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FDA approves booster shots for children DATELINE USA LAUSD orders 12-15 as COVID-19 winter surge rages on mandatory COVID-19 FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

testing for students, staff ahead of school return

FOLLOWING the latest surge in COVID-19 cases and the omicron variant, the United States’ second largest school district is ordering students and staff to get tested before they return from winter break.

The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) announced on Monday, January 3 that K-12 students and staff must be tested, regardless of vaccination status, before the spring semester begins on Tuesday, January 11.

All students and employees will be required to have proof of a negative COVID-19 test in order to come onto campus on January 11.

Families are encouraged to upload the external PCR or antigen tests, or at-home tests onto the student’s Daily Pass account no later than Sunday January 9.

“As students return to the classroom, we all need to follow the public health safety measures in place to ensure our schools can open safely after the winter break,” Public

by Klarize

Medenilla AJPress

THE United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Monday, Jan. 3 that it would expand eligibility for coronavirus vaccine booster shots to allow 12- to 15-year-olds to receive third vaccine doses, a decision designed to mitigate the rapid surge as the coronavirus outbreak reaches its third year.

The expansion only applies to Pfizer-BioNTech’s vaccine and comes as schools begin to reopen after the holiday break and the omicron variant continues to spread throughout the country.

The FDA said that its decision this week was influenced by data from Israel, which has already been administering booster shots for children and found that side effects are rare among younger people. Israel’s data included information from 6,300 people aged 12 to 15 who received a booster

A CASE of the new COVID-19 variant, Omicron, was confirmed at the end of November in California thanks to the state’s large-scale testing and early detection systems. This variant is a cause for concern, not a reason to panic, and public health officials are monitoring the situation.

Until we know more about the new variant, it is important to remember the four things we can do to protect ourselves and our families against COVID-19: • Get fully vaccinated and get boosted • Wear a mask in indoor public settings • Get tested if you have symptoms or may have been exposed, and • Stay home when feeling sick

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by Kaithreen

Cruz ManilaTimes.net

NO PROCESSION ANEW. Devotees stand near the vicinity of Quiapo Church on Wednesday, January 6. For the second straight year, the annual ‘traslacion’ or grand procession of the Black Nazarene is suspended due to soaring coronavirus infections.

PNA photo by Rico H. Borja

Fernandez

Inquirer.net

MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte proposed on Tuesday, January 4 the deployment of police officers at quarantine hotels to prevent anyone from skipping quarantine, as a Filipino woman who arrived from the U.S. did last December.

During his weekly address to the people, Duterte admitted that it would be difficult to guard individuals under quarantine.

“Much as we would like really to control, even going after these defiant people, we can’t really guard them,” he said, speaking in a mix of Filipino and English.

“It would not be legally correct to go af-

THE Department of Health (DOH) placed the entire country under the high-risk category as COVID-19 cases grew by 222% in just two weeks.

“Nationally, we are now at high risk case classification — from low risk case classification in the previous week — showing a positive two-week growth rate at 222% and moderate risk average daily attack rate at 1.07 cases for every 100,000 individuals,” Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said.

She explained that the National Capital Region (NCR) had the highest increase in cases with an average daily attack rate of 5.42 cases per 100,000 population.

Vergeire said that average daily cases significantly increased by 570%, which was seven times higher than in the previous weeks. The national positivity rate has reached 10.8 percent, while NCR has a positivity rate of 19.4%.

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More similarities than differences between flu and COVID-19 INFLUENZA and COVID-19, both infectious respiratory diseases, share similar symptoms and can even be contracted by a person at the same time, making it tricky to determine the infection by symptoms alone.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), flu, which is caused by the influenza virus, and COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, spread similarly via droplets and aerosols when an infected person coughs, sneezes, speaks, sings or breathes.

Pres. Duterte wants cops deployed in quarantine hotels to prevent skipping by daniza

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COVID-19 CASES UP 570% DOH says PH back in high-risk category

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As we learn more about Omicron variant, COVID-19 safety basics remain important

shot at least five months after the initial second dose.

“Throughout the pandemic, as the virus that causes COVID-19 has continuously evolved, the need for the FDA to quickly adapt has meant using the best available science to make informed decisions with the health and safety of the American public in mind,” said acting FDA Commissioner Dr. Janet Woodcock in a statement.

The FDA’s announcement was preceded by the

ter the hotel owners or the managers there, whoever is attending to the needs of the people that are inside the hotel because of quarantine reasons,” Duterte said. “It has to be a government personnel or employee.”

He then asked Interior Secretary Eduardo Año if it would be possible to put two officers in two shifts in each quarantine hotel.

“Yes, sir,” Año said. “The chief Philippine National Police and I have talked about this and they’re prepared to do it.”

Meanwhile, earlier on Tuesday, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Grou of the PNP filed a complaint at the Makati City Prosecutor’s Office against the woman who

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People can also contract both COVID-19 and influenza by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching their eyes, nose or mouth.

The United States’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists the following shared symptoms for flu and COVID-19: fever or having chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle pain or body aches, headache,

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PNP includes parents in complaint vs DOT chief: Passenger from ‘quarantine jumper’ US arrested after skipping Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat

MANILA — The Philippine National Police filed criminal complaints on Tuesday, January 4 against a Filipino woman who violated quarantine regulations and eight other people, including her parents, who allegedly helped her skip a mandatory five-day isolation after her return from the United States before last Christmas.

The PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) said Gwyneth Anne Chua and the others violated Republic Act No. 11332, or the Mandatory Reporting of Notifiable Diseases and Health Events of Public Health Concern Act. In the complaints it filed in the Makati City prosecutor’s office, the CIDG said Chua and the others failed to cooperate and comply with quarantine orders and violated the

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Philstar.com file photo

quarantine, getting massage by rosette

adel

Philstar.com

MANILA — The Department of Tourism reported another quarantine breach.

Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said a female passenger from the United States did not undergo quarantine and posted about getting a massage on the day she arrived.

This was reported by an informant who personally knows the passenger. The

informant gave a sworn affidavit about the quarantine breach.

“Somebody gave the name even gave pictures that on the day she arrived she even got a massage, as in she was even posting it on her Instagram stories. She was very proud that she was skipping quarantine,” Puyat said partly in Filipino in an interview with CNN Philippines’ “The Source”.

“That person has already

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JANUARY 7-13, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

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From The FronT Page

PH inflation climbed to 3-year-high in 2021

by Ben

O. de Vera Inquirer.net

THE country ended 2021 with a three-year-high, above-target inflation rate of 4.5 percent, which meant that faster-than-manageable price hikes, especially of food and oil prices, tempered consumer spending at a time it was needed to rev-up economic recovery and address poverty that was aggravated by the prolonged pandemic.

Last year’s average rate of increase in prices of basic commodities was the highest since the 5.2 percent in 2018, when a spike in rice prices eventually led to liberalized trade. Rice tariffication, or allowing more imports in exchange for higher revenue through tariff, hurt local farmers but lowered prices of the staple food.

Rice inflation slowed to 0.9 percent year-on-year from 1 percent last November. Rice also posted a deflation, or lower yearon-year prices, at the start of implementation of the Rice Tariffication Act in 2019.

In 2021, the economic team pushed for more pork imports to augment domestic supply which was battered by the African swine fever (ASF) outbreak since late 2020. While President Duterte had issued executive orders (EOs) to raise the pork import volume cap at lower tariffs, importation had been slow which led to price spikes as a result of high demand during the Christmas holiday season.

Headline inflation eased to 3.6 percent — 2021’s lowest monthly rate — last December, but the full-year average remained above the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) 2 to 4 percent target band of price increases deemed conducive to economic growth.

On a seasonally adjusted basis, price levels in December were flat or posted zero-percent growth compared to November’s, Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) data on Wednesday (Jan. 5) showed.

Vegetable deflation plus slower price increases in fish and rice helped bring down the nationwide inflation rate last month.

Not even the onslaught of Super Typhoon Odette (Rai) made a dent on vegetable and fish supply, National Statistician Dennis Mapa told a press briefing. It also helped that the government had allowed fish importation toward the end of 2021 amid closed fishing season.

PSA data showed that areas outside the National Capital Region (NCR) posted a 3.9-percent year-on-year inflation rate in December, down from 4.5 percent in November but a faster pace than the 2.8 percent in NCR. Central Visayas and Caraga — two of the six regions pummeled

by Odette — posted higher inflation rates in December compared to November, PSA data also showed.

The December nationwide rate decelerated partly as transport inflation, which included petroleum and fuel prices, fell to 6.1 percent year-on-year from 8.8 percent in November.

The jump in oil prices eased, although still high, to 29.4 percent year-on-year in December from November’s 42.1 percent.

As the economy further reopened and increased capacity in mass transportation, jeepney fare declined 0.2 percent yearon-year last month alongside a slower 1.7-percent increase in tricycle fare compared to previous months.

MAP OF THE PHILIPPINES. Using recycled materials such as plastic bottles, eco-aides of the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office of Mendez-Nuñez in Cavite construct a model of the Philippine islands as an attraction at the former dumpsite in the upper part of Cavite province on Tuesday, Jan. 4.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Dennis Abrina

Mapa said higher oil prices — owing to their low base in 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic slashed global demand amid lockdowns which restricted mobility and travel across borders — was a contributor to the above-target 2021 inflation rate.

However, it was still food and non-alcoholic beverages, which accounted for 38.34 percent of the consumer price index (CPI) basket, that contributed the most to 2021’s inflation spike.

In December 2021, food inflation eased to 3.1 percent from 3.9 percent in November, but meat, especially pork, remained expensive.

Meat inflation inched up to 11.3 percent year-on-year last month from 10.7 percent in November, Mapa said. Pork inflation alone rose to 17.9 percent from 17.3 percent a month ago.

Amid the Christmas holiday season, fresh pork meat prices in Metro Manila rose 4.7 percent to P348 per kilo from November’s P332 a kilo. The year-on-year jump was a bigger 14.2 percent from P305 per kilo in December 2020, Mapa said.

In areas outside Metro Manila, pork prices, while less expensive, also climbed to P296 a kilo last month, up 1.8 percent from P291 per kilo a month ago and 20.3-percent higher than P246 a kilo a year ago.

