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JANUARY 3 - 9, 2025 Volume 19 - No.1 • 16 Pages

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Marcos signs 2025 national DATELINE USA budget, makes last-minute cuts FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

by Cristina Chi Philstar.com

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed the P6.326-trillion budget for 2025 on Monday, December 30, making an

eleventh-hour decision to veto P194 billion worth of items he deemed "not consistent with our programmed priorities."

Unlike his previous budget signings which were done at least 10 days before year-end, Marcos delayed the approval

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US Navy ship spotted near Panatag amid China patrols

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office identified the victims as Rona Nate, 44; Paul Manangan, 16, and Mia Narvaez, eight.

STAR / File

3 Pinoys slain by kin in California MANILA — Three members of a Filipino family were stabbed to death in Baldwin Park, California.

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office identified the victims as Rona Nate, 44; Paul Manangan, 16, and Mia Narvaez, eight.

The Baldwin Park police responded to a disturbance call on the 4700 block of Bogart Avenue on the evening of Dec. 26.

A 23-year-old male relative of the family was arrested in connection with the fatal stabbings.

The suspect attempted to flee but crashed nearby within the cul-de-sac.

According to their neighbors, the family of five is from the Philippines.

A motive for the incident has not been determined. (Pia Lee-Brago/Philstar.com)

by 10 days and signed the 2025 General Appropriations Act on December 30. He had postponed it to conduct "an exhaustive and thorough review" of the spending plan Congress ratified on December 11.

by Pia Lee-Brago Philstar.com

NAIA 3 SITUATION. Passengers line up the check-in counter of Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 departure area in Pasay City on Monday, Dec. 30, 2024. Jan. 2 and 3, 2025 are already working days but some will take extended breaks.

PNA photo by Avito Dalan

MANILA — A United States Navy ship was sighted around Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal on Sunday morning, Dec. 29 while a China Coast Guard (CCG) ship was conducting patrol in the area, a maritime security expert said.

“While China patrols around Scarborough Shoal in the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, the U.S. ocean surveillance ship USNS Victorious patrols nearby,” SeaLight director and retired U.S. Air Force colonel Ray Powell wrote on X. “As of 1:37 a.m., the USNS Victorious was located near the Luzon landmass but still outside the country’s 12-nautical-

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Fil-Am makes history as interim Jimmy Carter death: Fil-Am mayor, mayor of Oakland, California others honor ex-president’s legacy

by Cherie M. Querol Moreno Inquirer.net

Nikki Fortunato Bas, the first Fil-Am interim mayor of Oakland, will serve until Jan. 6, 2025, then take her oath of office as the first Fil-Am Alameda County supervisor. Contributed photo

OAKLAND — A Filipino American has been making double history these past weeks and will continue to do so as 2025 unfolds.

Nikki Fortunato Bas, a lifelong community organizer and defender of worker rights,

is leading the executive office as interim mayor of this most populous city on the eastern rim of San Francisco Bay. The New York-born daughter of Filipino immigrants is the first Fil-Am woman to own the title in Oakland, a port city of some 440,000 residents.

Bas assumed mayorship

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SAN DIEGO — San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria joined leaders from around the nation and the world Sunday, Dec. 29 in remembering former President Jimmy Carter as news spread that Carter had died at age 100, after living longer than any other U.S. president.

“San Diego joins the nation in

mourning the loss of President Jimmy Carter. His life is the embodiment of service, faith, and compassion,” the Filipino American mayor wrote on X. “His humanitarian work, including here in our city, will endure for generations to come.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Carter family.’”

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From the Front Page

Fil-Am makes history as interim...

PAGE 1 Dec. 17 upon departure of Mayor Sheng Thao, who was recalled two years after being elected.

Not long after taking office, Thao, the first Hmong American elected to lead a major U.S. city, drew heavy criticism for firing the police chief and persistent city problems.

The FBI raided her home in the summer but has not stated what they were investigating.

Sheng has denied any wrongdoing.

Bas, who did not support the ouster of her former fellow City Council member, reacted to the recall in a statement on X, noting Thao’s service and “unwavering commitment to advancing priorities that best meet the needs of our residents.”

“I am proud of the work we’ve accomplished over these past two years and feel immensely grateful for the entirety of Mayor Thao’s career in public service,” she said of her predecessor and ally.

As president of the Oakland City Council, Bas was next in line to the mayorship in case of a vacancy. She will be acting mayor until the new City Council convenes Jan. 6 and votes among themselves on who will be the new Council president, who will then be acting mayor until a special election takes place on April 15.

“We believe in this city, and we will fight for this city, so we are working to ensure

Supervisor-elect Nikki Fortunato Bas with husband Brad Erickson and daughter Balana in their beloved home city.

CONTRIBUTED

our leadership is strong and that we again are singularly focused on the issues before us,” Bas said at a news conference following her installation. “And those issues are making sure that we address both our current budget and our two-year budget.”

On Monday, Dec. 30, Bas and Police Chief Floyd Mitchell will preside over a news conference to announce the record lowest rate of homicide and other developments in their city.

Oakland, where she and husband Brad Erickson and their daughter Balana have lived for 27 years, is beautiful, she says, with a “rich history in terms of activism for Blacks, Asians and Latinos, with a vibrant arts and culture communities.”

She can be found going on walks on Lake Merritt or, being a foodie, checking out new restaurants, like

Thank Que Grill, a Filipino restaurant specializing in barbecue and that also serves banh mi.

Not to be missed, she offers, is Dragon’s Gate in Jack London Square, a Taiwanese restaurant and karaoke bar.

She recommends the food and entertainment in these new spots, but what’s significant about them is that the owners have invested (millions, in the latter’s case) to open in Oakland, evidence of positive outcomes from recent efforts by the city leadership.

Her success is noteworthy for the University of Virginia economics graduate whose career plan was to fight for the “rights of the vulnerable” by standing up to power. Until community partners encouraged her to take their cause to the local legislative level and address their needs from within.

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NATIONAL HERO. The Davao City government commemorates the 128th anniversary of Dr. Jose P. Rizal's martyrdom at Rizal Park on Monday, Dec. 30, 2024. The ceremony included a wreath-laying ceremony participated in by various organizations.

PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.

Marcos signs 2025 national...

PAGE 1 Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin had telegraphed the president's intent days earlier, warning of incoming vetoes "in the interest of public welfare" and "in compliance with laws."

"After an exhaustive and thorough review, we identified P194 billion worth of line items that are not consistent with our programmed priorities," Marcos said during the signing ceremony in Malacañang.

The president earlier faced pressure to veto the entire budget over controversial allocations, including the P26-billion Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP) which critics, including retired Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Antonio

Carpio, likened to pork barrel.

The Department of Education also lost P10 billion from its computerization program during the congressional deliberations, while funds for the subsidy of the Philippine Health Insurance Corp.

(PhilHealth) were gutted altogether.

However, Marcos saw no need to return the entire budget bill to Congress, which is dominated by his allies. "A re-enacted budget will set us back, delay our vital programs, jeopardize targets for economic growth, including our goals of achieving single-digit poverty levels and uppermiddle income status," Marcos said.

Instead of a total veto,

Marcos wielded his veto power on P194 billion worth of allocations.

The biggest slash came from unprogrammed appropriations at P168.24 billion, while P26.065 billion was cut from Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) projects.

Bersamin said he was confident that the final budget would survive any legal challenge in court.

"We are confident, but we cannot prevent if there will be challenges that will be mounted by any quarter who might still find this present budget as approved worthy of the challenge... That is something that we cannot prevent," he said.

The new budget law, Republic Act 12116, takes effect Jan. 1, 2025. n

US Navy ship spotted near Panatag...

Oakland is turning a page on crime, says Bas, in photo with 194th Academy of graduates under the leadership of Chief Floyd Mitchell (second from left).

CONTRIBUTED

PAGE 1 mile territorial sea during China’s ‘patrol’” previously reported by its state media CCTV, he added.

Beijing’s state media reported that the CCG conducted patrols around Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea on Friday

to safeguard China’s territorial rights.

The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) said the Chinese naval and air forces conducted combat readiness patrols near Panatag Shoal, also called Bajo de Masinloc, in the South China Sea on

Sunday, Dec. 29.

