Philippine News Today

1 April 23-29, 2021

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA EDITION

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Vol. 60 No. 37 April 22-28, 2021

GROUPS PLOT TO OUST DUTERTE?

NEWS AND VIEWS YOU TRUST

Padilla bill offers citizenship path for millions of migrants

By Jenny Manrique, EMS

By ALFRED GABOT Editor in Chief

President, AFP shrug off reports on troops withdrawal of support

MANILA – Several groups, including some memAnother doctor bers of the military, are reported again to be workdies of Covid; ing on a plot to discredit and oust President Rodrigo cases near 1-M Duterte due to various reasons, foremost of which is the Chief Executive’s supposed failure to defend the

By Claire Morales True Philippine territory in West Philippine Sea which By Be�ng Laygo Dolor, Editor MANILA - After declining has been swarmed by Chinese warships and militia MANILA – Malacanang ini- for three days, new coronavirus Page 9 tially denied all reports about junior infections went up again as the vessels.

Reports of unease within AFP persist

FilAms push for quick vax delivery to PHL

By Cherie M. Querol Moreno SAN FRANCISCO - Filipino Americans are joining forces to help protect their Philippine kith and kin from the deadly coronavirus by urging United States lawmakers to respond expeditiously to the Philippine government’s order of Moderna vaccine.

A webinar April 21 informed Consul General Neil Ferrer conFilAms about and rally them to firmed upcoming shipment of 20 million doses of Moderna vaccine join a concerted effort to hasten delivery of the Mod- Page 11 to the Philippines. PCG-SF

and senior officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) planning to withdraw their support for President Rodrigo Duterte, but later admitted that there were indeed “destabilizers” in the military.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana this week warned the unidentified destabilizers to “cease from propagating malicious statements especially at a time when our people should be coming together in the face of the challenges we are currently facing.”

The shadowy group originally called themselves the “Viber 300” but said their numbers had ballooned to close to 500 after other officers and enlisted men became aware of their exis- Page 8

Department of Health (DOH) reported 9,277 new cases and 124 deaths, raising the total cases to 962,307 and deaths to 16,265.

One of the latest Covid-19 fatalities was the chief pathologist of the Makati Medical Center, Dr. Jose Maria Avila, 62, who had had a first dose of vaccine.

He is the second MMC doctor who succumbed to the deadly virus, the first was Dr. Roberto Anastacio, a cardiologist.

Avila was a former resident at the Philippine General Hospital and a fellow at The Children’s Memorial Hospital in Chicago, Illinois.

This developed as President Rodrigo Duterte said Page 8

Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA)

WASHINGTON - Five million essential workers, who have put their lives at risk during the pandemic working in more than a dozen vital industries such as healthcare, agriculture, childcare and domestic service, could become citizens if the first piece of legislation introduced by Senator Alex Padilla, is approved.

On January 20th, Alex Padilla was sworn in as California ́s Junior Senator, the first Latino in that position in the state’s history. Governor Gavin Newsom appointed him to the vacant seat left by Vice President-elect Kamala Harris. Today, Padilla is the Chairman of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship and Border Safety and his first bill wants to honor not only the efforts of those frontline workers during COVID-19, but those of his own parents who migrated from Chihuahua, Mexico to the US in the 1960s.

“For 40 years my father worked as a short order cook while my mom was cleaning houses,” said Padilla during an exclusive interview Page 8

PHL extends travel ban on foreigners, some exempted

US issues travel warning for PHL over Covid spike VIEWS & COMMENTS

SHOWBIZ

SPORTS

The USCIS investigates Marriage Fraud

Fil-Am actress Alice Dixson, now a mother at 51

Hidilyn Diaz seals slot in PHL team to Tokyo Olympics

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 NATIONAL NEWS

April 22-28, 2021

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P4.47-B aid distributed to 4.4 million in NCR

MANILA – Local government units (LGUs) in the National Capital Region have distributed P4.47 billion, or 40.07 percent of the funds earmarked by the national government as financial assistance to 4,477,090 low-income individuals, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) reported.

“Pursigido po ang mga LGUs sa pamamahagi ng ayuda kaya (The LGUs are determined to distribute the assistance that’s why) they have been working hard to ensure that the financial aid reaches the intended beneficiaries,” DILG Undersecretary and Spokesperson Jonathan Malaya said.

President Rodrigo Duterte approved the release of P22.9-billion “ayuda” (assistance) for 22.9 million low-income individuals in NCR Plus, which includes Bulacan, Rizal, Laguna, and Cavite.

Each beneficiary will receive P1,000 or up to a maximum of P4,000 per family.

Mandaluyong, San Juan, Quezon City, and Navotas topped the list of Metro Manila LGUs that have distributed the most financial assistance to their constituents and are more than halfway through their distribution.

Mandaluyong has distributed PHP243.368 million (66.75 percent); San Juan has given out P62.77 million (63.78 percent); Quezon City has disbursed P1.559 billion (62.83 percent);

Navotas has released P108.36 million (54.22 percent); and Caloocan P639.8 million (47.89 percent).

Guidelines LGUs are given 15 days to distribute cash and 30 days for in-kind assistance upon receipt of the funds from the national government.

The DILG and Department of Social Welfare and Development committed to grant requests for an extension for justifiable reasons.

The DILG commended the LGUs for their hard work and perseverance in distributing the “ayuda” even beyond office hours and sometimes until the wee hours of the night.

“The DILG salutes LGUs for their hard work and patience in distributing cash aid. You prove that you are able and reliable leaders,” Malaya said.

Under the Joint Memorandum Circular, priority target beneficiaries of the said financial assistance are low-income individuals and those working in informal economies who were beneficiaries of the first tranche of Social Amelioration Program (SAP), additional beneficiaries in SAP 2, SAP wait-listed beneficiaries, and those belonging to vulnerable groups such as low-income individuals living alone, persons with disabilities, solo parents, and the like.

Malaya reminded LGUs to strictly impose physical distancing and wearing

‘AYUDA’ BENEFICIARIES. Manila con�nues the distribu�on of financial assistance.

of masks and face shields during distribution.

“While we want the ayuda to reach our people quickly, we do not want the distribution to become super spreader events. We, therefore, call on our LGUs to enforce measures to ensure that the public observes minimum public health standards during the distribution proper,” he said.

The Philippine National Police,

which is part of the Joint Monitoring and Inspection Team headed by the DILG, has also been directed to assist LGUs in implementing minimum health standards.

Malaya also lauded the efforts of some LGUs, like the City of Biñan in Laguna, where Mayor Arman Dimaguila mobilized city government employees and other volunteers to distribute the “ayuda” door-to-door.

US ready to help in securing PH exclusive zones: envoy MANILA/WASHINGTON – The United States government is “obviously waiting” for Manila to call if it needs assistance in removing foreign vessels staying unauthorized in the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ), Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez said.

“So we were working round the clock, so to speak, in terms of being able to navigate or making sure that there’s the freedom of the sea and that Code of Conduct that we are pushing,” he said in a pre-taped briefing with Presidential

Spokesperson Harry Roque.

“At the same time, the United States is obviously waiting for us to call them if we need their assistance in removing or asking the vessels that are parked in our area of responsibility or economic zone.

And both our Philippine Navy and the US Navy are working on this,” he added.

The envoy issued the statement when asked if there were any commitments from the US side in securing the West Philippine Sea. Romualdez said both the Pentagon and the Armed Forces of the Philippines

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are communicating on the matter. “(Defense) Secretary (Delfin) Lorenzana had a recent telephone conversation with Secretary (of Defense Lloyd Austin) in the United States. Both are obviously working together and the United States has just recently sent their USS Theodore Roosevelt and they had an operation there at the West Philippine Sea,” he said.

The Philippine government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs, earlier issued a barrage of diplomatic protests against the continued presence of

Chinese vessels in the Julian Felipe Reef and several areas within the country’s EEZ. President Rodrigo Duterte warned China that he will send “gray ships” to the West Philippine Sea should it start drilling for oil in the disputed waters.

The Philippines appreciates the statements of support from its international partners who share common adherence to rules-based order consistent with international law, according to the National Task Force-West Philippine Sea.

PASAY CITY – The number of overseas Filipinos who recovered from coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) increased to 11,142, with the addition of 1,020 last week, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) reported.

In its latest case bulletin, the DFA said the active cases are currently at 5,884 while the death toll increased to 1,115.

For the period April 11 to 17, DFA logged 1,059 new infections and 47 fatalities.

The DFA recorded the highest number of infections on April 13, at 889 due to an increase in confirmed cases in the Middle East, although the DFA did not identify the countries.

“Compared to last week’s percentages, the total number of Covid-19 fatalities and under treatment saw a slight decrease to 6.15 percent and 32.43 percent, respectively. Meanwhile, those who recovered increased to 61.42 percent,” the DFA said.

The number of active cases per region this week is highest in the Middle East/ Africa regions with 3,828, followed by the Asia-Pacific region with 1,058, Europe with 911, and the Americas with 87.

Recoveries are also highest in the Middle East/Africa regions with 5,863, followed by the Asia Pacific with 2,385, Europe with 2,291, and the Americas with 603.

Overseas Filipinos with virus now 11,142

3 April 22-28, 2021

 NATIONAL NEWS

Moderna, Pfizer readying vaccines for Manila MANILA/WASHINGTON – Moderna will start its vaccine rollout in the Philippines by mid-June with the delivery of an initial 200,000 doses, Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez reported.

For Pfizer, Romualdez said the initial batch of 117,000 doses will “most likely be coming in next month” through the COVAX Facility.

“One thing for sure ‘yong bakuna natin na in-order, kinonfirm sa akin ng Moderna na (One thing for sure is the vaccine that we’ve ordered, Moderna confirmed that) they will start deliver-

ing starting June 15, that is the target date and then it will start increasing in the succeeding months,” he said in a pre-taped interview with Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque.

Moderna’s vaccine is more than 90 percent effective against coronavirus disease 2019 for up to six months after the second dose.

While the first tranche of delivery is small, Romualdez assured that the bulk will start coming in on the third quarter of this year.

“Medyo maliit lang kasi they were able to get some vaccines that were avail-

US provides P170 M to DOH to support Philippines’ COVID-19 vaccine deployment MANILA – The United States government, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), is providing the Philippines P170 million ($3.5 million) to support the Department of Health (DOH) in its COVID-19 vaccination rollout.

This new assistance, which brings total U.S. government support for the Philippines’ COVID-19 response to nearly P1.3 billion ($27 million), will strengthen the country’s health system and vaccine delivery efforts.

U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires John Law announced the new assistance during a visit to a vaccination site in Caloocan City with Philippine Secretary of Health Francisco Duque III, Caloocan City Mayor Oscar Malapitan, USAID Philippines Mission Di-

rector Lawrence Hardy II, and other U.S. and Philippine officials.

Through this new funding, USAID will support the Philippines in strengthening the vaccine supply chain, monitoring vaccine safety, and delivering effective communication campaigns to address vaccine hesitancy. This assistance will also support local government units as they plan for, track, and administer vaccines.

“While the pandemic has tested our peoples and our economies, the strong bonds between Americans and Filipinos will help us rise above this challenge,” said Chargé d’Affaires Law. “We will continue to fight this unprecedented global health crisis together.”

U.S. government support for the Philippines’ COVID-19 response has helped the country implement internationally-recognized infection prevention and control strategies, strengthen laboratory systems and case management, and communicate effectively about health risks.

In addition, the White House recently announced a P194 billion ($4 billion) commitment to support the COVAX facility, a global initiative to support early vaccine access for 92 countries, including the Philippines.

An initial P97.2-billion ($2 billion) contribution, provided through USAID, is supporting the purchase and delivery of safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines.

Through the COVAX effort — of which the United States is the largest donor — the Philippines will receive enough vaccines to immunize at least 20 percent of its population by the end of 2021.

able. Ito kasi galing sa Europe ito hindi galing sa America so we were able to secure something like close to 200,000 doses ng Moderna na mauuna diyan,” he said, adding that he is optimistic that Moderna will be able to complete the 20 million doses by end of the year.

Romualdez added that the US government is also looking into Manila’s request to borrow its excess AstraZeneca vaccines, pegged at around 25 million doses.

“Again there are other countries who have been asking for the same

thing. They’re already looking at it and studying the possibility of being able to advance these vaccines for the Philippines,” he said.

Aside from the two-dose vaccines, the envoy is also placing high hopes on Moderna’s booster shots, expected to be made available in America by the third quarter of 2021.

“Ito kung ma-approve ang EUA nito sometime around September babagay ‘yan sa mga dose that we’re able to take like Sinovac for instance or AstraZeneca ,” he said.

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 METRO NEWS

April 22-28, 2021

336-bed Covid hospital rises in Luneta

HOSPITAL AT RIZAL PARK. Officials headed by Manila Mayor Isko Moreno and vaccine czar Carlito Galvez lead the groundbreaking ceremony of the Manila Mega Covid Field Hospital in Rizal Park. The 336-bed facility for mild and moderate Covid pa�ents will be open even for non-Manila residents.

MANILA – The 336-bed Manila Mega Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko MoreCovid Field Hospital in Rizal Park is now no” Domagoso led the groundbreaking being constructed and will be ready in ceremony on April 20 with Vice Mayor two months.

Honey Lacuna-Pangan, and National Task

Force (NTF) Against Covid-19 Chief Implementer Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr..

Domagoso said the city government allotted P154 million for the construction of the hospital.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, NTF Deputy Chief Implementer Vince Dizon, and Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat also attended the event.

“We can prepare Metro Manila for the next 5 months, good or bad situation, for the remaining of the year with regards to Covid bed availability for mild and moderate cases so that we can help doctors, nurses, the medical front-liners,” Domagoso said in his speech.

He said the facility will “unclog” hospitals and avoid cases of Covid-19 patients left unattended while waiting to be admitted.

If necessary, Domagoso said the city can have additional 100 beds.

“We will try to equip the hospital so that it can continue to serve with efficiency,” he said.

Mayor Lino Cayetano said the city government has already inked agreements with Vista Mall, Megaworld, SM Group, and Ayala Corporation to establish vaccination hubs accessible

Manila archdiocese to hold Mass for Covid-19 fatalities

MANILA – The Archdiocese of Manila will remember those who died from the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) in a day of prayer next month.

According to Bishop Broderick Pabillo, the “Mass for the Dead” will be held on May 8, at 9 a.m. at the Manila Cathedral in Intramuros, Manila.

“We bring together at the altar of the Lord all the tears and sorrows of our people for their loved ones,” he said in a pastoral instruction released on Wednesday. “The whole archdiocese will mourn for our dead during this pandemic but with great hope given by the Resurrection of the Lord Jesus.”

Pabillo also asked the faithful to join the Mass via live streaming.

He said that a memorial can also be set up in parishes with pictures of those who died from the disease.

“This can serve as a reminder to all to always pray for them,” the Catholic prelate added.

The day of prayer will be preceded by three days of “Holy Hour” at 6 p.m. in front of the Blessed Sacrament, which will also be live streamed.

“A pre-recorded video of a reflection for each day that will be played during the to all. prayer service. Together we shall implore “I take it as a sign of trust in the local government that our big stakehold- the Lord for the front-liners on May 5, for ers have all reached out to help with the sick on May 6, and for the dead on May our community vaccination,” he said. 7,” Pabillo added.

Taguig opens vaccination hubs inside malls

TAGUIG CITY – More vaccination hubs will be put up in various malls in Taguig after the city government forged partnership agreements with four companies.

4

5 April 22-28, 2021 Law signed dividing Rizal’s 2nd district into 3 SAN MATEO, Rizal — President Rodrigo Duterte has signed a law that divides the second legislative district of Rizal province into three new districts that are hoped to better respond to the needs of residents and facilitate long-term recovery from the COVID-19 crisis.

Duterte signed Republic Act 11533 which splits the second district into three, “to take effect in the 2022 national and local elections.”

Officials and residents of San Mateo and Rodriguez (formerly Montalban) towns hailed the signing of the law, saying this will result in more funds and development for their towns which are also candidates for cityhood, said Rizal second district Congressman Juan Fidel Felipe Nograles, who initiated the split of the district.

It was also the neophyte congressman, who is a lawyer and a product of Ateneo de Manila University and Harvard University, who proposed the cityhood of the historic towns of San Mateo and Rodriguez, and the creation of an economic zone in Rodriguez which he proposed to be renamed Montalban again.

Under the law, the second legislative district will be composed of the towns of Cardona, Baras, Tanay, Morong, Jala-jala, Pililia and Teresa.

The town of San Mateo will compose the third district while Rodriguez will be the lone component of the fourth district.

 PROVINCIAL NEWS

Book backing claims Butuan as site of 1st mass launched CALAPAN CITY — A state college in Oriental Mindoro is now a state university status, the first in the province.

The Commission on Higher Education said the Mindoro State College of Agriculture and Technology (MinSCAT) has been converted to the Mindoro State University (MinSU) by virtue of Republic Act No. 10596.

“MinSCAT has successfully passed through a series of rigorous evaluations and assessments conducted by CHED until it has fully complied with the criteria for conversion,” CHED chairman Prospero De Vera said in a statement.

It is also the first state college in the island of Mindoro to have achieved such status, CHED added.

The incumbent president of MinSCAT, Dr. Levy Arago, will serve as the university’s first president.

“This long sought-after conversion of MinSCAT into MinSU is the institution’s greatest stronghold to respond to the clamor of Mindoreños, particularly the poor but deserving ones, for the expanded program offerings at reduced cost,” Arago said.

The institution has three campuses in Victoria town, in Calapan City and Bongabong town.

Baguio logs 48 Covid deaths in 17 days

BAGUIO CITY – This city has recorded a total of 48 deaths due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) in a span of 17 days starting April 1.

The number is based on consolidation of the statistics of the city’s Covid-19 tracker.

On April 17, the city’s Public Information Office reported no death due to the virus.

However, records also show that on April 9, the city logged the highest single day death record of nine since the pandemic started in 2020.

The oldest casualty is 90 years old and the youngest is 31.

 NATIONAL NATIONAL NEWS NEWS

April 22-28, 2021

Vera Cruz named PNP’s No. 3 man; PNP chief Sinas retiring on May 8 CAMP CRAME, Quezon City – Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, Gen, Debold Sinas named Lt. Gen. Joselito Vera Cruz as the new deputy chief for operations (DCO), the third highest post in the police force.

Vera Cruz will replace Lt. Gen. Cesar Hawthorne Binag who will mandatorily retire from the service at age 56.

“As to the position of DCO, Gen. (Cesar Hawthorne) Binag will retire on April 24 so just a few days from now and we have informed, recommended to the SILG (Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Eduardo Año) that the current TCDS (The Chief of Directorial Staff), Lt. Gen. Vera Cruz will be elevated

to the position of DCO and he will take over from Gen. Cesar Binag,” Sinas said.

Sinas picked Lt. Gen. Ephraim Dickson, chief of the Director for Integrated Police Operations (DIPO) Northern Luzon, to replace Vera Cruz as chief of the directorial staff.

Maj. Gen. Manuel Abu, director for human resource and doctrine development, will replace Abu as DIPO Northern Luzon chief.