The National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) had been flagging pork imports arriving in trickles, which the state planning agency reiterated on Wednesday, January 5 to push an extension until December 2022 of EO No. 133. The executive order in 2021 raised minimum access volume (MAV), or the amount of pork that could be imported, to 254,210 metric tons from 54,210 MT or about four times.

In a text message, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Karl Kendrick Chua, who is also Neda chief, said the proposal to extend the EO’s provisions on MAV had to be first recomputed based on the projected gap in demand and supply for 2022.

Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, President Rodrigo Duterte’s chief economic manager, was amenable to Neda’s proposal to prolong EO 133’s validity, which expired in end-2021 as the President’s order stated that last year’s MAV balance cannot be carried over to 2022.

In a statement, Neda said that as of Dec. 27, 2021, “only around 46 percent or 60,000 MT out of 130,000 MT of the MAV plus with import certificates was utilized.”

Also, Chua again urged distribution of more imported pork outside Metro Manila, citing that “meat is among the top three drivers of inflation in 14 out of 16 regions outside the NCR in December 2021.” Meat inflation outside Metro Manila inched up to 11.5 percent year-on-year last

AFP file photo

month, from November 2021’s 11.3 percent.

As imports had been sold mainly in Metro Manila supermarkets and not in wet markets, the Department of Agriculture (DA) in October 2021 issued a memorandum circular in October to distribute more pork outside Metro Manila and to institutional buyers and processors.

“With the NCR and the neighboring provinces of Cavite, Rizal, and Bulacan now under alert level 3, it is important to ensure affordable food prices and the continued delivery of goods and services,” Chua said.

“To temper inflation in meat, especially pork, the government is working to increase local supply and ensure regular unloading of stocks from cold storages,” he added, referring to the stricter measures in place until mid-January, amid the current surge in COVID infections.

For Chua, low and stable inflation would help the Philippines sustain its recovery from the pandemic-induced economic slump in 2020.

“The emergence of new variants has shown us that the COVID-19 virus is not going to go away easily,” Chua said.

“The good news is even as we temporarily impose more stringent restrictions to contain the spread of the Omicron variant, we have learned to manage the risks and live with the virus,” he added.

“Economic prospects in 2022 still remain promising, and we urge everyone to play their role in the recovery by getting vaccinated, availing of booster shots, and strictly adhering to the minimum public health standards,” the Neda chief said.

The government expects to have ended 2021 with gross domestic product (GDP) growth of 5 to 5.5 percent, to reverse the worst post-war recession in 2020 when economic output shrank by a record 9.6 percent.

For this year, the government targets a faster 7 to 9 percent growth, alongside expectations of within-target inflation as food supply bottlenecks were being addressed.

Prices, especially of food, also bore down heavier on poor Filipinos — end-2021 inflation among the bottom 30-percent income households was a higher 4.8 percent, compared to the 4.5-percent headline rate. This was despite a bigger drop in December 2021 inflation to 3.3 percent year-on-year among the poorest Filipino families, mainly due to slower price hikes among the food items they consumed.

The government last December reported that the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic, which shed millions of jobs and closed down thousands of businesses, coupled with elevated consumer prices jacked up the Philippines’ poverty rate to 23.7 percent in the first half of 2021, from 21.1 percent in 2018. n

FDA approves booster shots for children 12-15...

PAGE 1 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) announcement that it will shorten the waiting period for the Pfizer vaccine booster shot.

The CDC also supports administering the booster shot to children ages 5 to 11 who are moderately or severely immunocompromised, a recommendation shared by the FDA. Despite the controversy surrounding the CDC’s guidance surrounding isolation periods for people who test positively for coronavirus, the agency has been pushing to get more people vaccinated and boosted.

“As we have done throughout the pandemic, we will continue to update our recommendations to ensure the best possible protection for the American people,” Dr. Rochelle Walensky, CDC Director, wrote in a statement. “Following the FDA’s authorizations, today’s recommendations ensure people are able to get a boost of protection in the face of Omicron and increasing cases across the country and ensure that the most vulnerable children can get an additional dose to optimize protection against COVID-19.”

Confirmed by multiple scientific studies and trends across the country, those who are vaccinated and boosted are less likely to succumb to the more severe effects of the coronavirus.

Walensky said last week that daily case counts across the country have climbed about 60%, but hospitalizations and deaths have been relatively low, leading to the conclusion that the omicron variant may be less fatal.

According to the CDC, more than 70% of people aged 12 or older in the United States are fully vaccinated, as of Tuesday, Jan. 4. Since receiving clearance to get vaccinated in November, more children between 5 and 11 are getting vaccinated; as of Tuesday, about a quarter of all U.S. children in that age bracket have received at least one dose.

On Wednesday, Jan. 5 the CDC reported 717,765 new cases across the United States. Additionally, the seven-day average for positive COVID cases

stands at 547,613 new cases per day, according to the CDC. In comparison, the CDC reported 151,140 new cases nationwide a month before, on Dec. 3. The seven-day average then was 107,434.

The surge this week is likely due to holiday gatherings, and health regulators are expecting an increase in the following weeks due to the holiday break.

In Los Angeles County — once the most concentrated coronavirus hub last winter — officials reported 26,754 new positive cases and 27 new deaths from coronavirus on Wednesday.

While case numbers are on the rise, hospitalizations and deaths remain steady, suggesting that “vaccines remain extremely protective against the most severe outcomes from COVID infections,” the county said in a statement.

“Rate ratios are a key metric for evaluating the protection offered by vaccines. These ratios compare rates of an outcome in unvaccinated people with rates of the same outcome in fully vaccinated people; the higher the rate ratio, the more protective the vaccine is against the outcome,” the county said.

Between Dec. 15-28, the rate ratio for admission into intensive care units was 21.3, which suggests that ICU admission was 21.3 times higher for unvaccinated patients than fully vaccinated individuals.

“We are grateful to the 80% of eligible residents who have already received at least one dose of [the] vaccine – and we hope that the almost 2 million people who have yet to be vaccinated take time to talk with their health care provider to receive additional information about the safety and effectiveness of the vaccines,” Dr. Barbara Ferrer, director of LA County Dept. of Public Health.

“Choosing not to take the vaccine during this explosive winter surge is very risky since so many of those ill with COVID in the intensive care units at hospitals are unvaccinated, and tragically, some of these individuals will not survive. n

More similarities than differences...

PAGE 1 vomiting and diarrhea and change in or loss of taste or smell (although this is more frequent with COVID-19).

However, symptoms may develop longer after infection for those with COVID-19 than those who have flu, the CDC said.

A person with COVID-19 typically shows symptoms five days after being infected, while a person with flu can experience symptoms one to four days after infection.

Those with COVID-19 can also be contagious for a longer time than people with flu, who are contagious for only about a day before they show symptoms.

Health experts from the WHO had said that some may have few symptoms for flu or COVID-19 depending on one’s immunity level.

The Johns Hopkins University, meanwhile, said both illnesses can be asymptomatic and symptoms may range from mild to fatal. Flu and COVID-19 may also lead to pneumonia.

Cooler weather and lower humidity are also key factors in the spread of viruses, the US National Institutes of Health said in its January 2022 newsletter. It quoted health experts who said cold and flu viruses survive better and become more

transmissible during winter.

Likewise, health experts had said that preventive measures are similar for the two diseases, namely washing of hands, wearing of masks, maintaining physical distancing and staying in well-ventilated areas.

A preliminary study in The University of Hong Kong (HKU) showed that Omicron thrives in airways, where it multiplies itself 70 times more quickly, compared to the Delta variant. Omicron, however, replicates 10 times more slowly in lung tissues, which might contribute to less severe illness. But the peer review for the formal report of the study has yet to be completed.

In the Philippines, influenza-like illnesses increased by 30 percent last year. From Jan. 1 to Nov. 13, there were 71,708 influenza-like cases, up from 55,331 cases recorded during the same period in 2020, based on a surveillance report of the Department of Health.

Davao region had the most number of cases in the same period with 16,013, followed by Northern Mindanao (10,168) and Central Visayas (8,773).

Deaths due to influenza-like illnesses also rose to 831 from Jan. 1 to Nov. 13 last year, up from 577 deaths registered in the same period in 2020.

(Inquirer.net) n

Pres. Duterte wants cops...

PAGE 1 skipped quarantine last December — Gwyneth Anne Chua — along with her parents, and five employees and officials of the

hotel where she was supposed to have been under quarantine.

Chua breached COVID-19 quarantine protocols by leaving the Berjaya Makati Hotel to at-

tend a party in Barangay Poblacion, Makati.

The hotel had earlier apologized for “failing to stop” Chua from skipping quarantine. n

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JANUARY 7-13, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

From The FronT Page

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588

DOT chief: Passenger from... DOH says PH back in high-risk category...

PAGE 1 been caught,” she added.

Puyat said the arrested passenger just claimed she checked into a hotel but the report showed that she never checked in for quarantine. She added that the passenger went directly to her condominium.

The DOT chief has yet to respond to Philstar.com’s request for comment on the custody and whereabouts of the quarantine violator.

The DOT chief in the televised interview, however, said the details on the quarantine violator have already been submitted to the Bureau of Quarantine and the Department of Interior and Local Government.

“I leave it up to them,” she said.

‘Poblacion incident’ The latest quarantine breach came after a woman, identified as Gwyneth Anne Chua, was able to skip isolation at a hotel in Makati to party and then eventually tested positive for COVID-19.

Chua also arrived from the U.S. Berjaya Makati Hotel, the hotel under probe for the quarantine breach, said sorry “for failing to stop the guest from jumping her quarantine.”

The DOT earlier served a Notice to Explain directing the establishment to submit its response to the allegations within the three days.

Puyat said she already read the press release of the Makati hotel but had yet to receive a formal reply from the establishment.

Under the country’s quarantine rules, passengers who arrived from countries and territories under the Yellow list such as the U.S. are required to undergo facility-based quarantine with an RT-PCR test taken on the fifth day, with the date of arrival being the first day.

“Regardless of a negative result, they shall be required to undergo home quarantine up to the 14th day from the date of arrival,” the Department of Health said.

Meanwhile, quarantine facilities such as hotels that would break the health and safety protocols of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases may be penalized.

“Failure to comply with the health and safety protocols of the DOT, the DOH, or the IATF-EID may lead to criminal penalties of fines and/or imprisonment, and administrative penalties such as suspension or revocation of accreditation depending on the gravity of the offense,” the DOT said in a previous statement. n

LAUSD orders mandatory COVID-19 testing for students...

