010221 - Los Angeles Weekend Edition

JANUARY 2-5, 2021 Volume 30 - No. 104 • 2 Sections – 18 Pages

Southern CA, San Joaquin Valley regions DATELINE USA Pilipino Workers Center to remain under stay-at-home order receives LA County FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

grant to help reduce impact of COVID-19 in HiFi, Fil-Am community

by JOSEPH

L. PERALTA

AJPress

THE Southern California and San Joaquin Valley regions will continue to operate under the state’s stay-at-home order into the new year as their ICU capacities are projected to remain under the thresh-

old based on the regional plan implemented by the state.

This development was announced in a virtual press conference by California Health & Human Services Agency Secretary Dr. Mark Ghaly on Tuesday, December 29, 2020.

The Southern California region includes San

Diego, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Ventura, Imperial, Inyo, San Bernardino and Mono counties. Upwards of 23 million people live in the region, which accounts for more than 58% of California’s total population. The region has a current case rate of 130.1 per 100,000 u PAGE A2

GOP-led Senate shoots down Democrats’ plan for $2,000 COVID-19 stimulus checks

THE Pilipino Workers Center (PWC) in Historic Filipinotown is among the local organizations that has been selected as part of Los Angeles County’s Community Equity Fund to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in communities disproportionately impacted by the virus.

Through the fund, announced in December, the 51 organizations — which include health care centers, immigrant rights groups and churches — are tasked with raising awareness in their communities in culturally relevant ways on how to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and connect residents to health care, social services and testing.

“For our community, this is really critical since we’ve had such high numbers of cases.

Having someone who’s also Filipino communicate the information can do it effectively and help prevent the spread,” Aquilina Soriano Versoza, executive director of PWC, told the Asian Journal. u PAGE A3

Sen. McConell indicates possibility of $2K checks in other future legislation

by KLARIZE

MEDENILLA AJPress

FOLLOWING intense back-and-forths among congressional Republicans, Democrats and President Donald Trump, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) said that the proposal from Democrat to approve the $2,000 stimulus checks has “no realistic path to quickly pass the Senate.”

In response to the pressure from fellow congressmembers, the president and the public, McConnell added, “The Senate is not going to be bullied into rushing out more borrowed money into the hands of Democrats’ rich friends who don’t need the help.”

McConnell’s remark on the Senate floor on Wednesday, Dec. 30 effectively shuts down one of the president’s top priorities as he prepares to leave office in u PAGE A2

Fil-Am cyclist Gerrard Nieva remembered after fatal crash outside of Las Vegas Palace: US not included in PH’s travel ban Pacquiao vs McGregor excites experts YEAR OF THE OX. A store assistant displays golden ox figurines along Ongpin St., Sta. Cruz, Manila on Wednesday, December 30, 2020. According to the Chinese zodiac, 2021 is the year of the metal ox, which symbolizes diligence, persistence, and honesty.

PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan

AN avid cyclist, Gerrard Nieva took the day off from work on Thursday, December 10 to participate alongside nearly 20 bicycle enthusiasts in their annual 130-mile Nipton Loop ride outside of Las Vegas.

The group began at M Resort Spa Casino in Henderson and charted a route that would take them through Searchlight to Nipton, California.

Before departing, Nieva had exchanged several text messages with his younger brother Donalrey as he routinely did each morning.

But in an unexpected turn, Donalrey later received a call from a friend who wasn’t on the ride, delivering news that there had been an accident.

The 41-year-old Filipino American was one of five bicyclists killed when a box truck drove through the group along U.S. Highway 95 near Searchlight.

“When I got the call, my heart just sank beu PAGE A4

PH gov’t halts entry from 20 countries

by AJPRESS

IN an attempt to prevent the new COVID19 variant from entering the Philippines, the national government imposed travel restrictions from countries where its presence was confirmed.

The travel ban includes countries such as United Kingdom, Denmark, Ireland, Japan, Australia, Israel, the Netherlands, Hong Kong, Switzerland, France, Germany, Iceland, Italy, Lebanon, Singapore, Sweden, South Korea, South Africa, Canada, and Spain.

Earlier on Wednesday, December 30, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque announced that the travel ban already included the United States.

However, the Philippine Department of Health (DOH) said that the presence of the

new COVID-19 variant must be confirmed first by the American government and the World Health Organization (WHO).

Philippine Health Secretary Francisco Duque said the U.S. will likely be included in the travel ban after a case of the new variant of COVID-19 was detected in Colorado on Tuesday, December 29.

“It will be included temporarily. Remember, this is not a permanent ban. This is only a temporary ban to give us time to assess our situation and to check if the new variant has already arrived in the country,” Duque noted.

Meanwhile, Philippine Health Undersecretary Rosette Vergeire said the agency will wait for an advisory from the World Health Organization International Health Regulations (WHO-IHR) before it includes the U.S. u PAGE A3

Metro Manila, 9 other areas remain under GCQ in January

by AJPRESS METRO Manila and other areas around the country will continue to operate under general community quarantine (GCQ) status until January 31, 2021.

In a taped public address, President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday, December 28, 2020 said the provinces of Batangas, Isabela, Lanao del Sur, Davao del Norte, and cities of Santiago, Iloilo, Tacloban, Fil-Am Gerrard Nieva, 41, was one of five bicyclists killed by an Iligan, and Davao will also remain under impaired truck driver on Thursday, December 10, 2020 along U.S. GCQ until the end of January.

The rest of the country will also remain Highway 95 near Searchlight.

Photo courtesy of Nieva family

under the least restrictive modified general community quarantine (MGCQ), the president said.

Duterte said the community quarantine classifications are subject to appeal from their respective local government units (LGUs).

He also reminded the public not to leave their homes unless to do essential activities.

“Stay home if it’s really possible. It’s for your own good,” the president advised. u PAGE A2

MANILA — Filipino martial arts practitioners would love to see the Manny Pacquiao-Conor McGregor fight, foreseeing an exciting duel should it push through.

The Pacquiao-McGregor fight is being arranged to happen in Dubai next year, with part of the proceeds eyed to help COVID-19 victims in the Philippines.

For taekwondo legend Monsour del Rosario and Universal Reality Combat Championships (URCC) founder Alvin Aguilar, it’s a fight to watch.

“Senator (Pacquiao) always delivers an exciting fight every time he steps in the ring. McGregor is a UFC champion and a good striker so I think it will be an exciting fight,” said Del Rosario.

“I would love to see how McGregor would compare his experience with unbeaten Floyd Mayweather Jr. to Pacquiao.

I would like to hear from him who’s the powerful puncher, who’s the heavy-hitter and who’s the toughest opponent.

So I think this will be an exciting bout.”

Aguilar said Pacquiao is always an exciting fighter as he fights not just for himself but for the Filipino people.

“Everyone will still watch it. And why is it any different when Mayweather did it? Sen. Manny has been proven to be one of the most selfless and generous people in the world,”

Philippine Senator Manny Pacquiao Photo from Instagram/@mannypacquiao

the Wrestling Association of the Philippines chief explained.

“The more money he makes, the better for a lot of people who he sincerely helps. He is always blessed because he has a good heart and works harder than everyone else,” he added.

Team Lakay mentor/trainer Mark Sangiao is excited with the fight.

“It is a good strategy for Pacquiao because everybody is craving to watch him fight again,” said Sangiao. “On McGregor, he really knows how to sell his fight too. It’s going to be a blockbuster fight for sure.” u PAGE A2

A january 2-5, 2021 • La WEEKEnD aSIan jOurnaL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797

From the Front Page

Southern CA, San Joaquin Valley...

PAGE A1 t

individuals, with a 1.1 transmission rate.

Based on current numbers provided by the state on Tuesday, intensive care unit (ICU) availability for each of the regions are as follows: Southern California, 0%; San Joaquin Valley, 0%; Bay Area, 10.4%; Greater Sacramento, 19.1%; and Northern California 27.9%.

Projections done by the state’s team do not foresee both regions surpassing the threshold under the regional plan, which is set at 15% ICU capacity, according to Dr. Ghaly. Among the factors taken into account when making the state’s projections are current ICU capacity, current seven-day average case rate, current transmission rate (Reff) and current rate of ICU admission.

Dr. Ghaly also mentioned that regions included within the stayat-home order will not necessarily stay there for an additional duration of three or four weeks as the projections are assessed daily by the state’s team of experts.

As COVID-19 cases surge in the state, Dr. Ghaly revealed that California will continue to monitor the situation closely and has issued guidance to hospitals dealing with the influx of cases.

Those guidelines are geared to make sure that hospitals are able to remain in conventional or contingent care for as long as possible; that hospitals in a region work together, along with their County partners, to support each other to remain in contingent care for as long as possible; that hospitals have prepared plans for crisis care which is rooted in equity, fairness and transparency, as a last resort; and that the public will have clear and transparent information about crisis care continuum and the hospitals’ approach to crisis care during the

surge.

While Dr. Ghaly commended California hospitals for their handling of the surge of COVID cases by adapting their operations, he also acknowledged that many hospitals and staff are being stretched to provide the level of care expected for all Californians. That is why it is important that each facility has a crisis care plan, wherein medical professionals will have to make hard choices on allocation of resources, that can deal with such situations when the time comes.

If a hospital or facility in any region enters crisis care, Dr. Ghaly said the state will do its best to ensure that it is in that level of care for the briefest period possible. In the interim, the state will do its best to prevent hospitals from entering crisis care. It will be the hospital, not the state, who will determine whether it enters crisis care based on the need for hospitalization and available resources.

“Together we can stop this surge,” Dr. Ghaly said as he ended his presentation. “Much of what we’re dealing with is avoidable. Much of what we’re seeing can be stopped if we collectively make decisions to stop it. And those decisions are to wear our mask, to stay at home as much as we can at this critical time, and when we do go out to make sure that we keep physically distanced, we don’t mix with anybody outside of our household for the time being, and that we do as much as we can to keep our mask on.”

Dr. Ghaly acknowledged that while some Californians have begun to experience fatigue from the constant messaging from state officials on protocols.

“We are in this moment where it can really make a difference, that each of us has the power and the tool to save a life, get the transmission rate down, and

help somebody…and we want to continue to be about supporting and saving lives as much as we can as we go through this winter surge,” he said.

He also advised people to celebrate New Year’s virtually and make the decision to protect themselves and their fellow Californians to help stop the surge.

Meanwhile, California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Monday, December 28 announced that California has opted in to the federal COVID-19 Pharmacy Partnership, at no cost to the state or local government.

Under the partnership, CVS and Walgreens will administer the Pfizer vaccine to residents and staff in long-term care facilities starting Monday. Both pharmacies will start vaccinations in nursing homes, which will take an estimated three to four weeks, and then move to vaccinate staff and residents in assisted living, residential care and other longterm care facilities.

Approximately 499 nursing homes will be provided the vaccine by CVS, and 357 by Walgreens, according to the announcement. The program will see CVS and Walgreens pharmacy staff (pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and nurses) administer the vaccine by going directly to the care facilities.

Pharmacy technicians are participating under a recent waiver by the Board of Pharmacy that requires appropriate supervision under California law and specialized training.

“Vaccinating those most vulnerable among us is critical to fighting this virus,” said Newsom. “By leveraging CVS and Walgreens resources, we can effectively deploy vaccines to residents and staff at our longterm care facilities, which are at higher risk of COVID transmission – and do it at no cost to the state or local government.” n

Pacquiao vs McGregor excites...

PAGE A1 t The Pacquiao camp said both fighters are getting ready for this epic. McGregor has posted on his Twitter he would be “boxing Pacquiao next in the Middle East.”

“Senator MP (Manny Pacquiao) wants to unite all the boxing and MMA fans around the world in this upcoming fight,” said Pacquiao’s special assistant Jayke Joson, assuring both the eight-division

world champion and the MMA fighter will come to fight and not run.

“He (Pacquiao) is been preparing for this fight a long time ago to satisfy all the fans.”

(Philstar.com)

u PAGE A4

REMEMBERING RIZAL. Soldiers prepare the Philippine flag for the flag-raising ceremony during the commemoration of the 124th anniversary of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal at the Rizal Park in Manila on Wednesday, December 30. In his message for the occasion, President Rodrigo Duterte expressed hope that Filipinos would express love and respect for the nation and follow the examples set by Rizal and other modern-day heroes.

PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan

Metro Manila, 9 other areas remain under...

PAGE A1 t Interior Secretary Eduardo Año said that the government’s priority is also to prevent the new COVID-19 strain from entering the Philippines.

“Our focus now is to prevent

the entry of the new variant in our country,” Año said.

Based on reports, the new variant of COVID-19 from the UK spreads 70% faster.

The Philippines has imposed a temporary travel ban on all

flights from the UK until January 14, 2021.

To date, 470,650 cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in the country, with 9,124 fatalities and 438,780 recoveries. n

GOP-led Senate shoots down Democrats’ plan for...

PAGE A1 t

less than a month.

As previously reported in the Asian Journal, Trump has urged McConnell and Senate Republicans to agree to the legislation that would have increased the one-time coronavirus relief payments from $600 to $2,000 that would be directed toward millions of American taxpayers.

But McConnell indicated that Republicans would move to advance a bill that provided $2,000 stimulus checks as long as it was packaged with other stipulations.

These conditions include curbing protections for Big Tech companies and kickstarting an investigation into the unfounded claims of election fraud, two other goals of the final days of the Trump presidency.

But Democrats are doubtful that such legislation would pass

and condemned McConnell’s refusal to pass existing proposals that would immediately provide the increased stimulus check.

“In blocking it, they are in denial of the hardship the American people are experiencing now, health-wise, financially and every way,” House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) said at a press conference on Wednesday.

The massive COVID-19 relief bill passed in both chambers of Congress was signed by the president over the weekend, meaning that millions of Americans will receive $600 stimulus checks as early as this week.

The stimulus check is a longawaited follow up to the first round of $1,200 stimulus checks sent in April and May. Those that are eligible for the stimulus check include individuals who

earn up to $75,000 a year and married couples who earn up to $150,000 a year, with an additional $600 for each dependent under the age of 18 who live in the same household.

The bill also extends unemployment benefits promised by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Stability (CARES) Act and provides an additional $300 a week.

McConnell’s widely unpopular decision to refuse the $2,000 stimulus check — which has bipartisan support on the Hill — comes at a time when the Republican-led Senate is facing a possible change in partisan leaning.

It all hinges on two senatorial run-off elections scheduled for January; if both seats go to Democrats, then Democrats take control of the Senate. n

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Dateline USa

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARy 2-5, 2021 A

LAX shares tips for essential travel amid the pandemic COVID vaccines appear safe and LOS Angeles city, state and health officials continue to urge people to avoid traveling for the winter holidays to help stop the spread of COVID-19. For those who need to fly, Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) wants passengers to understand the many protocols, physical changes and technologies that will help them Travel Safely at LAX. “We are grateful to see so many people heeding the warnings of our public health officials to avoid unnecessary travel and gatherings outside of their own household, but we also know that there will be some people who will still need to head to the airport this holiday season,” said Justin Erbacci, Chief Executive Officer, LAWA. “For those who must fly, we have safe, clean facilities and new services such as on-site COVID-19 testing to provide an extra layer of protection for our passengers and employees.”

