CHINA ATTACKS IN WPS ANEW; PINOYS TRAMPLE ON XI EFFIGY
Marcos mocks Quiboloy’s demands
By Be�ng Laygo Dolor, Editor
MANILA -- President Ferdinand Marcos Jr flat out rejected Pastor Apollo Quiboloy’s demands in exchange for surrendering to authorities, saying that the religious leader was in no
position to dictate any conditions.
It was, said the president, a case of the “tail wagging the dog.” (See related story)
This, after
Asian-American social workers experience rise in anti-Asian racism
By Gilda P. Balan, Correspondent
HONOLULU -- Even in the most diverse of all 50 states, racism is still an issue.
Biden, Japan, PHL leaders meet, in White House, rev up security ties
By ALFRED GABOT and CLAIRE MORALES TRUE Editor in Chief and Managing Editor
WASHINGTON/TOKYO/MANILA – As United States President Joe Biden hosts the leaders of Japan and the Philippines in the White House over defense, security and economic concerns, Filipino protesters trampled on the effigy of China President Xi Jinping angered by new attacks by the China Coast Guard on Philippine vessels in the tensionfilled West Philippine Sea, a part of the Philippines territory and exclusive economic zone.
California Forever projected to address housing woes in Solano County
By Cesar Antonio Nucum Jr
VACAVILLE, California - The American Dream has been elusive to many migrants more so to those wanting to enter the U.S.
border to escape persecutions (political, religious, economic, etc.), violence famine, poor quality of life, poverty,
UPSIDE
public health emergency.
The Asian-American community, which forms a huge chunk of the Aloha state’s total population, has noted a rise in anti-Asian racism, based on a series of reports from the University of Hawaii.
Faculty from the university’s Manoa Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health
REDWOOD CITY, Calif. - Loneliness is real, it’s normal - despite common notion that it afflicts only specific populations, and it’s definitely widespread.
US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy last year issued an advisory on loneliness as a national epidemic.
The San Mateo Board of Supervisors in a resolution this February declared the same a public health crisis and the City of Daly City weeks later proclaimed it a
Supervisor David Canepa, who introduced the resolution unanimously approved by the board, reinforced his call to action last week for concerted response to the often unseen condition.
“Loneliness affects everyone, including me,” said the representative for District 5 covering Daly City, Colma, unincorporated Broadmoor, Brisbane and parts of South San Francisco and San
by Cherie M. Querol Moreno
Page 9
Page 10
PFS CEO Heather Cleary says ending loneliness requires ac�on from the community amid SMC Supervisor David Canepa announcement of County funding for the organiza�on’s programs at recent Loneliness forum. CMQUEROLMORENO photo
CEO JAN SRAMEK of California Forever with FilAm community in Rio Vista. Page 6
Page 4
TRILATERAL MEETING. US. President Joe Biden hosts Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in a historic trilateral mee�ng at the White House.
Bangko Sentral maintains policy rates
MANILA – The Monetary Board of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) kept policy rates steady for the fourth consecutive meeting, noting that while inflation is expected to remain within target, the latest inflation path “has shifted slightly higher.”
BSP Governor Eli Remolona Jr. said the Monetary Board at its meeting on Monday decided to retain the BSP’s target reverse repurchase rate at 6.50 percent.
The interest rates on the overnight deposit and lending facilities will also remain at 6 percent and 7 percent, respectively.
The BSP’s latest baseline forecast showed that inflation will likely settle at 3.8 percent, slightly higher than the earlier forecast of 3.6 percent, while the projection for 2025 was unchanged at 3.2 percent.
The risk-adjusted inflation forecast for 2024 has risen to 4 percent from 3.9 percent in the previous meeting.
For 2025, the risk-adjusted inflation forecast is unchanged at 3.5 percent.
“The risks to the inflation outlook continue to lean toward the upside. Possible further price pressures are linked mainly to higher transport charges, elevated food prices, higher electricity rates, and global oil prices. Potential minimum wage adjustments could also give rise to second-round effects,” Remolona said.
