The Filipino Press: March 3-9, 2023

PBBM, Anwar vow to enhance political, security, trade cooperation

MANILA -- President Ferdinand

R. Marcos Jr. and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim agreed Wednesday to strengthen political, security, and trade and investment cooperation between the Philippines and Malaysia.

This developed after the two leaders held a bilateral meeting at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Wednesday afternoon.

Marcos said he and Anwar had a "cordial and productive" discussion on the Philippines and Malaysia's bilateral cooperation, reaffirming their desire to revitalize the two nations' relations amid the shift to the "new normal."

"As immediate neighbors, the Philippines and Malaysia recognize the importance of maintaining peace and security in our region.

As such, we agreed to continue our cooperation on political and security matters," he said in a joint statement delivered at the President's Hall of the Palace after his bilateral meeting with Anwar.

Anwar also reaffirmed that the two nations’ defense and security ties are “strong and growing.”

“We share common borders and to an extent quite porous.

Therefore, the collaboration needs to be further enhanced,” he said.

Anwar said he and Marcos also made a commitment to resume the 8th Joint Commission Meeting, the two countries’ main bilateral consultative mechanism which will be hosted by Kuala Lumpur “at a

mutually convenient date” this year. “Guided by shared interest, multidimensional bilateral cooperation and vibrant peopleto-people interaction, President Marcos Jr. let me assure you that the new administration in Malaysia

will be more than happy to further enhance this collaboration,” he said, noting that Malaysia and the Philippines’ bilateral cooperation is “multisectoral covering trade and investment, education, health, agriculture, health, tourism and culture.”

Teens Confront Epidemic of Dating Violence

By Peter White/ e MS

The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention recently flagged an alarming increase in teen dating violence, with some surveys showing rates as high as 1 in 3 relationships.

Young people are coming of age without knowing how to create a loving relationship or what the warning signs are that maybe they’re not in a good one.

So says Ana Campos, 17, who was blinded by “fake love” and thought everything was fine. Her sister recognized the red flags Ana was ignoring.

“He was very manipulative. He would constantly like, check my phone without my permission, and just be angry over the smallest things,” Campos recalled. She has been in therapy for two years. Campos is slowly leaving her toxic relationship behind.

She is one of a growing number of teenage activists dedicated to educating their peers about the dangers of teen dating violence and how to prevent it. The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention recently flagged an alarming increase in teen dating violence, up from the one out of 12 teens who reported having experienced it in 2021. Some youth surveys report the number of victims at one out of three.

An EMS briefing marking February as Teen Dating Violence Prevention month featured four high school students who work with the California Partnership to End Domestic Violence. “It’s

valuable to have youth speaking out on these issues because they are able to give you an inside peak as to what relationships, both intimate and friends and peers, look like today,” said Megan Tanahashi, communications analyst for the Partnership.

Isha Raheja started working with the House of Ruth women’s shelter last year. She promoted the Awareness through Art Showcase against teen dating violence at her school but it was a hard sell to some of her classmates. Many of the fliers she posted around campus were torn down.

“It’s no surprise to me that teen dating violence can be regarded as taboo by some,” she said. Now a senior, Raheja leads a sex education reform club at her school and she recruited one reluctant classmate whose parents had opted her out of sex education.

When Raheja first talked to her about dating violence, her classmate was taken aback and

said it might not be an appropriate subject. But she came back the next day and they kept talking. Soon the girl was regularly attending club meetings.

“Speaking on a personal level with individuals to turn apathy amongst students to empathy helped me build a group of likeminded individuals and further progress,” she said.

Maya Henry said she will never feel safe on public transit. “I ride the bus every day. That is a place where I have been a target of sexual assaulted more than once.

“The thing about it is that it robs you of your innocence forever, and I don’t know if that’s something that you could ever really give back or take back, and I hope one day that’ll happen,” she said.

She volunteers at Peace Over Violence, a youth violence prevention center headquartered in Los Angeles. She says her friends

Marcos said he and Anwar also made a commitment to boost Manila and Kuala Lumpur's trade and investment ties to develop the halal industry, improve the agriculture sector and promote digital economy.

"With the ongoing impacts of

the pandemic and geopolitical upheavals challenging our national economies and the prospects of a global recovery, we agreed to reinvigorate trade and investment exchanges with a special focus on halal industry, agriculture and food security and the digital economy,"

he said.

Anwar expressed elation over Marcos’ resolve to explore cooperation in “new and important” sectors such as halal industry and food security. Intensifying efforts to increase both trade and investment would yield “tremendous benefit” to the two countries, the Malaysian prime minister said.

Peace-building initiatives

Marcos said the Philippines and Malaysia, as founding members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the BruneiIndonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMPEAGA), have ASEAN Centrality embedded into their regional outlook.

“We have thus resolved to support development and peacebuilding initiatives within this group, including the importance of achieving a resolution to the situation in Myanmar,” he said. This, as Anwar said the still unresolved Myanmar crisis is affecting Malaysia “adversely,” citing the “huge number” of refugees which now exceeds 200,000.

“Now the President in his wisdom has reiterated the need for the Five-Point Consensus but I would certainly suggest with his experience of wisdom to explore new areas how Myanmar

Maraya Performing Arts premieres

SAN DIEGO, CA - KIPP Adelante

Preparatory Academy is being transformed into a show site for this spectacular performance of Moana Jr. This heartwarming and empowering story of Pacific Islanders and selfdiscovery is being brought to life by Maraya Performing Arts and a creative team of Filipino-American artists. The show opens March the 10th and closes on the 19th.

Community leaders including City of San Diego Council President Pro Tem Monica Montgomery Steppe and Mayor of Chula Vista, John McCann are scheduled to attend.

The story of Moana is rooted in Pacific Islander heritage. The FilipinoAmerican creative team reflects the importance of representation and inclusivity in the arts. Moana's journey of discovering a people divided by oceans, but united in their solidarity parallels community building amidst a Filipino diaspora scattered across the planet. Moana Jr. is a musical production that follows the journey of a young indigenous girl who sets out to save her island and people –discovering a true identity and heritage along the way. The show is being put on by Maraya Performing Arts, an organization that uses the arts to build self-esteem, foster resilience, and promote positive social change through education and productions.

The show is site-specific and transforms the school's facilities into the scenery of the show, providing an immersive theatrical experience for the audience. KIPP Adelante Preparatory Academy is a public tuition-free charter school located in Southeast San Diego, providing a

education to students from low to moderate income households.

The student-performers have safely blossomed into triple-threat performers through the guidance of Choreographer Michelle Camaya Julian, Co-Music Director Syephen Evangelista, Music Director Matt Ignacio, Cultural Consultants Donna & Jeff Merghart, Stage Manager Diana Nicasio, Props & Scenic

Designer Nahla Valdez, Costume

Designer Elizabeth “Muse” Juarez and Producer/Director Anjanette MarayaRamey. Parents have volunteered numerous hours to work behind the scenes – selling tickets, sewing costumes, and making props to make this show a reality.

This is Maraya’s second major musical theatre production, following last year’s production of the Disney’s Descendants, which was performed 8 times to audiences of 100. Founder, Anjanette Maraya-Ramey, has had her fair share of overcoming obstacles to put on engaging community based shows with historically marginalized communities of concern predominantly located South of the 8 freeway. Anjanette is a proud, firstgeneration Filipina-American, South Bay native, brain hemorrhage and cancer survivor who founded Maraya Performing Arts in 2020 during the

pandemic.

Moana Jr. Performance dates and times:

● 2:00 PM, March 11, 12, 18, 19

● 7:00 PM, March 10, 11, 17, 18

Location: KIPP Adelante Preparatory Academy 426 Euclid Ave, San Diego, CA 92114

Tickets: General Admission Tickets are $15 for all ages: marayaarts.com/ productions Due to COVID-19 and for the safety of the cast and crew, audience members ages 4 and up must present proof of vaccination or a Negative COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of their ticketed performance date. Dress casually with comfortable shoes, and take account of the weather for the date and time of your show. Be prepared to sit, stand, and walk intermittently throughout the show.

This show was made possible by the support of generous donors of Maraya Performing Arts – City of San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture and Council Members Monica Montgomery Steppe and Sean EloRivera, California Arts Council, and Seven Mile Casino. Please consider making a donation to make an impact today! https://marayaarts.com/givesupport/

Maraya is South Bay San Diego's premiere multicultural performing arts center dedicated to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging for individuals of all ages and abilities; and offers multigenerational classes in dance, music, and theatre in its home studio in Eastlake.