PAGE 1 Health Director Barbara Ferrer said in the release. “Because higher community transmission creates additional challenges at our schools, everyone needs to do their part to slow the spread of the virus.”

For information on testing centers and to make a COVID-19 test appointment at a Los Angeles Unified site, please visit lausd.net/COVIDtestingappt or call the Family Help Desk at (213) 443-1300. While appointments are encouraged, no appointment is needed for Los Angeles Unified COVID-19 tests. For a link of operating hours by testing site, please visit achieve.lausd.net/COVID-

testingappt.

COVID-19 at-home rapid self-tests are available for K-12 students. Students can pick up a free at-home COVID-19 rapid self-tests on Friday, January 7 and Saturday, January 8 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at any of the district’s 63 Grab & Go sites.

Each student may receive two self-tests. Please visit lausd. net/COVID for a map of pickup locations.

Weekly testing will continue for all students and employees through the month of January.

Masking will be required at all times, indoors and outdoors.

Students 12 and older will be required to be vaccinated by the fall 2022 semester. (AJPress) n

PAGE 1 “An increase in the number of individuals testing positive, as well as positivity rate, were seen across all regions. All regions, except for NCR, showed a decline in the number of samples tested in the recent week compared to the previous week,” she added.

Health care utilization rates in national and regional levels were low, after the DOH alerted

hospitals and local government units to prepare for the possible increase in cases.

Meanwhile, Health Undersecretary and Treatment Czar Leopoldo Vega warned that Omicron could become the dominant variant in the next three to four weeks.

“I think in about three to four weeks, as predicted, the Omicron will be dominant in terms of 50 to 90% of the cases, over-

BUSINESS AS USUAL. Shoppers search for bargains in Divisoria in Manila on Sunday, Jan. 2, amid warnings from government officials on rising COVID-19 cases.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Mike Alquinto

taking the Delta variant. But the Delta variant is still around with us,” he said in an interview with ANC. He noted that studies on the Omicron variant showed that it only brought mild symptoms.

However, he warned that the huge number of cases that could be caused by the Omicron variant could overwhelm hospitals.

Vega urged the public to get vaccinated against COVID-19.

“Vaccines prevent severe cases [of the virus] and even death.

Definitely, all of these vaccines would wane in terms of the neutralizing antibodies for Omicron, but they can prevent serious disease and death,” he said.

On Monday, January 3, the DOH reported 4,084 new cases of COVID-19, pushing the total number of infections to 2,855,819 with 24,992 active cases.

Majority of the active cases were either asymptomatic or mild.

Hospital bed utilization increased in Metro Manila to 29% occupancy for intensive care unit beds, 27% for isolation beds, and 30% for ward

beds. At the national level, they were at 23% each for ICU and isolation beds and 16% forward beds.

Vergeire reminded the public to follow health protocols.

She also advised against visiting the three Cs — close spaces, crowded places, and close-contact settings — where the virus could easily spread. “[DoH] would like to remind all our citizens that if you experience symptoms, please isolate at once and have yourself tested — it is better to test and be sure,” she added.

Vergeire said that PhilHealth now offers free COVID testing.

Stay home Malacañang urged the public to stay indoors unless they have to do essential business outside.

Cabinet Secretary and acting Presidential spokesman Karlo Alexei Nograles particularly addressed the call to those who “are not feeling well” and are exhibiting flu-like symptoms.

“Ang panawagan namin sa lahat (our appeal to everyone), when you feel something is not right, ‘wag ka nang lumabas

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As we learn more about Omicron variant, COVID-19...

PAGE 1 California and federal health officials are working around the clock to study the new variant, including how it spreads, the vaccine’s efficacy against it and impact on COVID-19 symptoms. The reality is that the longer COVID-19 remains a threat, the most variants we will have to overcome. That’s why it is critical Californians get vaccinated to slow the spread of the dominant strains.

Kids 5-11 are eligible for vaccines and adults who have already completed their vaccine series are able to receive booters in time for the holidays.

Based on what we do know about this emerging variant, I’m answering your questions below: How can I protect my family from this new variant?

COVID-19 safety basics continue to be important tools to help slow the spread of COVID-19. First and foremost, everyone who is eligible should get vaccinated and complete their vaccination series.

Get a booster when you are eligible. If you are sick, stay home and get tested for COVID-19. And wear a mask when it can protect you and others, especially in indoor public settings. N95 and KN95 masks offer the best protection.

Additionally, Californians are strongly encouraged to enroll in CA Notify to be informed when they have been exposed to

COVID-19, or to anonymously report that they’ve tested positive. CANotify.ca.gov makes it easy for California to quickly alert others of possible exposure, allowing them to take the necessary precautions to reduce the spread of COVID-19 across the state.

Will the vaccines still work against the Omicron variant?

We are still learning about the new variant, including how it spreads and infects individuals as well as how it responds to vaccines. But we do know that variants will continue to emerge as long as there are large proportions of unvaccinated people. We have to remember that COVID-19 is a virus, it wants to live as long as possible by mutating into other variants, which is why vaccination is key to stopping it and its future variants in their tracks.

Right now, we know that all three COVID-19 vaccines remain highly effective in preventing serious illness, hospitalization and death associated with the main variant circulating in California: the Delta variant.

Will the tests we have in California be able to detect the Omicron variant?

The Omicron variant can be detected with PCR and antigen testing that is currently available in California. Testing is being expanded by the state at international airports, prioritizing arrivals from affected countries. The state is monitoring for the variant’s presence through COVIDNet, the

unprecedented Whole Genome Sequencing Surveillance that utilizes sequencing data to help control the spread of COVID-19.

I have family overseas and I am worried about us and them traveling during the holiday season.

Travelers should follow guidance from the CDC. All air passengers, regardless of vaccination status, must show a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than one day before travel to the U.S. starting December 6. Additionally, the CDC recommends testing within 3-5 days after arrival, and unvaccinated travelers should quarantine for 7 days regardless of a negative test. If COVID-19 symptoms develop, travelers should continue to isolate and get tested again.

Where can I go to get tested if I have symptoms of COVID-19, or if I have been potentially exposed?

Californians can find a COVID-19 testing site online at MyTurn.ca.gov or by calling (833) 422-4255.

Where can families get more information about the vaccine and to make an appointment?

Visit the state’s websites at www. vaccinateall58.com or www.myturn.ca.gov for more information on the safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines and to make a vaccination appointment. (Dr. Dali Fan/Ethnic Media Services) n

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Dateline PhiliPPines

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106% of NCR’s population protection Typhoon Odette agriculture target now fully vaxxed vs COVID damage climbs to P11.1 billion

by Daniza

FernanDez

Inquirer.net

MANILA — Around 10.4 million individuals or 106% of Metro Manila’s population protection target are now fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

“Sa ngayon po, ang nabakunahan po natin ay 106% na po, 10.4 million,” Metropolitan Manila Development Authority chairman Benhur Abalos said during President Rodrigo Duterte’s Talk to the People on Thursday, January 6.

(To date, we have vaccinated 106%, 10.4 million.)

Meanwhile, 11,147,904 individuals have received their first dose as of January 4, data presented by Abalos showed. This

represents 113.75% of the target.

The chair also noted that the capital region is on track to achieve its goal of administering 763,986 booster doses this month.

“Sa booster shots naman ang tina-target po namin ay [763,986] for January. Ngayon po ay nakaka-[727,897] na po tayo. Maganda na po, right on target,” he said.

(For booster shots, our target is 763,986 for January. Now, we have administered 727,897. It is good, right on target.)

On the other hand, local governments in Metro Manila are exerting more effort to inoculate the pediatric population or those aged 12 to 17.

“Sa pediatric, ito po ‘yung mga

bata, ang target po rito is 1.4 million, nakaka-[919,975] na po tayo na first dose at 804,313 [for second dose],” Abalos noted.

(For the pediatric population, our target is 1.4 million. We have vaccinated 919,975 for the first dose and 804,313 for the second dose.)

“Double time pa rin po kami dito dahil talaga ang tanging solusyon dito, ang pinaka-solusyon ay ang pagbabakuna,” he continued.

(We are working double time because the solution to the pandemic is vaccination.)

Nationwide, about 51 million individuals are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as of January 5, Department of Health data presented. n

Lorenzana: Viral video on martial law ‘fake news’

by FranCis

earl Cueto ManilaTimes.net

DEFENSE Secretary Delfin Lorenzana dubbed as “fake news,” a viral social media video which said that the country will be placed under martial law due to the sharp increase in new coronavirus disease 2019

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.

(COVID -19) cases daily.

“Not true. Fake news.

Definitely out of the picture.

There is no compelling reason to declare martial law,” Lorenzana said.

Lorenzana said that the rapid rise is not a big enough reason to make such a declaration.

“Increase in new cases? The

Contributed photo

highest we had was 26,000 plus last year. Today we have 17,220. This variant, while more transmissible, is less virulent than delta. Less people get seriously sick,” he said.

A video circulating online said President Rodrigo Duterte will declare martial law due to the rising number of COVID-19 cases that was attributed to the more transmissible Omicron variant.

It asked people to start stockpiling and prepare as well for a lockdown.

Under the Philippine Constitution, the President, as head of state and commander in chief of the armed forces, may declare Martial Law “in case of invasion or rebellion, when the public safety requires it.”

When asked on the possibility of an enhanced community quarantine type of lockdown, Lorenzana pointed to the InterAgency Task Force.

“The IATF is still evaluating.

But not total lockdown,” Lorenzana said. n

by Catherine

talavera Philstar.com

MANILA — Damage to agriculture due to Typhoon Odette has increased to P11.1 billion, the Department of Agriculture (DA)-Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Operations Center reported on Thursday, Jan. 6.

The DA said 389,316 farmers and fishermen in Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Zamboanga peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Davao, Soccsksargen and Caraga and 420,465 hectares of agricultural land have been affected so far. ”Affected commodities include rice, corn, high-value crops, coconut, sugarcane, livestock and fisheries. Damage has also been incurred in agricultural infrastructures, machineries and equipment,” the DA said.

Fisheries accounted for 27 percent of the damage valued at P3 billion; rice, P2.6 billion; high-value crops, P1.5 billion; coconut, P1.5 billion, sugarcane, P1.2 billion, and irrigation and agri-facilities, P411.4 million.