BSP Senior Assistant Governor Iluminada Sicat said the BSP’s latest forecast shows that there may be an uptick in inflation in the second quarter.
However, Sicat said inflation will go back to within the target range by the third or fourth quarter of the year.
“But nonetheless, we still anticipate inflation outlook to be within target over the 12-month period, (un) til end of this year,” she said.
While upside risks to inflation have raised inflation expectations, these expectations have remained broadly anchored, she added.
Remolona, meanwhile, said the latest demand indicators suggest that domestic growth prospects remain largely intact over the medium term, even as overall activity continues to gradually respond to tighter financial conditions.
“Given these considerations, the Monetary Board deems it appropriate to maintain the BSP’s tight monetary policy settings. The BSP also continues to support the national government’s policies and programs to address supply-side pressures on the prices of key food commodities,” he said.
Remolona said the BSP remains ready to adjust its monetary policy settings as necessary.
“What has to happen is several data points have to converge to tell a story that says inflation is really coming down and growth is not too strong. That would be a good case for easing,” he said.
BIR raids 3 Cavite warehouses, confiscates P5.4-B illicit cigarettes
MANILA – The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) said it conducted a large-scale raid in three warehouses of illicit cigarettes in Indang and Dasmariñas, Cavite last March 21.
In a statement , the BIR said the total tax liability is estimated at P5.4 billion, making the operation one of the largest raids against illicit cigarettes.
During the raid, the BIR recovered master cases of cigarettes, machines, sacks of raw tobacco, and fake internal revenue stamps.
“This is one of the largest raids against illicit cigarettes in the history of the BIR, having an estimate of PHP5.4 billion in total tax liability. The BIR will con-
tinue targeting these large-scale illicit cigarette traders. We advise everyone to register their cigarette operations with the BIR and to pay proper excise taxes on those products,” said BIR Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr.
“The BIR aims to protect legitimate businesses so if you register and pay your proper taxes, your businesses will be compliant. We want a level playing field so we protect registered businesses and raid illicit trade,” Lumagui added.
The perpetrators behind the three warehouses in Cavite will be facing criminal and civil cases for their violations under the National Internal Revenue Code.
Lost or expired green card is not a hindrance to apply for naturalization
This is the best time in decades to apply for naturalization. Why? It is because the Us government is encouraging all qualified green card holders to apply for citizenship so that they can vote in the 2024 presidential election. In the past years, you will need to satisfy the immigration officers that all your evidence are air tight before they approve your application. That means all court records must be original and how you get your green card in the first place.
The application process is now reduced to the minimum time. Generally you can be interviewed within six months. After the interview you can take your oath and bring home the Certificate of Naturalization to apply for a US passport. Everything has been made easy for all applicants.
Many clients have an expired green card and ask me if they can naturalize if their green card is lost or expired. The answer is yes but you need to satisfy the residence requirements. If you have been in the U.S. for continuous 5 years (3 years for married to U.S. citizen based green card) then you may qualify for applying for naturalization based on your residency even if the green card expired or has been lost. On the other hand, there are those who overstayed outside the U.S. for more than 180 days but less than one year. They may qualify if they can prove that they did not relinquish their residence in the U.S. For those who overstayed for more than one year they will have to maintain a continuous residence for four years and one day after returning to the U.S. to apply for citizenship
Green cards are important especially when traveling abroad and applying for citizenship. There are certain issues about replacing green cards which we will discuss.
1. Lost green card. The person who lost his green card may file to renew their USCIS-issued green card that have expired or replace ones that have been lost, stolen, mutilated, or destroyed, or that contain an error. If you need to apply for naturalization and you believe you qualify except you lost your green card you may discuss this matter with an immigration attorney.