The patrols aim to “further strengthen the control of relevant sea and airspace, resolutely defend national sovereignty and security” in the South China Sea, the PLA Southern Theater Command said in a social media announcement. n

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Dateline USA

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How Biden lost the ‘narrative Jimmy Carter death: Fil-Am mayor... war’ on immigration

by Pilar Marrero Ethnic Media Services

WHICH administration helped 3.5 million people complete the citizenship process, more than any other administration in history, issuing 4.3 million green cards for permanent residency? Which administration restored refugee admissions slashed by the previous president, expanding pathways for legal immigration to ease border pressures, while doubling the length of work authorizations for foreign nationals. And which administration granted temporary legal status to the highest number of immigrants in recent history?

The answer, surprisingly to many Americans and even to immigrants, is President Joe Biden.

Yet, when people think of Biden’s record on immigration, the word “successful” rarely comes to mind. Most analysts agree that the perception of an outof-control border—combined

with inflation’s impact on Americans’ wallets—was a key factor in Republican challenger and Presidentelect Donald J. Trump’s victory.

However, experts at the non-partisan Migration Policy Institute (MPI), who closely monitor presidential actions on immigration, argue that Biden’s record was far better than public perception suggests.

“I think the legacy of a president is how much impact you have on people’s lives on a daily basis,” said Muzaffar Chishti, a senior fellow at MPI, during a Dec. 17 briefing.

Chishti highlighted Biden’s shift on immigration enforcement priorities— from Trump’s broad “deport anyone, anywhere” approach to a more targeted focus on new arrivals at the border.

“If you were a long-term unauthorized resident in this country, there was more than an 80% chance that nothing would happen to you,” Chishti said.

Biden’s Administration

also ended the controversial “family detention” practice and restored legal immigration processes to pre-COVID, pre-Trump norms.

Despite these achievements, speakers— including outside experts from media and advocacy organizations— acknowledged administration mistakes, shortcomings in media coverage, and the focus of the pro-immigrant movement. These missteps, they argued, undermined the Biden administration’s successes and amplified its perceived failures on immigration, one of which was the increasing numbers of people crossing the border.

“The increase in overall numbers of arrivals and the changing demographics of those arrivals has presented a challenge for border authorities in terms of capacity and processing ability,” said MPI Associate Policy Analyst Coleen PutzelKavanaugh, noting the disconnect between outdate

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Caseworkers coax homeless people out of Las Vegas’ tunnels for treatment

by Angela Hart KFF Health News

LAS VEGAS — Case manager Bryon Johnson flashed a light into a dark tunnel beneath the glitz of the Las Vegas Strip on a recent fall afternoon. He stepped into an opening in a concrete ditch littered with trash and discarded clothing to search an underground world for his homeless clients.

Beneath the Caesars Palace hotel and casino, Johnson found one of them stretched out on a plywood bed. Jay Flanders, 49, had sores across his back, up his arms, and into his fingers. The homeless man acknowledged occasional meth use and mental health concerns. He couldn’t recall exactly how long he’d lived underground, but it had been several years.

“Why don’t you come inside,” asked Johnson, trying to persuade Flanders to leave the tunnels. “Come get treatment.”

It’s Johnson’s job to coax homeless people out of drainage tunnels that stretch

Front-line providers say 1,200 to 1,500 homeless people live in flood control tunnels under the Las Vegas Strip. During monsoon season, homeless people are asked to move for safety.

Angela Hart/KFF Health News

beneath Las Vegas, a perilous grid where people hide from law enforcement and shelter from extreme weather but risk being swept away by floodwaters.

Drugs and alcohol are prevalent. Johnson tells clients they have a better shot at recovery above ground, where they can get medical care to treat chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, depression, and heart disease, and start drug and alcohol treatment programs.

Street medicine providers and homeless outreach workers who travel into

the tunnels said they have noticed an uptick in the number of people living underground as housing costs have skyrocketed and local officials have adopted a zero-tolerance approach to homelessness. Caseworkers are also confronting a level of drug addiction that’s making it harder to get people, many suffering from mental illness and health conditions, to come aboveground for care.

“It’s meth. It’s fentanyl.

It’s opioids. We’re seeing it more and more,” said Rob PAGE 10

PAGE 1 Carter died Sunday at his home in Plains, Georgia, according to his son Chip.

“Jimmy Carter’s extraordinary public service didn’t end when his presidency did. He has remained an icon of kindness and humility and a champion of peace,” Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn said on X, accompanied by a photo of her with Carter.

“His legacy will live on for generations to come, not only here but around the world. May he rest in peace.’”

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass also weighed in on the loss Sunday afternoon.

“While in the White House, President Carter established the idea of human rights as a core tenet of American foreign policy and created a path towards a clean energy future, among other important achievements,’” Bass said.

“The international legacy he leaves behind lives on in the Carter Center as an active and powerful defense of freedom and democracy around the globe. Domestically, his inspiring work through Habitat for Humanity showed generations of Americans that there are no limits to community service and helping others.

“President Carter was a man of rare character — whose beliefs ran true, deep, and never wavered,’” Gov. Gavin Newsom said.

“His candor and compassion, moral leadership, and sense of duty set a standard we all should aspire to. California joins the nation and the world in mourning his passing,” Newsom added.

The Plains native graduated from the Naval Academy in Annapolis in 1946 and spent seven years as a naval officer before returning to Georgia and entering politics in 1962.

He was elected governor in 1970.

When Carter emerged from the pack to claim the Democratic presidential nomination in 1976 he was largely unknown outside his home state. With the nation reeling from the Watergate scandal and the resignation of Nixon in 1974, Carter’s outsider status, humble background as a peanut farmer, and perceived honesty proved

a winning combination in a close election against incumbent Gerald Ford.

Carter’s presidency began with much hope and featured some high moments, most notably his brokering of the 1978 Camp David peace accord between Israel and Egypt.

However, the economy was marked by rising inflation and energy shortages, and as Iranian militants seized 52 American hostages and held them for more than a year, Carter began to be perceived by voters as weak and ineffectual.

His stubborn refusal to nurture cooperative relationships with leaders of his own Democratic Party in Congress didn’t help his fortunes either, leading to a primary challenge from Massachusetts Sen. Ted Kennedy in 1980.

Carter held off Kennedy, but was helpless to withstand the nationwide tide of conservatism that swept Ronald Reagan into office in November.

Carter’s reputation among historians and the public at large was at a low ebb when he left the White House, but would undergo a historic transformation in the years that followed.

He established the Carter Center in 1982, a nonprofit institution dedicated to promoting human rights and finding peaceful solutions to conflict.

He traveled the world tirelessly, monitoring elections and otherwise advocating for peace and democracy.

Back home in the United States, he devoted chunks of his time and energy to Habitat for Humanity, and could often be seen wielding a hammer himself helping to build houses for needy families.

He wrote books about faith, family, and good works.

He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for “undertaking peace negotiations, campaigning for human rights, and working for social welfare,” according to the Nobel Committee.

Carter’s health gradually weakened in recent years.

In February 2023, Carter’s family announced that he would forego further hospital stays and live out his final time receiving hospice care at home.

His wife of 77 years,

former first lady Rosalynn Carter, died on Nov. 19 of that year at age 96.

“Today, America and the world lost an extraordinary leader, statesman and humanitarian,” President Joe Biden said in a statement issued by the White House. “Over six decades, we had the honor of calling Jimmy Carter a dear friend. “… With his compassion and moral clarity, he worked to eradicate disease, forge peace, advance civil rights and human rights, promote free and fair elections, house the homeless, and always advocate for the least among us.

“He saved, lifted, and changed the lives of people all across the globe. … To the entire Carter family, we send our gratitude for sharing them with America and the world,’” Biden continued. “… And to all of the young people in this nation and for anyone in search of what it means to live a life of purpose and meaning — the good life — study Jimmy Carter, a man of principle, faith, and humility. He showed that we are great nation because we are a good people — decent and honorable, courageous and compassionate, humble and strong.’”

President-elect Donald Trump commended Carter’s service to the nation as well.

“I just heard of the news about the passing of President Jimmy Carter,” Trump said. “Those of us who have been fortunate to have served as president understand this is a very exclusive club, and only we can relate to the enormous responsibility of leading the Greatest Nation in History.

The challenges Jimmy faced as president came at a pivotal time for our country and he did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans. For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude.

“Melania and I are thinking warmly of the Carter family and their loved ones during this difficult time. We urge everyone to keep them in their hearts of prayers,” Trump concluded.

