Philippine News Today

By Jun Nucum

LOS ANGELES - The first Filipina mayor of a small city in Southern California is not done yet with her mission to give back to her city and aspires to do more for it and its people.

Artesia City Mayor Melissa Ramoso, a daughter of parents who were public servants who also served as her inspirations and mentors, is again running for a seat at the city

By Jun Nucum

EL CERRITO, California - Incumbent Filipino American El Cerrito Mayor Gabriel Gabe Quinto seeks to be reelected and further serve his constituents with same vigor and passion that he showed in the past terms as a member of the City Council and Mayor of the City.

Quinto describes El

By ALFRED GABOT, Editor-in-Chief

MANILA – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has placed four regions badly hit by tropical storm “Paeng” under state of calamity for six months, ordering food prices freeze, among others, as the death toll across the country rose to 122 with 36 still missing and damages to agriculture,

By Be�ng Laygo Dolor, Editor & Gilda Pasion Balan, Correspondent

properties were placed at several bil-

Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao joins fight to StopAsianHate

MANILA -- From Madrid to Milan, from San Francisco to San Paolo, to just about any major city in nearly every country of the world, there remain millions of people who have yet to be vaccinated against COVID-19. The Philippines is no exception.

LOS ANGELES - After winning an unprecedented eight championships in eight different weight classes, Filipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao has now joined the fight against Asian hate.

The prizefighter known as Pacman is serving as executive producer of a movie that he hopes

Mayor Melissa Ramoso

Marcos orders aid, places 4 regions under state of calamity

Think deeply about Joseph Ileto

Passion for service keeps FilAm mayor serving Artesia even more

Mayor Quinto seeks new term in El Cerrito

Too many Filipinos still question safety, efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines

Kevin Jensen may be the sheriff Santa Clara needs

By Gilda P. Balan, Correspondent

community of Santa

supports Kevin Jensen for

3 Navy ‘submerged’ warships retired, awaiting disposal

SANGLEY POINT, Cavite City – The Philippine Navy’s three warships seen on social media and described as “half submerged” are already decommissioned and are awaiting disposal through scrapping.

“The three vessels depicted as halfsubmerged were the former PN vessels BRP Rajah Humabon (PS-11), BRP Sultan Kudarat (PS-22), and BRP Cebu (PS28),” Navy spokesperson Commander Benjo Negranza said.

Negranza said that BRP Rajah Huma-

bon was decommissioned on March 15, 2018 while the BRP Sultan Kudarat and the BRP Cebu were already taken out of service on July 5, 2019 and Oct. 1, 2019, respectively.

Decommissioned in Navy parlance means retired or deactivated.

These ships are in fact moored at the PN’s Graveyard Dock in Sangley Point, Cavite where all decommissioned vessels are temporarily berthed until their final disposal.

President signs EO allowing voluntary wearing of face masks indoors

Under EO 7, the wearing of face masks in indoor and outdoor settings shall be voluntary except in healthcare facilities, medical transport, and public transportation by land, air, or sea.

The liberalization of the face mask mandate has been recommended by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) through its Resolution 3 (s. 2022).

Mask-wearing is still encouraged for the elderly, individuals with comorbidities, immunocompromised persons, pregnant women, unvaccinated individuals, and symptomatic individuals, according to the EO.

“A policy of voluntary wearing of face masks in both indoor and outdoor settings is a positive step towards normalization, and a welcome development that would encourage activities and boost efforts toward the full reopening of the economy,” Marcos said.

The minimum public health standards will continue to be strictly enforced.

MANILA – President Ferdinand Marcos has signed an executive order (EO) allowing the voluntary wearing of face masks in indoor settings.

ALREADY DECOMMISSIONED. Three decommissioned warships of the Philippine Navy -- BRP Rajah Humabon, BRP Sultan Kudarat and the BRP Cebu -- are submerged in oods at the Naval Sta�on Pascual Ledesma, Cavite City during the onslaught of Severe Tropical Storm Paeng on Oct. 30, 2022.

Vico Sotto bolts Aksyon Demokratiko

dent. He ran for mayor under the party.

Sotto, son of actor Vic Sotto and actress Coney Reyes, posted his resignation letter, saying he joined the party in 2018 in search of a reform-oriented political party that stood for principled politics and inclusive governance.

“I joined Aksyon Demokratiko in 2018, in search of a reform-oriented political party that stood for principled politics and inclusive governance. I became Mayor in 2019, proudly under the banner of Aksyon Demokratiko,” Sotto wrote in his resignation letter dated June 30, 2022,” he said in his post.

nfortunately, recent events have made it apparent that the party is now headed towards a different direction, he said.

“I maintain the highest respect for the party s leadership and members. It is, in part, because of this respect that I decided to delay my resignation until after the 2022 National and Local Elections,” the Mayor said.

“I will always be grateful for the opportunity to share in Aksyon Demokratiko s advocacies. I wish the party and its members continued success,” Sotto added.

QC GoodgetsLocal Governance award

Q E ON CIT The Department of Interior and Local Government has awarded its Seal of Good Local Governance SGLG to the Quezon City government led by Mayor osefina oy elmonte.

Vico Sotto has resigned from Aksyon Demokratiko, saying that he no longer shares “similar political goals and ideals” with the group.

Aksyon chairperson Ernest Ramel confirmed Sotto s resignation effective June 30.

Prior to his resignation, Sotto, 33, who is Victor Ma. Regis Nubla Sotto in real life, was the party s executive vice presi-

Sotto, howsever, did not specify which events he was pertaining to, but noted that he believes that he and Aksyon are no longer a group of individuals with similar political goals and ideals.”

“To me, this defeats the purpose of being a member of a political party,” the Pasig Mayor said.

For this reason, I have decided to resign as a member of Aksyon Demokratiko, effective immediately, he said.

Sotto clarified that his resignation from the party “is not about any particular person or candidate.”

In a separate statement, Ramel said the party, which is headed by former Manila Mayor and presidential candidate Francisco Isko Moreno Domagaso, was saddened by Sotto s decision as the latter was one of the party s inspirations to be better and that they were hoping that the city mayor will be the future of Aksyon Demokratiko.

owever, the party is not lacking in talent and strong young future leaders of this country that were elected last 2022 and those who also did not make it but had shown exceptional leadership abilities,” Ramel said.

Still, Ramel said the party is not closing its doors for Sotto “should he decide to return to his home party.”

“We wish him the best of luck and hope that he will continue to be an inspiration to aspiring young leaders out there,” Ramel said.

Quezon City, the country s richest city and local government unit, last won the SGLG in 2019 before its temporary suspension due to the coronavirus disease 19 Covid-19 pandemic.

Of the 1 local government units LG s in the National Capital Region NCR , five passed the DILG criteria -Muntinlupa, Caloocan, Mandaluyong, Navotas, and QC.

There are SGLG awardees this year, consisting of 1 provinces, cities and municipalities.

Overall, the DILG assessed 1 provinces, 146 cities, and 1,488 municipalities.

“We are humbled and honored by the DILG s recognition. This would inspire the city government to work even harder to further improve our governance and enhance the delivery of services to our constituents,” QC Mayor Joy Belmonte said in a news release on Tuesday.

MANILA — Metro Manila and many other areas in the country will remain under the laxest COVID-19 restriction from November 1 to 1 while other places will be under Alert Level .

This was announced by the Department of ealth DO , adding that 9 out of 1 1 provinces, highly urbanized cities, and independent component cities, as well as 192 out of 669 other component cities and municipalities are under Alert Level 1.

Meanwhile, provinces, highly urbanized cities, and independent component cities are under Alert Level .

“This means that our key indicators, such as the healthcare utilization rate C R , are showing improvements. e attribute this development to every Filipino who continues to cooperate with our COVID-19 response, DO o cer-in-charge OIC Maria Rosario Vergeire said in a statement.

Despite the decline in cases and admission trends, the ealth OIC said the battle with the virus is still not over.

“These current numbers are not permanent; we must all work together to maintain these low numbers,” she added.

Vergeire also called on local government o cials to intensify strategies and policies against COVID-19 and other diseases amid eased restrictions.

Meanwhile, the public is also urged to assess situations before removing masks.

“[B]ago sabihing ligtas na magtanggal ng mask, isipin natin: Bakunado ba tayo? Marami bang tao kung nasaan tayo? May kasama ba tayong matanda, may sakit, o buntis sa bahay kung sakaling tayo ay mahawa? Lahat po ng iyan ay kailangan tinatanong muna natin sa sarili natin bago tayo magpasya na ligtas ang magtanggal ng mask,” she said.

The SGLG, established by virtue of Republic Act 11 9 , is an award, incentive and recognition-based program for LGUs nationwide to continually progress and improve their performance in the areas of financial administration disaster preparedness social protection and sensitivity program.

CAMP CRAME, Quezon City The observance of All Saints Day this year, known as Undas, has been “peaceful and orderly even though one person died of electrocution and another was arrested for possessing a firearm illegally, the Philippine National Police PNP said.

In a statement, PNP Chief, Gen. Rodolfo Azurin r., said no significant incidents were monitored nationwide except for the electrocution of a man at the Eternal Peace Memorial Park in Mabalacat City, Pampanga, and the arrest of a certain Mowwamar Mama Kasan who yielded a caliber . revolver with ammunition at the entrance of Palanyag Cemetery at BarangaySan Dionisio,Parañaque City.

I extend the gratitude of the national leadership to all PNP units, partner agencies, NGOs, LG s local government units , and volunteers for making this happen. These best practices shall henceforth be our template in similar public safety operations for upcoming major public events, Azurin said.

Police are continuously carrying out public safety operations, especially in cemeteries and other places of convergence.

“These police units will remain in their posts until public activity has returned to normal,” he said

Metro Manila, other areas stay under Alert Level 1 from Nov. 1 to 15 — DOH

PASIG CITY - Pasig City Mayor

Mayor ico So�o

Undas ‘22 ‘peaceful, orderly’, says PNP chief

Paen ca ses reat ds in a ite l n ter s l ti n eyed

NOVELETA, Cavite -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. declared here that the government is coming up with a long-term solution to the ooding problem in the province of Cavite, among the provinces hit hardest by Severe Tropical Storm Paeng.

Speaking to reporters in Noveleta, Cavite, Marcos raised the possibility that the apanese government, through the apan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), will approve projects that will help the province s ood mitigating efforts.

Aside Noveleta, typhoon Paeng inundated acoor, inan, Silang, Gen. Trias and other low-lying towns forcing evacuation of hundreds of families.

“Naghahanap kami ng long-term solution para dito. May possibility na mayroong project na approved na galing sa apanese, sa ICA, na palalakihin nila yung ilog para mas malaki ang dadaanan ng tubig and then mayroon siyempre may mga ood control na gagawin (We are looking for a long-term solution to this. There is a possibility that there will be a project approved by

ICA, they re going to increase the size of rivers so there would be more space for the water to pass through and there will also be ood control of course , he said.

Marcos said he saw how ood control facilities and dikes have eroded during an aerial survey..

“Yung mga dike natin, wala na na-erode-erode na… Magkakaroon tayo ng plano na long-term para kahit na lumakas ang tubig nang husto ay hindi na guguho yung lupa at hindi na tayo inaabutan ng mga landslide na yun ang mga nagiging problema Our dikes have eroded We will have a long-term plan that will ensure that even if rains are strong, the ground will not erode and cause landslides , he said in another briefing after distributing assistance to evacuees.

Marcos also assured persons displaced by the ooding that the government is now in the stage of rebuilding damaged houses and infrastructure.

Ang inaalala namin ay yung mga infrastructure na damaged kasi maraming nasira na mga ood control. Doon yung --- noong inikot namin ng helicopter kitang-

enn n ad te p rarily cl sed d e t bad eat er P

ROSARIO, La Union – The Department of Public orks and ighways DP closed temporarily the ennon Road in the province of enguet to safeguard motorists going to and coming from aguio City.

In a social media post, the DP said the oint-Interagency Task Force ennon Road issued an advisory regarding the closure of the major thoroughfare leading to aguio City.

In view of the foregoing, ennon Road is hereby temporarily closed until further notice, effective immediately, to ensure maximum public safety except for ennon Road residents, including Camp residents , the advisory stated.

“Said residents are also advised to avoid non-essential travels during the closure period, it added.

The advisory was issued as the storm continues to affect the Cordillera Administrative Region.

Motorists are advised to take alternative routes.

All non-resident motorists may pass through the Marcos ighway, aguio - auang Road Naguilian Road , or AsinNangalisan -San Pascual Road.

kita mo talaga sirang-sira na yung mga ano e are now prioritizing infrastructure damage because ood control projects were destroyed. During our helicopter survey, you can really see the damage , he added.

NOVELETA, Cavite - Accompanied by Cavite Governor uanito Victor onvic Remulla and Congressman olo Revilla, President Ferdinand R. Marcos r. conducted an aerial inspection over areas affected by Severe Tropical Storm Paeng, particularly parts of Cavite, and then led in the distribution of relief goods and assistance to affected residents..

Marcos shared a photo of the aerial survey on his o cial Facebook page with Governor Remulla.

The President led the ceremonial distribution of the Department of Social elfare and

Development s DS D assistance to families and individuals in arangay San ose II in Noveleta, Cavite.

At least P50 million worth of relief goods were distributed to the victims of the natural calamity, according to the description provided by state-run RTVM.

The town of Noveleta, along with Kawit, is one of the hardest-hit areas in Cavite as severe rains from the uplands caused heavy ooding leading to the destruction of a river wall near the Ylang-Ylang River.

Around 1 , families have been evacuated in Cavite.

RELIEF OPERATION. President Ferdinand R. Marcos r. leads the ceremonial distribution of aid to families and individuals affected by Severe Tropical Storm Paeng in arangay San ose II in Noveleta, Cavite

In a speech before the distribution of relief goods, Marcos emphasized the need for preemptive evacuation among residents as soon as advisories on approaching typhoons are released.

“Lagi kong ipinipilit at ipinapaala sa lahat ng NDRRMC National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council natin na ang pinakaimportante, pagkaalam natin may

parating na bagyo ay mayroon tayong evacuation na preemptive na inuunahan natin yung bagyo na ilikas ang mga tao para kung sakali man dumaan dun sa lugar na yun, ay hindi na sila mabiktima (I always insist and remind the NDRRMC that the most important thing is that when we know a typhoon is coming, we must have preemptive evacuation that precedes the typhoon to evacuate the people in case it passes in that place they will not become victims , he said.

e said although there were few casualties, the infrastructure damage was severe.

Data from the NDRRMC showed that ,1 houses were reported damaged in Ilocos Region, Central Luzon, Mimaropa, icol, estern Visayas, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, amboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Davao Region, Soccsksargen, Caraga, angsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, Cordillera Administrative Region and the National Capital Region. Partially damaged was placed at , 99 and totally damaged at 9.

Infrastructure damage was initially estimated at P757 million and these were reported in Mimaropa, icol, estern Visayas, Central Visayas, Northern Mindanao and Davao Re-

gion.

Fatalities from the storm have climbed to 9 . Of the number, have been confirmed while 40 have yet to be validated.

Meanwhile, Marcos assured Noveleta evacuees that the government will strive to ensure that displaced persons can return to their respective homes as soon as possible.

“Alam ko naman na pagka ganito lahat ng na evacuate ay talagang gustong bumalik kaagad, at tinitiyak na lang natin na hindi naman magiging delikado ang pagbalik sa inyong mga tahanan, sa inyong mga negosyo I know that evacuees want to return to their homes right away and we guarantee that it will no longer be dangerous for you to return to your homes, your livelihoods , he said.

arc s s r eys Paen it areas distrib tes aid enate set t ay P cala ity nd r

PASA CIT Senator uan Edgardo

Sonny Angara disclosed that the government s national disaster risk reduction management fund NDRRMF , known as calamity fund , which the 19th Congress will approve, is roughly at P billion.

Angara said this calamity fund is larger than the previous years.

Given the increased frequency and magnitude of recent typhoons, this is appropriate. Certainly, the committee will always be open to changes which may help our people during these di cult times and which will improve the government’s response to these calamities,” he said in a

statement.

In a recent statement, Senate President uan Miguel ubiri said the Senate is currently reviewing and making adjustments to the proposed calamity fund for .

ith the recent earthquake in Abra, and now super tropical storm Paeng, we need to strengthen the capacity of the NDRRMC National Disaster, Risk Reduction and Management Council and related agencies and local governments, ubiri said.

e need to fix our fragmented disaster management efforts and adopt a whole-ofgovernment approach going forward,” he added.

For this year, the national government approved P . billion of calamity funds out of the P . trillion budget wherein P .9 billion was already used under the Duterte administration and there was still P1 . billion left when the Marcos administration came in.