Last year, nearly 5.9 million passengers used LAX during the winter holiday period between Dec. 13, 2019, and Jan. 6, 2020.

So far in December, passenger traffic has been about 27 percent compared to the same days last year, compared to 31.4 percent in November. The decrease in passengers is likely linked to public health guidance to avoid unnecessary travel, although an increasing number of people have traveled in the week leading to Christmas, so far, averaging about 40,000 people through the security checkpoints over the last few days.

Airlines have scheduled 18,341 commercial passenger flights at LAX for the period between Dec. 16 and Jan. 4 for an average of 917 flights a day. For the same period last year there were 35,435 flights, averaging 1,772 flights per day. This is a reduction of 48 percent compared to available flights last year. It’s unknown how full those flights will be, and schedules may continue to change based on demand.

Many travelers will be coming to LAX over the holidays for the first time since the beginning of

effective, but key questions remain

by Bernard

J. Wolfson California Healthline

Safety measures from plexiglass to touchless scanning have been implemented iat LAX

the pandemic, and there have been many changes designed to protect airport guests through a layered approach. Here’s a look at what passengers should expect, and tips to ensure a successful airport journey this holiday season and beyond.

Key Tips for Success Do not travel if you don’t have to.

Do not come to the airport if you are sick.

Wear a face covering at all times. Face coverings are required at LAX for everyone. Most airlines also require a face covering on the aircraft, and refusal to wear one will likely result in being denied boarding. We now have Travel Safely Ambassadors working to remind guests to wear a face covering and provide a free one if needed. Click here to watch a video of the LAX Travel Safely Ambassadors in action.

Follow public health guidance and wash your hands frequently, using soap and water for at least 20 seconds. LAX has provided 350 hand sanitizing stations for use throughout the airport. Use hand sanitizer when washing isn’t possible. Avoid touching your face, mouth, nose eyes and ears.

Remain physically distanced.

While LAX has installed signage

Pilipino Workers Center receives...

PAGE A1 This includes training trusted messengers that community members can turn to for verified information and where to go for services.

By the end of December, LA County recorded 746,089 positive cases of COVID-19 and a total of 9,782 deaths since the start of the pandemic. Of the death toll, about 14% occurred among residents of Asian descent.

Though the Asian data is not disaggregated, numerous reports have shown how the Filipino American community has been affected since the start of the pandemic — from working in health care and other frontline jobs that can’t be done from home to living in multigenerational households.

Historic Filipinotown has experienced 9,135 cases to date, according to the LA County Public Health Department.

“The capacit[ies] of hospitals and the ICUs are very minimal right now so that impacts our community, not just those who have COVID, but we have so many other health issues as a community,” Soriano Versoza said.

Organizations like PWC will also conduct case investigation and contact tracing to inform people who have been exposed to or are infected with COVID-19 about their risks and the need to isolate and quarantine, respec-

tively.

But in addition to the direct health impact of the virus, other issues reported by community members include the need for childcare, feelings of isolation, mental health concerns, job loss, and access to food and other resources.

“They’re feeling like a crunch in all different ways. We’ve heard a lot of stories of seniors in our community who are really feeling this pandemic financially as well as emotionally,” Soriano Versoza said.

Once the vaccine is rolled out for public use, PWC anticipates having a campaign to encourage the Fil-Am community to get vaccinated.

“Even with the vaccine, the financial impacts are going to go on longer. Those who were already more vulnerable, even before the pandemic, are especially being hurt now. So that’s why the Community Equity Fund is really finding those who are in the most need,” Soriano Versoza said.

In addition to the fund, PWC has mobilized its team to provide working families with supplies and other resources through its own Community Care Program — which includes the care box deliveries, care fund, care meals, COVID-19 relief fund, virtual town halls, temporary shelter and emergency assistance.

(Christina M. Oriel/AJPress)

Palace: US not included in...

PAGE A1

in the official list.

“We will wait for the US to officially notify the WHO-IHR or official announcement by their government regarding this new strain identified in Colorado before we include it in our official list,” she said.

In a memorandum signed by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday banned the entrance of all foreign passengers coming from the aforementioned countries.

Those who are already in transit and will arrive before December 30, including returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), will be allowed to enter. However, they are required to undergo a 14-day quarantine period regardless of their negative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test result.

Duterte also approved the extension of the temporary suspension of flights from, and the prohibition of entry on all travelers coming from or transiting through, the United Kingdom until Jan. 15, 2021.

Filipino citizens coming from the aforementioned countries are exempted from the travel ban, but are required to undergo

an absolute facility-based 14-day quarantine despite a negative RT-PCR test result.

The order will take effect until January 15, 2021.

The Philippine Department of Tourism, for its part, welcomed the travel ban announcement.

“We value above all else the health and safety of our people.

In this light, we ask for the understanding and cooperation of inbound travelers in adhering to the measures put in place to ensure the protection of both guests and local communities,” Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said Wednesday.

Meanwhile, The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) urged travelers to postpone their trips to the Philippines.

“The DFA has strongly advised foreign nationals and Filipino citizens intending to come to the Philippines to reconsider their travel plans for a later date,” it said in a statement.

Earlier this month, the UK detected a new COVID-19 variant called VUI-202012/01, which is believed to be more transmissible than other known variants.

Countries like Denmark, the Netherlands, Australia, Japan, and France later announced that they have confirmed cases of the new COVID-19 variant. n

at security screening, along jet bridges, at baggage claims and other locations to help guests remain physically separated, it is everyone’s individual responsibility to maintain a distance of six feet from one another at all times.

Signage on elevators will indicate whether two or three people are allowed in the elevator at a time, depending on the size of the elevator (family groups are exempt from this limit). LAX requests that those who are able to take an escalator or stairs do so, so the elevators can be reserved for those who need them.

Check in online with your airline before you leave for the airport. This prevents the need to interact with a check-in kiosk. If you are traveling without checked luggage, you can skip the ticket counters entirely this way. u PAGE A4

The recent rollout of two newly authorized COVID-19 vaccines is a bright ray of hope at the pandemic’s darkest hour.

We now have a path that can lead us to happier times — even as we watch and suffer from the horrible onslaught of new infections, hospitalizations and deaths that mark the end of this regrettable year.

Health care workers and nursing home residents have already begun to get shots in the first phase of the rollout. Vaccinations should start to be available to the general public sometime in the first few months of next year.

The two vaccines — one developed by Pfizer and BioNTech, the other by Moderna — use the same novel genetic approach.

Their development in under a year, shattering all records, is a marvel of science. It’s also a cause for concern for millions of Americans who fear the uncertainty of an unknown technology.

The clinical trial data for the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines show that when both shots of the dual-injection immunization are taken, three weeks to a month apart, they are about 95% effective — at least at preventing severe COVID illness.

However, “a vaccine that remains in the vial is 0% effective no matter what the data show,” says Dr. Walter Orenstein, a professor of infectious diseases at

the Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta and associate director of the Emory Vaccine Center.

Hence, the imperative of persuading millions of people, across racial, cultural, religious, political and generational lines, to get immunized when a vaccine becomes available to them.

A survey published this month showed 45% of respondents are taking a wait-and-see approach to vaccination.

Because the vaccines were developed under duress as the coronavirus exacted its deadly toll, the premium was on speed — “warp speed.” So although the number of people in the trials is as large as or larger than in previous vaccine trials, some key questions won’t be answered until millions more are vaccinated.

For example, we don’t know to what extent the vaccines will keep us from transmitting or contracting the virus — though the protection from potentially fatal illness they are likely to confer is in itself something of a miracle.

We don’t know whether irreversible side effects might emerge, or who is at higher risk from them. And we don’t know whether we’ll need to get vaccinated every year, every three years, or never again.

These unknowns add to the challenges faced by the federal government, local health authorities, medical professionals and private sector entities as they seek to persuade people across

the broadest possible swath of the population to get a vaccine.

Skepticism resides in many quarters, including among African Americans, many of whom have a long-standing mistrust of the medical world; the vocal “anti-vaxxers”; and people of all stripes with perfectly understandable doubts. Not to mention communities with language barriers and immigrants without documents — more than 2 million strong in California — who may fear coming forward.

Here are answers to some questions you might be asking yourself about the new vaccines: Q: How can I be sure they’re safe?

There’s no ironclad guarantee.

But the federal Food and Drug Administration, in authorizing the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines, determined that their benefits outweighed their risks.

The side effects observed in trial participants were common to other vaccines: pain at the injection site, fatigue, headache, muscle pain and chills. “Those are minor side effects, and the benefit is not dying from this disease,” says Dr. George Rutherford, a professor of epidemiology at the University of California-San Francisco.

Saturday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported six cases of anaphylactic allergic reaction in the first 272,000 people who got the Pfizer vaccine outside the cliniu PAGE A4

A january 2-5, 2021 • La WEEKEnD aSIan jOurnaL

Dateline USa

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797

Fil-Am cyclist Gerrard Nieva remembered... COVID vaccines appear safe and effective...

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cause deep down, I knew he was one of them…” Donalrey Nieva told the Asian Journal in a phone interview. “We were all devastated and shocked. This stuff happens to other people, but not our family, right?”

Along with Nieva, the victims are Erin Michelle Ray, 39; Michael Todd Murray, 57; Aksoy Ahmet, 48; and Thomas Chamberlin Trauger, 57. Four other riders were injured, including one who was in critical condition, according to the Nevada Highway Patrol.

The suspect in the fatal collision was identified as Jordan Alexander Barson of Kingman, Arizona, who was arrested on Tuesday, December 15 after blood test results showed that he had high levels of methamphetamine in his system, according to the Clark County District Attorney’s Office.

He has been charged with five counts of driving under the influence resulting in death, six counts of reckless driving, and one count of DUI resulting in substantial bodily harm, court records show.

“My brother and the four cyclists lost their lives, and it has impacted my family and a whole community. We do hope justice is served and that [Barson] goes to prison for a very long time,” Donalrey said.

Nieva, who was born in the Philippines, migrated with his family to Las Vegas in 1991.

He started his career as a dialysis tech in 1999 and then became a biomedical techni-

cal trials. This has led the CDC to recommend that people receiving the vaccine be observed for up to 30 minutes afterward.

It’s possible other unexpected adverse effects could pop up down the road. “The chances are low, but they are not zero,” says Orenstein. There’s not enough data yet to know if the vaccines pose an elevated risk to pregnant or lactating women, for example, or to immunocompromised people, such as those with HIV. And we know very little about the effects in children, who were not in the initial trials and for whom the vaccines are not authorized.

Q: Why should my family and I take it?

First of all, because you will protect yourselves from the possibility of severe illness or even death. Also, by getting vaccinated you will be doing your part to achieve a vaccination rate high enough to end the pandemic. Nobody knows exactly what percentage of the population needs to get inoculated for that to happen, but infectious disease experts put the number somewhere between 60% and 70% — perhaps even a little higher. Think of it as a civic duty to get your shots.

Q: So, when can I get mine?

It depends on your health status, age and work. In the first phase, already underway, health care workers and nursing home residents are getting vaccinated.

Gerrard Nieva (right) is pictured with his brother Donalrey, mother Gloria Suarez Fowler and sister Ria Nieva Pitts.

cian six years later. Though Nieva rarely spoke about his work, co-workers expressed admiration for the compassion and care he extended to others. At the time of his death, he worked at Fresenius Medical Care in Las Vegas, ensuring that machines were functioning smoothly for patients receiving treatment.

Together, the Nieva brothers bonded over a fascination with road bikes and discovering trails.

“We grew up riding bikes, but we both got into cycling together — track bikes and fixed-gear bikes — around 2007. I would see my brother once or twice a year, most of the time in Denver where our sister lives. Since the riding there is really good, we’d take our bikes out,” Donalrey

Nieva and the four other victims of the crash were remembered during a memorial organized by the Las Vegas cycling community.

Photos courtesy of Nieva family

said.

Though Nieva was a “homebody,” but he instantly connected with whomever he met and developed his own community of enthusiasts when he got into road cycling and racing.

The younger Nieva, who lives in New York, flew out to Las Vegas, as did other family members coming from other states to attend a memorial at Las Vegas Cyclery on Saturday, Dec. 12. Those who spoke at the vigil remembered the crash victims and called on drivers to share the road with cyclists.

The family laid Nieva to rest in a separate service that had to be limited due to ongoing COVID19 restrictions.

In addition to Donalrey, Nieva is survived by his mother Gloria Suarez Fowler, sister Ria Nieva Pitts, wife Cristina Gonzales and three stepchildren.

“He wasn’t very vocal about it, but hearing stories of how he was as a father to his stepchildren made me more proud of him. I wish I knew more about that side of him,” Donalrey said.

“He treated his stepchildren as if they were his own.”

Michael Anderson, a retiree of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and one of the cyclists who joined the Dec. 10 ride, set up a GoFundMe page for the victims. As of this writing, it has amassed $106,900 out of its $110,000 goal.

Breakaway Cycling also launched its own website (lasvegascyclistmemorial.com) honoring the victims and with a memorial fund to raise $1 million for the bereaved families. (Christina M. Oriel/AJPress)

The 40 million Moderna and Pfizer doses expected to be available by year’s end should immunize most of them.

Next in line are people 75 and older and essential workers in various public-facing jobs. They will be followed by people ages 65-74 and those under 65 with certain medical conditions that put them at high risk. Enough vaccine could be available for the rest of the population by late spring, but summer or even fall is more likely. Already, some distribution bottlenecks have developed.

On the bright side, two other vaccines — one from Johnson & Johnson, the other from AstraZeneca and Oxford University — could win FDA authorization early next year, significantly increasing the supply.

Q: Once I’m vaccinated, can I finally stop wearing a mask and physical distancing?

No. Especially not early on, before a lot of people have been vaccinated. One reason for that is self-protection. The Moderna and Pfizer vaccines are 95% effective, but that means you still have a 5% chance of falling ill if you are exposed to someone who hasn’t been vaccinated — or who has been but is still transmitting the virus.

Another reason is to protect others, since you could be the one shedding virus despite the vaccination.

Q: I’ve already had COVID19, so I don’t need the vaccine, right?

We don’t know for sure how long exposure to the virus protects you from reinfection. Protection probably lasts at least a few months, but public health experts say it’s a good idea to get vaccinated when your turn comes up — especially if it’s been many months since you tested positive.

There’s been some talk among health officials of pushing those who’ve been infected in the last 90 days or so toward the back of the line, to ensure adequate supply for those who might be at higher risk.