Meanwhile, Sinas said he will wait for Año to come up with a list of his possible successors before making his own recommendation.

“We will wait for SILG to recommend for the next Chief PNP recommended

to President Rodrigo Duterte. Then, the President will designate the next CPNP,” Sinas said.

Sinas will retire from the service upon turning 56 on May 8.

Año said he will submit the names of three ranking officials as candidates for the next chief of the PNP by the end of April.

Among possible contenders for the post are members of the PNP command group such as Vera Cruz and Lt. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, deputy chief for administration.

Sinas, Eleazar, Binag, and Vera Cruz belong to the Philippine Military Academy Hinirang Class of 1987

Hong Kong bans flights from PH, India, Pakistan; 2-week travel ban to affect 1,300 OFWs MANILA – Some 1,300 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) would be affected

by Hong Kong’s two-week ban on flights from the Philippines which took effect on April 20 and ends in 14 days, the Philippines Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) said.

“Since there will be a two-week temporary suspension on the deployment, their border will be closed due to the pandemic.

So half of 2,600, more or less 1,300 workers to be affected,” POEA chief Bernard Olalia said He added that most of the affected workers are household service workers (HSWs).

“The biggest bulk of our deployment in Hong Kong just like our fellow Filipinos going to the Middle East, majority of them

are domestic workers,” Olalia said.

He, however, assured that the temporary travel ban imposed by the Chinese semi-autonomous region will not stop them from continuously processing the documents of applicants.

Hong Kong also banned flights from India and Pakistan for 14 days starting April 20.

These countries were classified as “extremely high risk” due to multiple imported cases, including the highly transmissible “N501Y” coronavirus variant.

“Even if there is temporary closure or temporary suspension of flights to destination countries, our POLO (Philippine Overseas Labor Office), our POEA will continue to process deployment docu-

ments. It means that the verification being done by POLO will continue. The accreditation of POEA will also continue,” he said. , Olalia reported that prior to the pandemic the country is sending 13,000 OFWs to Hong Kong every month and more or less 168,000 annually.

“On the average, we can say some 13,000 OFWs are being deployed every month. This is before the pandemic, in 2019 and prior years. But last year, the deployment dropped by almost 80 percent, only 32,000 deployments, and only 2,600 plus monthly,” he added.

Olalia said Hong Kong is the fourth top destination for OFWs, next to Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Singapore.

PET releases Marcos-Robredo electoral protest decision, cites failure to substantiate anomalies MANILA – The Presidential Electoral Tribunal (PET) y released to the public the full text of its February 16, 2021 decision dismissing the election protest filed by Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. as well as ]the counter-protest filed by Vice President Leni Robredo.

In its 93-page decision which was formally received by the PET’s Clerk of Court Monday, the court said Marcos “failed to substantiate his allegations of massive anomalies and irregularities in protestee’s favor”.

The tribunal added that the Marcos protest “chose to make sweeping allegations of wrongdoing and submitted incomplete and incorrect data.”

The court noted that Marcos “failed to make out his case” since “there is no substantial recovery of votes in the pilot provinces that he himself had designated,” noting that it had conducted and completed the retrieval, revision, and appreciation of more than two million ballots from pilot

areas designated by the former senator.

The court noted that PET Rule 65 provides for the outright dismissal of the protest if the protestant fails to show reasonable recovery of votes after the revision and appreciation of ballots from three pilot areas.

The court noted that the Marcos-Robredo case is the first election protest before the tribunal in which the recount and revision of the pilot provinces were completed.

Before this case, four previous cases were dismissed for being moot due to abandonment, failure to substitute the deceased protestant, and the expiration of term.

In the 1996 case of the late senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago against former president Fidel V. Ramos, Santiago decided to waive the revision of remaining unrevised ballots from 4,017 precincts out of the 17,527 precincts of her three pilot areas – Metro Manila, Pampanga, and

Zamboanga.

In the case filed by former senator Loren Legarda against then Vice President Noli De Castro, the revision of ballots in 124,404 precincts in pilot areas Cebu, Pampanga, and Maguindanao was not completed because she failed to make the required additional deposit for the continuation of the revision.

In the case filed by Fernando Poe Jr., Ronald Allan Poe in real life, against President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, the protest did not reach the revision stage when the actor died only a few months after filing his protest.

The late actor’s wife’s motion for substitution was not granted as she was not a real party of interest.

In the case filed by Manuel Mar Roxas against former Vice President Jejomar Binay, the parties filed their certificates of candidacy in the 2016 elections and the protest was eventually mooted after the contested position expired that year.

6

Lorenzana recovers from Covid-19, DILG’s Ano reports for work

DEFENSE SECRETARY Delfin Lorenzana

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana is set to return to work after completing quarantine and testing negative for the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

“I was asymptomatic and my last test result after completing my isolation period is already negative,” Lorenzana said in a message posted on the Department of National Defense Facebook page.

Lorenzana contracted Covid-19 on April 6. He also tested positive for Covid-19 in March and April last year, after coming into close contact with people infected with the virus.

“Thank you for your prayers and for wishing me well during my Covid-19 experience,” he added.

Earlier, Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Ano was infected with the virus but recovered and had to go on leave for three months to fully recover. He reported for work only this week.

PHL, US troops hold close air support drill rehearsal CAPAS, Tarlac – The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has deployed an FA-50PH jet aircraft for the rehearsal of its simulated close air support (SIMCAS) event, which is one of the highlights of this year’s ongoing Balikatan exercises with American forces.

The rehearsal for the SIMCAS took place at the Col. Ernesto Ravina Air Base, Crow Valley Military Reservation, Capas, Tarlac last April 14, the Philippine-US Balikatan Exercises Combined Joint Information Bureau said.

It added that the PAF training flight is in preparation for the joint SIMCAS which will also include a US Air Force plane.

Meanwhile, Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) personnel participated in the joint terminal attack controller/combat air controller which primarily directs the action of the combat aircraft and other offensive air operations from a forward position.

Earlier, Marine Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, AFP spokesperson and Exercise Director of Balikatan 2021, said the exercise will “simulate the need to employ air capability while observing the procedures involved during (a) call for fire.”

7 April 22-28, 2021

 NATIONAL NATIONAL NEWS NEWS

Gov’t to finish major infra projects despite pandemic, says transport chief MANILA - The government’s Build, Build, Build infrastructure program has remained on track despite the current coronavirus pandemic, the transportation department said, noting it expected to finish major infrastructure projects before President Rodrigo Duterte steps down from power.

During the Cabinet meeting Thursday night, Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade reported to President Duterte the progress of the Build, Build, Build (BBB) projects spearheaded by the administration.

“Habang tayo’y nakikipagbaka at nilalabanan ang pandemya, ang Build, Build, Build ho ay tuloy-tuloy. Hindi ho ito nawala,” Tugade said.

The transportation chief reported that many projects have already been completed not only in the Metro Manila but also in other areas such as Cebu, Davao, Cagayan de Oro City, General Santos City, Zamboanga, Siargao, Surigao and other places.

Tugade announced the completion of the rehabilitation of Calbayog airport which is set to be inaugurated on April 22. Also, the Bicol International Airport, a long overdue project, will be finished this year.

“Iyong konstruksyon ng Bicol International Airport matatapos po ‘yan ng June or July at ta-targetin namin maging operational ‘yan before the end of the year,” Tugade said.

“Matagal hong nakabinbin ‘yan at talaga hong kaawaawa ‘yong Republika noon, dekada na nag-delay ‘yan. Mr. President, tatapusin po natin sa iyong termino ‘yan.”

Subway and Light Rail Transit (LRT) extension projects are also being cited to be finished within President Duterte’s term.

“Sa riles, ‘yong subway ho may partial operability akong tutumbukin at itutuloy before the end of your term. Iyong LRT extension, mao-operate ko ‘yan at magiging operational ‘yan. Ito ho ‘yong rail operations ng Marikina at Antipolo. Maraming taon din na pinag-antay-antay ng ating kababayan ‘yan. Sir, ready for delivery, ready

for operation this year,” Tugade reported.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) led the development and construction of big-ticket infrastructure projects following the launch of the Duterte administration’s Build, Build, Build program, the centerpiece program of the administration aimed at ushering the “Golden age of infrastructure development” in the Philippines.

With the primary goal of improving the quality of life of Filipinos, the Duterte government focused on improving the country’s infrastructures having in mind that such massive investment could boost economic development.

Travel ban extended up to April 30; aliens with travel exemption may enter PH

By Jeanne Michael Penaranda MANILA – The government has extended the temporary suspension of entry of foreign nationals until April 30, 2021 but foreign nationals with valid entry exemption documents duly issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs prior to March 22, 2021 will be allowed entry to the Philippines.

In addition, the number of inbound international passengers has been limited to 1,500 per day.

Meanwhile, all airline passengers to the United States ages two years and older must provide a negative COVID-19 viral test taken within three calendar days of travel, according to the US Embassy in Manila.

Alternatively, travelers to the United States may provide documentation from a licensed health care provider of having recovered from COVID-19 in the 90 days preceding travel, the embassy added.

Those exempt from the entry ban in the Philippines provided they have a valid visa at the time of entry are: Diplomats and members of international organizations, and their dependents, provided they hold a valid 9(e) visa or 47(a)(2) visa; Foreign nationals involved in medical repatriation duly endorsed by Department

of Foreign Affairs – Office of the Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration; Foreign seafarers under the “Green Lanes” program for crew change, provided that they hold a 9(c) crew list visa; Foreign parent/s, spouses, and children of Filipino citizens traveling with the Filipino citizen; and Emergency, humanitarian, and other analogous cases approved by the Chairperson of the NTF COVID-19 or his duly authorized representative.

The Bureau of Immigration (BI), meanwhile, said foreigners who were given entry exemption document prior to the implementation last month’s travel ban may now enter the Philippines.

In an advisory, BI Commissioner Jaime Morente said aliens with entry exemption documents issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) before March 22 are now allowed to enter the country during the implementation of travel restrictions, which was extended until April 30.

The revised rule is pursuant to the latest resolution of the Inter-Agency Task on the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF).

Morente said other foreign nationals are still prohibited from entering the Philippines and that the Balikbayan privilege

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for former Filipinos remains suspended.

“The foreign parent, spouse, and children of Filipinos may enter the country, provided they are traveling with the Filipino principal, and have a valid entry visa,” he sad in a news release on Sunday.

Currently, based on the IATF’s policy, the BI also allows the following aliens with valid entry visas to enter the country:

triation endorsed by the DFA and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA); and * Seafarers with 9(c) visa for crew change; and (4) those with emergency, humanitarian and analogous cases approved by the chairperson of the National Task Force Against Covid-19 (NTF) or his authorized representative.

Morente said travel exemptions are * Diplomats and members of inter- without prejudice to the mandate of the national organizations with valid 9(e) or BI to conduct strict screening and formal47(a) (2) visas; ities on all arriving foreigners. * Those involved in medical repa-

April 22-28, 2021

Reports...

(From page 1)

tence.

They named themselves after the commonly used social media app used for easy online communications.

The group would reportedly demand that President Duterte and the retired generals in his Cabinet “denounce China’s invasion in the strongest possible terms.” This, after 240 Chinese ships described as “fishing vessels” but suspected of being military in nature entered the waters of Julian Felipe Reef last month.

Otherwise, they said, “a withdrawal of support is very imminent.”

Over the weekend, AFP chief of staff Gen. Cirilito Sobejana denied that he was part of the group plotting to unseat the president.

He assured that the AFP chain of command was “unflinching” in its loyalty to the constitution and the duly constituted authorities.

It was noted that if the statement from the now Viber 500 were fake, the Defense chief would not have acknowledged it, much less replied to it.

Another ...

(From page 1)

he is prepared to invoke the police power of the state to effectively respond to the coronavirus pandemic, allaying fears that government is running out of interventions in the present health crisis.

“Kapag sinabi na we are at a critical condition, there is no space for the doctors and the nurses to move and stay healthy, then we begin to exercise the police power of the state. When we are pushed to the wall, either by the microbe itself or by external, internal, I can always order the military and the police to go there and confiscate the operation of the hotels,” President Duterte said in a televised address.

“So kayong mga kababayan ko, huwag kayong matakot diyan sa ano. Hindi naman tayo talagang walang-wala

Padilla ...

(From page 1)

with ethnic reporters hosted by Ethnic Media Services.

“It was honest hard work in their pursuit of the American dream. With that work they raised three children and gave us an education.”

The Padilla siblings grew up in the working-class community of Pacoima, California. His older sister Julie works in education and his younger brother Ackley

Lorenzana said the Defense department denounced the online statement as “irresponsible propaganda.”

Almost as if on cue, a handful of retired AFP officers came out in public to start what they called “a campaign of patriotism.”

Retired Army Colonel Dencio Acop, a 1983 West Point graduate, asked men and women who are or were part of the Defense establishment to stand up and be counted by posting their pictures in uniform as a sign of loyalty “to country against China.”

He was joined by the likes of Ira Gabriel Veracruz, Daniel Geotina, Kyle Flores, and Earl Seven. At least five other men in uniform followed after the first batch, all wearing uniforms.

In the wake of the rumored impending withdrawal of support for his administration, President Duterte appeared uncertain on how to react.

Speaking in a combination of English and the vernacular, the president said, “Even if I go there (Julian Felipe Reef) and sail there – and ask questions – nothing will happen.”

And while he at first said there was nothing he could to

8

about the latest Chinese incursions in Philippine waters, his spokesman Harry Roque said the strong words uttered by the Defense chief as well as the Foreign Affairs secretary calling on China to immediately pull out their ships were a reflection of the president’s thinking.

Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin even sent a series of diplomatic protests to China demanding an explanation on why the Chinese ships continued to remain in Philippine waters.

Meanwhile, an online petition calling on Mr. Duterte to resign was launched last week, with 500 individuals from various sectors affixing their signatures.

Organized by Change.org, the petition had an initial target of 2,500 signatures. But by the first working day of this week, however, the total collected signatures was 20 times that target, or 50,000.

The group then revised their target to 75,000 signatures this week, with the total signatures collected hitting 60,000 by early Tuesday, April 20.

There is little doubt that the new target of 75,000 will not only be attained, but will likely be again exceeded this week.

eh. We are not really at a total loss of what to do. We know what to do.”

The chief executive, however, said he will only invoke such power to control private facilities once officials declare the country’s healthcare system is at maximum capacity.

Meanwhile, Vice President Leni Robredo lamented the lack of hospitals for COVID-19 cases, describing as ‘too heartbreaking’ the plight of patients in dire need of hospital care but have nowhere to go to.

“Sobrang nakakadurog talaga ng puso ‘yung kakulangan ng ospital ngayon,” she said during her weekly radio show BISErbisyong LENI.

time-based recoveries for the fourth consecutive day. The active case count dropped to 116,434. At least 96.7% of the active cases have mild symptoms, 1.3% have no symptoms, 0.8% are in severe condition, 0.6% are in a critical state and 0.52% are moderate infections.

The DOH also recorded a jump in recoveries after 19,699 more people were cleared of the virus. The survivor count is now 829,608, which is 86.2% of the case total. Meanwhile, the death toll also climbed to 16,265 or 1.69% of the COVID-19 count after 124 more patients succumbed to the disease.

In another development, the DOH reported additional cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections from variants of the severe acute respiratory syndrome Active coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) cases, coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus that causes Comeanwhile, continued to decrease as the DOH reported vid-19. is chief of staff for Councilwoman Nury Martinez on the Los Angeles City Council, where Padilla began his political career. He then was elected as a State Senator and subsequently became California’s first Latino Secretary of State between 2015 and 2021.

“For more than a year now we’ve all been through this COVID-19 pandemic and along the way i’ve seen gestures of appreciation, Facebook posts and tweets of people thanking essential workers who despite the risk and despite the pain continue to show up to work everyday to help put our food in our tables,” said Padilla referring to a workforce that is mostly undocumented.

“I believe it’s time we honor them and their service with more than just our words… for me, COVID relief means not only addressing the health impacts of the pandemic, but also rebuilding an economy that is much more inclusive of all populations, and give our front-line workers a path to citizenship they have earned and deserve,” he added.

According to a 2016 study by the Center for American Progress, undocumented workers contribute $4.7 trillion to U.S. GDP. Immigrants without papers pay $11.7 billion in state and local taxes and $12 billion in social security revenues every year.

Last week Padilla and a bicameral group of Democrats sent a letter to President Joe Biden to include this bill as part of the infrastructure package. This package could be approved in the Senate with 50 votes plus one, through a process called budget reconciliation, to prevent it from being obstructed under the figure of the filibuster, which requires 60 members to finish the debate before going to a vote.

“We will consider all the options,” Padilla said. “I know there is bipartisan support for reform, the question is whether we do an individual piece of legislation with separate votes or as a package. That is the negotiation.”

Padilla acknowledges that although several of his Republican colleagues support regularizing the dreamers and agricultural workers, a comprehensive immigration reform that shelters the 11 million undocumented immigrants who have been living in this country “in the shadows”, requires more arduous commitments.

“We think there is a possibility to get 60 votes for some of these reforms,” but “reforming or abolishing the filibuster will help advance other agendas.”

Vital issues like protecting voting rights, climate change, and addressing historic injustices like reparations to African-American communities, which are on Padilla’s agenda, could also pass if the filibuster rule were changed.

He said Republicans have agitated the migration crisis at the border - which in March received 172,000 people according to data from Customs and Border Protection- to avoid discussing the regularization of the 11 million that are already here.

“Some of my Republican colleagues will easily conflate both issues as an excuse to not want to do anything,” said Padilla, clarifying that unaccompanied minors and new immigrants arriving at the border are not covered by his legislation.

At the same time, the White House and Congress seek more resources “to house asylum seekers more humanely and process them more quickly,” said Padilla. “The Trump administration left asylum seekers stuck in Mexico while their cases remain pending in U.S. immigration courts.

Hate crimes Padilla also said he supports the Hate Crimes bill, a phenomenon that has alarmingly affected the AAPI community in recent months across the country.

“We have insisted to FBI Director (Christopher) Wray to prioritize the issue of white supremacy,” Padilla said.

The Senator reflected on his 86 days in office by saying that he is still adjusting to the “volume and magnitude” of his new job at a very unique time of his transition.

“We are still in the midst of a global health pandemic, we are still in the wake of the deadly insurrection of January 6, my first weeks in the Senate I participated in the impeachment trial (of former President Trump) and was part of the crafting and passing of the American Rescue Plan… It’s a lot, ” he observed.

“I hope we can do as much as we can as soon as we can, before we get too close to the 2022 election cycle,” he concluded.

9 April 22-28, 2021 Groups...

 NATIONAL NEWS (From page 1)

But Duterte simply shrugged off the “rumors” coming from the so-called “Viber 500” but admitted he was disheartened by the reports even as officials led by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and Armed Forces of the Philippines chief-of-staff Gen. Cirilito Sobejana denied the existence of a group in the military reportedly consisting of 300 retired and active ranking military officials, including allegedly some members of the Cabinet calling for the withdrawal of support for Duterte, their commander in chief.