Meanwhile, damage to the power sector climbed to P3.36

City government general services employees and police personnel clear a road of felled trees and other debris left by Typhoon Odette in Barangay Tipolo in Mandaue, Cebu on Thursday, January 6.

Philstar.com photo

billion as more electric cooperatives submitted their reports.

The National Electrification Administration (NEA) said 33 power cooperatives incurred losses.

Data from NEA’s disaster risk reduction and management department showed that the Southern Leyte Electric Coop-

erative Inc. incurred losses of P723 million followed by Bohol Electric Cooperative Inc., with P545.54 million, and Surigao del Norte Electric Cooperative Inc., P433.79 million.

The NEA said restoration of household connections reached 68.6 percent or 2.56 million households. n

DOH says PH back in high-risk...

PAGE 4 (don’t go out anymore). Isolate then treat it as if you have COVID,” Nograles said in an interview with ANC’s Headstart.

“Any symptoms... Mag-isolate ka muna, ‘wag ka munang mag-report sa work, magpa-test ka agad (Isolate first, don’t report to work, get tested immediately). Try to protect your families, those in the community, your workplaces,” he added.

Alert Level 3 means limited mobility anew especially for minors and senior citizens.

Officials of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases will meet on Tuesday, January 4, to discuss the restrictions

to be applied in areas under Alert Level 3.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said that unvaccinated people will not be allowed outside.

MMDA Chairman Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr. said in a virtual press briefing that Metro mayors unanimously agreed to pass ordinances that will restrict the movement and activities of unvaccinated people.

Abalos said unvaccinated people should stay at home.

They will only be allowed out to buy food, water and medicine.

They will also not be allowed in restaurants, malls, hotels, event venues and sports and country clubs. They will also

not be allowed to take public transportation.

“This is like [Enhanced Community Quarantine] but only for the unvaccinated, and for their own protection,” Abalos said.

“It will be hard for us to go into lockdown again. We must learn how to live with the [Omicron] variant,” he added.

Individual outdoor exercises may be allowed for unvaccinated people but it should be limited to “within the general area of residence.”

Those who have to report to work will have to take RT-PCR tests every two weeks at their own expense. They must also present a negative COVID-19 test result. n

6

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OpiniOn

Tracing, testing urgently needed

Features

HERE we go again, forced to tighten public health safety restrictions as the latest COVID variant of concern threatens lives and economic recovery.

After nearly two years, everyone should be familiar with the drill by now. And authorities should know the weaknesses in the pandemic response that still wait to be addressed, starting with contact tracing and testing.

The government never fully dealt with the weakness of contact tracing capability, leaving the task largely to local government units while hoping that vaccination would make up for the inadequacy.

Only international travelers have been properly documented for contact tracing. The StaySafe.

PH tracing app is a national embarrassment and LGUs have yet to fully link their respective tracing apps to a central database.

Contact tracing will be critical if the government wants to contain what is said to be the most transmissible variant yet of SARS-CoV-2. At the same time, timely testing must be made more affordable and accessible. Even when showing possible symptoms of COVID and the potential to spread the disease to the entire household, the cost of a reliable RT-PCR test – the cheapest being P1,500 for a saliva test – discourages many people from getting tested.

Some LGUs with small populations have offered

free testing to residents in low-income communities. Even those who are not extremely poor, however, but have lost their livelihoods due to the pandemic will be deterred by the cost of testing. If they get infected, the absence of contact tracing will raise their risk of spreading the virus.

On Monday, January 3, the first working day of the year, the Department of Health reported that the entire country was back to “high risk” for COVID. At the same time, the DOH said people should behave as if there is now community transmission of the Omicron variant, said to be several times more infectious than the virulent Delta.

The DOH is basing its warning on the leap in new infections. Within a span of one week, cases nationwide have surged from just 318 on Dec. 27 Philstar.com photo to 4,600 by Jan. 2. Monday’s cases were at 4,084, with no reports from 21 laboratories. the stricter Alert Level 3 also began Monday. and aggressive testing have been shown to be In Metro Manila, epicenter of the contagion Restricting mobility and vaccination are not effective in containing a surge. They will be since the onset of the pandemic in the country, enough. From the start, efficient contact tracing indispensable in fighting Omicron. (Philstar.com)

Editorial

Irresponsible travelers

Babe’s Eye View BaBe Romualdez THERE is absolutely no doubt that the highly contagious Omicron is now raging quickly all over the world, with countries in Europe as well as the United States and Australia reporting record-high cases of infection this week. To manage and control the transmission of this virus to the extent possible, strict health protocols need to be implemented. Clearly, the number one health protocol is to quarantine travelers from abroad.

In the United States, a staggering 580,000 cases were reported last Thursday, Dec. 30, and experts have already warned of an “Omicron blizzard” as cases of infection continue to rise dramatically, averaging 290,000 daily during the week.

One good news is that recent studies on laboratory animals and human tissues indicate that compared to earlier variants, Omicron causes milder illness because it largely attacks the

upper respiratory tract – the nostrils, throat and larynx – and causes less severe damage to the lungs, most especially for those triple vaccinated.

However, the speed at which it spreads still makes it dangerous in overwhelming hospitals and may cause deaths, especially to unvaccinated individuals.

A study conducted in South Africa, specifically on the city of Tshwane which was described by researchers as the “global epicenter” of the Omicron surge, showed that the peak has passed roughly one month after a surge in cases, with milder illness and no corresponding jump in hospitalizations and deaths. But this is likely due to high levels of prior infection and vaccination coverage, since about two thirds of the people in Tshwane already had some form of immunity from COVID-19 either through vaccination or prior infection.

Yet there is still so much that we don’t know about Omicron so we have to be cautious.

Even if studies indicate that it is milder, particularly for those who received mRNA vaccines, it is still the responsibility of every

single person – especially those who remain unvaccinated – to take precautions because they could actually be the carrier of a lethal weapon.

Ultimately, no one will argue that it is our responsibility to make sure we do not contribute to the spread of COVID-19, even if in places like the US, freedom and choice are pre-eminent.

Some countries are imposing masking and vaccination mandates, limiting the choices of people: either you get vaccinated or risk isolation because you could potentially kill another person if you pass on the virus. Aside from the elderly and people with co-morbidities, younger individuals have also become susceptible, with reports confirming that younger people are getting hospitalized due to Omicron.

In the Philippines, the Omicron variant is already spreading with new cases spiking to 2,961 last Friday, Dec. 31 – the highest in almost two months, with the positivity rate recorded at 10.3 percent which is way above the five percent standard set by the WHO. Local cases of Omicron infection have

also been confirmed in Metro Manila, which was to be placed under the stricter Alert Level 3 starting Wednesday, Jan. 5.

The report about this particular individual who flouted mandatory hotel quarantine protocols and even went partying despite knowing she may be carrying the virus is really the height of irresponsibility. This person arrived from the United States and after checking in at a quarantine hotel on Dec. 22, had dinner with some friends the next day and even went partying at a bar in Makati later that night. On the fifth day since her arrival, she tested positive for COVID-19.

After an initial denial, the woman admitted that she violated quarantine protocols, said Tourism Secretary Berna Puyat, who also disclosed that the hotel is now under investigation and was issued a show cause order to explain why the person was able to leave the hotel when she was supposed to be in isolation.

Reports say at least 15 people who came into close contact with the violator have tested

positive for COVID-19.

The bar where the individual went partying also expressed its dismay and disappointment at the turn of events, with the health and safety of the guests and staff already compromised because many have been infected.

“For the past two years under this pandemic, we have worked tirelessly to ensure that our venue is a safe place for our customers to have a good time without fear of contracting the virus,” the bar said in a statement.

The establishment had no idea that the woman came from abroad as she was with a group that had prior reservation. She showed proof of vaccination, had her temperature taken and even filled a health declaration form. As a consequence, the bar decided to close for the meantime, with the rest of the staff undergoing testing and strict isolation for the next few weeks.

Aside from potentially passing on the virus which could prove fatal to high-risk individuals, this irresponsible behavior of one individual

could also kill businesses that are crucial to the country’s economic recovery.

People should not forget that more than ever this pandemic continues to be lethal. More than five million people all over the world have died, with over 286 million infected and counting – which means their families have also suffered and may be continuing to suffer through this pandemic. Add to that the trillions of dollars in terms of global economic losses.

All of us may have different political beliefs or “colors” but at the end of the day, we all live on the same planet and only have one country. As true Filipinos, we should think of doing good to our fellow citizens and act responsibly. I pray the New Year will bring a renewed spirit of hope in our country. (Philstar.com) *** 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: babeseyeview@gmail.com

The promise of 2022

Glimpses

Jose ma. monteliBano IN most cases, an ending year simply ushers in a new year in a chronological manner. Of course, the change in numbers from one year to another remains important because many things in life, especially history, are documented numerically.

But some new years are beyond symbolic, beyond numeric. They really are new because they carry with them a new energy, a new spirit.

2022 is one such year. The pandemic is morphing into a new variant, Omicron, milder, it seems, but many times more infectious. There are lessons from Great Britain and other European countries now undergoing new surges despite their highly vaccinated populations. 2022 will not just be about more vaccinations but booster shots, and maybe fourth shots.

The new normal is not any clearer two years down the road with COVID-19. In fact, it is only COVID-19 that is sure about what its future is. At no time during its inception did COVID-19 waver from its nature, from its capacity to infect and to mutate. New normal can only come after eliminating COVID-19 or learning

how to live with it in a humanly productive way.

For the Philippines, what is differently new? The pandemic may be changing form but that is not new. What may be uniquely challenging is adapting to active life outside the home despite high levels of COVID. It is not only the fact that there will be no hundreds of billions anymore of subsidies left but that the economy cannot survive more paralysis and bankruptcies. It may be that circumstances will force government to avoid lockdowns so businesses can stay open, and people allowed to work and earn.

The early highlight, though, of 2022 is the campaign and elections that have already captured so much attention among Filipinos. The changing of the guards, so to speak, causes unusual excitement and apprehension. Saying goodbye to a visibly tired and ailing Duterte gives hope to a healthier and younger replacement – and Filipinos deserve a fully active and creative president in one of our worst moments.