Facebook: @Maraya Performing Arts. Instagram: @marayaarts Website: www.marayaarts.com

FASTER INTERNET. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. meets with Converge founder and chief executive officer (CEO) Dennis Anthony Uy and Keppel T&T CEO and executive director Thomas Pang Thieng Hwi at Malacañang recently. Marcos said the Philippines will soon enjoy a bigger bandwidth and faster internet connection, once the subsea cable system project between Converge and Keppel is completed. (MNS photo)

“Disney’s Moana Jr: The Musical,”

The Pampered Pinay Lifestyle

By FRANCINE m AIguE

This week, I was asked, “Just how much should a person be pampered?”

I believe in taking the time to pamper yourself everyday. After all, if we don’t take good care of ourselves, we can’t expect anybody else to. With that said, my idea of “pampering” is one that fits our current time and economic state. Our recession forced us to reprioritize, and thus redefined what it means to be “pampered.” With a shift in perspective, resources, and financial stability, I found it appropriate to develop a Pampered Pinay Lifestyle that encompasses a level of self-respect and encourages balance.

The Pampered Pinay Lifestyle is about treating yourself well-without guilt or remorse. All too often we take such good care of others but forget to do the same for our own mind, body, and resources.

I believe that with the right tools and daily commitment, we can all find the satisfaction that we not only desire, but rightfully deserve.

Sure, you could pamper yourself with lavish, expensive, material belongings…but The Pampered Pinay Lifestyle is so much more…

The Pampered Pinay Lifestyle is about recognizing the infinite value of your health, your relationships, your time, your talents—your potential for greatness… It’s about a positive quality of life that celebrates what it means to be uniquely you, one day at a time.

My pampered friends, this week I share with you three of my daily blog posts from my official website, thepamperedpinay.com, each of which deal with pampering your health, wealth, and well-being. Cheers to enjoying The Pampered Pinay Lifestyle!

Day #79

Pamper your weekend couch potato. Substitute the usual (calorieladen) suspects with healthful, flavorful, equally snackable options.

Current fave: Homemade Kale Chips

Wash and dry fresh kale. Remove kale leaves from stems,

and tear leaves into chip-sized pieces. (Dispose the hard stems, or save them for your next soup stock.) Spritz kale with olive oil spray and a light sprinkling of salt or low-sodium soy sauce. Bake on a cookie sheet for about 10 minutes at 350 degrees (or until the edges are a light brown), and presto!

Mmm…mmm…mmm… Indulge in a whole bowl of kale chips or settle for a couple of potato chips for the same amount of calories? Tell those potato chips to take a hike, so you don’t have to!

Bonus Tip: Want to add a little tang to your chips? Grate a little lemon zest on top of the kale before baking. Enjoy!

Day #80

Pamper your body after enduring the Monday madness. Have a massage exchange. Don’t let a case of the Monday’s get you down. Start off the work week in a rejuvenating way. Take some time at night to relax and reflect. Why wait ’til Friday to treat yourself well? Personally, I tend to get my best ideas when I allow myself to escape, indulge, and brainstorm…while receiving a massage early in the week. I hope it works for you, too!

PNASD Love Your Heart Campaign

Bonus Tips:

• Combine equal parts brown sugar, olive oil, and raw oats for an exfoliating scrub. Apply the mixture with slow, circular, soft massage strokes. Wipe off the sugar mixture with a warm, damp washcloth.

Mash up an avocado with a little milk for a moisturizing body masque. Apply the avocado mixture with slow, deeper, longer massage strokes. Leave the masque on for a few minutes. Wipe off the avocado mixture with another warm, damp washcloth.

• Don’t forget your favorite “happy place” playlist…For starters, I recommend “Slow Me Down” by Emmy Rossum and just about any song by Malika Ayane.

Take some deep breaths… Enjoy…You deserve it.

What are some of your favorite “let me escape the world for a moment” rituals, my pampered friends?

Day #82

Pamper your end-of-theyear financial goals and plans… beginning today. If you are able to save just $3.50 everyday, from today ’til the end of the year, you’ll have over $1,000 to ring in the New Year with. So…what are your goals, hopes, and plans, my pampered friends? A holiday trip…a fancy gift…paying off debt by the time the New Year starts? Put that piggy bank to good use…every lil bit really does add up. Cha-ching!

286 days left in 2012

286 * $3.50 = $1,001

How would YOU pamper yourself with $1,000, my pampered friends?

Your comments could be featured here! Again, just email us at filpressads@aol.com Got a business or event we should know about and that our fil-am community should know about and can benefit from? Do not hesitate to reach out to us.

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By mIChEllE Bl As & V IVIAN sANdER lIN

SAN DIEGO, CA -- The Philippine Nurses Association of San Diego County, Inc. (PNASD) partnered with Aetna/CVS for the Love Your Heart Campaign for 4 days that began February 13 until February 16, 2023.

The free blood pressure checks and health education were stationed in different underserved locations of San Diego including East County of Ramona. A total of 26 PNASD volunteer members provided 120 hours of volunteer time and served 306 clients on the 4-day event. Michelle Blas, a student of Southwestern Collage and one of the volunteers, wrote her experience as “while to some this may seem like a straightforward nursing skill, it's the commitment, devotion, and sense of purpose that make every volunteer experience special. I was inspired to join the Philippine Nurses Association by the 2022-2024 organization's president-elect Emeline Yabut, a faculty member at Southwestern College. She then informed me that PNASD organizes many communitybenefiting drives every year. The Love Your Heart campaign is one of these efforts. The PNASD goal is to empower the neighborhood to take control of their health by making them aware of their numbers (BP).

She continued “not everyone is aware of what the normal blood pressure range is. A systolic and diastolic measurement of less than 120 and 80 respectively, are considered to be normal blood pressure values. Some people are aware that their number is high, but they are not aware of the ramifications for their general health. At this stage, the Love Your Heart provided the person with information and health recommendations. A person with high blood pressure is more prone to suffer from medical conditions, including heart attack, kidney failure, peripheral and coronary arterial disease. This can be avoided by following a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, limiting alcohol intake, giving up smoking, and making sure they take their medications as prescribed. In a similar vein, PNASD also needs volunteers, so if you are

like me and prefer giving back to the community, consider volunteering or joining so that we can collaborate to promote a healthy lifestyle.

In addition to free BP checks, the clients who participated at each location received complimentary gift insulated bags, umbrellas, drink cups, hand wipes and educational handouts.

To summarize, PNASD’s role in teaching at the Love Your Heart Campaign made an impact on the vast majority of clients in increasing their knowledge on improving/promoting their health and wellness, prevention of heart disease and awareness on Health Equity or Access to Health care moving towards Global Health. PNASD appreciates Aetna/CVS for the opportunity and thankful to all

the

volunteers who made it successful.

PNASD

STAY SAFE EVERYONE WEAR YOUR MASK WASH HANDS OFTEN

DBM: P4-B allotted for drivers, farmers, fishers' fuel subsidies

MANILA -- The Marcos administration has earmarked a total of PHP4 billion for the provision of fuel subsidies to public transport drivers, farmers, and fisherfolk, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) announced Thursday.

In a statement, the DBM said the PHP4 billion worth of fuel assistance will be charged against the regular budgets of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) under the 2023 General Appropriations Act (GAA).

About PHP3 billion will be distributed to qualified public utility vehicles (PUV), taxis, tricycles, and full-time ride-hailing and delivery services drivers nationwide in the form of fuel vouchers, the budget department said.

“The amount is PHP500 million higher than the PHP2.5 billion in the 2022 budget's fuel subsidy program. This aims to cushion the impact of high oil prices on thousands of PUV drivers,” it said.

The implementation of the fuel subsidy program is subject to guidelines issued by the DOTr, the Department of Energy, and the DBM. The DBM said beneficiaries would be validated and identified by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

The announcement came in the wake of various public transport groups’ plan to stage a weeklong strike beginning March 6 to contest the planned phaseout of traditional jeepneys by June 30.

On Wednesday, the LTFRB decided to extend the deadline for old jeepneys by six months, or on Dec. 31.

Meanwhile, about PHP1 billion will be used to provide fuel assistance to more than 312,000 farmers and fishers, the DBM said.

“The fuel subsidy shall benefit more than 312,000 farmers and fisherfolk with PHP3,000 per beneficiary to ensure unimpeded agricultural production and fishing operations,” it said.

Budget Secretary Amenah

Pangandaman said the distribution of fuel subsidies would continue under the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to help the “most vulnerable” sectors.

“Kagagaling lang po natin sa pandemya. Naiintindihan po natin na maraming naapektuhang drivers and even our farmers and fisherfolk (We are still recovering from the pandemic. We understand that it affected many drivers, even our farmers and fisherfolk),”

Pangandaman said.

"We are banking on our transport and agriculture sector to boost economic recovery. And so we need to provide them the help and boost they need."