The person who lost green card may complete and properly file an application to Replace Permanent Resident Card (Form I-90) with USCIS, with appropriate fees (if required), in accordance with the Form I-90 instructions.
What happen if the green card is lost while outside the U.S.? A Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) who is temporarily outside the United States for less than 1 year and who is not in possession of a valid green card (for example, it was lost, stolen, or destroyed) may properly file an Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation) (Form I-131A) to request documentation to demonstrate to an airline or other transportation carrier that he or she is authorized to travel to the United States. This transportation letter does not replace the green card. LPRs must still complete and properly file Form I-90 to obtain a replacement of the green card upon arrival to the U.S.
What happen if the Reentry permit is lost?
If inside the United States, complete and properly file an Application for Travel Document (Form I-131) with USCIS, with appropriate fees.
An LPR who is temporarily outside the United States for less than 2 years and who is not in possession of a valid green card (for example, it was lost, stolen, or destroyed) may properly file an Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation) (Form I-131A) to request documentation to demonstrate to an airline or other transportation carrier that he or she is authorized to travel to the United States. The transportation letter does not replace the reentry permit. LPRs must complete and properly file Form I-131 upon reentry into the United States to obtain a replacement reentry permit.
Note: This is not legal advice. You should consult with an immigration attorney about the specifics of your case.
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT
1. PETITION FOR CAREGIVERS
Our Law Firm entered into agreement with Care Home Facilities in the U.S. to process applicants for Caregivers in the US
You may qualify if you six months experience as Caregivers Applicants Inside the United States or in the Philippines or other countries may qualify.
Bankruptcy Basics
We also process Bankruptcy cases.
1. Bankruptcy will actually improve your credit within one year because your unsecured debts are discharged. Although the bankruptcy will be in your records for 10 years, not filing bankruptcy will make your credit even worse until most of your debts are paid.
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 has practiced immigration law, bankruptcy, and income tax representation since June 1999. His contact phone is 1-877-456-9266, email: info@CCLlaw.net Website: www. crispinlozanolaw.com/ with offices in Hayward and Cerritos, CA.
BSP Governor Eli Remolona Jr.
Sky River Casino Unveils Exciting April Promotions and Celebrates New Partnership with Sacramento Republic FC
SACRAMENTO, Calif. - Sky River Casino is thrilled to introduce an array of exciting promotions this April, promising a spring filled with opportunities for fun, excitement, and big wins. Additionally, Sky River Casino is excited to announce the new partnership with Sacramento Republic FC. This partnership not only aims to enhance the entertainment experience for guests and fans alike but also to honor and support the rich heritage of the Wilton Rancheria tribe and its ancestral connection to the Sacramento region.
To celebrate the exciting new partnership, Sky River Casino will host a watch party at 32 Brews Street Gastropub on March 23. This event is free and open to anyone 21 and over, showcasing one of the casino’s unique dining destinations, 32 Brews, a premier sports bar with wall-to-wall TVs. Fans will be able to watch every Sacramento Republic FC match at 32 Brews throughout the season, along with enjoying signature menu items, including a specialty cocktails.
$100,000 Springtime Showers Drawing
Kicking off the spring festivities, Sky River Casino invites its members to participate in the $100,000 Springtime Showers Drawing, with drawings every Saturday in April. Sky River Rewards members stand a chance to win a share of $25K in cash and free play each week. Two winners will be announced every half hour from 7 pm – 9:30 pm, winning Free Play prizes ranging from $500 - $2,000. The excitement peaks at 10 pm when one lucky winner will walk away with $10,000 in cash. From April 1 – 26, members can enhance their chances by swiping at the promotional kiosk every Monday and Friday to receive 100 Bonus Entries.
$50,000 Blackjack Tournament Series
Adding to the thrill, the $50,000 Blackjack Tournament Series is a must-attend for card game aficionados. Every Tuesday in April, from 3:30 pm – 7:30 pm, Sky River Rewards Members have the opportunity to showcase their skills and compete for a coveted spot in the Blackjack Tournament Finale on April 30. Buy-in and play every week, for a chance to win big. The final showdown promises grand rewards, with the top weekly prize of $1,000 in Promotional Chips and the ultimate champion of the finale taking home $10,000 in Promotional Chips.