At the same time, old faces of power hardly ever want to willingly cede away power and the control of awesome resources. Now increasingly known among their detractors as the Gang of Four, in reference to the old Gang of Four of China after Mao’s death, the Mar-

cos-Duterte-Estrada-Arroyo alliance pits powerful, traditional powers against democracy and transparency advocates. While each past president did say they were for democracy, they did try their creative ways to seek legal means to circumvent the oneterm condition of the Constitution. Except Estrada for obvious reasons.

Change advocates will challenge established institutions that are known to controlling everybody else. It is not power that is challenged because power will always exist. Rather, it is power that is controlling in both intent and application. In other words, it is dictatorial power versus enabling power. Naturally, dictatorial power is established. It has long been the dominant force of Philippine society.

The new wave of consciousness, however, is characterized by its distaste of how traditional power had dominated society and seeks to find its own expression of independence. This young and fresh mindset does not often confront traditional power but refuses to blindly kowtow to it. Moreover, the spirit of innovation and radical expression finds ways to do its own thing in its own way.

In its desperate attempt to perpetuate power in its old form, traditional, controlling power, using the great wealth it amassed in the domineering

exercise of power and authority, has a great edge over its opponents. But the current of life does not presently favor the deliberate extension of what is obsolete.

It is like cryptocurrency, one of the most creative rebellions against established dictatorial power in the financial world.

Central banks all over the world have not managed to kill or abort it. Rather, it is cryptocurrency that has increased its variations and is forcing financial institutions to adapt. Slowly, maybe, but steadily.

In politics, the change will not come easily except possibly on the surface. Since there is no party system that works beyond the name and the primary personalities who control all of them, there is nothing that needs to be dismantled. But the value system driving politics in the Philippines will be confronted with a thirst for something else, something new, something young.

That is the promise of 2022.

While it matters, the victory or defeat of old or new forces will not stop the unstoppable march of evolution. If Marcos wins, it will mean that the old way has found temporary players to represent itself. But Marcos will never sit comfortably as president unless he junks what evolution asks – which he will resist so he can try to alter the legacy

Pexels.com photo by cottonbro

his father left behind.

If Leni Robredo wins, however, change will have found a willing and committed partner.

That does not spell success as dismantling something old and decrepit will not be smooth. How many children and grandchildren have tried to wrest power away from older generations yet encountered hell while trying.

Her political will and moral code will be severely tested, even and especially if she will be in the right.

The 36-year period from 1986 to 2022 may seem like forever to many, but to life, it is but a wink.

Change has not come as expected because the needed work by the citizens, and not just by the powers-that-be, has been minimal. Filipinos must awaken to the fact that they are their final

saviors and not the politicians.

The needed leader of the Filipino people must then be a powerful inspiration, motivator, and determined enabler. That is the parent that the younger generations need to become the engine of growth and the future.

COVID-19. A weakened economy. A divided people. Poverty. Hunger. Drugs. Corruption.

Against these is the promise of 2022, a promise of even more difficult times lies ahead. At the same, a silver lining is there, an opportunity will be placed in our hands in the new year. (Inquirer. net) *** 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 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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7

Duterte signs law prohibiting child marriage

Interior Secretary Eduardo Año and Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra

MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte has authority. signed into a law a measure banning child Any person who produces, prints, issues or marriage, a policy seen to protect children from distributes fraudulent or tampered documents abusive practices and unwanted responsibilities. such as birth certificates, affidavits of delayed Republic Act No. 11596 or An Act Prohibiting registration of birth or foundling certificates to the Practice of Child Marriage and Imposing misrepresent the age of a child to facilitate child Penalties for Violations Thereof was signed into marriage or evade liability under the act shall law last December 10, documents released by also be liable under the law without prejudice to Malacañang showed. liability under other laws.

According to the law, the state affirms that Any person who performs or officiates a child marriage shall be entered into only with the free marriage shall be slapped with the penalty and full consent of capacitated parties, and child of prision mayor in its maximum period or betrothal and marriage shall have no legal effect. imprisonment of ten years and one day to 12 Under the law, any person who causes, years and a fine of not less than P50,000. fixes, facilitates, or arranges a child marriage An adult partner who cohabitates with a child shall suffer the penalty of prision mayor in its outside wedlock shall suffer the penalty of prision Inquirer.net photo medium period or imprisonment of eight years mayor in its maximum period or imprisonment and one day to ten years and a fine of not less of ten years and one day to 12 years and a fine of than P40,000. If the violator is an ascendant, not less than P50,000. parent, adoptive parent, step parent, or guardian If the violator is a public officer, he or she the Department of Tourism that of the child, the penalty will be prision mayor shall be dismissed from the service and may the woman was a “no-show,” ac- in its maximum period or imprisonment of ten be perpetually disqualified from holding office, years and one day to 12 years, a fine of not less depending on the decision of the courts. (By cording to Año.

Tourism Secretary Bernadette than P50,000, and perpetual loss of parental Alexis Romero/Philstar.com) n Romulo Puyat earlier said the woman even went for a massage and shared a video of it on social media.

Suspected ‘racket’ Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said he also ordered the National Bureau of Investigation to “conduct a thorough investigation of possible willful violations” of mandatory quarantine regulations by travelers— from their arrival up to their stay in hotels or their homes.

According to him, Chua was just the “tip of the iceberg.”

He suspected that there was a “racket” for many “quarantine jumpers” starting at the airport.

“Instead of being taken to quarantine facilities, passengers might be allowed to go straight home or other places,” he said in a radio interview.

RA 11332 carries the penalty of a P20,000 to P50,000 fine and/ or imprisonment of between one month and six months.

How about VIPs? Two other prominent person- NO EVADERS ALLOWED. Lt. Col. Elizabeth Jasmin (right), station commander of the Quezon City Police District Station 7, talks to two police alities have been charged with officers deployed to a hotel designated as a quarantine facility in Cubao, Quezon City on Thursday, January 6. The Philippine National violations of health protocols in Police (PNP) ordered the deployment of at least two police officers in each designated quarantine facility to prevent incidents of guests and arriving travelers skipping mandatory quarantine amid the coronavirus pandemic.

PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler 2020—Sen. Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III, who visited his wife “She’s young, she’s callous, at Makati Medical Center after had cleared Pimentel while the happened.”

Asked to comment during an but she will have to suffer the testing positive for COVID-19, Taguig prosecutor had not yet and former PNP chief Debold decided on whether to charge interview with ANC on wheth- consequences,” Binay said. She er Chua should be declared a advised people who had been Sinas for ignoring physical dis- Sinas in court.

Berjaya had publicly apol- persona non grata by the city, affected by Chua’s actions to file tancing during his 55th birthday celebration when he was ogized for the “very serious Makati Mayor Abby Binay said a civil case for damages against Metro Manila police chief while breach” and said “any employee that would be “petty” and that her.

—With a report from Tina G. the country was still under en- found errant by commission or such a move was “reserved for hanced community quarantine. omission will be dealt with se- someone who really deserves Santos (By Dexter Cabalza/Inquirer.net) n The Department of Justice verely to deter a repeat of what it.”

PNP includes parents in complaint vs...

PAGE 1 terms and conditions of directives issued by public health authorities under Section 1 (g) (iii) and (iv) of Rule XI of the law’s implementing rules and regulations.

According to the CIDG, Chua arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport on Dec. 22 and checked in at Berjaya Makati Hotel at 11:23 p.m. Shortly after, her father picked her up in a sport utility vehicle.

On Dec. 23, security camera footage showed Chua having dinner at Mijo Comfort Food restaurant in Makati City’s Barangay Poblacion. She later went to Kampai Japanese resto-bar, also in Poblacion. Kampai said in a statement that she arrived at 10 p.m. and stayed there until around 1 a.m. the next day.

Chua returned to Berjaya on Dec. 25 accompanied by her mother. She took a swab test the following day and was informed on Dec. 27 that she was positive for COVID-19. She was later transferred to another hotel for isolation.

The CIDG said it did not find sufficient evidence to file criminal complaints against the persons she interacted with at the restaurant and the bar who eventually got infected with COVID-19.

“However, CIDG recommends and encourages the said individuals to file a complaint before CIDG for further referral to the prosecutor’s office,” it said in a statement.

The Department of Health (DOH) said seven of 11 people with whom Chua had close con-

tact, three of 26 who had “general contact” with her and one out of five second-generation contacts had all tested positive for COVID-19.

The DOH, however, did not categorically say they were all infected by Chua. It also did not disclose the coronavirus variant — whether Delta or Omicron — that Chua and the others were infected with.

The other respondents in the complaints were identified by the CIDG as Chua’s father, Allan, and mother, Gemma; Rico Atienza, her boyfriend; Gladiolyn Biala, Berjaya general manager; Den Sabayo, hotel assistant front office manager; Tito Arboleda, security manager of Berjaya; Esteban Gatbonton, hotel doorman; and Hannah Araneta, front desk personnel.

Another case Interior Secretary Eduardo Año said another Filipino woman who arrived from abroad on the same day as Chua also allegedly skipped her five-day quarantine at Seda Residences in Makati.

Año told dzBB radio that instead of checking in at Seda, she boarded a car that was waiting for her at the hotel. The car took her to her condominium at Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City.

The police said the woman, whom they did not identify, claimed in social media posts that she was exempted by the Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ) from mandatory quarantine. The BOQ denied this.

In compliance with regulations for quarantine facilities, Seda reported to the BOQ and

VACCINATE

KIDS 5+ TO PROTECT

THEM FROM

COVID-19 Talk to a doctor or learn more by visiting MyTurn.ca.gov or calling 833-422-4255

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Presidential bets down to 11 in Comelec’s Number of OFWs in quarantine facilities latest tentative list for 2022 polls close to ‘red alert’ level

by Kristine Joy

Philstar.com

THE number of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) now staying in quarantine facilities is already reaching the “red alert” level, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) said on Thursday, January 6.

The situation, however, is still manageable, the OWWA said.

OWWA Administrator Hans Cacdac said about 9,000 OFWs are currently staying in 240 hotel quarantine facilities.

“Manageable ang sitwasyon sa ngayon, although medyo red flag or red alert levels na ‘yan for us,” he said.

(The situation is manageable for now but it is already considered a red alert for us.)

“So, binabantayan nating maigi ang sitwasyon. Nakadepende kasi ito sa bilis ng pag-swab test at bilis ng paglabas ng swab test result,” he added.

(So we are monitoring the situation closely. It depends on the

speed of the testing and the release of the results.)