Biden added that he would be ordering an official state funeral for Carter to be held in Washington, D.C. (Inquirer.net with CNS Report)

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Opinion

Features

No RIP for Rizal

IT’S regrettable that the nation is commemorating the 128th anniversary of the execution of Jose Rizal amid protests over the insufficiency of funding for the education sector.

Rizal was fortunate to have obtained formal education in top universities abroad. He understood how education can empower people and lead to emancipation from poverty.

He wanted the Filipino masses – not just the wealthy elite and the small middle class – to be educated first before the country would become independent from Spain.

Today, there is universal free education from kindergarten to college. It is, however, free education on a shoestring budget compared to the resources poured into the sector by other Asian countries. There is a continuing backlog in classrooms. Teachers, who have to beg for every meaningful increase in their pay, continue to seek greener pastures overseas.

The consequences include large, unwieldy class sizes and shorter hours in school, which further hinder proper education.

The declining quality of education is evident in the country’s progressive fall in international surveys on national competitiveness. The

deterioration was validated in the results of the two times that the country participated in the Program for International Student Assessment, in 2018 and 2022. Education officials said they wanted the Philippines to participate in the PISA to determine how much work needed to be done in the sector.

While the nation knew that the quality of education had been going downhill, the PISA results were still dismaying: Filipino 15-year-old students ranked at the bottom in mathematics, science and reading literacy. Between 2018 and 2022, there was little improvement in the results.

Other countries would consider such findings a national crisis and respond accordingly. Not in the Philippines. The year is ending with Filipinos outraged over the funding priorities of Congress, with the budget for the Department of Education slashed by P12 billion. Meanwhile, the appropriation for the Department of Public Works and Highways was increased by a hefty

Editorial

Babe’s Eye View Babe Romualdez ON January 20th next year, Donald J. Trump will be sworn in at the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol as the 47th president of the United States. Thousands of visitors are expected to come to Washington, D.C. to take part in this historic

ManilaTimes.net photo

P289 billion during the bicameral conference, bringing its total to P1.1 trillion – higher than the appropriation for the entire education sector.

The bicam also cut funding for the Department of Social Welfare and Development by P96 billion and the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. by P74.4 billion, while increasing allocations for members of the Senate and the

House of Representatives. The realignments are not only shameless but also unconstitutional on at least two counts: Congress may cut but not increase funding proposed under the National Expenditure Program, and education must get the largest slice of the annual budget pie.

Today on his death anniversary, Jose Rizal must be turning over in his grave.

(Philstar.com)

Washington getting ready for the transfer of power event in one way or another – with the National Mall teeming with spectators and thousands lining up along Pennsylvania Avenue to watch the president’s entourage make their way to the White House during the ceremonial parade.

As early as October, luxury hotels in Washington were already getting fully booked, with reservations blocked out from Jan. 14 to 21 and room rates increasing by

as much as 1,000 percent.

According to Destination DC, a non-profit corporation that supports the travel and tourism sector, bookings for the inauguration weekend are now at 50 percent and expected to go higher as Jan. 20 comes closer, since hotel occupancy rates usually surpass 90 percent during inaugurations.

A complete list on road closures will be issued by the D.C. Metropolitan

Police Department a day before the inauguration, but definitely, streets around the inauguration area and the ceremonial parade will be closed throughout the day for security purposes.

Because the inauguration is considered a “National Special Security Event” with U.S. political leaders and foreign dignitaries in attendance, security plans are very stringent, with the U.S. Secret Service as the

lead federal agency with support from other entities that include the U.S. Capitol Police, the Metropolitan Police Department and the Joint Task Force-National Capital Region (composed of service members from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, including Reserve and National Guard components).

According to the Joint Task Force Commanding General, they will be

deploying as many as 12,000 in the parade, of whom 5,000 are service members.

Although the JTF did not issue an estimate on crowd size, inaugurations can draw over one million attendees, requiring mammoth logistics and security preparations.

During the January 2021 inauguration of President Biden, security preparations were also strict because of the Covid-19 pandemic. The PAGE 7

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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Fil-Am makes history as interim...

PAGE 2

‘Recruited’ On Jan. 6, Bas herself will be taking on yet another unprecedented role for a Filipino American in Alameda County or in any of the eight other Bay Area counties when she swears into the Board of Supervisors.

An avowed progressive, Bas gained 71,207 or 50.15 percent of total votes over opponent John J. Bauters’ 70,782 or 49.85 percent of votes to represent District 5.

The district covers Albany, Berkeley, Emeryville, Piedmont and parts of Oakland including West Oakland, North Oakland, and the North Hills areas.

The County Board of Supervisors is traditional trajectory for most City Council members, but Bas was not girding for another campaign late last year, having only begun her second term on the council.

In December 2023, however, Supervisor Keith Carson, who had represented District 5 for over 30 years, announced his retirement shortly after the deadline to file candidacy for the March 4 race.

Had he sought reelection, the three-decade incumbent would have run unopposed.

“While I am physically ready for another term, I believe it is time for new energy that reflects the evolving needs of District 5,” he told reporters after his surprise announcement, quelling speculation for the decision.

Service on the Board of Supervisors is “generational, there are no term limits,” Bas enlightened Inquirer.net USA on the longstanding service of county representatives.

“People had five days to decide to run,” the surprised Bas recalled. “But again, I was ‘recruited’ by community organizations to take the opportunity for stronger representation.”

Nine candidates placed their names on the ballot, including three City Council members.

Bas was the newest elected to contest the position.

Despite the fact that Bauters, an Emeryville Council member, got Carson’s endorsement in the November finals, Bas triumphed. She had also topped the primary with 34.05 percent over Bauter’s 20.7 percent.

Carson had touted “housing and homelessness,

transportation, sustainability, health care and mental health, and re-entry support” as his priorities – issues Bas is known to support vigorously.

The campaign, though short, was “frustrating,” Bas referred to “negative political attacks” she blames on big tech and entities opposing her progressive policies but failed to sway voters.

Strength from adversity Backing down from a challenge is not something Bas is known to do.

Five years ago she won in her first bid to represent District 2 of the Oakland City Council, becoming the first Filipino American to join the body governing the most populous city on the East Bay, the third largest in the nine Bay Area counties and the eighth in the state, according to most estimates.

That was 2019, months before the coronavirus outbreak would hit this country, leading to “one of the hardest periods in our lifetime,” Bas characterizes her freshman year. Hers was a baptism by fire with the consequences wrought by the pandemic and ensuing “racial reckoning,” a perfect storm that tested her commitment to serve.

For the past four years, she has been president of the City Council, drawing on her experience working with diverse philosophies and personalities to build consensus and be productive.

Summing up her accomplishments in her reelection appeal, Bas presented a list: “Expanded violence prevention and alternative crisis response programs; building tiny homes on public land, preventing evictions during COVID, helping tenants buy their homes with land trusts; increased hazard pay for frontline workers, and creation of a progressive corporate tax for greater economic equity.”

A recurring theme in her decision-making process is accountability and collaboration, which her first chief of staff Miya SaikaChen has touted.

“You lead with love and compassion and street smarts,” Chen complimented her ex-boss at a campaign sortie.

“She brought together very siloed departments to work on budget and policy.

That level of organizing

and collaboration is just so valuable,” Chen emphasized.

Fellow social justice champion Cynthia Bonta praises Bas’ “purity of heart and her clarity of journey along justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion, and her north star that’s her immigrant parents and ancestors through Philippine and Fil-Am History’s liberation struggles.”

“She will bring fresh unwavering energy to Alameda County starting with affordable housing for all as a human right,” Bonta shared her expectation of Bas’ impact on the County Board of Supervisors.

Intimates and associates alike are well aware of the root of Bas’ fortitude. Her parents Mauricio and Fe Bas taught her resolve in their choice to further medical studies in this country, where she and her three brothers were born.

From her Dad, a retired doctor, she learned courage and determination as he successfully challenged his employer hospital’s faulty administration that had cost a patient’s life.

Even constituents are aware that Bas’ altruism was born of her experience as a survivor of sexual assault that happened when she was in college. It is a lived experience she brings up in her self-introduction.

“The most unimaginable thing happened,” she says on her campaign video, disclosing what motivated her to “spend my life fighting for justice, fighting so no other woman could experience that type of sexual violence and exploitation.”

That commitment broadened to organizing for justice for “the rights of workers…of people on the frontline environmental justice communities, for the rights of women to have autonomy over our bodies.”

