The Filipino Press: March 31 - April 6, 2023

Marcos names Vanessa Hudgens as Global Tourism Ambassador

MANILA -- President Ferdinand

R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday conferred the title of Global Tourism Ambassador on actress and digital influencer

Filipino-American Vanessa Anne Hudgens in a bid to promote Philippine tourism and raise the country’s global status.

The conferment was witnessed by several government officials, including Presidential Adviser on Creative Communications Paul Soriano and Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Frasco, during Hudgen's courtesy call with President Marcos at Malacañan Palace.

As a Global Tourism Ambassador, Hudgens will take part in a range of future initiatives to promote the Philippines' unique culture and assist the country in reaching a wider global audience, creating awareness and conveying the Philippine brand as a tourist destination.

One of the initiatives to be led by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Creative Communications (OPACC) and DOT is a documentary project highlighting Hudgens’ homecoming to the Philippines, intending to reconnect the Fil-Am actress with her roots and at the same time promote the country’s tourism industry.

Among the historical landmarks to be featured in the documentary project are Intramuros and the National Museum in Manila and El Nido in Palawan.

Hudgens has been designated

the honorary title given her huge following on Instagram (49 million), Twitter (6.5 million), Facebook (17 million) and YouTube (239,000).

This is part of the branding campaign and marketing strategy

of the OPACC and DOT aimed at attracting international tourists and pushing for the resurgence of the Philippines as a travel destination.

After the awarding, President Marcos told Hudgens that Malacañan

Palace has held in its walls “a lot of history for the Philippines.”

“Beyond that, it has a lot of history for me. I lived here 20 years and now I’ve come back to live here again,” Marcos said.

Hudgens made her film debut in the movie Thirteen (2003) and rose to prominence as Gabriella Montez in the High School Musical film series (2006-2008), resulting in significant mainstream media

success, including her signing with Hollywood Records.

PBBM: Rule of law prevails, justice system fully functional in PH President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday said the rule of law prevails in the Philippines and its criminal justice system is functioning fully.

In a video message during the plenary session of the Second Session for Summit for Democracy, Marcos said the Philippines has been committed to fighting impunity for atrocity crimes despite the country's withdrawal from the Rome Statute in 2019.

Marcos made the remark following his latest pronouncement that the Philippines is “disengaging” from any contact and communication with the International Criminal Court (ICC) after it rejected the country’s request to suspend its ongoing investigation into former President Rodrigo Duterte's drug war.

“We continue to improve mechanisms such as the AO35 inter-agency committee to enhance accountability. The Philippines’ commitment to fight impunity for atrocity crimes is solid and unwavering, notwithstanding the withdrawal of the country from the Rome Statute,” he said.

“The Philippines has a national legislation punishing heinous crimes. We have vigorously exercised

Malapit na ang spring break, at inihahanda na ng mga pamilya ang mga bagay upang ito’y paghandaan — maging ito’y sunscreen para sa pagbibilad sa araw, mga pananamit sa panlamig, o pagkuha ng mga pasaporte at visa para bisitahin ang pamilya at mga kaibigan. Para masulit ang kanilang bakasyon, kailangang magplano ng mabuti ang mga pamilya para tiyakin na walang mga sagabal sa anumang plano nila para sa spring break.

Bago gumawa ng mga desisyon tungkol sa iyong mga plano at umpisahan ang iyong spring break, suriin ang sumusunod na checklist ng mga hakbang upang lubos na masiyahan sa iyong bakasyon.

Suriin ang mga kinakailangan para sa pagbibiyahe. Manaliksik bago umalis patungo sa iyong destinasyon para masuri kung may mga kailangan kang bakuna o gamot bago ka dumating sa iyong paparoonan. Ang ilang mga destinasyon ay maaaring may mga kasalukuyang panganib sa kalusugan gaya ng maruming tubig mula sa gripo, mga hindi kilalang sakit, o mga pampublikong emerhensiya sa kalusugan. Baka gusto mo ring magpatingin muna sa iyong provider ng pangangalagang pangkalusugan bago ka umalis. Paghandaan ang mga hindi inaasahang isyu. Pag-isipang kumuha ng insurance sa pagbiyahe at paggawa ng mga kopya ng iyong pasaporte, ID na inisyu ng gobyerno, at mga tiket sa paglalakbay para

NEW MEXICO -- Under the banner of the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project (FilVetREP), 25 Filipinos Americans from across the U.S., including a living World War II veteran, were among the more than 5,000 participants who converged in White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico on March 19 for the Bataan Memorial Death March (BMDM).

Six Filipino military personnel, representing the Philippine Department of National Defense, also joined the marchers who either ran or walked the 26.2 miles or 14.2 miles of rugged terrain of gravel and sand.

It was the third annual event attended by Senior Chief Petty Officer Remigio ‘Ray’ Cabacar, 95 (U.S. Navy Retired), of Ft. Washington, Md. who braved a cold Sunday morning to see the marchers off with high fives and fist bumps. He is one of only two living veterans in the Washington, D.C. area. Considered one of the toughest of its kind in the U.S., BMDM honors the sacrifice of approximately 75,000 Filipino and American soldiers who endured the grueling 65-mile march to prison camps in April 1942. Of the estimated 10,000 who died during that ordeal, about 9,000 were Filipino soldiers.

The presence of Filipino Americans in this annual marathon, which was first held in 1989, has been significantly highlighted every year since 2017 when the Philippine Flag and the Philippine National Anthem were prominently displayed and sang at official ceremonies. The 2017 event was historic as it was also the

75th anniversary of the Bataan Death March.

At this year’s opening ceremony, WSMR Commander Brig. Gen. Eric Little reminded the marchers that “While you're marching through the high desert this morning, likely into the afternoon, remember those who were forced to participate in a very different march 81 years ago, many to the death. When your feet hurt, knees, hips, whatever the body part think about them. Use that as fuel to reinforce your remembrance of these great heroes. We, everyone marching, really are privileged with the opportunity to honor their sacrifice today.”

Humbling and Inspiring

A first-time marcher, Joe Garbanzos of San Diego, CA. says of his experience as a non-military participant: “I was humbled by the sacrifice made by veterans and their families, and inspired to see sprite living veterans in their 90’s braving

the freezing desert morning to see the marchers off. I was also amazed to see inter-generational marchers – young men and women, X-gens, proudly marching in honor of their ‘lolos.’ It tugs one’s heart.”

Garbanzos, a FilVetREP board member, is a community advocate in healthcare and livable communities and AARP’s California State President.

Christy Poisot of Houston, Texas, granddaughter of World War II veteran and Bataan Death March survivor Francisco Panis, has been marching in White Sands for six times now. “I am involved with FilVetREP because I was in search of myself and how my grandfather’s story of survival was never really told,” she says. “Our participation in a major national event like this helps create greater awareness of these stories which, some veterans tell me, are never meant to be told.”

Members of the Philippine delegation prepare to run the 26-mile marathon. FilVetREP Photo

GLOBAL TOURISM ENVOY. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. greets Filipino-American actress Vanessa Anne Hudgens during her courtesy call at Malacañan Palace on Thursday (March 30, 2023). Marcos conferred the title of Global Tourism Ambassador on Hudgens to promote Philippine tourism. (MNS photo)

Women: Likeable Leaders

By FRANCINE m AIgu E

“…I fear that women will continue to sacrifice being liked for being successful.”

-Sheryl Sandberg

Previously, I began to share with you my thoughts on Facebook COO, Sheryl Sandberg’s, book Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead.

In Lean In, Sandberg implores women to embrace their leadership potential and to act upon the equity, especially in the workplace, that we as women have desired and worked towards for generations. Lean In is a call to action with Sandberg on the megaphone.

The reality is this: all too often, even now in 2023, women are marginalized. Underestimated. Confronted with double standards. Objectified. …and (as “minority” women, we know all too well) even exoticized. I stand with Sandberg in her effort to empower women with the encouragement, tools, and resources to put stigmas to rest, so that more women may be accepted as full equals as leaders in all professional sectors.

A current Philippine congresswoman, a former beauty queen, once told me she often felt stereotyped by having been a beauty queen and that being taken seriously as a young, female politician was made harder sometimes as a result. She gave me what she considered advice: “Don’t just be a beauty queen.”

Never wanting to be “just

ANYTHING,” I responded saying, “As public figures, aren’t we all ‘beauty queens?’ We are ambassadors for our communities. We advocate a wide range of social reform platforms. We are called to handle tough questions with the utmost grace.”

Sandberg writes, “All of us— men and women alike—have to understand and acknowledge how stereotypes and biases cloud our beliefs and perpetuate the status quo.”

“She’s too nice.” “She’s too pretty.” “She’s too bubbly.” “She’s too bossy.” These are just a few judgments that have kept and continue to keep women from positions of leadership. …But let’s investigate a double standard. I have yet to hear men penalized for being “too kind,”

“too handsome,” “too upbeat,” “too assertive.” In fact, on the contrary, men are often rewarded for such traits.

Sandberg shares a Harvard study in which a case study illustrating the character traits of a successful, effective leader is presented two ways—first, with a male leader named Howard, then with a female leader named Heidi. The name (and thus the sex of the leader) is the only difference. The results of the study concluded that both men and women found it more difficult to like Heidi as a leader than Howard. But, why?

On the conflict women encounter between success and likeability, Sandberg shares, “Our stereotype of men holds that they are providers, decisive, and driven.

Our stereotype of women holds that they are caregivers, sensitive, and communal…I believe this bias is at the very core of why women are held back. It is also at the very core of why women hold themselves back. For men, professional success comes with positive reinforcement every step of the way. For women, even when they’re recognized for their achievements, they’re often regarded unfavorably…Because of these unfair expectations, women find themselves in ‘damned if they do’ and ‘doomed if they don’t’ situations.” With all this considered, it’s no wonder women have more loops to jump through in financial negotiations, job interviews, even day-to-day encounters. So what can we do to resolve this issue?

First, we must not downplay our achievements. Sure, no one likes a bragger…but there’s a difference between bragging, and being willing to take ownership of the success you worked so hard to attain. We must also be willing to let other women shine. As Sandberg asserts, “Every social movement struggles with dissension within its ranks…Queen bees internalized the low status of women and in order to feel worthy themselves wanted only to associate with men. Often, these queen bees were rewarded for maintaining the status quo and not promoting other women. Unfortunately, this ‘there can only be one’ attitude still ligers today.” If we want women as a whole to be taken seriously as leaders, we must be willing to pay forward any opportunities we have been given and build communal support. Only then will we be able to perpetuate the idea that women are deserving, capable, and, yes, even likeable leaders at home, at school, at work, and beyond! Pamper yourself and another woman today by congratulating yourself and them on their success. With more than enough critics in the world, let’s be one another’s champion! Get Pampered Pinay tips. Check back every week for ways to pamper yourself and those you love. Why? The answer is simple: YOU DESERVE IT!