He said facilities are seeing a delay in the release of swab test results due to the volume but they are already addressing it.

Cacdac said quarantine facilities may face more day-to-day complaints involving food, medicine, and health issues if there will be more OFWs in quarantine facilities.

To address this, OWWA has deployed additional teams to oversee the needs of the quarantined OFWs. President Rodrigo Duterte earlier proposed the deployment of police officers to guard quarantine hotels and prevent anyone from jumping quarantine.

He made the proposal in light of reports of returning Filipinos from the United States skipping quarantine and spreading COVID-19 in the country. (By Daphne Galvez/Inquirer.net) n

M.C Painter located at 9902 Jamacha Blvd., Spc. 160, Spring Valley, CA 91977.

Registrant: Building Faith, INC., 9902 Jamacha Blvd., Spc. 160, Spring Valley, CA 91977.

This business is conducted

by Corporation.

REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME. Signature Carlos Oceguera.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 12/11/2021.

AJ 841 12/17, 12/24, 12/31/2021, and 01/07/2022.

AJSD 841

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2021-9027690 Tony Independi located at 7543 Black Oak Rd., San Diego, CA 92114.

Registrant: Sergio Ortiz Cervantes, 429 E. 9th Street, National City, CA 91950.

This business is conducted

by Individual.

REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME. Signature Sergio Ortiz Cervantes.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 12/15/2021.

AJ 842 12/24/2021.

12/31/2021, 01/07/2022, and 01/14/2022.

AJSD 842

MANILA — Presidential bets for the 2022 national elections are down to 11, from the previous 15, in the latest tentative list released by the Commission on Elections on Thursday, January 6.

The Comelec’s updated tentative list of aspirants for the 2022 national elections showed the following names as presidential aspirants, in alphabetical order: • Former presidential spokesperson Ernie Abella (Independent) • Gerald Arcega (Independent) • Leody de Guzman (Partido Lakas ng Masa) • Isko Moreno Domagoso (Aksyon Demokratiko) • Norberto Gonzales (Partido Demokratiko Sosyalista ng Pilipinas) • Sen. Ping Lacson (Partdo para sa Demokratikong Reporma)

• Faisal Mangondato (Katipunan ng Kamalayang Kayumanggi) • Bongbong Marcos (Partido Federal ng Pilipinas) • Jose Montemayor (Democratic Party of the Philippines) • Sen. Manny Pacquiao (Abag Promdi) • Vice President Leni Robredo (Independent) PFP’s Marcos is the lone Marcos on the list after the Comelec excluded Maria Aurora Marcos (Independent) as a presidential aspirant.

Marcos emerged as the top bet in the latest Pulse Asia pre-elections survey released in December, although his presidential bid faces a slew of disqualification suits and a petition to cancel his Certificate of Candidacy, which is currently up for resolution. Surveys offer a snapshot of public sentiment during the survey period but public sentiment can change over time.

Comelec also dropped three

LEGAL SERVICES

LEGAL SERVICES FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2021-9027331

Patag

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2021-9028235

Super 8 located at 2435 Sweetwater Road, National City, CA 91950.

Registrant: Ishverkrupa Hospitality LLC, 2435 Sweetwater Road, National City, CA 91950.

This business is conducted by Limited Liability Company.

REGISTRANT HAS BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME AS OF 06/20/2016.

Signature Hetal Patel.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 12/22/2021.

AJ 843 12/31/2021, 01/07/2022, 01/14/2022, and 01/21/2022.

AJSD 843

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2021-9027333

DIGNIFIED STAFFING REGISTRY, INC. located at 1945 CAMINITO DE LA CRUZ, CHULA VISTA, CA 91913.

Registrant: DIGNIFIED STAFFING REGISTRY, INC., 1945 CAMINITO DE LA CRUZ, CHULA VISTA, CA 91913.

This business is conducted

by CORPORATION. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME. Signature MARI ROSE FERRER. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 12/11/2021.

AJ 846 01/07, 01/14, 01/21, AND 01/28/2022.

AJSD 846

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2021-9028340

Ron V Consulting And Marketing located at 127 50th Street #303, San Diego, CA 92102.

Registrant: Ronald Vinluan, 127 50th Street #303, San Diego, CA 92102.

This business is conducted by Individual.

REGISTRANT HAS BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME AS OF 12/01/2021.

Signature Ron Vinluan.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 12/27/2021.

AJ 847 01/07/2022, 01/14/2022, 01/21/2022, and 01/28/2022.

AJSD 847

CASE NUMBER: 37-2021-00053993-CU-PT-CTL

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Maria Zeniada De Guzman Thomas on behalf of minor child filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Carla Juan Panlilio De Guzman to Carla Juan De Guzman Thomas.

THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 02/10/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. 61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county.

Asian Journal: DEC. 29, 2021 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Lorna A. Alksne Judge of the Superior Court AJ 845 01/07, 01/14, 01/21, AND 01/28/2022.

ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120).

If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner.

If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions.

If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions.

A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date.

Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court.

AJSD 845

more aspirants who were running as independents: Hilario Andres, Danilo Lihaylihay and Edgar Niez.

Comelec’s list for vice presidential bets retained the nine names it released on December 24. They are: • Lito Atienza (Abag Promdi) • Walden Bello (Partido Lakas ng Masa) • Rizalito David (Democratic Party of the Philippines) • Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte (Lakas Christian Muslim Democrats) • Manny Lopez (Workers and Peasants Party) • Dr. Willie Ong (Aksyon Demokratiko) • Sen. Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan (Liberal Party) • Carlos Serapio (Katipunan ng Kamalayang Kayumanggi) • Senate President Tito Sotto (Nationalist People’s Coalition) For senatorial aspirants, the Commission further trimmed down from 70 to 64.

The Comelec said that the Tentative List of Aspirants/

FOR RENT

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2021-9028241

Penas Painting located at 227 Coolwater Drive, San Diego, CA 92114.

Registrant: Froylan Pena Ventura, 227 Coolwater Drive, San Diego, CA 92114.

This business is conducted by Individual.

REGISTRANT HAS BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME AS OF 01/01/2021.

Signature Froylan Pena Ventura.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 12/22/2021.

AJ 844 12/31/2021, 01/07/2022, 01/14/2022, and 01/21/2022.

AJSD 844

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2021-9028757

HAPPY LOVE DESSERTS, ATBP located at 1925 VIA LAS PALMAS #47, NATIONAL CITY, CA 91950.

Registrant: ANAHAW GROUP OF COMPANIES LLC, 1925 VIA LAS PALMAS #47, NATIONAL CITY, CA 91950.

This business is conducted by Limited Liability Corporation.

REGISTRANT HAS BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE ABOVED NAME AS OF 11/15/2021.

Signature GRACE TREVILLA. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 12/30/2021.

AJ 848 01//07, 01/14, 01/21, AND 01/28/2022. AJSD 848

EMPLOYMENT

Candidates for the coming polls “are based on the initial evaluation of the Certificates of Nomination, Certificates of Candidacy and Certificates of Nomination and Acceptance.”

“Consequently, the contents of the list, particularly the names of the aspirants/candidates, political parties, as well as the name to appear on the ballot are subject to change as a result of any further evaluation and/or resolution of the Commission En Banc in relation thereto,” it added.

The Comelec has also been asked to re-open the reopen the period for the filing of COCs, filed by a faction of the ruling party Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan.

The PDP-Laban wing led by Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi has been left without an official candidate for president after Sen. Bato Dela Rosa withdrew his COC and had Sen. Bong Go as substitute, only for the longtime presidential aide to back out in December. n

SAN DIEGO

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SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARY 7-13, 2022

9

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JOURNAL Bianca shares 5 New Year’s Kapuso stars look forward to busier 2022 resolutions for physical health by alex

Brosas Inquirer.net

By Christina

alpad ManilaTimes.net

KATE Valdez, Mikee Quintos and Pancho Magno all have an added reason to get excited for the New Year. The three Kapuso stars ended 2021 renewing their exclusive contract with GMA Network and shared what they look forward to in this renewed partnership.

Kate Valdez — from ‘kontrabida’ to ‘komedyante’ Kate Valdez did not expect to be an actress. True, she dreamt of becoming one but when she walked into a VTR (the term used for auditions and casting calls) six years ago, she felt humbled looking at other aspiring actors and actresses.

“Ang gaganda at ang gagaling ng mga kasama ko kaya feeling ko hindi na ako makukuha.

But after panel screening and auditions, inofferan na ako ng GMA. Napatanong ako, ‘Anong nakita nyo sa akin?’ Until now para lang siyang panaginip sa akin,” the 21-year-old recalled.

The same year, 2015, Valdez made her debut in the afternoon series “Destiny Rose.” Shortly after, she bagged a role of a lifetime as Sang’gre Mira in the “Encantadia” reboot. From there, Valdez continued to appear on the small screen.

It was noticeable, however, that most roles that came her way were antagonist roles.

“Nung una pa lang na nagkaroon ako ng character na kontrabida, may halong takot at nerbyos dahil wala akong idea how to do it.

“But now, unti-unti ko siya na-appreciate and at the same time, I realized na masarap pala sa feeling at masaya pala mag kontrabida at bagay pala sa akin.”

Nevertheless, Valdez is hoping to try other roles in her young career no matter how unlikely they are from what she’s been known for.

“Gusto kong ma try ang comedy. Sa totoo lang magiging challenging yun. I have very sharp features kaya napupunta sa maldita and kontrabida roles so gusto ko naman matry ang comedy genre.”

Finally, Valdez expressed her gratitude to the network that

Kate Valdez

Mikee Quintos

saw a potential in her and gave her an opportunity to grow as an actress.

“Kuntento ako sa opportunities na binibigay ng GMA Network.

I am so blessed and happy na binigyan nila ako ng tiwala in my previous roles. Kaya tatanggapin ko po [whatever roles that come my way] dahil malaki ang tiwala ko sa aking mother network.”

Mikee Quintos to focus on making music Another artist who renewed her contract with GMA Network was Mikee Quintos. And like Valdez, the young actress is also marking her sixth year as a Kapuso.

An “Encantadia” star herself, Quintos made her debut in the fantasy reboot and has since then appeared in several fantasy and drama series.

This 2022 however, the “Pepito Manaloto” star wishes to focus on her music.