She takes a “holistic approach” to public safety, informed by her and others’ experience as violence survivors to “provide the core services that will allow our young people to have a quality education with health care, a home and a job,” basic needs that define quality of life.

She is more than ready to get started collaborating on the Board of Supervisors with its woman-majority board she envisions as a “game changer” in her quest for social justice. n

NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARY 3 - 9, 2025

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TRADITIONAL WALK. Members of the Knights of Rizal lead the traditional walk at Fort Santiago in Intramuros, Manila on Monday, Dec. 30, 2024, retracing Dr. Jose Rizal's final steps to his execution site at Bagumbayan (now Rizal Park). The country commemorates the 128th death anniversary of the national hero.

PNA photo by Yancy Lim

Washington getting ready for...

PAGE 6 rising number of cases prompted the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies to limit the number of dignitaries in attendance.

The atmosphere at the 2021 Biden inauguration was very different from the 1989 inauguration of President George Bush Sr., which I also happened to attend. The National Mall was mostly empty, with around 200,000 small flags planted across the mall in lieu of Americans who were unable to attend, while the streets were relatively quiet.

For the Biden inauguration, we were bused in by the State Department that planned and coordinated the health protocols that were implemented for the invited diplomats. We all wore masks, and social distancing (six feet apart) in reserved seating arrangements was observed during the entire event.

From all indications, President Trump’s inauguration will be an “all out” celebration with fireworks displays and performances by celebrities. Top companies that include Amazon, Meta and Uber reportedly pledged millions of dollars to the inaugural committee.

Automotive industry giants Ford and General Motors are giving generous donations and will supply vehicles for the event. ABC News also reported that the upcoming inauguration has already surpassed the $150-million fundraising goal – by far larger than the $107 million raised during the first inauguration of President Trump.

Washington officials are certainly happy that the “inauguration is back” because it would also mean a boost to the local economy, since people go shopping and dining and visit other attractions as well, with various business establishments offering special packages for tourists. Certainly, the city is looking forward to hosting people from all over the country who will explore and experience the unique charms of Washington, and this in itself is a “win,” according to deputy mayor for planning and economic development Nina Albert.

Traditionally since the 1800s, no foreign head of state is invited for the inauguration, with only foreign ambassadors representing their countries in Washington, D.C. getting

invited. However, President Trump has issued invitations verbally to a few world leaders such as Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Argentinian President Javier Milei (who posted on X that he will be attending) and Chinese President Xi Jinping. It is unclear whether President Xi accepted the invitation or will be attending the inauguration.

President Trump has promised to make America great again – and according to a survey by global CEO consulting and advisory company Teneo, global investors are optimistic about the economy, believing that the “Trump effect” will generate a lot of positive economic activity that will create more jobs and greater levels of U.S. and foreign investment.

For the Philippines, we are pleased with the appointments made by President Trump, such as Florida Senator Marco Rubio as Secretary of State. Senator Rubio has been sympathetic to the Philippines, visiting Tacloban City in the aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan in January 2014 and vowing more aid for rehabilitation efforts.

Other appointments are Cerberus Capital Management chairman Steve Feinberg for Deputy Secretary of Defense. He relentlessly pursued the Cerberus investment in the abandoned Subic Bay shipyard which today employs thousands of Filipino workers, with additional investments expected to pour in.

We are also pleased that Elbridge Colby has been appointed Undersecretary of Defense for Policy, who is acknowledged as a lead architect for the 2018 U.S. National Security Strategy. We also have a very strong bipartisan support from the U.S. Congress.

Additionally, President Marcos during his congratulatory call to President Trump reestablished his personal relationship with the incoming US president, whom he met in New York many years ago with his mother, former first lady Imelda Marcos. *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. *** Email: babeseyeview@gmail.com

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Dateline Philippines

JANUARY 3 - 9, 2025 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

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China creating ‘script’ to justify aggression in West Philippine Sea

by Ghio Ong Philstar.com

MANILA — Philippine Coast Guard Commodore Jay Tarriela accused China of coming up with a “script” that claims both PCG patrol vessels and Filipino fishing boats disrupt Beijing’s sovereignty over the South China Sea, including the West Philippine Sea, to justify its provocations towards Philippine forces.

“If they claim that it is a scripted scenario to organize the Filipino fishing boats, I wonder why they always fall into the plot and continue to insist on playing the villain,” said Tarriela.

Tarriela wrote the said remarks on a post in his X account on Dec. 26, when he replied to another post by Chinese state media Global Times.

GOOD LUCK. Customers rush to buy round fruits at Zapote Public Market in Bacoor, Cavite on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2024. Filipinos traditionally add 12 or 13 round fruits to the New Year's Eve feast to symbolize prosperity.

PNA photo by Avito Dalan The presence of the China Coast Guard (CCG) persists despite the effort of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to block them and assist the four main vessels of the second civilian resupply mission of the Atin Ito Coalition to the Bajo de Masinloc or Panatag Shoal in the West Philippine Sea on May 16, 2024.

STAR / Miguel De Guzman

The latter quoted Zhang Xiaogang, a spokesperson for China’s Ministry of National Defense, who said, “The Philippine side repeatedly organized its coast guard vessels and fishing boats to violate China’s territorial

sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and undermine peace and stability in the South China Sea, while playing victim to elicit sympathy from and cause confusion in the PAGE 10

Comelec slammed for allowing Quiboloy in 2025 polls

by Helen Flores Philstar.com

MANILA — The Workers’ and Peasants’ Party (WPP) on Sunday, Dec. 29 criticized the Commission on Elections for ruling in favor of Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) pastor Apollo Quiboloy, who is currently in detention on charges of alleged human trafficking and child sex abuse.

Party president Sonny Matula said the Comelec rewarded a lawbreaker by allowing Quiboloy to run in next year’s senatorial race.

“This isn’t just an insult to

the democratic process – it’s an insult to logic and fairness.

Why reward someone with a track record of breaking the law over a candidate with a clean slate?” Matula said.

He issued the statement after Comelec upheld a previous decision dismissing a petition to declare Quiboloy as a nuisance bet.

Matula said the Comelec’s decision is contrary to reason and justice.

“With all due respect, Comelec’s decision-making seems to have lost its anchor in reason. How can you justify a process that allows for

piecemeal justice? It’s not just illogical; it’s a disservice to the Filipino people,” he said.

The WPP is filing a petition with the Supreme Court seeking to overturn what it describes as a “grossly unfair and discriminatory” Comelec ruling.

It further questioned Quiboloy’s failure to comply with a crucial deadline to submit an answer to the petition within five days.

“This is not just a technical lapse – it’s a blatant mockery and trivialization of the electoral process,” Matula said. n

Hopefulness among Filipinos for New Year hits 15-year low – SWS

by HJean Mangaluz Philstar.com

MANILA — Fewer Filipinos are set to enter 2025 with hope, as the Social Weather Stations (SWS) recorded the highest number of people who are fearful of what the New Year will bring.

The SWS found that 90% of respondents remain hopeful about the New Year. While this is still a significant portion of the population, it is also the lowest figure recorded since 2009, when 89% expressed hope.

In contrast, 96% of Filipinos were hopeful for the New Year in 2023.

The SWS noted, “10% will

enter the New Year with fear, up by 7 points from 3% in 2023. This is the highest since 11% in 2009.”

Hopefulness for the New Year declined across all areas, with the following decreases recorded: • Metro Manila: 91% in 2024; 97% in 2023 (down six points) • Balance Luzon: 92% in 2024; 97% in 2023 (down five points) • Visayas: 87% in 2024; 93% in 2023 (down six points) • Mindanao: 89% in 2024; 96% in 2023 (down seven points) Declining in hope. The survey also revealed that

hopefulness declined across all education levels compared to 2023. Among college graduates, the hopeful proportion dropped from 98% to 96%. For those with some senior high school education, it fell from 96% to 93%.

Among junior high school graduates, it declined from 96% to 91%, while the proportion of hopeful respondents who only completed elementary school decreased from 97% to 89%.

For those with no formal education, hopefulness dropped from 93% to 83%.

The happiness factor The survey also noted a PAGE 10

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China creating ‘script’ to justify aggression...

PAGE 8 international community.”

In his X post, Tarriela called on China to resolve issues in

the West Philippine Sea by “adhering to international law rather than resorting to aggression against ordinary

civilian fishermen who are simply trying to make a living within our country’s exclusive economic zone.” n

Hopefulness among Filipinos for New Year...