Tax Day Swipe and Win
To lighten the Tax Day mood, a Swipe and Win event is set for Monday, April 15, from 12 pm – 8 pm. Members who earn 500 Tier Credit on this day will be rewarded with random prizes, including up to $1,040 in Free Slot Play, Points, or Bonus Drawing Entries for the Springtime Showers Drawing on Saturday, April 20.
For more information on the April promotions and to experience the best of gaming, sports, and entertainment, visit www.SkyRiver.com and SacRepublicFC.com/tickets.
*Must be at least 21 years of age or older and a Sky River Rewards member. Visit Sky River Rewards Club for complete details. Management reserves all rights. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Join Sky River Rewards
Sky River Rewards, is one of the most hi-tech rewards programs among casinos in Northern California, allowing
guests cardless play, cashless wallet, and more. The Sky River Rewards card is your key to receiving points for all your activities and those points can be redeemed for Free Play or dining credits. Become a Sky River Rewards member now to receive $15 Free Play. To activate your Free Play, visit any slot machine and place a bet. Sky River Rewards enrollment can be done online using a computer, tablet, or phone with a camera.
About Sky River Casino
Sky River Casino was built by the Wilton Rancheria in partnership with Boyd Gaming Corporation, which is building and managing the property for the tribe. The casino opened in August 2022 and includes 100,000 sq ft of gaming, 2,100 slot machines, 80+ table games, and 18 bars and restaurants. To learn more, visit www.SkyRiver.com.
Jose Javier Reyes is new film council chairman
Veteran director Jose Javier Reyes was designated as the new chairman of Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), replacing Tirso Cruz III. Cruz resigned from his post last March 13, 2024. FDCP announced the news on its Facebook account.
“JUST IN: Director Jose Javier Reyes is officially appointed as the new Chairman and CEO of the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) on April 8, 2024,” it said.
“Chairman Reyes is the successor of former FDCP Chair Tirso Cruz III. He will officially assume his position as the head of FDCP, bringing more than 40 years of expertise in the Philippine film industry to the national film council,” it added.
In a report by PEP before being designated, Reyes explained what are the possible scenarios if he will be placed as chairman of the council.
“May mga bagay na puwede pang gawin. Puwede pang magturo. Yung mga kontrata na pinirmahan niya bago siya na-appoint, puwede pa niyang i-honor. Pero after na-appoint na siya, officially, wala na siyang kontratang puwedeng pirmahan. Limitado ka talaga,” he said.
“Nangangahulugan na kung ako ang maging next chair, ang puwede ko na lang gawin, yung mga kontratang nag-downpayment na sa akin. As long as I am chair, I cannot shoot anymore, so malaking sakripisyo. Will I accept it or not?”
“Mahirap pag nag-chairman. Ang daming mawawala sa yo. Ang dami mong dapat i-give up.”
Le� to Right: 1. Michael J. Facenda, Sky River Casino President, Chris Franklin, Wilton Rancheria Chief Opera�ng Officer, Kevin Nagle, Republic FC Chairman & Chief Execu�ve Officer, Jesus Tarango, Wilton Rancheria Chairman, Todd Dunivant, Republic FC President & General Manager, Dus�n Vicari, Republic FC Chief Revenue Office
Le� to Right: Raquel Williams, Wilton Rancheria Vice Chairwoman, Donald Brown Jr., Wilton Rancheria Tribal Councilmember, Kevin Singh, Wilton Rancheria Tribal Councilmember, Kevin Nagle, Republic FC Chairman & Chief Execu�ve Officer, Antonio Ruiz, Wilton Rancheria Tribal Councilmember, Jesus Tarango, Wilton Rancheria Chairman, Jerome “Jay” Williams, Wilton Rancheria Tribal Councilmembe
Over 30 LPGA Stars Compete in the 17th Annual CM Pro-Am at Journey at Pechanga, April 9
Pechanga Resort Casino is proud to host Character Media’s 17th Annual Pro-Am Golf Tournament on April 9, 2024 at the casino’s premier golf course, Journey at Pechanga. This exclusive event will feature prominent female golfers such as Ashley Lau, Robyn Choi, Jennifer Chang, Soo Bin Joo and Ssu-Chia Cheng.