Disney's Moana Jr presented by Maraya Performing Arts a success!

CHULA VISTA -- Last weekend,

The Filipino Press attended Maraya Performing Arts' production of Disney's Moana Jr. It was an outdoor, site-specific and interactive performance at the KIPP Adelante Preparatory Academy’s school campus in Southeastern San Diego.

From March 10-19th, nearly 700 people attended 8 shows, including the City of San Diego Council President pro Tem Monica Montgomery Steppe, who proclaimed March 18, 2023, Moana Jr. Performance Day in the City of San Diego. Maraya’s founder, Filipina-American and South Bay San Diego native, Anjanette MarayaRamey, said she “is overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support for the students and families.”

Anjanette has done a lot of work enriching San Diego's and arts and culture community for the past 20 years.

As Producer and Director, Anjanette thoughtfully assembled a creative team for Moana Jr. which included Filipino-American artists Michelle Camaya Julian (Choreographer); Matt Ignacio (Musical Director; and Stephen Evangelista (Co-Musical Director).

The show was headlined by rising 13-year old star, Filipina-American, Angelina (Jelly) Eikamp who played Moana. Jelly was the oldest actor, amongst a diverse group or nineteen cast members ages 6-12.

Moana Jr. is the musical staged version of the popular animated Disney movie of the same name, which tells the story of a young Pacific Islander girl journeying across the ocean to save her island home. Seeing a diverse group of young actors belting out vocals and lines about saving islands couldn't help but touch our hearts and remind of us the importance of representation, and the spirit of Bayanihan (communal unity).

Moana Jr. is Maraya’s second musical production in partnership with KIPP Adelante - a college preparatory academy for moderate-to-low-income youth. In partnership with generous donors and funders, Maraya provided scholarships to KIPP students, and

kept participation fees and ticket sales very affordable and accessible.

Maraya Performing Arts is Chula Vista’s premiere multicultural performing arts center providing ongoing top-quality arts education for youth year-round.

If your child would like to participate in singing, dancing, and/or acting, you can get started with a $29 trial week of intro classes; or if you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, please contact: info@marayaarts.com or (619) 9342999. www.marayaarts.com

Top photo shows singer Cheryl and Anjanette Maraya, exec director, (second from left )congratulate Veronica and Allen Eikamp of Chula Vista, proud parents of Angelina “Jelly” Eikamp, who played Moana.

'Salaknib' troops train on tank defense tactics in Nueva Ecija

MANILA -- Filipino and American combat engineers trained on how to defend and survive against enemy tanks and armored infantry vehicle attacks as part of this year's "Salaknib" exercises.

In a statement Thursday, Philippine Army (PA) spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said troops of the 525th Engineer Combat Battalion and their counterparts from the United States Army Pacific’s (USARPAC) 25th Infantry Division conducted the "survivability fighting position" and "anti-tank ditch" operations on March 28. "(These operations are) part of the ongoing Exercise 'Salaknib' at the 1st Brigade Combat Team's Demo Range, Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija," he said.

These drills provide participating troops with the combat skills and techniques needed to defend and prevail against enemy tanks or any armored vehicles whose objective is to capture or overwhelm their position.

As this developed, Trinidad said soldiers of the 99th Infantry Battalion, 5th Infantry Division; 1st Scout Ranger Regiment; Special Forces Regiment (Airborne); and the Light Reaction Regiment of the PA and its US Army counterparts sharpened their skills in "Fast Rope Insertion/Extraction System" (FRIES) and Special Patrol Insertion/Extraction System (SPIES) in Fort Magsaysay on March 28.

"FRIES" and "SPIES" skills are vital in inserting and extracting soldiers in the most restrictive and challenging terrains typical of the world's jungles, he added.

The PA and USARPAC troops on Monday also conducted a demonstration of sensitive site assessment and exploitation in Fort Magsaysay.

"Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) response personnel from the Army Support Command and the 525th Engineer Combat Battalion of the 51st Engineer Brigade, PA conducted sensitive site assessment and exploitation with their US Army counterparts as part of the ongoing Exercise 'Salaknib'," Trinidad said. The "Salaknib," which began in 2016, is an annual combined exercise between the PA and the USARPAC, geared at bolstering interoperability between the two land forces.

This year’s exercise began on March 13 and is scheduled to end on April 4. About 3,000 soldiers from USARPAC's 25th Infantry Division and PA's 5th Infantry Division, 7th Infantry Division, and 1st Brigade Combat Team are training side-by-side in a spectrum of military operations in the ongoing "Salaknib."

PH, Sweden finalizing framework for defense materiel acquisition

The Philippines and Sweden are looking forward to concluding a framework for defense materiel acquisition.

This came after Department of National Defense (DND) chief Carlito Galvez Jr. met with Swedish Ambassador to the Philippines, Annika Thunborg last March 24.

"The officials discussed updates on the Philippines' defense modernization efforts, particularly on the priorities of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) to boost its surveillance and interdiction capabilities," DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said in a statement Thursday.

Andolong said relationships between the Philippines and Sweden are good as both countries have partnered for peace works.

With growing defense ties between the two countries, Galvez and Thunborg

are looking forward to the negotiation and conclusion of a framework on defense materiel acquisition.

"Both sides also explored the possibility of visits of delegations in the future," Andolong added.

Earlier, Sweden's offer to supply Saab-made JAS-39 "Gripen" multirole fighters (MRF) to the Philippines was among the key topics discussed by then DND officer in charge Jose Faustino Jr. during a meeting with Thunborg last Dec. 21.

The two officials discussed "mutual interests in the field of defense". The JAS-39 "Gripen" is one of the two jet fighters eyed by PAF to fulfill its MRF requirement.

"The OIC, DND and the Swedish Ambassador discussed the PAF MRF acquisition project and the offer of Swedish defense and aerospace company Saab AB of Gripen aircraft, which has been on the PAF's shortlist," Andolong then said.

Another contender in the PAF's MRF acquisition program is the Lockheed Martin F-16V "Viper" jet fighter.

The MRFs are expected to backstop the military's existing fleet of 12 South Korean-made Mach 1.5 capable FA50PH light jet fighters.

The requirements for the MRF project stipulate that the offered aircraft must be "fourth generation or higher."

The project also requires 12 MRFs at least capable of patrolling the country's protected waters and airspace.

The MRF project is supposed to be part of Horizon 2 of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program slated for 2018 to 2022, which aims to acquire more equipment for external defense.

Any aircraft that will be selected must be able to integrate with existing radar systems that have a range of about 250 nautical miles.

PH, US troops in Salaknib 2023 join 'sling load' drills Philippine Army (PA) and US Army Pacific (USARPAC) troops conducted "sling load exercises" involving helicopters last March 27 as part of this year's "Salaknib" drills.

In a statement Tuesday, PA spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad said these maneuvers involving an assortment of helicopters took place at the Sagana Patrol Base, Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija.

"The highlight of the exercise is the sling load training where soldiers rigged up pieces of artillery, military trucks and crates onto all-weather, medium-lift 'Chinook' and 'Black Hawk' choppers using sling sets, cargo nets, and other specially designed equipment," he added.

Trinidad said sling loading equipment allows units to avoid obstacles that may hinder them from promptly reaching their target destination.

"The technique is also used to reach areas where the use of convoys is impractical or unfeasible," he added.

On March 25, the PA and the USARPAC also conducted a helocast exercise -- an airborne technique that allows special operation forces (SOF) to insert into an area by jumping directly from a helicopter into water -- as part of the ongoing "Salaknib" exercise.

He added that the helocast exercise is part of the ongoing first phase of Salaknib which will precede the "Balikatan" exercises slated in the second week of April

The second phase of "Salaknib" is scheduled for the third quarter of 2023. "Salaknib" which means shield in

Ilocano is an annual combined exercise between the PA and the USARPAC, is geared at bolstering interoperability between the two land forces.

Around 3,000 Filipino and Americans soldiers are participating in these exercises which started March 13 and will conclude on April 4.

PH Navy gets 2 ex-Cyclone patrol ships from US Navy

The Philippine Navy (PN) on Wednesday confirmed that the US Navy has transferred two newly decommissioned Cyclone class patrol craft to its service following the decommissioning of two vessels in Bahrain last March 28.

The Cyclone-class patrol ships are the former USS Monsoon (PC4) and USS Chinook (PC-9) that were transferred to the PN through the Excess Defense Article (EDA) program, Navy spokesperson Capt. Benjo Negranza said in a statement sent to the Philippine News Agency.

These two former US patrol vessels were stationed at Manama, Bahrain at the time of their decommissioning.

"Philippine Fleet commander, Rear Admiral Renato David, who headed the PN delegation attending the decommissioning ceremony in Bahrain, has expressed his gratitude and appreciation for the transfer of the two combat-proven vessels to the Philippine Fleet inventory through the EDA program," Negranza said.

He added the PN leadership is grateful for the transfer of the two vessels which will definitely boost the Navy's capability in fulfilling its mandate of protecting the state and its people.

"These 55-meter vessels will be able to complement the PN's patrol gunboats in their campaign to ensure the safety and security within the littoral waters of the porous borders and vast maritime environment of the Philippines, being equipped with the firepower and lethality for littoral operations," Negranza said.

Negranza said the two ships are expected to be delivered to the country by the second quarter of this year.

He added the vessels will undergo reactivation activities to incorporate all the desired capabilities and peculiarities of the PN to the platforms prior to their deployment to operational areas.

The PN earlier expressed interest in acquiring these ships to beef up its fleet in 2021.

Negranza said the two ex-Cyclone patrol craft will augment the BRP General Mariano Alvarez (PS-38), the former USS Cyclone (PC-1), which was transferred to the PN in 2004.

BRP General Mariano Alvarez played significant roles during the counter-insurgency operations in Southern Mindanao.

These Cyclone-class patrol craft are projected to undertake coastal patrols along the country's littoral waters and sea lanes of communications, maritime interdiction, escort, surveillance and special operations, as well as humanitarian assistance and disaster response missions.

The Cyclone-class patrol ships are a class of US Navy coastal patrol boats consisting of some 14 ships and were constructed from 1992 to 1994.

These vessels weigh around 328.5 long tons and have a length of 179 feet, a beam of 25 feet, and a draft of 7.5 feet. Their maximum speed is placed at 35 knots and they have a range of between 2,000 to 2,500 nautical miles.

Cyclone-class patrol vessels are armed with two 25mm auto-cannons and several high-powered machine guns.

PBBM

Continued from page 1

our jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute crimes, including those allegedly committed in the context of the anti-illegal drugs campaign,” he added.

In the Philippines’ fight against illegal drugs, he noted that the government continues focusing on strengthening state programs on rehabilitation, prevention, education and assistance to drug victims and their families as well as ensuring transparency and accountability in law enforcement operations.