PAGE 8 correlation between those who anticipated a happy Christmas and those who are hopeful for the New Year.

However, fewer Filipinos expected a merry Christmas this year, with the percentage

dropping from 73% in 2023 to 65% in 2024.

The SWS conducted the survey from December 12 to 18 through face-to-face interviews with 2,160 adults: 1,080 from Balance Luzon and 360 each from Metro Manila,

the Visayas, and Mindanao.

“The sampling error margins are ±2% for national percentages, ±3% for Balance Luzon, and ±5% for Metro Manila, the Visayas, and Mindanao,” the SWS reported. n

Caseworkers coax homeless people out...

PAGE 4

Banghart, vice president of community integration for the nonprofit homeless outreach organization Shine a Light, who lived in the tunnels for 2½ of the five years he was homeless, often using drugs.

Now sober for more than six years, Banghart recalled the tunnels providing a respite.

“In that state of mind, I said to myself, ‘It’s got a roof; it’s out of the sun.’ It’s a little twisted, but it was a community.”

Outreach workers say more people are retreating underground. Though dark and damp, the tunnels provide cover from the harsh desert sun, warmth when temperatures drop, and privacy from society’s judgment above ground.

Constructed in the 1990s and measuring some 600 miles, the tunnels provide flood control for the city and outlying communities.

Homeless outreach workers said 1,200 to 1,500 people live in them. Many have constructed elaborate shelters, often out of plywood and scraps of metal or brick below the casinos that define the Strip.

Tunnel living is not limited to Nevada. Across California’s Central Valley and its southern deserts, people unable to afford housing are retreating into caves and earthen tunnels, often dug into flood control berms, riverbanks, or along drainage canals, where people can escape the heat and law enforcement.

In San Antonio, homeless people have constructed tunnel encampments, and in New York, homeless people have long retreated into subterranean existence in tunnels and defunct train corridors.

In Las Vegas, some tunnel dwellers said they hide to avoid constant encampment sweeps, which have increased

nationally since the U.S. Supreme Court this year ruled that local authorities have a right to enforce sleeping or camping bans in public spaces, even when no shelter or housing is available.

Others said they go down to escape the unbearable weather. Triple digits are common in the summer; this year, Las Vegas climbed as high as 120 degrees. And the tunnels provide protection when temperatures drop into the 30s in the winter. It even snows there.

Street medicine providers are also trying to persuade homeless people to leave the tunnels to receive care. In addition to more drug and alcohol use, they have seen new problems with wounds and skin disorders associated with the street drug known as “tranq,” slang for the animal tranquilizer xylazine, which is often mixed with fentanyl or meth.

Tranq causes deep skin infections that, left untreated, can lead to bone infections and require amputation.

Flanders, the homeless man in the tunnels, had several of these skin sores, which he referred to as spider bites — a euphemism for the deep skin wounds caused by tranq. He estimated he has been to the emergency room at least 10 times this year, several times requiring hospitalization.

“One time I was there for six days; I almost lost a finger,” Flanders said, holding up the index finger that had been warped from a deep infection, as he started to tear up. Despite the risks, Flanders said, he still felt safer living in the tunnels than aboveground.

Las Vegas’ population boom has contributed to rising housing costs. The market rent for southern Nevada rose 20% from 2022 to 2023, according to a Clark County homelessness report

— higher than the national average.

As more people get displaced, more retreat underground. And often, outreach workers say, it’s not just locals who can’t afford the rising cost of living who wind up homeless, but also out-of-towners. Some come to make it in the city’s booming entertainment industry, while others become homeless after losing it all at the casinos.

“People come here on vacation to gamble or try and make it, and they lose everything,” said Johnson, who works for Shine a Light, one of two organizations in Las Vegas that provide substantial outreach, housing referrals, and drug treatment services for homeless people in the tunnels.

“The housing market is insane; rents keep going up.

A lot of people wind up down here,” said Johnson, who lived in the tunnels until he got sober with help from Shine a Light. “People just get stuck.”

Still, Nevada’s scorching heat and rains and monsoons pose a major threat to those living in the tunnels, though it’s unclear exactly how deadly life in them can be.

But Louis Lacey, homeless response director for the nonprofit Help of Southern Nevada, said homeless people living belowground put their lives at risk, often in the monsoon season when the tunnels flood. His organization coordinates with the city of Las Vegas and Clark County to get as many people as possible into shelters before the start of the rainy season, which typically runs from June to a“We go into the tunnels to make sure people who want to get out are out, but not everyone leaves, often because they don’t want to leave their belongings,” he said. “People die every year.” n

ONWARDS TO 2025. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. delivers a speech after the signing of the 2025 General Appropriations Act at Malacañang Palace in Manila on Monday, Dec. 30, 2024. The education sector has the lion’s share of the PHP6.326-trillion national budget after the President struck down some line items.

PNA photo by Joan Bondoc

How Biden lost the ‘narrative war’...

PAGE 4 immigration laws created to respond to the influx of largely Mexican men seeking work with the reality of immigration patterns today, which are increasingly more diverse in origin, and involve whole families seeking protection.

“The challenge at the border overshadowed the positive,” indicated Chishti.

“Biden’s election itself became a pull factor because he had promised during the campaign that he would undo the cruel immigration border policies of the prior administration, and the numbers began to reach record levels.”

More importantly, said the expert, “the administration refused to call it a crisis.”

Instead, the issue was defined by the opposition: Republican governors from 16 states filed lawsuits to block most policy changes initiated by the Biden Administration and engaged in “orchestrated busing of immigrants by the governors of Texas and Florida,” which “brought the border to the interior with large numbers of newly arrived migrants heavily concentrated in certain cities like New York, Chicago, and Denver, that were already facing housing shortages,” added PutzelKavanaugh.

In the end, the Administration introduced several “carrot and stick” approaches that have precipitously reduced the flow at the border, but many saw this as “too little, too late,” said the experts.

The role of the media in shaping public perception was another key focus of the

MPI briefing. Rafael Bernal, an immigration journalist for The Hill, said that despite some good immigration reporters, most media outlets prioritize sensationalism over substance.

“The press did a terrible job in general of covering these issues and continues to,” Bernal said. “Because of the media structure and how these companies make money, we need a lot of clicks. And what gets clicks is more aligned with political posturing and not with policy.”

Others argued that the Administration’s communication strategy exacerbated the problem.

Marielena Hincapie, a former executive director of the National Immigration Law Center, now a visiting scholar at Cornell Law School, said Biden’s advisors failed to grasp the importance of controlling the narrative.

“This was a narrative war, and they refused to call it a crisis when voters were seeing it on their screens,” she said. She also pointed out that Democrats, who held a majority in Congress at the start of Biden’s term, chose not to prioritize immigration reform.

Congress has the authority to create immigration laws but continues to be absent from taking any measures on the issue, mostly because of opposition by Republicans but also inaction by many Democrats who see it as a losing issue.

The pro-immigrant movement also came under scrutiny for its strategic missteps. Hincapie said the movement focused narrowly on achieving citizenship for

the undocumented while neglecting broader public engagement.

“We were talking in a very insular way, only pretty much to ourselves,” she said. “We lost track of the fact that this is a narrative war about remaking America for the next 10, 15, 20, 30 years.”

All of that obscured the Biden record of decreasing backlogs, benefiting millions of immigrants with permanent or “twilight” (temporary) statuses, and protecting long-term immigrant families at a time of record border crossings seeking asylum and protection of any kind.

“You could look at the Biden legacy from two different lenses. On legal immigration, they finally brought an old archaic system into the 21st century with modernization and innovation and technology (which was used to provide appointments, like the CBP One App at the border)”, said Chishti.

However, on the border side, because of massive numbers of crossers and a combination of factors, “it was seen as porous and outof-control, and the measures that eventually were put in place had detractors on all sides of the political spectrum.”

Even as the Administration ends, border crossings are drastically down, a significant step getting little attention.

“Ironically,” said Chisti, “this Administration is handing Trump a much more controlled border and a more robust legal immigration system…. for which they don’t expect any thank you notes”. n

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NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARY 3 - 9, 2025

COMMUNITY JOURNAL

CITIZEN PINOY WELCOMES 2025 WITH ANOTHER SUCCESS STORY ON A BRAND-NEW EPISODE THIS SUNDAY. This is the inspiring story of Ana (3rd from left), a busy hotel executive, who petitioned her Tita Susan (2nd from left) to help at home as a housekeeper. This decision, inspired by the long-running immigration show, allowed Ana to balance her career and family life while increasing her earning potential. Four years after Tita Susan’s move to the U.S., Ana once again sought leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel’s (right) help to bring over Susan’s husband, Tito Nelson (left), as a Follow-ToJoin (FTJ) under Ana’s petition of her Tita. Nelson arrived in September 2024, showing how employment petitions of family members can transform lives and fulfill dreams. Be sure to watch this success story on a brand-new episode of Citizen Pinoy on Sunday, January 5 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo.

