning services during epidemics. These include wider access to self-administered contraceptives, and direct distribution of contraceptives through pharmacies. Health practitioners can also take steps to support ongoing contraceptive access even where physical mobility is reduced, such as providing multimonth supplies.

Self-administered contraceptives include condoms, contraceptive pills, some diaphragms, spermicides and most recently, the option of self-injection of DMPA (a progestin-only contraceptive) since this can now be safely administered just under the skin rather than into the muscle. Many women prefer injectable contraceptives since they are private and nonintrusive, requiring action only every 2-3 months, with the option of self-injection likely to further increase uptake.

“The updated recommendations in this andbook show that almost any family planning method can be used safely by all women, and that accordingly, all women should have access to a range of options that meet their unique needs and goals in life, said r ary a eld, cientist and lead author of the andbook. “ amily planning services can be provided safely and affordably so that no matter where they live, cou ples and individuals are able to choose from safe and effective family planning methods.

or the first time, the 0 edition of the andbook in cludes a dedicated chapter to guide family planning services for women and adolescents at high risk of HIV, including people living in settings where there is high HIV prevalence,

Harsh viral season

Heart of Hope

Following our column on the tripledemic, the trifecta of viral infections this 2022 fall and winter, we received dozens of queries from our readers. Here are some of them with our reply:

Is COVID-19 still worry?

Yes, although the current Omicron sub-strains appear to be milder. As we stated before, milder did not (and does not) mean mild, because there were and are still significant hospitali ations and deaths reported. As of Monday, November 14th, the daily average case (per day!) was 39,489, with 317 deaths, and 27,943 hospitalizations. COVID-19 cases in the USA are on the rise again, with BQ.1 and BQ.1.1 (following BA.4 and BA.5) as the dominant sub-strains. So, we still have to be vigilant and cautious, especially for babies, seniors, those who have health issues, and those immunocompromised. Newer sub-strains are with us. COVID-19 will be with us for the unforeseeable future!

Contrary to fake news in the social and other media, masks are very effective in reducing the number of vi ral particles we inhale and the viral spread from those who are infected to people around them. Several clinical studies have proven that. Those wearing the mask are not only protecting themselves but protecting people around them even more. These are the scientific facts. While masks are not 00 percent beneficial, they are very effective, much like bullet proof vests which are not 100 percent protective, yet worn by all the military, federal agents, police, and sportsmen. Those spreader of rumors that masks are useless are doing a great disservice even to their own family, friends, and people around them, and to humanity as a whole.

There are many reasons for this. Firstly, are they worn properly, without the nose sticking out? Is the mask the recommended is the KN95 NIOSH-approved mask? Cloth masks or those regular surgical masks are not effective, but better than no face cover. Is the wearer’s immune system healthy? Is the individual fully vaccinated? Is the individual

doing social distancing? Does the individual do frequent handwashing and not touching their face with bare hands? Does the person have the discipline needed for masks to work?

At this stage of the pandemic and vaccination for COVID-19, fully-vaccinated means the person has received 5 shots (including 3rd booster, a bivalent vaccine, targeting Omicron sub-variants). This bivalent booster has been proven to be very effective compared to the old monovalent shots. More than 12 billion vaccine doses have been administered around the globe and proven to be safe and effective. With the predicted fall winter wave of C , it is best for everyone to get this bivalent booster.

People are thinking of COVID-19 as one infection. It is not, since the virus replicated and mutated to new strains and sub-strains, each of those (like the original one, the Delta, the Omicron and the Omicron sub-strains, BA.4, BA.5, and now BQ.1, BQ.1.1 and BF.2.75) each of this should be considered a culprit, each causing a distinct illness. If one is infected by, say BA.4, he/she could still be infected by BQ.1, and so on. Each of them should be considered as causing its own illness. So, masking and even vaccination cannot protect us from new variants or sub-variants, in the same manner not all bullet-proof vests can protect one from all different types of bullets. Although vaccines polio, tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, mumps, rubella, small pox, seasonal flu, C , etc. are not 00 percent effective, they are beneficial enough to save billions of lives around the world. Just like bullet-proof vests!