He said the government is also investing more to enhance the administration of justice "through the various institutions and mechanisms already in place to protect the right to life, liberty and security of the Filipino people" to achieve its objectives for people-centered growth and prosperity.

Marcos cited as an example the

establishment of the Department of Migrant Workers to protect and promote the rights of more than 10 million Filipino migrants.

He highlighted that the nation’s justice reform agenda acknowledges that real justice means the humane treatment of persons deprived of liberty and efficient prosecution of criminal cases.

President Marcos said the administration is pouring resources and energy into improving the processes in the investigation of cases and the witness protection program.

He further assured that the Philippines will continue being an active player both bilaterally and globally in dialogues tackling various issues based on constructive engagements as long as they back the country’s interests.

“The Philippines will continue to engage countries bilaterally and in international platforms on issues concerning democracy, human rights, and good governance, as long as these

engagements are constructive, based on facts, and respectful of Philippine sovereignty,” Marcos said.

“The Philippines will sustain its tradition of open, constructive, and active engagement on human rights on matters that will meaningfully contribute towards reinforcing the sinews of democracy and of freedom. Thus, we enable our people to flourish and meet our national aspirations to be a modern prosperous middle-income society by 2040,” he added.

Marcos thanked US President Joe Biden and the US government for convening the Second Summit for Democracy, along with co-host countries Costa Rica, South Korea, The Netherlands, and Zambia.

The Filipino leader said the Summit “affirms the solidarity of nations bound by values of democracy and sends a powerful message of our collective will to bring about the best of peoples and societies empowered by freedom.” (MNS)

JOBS Available in classifieds section

VETERANS

Continued from page 1

Poisot is National Vice President of the Filipino American National Historical Society and FilVetREP Regional Director.

Congressional Gold Medal Ceremony

Since 2018, FilVetREP’s education project and a Congressional Gold Medal ceremony have been part of BMDM’s official activities, held at the Las Cruces Convention Center. This year, more than a hundred people saw a presentation of FilVetREP’s online education program, “Duty to Country,” and witnessed the awarding of the Congressional Gold Medal to six recipients.

The two living veterans honored were 97-year-old Lt. Nino A. Sylmar, who served in the Recognized Guerrilla Forces and a Bataan Death March prisoner of war; and Lt. George Bach, 96, a platoon leader in the Philippine Scout Detachment, Army Forces Western Pacific.

The other awardees include: Staff Sergeant Harley Shaw (deceased), a U.S. enlisted soldier in the 200th Coastal Artillery Regiment and a Bataan Death March survivor. Her great niece, Deborah Apgar, accepted the award. Technical Sergeant Geronimo Secretario (deceased) served as a mess sergeant serving the 45th and 57th Infantry Regiment of the Philippine Scouts, a Bataan Death March survivor, and a member of the Recognized Guerrilla forces. His son Magdelino Secretario Sr. accepted the award. Sergeant Rafael Pamintuan (deceased) was with the 554th Ordinance Medium Automotive Maintenance Company of the Philippine Scouts. His son, Rafael Pamintuan, Jr., accepted his award.

Private Emilio Y. Alzona (deceased) served under the 24th Field Artillery Regiment of the Philippine Scouts and a Bataan Death March survivor. His niece, Cezarina C. Alzona, accepted his award.

The award ceremony was the 102nd since that epic day of October 25, 2017, when Congress formally recognized the more than 260,000 soldiers who served under the U.S. flag. It was also the third award ceremony in Las Cruces. In 2018 and 2019, FilVetREP

honored seven living World War II veterans and 32 descendants with the medal. More than 3,000 medals have been awarded so far.

In his remarks, FilVetREP Chairman Maj. Gen. Antonio Taguba (ret) noted that, although it took nearly 75 years to secure US recognition for the 260,000 men and women who served, “this moment will be long remembered and eternally enshrined in our minds and historical record.” The law’s passage, he added, “finally recognized their wartime accomplishments, restored their honor and dignity, and claimed their right to be called veterans.”

Reynaldo B. Mapagu, Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) Administrator, who led a delegation of Department of National Defense officials, also spoke at the CGM ceremony. He noted that only 1,367 veterans are still alive today. To date, PVAO has conducted 23 awarding ceremonies in various parts of the Philippines. Of the total 666 awardees, 319 are living veterans. “We will continue to find ways to ensure that the benefits that our veterans deserve are more accessible and more responsive to their needs while they are

still with us,” Mapagu said. The next mission FilVetREP’s next mission, Taguba asserted, is to have Congress rescind the Rescission Acts of 1946, that denied veterans their status of active service and deprived them of rightful benefits. “FilVetREP is launching a national repeal campaign to close a dark chapter in U.S. history that has created a lifetime of indignation and injustice that still lingers to this day. They accomplished their mission. We must now accomplish ours,” Taguba said. FilVetREP is also supporting a campaign to honor Telesforo Dela Cruz Trinidad, the only Filipino in the U.S. Navy to be awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery in 1915 aboard USS San Diego. The U.S. Navy has already approved naming a ship after Trinidad and funding its construction. Once completed in the Fall of 2026, it will become part of the active Navy Fleet. Col. Nonie Cabana, USAF (Ret), a FilVetREP board member and Founder/President/CEO of the USS Telesforo Trinidad Commissioning Committee, said the commissioning ceremony will be held in San Diego, CA. in 2028.

(MNS)

OIL PRICES DOWN. Gas station supervisor Ronaldo Burdius adjusts the figures in the digital fuel price board along Commonwealth Avenue, North Fairview, Quezon City on Tuesday (March 28, 2023). Oil companies have implemented another price rollback – gasoline by PHP0.85 per liter, diesel by PHP1.30 per liter, and kerosene by PHP1.90 per liter. (MNS photo)

ART AND BIODIVERSITY. A woman passes by a mural depicting bird species at an underpass connecting Quezon City Hall and Quezon Memorial Circle on Wednesday (March 29, 2023). The paintings highlight the different aspects of biodiversity and show the importance of caring for nature. (MNS photo)

Christy Poisot, third from right, is cheered on by theFilVetREP team, after completing her 14.2 mile marathon. Also in the pictureare FilVetREP Chairman Retired Arny Maj. Gen. Antonio Taguba (third from left))and World War II Veteran Remigio Cabacar (seated). FilVetREP photo.

PBBM taps LGUs to promote ‘last mile’ nutrition

MANILA -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday said the government must tackle malnutrition by mobilizing the local government units (LGUs) to achieve health and nutrition outcomes with a national impact.

During the launch of the Philippine Multisectoral Nutrition Project (PMNP) held at the Manila Hotel, Marcos said the nutrition project will incentivize the participating LGUs to ensure "last mile" delivery.

"We have found a way to bring the LGUs in. Because it is without their partnership, we do not get to what is often referred to as the last mile. And that is always the problem when you try to translate a program from the national level, a program of national government, all the way down to the local government, down to the barangay level," he said.

"And this was – the effort that we have done now I think addresses that problem which will contribute to the success of what we are trying to do and improve the nutrition map of the Philippines," he added.

Marcos said health care is not a priority of LGUs "simply because there’s little capacity and ability and skills and manpower at the local level to be able to achieve all the threshold levels" of health care and nutrition, which are important to the solution of malnutrition.

Citing the recent Expanded National Nutrition Survey (ENNS), which took note of the high incidence of stunting and other health issues among Filipino children, Marcos said malnutrition is linked to long-term adverse developmental impacts --taking its toll on the people’s learning ability, academic performance, all the way to productivity and employment opportunities— as well as hereditary implications.

Like the problem of food security, these related nutritional issues are also critical and fundamental to the Philippine socio-economic development, he said.

Marcos said the major nutrition project is a strategic government intervention adopting a “multisectoral community participatory approach”.

"It is important because such an approach is seen to be the effective method to deal with this multifaceted problem, the benefits from which we will feel all the way from the very top of our society down to the grassroots-level," he said.

The PMNP, a four-year project spearheaded by the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), is geared towards adopting a bold multi-sectoral approach to achieve nutrition-specific and nutrition-sensitive interventions across various LGUs.

The initiative joins together the DOH, the DSWD, the DA, the National Nutrition Council, the Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI), as well as LGUs from Luzon to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

The project, Marcos said, would deliver services straight to the LGUs needing intervention in the form of primary healthcare support and

nutrition services, including Early Childhood Care and Development services, on top of access to clean water and sanitation, technical information, training and financing, among other facets.

"We are counting on our LGUs’ full support and our people’s cooperation to guarantee the success of the PMNP," he said.

Marcos also recognized the World Bank for providing the crucial funding assistance to make the project a reality.

Citing the international financial institution, the President said investing in nutrition promises highest returns, making it one of the best value-for-money development actions.

To further address malnutrition in the country, Marcos once again called on the DOH to collaborate with other concerned government agencies in harmonizing and effecting sound diet and nutritional policies and practices for the people.

The government, he said, must continue to exert the best efforts to ensure well-orchestrated and coordinated strategy to implement not only the PMNP but all related nutritional programs throughout the country to be able to get a maximum effect for all government efforts.

Marcos thanked lawmakers for their assistance in the nutrition project by helping the administration develop and enshrine into law policies that will help eradicate malnutrition and uplift the standards of primary health care and nutrition in the Philippines.

“As the country continues to face persistent threats of hunger and malnutrition, rest assured that this administration is working conscientiously to find effective and cross-cutting solutions to address these and other paramount social problems and concerns,” the President said.

PBBM admin launches PH Multisectoral Nutrition Project to promote health, good nutrition

MANILA -- Understanding the importance of good nutrition to the people and national development, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday led the launch of the Philippine Multi-sectoral Nutrition Project (PMNP) with the theme “Better Bodies and Minds.”

Speaking during the event at the Manila Hotel, President Marcos said his administration is committed to investing in the country’s 110-million strong population, considered the main drivers of the economy.

The President stressed that the government must capacitate and hone the people for them to become industrious, potent and productive Filipinos, who are strong and resilient, withstanding the rigors of citizen life, to live long and to enjoy their lives in the process.

“This is the reason why this Administration has put a high priority and considered it of strategic importance that lies in the areas of food security, health care, and education, amongst others,” the President said as he noted why he has taken the role of Secretary of Agriculture, which is to address the particular challenge.

“Sometimes we do not think about it and therefore do not often

realize it, but lodged at the very core of all this is the aspect of good nutrition for our people. On the one hand, we have acknowledged the harrowing state of affairs that hunger and food inadequacy continue to be of paramount national, and for that matter, international concerns,” the chief executive pointed out.

The PMNP, a four-year project spearheaded by the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), is geared towards adopting a bold multi-sectoral approach to achieve nutrition-specific and nutrition-sensitive interventions across various local government units (LGUs).