After all the senate budget deliberations for the budgets of clustered agencies, Angara said the Senate Committee on Finance, which he chairs, is set to file a committee report on the resumption of the regular session next week.

e aim to file the committee report on the budget general appropriations act on

Tuesday morning Nov. , and hopefully, to deliver the sponsorship speech in the afternoon,” he said.

The P P . trillion proposed national budget for was crafted in support of the Marcos administration s -point Socioeconomic Agenda anchored on the theme, Agenda for Prosperity Economic Transformation Towards Inclusivity and Sustainability , which aims to address the immediate and pressing concerns of all Filipinos, according to Department of udget and Management Secretary Amenah Pangandaman.

Percy Lapid slay brains identified a r de el p ent bared

MANILA – The family of slain newsman Percival “Percy Lapid” Mabasa met with officials at the Department of ustice on November and expressed guarded optimism over developments in the case, including identification of the mastermind or masterminds.

This as suspended ureau of Corrections chief Gerald antag has been identified by several witnesses as the mastermind in the killing Percy Lapid, according to Danilo Pelagio, the legal counsel of the slain journalist’s brother Roy Mabasa.

My partner, Atty. erteni Causing Mabasa family s spokesperson , has earlier tagged Gen. Gerald antag and it seems that we are looking at him as one of the masterminds,” Pelagio said.

Following the confession of alleged gunman oel Escorial and the killing of suspected middleman un Villamor, Pelagio said more witnesses have surfaced and pointed to antag.

“As far as I know, there are three gang leaders who identified him plus other mi-

nor inmates,” he revealed.

Asked if the witnesses had evidence against antag, Pelagio said they divulged a money trail in the payment to the gunman that has been verified through bank deposits.

They also specified or described how and who got the money in payment for the killing... Some of them raised inside the premises of the ilibid and some of them were given by somebody which I cannot reveal right now,” he said.

antag has denied any involvement in the crime.

Mabasa’s brother, Roy Mabasa, met with ustice Secretary Remulla and representatives of the National ureau of Investigation N I to get an update on the assassination of Percy in a Las Pi as suburb last Oct. .

“Nagkaroon po kami ng maikling case conference with S-O- Secretary of ustice Remulla saka yung mga kinatawan ng N I upang malaman po namin bilang pamilya, miyembro ng pamilya ni a Percy yung progreso sa isinasagawang imbestigasyon.

ami po naman ay nagpapasalamat sa DO , sa N I at maging sa PNP sa kanilang mga ginagawang pagkilos upang malutas natin itong pagpatay sa aking kapatid at matunton kung sino ang nasa likod nito kasama yung mga tinutukoy na mastermind, Roy said.

Mabasa said they were shown a timeline of events and sworn statements of potential witnesses, saying they were also promised substantial developments in the case by the end of the week.

Pinakita sa amin yung mga timeline and a davits ng mga kanilang kinausap so far naintindihan ko kung bakit doon sila nakatuon kasi may mga corroboration yung mga statements doon sa mga personalidad na nabanggit (We were shown the timeline and a davits on why they were focusing on certain personalities because there were corroboration in the statements on these personalities , he said.

It s going well so far, but as I said, I will reserve our comments until Friday pag nabuo na po ito when this will be completed . Me-

dyo gumugulong na po ang kaso The case somehow is now on moving , he added.

Mabasa also said they welcome plans to provide the family of Percy with temporary security personnel, short of having them placed under the government s witness protection program PP , following threats made on them.

Actually in principle we agree dun sa security but not the PP program itself kasi sa ngayon nalilimitahan na yung aming mga galaw bilang pamilya especially mga anak ni a Percy, subalit kung ilalagay ko sa PP ay lalo na siguro sila makukulong right now we are limiting our movements, especially Percy’s children, more so if they are placed under PP they will have more resrictions . So, ang iniisip namin ay bigyan na lang ng seguridad, siguro. nag agree naman si Secretary Remulla even a few days ago kaya yun yung gagawin natin So, what we thought was to provide security and Secretary Remulla agreed so that is what we will do , he said.

RELIEF OPERATION. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. leads the ceremonial distribu�on of aid to families and individuals affected by Severe Tropical Storm Paeng in Barangay San Jose II in Noveleta, Cavite

Paeng... (From page 1)

After an assessment on the extent of damages from the storm with his Cabinet and other o cials, and visits to affected areas in Cavite and Maguindanao, Marcos ordered the distribution of relief goods and emergency supplies of medicines, the restoration of power and communication supplies and damaged infrastructures, including school buildings.

The President himself led the distribution of goods and financial assistance to victims in Cavite and Maguindanao. Marcos also conducted an aerial inspection of areas in Maguindanao province that were submerged by the ood when Paeng wreaked havoc last week.

Noticing the extent of the damage of the typhoon in Maguindanao, Marcos said there is a need to push for tree planting activities as part of the ood prevention efforts.

So we have to include tree planting in our ood control, he said.

In Maguindanao, Marcos tasked Public orks and ighways Secretary Manuel onoan to set up a district o ce in ARMM to speed up the rehabilitation of damaged infrastructures in times of calamities.

asilan Rep. Mujiv ataman welcomed this move, saying aside from overseeing infrastructure repair, a DP o ce in ARMM would also help in ramping up implementation of infrastructure projects funded by the national government.

In his first aerial survey in Cavite, Marcos was accompanied by Cavite Governor uanito Victor onvic Remulla and other o cials.

The President also led the ceremonial distribution of the Department of Social elfare and Development s DS D assistance to families and individuals in arangay San ose II in Noveleta, Cavite along with Senator Ramon Revilla r., Congressman olo Revilla and other o cials.

At least P million worth of relief goods were distributed to the Cavite typhoon victims.

Speaker Martin G. Romualdez, meanwhile, said P 9. million in cash pledges have been raised for the ouse of Representatives own relief operations for the Paeng victims.

At the same time, Marcos r. signed Proclamation No. placing the regions of Calabarzon Cavite, Laguna, atangas, Rizal and Quezon provindes , icol, estern Visayas Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo and Negros Occidental , and the angsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao ARMM under a state of calamity for six months.

A total of 9 , families or , ,1 people were affected by Paeng, of whom , 1 families or 1 , individuals are staying in , evacuation centers, , according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council NDRRMC .

Meanwhile, power interruptions hit 9

areas, of which 1 already have their power restored.

At press time, up to roads and 9 bridges remain impassable after the storm s onslaught, the NDRRMC said, adding the cost of damage to infrastructure was estimated at P1. billion while the damage to agriculture was estimated at P . billion, with , hectares of agricultural areas, ,9 farmers and fishers affected.

Other developments

1. Several nations, including the nited States, China, apan, and Australia have pledged assistance for the Philippines.

. In a Facebook post, the S Embassy in the Philippines said it supported the transport of 1 , family food packs from the Department of Social elfare and Development to South Cotabato, one of the provinces hit by Paeng. An additional trucks are mobilizing to deliver emergency food and relief supplies from to families affected by the storm... e stand with our Filipino FriendsPartnersAllies in this time of crisis, the S Embassy said.

. China said it took swift action to donate the first batch of disaster relief materials to Datu Odin Sinsuat, North Maguindanao Province, where Paeng triggered deadly ash oods.

The Chinese Embassy said it brought thousands of cases of distilled water, instant noodles, water containers, rice, toothbrushes, coffee, isopropyl alcohol, and anti-mosquito gels to the affected areas in Mindanao.

. apan s Foreign Minister ayashi oshimasa expressed his condolences to the families of Paeng s victims and said that Tokyo is ready to provide the maximum possible assistance to the Philippines.

. Australian Ambassador to the Philippines u likewise offered assistance to the country. Australia offers its heartfelt thoughts to those in Philippines whose lives have been affected by PaengP . e stand with our friends at this di cult time and are ready to provide assistance as required, she said.

Australia is providing life-saving family kits to the most affected communities in the ARMM. This assistance will ensure that those most severely affected by PaengP will have fast access to priority needs, the envoy said on Twitter.

Marcos heeded the recommendation of the NDRRMC to declare a state of calamity after Paeng caused the loss of lives, destruction of property, damage to agriculture and critical infrastructures, and disruption of means of livelihood and normal way of life of the populations in the affected areas.

More than 1. million of the populations in Regions -A Calabarzon , icol Region , estern Visayas and the angsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao ARMM were adversely affected by Severe Tropical Storm Paeng, Marcos said in the proclamation.

Too many...

This, despite uncontestable proof that the vaccines created by such multinational drug companies as Pfizer, Moderna, and Astra eneca, among others are not only effective, but are also safe.

Multiple studies have tried to explain why so many remain hesitant about getting vaccinated even of the shots are widely available most

anywhere.

In some cases, culture and ethnicity may be a factor. Thus, Filipinos who migrate to the S still carry with them the beliefs that have been ingrained in them practically since birth.

Independent health reform advocate Dr. Anthony C. Leachon, a past president of the Philippine College of Physicians, told Philippine News Today that misinformation, disinformation, and fake news plays a large part in the continued refusal of countless Filipinos to avail of the free shots.

There is, he said, a strong movement of anti-vaxxers and people sowing fear on the adverse effects of vaccines.

The best way to counter the negative beliefs on the e cacy and safety of vaccines needs a coordinate effort between the government and the private sector to educate the public on the huge benefits of vaccines and boosters, said Leachon.

ith a population of more than 11 million, as of Oct. 19, this year, less than 1 million have received the first shot, according to a paper published by Statista Research.

The total of those who have received booster shots is worse. Less than 1 million Filipinos have received booster shots as of the same date.

Dr. Leachon points out that other Asian countries have been more successful than the Philippines in their vaccination programs because of their disciplined cultures, good leadership and governance. e cited such states as Singapore, South orea, and apan as having highly successful vaccination programs.

A clinical psychologist who requested anonymity said she believed the fatalistic attitude common among Filipinos is one factor for a refusal to be vaccinated.

Dante D, , for example, said, I ve lived this long without ever being vaccinated, and I m still alive and well.

e claimed he and his siblings had never been vaccinated against polio, measles, or mumps, and they all made it to adulthood only passing through the same common illnesses such as bouts with the u, coughs and colds.

Or maybe I was vaccinated as a baby, I don t know, he said.

Growing up in a province just outside Metro Manila, Dante said his mother would usually take him to an albularyo or herbalist for treatment whenever he and his siblings got sick.

That a close relative died last year after showing signs of coronavirus infection was brushed aside by a common saying that his time was up and there was nothing anyone could do to stop or even delay the inevitable.

Passion...

council to further serve for Artesia s residents.

e are a small city with a small budget. Finding ways to expand our budget means we will be able to give more services to others. One priority is find other avenues in terms of building our general fund to find more services for our residents, Ramoso stressed.

Other priorities Ramsoso has are making City all more accessible, improving quality of life, and strengthening of local economy, among others.

My vision for the City of Artesia is to have it be a place where we can eat, work and play. I wish for others to be able to create the same memories as I did growing up. This truly is a special place with an incredibly diverse population from Portuguese, Dutch, Filipino, South Asians, ispanics, and more, Ramoso shared.

Coming from a public service-oriented background, inspired Palawan-descendant Ramoso to always make sure that she makes her parents and grandparents proud of whatever she does and achieved.

My mother was part of the early waves of nurses that came to the .S. in late s to early s that moved from the Philippines to New ersey then moved to California to become a nurse at one of top ten rehabilitation centers in the entire .S. for years. My father became a soldier and a postal worker while my grandfather was a Colonel in orld ar II, beamed Ramoso who remains single with no kids but pampers her nieces and nephews.

Now with a family of his own, Dante said he only had his 1 -yearold daughter vaccinated against COVID because his wife insisted on it.

And while Filipino priests often say pray to God, but trust in your doctor, such advice seems to fall on deaf ears in the predominantly Roman Catholic Philippines.

One year after COVID-19 first appeared in the country in March of , a stunning 1 percent of all Filipinos were still hesitant to be vaccinated.

Most cited safety issues as their reason, according to a survey conducted by Pulse Asia at that time.

It was only the tough sanctions imposed by the then administration of President Rodrigo Duterte that forced millions of Filipinos to take the shots, albeit grudgingly.

An incredible percent of Filipinos said they would refuse to be immunized or were not certain if they would receive the free shots or not, according to the Pulse Asia survey.

This seeming rejection of vaccines cut across all regions and socioeconomic classes.

hile not exactly under any physical threat by the government, the Duterte administration through the local government units made it tough, practically impossible, for those who chose not to get vaccinated to leave their homes, thereby forcing them to stop working.

Getting vaccinate, therefore, became a matter of survival.

According to the Pulse Asia survey, most of those who initially rejected the free shots point to uncertainty about COVID-19 vaccines as the primary reason to explain their disinclination to be given such vaccines.

Now acting ealth secretary Maria Rosario Vergeire who was undersecretary during the Duterte administration pointed to another reason why some Filipinos refused to get vaccinated their belief that the first doses made available to the general public were the Chinese-made Sinovac.

Thus, when the national government started what was supposed to be a nationwide vaccination program in early 1, vast numbers still preferred to wait for the availability of superior S or European-made vaccines like the aforementioned Pfizer, Moderna, and Astra eneca.

Among the ealth department o cials, Dr. Vergeire has been at the forefront of trying to cajole and convince Filipinos to get vaccinated, only to face indifference at best, and a blank wall, at worst.

An exasperated Vergeire said earlier that the ealth department along with local government units had been doing everything possible, short of making vaccination mandatory for the general population, to no avail.

Meanwhile, millions of Filipinos still remain unvaccinated.

She was born and raised in Downey, some ten minutes away but ended up going to school in Artesia she also learned the Filipino culture that was ingrained her all the kore with the presence of the first Filipino Goldilocks akeshop, the first clustering of Filipinos, food businesses, a sari-sari store right here in Artesia, that has about of Asia Pacific Islander and about 1 Filipino population.

Not many realized that this is the supposedly first historic Filipino town and not in Los Angeles because all of the Filipino businesses were clustering here, revealed Ramoso.

She first ran in 1 but didn t win and ran again in 1 when she won in the city she dearly loves.

eing Filipino representing this city has been my greatest honor. Showing my enthusiasm for the city is showing to other people and a way to get the word out about Artesia. Once you re here, I will show you where the best sisig and crispy pata are. Crispy ouse down the street has been for almost forty years and people from Southern California to the Valley come to Artesia during the holidays especially to pick up their crispy patas. And there are other foodie places that we are proud of here, Ramoso proudly stated.

On the issue of hate, Ramoso believes that to tackle issue, different communities need to be cognizant of other communities and learn about them.

Conversations we never used to have with family members is first and second is learning about other communities on their history, background, culture and the like in order to be able to advocate for them. Education and understanding each other s feelings being supportive by coming up with common solutions are very important in dealing with issue of hate, Ramoso believes.

Ramoso also acknowledged the homelessness is a major issue of concern in California especially in Los Angeles and right here in Artesia and that homeless individuals deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.

Among the accomplishment she is listed were balanced city budgets for four straight years making fiscally prudent decisions, strengthened partnership with exceptional city employees to improve and expand city services, and worked to make City all more transparent via the city website and accessible through inperson services, delivered green bike lanes for incoming bike riders to enhance public safety on Norwalk oulevard and during the pandemic, initiated an eviction moratorium, mental health services, a fee cap on delivery-based apps, and a business assistance program.

As Mayor, Ramoso prides in working together with residents, community groups, local businesses, and public safety first responders and over the past four years together accomplished much to improve the quality of life and safety in our city.

She acknowledged that there s more that remains to be done and is asking to be reelected to continue to do the people s work.

Mayor Quinto...

Cerrito as a city in the Contra Costa County with a close-knit community. Although small compared to other neighboring cities in the San Francisco Bay Area, El Cerrito (Spanish for “The Little Hill”) has a population of 25,962, according to the 2020 census.

City Council members in the city take turns serving a one-year term as mayor based on an established rotation policy that also provides that the Mayor Pro Tem replace the outgoing Mayor.

Quinto was born in Berkeley with parents hailing from the Northern Luzon province of Pangasinan. His father Santiago De Guzman Quinto who was in California since 1927, fought during World War II under the US Army, 2nd Filipino Battalion. He also fought in the Battle of New Guinea.

Quinto proudly proclaims that his role models are his parents Santiago and Isidra Quinto who helped their extended family in the Philippines. He follows the teachings of His Holiness Pope Francis as well as His Holiness the Dalai Llama.

As the City Mayor, Quinto became the first Filipino in 2021 to be on the Board of the League

Pacquiao...

(From page 1)

will raise awareness of the growing number of hate crimes against Asians and Asian-Americans, Fil-Ams included.

From Los Angeles, which serves as his second home, Pacman has been working on a film with the working title “Almighty Zeus,” which is set for a theatrical release beginning Dec. 2, 2022.