House OKs Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers on 2nd reading

A measure that would improve the working and living conditions and ensure the socio-economic wellbeing of Filipino seafarers has hurdled second reading approval at the House of Representatives.

During the plenary session on Wednesday, the chamber passed through voice voting House Bill 7325, instituting the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers,

which would contain their rights, duties, conditions of employment, minimum requirements to work on a ship and other entitlements, together with the duties and responsibilities of the shipowners and manning agencies.

The bill aims to ensure that Filipino seafarers are treated fairly at all times, especially in the event of a maritime accident, epidemic, pandemic, or other natural or manmade crises. It covers Filipino seafarers who are employed, engaged or work in any capacity on board foreignregistered ships and Philippineregistered ships operating internationally.

OFW Party-list Rep. Marissa Magsino, author of the measure, stressed the need to craft legislation that would ensure that their rights are laid down clearly, and the arrangements that they are subjected to are constantly monitored.

Magsino noted that while several laws have been crafted such as the Migrant Workers And Overseas Filipinos Act, they remain to be insufficient in directly targeting the unique needs and setup of seafarers.

"There can be no better time than now, in ensuring that a specific law which would guarantee that the seafarers whose employment is of distinct nature, is finally passed. We should not wait another decade, or worse, another pandemic, before we respond to this sector from whom we have gained so much," Magsino said.

Among the rights of Filipino seafarers, as stipulated in the bill, include the following: safe and secure workplace that complies with safety standards; fair terms and conditions of employment; decent working and living conditions on board a ship; health protection, medical care, welfare measures; self-organization; educational advancement and training; relevant information; free legal representation and speedy disposition of case; appropriate grievance mechanism; and access to communication, among others.

The bill requires a standard employment contract of the seafarer, which contains the terms and conditions of employment duly approved by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).

Ship owners will be required to provide decent accommodations and recreational facilities onboard ships.

Ship owners shall also be required to ensure the protection of the health of seafarers by carrying onboard free food and drinking water of appropriate quality, quantity, and nutritional value.

A "green lane" shall be provided for seafarers that shall exempt them from travel-related or health-related movement restrictions to facilitate crew change when national or international emergencies warrant.

PNP receives $3-M counterterrorism equipment from US

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday received USD3.3 million (around PHP181 million) worth of state-of-theart equipment from the Office of Antiterrorism Assistance Program of the Diplomatic Security Services of the United States Embassy to help boost its counter-terrorism capability.

US Ambassador to Manila

MaryKay Carlson led the turnover of the donated equipment at Camp Bagong Diwa, in Taguig City, which includes 31 bomb suits, 37 Digital SCANX units, 40 X-ray Sources, 10 EOD bomb suit batteries, 33 high-risk search techniques kits, 13 seeker-e kits, and seven Ford Ranger pickup trucks.

“This equipment with a total value of over USD3 million will enhance the capability of the PNPExplosive Ordnance Disposal and K-9 unit to search, identify and render safe improvised explosive devices and facilitate collection of evidence to use for prosecution,” Carlson said.

Carlson stressed Washington D.C.’s commitment to supporting Manila in its fight against terrorism.

“The United States remains steadfast in its friendship and commitment to the Government of the Philippines, and we are very proud of our continuing partnership in the fight against terrorism. I am confident that working together, we will be able to deter, interdict, and prevent acts of terrorism,” Carlson said.

Maj. Gen. Ronaldo Olay, PNP director for logistics, said the equipment would enhance the PNP’s capabilities in detecting, preventing and responding to terrorist threats in the country.

“All of this state-of-theart equipment will significantly enhance our capabilities to prevent and respond to terrorist threats and other high risk situations, ultimately helping us to better serve and protect the Filipino people. We will ensure that this equipment is put to good use and will contribute significantly to our efforts in maintaining peace and order in this part of the world,” said Olay, who received the donations on behalf of PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr.

Olay thanked the US government for the donation, which he said “will undoubtedly be a game changer in our ability to fulfill our mission to keep our communities safe from terrorism and other forms of criminality.”

"We are extremely grateful for this donation, which will undoubtedly be a game-changer in our ability to fulfill our mission to keep our communities safe from terrorism and other forms of criminality. This donation also highlights the strong partnership between the Philippine National Police and the American Embassy, and we are deeply appreciative of this gesture of support from our American allies," he added.

The turnover ceremony was attended by ranking officials from both the PNP and the US Embassy, wherein they emphasized the importance of the donation in strengthening the partnership between the two countries in addressing security concerns.

Carlson, meanwhile, said the US State Department's Bureau of Diplomatic Security - Office of AntiTerrorism Assistance has provided training and equipment to the Philippine government since 1986, and has since provided the PNP with over USD100 million (around See DBM on 5

Planned construction of hyperscale data centers in PH elates PBBM

MANILA -- President Ferdinand

R. Marcos Jr. welcomed Thursday the planned establishment of two hyperscale date centers in Luzon, saying the plan would give a boost to his administration’s digital transformation bid.

This, after Marcos, in a meeting with executives of infrastructure development firms ENDEC Development Corp. and Diode Ventures, LLC at the State Dining Room of Malacañan Palace, was briefed on the status of the proposed hyperscale data center projects in the Philippines.

During the meeting, the two companies informed Marcos of their ongoing negotiations to build hyperscale data centers in Tarlac province and New Clark City, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Cheloy Garafil said in a statement.

Marcos said the planned construction of hyperscale data centers would enable the Philippines to catch up with other countries in terms of digitalization.

"This is important for us. We're left behind when it comes to digitalization. That's why the push for data centers, fiber optics and satellite is one of our priorities," Marcos said, as quoted by the PCO.

"We are really pushing [for] digitalization. Thank you for your continuing interest in the Philippines," he told the executives of ENDEC and Diode Ventures.

Hyperscale data centers are massive business-critical facilities built by companies with vast data processing and storage needs.

The facilities are designed to efficiently support robust, scalable applications that are often associated with big data-producing companies such as Google, Amazon, Facebook and Microsoft.

Unlike traditional data centers, hyperscale data centers exceed 5,000 servers and 10,000 square feet.

The projects, Garafil said, are a result of Marcos’ productive roundtable discussion with American business leaders in New York in September 2022.

On Sept. 22 last year, ENDECGROUP, Inc. and Diode Ventures, LLC joined the roundtable meeting on digital infrastructure during Marcos’ visit to New York.

Garafil said ENDEC is committed to starting the project in the first quarter of 2024 and will work with a local Renewable Energy (RE) company for its electricity requirements to support its energyintensive data center operations.

ENDEC, Garafil said, would use “100 percent” RE sourced from solar, wind and hydro to sustain the 700-megawatt monthly power consumption of its data centers.

“According to ENDEC, it would secure separate energy sources to ensure that the country's power grids will not be affected by its operation,” the PCO chief said.

The meeting with Marcos was attended by ENDECGROUP, Inc. managing director William Johnson, ENDEC Inc. chief operating officer (COO) Ernest Calayag, and Diode Ventures, LLC president Brad Hardin.

Also present were Information and Communications Technology Secretary Ivan John Uy, Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual and

Presidential Adviser on Investment and Economic Affairs Secretary Frederick Go.

ENDEC Development Corp., a subsidiary of ENDECGROUP, Inc., is the main developer of the projects.

In the past 22 years, ENDEC, Inc. delivered more than 100 projects globally, including water systems, blending plants, schools, training centers, specialized diagnostic laboratories and landing zone pads.

On the other hand, Diode Ventures, LLC, a subsidiary of the global company Black & Veatch (BV), is the development partner of ENDEC Development Corp.

Established in 2017, the company specializes in the development of data centers and renewable energy projects.

NLEX-SLEX Connector's España section to open before Holy Week

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has scheduled the opening of the Caloocan to España section in Manila of the North Luzon Expressway-South Luzon Expressway (NLEX-SLEX) Connector before the Holy Week. In a statement Wednesday, Secretary Manuel Bonoan said motorists will be enjoying seamless access from NLEX to España Boulevard once the section is opened.

“We are targeting to open the España Section before Holy Week to help decongest vehicular traffic in Metro Manila, especially to and from the Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, and Valenzuela (Camanava) area,” he said.

Bonoan and Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary

Jaime Bautista, together with NLEX Corporation President and General Manager Jose Luigi Bautista and Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation President Rodrigo Franco, inspected on Wednesday, the first 5.15-kilometer section of the fourlane NLEX-SLEX Connector Road extending from the end of NLEX Segment 10 in C3 Road, Caloocan City to the España Interchange along España Boulevard.

Once completed, it will connect NLEX Segment 10 to the end of Metro Manila Skyway Stage 3 at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) in Sta. Mesa, Manila.

It will reduce travel time from SLEX-Alabang to NLEX-Balintawak from two hours to just 20 minutes.