Citing the recent Expanded National Nutrition Survey (ENNS), which took note of the high incidence of stunting among other health issues among Filipino children, President Marcos said the government must tackle malnutrition, which is linked to long-term adverse developmental impacts.

This menace, the President said, is taking its toll on the people’s learning ability, academic performance, all the way to productivity and employment opportunities—and it also carries with it hereditary implications.

Like the problem of food security, these related nutritional issues are also critical and fundamental to the Philippine socio-economic development, President Marcos pointed out.

The President said the major nutrition project is a strategic government intervention, adopting a “multi-sectoral community participatory approach”.

The initiative, which joins together the DOH, the DSWD, the DA, the National Nutrition Council, the Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) , as well as LGUs from Luzon to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), is important because such approach is seen to be the effective method to deal with this multifaceted problem.

President Marcos also recognized the World Bank for providing the crucial funding assistance to make the project a reality.

Citing the international financial institution, the President said investing in nutrition promises highest returns, making it one of the best value-for-money development actions.

The project, the chief executive said, would deliver services straight to the LGUs needing intervention, in the form of primary healthcare support and nutrition services, including Early Childhood Care and Development services, on top of access to clean water and sanitation, technical information, training and financing, among other facets.

The President also stressed the importance of LGU participation in carrying out the project because without the partnership with the local governments, “we do not get to what is often referred to as the last mile.”

To further address malnutrition in the country, the President once again called on the DOH to collaborate with other concerned government See NUTRITION on 8

MANILA -- President Ferdinand

R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday said he remains hopeful of the passage of a bill creating the Department of Water Resources (DWR).

He made this statement just four days after he announced that he has signed an executive order (EO) creating the Water Resource Management Office (WRMO) pending the passage of the DWR bill. The creation of the DWR was among the priority bills pushed by the President during his first State of the Nation Address in July last year.

“There are many agencies that are concerned when it comes to water management. So, we have to make it more cohesive. That’s why nagtayo tayo ng (we established an) Office of Water Management, which presently will be attached to the Office of the President and with DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources),” he said in a media interview on the sidelines of the Pag-IBIG Fund Chairman’s Report in Pasay City.

“But we are hoping down the road, mayroon nang mga (there will be) bills that have been filed in the legislature, in both houses, na itinatayo ang (to establish the) Department of Water Management, and that’s precisely what we are trying to face.”

Amid lawmakers’ call for the government to have a comprehensive plan to address an impending water crisis, Marcos expressed hope that this plan would be mapped out by the newly-created WRMO. He also underscored the need to build more water-related infrastructure.

Marcos expressed optimism about learning from examples of water management around the world, which the country could emulate.

“It’s just really a question of managing our water. We have always – we kept postponing this problem over the many, many years at every level. So, it’s time to put it together, to put in a cohesive plan na masusundan ng lahat ng LGU (local government units), masusundan ng lahat ng mga (that can be followed by LGUs and other) agencies of government,” he said.

Meanwhile, the President noted that the water management problem in the country “goes beyond just agriculture.”

“Of course, agriculture is an extremely important part of it but we are talking about irrigation –water for irrigation, water for power production, our management of surface water sa (in) flood control and for irrigation as well,” he said. “All of these things we have already put up together – we have already (put) together (an) overall plan. Now, we have to implement it.”

CCC backs DWR creation Climate Change Commissioner Albert dela Cruz Sr. has expressed support for the proposal to create a DWR and Water Regulatory Commission that would focus on the management of the country’s water resources.

“For an archipelagic country with abundant water resources, we need a sole government body, which is focused on water resource management and will also strengthen

the implementation of water-related laws to improve coordination among regulatory bodies,” dela Cruz said a news release on Tuesday.

Based on a report from the National Water Resources Board (NWRB), more than 11 Filipino families lack access to clean water.

This accounts for about 41.6 percent of the 26.4 million households in the country.

“It’s a worrisome reality, especially when we consider that we are at the onset of the El Niño again this dry season. Half of the total number of Filipino families does not have access to clean water due to lack of supply and sanitation,” he said.

Dela Cruz is in Taiwan to attend the 2023 Smart City and Expo at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Hall 2 in Taipei City from March 28 to 31. The event will be attended by key officials of the Taiwan Environmental Protection Agency, as well as representatives of the city governments of Taipei and Taichung City.

He said water service providers should submit a water safety plan and conduct regular water quality assessments at least every three months aside from acquiring the necessary permits and certifications, such as the certificate on the potability of drinking water.

He said the CCC is already formulating policies and programs that would ensure the security of the water supply.

“We are taking an active role in ensuring that every Filipino has safe and potable water and we are doing this by educating the public the importance of having a comprehensive management program on water safety planning,” he said.

Included in the CCC’s public education program are policies on the conservation, preservation, and protection of the environment, which relates to the country’s water resources.

Among the mentioned policies are regulation in the use of deep wells and even the transition of sanitary landfills to waste-to-energy technologies because dumping garbage on unused lands results in pollution that seeps into our water systems.

DENR: PH gov't addressing water crisis amid climate change

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)

Secretary Ma. Antonia YuloLoyzaga has assured the United Nations that the Philippine government is proactively addressing the looming water crisis brought about by climate change.

At the United Nations 2023 Water Conference held in New York on March 22-24, Loyzaga cited the measures being implemented by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., together with the legislative branch and concerned government agencies, in meeting challenges, specifically the dwindling water supply, according to a press release issued on Tuesday.

“Today, more than ever, there is a critical need for nexus governance, climate and disaster resilience, one that pursues a strategic balance between supply and consumption of

water for health, food, energy, and environmental security,” Loyzaga said.

She noted that among the directions being taken is the creation of a Water Resource Management Office (WRMO) under the DENR, a first in the country’s history, “to achieve water security by integrating the functions of all agencies with water-related mandates.”

The WRMO is aligned with new legislation, creating an apex body for comprehensive water resource management that will adopt an all-hazards and riskinformed integrated water resource management approach.

Loyzaga said achieving adequate and equitable access to safe drinking water and sanitation services is at the core of sustainable development.

“All the plans and programs of the government to provide universal access to safe, sufficient, affordable, and sustainable water supply, sanitation, and hygiene will be completed by 2030,” she said.

She added that an integrated water management approach also ensures that local government units’ water-related policies and actions are all aligned with the Philippine Development Plan.

“We are establishing the national geospatial database for natural resources, including water, in order to achieve cross-cutting development goals, de-risked investments, and improve the water resource management down to the community level. It underpins our natural capital accounting programs and establishes the physical bases of the design of water-related social and infrastructure programs, which aim to ensure that no ecosystem or community is left behind,” Loyzaga explained.

With an average of 20 typhoons entering the country each year, bringing torrential rains and flooding that cause waterborne diseases, the Philippines currently ranks fourth among the countries in the world most affected by waterrelated disasters.

“Extreme rainfall events and prolonged periods of drought have impacted our food and energy supply. Between 2010 and 2019, damages incurred due to floods, droughts, and storms have amounted to USD10 billion,” Loyzaga said. “Water stress and insecurity remain and disasters do move people into poverty. We are not alone. Climatevulnerable developing countries are faced with similar crises.”

The DENR chief also shared the country’s best practices that stem from the government commitments to address the urgency of the link between climate change and water, health, food, energy, and environmental security, as embodied in the Philippine Development Plan.

The Marcos administration, she said, is geared towards three major policy directions: the establishment of the WRMO under the DENR and related legislative initiatives; the building of the National Natural Geospatial Database, with water as a layer, in support of the natural

PROTECTION. Three years into the pandemic, Filipino commuters at the EDSA Bus Carousel in Nepa Q-Mart station in Cubao, Quezon City still wear their face masks as protection against Covid-19 and other diseases on Wednesday (March 29, 2023). In a recent Social Weather Stations survey, the majority, or 91 percent, of adult Filipinos interviewed agree with the voluntary wearing of face masks. (MNS photo)

'PALASPAS'. A woman readies the palm fronds for making the “palaspas” ahead of Palm Sunday on April 2. The Catholic faithful have their “palaspas” blessed during Palm Sunday and display them at their altars, doors, or window in the belief that God would protect the house dwellers and ward off evil spirits. (MNS photo)

Marcos still hopeful of passage of water resources dep’t bill

‘WHAT MIGHT HAVE BEEN’: REMEMBERING THOSE WHO DIED AND WELCOMING HOME VIETNAM WAR VETERANS

SAN DIEGO, CA -- Mabuhay!

The Vietnam War differed from other wars because it was a politically controversial and morally questionable and resulted in defeat; it resembled other conflicts because it called out in participants the traditional virtues of courage, selfsacrifice, and honor. The task of representing these different aspects of the fighting in a single monument was framed by the tension between contrasting memorial genres.

Americans still argue, if perhaps less passionately than in past decades, about the war their country fought in Vietnam. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, though, has been safely outside that argument for many years. For the millions of people who visit it each year and for the country as a whole, the memorial is overwhelmingly accepted as a place to remember the soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen who fought - and mourn those who died – and not a place to continue debating the struggle.

Long before they were white names engraved on a black wall, they were men, some still teenagers, who left their beloved homes for Vietnam. They came from small towns that are hardly a blip on the map and from some of the largest cities, too.

Last Wednesday, March 29 was National Vietnam War Veterans Day and we remembered those who died in the Vietnam War. It was created in 2017 “to give Americans the opportunity to say ‘Welcome Home’ to a group of veterans who never got the reception they deserved when they returned to the United States.”

Once again it made me think about my first cousin Teddy Favor who died on December 16, 1969 in the province of Quang Nam in South Vietnam. His name is on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall at Panel W15, Line 63.

He’s the only family member I know of who died in the Cold Warera proxy battle and in the secondlongest war in United States history, after the action in Afghanistan although we have several veterans of warfare including my father who fought In World War II and yours truly who also honorably served in Vietnam.

Fifty-four years ago, 1969, most of the worst of the fighting was yet

to come.

But Cousin Teddy as we all fondly called him was already dead, I believe the first man from our beloved historical hometown of Sta. Ana in old Manila to die in Vietnam, a conflict already 14 years old and 6 years from its end. He was 30 and is about to marry his Vietnamese girlfriend whom he talked about frequently in our conversations.

Teddy had a wonderful family and had planned for a future, like all of us. No doubt about it, he lost his time ahead, but gave us ours. For that matter, we should never forget that or him and so many others like him, if I must say it.

Perhaps due to the nation’s angst about Vietnam, Teddy never received public tribute from his high school or hometown, the kind society offers from those lost in today’s wars. After his burial, at the Golden Gate National Cemetery located in the city of San Bruno, 12 miles south of San Francisco in the Bay Area all that remained were fading photographs, a Vietnam Service Medal citation and the memories of those closest to him.