“I hope this movie will encourage and inspire a lot of people, not only in America but all over the world,” he said in an interview over CBS LA.

The 43-year-old Pacman added that he

of California cities where all of 482 cities of California are working on equity, inclusion, diversity and thus are setting an example on what needs to be done as a State.

“This city is working on equity as well as and I am proud to have Filipinos as Americans and other Asian Americans and all minorities working at El Cerritos public safety beside City Hall. You are going to see more of that in cities across the California just like what California State Attorney General Rob Bonta is doing by hiring minority attorneys to work in his department,” Quinto said.

Quinto admitted that, like many California cities, El Cerrito is struggling financially and that they are on the frontline.

“El Cerrito is state-audited and we were in the cities in the top ten list of cities on the edge because we did not pay our unfunded liabilities. We were able to turn that around because of our hard work in making government smaller,” explained Quinto. “We are not alone but what we are able to do with pragmatic leadership is making sure we are not playing politics.”

For years now, financial problems have been the major challenge that cities have a hard time on in California as most have not paid into it.

On a brighter side, however, El Cerrito is

hopes the film encourages people to spread love instead of hate.”

With his sport of boxing as the backdrop, the story is a fictional account of a middleweight champion of the world losing his beloved mother to the coronavirus pandemic.

The grieving champion ends up challenging an Asian American boxer for his crown. The Asian American opponent is known as Zeus, and he ends up being punished inside the ring by the champion.

The fight in the ring becomes symbolic of the hate a handful of Americans have over Asians and Asian Americans.

Zeus then encounters a neighborhood boxing legend named Coach Green, who takes Zeus

building housing for everybody, including affordable housing, and they are building housing on the busy thoroughfare.

e are adding a lot of affordable housing. Out of 485 cities, we are one of 38 this is where we put our emphasis on and because of this, we have a very very small homeless problem here,” Quinto beams. “We know the 30-50 people that we know by name as they have been here for years. A special tax called measure X that the Contra County passed and this is for the extra things that help support our homeless here in the County.“

As such, Quinto is also proud that because of affordable housing projects, people who worked from as far as San Francisco lived in El Cerrito.

“This is a regional issue that we had to ask for federal funding through HUD. For people from all over the Bay Area counties there is still a lottery because of the homelessness situation and that through the lottery is how they were able to live here in El Cerrito,” Quinto said. “My vision of more affordable housing at El Cerrito Plaza BART station was realized after BART took charge of building housing at the Plaza.”

Quinto has been a lifelong public servant and fearless advocate on behalf of El Cerrito’s working families and became El Cerrito s first Filipino-American, the second Asian-American

under his wing and teaches him fight tactics through the mean streets of Los Angeles.

The film is written, directed, and produced by Chris Soriano, who also stars as Zeus,

Soriano said the goal of his film is to showcase unity through professional boxing, with its strict rules and discipline needed to succeed.

The writer director star began filming Almighty Zeus” during the pandemic. He incorporated in his film real hate crimes that happened to Asian Americans.

Soriano said he felt the need to tell the story in hopes that it will shine a light on how the US can deal with racism toward minorities. The goal, he said, is to promote peace, echoing the message of Pacquiao.

and first LG TQ Councilmember in the history of the city.

Quinto began his first term on the El Cerrito City Council on December 2014 and began his second four-year term in December 2018 when he was instrumental in the passage of Measure V which established El Cerrito as a Charter City which is important as additional funding for local projects such as affordable housing and providing more funding to our Calpers retirement funding.

Among the major accomplishments he has as a Councilman, Mayor Pro Tem and now Mayor is making sure the city establishes a Progressive Minimum Wage Hike to raise the minimum wage to $17.35 by 2023.

Quinto said he also wants to make sure that their immigrant communities are protected by their city policies and by Public Safety as El Cerrito is a Sanctuary City that protects their immigrant populations through their Public Defender of Contra Costa that has a program to assist immigrants who are arrested and booked by ICE.

“I would like to be remembered as the 1st FilAm and LGBT Mayor who made sure that women and minorities and LGBT Community have the opportunity to serve in City Boards and Commissions,” Quinto declared.

The co-lead actor who plays Coach Green is a Black American.

Soriano also said that aside from his message of peace, his film will also show the need for unity as a journey the main characters have to go through.

The semi-retired Pacquiao is currently in South Korea where he is scheduled to appear in popular TV shows. He is also set to meet South Korean YouTuber DK Yoo in an exhibition match in December.

One of his sons, Jimuel, is trying to follow in his footsteps by recently launching a career as a professional boxer. Like his father before him. Jimuel Pacquiao is under the wing of the equally legendary trainer Freddie Roach.

The coming winter of Putin’s discontent

Withwinter fast approaching, the Russian invasion of Ukraine may be facing a critical juncture.

The special military operation – Russian President Vladimir Putin’s euphemism for his undeclared war on his neighbor – is not only going badly, multiple signs point to either an extended stalemate, or a need to take such drastic but necessary action as withdrawing all ground forces from Ukraine sooner rather than later.

This, after the widespread belief of Russia’s near invincibility having been shattered by successive defeats and subsequent withdrawals of Putin’s army in humiliating fashion.

Worst of all, the Russian leader is facing growing discontent at home. He may be facing a similar situation as then US President Lyndon B. Johnson at the height of the Vietnam War in the 60s, when countless Americans who refused to be drafted crossed the border,either to Canada or to Mexico.

The comparison is apt. The Vietnam War was the only one that the US lost. Like it or not, the Vietnamese were fighting for their country against what they saw as a foreign power –the US –being an invader.

The Paris Peace Talks gave the US a somewhat face-saving way out, to retreat honorably.

Perhaps this is what Putin needs – a way to extricate Russian forces in Ukraine without making it appear that they are in retreat, but rather to declare that their mission has been accomplished.

It is hard to read what’s on Putin’s mind. What’s clear is that he is a 70-year-old leader who still has dreams of achieving the impossible, which is to reconstitute the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.

Having been with the KGB in his younger days, he most likely holds on to the belief that their socialist system is the best way, the only way, for the world to move forward.

It’s a pipe dream, of course. In truth, Vladimir Putin is nothing more than the typical tyrant whose word is law and whose every wish must be fulfilled.

And like most tyrants, he believes himself invincible. He rejects the notion that at 70, his best years are behind him and his eventual end to his mortal existence is not too far off.

It is, therefore, not just the winter of 2022 that is fast approaching, but the winter of Putin’s own life that has arrived.

As such, he may want to leave behind one final major success in his view, which is to win the war in Ukraine. In failing that, he must at least be able to lay claim to having made Russia safer against potential foreign aggressors – like NATO – by punishing a neighbor who would endanger his motherland by casting its fate with the West.

It should not be lost on Putin that Russia has faced a previous defeat, although such a word is not in his vocabulary. Russia did invade Afghanistan, tried to subjugate its people, and failed miserably. A withdrawal of Russian forces was the only way out of an invasion that had gone horriblywrong.

The most dangerous thing that Putin can do is to do the unthinkable, which is to resort to using either a nuclear bomb, or a so-called dirty bomb, which is similar to a nuke but without the deadlyradiation that comes after.

What legacy the Russian leader chooses to leave behind may be known in the coming weeks and months. For everyone’s sake, he had better choose the path that results in the end of the hostilities he himself started earlier this year.

Think deeply about Joseph Ileto

3 and Conclusion)

JOSEP ILETO suffered a tragic fate years ago in Southern California just like Fermin Tobera 69 years earlier in Central California. The racist anti-immigrant that triggered the shooting deaths of the two Filipino Americans has escalated in the past two years with the hate crime wave against Asian American and Pacific Islanders.

ut now there s a concerted movement to fight back.

hen vitriol-filled anti-Asian rhetoric and race-motivated attacks surged along with coronavirus fatalities in 2020, AAPIs, infamous for our fatalism and docility, mobilized, organized, spoke up and started collaborating with elected o cials to develop legislation to address the issue and stop it.

Foremost among organizations born from strife to protect our community is the coalition Stop AAPI Hate. Formed on March 19, 2020, web-based Stop AAPI Hate unites the AAPI Equity Alliance, Chinese for A rmative Action and the Asian American Studies Department of San Francisco State University.

Last May Asian American and Pacific Islander eritage Month - President oe iden signed the COVID ate Crimes Act authored by New ork Rep. Grace Meng and awaii S Sen. Mazie irono both AAPI and Democrats.

Stop AAPI Hate hailed the legislation for opening up “community-centered solutions and provisions to mitigate anti-Asian rhetoric” but cautioned that it does not address the “root causes of systemic racism and oppression.”

“Because the Act centers criminal law enforcement agencies in its solutions, it will not address the overwhelming majority of incidents reported to our site which are not hate crimes, but serious hate incidents,” the coalition said in a statement.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Stop AAPI Hate issued the following recommendations for the federal government to fully support AAPIs and effectively prevent hate acts

Focus resources to local communities covering safety programs and in-language support for mental health,legal and immigration services;

Vigorously fund community-based organization that often are first responders to hate incidences, thus forging a robust civil rights framework;

Amplifystories through ethnic studies and education,and

Fortify federal civil rights laws addressing discrimination in public accommodations particularly those frequented for common needs bytarget populations.

MOST ATTACKS

In December the coalition released its latest report with analysis of over 11, hate acts against AAPIs

Verbal harassment tops all incidences.

Physical assault 1 . and intentional shunning of AAPIs 1 .1 ranked second and third most committed.

Nearly half . of all hate incidents happened in public spaces in public streets 1. , public transit . , and public parks . .

ate incidents reported by women 1. tops all reports.

Reports included for the first time the report data from non-binary AAPI respondents. T hey experience more deliberate avoidance or shunning 1. , being coughed at or spat on 1 .9 , denial of service . and online harassment 1 .1 than AAPI women and men.

Civil rights violations such workplace discrimination, refusal of service, being barred from transportation, and housing-related discrimination compose 11. of total incidents.

Of all groups, Filipinos .9 were third most reporting hate encounters after Chinese Americans who experienced the most hate incidents . followed by oreans 1 .1 . Filipinos were followed by apanese . , and Vietnamese Americans . .

OFFICIAL RESPONSE

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PNT editor in chief, lawyer Barbadillo of Milpitas cited Lifestyle for longevity as lasting gift

Congratulations to Philippine News Today editor in chief Alfred Gabot for having been honored by the National Press Club of the Philippines (NPC) on the occasion of its 70th foundation anniversary.

Breaking Through

From Hercules, California, I ew to Manila to be able to witness the awarding to my friend Alfred Gabot together with another Philippine News Today columnist, lawyer Emmanuel Tipon of Hawaii.

According to the award, Gabot was being commended for his “unwavering support to the ideals and aspirations in the oldest and biggest press organization in the country as former National Press Club president that has contributed immensely in creating a better future of our brothers and sisters in the media profession and their immediate family members.”

NPC s first lady president Lydia ueno and vice president ristina Maralit and other o cials handed the award to our editor in chief. Also awardees were former NPC presidents Rolando Gonzalo, Marcelo Lagmay, Joel Egco and Benny Antiporda.

Congratulations Alfred for a well deserved recognition!

Earlier, another media organization, the Publishers Association of the Philippines Inc. (PAPI) also presented an award of recognition to Alfred Gabot for service PAPI as executive director and secretary.

More on the NPC and PAPI in my next columns.

Various political leaders led by Congressman Ro Khanna and Milpitas Mayor Richard Tran are endorsing and supporting highly regarded Filipino-American lawyer Garry Barbadillo for Milpitas city Councilman in the coming elections.

Also supporting Garry are Milpitas Vice Mayor Carmen Montano and Council member Evelyn Chua.

Their support for Atty. Barbadillo has escalated his chances to win and top the Council race according to veteran political observers.

A former member of the Milpitas city Council, Garry was awarded as Milpitas Citizen of the year in 2018, Best Elected O cial, also in 1 , and consistent est Attorney in 2015-2022.

He is known for his integrity, experience, intellect and trustworthiness.

The Mercury News said that the coveted Citizen of the Year award given by the Knights of Columbus cited arbadillo for his efforts to give back to the community through donations of money and time to charities.”

Given his credentials and achievements topped by his experiences and track record in public service including serving Milpitans as City Councilman and Commissioner of the Planning, as well as the Parks and Recreation Commissions, Garry deserves to be sent back to the Council.

But much is expected of his fellow Fil-Ams residing in Milpitas.

Past experiences have shown that Pinoys don’t usually vote en masse unlike other cultural groups in America. It s time to shake off such tendency to shy away from the voting process. After all, if a Pinoy running for election wins with the united support of his compatriots, they would be a force to reckon with in our adopted places as is happening in Hawaii.

We can’t tell now, but I’m hopeful Milpitas-based Pinoys have learned a lesson or two when they missed the chance to put back in power one of their own six years ago.

Are you looking for gifts that last for your FRANC (Friends, Relatives, Acquaintances, Neighbors, Co-Workers)? You don’t’ have to look for expensive gifts anymore for Christmas, Birthdays, Graduation, Anniversaries and other occasions.

ART GABOT MADLAING Health & Wealth

As book author and columnist, I would like to announce to our readers and the general public the availability through Amazon the sixth printing copies of LIFESTYLE FOR LONGEVITY subtitled “How to be Healthy Emotionally, Financially, Physically, Sexually and Spiritually” dated August 18,2022 to commemorate my 75th Birthday.

The sixth printing copies are available through Amazon (408 pages in Hardcover, Paperback and E-book). Foreword was written by Dr. Jason Nilo Reyuso, M.D. from Baguio City, Philippines.

The back cover of LIFESTYLE FOR LONGEVITY includes our group picture with boxing icon and former Philippine Senator Manny Pacquiao during our PHILIPPINE SENATE COURTESY CALL at the Philippine Senate Hall in Pasay City, Philippines in February, 2018 which coincided with the approval of Senate Bill No. 1270 (co-authored by former Senator Pacquaio) declaring every Monday of January each year as “National Bible Day in the Philippines.

Those who joined me in the PHILIPPINE SENATE COURTESY CALL (which coincided with the annual WE CARE Evangelism Campaign & Workshop in the Philippines) were Alfred G. Gabot, former President of the National Press Club of the Philippines, former Regent, Pamantasan Ng Lungsofdng Maynila and Editor-in-Chief of PHILIPPINE NEWS TODAY; Evangelist Roberto Indong, Minister of the TOWN PROPER CHURCH OF CHRIST in Calasiao, Pangasinan; and John Paul Agustin.

Here are some comments and reviews on the book: “This book is a good resource for useful tips and advice for people to live by and maintain healthy and balanced lifestyle,” said Stephanie Phong Tuliao, Doctor of Pharmcy, Daly City, California.

“ I highly recommend this book for optimum health and balanced life,” wrote Atty. Junas T. Sagurit, President, Asian Christian University, Bugallon, Pangasinan, Philippines.

Many adverse phenomena beyond our control affect our daily lives. Through his guidebook, Art Madlaing gives us power to control a most vital aspect of our existence ---health,” echoed Juanita Robertson, Christian woman and retired Professor, City College, San Francisco, California USA.

“As a young Christian and professional involved in the health care industry, I fully appreciate the importance of this book for the emotional, physical and spiritual health of individuals and familes,” explained Grace Impson Ortiz, Registered Nurse, Sacramento, California USA.

“This book can encourage , motivate and help you to be healthy emotionally, financially, physically, sexually and spiritually, “ said Dr. Jason Nilo Reyuso, M.D., Baguio City, Philippines.

“This is a special book which must be read by every Christian to have longer years working in the Lord’s vineyard,” wrote Henry T. Bravo, Elder SURREY CHURCH OF CHRIST, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

“For good health and longevity, every individual couple and family should read and follow this guidebook,” explained Angela Leung, Lafayette, California USA.

“I recommend this timely book. It is a must reading for individuals and families desiring to have a balanced physical, emotional and spiritual life,” echoed Felix L. Olidan, Jr., Evangelist & Minister, WANCHAI CHURCH OF CHRIST, Wanchai, Hongkong

“I highly recommend this book to all students and young people for balanced lifestyle and life-changing future,” wrote Jun Fuentes, President, Heritage Bible College, Baguio City, Philippines.

“ I was inspired and motivated to write this latest book through the life experience of my late mother Elena Sampayan Gabot Madlaing who died at the age of 103 ad seven months Last August 30, 2022.

Some of those who attended the Funeral & Memorial Services of my mother last September

Decongesting our prisons

Last month,the Bureau of Corrections freed 371persons deprived of liberty(PDL) to coincide with the 65th birthdaycelebration of President BBM. The release, according to DOJ,would be followed bysimilar releases everymonth thereafter all the way to December. The effect would be a decongestion,albeit slight,of our overcrowded prisons.