The PHP23.2-billion NLEXSLEX Connector Road is a joint implementation project by the Philippine Government through DPWH and Manila North Tollways Corporation (MNTC) under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Program.

The project alignment has mostly utilized portions of the Philippine National Railways (PNR) road rightof-way.

“Construction of the second section stretching from España Boulevard to Polytechnic University of the Philippines-Sta Mesa is being fast-track to provide trucks with an alternative route from the ports to the south and improve connectivity between Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and Clark International Airport,” added Bonoan.

Also present during the inspection

were DPWH Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral, DOTr Undersecretary for Legal Affairs Reinier Paul Yebra, DPWH PPP Service OIC Director Pelita Galvez, DPWH Planning Service Director Alex Bote, Toll Regulatory Board Executive Director Alvin Carullo, DMCI President and CEO Jorge Consunji, and officials and representatives of MPTC and NLEX Corporation.

This year's Holy Week observance would fall from April 2 to 9.

DA: Selling onions direct to buyers to stabilize prices

To realize the administration’s food security targets, the Department of Agriculture-Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service (DAAMAS) said Wednesday it will secure direct transportation links between onion growers and buyers.

In a statement, the DA said this is part of efforts to improve the logistics in the country’s agricultural value chain under the leadership of President and concurrent Agriculture chief Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

“In line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to stabilize the prices of onion in the retail markets and help farmers increase their income, the Department of Agriculture, through the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service, has strengthened its direct market linkage initiatives,” the DA said.

The agency said the initiative is set to benefit both the market vendors and institutional buyers.

The DA added it is also working closely with its regional counterparts to address problems with transportation.

This included the utilization of Kadiwa delivery trucks to help farmers in the logistics.

“In Nueva Ecija, the DA-AMAS and DA Regional Field Office III-Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division provided logistical assistance to Valiant Primary Multi-Purpose Cooperative (VPMPC) and the Bagong Pag-asa Multi-purpose Cooperative, both based in Bongabon, which is an onion-producing municipality,” the DA said.

The DA said it has transported thousands of kilograms of red and white onions to several areas in Metro Manila and nearby provinces from Feb. 22 to 24.

“A total of 4,260 kilograms of red onion and 610 kg of white onion were delivered to the L. Sanchez Farm, Batangas City Rural Improvement Club Marketing Cooperative, Ridad Integrated Farm, Agripreneur Farmers and Producers Association, as well as to market vendors of Guadalupe market and Las Pinas City public market,” it said.

Besides easing the transport situation for farmers, the move also intends to lower the actual market price by eliminating the unreasonable markup usually incurred between the farmgate and retail price.

The administration earlier said middlemen must be eliminated from the system to ensure benefits both for farmers and buyers.

To date, the prevailing prices of local red onions in Metro Manila are set at PHP100/kg to PHP180/ kg, while local white onions are at PHP90 to PHP120. (MNS)

PREVENTIVE MEASURE. Southern Philippines Medical Center personnel spearhead the free cancer screening, to end the observance of National Cancer Awareness Month, at the Davao City Recreation Center in Davao del Sur on Tuesday (Feb. 28, 2023). The project “Lumps and Bumps Caravan: TINGin-TINGin, TANGTANG Bukol Caravan” checks for symptoms of cervical and breast cancer, with onsite ultrasound and biopsy testing among the services. (MNS photo)

CADET MARCH. Philippine Military Academy cadets march along the streets of Baguio City, joining hundreds of participants during the Panagbenga Festival 2023 Grand Float Parade on Sunday (Feb. 26, 2023). “A Renaissance of Wonder and Beauty,” the theme of this year's Panagbenga Festival, highlights the city's journey toward tourism revival and entry into the new normal after the pandemic.(MNS photo)

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY CHANGEMAKERS: FEARLESS FILIPINAS MARCH IN A NARRATIVE THAT ANSWERS HOW THEY DARED TO DREAM AND CAME TO BE

SAN DIEGO, CA -- Wednesday, March 8, 2023 is International Women’s Day!

Imagine a gender equal world…a world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination…a world that’s diverse, equitable, and inclusive…a world where difference is valued and celebrated.

Yes, together we all can forge women’s equity!

Collectively, we can all celebrate women’s achievement…raise awareness about discrimination… take action to drive parity.

International Women’s Day (IWD) belongs to everyone, everywhere and inclusion means all IWD action is valid.

Gloria Steinem, world-renowned feminist, journalist and activist once explained “The story of women’s struggle for equality belongs neither to a single feminist nor to any one organization but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights.”

So, I say let’s all make International Women’s Day your day and do what you can to truly make a positive difference for women.

Moving on – Much of Philippine history was made by fearless Filipino women whose legacies live on today; from the heroic Gabriela Silang, who was the first female leader in the Philippine revolution, to Dr. Fe del Mundo, who was the first woman to ever graduate from Harvard Medical School are just some of the Filipinas who walked so all could run.

In addition to these historical heroes, there are many modern Filipino women who have succeeded spectacularly in their respective fields, broken the glass ceiling and strived to give back to their communities.

Filipino women today stand on the shoulders of giants whose efforts and sacrifices have granted us our current freedoms back in our beloved old homeland – the Philippines. It wasn’t too long ago that suffragist Rosa Sevilla de Alvero fought for the Filipina’s right to vote – and won!

In honor of all the women who paved Filipino history, Bookshelf PH launched a book titled “Fearless Filipinas: 12 Women Who dared to be Different” which puts the spotlight on the women today who are breaking glass ceilings left and right.

To celebrate Filipina excellence on this International Women’s Day 2023 commemoration - I would like to go back a couple of years ago (Monday, March 29) when Bookshelf PH launched then a new book series called “Fearless Filipinas.” The remarkable work was essentially a story of how they became extraordinary Filipinas – the women sharing in a panel discussion the unpaved road to success and glass ceilings they broke to get where they are now.

Featuring individuals who excelled in their respective fields, Fearless Filipinas came out just in time for Women’s Month that year. Here are all the brilliant Filipino women featured in the book: (1.)

Continued from page 4

PHP5.4 billion) in assistance.

While the relationship started with initial investments centered on providing core competency training to the PNP units in Manila, the US assistance now also provides technical, tactical and investigative training and equipment to PNP units all throughout the country.

This year, Carlson said the US government’s Antiterrorism Assistance Program has invested more than USD5 million (PHP275 million) in the PNP for the development of its EOD/K9 crisis response, digital forensics and investigation and intelligence fusion. Col. Albert Magno, acting director of PNP EOD/K9 Group, the end-user of the donated equipment, assured the public that the equipment will be put to good use in serving the Filipino people and protecting them from the threat of terrorism.

During the event, the PNP EOD/ K9 Group exhibited their proficiency in handling explosive devices and identifying prohibited substances through the utilization of expertly

Angel Locsin, film and TV actress, activist, and philanthropist; (2.) Reina Reyes, the Princeton PhD who confirmed Einstein’s theory of relativity; (3.) Kim Lato, the founder and CEO of KImstore, one of the pioneering e-commerce retailers in the Philippines; (4.) Elda Rotor, the Vice President and Publisher of Penguin Classics who brought Filipino authors like Nick Joaquin to a global audience; (5.) Kaizen Dela Serna, a Southeast Asian Games gold medalist in the burgeoning sports of obstacle course racing (OCR); (6.) Erika Legara, a physicist who founded the Asian Institute of Management’s Master of Science in Data Science program; (7.) Stella Abrera, the first Filipina American Principal Dancer of the American Ballet Theatre, playing roles such as Juliet, Giselle, and Princess Aurora;

(8.) Jessica Cox, a motivational speaker and the world’s first licensed armless pilot and black belt in the American Taekwondo Association;

(9.) Jessie Sincioco , the President of the Manna Cuisine Corporation - and the chef who served Pope Francis on his visit to the Philippines in 2015;

(10.) Dzi Gervacio, co-founder of the Beach Volleyball Republic (BVR) and a SEA Games beach volleyball bronze medalist; (11.) Asia Jackson, a Filipina American actress in Hollywood who started the #MagandangMorenx movement to combat colorism in the Filipino community and (12.) Merlee Jayme, the “chairmom” and chief creative officer of Dentsu Jayme Syfu.

For Merlee Jayme, Global President at dentsu mcgarrybowen and Chairmom at Dentsu Jayme Syfu and Dentsue One Manila, there are two voices that she sees women in advertising face every day: One that says they can do anything and one that negates it.

“Overcoming that voice of negativity is the first step,” declared Jayme. She also made mention of the “Cannes’ See It, Be It Initiative” to empower young women. In the book, she told her story and the shortcuts she skipped for the hardearned lessons; hard work and long hours also come with the job, said she.