(Advertising Supplement)

Citizen Pinoy kicks off the new year with inspiring employment petition success THE new year has Citizen Pinoy opening with a brandnew episode that highlights how petitioning family members as employees can transform lives — both for those in the U.S. and their loved ones in the Philippines.

Ana, a busy hotel executive and devoted mom, petitioned her Tita Susan as a housekeeper to balance her demanding career with quality family time. Inspired by Citizen Pinoy, Ana’s decision freed her schedule, enhanced her family life, and increased her earning potential.

In 2020, Tita Susan moved to America, and four years later, Ana once again sought the help of leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel to bring over Susan's husband, Tito Nelson, as a FollowTo-Join (FTJ) based on her employment petition of her Tita. Nelson arrived in September 2024, receiving his green card and a fresh start.

This episode highlights the life-changing impact of employment petitions of family members — providing a brighter future PAGE 12

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12 JANUARY 3 - 9, 2025 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

Health@Heart Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS THE holidays may soon be behind us but their physical effects, among others, will linger for a while. Medically speaking, it is actually a time for “damage control” for those of us who have over-indulged during the festivities. And I plead guilty to having succumbed to the temptation myself.

The post-holiday “makeover” is just as a healthy pre-emptive measure, more so for those who really want to maintain their normal weight or those who have diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, etc.

As with anything else, damage control is best as a preventive strategy. However, the special celebrations and holidays, like a birthday bash, a wedding reception, T h a n k s g i v i n g D a y, a n d especially the Christmas and New Year festivities, which could go on for more than a week, expose all of us to that great irresistible gastronomical temptation.

For dieters, those who are watching their weight or counting calories, these occasions are tough times.

Blessed are those strongwilled souls, whether or not they carry a calorie counter on one hand and a scale on the other. These healthconscious individuals will reap their rewards in terms

Time for a makeover

of stamina, energy, a stronger immune system, and even l o n ge vi ty, a s sh o w n by medical statistics. Of course, abstinence from tobacco and disciplined drinking alcoholic beverages are essential to health.

Yoyo dieting: Harmful Our physiology is at the optimum when we consume just the right number of calories to maintain our normal weight and when our glucose (blood sugar) level is on an even keel most of the time. When we overeat and then try to starve ourselves to compensate for our indiscretion, our blood glucose spikes up and down, described as yo-yo dieting.

This severe fluctuation in our blood glucose level has adverse effects on our body and on our immune system.

And this poses even greater danger for persons with diabetes.

Eating several times, even 5 or 6 times a day, NOT exceeding the total 24-hour caloric need of our body, is a healthier habit, which helps maintain our blood glucose level in a more stable, less erratic, pattern during the day. But the key is calorie-control, especially the ones from carbohydrates, combined with daily exercise.

Drinking a lot of water (not fruit juices, and especially NOT soft drinks, which are toxic, poisonous in themselves!) can help a lot. Excess weight that does not come down only means a greater reduction

in food intake is needed.

The excess weight gained over the holidays could be safely eliminated within a week. There is really no need to buy expensive prepared “diet” foods, which are nothing but high proteinlow carbohydrate, calorieportioned, meals. Rice, bread, soft drinks, and sweets are the top culprits that cause weight gain fast and increase the risk for diabetes and cardiovascular illnesses.

With discipline and resolve, and daily exercise, anyone can achieve the same weight control by counting calories.

You can shop for smaller sizes clothing later from the money you save with this DIY dieting strategy. For those who are overweight to begin with, the same strategy (output of calories must exceed the intake) works like wonders.

Simply put, more exercise and less food, until the scale tells you that you have achieved your dream weight (and body!) for the NEW YOU in the exciting new year.

Social damage control The events of the past few years have been most disturbing. Woke-ism and socialism are causing havoc in our society in America, creating confusion and fear about people’s behavior, sexuality, attitude, and anger.

Some within the United States are even praising Hitler and bin Laden. Have we gone mad? This lunacy must stop!

This social cancer and chaos inspired me to write the highly critical and

incisive book, “Where is My America?,” dissecting the anato my o f hatred , corruption, social and moral decay in the United States.

This is not the America I have known since the early 60s.

Most Americans are missing her too. This anthology will challenge your mind and warm your heart, especially the younger generation, the future leaders of America, says USA Today. [Scan QR Code included somewhere in this column.]

Here are some quotes from this book: “Those who hate America, all the thankless ingrates, shameless parasites, and vilipender woke, should leave our gracious shores, our noble land, and with them take this virus of massive insanity, the pandemic of anger, hatred, and inhumanity.”

“We, 8.1 billion Homo sapiens, came from one common original (the first human) parents in Africa some two million years ago, are historically and literally relatives, today’s citizens of one world, with mankind as our nationality. Sadly, global family peace still appears impossible.”

“Bigotry is the curse of primitive ignorance and human insensitivity. Tolerance is compassionate civility with intelligence and wisdom.”

“Freedom of speech, as originally envisioned by our God-fearing forefathers, was obviously not meant the liberty to say anything one wants, including lies, blasphemy,

http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426

or derogatory or destructive words to hurt our fellowmen.

Today, this First Amendment right is being wrongly misinterpreted and abused.”

“By not sidelining the past, waring nations imprison their present as hostage to greater hatred and bitterness, in vicious cycle, making peace in the future impossible.”

“Either we finally learn how to live with each other in harmony now or we might all eventually perish together in a nuclear Armageddon.”

“A nuclear war will only show how stupid we, suicidal humans, are, and justify our destruction from this good earth into shameful particles of dust vapor in the galaxy.”

I pray that 2025 shall be a year of new hope and that America and the world would be a lot wiser and smarter and cease destroying themselves. Together, let us welcome and cherish each other as brothers and sisters with understanding and compassion and savor the great wonderment still ahead of us. After all, human beings today have common ancestors (our origin) who lived in Morocco, North Africa, in Ethiopia, and South Africa some 300,000 years ago. We are, indeed, relatives!

To all people of goodwill (and others as well) a happy new year and peace, and may God bless us all around the globe. *** 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. *** The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people to live a healthier lifestyle, to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve a happier and more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation, or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable to or appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute for your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, newspaper columnist, and chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He was a recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, presented by then Indiana Governor, U.S. senator, and later a presidential candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry S. Truman, President George HW Bush, Muhammad Ali, Astronaut Gus Grissom, scientists, and educators.

(Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888. com, Today.SPSAtoday.com, and philipSchua.com; Amazon.com (“Where is My America?”); Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com.

Marian Rivera, Dingdong Dantes renew wedding vows

by Jan Milo Severo Philstar.com

MANILA — Kapuso couple Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes renewed their vows a decade after they tied the knot in the same church in Quezon City earlier today, December 30.

The couple's children, Zia and Sixto, joined their parents at an intimate ceremony at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Cubao, as seen on Dingdong's Instagram story.

Earlier today, Marian and Dingdong each shared separate posts on social media to celebrate their 10th anniversary.

"Happy anniversary, Mahal. Thank you for the

Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes in an Instagram story on December 30, 2024.

Screengrab from Dingdong Dantes Instagram story

incredible gift of family — my ultimate dream come true," Marian wrote on Facebook.

"I'm so grateful to share this beautiful journey with you. Here's to many more adventures together! Love

you always," she added.

The couple first met on the set of their Philippine adaptation of the Mexican series "Marimar" in 2007.

They got engaged in 2012 and tied the knot on Dec. 30, 2014. n

From left: Tito Nelson, Tita Susan, Ana and Atty. Michael Gurfinkel

Citizen Pinoy kicks off the new year...

PAGE 11 for both petitioners and beneficiaries. Be sure to watch this heartfelt story in a brand-new episode of

Citizen Pinoy on Sunday, January 5 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV

Patrol Linggo.

Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the free app.