A person who is fully vaccinated, vigilant and careful, and masking and social distancing, with good personal hygiene in this coming wave this fall-winter, is at least 98 percent protected from COVID-19. There is still a small chance of getting infected, depending on the integrity of the person’s immune system, especially with newer strains and sub-variants that are currently spreading. If they do get COVID-19, the symptoms will be mild. The unvaccinated who are arrogant and reckless will have more severe symptoms and a greater risk for hospitalization and death, even at this stage of the pandemic.

those who have multiple sexual partners, or whose regular partner is living with HIV.

While only condoms protect against and other sexu ally transmitted infections, all contraceptive options – with the sole exception of nonoxynol-9 spermicide - are now considered safe for women and young people at high risk of HIV, i.e. have not been found to increase risk of HIV transmission or acquisition of infection. For those at high risk of HIV, the manual states that testing, counselling and first line clinical care and referrals should all be offered as part of family plan ning services.

n addition, the andbook incorporates the latest W guidance on cervical cancer and pre-cancer prevention, screening and treatment, which can all be provided through family planning services; management of sexually transmitted infections, and family planning in postabortion care.

ow in its fourth edition, W s amily Planning and book is the most widely used reference guide on the topic globally, with over a million copies distributed or downloaded to date. It is complemented by the medical eligibility criteria tool for contraceptive use, also downloadable as a dedicated App.

The updated Handbook was released at the International Conference of Family Planning in Pattaya, Thailand. Support for its production and dissemination has been provided through the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

The flu season this year is predicted to be “scary, with almost 14,000 cases (and rising) reported 10 days ago in the USA. This is more than 12 times the number at the same period in 2019. The CDC revealed there were more than 450,000 people who tested positive so far this year, compared to about 250,000 cases last year. So far, there is almost 5 times hospitali ation for flu this year compared to the last 10 years. RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) is rising, the biggest threat to the youngest (babies) and the oldest. The RSV surge this winter is posing a serious dilemma to the healthcare system and its work force in the USA, since the flu and C waves are also on the rise.

For this trifecta of viral infections (COVID-19, the flu and R , avoiding getting the virus will re uire once again getting fully vaccinated for C and the flu vaccine (no vaccines yet for RSV), good personal hygiene, avoid touching face, masking (covering the whole face) and social distancing in public places and avoiding crowds, eating healthy (more veggies and less red meat), no smoking and minimal alcoholic beverage, if at all.There is a combination test kit for C , the flu, and R in some medi cal centers and clinic. Preventive remedy against RSV for high-risk infants and newborns are avalalble: monthly dose of Synagist (palivizumab) from Swedish drug make Oprhan Biovitrum. Beyfortus (niresvimab) is another, by AstraZeneca Plc and anofi A.

Even if the uninformed or misinformed do not realize it, when you don on a mask, it is protecting them more than yourself, like surgeons and nurses in surgery, with masks to protect the patient more than themselves. So, do not be concerned and discouraged when people laugh at you or tease you for wearing a mask this dangerous, viral trifecta of a season, a tripledemic that requires triplecare! All these mitigating measures will better ensure happy and enjoyable holidays for you and your family.

Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, a Health Advocate, Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He is a recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1996, whose other awardees include: President Harry Truman, President George HW Bush, Astronaut Gus Grissom, Mohammad Ali, David Letterman. Websites: FUN8888.com and philipSchua.com Email: scalpelpen@gmail. com

PHILIP S. CHUA

By TIM PEDROSA

Every noble work is bound to face problems and obstacles. It is important that we check our goal and motivation thoroughly. Once a positive goal is chosen, decide to pursue it all the way to the end and have no regrets even it is not realized because we learn along the way. When you make a mistake, don’t look back at it long. Take the reason of the thing into your mind and then look forward. Mistakes are lessons of wisdom. The past cannot be changed. The future is yet in your power – Phyllis Bottome. any people never reach their goals because they don t define them, learn about them, nor even seriously consider them as believable or achievable. Winners can tell you where they are going, what they plan to do along the way, and who will be sharing the adventure with them. Vision without action is daydream. Action without vision is nightmare. etting goals is the first step in turning the invisible into the visible.

any of us go fishing all our lives without knowing what we are fishing, nor the proper way to fish. The story of an ant that follows tells us that vision and plan ning are essential in achieving what we want in life. As the story goes, a tiny ant was seen carrying a huge feather across the back terrace. Several times it was confronted by obstacles in its path and after a momentary pause it would make the necessary detour. At one point, the ant had to negotiate a crack in the concrete about 10mm wide. After brief contemplation, the ant laid the feather over the crack, walked across it and picked up the feather on the other side then continued on its way.