For the other women in the conversation, the paths they have traveled may not have been the same but has always led them to empower other women.

“Do not limit your worth,” says Jessie Sincioco whose success in the culinary arts is unrivaled having started in the industry when it was still male-dominated.

For sure, the morning that day was nothing but uplifting for those who attended the press conference. Among those who have shared noteworthy lessons are: the Vice President and Publisher at Penguins Classics, Elda Rotor, who said, “In terms of empowerment, it’s our duty to be scaffolding for future generations to build themselves up.”

March may have been International Women’s Month but the call for radical change within our existing systems is a timeless concern. When teaching the

trained K9s and other operational robotics machinery.

The Antiterrorism Assistance (ATA) program of the Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) provides antiterrorism equipment and training to law enforcement agencies of partner nations globally. With its establishment in 1983, ATA has trained over 150,000 first responders and law enforcement officials from more than 150 countries in counterterrorism tactics.

The ATA support to the PNP began in 1986 when the program was created by the US government to provide antiterrorism training and equipment to law enforcement agencies of partner nations throughout the world.

Since then, the ATA program has been instrumental in enhancing the PNP's capabilities in counterterrorism and other law enforcement operations through the provision of various forms of assistance, including training, technical assistance, and equipment donations. (MNS)

PH Navy gets upgraded shipyard from Israeli firm

The Philippine Navy (PN)'s capability to build its own warships,

Jesse T. Reyes

Filipino Potpourri

status quo. Celebrating their lives –and indeed, their individual moments of fearlessness- should serve as a rallying cry to all women. We are all capable pf the courage it takes to achieve unprecedented greatness,” writes Robredo.

Fearless Filipinas II also seeks to expand on the previous volume’s earlier intention of spotlighting women of various competencies, likewise highlighting their individual moments of fearlessness in their respective fields.

The subjects of Fearless Filipinas II were selected not only for their achievements but for the gift, resilience, and determination they have displayed and continue to embody in their careers. In this volume, subjects include Jia Tolentino, the New York Times best-selling author of Trick Mirror: Reflections of Self-Delusion, Macy Lee, activist, mental health advocate, and founder of the nongovernmental organization (NGO)

“Talang Dalisay,” Cam Rodriguez, Philippine women’s national football team player who recently qualified for the Federation Internationale De Football Association (FIFA) Women’s World Cup, Megan Young, the first Filipina to win Miss World, among many others.

To inspire you all, 12 Fearless Filipinas who dared to be different

Documenting these subjects’ achievements and failures in Fearless Filipinas II was a way of keeping up with the tradition of writing and recording women’s history. Books are a point of reference, and by focusing on women, we give future generation’s valuable sources of inspiration and hope that they could break biases and attain whatever they set their minds to despite whatever hurdles may come their way.

“When putting together Fearless Filipinas II, we were spoiled by choice in women to feature. There are countless women with stories to tell which is why we intend on making Fearless Filipinas a series,” noted co-author and managing editor Katya Lichauco. “There is no shortage of subjects to cover.”

can

as follows: (1.) Alex Eala – Tennis player; (2.) Antoinette Jadaone –Filmmaker; (3.) Cam Rodrigues – Footballer; (4.) Cathy GarciaMolina – TV and Film Director; (5.) Ces Drilon – Journalist; (6.) Dr. Fe Del Mundo – Pediatrician; (7.) Hershey Hilado – Entrepreneur; (8.) Jia Tolentino – Journalist; (9.) Josie Trinidad – Disney animator; (10.) Justine Cordero – Founder of Color Manila; (11.) Kara MagsanocAlikpala – Founder of I Can Serve Foundation; (12.) Kim King – Owner of Kim King’s Kitchen; (13.) Macy Lee – “Talang Dalisay” founder; (14.) Megan Young – Miss World 2013; (15.) Michele Bumgamer –Racecar driver; (16.) Pia Ranada –Journalist; (17.) Regina ManzanaSawhney – co-founder of Filipino Googier Network; (18.) Rian Gozales – Artist; (19.) Rowena Romulo - owner of Romulo Café; (20.) Ruby Ibarra – Rapper; (21.) Tasha Tanjutco – Co-founder of Kids for Kids Philippines; (22.) Vicky Morales-Reyno – Broadcast journalist; (23.) Yasmin Busran-Lao – Women’s rights advocate and last but not least (24.) Zara Carbonell –Miss Tourism Worldwide 2018.

“I am truly honored to be part of this project and acknowledged to be a Fearless Filipina. I genuinely believe that all Filipinas are naturally strong and courageous. I am hoping that this book will inspire more women to go after their dreams and change the world,” stated PN 1-Certified Gut, Fasting, & Skin Nutrition Specialist Kim King, who is featured in the book as I have indicated earlier. “Because after all, we’ve all got that innate fire in us that are waiting to be unleashed, we just have to light that fire and put it into action.” she added.

The book was written by Katya Lichauco, Monica Padillo and Pancho Dizon, with founding editor Mica Magsanoc, contributor Veno Centeno and copy editors Gabbie Ruiz and Miguel Fianza. Mio Borromeo served as the editor-inchief and Kyle Nate as the deputy editorial director.

importance of celebrating women role models, we always go back to the basics – through literature.

“Twelve women in the first edition was really not enough to encompass the whole spectrum pf very successful Filipinas out there,” explained Maria Angelica “Mica” B. Magsanoc, a founding editor of the series.

Fearless Filipinas II is the follow-up to “Fearless Filipinas: 12 Women Who dared to be Different,” compiling the short biographies of the twelve women mentioned

particularly the small and hardhitting fast-attack interdictor craft missile (FAIC-M), got a needed boost after Israel Shipyards Ltd. transferred the documents and keys of a newly-refurbished shipyard to its possession on Tuesday.

Navy spokesperson Capt. Benjo Negranza, in a statement Wednesday night, said the upgraded shipyard is located at Naval Station Pascual Ledesma in Cavite City.

The turnover was presided over by Naval Sea Systems Command head Commodore Mac Raul Racacho.

Negranza said the documents and keys were transferred by Israel Shipyards Ltd. marketing director Noam Katsav as part of the FAIC-M acquisition project.

The Navy's FAIC-Ms are the BRP Nestor Acero (PG-901) and BRP Lolinato To-Ong (PG-902), also known as the Acero-class patrol boats.

Seven more of these vessels are expected to be delivered within the next two years.

The documents and the keys of the refurbished shipyard were received by the head of the PN's naval shipyard for initial operation

above spanning different fields and industries, from renowned scientist to actresses to entrepreneurs and so much more.

Former Vice President of the Philippines Leni Robredo even contributed to the first Fearless Filipinas book, writing a forward that reminds women that they are all capable of unprecedented greatness.

“While all the women featured hail from different fields, they are all united in their demonstration of ‘fearlessness’ in the face of adversity, prejudice, or even the

and sustainment, Navy Capt. Nestor Galindo.

"The newly-refurbished naval shipyard will facilitate the local construction of the three FAIC-M vessels, which will form part of the fleet of PN’s Acero-class patrol gunboats. Its formal handover ceremony is lined up this May as part of the Navy’s pre-anniversary activities," Negranza said.

He added that this is a significant milestone for the ship-building capability of the PN and at the time boosts the country’s Self-Reliant Defense Posture Program (SRDP), one of the current 10-point agenda of the Department of National Defense.

The 32-meter long FAIC-Ms are high-speed vessels equipped with quick intercept ability, remote stabilized weapons, and shortrange missiles that are capable of delivering precision strikes against larger hostiles and high-value targets on land and sea.

Four of the FAIC-Ms will be armed with non-line-of-sight (NLOS) missiles with pinpoint accuracy and a range of 25 kilometers while the other five will be armed with Typhoon-mounted

“Upon seeing the success of the first Fearless Filipinas book, it was only natural for us to create another edition, featuring many other remarkable Filipinas in the fields of business, art, journalism, and more,” supposed co-author Monica Padillo. “I feel honored to get to know these amazing women and put their inspirational stories into print. I hope through Fearless Filipinas II, other Filipinas, especially young girls, would be inspired to be more confident about them and be determined to achieve their dreams as well.”

The 24 Fearless Filipinas in the second series who dared to dream are

30mm main cannons and .50 caliber heavy machine guns.

The acquisition of these FAICMs is among the 2019 projects approved by former President Rodrigo Duterte under the Horizon 2 List of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program.

The notice of award for the FAIC-M project, worth around PHP10 billion, was issued on January 5, 2021.

These are expected to replace PN’s medium-sized patrol craft.

Once deliveries of the FAICMs are completed, these vessels can interdict surface threats and launch NLOS missiles safely using the surrounding littoral areas as maneuver space and cover.