Following the spread of the spread of the ouster rumors, Duterte hardened his stance against China, pointing out that there is a “limit” to the Philippines’ friendship with China, especially when Beijing starts asserting a claim over oil and gas deposits in the disputed West Philippine Sea. Duterte warned China that he would send gray ships to WPS, should it start drilling for oil in the contested waters, adding that exploiting oil and mineral resources in the disputed sea is not part of the Philippines’ agreement with China.

In a pre-recorded public address, Duterte said he will state the Philippines’ territorial claim by sending navy ships in the disputed waters.

“I am addressing myself to the Chinese government, we want to remain friends, we want to share whatever it is. Sinabi ko naman sa inyo sa (I told you) Chinese government, I’m not so much interested now in fishing. I don’t think there’s enough fish really to quarrel about. But when we start

to mine, when we start to get whatever it is in the bowels of the China sea sa ating oil, diyan na ako (in our oil, that’s when I will act). Then by that time I will send my ships there,” he said.

Amid criticism over his supposed silence on Chinese vessels in the contested sea, Duterte said he would not allow China to dig for oil and other resources there.

“I will send my gray ships there to state a claim. ‘Yan masiguro ninyo. Pag kinuha na yung oil, kung anong mga nickel diyan, mga precious stones (That you can be sure of. If you start digging for oil, nickel there, precious stones). That would be the time because that is the time that we should act on it,” he added.

The Philippines, through the Department of Foreign Affairs, has repeatedly filed diplomatic notes against China over the prolonged presence of Chinese vessels in WPS. On April 14, the DFA lodged a diplomatic note that counts as the daily protest so long as there are Chinese boats in and around Julian Felipe Reef in WPS, and another diplomatic protest on the dispersal of Chinese ships to other parts of Philippine maritime zones.

China’s presence in WPS came despite the Philippines’ 2016 historic win against Beijing’s sweeping claims to nearly the entire contested sea.

Sobejano, who was even implicated in the alleged plot which he vehemently denied, however, admitted that there are individuals and groups determined and are engaged in efforts to undermine the government.

Lorenzana and Sobejano’s statements

prompted Malacañang to state that there is no need for a loyalty check among members of the military amid the ouster plot rumors.

“Absolutely wala pong necessity. Sabi ni Presidente kung ayaw sa kanya ng military, uuwi siya ng Davao (Absolutely no necessity. The President said that if the military does not support him anymore, he will fly back to Davao),” he said in a virtual press briefing.

In a pre-recorded public address, Duterte admitted that he was “downhearted” when he learned of rumors that a group of military officers have withdrawn their support for him.

“I was so -- talagang (really) downhearted ako because I expected the military to perform well…pagka akala ko makatulong ako sa bayan sa Pilipinas (I thought I could be of help to the nation, the Philippines),” he said.

The President said he is willing to step down if he no longer has their support, the same statements he echoed when ouster rumors first surfaced in the early years of his term as President.

“If we cannot work together with just buy medicines, then maybe we cannot work together on bigger things. So what’s the point? Sinabi ko talaga sa kanila (I really told them). I do not work where I am not needed,” he added.

Duterte explained that he told defense and military officials that if they would ask him to resign, he would return to his hometown in Davao City.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said Duterte though is “unbothered” by the reports as he believes that the military officers would have ousted him a

long time ago if they believed that he was “useless.”

Calls for Duterte’s ouster were first aired in 2017 and 2018. In 2019, Duterte even acknowledged the plot and disclosed a supposed matrix of those who were allegedly behind the plot to discredit him and eventually remove him from office reportedly composed of the opposition, lawyers and even journalists, among others “Hindi po nababahala ang Presidente.

Alam po ng Presidente na tapat siya sa Saligang Batas at alam po niya na nirirespeto din ng ating mga kasundaluhan ang ating Saligang Batas. Sabi nga po niya kung talaga siya ay inutil, matagal na siyang pinatalsik ng military,” Roque said in a virtual press briefing.

Roque said Duterte is confident that there is no reason for the military to remove him from office.

“Alam po niya na kung gugustuhin ng military, kahit sino ay pupuwedeng ipatanggal ng militar, pero kampante po siya na walang dahilan para naman umakto ng ganiyan ang ating kasundaluhan,,” he added.

He also dismissed the allegations as “hearsay,” noting that the military knows that now is not the time for politics.

“Kuwentong kutsero lang po iyan. Naniniwala po kami na lahat ng ating kasundaluhan ay tapat sa Republika at alam po nila na hindi po talaga panahon para sa pulitika ngayon (That’s just hearsay. We believe that the military is faithful to the Republic and we know that it’s not the time for politics),” he said.

Roque said Filipinos have only over a year to wait until they elect new leaders.

 NATIONAL NEWS

April 22-28, 2021

10

‘Bising’ leaves 3 dead, 230K others displaced “Bising” was last spotted 395 km. east of Tuguegarao City, Cagayan, packing maximum sustained winds of 175 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 215 kph.

TCWS No. 2 remains hoisted over the eastern portion of Cagayan (Santa Ana, Gonzaga, Baggao, Gattaran, LalLo, Peñablanca, Santa Teresita, Buguey) and the eastern portion of Isabela (Maconacon, Divilacan, Palanan).

These areas may expect winds greater than 61 kph and up to 120 kph in at least 24 hours, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said in its 5 a.m. bulletin.

On the other hand, TCWS No. 1 is still hoisted over Batanes, the rest of

Cagayan, including the Babuyan Islands, the rest of Isabela, Quirino, Apayao, the eastern portion of Kalinga (Rizal, Tabuk City, Pinukpuk, Tanudan), the eastern portion of the Mountain Province (Paracelis, Natonin), the eastern portion of Ifugao (Alfonso Lista, Aguinaldo), the northern and central portion of Aurora (Dipaculao, Baler, Dinalungan, Casiguran, Dilasag), Polillo Islands, the northern portion of Camarines Norte (Capalonga, Jose Panganiban, Paracale, Vinzons, Talisay, Daet, Mercedes, Basud), the northeastern portion of Camarines Sur (Siruma, Tinambac, Lagonoy, Garchitorena, Caramoan), and the northern portion of Catanduanes (Caramoran, Viga, Gigmoto, Panganiban, Bagamanoc, Pandan).

FLOODED Jipapad town in Eastern Samar LGU)

US issues travel warning to Philippines over Covid spike MANILA – The United States government advised its citizens to avoid all travel to the Philippines due to the “very high level of Covid-19.”

“Do not travel to the Philippines due to Coivd-19. Additionally, exercise increased caution due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping,” the State Department said in a travel advisory dated April 20.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) raised to Level 4 its Covid-19 notice for the Philippines, the highest in its Covid-19 warnings.

“Because of the current situation in the Philippines even fully vaccinated travelers may be at risk for getting and spreading Covid-19 variants and should avoid all travel to the Philippines,” the CDC said on its website.

“If you must travel to the Philippines, get fully vaccinated before travel. All travelers should wear a mask, stay 6 feet from others, avoid crowds, and wash their hands,” it advised.

The State Department earlier said it would update its travel advisories to reflect the CDC’s science-based health notices, which will result in a significant increase in the number of countries

at “Level 4: Do Not Travel” to approximately 80 percent of countries worldwide.

“This does not imply a reassessment of the current health situation in a given country, but rather reflects an adjustment in the State Department’s Travel Advisory system to rely more on CDC’s existing epidemiological assessments,” it said.

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11 April 22-28, 2021

 OPINION Filam push ...

EDITORIAL

T

The America First caucus is a sham

he America First caucus was in the news lately for all the wrong reasons.

The loose organization is plain and simply a collection of white supremacists, at best, and outright terrorists, at worst. Under the latter, they are klansmen who no longer see the need to don masks.

They want to see an America that is dominated by Anglo-Saxon thought and ideals, whatever that means. They also reject immigrants for diluting US culture.

Yes, it does not make sense to us, either.

To nobody’s surprise, the leader of the caucus is Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, who suddenly backtracked on her planned launch of the movement this week after receiving flak from her own partymates.

One unapologetic supporter of America First is embattled Rep. Matt Gaetz, who has been building himself up as more Trump than Donald Trump himself. The controversial lawmaker, however, may soon find himself out of a job depending on the results of the ongoing investigations on his questionable relations with young women. Or girls, to be precise.

And speaking of the 45th president, he is without a doubt the spiritual leader of the proposed caucus. Unless private citizen Trump rejects in no uncertain terms his links to the caucus, he will find himself pushed to the fringes of the GOP. If he is not yet aware of it, the caucus has all the makings of a PR nightmare, one he should not be part of if he is to remain in the good graces of the GOP leadership.

What we find most disturbing about America First is that it was formed at all.

It is now 2021, yet the few who believed it was time to create such a caucus want nothing less than to revive the dangerous McCarthy era of the 1950s.

All its would-be members need to do now is to wear white leather gloves, raise their clenched fists, and yell, “White Power!”

There is, however, one big difference. They not only believe themselves to be members of Adolf Hitler’s master Aryan race, shouting down and bullying nonwhites is not enough.

Today’s white nationalists have no problem purchasing assault weapons and brandishing them in public. It is from their ranks that many of today’s mass shooters have appeared. Their inexplicable hatred for Jews, Muslims, gays and nonwhites, among others, coupled with the easy availability of weapons designed for use by the military, has resulted in this year’s spike in mass murders.

For now, the America First caucus has been relegated to limbo, at least temporarily. Greene has even disowned the sickening language attributed to the caucus, saying she never read it.

We would very much like to give her the benefit of the doubt, but her past statements and actions tell us that she is only reworking and rewording the caucus’s reason for being.

Soon, the US will no longer be a predominantly white country. This is what the America First caucus fears.

They believe that the US has always been and always should be predominantly white. They conveniently forget that less than half a millennium ago, this country was predominantly red.

Just ask the Apache, Arapaho, Cherokee, Commanche, Cheyenne, Crow, Lakota, Navajo, Pawnee, and Sioux nations, among others.

They’re also known as the First Americans.

Upside

(From page 1) erna vaccine to mitigate the spread of Covid19. At press time 20, the pandemic has infected 953,106 in the Philippines and taken 16,141 lives, according to the Philippine Department of Health website.

“Call to Action and Unity of FilAm Communities: Humanitarian Response to the Philippine COVID Crisis” was coordinated by Filipino American Voice United and the Federation of Philippine American Chambers of Commerce.

Attendees heard from Commissioner Herman Martir of CHERIE M. QUEROL MORENO the US President’s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, PH Ambassador to the U.S. Jose Manuel Romualdez and Senator Manuel Pacquiao.

Some 20 million doses of the Moderna vaccine have been ordered and are expected to arrive in the Philippines in July, Consul General in San Francisco Neil Ferrer confirmed.

That Former congressional staff now Colma, California, resident shipment would SSF Vice Mayor Mark Nagales Aurea Ocampo Cruz said she supplement the 3 (with wife Amy) says wri� ng will write legislators repremillion doses of lawmakers is eff ec� ve. sen�ng her state and district Sinovac and Asto support the trans-Pacific traZeneca vacpush to ship the Moderna vaccines already in distribution, he added.

Proponents of the movement reaching out to US law- cine to the Philippines sooner makers seek shipment of the Moderna vaccine earlier than July. than July.

Recently Philippine-based media reported that a “private sector group” led by billionaire Enrique Razon was involved in a “tripartite agreement to secure 20 million doses of Moderna vaccines” due to start arriving in June.

Said agreement reportedly splits the shipment with 13 million doses for the Philippine government and 7 million for the private sector. “’When deliveries arrive at the end of the second quarter, we shall immediately roll out our vaccination program for employees, their direct dependent and extended household members, said Razon, head of the International Container Terminal Services Inc. Some sectors of the community are initiating a move to appeal to their lawmakers in writing, a popular strategy in advocacy.

The letter-writing campaign can be effective, South San Francisco Vice Mayor Mark Nagales told author. Nagales, a legislative aide for many years to California Assembly Member Gene Mullin and then to US Congress Rep. K. Jackie Speier said a(Continued on page 27)

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 OPINION

April 22-28, 2021

PerryScope

The basic problem with US-China relations has always been China’s totalitarian society against America’s democratic foundation. It’s the same problem that the US had during the First Cold War when the US was trying to stop Soviet expansionism. Now, the US is trying to contain China’s expansionist moves around the world. It’s the same playbook with different adversaries.

First Cold War During the First Cold War, which began in 1947 with the implementation of the Truman Doctrine -- America’s foreign policy goal of containing Soviet geopolitical expansion – and ended in 1991 with the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

This led to the creation of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in 1949 among the US, United Kingdom, France, and 11 other European countries. They agreed that an armed attack against any of them would be considered an attack against them all. Later on, Greece and Turkey joined NATO. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the 10 former Warsaw Pact members joined NATO in 1997. Eventually the alliance expanded to 30 members, the largest military alliance in the history of the world.

It must be remembered that back in 1960, the late Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev told the United Nations General Assembly, “Socialism is replacing capitalism.” Sixty years later, Chinese President Xi Jinping said, “The East is rising, while the West is in decline.” Evidently, Xi believes in it, which gives him a false sense of security that could lead to US-China military confrontation knowing that China would take advantage of any demonstration of weakness on the part of the US. Cuban missile crisis This reminds me of the Cuban missile crisis in 1962 when war between the US and the Soviet Union almost broke out when the Soviet Union attempted to bring Soviet nuclear missiles to Cuba. When President Kennedy found out about it, he directed a blockade of the Russian ships. For 13 days, the world watched the standoff in the Caribbean Sea. Finally, Khrushchev backed down and ordered the ships withdrawn. In 1964, the Kremlin stripped him from power for his recklessness that led to the Soviets’ embarrassment during the Cuban missile crisis.

The ascendancy of Biden to the presidency changed the dynamics in US-China relations, which has reached a boiling point with China’s increasingly aggressive posture against Taiwan, which she claims as a province of China. She warned the US to stay away from Taiwan or face the consequences.

But the US has made it clear that she won’t sit by and abandon a nation that she has formally committed to support and protect.

In the waning days of the Trump administration, an arms deal was sent to Congress for approval. Beijing claimed that the weapons are offensive, which could be used to attack the Chinese forces’ assembly area on the mainland coast before departure or their vessels while crossing the Taiwan Strait in the event China decides to invade Taiwan. China is angered by the deal saying it “seriously damages China’s sovereignty and security” and threatened to retaliate. The US is obligated by the 1979 Taiwan Relations Act to provide Taiwan with the means for defense, hence the series of weapons deal that the two countries had inked in the past that included 66 F-16 fighter jets worth $8 billion, the (Continue on page 27)

A

s author, columnist and active evangelist with the GOLDEN GATE CHURCH OF CHRIST in San Francisco, California, I am delighted and inspired by the decision of Juanita Robertson, retired Professor, City College in San Francisco, to fully support the BOOKS MINIS- ART GABOT MADLAING TRY. Retired Prof. Robertson just ordered autographed copies of the two books “HISTORICITY OF JESUS” subtitled “Facts and Evidences for Agnostics, Atheists, Believers and Christians” and “JESUS CHRIST” subtitled “The Final Days on Earth Before His Return to Heaven” written by yours truly and John Jeffrey respectively, for all her children, grandchildren and friends.

“Thank you my friend. Jesus Christ sacrificed his life on the cross for you to have an opportunity to make heaven your home.

Your decision to study and obey God’s word and be baptized into Christ, ensures that this opportunity becomes a reality.

God bless you. We love you” is the autographed message of author John Jeffrey.

Juanita Robertson strongly supports the newly launched BOOKS MINISTRY in coordination with the year-round evangelism, neighborhood and community outreach program of the GOLDEN GATE CHURCH OF CHRIST in San Francisco, California, UNIVERSITY CHURCH OF CHRIST and the global Angel Radio based in Albuquerque, New Mexico and other sister congregations in other states.

“I commend and salute Art Gabot Madlaing for his creative idea in launching the BOOKS MINISTRY. Active evangelist that he is, the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown didn’t discourage or dissuade him from sharing the gospel in its purity and simplicity,” Prof. Robertson wrote. Here’s my autographed message to all the children, grandchildren and friends of Juanita Robertson.

“Dear Friend. WARM CHRISTIAN GREETINGS! Here’s copy of my book ordered by Sis. Juanita Robertson as her lasting gift to you.

We hope to see you in HEAVEN with Sis. Robertson!!!

Love in Christ..Art” “I encourage all Christians and congregations to support the BOOKS MINISTRY by ordering the 6th Printing copy of the HISTORICITY OF JESUS and JESUS CHRIST,” Prof.

Robertson concluded.

Give the two books HISTORICITY OF JESUS and JESUS CHRIST as your lasting gifts to your FRANC (Friends, Relatives, Acquaintances, Neighbors, Co-Workers) at a discounted volume discount of only $25 for the two books. By ordering the two books, you will also receive a complimentary autographed copy of my upcoming book “LIFESTYLE FOR LONGEVITY” ($25.95 retail price) subtitled “How to be Healthy Emotionally, Financially, Physically, Sexually and Spiritually” scheduled to be printed and marketed by Amazon on May 5, 2021. This Special Offer is good only in the United States. For your autographed copies of the books, just send $25 (includes postage, mailing and handling) in check or money order to: ART G. MADLAING, 730 Madrid Street, San Francisco, CA 94112 Tel. (650)438-3531 or (415)584-7095 or email:agmadlaing@hotmail.com INSPIRING REVIEWS OF LIFESTYLE FOR LONGEVITY “This book can encourage, motivate and help you to be healthy emotionally, financially, physically, sexually and spiritually,” wrote Dr. Jason Reynoso,M.D. Baguio General Hospital, Baguio City, 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,” explained Juanita Robertson, retired Professor, City College, San Francisco, California, USA “I highly recommend this book for optimum health and balanced life,” said Atty. Junas T. Sagurit, President, Asian Christian University, Bugallon, Pangasinan, Philippines “This book is a good resource for useful tips and advice for people to live by and maintain healthy and balanced lifestyle,”wrote Stephanie Phong Tuliao, Doctor of Pharmacy, Daly City, California, USA. (Continue on page 27)

Health & Wealth

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obody expected that the first US-China high-level meeting in Anchorage, Alaska would lead to an open adversarial situation. Facing each other, the two groups seemed to suggest that the two superpowers were locked in a new Cold War in a tumultuous start sans the usual diplomatic courtesies that happen when diploPERRY DIAZ mats meet for the first time.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and their counterparts Wang Yi and Yang Jiechi took uncompromising positions for the whole world to see.

After both sides displayed a belligerent and uncompromising stance, they seemed to have reached some minor concessions without any radical change in China’s political system or foreign policy.

Professor jumpstarts books ministry

The Good Samaritan

T

he re-imposition of the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) in Metro Manila and in the provinces of Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal—the NCR Plus—on March 29 until April 11 and just recently MECQ from April 12 to April 30 - was met with manifold reactions.

Many faulted government officials for being slow-paced and disunited in its decision- MELANDREW T. VELASCO making in handling the grave challenge of the pandemic. The situation we are in today has exposed the weakness of our health care system and, the viability of our economy is being tested.