Ashley Lau, Rolex Ranking 234th as of March 25th, 2024, emerged with a resounding 1st place victory at the 2024 Australian Vic Open. Since her debut in 2023, Lau has rapidly risen in the golfing world, boasting two top-10 finishes and a season highlight of third place at the Wildhorse Ladies Golf Classic, marking her as a significant new talent on the professional golf scene.
Robyn Choi, after securing her LPGA card for the 2024 season with a victory at the 2023 LPGA Q-Series, recently added to her accolades by triumphing at The Webex Players Series South Australia. The Australian golfer is nothing if not consistent, recording six top-10 finishes on the Epson Tour. Her Rolex Ranking currently stands at 284th.
Jennifer Chang, an All-American dur-
ing her time at USC and currently ranked 325th, is building on her momentum with a season-best 8T finish at the Florida’s Natural Charity Classic just a month ago. Deciding to pursue professional golf after her junior year, Chang’s collegiate accolades continue to underscore her potential and prowess on the professional circuit.
Soo Bin Joo embarked on her LPGA journey in 2023, showcasing her talent early with a season-best T6 finish at the ShopRite LPGA Classic. With her rookie year marked by a notable performance and a T-61st finish at the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship, Joo has rapidly become a golfer to watch, underscoring her potential with a current Rolex ranking of 376th.
Ssu-Chia Cheng, who took up golf at just eight years old, secured a commendable tie for 7th at the 2024 Foxconn TLPGA Players Championship in February. Representing Taiwan in the 2014 Asian Games in Incheon as well as a silver medal win at the 2014 Youth Summer Olympics in Nanjing, Cheng’s current Rolex Ranking stands at 390th.
The illustrious field of LPGA stars set to compete also include Abegail Arevalo, Amelia Garvey, Amy Lee, Annika Borrelli, Brianna Do, Gabriella Then, Gigi Stoll, Greta Voelker, ILHee Lee, Jenny Rosenberg, Jillian Hollis, Kaley In, Karen
Chung, Louise Ridderström, Malia Nam, Min-G Kim, Mo Martin, Olivia Schmidt, Rebecca Lee-Bentham, Jenny Coleman, Savannah Grewal, Selena Costabile, Sydnee Michaels, Tisha Alyn, and Vicky Hurst. This group of 30 professional golfers will compete on a challenging course, aiming to impress fans and partners with their skill and competitive spirit.
Tee sponsors will enjoy the unique opportunity to swing their clubs with these celebrated LPGA professionals, discovering their playing partners on the eve of the tournament. The competition commences at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, April 9, following a press conference with the players. Competitors will engage in an 18-hole scramble, vying for the prestigious CM Pro-Am Cup. The tournament enforces a maximum score of pars to maintain the
competitive spirit.
The CM Pro-Am Golf Tournament promises not only a showcase of exceptional golf talent but also a celebration of sportsmanship and camaraderie. Join us for what promises to be a memorable event in the heart of Temecula.
About Journey at Pechanga Journey at Pechanga championship golf course, one of the many high-end amenities at Pechanga Resort Casino, is consistently rated among the top public courses in California. When golfers partner their rounds with a luxury stay at the adjacent resort, the value of the experience rises. Please visit Pechanga.com or call (877) 711-2946 to for more information or to book your next stay at Pechanga Resort Casino.