Earlier, PN chief Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci Jr. said the Navy is planning to acquire at least 15 more Israel-made Shaldag Mark V missile boats, which are the basis of its Acero-class patrol gunboats.

He said the additional Acero-class gunboats would help them to meet their requirements in "patrolling the seas of the country".

Adaci also said the FAIC-Ms will be assigned to the Littoral Combat Force. (PNA)

The team was genuinely happy to collaborate on a second volume, pushing for continuity in Filipina women’s history with many more volumes to come in the near future.

No doubts about it, seeing a Filipina succeed spectacularly is inspirational but seeing what it takes to get them there – as these books show in story-form – is 100 times more so. Amen to that!

These inspiring stories certainly taught us all that we can dare to dream and personally I hope all our readers will feel the same way. Mabuhay!

24 Fearless Filipinas who shared their journeys so you

succeed on yours

Professional Business Directory

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Continued from page 1

have a buddy system whenever anyone goes out so they can track each other’s whereabouts.

Healing requires unlearning certain behaviors, attitudes, and stigmas, Henry said.

“It starts with making the conscious effort to not judge yourself or others… but to actually sit down with someone who may have inflicted violence on someone else and try and find a place where instead of looking at them and thinking about the violence they caused, think about the potential they have to unfurl that violence and apologize and learn and make right their wrong.”

Restorative justice can’t make the trauma disappear but it can

help both victim and perpetrator get beyond it. Henry noted that it’s hard to be joyful without feeling safe but there are places she feels very safe and comfortable.

Armaan Sharma is a sophomore at a small private school in Fremont, a Bay Area suburb with a 60% Asian population. In his freshman year, Sharma took a class called Choices that briefly mentioned relationships. “Why don’t we teach about relationships more?

Everyone thinks that developing relationships it’s an natural skill that all humans have. If that were true, why do we see 1 in 3 teens in America experience some sort of dating violence, whether physical, sexual, emotional or psychological?”

Sharma noted that underregulated social media is

posing a greater threat to youth with each passing day. Instagram is a platform where perpetrators of violence or predators have easy access to a whole lot of youth, he says. “Netflix has movies like 365 days, which quite literally romanticize rape.”

Sharma says teen dating violence can affect everyone, including men, and, in fact, marginalized groups like the LGBTQ community, often experience much higher rates of such violence but they are underrepresented in the movement to end it. “It makes no sense because we can’t attempt to solve a problem that affects everyone if everyone isn’t involved,” he said.

The conversation should begin at home, says Kandee Lewis, CEO/President of Positive Results Center and Founder of Black

Women Leaders of Los Angeles. The Board of Supervisors named Lewis Woman of The Year in 2017. She works with youth and parents on domestic violence, sexual assault, and suicide prevention.

“It’s important to talk to our children about what a healthy relationship is, what is acceptable behavior and what is unacceptable behavior,” says Lewis.

“We all want to be loved and we want to be accepted. And so, if we’re not getting the kind of attention that we need, we will go and seek that negative attention. It’s still attention and we’re gonna get it from wherever we can find it,” Lewis said.

“Your child really wants to know that you care, because if you don’t take the time to talk to your child, someone else will. And that other person could be the abuser.”

Help Wanted / For Rent / For Sale

junta can be persuaded to work and collaborate as a team within ASEAN and resolve the outstanding issues which cannot be considered as purely internal because it’s affecting the security and welfare of the region,” Anwar said.

Anwar also noted that the "century-long contentious issues" concerning the peace process in Mindanao are also affecting the ASEAN region, including Malaysia.

He promised that Malaysia, as a "good neighbor," would continue to support and facilitate the peace process in the southern Philippines.

"And I stand guided whatever things need to be done at the bilateral, multilateral level to support this endeavor. It has to succeed in the interest of the Philippines and Malaysia and the region and then utilize this enormous potential to the benefit of our people," Anwar told Marcos.

"And under your leadership President, you have seen great strides in this direction. Malaysia will also continue to offer assistance to the Bangsamoro people through various capacity-building programs including through our Malaysia Technical Cooperation Program," he added.

Marcos lauded Malaysia for its "great contribution" to attain peace and order in Mindanao.

He expressed optimism that

Malaysia would continue to contribute to the success of the peace process.

"We commended the progress made towards achieving sustainable and inclusive peace in Mindanao. It is the culmination of years of effort and sincerity amongst all parties, which will soon realize the dividends of peace," Marcos said.

"I therefore invited Malaysia to continue supporting the Philippine government’s efforts to bring development and enhancement to the livelihood of Mindanaoans."

Marcos made the call, as he emphasized that Anwar's visit is a testament to the two nations' "enduring friendship as ASEAN brothers who share the same vision of prosperity and of peace."

Anwar, the 10th prime minister of Malaysia, is the first head of government to visit the Philippines under Marcos' watch.

An official welcome ceremony was held at the Palace's Kalayaan grounds upon Anwar's arrival.

Marcos also hosted a dinner for Anwar at Malacañan's Ceremonial Hall. (MNS)

PBBM reaffirms PH’s ‘strong, sincere’ friendship with Malaysia President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday renewed the Philippines’ “strong and sincere” friendship with Malaysia.

In his toast remarks during the official dinner hosted for Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Marcos said the Malaysian leader’s visit to Manila is a reaffirmation of the two nations’ commitment to

strengthen their bilateral ties.

“Mr. Prime Minister, the Philippines and the Filipinos were there for you during some of your darkest days. Let me assure you now that this sincere and tested friendship has remained strong throughout the decades,” Marcos said in a speech delivered at the Ceremonial Hall of the Malacañan Palace in Manila on Wednesday night.

“I further express my hope that this warm kinship between us as leaders will set the tone of the bilateral relations between our governments, countries, and peoples, in the years to come,” he added.

Marcos expressed optimism that the long-standing friendship between Manila and Kuala Lumpur would enable them to surpass the present and future challenges, which include “geopolitical upheavals, supply disruptions, and inflation.”

He was elated that his meeting with Anwar led to the commitment to bolster the two countries’ cooperation in key areas, including trade and investment.

He said he is also looking forward to working with Malaysia in reclaiming the growth that the two nations had lost to the pandemic.

“The past few years have been difficult for us. Our nations and the global community were beset by a pandemic of unprecedented proportions. It challenged our national capabilities and our

resolve,” Marcos said. “I view this visit as a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to revitalize our bilateral relations. And before us lays the immense potential in the areas of trade and investment.”

Marcos also wished Malaysia a “continued success and prosperity.” Marcos and Anwar first met in 2018. However, this is their first meeting as state leaders.

Anwar is Marcos’ first official guest, highlighting the importance of Malaysia as the country’s Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) neighbor.

Aside from being ASEAN founding members, the two countries have rich bilateral ties and history, boasting almost six decades of friendship with interactions between their peoples dating back millennia.

Malaysia and the Philippines have engaged in collaborative initiatives for a peaceful and more secure region by conducting joint patrols to combat transnational crimes in the seas.

Malaysia also acted as third party facilitator in the Philippine government’s peace process with Muslim separatists in Mindanao, which has contributed to significant progress in the peace and stability in the south. PBBM

Spiritual Life

Rediscovering our spiritual roots

When did you ever feel the presence of God in your life? How did you know about God? Do you have a personal relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ? These are some of the questions that have been asked by many of my friends when conversations veered towards the spiritual. These are soulsearching questions and I often took time to answer them if not evade them altogether.

Spiritual experiences are purely individual. They greatly depend on your upbringing, on your environment, and on the people you associate with. I grew up in a Christian environment. My father was one of the first convert to Protestantism in my hometown.

The Holy Bible was the only book I saw that he read every day. As the Justice of the Peace, his judgment was greatly influenced by the Word of God. It was from him that I first heard about the Golden Rule, “Do unto others as you would like others do to you.” To him this was an ever encompassing rule that should guide your attitude and behavior towards others, where ever you are and with whoever you are with.

My mother was a graduate of a mission school of nursing, hence, her services as a Nurse were enhanced by her knowledge of Scriptures. Her love for children was inspired by what Jesus did, “let

Aurora S. Cudal-Rivera

My Personal Testimony

the children come to me and forbid them not for such is the Kingdom of Heaven.” She devoted so much time to help the poor, the widows and the marginalized to the extent that she considered that serving others was her religion. My parents were not only readers or listeners of the Word. They are doers of the Word. As I ponder on the topic I’ve chosen to write about in this column today, Rediscovering Our Spiritual Roots, I am awed by the influenced exerted by my upbringing. This was further enhanced by going to church every Sunday, attending Bible studies, and associating with people whose lives are centered on the Word of God.

At this stage of my life, I am more deeply aware of God’s presence as I make decisions, as I interact with others, and as I face the challenges

Greetings in the Lord!