At the bottom of this problem is the compelling need for all of us to cooperate and comply with the minimum health standards mandated not only by the Department of Health but

by World Health Organization as well.

THE NCR Plus ECQ has once more brought to the fore good samaritans, among them San Miguel Corporation’s president and chief operating officer Ramon S. Ang. When tighter measures were reintroduced to prevent the ballooning of COVID-19 cases, he reassured Filipinos that San Miguel Corporation is fully prepared for the ECQ. Its essential products such as food and fuel are available with no disruption in the supply. Its power facilities are continuously supplying electricity and the expressways are operational.

“While these stricter quarantine restrictions are necessary to curb the rising number of COVID-19 cases and reduce the strain on our health care facilities and workers, for many people who earn a living on a daily basis, hunger is an issue.

Putting food on the table is a constant worry, especially if you can’t work for days,” RSA said.

With ECQ in NCR Plus, SMC’s food donation initiative was stepped up. Its food assistance program has benefitted close to 185,000 families in Metro Manila, Cavite and Laguna. Donated products include nutribun, ready-to-eat food products and canned goods, all products of San Miguel Foods.

Packs of nutribun were also distributed to soup kitchens, medical front liners and various communities.

RSA acknowledged that the recent implementation anew of ECQ and now MECQ may be hard for most Filipinos.

However, he believes it is something the Filipinos can all get through. “The important thing is we stay at home, we keep safe so we can reduce the number of COVID-19 cases our medical front liners have to take care of.”

According to RSA, SMC will continue to work with the local government units and find out what other assistance SMC can provide.

Aside from its employees SMC also sees to it that third party contractors are taken care of during the days they are unable to work because of the restrictions.

There is no misconception on the importance of vaccines in the fight against COVID-19. If left unchecked, COVID-19 cases will not only put more strain on the health care system.

It could also generate a chain reaction that will affect the country’s economic recovery.

Cognizant of this, SMC ordered close to one million doses of COVID-19 vaccines. These were granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) by the Food and Drug Administration.

A portion of the one million doses is expected to be delivered by July this year. Recipients of the vaccines are 70,000 SMC employees, extended workforce and their families. The remaining doses will be donated to communities who need these most.

“We are committed to helping the government achieve its vaccination goals, protect the vulnerable and build a collective defense against the virus,” RSA stated. “The vaccines are coming. In the meantime, let’s all do our part so we can put our country, our economy, and lives, back on track.”

SMC is one of the biggest private sector donors to the government program against the pandemic. Last year alone, its assistance amounted to over Php13 billion with Php 516 million spent on food donations. Other donations include hospital equipment, testing kits and machines, personal protective equipment, construction of quarantine facilities, and free fuel and toll for medical front liners.

RSA is mobilizing SMC’s resources for the welfare and well-being of Filipinos. He is optimistic we can turn this situ(Continue on page 27) ation around but cautions we

THE OUTSIDER

Second Cold War looms!

12

13 April 22-28, 2021

 OPINION

W

Offline

hat started off last week with 500 individuals representing a cross section of civil society getting together to sign a petition calling on President Rodrigo Duterte to resign proved a success beyond their wildest dreams.

No, Duterte did not resign.

Nor is he likely to anytime in the foreseeable future. Not un- BETING DOLOR less he reads the writing on the wall, acknowledges that he is despised by the majority of the people, and accepts that as a lameduck president he is in a precarious situation with the possibility that he will end up behind bars, courtesy of the International Criminal Court.

He can expect no support from Chinese president Xi Jinping. At best, he will be allowed to fly to China to spend the remainder of his days, beyond the reach of the ICC. Such is the fate of tyrants like Idi Amin, the Shah of Iran, and Ferdinand Marcos, among others.

What is not clear is what fate will befall his worst lapdogs, his closest appointed officials who have tied their fortunes to him, including the likes of his spokesman Harry Roque, his valet-turned-senator Bong Go, and various apologists like senator Bato dela Rosa, Sal Panelo, Francisco Duque, and Jose Calida.

Some of them may try to find a home in the US, but there is no assurance that they will be welcomed there by the Biden government. Their probable choice will be to stay in the Philippines, and hire the best lawyers that money can buy to help them with the cases that are most likely coming their way.

But it will be each man to himself, and I predict that a good number of them will either get very sick, or pretend to be seriously ill, attending hearings in wheelchairs and neck braces.

As for the Duterte Resign petition, it is that proverbial idea whose time has come.

Fake survey results from Pulse Asia and the Social Weather Stations cannot save the Duterte regime from the widespread anger of the Filipino people.

Already, there are strong indications that the sick Duterte is being abandoned by his underlings, and there is little that he can do about it.

Everything is falling into place, it seems.

The 1Sambayan Coalition set the stage for Change.org’s Duterte Resign petition. After initial growth pains, 1Sambayan has settled down as the organization that will attract all who want nothing more than to prevent the Duterte regime from staying in power beyond 2022 by anointing the president’s successor.

1Sambayan will handle the selection process to pick the best candidate possible to undo all the damage that the Duterte regime forced upon the people.

For now, Vice President Leni Robredo remains the top favorite to run against whoever Duterte anoints. The odds are that Manny Pacquiao will be that bet.

It is worth noting that the Run Sara Run tarps are fast disappearing and whatever momentum the president’s daughter had in her dream to succeed her father is now gone. Her weaknesses are so obvious that she will be demolished during presidential debates, if she insists on running.

The electorate has seen the folly of electing a mayor as president, and is not likely to repeat that error anytime soon.

Davao, it must be said, is nothing like a Manila or a Makati, whose mayors like the late Fred Lim and Jejomar Binay were valid contenders for the presidency.

As for Erap Estrada, he did move up from mayor to senator to vice president before his successful bid for the presidency, and look at how that turned out.

It’s beginning to feel a bit like 1985 now, with Robredo obviously taking the role of Cory Aquino, who had a broad base of support. Look back and see that the same sectors that now support Leni – the business community, the church, the academe, and the youth – were the same sectors that backed Cory.

Only the traditional politicians supported Marcos back then, and their heirs are expressing their support for Duterte and his choice now.

The key remains the military and to a lesser extent the police.

Even as thousands were signing up to join the Duterte Resign petition, there were (Continue on page 27)

Tyranny of the Mob

We have to do our part as well

t has become standard protest protocol for mobs to accost diners at restaurants, humiliate them, intimidate them, and shame them into supporting the #BlackLivesMatter movement by forcing them to raise their fists in solidarity.

Imagine eating peacefully at an outdoor restaurant, a needed respite from the long year sequestered at home, when a chanting crowd turns the corner with their signs and their rumble and their elevated emotions. Instead of sticking to the streets, they cross the barrier delineating the outdoor dining area and come right up to your table. They knock over your drink and shout at you for being white. These protestors have been doing this since the summer of 2020 when they still had the moral high ground. Last night (this column is written on Wednesdays), they were at it again in New York as well as other major cities where places of business are not allowed to carry firearms to self-protect. Last night is a puzzling thing because the verdict in the Derek Chauvin trial turned out exactly as they wanted.

Congressman Maxine Waters (D-California), standing amidst a #BLM crowd in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota on April 17, 2021, stated pretty clearly what they wanted: “We’re looking for a guilty verdict. We’re looking for a guilty verdict and we’re looking to see if all of the talk that took place and has been taking place after they saw what happened to George Floyd…if nothing does not happen, then we know that we’ve got to not only stay in the street but we’ve got to fight for justice.

But I am very hopeful and I hope that we’re going to get a verdict that it say (sic) “guilty, guilty, guilty” and if we don’t, we cannot go away.”

When asked what protesters should do if the verdict does not come out the way Waters wanted, she advised, “We’ve got to stay on the street. We’ve got to get more active. We’ve got to get more confrontational. We’ve got to make sure that they know that we mean business.”

It is fortunate, I suppose, for everyone in this country who values peace and order that the jury verdict delivered in the Chauvin trial turned out to be “guilty, guilty, guilty,” as Congresswoman Waters prescribed. Despite this, in celebration, perhaps, protesters still marched in New York, intimidating white diners, shouting at them “Get the f**ck out of New York. We don’t want you here.” I am loathe to see what would happen if the verdict didn’t go their way.

The death of George Floyd was one of the biggest stories in the United States last year. The riots that erupted in its wake, enervated by the #BLM movement, apparently resulted in the destruction of $1 billion in property and more than 19 deaths. By court order, the jurors in the Chauvin trial have been kept anonymous. Presumably this is for their own safety. And yet, the Chicago Tribune profiled these jurors without revealing their names just two days ago.

My point is this: the mob is intimidating enough after a verdict that pleased it. Was it possible that the hysteria surrounding Floyd’s death and a political leader’s explicit demands for a guilty verdict could have intimidated one or more of the jurors into making a decision they would not have otherwise made? Should a mob have the power to influence legal decisions?

t’s sad and frustrating to see what’s happening in the Philippines at this time. It appears that the Duterte administration does not really have any concrete plan in dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic. I saw his last address to the nation and all I heard were rants about his critics and political opponents. People are getting ATTY. JOJO LIANGCO sick, losing their jobs, and many are waiting for the promised “ayuda’ (financial assistance) from the government.

Hospitals are in full capacity and rants don’t do any good at this time. Action and performance from the leadership as well as a concrete plan will appease and calm many people. *** Elections bring out the political pundits, the fortune tellers, and the card readers in us. We just love making predictions and wild guesses as to how an election, a political campaign, or a candidacy will turn out.

There is definitely passion as we voice our support for and expectations from the candidates that we want to lead us. Next year is a presidential election year in the Philippines and just like the elections of the past, people will again be pinning their hopes on their candidates to accomplish major changes and turning points in politics and governance, business, economy, culture and technology, and in matters such as those related to national security. I just hope that people of the Philippines will be wiser with their choice of candidates and leaders come Election 2022. What’s happening at this time in the country is a good lesson. Hats-off though to the Filipino leaders who continue to serve and think for the good of the country during these trying times. *** A few years ago in the Philippines, the slogan--- “It’s more fun in the Philippines”--- was launched by the country’s tourism agency. This slogan by the way is also appropriate to describe the past fanfares, entertainment factor, and the shallowness of many past campaigns and elections that resulted in electoral processes that were “more festive” compared to the town and barrio fiestas in the Philippines.

Then there’s the violent episodes too that turned campaigns and elections into dirty wars not only because of the “demolition jobs” that were done to destroy people and their reputations but also because of dirty tactics and ploys that resulted in deaths and senseless killings.

For the unsuspecting, discerning which news and information is true is also a big ordeal these days because there are so many fake news, propagandists, and spin masters at work who sway and swing public opinion--- and influence elections to favor the candidates that they work for and serve. Then if there are demolition jobs, there are also “cover-ups” and “whitewashes.” There’s a “cover-up” when there is an effort to hide the evidence of wrongdoing, error, or incompetence.

In a passive cover-up, information is simply not provided, while in an active cover-up, deception is used. Whitewashing involves releasing misleading evidence. *** Unlike in most countries where leaders are chosen and elected based on their platforms and positions on issues, ideology, and program of government, in the Philippines, people have been accustomed to choosing and electing their political leaders based on popularity and media exposure (and even based on the candidate’s family name, connections, and political clout ).

But like what I have written and said before, things and conditions that we have been used to seeing and accepting are not always good, right, and just. It is for this reason that I always revisit the works and writings of Dr. Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio and Emilio Jacinto. Our generation can still be inspired by the sacrifice and social vision of these heroes.

Dr. Rizal said something important during that fateful day when he faced the Spanish military court in Manila. We need to revisit and put to heart those words--- “I wanted the Filipino people to appear self-respecting, noble, honest, for a people that make themselves contemptible by their cowardice or vices expose themselves to abuses and imposition. In general, man oppresses whom he despises.”

To make his words relevant today, we Filipinos should regain first and foremost our self-respecting, noble, and honest virtues and we should have the (Continue on page 27)

I

I

Immigrant’s Story

Duterte Resign petition is the real deal

 IMMIGRATIONS The USCIS investigates Marriage Fraud Marriage fraud is a major part of USCIS investigations because they believe that marriage is a fast way to get a green card. In some cases containing weak documentary relationship evidence, the adjudicator may refer the case for an investigation. This additional scrutiny may include deep public record searches, an early morning visit at their home, and interviews with neighbors, family and co¬ workers.

April 22-28, 2021

TDF rates decline anew as liquidity remains high

MANILA – The high liquidity situation in the country continues to result in the drop in Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) term deposit facility (TDF) rates.

Data released by the central bank Wednesday showed that the average rate of the seven-day facility fell to 1.7541 percent and the 14-day facility to 1.7860 percent.

These were at 1.7737 percent and How do the USCIS investigate marriage fraud?

1.8097 percent for the seven-day and 14day TDF, respectively, during the auction To detect frauds, the immigration authorities require a lot of proof last April 14. that a marriage is real, including more documentation than for other familyBoth tenors were fully awarded due to based immigration applicants. They subject marriage-based immigrants to a oversubscription. longer and more detailed personal interview than other applicants go through, Offer volume this week is also the as well as a two-year testing period for couples who have been married less same as last week.

The BSP offered the shorter-dated than two years when their green card is approved or when they enter the U.S. TDF for P140 billion and bids amounted on their immigrant visa. to P179.141 billion.

The U.S. government will not normally follow a couple around or invesIt off ered the 14-day TDF for PHP350 tigate their life beyond the required paperwork and the interviews it always

conducts. But it has the power to do so if it sees grounds for suspicion. Inspectors of the Department of Homeland Security can visit your home, talk to your friends, and interview your employers, and so on. By requiring more of married couples than of others, the U.S. government has set up a system that gives it a lot of information about whether a marriage is the real thing or not.

What is the information that the USCIS is looking for a married couple?

The “normal” married couple has a fair amount in common. They share a language and religion. They live together and do things together, like take vacations, celebrate important events, birthdays, and holidays, join clubs or gyms, and have sex and children. Typical couples also combine financial and other aspects of their lives after marriage. They demonstrate their trust in one another by sharing bank and credit card accounts and ownership of property, such as cars and houses. They celebrate each others’ birthdays and meet each others’ families.

Based on this information, it is advisable to seek the advice of an immigration attorney to inform you of the chances of your immigration petition or application.

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

Chris Caday Lozano, Esq. is an active member of the State Bar of California, the American Immigration Lawyers Association and San Francisco Trial Lawyers. He practices immigration law, bankruptcy and income tax law since June 1999. His contact phone is 1-877-456-9266, email: info@ CCLlaw.net We do a free telephonic consultation.

14

billion and tenders reached P403.632 billion.

In a statement, BSP Deputy Governor Francisco Dakila Jr. said this week’s TDF auction still shows there is “normal market conditions amid ample liquidity in the financial system.”

“Looking ahead, the BSP’s monetary operations will remain guided by its latest assessment of liquidity conditions and market developments,” he added.

Philippines eyes another euro bond issuance MANILA – The Philippines is again eyeing to issue euro-denominated benchmark bonds, a few months after it issued US dollar-denominated debt paper in December 2020.

A report from the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) showed that the Philippines has appointed BNP PARIBAS, Credit Suisse, Goldman Sachs, J.P. Morgan, Nomura, and Standard Chartered Bank as lead managers and joint bookrunners for the proposed offering.

It said a series of fixed income investors meetings are set in Asia, Europe, and the US starting April 19, 2021.

“A proposed four-year and/or 12year and/or 20-year euro-denominated US SEC-registered senior unsecured benchmark bond offering may follow,

subject to market conditions,” it added.

The planned offering is projected to be rated investment grade by Moody’s Investors Service, Baa2; S&P Global Ratings, BBB+; and Fitch Ratings, BBB. These ratings are the same that debt raters have for the Philippine economy.

Last December, the country raised US$2.75 billion (about P132 billion) from the issuance of 10- and 25-year Republic of the Philippines (ROP) bonds, proceeds of which will be used to finance the various government programs.

Authorities said such issuance is a success, especially since it fetched new record-low interest rates, with the coupon for the shorter-dated paper at 1.648 percent and 25-years at 2.65 percent per year.

MAKATI CITY – Filipino fast-food chain Binalot has introduced its home kitchen-based franchise that would no longer require a commercial space to offer Binalot food products.

Called ‘cloud franchise’, one can start a Binalot business at home.

“All we require you to have is your kitchen and a dedicated refrigerator and freezer for the Binalot stocks,” Binalot operations manager Judee Morente said.

He said Binalot will also provide training for operations, food handling, marketing, and human resources.

The company will also set up a delivery system so that the franchisee will have convenient food delivery service.

“Truly, this pandemic has affected the food industry worldwide, and Binalot was not spared. Sales decreased

to less than half as people stayed home, they stayed away from the malls and office spaces and factories became vacant. Thus, most of our current sales are in the form of delivery sales,” Morente added.

Binalot chief executive officer Rommel Juan said the company now shifts to community-based franchise as more people work from home and food deliveries in residential areas have increased.

“At Binalot, we try to see the opportunity in every crisis. Problems are seen as challenges that need to be addressed.

There is a need and we provide an opportunity to fill this need. So now we want to give this opportunity to offer Binalot to cloud franchisees to serve their own residential areas and have a profitable business for themselves,” Juan said.

Binalot launches home kitchen-based franchise

15 April 22-28, 2021

2-week ECQ sheds P180-B in PHL economy: DTI MAKATI CITY – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has estimated that the country lost 1 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) during the two-week enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) in National Capital Region (NCR) and four nearby provinces.

During the Laging Handa public briefing, DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez said the economic loss due to the half-a-month ECQ in NCR, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal (NCR Plus) is equivalent to PHP180 billion.

Earlier, Lopez said around 1.5 million Filipinos had no jobs during the ECQ in NCR Plus, and only 500,000 jobs were brought back when the quarantine classification for areas was downgraded to a less strict modified ECQ (MECQ).

“We want to see lower Covid-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) cases and lower utilization rate of (Covid-19 beds) before we ease the status to GCQ (general community quarantine),” he said.

The DTI chief also downplayed speculation that the reopening of economic activities and business establishments became the ‘super spreader’ of Covid-19.

Moratorium on new mining projects lifted

MAKATI CITY – The Chamber of Mines in the Philippines (COMP) and the Philippine Nickel Industry Association (PNIA) have lauded the decision of President Rodrigo Duterte to lift the nine-year moratorium on new mining projects.

“We welcome the lifting of the moratorium on new mining projects --in place for nearly nine years-- in this time of great national difficulty as a result of the Covid-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic,” COMP said.

COMP added the new mining projects will generate new revenues for the government in the form of taxes and fees, as well as royalty fees while increasing export revenues and job generation, especially in the rural areas.

“The removal of this policy roadblock will undoubtedly help encourage both local and foreign investments into the country. Since 2010, investor interest in the Philippines has declined.

Executive Order 130 will help bring the Philippines back on the investment map,” the group said.

PNIA said the lifting of the moratorium on new mining agreements recognizes the role of the mining industry in economic recovery and development.