To be honest, I have always been concerned about my first cousin being forgotten with time. That’s why I make it a point to pay homage and write something about him on every milestone opportunity there is as it cuts to the core of any Memorial Day/Veterans Day commemorations.

For me, it’s truly not about saluting. It’s all about preserving!

And this one particularly struck a chord.

My cousin Teddy was fun-loving close kinfolk (he was the relative who regaled me with colorful accounts about joining the U.S. Navy and seeing this wonderful world -and as a result of that - enticed me to join him in this adventure of a lifetime) who used to round up things and bring them home to his mother.

In 1959, at age 20, he boarded a bus bound for the Naval Station Sangley Point, a communication and hospital facility of the United States Navy which then occupied the northern portion of the Cavite City peninsula in our beloved old country – the Philippines - and waved goodbye to his family…and then life for him moved on.

Ten years later, the knock on the door came. It was about nine days before Christmas – on December

16, 1969 – I remember it vividly as I was on shore leave then from the US Navy (almost 4 years after I joined the most capable naval service in the world myself on January 7, 1966 upon my Cousin Ted’s coaxing and encouragement) - and staying in our cherished old hometown of Sta. Ana – in a duplex house on Garrido Street – about a couple of blocks away from the vintage movie theater Cine Tejeron where my cousin and

Jesse T. Reyes Filipino Potpourri

Teddy’s birth mother (my latelamented Auntie San) sent someone to fetch my own mother (Auntie San’s younger sister) – and when “Ma” – my Mom - walked in to the adjacent door and surveyed the scene, she “knew” without anyone saying a word.

The world around that housing compound of ours just fell to pieces after that…for a long time, too.

In all sincerity, it was trepidation lived by families of the more than 58,000 Americans who tragically died in the Vietnam War. Just like my Cousin Teddy’s, their names are eternally engraved on this revered memorial wall.

Yes, to be precise… 58,220 U.S. military casualties loss before the war was over, with a million or more dead among the Vietnamese people.

While we honor our war dead on Memorial Day and our living veterans on Veterans Day, this is a time when we give a special tribute to those who served during the Vietnam War. For many, it’s the recognition they fully deserved when they returned to America.

They defended our flag with honor. They supported democracy. They fought in brutal conditions.

Yet when many Vietnam War veterans returned to America, they were unwelcomed. While we cannot change the actions of the past, we can show our support and gratitude today – something that should have happened almost 50 years ago.

and remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Throughout the United States, nearly every state planned and hosted commemoration events.

I say we should not allow this special day of recognition to fade away when the calendar turns over. Join me in thanking Vietnam veterans for their service not just last Wednesday, March 29th, but every day.

Welcome home, Vietnam War Veterans!

For the $64,000 Question: Why him and not me!?

My cousin Teddy and I served in the same war shared the same experiences and yet I made it home…and he didn’t. Now it happened; it certainly transpired, but it didn’t occur by accident.

I reckon God had a purpose for all of this in our lives.

My cousin Teddy would have been 84 last month. I still think of what it might have been for him if he was still with us. He never was able to marry his loved Vietnamese girlfriend…and often I wonder, too whatever had come about to her after all these years. Cousin Teddy never met my very own beautiful Navy bred family – my three amazing sons, my two wonderful daughter-in-law’s and my three adorable grandchildren – his very own niece and nephews. All of these important family things took place, and he’s missed them.

To be remembered…it’s not much to ask, don’t you think so?

I used to watch the nickel and dime classic movies.

I recalled these two Navy “CACOs“(Casualty Assistance Calls Officer) came. It was unreal and I didn’t quite believe it. I remember sitting at the kitchen table and there was this document folder/book with the word ‘love’ on it. And I said to me, “How can this be? They’re telling us this and here’s the word ‘love’?”

In fact, many American Legion posts (of which I am a part of here in Imperial Beach) and members, Sons of The American Legion squadrons, American Legion Auxiliary units and Riders chapters are supporting efforts to honor these special veterans: http://vietnam war50th. com/

Across the nation, ceremonies honored Vietnam War veterans last Wednesday. Of course, the Vietnam Wall played a special role in honoring

Amending the Philippine Constitution is a Must

provisions.

The Lower House of the Philippine Congress has voted to amend the Constitution through a Constitutional Convention (ConCon). According to the prime movers of the Charter Change (Cha-Cha), proposed amendments will focus on the economic provisions purportedly to hasten economic development of the country. The fact that the chosen route is through a Con-Con, then it goes without saying, that the whole Charter is on the table.

Opposition to Cha-Cha is getting louder with attendant moralizing (i.e., we have more pressing problems, it is not the right time), partisanship (i.e., opposing for the sake of opposing because they’re not in power), distrust (i.e., will extend their terms to perpetuate themselves in power, the president and the speaker are relatives).

In other words, opposing ChaCha is driven mostly by interest groups. The oligarchs want the economic provisions to stay because they want to stay as billionaires and amending it would affect their profit margins. Under the current provisions, the gap between the rich and the poor has become wider. So, keeping it as is, benefits them more than the poor.

The Left does not want the Charter amended because they heard whispers that the Partylist provisions will be eliminated. They can’t make up their minds because on one hand, they oppose EDCA

but EDCA is legal. Meaning, they’re anti-American but love the American style Constitution that allows American troops in the country.

Supporters of the defeated presidential candidate opine that there are more pressing problems facing the country like the South China Sea row, poverty and corollary issues like health, education, jobs, kitchen table issues, and corruption.

Question -Post EDSA, was there ever a time when these issues did not exist? No. They’ve been around even under a Constitutional democracy. As a matter of fact, one can say definitively that these things thrive under the present Constitution.

Many former presidents tried to dance with the Cha-Cha but were frustrated by opposing voices because they say that “it is not the right time.” Would there ever be a right time to do amendments because population explosion in the Philippines will guarantee that poverty and disparities in health, education, and the high price of galunggong will always be around.

The fear that the politicians will lift term limits is just that, fear. With term limits, politicians find a way to maintain their dynasty by playing the musical chair between the incumbent, spouse, children, and grandchildren. Political dynasty is prohibited by the current Constitution but without an enabling law, politicians are able to skirt the

The idea behind term limits is to prevent presidents from being the pinuno for life. What is wrong with having people serve on their merits? In the U.S., many legislators from both sides of the aisle have served for decades with distinction. Are Filipinos saying that their compatriots are incapable of serving honorably until they qualify for the Septuagenarian subsidy?

A living Constitution means it evolves and changes over time because the original text or understanding is no longer suited, or its relevance could not be discerned by the framers at the time. Amendments bring it to the present realm, understanding, or values.

The U.S. Constitution has been amended 27 times. Abolishing slavery, introduction of the Bill of Rights, right of suffrage for women and African Americans, freedom and equality were amendments that legislators recognized needed to be enshrined as inviolable provisions.

The 1987 Philippine Constitution Preamble has noble intentions. “Build a just and humane society,” is a pipedream because the concept behind it is hard to legislate much less be achieved by the citizenry. Equal opportunity laws have been in the books for a long time but the widening gap between the rich and the poor ensures that such a conceptual society is never achieved where those with more, help those with less.

“Establish a government that shall embody our ideals and aspirations, promote the common good,” is nebulous because the Philippine government is not truly a representative government

although officials are elected by the people. When politicians get elected, their immediate priority of reelection drives what they do. Even the “hope of our Motherland,” the youth become traditional politicians the moment power has a chance to corrupt their ideals.

“Conserve and develop our patrimony,” sounds like a bumper sticker because in reality, it is all about “the economy, stupid.” A humane society is one that respects the rights of people and the environment. How many mountains were leveled to fill the pockets of a few? How many corals or marine life were destroyed or poisoned, forest destroyed, people displaced or killed because of greed?

“Secure for ourselves and our posterity, the blessings of independence and democracy,” provides such grandiosity on paper but fails to capture the imagination of Juan. Has the Philippines been truly independent? Presidents will say that they will pursue an independent foreign policy but in reality, it is a policy anchored on a foreign power’s vested interest. Can we call vote buying, election related killings, ambuscades of elected officials, corrupt government blessings of democracy?

“Under the rule of law and a regime of truth, justice, freedom, love, equality, and peace.” Seriously? Why are students still dying from fraternity hazing? Why are journalists being killed for doing their job? Why are there so many incarcerated Filipinos for crimes of opportunity? Why are there millions of Filipinos living in abject poverty? Why are there so many former military people implicated in

crimes?

It is time to wake up and realize that Philippine democracy is broken despite its great promise. After 37 years, how much longer should Filipinos experiment before they could secure for themselves the true blessings of democracy? Everything is “blowing in the wind,” as Bob Dylan wrote in 1963. How much more poverty can a man take before you call him a man? How many deaths will it take,” as Dylan asked, before we know that “too many people have died?”

Mountains are already being washed to sea. Injustice is everywhere but we can’t seem to hear their cry. Pollution makes it hard to see the sky in the Metropolis. People are languishing in jail because they were hungry and needed food and shelter. The answer my friend, is blowing in the wind, and it is changing the form of government to Federalism. Why? Politicians run peoples’ lives, they buy their votes, and they enrich themselves.

In a federal constitutional republic, regions or states share sovereignty with the federal government – an indivisible union of autonomous regions. Each region will always have representation in Congress (or Parliament). Autonomy allows a region to pursue its dreams and be prosperous independent from Imperial Manila, except in areas with federal jurisdictions like defense, immigration and education.

Anytime is the right time to review the effectiveness of the Constitution because amendments or switching to a new form of government is a longterm investment that allows framers to adopt the Charter to what the people need or aspire to uplift lives.

At least one day, each year, for those who made the ultimate sacrifice?

Petty Officer First Class, United States Navy Robert Francis “Teddy” Favor’ siblings and his close relatives such as myself have kept the candle burning for more than half a century. We remember him.

Hopefully, after reading this, you will too. Lest we forget!

SPRING BREAK

Continued from page 1

mayroon kang back-up. Manaliksik kung paano mo maa-access ang mga pasilidad ng pangangalagang pangkalusugan sa iyong destinasyon kung sakaling magkaroon ng emerhensiya. Kung bibiyahe kang mag-isa, tiyaking magtalaga ng pang-emerhensiyang contact mula sa iyong tahanan.

Dalhin ang mga naaangkop. Iwasang magambala ng sakit o paghihirap ang iyong biyahe sa pamamagitan ng pagdadala ng sunscreen, damit na akma sa panahon, panlaban sa insekto, at lalagyan ng tubig para hindi ka mauhaw. Tiyaking natutugunan ng anumang dala mong likido ang mga kinakailangan para sa bagahe o magplanong bumili ng bago pagdating sa destinasyon.