For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16)

"I'd like you to help us develop our marketing program beginning in January," said the CEO of a company. The consultant was delighted to have the opportunity. It was the first new business opportunity he'd had in some time. He had just come out of some very difficult business and personal circumstances in the last few years. A few months into the relationship, the CEO asked the consultant to manage the entire department, placing him over the current staff. It appeared that God was blessing his efforts with several successful initiatives. The consultant began to build a relationship with a few of the executives. One day, the sales manager came into his office and asked for help on a personal crisis. One thing led to

Danny Hernaez From Whom

another, and two months later, the consultant found himself leading the sales manager in the sinner's prayer in the sales manager's office.

God prepares His servants in many ways to accomplish His purpose. The story of Joseph is repeated every workday in the lives of His people. The circumstances may be different, but the results are the same. God trains His servant through sometimes difficult "boot camps." When that training is complete, He places them in strategic places to be a provider-both physically and spiritually.

Is God preparing you to be

of aging. I am thankful to God for His manifold blessings. I may not be rich financially, but I feel so rich because God provides. God cares. God never fails.

I would like to share this prayer that was sent to me by a friend, “God of life and love, pour forth Your Spirit to inspire me with Your words of compassion, forgiveness and love. Stir in me a desire to renew my faith and deepen my relationship with Jesus, your son. Open my heart to hear and live Your Gospel message. Strengthen me to be a sharer of the Good news in words and witness proclaiming your all-inclusive love, mercy and grace in all that I do. Amen. (Prayer of Evangelizers, Diocese of Springfield, MA)

“I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth.” Psalm 34:1 (NRSV)

Last Sunday we reflected on the message of the gospel which narrated the three temptations that Jesus conquered after his forty days and forty nights desert experience in preparation for this public ministry of proclamation of the coming of the reign of God. We were made aware of the fact that we, the disciples of Jesus who are still on pilgrimage here on earth, are in a constant battle with the Evil One who, despite the fact that he is superior than us human beings, can be conquerable through our constancy and firmness in our faith in Jesus Christ who has conquered Satan once and for all. This conquest of the Evil One which we have the power shared with Christ’s power through the sacrament of Baptism, for which we are preparing ourselves to renew during the Easter Vigil, is the reason why we annually celebrate Lent in our liturgy. “In fact, the Church has always held a social value the Easter Vigil with the celebration of Baptism: this Sacrament realizes the great mystery in which man dies to sin, is made sharer in the new life of the Risen Christ and receives the same Spirit of God who raised Jesus from the dead (cf. Rm 8: 11). This free gift must always be rekindled in each one of us, and Lent offers us a path like that of the catechumenate, which, for the Christians of the early

Agustin T. Opalalic

Church, just as for catechumens today, is an irreplaceable school of faith and Christian life.” (Benedict XVI)

Today’s gospel narrates about the transfiguration of Jesus on Mount Tabor. This gospel “puts before our eyes the glory of Christ, which anticipate the resurrection and announces the divinization of man. The Christian community becomes aware that Jesus leads it, like the Apostles Peter, James and John ‘up a high mountain by themselves ‘ (Mt 17:1), to receive once again in Christ, as sons daughters in the Son, the gift of the Grace of God: ‘this is my Son, the Beloved; he enjoys my favor. Listen to him’ (Mt 17: 5). It is the invitation to take a distance from the noisiness of everyday life in order to immerse oneself in God’s presence. He desires to hand down to us, each day, a Word that

penetrates the depts. Of our spirit, where we discern good from evil (cf. Heb 4:12), reinforcing our will to follow the Lord.” (Benedict XVI)

In the past Sunday Gospel we have been assured that no matter how difficult may be the battle with the Evil one who leads us to temptation constantly, we will prevail in the end, with Christ who will never leave us to ourselves. Yet, today’s gospel furthermore impels us to continue the conquest of this temper because we have all the graces necessary to be able to do so, if only we would persevere in keeping ourselves in this grace since by baptism we have been able to share the divine nature as adopted children of God. This second Sunday of Lent allows us to fully realize that Jesus is indeed truly divine and his invitation for us to share this divine communion with His Father is an open invitation that we should never ever refuse to heed.

Let us there continue making this season of joy a good preparation for the celebration of the Paschal Mystery wherein we would be allowed to participate in the saving graces of Easter that has brought us into our salvation in Jesus, the only Son of God, who lives and reigns with the Holy Spirit, One God forever and ever.

a provider? Do not fret at the difficult training ground you may be required to endure. He has a plan. If you'll allow Him to carry out His plan, you'll be privileged to be used by the Master's hand. I know because I am that consultant.

The disciples thought they suffered their greatest defeat when Jesus died on the cross. However, this defeat became the greatest victory on earth. Christ's death gave liberty. Forgiveness came to all men. New life came forth - new strength for the disciples. Resurrection and new life came as a result of a "defeat."

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ANWAR

Continued from page 7

works, Noli Me Tangere (Tercera Edition, 1909), to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim,” RTVM said.

Noli Me Tangere follows the story of Crisostomo Ibarra, an idealistic young man who studied in Europe and returned to the Philippines in an attempt to bring progress to his nation.

Anwar, RTVM said, considers Dr. Jose Rizal as a “precursor to Asian renaissance” and “deeply appreciates” Marcos’ gesture in giving a “very invaluable” present. Meantime, Anwar’s spouse,

Dr. Wan Azizah binti Wan Ismail, received a Waling-Waling brass card holder.

The card holder is a decorative ornament that combines the beauty of the Waling-Waling with the durability and attractiveness of brass crafted by Cebuano artisans, according to the RTVM.

Prior to the exchange of gifts, Marcos and Anwar reaffirmed the Philippines and Malaysia’s long-standing ties following their bilateral meeting.

Marcos also hosted an official dinner for Anwar at the Palace’s Ceremonial Hall.

In his toast remarks during the official dinner, Marcos said he was

heartened by Anwar’s visit “not only because I am happy to see a friend, whom we have come to admire greatly.”

“I view the Prime Minister's visit as a rekindling of an old friendship and old bond that took millennia to make, between neighbors and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) founding members, whose people have interacted and traded for centuries before they even knew the concept of countries,” Marcos said.

“More importantly, I view this visit as a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to revitalize our bilateral relations" he added. (MNS)

I am that consultant

Fr.

Physical Therapists Help People of All Ages.

NATIONAL CITY, CA -- Physical therapists are experts in human movement who are trained to evaluate and treat all kinds of musculoskeletal issues. They are highly trained in prescribing and progressing exercise to help people move and feel better. Because everyone moves and everyone can benefit from exercise, physical therapists can help people through their entire lives. Some people see a physical therapist shortly after birth. The most common reasons a baby would need to see a PT would be something like torticollis or cerebral palsy. Torticollis is a postural issue that causes babies to hold their heads tipped to one side. Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder that causes difficulty with movement and coordination.

As children continue to grow, some have trouble hitting their motor milestones - like rolling, crawling, or walking. Physical therapists can use their expertise to help encourage development of motor skills and coordination to get these children back on track.

Sports injuries become more common in adolescents. Whether it's an ankle sprain, or an ACL surgery, a PT can help. Some adolescents have issues from the rapid growth their bodies go through. Things like growth plate fractures, growing pains, Osgood-Schlatter's disease, and Sever's disease are all common in adolescence.

As adults, a lot of us will have

back pain - studies say up to 80% of us. Physical therapy is one of the first treatments recommended for back pain. Physical therapists also see injured adults. It could be from weekend warrior type sports injuries, overuse, or from an accident at work. Some adults also start to show symptoms of diseases like multiple sclerosis, or myositis which also benefit from physical therapy.

Later in life, people tend to accumulate more health issues that impact their ability to move. Issues like arthritis, joint replacements, strokes, and heart attacks are all things a PT can help with. Physical therapists also help people age better - keeping them moving with exercise programs that help reduce falls, or helping them make adaptations and modifications to keep them in their homes safely. Movement is a constant in life. As

movement experts, PTs can help people of any age. Some specialize in treating pediatric patients, and some specialize in treating geriatric patients, but all PTs have the expertise to help people move better.

About The Private Practice Section of the American Physical Therapy Association

Founded in 1956, the Private Practice Section of the American Physical Therapy Association champions the success of physical therapist-owned businesses. Our members are leaders and innovators in the healthcare system. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) represents more than 85,000 physical therapists, physical therapist assistants and students of physical therapy nationwide. For more information, please visit www.ppsapta.org.

Kylie Padilla opens up about postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety

MANILA -- Kylie Padilla turned to social media to open up about being diagnosed with postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety three years ago just before the COVID-19 pandemic began.

At that time, she had just given birth to her second child Axl and the “chemistry in my body was out of my control, hormonal fluctuations took a toll on my emotional journey.”