 IMMIGRATIONS

Remittance by OFWs grows 1.6% to $5.65 B in first 2 months

MANILA - Personal remittances from overseas Filipinos (OFs) amounted to US$2.761 billion in February 2021, higher by 5.3 percent than the $2.623 billion recorded in February 2020.

The growth in cash remittances for January to February 2021 was sourced mainly from the United States (US), Malaysia and Singapore.

Meanwhile, in terms of country sources, the US registered the highest share to overall remittances at 41 percent for the first two months, followed by Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, Canada, Malaysia, Taiwan and Qatar.

The increase in personal remittances was attributed to the 7.8 percent growth in remittances from land-based workers with work contracts of one year or more to $2.152 billion from the $1.997 billion recorded in February 2020.

Meanwhile, remittances from seabased workers and land-based workers with work contracts of less than one year declined by 4.6 percent to $540 million from $566 million a year ago.

On a cumulative basis, remittances for the first two months of the year reached $5.655 billion, representing a 1.6 percent growth year-on-year from the $5.566 billion recorded in the comparable period in

2020, despite the slack in remittances recorded in January 2021.

Likewise, cash remittances from OFs coursed through banks rose by 5.1 percent to $2.477 billion in February 2021 from $2.358 billion in the comparable month a year ago.

In particular, cash remittances from land-based workers increased by 7.8 percent to $1.982 billion, while that of seabased workers decreased by 4.6 percent to $495 million.

For the first two months of 2021, cash remittances amounted to $5.08 billion, an increase of 1.5 percent compared to the $5.006 billion level in the same period last year.

SEC launches new company registration system PASAY CITY – The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has launched the Electronic Simplified Processing of Application for Registration of Company (eSPARC) to facilitate faster and easier registration of corporations in the country Starting April 19, the commission will accept and process under eSPARC all applications for registration of one person corporations (OPCs) and both stock and nonstock domestic corporations with at least two but not more than 15 incorporators who may either be natural persons, partnerships, associations or corporations.

SEC chairperson Emilio Aquino said eSPARC “brings us another step closer to our vision of a unified system” that can seamlessly handle the company registration process from end to end.

“As we proceed further with the commission’s digital transformation, we also have to ensure that our stakeholders may adapt well and be able to fully take advantage of our ongoing initiatives, which are after all aimed at improving the ease of doing business in the country for them.”

The new company registration system, which can be accessed at https://secwebapps.sec.gov.ph/application, replaced the interim registration system, which was previously used for the registration of OPCs and corporations with two to four incorporators, as well as the Company Registration System (CRS) for domestic and foreign-owned corporations with at least five incorporators.

With the launch of eSPARC, only applications for the registration of partnerships and foreign corporations will be accepted and processed in the CRS. Applications submitted through the CRS prior to April 19 will still be processed by the system, unless applicants are instructed to resubmit their applications through eSPARC. On eSPARC, applicants or their duly appointed representatives may submit their proposed company names, input their company information, and upload the documentary requirements for review by the commission. The system also features a real-time inquiry facility on the status of

applications.

The new system has been integrated with the SEC cashiering system and the commission’s online payment portal to provide a faster, seamless, and convenient means to pay registration fees. eSPARC is also linked to the Central Business Portal, the national government’s centralized platform that allows the public to access registration forms, fill out the information, and submit requirements needed for business registration and related transactions.

It is the latest initiative in the digital transformation program of the SEC. On March 15, the commission launched the online submission tool, which allows for the online submission of annual financial statements, general information sheet, and other covered reports.

Earlier on March 1, the commission launched an online payment portal, giving clients the option to settle their registration and other transaction fees through online banking or their digital wallets

Gross int’l reserves seen to remain high this year MAKATI CITY – An economist fore- (BOP) surplus, as well as to the country’s reserves last March partly to the decline in casts a positive turn-out for the country’s GIR, new record highs for which still pos- foreign investments due to the sell-off in gross international reserves (GIR) this sible in the coming months,” he said. the US and global bond markets, and the year despite a slide last March given the Ricafort attributed the drop in foreign wider trade deficit. positive outlook on structural flows like inflows from overseas Filipino workers Notice is hereby given that this is an Online Bid Process; only bids sub(OFWs). mitted through the online portal will be accepted. Please logon or register at The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas https://ezsourcing.acgov.org/.

(BSP) reported last week a 0.3-percent RFP #902000 Flexible Spending Accounts and Commuter Benefits month-on-month drop in the country’s Third-Party Administrator – Vendor Outreach: Wednesday, April 21, 2021 foreign reserves to US$104.82 billion. at 10:30AM TO ATTEND ONLINE: Join Microsoft Teams MeetingOR via Rizal Commercial Banking CorporaPhone: +1 415-915-3950 Conference ID: 504 517 635# NON-MANDATOtion (RCBC) chief economist Michael RY NETWORKING BIDDERS CONFERENCE: Wednesday, April 28, 2021 Ricafort said the decline is a four-month at 10:00AM TO ATTEND ONLINE : Join Microsoft Teams MeetingOR Call low. in (audio only) : +1 415-915-3950 Phone Conference ID: 403 142 027# Re“Continued inflows of the country’s sponse Due by 2:00 PM on June 2, 2021 County Contact: Kachina Handy structural US dollar inflows, even with at (510) 2089644 or via e-mail: kachina.handy@acgov.org.

Attendance at year-on-year declines for some of them, Vendor Outreach and/or Networking Conference is non-mandatory.

Specisuch as OFW remittances, BPO (business fi cations regarding the above may be obtained at the Alameda County GSA process outsourcing) revenues, POGO Current Contracting Opportunities Internet website at www.acgov.org.

(Philippine offshore gaming operators) 4/23/21 revenues, foreign investments may still be CNS-3460760# added to the country’s balance of payments

 ENTERTAINMENT

April 22-28, 2021

18

FilAm actress Alice Dixson welcomes first baby at 51 the fairy princess in Okay Ka Fairy Ko, the television fantasy comedy series that aired in the Philippines from 1987 to A first time mother at 51?

That’s the case of Filipino American 1996. We also know her for the “I can feel it” Palmolive soap commercial that made actress Alice Dixson.

She gave birth to her first child in the her famous.”

Cato, a former journalist, added: “Two United States and immediately announced the “miracle” on her Instagram and Face- weeks ago, actress, model, beauty queen book accounts and splashed in the media and new mom Alice Dixson visited us at in the Philippines and the United States. the Philippine Consulate General in New She accompanied her announcement York to process her baby’s visa applicawith a photo of a document imprinted tion. A few days later, Alice messaged us with baby’s feet and stated her wish has from Manila to say that she and her baby finally come true after a long wait of 10 arrived safely and to thank us for the assistance extended.” years.

In interviews before she gave birth, “Despite the unexpected trials this year. God gave us a little miracle,” she Dixson has been open about wanting to have a baby and her dream of being a said in the caption The baby of Alice automatically is an mother despite her age.

“For those of you who really know me American citizen by birth like her having — you’ve known that I’ve been praying been born 51 years ago in Florida.

But before she and her baby returned for this every year on my birthday for 10 to the Philippines, Alice secured a visa for years now. Each year — my wish [is] the same when I blew out my candles,” she the baby.

Consul General Elmer G. Cato of the said.

“So with great patience, belief and Philippine Consulate General in New York posted on Facebook a photo of Alice trust — I am happy to announce my wish upcoming teleserye “Legal Wives.”

Dixson was previously married to has finally come true,” she added. with him and the PCG staff. businessman Ronnie Miranda from 1999 “From my family to yours, advanced Cato wrote in the caption of the photo 2013.

They separated due to what Dixtos: “Most of us remember her as Faye, Happy Easter,” said the star of GMA’s son described in interviews as “irreconcilable differences.

It is unclear who the father of the baby is, but in a 2019 interview with Karen Davila on ANC’s “Headstart,” Dixson revealed that she and her unnamed partner were in the process of surrogacy. The actress also mentioned that she had doubts of ever having a baby.

She spoke of her personal journey, “Sa akin (For me), it was never about the way that I would look after [the pregnancy]. It was about my age and my concern about the safety of the child, the wellness of the pregnancy. I had tried previously, it didn’t work out, so my partner and I decided, okay, let’s try surrogacy.

“I have not given up on [surrogacy], and I think this is our last year to try,” IN NEW YORK. FilAm actress Alice Dixson poses with Consul General Elmer Cato and staff at the she said.

PCG office at the Philippine Center in New York.

By Jo Erlinda Maufit

Alice had disclosed that she tried getting pregnant, but “it didn’t work out.”

She said, “Sa akin it was never about the way I would look after. It was about my age and my concern about the safety of the child, the wellness of the pregnancy. I’ve tried previously and it didn’t work out. So parang my partner and I decided, ‘Okay let’s try surrogacy.’”

Alice and her partner have been together for nine years. They met in April 2012, and were introduced by her makeup artist Jean Castor.

To this day, she has not revealed his name. But in some of her previous posts, she referred to him as “GS.” On Instagram, fellow actors shared their excitement. Ogie Alcasid wrote, “Oh wow[!] Praise God,” and Bianca Manalo posted heart emojis. Screenwriter Garlic Garcia said, “Truly happy for you Alice. I know this silent prayer in your heart. We rejoice with you.”

Metro Manila Film Festival summer edition scrapped, yearend edition set The Metro Manila Film Festival Executive Committee has decided to postpone the summer edition of the annual film event.

In a statement, the committee led by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority said the decision stays until partner cinemas are again able to open.

Cinemas in the metropolis are closed because of strict community quarantine.

The MMFF EXECOM also decided to focus on the yearend holiday festival.

Deadlines were also announced for the submission of entries.

Deadline of submission of letter of intent will be at 5 p.m. on June 30

(Wednesday).

Deadline of submission of finished film entries and other required documents including official trailer/clippings/ behind-the-scenes will be 5 p.m.., September 3 (Friday) for Early Birds and September 30 for regular submission The committe said announcement of the 8 official finished film-entries will be on October 15 (Friday).

The MMFF said it is encouraging producers and filmmakers to submit entries that would inspire, uplift and connect to a broader Filipino audience for this year’s film festival amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

19 April 22-28, 2021 DENNIS PADILLA RECOVERING FROM THE VIRUS

In a recent interview, my friend Actor Dennis Padilla revealed to fans that he recently tested positive for the novel coronavirus and underwent isolation, but that he has now fully recovered.

In a recent interview, Dennis shared that he spent 12 days confined at a hospital.

In his first days in confinement, DEnnis admitted that he was scared for his life, but prayed for recovery as he wants to be there for his children.

“Talagang nung first, second, third day… kasi tinataas ko lang yung kamay ko. Sabi ko, ‘Lord, hindi ko alam kung ito na yun.’ Sabi ko lang sa Kanya, ‘Sana mapagbigyan mo pa ako ng isa pang pagkakataon, kasi maliliit pa yung mga anak ko,”‘ Padilla recalled.

(On the first, second, third day… I just raised my hand and said, “Lord, I do not know if this is it.” I just told Him, “I hope You can still give me one more chance, because my children are still young.”)

“Sana (I hope), You can give me another chance for life,’” he added.

The actor also shared that during his isolation, he still got to talk to his children almost every night and learned that his children were praying for his recovery as well.

“Ang paniwala ko, mukhang pinakamalakas na pakinggan ng Panginoon yung mga dasal ng mga anak ko (I believe that the strongest prayers that God hears are those of my children),” he said.

“They were praying for their father. They were praying for my recovery,” he added.

Although he did not mention where he was confined, Dennis recently posted a photo of him with a health worker at the Capitol Medical Center and thanked the hospital staff.

Dennis is one of many celebrities who have battled or are battling COVID-19, including President Erap, Iza Calzado, Michael V, Christopher DeLeon, K Brosas, Rhian Ramos, Ted Failon, Sunshine Cruz, Gab & Angeli Valenciano, Angelica Jones and Angeline Quinto, Nikki Valdez, Joel Lamangan, and Claire Dela Fuente, who unfortunately didn’t recover.

Take care and be safe everyone!

JUDY ANN SANTOS COOKS FOR SHARON CUNETA Actress, Sharon Cuneta thanked Judy Ann Santos for taking care of her cravings while she was sick.

In her Instagram account, Sharon posted photos of Juday’s cooking to thank her showbiz sister.

“Hindi po nya binebenta ito. Pero ilang araw na ako pinagluluto ng kapatid kong si Juday @officialjuday para daw lumakas at gumaling ako agad!” Sharon wrote “Tulad ng pinakamasarap na Chicken Curry sa mundo na gawa nya and alam nyang paborito ko. Nung isang araw naman champorado, arroz caldo, at lahat na yata ng paborito ko pinagbuhusan niya ng panahon at pagod para lang sa akin,” she added.

Apart from cooking, Sharon also shared that Juday checked her from time to time with her condition.

“Mayat-maya tinetext nya ako. Nung isang araw magkafacetime kami. Iba si Juday sa puso at buhay ko.

Hanggang kabilang buhay magkasama at magdadamayan kami. I love you with all my heart, sis. Thank you so much for taking good care of me,” she said.

Juday commented on Sharon’s post, assuring Sharon that she will always be there for her.

“Feel better soon my ate... Basta kumain ka lang, I’ll take care of you kahit hanggang sa pagkain lang muna...

Just promise me that you will take care of yourself as well... I love you ate... I’m just here no matter what.”

Thanks you all for reading Phils News Today. Be safe & God Bless everyone!

 ENTERTAINMENT

Sunshine Dizon moving to ABS-CBN?

Is Sunshine Dizon switching to the Kapamilya network after 25 years with GMA Network?

The poser was raised after two Kapuso stars were the subject of blind items speculating that they were moving to the Kapamilya network.

There is no confirmation of Sunshine’s decision to transfer to the ABS-CBN group but showbiz editor Evelyn Diao reported that the actress attended the story conference of the new drama series led by Paulo Avelino and Janine Gutierrez.

The rumored transfer came as a surprise for some of her fans. How could Sunshine transfer while she has

been properly taken care by her home network, they asked.

She has been given new projects and the feedbacks about those have been good, it was learned.

But according to sources, GMA-7 did not renew her contract, therefore, she is now free to accept projects from other agencies. It was not disclosed if Sunshine did sign an exclusive contract with Kapamilya network.

Her manager Perry Lansigan has not yet commented on the report even as fans wait for Sunshine’s statement on her transfer.

The series would be a reunion of former Kapuso and now Kapamilya artists — Janine Gutierrez, Paulo Avelino with Sunshine Dizon. Janine and Paulo became known for their good performances since they left the network where they started.

One of the reasons they transferred is career move.

Moving forward, not backward. And definitely not standing or sitting still.

There are many tradeoffs and adjustments in every transfer particulary now that ABS-CBN is shut down and has no franchise.

So while it may not be an entirely financial reason, what could have led some of the Kapuso artists to move to the Kapamilya station like Angel Locsin, Anne Curtis, Toni Gonzaga, Iza Calzado and Regine Velasquez?

Speculations are they are hundred percent grateful to the Kapuso network for starting them up. But just like any growing child, they felt the need to grow in another environment. it was learned.

 REAL ESTATE

April 22-28, 2021

SM Prime sets P80-billion capex this year

20

At 60 do I s�ll want to own a house?

Caller: Hi Ken, I have been following your columns for many years and they are very informative and delightful. I am turning 60 and wanting to buy a in Capiz.

By Jeanne Michael Penaranda home again, I am retiring in a couple more years and The company also aims to launch 15,000 would like your opinion on this subject. I sold my PASIG CITY – SM Prime Holdings, to 20,000 residential units with its primary house in 2006 because I read your article about cashing out profits because the market was getting too hot Inc. (SM Prime) has earmarked P80 bil- residential business segment, SM Developand a possible melt down in the RE market is inevilion for capital expenditures this year to ment Corp. (SMDC), sustaining its growth table. I am really grateful that I followed my instinct boost mainly its mall and residential busi- in the previous year amidst the pandemic. and sold it back then. I have been renting at a very Meanwhile, SM Prime will continue ness segments with due consideration to the low price since, there are only two of us and our chilchallenges brought about by the coronavi- assisting the national government in its efdren are all grown already. I am very happy now but been getting a lot of solicitation to buy a house from forts to combat the spread of Covid-19 in rus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic. different people. Please give me your honest opinion.

“We all know that the Covid-19 pan- the Philippines, primarily in key areas such Ken: Thanks so much for the message and I am so happy that at least one person demic continues to challenge many compa- as Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Rizal, did listen to my advice back then when the entire market was ignoring any signs of nies around the globe, including SM Prime, and Laguna where the number of cases are a huge bubble. Since both of you are retied and I feel like your retirement income but we remain committed to enhance the still high. will just eat away any possibility of both of you enjoying your retirement. I am going to suggest that you just continue to rent. Your retirement income is enough for a “At the same time, we will continue value of your company for the benefit of all descent rental apartment but not enough for a descent home mortgage payment, you our stakeholders,” SM Prime president Jef- exploring opportunistic acquisitions and/ do have savings for a down payment but I wanted you to keep that deposit as your or investments that are well within our core frey Lim said in a statement, emergency funds, if you deplete your savings put in into a house and still have to pay This 2021, SM Prime is scheduled to competencies and expand further in promore than half of your retirement into a mortgage. I am afraid that it might be too open three new malls in the Philippines vincial areas where we can operate,” Lim tight for you, what if you have to fix something and keep up with the maintenance of the house? With a house you will be left with a very little spendable income and provided that quarantine measures are added. almost no emergency funds.

In the coming weeks, SM Prime will eased and with utmost concern for people’s I suggest for you to continue to rent, keep the savings and enjoy your full retirestart rolling out its vaccination program safety. ment in a couple of years. If my calculations are correct you can enjoy a minimum Lim said two of the three new SM malls among its employees to protect them from of one trip back home to the Philippines every year with plenty of pasalubong (gifts) are located in Luzon –the SM City Daet in Covid-19. and at least 2-3 small weekend trips locally. The Trump government is coming with a tax break that will benefit renters to stay as tenants, I will keep an eye and report to It has committed to donate a portion of Camarines Norte and the SM City Grand you once the law passes.

Central in Caloocan City. The third mall lo- the vaccines it procured to the national govCaller: I have a home in Whittier and there is a lot of equity in the house. I got cated in the Visayas is the SM City Roxas ernment to support its program divorced and I get to keep the house and the mortgage. I am retired and only working part time therefore my total income is less than $1500 a month. I need about $40,000 to keep my property updated and make it livable. Can you help me refinance my home loan and get me some cash out?

Ken: I have been talking to this caller for about 6 months, initially I already requested her to get a line of credit from a Credit Union to fix her roof and garage because it was so bad that you can actually see the sky thru holes in the garage. I had mention to her prior that she will not be able New Funeral home with Reception Center Flower Shop to get descent financing even though she has about $350K Beautiful Garden Memorial Park Cremation Services equity in the house. Her actual retirement income is not enough for her to qualify for any amount. She can’t even We transfer your loved ones to and from the Philippines qualify for her own existing loan. She did get a $25K line of credit that was good prior but because she was so worried to borrow more money back then, she just opt to get $25K out, now that she realized that she needed more work on the house, she is left with no other option. She does not want to sell because she has been there for over 40 years but now she can’t take any of the equity out because she can’t qualify.