Q: How long before our lives get back to normal?

“If everything goes well, next Thanksgiving might be near normal, and we might be getting close to that by the summer,” says Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of infectious diseases at the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine in Nashville, Tennessee. ”But there would have to be substantial acceptance of the vaccine and data showing the virus moving in a downward direction.”

This story was produced by KHN (Kaiser Health News), which publishes California Healthline, an editorially independent service of the California Health Care Foundation. KHN is not affiliated with Kaiser Permanente. n

LAX shares tips for essential travel amid...

PAGE A3 t Check parking options ahead of time. Real-time parking availability within the LAX Central Terminal Area (CTA) parking structures is available here. Parking structures could fill up at any time, so be aware of off-airport private lots as alternatives. Economy Lot E remains closed.

Parking and traffic updates are available 24/7 via the automated @FlyLAXstats Twitter feed.

Picking someone up? Curbside pickup and drop-off is permitted on the Upper/Departures and Lower/Arrivals levels. All parking structures are free for the first 15 minutes, and Terminal B (Tom Bradley International Terminal) pickup area is also free to use.

To access the Terminal B pickup, use the second entrance to Parking Structure 3 from World Way North on the Lower/Arrivals Level. This area is for passenger

loading only with no parking allowed.

To help speed their journeys, travelers are encouraged to enroll in the Transportation Security Administration’s Pre√® or other trusted-traveler programs, such as U.S. Customs & Border Protection’s Global Entry, which improve security and reduce wait times.

According to TSA, baked goods and other solid foods are allowed in carry-on luggage. This includes breads, cookies, candies and meat. However, jams, jellies, sauces, gravies or other liquids need to be in quantities of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less to travel in carry-on luggage. Anything over 3.4 ounces needs to be placed in a checked bag. For additional guidance, please visit the TSA’s “What Can I Bring?” website.

COVID-19 tests are available

for purchase at three locations at LAX: Tom Bradley International Terminal on the Upper/Departures level at the check-in counters located in Aisle C, along the north side of the terminal; Terminal 2 Lower/Arrivals Level at the information booth; and Terminal 6 Lower/Arrivals Level at the information booth.

Clarity Lab Solutions offers FDA-approved COVID-19 tests using a standard Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) nasal swab test and provide results directly to participants.

The PCR tests cost $125 each and are available by making an appointment online or on a walkup basis as available - appointments are strongly encouraged.

Testing services are offered seven days a week from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m.

For more information, visit www.FlyLAX.com/TravelSafely. n

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Dateline PhiliPPines

A

Lorenzana: Vaccines used by Duterte’s security ‘smuggled’

by Ritchel

Mendiola AJPress

DISTANCING, PLEASE. Police officers remind customers and stall owners to observe physical distancing and health protocols in Baclaran, Parañaque City on Monday, December 28. Authorities are on high alert to prevent a surge in COVID-19 cases amid the holiday season.

PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan

Facebook bans ads selling COVID-19 vaccine

by Janvic

Mateo Philstar.com

MANILA — Even with emergency use authorization (EAU) issued by several governments, advertisements that will attempt to sell vaccines for the coronavirus disease will remain prohibited on social media platform Facebook.

In its latest ad policy rolled

out this month, Facebook said it prohibits content that tries to exploit the pandemic for commercial gain.

“Ads or organic posts that promote the sale of a COVID-19 vaccine, such as attempts to sell COVID-19 vaccine kits or expedited access to the vaccine, will be rejected,” Facebook said in an advisory.

“We will also reject ads that

claim the vaccine is a cure for the virus,” it added.

To promote information about vaccines, the social media company said it will now allow ads that highlight the ability of a COVID-19 vaccine to prevent someone from contracting the virus.

Ads promoting ways to safely access a COVID-19 vaccine will also be allowed on the platform. n

Lockdown babies seen to reach 250,000

by Sheila

cRiSoStoMo Philstar.com

MANILA — The Philippine population is expected to reach 110.8 million in 2021, up from 109.4 million in 2020, the Commission on Population (PopCom) said on Wednesday, December 31.

The figure does not include some 250,000 babies projected by the University of the Philippines-Population Institute (UPPI) to be born due to the community quarantine imposed to contain the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to PopCom executive director Juan Antonio Perez III, the UPPI’s projection showed

there will be up to 750,000 new births next year related to the quarantine.

“However, we think since the general community quarantine (GCQ) is affecting only one-third of the country, we believe… about 250,000 might be added to our crude birth rate,” he noted at a press briefing.

But when the UPPI’s 750,000 projection happens, the country’s population will reach 111 million next year.

Perez added that such increase was brought about by disruptions in the delivery of family planning services due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Aside from this, couples were

perceived to have more time for intimacy during the quarantine when they mostly stayed at home.

Perez, however, underscored that despite the rise in population, Filipino family size is “growing smaller” from five members to four.

Data from the Philippine Statistics Administration show the country’s population growth rate will grow by 1.31 percent next year. This is lower than the 1.68 percent growth rate in 2016.

“We have seen a significant decline. This is because Filipinos are choosing to have

u PAGE A7

PHILIPPINE Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Wednesday, December 30, 2020, confirmed that the COVID-19 vaccines administered to some members of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) were smuggled, since they have not been authorized by the government.

“Yes, it’s smuggled. Kasi hindi authorized eh na pumasok dito (the importation was not authorized). Only the government can authorize that through the FDA (Food and Drug Administration),” he told reporters during the Rizal Day celebrations in Manila.

“Kailangan ipaliwanag ng PSG because they violated FDA rules.

Explain ng PSG bakit ginawa ‘yun (The PSG should explain why they did it),” Lorenzana added.

Over the weekend, President Rodrigo Duterte revealed that “almost all soldiers” have been inoculated with China-made Sinopharm despite the vaccine not having emergency use authorization (EUA) in the country.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday confirmed that several PSG members were the first among military personnel to be immunized.

However, Lorenzana said that the military vaccination campaign was “justified.”

“Explain lang talaga ng PSG kung bakit nila ginawa ‘yun. Justified naman eh. Anyway ‘yung vaccine naman ay hindi fake, totoo naman (The PSG really just has to explain why they did it. It’s still justified. Anyway, the vaccine is not fake, it’s genuine),” he said.

“Sa tingin ko naman ay hindi [breach of security]. Maganda naman ang layunin nila (I don’t think it was a breach of security. They did it with good intentions),” he added.

Lorenzana admitted that he doesn’t know who authorized the vaccine rollout.

“Basta alam namin noon, ang rumors na kumakalat ay nagpabakuna na ‘yong PSG. Who authorized it, hindi naman kami nagtanong. Ngayon pa lang lumalabas ‘yong facts na ‘yan ay hindi pa pala authorized na vaccine sa

Pilipinas (As far as we knew then, the rumor spreading was that PSG had already been vaccinated. Who authorized it, we did not ask. It is only now that those facts are coming out that the vaccine is not yet

authorized in the Philippines),” he said.

The defense chief also assured that the remaining units of the AFP would wait for the official rollout of

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A6 JANUARY 2-5, 2021 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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OPiniOn

Saving an industry

FeatURes

IN several areas of Bulacan province, the atmosphere is funereal in this traditional season of joy. Thousands of residents have seen their main source of livelihood battered by pandemic restrictions, and they now face the prospect of preparing for their industry’s burial by Christmas 2021.

This is after several local governments particularly in Metro Manila banned firecrackers and even common fireworks displays to welcome the New Year, as part of measures to prevent coronavirus transmission. President Duterte added to the industry’s gloom by dangling the prospect of a total ban on fireworks by the 2021 holiday season.

Bulacan traces its pyrotechnics manufacturing tradition to 1867, when the parish priest of Santa Maria town used kwitis to wake up the faithful for the dawn mass. The priest taught the craft of making fireworks to a parishioner, Valentin Sta. Ana, who passed on his knowledge to his children Valerio and Fernando. The brothers opened fireworks factories in Santa Maria. Other people followed suit in Bocaue, Baliuag, Norzagaray and Angat, with the industry later spreading to Cavite and Laguna.

In January 1992, Republic Act 7183 was passed, regulating the sale, manufacture, distribution and

use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices. RA 7183 specifically allows the following firecrackers: baby rocket, bawang, small triangulo, pulling strings, paper caps for toy guns, El Diablo or labintador, Judas’ belt and sky rocket or kwitis.

Also specifically allowed are the pyrotechnic devices called Mabuhay, sparklers, luces, fountains of different sizes, Roman candle, trompillo, airwolf, whistles, butterfly, pailaw and similar items.

Specifically prohibited under the law are powerful firecrackers “such as atomic big triangulo and super lolo and their equivalent,” and others that may be determined by the chief of the Philippine National Police.

Pyrotechnics makers have pleaded with authorities for regulation and strict enforcement rather than a total ban, saying that their industry deserves saving. As of last year, government estimates placed the number of people employed in the industry at 100,000.

Editorial

The Fil-Am Perspective GEL SANTOS-RELOS THE doctors, nurses, and caregivers who are fighting on the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic are our modern-day heroes. They work long hours and are exposed to the COVID19 virus on so many levels. What happens when these heroes get infected by the virus? What happens when the doctor becomes the patient?

Let me share with you my interview with a colleague of my husband at Kaiser Permanente Medical Center in Redwood City, California.

Dr. Eric Kwon is an Asian American urologist and is among the frontliners who have no choice but to continue serving and providing care to his patients despite the threat of COVID-19.

In March, when the coronavirus was declared a pandemic, and just when the whole world was still learning more about this new virus, Dr. Kwon was infected by COVID-19. The doctor became the patient.

Q: Tell me about how you found out you were infected by the coronavirus.

Dr. Kwon: It was late March. We were learning how to put on and take off PPE, what to do in case someone had symptoms. And it was just it was ac-

The Metamorphosis

ERNIE D. DELFIN What a year we just had, with the visit of a global invisible enemy called COVID-19, causing unprecedented havoc to millions of people around the world!

This profound pandemic started not only the precipitous decline of the global economy, employment, businesses, but also the untimely death of hundreds of thousands of people around the world. And the end is not in sight yet! Our lives as we know it, B.C. (before Covid), are forever changed!

Unlike the terrorists of 9/11, this coronavirus pandemic is not transparent nor visible to the naked eye, but more powerful than the enemy’s bullets and bombs indiscriminately killing the vulnerable and those seniors like me, and those with pre-existing chronic health conditions. The death toll just in the USA alone has surpassed over 330,000 casualties, as of Christmas day, more than the total American casualties of the last couple of wars that the United States has been involved

Philstar.com photo

That’s a lot of people who will be displaced and will need re-skilling in case a total ban is imposed on pyrotechnic devices. The government will have

to make up its mind on what to do with this industry and the tradition of welcoming the New Year with noise and brilliant lights. (Philstar.com)

Honoring our heroes on the frontline in the fight against COVID-19: What happens when the doctor becomes the patient? tually very confusing. There was a lot of change, a lot of information. A lot of uncertainty. And a lot of change, all at once.

And then one Saturday morning, I woke up and I felt I felt a little sick. A little runny nose, a slight cough headache. But mostly I was tired. That was [an] overwhelming feeling that I had throughout the entire disease process. So, took some Tylenol took a nap, what I thought would be a nap and eight hours later, I woke up. And to my surprise, the entire day had passed. And, but I felt better. So I didn’t think much of it. So I went about my evening.

The next day, Sunday, no problem, no symptoms. I thought, ‘Oh this must have been just a hard week at work, and I was just tired.’ You know sometimes when you’re really tired, you can feel sick.

That Monday, I went to work.

I was okay. That next Tuesday, I went to work, and around nine in the morning when our team huddled to talk about the day, I remember having a headache.

And I said, ‘Oh, that’s funny, you know, I got a good night’s rest, took an Advil, got through my morning.’

And then right around noon, when we’re finished with the morning patients, my partner

came over to me and said, ‘Hey let’s go get lunch.’ I remember putting on my white coat, and as I put my arms into the sleeves, I could feel it was like sandpaper.

My body just ached and I felt a slight fever. ...My whole body was just very achy [and at] lunch, [I] didn’t think much of it...And I was thinking to myself, I wasn’t thinking I have coronavirus. I was just thinking: ‘Gosh, I hope I’m not getting sick with the flu.’ Because the very next day, Wednesday, was the start of spring break for my kids, and I was supposed to be off for two weeks. And the trip that we had planned was already canceled. So we were thinking, what else are we going to do, we’re going to, maybe, you know, do something local, you know, spend some time with the family.

And then that night, I got home.

And that’s when it really got serious with fevers, chills, more body aches, headache, joint pains, but really just feeling terribly tired. I just wanted to lay down, I could not get out of bed. And so that was the beginning of it.

Q: How do you think you got infected?

Dr. Kwon: The next morning I get up, I’m thinking I’m looking back [at] what happened. At that time, we were not wearing

masks...So, we did not understand that this was an airborne disease. So we were talking about six feet social distance. We were talking about hand washing and cleaning surfaces. But really, in hindsight, we now know that this is an airborne virus. So, if you’re indoors, even if you’re six feet apart — it doesn’t really matter. Masks can help. It’s not everything. But you really need to provide protection for your airway.

So before I became sick, even though we knew this virus was raging, we did not even in the hospital, and in the clinic here at the Medical Center, we did not have a mask policy. In fact, we were worried about using up the limited supply of masks that we had. So we were very much in the mode of preserving masks and PPE rather than just making sure that everyone was using them everywhere.

And of course, depending on the advisory coming from [the] CDC and the health officials. But the fact is we’re just learning more about this on COVID-19...

In my personal opinion, I think probably a lot of people would agree that the way we responded, our initial response to this virus was a complete public health failure.

Q: How did this experience

change you?

Dr. Kwon: You know, I’m middle-aged. Before this happened.

I considered myself to be young and healthy. Now, I know that I’m old. And I know that because I realized that I am no longer invincible.

When you’re young, when you’re healthy, you don’t think that something bad like this can happen to you.

And as a physician, maybe as health care workers, we might have this little voice in our head, that says, I’m one of the good guys. Right. So, in a moral universe where there’s maybe you believe in karma. If you do good, good will come to you, if you work hard, you will be rewarded.

If you do the right thing. Maybe that will somehow protect you from being in harm’s way. All of those myths evaporated in a heartbeat — being young being healthy, never, ever hospitalized, don’t really go to the doctor ever, and wasn’t taking any medications.

Occasionally, you know, go in for vaccination for work, get the flu vaccine once a year. But other than that, my interaction with the medical world actually as a patient was quite minimal. And so, I had this thinking that it would not affect me at all — what a mistake that was. And now on the other

side of having gone through a relatively severe bout of COVID, being in the ICU for several days, being sick and symptomatic for a couple of months. And now having some residual long haul symptoms that I’m still recovering from.

Q: How was it like being a patient? What insights did you learn from this health crisis in your own life?