Our prisons are one of the most overcrowded in this part of the region. The Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa has approximately30,000PDLs, wayabove the ideal capacityof only6,500or a congestion rate of 344percent. A slightlylower congestion rate of 303 percent is reported in BUCOR’s sixoperating prisons and penal farms. One can onlyimagine the deplorable conditions suffered by PDLs being packed in an ill-ventilated, smelly jail space designed for one.

Thus,the proposed regular and timelyrelease of PDLs is a welcome move. PDLs should not be made to suffer in prison one daylonger than necessary. I propose digitizing prison records to speed up the process. Digitizing 30,000 prison records would be no sweat for a competent service provider. A PDL’s record (“carpeta”) would be programmed like a bank time deposit with a fixed maturity, computed minus the expected good conduct time allowance. On maturity date,the PDL is automaticallyreleased.

Another means to decongest the prisons has alreadybeen suggested byJustice SecretaryJesus Crispin Remulla. Add more regional prisons and penal farms to the current six. The proposal hits two birds with one stone. PDLs need not be uprooted awayfrom their families. In Muntinlupa,cases abound of PDLs who have not been visited byloved ones during their entire confinement because of the distance and the cost involved. If I mayadd mytwo cents,well-to-do provinces should also be requested to upgrade their existing facilities or establish new ones.

*****

A front page photo recentlyof President BBM planting a bamboo tree in a former landfill in San Mateo, Rizal was enough to make reader RodyPelayo ecstatic. “Kakampi na natin si President Bongbong sa ating bamboo advocacy.” A retired agricultural engineer,Pelayo heads a group called Bamboo Connect Philippines ,which advocates the replanting of five million hectares of denuded areas with bamboo.

Whybamboo? “Bamboo is pro-environment as it absorbs more carbon dioxide than ordinarytrees. It is sustainable because it multiplies exponentiallyeven when harvested,” Pelayo said. “It can provide a bamboo farmer a steady income of approximatelyP100,000per hectare,starting the fifth year. amboo can be productive for at least years. And if I maykibitz,the bamboo is also impervious to typhoons.

A website “Guadua Bamboo”,enumerates the advantages of bamboo over other trees,as follows:

Rapid Growth –Fastest growing plant on earth. Some species can grow more than 1meter per day. No other plant grows faster.

Renewable Resource –provides an endless supplyof timber.

Clean Air –Bamboo produces more oxygen than trees.

Carbon Sequestration - Mentioned above

Water Conservation –Bamboo acts as a reservoir by collecting and storing large amounts of water in its rhizomes and stems during rainyreason,and returning water to the soil,rivers and streams during droughts.

Soil Conservation – A great tool for soil protection due to its rapid growth,permanent canopyand huge networkof roots and rhizomes.

BiodiversityConservation –Bamboo is an important part of a biodiverse ecosystem. Manyanimals relyon bamboo for food and shelter.

Bioenergy–Bamboo is a sustainable energysource that produces 1KWH of electricityfrom 1.2kg of bamboo. This is similar to the biomass requirements for wood products but outperforms other types of biomass sources.

Versatility–Bamboo can replace wood in almost any application, ranging from paper and pulp products, ooring, musical instruments,furniture

TEDDY P. MOLINA

IGNACIO TOTING BUNYE

The nightmare is here

It is no longer some veiled threat that takes place in a distant, dystopian future. It is a threat to all life that makes it seem like a fourth horseman of the apocalypse.

Climate change is here.

It is not a kind of disaster movie scenario either, but it is scary as hell. And the Philippines will be among the worst to be hit because it is the least prepared.

Offline

The warnings of not only past years, but past decades were not heeded and we are paying the price today. Right here, right now.

It’s already November yet storms are still taking place in our part of the world. I’ve been around for a long time but I cannot for the life of me remember this time of year as typhoon season. Usually, the Philippines’ rainy season would peak between June to August. By the last quarter of the year, there would still be the occasional rains, but not typhoon-level weather disturbances.

The week just passed is almost one for the books. A killer earthquake struck Northern Luzon at about the time that backto-backstorms were causing serious loss of life and property.

The latest, named Paeng, has left more than a hundred dead, their lives taken either by unexpectedly deadly oods or communities being washed out bymudslides.

Mother Earth may be angry, but that anger was exacerbated by the unabated logging anywhere in the country that has some forest cover. Without trees, storms can only wash away mountains,as what happened in Maguindanao.

Legal or otherwise, logging has been the biggest bane of the Philippine environment. Big corporations owned by politically powerful families may shoulder much of the blame, but even small-time loggers cannot deny that they also share in the loss of the country’s forest cover.

I recall a time when my boss, who was from Davao, told us that small time logging was not that small, that big money could be made even by individuals who would cut big trees, bring those felled trees down from the mountains with the help of a carabao,and expect to have a tinywindfall.

The guy was previously an executive of a multinational corporation, but he said he could earn as much as any of his superiors bythe practice of weekend logging.

It was no secret though, as he said many individuals resorted to this sideline.

Yes, he should have known better. Being a leader of a Christian organization, I was surprised that he cared so little about the environment. His excuse was that those trees that helped him earn tidy sums were a gift from God. He also believed he was not hurting anyone by cutting some big, old trees on weekends.

Besides, he reasoned, the trees were turned into lumber which was essential to the construction industry. Ergo, he was helping Filipinos achieve their dream of owning their own homes byproviding the raw material theyneeded.

Then there are the kaingineros that we learned about in grade school. They were basically slash-and-burn farmers who created their own land to till by cutting down trees in any area theyfelt like destroying.

As kids, we asked: What’s wrong with that? Didn’t they plant crops that ended up in the markets and eventually our dining tables?

How innocent we were back in the day. We were not aware of it but it turned out that a few of our classmates and schoolmates were actually the children of the owners of those big, bad logging companies.

Of course, the big family-owned lumber companies were most at fault as they had the means to minimize, if not eradicate the damage they caused. All they had to do was to replant the areas that theydenuded.

But did they?

Further, the one president whom we all loved because we were taught that he was a true hero for defeating the communists who were encircling Manila in the 50s then later dying in a plane crash may have been a great Filipino. But his family? Not so much.

He may have raised a son who became a respected businessman and lawmaker, but other members of his family have been blamed for practically de-

Back into each other’s arms

The symbolism was very important.

Before Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr returned home from a week-long attendance at the United Nations General Assembly, he got what he really wanted a meeting with US President Joe Biden in New York.

Marcos was the third person the US president met in New York after the UN secretary general, Antonio Guterrez, and United Kingdom Prime Minister Liz Truss.

MANNY MOGATO IN THE TRENCHES

Biden could have met other world leaders but his meeting with Marcos sent a message across the Indo-Pacific region, one that would make Xi Jinping worried because China had enjoyed unprecedented good relations with the Philippines under Rodrigo Duterte.

The images of Biden and Marcos sitting across each other in a room with their delegations would mean a thousand words.

This was the first face-to-face meeting between two leaders.

Biden, in his brief remarks, mentioned about the “rocky” relationship between the two allies. He could be referring to the time when Rodrigo Duterte was in power.

Throughout his six years in o ce, Duterte never set foot on S soil. He even snubbed an invitation from Washington to attend a summit meeting among Southeast Asian leaders.

There were also attempts by Duterte to downgrade security relations with the Americans when he sent a letter to Washington notifying the Americans of his intention to terminate the 1998 Visiting Forces Agreement.

He also ordered the military to stop holding military drills in Zambales because China was unhappy about it, forcing the Philippine Marines to rename its drills to “Kamandag” and hold it elsewhere.

Duterte then brought relations with both Beijing and Moscow to new levels. e went to China five times and to Russia twice before the coronavirus pandemic and was hoping he could return to China before he stepped down from power.

The biggest damage to the country’s national interest was when he refused to invoke the 2016 arbitral ruling the country won in The Hague, calling the landmark legal victory a piece of paper to be thrown in the waste bin.

In less than three months, Marcos reversed what Duterte built in six years.

Are America and the Philippines really back in each other’s arms?

Washington remained committed to its obligations under the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) despite Duterte’s overtures to its rivals Beijing and Moscow.

In fact, the US made clear its policy to defend the Philippines in case a shooting war erupted in the South China Sea during Donald Trump’s administration. It was reiterated by US State Secretary Antony Blinken during a visit to Manila earlier this year.

Two of Duterte s Cabinet members Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin r and Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana were instrumental to keeping US-PH relations robust despite the leader’s rhetorics.

Washington, under both Trump and Biden, had given so much military hardware to the Philippine military, including drones and surveillance and reconnaissance equipment. It allowed Turkey to export attack helicopters.

It’s business as usual amid the noise from Duterte.

The relations between the two long-time military allies could expand and deepen in the months and years ahead as Washington worries about Beijing’s intentions in Taipei.

Tensions continued to build up in Taiwan Straits after House Speaker Nancy Pelosi made a pit stop in the self-ruled island in August, a violation of the US One-China policy.

Biden has reiterated his administration’s support to Taiwan, vowing to defend it from China’s planned invasion.

Washington is more concerned with Taiwan than the maritime dispute in the South China Sea. and it needs the Philippines badly to project its military might in the region.

Early this year, the US military deployed two batteries of its sophisticated Patriot missiles in northern Luzon near Taiwan during the annual Balikatan exercise. It has been displaying its High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HiMARS) in drills in the Philippines the same weapons system given to kraine to hit Russian targets deep into its territory.

The US has access to four air force bases and an army base in the Philippines under the 2014 Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). The US can actually request access to other bases and civilian airfields, like during the war on terror in Afghanistan and Iraq, when S planes landed and refueled in a civilian airfield in Batanes.

An air force base was created in Cagayan province where US planes and drones can have access and operate freely near Taiwan Straits. S drones can also operate in another northern airfield in Laoag, Marcos’ home province.

Will diversity play a role under Sunak’s administration?

Rishi

Sunak became ritain s first prime minister of color! Congratulations! Sunak, , is the first indu and the first person of South Asian descent to lead the country. He replaced Liz Truss, the short-lived prime minister, at a time that the country’s economy is declining and is facing many international problems such as the Russia-Ukraine war where almost all nations now are indirectly involved in the “global war”.

The UK and its allies condemn the Russian government’s unprovoked, premeditated and uncalled for war against Ukraine. Will Sunak carry on its policy on the war? Perhaps, yes because in his first speech he said he will continue what the previous administration has started, put the economy back and will venture on other programs that will keep the nation moving.

According to Danica Kirka (Associated Press), the news that Rishi Sunak has become ritain s first prime minister of color was welcomed by many among Britain’s large Indian and South Asian communities, although we found out that some sectors too are not happy about it.

In London, Harmeet Singh Gill was excited to hear that Rishi Sunak became ritain s first prime minister of color news that came as he celebrated the Diwali festival in a London neighborhood sometimes called Little India. Diwali is the five-day festival of light celebrated by indus, Sikhs and ains.

“It’s almost a watershed moment,” the 31-year-old said as he volunteered at the cavernous dome-topped house of worship that serves the Sikh community in west London’s Southall neighborhood. “It’s just a sign of 21st-century Britain, where it doesn’t matter what background you’re from now, that you can rise up the ranks to the positions of power.”

But this is not simple, as many people of color in the U.K. due to their history in racism and violence. Sunak, 42, whose parents moved to Britain from Africa in the 1960s, has inherited a long history of colonialism and has often struggled to welcome immigrants from its former colonies and continues to grapple with racism and wealth inequality.

A practicing Hindu, Sunak spoke earlier this year about the significance of lighting Diwali candles outside the o cial Downing Street residence of the Chancellor of the Exchequer. He held the post for two years until he resigned in July.

He told the Times of London: “It was one of my proudest moments that I was able to do that on the steps of Downing Street. And it meant a lot to a lot of people and it’s an amazing thing about our country.”

Sunak s win is evidence of this progress a step toward something better,” said Tariq Modood, director of the Centre for the Study of Ethnicity and Citizenship at the University of Bristol.

He added: “I would say the most important thing about today is that the majority, the overwhelming majority of Conservative members of Parliament, chose as their first choice a youngish man of Indian descent, making him the first ritish prime minister of color. And I think that other parties will note that, the Labour Party most certainly, and will want to catch up with that, if not try and do better.”

Sunak is a well-learned man and a man of experience. He earned an undergraduate degree from the University of Oxford and a master’s in business administration from Stanford University. Then he worked for Goldman Sachs and then moving into the hedge fund industry, where he made a fortune in finance.

ritain s new prime minister, Rishi Sunak is rich, ultrarich. To some, he is way too rich. The Times of London estimated that PM Sunak and his wife, Akshata Murty, were worth more than $800 million, and this week, as Mr. Sunak emerged as the winner of the Tory leadership contest, critics immediately picked up on that. They accused him of being out of touch and wondered how a multimillionaire was going to preside over a country where more and more people face tough tradeoffs between affording basic goods and warming their homes.

aroness Sayeeda arsi, the first Muslim woman to attend Cabinet when she served in former Prime Minister David Cameron’s government, said she thought Sunak would be a unifying figure for all ritish Asians.

BETING DOLOR

ELPIDIO R. ESTIOKO

Is a Domestic Violence conviction a hindrance to naturalization?

Bank lending up, domestic liquidity slows in September

Aconviction

of Domestic Violence will make you deportable and inadmissible. If you travel outside the U.S. you will be sent to second interview at the port of entrybecause that will trigger on your green card. In order to avoid this situation,you should consult with an immigration attorney to analyze your case of Domestic Violence. There are requirements for the conviction to be deportable. These requirements are: 1) the crime has a potential sentence of one year or more 2) the crime was committed within five years after date of admission. ased on this requirements,whenever you have encounter with the police or the USCIS agents,you maybe sent to Removal Proceedings. There is a wayto avoid this situation and that is to consult with an immigration attorneyif you can naturalize. An attorneycan analyze your case and argue that the crime is a first offense exception or that the potential sentence was not for one year or more or argue that the crime happened after five years of your admission to the .S. If you are convicted of two or more domestic Violence or other crime involving moral turpitude,then consult with an immigration attorneyif you can avail of the exception and arguments specified above. If you qualify for the exception, you may be able to naturalize.

Note: This is not a legal advice and presented for information purposes only. If you have immigration problems the Law O ces of Crispin C. Lozano can help you find a solution before your problem gets worse which could lead to deportation and familyseparation.

REA ING NE S

Stampless entry at SFO. S C and OA ports

Effective October 1, , the C P will adopt the stampless entry on all incoming travelers. If you want a stamp on your passport you should request the C P o cer.

New Regulation will make it easier to immigrate

The iden Administration will release a regulation by December , making it easier to immigrate for people who have taken public benefits. The public charge under Trump era will be revised significantly.

N- Application for Naturalization

The USCIS is now giving priorities to application for naturalization . The reason is obviously to allow qualified 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 qualified to file for naturalization. This is a rare opportunity that all qualified should take advantage of.

DACA reinstated

Pres. iden reiterated to renew the DACA processing as of August 1, Arrest and removal of undocumented is now up to the discretion of ICE o cer S Supreme Court did not allow Pres. iden to overturn the immigration policy of Trump with regards to priority in arrest and removal. ith increasing migrants at the border hite ouse is now requiring ICE to deport more migrants under political pressure. It is now a decision to be made by the ICE o cer which could include arrest of anyone who is undocumented. It is time to work on your green card now.

CLAIM FOR NPAID AGES

e help our clients recover from employers unpaid minimum wage and overtime. ndocumented workers are qualified to apply.

CAR ACCIDENTS

Our Law Firm successfully settled a car accident for . .

FAMIL LA e also handle uncontested DIVORCE.

INCOME TA PRO LEMS

e can help you if you are under IRS audit, need a representation with IRS, need to reduce your tax liability or need to offer a payment plan to IRS,

S CCESS STORIES

For the month of October , we received approval from SCIS three naturalization applications,one Fiancée visa petition, two removals of condition on residence and three adjustment of status applications.

Note: If you have immigrationproblems write us a letter andwe will reply to you with no initial obligation. The Law Offices of Crispin C. Lozano can help you find a solution before your problem gets worse which could lead to deportation and family separation. You may request a free consultation at one of our offices in Hayward or Cerritos, CA, or by phone at 1-877-456-9266. www.crispinlozanolaw. com, email at info@ccllaw.net

MANILA ank lending of universal and commercial banks s posted higher expansion but domestic liquidity grew at a slower rate in September .

Data released by the angko Sentral ng Pilipinas SP on Monday showed that

s outstanding loans, excluding those placed in the central bank s reverse repurchase (RRP) facility, posted higher annual expansion last month at 1 . percent from 12.2 percent in August.

On a month-on-month basis, the SP said bank lending grew by 1.7 percent.

Funds, net of RRPs, extended by s to residents during that month increased by 1 percent from month-ago s 1 .1.

Production loans during the said period went up by 1 . percent from the previous month s 11. percent expansion.