“I want to explore music — more songs, pasabog na music videos, concert. Biggest realization ko during the pandemic na wag iwanan ang pangarap na iyon, sayang.”

In October 2021, Quintos released the bubblegum pop track “Just Enough” under GMA Playlist and just before the year ended, the accompanying music video that featured her “The Lost Recipe” leading man, Kelvin Miranda.

While she is grateful for all the roles that landed on her plate since 2016, the 24-year-

old admitted she would tell something different to her younger self if given the chance.

“I would tell the 2016 version Mikee to ‘Keep going.’

Bubulungan ko yung Mikee na yun na wag matakot na tumalon at mag try sa music. If may chance, mas maaga.

“Kung na-realize ko ng mas maaga, feeling ko mas marami na akong nagawa. But syempre in God’s timing. Wala naman akong pinagsisihan dahil ang dami ding magandang nangyari sa mga taon na iyon. But if I had the chance, I would tell that Mikee to enter music a little bit earlier,” Quintos ended.

Pancho Magno finds comfort in action genre Pancho Magno is pumped to welcome 2022 still as a Kapuso.

“I’m super excited for the roles and the actors and directors na makaka trabaho ko [in the future]. I’m super grateful.”

Magno indeed has come a long way since debuting on TV screen as Agul in the 2011 drama period, “Amaya.” Some of his notable characters include Hitano in “Encantadia” and Mooi in “Victor Magtanggol.”

“Madami ka talaga matututunan from your other shows, other roles. It’s a never ending learning experience.”

While he has only done supporting roles so far, the 35-year-old is nevertheless grateful to continue doing what he loves.

“Sure, I also want to try to do a leading man role. But for now, I’m super grateful to portray the [action] roles that I watch.

With my built now, gusto ko ng intense action, yung physicality.”

Fans, meanwhile, can watch out for him return to his role as the gentle but strong PSG Conrad Enriquez in the upcoming second book of “First Yaya,” now titled, “First Lady.”

“We have bigger production, more cast, mas maraming twists.

I can’t wait for our Kapuso viewers to see the second book.

“The show is very timely because of the coming elections.

I’m grateful na nandito ako kasi parang it’s also partly educating our fellow Filipinos about the upcoming elections,” Magno ended. n

Pancho Magno

GMA photos

Kyla believes the pandemic will soon end, and here’s why By alex

Brosas Inquirer.net

SOUL singer Kyla Alvarez is positive that the pandemic will eventually end soon. And when that happens, she has an array of photos and videos that documented this phase in her family’s life, all of which she can look back on.

Kyla kept a record of the beginning of the pandemic through videos and pictures, some of which she shared on her Instagram page on Tuesday, Jan. 4.

“Some snaps and videos of us at the beginning of the pandemic when most of Toby’s baby front teeth were falling off,” she quipped, while expressing how surprised she is about how quickly time flies “Has it really been [two] years already???!! So much has changed since then,” she said.

Kyla looks at the recent past as being not too bad because she was able to spend the time with her family.

“We’ve shared so many good as well as bad times together.

We had nothing but time in our hands. We’ve shared a bond that

JA N UA RY 7, 2 0 22

Kyla

I think will get us through the tough times. Family will always be our source of comfort and safety,” she said.

Although there is another surge in the numbers of people who are afflicted with COVID-19, Kyla feels that hope is still present, and reminded fans that there is light at the end of the tunnel.

“I know it sounds bleak

Photo from Instagram/@kylaalvarez

right now, as cases are rising again, but please don’t lose hope and hold on to your faith.

Pandemics always end. Nothing is permanent. Everything comes and goes. At least that’s what I read. But I believe it will end soon,” she said.

“Let’s be kind with our words and actions,” the singer stressed.

“I think that’s what we all need right now.” n

ACTRESS-vlogger Bianca King plotted out her second batch of New Year’s resolutions that address physical health and shared it with fellow fitness fans.

“Some [self-improvement] ideas for physical health! NY resolutions part [two],” she said on her Instagram page last Tuesday, Jan. 4.

Number one on her list: King wants to keep moving everyday. She wants to take physical exercises in whatever form, be it walking, cleaning the house, doing home workouts or swimming.

Second, King wants to “abstain from dairy, wheat [and] sugar for weeks at a time.” She thinks it’s “doable” and she feels she can “cheat” when she feels like it, and can just pay for it the next day “through a looooong fast.”

Third, to ensure that she doesn’t neglect her skin and face, King plans to wear sunscreen on her face everyday.

“And get some sun whenever the sun is out.

Get vitamin D!” she said, while also stressing the need to moisturize.

Fourth, King will observe “lights off at 11:30 p.m.,” and she will “rise at 8:30 a.m. everyday.”

“Same time, everyday, [nine] hours in bed for [eight] hours of sleep. (I have to be on Manila time for work),” she added. King is currently based in Australia.

For her fifth fitness New Year’s resolution, King wants to give her body “the best conditions to

Bianca King

Photo from Instagram/@bianca_king

bear a child.”

“Women in their [mid-30s] know how important this is and how challenging it can be,” she stressed.

King’s initial set of New Year’s resolutions is not buying clothes and being frugal in spending in 2022. She plans to post a part three of resolutions, this time for mental health. n

Paulo on real score with Janine by dana

Cruz Inquirer.net

PAULO Avelino has revealed that he is just waiting for his fellow actor Janine Gutierrez to be ready for him to court her, years after they first went out on dates.

Avelino and Gutierrez talked about a possible romance between them in a virtual media conference for the TV series “Marry Me, Marry You,” shown on ABS-CBN’s YouTube channel on Tuesday, Jan. 4. They were asked if they would be the next to fall in love, after their co-

stars Cherry Pie Picache and Edu Manzano confirmed their relationship last November.

“Gusto ko lang sumagot na lahat kami naiinggit kay Miss Pie at kay Tito Edu kapag nakikita namin sila magkasama.

Sinasabi ko lang na walang tatalo sa kasweetan nila,” Gutierrez said.

(I just want to say that we are all jealous of Miss Pie and Sir Edu when we see them together. I’m just saying that nothing beats their sweetness.)

When it was pointed out to her that many viewers and fans were hoping that she and

Avelino would become an item, Gutierrez just smiled and opted not to answer the question.

Meanwhile, Avelino admitted that he was only waiting for Gutierrez.

“Ako po, si Janine lang ‘yung hinihintay lagi. So tignan natin kung hindi kami masyadong busy this year. May sari-sarili naman kaming gagawin for this year,” he answered. (For me, I’m just waiting always for Janine.

So let’s see if we’re not too busy this year. We will have our own things to do for this year.)

When asked if he had been

u PAGE 10

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JANUARY 7-13, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

Omicron: A ‘blessing’?

Health@Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS IF there is such a thing as “the best time to get COVID-19 infection,” it could be now with the Omicron variant, which appears (so far) to be milder although super contagious, especially for the unvaccinated. If those who have refused the vaccines are hoping to get natural immunity instead, Omicron could be their saving grace as it is less damaging to the lungs, compared to the original strains and the Delta variant. For those unvaccinated who have health issues, Omicron infection can still be more dangerous, riskier than getting the vaccines.

When those with the booster get infected, they would have 2-tiered immunity: protection provided by the vaccines, and another from natural immunity. The latter is less stable and shorter-lasting and not as reliable as immunity conferred by the vaccines.

If at least 80 percent of those (60 million) who refuse vaccination get infected now, they would develop some natural immunity, which might help the country inch toward herd immunity in a few months. It would be much faster if they got vaccinated instead.

Omicron (thank God) is now the predominant strain, representing 95 percent of all COVID-19 cases, with infections one million on Monday, January 3 alone, although with fewer hospitalizations and deaths compared to Delta.

The first death from Omicron was reported Monday in Harris County, Texas – a 50-year-old male, who was unvaccinated and got the infection. For the unvaccinated, the complications are much worse, especially among those with health issues. Had this man been vaccinated, he could have survived the infection.

The risks and complications among those protected by the booster when infected with Omicron are markedly milder. A trenchant, ironic blessing, perhaps.

News roundup In the Philippines, there have

been 2,861,119 COVID-19 cases, with 51,604 deaths as of January 4, 2022. More than 100 million vaccines have been administered to a total population of 111,763,229. To get the Pfizer vaccines, people have to pay $100 per shot, while all the shots, including the booster, are free in the United States. *** According to a study from one South African hospital published on Tuesday, January 4, patient deaths from Omicron averaged 4.5%, compared to 21.3% from previous waves. About 45% of patients with Omicron required supplemental oxygen, while 99% of patients from previous COVID-19 waves needed breathing assistance. The average length of stay for Omicron patients was 4 days -- less than half the average for other strains. *** Researchers from the University of Cape Town reported that saliva samples yielded more accurate results in PCR analyses when Omicron was involved compared with nasal swabs.

When patients carried the Delta variant, on the other hand, nasal swabs were more accurate. *** HHS announced that Roche and Siemens have two new rapid antigen tests for COVID-19 on the market. If COVID-19 infection is suspected, the best is to get tested. *** As of Tuesday, January 4, there were 293,264,764 cases and 5,468,191 deaths worldwide, and 57,131,187 cases with 848,885 deaths in the U.S. Last week, there were almost half a million cases, mostly Omicron, in one day. *** With another day of record-breaking infections in France, Paris is implementing mandatory masking, according to the Associated Press. India is bracing for its third coronavirus wave, as many people have stopped wearing masks and are back to large gatherings, according to CNN. *** With Omicron, the greatest concentration of the viral load is found in the mouth and throat.

Gargling 3 times a day with a mouthwash that contains stabilized chlorine dioxide (like TheraBreath, OraCare, CloSys, and DioxRinse) might help reduce this load and minimize symp-

toms even.

*** There are two new (home) pills for COVID-19. One is from Pfizer (Paxlovid), for ages 12 and older, that can reduce the risk of hospitalization and death by 90 percent (the other, molnupiravir, is from Merck) if taken in the early stage of the infection, and for those family members exposed to the patient. Merck’s pills reduce the risk by only 3050 percent. *** New randomized trial: Fluvoxamine (100 mg, 3 times a day) given to non-hospitalized patients within 7 days after COVID-19 infection was shown to reduce clinical deterioration (shortness of breath and oxygen use) at 15 days, according to the Wall Street Journal. *** Studies are being conducted to find out if the preliminary finding that sildenafil citrate (Viagra) is beneficial to Alzheimer’s patients is universally valid. Viagra, besides being very effective for erectile dysfunction in men, has been a therapy for pulmonary hypertension, even among infants. *** The FDA expanded the emergency use authorization (EUA) of the monoclonal antibody cocktail bamlanivimab-etesevimab to include even younger pediatric patients, as well as newborns at high risk of progression to severe COVID. The FDA also says booster 5 months after the second shots may now be given to 12 and older. *** Patients on low-salt diet and replacing salt with potassium chloride (salt substitute) show these two regimens to be synergistic in reducing blood pressure more effectively, compared to those only on low-salt diet. The potassium chloride salt substitute appears to be beneficial.