Dr. Kwon: It’s been very humbling. And the thing that I think the way that I really changed is my perspective on the people, the people that we depend on that. They’re always there quietly doing their work. And they’re in the background...when you really need them.

These are exceptional people that do the work every single day with hardly any recognition.

They’re not getting awards. This is not Hollywood. These are real life, everyday heroes. And the people who are most impactful for me, who have been the most impactful have been the nurses.

They are the ones that are literally on the frontlines putting themselves at risk, more, more than anybody else really and doing the hard work, providing the care. So, before all of this, of course, I am friends with the nurses and I know them, some

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The year 2020: The best of times, worst of times for millions on earth

in. And the final tally is still unknown as the pandemic is rolling over the next year or years! It is predicted that the death toll may reach over half a million people in the USA alone if the virus is not contained very soon!

As a follower of Christ, I also believe ardently that man alone cannot contain this pandemic WITHOUT God’s guidance and intervention. Dear LORD, have mercy on us, let this virus be controlled with your Divine forgiveness to our sins sprinkled with your infinite mercy and everlasting love, as you have done over 2,000 years ago when You sent your Only Son to redeem us from our sins. (“For God so God loved the world, that He gave His only Son….”. John 3:16) Yes, we are all sinners and we humbly ask for His forgiveness and save us now from this damnation caused by the devil, believing and surrendering that He is still in control.

We definitely have a NEW normal life now, always wearing Christmasks, even at church or just going to the grocery or to any place where people congregate.

Everyone, including this writer, knows someone who had succumbed to this virus or knows a

family that is directly affected by this global pandemic. Everyone has a Covid story to tell. If you are a septuagenarian citizen, like me, most likely you also know someone who is no longer with us this holiday season, and around this Christmastime next year, a few dozens more will be gone. Accepting this reality, we must be always aware that every day is a bonus day, as it may be the last day of our earthly life. Hence, we have and must do everything humanly possible while we have the opportunity to do good things to merit our own salvation. Faith alone without good works is an empty gong. Matthew 25:31-36 (“When I was hungry, you gave me food, when I was thirsty, you gave me drink, when I was naked, you clothed me, when I was a stranger you welcomed me, when I was in prison, you visited me.”) is a very good start this New Year for everyone, who believes in an eternal life, that this life on earth is just temporary.

In varying degrees, people on Earth have their share of pain and suffering like Jesus underwent during His time on Earth. Human sufferings have the purification effect to cleanse us from our sins,

like pride, lust, and gluttony, and to be reminded of our own frailties and our mortality. Like many, I also “suffered” this year as I was among those locked down in a Manila hotel, last March for a week before I was able to fly back to California after a day of waiting desperately at the airport!

And since that arrival at home in California nine months ago, my life has not returned to normal as I used to have B.C. (before Covid).

To adjust to a NEW normal, like lots of people to be alive, safe, productive, and free from Covid, I too have to be creative to do something worthwhile to occupy the alert mind and empty hands to keep my sanity and well being! Thank God, so far so good; I have been away from a hospital ICU bed!

With daily prayers and reflection, God answered my prayers giving me the inspiration to write and immerse myself in a legacy book project. This project came after a tsunamic earthquake shattered by peaceful life during my birthday last July, when I received a certified letter, signed by this neophyte Rotarian who I recruited into Rotary a couple of

years back that became the club president of the GKeRotary Club I founded nine years ago, with less than a dozen members now!

That long letter advised me that he, with the collusion of his “neophyte board” and inexperienced members, purged me from the club as they cannot stand my leadership style of doing something concrete and not just being a RINO (Rotarian In Name Only) and image-building photos for Facebook!

Shocked and hurt as a human being, I sought advice from trusted long time-friends in Rotary, priests, and after weeks of reflection the best route to follow. In prayers and with childlike humility, I willingly followed the advice of Father Ben Beltran, SVD who I also recruited into Rotary. Father Ben wisely advised me to simply “move on to do what my God wants me to do, and to remember that my “suffering” is nothing compared to what Christ suffered at the hands of rebellious Roman soldiers. His priestly words of wisdom hit me deep in the heart when he said “Ernie, do not stop whenever a dog barks, otherwise, you will never reach your destination!” Wise counsel,

which I followed without question 100 percent. I also did not choose to answer back nor filed a protest for their “unethical” and illegal “firing” as it will be futile use of my time and energy responding to shallow dogs barking!

As I have now let go of the hurt and the ephemeral human pain of a “parent being forcibly separated from his child”, I am now immersed with several more worthy projects that are keeping me very excited and alive. Next year, God willing, my 2021 Legacy Book project, entitled “FINDING LIFE’S MEANING & LEAVING A LEGACY.” It is a well-selected and inspiring compilation of the personal journeys and stories of 25 successful men and women whom I have known for several decades from Arizona to Zamboanga!

These book-contributors who are not only DreamMakers but BridgeBuilders, come from different social backgrounds, and careers, and professions. This unique book is being created with love and patience, not to become financially rich but to give actual role models and living inspiration to the youth, the hope, and

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The views expressed by our Op-Ed contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the predilection of the editorial board and staff of Asian Journal.

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Dateline PhiliPPines

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARy 2-5, 2021 A

PH internet speed ranks 110th out of 139 countries worldwide

by Ritchel

Mendiola AJPress

THE Philippines’ internet connection saw a slight improvement in November this year, according to a global speed test.

In Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index, the Philippines ranked 110th out of 139 countries in mobile broadband, with a speed of 18.49 megabits per second (Mbps) for downloads — a spot above its 111th ranking in October with a speed of 17.83 Mbps.

The United Arab Emirates emerged as the country with the fastest mobile internet connection with a speed of 170.30 Mbps, while Afghanistan ranked last with 6.31 Mbps.

On the other hand, the PhilipSLOW BUSINESS. One of the broomsticks vendors checks his mobile phone while waiting for customers on a sidewalk along Woodpecker pines ranked 103rd out of 176 Street, Barangay Kaligayahan in Novaliches, Quezon City on Tuesday, December 22. The vendors got their merchandise from Laguna province. countries in fixed broadband, PNA photo by Oliver Marquez with a speed of 28.69 Mbps compared to October’s 27.07 Mbps.

Singapore ranked first with

Lockdown babies seen to reach...

PAGE A5 t smaller family, fewer children and therefore fertility is slowly declining,” he said.

Among population groups, the most notable increase was observed within working-age Filipinos between 15 to 64 years old, which will increase by just over one million from 2020 and reach 71,278,520 by next year.

This will make up some 64.15 percent of the entire Philippine population.

Broken down by sex, in the working age group there will be more males than females, 36,139,866 to 35,138,630.

The official claimed this implies the need for the country to generate at least half a million new jobs next year.

According to Perez, this is a “huge challenge in the midst of the pandemic.”

“The changing age structure of the country’s population due to the increase in the workingage population indicates demographic precondition for greater productivity given its potential to support the dependent population,” Perez added. n

Honoring our heroes on the frontline in...

PAGE A6 t of them personally, mostly in the operating room, where we have teams and we work together.

But after being a patient and directly receiving that care that that human touch, literally. You know I was quarantined for a total of five weeks. And during that five weeks, the only people that ever touched me were nurses, and that warm hand on my arm was reassuring.

The reassuring words, the medicine they brought, the ice packs that they put around me.

When my body felt like it was on fire. Those are the people. They are my heroes, and I appreciate them way more than I ever did.

Our mothers, our fathers in this war against the coronavirus...It’s really important to understand that, because there are only so

many of them.

Our nurses have gotten sick, particularly in the spring, when PPE was in such short supply...

You know nobody likes to admit this but the United States, our healthcare system, we just were not prepared for, for many reasons. Supply chain being one of them. We just didn’t have what we needed. Let’s just face the facts.

So we were making do with what we have reusing and N-95 masks. We’re still reusing them.

So, unfortunately, a lot has not changed. But at least we are.

We’ve learned. But it’s not like we have a whole army of nurses that we can just call upon to fill in. We have a limited workforce.

You know they’re working very hard, under extremely stressful situations.

And we have to protect them.

We have to treat them as a valuable resource and a limited resource. And the way we do that is with our own behavior [and] to protect each other.

HAPPY NEW YEAR! *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

*** Gel Santos Relos has been in news, talk, public service and educational broadcasting since 1989 with ABS-CBN and is now serving the Filipino audience using different platforms, including digital broadcasting, and print, and is working on a new public service program for the community. You may contact her through email at gelrelos@icloud.com, or send her a message via Facebook at Facebook.com/Gel.Santos.Relos.

an impressive speed of 241.10 Mbps. This is followed by Hong Kong (222.92 Mbps), and Thailand (213.14 Mbps).

Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index analyzed web access performance metrics around the world based on millions of tests taken by real people using the internet.

“By having multiple servers in every country and major city, Speedtest ensures an accurate view of performance without requiring long, or even international transit, to perform a test,” Ookla said on its website.

“As a result of this testing infrastructure and the enormous number of tests taken using Speedtest, Ookla has no need to extrapolate data to fill in gaps because its applications collect information from every imaginable location and every type of device at all hours of the day,” it added.

Penalize internet providers

Makati City Representative Luis Campos Jr. on Sunday, December 27 pointed out that the country’s internet connection is still too slow, adding that it lags behind its peers in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

“We clearly still have one of the slowest Internet speeds in the world and in Asia,” he said.

Campos, who filed House Bill 7479 which seeks to slap a fine of P1 million daily to telecoms that fail to reach a mandatory internet speed, stressed that the Filipinos deserve a faster internet.

“Filipinos deserve faster Internet speeds, which have been associated with higher economic productivity, stronger jobs creation and greater quality of life,” he said.

“We want the NTC to set faster Internet speed targets every year, and then penalize the service providers that fail to deliver,” he added. n

The year 2020: The best of times, worst...

PAGE A6 t future leaders of our nation. The contributors hope and aspire to inspire before they expire. Hopefully, the book will be given by the thousands by people and organizations interested in literacy and books to the youth. The contributors, the BridgeBuilders, hope that thousands of readers will read it and be moved to dream BIG and want to follow the roadmap of any of the author-contributors. These dream maker-authors can act as the young students’ mentors and guides if requested.

This columnist hopes that our Legacy book will be on the same shelf as the book “Man’s Search for Meaning” written by Dr. Victor Frankl, a survivor of the Nazis’ concentration camp chronicling his personal experiences that made him alive despite physical deprivation and inhuman treatment by his captors.

The Legacy book will, God willing, be published and out by summer 2021.

Furthermore, another upside of this pandemic is the facility of attending online mass being celebrated anywhere from Rome to the Philippines. These pandemic times have also given a rare opportune time to REST, REVIEW,

RENEW AND REFLECT for the New Year. This Christmas Day, perhaps guided by a Divine script, someone sent an invitation link on Facebook to attend a live streaming online mass from the Christ the King Seminary in Quezon City, Philippines, officiated by Father Jerry Orbos, SVD, the same order as my long time friend Father Beltran.

His homily was serendipitously appropriate and timely that resonated very well with what I have been struggling over “What really matters most in my life?” this year. Father Orbos observed that the pandemic has also some upsides to the lives of many true believers of Christ. He said that the M.A.S. of the word Christmas is being decreased significantly due to Covid, he expounded that M is Merry-making, A is Affluent spending and S is for Socializing are down!

He challenged the laity to focus more on CHRIST, the real reason for the Season: C for Christ whose birthday we celebrate, H for Hom e where love starts and must reside. R is for our Responsibility for each other, including our environment and community. I is for our Involvement as

a citizen of the country and as members of our Church, S is to be Still and Silent to listen to the voice of God as whispered by our own pure conscience.

And finally, T is to be able to Transform ourselves to what God wants us to be, and where he wants us to do for Him and our neighbors (Matthew 25) That Christmas homily touched a chord deep in my heart that prompted me to sit still now and began writing this column, my last column for 2020. My take away from this Christmas homily of a holy priest, Father Jerry of the SVD congregation is that Christ should be the center of our activities as J O Y is making J esus first, then O thers, then Y ourself. That spells an authentic JOY that has no equal comparison.

I wish and pray that all of you, dear readers, will have a happy, prosperous Covid-free and healthy 2021! *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

*** Email: ernie.delfin@gmail.com

A january 2-5, 2021 • La WEEKEnD aSIan jOurnaL

Dateline PhiliPPines

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Filipinos face 2021 with hope, fear MAJORITY of Filipinos will welcome the new year with hope, but many others will step into 2021 with fear, according to a survey conducted by the Social Weather Stations (SWS).

The survey showed that 91% of Filipinos were hopeful, while 7% said they were fearful, 3 points higher than the 4% re-

corded last year.

The SWS noted that the 91% is lower than the 96% recorded in 2018. It is the lowest since the 89% recorded in 2009.

The New Year hope among families who are not poor and borderline poor was at 94 and 93%, respectively.

Compared to the end of 2019, New Year hope rose by 3 points

in Mindanao, from 90 to 93%.

It went down in Balance Luzon by 7%, from 99% in 2019 to 92% in 2020; 6 points in Metro Manila, from 96 to 90%; and 9 points in the Visayas, from 97% to 88%.

The survey was conducted from November 21 to November 25 through face-to-face interviews. (ManilaTimes.net)

Lorenzana: Vaccines used by Duterte’s...

PAGE A5 t

COVID-19 vaccines in the country before they can be inoculated.

“Kailangan sundin natin yung procedure. Tinatag natin yung FDA para meron tayong procedure dyan (We have to follow the procedures. The FDA was formed so that we have a procedure to follow) because vaccines, medicines, and food are very critical items na hindi na lang basta-basta papasok (which cannot just easily enter the country),” Lorenzana said.

Full responsibility PSG chief Jesus Durante, for his part, said that he takes full responsibility for the unauthorized, independent vaccination campaign.

“I take full responsibility for our actions here.... I take full responsibility being the commander of the PSG,” he said in an interview on ANC’s Headstart.

According to Durante, the vaccinations started in September, adding that those inoculated already received two doses of the vaccine.

“Since October. Started actually September and the last batch was October,” he said.

“Everybody is aware actually that most countries have acquired vaccines. Some of them are developing. That was one of our bases. So we came up with that based on the experience of other nations. We did some research about it,” he added.

He also said Duterte was only informed about the vaccinations after the PSG members have been inoculated.

“We didn’t ask permission. We just informed him about it after all the close-in personnel were vaccinated. He was surprised,” said Durante.

The PSG chief admitted that they vaccinated themselves without the help of a medical professional.

“We vaccinated ourselves. It is within our command,” Durante said.

Unauthorized vaccines The FDA on Tuesday, December 29 reminded the public that it has not granted EUA to any COVID-19 vaccine candidate following the reports of PSG members receiving vaccine shots.