This was attributed to expansion in lending to information and communication, 25.5 percent real estate activities, 1 . percent manufacturing, 16.2 percent; and wholesale and retail trade, repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles, 1 . percent.

Consumer loans to residents during the same month also posted higher growth of . percent from month-ago s 1 . percent due mainly to credit card loans, motor vehicle loans, and salary-based general purpose consumption loans.

ank lending to non-residents jumped by . percent last month, faster than its 1 . percent print last August.

The SP said continued expansion in lending activity and ample liquidity will support the recovery of economic activity and

domestic demand.”

Looking ahead, the SP will ensure that liquidity and lending conditions remain consistent with its price and financial stability mandates,” it added.

Meanwhile, the annual growth of domestic liquidity M in the ninth month this year slowed to 5 percent to P15.4 trillion from the revised 6.7 percent rise last August.

On a month-on-month basis, M declined by . percent, the SP said.

The central bank said domestic claims slowed to 1 . percent last September from month-ago s revised 11. percent growth due to the improvement in bank lending to the private sector.”

It said claims on the private sector rose by 1 .1 percent last September from the previous month s .9 percent with the sustained expansion in bank lending to non-financial private corporations and households.”

On the other hand, net claims on the national government rose by 1 . percent, down from last August s 1. percent, owing to the sustained borrowing by the national government.”

During the same period, net foreign assets (NFA) in peso terms slipped by 1.7 percent, higher than the . percent decline last August.

The SP said NFA of banks slipped mainly on account of higher bills payable while that of the central bank was broadly steady year-on-year.”

Looking ahead, the SP will continue to ensure that domestic liquidity conditions remain in line with the SP s price and fi-

MA ATI CIT Moody s Analytics forecasts the country s in ation rate to accelerate to 7.4 percent this October, faster than the previous month s .9 percent.

The in ation forecast is included in its economic preview for the week covering Oct. 1 to Nov. .

Moody s Analytics country analyst for the Philippines Sonia Zhu said their projection was made on account of the transport fare hikes and higher food prices amidst the typhoon season, which caused extension damage to crop yield and disruption to supply chain.”

The easing of global energy prices may help to offset utility prices, but the impact of overall headline in ation will be limited,” she said.

Asked for the firm s projection on when domestic in ation may peak from its

current uptrend, hu said they expect ination to stay elevated through the rest of this year and peak in early .

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) is scheduled to report the October in ation no later than Nov. .

The angko Sentral ng Pilipinas SP forecasts domestic rate of price increases for October to stay within .1 to .9 percent.

Last September, in ation rate accelerated to its highest since October 1 due to higher annual growth rate of the food and non-alcoholic beverages index, as well as the housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels.

The uptick is a reversal of the previous month s deceleration to . percent after hitting 6.4 percent in the previous month.

Moody’s Analytics eyes P L ct ber in ati n at

“Probinsiya” latest album of guitar virtuoso Florante Aguilar

Despite the albums’ guitar pyrotechnics, Florante Aguilar attempts to retain the traditional spirit.

“That is my goal, for sure, I didn’t want to arrange it beyond recognition. I’m always looking for the right balance of respecting tradition while putting my own voice on it, “ he said.

Grounded in folk music with a classical approach, the tracks are also strikingly Spanish and Latin music in uenced. So, what makes them Filipino

“Well, for starters they were popular songs written by Filipino composers from as early as 1930s that used the Tagalog or Visayan languages.” Florante added “I

years.”

Am I happy about it No, I still have colonial issues. Occupation by one country over another is for me the biggest form of bullying. But if you look at Spain’s grand colonization tour in the 1600s, at each stop the natives took elements of Spanish music like rhythm, played with it and made it their own. And the result Argentina has tango. Cuba has son. Mexico has mariachi. And Philippines has danzas and haranas.

Also,0 isn’t it true Spain herself appropriated elements of Moorish music that has now become amenco, their national treasure

The Probinsya album released by New Art Media Chicken Coop Production is available on all major streaming platforms such as0 Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon music on October 21, 2022.0 See attached press release and photo.

After Heart in Paris, Bea Alonzo buys apartment in Madrid

Yes, Virginia.

After actress-model-entrepreneur Heart Evangelista bought an apartment in Paris, anothertress acquired an apartment,this time in Madrid,Spain.

She is Filipino-British actress Bea Alonzo, also a GMA Network talent.

In a report of her mother studio, Bea shared Instagram photos of her and her mother having a moment in their Madrid home.

The “Start-Up PH” actress said this is a dream come true.

I was finally able to show my mom our apartment in Madrid and she was so happy! Ang dami niya nang plano on how to fix the place, she wrote in the caption.

“I am so grateful I get to share this moment to my mom. Pangarap ko lang ‘to eh,” she added. “Yakapin [niyo] naman nanay[niyo] para sa akin.” ea ew to Spain to hunt for apartments in March, she revealed in a vlog last May, according to GMA

Her apartment hunting took all of four days, with Bea looking at six properties in all. Bea ended up getting the second property she saw, a spacious apartment in the Chamberí area of Madrid.

Meanwhile, it was reported that there is no wedding

Liza Soberano, James Reid attend LA premiere of ‘My Policeman’

Filipino American actress Liza Soberano and James Reid continued their Hollywood circuit with their attendance to the Los Angeles premiere of the drama film “MyPoliceman.”

On Instagram and reported by their mother studio A S-C N, Soberano shared a photo of her with Reid posing as they arrived at the Regency Bruin Theater in West Hollywood.

Among the stars of “My Policeman” who attended were Harry Styles and David Dawson, who portray secret lovers in 1950s Brighton.

Soberano, 24, and Reid, 29, have been pursuing collaborations and other work engagements in the US in recent months. The actress signed as a talent under Reid’s agencyCareless Music earlythis year.

Soberano notably just finished filming of her ollywood film debut Lisa Frankenstein, where she stars alongside Cole Sprouse and athryn Newton.

mean we were a colonial subject of Spain for over 300

News.

bells for Bea and boyfriend Dominique Roque yet. Dominique revealed that Bea, who celebrated her birthdayrecently,is alreadythe one. But he admitted that he and Bea have not talked about getting settled down.

Sarah G. featured in Times Square billboard in NYC, apologizes to parents

Top singer Sarah Geronimo is the latest Filipina artist to be featured on a digital billboard at Times Square in New York City.

Sarah herself shared the news to her fans on social media.

In an Instagram post, the “Tala” singer announced that she is the latest ambassador for the “EQUAL Philippines” campaign of music streaming platform Spotify, which features Filipina musicians.

“Thank you so much @SpotifyPH for this opportunity! So honored to be EQUAL PH’s ambassador for October,” she said. “Keep streaming the Spotify EQUAL PH playlist, and let’s continue to celebrate women, no matter the day!”

Spotify’s “EQUAL” campaign was launched during the International Women’s Day last year “to demonstrate our commitment to fostering equity for women in audio and celebrating their global contributions.”

The 34-year-old singer took hiatus in 2020 after getting married to actor Matteo Guidicelli. She recently made her comeback with a new single titled “Dati-Dati.”

Other Filipina artists featured in Spotify’s Times Square billboard for its “EQUAL” campaign include Maris Racal, Nadine Lustre, Julie Anne San Jose, KZ Tandingan, Clara Benin, and Janine Tenoso.

Sarah earlier wrote and publicized a public apology to her family over two years after her wedding to actor Matteo Guidicelli.

On Instagram, Sarah posted a bible verse and a letter addressing her family, her fans, her manager, and the general public.

Sarah said she does not often open her heart out like this as she wants to keep her personal life private, but she is taking the opportunity to thank God and her family for inspiring her to be strong amid life’s challenges.

“Gusto ko rin kunin ang pagkakataon na ito sa paraan din na ito... na humingi ng tawad sa aking pamilya na labis na nasaktan sa aking mga naging desisyon sa buhay. Patawad po,” she wrote.

It can be remembered that Sarah married Matteo in a surprise ceremony in February 2020. Sarah’s mother, Mommy Divine, was reported to have arrived unexpectedly and said she did not know about the wedding.

Apo Hiking Society’s Danny Javier passes away at 75

Tributes and messages are pouring in for Danny Javier, a third of the iconic OPM group Apo Hiking Society, after news of his death broke on Ocotber 30.

He was 75 years old.

Javier’s sisterin-in law, Leyte 2nd District Rep. Lolita avier confi rmed the news in a post on Facebook. Included in her post was a photo of Javier with her and his brother, Leyte Vice Governor Leonardo “Sandy” Javier Jr.

Javier’s daughter Justine Javier Long confi rmed the news on Facebook, saying he died from “complications due to his prolonged illnesses.”

“In life, as in his death, our Pop never stopped fi ghting for what he loved, what he believed in and what he was passionate about. He left this world with his passion and his strength of will intact and we know he would not have it any other way,” she wrote.

The Javier family is asking for respect and privacy as they arrange details of his wake. They are also full of gratitude towards everyone for the “outpouring love, prayers, and condolences at this di cult time.

“Maraming salamat po. Ramdam na ramdam namin ang pagmamahal ninyong lahat para sa kanya.”

“Sa lungkot at ligaya, hirap at gin-

hawa, kami’y kasama mo.”

Jim Paredes said he was “shattered” at Javier’s passing.

His friend and fellow APO Hiking Society member Boboy Garrovillo said earlier that “Danny is not well,” but is recovering.

In 2020, Danny revealed in a Facebook post that he has “underlying health concerns with my heart, lungs, and kidneys.”

Boboy took to Facebook to mourn the loss of his friend.

Javier, Paredes, and Boboy Garrovillo made up the singing group, which started performing in 1969.

In a post on Facebook, Garrovillo paid tribute to his “old faithful friend.”

Among the many celebrities who posted tributes was Lea Salonga, who thanked the OPM legend via Facebook.

OPM group The Company also expressed their condolences, sharing photos of members posing with Javier, adding that APO built OPM “to what it is now.”

‘Hipon Girl’ Herlene Budol featured in biggest LED billboard on EDSA

The “Hipon Girl” is on cloud nine.

This as another dream came true for Herlene Nicole Budol, more popularly known as the “Hipon Girl” Budol.

This dream is in her appearance in a 3D LED billboard along EDSA.

She was ecstatic because it’s not just any billboard.

According to Herlene’s latest Instagram post, she is featured in the first biggest D LED billboard in the Philippines along EDSA.”

The billboard, according to Harlene’s mother studio GMA Network, is for JAG Jeans, one of the sponsors of this year’s Binibining Pilipinas. Herlene was named the JAG Queen when she competed in the pageant.

“Thank you JAG sa once in a lifetime opportunity na pinakauna mafeature sa 3D LED billboard,” the comedienne-turned-beauty queen said in her caption.

GMA Network reported that in the billboard, Herlene struts like a beauty queen in an all-denim outfit and a blue long gown before waving to passing cars. The words “denim queen” then appeared on the screen.

Aside from her seven special awards, Herlene was the Binibining Pilipinas first runner-up.

She is set to compete in Miss Planet International, with the coronation set for November 19 in Kampala, Uganda.

for a long time.”

“‘Topakk’ is hopefully a spark to reignite a trend in such films coming out of Southeast Asia. With our partnership with Raven Banner, we’re hoping to do just that,” he said.

The movie, which marks Atayde and Montes’

second major project after the ABS-CBN series “24/7,” is also co-produced by Strawdogs Studio Production, Nathan Studios, and Toronto-based Theo & Atlas Productions.

Topakk is targeted for release in the first quarter of 2023.

An action thriller starring Arjo Atayde and Julia Montes is poised to go international with the backing of a Canada-based production company.

Raven Banner Entertainment has boarded the Richard Homes-helmed “Topakk” to executive produce and handle international sales, Deadline reported, according the two actors’ home studio ABS-CBN.

In the film with the international title Trigger, Atayde portrays “a security guard previously discharged from the military due to post-traumatic stress disorder,” according to Deadline.

e finds himself embroiled in a different kind of war when a young woman (Montes) seeks his protection against a corrupt police death squad.”

“Topakk” also stars Sid Lucero and Kokoy de Santos.

Philippine co-producer Fusee said it considers “Topakk” as its contribution to boosting the action genre in local cinema, while also ensuring a broad international appeal.

e re excited to bring a new kind of action film from the Philippines,” Fusee’s Wilfredo Manalang was quoted as saying by Deadline. “There were a lot of action movies in the early part of our film history, but the country has shied away from them

Arjo Atayde-Julia Montes action flick gets international backing

Report From the National Association of Realtors about California Housing Market

Americanswith homes for sale are going through the five stages of grief. Mortgage rates have risen at the fastest pace in decades. uyers either are moving to the sidelines or are priced out altogether, causing price drops in expensive markets like California.

And the number of homes for sale is on the rise —not because new listings are coming on the market, but because more homes are sitting longer without an offer.

“We’re in the midst of a housing resetting, said Lisa Sturtevant, chief economist for the Bright MLS,one of the nation s largest multiple listing services. Sellers are definitely resetting their price expectations. Slowly. They re going through the five stages of grief. They’re understanding that market conditions are changing. ut manytimes,sellers are still trying to overreach on price.

Sturtevant was one of a half-dozen economists sharing their outlook for the housing market at the National Association of Real Estate Editors conference in Atlanta earlier this month. Theyall agreed the housing market is going through a slowdown likely to last through much of . Lawrence Yun,chief economist for the National Association of Realtors, forecast the home-sale tallywill land 15% below last year’s levels, and sales will fall an additional in .

.S. home prices will be at next year, he predicted, rising in about half of the countryand falling in the other half.

here will price drops most likely occur?

California will be a prime target for price declines, un said. “Whether it’s going to be a 5% or 1 price decline is uncertain . ut

I think it s most assured the California market, expensive areas will undergo some price adjustment. hile Sturtevant believes housing is going through a resetting, homebuilding economist Robert Dietz believes “we are in a recession right now.” He predicted that by the middle of , gross domestic product will have fallen in five out of six quarters.

So the scorekeepers at the National ureau of Economic Research are going to look back at this time period and designate some portion of - as a recession, said Dietz, chief economist for the National Association of Home Builders.

hat s causing it A percentage point jump in mortgage rates over the past 1 months, the economists declared.

This has been a big shock to the market, Dietz said.

e have never seen a mortgage rate rise this much in such a short duration of time,other than going all the way back to the early 19 s, Yun added.

mark the first yearover-year homebuilding decline since 11. Next year’s housing starts are forecast to fall even further, dropping to , before rebounding back above 1 million in .

I think is the year that we re going to see a recovery, he said.

More than one out of 1 new homes will be occupied by renters, with about half in the “build for rent” market and the rest being purchased by investors who will rent them out, Dietz said.

un noted that housing affordability a measure of how many households earn enough to afford a home purchase is at the lowest level since .

IBINIBIGAY DITO ANG PAUNAWA na ang mga sumusunod na tao, na nakalista sa pagkakasunud-sunod ng balota, ay nominado para sa mga opisinang itinalagang punan sa Pangkalahatang Halalan sa Munisipyo na gaganapin sa Lungsod ng Pacifica sa Martes, Nobyembre ,

Para sa Miyembro ng onseho ng Lungsod Distrito uong Termino ng Apat na Taon umoto ng Isa

RO ANCROFT C RISTINE OLES

Para sa Miyembro ng onseho ng Lungsod Distrito uong Termino ng Apat na Taon umoto ng Isa MAR . IER

Para sa Miyembro ng onseho ng Lungsod Distrito uong Termino ng Apat na Taon umoto ng Isa

S E EC ME ER

PA L C ERVATIN

Mga Panukalang Pagbobotohan

•••••••••••• Pagpapayong Pagboto Lamang Ang Pagbebenta at Paggamit ng Lungsod ng Pacifica ng Panukala sa Pagpapayo ng Paputok. Maaamyendahan ba ng Lungsod ng Pacifica ang municipal code nito upang ipagbawal ang pagsiklab, paggamit, paglabas, o pagbebenta ng lahat ng mga paputok na “Ligtas at Matino” na inaprubahan ng Estado sa Lungsod ng Pacifica?

HINDI

Dapat bang magtatag ng ½ ¢ buwis sa pagbebenta para sa pangkalahatang pamahalaan ang panukalang-batas upang mapanatili ang mahahalagang serbisyo ng Lungsod ng Pacifica, tulad ng pulis, bumbero, medikal 9-1-1 na pagtugon sa emergency; pag-iwas ng polusyon / basura sa mga dalampasigan; pag-akit / pagpapanatili ng mga trabaho / negosyo; sementadong kalye; pagpapanatili ng storm drain upang maiwasan ang pagbaha; pagpigil sa pagguho ng baybayin, at pagbuo ng humigit-kumulang $2,600,000 taun-taon sa loob ng 9 na taon, na may regular na pag-audit sa pananalapi, independiyenteng pangangasiwa ng mga mamamayan, at nangangailangan ng mga pondo na gagamitin sa lokal, ay pinagtibay?

uyers are seeing rates irt with , and feels scary, Sturtevant said. And so even people who qualify for a mortgage are sitting back.