I-update ang iyong proteksyon sa COVID-19. I-update ang iyong bakuna sa COVID kung noong Setyembre 2022 pa ang huli mong dosis. Maaari pa ring kumalat ang COVID sa matataong lugar at maibabalik ng update na bakuna sa COVID ang iyong proteksyon mula sa pagkakaospital, malubhang sakit, o kamatayan. Pag-isipan ding magdala ng ilang maskara kung malaking grupo ang makakasama mo o ikaw ay sasakay sa matataong pampublikong transportasyon. Ang spring break ay isang magandang pagkakataon para gumawa ng magagandang alaala at makapagpahinga ang iyong mga anak mula sa kanilang pagsusumikap sa pag-aaral. Makakatulong ang paglalaan ng panahon sa pagpaplano para sa masaya at malusog na spring break para kayo manatiling malusog at maiwasan ang sakit ng ulo kung sakaling magkaantala kung may mga problema.

Bisitahin ang www.vaccines.gov para sa higit pang impormasyon tungkol sa mga bakuna sa COVID.

TOUR OF DUTY: My late lamented first cousin Teddy posed for posterity at his duty station in Camp Tien Sha, Naval Support Activity Danang, US Naval Forces Vietnam circa 1968

Spiritual Life

Are you a spiritually healthy person?

I was browsing through the internet and my attention was caught by this article entitled “20 Signs You’re A Spiritually Healthy Person. I thought that this article would be helpful to my readers and so I decided to share it in this column.

“When you meet someone who is spiritually healthy, you’re immediately drawn to that person. You feel good just being around them. These people are magnets of happiness, freedom, generosity, and have the unique ability to enjoy the present moment. The only way you can achieve spiritual satisfaction is by following your heart’s desires. Here are some clues that you can use to stay on the right path. Here are 20 signs you're spiritually healthy: 1. You stepped out of the victim role and now play the game of designing your destiny.

2. You love your life because you're living your soul's purpose. 3. You feel like you're contributing and serving with generosity. 4. You got off the emotional roller coaster, and your emotions feel like smooth waves on a clear day most of the time.

5. You catch yourself when you judge others and realize that what you're judging is intimately related to your own self-acceptance.

6. You don't fear making the wrong decision, because you're aware that there can always be a spiritual lesson. 7. You understand that freedom and happiness are qualities you cultivate from within, and the more you work on them, the

Aurora

S. Cudal-Rivera

My Personal Testimony

more they grow. 8. You no longer feel like you need to hide out of fear of judgment; you are the full expression of yourself personally and professionally. 9. You spend time in silence daily and crave it when you miss a day, because you feel like something is "off." 10. You have the courage to let go of relationships that no longer benefit you because you understand that they already served their purpose.

11. Your soul is happy because you find a moment to play and dream every single day. 12. You don't feel lonely or disconnected, and you highly appreciate alone time. 13. You seem to notice details, colors, tastes and beauty with a sensibility that makes you feel like a kid.

14. You express your needs and desires with complete confidence and without confrontation. 15. You don't feel like you have to explain your lifestyle, because you understand how it serves you and might not serve others. 16. You're able to be in the now at least 25% of the time; you're fully

present and in joy. 17. You don't second guess yourself because you trust your intuition and act on it. 18. You trust that life is on your side and problems are always opportunities or lessons to be learned. 19. You are able to fall in love over and over again, with your friends, with your partner, with your work. 20. You start your day with an intention and go to bed in gratitude. “

As I went through these 20 indicators of a spiritually healthy person, it occurred to me that the most important factor that makes a person spiritually healthy is his belief in a power greater than himself. For those of us who were raised in the Christian faith, being spiritually healthy means having a close relationship with God and communicating with Him through prayer, and seeking His Will in our life by daily reading of the Holy Bible. I firmly believe that without God in our lives, we are nothing, and with God, everything is possible.

There is no fear in love...

A friend is a sky-diving, mountain-climbing, hang-gliding thrill-seeker, but in the cave he felt sheer panic. He was terrified. He tried fighting his fear, but he kept picturing his dead body moldering in the cave. Finally, he told his guide he was about to lose it, and the guide said, "Hey, close your eyes and listen to my voice. I will keep talking, calmly, and guide you through this. We will be okay. I have been here before. I will get you to the other side. But you must listen to my voice. It will not work for you to let your thoughts run wild. Just focus on my voice." He did so. What freed him from panic and fear was not trying hard to quit thinking fearful thoughts. It was listening to another voice.

What voice do you listen to when you're in the cave and it's dark, when the ceiling is low and you can't back out? The Spirit longs to flow in our minds all the time. One reason why people have found memorizing Scripture helpful is that it helps us listen to the voice of our guide when we are in the cave. We set our minds on those thoughts that equip us for life. God does not want us to live in worry or fear. He wants us to live with bold confidence in his power. "For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and selfdiscipline."

Greetings in the Lord!

Today we celebrate Passion Sunday. In the past this Sunday was popularly known as Palm Sunday, focusing on the celebration of the triumphant entrance of Jesus into Jerusalem with all the people gladly welcoming him, chanting Honsanna to the Son of David. We still commemorate this triumphal entry of Jesus and his disciples even today. However, the reading of the Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ during this Eucharistic celebration shifts our attention to a more focused immediate preparation for the celebration of the paschal triduum.

The reading of the Passion of Our Lord on this Sunday would greatly help every Christian who desires to make the Holy Week a period of intense preparation for the celebration of the Easter Triduum which begins with the celebration

Danny Hernaez From Whom

In the Bible, we see a pattern in which God rarely sends people into situations where their comfort level is high. Rather He promises to be with them in their fear. It is God's presence - not comfortable circumstances - that brings people to the best version of themselves.

Paul said that when we live in the flow of the Spirit, he does not make us timid, but instead gives us power and love. This is not the only place in the Bible where we see a close connection between receiving love and living in power. The apostle John makes the same association in one of the most famous statements in the Bible: "There is no fear in love... perfect love casts out fear."

When we live in the flow of the Spirit, we let the perfect love of God wash over us until our fear begins to leave. Modern science has confirmed what John wrote so many centuries ago. Love and fear are literally incompatible in our bodies. God wants to love you -

and in loving you, to cast out your fear.

Jesus was facing adversity when he told his followers that if they had faith, they could command a mountain and it would be cast into the sea. When my focus is on the mountain, I am driven by my fear. When my focus is on God, however, I am made alive by my faith. But if I did not have the mountain, I would not know that faith could be in me.

Use your imagination to picture being shepherded by the Lord in green pastures beside still waters. Is there any room for fear?

God knows that you can stand that trial; He would not give it to you if you could not. It is His trust in you that explains the trials of life, however bitter they may be. God knows our strength, and He measures it to the last inch; and a trial was never given to any man that was greater than that man's strength, through God, to bear it.

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of the Eucharist on Holy Thursday afternoon. Let us read and reread in a very prayerful way the presentation of the passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ in the gospel of St. Matthew not only individually but also as a family gathered together in order to relive the sufferings of the Son of God who, in loving obedience to his Father, gave his life totally for

no other purpose but to concretely offer salvation to all humanity. “The Paschal Triduum or Easter Triduum, Holy Triduum is the period of three days that begins with the liturgy on the evening of Maundy Thursday, reaches its high point in the Easter Vigil and closes with evening prayer on Easter Sunday. It is a movable observance recalling the Passion, Crucifixion, Death burial, and Resurrection of Jesus, portrayed in the Canonical gospels.” This year we will celebrate the paschal triduum on April 6 until April 9, 2023. Let us together sincerely offer our prayers so that all of us would be able to open ourselves and let the graces of the Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ be able to strengthen each one of us in our resolve for true and real conversion during this great season of Lent.

AMEN

CTFLC HONORS DR. ATILIO V. ALICIO

Celebrating a Life of Service and a Life Fulfilled

By: Salvador S. IdoS

Dr. Atilio V. Alicio, an icon in the academia and a notable community leader, retires from UCSD and SDSU after 50 years of dedicated and fruitful service to the youth and language learners.

In honor of Dr. Alicio’s remarkable career, the Council for Teaching Filipino Language and Culture (CTFLC ) headed by its President, Farah Mendoza along with the designated various committees and members, tendered a truly joyous and spirit-filled retirement celebration cum program at the Bay Terraces Community and Senior Center, San Diego, on Feb. 25, 2023.

Dr. Alicio who is a native of Cataingan, Masbate belongs to a family of teachers. He holds a B.A. degree in Spanish: Colegio de San Juan de Letrán in Manila; M.A. in Spanish: Instituto de Cultura Hispánica de Madrid, Spain; M.A. in General Education: Lyceum of the Philippines University, Manila; and Ph.D. in Modern Language Studies: Universiti Malaya in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia where he holds the distinction of being the first Filipino to successfully earn a doctorate from the aforementioned university.

In the fifty years of teaching at the tertiary level, he taught at the Universiti Malaya, UP Manila, Lyceum of the Philippines University, Defense Language Institute in Monterey, California, CSU Long Beach, UC San Diego, and San Diego State University. He started teaching Filipino under the UCSD Heritage Language Program in 2005, and Filipino as a Second/ Foreign Language at SDSU in Fall 2006, thereby having spent 17 years of his professional career in San Diego.

Since Dr. Alicio moved to San Diego, he has been one of the pillars in the phenomenal growth of the Filipino Language Program in San Diego County. To attract and assist those wanting to be credentialed in Filipino, Dr. Alicio volunteered to be a Facilitator of the Review Sessions to prepare aspirants for the California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET). In addition, Dr. Alicio contributed in preparing CSET:Filipino test materials in Gen. Linguistics and Linguistics of the Target Language.

Dr. Alicio is a recipient of numerous awards and recognition. For his services to the OFWs in Malaysia, the Philippine Government, with the endorsement of the Philippine Embassy in KL, conferred upon him the Presidential Award, the Bagong Bayani Award in 1999. His alma mater, the Lyceum of the Philippines University awarded him the Most Outstanding Alumni Award 2001 for his long and dedicated service as a Spanish Professor. Perhaps the greatest reward of Dr. Alicio for his long and dedicated service to the youth and to humanity is something intangible. It is referred to by some as a psychic income of teachers for a job well done. The reward is that he has earned a lifelong love and respect of his students, colleagues, and everyone whose life he has touched.

He is the author of Learn Filipino; Language Phrases in English, Bahasa Melayu, Filipino, Spanish; Estructura del Verbo Español; Elementary Filipino: Learning Language and Culture; and Filipino Course Readers for UCSD, SDSU, and The Filipino School. He has written numerous articles on varied topics for the Philippine magazine LIFE TODAY (1995-2015).

Dr. Alicio is a person with a gentle soul. He is humble and joyful, somebody you would like to be with. He takes on his responsibilities seriously; however, he does not take himself too seriously. He is blest with a

pleasant sense of humor which brings delight to his students, friends, and everyone. Whatever he does, he gives it his all.