It was fascinating to watch the ingenuity of one of God’s smallest creatures. It served to reinforce the miracle of creation. Here was a minute insect, lacking in size yet equipped with a brain to reason, explore, discover and overcome. But this ant, like the two legged co residents of this planet, also shares human failings. After some time the ant finally reached its destination a flower bed at the end of the terrace and a small hole that was the entrance to its underground home. And it was here that the ant finally met its match. ow could that large feather possibly fit down that small hole f course it couldn t. o the ant, after all this trouble and exercising great ingenuity, overcoming problems all along the way, just abandoned the feather and went home.

The ant had not thought the problem through before it began its epic journey and in the end the feather was nothing more than a burden. Isn’t life like that!

We worry about our family, we worry about money or the lack of it, we worry about work, about where we live, about all sorts of things.

These are all burdens, things we pick up along life’s path and drag them around the obstacles and over the crevasses (cracks) that life would bring, only to find that at the destination, they are useless and we can’t take them with us.

Universal but with Responsibility

The Church by its mark, “Catholic” is universal by her nature, by her mission and ministry. She accepts and welcomes everyone and anyone of goodwill who accepts our Lord Jesus Christ and His message of salvation. This universal nature and mission of the Church is consistent with the will of God. All are called to salvation and a sharing of His divine life. Let us take this familiar image from the gospel of Matthew, 22: 1 – 14, the parable of the wedding feast. The narrative tells of a king who gave a wedding feast for his son. He invited guests, but they were unwilling to come. Then, the king ordered to go and invite all or anyone the servants may find, it is even mentioned, the good and the bad, all are invited in order to fill the ban uet hall. The servants did as the king wanted. However, in verses 11 – 13, it says: “But the king came in to meet the guests he saw a man there not dressed in a wedding garment. He said to him, ‘My friend, how is it that you came in here without a wedding garment ut he was reduced to silence. Then, the king said to his attendants, ‘bind his hands and feet, and cast him into the darkness outside, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth.’” ear reader, at first glance it seems to be unfair or contradiction. id not the king wanted to invite all people, good or bad Then, how come, upon noticing a man not dressed appropriately, such a man be singled and be thrown out Would it not be expected that one or two be improperly dressed since the invitation says all

Afl ame The Heart

It is correct that God’s will for salvation is universal, that His kingdom accepts and welcomes all people. The Church is God’s kingdom in our midst; so also, the Church accepts and welcomes all; but there is a responsibility on those who are invited. The work of evangelization is that all people may hear of the ord esus Christ, is life and teach ings; but anyone who hears it must accept and believe in Him totally with conversion of life. Believing means accepting His teachings and putting them into practice; thereby, a change and transformation of life happens. The person s life is different from before his conversion in Christ. is attitudes and values, seen in his behavior, are different from those of the world. Such as these persons who responded positively to The King’s invitation will have their lives, their so called garments, ready and worthy for the wedding feast.

The person and the person’s garment are two separate things; but once the person responds positively, the garment also must change. The person responding yes to faith will and must want that he also changes his mentality, ideas and principles of life. Once, he answers to faith, he would have to assess his principles, values, attitudes, behavior, and the whole of his being to let them be coherent with God’s divine life and His teachings. When we enter into God’s company, we surely cannot be the same person; that is why, the it is called conversion. Whatever is contrary and inconsistent with what matters to God, such things must be cast out or destroyed. Once we are deigned worthy to attend at the wedding feast, our garment, our mentality and behavior, must be focused and inclined to doing what matters to God. Then, we will not be like that man to be bound and thrown out of the wedding feast.