Padilla said complications from childbirth hindered her from taking care of her children.

“I've never opened up about this but I was in constant pain, constant doubt of my future, if my body would ever

recover, If I could even stand or walk properly ever again,” she said.

“I had to learn to muster the strength to trust that my body would heal, that I would regain my strength again because it killed me to accept that I had no choice but to trust the care of my kids to someone else,” she added.

While she missed her kids so much, Padilla knew she had to rest to be able to recover and look after them.

But the next few years proved to be more challenging for her that she thought if there was any kind of future left for her.

Amid the uncertainties, Padilla said: “At some point, the Universe paved a

way for me. She led me here. To today. I just remember praying, ‘Give me another chance and I won't ever take it for granted. Give me another chance to pursue what will truly fulfil me.’”

Today, she wakes up with her children and a work she’s proud of. One by one, her dreams are becoming a reality, Padilla said.

“After all my doubt, pain and fighting the silent battles, fighting my own psyche for the right to be happy, I'm here. Still growing, still learning but always striving to remain grounded in humility. What was once a period in my life I no longer wanted to remember is now something I remember with

fondness. Without that pain I would appreciate my now.”

Padilla said she is grateful for those challenging years’ humbling effect on her.

“[O]ne thing is for sure, we will all return to dust. All we can ever really take is our memories that we turn into stories. Where our journey and strength will hopefully be passed on. My kids. My story. And the moment I knew it's not just about being happy but about authenticity. Because no one could ever be happy pretending to be something they aren't. And I'm done pretending,” she said.

Ultimately, Padilla said the message she wants to convey is for everyone to not get stuck in a bad place.

“Know that life is a cycle and good and bad it all passes. Be in the moment but don't be swept away from it. Live in your authenticity. Repair when you can. Laugh or make someone laugh and last but not least celebrate yourself. You deserve it.” (MNS)

17th STARBlazer and TOP HATS Intl. GIBBEY(Giving Back and Beyond) Awards GALA

Honorable Patricia Guerrero who was confirmed as California Chief Justice last January 2, 2023 was honored with Phil Am BID’s 2023 STARBlazer Award.

CA Attorney General Rob Bonta received the STARBlazer Award in 2014 when he became the first Filipino American CA Assembly member. He was also honored as a Phil Am BID Pillar and Pioneer in 2021. This GIBBEY Awards Gala held on February 19, 2023, was proclaimed as “Phil Am BID Day” by San Diego County Supervisor Chairwoman Nora Vargas.

The Oath Taking of Phil Am BID Officers and Board members as well as the Advisers for the term 2023 – 2025 was officiated by CA Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero.

TOP RIGTH: Photo of Phil Am BID Board members who took their Oath of Office:

1st Row: Victoria P. Woolley (Secretary) Pacita Barangan and Lilinda Camaisa (Treasurers), Edna Consing Concepcion, Chairwoman and co-founder of

Phil Am BID, Rea Concepcion Cress (Secretary), Ednita Pascua Sapinoso (Board member).

2nd Row: Dr. Tess Mauricio, Arlene Cagampan (Board members), The Honorable Patricia Guerrero, CA Chief Justice, the Honorable Rob Bonta, CA Attorney General, Marissa

B. Acierto and Nimpa V. Akana (Vice Chairwomen), Fresas Flores Balistreri and Joette I. Davidson (Board members).

The “Founders and Builders”, “TOP HATs”, Rising STARS, and STARScholars were also honored that evening: Founders and Builders: Cynthia Bonta of the Philippine National Day Association, Susan Delos Santos and the late Ernie Flores of the Filipino Press, Anita Pascua (+) represented by daughter Ednita Pascua Sapinoso and Vina Morales of Filipino American Educators Association ( FILAMEDA).

The Outstanding Professionals (TOPs) are Stephanie Brown,

Joji Ramirez Castro, Shonee Alzona Henry, Honorable John McCann, Mayor of Chula Vista, Patti McKelvey, Ralph Nieders, and Honorable Mona Rios, former Councilmember of National City.

The High Achieving Teams (HATS) are Filipino American Lawyers of San Diego (FALSD) represented by Jonah Toleno, Esq. and Pauline Villanueva, Esq. and the Philippine Nurses Association (PNASD) represented by President Perlita Aguinaldo, Emeline Yabut, President-Elect and Filipinas Reyes, Board Chairwoman.

The STARScholars honored are Callia M. Consing, Michael Mauricio Lee, and Kaitlyn Anne Oden.

The Rising STARS are Franchesca Bondoc, and Reina Bonta represented by her father CA Atty. General Rob Bonta, Kendis Barangan Farol represented by her mother Pacita Barangan, and Robert Moreno, newly elected Southwestern College Governing Board member.

Ednita Pascua Sapinoso represented her late mother Anita Pascua, Founding President of Filipino American Educators Association (FILAMEDA). Vina Morales was the first Vice President of FILAMEDA while Anita Pascua was its Founding President.

CA Attorney General Rob Bonta with Honoree PNASD (Philippine Nurses Association of San Diego) represented by Pacita Barangan, PNASD President-Elect Emeline Yabut, PNASD President Perly Aguinaldo (holding medal), and Board Chairwoman, Filipinas Reyes with their High Achieving Team Medal (HAT). This is PNASD’s second time receiving the TOP HAT GIBBEY Award. The first time was in 2013. The community and Phil Am BID would like to send PNASD our gratitude for their compassion and kindness, especially during the Covid pandemic. These heroic nurses carry the true essence of “Giving Back and Beyond” and thus, this GIBBEY Award.

“Founders

Cynthia

Founder of the Philippine National Day Association, receives the “Founder and Builder” Award from Phil Am BID. Handing the award are Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero and CA Attorney General Rob Bonta. (yes, Ms. Cynthia is the mama of our CA Attorney General Rob).

CA Attorney General Rob Bonta with Filipino American Lawyers of San Diego (FALSD) Pauline Villanueva, Esq. and Jonah Toleno, Esq. for FALSD’s High Achieving Team Award (2nd time, 1st award was in 2011).

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Phil Am BID (Philippine American Business Improvement and Development) Board members with the Honorable Patricia Guerrero, CA Chief Justice, and the Honorable Rob Bonta, CA Attorney General at the 17th STARBlazers and TOP HATs International GIBBEY Awards.

CA Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, STARBlazer 2022 honoree, and Edna Consing Concepcion, Phil Am BID Chairwoman with Honorees and Phil Am BID Board members.

L to R: Edna Concepcion, Jennifer Forseth, Carolyn Malcolm, National City Mayor Ron Morrison, Chula Vista Mayor John McCann, Trudie Chandler, TOP HAT Honoree, Ralph Nieders.

The Outstanding Professionals (TOP Honorees): Patti McKelvey, Chula Vista Mayor John McCann, CA Attorney General Rob Bonta who handed out the Awards, Shonee Alzona Henry, Joji Ramirez Castro, Ralph Nieders, and Claudia Gonzalez representing National City Councilmember Mona Rios who served National City Council for 12 years. (2010 – 2022).

L to R: Governing Board member of Southwestern College Robert Moreno, former San Diego County Supervisor Greg Cox, Phil Am BID Adviser and former Chula Vista Mayor Cheryl Cox, National City Mayor Ron Morrison, Phil Am BID Adviser Dr. Benjamin Camacho, CA Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, CA Attorney General Rob Bonta, Missy Mc Cann, Chula Vista Mayor John McCann, Phil Am BID Chairwoman Edna Consing Concepcion.

The most popular and loved honoree, the 85-year-old Cynthia Arnaldo Bonta

to R: Dennis Concepcion, Dante E. Concepcion, Honoree Cynthia Bonta, CA Attorney General Rob Bonta, Edna Consing Concepcion, two-year-old Rockwell William Cress being playful, Rea Concepcion Cress, and Vicky P. Woolley.

Susan Delos Santos and the late Ernie Flores were honored as

and Builders” of the Filipino Press, the first Filipino American newspaper in San Diego County.

STARScholar Michael Mauricio Lee with Dr. Benjie Camacho, STARscholar Sponsor. Dr. James Lee and Dr. Tess Mauricio join their son Michael on stage.

Arnaldo Bonta,

Rising STAR Franchesca Bondoc with CA Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero and CA Attorney General Rob Bonta

STARScholar Kaitlyn A. Oden with Dr. Benjie Camacho, a STARScholar sponsor. Kaitlyn’s mom Gena Oden and grandma Vina Morales join Kaitlyn on stage.

The Honorable Patricia Guerrero, CA Chief Justice as Keynote speaker and STARBlazer GIBBEY Honoree at the 17th STARBlazer and TOP HATS Intl. GIBBEY Awards Gala