(Advertising Supplement)

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N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY JA N UA RY 3, 2 0 25

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people events arts culture entertainment

10 Filipino traditions to bring luck and prosperity for the new year Filipinos mark the beginning of another year with these traditions to invite good fortune

by Mary Villegas / Inquirer.net

AS the clock strikes 12 on New Year’s Eve, many Filipinos mark the end of one year and the beginning of another with traditions and rituals that are believed to invite prosperity and good luck for the new year.

These time-honored traditions, with a touch of superstition, are rooted in Philippine history and culture with Chinese and Spanish influences.

From arranging 12 round fruits to scattering coins and wearing polka dots, here are some of the ways Filipinos welcome the next 365 days with hopes for good fortune.

10 Filipino New Year traditions 1. Wear polka dots or the Pantone color of the year

Why settle for the basic red when you can incorporate polka dots into your New Year’s Eve outfit?

Filipinos believe the round silhouette of the pattern (like a coin) represents money and good fortune.

For some people, donning the Pantone color of the year is also believed to bring them luck — plus style points for those family photo ops!

For 2025, the Pantone color of the year is Mocha Mousse, a warm and rich brown hue that’s inspired by chocolate and coffee, symbolizing comfort and harmony.

2. Jumping into the new year (literally) Grandparents tell kids to jump up and down – as high as they can – at the stroke

of midnight, believing this will help children grow taller. Jumping is also believed to bring in good luck.

3. Media Noche Filipino families gather for Media Noche, a festive table filled with dishes symbolizing prosperity and long life.

This spread, a sumptuous blend of tradition and flavors, includes sticky rice treats, believed to help form a closer family bond, and pancit (noodles) representing long life.

Media Noche also symbolizes togetherness and reflects the values of family, faith and gratitude.

4. A dozen round fruits Arranging 12 types of round fruits, rooted in Filipino-Chinese tradition,

is believed to attract wealth for the new year. Round shapes symbolize money.

Some people even add eggs for even more prosperity.

Tip: Skip the thorny variety (durians and pineapples) as they are believed to symbolize obstacles.

5. Open all doors and windows Every door and window must be open throughout the home when the clock strikes 12 to let the old year and bad spirits out and welcome blessings and good fortune coming in with the new year.

6. Turn the lights on Bright lights symbolize a bright future. Turning on the lights in your home at midnight on New Year’s Eve is a symbolic gesture

to welcome positive energy and good luck as brightness is often associated with prosperity and new beginnings.

7. Make some noise Fireworks, blowing car horns, banging pots and pans — the noise is believed to scare away evil spirits and ward off bad luck.

No fireworks? Grab that torotot (hornpipe) or get creative with kitchenware.

8.

Scatter coins everywhere Coins, symbolizing wealth, are scattered everywhere, from the Media Noche table to every nook and corner of the house.

9. Fill up rice and water containers Empty pantry? Not on

New Year’s Day. Bare cupboards could mean poverty. Filipinos believe rice bins and water containers filled to the brim symbolize abundance for the coming year.

Some people include a glass filled with water and another filled with rice on the Media Noche spread.

10. Skip the chicken and some seafood Some dishes are believed to be unlucky or inauspicious for the new year. Chickens are avoided as they scratch backward, symbolizing setbacks.

Because they have wings, all your luck could fly away.

Bottom-feeders like flatfish, cod and shrimp are also avoided as they are believed to symbolize sinking fortune. n

14 JANUARY 3 - 9, 2025 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

My P.E.P.

(People, Events,Places)

Rogelio Constantino Medina IN spite of what critics say about director-writeractor Atty. Vince M. Tanada, he is a fairly easy person to get along with if you know him well enough. He is an indefatigable workhorse and he is a perfectionist at times. He is not a glamor guy some think of. He loves to work and to do his work well.

He is one of the founders of Philstagers, a mobile theater group in the Philippines. *** This month of December was filled with outreach activities for Asia’s Queen of Fire Lae Manego, bringing cheers to the elderly at the Home for the Aged, kids with cancer at CHILDHaus Manila (she went there three times this month; thanks to its director Jeannette Cu’s help) and to Manila’s street children.

Lae, who hails from Davao, is a multi-awarded Filipino artist, the latest of which is the 2nd Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Award. Her line-up of activities for 2025 is filled mostly with solo concerts or performances with other artists. She auditioned via Zoom recently for America’s Got Talent and is hoping she would make it to the live performance audition in the U.S. to showcase the Filipinos’ God-given talent.

In the interview with Marc Logan on a TV5 show, Lae never forgets her roots.

She is not really the glamor girl some people may think of. She is a simple person with a kind heart. You are going to love Lae and her music indeed.

http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426

Atty. Vince Tanada and the Philstagers

*** Even before I became journalist, I did my own mission of uplifting the lives of the poor in the best, though small, way I could.

During my student days at De La Salle UniversityManila, I joined game shows on TV to share my winnings to those persons who needed help. Outside the La Salle campus, I would go to depressed areas. I used to visit in 1987 the burn unit of the Philippine General Hospital where I tried to help Maribel T. Suarez (a malnourished child), Rosemarie Garcia (an epileptic) and a young man from Pampanga. The money given to me by the late famous hairdresser Jun Encarnacion, who I featured in some newspapers, was given to these children.

I wrote to concerned institutions and persons to help the burn patients.

When I returned to PGH, the three burn patients were not there anymore for an American philanthropist sponsored their treatment abroad. I was very happy and I met the said philanthropist in Manila.

I also made a personal request to some showbiz celebrities and friends I featured to donate whatever they could to ABS-CBN’s “Bahay Kalinga,” a publicservice TV program that assisted sick children. It was then hosted by Vicky Garchitorena and the late Frankie Evangelista (Gretchen Tanada OcampoRecto, granddaughter of the late Sen. Lorenzo Tanada, was then the executive producer).

I tried to help Rechelle Garcia, a one-year-old child who had no anus, through the late Betty Go-Belmonte’s column “Pebbles” of the

(From left) Maricar Diaz, Oggie Medina, Patrick Saburit, Ehrold Cerda, Angelo Sta. Maria, Gretchen Coronado, Joanne Rabang, Maricar Saburit, and Paulo Saburit at Kylledmed Philippines’ thanksgiving party.

Philstagers couple Chris and Adelle Lim

OJ Ar Ci in Fukuoka, Japan

Police Files Tonite publisher Joey Galicia Venancio (standing with white shirt and thumbs-up sign) at the National Press Club.

Gabriel Perez with grandmother Gilda Fernandez-Perez

(From left) Jeannette Cu, David Angelo Inigo, Lae Manego and Oggie Medina

Philippine Star by giving my one-half month salary from the Office of the Press Secretary where I worked as Information Officer III in Malacanang. *** I spent Christmas Day lunch and merienda with my aunt Gilda FernandezPerez, uncle Federico Fe r n a n d e z , m y c o u s i n s and nephews/nieces in Ay a l a A l a b a n g V i l l a g e , Muntinlupa City. Later, we attended an online mass at 7 p.m. I am also happy and proud to know that my nephew Gabriel Luis Antonio M. Perez graduated cum laude in Asia Pacific College with BS Computer Science and Cyber Security and Forensics.

In the evening, I went to Quezon City’s Lantana Heights and spent time with the Varsovia, Garcia, de Mesa, and Daigdigan relatives. We had some funny games.

I missed attending the annual Christmas Day Party of Philstagers at the PSF Blackbox Theater in Sampaloc, Manila due to time constraints. Last year, I, together with director Emmanuel dela Cruz, was able to attend the New

Year’s Eve at the top of the Tanada’s building as we enjoyably watched the fireworks. Mrs. Emy Tanada, Vince’s mother, generously attended to me then. It was my first time to join them. *** An actor at Philstagers Foundation, OJ Ar Ci is a phenomenal transgender actress. She will star soon in renowned filmmaker Brillante Mendoza’s movie “Chameleon,” a story about transgenders working in Japan. *** Chris Lim and Adelle Ibarrientos-Lim are excellent Philstagers artists. They are awardw i n n i n g t h e a t re c o u p l e who enacts in dozens of theater performances. For one thing, I am amazed by their acting in both Vince Tanada’s “Juan Luna: Isang Sarsuwela” and “Sa Barong-Barong” (reflecting the issues confronted by persons living in makeshift dwellings in a city). More of this couple in the future issue of this column. *** T h a n k s t o D r. Pa t r i c k Saburit of Kylledmed Philippines, a golden

Left photo: (from left) Jun Perez, Mae Perez, Federico Fernandez, Boots Perez, Oggie Medina, and (seated) Gilda Perez; Right photo: (from left)spending Christmas Day with the Perez family in Ayala Alabang Village.