Meanwhile, Dietz expects total single-family home starts will drop this year to 9 , units, down from 1.1 million in 1. That will

Folks this is the time to tighten your belts and start to save up for rocky and rainy days coming to our horizon.

Thanks for your comments, please call en Go of 1st Innovative Finance Group - - or write to kennethgo verizon.net CA RE 1 1 NMLS

MGA NOMINADO PARA SA PUBLIC OFFICE

IBINIBIGAY DITO NG PAUNAWA na ang mga sumusunod ay nominado para sa mga opisinang itinalagang punan ang Pangkalahatang Munisipal na Halalan na gaganapin sa Lungsod ng Millbrae sa Martes, ika-8 ng Nobyembre, 2022.

Para sa Konseho ng Lungsod Ikalawang Distrito (2) Bumoto ng Isa Angelina Cahalan Wayne J. Lee

Para sa Konseho ng Lungsod Ikaapat na Distrito (4) Bumoto ng Isa Maurice Goodman Bob Nguyen (Write-In)

Panukalang Pagbobotohan: Panukalang N “Upang ipagpatuloy ang pagpopondo, para sa Lungsod ng Millbrae lamang, na hindi maaaring kunin ng Sacramento, para sa mga pangkalahatang serbisyo ng lungsod tulad ng: pagkukumpuni ng mga lubak/kalye; pagpapanatili ng mga patrol ng pulisya sa kapitbahayan/ downtown; pagpapaganda ng mga programa sa libangan/parke; pag-akit ng mga bagong negosyo; at pagpapahusay ng pagtugon sa kalamidad; dapat bang pagtibayin ang panukalang pagtaas ng 2% sa kasalukuyang transient occupancy na buwis ng Lungsod ng Millbrae sa pag-okupa ng mga bisita sa hotel at panuluyan hanggang tapusin ng mga botante, na nagbibigay ng karagdagang $1,500,000 taun-taon, sa pangangasiwa ng mga mamamayan, mga independiyenteng pag-audit?”

Oo Hindi Elaine Tran

City of Milllbrae Elections Official

Petsa: Oktubre 28, 2022

s Sarah Coffey,

PAUNAWA NG MGA NOMINADO PARA SA PUBLIC OFFICE NG LUNGSOD NG PACIFICA

HINDI

Yulo advances to finals in all-around, 3 apparatus of world championships

ulo, , ruled his pet event oor exercises in the preliminary round in the hopes of reclaiming his championship and likewise got a shot at defending his vault gold, performed better in the parallel bars, and will even gun for a medal in the all-around category.

e topped the oor with 1 . points, placed second in the vault with 14.8, wound up fourth in the parallel bars at 15.3, and was also third in the all-around category with a total of 84.664 points, easily making the Top 24 cut.

The 22-year-old Yulo snagged a silver in the parallel bars last year.

Two Japanese, Wataru Tanigawa (84.731) and Daiki Hashimoto (84.665), placed above Yulo.

It s a really good result but it s just qualifying, he said in an interveiw with the event website. “I’m not

boasting, it s just not the final. If I can do it in the final then maybe I can be satisfied. Right now, I m really glad but not that satisfied because there are lot of areas that I can improve on, especially pommel horse.”

Meanwhile, ulo is waitlisted for the rings finals after placing 10th with 14.066 points.

e will make the cut if at least two of the finalists beg off.

ulo will vie in the all-around finals early Saturday and oor finals later in the day, and the vault and the parallel bars finals on Sunday night, all Philippine time.

“I’m going to try to beat what I did today. I’m going to be more aggressive. There are still areas that aren’t perfect. Every movement still has a deduction but I’ll try my best. My goal is to show my gymnastics to the world,” he said.

Over 500 gymnasts from more than 70 countries are competing in the Worlds that will end November 6.

Arcilla bags 10th PCA Open title; teen unseats Capadocia

The 17-year-old from the City of San Jose del Monte in Bulacan foiled Capadocia’s bid for a record eighth title in the Philippine Tennis Association-sanctioned tournament.

“I was hopeful but not expecting too much. I was thinking of what happened in our final meeting in 19, said Prulla, referring to her 1-6, 0-6 defeat in their previous finals duel.

MANILA – Top seed Johnny Arcilla defended his men’s singles title with a hard-fought 7-5, 1-6, 6-1, 3-6, 6-4 win over Guillermo Olaso of Spain in the 39th Philippine Columbian Association (PCA) Open Tennis Championships at the PCA indoor shell court in Paco, Manila on Sunday.

It was the second consecutive and 10th overall singles title for Arcilla, who first lifted the champion s trophyin 2001.

His other victories were from 2006 to 2009, 2011 to 2013, and 2019 when the tournament was last held before pandemic restrictions canceled the event in the last two years,PNA’s Jean Malanum reported.

“It was a great match. The crowd support was a big boost to my morale,” said the 42-year-old Arcilla, who tookhome PHP200,000.

“I’d like to thank my doubles partner Ronard Joven, who is also my hitting partner, for helping me prepare for this final match, he added.

Olaso, a former World No. 167, held his serve at 4-5 in the deciding fifth set but Arcilla played steadier in the next game to seal the victory.

“He’s a very good competitor,” said the 32-year-old from the port city of ilbao. ou have to be fit to play in a best-of-match like this.”

Olaso, who maintains a tennis academy in Singapore,advanced to the championship round after ousting second seed and 2018 champion Jeson Patrombon, 7-5, - , in the semifinal.

Meanwhile, second seed Jenaila Rose Prulla dethroned top seed Marian Capadocia, 6-3, 7-6(3), to pocket her first title.

T TLE CLAS . Defending champion Johnny Arcilla le out lasts unseeded Guillermo Olaso of Spain, , , , , , to bag his th Philippine Columbian Associa�on Open men s �tle at PCA indoor shell court in Paco, Manila.

Carlos ulo Courtesy of GC

MANILA – As expected, Carlos Yulo delivered as he earned a shot at four medals in the World Artistic Gym-

nastics Championships in Liverpool, England when he advanced to four finals events after the qualification phase in Liverpool, England.

Heart of a Filipino

Carson celebrates Larry tliong Day ith contests, recogni�ons, dinner & dance

By Louinn Lota Contributor

CARSON, California – Carson celebrated FilAm labor leader Larry Itliong in a day filled with activities including contests, a dinner and dance at Veterans Park and Sports Complex, to acknowledge Itliong s in uence on farmworkers rights and dignity to show the true heart of a Filipino.

Eighth-grader Candice Gutierrez, Andrew Carnegie Middle School in Carson, took the grand prize for her poster, as well as 1st place for her grade level competition. Ninth-grader Cyrene Roxas, arbor Teacher Preparation Academy in ilmington, Calif., took the grand prize for her essay, as well as 1st place for her grade level competition, praising Itliong s advocacy, inspiration, and perseverance.

Not all heroes are celebrated enough, Roxas wrote in her winning essay, which I, as part of a judging panel, had the pleasure of reading. Despite Itliong s great impact on farmworkers during the Delano Calif. Grape Strike, he is not nearly as celebrated as Cesar Chavez or Dolores uerta. hile this con-

tributes to the lack of recognition that Filipino Americans receive, it also proves that Oct. , Larry Itliong Day, should be honored as the day a hero and his legacy were born.

Also contributing to Itliong s legacy, leadership awardees Elito M. Santarina, Rudy Asercion and Christopher Carbonell received recognition for their achievements. Santarina, a former City of Carson councilman, got the Founders Award for his political work to es-

tablish Oct. as Larry Itliong Day.

Not a politician but working as a tireless advocate for Filipino veterans rights, Asercion, of San Francisco, was feted for getting Congressional Gold Medals conferred on Filipino II soldiers, including posthumously.

Asercion also championed the Filipino Veterans Equity Compensation Act to compensate vets living in America and the Philippines.

Asercion also got California Assembly Bill

199 passed into law in 11 memorializing Filipinos work with .S. Intelligence Agencies during II. Finally, a attle of Manila ay plaque unveiled in San Francisco in 19. attling the mean streets of New ork City, Carbonell became the first Filipino Guardian Angel when he was a 1 -year-old student in Queens. The Guardian Angels is a volunteer anti-crime organization formed in 19 9, to repel violence in New ork s subway system. Carbonell serves as a motivational speaker for teenagers, whom he encourages to stay in school and away from gangs.

Entertainers included singers ojo Riguera, sabella Loyola and Felson Palad. The Media and and fusion-dance troupe Ancestral Vision Movement also entertained.

Philippine Ambassador ose Manuel G. Romualdez sent a commendation stating The Filipino American community has earned its seat at the table through the struggles and triumphs of its forebearers, particularly Larry Itliong. The battles that Larry fought were ones of altruism and arising from his bayanihan Tagalog for mutual aid or cooperation spirit and his genuine care and love for the people in his community.

Families can save and make money at San Mateo’s community Fall 2022 consignment sale

San Mateo, Calif. Many area families have been hit hard these past few years due to COVID-19 greatly impacting lives and budgets. For some, jobs have been lost as businesses have had to scale back and adjust to stay a oat, all while prices continue to rise. For these families, there is good news. The ust etween Friends F consignment sale is a community resale event designed to help stretch budgets while giving families a way to keep resources here in our community.

Local families can shop thousands of items at this pop-up resale market that happens twice each year. They can find all the items their kids need at substantial savings often to 9 off retail prices. For those who would like to turn outgrown items into cash, they can do that too. Consignors prep and price their items, then drop them off at the sale venue where shoppers can purchase those items at deep discounts.

The ust etween Friends San Mateo Fall sale is scheduled for November 11-1 , at the San Mateo Event Center Redwood all. This San

Mateo County and surrounding areas sale provides a wide selection of fall winter items, such as clothes, toys, shoes, and gear everything from newborns to teens with a special section of maternity items, too. hether for first-time expecting parents stocking up on baby gear, those venturing into a new sport needing equipment, or the excited family preparing for a vacation or simply trying to keep up with growing kids the F sale is here to help.

ELPING T E COMM NIT AND T E PLANET e know that where we shop and how we shop matter in our world now more than ever. Resources from the ust etween Friends sale stay in the community. All merchandise at the sale comes from local families who find a way to recycle through reselling. Other local families purchase these items at great discounts. Consignors can choose to help even more by donating unsold items to local family-serving charity partners, Samaritan ouse and Loved Twice, after the sale. Each year ust etween Friends San Mateo recycles thousands of items into new

homes with area families who, on average, save hundreds of dollars per sale. And that means fewer items being thrown away, saving wear and tear on our planet, too.

F San Mateo

Thursday, November 1 th Presale Day 1 pm- pm Tickets 1 - with discounts for new parents, teachers, military, and first responders

Friday, November 11th Open to the public 1 am- pm FREE ADMISSION Saturday, November 1 th Open to the public 1 am- pm FREE ADMISSION Saturday, November 1 th alf Price Presale - pm Tickets Sunday, November 1 th alf Price Day Open to the public 9am- pm FREE ADMISSION

Place San Mateo Event Center, Redwood all Marci Ludwig is a local mom who organize two to three consignment sales a year. She is

available for interviews. e can also connect you with families who participate.

For more information or to set up an interview, contact Nicole Cheever at nicolejmagana gmail.com or by calling - - 1.

About Just Between Friends

ust etween Friends F is North America s largest and leading children s and maternity pop-up consignment community marketplace. hat began as a sale between a few mom friends, including CEO and Co-founder Shannon ilburn in 199 , has grown into a nationwide phenomenon with more than 1 franchises in states. Sales topped . million dollars in 19. ust etween Friends has been named in the Top Franchises by Franchise usiness Review for the past fourteen years. F has been featured on numerous national shows and publications including The Today Show, Good Morning America, CNN, Entrepreneur Magazine, ashington Post, the all Street ournal, and more and is the only franchise in this vertical to employ an industry-leading safety and recall expert on staff.

SECURITY INCOME

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

Did you know that certain life changes can affect your Supplemental Security Income SSI payments Sometimes your circumstances may change after you apply for or begin to receive SSI. hen that happens, it s important for you to tell us about these changes. This will ensure that you receive the benefits to which you re eligible.

ere are some common changes you must report if you have applied for or receive SSI

Changes in income, wages, or selfemployment income;

Starting, stopping, or changing jobs

Changing your address or persons moving in or out of the household

Changes in marital status including any same-sex relationships aving more than , if you are single or , if you are married in resources that you can cash in, sell, or use to pay for food and shelter and

Changes in resources, including money in financial accounts and buying or selling extra vehicles, stocks, investments, or property.

For a complete list of reporting responsibilities for all our programs, please read our publication, hat ou Need to now hen ou Get Supplemental Security Income at www.ssa.gov pubs EN- -11 11.pdf.

ow to Report Changes in ages ou can conveniently report your wages using our Free SSA Mobile age Reporting

app for smartphones.

Online age Reporting Tool using your personal my Social Security account. If you don t have an account, create one today at www.ssa.gov myaccount.

e sure to sign up for monthly SSI wage reporting emails or text reminders, so you never forget.

Other options include speaking with a representative by calling toll free at 1--1 1 TT 1- - - or visiting or writing your local Social Security O ce.

Report Changes in a Timely Manner ou must report a change within 1 days after the month it happens. ou should report a change even if you re late. Failure to report timely may cause you to Receive less than you should and take longer to receive the correct amount

• Receive more than you should and have to pay it back; ave a penalty deducted from your SSI payment; or

• Lose SSI for not reporting information that we use to determine whether you are still eligible for SSI.

Securing your today and tomorrow starts with being informed. Please share this information with your friends and family and post it on social media.

City of Carson o cials stand ith Larry tliong Day essay and poster contest inners at et erans Par in Carson, Saturday, Oct. . Students competed in grade levels from elementary, to middle- and high-schoolers. Photo by Nikki Arriola

Kevin Jensen may be the sheriff Santa Clara needs

By Gilda Pasion Balan, Correspondent

SANTA CLARA, California - Say the word sheriff and what comes to mind

For many, it will be an image of a lawman from the ild est, the likes of the Erap brothers yatt, Morgan, and Virgil. Tough, no-nonsense men who believed in enforcing the law no matter the cost.

evin ensen would have fit in with the legendary sheriffs, marshals and deputies of that period.

e is not afraid to speak the truth as he sees it, and for this candidate for Santa Clara sheriff, he is the best person to replace the current sheriff whom ensen says has damaged the department from poor leadership.

All is not lost, however, as he says the sheriff s department is not broken due to the many good employees and partners from diverse backgrounds who want better for their communities.

He told Philippine News Today that he had seen enough of the mismanagement of the sheriff s o ce that was hurting our agency. This, after he had spent the better part of the past 1 years publicly calling out the bad behavior of the person he would seek to replace in the coming elections.

As ensen sees it, the biggest problem of the Santa Clara Sheriff s o ce is the loss of public trust, brought about by the recently resigned sheriff s losing that trust through years of self-interest.

The o ce is in such bad shape that it is now having problems, both in retain-

ing good people as well as recruiting new ones. As a result, the o ce is presently short staffed, which in turn has caused the county s jails to become neglected and poorly managed.

If and when ensen is elected, he says he will manage the jails in the fashion that I did when I was the assistant chief.

e takes pride in stating that he and his then chief led a department of corrections that was in many ways a national model unit.

ntil it fell into the hands of the wrong person, who is facing a civil jury trial for what ensen surmises is her bad behavior.

I am not seeking power or longevity, he said, My father was in prison for armed robbery when I was young.

That dark chapter in his family life led him to take the opposite direction, to want to become a lawman in order to bring honor to the profession and justice to the people.

e added that he feels he is the only one with the vast experience in this agency and enough courage to take on the powerful and unethical boss.

ensen said his vast experience and bi-partisan support will be enough to convince Santa Clara s voters to elect him to the post he now seeks. is core message is short and should strike a chord with the electorate. e is running on a platform of reform and transparency.

Among his likely supporters is the FilAm community of Santa Clara, and why not

ensen said, the Filipino community has become like a second family to me, brought about no doubt by the fact that a brother-in-law is a FilAm.

And because of that link, ensen also has a soft spot for the Asian American community whom he is fully aware has been the victim of hate crimes.

ensen feels the ties he has established with the Asian American community will be of great help in finding ways to put a stop to the growing problem of unprovoked attacks against them, especially women and elders.

e said, the best strategies come from the collaboration born from trust and intentional relationships.