“As of date, the FDA has not

issued any Emergency Use Authorization to any vaccine for COVID-19. Without the proper authorization, there is no guarantee on the safety, quality and efficacy of said vaccine as the same has not undergone the required technical evaluation by the FDA,” FDA Director General Eric Domingo stressed.

The agency also pointed out that “manufacture, importation, exportation, sale, offering for sale, distribution, transfer, nonconsumer use, promotion, advertisement, or sponsorship of any unauthorized vaccine” remain prohibited.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Department of Health underscored the risks of unauthorized vaccines.

“All vaccines should undergo the evaluation and regulatory process of our regulatory and expert bodies. We also reiterate that the use of unregistered products poses harm to a person’s health and safety. This is why only vaccines which have been approved and found to be safe should be administered,” the agency said. n

Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu commemorates the 124th anniversary of martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal at the Rizal park in Barangay Poblacion on Wednesday, December 30.

Philstar.com photo

On Rizal Day, Duterte calls pandemic frontliners modern-day heroes

by Alexis

RomeRo Philstar.com

MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte lauded COVID-19 frontliners in his Rizal Day message for this year and urged Filipinos to emulate the modern-day heroes’ love for the nation.

“Today, we see many ‘Rizals’ fighting for our people, this time against an unseen adversary — a pandemic. We have our brave frontliners who continue to serve

the nation in their unique capacities notwithstanding the risks to life and limb. In them, we see a new expression of heroism that is truly inspiring,” Duterte said.

“May we continue to celebrate Rizal and our modern-day heroes, to learn from their example, and to express the love and respect of a grateful nation,” he added.

Duterte, who recently said he was limiting his engagements outside Malacañang because of the pandemic, did not attend rites in honor of national hero Jose Rizal this year. Last year, he led the 123rd death anniversary of Rizal in his hometown Davao City.

Duterte described Rizal as “a loving son, a good student, a dedicated physician, a passionate writer” and “a defender” of Filipinos’ right to self determination.

Rizal had great aspirations for his motherland and had used the power of the pen to “convey sentiments against oppression and yearnings for emancipation,” the president added.

“To the extent that it ignited a stronger sense of nationalism and a revolution, he was successful. He was our hero,” Duterte said.

Rizal, whose writings had inspired Filipinos to resist Spain’s colonial rule, was executed by firing squad on December 30, 1896 in Manila.

Robredo recalls Rizal’s fight for freedoms In a separate Rizal Day message, Vice President Leni Robredo noted that Rizal “through his work, the example of his life, and his supreme sacrifice... thought less of himself, and more about the many Filipinos who lived under the yoke of colonialism.”

She said that Rizal’s legacy is in the civil liberties that Filipinos have under the constitution.

“As we commemorate Rizal Day, may we always strive to be worthy of our freedoms, and realize that being free requires that we recognize the shared humanity in one another, and fight for the welfare and dignity of every Filipino,” Robredo also said. n

Go tells gov’t: Boost mental health services SEN. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go expressed concern on the impact of the pandemic on the mental health of Filipinos and called on concerned agencies to strengthen government interventions, particularly the provision of psychosocial assistance and support. “’Yung mental health, isa ito sa dapat tutukan ng ating gobyerno (Mental health is one of the issues our government has to focus on),” he said.

The chairman of the Senate health and demography committee was alarmed by reports on a father killing his two children out of desperation on December 25.

The senator shared that he would help members of the family cope with the loss.

“Nakakalungkot, tutulungan natin (It’s really sad, we will help them),” Go said.

He urged the government to extend guidance to families as the Covid-19 pandemic continues to affect not only the livelihood and health of Filipinos, but

also their emotional and mental condition.

Go suggested that the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) could extensively assess the needs of families in distress in order to identify the interventions that the government must provide.

He also urged the DSWD to tap social workers in managing hotlines where individuals suffering from mental health issues can call for support.

“With or without the pandemic, mental health is very important.

Government must make sure that all kinds of psychosocial services and assistance are accessible to our people suffering from all forms of mental health conditions,” Go said.

The National Center for Mental Health reported that the average number of calls to its crisis hotline increased from 400 from May 2019 to February 2020 to 876 from March to August 2020.

(Javier Joe Ismael/ManilaTimes. net)

Duterte slams ICC anew

by Alexis

RomeRo Philstar.com

MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte has accused the International Criminal Court (ICC) of interfering in the Philippines’ internal matters almost two weeks after the tribunal’s prosecutor claimed there was “reasonable basis” to believe crimes against humanity were committed in the country because of the war on drugs.

Duterte questioned ICC’s authority to prosecute him and claimed that the tribunal was peddling “nonsense.”

“Maya ko na sagutin ‘yang ICCICC na ‘yan. Puro kabulastugan man rin ‘yang inyo (I will answer the ICC later. It’s all nonsense),” the president said during a televised address last Monday.

“In the first place, why are you interfering in the affairs of my country and other countries? And who gave you the authority? By what divine law gave you the authority...to prosecute me in a...foreign land tapos ang nakaupo puro kayo mga puti na u*** (and all the sitting judges are white fools)?” he added.

Duterte reiterated that he is ready to land in jail because of his campaign against illegal drugs, which has left about 6,000 drug suspects dead, based on police data.

“You must be crazy... We have the courts here functioning. And

if the courts say that I should go to jail, I will go to jail. I have no problem with that... I did what I embarked to do. It was an election promise,” he said.

‘Pag ‘yan ang suwerte inabutan ko, so be it. Iyon na ‘yon (If that’s my fate, then so be it. That’s it).”

Earlier this month, ICC prosecutor Fatou Bensouda said the crimes against humanity linked to the Philippines’ anti-drug campaign are murder, torture, and infliction of serious physical injury and mental harm. The ICC prosecutor may decide on whether to seek permission to begin a probe on the Philippie situation in the first half of 2021. Malacañang has claimed that the Philippines cannot be compelled to cooperate with the ICC since it has withdrawn from the Rome Statute, the treaty that created the tribunal.

Duterte, whose strong stance on crime catapulted him to the presidency in 2016, said drug lords and kidnappers deserve to be burned alive.

“The drug lords, even the kidnappers, the drug pushers, bring them to a place where not so many people will be scandalized. Pour gasoline on them and set them on fire. They deserve it,” he added.

Critics claim that Duterte’s fiery rhetoric has led to extrajudicial killings and other abuses but officials deny this, saying the president respects the rule of law and that he is just fond of “colorful language.” n

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A10 january 2-5, 2021 • La WEEKEnD aSIan jOurnaL

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARy 2-5, 2021

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S a t u rd a y, j a n u a ry 2 , 2 0 2 1

Asian Journal

WKND

LifestyLe Consumer Guide Community marketpLaCe

January 2021 priority dates Immigration Corner

The Priority dates for the Philippines are as follows: FAMILY CATEGORY: First Preference

Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ THE January 2021 priority dates, continue to provide great news for workers in the EB-3 (skilled/professional) and “other worker” (unskilled workers like caregivers). The priority dates for all countries (except India and China) are CURRENT! This includes the Philippines! This means visas are available, regardless of the person’s priority date.

If a person is being petitioned by an employer, and their Form I140 employment- based petition has been approved or is pending, they could possibly be eligible to file for adjustment of status and work authorization, assuming they are otherwise eligible for adjustment of status (i.e. no issues re maintaining status, no fraud/crimes, etc.) People with approved or pending I-140 petitions should see an attorney about their eligibility to file for adjustment, now that the priority dates for these employmentbased categories are current.

Each month, the Visa Office of the State Department publishes, in the Visa Bulletin, the priority dates for that particular month, for the various family and employment-based categories. A priority date is a person’s “place in line” for a visa, meaning immigrant visas (or green cards) would be available for persons whose priority date is earlier than the cut-off date listed below.

Unmarried sons and daughters of US citizens (over 21 years of age)

(2A) Spouse and Second Preference minor children (below 21 years old) of green card holders

Application Filing Date

Visa Issuance Date

October 08, 2012

January 01, 2012

August 01, 2020

Current

(2B) Unmarried sons and daughters (21 years old or older) of green card holders

April 01, 2012

August 15, 2011

Third Preference

Married sons and daughters of US Citizens

December 22, 2002

March 01, 2002

Fourth Preference

Brothers and sisters of US Citizens

September 01, February 01, 2002 2002

LABOR CERTIFICATION:

Application Filing Date

Visa Issuance Date

Second Preference

Advanced Degree (Masters)

Current

Current

Third Preference

Professional/ Skilled Workers

Current

Current

Other Workers

Non-Skilled Workers

If your priority date was “current,” but later retrogressed (or “moved backwards” and became unavailable) before your immigrant visa was issued (or before you adjusted status in the U.S.), you would have to wait until it becomes current again. *** Michael J. Gurfinkel has been an attorney for over 40 years and is licensed, and an active member of the State Bars of California and New York.

SPECIAL THANKSGIVING EPISODE OF CITIZEN PINOY THIS SUNDAY PROVIDES ANSWERS TO YOUR IMMIGRATION QUESTIONS! In the Thanksgiving episode of Citizen Pinoy, Atty. Gurfinkel answers questions from Kapamilya in Hawaii and in Texas. Mercy (center) has a childcare business in Honolulu, HI, and would like to know if she can petition her niece, who is a Psychology graduate and who passed the board exam, to work in her facility. She asks why her mother was subjected to the 10-year ban after her mother went home to the Philippines to get her visa. Teemmie from Houston, TX (right) would like to petition her husband but is currently receiving SSA and SNAP from the government.

Can her sister-in-law provide the affidavit of support as a co-sponsor? Atty. Gurfinkel offers answers as well as thoughts on gratitude on a special Thanksgiving encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy: Your Tanong, My Sagot – Social Distancing Style” this Sunday, January 3 at 6:15 pm PST/EST (9:15 pm EST thru select Cable/Satellite providers).

(Advertising Supplement)

Angeline looks back on fulfilling dream to be a singer: ‘Law of attraction‘ ANGELINE Quinto recalled how she dreamed of becoming a professional singer from a young age, adding that the law of attraction helped her achieve her goal.

The award-winning artist reminisced the time she simply dreamed of her current career

on her Instagram page on Dec. 27. Quinto shared a photo of herself from an old yearbook.

Beside her picture were the phrases “Nothing is impossible” and “To be a professional [singer] someday.”

Referring to the image and her goal at the time, Quinto simply said: “Law of attraction.”

Quinto’s dream eventually

became her reality after she won the TV talent contest “Star Power” back in 2001. She has since released five studio albums. Her latest effort was called “@LoveAngelineQuinto” and premiered in 2017.

Aside from her singing career, Quinto has also ventured into acting. She last starred in the 2017 romantic comedy “Foolish Love.”

your legal matter. No attorney-client relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader.

WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com Follow us on Facebook.com/

GurfinkelLaw, Twitter @GurfinkelLaw and YouTube: US Immigration TV Call Toll free to schedule a consultation for anywhere in the US: 1-866-487-3465

(866) – GURFINKEL Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES ∙ SAN FRANCISCO ∙ NEW YORK ∙ PHILIPPINES

By Ryan

Current

Current

All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California.

Each case is different and results may depend on the facts of the particular case. The information and opinions contained herein (including testimonials, “Success Stories”, endorsements and re-enactments) are of a general nature, and are not intended to apply to any particular case, and do not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of

aRcadio

Inquirer.net

(Advertising Supplement)

EntErtainmEnt

B january 2-5, 2021 • La WEEKEnD aSIan jOurnaL

For Gabbi, social media ‘a gift, not a weapon’

By AllAn

PolicArPio Inquirer.net

IF Gabbi Garcia could give a reminder to her fellow social media users, it would be this: “Look at it as a gift; not a weapon.”

“I feel like sometimes people, myself included, forget that it’s a gift used to connect with each other. It’s not meant for hurting

others,” Gabbi pointed out in a virtual conference for “IRL (In Real Life),” a new youth-oriented reality show that she hosts on GMA News TV. “I hope we can stop fighting each other,” she added. “At the end of the day, we all want the same things—to improve, make life better. Let’s stick to our goals as much as best as we can … As

long as our intentions are pure and we’re not stepping on anyone, then it’s all good.”

Social media can be a powerful tool to influence others. And so it’s important that everyone, especially those with considerable followings, uses his or her platform responsibly.

“We’re free to speak our minds, but let’s make sure we know what we’re talking about. As long as you have done your research and have educated yourself, as long as you don’t hurt or disrespect a nyone, go a head— ex press what’s on your minds,” said the 22-year-old Kapuso star, who has over 6.8 million followers on Instagram and 1.16 million subscribers on YouTube.

“In Real Life,” which airs Thursdays at 9:15 p.m., “features the latest on travel, music, sports, fashion, gaming, career, love and relationships, and everything else inside and outside of their digital world.”

“It’s a magazine show where we can talk just about anything under the sun. In this age of social media, lots of people, especially my Generation Z fellows are looking for safe spaces to discuss such topics. And I want the show to provide that,” she said.

The COVID-19 pandemic, she said, has compelled her to hit the pause button and reflect. “We have to value whatever we have.

Sometimes we forget that there’s a higher being who controls everything. It had me thinking about the importance of family or loved ones,” she said.

PAGE B4

Gabbi Garcia

Photo from Instagram/@gabbi

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John Arcilla, a masterful thespian and actor animating Heneral Luna, Hipolito and Healing Priest Fr. Suarez Rhizomes

Prosy AbArquezDelAcruz, J.D. “PEOPLE learn who they are through the stories they tell. As they touch the imagination, stories become alive. The images trigger the imagination to realize what is in the narrative. When the imagination awakens, and the stories are told, existence itself comes to fullness, to completion.” –Fr. Aris Martin, Nov. 2020 in his Santo Niño Christology dissertation 5th chapter.

It was a cold evening on the first of March 2020, the start of the coronavirus community spread, and without masks required. Winds were howling, and no down jacket could keep the chills away until we got inside.

It unmasked the perspective of John Arcilla, who is an international award-winning Philippine-based actor, skilled in musicals on stage, acting in films and has a commanding presence.

When I asked him if he has unfulfilled dreams, he shared instead his sacred purpose: “I want to reach out to everyone, from A to Z, so [my acting] can affect lives. I want to be a catalyst for change, not for self-fulfillment, but to make this world a better place. Like an engineer or an architect, h/she build good shelters for people, I want my [artistic] craft to have a purpose, not just for me, but to have others realize that they have their gifts, and to improve their lives, [self-mentoring, selfrealizing] when they share their talents with others.”

Arcilla was born in Quezon City, a descendant of former Pres. Manuel Quezon. His family moved to Baler after martial law was declared in 1972. A year after, at age 7, he discovered his interest in acting, influenced by a mom who loved Broadway, and a father who loved films.

Theater and cinema converged in him early, as he became a Philippine Educational Theater Association and a teen theater league participant in high school. He graduated from St. Joseph’s College in Quezon City, majoring in mass communication.