This is a very common situation now, where retired homeowners have all their equity invested in their homes but they can’t use the equity. They are struggling check to check and have no other way to enjoy the fruits of their labor. Retired homeowners are also very conservative where they don’t want to keep taking money out, they are old school investors and they still believe in savings and paying off home mortgages.

Here is a dash of this new century mentality into that thought. If that was me, I would sell the house and use the proceeds to buy smaller house cash and enjoy the rest of the money slowly. I have to assume I still have a descent retirement income and that money is to basically do longer trips and enjoy better thing in life while I can. But of course, TTT BBBBBBBBB NNN FFFFFFF HHHH RRRRRRRRR CCCCCC CCCCCCC LLLL for me easier said than done, these homeowners might have a lot of emotional attachments and memories towards this real estate hence, would not like to let go. I seriously understand, but I also see them struggling and settling for a lot less than what they deserve. We all work hard and our efforts deserve to be compensated regardless of mistakes done or mishaps, hard work is still hard work and can’t be replaced.

My advice to more mature homeowners, a house turns into a home when you live in it. You should consider other change to suit your financial needs and change is good.

Thanks for your comments and support, please feel free to call Ken Go at 1st Innovative Finance Group at 562-508-7048 or write to kennethgo@verizon. net. BRE 01021223 NMLS 238636

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21 April 22-28, 2021

NEWS  NATIONAL SPORTS NEWS

MANILA/TASHKENT - Rio Olympics silver medalist Hidilyn Diaz has qualified for the rescheduled Tokyo 2020 Olympics set this July at the Asian Weightlifting Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

The 30-year-old becomes the country’s seventh Olympic qualifier joining boxers Eumir Marcial, Irish Magno, Nesthy Petecio, and Carlo Paalam, world champion gymnast Carlos Yulo, and pole vaulter EJ Obiena.

Diaz lifted a 90kg snatch on her second attempt and that was all she needed to book that ticket to Tokyo, according to reports from Tashkent.

Diaz though missed the podium as she finished only 4th overall in the tournament with a 94kg snatch and a 118kg clean and jerk.

The Zamboanguena weightlifter is on a mission to win the Philippines’ first ever gold medal in the Olympics after she became the first Filipina woman to win a silver medal in the Rio Olympics in 2016.

After Hidilyn’s stint, teenage Filipina weightlifting sensation Vanessa Sarno delivered the Philippines’ first two golds in the tournament.

The 17-year-old Sarno lifted a total of 229kgs in the women’s 71kg final to win the gold, followed by Turkmenistan’s Gulnabat Kadyrova (223kgs) and Kazakhstan’s Yekaterina Bykova (213 kgs).

It was Sarno’s golden finish in the clean and jerk cat-

egory that made her top the total lifts, after comfortably clearing the 120, 124, and 128kg lifts in all her three attempts.

Kadyrova edged Sarno by just a kilogram, 102-101, in the snatch event as the Boholana weightlifter took home the silver medal in that category. Sarno aced the 93, 97, and 101kg lifts in her three snatch attempts.

With Sarno’s victory, the Philippines now won a total of two golds, six silvers, and one bronze in the Asian weightlifting tournament that will last until April 25.

Elreen Ando bagged two silvers and one bronze in the women’s 64kg final on Tuesday, while Mary Flor Diaz notched three silvers in the women 45kg division final last Sunday.

Samahang Weightlifting ng Pilipinas President Monico Puentevella lauded Sarno’s feat, but emphasized that she has to wait for the final world rankings to determine whether she can make the cut in the Tokyo Olympics.

Sarno won two golds and two silvers in the 2019 Asian Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships.

Last year, she plucked three golds in the International Weightlifting Online World Youth Championship.

Diaz immediately thanked the government and private sectors for providing her the needed help to keep her Tokyo Olympic bid alive especially amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

“Sobrang thankful ako sa private sectors na tumulong sa akin like last year na akala namin hindi namin ma-survive ang stay namin sa (I am so thankful to the private sectors who helped me like last year, we first thought we would not survive our stay in) Malaysia,” Diaz said in an interview with Noel Ferrer on Instagram on Sunday night, right after she formally clinched a spot in the Olympics by participating in the Asian Weightlifting Championship in Tashkent, PNA reported.

Diaz decided to hold her training camp in Kuala Lumpur, but her stay in the Malaysian capital has been prolonged by the pandemic.

She thanked the MVP Sports Foundation, which according to her has remained steadfast in providing for her needs.

Kai Sotto inks 2-year deal with Aussie team; Kobe Paras goes to US

MANILA – The Philippine Sports Commission’s (PSC) went on a 10-workday lockdown starting April 13 after 63 persons tested positive in its latest round of testing.

Both the administrative offices at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila and the Philsports Complex in Pasig City will be under confinement to give way to thorough disinfection and cleansing.

Lawyer Guillermo Iroy Jr., PSC Executive Direc-

tor, has been meeting the management committee of the PSC through the holiday and weekends to ensure that the agency’s health safety protocols are revisited and fortified.

Iroy said they have reiterated the observance of all safety protocols in place and shall have more stringent measures and sanctions for those discovered not following these rules.

“It is for their and everyone’s safety. We all have a family to protect,” he said.

The PSC’s office operations shall shift to work-fromhome arrangements on those lockdown dates to ensure that delivery of service remains unhampered.

“We hope to break the transmission during those days, to arrest the spread of Covid-19 among our employees,” Chief of Staff Marc Velasco said.

Velasco stressed that heads of offices have already been given instructions on the work-from-home set-up and expectations.

“We are still waiting for some test results and we are hoping that we do not add any more positives,“ Velasco said, adding that there were only 41 positive cases when the request was submitted to the Office of the President last Friday.

Sa bisa ng pag-agaw ng korona ng WBO welterweight noong 2009 kay Miguel Cotto ng Puerto Rico at ng matagumpay na ipagtanggol ito laban kay Joshua Clottey ng Ghana, pinangalanan ang idolo ng bayan na si Manny Pacquao ng Boxing Writers Association of America “Fighter of the Decade” ng dekada 2000-2010.

Ito ay bukod sa karan- EDDIE G. ALINEA galang pangatlong beses na iginawad sa kanya ng prestihiyosong samahan bilang ‘Sugar Ray Robinson Fighter of the Year’ na naunang ipinarangal sa kanya noong mga taong 2006 at 2008.

Ang dakilang heavyweight sa daigdig na si ‘Smokin’ Joe Frazier ang nag-abot kay Manny ng tropeo sa isang seremonyang ginanap sa Roosevelt Hotel sa New York noong ika-4 ng Hunyo, 2010.

Sa laban ding ito muling nabuhay ang usapan tungkol Ang dapat sana’y poster sa labang Pacquiaosa planong Maywearther noong 2010. (Eddie G. Alinea) pagharapin ang bagong kampeong Pilipino at wala pang talong si Floyd Mayweather Jr. matapos ipahayag ni Bob Arum, ang promoter ni Pacquiao, na siya ay pumirma na ng kasunduan noong Mayo 13 nang nasabi ring taon para sa laban ng kanyang bata kay Mayweather na aniya’y nakatakda na sa Nobiyembre 13.

Pero gaya ng naunang usapan, ang di pagkakasundo ng dalawang kampo sa sistema ng drug testing na gagamitin ang naging malaking balakid para matuloy ng tinaguriang “Super Fight.”

Walong araw lamang ang nakalipas, noong Hunyo 12, 2010, si Oscar De La Hoya, pangulo ng Golden Boy Promotions, ang nagdeklara, sa isang panayam sa Spanish Network, na ang nabanggit na kasunduan, bagamat mahirap matupad ay maaring malapit nang maidaos. Pahayag na pinagtibay ni Arum na pinatunayan pa ng lahat ng di pagkakaunawaan ay na-resolba na at ang pirma na lamang ni ‘Money Man’ ang hinihintay bago ito maging opisyal.

Katunayan, anang CEO ng Top Rank, nagkasundo na rin ang dalawang kampo sa $40 milyong premyong paghahatian ni Pacquiao at Mayweather.

“Kasinungalingan,” bintang naman ni Leonard Ellerbe, isa sa mga pinakamalapit na tagapayo ni Mayweather, na nagsabing wala namang negosasyong nangyayari. Noong Hulyo 26, 2010, nakihalo si Ross Greenburg sa debate sa pagtatapat na siya ang nagsisilbing nasa gitna ng usapan sa pagitan ng kampo ni Pacquiao at Mayweather at ang mga grupo ay wala pang positibong napagkakasunduan, taliwas sa sinasabi ni Arum at ng kampo ng Pilipino.

Pagkaraang ang pangalawang negosasyon ay nai-deklarang kanselado, ipinagtapat ni Mayweather sa Associated Press na katatapos lamang niyang lumaban animnapung araw ang nakalilipas at wala siyang interes na madaliin ang susunod niyang pakikipagsayaw sa ibabaw ng ring.

Sa gitna ng mga kaguluhang ito at sa nangyayaring hilahan sa lubid sa pagitan ng dalawang nag-aalitang kampo, nagpahayag si Arum na naitakda na niya na lalaban si Pacquiao kay Antonio Margarito sa Nobiyembre 13, 2010 para sa bakanteng titulo ng WBC light-middleweight o super-welterweight.

At kung magwawagi si Pacman, siya ang tatanghaling kaisa-isang nilalang sa kasaysayan ng boksing na maghahari sa walong dibisyon.

Outside Looking In

Hidilyn Diaz seals slot for Tokyo Olympics

Pacquiao-Mayweather: Usapan bingong muli

April 22-28, 2021

22

Q: After clicking on a link from an email, my computer froze and it told me to call a number who was asking me for money to unfreeze my computer. What can I do?

A: I am assuming there is no presence of an anti virus installed in your computer. Also, I am assuming you have not backed up your data or do not even back up your data. So the question now is to pay or not to pay? What do you do when your information has been kidnapped by an unknown perpetrator? This crime is called Ransomware.

The U.S. Government has been going after these cyber criminals but they are working in different countries using the internet as a way to hack into your computer. Hackers are able to hold your computers hostage by getting into your data through the internet and encrypting your data. After doing so, you will need a key to decrypt the data so you can use them again. The catch is that you have to buy this key from them in order to unlock your files and this will cost you.

The best defense is to always have an updated anti virus installed on your computer. Also, don’t be too quick on clicking on links and pop ups that show up when you are visiting unknown sites. Stay away from unverified websites.

As a second defense in case they get through your anti virus, back up your data every two days just so you can preserve your information. Sometimes these criminals become very creative and get through your defenses. This way you can always format your hard drive and reinstall your whole system with very little loss rather than losing all your data to a hacker.

Ang ating lesson, Laging maging handa sa magnanakaw, dahil iba iba ang anyo nito sa ibabaw.

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 COMMUNITY NEWS

April 22-28, 2021

24

McDonald’s and BTS partner to offer the supergroup’s favorite order The BTS meal will hit participating U.S. restaurants sStarting May 26

CHICAGO – Get ready, because the Golden Arches are about to shine even brighter thanks to a new collab with 21st century global pop icons, BTS. This one-of-a-kind menu “tour” officially kicks off on May 26 in the U.S., when customers can enjoy the BTS Meal at participating restaurants nationwide.

The superstar band’s signature order includes a 10-piece Chicken McNuggets®, medium World Famous Fries®, medium Coke®, and for the first time ever in the U.S., Sweet Chili and Cajun dipping sauces inspired by popular recipes from McDonald’s South Korea (cue even more ecstatic celebrating!).

“The band has great memories with McDonald’s. We’re excited about this collaboration and can’t wait to share the BTS Meal with the world,” says BIGHIT MUSIC, label of BTS. Since 2013, BTS has topped charts and brought people together from all over the world through their music and positive messages. Following the successful launch of McDonald’s celebrity signature orders program last year, BTS is the latest icon to have their signature menu items featured at participating restaurants. However, they’ll be the first celebs to share their order with customers worldwide. That’s right… for the first time since McDonald’s launched celebrity signature orders, the BTS Meal will be available globally in nearly 50 countries.

Over the next few months, customers everywhere will find themselves that much closer to their favorite artists. You can find a full list of participating countries as well as dates for meal availability below.

“BTS truly lights up the world stage, uniting people across the globe through their music,” said Morgan Flatley, Chief

Marketing Officer, McDonald’s USA. “We’re excited to bring customers even closer to their beloved band in a way only McDonald’s can – through our delicious food – when we introduce the BTS signature order on our menu next month.”

U.S. customers will be able to order the BTS Meal in-restaurant, through contactless mobile order and pay in the McDonald’s App, at the Drive Thru or via McDelivery. So mark your calendars for May 26, and be sure to keep an eye out on McDonald’s social channels (@mcdonalds) for regular updates on the collab, including even more surprises in the coming weeks!

About McDonald’s USA McDonald’s USA, LLC, serves a variety of menu options made with quality ingredients to nearly 25 million customers every day. Ninety-five percent of McDonald’s 14,000 U.S. restaurants are independently owned and operated by businessmen and women. For more information, visit www.mcdonalds.com, or follow us on Twitter @McDonalds and Facebook www.facebook.com/mcdonalds.

How do the approved

vaccine options compare?

The three current COVID-19 vaccines approved for use in the U.S. are Pfizer-BioNtech, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson.

How effective are they?

Potential side effects

How many shots?

All three vaccines more than meet the 50 percent effectiveness threshold required by the FDA.

Pfizer-BioNTech

Moderna

Johnson & Johnson

Two shots are required, 21 days apart.

Two shots are required, 28 days apart.

One shot required.

Pain at injection site, tiredness, headache, muscle pain, joint pain, chills and fever

Pain at injection site, tiredness, headache, muscle pain, joint pain and chills

Pain at injection site, headache, fatigue and muscle pain

AARP is fighting to protect the health of Asian Americans & Pacific Islanders 50+ and their families by providing trusted information and resources surrounding COVID-19.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccination at aarp.org/vaccineinfo

25 April 22-28, 2021

It’s All About Timing: How California Residents Can Use Cleaner Energy to Keep California Golden

O

ver the past two decades, CaliCommunity-based organization, fornia has undergone a transforActerra, has partnered with Energy Upmation focused on increasing grade California, a program of the Calithe state’s consumption of electricity fornia Public Utilities Commission, to generated by renewable energy reencourage residents to use energy more sources. These efforts are tied in part to efficiently to keep California golden. the state’s goal to become a zero-carbon The program also aims to ensure resielectricity state by 2045. Now’s the time dents are educated about the importance to think about energy and harness the of using cleaner energy and understand power of California’ abundant wind and how to do so. solar energy.

“The state is not asking Californians WHEN YOU USE to not use energy, change their lifestyles or turn their schedules upside down,” ENERGY MATTERS says Lauren Weston, Executive DirecThe state’s electric grid is increasing- tor, Acterra. “Instead, it is encouraging ly powered by clean, renewable sources ISO 12647-7 Digital Control Strip 2009 Californians to efficiently use power 100 60 60 100 70 30 100 60 100 70 sun30 100 70 30 100 40 of energy; when the is out100and the between the hours of 4:00 to 9:00 p.m.* wind is blowing. Most Californians have and shift use to parts of the day when the option to use cleaner energy through electricity from renewable resources their current electricity providers. The (such as solar and wind) is more readily challenge is in the70 70late afternoon and available.”

100 100 60 100 100 30 30 100 100 60 100 100 70 70 30 30 100 100 60 100 100 70 70 30 30 100 40 evening, when demand for energy peaks.

HOW TO USE At this time, electricity is more likely to be produced by traditional energy CLEANER ENERGY sources, which emits greenhouse gases.

By making a few small changes to 3%

A

B

your routine you can help create a big down and unplug your devices from change for California. It’s as simple as 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. to ensure you’re shifting when you use energy. Acterra using cleaner energy. alongside Energy Upgrade California is TIME IS MONEY, EVEN WHEN IT encouraging residents to use less enCOMES TO ENERGY ergy from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.* for Beginning in April 2021, Northern a cleaner California. You can optimize California residents will transition to an your clean energy use by: electricity time-of-use (TOU) rate plan. ● Charging your devices overUnder the new TOU plans, residents night. When you remember to plug your will be encouraged to conserve power phone in before you fall asleep, you can between the hours of 4:00 and 9:00 charge your devices overnight with the p.m.* The availability of cleaner energy power of wind instead of on peak hours. during the day creates an opportunity ● Setting your slow cooker. Flip for Californians to think about not only on your slow cooker before you leave how, but also when electricity is used to for the so40 that 40 100 40 100day 70 40 you 40 40can 40 70 40 home 70 40 40 3 power 10 their 25 daily50lives.75 90 100 40 70 70 40 come to the smell of ready to eat meals made Join Californians from all over the with cleaner energy. state in rallying together to combat ● Preloading the dishwasher. Load climate change and preserve and protect your dishwasher after dinner, but turn it 3.1 2.2 2.2 the10.2environment for future generations.

7.4 7.4 25 19 19 50 40 40 75 66 66 100 100 100 80 70 70 100 100 40 40 100 10 40 40 20 70 70 70 70 40 70 40 40 0000 on in the morning — your dirty dishes For more information, visit https://www. will be clean by dinnertime and made energyupgradeca.org/time-of-use. spotless with cleaner energy. *Peak times may vary by rate and/or ● Powering Down. Turn off, turn energy provider.

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DO LAUN D R Y BEFOR E 4 P M OR A FTER 9P M , W H E N M O RE C L E A N ENERG Y IS AVA IL A BL E. Fro m 4-9P M , d e m a n d i s at i t s hi g hes t and l es s clean e n e rg y i s ava i l a b l e . Sh i ft yo u r e n e rg y u se to keep p ol l uti on d ow n an d C a l i fo rn i a sh i n i n g b ri g ht . Le a rn m o re at PowerDown4 to9 . org

F24527_40b_DirtyClothes_Newspaper_English_9_75x5_88.indd 02.23.2021 EPSON hn

 COMMUNITY NEWS

April 22-28, 2021

26

PG&E contributes $500,000 to restaurant resilience fund to strengthen businesses for the long-term Restaurants in 6 coun�es can apply for pandemic relief through new grant program

SAN FRANCISCO, California — Effective immediately, restaurants in six Northern and Central California counties can apply for a $3,500 grant to help them rebound from the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The California Restaurant Foundation’s (CRF) Restaurants Care Resilience Fund is accepting applications April 11-18, 2021.

Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) contributed $500,000 to the fund to assist small restaurants struggling in the wake of stay-at-home orders and other pandemic restrictions that have affected their businesses.

Grants are available to California resident-owned restaurants with 50 or fewer employees in these Northern and Central California counties: Alameda, Fresno, Kern, Sacramento, San Francisco, and San Joaquin.

The Restaurants Care Resilience Fund is focused on long-term resilience for small restaurants that have struggled the most during the pandemic. Special consideration will be given to minority- and women-owned businesses. In addition to the $3,500 grant, restaurants will receive one year of small business support services.