It s been a tough road for this man who would be Santa Clara sheriff.

ith a father in the worst prison in the nited States as a young boy, and a dysfunctional setting for many years due to family poverty, divorce, alcoholism, and other negative experiences, I was blessed by people who took a chance on me and my desire to improve, he told Philippine News Today.

lessed he may be, but his hard early life was one of the biggest factors that made him what he is today, a tough lawman who knows that a public o ce is a public trust.

Now he has more chances to bring about positive change. All he asks is that the people of Santa Clara give him a chance to prove that he is the best person for the job that he now seeks, to be their sheriff.

l am community of Santa clara county supports Kevin Jensen for Sheriff

Proposition L passage aims to ensure further improved transportation services in San Francisco

By Jun Nucum

SAN FRANCISCO - A major proposition in the midterm ballot of San Francisco voters seeks a continued improvement on transportation services not only for those residing in San Francisco but also for those who workin and visits the City.

The measure known as Proposition L, is a transportation funding measure the San Francisco Board of Supervisors placed on the November 8 ballot that would continue the existing half-cent sales tax for transportation which has been in place since 1989 for another 30 years (2023-53) to fund a new 2022 Transportation Expenditure Plan and improve transportation in your communities.

Prop L is expected to raise $2.6 billion but does not raise the city’s sales tax level and would require two-thirds majority approval by San Francisco voters before it can be enacted.

Funding would only go to the 2022 Transportation Expenditure Plan, which is solely focused on transportation improvements that will help deliver safer, smoother streets and more reliable transit; support paratransit services for seniors and persons with disabilities; reduce congestion; and improve air quality.

Included in the Transportation Expen-

diture Plan are funding for:

1. Neighborhood-level investments such as road repair and resurfacing, crosswalks, tra c calming, new and upgraded tra c signals, bicycle lanes, and Safe Routes to School programs;

2. Citywide improvements like electrifying Muni s bus eet, transit signal priority, maintaining buses and trains so they operate safely and reliably, and increasing capacity on both Muni and BART to reduce crowding;

3. Implementing improvements identified in community-based plans across the city and particularly in Equity Priority Communities; and

4. Major projects like the Downtown Caltrain Extension, bringing Caltrain to the Salesforce Transit Center, among others.

A few examples of current and future transportation projects with funding from the half-cent sales tax have supported communities, including that of Filipinos include:

1. N-Judah, Geary Rapid and MOceanview - matching funds for state grants to help improve Muni’s busiest lines;

2. South Of Market: 5th Street QuickBuild Project - will improve safety for all users of 5th Street between Market and

Townsend Streets by installing pedestrian, bicycle, transit, loading and parking improvements;

3. The Western Addition: Giving pedestrians a head start when crossing the street and pedestrian safety improvements including sidewalk widening and bullboats with ADA curb ramps at Buchanan Street and Golden Gate Avenue; and

4. The Tenderloin: San Francisco’s first area-wide tra c calming zone.

Another measure known as Proposition K, the half-cent sales tax approved in November 2003 by 75% of San Francisco voters, that helped the Filipino communityinclude:

Projects funded by Prop K in SOMA for pedestrian and street safety/improvements at the 2nd-5th Townsend & Folsom Street Bicycle Lanes, 5th Street Green Shared Roadway Markings (Sharrows) [Vision Zero], 6th Street Pedestrian Safety, Minna Natoma Tra c Calming, Pedestrian Safety in SOMA Youth and Family one Part 1 Neighborhood Improvement Program] and Second St - Vision Zero and streetscape improvements.

On the other hand, the projects funded by Prop in Crocker Amazon are pedestrian and street safety/improvements at Balboa Park Intermodal improvements, neighborhood Greenways, tra c calming

- design, planning & construction, Longfellow Elementary School Safe Routes to School, Mission Geneva Transit and Pedestrian Improvements.

With the 2022 Expenditure Plan a majority of the investments in transit and safety (all modes), which disproportionately benefit low-income San Franciscans by engaging the public early, including low-income communities and communities of color, in shaping the new transportation expenditure plan.

It is on this year’s ballot because all but one of the major capital projects in the current plan are done or under construction although several programs were earlier provided funds earlier than anticipated to enable earlier benefits and those programs are getting close to their funding caps.

The projected sales tax from Proposition L will provide an important source of funding:

1) for projects that can support the city’s economic recovery and maintain or create jobs;

2) for new transportation priorities of San Francisco; and

3) for planning and project development, and to secure federal, state, and other grant funding.

• Ice skater PeggyFleming

• Sociologist Arlie Russell Hochschild

Choreographer Alonzo ing

• Soccer player Megan Rapinoe

• Singer Linda Ronstadt

• Artist Ed Ruscha

• Band Los Tigres del Norte

“These phenomenal individuals are proof that the California dream is alive and well,” said Governor Newsom. “Jennifer and I are excited to induct the 15th class of leaders, dreamers, and innovators into the California Hall of Fame and celebrate these Californians who broke down barriers and reimagined what was possible.”

“The Governor and I are honored to welcome this new group of changemakers and trailblazers into the California Hall of Fame,” said First Partner Siebel Newsom. “With its cultural richness, innovative spirit, and leadership mindset, California is California because of phenomenal individuals like this year’s inductees. They have been - and will continue to be - immenselyinspiring to us all.”

The California Hall of Fame launched in 2006 to honor trailblazing Californians who embody the state s spirit of innovation and have made history. Inductees are selected annually by the Governor and First Partner for achievements in Arts, Business and Labor, Entertainment, Food and Wine, Literature, Music, Public Service, Science and Sports. This year marks the return of an in-person ceremony following the induction of a virtual class during the pandemic.

“We’re thrilled to join the Governor and First Partner in celebrating these remarkable Californians,” said California Museum Board of Trustees Chair Anne-Marie Petrie. “Their achievements will inspire thousands of Museum visitors in the year ahead to pursue their own dreams.”

The 15th Annual California Hall of Fame’s lead sponsor is Visit California. For details on the California Hall of Fame or to download media assets, visit https://www.californiamuseum.org/press-kits/15-hof.

SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom joined the California Museum in announcing the 15th class of inductees into the California Hall of Fame.

The new inductees join 138 inspirational Californians previouslyinducted for embodying the state’s innovative spirit. The inductees of the California Hall of Fame 15th class are:

• Actor and singer-songwriter Lynda Carter

• Chef RoyChoi

• Physicist Steven Chu

• Teacher and former astronaut Barbara Morgan

Governor Newsom, First Partner Siebel Newsom and California Museum announce the California Hall of Fame 15th Class

Upside...

Elected o cials got the message.

California Governor Gavin Newsom last year signed the API Equity udget investing 1 . million over years in the state s AAPI population. Funding will go to resources responding to AAPI hate and closing racial inequities besetting APIs for decades. Among the recipients is Oakland-based Filipino Advocates for ustice, which received , to respond to the escalated attacks with mental health and trauma healing. Philippine News Today leads a coalition of FilAm media outlets awarded 1 , to raise awareness of and how to respond to hate-motivated incidents.

Geraldine Alcid, executive director of the 9-year-old nonprofit FA told pside The impacts of the pandemic and increased incidents of anti-Asian violence have greatly affected the mental health of our community members. From our youth to our elders, there has been an unprecedented need for support to address stress, anxiety, depression and other feelings of uncertainty we are coping with and the trauma we are holding.

Last month Newsom signed two bills sponsored by Stop AAPI ate S 11 1, the Increasing Safety for Public Transit Riders ill, creates a survey tool to study the impact of harassment on public transit riders who are mostly from communities targeted by bigot, and

A or the Expanding Civil Rights Protections at usinesses ill will establish a program that motivates businesses to create safe and welcoming environments free from discrimination and harassment of customers.

It took elected AAPI state legislators to think up the innovative recourse to address AAPI hate State Sen. David Min authored S 11 1 and Assembly Member Phil Ting authored A . ANTI-G N VIOLENCE MOVE

In a directly unrelated but nevertheless consequential development, political and civic leaders of San Mateo County - where Filipinos and Chinese dominate populations of color launched an initiative to remove guns from individuals banned from owning or possessing firearms.

The new San Mateo County Gun Violence Prevention Program received a pledge of million for the next two years from the County oard of Supervisors. Funding comes from Measure half-cent sales tax.

Implementation begins with the pilot program in the County seat of Redwood City and South San Francisco involving two strategies. The first eases processes for application and obtaining restraining orders under the purview of San Mateo County Superior Court. The second strategy removes firearms led by the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force overseen by the O ce of the District Attorney in cooperation with local law enforcement agencies, according to the County announcement.

Individuals barred from possessing firearms comprise felons, convicted stalkers, individuals with active domestic violence, gun violence and other civil restraining orders against them, and individuals on probation on the condition by a court order not to possess firearms. Not least forbidden from possessing firearms are individuals convicted of hate crimes.

The new program will included expanded training for law enforcement to improve communication and e ciencies among involved parties, and educate the public about applicable laws, said the announcement.

Supervisors Don orsley and Dave Pine joined DA Steve agstaffe in touting the program as critical in filling a gap that exists because the criminal justice system does not have the resources to pursue specific cases.

E

Collaboration truly is key and everyone must take part in protecting our community. ut first each of us must empower ourselves by learning about our country s history as well as our history in this country to recognize and honor the struggle our ancestors endured for us to live in freedom to enjoy civil rights today. nderstanding the beginnings of this nation is the only way we can undo the effects of its sordid past to prevent it from recurring and hurting us

To paraphrase Ismael Ileto, the man who lost a beloved brother and role model to a hatemonger, let s use our ballot to fight back and reject those who employ racist rhetoric to trigger con ict, effect division and abet the use of gun violence to express disdain for people who came here from unfamiliar parts of the planet. Our power is in our ballot Let s use it to protect ourselves, our loved ones and our communities.

*** Cherie M. Querol Moreno is Executive Editor of Philippine News Today. In , she founded ALLICE Alliance for Community Empowerment, an allvolunteer nonprofit providing community education to prevent abuse by promoting healthy relationships through shared resources from allies.

Health & Wealth

19, at the Skylawn Funeral ome Memorial Park in San Mateo, California were able to receive autographed copies of the book. Interestingly the Funeral Memorial Serviced of my mother coincided with the Funeral Services of Queen Elizabeth II of England, who died at the age of 9 . LIFEST LE FOR LONGEVIT is available at Amazon in ardcover - .9 per copy Paperpack- .9 per copy and E-book - 1 .9 per copy

As a lasting legacy and remembrance of my mother, I am offering autographed copies via Facebook Live at of the book at a discounted price of .9 per for the ardcover and 1 .9 per copy for the Paperback throughout the month of November, . ust write or call ART G. MADLAING, Madrid Street, San Francisco, CA 9 11 Tel. - 1 or 1 - 9 or email artmdlaing gmail,.com.

ou can have FREE copy of the E-book by watching M ANGEL RADIO San Francisco every Saturday 1- -pm PAST in the month of November, . ust ATC Facebook Live or atwww. MyAngelRadio.com

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

Speaking Out

and construction materials.

(From Page 12)

According to published reports, the DENR is targeting 11, 1 hectares of enhanced national greening sites in a paltry area compared to the scale envisioned by Pelayo. ut we have to start somewhere.

Echoing the sentiment of other bamboo advocates, Pelayo said the best time to plant bamboo was five years ago. The second best time to plant bamboo is today.

Offline

(From Page 13)

nuding the mountains of his home province.

I can t forget how a friend pointed out a mountain to me one time and asked if I noticed anything unusual.

e then said that one side had lost all its forest cover, while the other side still had large trees. The denuded side was part of the home province of the beloved president I refer to.

There are also other examples of almost all Filipinos being part of the problem. After every storm, drainage canals are usually blocked by single use plastics. Those that may their way to the sea either end up in the bellies of all types of sea life, from the gigantic whales to the smallest of fish, effectively poisoning them.

The single use plastics that do not end up as fish food are driven back to our shores, often making formerly pristine beaches as practically unswimmable.

One recent study said the Philippines would be among the countries that will suffer the most in the years to come as a result of climate change.

It s an awful attitude to take, but a good many Filipinos simply do not care to be friendlier to the planet because they blame the world s biggest economies as being the most responsible for what is happening now.

It s a defeatist attitude, to be sure.

Some of our youth talk and act like Pinoy Greta Thunbergs. The Swiss activist may be the real deal, so I am hoping that her Filipino counterparts will be more serious than their parents and grandparents that s us, folks and not only talk the talk, but actually walk the walk.

Much as it hurts, I can only conclude that my generation and the generations that came before and after didn t do a good job of saving the only home we will ever have.

e had our shot and we blew it.

As I See It

arsi told the C ut there has been a huge debate on whether or not this is something that we should celebrate, and I think we do celebrate the fact that this is visible diversity although it has to go beyond visible diversity. There have to be young children today from poor homes, going to ordinary state schools, who say that they, too, could become prime minister.

Sunder atwala, director of ritish Future, a think tank focused on immigration, identity and race, called Sunak s victory a historic moment that wouldn t have been possible just a decade ago. ut, he said, the struggle to end discrimination isn t over. A C News atwala said. Rishi Sunak reaching 1 Downing Street does not make ritain a perfect meritocracy. hile there is more to do, this is a hopeful sign of progress against the prejudices of the past.

A columnist for the Times of London, Sathnam Sanghera said Sunak s promotion was amazing as he recalled the hatred and violence faced by lack and Asian people in ritain in the past. Immigrants of his parents generation still remember the white

gangs that roamed the streets looking for est Indians, Africans or Asians to assault, and coming home to find excrement stuffed through their mailboxes. ut while Sunak s success will boost the aspirations of young people throughout ritain, more work needs to be done, Sanghera said.

Commenting further, Sanghera said ust because we have one ritish indu in charge, and just because some brown ethnic groups are doing well, it doesn t mean that ritain has defeated racism No more than arack Obama s election as president represented the defeat of racism in America.

Plenty of people have been born in one country and come close to governing in another, or actually achieved the feat. For example, ulia Gillard, was born in ales and became the prime minister of Australia from 1 to 1 . Golda Meir, originally from iev, served five years as the prime minister of Israel from 19 9, and Shimon Peres, Israeli president between and 1 , was born in a village that was Polish at the time, and is now in elarus.

Valdus Adamkus, became president of Lithuania in 199 while he was still an American citizen though he later gave up his American citizenship . The current president of Estonia, Swedish-born Toomas Ilves, also grew up in the S though renounced his S citizenship three years before becoming Estonia s foreign minister - and 1 years before ascending to the presidency. C News Magazine s email newsletter

And of course, arrack Obama, the first S president of color, became the President in .

In his first address as ritain s prime minister, Rishi Sunak vowed to lead a government of integrity, professionalism and accountability at every level.

In his speech, he said Right now, our country is facing a profound economic crisis. The aftermath of Covid still lingers. Putin s war in kraine has destabilized energy markets and supply chains the world over. I will place economic stability and confidence at the heart of this government s agenda. This will mean di cult decisions to come. ut you saw me during Covid, doing everything I could, to protect people and businesses, with schemes like furlough

I will unite our country, not with words, but with action. So, I stand here before you ready to lead our country into the future, to put your needs above politics, to reach out and build a government that represents the very best traditions of my party

So, will Sunak transform into a diversified country in action

In the Trenches

exercise. It has been displaying its igh Mobility Artillery Rocket System iMARS in drills in the Philippines the same weapons system given to kraine to hit Russian targets deep into its territory.

The S has access to four air force bases and an army base in the Philippines under the 1 Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement EDCA . The S can actually request access to other bases and civilian airfields, like during the war on terror in Afghanistan and Iraq, when S planes landed and refueled in a civilian airfield in atanes.

An air force base was created in Cagayan province where S planes and drones can have access and operate freely near Taiwan Straits. S drones can also operate in another northern airfield in Laoag, Marcos home province.

In addition, the S anti-submarine P C-Orion and P Poseidon have been operating in its former base in Clark since 1 .

The S Army could also preposition equipment and supplies in a former naval base in Subic after a S company, Cerberus Capital Management, took over management from a former South orean shipbuilder.

The S Army has expressed interest in anjin s shipyard while a S Navy contractor wanted to operate a ship repair facility.

America is back in the Philippines. It is not just in two bases but in variou installations and facilities, including in Cebu, Palawan, Cagayan de Oro, and Pampanga.

America never left the Philippines but the symbolic meeting in New ork would leave a lasting imprint in the minds of ordinary Filiipinos the Philippines and S are close friends again.

Pulitzer Prize winning journalist Manny Mogato wrote this column for One.Ph

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Many Californians can get healthcoverage for as little as $10 a month

SACRAMENTO Californians can now sign up for affordable health insurance through Covered California, the state s Affordable Care Act marketplace, as open enrollment begins for .

Two-thirds of the 1. million Covered California consumers are eligible for comprehensive health coverage for as little as 1 per month and others can get covered for no cost.