The di culty or challenge in our time is to call this duty of faith as discrimination or bigotry or intolerant with people. But we all know that in matters to God, good is good and bad is bad. If something immoral or intrinsically evil must, therefore, not to be mixed with the good and truth. Mixing things up can be a watering down of the good and the truth to suit to people s likes and wants. Calling out the truth as truth and call ing out sin as sin, a bad as bad, is not discrimination or bigotry but simply telling the truth, as what the king did. e noticed the man was not wear ing the wedding garment; and so, simply has to be cast out. Was the king unloving for doing so; no. The fact that he wants all people would come to the wedding feast is an act of love. But what to wear to the wedding feast is now left to the person decide; the person must be responsible to make the expected change. That person did not change, so the king can not be said a bigot or unloving. The person by justice deserved it. What we are and what we wear, or how we behave, must be consistent Chris tian so also our behavior be Christlike. As Christians, our faith defines us, not making it happen means faith is dead or not present at all. Amen.

REV. JOSE PELAGIO A. PADIT, SThD

THE STORY OF AN ANT

INSPIRATIONAL ARTICLE FOR THE WEEK

Recipe of the Week

Lechon Macau

Ingredients:

1 kilo pork rasher, pork belly

2-3 pcs. star anise

1/2 head garlic, crushed 2-3 pcs.bay leaf

Chinese five spice powder salt and pepper

Cookingprocedure:

In a pot place the pork and add water to cover the meat up to about 1”. Add the star anise, garlic and about 1 tbsp. of salt. Bring to a boil and simmer for 30 to 45 minutes or until just tender. Remove from pot drain and let cool down. Using a fork prick the pork skin all the way down to the meat layer. The skin should be pricked as close as possible. Rub the skin with salt while the meat and sides rub with mixture off Chinese five spice powder and pepper powder. Arrange the pork in a baking tray or aluminium tray, skin side up and enough space between the pork rashers. Let marinate with the salt and Chinese five spice rub for 30 to 45 minutes. Pre heat the oven at 250°C when the oven is hot place the baking tray at the center. Roast for 30 to 45 minutes. Check periodically if is the skin changes color suddenly, reduce the oven temperature to 200°C. Let it roast till the pork skin is blistered and turned to golden brown. Remove from oven and let rest the meat for at least 8 to 10 minutes. When ready to serve chop in into serving pieces with your favorite dipping sauce.

Heaven on earth: Palawan most desirable island in UK travel award

LONDON/PUERTO PRINCESA CITY – Palawan continues to reap world recognition, this time as the most desirable island by the 21st Wanderlust Travel Award in the United Kingdom.

“The scenery here is heaven on earth with sparkling waters and white sand beaches. One of the most photographed sites is Kayangan, a dazzling freshwater lake with spectacular rock formations above and below the surface,” Wanderlust wrote.

“Elsewhere on the island you can explore one of the world’s longest underground rivers, enjoy a spot of twitching, or fuel up with some delicious cuisine in the island’s capital of Puerto Princesa,” it added.

The country, through the Department of Tourism-Central Visayas Office, also placed 6th among hundreds of special entries in the Wanderlust Sustainability Initiative Category for its Dive7 Program.

The awards were given on Nov. 9 by the prestigious Wanderlust travel magazine, one of the United Kingdom’s longest running publications that has been at the forefront of sustainable travel for 29 years.

Cebu was also nominated this year as Most Desirable Region (Rest of the World) by the award-giving body.

“These awards reflect the efforts to revive the tourism industry that are well underway especially because of the Marcos administration’s thrust towards prioritizing tourism development. Rest assured that we will continue with our mission to herald the Philippines and the Filipino brand to the world, and to ensure the continued sustainability of our islands” Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said.

Frasco led the Philippine delega-

tion to the World Travel Market recently held in London.

These new awards add to the long list of recognitions the country has earned even at the height of the Covid-19 crisis.

In June this year, Conde Nast Travel also named the Philippines as part of the 40 Most Beautiful Countries in the World, specifically citing the remarkable cave system of the Puerto Princesa Underground River, the mysteriously uniform Chocolate Hills of Bohol, and the panoramic views of the Banaue and Cordilleras Rice Terraces.

The following month, the renowned Travel + Leisure magazine also named the country’s tourist magnets Boracay, Palawan, and Cebu part of the 25 Best Islands in the World.

Since February 2022, foreign tourists have been traveling to the Philippines, which have reached over 1.9 million as of posting.

TIME Magazine also lauded Boracay as one of the 50 World’s Greatest Places of 2022.

In September, the Philippines won Asia’s leading dive and beach destination, and the historic Walled City of Intramuros as Asia’s leading tourist attraction at the World Travel Awards in Vietnam.