In his retirement speech, Dr. Alicio shared his philosophy of teaching which is lofty and profound. He believes that to teach is to have a passion, a missionary zeal to help transform the lives of students for them to realize their fullest potential and become productive members of society. To him, teaching is more than just an occupation to earn a living. It is Ministry, giving a teacher the chance to Love his students so that his students would learn how to Love in return. He likened life to that of a lighted candle. As the candle is consumed, it provides light to a darkened environment. What a powerful imagery! The life of Dr. Alicio is indeed a life of service to others.

In concluding his sharing, Dr. Alicio expressed his “taos-puso at walang katapusang pasasalamat” for the grand honor, best wishes, presence, gifts, outpouring support, generosity, care, and L.O.V.E. to Kapamilyang CTFLC whom he regards as his second family and for being a part of this milestone in his life, thereby making his journey so special and memorable.

Dr. Alicio (sitting 3rd from left)who is married to Carmencita Monfero are blest with three children: Maria Carmen, Maria Theresa, and Jose Rey; and four grandchildren: Anthony, Angelo, Danica Jewel, and Lara Amber.

Continued from page 4

agencies in harmonizing and effecting sound diet and nutritional policies and practices for the people. The government, President Marcos said, must continue to exert the best efforts to ensure well-orchestrated and coordinated

strategy to implement not only the PMNP but all related nutritional programs throughout the country, so as to be able to get a maximum effect for all government efforts.

President Marcos thanked lawmakers for their assistance in the nutrition project by helping the administration develop and enshrine into law policies that will help eradicate malnutrition and uplift the

standards of primary health care and nutrition in the Philippines.

“As the country continues to face persistent threats of hunger and malnutrition, rest assured that this Administration is working conscientiously to find effective and cross-cutting solutions to address these and other paramount social problems and concerns,” the President said. (MNS)

Fr. Agustin T. Opalalic

Top photo shows Dr. Alicio (sitting 3rd from left), with wife Carmencita Monfero who are blest with three children: Maria Carmen, Maria Theresa, and Jose Rey; and four grandchildren: Anthony, Angelo, Danica Jewel, and Lara Amber (courtesy photo)

Dr. Atilio Alicio with the Kapamilyang CTFLC

capital accounting system; and advancing the Philippine Health Facility Development Plan 20202040, especially giving priority access to water, sanitation, and hygiene or WASH in public health care facilities.

Citing the Philippines as an example of good practice, a side event on WASH was also held, co-organized by Hungary and the Philippines, and moderated by the World Health Organization (WHO).

The Philippines’ participation in the UN 2023 Water Conference is critical because it was the first time that the UN member states expressed that water, climate change, biodiversity, disaster risk, and human development are inextricably linked.

It was also the first time since 1977 that this conference was held.

Aside from the DENR, the

Philippine delegation consisted of members of the Permanent Mission to the UN, the National Economic and Development Authority, the Department of Health, the Department of Budget and Management, the Department of Finance, Manila Waterworks and Sewerage System, and Local Water Utilities Administration. (MNS) Environment, IP must be considered in building water resources

The government must ensure the safety of Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities and the protection of the environment in its quest for possible power sources and stability of water supply.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian said all options must be weighed, especially large rivers where IPs may be residing.

“Dapat timbangin natin. Ang mga IP at ang environment, kailangang maging balance tayo para naman hindi sila malagay sa alanganin (We must weigh all options, the IPs and

environment. We need to balance them in order not to put them in trouble),” Gatchalian said during a media briefing on Tuesday.

Gatchalian said lack of water supply will also affect energy resources, considering that 10 percent of power supply in the country come from hydropower plants.

Gatchalian previously told the Energy Regulatory Commission to impose penalties and file charges against electricity distributors that “over-contract” power supply to the detriment of consumers who pay for them.

Over-contracting is the practice of power distributors, including electric cooperatives, of purchasing more than the consumers’ electricity demand during a certain period.

Allaying fears of power outage, Gatchalian said he was assured by the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines that it has enough reserve energy during the hot dry season. (MNS)

SENIOR CITIZENS ASK NAPCA

LOS ANGELES, CA --

National Asian Pacific Center On Aging (NAPCA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improve the quality of life of AANHPI older adults and their families. We operate a NAPCA Senior Assistance Center for Older Adults and Caregivers and is available in 5 different languages. In this column, we want to share some of the important questions we received from readers. Hope you will find them useful.

Q&A #1

What kinds of social security benefits can I have at age 62? How are they compared with ones at age 65?

You can start collecting Social Security retirement benefit early when you reach age 62. The monthly insurance amount would be reduced 8% per year if you start receiving benefit earlier than your full retirement age. However, you would get 100% of your retirement benefit when you reach your full retirement age and the amount would increase by the same rate each year beyond your FRA until you turn 70 .

Q&A #2

I am going to apply for Social Security retirement benefit when I reach my full retirement age. I am a US citizen and already have 40 working credits. My wife is still a green card holder and has never worked in the US. Is she eligible for any benefits under my retirement even though she’s not a citizen?

She does not need to be a US citizen to receive benefits. Permanent legal residents are eligible for Social Security Retirement if they are 62 or older and they have worked and paid Social Security taxes for at least 10 years or 40 quarters.

But since she hasn’t worked, your wife can receive Spousal Social Security benefits up to 50% of your benefit. After you begin to receive your Social Security Retirement,

she will become eligible for benefits when she turns 62 years old. However, if she can wait until her Full Retirement age, her monthly benefit will be higher.

Q&A #3

What is Medicare and who can get it?

Medicare is a health insurance program for people age 65 or older.

Medicare helps with the cost of health care, but it does not cover all medical expenses or the cost of most long-term care.

Original Medicare includes Part A and Part B.

Part A is Hospital insurance that helps pay for inpatient care in a hospital or limited time at a skilled nursing facility (following a hospital stay), and some home health care and hospice care.

Part B is Medical insurance that helps pay for doctors’ services and many other medical services and supplies that the hospital insurance does not cover.

Other parts of Medicare are Part C and Part D.

Part C is known as Medicare Advantage plans and offered by private companies and approved by Medicare. Many Advantage plans include drug coverage and additional benefits.

Part D is Prescription drug coverage helps pay for prescribed medications.

Q&A #4

I am now 65 years old and have no working quarter credits. However, my wife has 40 credits and she will apply for early retirement when turning 62 next year. Can I apply for Medicare Part A now? Is it free?

Depending on your residency/ citizenship status, and which state you live in; you may be eligible for low cost or free Part A as of right now. Or you can wait until your wife turns 62 to get Part A for free. Please

contact us if you would like us to help you.

Q&A #5

What’s the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?

Medicare and Medicaid are both government health care programs, but they are very different. Medicare is generally for people who are 65 or older, or who have a qualified disability. Medicaid is a stategoverned program for people with limited income and resources. For example, you are over 65, married, and living in CA. Your husband and your monthly income is below $2106 and your assets are below the state’s standard, you would be eligible for Medicaid for elders in CA.

Some people are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid. These people are considered “dual eligible” and are often qualified for special Medicare plans. If you have additional questions regarding the above, or around the topics of Medicare, Medicaid, Affordable Care Act or others, there are three ways you can reach us. We will answer all of your questions in a timely manner.

Call our Senior Assistance Center

at: 1-800-336-2772 Email:

“There is a mistaken notion among some that to own a paper is to have a license to clobber one’s enemies and attack people we don’t like. A newspaper is an information tool to reach a large number of people at a given time. A newspaper should inform, educate, entertain and provide viewpoints that could give us the means to make intelligent decisions for ourselves and others.” — Ernie Flores Jr., founding editor and publisher

Kylie Verzosa confirms dating Marco

Gumabao before Jake Cuenca

MANILA -- Beauty queen-turned actress Kylie Verzosa admitted that she dated actor Marco Gumabao several years before her ex-boyfriend

Jake Cuenca.

Verzosa revealed that she and Gumabao tried to be a couple but it did not work out.

“Siguro, a long time before Jake, long way before Jake — mga two years ago. We tried. We tried it out, but we were…bata pa kami nun eh,” she said.

Verzosa went on to say that they remained good friends despite not ending up as real-life partners.

“But we remained very good friends. Happy ako sa lahat ng mga pinagdaanan niya sa buhay niya.

I’ve seen him grow as an actor, as a person. Nagka-catch up pa rin kami. So yeah, we remain very good friends,” she continued.

The actress admitted that she and Cuenca have yet to talk to each since their split in April 2022.

“I know it’s been a long time pero siguro in time. Only time will tell kung we’re able to already see each other in a very friends setting,” she said. “Ayoko siyang pilitin pero darating ang panahon when we’ll meet each other and maybe, who knows? Time will only tell.”

In April, Cuenca confirmed that he and Verzosa ended their 3-year

relationship, breaking his silence on speculations about their relationship after a series of cryptic posts on social media.

“I’ll hold on to all our precious memories together with so much value. This past 3 years of my life have certainly been the best. I say this with such a heavy heart but me and Kylie have decided to go our separate ways,” the actor said.

According to Cuenca, they broke up without bitterness or anger to

Kathryn Bernardo announces 2 new movie projects

MANILA -- Actress Kathryn Bernardo is ready for new challenges as she revealed two upcoming movie projects.

Almost four years after the boxoffice success of "Hello, Love, Goodbye," Bernardo is set star in "A Very Good Girl" with awardwinning Filipina actress Dolly de Leon, and the historical film "Elena 1944."

On Monday, Bernardo herself announced her upcoming films at "New Movie Alert," ABS-CBN Films's way of announcing upcoming projects. The event was also attended by ABS-CBN executives.

Directed by Petersen Vargas and written by Marionne Dominique Mancol, "A Very Good Girl" will have Carmi Raymundo as the creative manager and Daniel Saniana as the creative supervisor.

be able to look back on the good memories they created when they were still together.

“Akala ko siya na. Akala ko na hindi na ako magkakaroon ng heartbreak. Akala ko siya na. Saka nagmahalan kami. We loved each other," Verzosa shared to Vice Ganda.

Currently, Verzosa is promoting the film with Gumabao titled “Baby Boy Baby Girl” which is set to be released on March 22. (MNS)

James Reid breaks silence on photo with Issa Pressman

take that from me. To my fans, all you need to know from me is that I'm the happiest ... I've ever been," he added.

The said photo was uploaded by Issa herself on her Instagram post on Thursday night, March 16.

For his part, Reid uploaded a clip of him and Pressman watching Harry Styles's concert together.

In 2020, Issa released a short statement amid allegations linking her to the breakup of Lustre and James Reid.

She wrote at the time: “If I stay silent, i’m ‘guilty’. If I stand up for myself, i’m ‘defensive’. The world judges either way. But to end it here & now, everything is 100% FALSE. #ThinkBeforeYouClick.”