“What’s really unique about our Resilience Fund is that it supports the business as

well as individual restaurant workers,” said Alycia Harshfield, Executive Director of the California Restaurant Foundation. “A portion of the funds raised will provide grants for cooks, servers, dishwashers and more who face unforeseen hardship and have nowhere else to turn. So yes, we’re helping restaurants keep their crew on payroll, while also offering a safety net for when things get tough.”

To qualify, restaurants must be currently open and have had a revenue loss of more than 20% from 2019 to 2020. Funding is intended to be used on payroll and related expenses such as increasing hours and bringing on new hires.

“Many local restaurants are cornerstones of their towns and communities, and they have suffered tremendously during the COVID-19 pandemic. These small businesses provide jobs, help families celebrate important milestones, and fuel local economies. PG&E is supporting the Restaurants Care Resilience Fund to help restaurants keep their doors open, and we’re continuing to help these and our other business customers recover from the financial effects of the pandemic,” said PG&E Executive Vice President and Chief Customer Officer Marlene Santos.

Assisting Small and Medium Businesses PG&E remains committed to serving

its Small and Medium Business customers throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the pandemic began, PG&E has: Implemented a moratorium on service disconnections for non-payment for all business and residential customers.

Offered flexible payment plans to support customers.

Suspended all collection activities including notices and calls. Customers who are currently on payment plans will continue to receive courtesy reminders.

Launched Time-of-Use rate plan outreach, contacting customers who would benefit from the new rate plan and save money.

Provided resource information to all business customers, including PG&E resources and external support for businesses including the U.S. Small Business Paycheck Protection Program and California state support programs.

Provided newsletters and direct mail information on COVID-19 resources.

Conducted outreach to eligible customers to enroll in a discounted rate for businesses struggling to stay open.

For more information on PG&E Small and Medium Business customer support, visit pge.com/smbsupport.

Supporting Nonprofits Battling COV-

ID-19 PG&E’s $500,000 contribution is part of the $1.25 million it is contributing in 2021 to nonprofit organizations assisting vulnerable individuals, families and communities, as well as small businesses, as they cope with the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Contributions are focused on nonprofits addressing food insecurity, minorityand women-owned small businesses, general community relief, utility bill assistance and youth programming.

PG&E’s continuing support for the customers and communities it serves builds on the $1 million in funding provided to nonprofits supporting COVID-19 relief in 2020 from PG&E and The PG&E Corporation Foundation. These charitable contributions are shareholder-funded, not funded by PG&E customers.

About PG&E Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation (NYSE:PCG), is a combined natural gas and electric utility serving more than 16 million people across 70,000 square miles in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit pge. com and pge.com/news.

H Mart San Francisco holds grand opening supporting and contributing to the local community. Supplied directly from its California warehouse and local farms, H Mart brings fresh goods and produce to the local neighborhood in San Francisco.

H Mart’s one-stop-shopping experience highlights unique food selection and welcoming experience for the entire family and local foodies. The new store will feature an in-store food hall offering various cuisines, as well as Paris Baguette, a popular Korean bakery.

SAN FRANCISCO, California – The much anticipated opening of H Mart store at its new 48,200 square-foot location in San Francisco, located at 3995 Alemany Boulevard, Ocean view Village Shopping Center, finally happened on April 21.

This is the first H Mart store in San Francisco.

H Mart features a variety of fresh produce groceries, meats, seafood, health and beauty products, frozen foods, and quality services,

Food Hall Highlights In addition to grocery shopping, customers will be able to grab a bite to eat from its mega food hall called “Ktown Food Hall”. The store’s food hall will feature authentic and fusion Korean food, and Chinese cuisine: * DA PAN: Asian Fusion * Hong Kong Ban Jeom: Korean Style Chinese Cusine * DA S.F.C: Korean Casual Food * DAEHO: Korean Authentic Cusine * Left Wing: Korean style Fried Chicken * Paris Baguette bakery (coming soon): Bakery serving coffee/beverages, breads & pastries, sandwich and salads, cakes and desserts “We’re happy to welcome H Mart to San Francisco,” said San Francisco Mayor London N. Breed. “The community has been asking for a grocery store for a long time, and we are glad to see this space finally being filled. This new store will provide local jobs, and makes it easier for the neighborhood to access quality food,

and help support our economic recovery as we emerge from this pandemic.”

H Mart President, Brian Kwon said, “As the community waits for H Mart San Francisco to open, we will prepare hard every day to serve customers and go beyond any expectations. We assure that H Mart San Francisco will be a destination where customers can truly enjoy “Good food for all,” and added, “We are confident that people in San Francisco and the surrounding communities will be very pleased with H Mart’s opening.”

This store is anticipated to hire a total of 150 part-time and full-time employees and has participated in San Francisco’s First Source Hiring Program in partnership with the Office of Economic and Workforce Development (OEWD).

Together with community partners including Inner-City Youth, Young Community Developers, and Self-help for the Elderly they hosted three job fairs, interviewed 317 applicants and hired for 91 positions to date. OEWD and community organizations will continue to work with H Mart to fill open positions. Interested jobseekers may apply at west.hr@hmart.com or call 562-551-2376.

The Ocean view site has been vacant since 2013, at which time OEWD, along with community stakeholders including the Merced Extension Triangle Neighborhood Association, worked to attract a grocery store to the location. In 2018, H Mart signed a lease with Ocean view Village and has invested over $8.5 million in Capital Improvements.

“It is a distinct privilege to welcome H Mart into our neighborhood. May their success be the success for the greater region, as we look forward to a state of the art supermarket for the community,” said Marc Christensen, Merced Extension Triangle Neighborhood Association President.

H Mart operates more than 90 stores nationwide including 12 locations in California.

H Mart Savings Card H Mart Smart Savings Card is a free loyalty membership program that allows customers to redeem a $10 gift card every 1,000 points ($1=1point). Smart Card members are provided with special deals and exclusive benefits. Customers can sign up for a new Smart Savings Card through the H Mart mobile app, available on Apple Store and Google Play, featuring smart shopping tools and easy access to weekly sales.

About H Mart H Mart, a leading Asian American supermarket chain with more than 90 stores in the U.S. H Mart started with the first store in Woodside, NY back in 1982. H Mart offers essential grocery goods and entertainment in more than 14 states in the U.S. It serves both traditional Asian and American groceries, with fresh produce, meat, poultry, fishery, and RTC (ReadyTo-Cook) items.

H Mart is recognized as one of the fastestgrowing retailers in the National Retail Federation’s HOT 100 RETAILERS (#13 H Mart).

Moreover, Supermarket News has listed H Mart as one of the Top 50 Small Chains and Independents in the United States & Canada.

Information about events, special promotions, and sales are available on the H Mart’s website (www.hmart.com), H Mart App, Facebook and Instagram page (@hmartofficial), KakaoTalk (ID:hmart_north_ca), and WeChat (ID: hmartofficial).

Store Address: 3995 Alemany Blvd., San Francisco, CA 94132

27 April 22-28, 2021

Offline

(From Page 13)

rumors floating around that a growing section of the Armed Forces of the Philippines had gotten fed up with the cowardly stand taken by the Duterte regime vis-à-vis the virtual invasion of China which sent some 240 “fishing” vessels to Philippine waters. The AFP knows that some of those ships are military in nature.

The best the regime could do was to claim that Duterte was in secret talks with Xi to settle the thorny issue.

The Duterte Resign petition said it was time for the president to go due to his lack of leadership in this time of crisis.

They specifically mentioned the regime’s failed response to the coronavirus pandemic. But they also mentioned Duterte’s subservient attitude towards China, which paved the way for the naval invasion of the Philippines.

If not stopped, China may soon take control of Philippine skies, followed by an actual invasion by land. There is strong suspicion that tens of thousands of Chinese troops are already in the country, under the guise of being workers for construction projects or offshore gaming companies.

Again, the president is not likely to resign. But that does not mean that the Duterte Resign petition is doomed to fail.

What it’s doing is sending a strong signal to the people that the time has come for them to stand their ground, and refuse to be cowed by this regime.

By rejecting a Duterte puppet or clone next year, the Philippines may have another shot at being a functioning democracy, led by a duly elected president who is both competent and honest.

She will, of course, need our full support.

Immigrant’s story...

(From Page 13)

courage to do what is good for our community and for our country.

Whether we are in the United States or in the Philippines, we have the right to expect moral leadership and the commitment of sacrifice from those who aspire to lead us and from those who court our votes. But let us not forget that in order to have and to deserve a good government with good leaders--- we have to do our part as well.

The Outsider

(From Page 12)

need to work together, we all have a role to play.

“Let’s keep doing what works – staying at home, wearing masks, hand washing and physical distancing. We will get through this together.”

Well said, RSA.

PerryScope...

(From Page 12)

largest weapons sale in recent history.

Chinese Dream But the Taiwan question is just the tip of the iceberg. China has always been jealous of American superiority. When Xi Jinping came to power in 2012, he envisioned the “Chinese Dream” as the “great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.” It is described as achieving the material goal of China becoming a “moderately well-off society” by 2021, and the modernization goal of China becoming fully developed nation by 2049, the 100th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic. So far China is on track.

The rapid deterioration in US-China relations has taken many by surprise. US-China rivalry has always been moderated by the need to work together on economic, financial, and geopolitical issues. But their relationship has gone awry due to recriminations over the coronavirus pandemic, which has exposed the depth of their mutual mistrust.

China thinks the US is bent on containing China to prolong the declining power of the US while denying China her rightful place in the sun. Meanwhile, the US has increasingly believed that China is threatening US security interests; thus, undermining her prosperity, interfering in her democracy, and challenging her values. Didn’t we go through this same exercise during the US-Soviet Union rivalry?

World dominion But world dominion, which has always been communist China’s global ambition, is hampered by the existence of the US, which China is trying to replace as the sole superpower.

But the US is hard to replace. Its democratic foundation is solidly unshakable, whereas, China’s ruling body has to impose a communist and totalitarian rule over her 1.3 billion people. Simply put, democratization of the Chinese society is hard – if not impossible – to accomplish because of the corrupt and godless ruling class. Eventually, China would find herself in the same situation as the Soviet Union, which

has brought her own downfall by incessant internal power struggle.

Another factor that has detrimental effect on Chinese military power is that China’s navy – although far more warships than the US – is inferior to the US simply because the US has more experience in actual naval warfare than China. Besides, American naval weaponry is far better in technology.

A few years ago, Rear Admiral Luo Yuan, a supporter of communist orthodoxy and rabidly nationalist, anti-American, and anti-Western, said that the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) is the weakest link in the Chinese armed forces. But what surprised – and shocked -- his audience was his statement, “Although my country’s military strength has improved significantly in recent years, there is still a clear gap between China and the United States and Russia. Although our country is recognized by all countries in the world in terms of the army, our country is far inferior to the United States and Russia in terms of the navy.”

US-China naval confrontation Last April 9, the USS Theodore Roosevelt carrier strike group and the USS Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit – ready for action -- sailed to the South China Sea to lend support to the beleaguered Philippine Navy, which was sent by the Philippine government to monitor the 220 Chinese vessels that were parked off the Julian Felipe (Whitsun) Reef, which is within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

By the time the combined US Navy and Marine Corps team reached the vicinity of Julian Felipe Reef, only 10 of the Chinese vessels remained. Apparently, the Chinese militia force ran off to avoid confrontation with the Americans.

Rear Adm. Doug Verissimo, commander of Carrier Strike Group Nine, said in a statement, “The combined Navy and Marine Corps team has been a stabilizing force in this region for more than a century and will continue to support all who share in the collective vision of peace, stability, and freedom of the seas.” Touché!

Late last month, Secretary of State Blinken affirmed the U.S. commitment to defending the Philippines if she was attacked. He issued a statement, saying, “The United States stands with our ally, the Philippines, in the face of the [People’s Republic of China]’s maritime militia amassing at [Whitsun Reef]. We will always stand by our allies and stand up for the rules-based international order.”

Many geopolitical experts believe that the South China Sea is where the next global conflict is going to be. For as long as China claims the South China Sea as her territory, there would always be territorial disputes among the six claimants – the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, Taiwan, and China. And with the US affirming her commitment to defend the Philippines if attacked, the region could spark a shooting war.

Are we seeing the start of a Biden Doctrine, which is: To contain Chinese geopolitical expansion? With that, it would seem that a Second Cold War looms ahead.

Health & Wealth

(From Page 12)

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Just send $25 (includes postage, mailing and handling) in check or money order to: ART G. MADLAING, 730 Madrid Street, San Francisco, CA 94112 Tel. (650)438-3531 or (415)584-7095 or email:agmadlaing@hotmail.com This Special Offer is good only in the United States.

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

Upside...

(From Page 11)

“coordinated effort with phone calls and emails” would definitely grab the attention of the lawmaker.

“The people I worked for always responded to everyone.

They felt it was important to do so,” said Speier’s former Constituent Services Director.

Form letters are equally effective, said the ex-political staffer.

These “can be very useful as it help to track how many constituents are contacting the office about a specific issue.

When we see a large number of form letter we know the issue is taking a center stage.”

For Congress officials, the Washington DC staff takes charge of responses to constituent correspondence, he added.

ENGAGEMENT News of the trans-Pacific campaign encouraged FilAms, especially those who have relatives in the Philippines, to engage their representatives in public office.

“Contacting our elected officials is a good gesture to make them aware that we are deeply concerned with the safety of all our kababayan,” Colma, California, resident Aurea Ocampo Cruz said upon hearing of the upcoming webinar and the collaboration between FilAm and Philippine officials.

“Having served in the public sector, I know the value of hearing directly from our constituents,” said Cruz, who retired recently after dedicating 12 years as a Commissioner with the San Mateo County Commission on Aging.

“I plan to write US Senators Feinstein and Padilla, my US Representative Jackie Speier and California Assembly Member Phil Ting to prod shipment of the vaccine before the virus claims more lives of our loved ones,” said Cruz, who has children residing in the Philippines and Australia. - Adapted from original reprinted with permission from Inquirer.net.

Los Angeles County set to meet thresholds for Red Tier as 70 new Covid deaths reported

By Jo Erlinda Yabut, Correspondent LOS ANGELES - The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (Public Health) has confirmed 70 new deaths and 1,337 new cases of COVID-19.

At press time, the Department of Public Health identified 1,205,276 positive cases of COVID-19 across all areas of L.A. County and a total of 22,099 deaths.

There are 1,119 people with COVID-19 currently hospitalized and 30% of these people are in the ICU, the department said in a statement sent to Philippine News Today.

Testing results are available for nearly 5,905,000 individuals with 19% of people testing positive and the latest daily test positivity rate is 2.2%.

Of the 70 new deaths reported, 24 people that passed away were over the age of 80, 29 people who died were between the ages of 65 and 79, 12 people who died were between the ages of 50 and 64, and five people who died were between the ages of 30 and 49.

According to the State’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy, Los Angeles County has begun to meet the metric thresholds for the red tier that allows for additional re-openings, including on-site learning for grades 7 through 12.

In order to move into the less restrictive red tier, L.A. County’s daily case rate must be at or below 7 new cases per 100,000 people and the County’s test positivity rate must be at or below 8% for two consecutive weeks.

L.A. County’s adjusted case rate dropped from 7.2 new cases per 100,000 people to 5.2 new cases per 100,000 people, according to the department. The test positivity rate dropped from 3.5% to 2.5%.

Should the cases and test positivity rates remain at or below the red tier metrics next week, the County would move to the red tier on March 17, the department said.

The state also updated the Blueprint framework to include vaccine equity. Once 2 million vaccine doses have

 HEALTH NEWS

April 22-28, 2021

28

WHO admits global shortage of innovative antibiotics GENEVA - The world is still failing to develop desperately needed antibacterial treatments, despite growing awareness of the urgent threat of antibiotic resistance, according to a report by the World Health Organization.

WHO revealed that none of the 43 antibiotics that are currently in clinical development sufficiently address the problem of drug resistance in the world’s most dangerous bacteria.

“The persistent failure to develop, manufacture, and distribute effective new antibiotics is further fueling the impact of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and threatens our ability to successfully treat bacterial infections,” says Dr. Hanan Balkhy, WHO Assistant Director General on AMR. Almost all the new antibiotics that have been brought to market in recent decades are variations of antibiotic drugs classes that had been discovered by the 1980s.

The impact of AMR is most severe in resourceconstrained settings and among vulnerable groups such as new-borns and young children. Bacterial

pneumonia and bloodstream infections are among the major causes of childhood mortality under the age of 5. Approximately 30% of neonates with sepsis die due to bacterial infections resistant to multiple first-line antibiotics.

Report findings WHO’s annual Antibacterial Pipeline Report, reviews antibiotics that are in the clinical stages of testing as well as those in early product development. The aim is to assess progress and identify gaps in relation to urgent threats of drug resistance, and to encourage action to fill those gaps.

The report evaluates the potential of the candidates to address the most threatening drug-resistant bacteria outlined in the WHO Bacterial Priority Pathogens List (WHO PPL). This list, which includes 13 priority drug-resistant bacteria, has informed and guided priority areas for research and development since its first publication in 2017.

The 2020 report reveals a near static pipeline with only few antibiotics being approved by regulatory agencies in recent years. Most of these agents in de-

velopment offer limited clinical benefit over existing treatments, with 82% of the recently approved antibiotics being derivatives of existing antibiotic classes with well-established drug-resistance. Therefore, rapid emergence of drug-resistance to these new agents is expected.

The review concludes that “overall, the clinical pipeline and recently approved antibiotics are insufficient to tackle the challenge of increasing emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance”.

Novel solutions outside the traditional development pathway The lack of progress on antibiotic development highlights the need to explore innovative approaches to treat bacterial infections. The 2020 WHO pipeline report for the first time includes a comprehensive overview of non-traditional antibacterial medicines. It highlights 27 non-traditional antibacterial agents in the pipeline ranging from antibodies to bacteriophages and therapies that support the patient’s immune response and weaken the effect of the bacteria.

Post-Vax COVID-19 Heart of Hope

More than 5,800 individuals who have been fully vaccinated against SARS-CoV2 (corona) virus were infected with COVID-19 anyway (“breakthrough infections”), according to US-CDC. Of those, 396 who got infected after their vaccination required hospitalization PHILIP S. CHUA and 74 of them died.

The effectiveness of the Pfizer-BioNT (95 percent), the Moderna vaccines (91 percent), and the Johnson and Johnson (72 percent) still leaving the first two with about 5-9 percent residual risk of potential infection, and the J&J about 28 percent. This means people who have been vaccinated do not have 100 percent protection or immunity from the SARS-CoV2 virus. This is the reality. And the other unknown at this time is when, after the vaccination, will the vaccine provide immunity, 2 weeks, 4 weeks, two months, and how much immunity after those intervals, and when the 95, 91, and 72 percent protection are achieved?

As for effective duration, Pfizer-BioNT vaccine “remains highly effective after six months.” How long after this is also not known since this vaccine is new and will need forward clinical observation to find out if the shots will be effective for a year or longer. The same is true with all other COVID-19 vaccines.