The Actors’ Workshop Foundation, the pillars of acting, Laurice Guillen and Leo Martinez, mentored him. Martinez has been in 100 staged plays with Repertory Philippines, one of the primary theater groups, while Laurice Guillen, who easily migrated from acting in films to TV to directing, was a protégé of the late Lino Brocka, an awardwinning best director.

From his teens in theater to adulthood in cinema and television, Arcilla methodically climbs to his peak, and by now, has been validated by fourteen nominations, and six wins in two categories of the best lead actor and best supporting actor (FAP, Gawad Urian, Craft, Cinemalaya Film Festival, Asian Film Award, British Independent Film Award, FAMAS, Golden Screen Award, Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino, and Star Awards for Movies).

He has appeared in 83 movies and television shows from 1989 to 2020.

Quite masterful, don’t you think? His masterfulness is defined by the “wealth of knowledge that he has and his willingness to share that knowledge,“ as he participates when requested by students working on their university thesis.

He travels to New York and Los Angeles, and tours Europe and London to perform in musicals and acted in “Birdshot,” “Bourne Legacy,” and gained national prominence in the biopic of “Heneral Luna.” He expected it to run for five days, even presumed it was a student project until he met the young, talented director Jerrold Tarog.

The entire cast selected, Tarog waited for Arcilla to audition. He was subsequently chosen for the lead role.

Arcilla discovered that Heneral is more than his fury and that his anger comes from the huge responsibility of fighting against the biggest country, America, and stopping it from colonizing the Philippines in the 19th century.

“Despite odd moments of bumpy storytelling and prosaic dialogue, Heneral grossed $5.3 million and in limited U.S. showings, $200,000. It was shown in 100 cinemas and an extended run for 9 weeks in the Philippines,” according to a Variety review. Arcilla was grateful that

John Arcilla plays healing priest Father Suarez

Heneral was actively promoted

by Vice Ganda, Joey De Leon, Channels 2 and 7, showbiz actors in the Philippines, as well as a social media campaign by college students.

Arcilla received 21 to 22 recognitions and the film became the official entry of the Philippines to the Oscars.

Who are your favorite actors and how do you prepare to act for the lead roles?

“I grew up with Robert De Niro, Jeremy Irons, Al Pacino, Glenn Close, and Meryl Streep,” Arcilla said.

“When I was 10 years old, I looked in the mirror and I counted 11 lines. I still have the 11 lines on my face. I was an old woman then and I’m a young woman now. We all have the whole thing in us all the time.

We are the old people that we’re going to be when we’re young,” Meryl Streep says, conveying how steely self-assured she is, accepting all of herself along her life’s journey, in Ruben V. Nepales’ book, ‘Through a Writer’s Lens,’ published in December 2020.

Equally self-assured, Arcilla shared: “I do not idolize actors, I respect them, the likes of Christopher de Leon, Amy Austria, Jacqueline Jose, and Bembol Roco. Also, I don’t want to be a Xerox copy of them. I don’t want to play a cardboard character.”

He wants the character to come alive, so the audience can appreciate him, see themselves, and even move forward with that character in mind.

For Heneral Luna, an “outsized character,” Arcilla memorized the lines, dressed in general’s uniform, and curled the corners of his mustache.

When he gazed at the mirror, he became Heneral Luna, and he wanted Heneral perceived as the “best example of what we are as Filipinos,” as intended by Director Tarog.

General Antonio Luna and Fr. Fernando Suarez – the public figures behind the film characters General Antonio Luna has a doctorate in pharmacy and published his study on malaria. “He participated in reform activities while in Spain and wrote under the pen name, ‘Taga-Ilog,’ for the periodical, La Solidaridad, which criticized the friars and abusive government officials and aspired for changes for the society,” as mentioned in the National Historical Commission of the Philippines’ website.

He commanded the Philippine Troops in the Philippine-American War from 1899 to 1902.

In December, another public figure came to life, compelling audiences to watch. This healing priest, Fr. Fernando Suarez, became a public figure who invited appreciation, gratitude and consternation.

A testimonial of Fr. Suarez’s actual healing prayers’ intervention for Maria Benel Se, a CPA and a business entrepreneur in Los Angeles moved me, to include it here: “My husband and I had a burning desire to have another child after our first child was born in November 2000. I was excited about being pregnant in 2006, but I had bleeding. I had a molar pregnancy, an abnormal formation of placental tissue that led to a miscarriage.

After a D&C procedure, the hormone HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) level continued to increase, indicating a rare form of cancer, choriocarcinoma [fast growing cancer in the uterus].

I was referred for immediate chemotherapy. I was emotionally devastated, confused, and scared!

I attended Our Lady of Miraculous Medal Catholic Church.

I remember during the homily, Father Suarez emphasized that he is not the healer but an instrument of the Holy Spirit to heal sick people. He reminded us that Jesus is the healer and that Jesus in the Blessed Holy Eucharist. After the mass, the people gathered. Many fell on the floor and a “catcher” would lay them down, as they were “Resting in the Holy Spirit.” Many were in wheelchairs, others had crutches

and I saw them started walking without any aid. The experience was so surreal to witness.

When Father Suarez came to bless me, I fell on the floor. I could not move while lying on the floor and emotionally overcome.

At that time, I did not understand what had happened to me and whether my cancer was healed but I knew in my heart that the Holy Spirit touched me. A week after, I went back to Cedars Sinai Hospital for CT Scan and lab tests, my oncologist told me my HCG level decreased below zero and canceled my chemotherapy.

I diligently went weekly monitoring lab tests and after a year, declared cancer-free. I knew in my heart that I experienced God’s miracle through the gift of healing of Father Suarez. I am so grateful to God for his love and mercy.”- Maria Benel Se, as shared in an email, with this writer.

Fr. Albert Avenido, a pastor in Santa Clarita, eulogized Fr. Suarez during the burial mass. It was broadcast on Facebook Live.

He too had his own testimonials: two relatives got healed, one was scheduled for surgery and after a healing mass encounter with Fr. Suarez, no longer needed the heart surgery and was canceled, while a mute relative after being blessed, started to enunciate sounds and words. Fr. Suarez had been doing healing masses for 17 years.

Preparing for the character of Fr. Suarez To prepare for his role, Arcilla met with Fr. Suarez, who was beset with controversy. Fr. Suarez was banned by at least four dioceses: Cubao, Lingayen, Malolos, and Malaybalay. Bishops questioned why he was not part of a diocese. He revealed to ABS-CBN that “he went through an ordeal of mental torture, calumny, gossips, especially amongst priests and bishops.”

He sensed Suarez’s commitment to God. Arcilla shared what Fr. Suarez said in part: ”Even if I [Fr. Suarez] lose my healing gifts, and I keep attributing this [gift] as coming from God, as He alone can heal, as He alone can make the lame walk, and He alone has that power. What I have is a charism [extraordinary power] to follow God’s mission and proclaim His word. I will keep on with this charism as a priest and bring others to God, which cannot be equaled.”

Fr. Suarez influenced Arcilla, once a doubtful Catholic to be a more confident believer, after Arcilla was dismayed by countless reports of priests’ and bishops’ sexual abuses.

Fr. Suarez was accused of sexual abuse in 2019, and in January of 2020, Vatican cleared him of these accusations. He died shortly on Feb.4, 2020, from a massive heart attack, while playing in a tennis tournament that he organized yearly for priests.

Exploring personal creativity The character Hipolito in the five-year strong FPJ’s “Ang Probinsiyano,” a teleserye is credibly brought to a global television audience by John Arcilla.

He methodically differentiated what it is to act for the film, television, and in staged plays.

“For me, acting is pleasurable,” Arcilla said. “I supply the intention behind the toy gun.”

Yet, for the television audience sometimes wrapped up in doing dishes or cooking, his dramatic performance is ‘over the top’ to attract much-focused attention to know this villain, Hipolito, who thinks “he is the law.”

“I am having fun portraying him. [In contrast] Heneral thinks big about how he can save the country, while Hipolito thinks big where everyone is dispensable and he can kill the whole world. Hipolito has no virtues at all,” Arcilla continued.

During the pandemic, Arcilla “explored his personal creativity within existing, infinitely flexible, now-emancipated modes of expression,” as one author describes acting.

Arcilla subscribed to TikTok, an app to create a character for PAGE B4

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARy 2-5, 2021

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Book talks via livestream to Embracing self-love and weight feature 2 Fil-Am authors gain: Celebrities who spoke out

PhiliPPine expressions Bookshop is presenting the first in its series of Book Talks for 2021 on Monday, January 4, 2021.

The one-hour virtual Book Talk will air via livestream, starting at 7:00 p.m. To view the program online, go to the Facebook page of Philippine expressions Bookshop. Two prominent members of the Filipino American community in los Angeles will be the featured authors: Dr. Alex A. Menez and Msgr loreto “Mac” Gonzales.

Born in Kalibo, Aklan, Philippines, Dr Alex A. Menez is the author of “The View From the Pew: A Catholic Priest Falls in love.” he was a Catholic priest for 40 years, and a monsignor (a title he never used). he fell in love with espy De Vega at a late age of 63. So, he asked for dispensation even if, for reason of conscience, they did not get civilly married nor did they have a child, which are the usual reasons for dispensation. And he was a well-loved and respected priest with a reputable record. notwithstanding, dispensation was given by Pope Benedict XVl. As a priest, he held key positions in the diocese. he took Postgraduate Studies in Canon law at the lateran College in Rome and has a doctorate degree in canon law from the University of Santo Tomas, Manila. he served as a judge ponens of matrimonial annulment cases. he is involved in a personal ministry and pro bono in assisting married priests apply for dispensation. his book commemorates his 50th ordination anniversary. On november 28, 1970, he was ordained a priest

by Pope, now Saint Paul Vl. The ceremony was celebrated at the luneta Park, Manila. And Dr. Menez added,”i am still a priest because ordination is a permanent sacrament. What is not permanent is celibacy. And Pope Benedict XVi dispensed me from its obligation in 2010 so that i can marry espy, the lovely face that launched the thousand words.” he is happily married since 2011.

Msgr. loreto n. Gonzales, Jr. will be in conversation with Dr. Menez as they discuss the book, which is a memoir of the life of Dr. Menez as a Roman Catholic

about body positivity

By Kata

Dayanghirang Philstar.com

celibate priest with the “view from the altar,” and his reflections of his new life as a married layperson. This is his “view from the pew,” hence, the title of his book. it will be a revealing subject which will dispel a lot of misconceptions and misinformation about the sacred ministry of priesthood and the delicate subject of celibacy.

Briefly, Msgr Gonzales will also talk about his two books, “Sacred Silence: A novel” published in 2020 and “lorenzo: A Two Act Play” published in 2018. Msgr loreto “Mac” Gonzales is a retired priest of the Archdiocese of los Angeles. Ordained in 1978. he has served the archdiocese in various capacities: as associate pastor and pastor, as well as director of the Filipino Pastoral Ministry. he holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Philosophy from St Pius X Seminary in the Philippines, and he graduated at St John’s Seminary, School of Theology in Camarillo, CA. he also has a Master’s Degree in Communications Management from the University of Southern California. his very first book was published in 2015. entitled”lighthouses Both Sides of the Pacific”, it is an anthology of short stories and essays.

Some members of the Fil-Am community may remember that it was Msgr “Mac” Gonzales who officiated at the Blessing of Philippine expressions Bookshop at its first location along Wilshire Boulevard in Beverly hills.

The Book Talk Series of Philippine expressions Bookshop is an ongoing community outreach program of the bookshop.

it is aimed at creating more visibility for Fil-Am authors and at the same time create more awareness for the Filipino presence among mainstream Americans.

The Bookshop, which started operation in the U.S. in 1984, is located at 479 W Sixth Street, Suite 105, San Pedro, CA 90731 since 2016. San Pedro is known as the Port City of los Angeles and the bookshop is located in a vintage Art Deco building in its historic Arts District. Tel (310) 548-8148 or (310) 514-9139. email: info@philippinebookshop.com.

Due to the pandemic, it is physically open only once a week, Saturdays from 2-6 p.m. and by appointment. To visit, all required protocols during this pandemic must be observed. To serve the Fil-Am community better, they have opened an online bookshop: http://www.philippinebookshop.com which is accessible at all hours.

STARS are saying and standing by weight and self-love.

Sandara Park, also known as Dara, recently shared a trivia that surprised everyone. During her guesting for the December 29 episode of “Problem Child in house,” Dara shared that she has found an unlikely way to gain weight.

She started, “i’ve never been over 38 - 39 kg in my life. i’ve never been really into food. i don’t eat if i’m not feeling well, and i don’t eat if i’m busy. My lifelong wish was gaining weight. i’ve tried a lot of different things to try and gain weight.”

The 2ne1 star was a guest of the show that tapped Super Junior’s heechul as its current host.

Dara then revealed that she recently gained “about 7 - 8 kg.” She attributed her weight gain by hanging out with her “Video Star” co-hosts Kim Sook and Park na Rae. “They both love food very much. i eat with them often, and suddenly, i realized that i wasn’t putting my chopsticks down either,” she shared, adding that she now wears two sizes up.

“Sook unnie was so happy that i started gaining weight and told me that i look really good,” Dara shared.

Aside from her, two women also displayed their idea of self-love by calling out bodyshaming.

Janella Salvador posted on December 26 on Twitter: “Filipinos are the worst body shamers. let me enjoy my Christmas pudding in peace. happy holidays to you too,” she posted.

“Can we discontinue this toxic Filipino trait na tuwing nagkikita ang hilig mag komento tungkol sa physical looks ng iba tulad ng - ‘Uy tumaba ka’. it’s not okay. First of all it’s rude, second it may trigger some people na may Ed. Maling-mali,” the lead star of the recently ended “Descendants of the Sun” Philip-

Sandara Park Photo from Instagram/@daraxxi

Jennylyn Mercado

pine adaptation posted. netizens gave their approval with the actress with 30,900 likes and 5,045 retweets.

People started sharing their own stories of dreading to go home especially on holidays because they are faced with the seemingly normalized holiday greeting of “You’ve gained weight.”

Twitter netizen @piecesofchi reacted on the actress’ post, “i stopped going to major family occasions because of this. My aunts’ favorite

Janella Salvador Photo from Instagram/@superjanella

Photo from Instagram/@mercadojenny

question is, ‘o ano, mahirap ka pa rin?’ Closely followed by, ‘magpapayat ka na. ok lang na pangit basta sexy.’ it’s easier to isolate myself from them than to pretend their words don’t hurt.”

Jennylyn replied, “Bessie, your looks and status sa life don’t dictate your worth as a person... Don’t let how they treat you dictate how you live your life. You are worthy just as u are and u deserve to be happy. i feel so bad don’t know what to say.”