Shooting for the movie, according to Bernardo, will happen soon and it will be released in cinemas this year. "It such an honor because I will be working, she agreed to work with me, with the one and only Ms. Dolly de Leon. ...For sure marami akong matututunan sa kaniya. I can't wait to meet her again. Kasi sinabi niya pala na nagkasama na kami years ago when I was younger before pa but that was very short lang. Now, I am looking forward na mas makatrabaho siya nang matagal at mas makilala siya. What a great honor na gumawa at nabigyan niya ako ng oras," Bernardo said.

According to Raymundo, de

Leon is also thrilled to work with Bernardo.

The film also marks Bernardo's first time to work with Vargas, who helmed the 2022 hit film "An Inconvenient Love."

"I feel like he is the perfect director to guide me in this movie. So I am really excited na makatrabaho siya for the first time," Bernardo said.

According to Bernardo, she personally picked Vargas to direct her in "A Very Good Girl."

Aside from "A Very Good Girl," Bernardo will also star in the historical piece "Elena 1944," which will be directed by award-winning

filmmaker Olivia Lamasan under Black Sheep.

"It's with my great pride and honor that this movie will be directed by 'Inang' Olivia M. Lamasan," said Bernardo, who shared the the story was first pitched to her in 2019. Bernardo said she was not ready then. But now that she turned 27 and with the approval of her mother and boyfriend Daniel Padilla, Bernardo said she is ready for the role. In December 2022, it was also announced that Bernardo and Padilla will be doing a new movie with director Cathy Garcia-Molina. (MNS)

Empoy hopes to find ‘the one’, build own family

blessings he has received, including a fully paid condominium unit.

“Syempre, hindi ako makapaniwala pa rin nung mga nakaraang taon, buwan. Pero nung nagnilay-nilay ako sa sarili ko, munimuni ba, sabi ko ito pala yung mga pinaghirapan ko,” he shared.

“'Pag ka naiisip ko, kailangan ko siyang alagaan at pahalagaan.”

MANILA -- Actor James Reid broke his silence about his photo with Issa Pressman that has been making the rounds online.

In a tweet, Reid said that the "past rumors" about him and the sister of Yassi Pressman are not true. In 2020, Issa was alleged of being the third party in the relationship of Reid and his exgirlfriend Nadine Lustre.

"I'm only gonna say this once.

The past rumors about Issa are just that, rumors," he said.

However, Reid explained that he felt the need to speak up "because this is the start of something beautiful."

"I usually NEVER address bashers or get involved in hate culture but I feel the need to speak up now because this is the start of something beautiful," Reid said.

"And I'm not gonna let anyone

Yassi also defended her sister amid accusations that she caused the separation of Lustre and Reid.

Lustre also expressed her love to the sisters at the time in a comment on Yassi’s post, while Reid left an apology to them both for getting dragged into the issue — clearing Issa of any involvement in the relationship.

Currently, Lustre is happy with her French businessman boyfriend Christophe Bariou. (MNS)

Camille Prats considers being child star 'a blessing'

MANILA -- Actress Camille

Prats considers her career as a child star a blessing.

In an interview with TV host Boy Abunda, Prats was asked if she felt that her childhood was taken away from her because she started early in show business.

"Alam mo Tito Boy, nung bata pa ako palagi kong naririnig 'yon sa mga tao around me, especially sa mga may edad na parang 'kawawa ka naman kasi ang bata-bata mo pa nagtatrabaho ka na, hindi normal ang childhood mo.' That's what I would normally hear from people. But to be honest Tito Boy, I had a very unique childhood. And totoo 'yun, na hindi ko man naranasan 'yung kung ano ba 'yung 'normal' na childhood para sa karamihan but I would like to think na ‘yung buhay na ibinigay sa akin ng Diyos is the life that He really wanted for me," Prats said.

Prats also stressed that she had a happy childhood.

"Hindi siya kapareho ng iba, unique siya but I had so much fun. (Happy childhood?) Yes. I love what I was doing even until now. Tito Boy, I'm so grateful to be in the business for 30 years. I really think it's a blessing. And 'yung buhay ko na 'yon, nung kabataan ko, remembering all the projects that I did those were happy memories for

me," she added.

Prats joined showbiz as part of ABS-CBN's kiddie gag show "Ang TV."

"'Ang TV' puro mga bata, ang dami ko ring kalaro. Pero nagtetaping kami, pero natututo kami. Ang gusto ko sigurong sabihin, ang perspective ko ay nag-aaral tayo para magtrabaho pagdating ng panahon.

I had the privilege to actually experience, hands-on experience, of

what real world is like at the age of seven years old," said Prats, adding that she is blessed to have parents who guided her.

Prats rose to stardom when she starred in the '90s classic "Sarah... Ang Munting Prinsesa," the 1995 Filipino film adaptation of the anime series “Princess Sarah.” Also part of the movie is Kapamilya star Angelica Panganiban, who played the school maid Becky. (MNS)

MANILA -- Empoy Marquez may have taken everything lightly but he is seriously hoping to finally settle down and have his own family.

In a vlog of Karen Davila, the famous comedian admitted that he desires to find the right one for him and build a family.

Empoy, 40, said that he is currently single but is also aware that he has reached the marrying age.

“Yun po talaga ang dini-desire ko kay God na it’s time na…dahil lahat ng kapatid ko may family na. Ako naman, for this age, pwede na mag-

settle (down),” he said.

According to the “Kita Kita” lead actor, it is not difficult for him to find a partner but he is waiting for the right timing God will give him.

“Hindi naman po. Before, Oo, searching ako. Pero dun pa rin ako bumase sa kung sino yang ipoprovide ng nasa Itaas, sa right timing,” said Empoy when asked if he is having a hard time looking for a girlfriend.

Looking back on his showbiz journey, the comedian could not help but be sentimental in counting the

Before entering showbiz, Empoy had to juggle work and schooling since elementary to help his family. He is the eldest in a brood of seven and has taken the responsibility to be the breadwinner after his parents parted ways.

“Mahirap na masaya na masarap. Mahirap kasi ako yung tumayong breadwinner samin,” he admitted. He worked in fast food chains, tried to be a seamster, and lightman.

Empoy is currently promoting his reunion movie with Alessandra de Rossi “Walang KaParis” on Amazon Prime Video.

Produced by Spring Films and Viva Films, “Walang KaParis” also brings together the breakout tandem with their “Kita Kita” director Sigrid Andrea Bernardo.

It tells the story of Jojo (Marquez), a Filipino artist in Paris, who has had many lovers, but not one of them could fill the chasm in his life occupied by the mysterious muse of his paintings.

One day, a woman named Marie (De Rossi) walks up to him and claims to be the subject in his paintings. (MNS)

Ashley Ortega laughs off rumors linking her to Xian Lim

MANILA -- Ashley Ortega has shut down rumors linking her to her "Hearts on Ice" co-star, Xian Lim.

The Kapuso actress expressed her surprise that such a rumor is getting traction.

"Natatawa na lang kami ni Xian, na parang saan ba to nanggagaling," she said.

"Actually nagugulat nalang talaga ako na parang, ha saan nila nakukuha to?" she added. She said that she and Xian are just good friends, and she respects the fact that he is in a relationship with actress Kim Chiu.

"I'm not that kind of person naman na mang-aagawa, or diba mga accusations sa akin ng mga tao na malandi daw ako, na lihim daw kaming nagkikita and everything,"

she said.

Ashley clarified that she and Xian are training in figure skating together for their show "Hearts on Ice."

"Every time we would train together for our scenes together, syempre public kasi 'yung rink diba, so a lot of people would see us," she said. "E may mga dance steps kami na may mga holding hands, diba kasi love team kami sa show. So siguro nalalagyan nila ng malisya 'yun, pero hindi naman kasi namin kayang i-afford na ipasara yung buong skating rink na para lang kami ang mag skate."

"But me and Xian we're just good friends, as in good friends," she added.

“Hearts on Ice” airs on GMA Telebabad after "Mga Lihim ni

Urduja." It's also available on GTV, Pinoy Hits, and gmanetwork.com/ full. (MNS)

WYYERD FIBER PARTNERS WITH THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA ON FIBER INFRASTRUCTURE

Enabling Smart City Services and Fiber Internet (at Home and at Work) throughout Chula Vista

SAN DIEGO, CA – Wyyerd Fiber, a fiber-to-the-premise Internet Services Provider, and the City of Chula Vista are excited to announce the groundbreaking of a transformative Network Infrastructure Partnership, bringing seamless integration, joint use and an infrastructure exchange to empower residents and businesses with high-speed Internet access. This collaboration positions the City of Chula Vista as a leader in safety, innovation, connectivity, and inclusivity.

Spanning from the vibrant West side – featuring a diverse array of residences, businesses, and prominent government buildings such as City Hall – to the bustling East side – encompassing thriving residential areas, commercial spaces, and the renowned Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center – this Network Infrastructure partnership is poised to revolutionize the city's Smart City and WiFi services.

Wyyerd’s vision is to become the cornerstone partner for Internet connectivity, fiber and facilities interconnection, smart community enablement, and sustainable development – one community at a time. Fiber-optics is the most advanced and innovative technology available and provides a number of specific advantages including high reliability, symmetrical speeds, low latency, future-proof technology, and sustainability.

“Keeping up with the growth of our city will require a robust fiber infrastructure that can meet our needs today and well into the future,” said Mayor John McCann. "Having a solid and reliable fiber network is critical to enabling smart technology and reliable connectivity for Chula Vista.”

Wyyerd's local teams are committed to community support, and local job creation is also paramount. The California President and General Manager is local, as well as the marketing, sales, service

delivery, installation and network operations teams. “Local” is one of Wyyerd’s critical core values, representing Wyyerd’s commitment to being nimble, responsive, and accountable to its customers.

“Internet access has become a basic necessity for all households, businesses, and municipalitiesand there is no better technology to enable top-quality internet than fiber,” said California President/ General Manager Dennis Kyle. “Fiber-optic technology is light

years ahead of the internet's humble beginnings when we had dialup speeds and watched standard definition TV. Today, customers need a reliable connection with more speed, more bandwidth, and low latency. And one of the top benefits we offer is symmetrical speeds because so many consumers today are adding smart devices, gaming, video conferencing, and transferring large data files and video content, all of which require faster uploading.”

Wyyerd held a groundbreaking

ceremony to commemorate the partnership with leaders and officials from the City of Chula Vista, Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center, South County Economic Development Council, and the Chula Vista Chamber of Commerce. Community leaders, business leaders, and residents are encouraged to inquire about service in their areas, by visiting wyyerd.com, calling 619-732-6100 (English, Spanish, or Tagalog), or stopping by our store at 401 Mile of Cars Way.

Chula Vista Mayor, John McCann, commemorating the partnership between Wyyerd Fiber and the City of Chula Vista. Leadership from Wyyerd Fiber, the City of Chula Vista, and South County Economic Development Council.