The combined regimen reduces the risk for stroke, cardiovascular events, and deaths, as shown by a new landmark (5-year) study on 21,000 people in rural China. *** Studies have shown that the risk of death from people’s reaction to the vaccines is 0.0018 percent (a tiny fraction of 1 percent), compared to the 2030 percent risk of death from COVID-19. Majority of those deaths, according to an intensive review, were not caused

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CSDFAEA holds induction of officers and board members, Jan. 13 THE City of San Diego Filipino American Employees’ Association will hold the Induction Ceremony for its 2022-2023 Officers and Board Members on Thursday, January 13 via Zoom starting at 4:45 p.m.

Guests of honor at the virtual ceremonies is San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria and San Diego City Councilmember Chris Cate. Michelle Abella-Son will be the host/emcee for the festivities.

Janine Gutierrez and Paulo Avelino

Emily Abalos will perform both the United States and Philippine national anthems, while the Pakaraguian Kulintang Ensemble and Samahan Filipino American Performing Arts and Education Center will render special performances.

To attend the virtual festivities, go to https:// sandiego.zoomgov.com/j/1613103266?pwd=dW83c0pkOUJMMGlhMnlaRW9KZ2NjQT09. n

Photos from Instagram /@janinegutierrez, @pauavelino

Paulo on real score with...

PAGE 9 leaving hints that he wanted to date Gutierrez and if the actress simply brushed him off, Avelino answered affirmatively.

“Ganu’n po,” he said, drawing laughs from Gutierrez.

Avelino earlier revealed that he and Gutierrez dated in the past. However, the actress described those times as just “hanging out.”

Gutierrez’s love life has had a lot of buzz this by the vaccines themselves but the predisposition of the people to blood clots and others with health issues. *** In nearly every instance, COVID vaccine mandates are holding up in court, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Indeed, national safety and welfare should take precedence and prevail over individual rights and freedom, the misuse and abuse of which, like the freedom to refuse the COVID-19 vaccines, has led to massive viral spread by the unvaccinated, more than three-fourths of a million pre-

year, amid speculations that she was cheated on by her fellow actor Rayver Cruz. Neither Gutierrez nor Cruz has issued a statement on their breakup, though the actress recently laughed off questions about it.

Aside from Avelino and Gutierrez, “Marry Me, Marry You” also stars Jake Ejercito, Iana Bernardez, Teresa Loyzaga, Vina Morales and Sunshine Dizon. The series is set to have its finale soon. n

ventable deaths and economic disaster in the United States.

May 2022 be the beginning of a brighter future for all nations and all peoples of the world! *** 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 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 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. Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday.com, and philipSchua.com; Email: scalpelpen@ gmail.com.

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Community

In California, redistricting by the people works for the people

While politicians nationwide try to game the system, in California, it’s all about representation CALIFORNIA’S just-completed redistricting process offers a model for the rest of the United States in establishing political districts that do justice to rapidly growing racial and ethnic minorities.

At an online news briefing convened by Ethnic Media Services on Dec. 28, all four speakers – including three veteran voting rights experts and redistricting reformers – called the redistricting process transformational.

Asked which minority groups won and which lost in the map drawing, Paul Mitchell, owner of Redistricting Partners who works with dozens of governments and interested parties nationwide, said, “It’s impossible to say how did minority groups benefit without asking how did Californians benefit. California is a majority minority state.”

The final maps “were not the ones the legislature would have drawn if it could,” Mitchell added.

In most of the rest of the country, incumbent politicians’ first priority is getting themselves and their allies re-elected. They rig the redistricting process through so-called “gerrymandering” that “packs” political districts to boost their supporters or “cracks” them to divide their opponents.

But prior to the 2010 Census, California became the first state — and still one of just a handful — where the redistricting process is instead conducted by private citizens. Such commissions in other states operate under rules different from California’s.

Russell Yee, one of five Republicans serving with four independents and five Democrats on California’s 14-member commission, described the process as “the most participatory, open-access redistricting effort in the nation, and probably in all history.”

He was one of 2,000 people to apply to serve on the redistricting panel, charged with drawing new, equally populated districts for the state’s 53 U.S. Congressional seats, 80 state Assembly seats, 40 state Senate seats, and four Board of Equalization seats to represent the state’s nearly 40 million people.

An analysis of California’s new maps by MALDEF, the Mexican American Legal Defense and Education Fund, found that the number of districts where the majority of the voting-age population is Latino grew from 10 to now 16 for the 53 Congressional seats, from 17 to 22 in the state Assembly, and from seven to 10 in the state Senate.

“On behalf of MALDEF,” said Thomas Saenz, its president and general counsel, “I have to say that the commission did a terrific job in complying with the Voting Rights Act in drawing maps — not a perfect job, but as good as you can expect.”

Since the 2010 Census, California’s Latino population has grown by 11.2% – 69% of all population growth in the state and 70% of the growth of voting-age citizens – and is now 27% of the state’s voting population. All other ethnicities

combined grew at a 3.1% rate as the state population grew by 6.1% overall.

Asian Americans are California’s fastest-growing ethnic minority, Census data found, though still fewer and less widely dispersed as compared to the Latino population. In three of the new U.S. Congressional district maps, the voting age population is more than a third Asian American, Mitchell said.

Michell said the Commission worked to maintain the ability of California’s Black population – now at 7% statewide – to choose its representatives even as it has tended to disperse across the state. The Commission, for example, drew a Northern California district spanning Richmond and Vallejo that has an approximately 25% Black population.

Yee said the commission fielded and honored tribal requests both to maintain or separate various tribal territories.

Jonathan Mehta Stein, executive director of California Common Cause, described how the commission held hundreds of public meetings, with translators for public testimony and materials printed in 13 different languages, and hosted 23 commission meetings that heard almost 200 presentations from a wide range of stakeholders, including the Black Redistricting Hub, the Dolores Huerta Foundation, Asian Americans Advancing Justice and many others.

Outreach also took the form of ads, town hall meetings, roundtables, and more, ultimately eliciting 32,000 written public comments and 3,900 verbal ones. Other efforts yielded 1,300 forms returned from state and federal jails and prisons, Stein said.

The commission detailed its processes on its wedrawthelines.ca.gov website in a 221-page report on Dec. 26.

“Community input actually did influence us, all the time and throughout the process,” Yee recalled. “Ordinary citizens’ stories absolutely had an influence on us, absolutely did affect how the lines were drawn.”

Yee also highlighted the important role of Kathay Feng of Common Cause in advocating for a citizen’s commission in the first place, an effort Common Cause continues to propel nationwide.

The panelists emphasized that although California is notoriously “blue,” ensuring that any given district includes a certain community does not guarantee specific outcomes.

To “perform,” that is, make their voices heard, people still have to be eligible to vote, choose to register and vote, and often also form coalitions.

No community’s political loyalty is assured.

“Recognizing and honoring diversity does not necessarily advantage Democrats,” Mitchell stated.

“The test in elections is, when they’re campaigning, are they trying to earn those votes?

When they’re in office, are they responsive to those individuals? Because that’s ultimately what the framework of districts is trying to establish.”

(By Mark Hedin/Ethnic Media Services) n

SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARY 7-13, 2022

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San Diegans urged to not go to emergency departments for COVID-19 testing

COUNTY health officials are urging San Diegans not to go to local emergency departments for COVID-19 testing.

Local hospitals are experiencing an increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations, as well as staff shortages due to the coronavirus and are preserving their resources for patients who are seriously ill.

The County recommends that people worried about COVID-19 infection and others seeking COVID-19 testing only go to a hospital to be tested if they have severe symptoms.

“Do not go to an emergency department just to get tested, and only go when you have symptoms that need emergency care,” said Cameron Kaiser, M.D., M.P.H., County deputy public health officer. “If you’re experiencing no COVID-19 symptoms, have mild illness or have not been exposed to someone who tested positive, go to one of the many testing locations available in the region.”

The region’s healthcare providers offer testing to members who meet each systems’ criteria.

Many neighborhood pharmacies offer same day testing as do other locations on this list. The county, which has about 10 percent of the region’s testing capacity, has a network of no-cost testing public sites that are both walk-up and can take appointments.

Together, all testing sites have the capacity to perform about 45,000 tests daily. Rapid antigen tests, which are available at many local pharmacies, are a good option if a testing site is unavailable. Those who test positive on a rapid should follow the healthcare guidance and generally do not need a confirmatory PCR test unless instructed by a doctor.

“Currently, there is a high demand for COVID-19 testing so we’re asking San Diegans to be patient as testing traffic can surge and sites can be very busy,” Kaiser said.

Avoid fake COVID-19 testing sites The county is also warning San Diegans about potential scams from “pop up” sites that are offering “free” COVID-19 testing.

All legitimate COVID-19 testing

File photo www.countynewscenter.com

sites should be able to show you their medical credentials upon request. They should also be able to tell you what laboratory test is being used, where the test is being run and how the results will be reported.

A testing site could be fake if: • They ask for social security numbers or other non-medical information • Materials do not have a logo • Site is on a sidewalk and not affiliated with a medical provider.

“San Diegans should be wary as some pop-up sites could be personal information scams.

If you have doubts, go to a County or community pharmacy COVID-19 testing site,” Kaiser said.

COVID-19 waccines widely available Also, the region has plenty of COVID-19 vaccines and booster doses, which remain the best long-term protection against COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths.

There are more than 400 vaccination sites that include pharmacies, medical providers, clinics and County locations; the region has the capacity to meet demand. You can also make an appointment or find a site near you by calling (833) 422-4255 or visiting the MyTurn or coronavirus-sd. com websites.

(Jose Alvarez/County of San Diego Communications Office) n

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JANUARY 7-13, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588