B january 2-5, 2021 • La WEEKEnD aSIan jOurnaL

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Ivana enters ‘100 Most Beautiful Faces’ list

By Ratziel

San Juan Philstar.com

KAPAMILYA star Ivana Alawi is the most beautiful Filipino, according to TC Candler, which annually publishes lists of “The 100 Most Beautiful/Handsome Faces.�

The actress and social media sensation placed 11th on “The 100 Most Beautiful Faces of 2020� released Monday afternoon, ahead of the only other Filipino nominee, Liza Soberano, who placed 14th.

This marks Ivana’s first time on the yearly list.

She barely missed entering the top 10, comprised of Nancy Jewel McDonie, Josie Lane, Nana, Halima Aden, Thylane Blondeau, Emilie Nereng, Tzuyu, Meika Woollard, Lalisa Manoban and first-placer, Israeli model Yael Shelbia.

Meanwhile, it is Liza’s sixth appearance overall, with her claiming the “most beautiful� title in 2017. It took her two

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For Gabbi, social media...

PAGE B2 But it’s good to finally be working outside. One of the best things about the show is shooting on location—a breath of fresh air after months of quarantine. “It was nice to go out and see and talk to people,� said Gabbi, who shot the maiden episode in Tagaytay with her guest cohost, boyfriend Khalil Ramos. “Safety protocols were followed, of course.�

While she started out in show biz as an actress, Gabbi adjusted

to hosting fairly easily, thanks to her experience as a vlogger and her propensity for public speaking. “As an actor you’re used to following scripts; in television, you usually read from prompters. So at first I wondered how I could talk more naturally‌ But vlogging helped me,â€? she related. “I was also a part of the student council and I love public speaking. I loved doing opening remarks, leading the prayer ‌ I think that helped, too.â€?

But she still has a lot to learn, Gabbi admitted. “It’s still a learning process for me‌ I have a lot to improve. I have to do more research and build more confidence as a host.â€? “What I want to achieve is to create a vibe where it feels like I’m just chatting with my viewers as I share my insights about certain topics. I love that I don’t have to follow a script all the time. I’m given the freedom to speak about what’s on my mind,â€? she said.

John Arcilla, a masterful thespian...

Ivana Alawi

initial appearances before she topped the list, placing sixth in 2015 and second in 2016.

Photo from Instagram/@ivanaalawi

Ivana and Liza were announced in April as official nominees by TC Candler.

EMPLOYMENT

PAGE B2 subscribers’ self-expression and their followers, for 15 seconds.

He created young animated characters, with various distinct voices and personalities, which made millions laughed. He now has 1.8 million followers and 5.9 million likes. His acting, evolved from being masterful, to now viral in today’s pandemic world, and with his robust and alive imagination, he has created a

sense of wholeness for John Arcilla, while bringing joyful relief to millions watching his TikTok characters.

*** Prosy Abarquez-Delacruz, J.D. writes a weekly column for Asian Journal, called “Rhizomes.� She has been writing for AJ Press for 12 years. She also contributes to Balikbayan Magazine. Her training and experiences are in science, food technology, law and community volunteerism for 4

decades. She holds a B.S. degree from the University of the Philippines, a law degree from Whittier College School of Law in California and a certificate on 21st Century Leadership from Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government.

She has been a participant in NVM Writing Workshops taught by Prof. Peter Bacho for 4 years and Prof. Russell Leong. She has travelled to France, Holland, Belgium, Spain, Portugal, Japan, Costa Rica, Mexico and over 22 national parks in the U.S., in her pursuit of love for nature and the arts.

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FOR RENT

LEGAL NOTICE

SUMMONS (Family Law) CASE NUMBER: 20PSFL01063 NOTICE TO RESPONDENT: LOPEZ, ROBERTO D. You have been sued. Read the information below.

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Replacement of naturalization certificate What’s in store for us this new year 2021?

Tapat Sa Batas Atty. rheA sAmson KAPAG ang Naturalization Certificate o Certificate of Citizenship ay nawala, ninakaw, nasira o nawasak, ang aplikante ay maaaring mag-apply ng replacement o kapalit ng Naturalization Certificate sa USCIS sa pamamagitan ng Form N-565 Application for Replacement Naturalization/Certificate Document. Ang filing fee sa Form N565 ay $555.

Ang aplikante ay maaari ring humingi ng replacement o kapalit na Naturalization Certificate o Certificate of Citizenship at walang kailangang bayarang filing fee kapag: (1) Ang certificate na inisyu ng USCIS ay hindi umaayon sa citizenship o naturalization application na ibinigay ng aplikante; (2) ang USCIS ay may clerical error sa paggawa ng Naturalization Certificate, halimbawa ang typographical error sa araw ng kapanganakan ng aplikante. Ang aplikante ay kailangang magsubmite sa USCIS ng kanyang original naturalization certificate at patunay ng tamang impormasyon na nakasaad sa kanyang naturalization application.

Ang aplikante ay maaari ring humingi ng replacement o kapalit na Naturalization Certificate kung may legal change sa kanyang pangalan o kasarian.

Para sa name change request, kailangan ang mga sumusunod na dokumento: Marriage Certificate, Divorce Decree, o certified copy ng Court Order ng name change. Para sa change in gender designation, ang aplikante ay maaaring magbigay ng mga sumusunod na dokumento: (1) Court Order na nag-aapruba ng pagpalit ng kasarian; (2) mga opisyal na dokumento na inisyu ng gobyerno.

Kasama dito ang amended birth certificate, passport, driver’s

license, at iba pang opisyal na dokumento tungkol sa identity ng aplikante; (3) sulat galing sa licensed health care professional na nagpapatunay na ang hinihiling na gender designation ay sang-ayon sa gender identity ng aplikante. Kasama sa mga licensed health professional ang mga licensed counselor, nurse practitioner, physician, physician assistant, psychologist, social worker at therapist.

Ang USCIS ay maaaring magissue ng Request for Evidence tungkol sa gender identity ng aplikante upang ma-verify ang hinihiling na pagpalit ng gender designation. Hindi kailangan ng patunay ng sex reassignment surgery o medical treatment upang maaprubahan ng USCIS ang Application for Replacement Naturalization/ Certificate Document. Ang mga dokumento ng USCIS na nagpapakita ng kasarian ay limitado sa kasarian o sex identifier na lalaki o babae.

When a person’s Naturalization Certificate or Certificate of Citizenship is lost or mutilated, stolen or destroyed, he can apply for replacement of Naturalization Certificate with the USCIS by filing Form N-565 Application for Replacement Naturalization/Certificate Document, with filing fee of $555.

A person may also request a replacement of certificate without payment of filing fee if: (1) USCIS issued a certificate that does not conform to facts on the applicant’s citizenship or naturalization application; or (2) USCIS committed a clerical error in preparing the certificate, such as when there is a typographical error in the date of birth. The applicant should submit to the USCIS the original certificate and proof of the correct information as stated in his naturalization application.

A person may also request for Replacement of Naturalization Certificate if there is any legal change in the person’s name or gender. A name change request requires the following documents: Marriage Certificate, Divorce Decree, or cer-

tified copy of Court Order on name change. For the change in gender designation, the applicant may submit the following documents: (1) Court Order granting change of sex or gender; (2) government-issued document reflecting the requested gender designation.

Acceptable government-issued documents include amended birth certificate, passport, driver’s license, other official documents showing identity issued by the U.S. government, state or local government, or foreign government; or (3) letter from a licensed health care professional certifying that the requested gender designation is consistent with the individual’s gender identity. The licensed health professional includes licensed counselors, nurse practitioners, physicians, physician assistants, psychologists, social workers and therapists.

USCIS may request additional evidence of the individual’s gender identity as necessary to verify the requested change in gender designation. Proof of sex reassignment surgery or any other specific medical treatment is not required to issue the requested Replacement Naturalization/Certificate Document. USCIS-issued documents that display a gender or sex identifier are limited to indicating only male or female. ***

Atty. Kenneth UrsUA reyes THIS is a common question among people contemplating divorce in California when the other spouse does not live in the state. The California Courts has the power to grant a divorce, annulment, or legal separation if either party is domiciled in the state. Domicile is where a person lives and intends to remain. However, there is an additional requirement if you are seeking a divorce rather than annulment or legal separation.

To obtain a divorce in California, one of the parties must have been a resident of California for six months immediately before the filing of the divorce petition.

Responding spouses can use this requirement as a defense if the Petitioning spouse does not meet such requirement when the petitioner filed for divorce.

In addition, divorce petitions may be filed in the county where at least one spouse resided for 3 months immediately prior to filing the petition.

Now apart from getting a divorce, legal separation, or annulled status, there may be issues relating to distributing community and separate prop-

erties between the spouses and awarding support payments. In order for the California Courts to have the power to make orders, the California Courts must have personal jurisdiction over the respondent. Personal jurisdiction means the respondent has minimum contacts with California even if not physically here.

Some of the factors looked at is respondents presence in the state, domicile, residence, citizenship, consent, appearance in the action, doing business in the state, doing an act that causes an effect in the state, ownership in the state, other relationship to the state. If the respondent does not have minimum contact with California, respondent may challenge any orders relating to distribution of property and support based on the court’s lack of jurisdiction.

With regards to initial child custody issues, these issues are resolved under the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act. California Courts have the power to make initial custody orders if it is the child’s home state at the time the action was filed. California may also assume power to make custody orders if California has been the child’s home state within six months before the action was filed, the child is absent form California, and a parent continues to live in California. California may also exercise jurisdiction when no other state is the child’s home

state or when all court’s having jurisdiction over the child has declined to act and deferred to California as the more appropriate place to make custody orders. California may also exercise jurisdiction if no other state would have jurisdiction over the child. *** Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, APLC. This article is not a solicitation. *** Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Board Certified Family Law Specialist.

He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, APLC is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010.

Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kenneth@ kenreyeslaw.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com (Advertising Supplement)

The ‘stars’ of our life Pastor’s Notes reverend rodeL g. BALAgtAs A FEW years ago, an archbishop spoke words in a sermon that come to my mind from time to time, particularly during periods of struggles and challenges.

“Without hope, we will perish,” he boldly preached.

I’ve heard these words before from other leaders and preachers, but they seemed to have impacted me more through the voice of this humble bishop.

Perhaps, it’s because this servant of God became my spiritual guide and father in high school

seminary and has been a great example to me through the years.

You see, the bishop was not only my guide—the star who led me to Jesus and fostered my priestly vocation. To me, he also incarnated the Word in his life of humble service as a priest.

He genuinely lived the Gospel by his love for seminarians, priests, and the poor.

Once I remember giving him some money for his personal needs. “Archbishop, keep this money for yourself, for your medicines, ” I insisted, knowing that he might end up giving it to a priest in need, as others had warned me. Lo and behold, I heard from my friends that he did share it with a priest assigned to a poor parish.

So, who are your spiritual guides—your stars—that genu-

Atty. LAwrence yAng

WHAT a year this has been!

I daresay without possibly any contradiction from anyone that for our country and people that this pandemic has made this year unusually bad for most of our countrymen.

Americans are dying by the thousands — maybe 3,000 to 4,000 a day. And the trend is still going up as we go into a very dark winter. More Americans have died so far, 350,000 as of latest count, and almost 20 mllion infected, with the rate of infection at almost 200,000 a day across our great country. More Americans have died from COVID today than from combat in WWII, during which about 290,000 American soldiers died.

Another 50,000 American soldiers died in Vietnam. COVID has already killed more Americans than WWII and Vietnam combined. This is truly a very sad fact for those and their families who have died from this virus. What makes it sadder is that, experts say most likely, deaths could have been reduced by 150,000, just ATTY. RHEA SAMSON is the principal of by wearing face masks early SAMSON LAW FIRM, P.C. She has been a on. And this is not even talking member of the State Bar of California for about how many lives would over 15 years and the Integrated Bar of the have been saved if the same Philippines for over 20 years. Atty. Samson type of lockdown employed in received her Legal Management degree from Asia were employed here in the Ateneo de Manila University and her our country.

Juris Doctor degree from the Ateneo Law In Asia, when they say inSchool. She was a Professor for over 10 fection has doubled, they’re years, teaching Obligations and Contracts, talking from 10 it became 20.

Labor Laws and Social Legislation and Deaths are in very low numbers Taxation Law. Atty Samson is the author compared to what we have. of The Law on Obligations and Contracts The fact is the current admin(2016), Working with Labor Laws-Revised istration completely blew the Edition (2014) and Working with Labor Laws handling of this pandemic.

(2005).

They poo-pooed it. Oh, that’s SAMSON LAW FIRM, P.C., 3580 Wilshire nothing, no big deal. Just spray Boulevard, Suite 1710, Los Angeles, CA Lysol or bleach on whatever 90010; Phone: (213) 381-5710; Email: info@ and it will just go away in sumsamsonlawfirmpc.com. mer when it gets warmer be(Advertising Supplement) cause the virus can’t stand the heat, they just curl up and die.

There’s going to be herd immunity. Don’t know what that is?

That’s when the whole population dies and there’s no more people to be infected so the virus has no more host bodies to infect so naturally they die too.

California court’s power to make divorce orders when one spouse does not live in state Barrister’s Corner

Debt Relief

inely lead you the way to Jesus and towards a virtuous life? Who are the leaders in your life and have influenced your thoughts and wills in the present time?

Some may not be famous leaders, celebrities, or clergy members, but are merely ordinary people like our parents, grandparents, friends, and fellow members of a community.

Their dedication to their families and service to other people is remarkable and inspiring. They lead quietly, serve selflessly and consistently, and care deeply.

This Sunday is Feast of the Epiphany, the manifestation of Jesus to the Three Magi from the East, who represented gentiles and all peoples. Through the guidance of a star, they found the new King of the Jews, Jesus, the Son of God. God’s PAGE B6

No more people to infect, sorry Rona, time for you to die. I mean we look like the dumbest people on earth. With all our military might being able to kill everyone in the world ten times over, we just allow a stupid virus to kill our people at will and do almost nothing effective to control it, to contain it, to get infection rates down, and to get the death rate down.

We pretend there’s nothing to worry about. We complain that we want to be able to do our thingy, to eat, drink and be merry in restaurants and bars, our God-given right in these here United States of America.

We want our God-given right to worship in our churches never mind the virus killing us being spread by public assembly in closed areas. I mean we don’t even want to wear a facemask because it makes us look weak.

Can you even understand that kind of thinking? You wear a mask so if I’m sick I don’t infect you and vice versa. What’s so complicated about that? It’s not rocket science material, is it? In the last four years, we have just become plain dumb and stupid.

An election where the president-elect wins the popular vote by 7 million votes, 84M to 74M and wins the electoral vote 306 to 232 is being called into question on the baseless claim of massive fraud without any evidence. Never mind that the highest court of the land has thrown all of these absurd and meritless lawsuits out the door, but suggestions to call the military to rectify the situation makes me feel like we’re living in some banana republic south of the border. What is going on with us Americans anyway? We’ve turned into a bunch of brainless bozos & zombies.