In the United States, about 87 million (around 26 percent of the 332.5 million total population) have been fully vaccinated and more than 40 percent had received one shot. According to CDC “breakthrough infections” are expected since the vaccines are not 100 percent effective, so more fully vaccinated people getting infected anyway will happen…Overall, this percentage (a fraction of 1 percent) of “breakthroughs is small.”

The CDC and major medical centers are studying and looking for clues (demographics, geographic, vaccine types, viral strain, health issues, etc.) among those fully vaccinated who still got infected, those more prone to breakthrough infection.

As we have advocated in this column since the vaccination started, those who have been vaccinated should still take the precaution of wearing facemasks, doing social distancing, frequent handwashing, and avoiding crowds, like those who have not gotten the shots yet, because this virus and its variants are new and the vaccines are also new, with so many unknowns

about them. Obviously, those “breakthroughs” occurred because those more than 5,800 fully vaccinated individuals let their guards down and were careless, thinking they had 100 percent immunity to SARS-CoV2 virus from the vaccine.

Getting as many people vaccinated in the country (in the world, for that matter) and not abandoning the original COVID-19 preventive guidelines until we achieve herd immunity (even when fully vaccinated) are the two best strategies to end this pandemic sooner. We must stick to medical science and not politics when dealing with a disease.

Medical pearls Does aspirin protect us against cancer?

Yes, according to clinical studies conducted on patients taking daily aspirin (Acetylsalicylic Acid) for conditions like arthritis, etc., or among heart patients taking aspirin to thin their blood to prevent blood clots and blockages in the coronary (heart) arteries. The findings show that those taking daily dose of aspirin (as low as 81 mg a day) have almost 43% lesser risk in developing pancreatic cancer, compared to those who do not take aspirin daily. More investigation is underway to find out the explanation for this apparent link, and also if aspirin similarly protects us against colon cancer, other malignancies and against other conditions. Indeed, our longtime household friend, aspirin, for the usual headaches and pains, is truly an amazing wonder drug. Consult your physician before taking any medications.

How does wine protect our heart?

Wine, more especially the red variety, contains a chemical called Resveratrol, which has been found to be cardio-protective, among other benefits of moderate and disciplined drinking. The recommended “dose” is one to two glasses of red wine with dinner. Exactly what mechanism is at play to protect the heart when Resveratrol enters our circulation is not totally clear, but clinical investigations have shown that red wine is good for our health. The one particular red wine that is supposed to contain the highest level of Resveratrol is Pinot Noir (Oregon), followed by Cabernet Sauvignon. The caveat is, of course, moderation and discipline.

What is the cause of stomach ulcers?

In the past, the medical community thought that stomach ulcers were caused by hyperacidity (high acid content in the stomach), by eating spicy food, alcohol ingestion, or even by prolonged hunger. Today, we know better. The cause of majority of stomach ulcers is an infection, caused by H. pylori bug. When the researcher who discovered this initially presented his

theory and findings to the world medical community, he was scorned and literally laughed at…until various independent and extensive laboratory and clinical studies proved him right. He became a hero who had revolutionized the treatment of gastric ulcers, transforming this disease entity from a surgical illness to a medical condition manageable by pills, instead of by a knife in the operating room.

Why is the viagra and nitrates combo fatal?

Viagra (Sildenafil citrate) is the very effective and safe “anti-impotent” pill prescribed for male erectile dysfunction, whose chemical action allows the veins in the penis to dilate and fill with more blood to cause engorgement and erection, enabling the individual to successful penetration and intercourse. Nitrates are heart medications that also dilate blood vessels (arteries and veins in the heart and all over the body). When the blood vessels in the body are dilated “too much” (as the combination of Viagra and nitrates will do), the blood pressure of the person drops, uncontrollably leads to shock, and death in some patients.

Do we really need sleep?

Many times, we hear people (young and old) claiming that they do not need sleep, or that an hour or two was enough sleep for them. It is unhealthy not to have adequate sleep. While there is no magic number, having at least 8 hours of a restful sleep is considered good for the body. This brief “hibernation” gives our body time to recharge and repair itself, including our immune system. With inadequate sleep, our body functions less than optimal, our brain and other organs less efficient, and our disposition a bit cloudy and irritable.

Those who have enough restful sleep also feel and look better, and are more pleasant, positive and productive.

On the other hand, sleeping more than 10 hours daily (except for babies and young children) does not confer extra benefits, and might even make one lazier and more sluggish. Lack of sleep increases the risk for accidents, heart attack, strokes, Alzheimer’s, and even cancer.

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 Public Advocate, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian and anti-graft foundation in the United States.

Visit our websites: philipSchua.com and FUN8888. com Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com

29 April 22-28, 2021

NEWS  NATIONAL VIEWS & COMMENTS INSPIRATIONAL ARTICLE FOR THE WEEK

O

The Risen Good Shepherd

Aflame The Heart

ne of the iconic images of the Lord Jesus Christ is being the Good Shepherd. He said, “I am the good shepherd… (Jn. 10:11).” And A GRANDSON’S EULOGY TO HIS GRANDMOTHER we know about what the good shepherd does from the Psalm 23,

By TIM PEDROSA “The Lord is my Shepherd…” This image of the good shepherd in relaHere’s a moving eulogy and I would always let her know what they were when tion to Jesus Christ makes more sense or can be understood and apprecidelivered by Mark during his she asked and I could tell that she was so happy for ated better now in the context of Easter Season for the fact that He has grandmother interment on me. I remember that when I was staying with her for risen after having laid down His life for His sheep; that by doing so, He April 12, 2021 at the Holy the weekend, she talked to me about my future, col- led them to eternal green pastures Seputchre Cemetery Plaza in lege, and her expectations for me. At the time I was and abundant life. In my journey Hayward, California.

Lola just about to start high school and she asked me where as a believer and as a priest, I am (Grandma) Myr was one of the I wanted to go to college and I was hesitant with my amazed and deeply grateful of Jesus strongest and most loving peo- answer because at the time I was not very confident in ple to have influenced my life abilities and in myself in general and I just said any UC as the Good Shepherd. In a personal and it is so hard for me to com- or good state school will do. She looked at me and said way, I think of Him as my Good prehend that she is really gone. no you go and aim for Berkeley, that response not only Shepherd who thinks of my interest It feels like just yesterday that I felt her embrace and shocked me since I knew how competitive that school all the time, even to the extent of kiss...It feels like just yesterday that I saw her beautiful was but it revealed to me that she believed in me. She losing His own life for me. Do you smile...And it feels like just yesterday that I said I love believed that I could be great and could achieve big love this image of the Lord Jesus as you as I waved goodbye. Lola Myr was unlike any oth- things and that installed a great amount of confidence the Good Shepherd? What sort of er Lola, besides loving and caring for my cousins and I, in me. She told me that not just me, but all my cousins loving thoughts come to your mind? REV. JOSE PELAGIO A. PADIT, SThD she actually understood who we were as a person. One have the potential to be great just like Lolo Deo, my Imagine in your mind and of my fondest memories with her was almost 3 years dad, my Ninang Ann, and Tito (uncle) Edwin. What heart, dear reader, the popular image of the Lord as the Good Shepherd ago when my parents made me stay at her and Lolo’s hurt me the most is the fact that I can no longer show house for the weekend because I was making them go her what I could accomplish nor can I show her that carrying on His shoulders a sheep, and that sheep is you. As I imagine crazy at home. I mean first off, do you know how mad I could achieve my goals. I know that she is watch- myself this scene, I feel at peace; I feel troubles in life fade away and my you have to make your parents sent to your grandpar- ing from above but it is not the same, I would give heart is filled with deep joy; I feel I am a new person in Him; I feel I am ents? However this experience was something that I the world to see her with a proud face congratulating deeply connected to Him. I feel I am at home on the shoulders or in the will cherish forever. While staying over at their house, me during my graduation day or when I get accepted arms of the Good Shepherd. What emotions you yourself, dear reader, I remember Lola Myr sitting me down to talk about into a college. Those are the days that I look forward have? Do not be afraid to reflect and meditate on this identity and image how blessed and privileged I am to have such a fam- to sharing with her the most but now they are gone. I of the Lord as Our Good Shepherd. The holy thoughts that will come out ily like mine. She played a big role in making the idea am now more motivated than ever to accomplish big of such personal and prayerful reflection can breed enthusiasm to follow of privilege and appreciation very transparent for me things in school not only for myself but for my loved the Lord closer, and can empower our determination to grow in virtues to see. I remember her saying: “You and your cousins ones to show that I can be great just like how Lola Myr and good habits to sustain our spiritual life. are so fortunate to have parents who provide you guys believed I could.

I would like us to be lost in wonder and yet with conviction of with such a privileged life”. Although I took what she I truly hope that all my cousins take this in and realthe great love of God for us in His very image as The Good Shepherd. said with a grain of salt during that time, I now realize ize that Lola Myr believed in every single one of you it more than ever. For a long time, I believed that when and thought but nothing the best for us. Although there The Good Shepherd image give us courage in the midst of many fears in she said I live a privileged life, it only correlated to is a possibility that I may not end up at Berkeley like life; for we are and will never be alone. By dying and rising for us, “death monetary terms but what I have realized now is that it she hoped, I hope I can make her proud regardless of has no power over him (Rom. 6:9).” So, if we walk with Christ, there is has very little to do with money but the values that are where I attend. My relationship with Lola Myr only nothing to fear. Also, with the Good Shepherd, we are assured of blesspresent in my life. The family that Lola Myr and Lolo grew stronger as I got older and she meant so much to ings upon blessings, because from His own heart flows into us everything Deo, as well as Lolo Tim, built holds the strong values me. I will forever cherish the memories that I had with that can build us up for eternal life. of love and support and that is why I am so proud to her and although I sometimes grew impatient with her, However, two things I want us to consider personally in imitabe a part of it. I have not only wonderful parents but I will miss every second of it. I am honestly so fortu- tion of the Good Shepherd; first, let us learn the lesson of sacrificial love. also amazing Aunts and Uncles whom I can always ask nate and grateful to have had that relationship with her. questions and seek advice from whenever I please. To Every Christmas, every birthday, every family gath- Like Christ, we have to live practicing selflessness, not selfishness. Our me, this is the biggest blessing that Lola Myr has given ering will never be the same; she will always hold a love must be overflowing; that even if it hurts, we still continue to love me and my cousins. Family is so important to me now very special place in my heart. Lola Myr, I know that like the way God loves. True love knows no bounds; even if, there are sacrifices. Sacrifice becomes the proof of the that I truly do not think you are listening love given. Second, let us imitate the Lord in that I would be able to function without you guys. right now and I When Lola Myr was admitted into the hospital, I per- just want to let you being shepherds to each other; which means, we sonally did not think much of it even though it was a know that having are to lead each other to the Lord Jesus. We are very serious matter because I believed and kept tell- you in my life has to lead each other by good examples toward the ing myself: “You know what, she will pull through, been one the biggreen pastures of virtues and good habits. We and she will be fine”. Isa, my cousin, mentioned to me gest gifts that god are to guide each other to the fountain of mercy, that she felt the same way because she viewed Lola as has ever given me. by being example to each other to go to regular a fighter and she really was. But when Ninang (God I promise that I confession; in as much as, we have to encourmother) Ann called my dad and the rest of the families, will do whatever age each other to fight sin and all its form in our updating us that Lola just had an unexpected heart at- it takes to achieve lives and around us. We can be good shepherd to tack and only had a 2% chance of surviving, I honestly my goals and make each other by protecting each other from the evil did not know how to think or feel because to me this you proud one day. whole situation was so very unreal. The time that the And please do not one by praying for each other; praying for deeper severity of Lola Myr’s illness became a reality for me worry about Lolo conversion, praying for greater fortitude in our was when I saw my dad crying in his office looking Tim and Tita Flor struggle for daily sanctification. Imagine, if we so helpless because there was nothing that he could and Tita Ly, I will all would take seriously this endeavor of the nor could anyone do to realistically save her anymore. always be there for imitation of the Good Shepherd what could we From that point, I could not help myself but collapse them especially be like? We would be allowing the world around on my bedroom floor in tears as all of my memories when they need us to encounter Christ in and through us. And with her came flooding in. Every time now when I am me the most. I am what the world could be like? We would have studying, she always pops up in my head and even so happy that you indeed a wonderful world; not just in a song, but when I am looking in the mirror, I see her face in mine. will finally get to in reality.

As I reflected back on my experiences with Lola reunite with Lolo Myr, I realized that what I admired about her the most Deo and I ask you To end, let us pray to the Lord Jesus, was not her unconditional love and compassion or her to always watch that we may be firm in our steps in following generosity but it was how much she valued my educa- over your famHim as His sheep; that we may never be lost tion and ambition. You can really see this through her ily and continue or drift away from Him out of negligence or children who have all accomplished so much and are to send your blesscomplacency in the spiritual life; that we may be true inspiration to me that I can only dream to achieve ings from above. I in love of Him and be fond of Him, just as He what they have. Every time that I saw her, she would love you so much is fond and divinely in love with us; and that we talk to me privately making sure that I was doing well and I thank you for may one day arrive at our eternal destiny with in school and she would also talk to me about what I all that you have For more info, please call: Him in the heavenly homeland. Amen. You can wanted to achieve. When I was little, I would respond done for me. also find this article in my website, faithexpresto this question prematurely by saying that I wanted to

By Mark SaMr. J.R.: (650) 952-823 be rich and as I grew up I started to figure out my pri- pugay sions.org, view us too in YouTube, Faith Expresorities and the big things that I desired to accomplish sions, for other faith formation videos.

31 April 22-28, 2021  NATIONAL NEWS

 FOOD & TRAVELS

Recipe of the Week Beef Meatballs Kaldereta Ingredients:

2 large size onion, chopped 1 tsp. dried parsley flakes 1/2 kilo regular beef meatballs 1 large size bell pepper, dice into 6 small size egg, hard boiled large square 6 medium side baby potato, peeled 1 tsp. peppercorns 1 large size carrot, cut crosswise into 6 parts, peeled 1 cup tomato sauce 200 grams large size button mushroom 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce 1/2 cup pitted green olives 2 tbsp. soy sauce 3-4 small size Spanish chorizo, cut diagonally 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese 4 to 6 small size sweet pickled jerkins, cut diagonally 2-3 pieces bay leaf 4 to 6 small size sweet pickled jerkins, finely diced 2-3 pieces green/red chilli, sliced 1/2 cup syrup from the sweet pickled jerkins salt to taste 2 small can liver spread cooking oil 1/2 head garlic, chopped

Cooking procedure: In a frying pan fry the beef meatballs on all side until seared, keep aside.

In a large sauce pan sutee garlic and onion add in the Spanish chorizo and stir cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Add in the potatoes, carrot, tomato sauce, soy sauce, peppercorns, bay leaf, and dried parsley stir cook for 1 to 2 minutes. Add in 2 to 2 1/2 cups of water bring to a boil and simmer for 5 to 8 minutes. Add in the meatballs, liver spread, diced pickled jerkins, pickled jerkins syrup, Worcestershire sauce, chili and continue to simmer for 8 to 10 minutes. Add in the boiled eggs, button mushrooms, olives, cut jerkins and continue to simmer for another 5 to 8 minutes or until the liquid has reduce to a thick consistency. Correct saltiness if required. Add in the cheese and bell pepper and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes or until the cheese has melted. Serve.

 FOOD & TRAVELS

33 more Philippine hotels get ‘safe travels’ stamp MAKATI CITY – A total of 40 hotels in the Philippines have secured the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) Safe Travels Stamp, indicating an increase in tourism establishments that have adopted global health standardized protocols.

This week, the Department of Tourism awarded the stamp to 33 hotels and resorts from six regions, 16 of which are in Cebu and Bohol, nine in Palawan, three in Boracay, three in Zamboanga, one in Baguio City, and one in Davao City.

“Total number of recipients is now at 40 including the seven accommodation establishments given the Safe Travels Stamp earlier this year,” the DOT said.

The WTTC Safe Travels Stamp is the world’s first safety and hygiene stamp for travelers to recognize governments and businesses that implement global health and safety guidelines amid the pandemic.

In September 2020, the Philippines received the stamp for putting in place health and safety guidelines aligned with the WTTC’s core requirements.

“In March, we received more than 100 applications coming from the different regions, which also include Mabuhay accommodation establishments and destinations. This surge of interest is reflective of their readiness to adapt to the new normal and desire to be globally recognized as a fun and ‘safe travels’ facility,” Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said during the awarding ceremony.

Of the 33 new hotels to receive the stamp, five are star hotels while 28 have regular accreditation.

“Now that the country’s vaccination program is in full swing, we anticipate that parallel initiatives across the globe will hasten the resumption of international travel. As early as now, we need to prepare our facilities and destinations to be visitor-ready, with health and safety as key concerns,” Romulo-Puyat said.

“The WTTC Safe Travels Stamp, on top of our accreditation, will hope to restore travelers’ confidence in the Philippines as a ‘safe and fun’ destination,” she added.

In a press conference, Romulo-Puyat clarified that the stamp is not a requirement for hotels to operate under the new normal, but getting one comes with the opportunity to get global exposure through the vast network of WTTC member organizations.

“All we are requiring is a DOT accreditation but of course I am encouraging everybody to apply for this because this is like a stamp of approval that you are not only DOT accredited but worldwide pumasa ‘yong standard mo (your standard passed),” she said.

Beef Spareribs Adobo with Oyster Sauce

The latest hotels to secure the stamp are: -- Aruga by Rockwell -- Grand Hyatt Manila -- Joy Nostalg Hotels & Suites Manila -- Solaire Resort -- The Peninsula Manila -- Baguio Country Club -- The Forest Lodge at Camp John Hay -- The Manor at Camp John Hay -- Balai Adlao (El Nido, Palawan) -- Casa Kalaw (El Nido, Palawan) -- Club Paradise (Coron, Palawan) -- El Nido Resorts – Apulit Island Resort -- El Nido Resorts – Lagen Island Resort -- El Nido Resorts – Miniloc Island Resort -- El Nido Resorts – Pangulasian Island Resort -- Hotel Covo (El Nido, Palawan) -- Huni Lio (El Nido, Palawan) -- Amarela Resort (Panglao, Bohol) -- Amun Ini Resort and Spa (Anda, Bohol) -- Bai Hotel (Mandaue City, Cebu) -- Best Western Plus The Ivywall Resort (Panglao, Bohol) -- Bohol Beach Club (Panglao, Bohol) -- Cebu White Sands Resort and Spa (Mactan) -- C Suites at 8 Newtown (Lapu-Lapu City) -- Jpark Island Resort and Waterpark (Lapu-Lapu City) -- Modala Beach Resort (Panglao, Bohol) -- Mithi Resort and Spa (Dauis, Bohol) -- Plantation Bay Resort and Spa (Lapu-Lapu City) -- Tambuli Seaside Resort and Spa (Lapu-lapu City) -- The Bellevue Resort (Panglao, Bohol) -- The Hotel Elizabeth (Cebu) -- Waterfront Airport Hotel and Casino -- Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino -- Grand Astoria Hotel (Zamboanga City) -- Hotel Camila 2 (Dipolog City) -- Mibang Hotel (Dipolog City) -- Seda Abreeza Hotel (Davao City)