Vicky Garchitorena, host of ABS-CBN’s Bahay Kalinga TV show

Director Vince Tañada brings relief goods to Museo ng Pag-asa.

recipient of the 2nd Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Award, for inviting me to their Christmas party. I won a new cellphone thru a game in which you rolled a white tissue under a glass full of water to reach to your major prize.

Thanks too to Dr. Patrick’s wife Maricar and kids Mariam Kylle and Marion Khalid, Maricar Diaz, Paulo Saburit, Joanne Rabang, Gretchen Coronado, Angelo Sta. Maria, Ehrold Cerda, and Miguel Vistal. ***

I enjoyed the Christmas party of Police Files Tonite publication at the historic National Press Club.

It was a night of prizes, games, songs, music and camaraderie. Thanks to publisher Joey Galicia Venancio and entertainment editor Blessie K. Cirera. *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. *** rogeliocmedina@yahoo.com

NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARY 3 - 9, 2025 15

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Eugene Domingo, Aga Muhlach’s MMFF 2024 snubs spark uproar on social media

by Hannah Mallorca Inquirer.net

EUGENE Domingo and Aga Muhlach caught the attention of netizens after they weren’t nominated for Best Supporting Actress and Best Actor, respectively, at the 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Gabi ng Parangal, with some noting it as the ceremony’s “biggest snubs.”

Domingo portrayed the role of Baby Salvador in “And the Breadwinner Is…,” the eldest sister who left her younger brother Bambi (Vice Ganda) behind to support the family’s needs. Meanwhile, Muhlach took on the challenge of portraying the corrupt billionaire Guilly Vega in “Uninvited.”

Despite their acting performances, netizens were shocked after they were not

nominated for Best Supporting Actress and Best Supporting Actor at the ceremony, which took place on Friday, Dec. 27, in Solaire Resort in Parañaque.

Domingo and Muhlach’s snubs led to netizens taking to social media to express their dismay, with some pointing out that their performances were worthy of acting awards.

Others shared clips of their best scenes in their respective films.

The nominees for Best Supporting Actress included Chanda Romero, Lorna Tolentino, Gabby Padilla, Nadine Lustre, Cristine Reyes and Kakki Teodoro, with the lattermost taking home the award.

Meanwhile, Dennis Trillo, Vice Ganda, Seth Fedelin, Vic Sotto, Piolo Pascual and Arjo Atayde were recognized as the nominees for Best Actor, with

Eugene Domingo and Aga Muhlach in scenes from “And the Breadwinner Is…” and “Uninvited,” respectively.

Photos from Courtesy of Star Cinema, Mentorque

Trillo bagging the win.

Dan Villegas, Jun Robles Lana, ‘Uninvited’s’ snubs Other notable snub recipients at the Gabi ng Parangal were Dan Villegas and Jun Robles Lana for Best Director in “Uninvited” and “And the Breadwinner Is…,” respectively.

This led to netizens expressing their confusion over their absence from the nominees, with some reiterating how their films were a “breakthrough” in this year’s edition of the film festival.

On the other hand, netizens called out the Gabi ng Parangal jury for not including “Uninvited” as one of the potential winners in notable categories such as Best Picture. The crime thriller tied with “Topakk” to bring home the Best Float award.

Despite the backlash, MMFF spokesperson Noel Ferrer reiterated in a statement that the results of the Gabi ng Parangal were from a “no cooking show,” saying the winners were chosen in an hours-long deliberation.

“No leaks, definitely no cooking show … only the Jury Chair and the MMFF Executive Director knew the results, not even I or any member of the Execom. Rest assured, there was due process and the judgment was fair and sound and final,” he said.

Andrea Brillantes tops global beauty poll; Belle Mariano, Liza Soberano remain on list

by Kathleen A. Llemit Philstar.com

MANILA — Young star Andrea Brillantes leads the seven Filipinas, including former No. 1 Liza Soberano and new entry BINI’s Aiah, in the list of 100 most beautiful faces of 2024 by a global beauty poll.

Andrea bested the likes of Jisoo and Rose of Blackpink, American actress Sydney Sweeney, Korean-American K-pop idol Nancy McDonie, and Chris Evans’ wife, Portuguese actress Alba Baptista.

The other members of Blackpink, Jennie and Lisa, also made the annual list compiled

by TC Candler.

After Andrea, Janine Gutierrez entered the list for the fourth year at the 28th spot.

Hall of famer Liza Soberano, who landed at the top spot in 2017, is ranked 31st. Soberano has been included in the list for the 10th straight year.

Actresses Belle Mariano and Ivana Alawi also figured in the list at the 52nd and 69th spot, respectively.

The Philippines’ new entries come from

Actress Andrea Brillantes

STAR / File

the K-pop and P-pop worlds. Gehlee, one of the Philippine-born members of K-pop group UNIS, debuted at the 82nd spot.

BINI member Aiah, meanwhile, is ranked the 88th most beautiful face for 2024.

TC Candler’s 100 Most Beautiful Faces list has been published since 1990, adjudged by a group of approximately 20 people living in various parts of the world. There are over 40 countries that are regularly represented on the annual list. n

Vice Ganda accepts the Special Jury Award at the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival awarding ceremony held in Solaire Ballroom in Paranaque City on December 27, 2024.

Screenshot via MMFF

‘I am finally seen’: Vice Ganda honored with Special Jury award at MMFF 2024

by Kathleen A. Llemit Philstar.com

MANILA — Vice Ganda was visibly surprised when her name was called

by Dennis Trillo and Lorna Tolentino as it was revealed that the popular noontime show host was the recipient of a special jury award at the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) awards night.

The MMFF favorite revealed upon starting her speech that she asked his “And the Breadwinner Is” co-star Eugene Domingo and director Jun Robles Lana about what the award stands for.

“Special Jury Citation for what? For best-dressed of the night? Special Jury Citation for Best Performance? Ganun ba ‘yun? Ah, okay. So, salamat po,” Vice Ganda quipped.

She quickly added that she did not know what the award stood for. Lorna and Dennis, the award presenters, told him that they would be explaining its significance. Dennis read the description that said the citation is given to “a performer who has broken the ground and gone out of the familiar and comfort zone to prove his growth as an artist and tackled issues relevant to the contemporary society.”

After hearing the explanation, Vice Ganda started to give her speech to the crowd at the Solaire ballroom.

“I have long been waiting for this — at last, finally, I am seen.

Maraming-maraming salamat sa pagkilala na iyon. Tonight, I am seen.

With this movie, with this project, I am finally seen. I have been participating at the MMFF for years. This is the first time na meron akong award,” the “It’s Showtime” host said.

Vice Ganda has been part of the annual film festival, churning out one box office hit after another. Some of his previous MMFF entries are “Sisterakas” (2012), “Girl Boy Bakla Tomboy” (2013), “The Amazing Praybeyt Benjamin” (2014) and “The Mall, The Merrier” (2019).

She proceeded to thank her home studio, ABS-CBN, for continuously entrusting her with projects even amid its difficulties after Congress did not renew its broadcast license in 2020.

The actor also thanked Lana for entrusting her with the role in “And The Breadwinner Is,” an official entry at this year’s MMFF. Vice is thankful for giving her an project that does not only allow her to make the audience

laugh but also learn a lot of lessons and realizations from it.

Vice showed his wit at this juncture when he quipped about the MMFF special award.

“My god. Hahabaan ko na baka kasi itong award nito ibig sabihin hindi na ako magbe-Best Actor. (laughs). Baka ito ‘yung award sa mga first runnerup. Baka sayang naman ‘yung outfit at saka sikat naman siya, paakyatin natin siya for star value of the moment,” she said laughing, earning laughs from the audience as well.

The host also took time to underscore about the citations that could have been given to her co-stars.

“I also share this with Eugene Domingo, who I strongly and absolutely believe also deserved to be nominated at least for Best Supporting Actress.

Ganoon din si Gladys Reyes at si Maris Racal. At ang nanay kong si Malou de Guzman.

“Maraming salamat sa Metro Manila Film Festival at kinikilala niyo ako at ang kakayahan ko — isang baklang performer,” Vice ended her speech.

Apart from Vice’s special award, “And The Breadwinner Is” also took home the Gender Sensitivity Award.

16 JANUARY 3 - 9, 2025 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

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