But yes, there is light at the end of the tunnel, although we still are in the tunnel and will still be in it for a while.

Operation Warp Speed, which is something good that this administration has come up with, has produced now two vaccines, which are 95% effective in preventing infection — one from Pfizer, the other from Moderna. We are now in the distribution of the vaccine stage. It’s literally the end of the year. The projection was that by the end of the year,

20M would be vaccinated. So far 2M have been vaccinated.

That 20M projection was for the first responders, the doctors and nurses and health care workers, and seniors in nursing homes to get their jab.

The actual rate of distribution so far is 1M a week. Don’t forget the vaccine requires two doses. At 1M a week, 80% of the population will be vaccinated in what, 10 years? So this distribution rate is not going to work. The pace has to pick up to 2M a day.

President-elect Joe Biden has called for 1M a day. Then of course the pace has to be jacked up later so the entire population can be vaccinated

by June of this New Year 2021.

Otherwise, our lives will not get back to normal. We will be the sick man of North America.

Remember when China was called the sick man of Asia?

Bruce Lee shows his dissent by kicking the wooden sign into a toothpick. No country wants to be called the sick man of wherever. So we look forward to kicking this virus out of the country by June of 2021, just like the way Bruce Lee kicked the wooden sign into oblivion.

The new COVID relief bill is now law. The unemployed will get a four-month extension on pandemic benefits, and each of us will get $600; yay, $600 that should help a lot. What a big deal. If that’s not enough to tide you over, just keep on using your credit cards if that’s what’s needed for you to survive another four months. It’s survival of the fittest. You don’t want to become homeless and live in a tent by the freeway.

If you have too much debt and need relief, please set an appointment to see me. I will analyze your case personally. *** DISCLAIMER: NONE OF THE FOREGOING IS CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE. EACH CASE IS DIFFERENT. *** Lawrence Bautista Yang specializes in Bankruptcy, Business, Real Estate and Civil Litigation and has successfully represented more than five thousand clients in California. Please call Angie, Barbara or Jess at (626) 284-1142 for an appointment at 20274 Carrey Road, Walnut, CA 91789 or 1000 S. Fremont Ave., Mailstop 58, Building A-10 South, Suite 10042, Alhambra, CA 91803.

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Giselle crowned 2020 Noble Queen Important new of the Universe International employment laws in 2020 ployee a break each time they need to express breast milk for Protecting an infant child. Additionally, Employee employers must provide a clean and safe room to express milk & Consumer in private that is close to the Rights employee’s work area. Employers with fewer than 50 employAtty. C. Joe SAyAS, Jr. ees may be exempt if they’re able to show that compliance may pose an undue hardship, HERE is a helpful summary though such employers must of important employment laws still make reasonable efforts to that took effect in California in provide employees with a room 2020: to express milk in private.

California’s Minimum Wage COVID-19-Related Laws and Exempt Salary ThreshAB 1867 expanded suppleolds Increased in 2020 mental paid sick leave for COEmployers with 25 or fewer VID-19-related reasons for workers must pay a minimum certain employers not already wage of $12 an hour and the covered by the federal Families exempt annual salary threshFirst Coronavirus Response Act old increased from $45,760 to (FFCRA). Both laws are current$49,920. Employers with 26 ly set to expire employees or on December more must pay Existing California laws prohibit discrimination on 31, 2020. $13 per hour, the basis of an employee’s protected characteristics, AB 2043 and the exempt now requires annual salary such as race, ethnicity, and national origin.

Cal/OSHA to threshold inCalifornia’s lawmakers expanded the definition disseminate creased from of “race” to now include characteristics that are to agricultural $49,920 to employers and $54,080. historically associated with race, including hair employees, inGuidelines texture and “protective hairstyles.” formation on for Classifying the best pracEmployees as each failure to pay each em- tices to prevent COVID-19 inIndependent Contractors Assembly Bill 5 states that a ployee; 2) for each subsequent fections, both in English and person providing labor or ser- violation, or any willful or inten- Spanish. This law only remains vices for remuneration shall be tional violation, $200 for each in effect until the end of the considered an employee rather failure to pay each employee, state of emergency.

AB 2537 requires public and than an independent contractor plus 25 percent of the amount private employers of workers in unless the hiring entity demon- unlawfully withheld.

Use of “No-Rehire” or a hospital to supply certain emstrates that: 1) the person is free from the control and direc- Similar Clauses in Settlement ployees with PPE, maintain a three-month supply of PPE and tion of the hiring entity in con- Agreements Restricted Assembly Bill 749 provides provide inventory information nection with the performance of the work; 2) the person per- that settlement agreements on to Cal/OSHA upon request. *** forms work that is outside the employment disputes “shall not usual course of the business; contain a provision prohibit- The Law Offices of C. Joe Sayas, and 3) the person is customari- ing, preventing, or otherwise Jr. welcomes inquiries about this ly engaged in an independently restricting” the employee from topic. All inquiries are confidential established trade, occupation obtaining future employment and at no-cost. You can contact the or business. With employee with the employer they had filed office at (818) 291-0088 or visit www. classification, workers enjoy a claim. Any settlement agree- joesayaslaw.com. [C. Joe Sayas, Jr., better protections under the ment entered into after January Esq. is an experienced trial attorney 1, 2020, which contains this no- who has successfully recovered law.

The Definition of “Race” is rehire provision is void. How- wages and other monetary damages ever, an employer may refuse for thousands of employees and Expanded Existing California laws pro- to rehire any employee that it consumers. He was named Top Labor hibit discrimination on the ba- justly found to have engaged in & Employment Attorney in California sis of an employee’s protected sexual harassment or sexual as- by the Daily Journal, consistently characteristics, such as race, sault. selected as Super Lawyer by the Expanded Lactation Accom- Los Angeles Magazine, and is a past ethnicity, and national origin.

California’s lawmakers ex- modation Requirements Presidential Awardee for Outstanding Senate Bill 142 required all Filipino Overseas.] panded the definition of “race” to now include characteristics employers to provide an em(Advertising Supplement) that are historically associated with race, including hair texture and “protective hairstyles.”

Thus, workplace dress codes and grooming policies may not prohibit such characteristics as “braids, locks, and twists.”

Statutory Penalties for Employer’s Late Payment Wages During Employment Assembly Bill 673 allows employees themselves to sue for and recover penalties for the employer’s failure to pay wages on time during employment. It used to be that only the Labor Commissioner may recover civil penalties for the employer’s late payment. Now, the employees may sue the employer directly for statutory penalties and recover the following rates: 1) for any initial violation, $100 for

By Jan

Milo Severo

Philstar.com

ACTRESS-comedienne Giselle Sanchez won the Noble Queen of the Universe International.

In her Instagram account, Giselle posted a photo of her wearing the title’s crown.

“I did it! I was able to bring home the crown as Noble Queen of the Universe International,” Giselle wrote.

Miss USA Southern California Maegan Camaisa won the Noble Queen Universe while Miss India Aditi Ahuja won the Noble Queen Globe, Miss USA West Coast Janine Streetman won the Noble Queen Tourism and Miss USA Mainland Rhonda Renee Swan won the Noble Queen Earth.

“I would like to congratulate my fellow International delegates who won the major titles like me,” she said.

The beauty pageant was joined by 16 family-oriented women all over the world. Giselle said she’s glad to brought a crown for the Philippines.

“Sixteen family-oriented women with advocacies all over the

Giselle Sanchez Photo from Instagram/@gisellesanchez

world fought for the five crowns and I am so blessed to have brought home one for the Philippines,” she said.

“This is my final takeaway for 2020 and I thank God and the entire Philippines who supported me in my journey,” she added.

Giselle, who also won the queen of social media and the noble ambassadress of humanity, thanked Filipinos for their support.

“I also would like to thank everyone who supported me in social media as I am also the win-

ner of the Noble Queen of social media and noble ambassadress of humanity,” she said.

“My deepest thanks to my chiropractor @docrob74 Rob Walcher and his wife, Noble Queen of the Universe @patriciajavier1 who sponsored me to enter the pageant as I was hesitant and half -hearted to join,” she added.

Giselle said that she was convinced by Patricia Javier after she learned that she could use the pageant as a platform to get more donors for her advocay to help homeless families.

“I was finally convinced when Patricia told me that I can use the Noble Queen Pageant as a platform to get more donors so I can help more homeless families which is my advocacy. And now, in a few days I will be blessing a newly constructed home for a homeless family courtesy of the Noble Queen franchise,” the beauty queen said.

“I am so blessed that I have found this sisterhood who has fully supported my advocacy to help the homeless and provide food, shelter and sustainable livelihood for them,” she added.

‘YAHOO YEAR IN REVIEW’ The Philippines’ top searches in 2020 BY any measure, 2020 has been one of the most momentous years of the past century.

The past 50-odd weeks have kept netizens in the Philippines glued to their devices in search of information, ideas and opinions through a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic. From the eruption of the Taal Volcano, and the NBA, to local and Korean entertainment choices, there has been a flood of online activity this year as netizens sought out their passions online like never before.

As the year draws to a close, “Yahoo’s Year in Review 2020” takes a look at the top happenings, people, and trends that captured the interest of the Philippines’ online community in 2020.

Top newsmakers of 2020: Uncertainty, tragedy and politics headline search.

Taal Volcano, one of the world’s most dangerous volcanoes, was the top searched news in the Philippines this year — its activity in January threatened the lives of nearly a million people across Calabarzon, Metro Manila and some parts of Central Luzon and Ilocos region. Late NBA superstar Kobe Bryant ranked second in the search list as basketball-obsessed Philippines reeled from news of his untimely passing.

Local and international politics featured prominently, with the US Presidential Elections (3rd) and President Donald Trump (6th), as well as our own President Rodrigo Duterte (4th) and his additional authority to combat COVID-19 granted through the Bayanihan Act 2020 (5th), also known as the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act, ranking high on users’ searches.

The arrest and ongoing saga of businessman and popular internet personality Francis Leo Marcos (7th) for alleged violation of Optometry Law also kept users on the edge of their seats.

Most searched celebrities: Ivana Alawi and Raffy Tulfo take tops spots.

Filipino celebrities dominated the most searched female celebrities list this year, taking eight out of the 10 top spots. Catapulting into the top spot was Kapamilya actress Ivana Alawi whose wildly popular YouTube channel drove her meteoric rise to fame in just a year. Sarah Geronimo ranked second on the list as news of her surprise secret wedding sent users on a frantic hunt for details of the “AshMatt” nuptials. Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray’s (3rd) controversial breakup with her ex Clint Bondad was thrust back into the public light as alleged photos of them circulated on social media.

There was no resisting the charm of South Korean oppas as they took up almost half of the spots in the most searched male

According to Yahoo, Taal Volcano was the top searched news in the Philippines this year.

ManilaTimes.net photo

Ivana Alawi and Raffy Tulfo are the most searched male and female celebrities.

Photos from Instagram/@ivanaalawi, @raffytulfoinaction

celebrities list. Gaining international popularity with “Crash Landing on You,” 2020 was a shining year for Hyun Bin (2nd) as he also clinched a commercial deal with telco Smart Communications. Other South Korean male celebrities who made the list were Lee Min-Ho (6th), Park Seo Joon (9th), and Ji Chang Wook (10th). Broadcast journalist and host Raffy Tulfo surged to the top of the list as he edged out even the best looking South Korean male celebrities to take the coveted top spot.

Remembering the King of Philippine Movies Fernando Poe Jr., legislation filed in Congress to rename an avenue after him sparked interest, ranking him third on the search list. Subject of false reports of his death, Marcelito Pomoy (4th) whose outstanding solo performance of the classic duet “The Prayer” captivated millions of viewers on America’s Got Talent, and the Philippines’ favorite son, Manny Pacquiao (5th) rounded off the top half of the list.

Most searched movies and TV shows: Local showbiz holds on, K-drama rises.

No surprises this year as local showbiz continued to be popular, even as the Korean wave continued making inroads into the Philippines.

K-drama “Crash Landing on You” was the most searched in the list as stars of the series clinched commercial deals in the country — a couple even had photoshoots themed after the series. “The World of the Married,” another South Korean series, came in seventh as ABS-CBN quickly clinched airing rights for the show with a Filipino-dubbed version. Rounding up the list was Oscar-winning South Korean film, “Parasite” (10th).

Not to be beaten, local showbiz with a mix of local TV series, newscast, and variety shows were

also popularly searched. Encantadia was second most searched, with TV Patrol (3rd), Wowowin (6th), and Ang Probinsyano (8th) proving time-tested favorites.

While it dominated the list in 2019, the popularity of Hollywood waned in 2020 — only America”s Got Talent (4th) and Frozen 2 (5th) were featured in the list. #Covid19: Users searched for updates, symptoms, lockdowns and vaccine.

As Covid-19 upended the lives of Filipinos and people around the world, “Coronavirus Update”, “Coronavirus Philippines” and “Covid-19 symptoms” became the top three pandemic search terms amongst users. “Covid 19 update worldwide”, “Covid-19 vaccine”, “Covid-19 tracker”, “Quarantine”, “Pandemic”, and “Lockdown” were hot on the heels of the top search terms, coming in from fourth to ninth place.

Interestingly, Italy was a country of interest to users in the Philippines, due to its status as one of the largest European migration destinations for Filipinos. “Coronavirus Italy” (10th) made an appearance as one of the popular searches related to Coronavirus.

Travel in style with AR filters: Until travel is possible again, users can satiate their wanderlust while they look back into 2020 with the “Travel in Style” series of augmented reality (AR) filters.

Three AR filters, created by Yahoo, will be available on Facebook and Instagram. From basking in the sun in stunning Santorini, to grooving on the streets of trendy Tokyo, to diving in the deep sea — the filters take users on a journey to travel in style as they look back into 2020.

For the biggest moments online and other surprises from the year, click on Yahoo’s Year in Review 2020 on www.ph.yahoo. com/topics/ph-yir.

The ‘stars’ of our life...

PAGE B5 wisdom also made them decide not to return to Herod to report what they had seen, knowing the king’s threat to kill the newborn King.

Indeed, God’s wisdom comes through caring words and heroic examples of people, both in the present and the past. Their lives are signs of the truth of the Gospel and a profound encounter with Christ. Their words never lie because they found the true

meaning of life—a life given and shared in service to God and fellow men and women.

The Three Magi found the Child Jesus in the little town of Bethlehem. The Word, Bethlehem, means “House of Bread.”

Even at the birth of Jesus, God sent us the message of living out our lives like bread to be broken and shared.

Let’s all shine like the stars in heaven to inspire others to an inspiring and fulfilling life. Let

our lives be signs for others to encounter the true God, Jesus, the Prince of Peace!

Happy New Year! *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. *** Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas is the pastor of Incarnation Church in Glendale, California.

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARy 2-5, 2021

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