An estimated 1 million Californians are uninsured and eligible for low-cost or no-cost coverage through Covered California or Medi-Cal. Nine out of 1 Californians who sign up receive financial assistance.

Millions of Californians now have access to affordable health coverage and now is the time to go sign up for health insurance to keep yourself and your family healthy, said Governor Newsom in a statement sent to Philippine News Today.

ith the support of the iden- arris Administration, more Californians than ever before are insured with quality health coverage through Covered California, he said. e won t stop until every Californian regardless of income or immigration status has the health insurance they need and deserve.

California s actions to reduce the uninsured rate has led to more people with health care than ever before

ere are other nation-leading actions the Newsom Administration is taking to lower health care costs and expand access for all Californians

Reducing the cost of insulin. The Administration will work with an outside partner to manufacture lowcost insulin, to reduce the cost of this life-saving medication, particularly for those who lack coverage for prescription drugs or who have a high level of cost sharing that exposes them to the ever-increasing costs of insulin.

Tripledemic

Heart of Hope

PHILIP S. CHUA

Yes, three different viruses, not only the Three ings, are expected to visit us this coming Christmas season. This is predicted to be a winter of tripledemic.

The three viruses include our old annual nemesis, inuenza, the current COVID-19, and the returning visitor, RSV Respiratory Syncytial Virus .

All these are high contagious and it is possible for people to get infected with these three viruses at the same time.

The u virus spreads rapidly during the winter months as individuals gather closer together indoors. The same is true with the SARS-CoV virus of COVID-19 and the RSV. In general, respiratory tract infections are common the year round, but greater number of cases are noted during the fall-winter season. The u virus can be of different variety each year, the very reason why one should get a u vaccine each year. Vaccines are tailored to target the viruses of the year.

RSV is caused by the virus with that name, respiratory syncytial virus, which infects adults and more especially children, with milder symptoms for adults and older children but more severe symptoms for infants and seniors.

RSV, for emphasis, is more dangerous to infants and old people, where symptoms, including fever and wheezing, shortness of breath, are more severe. ospitalization may be required, though most RSV infections run their usual course of 1- weeks. abies with RSV must be watched and monitor closely for hypoxemia low blood oxygen level , which could kill. Signs of this are rapid breathing, bluish fingernail or lips, abdomen is sucking in, trying to breathe for air hunger. hen any of these are noted, call 911. Rapid emergency hospitalization is required.

There is now a COVID-19, Flu, RSV combined test, to determine which the viral infection is, available through physicians and hospitals. One could be exposed to COVID-19, still without symptoms, but could already be in-

fectious to others. That s why persons exposed to a known infected individual should test themselves with the rapid antigen home kit. This test has a percent false negative yield but when positive showing two lines on the Test Card it is 1 percent accurate. If in doubt, a PCR test is recommended for confirmation.

The symptoms of the u and C OVID-19 could be very similar, sometimes hard to distinguish one from the other, but one unique with COVID-19 is the loss of taste or smell. Also, it takes longer for people infected with COVID-19 to show symptoms between day to . days incubation period and the infection lingering longer for COVID-19 compared to the u. hy do persons, who are fully vaccinated, even with booster th shot still get infected The reason is vaccines do not confer 1 percent protection more like 9 percent and the level of immunity provided by the vaccines also depend on the person s general health and the integrity of his her immune system. Also, these COVID-19 vaccines wane in potency in - months, the reason for the boosters. In the future, since COVID-19 appears to linger, we might have to have COVID-19 shots every months or so, like the seasonal u shot.

Natural immunity from infection also confers some protection but not as potent, stable and reliable as immunity from the vaccines. And waiting to get infected in order to have natural immunity is dangerous.

The radio talk show hosts in the SA who were advising people against the vaccines, got infected themselves, and all five died. efore their death, they were remorseful, admitting they were wrong and strongly recommending for people to get vaccinated. In their cases, they never benefited from the natural immunity from the infection they were hoping for. hile their original stand might have killed people, their reversal surely saved countless lives.

The latest booster is the bivalent vaccines by Pfizer or Moderna, both equal in safety and e cacy, both reformulated to target Omicron s subvariants, including the latest A. , Q.1, Q.1.1, F. . The boosters could also be mix-and-match, P or M, safely.

One could be exposed to COVID-19, still without symptoms, but could already be infectious to others. That s why persons exposed to a known infected individual should test themselves with the rapid antigen home kit. This test has

Negotiating prescription drug prices and lowering costs. Governor Newsom signed a first-in-the-nation executive order to create the largest single purchaser for prescription drugs.

Expanding Medi-Cal to all income-eligible, undocumented Californians. Over the last several years, California has expanded eligibility for full-scope Medi-Cal first to children, then young adults, then older Californians, and this year to all adults. These expansions of the Medi-Cal program mean that, as of anuary , essentially all low-income Californians are eligible for no-cost comprehensive health care coverage.

Eliminating Medi-Cal premiums for hundreds of thousands of Californians, improving quality and access. Reduce to zero the financial burden for approximately , pregnant women, children, and disabled working adult Medi-Cal enrollees. Transforming MediCal through CalAIM to provide better outcomes, expand access to services, and reduce disparities.

Opening the O ce of ealth Care Affordability to address underlying cost drivers and improve the affordability of health coverage. The O ce will work to reduce costs and increase transparency within the health care system, including developing cost targets, reducing health insurance premiums, and closing equity gaps.

a percent false negative yield but when positive showing two lines on the Test Card it is 1 percent accurate. If in doubt, a PCR test in a clinic or hospital is recommended for confirmation.

COVID-19 patients could be infectious from days up to 1 days, but the severe ones could be as long as days. Those who are immunocompromised should be isolated for at least days.

Paxlovid, anti-viral pills, are effective if taken within days of the onset of symptoms. Statin drugs and blood thinners must be stopped during this treatment. The pills are taken tablets two times a day. The other alternative treatment is intravenous infusion of Monoclonal Antibody at a clinic or hospital, as early as possible after first symptom starts and patient testing positive for COVID-19. It is not recommended for severe COVID-19.

From about -1 days after exposure to COVID-19, the body releases cytokines to fight the infection and the first symptoms start to manifest fever of 1 . F C or higher, dry cough the first sign in many cases , sore throat, fatigue, headache, runny nose, muscle aches, diarrhea, and in some people, loss of taste or smell, which is not typical in cases of u or RSV. An oximeter is helpful. The normal SPO blood oxygen level is 9 -1 , and below 9 is too low. If shortness of breath occurs, go to the nearest emergency room. If using an inhaler, use it as you leave for the ER. This could be pneumonia developing.

COVID-19 PDATE As of November 1, , 1 PM CST , orldwide , , cases, , 9 ,1 deaths SA 99, , 1 cases, 1, 9 , 1 deaths and The Philippines , ,1 cases, ,1 9 deaths. In the SA, the daily averages the past week, , cases per day, and deaths per day. COVID-19 is not done with us yet. Maybe never.

Let us face these three winter invisible enemies with wisdom and humility, not recklessness and arrogance.

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, and Chairman of the Filipino United NetworkUSA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. Websites: FUN8888.com and philipSchua.com Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com

Self-Destruction

FOR THE

KEYS TO SUCCESS

By TIM PEDROSA

Every successful person has a painful story. Every painful story has a successful ending. Let us accept the pain and get ready for success. We are only as strong as we allow ourselves to be. Let us never get discouraged, never give up because consistency and dedication are the keys to success.

A tree that wants to touch the sky must extend its roots into the earth. The more it wants to rise upwards, the more it has to grow downwards. So to rise in life, we must be down to earth, humble and grateful. From a small seed a mighty trunk may grow-Aeschylus. Almost every successful person begins with two beliefs: that the future can be better than the present, and he/she has the power to make it so. I have learned that successful people are humble and never think they are better than anyone else. The secret is to live a humble life that pleases God, not people. Life is surrounded by people who judge us day in and day out. They will talk about us when we succeed and laugh at us when we fail. They can make us or break us. We can love, we can counterfeit faith, we can counterfeit hope and the other graces, but it is very di cult to counterfeit humility. I have also learned to be grateful for all my blessings and to accept everything, even my problems, with joy, hope and positive attitude for they opened my eyes to the good things I was not paying attention or took for granted before. Yes, happiness comes a lot easier when we stop complaining about our problems and start being grateful for all the problems we don’t have. So when life seems like it is falling apart, let us not forget to count our blessings. Whenever we are feeling down, we often lose sight of what we have to be thankful for in our life. But if we just opened our eyes, we would see that life is not so bad after all. It is the small things that count. KEYS TO SUCCESS- Build high self-esteem , believe in yourself, have confidence, like and feel good about yourself, take pride in whatever you do; Focus with a positive attitude, always expect the best possible outcome for what you do; Set powerful goals, give your brain a place to aim; Persevere, never quit.

Oftentimes

Afl ame The Heart

REV. JOSE PELAGIO A. PADIT, SThD

in life,we do not know the extent of the consequences of our actions until it is late. I saylate or too late,when we are actuallyand alreadyin a mess. I have known of people who were rich or up there in their social status quo; then, ending themselves in povertybecause of wrong choices. You and I,dear reader,maybe knew of some people with their good career, decent and good people; then,some addiction mixed in with their life which ended them into the streets,homeless,with nothing and no one. We can ask; then,is there a wayto know that point in time when you and I can know we are heading to self-destruction? What are the ways that we selfdestruct?

We are endowed with bodyand soul as human beings,and we are to take care of the whole of our being. We believe,as children of God,we are precious to God. In His Son Jesus Christ,our Lord,we are redeemed and with the Holy Spirit we are sanctified. ence, body and soul, we are to share God s divine life and glory. It is imperative byfaith and morals that we are to take care of our bodilyand spiritual wellbeing. We are to remind ourselves with this basic truth because,indeed,self-destruction can be a tragedythat we can all fall into if we are not vigilant.

Vices can lead us to bodilydecayand destruction. We must be disciplined to never let it happen. The vice of sloth,being lazyfor example; for a time to just relax and be lounging is fine then, it is becoming habitual that we do not even anymore tidyup our room,our house,and ourselves. Bythe vice of laziness, the lazyperson will enjoymore in minimal movements and become irritable when others would tell him to do things or to move a little bit faster. In laziness, to prepare one’s food can be an ordeal; the lazyperson will relyon others to get things done,even with his own food. With the vice of laziness,the person loses his job,loses interest to be productive,and other self-edifying ways,and will head into destroying oneself. All vices,anyvice can lead to bodilydestruction,and such destruction does not actuallyonlyinvolve the bodybut the whole person. All vices are sinful; while all virtues are edifying of the person and pleasing to God. Another scenario,anyform of addiction, which is also a vice; be it alcohol,drugs,sex,and so on,once the person allows himself to get caught in addiction,sooner or later,if the person does not redirect his path and make a turnabout in his ways,he is heading to self-destruction. Our faith and morality teach us to translate our Lord’s teachings,the words of God in the Scriptures, into practice in order that we can build ourselves up in virtues and in qualities that will not onlybuild our spiritual life,but also our bodilylife. Virtues are good habits. Having good habits accompanied with self-determination transforms them into virtues. Being determined in what we are doing means we have self-discipline we are firm in our resolve to edify our life. Virtues, both the human virtues and moral virtues,build and promote the bodilywellbeing of the person. But vices and forms of self-abuse,and excesses,will guarantee gloom and doom to the person. This must be avoided at all times.

Hatred and vengeance,to be unforgiving,to not being able to pass hurts and ill feeling can destroyalso the person. St. Thomas says: “anger is the passion for vengeance beyond the control of reason.” When we are unreasonable in our anger,we become hateful; in such hatred we thinkwe are destroying only whom we are angry at but we also actually harm ourselves too. The person filled with wrath and vengeance will let his mind be thinking of manybad things to the people or person object of his hatred; unknowinglyor knowinglyif he will carryout those bad things,he will also destroyhimself. Being vengeful and hateful will form in the person bitterness and negativitythat will escalate to the point that the person can be irritable,aggressive,and become violent. Unless the person controls himself or seekhelp,he can be eaten up bythe verymonster he created. Hate will turn him into the person he did not want to be in the first place. Prophet Sirach says rath and anger, these are abominations, yet a sinner hold on to them. The vengeful will face the Lord’s vengeance…forgive your neighbor the wrong done…Does anyone nourish anger against another and expect healing from the Lord? Can one refuse mercyto a sinner like oneself, yet seekpardon for one’s own sins? If a mere mortal cherishes wrath,who will forgive his sins (Sirach 27: 30–28:7)?” Spirituallyand morally,the hateful and vengeful person will alienate himself,he imprisons himself in the same hatred; and will destroys himself in the process. We must learn to tame our passions, discipline our feelings,live coherent with Christ’s teachings and with God’s grace walkin the right path to never venture into the road of self-destruction. Amen.

Recipe of the Week

Pork Estofado

Pork Estofado, The Pinoy version of pork estofado is similar to adobo. It is pork stewed in soy sauce, vinegar and sugar. During the final cooking stage plantain banana is added

Ingredients:

1/2kilo porkcut into large serving pieces

3pcs. saba ,plantain banana,sliced diagonally 1medium size carrot,sliced diagonally 1small bundle spring onion,chopped

1/2head garlic,crushed

2tbsp. sugar

1/2cup soysauce

1/4cup vinegar

1tsp. peppercorns

2-3pcs. bayleaf cooking oil salt

Cooking procedure:

In a sauce pan brown lightly pork on all sides and keep aside. In same pan stir cook garlic until fragrant. Add in pork and pour in soy sauce, vinegar and 3-4 cups of water now add in sugar, peppercorns and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, do not stir and simmer in medium heat for 20-30 minutes or until pork are almost tender, add more water as necessary. Add in carrot and banana and cook for 5-10 minutes or until carrot and banana are just cooked and the liquid has reduce to almost dry and oily. Correct saltiness if required and garnish with spring onion. Serve hot.

Davao Sur town showcases tourism potentials in mountain marathon

MATANAO, Davao del Sur – The town of Matanao, a neighbor of Digos City and a town in Sultan Kudarat province, is out to develop its potentials as a tourist destination.

For one, the town organized its 1st Matanao Mountain Marathon which also successfully showcased the richness of the mountainous areas, caves, and waterfalls of the town.

The first-ever Mindanao-wide mountain running event lured 18 participants in the 42-kilometer (km) distance and 41 in the 21-km run, PNA’s Che Palicte stated in a report.

Romualdo Calbes, race director and founder of Vertical To Sky Mountain Races & Climbs in Philippines, told PNA that Matanao has the potential of hosting similar races with foreign participants.

“Foreigners will love to conduct extreme sports here due to the high terrains and mountains,” said Calbes, himself a seasoned mountaineer and mountain runner in and outside the Philippines.

to focus on your studies as well,” he said.

Clover Jane Sabornido, Matanao tourism o ce head, said they are relying on sports tourism to promote their sites.

“This one will really boost our tourism industry. We indulge in extreme sports because the Matanao topography is very ideal for trail mountain marathons,” she added “We are planning international competitions, hopefully in the next two to three years.”

The event has been accredited as an o cial American Trail Running Association race member.

Organizers said the marathon was a great success because of the participation of runners from different parts of Mindanao (as far Bukidnon, Surigao, General Santos City, Kidapawan City, Davao City, Panabo City and.

The race started at the Matanao tourism building and passed by Su’bon Cave, Mount Lamabal, Seven Waterfalls, Fetam Waterfalls, Underground River, Soliman Cave and Waterfalls, Bantong Falls, Skyfall Peak, and Dats Cave, among the tourist destinations of the town.

A VIEW of the mountains of Matanao, Davao del Sur Roberto Cain, winner of the 1st Matanao Mountain Marathon in Davao del Sur

The top finishers, including -km winner Roberto Cain, will be endorsed to the 5th Mt. Apo Sky & Vertical Race slated December 16 to 18 in Sta Cruz town.

Cain finished the race in seven hours and 14minutes.

The trail was very di cult. Some routes you needed to crawl, then run, and slide on slopes. But all in all, Matanao mountain ranges are very beautiful,” he said.

Cain urged the youth to get into running as it is both healthy and beneficial for their total well-being.

“You can start by training two times a day and have a good diet. But continue

“We would also like to thank our family and friends who were there during the event, supporting our team all the way,” the organizers said in a Facebookpost.

The organizers also thanked all the government o cials who showed support to the event, including Mayor Vincent Fernandez, Vice Mayor Irick Agbon, the 20th Legislative Council, Barangay Asbang,and BarangayColonsabac.

SPORTS TOURISM. Race director Romualdo Calbes (back to the camera briefs par�cipants before the start of the st Matanao Mountain Marathon in Davao del Sur.

A E of the mountains of Matanao, Davao del Sur

Roberto Cain, inner of the st Matanao Mountain Marathon in Davao del