011423 - Los Angeles Weekend Edition

THE United States and Japan expressed opposition against China’s “unlawful” maritime claims, militarization of reclaimed features, and “provocative” actions in the South China Sea.

They also reiterated that the ruling by an arbitration court in The Hague that invalidated Beijing’s expansive claims over a large part of the South China Sea is “final and legally binding on the parties to that proceeding.”

China does not recognize the decision.

On Wednesday, January 11, U.S. State Secretary Antony Blinken, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III met with Japanese Foreign Minister Hayashi Yoshimasa and Japanese Defense Minister Hamada Yasukazu. At a news conference after the meeting, Blinken said the ministers agreed “that the People’s Republic of China is the greatest shared strategic challenge that we and our allies and partners face.”

in California

AFTER 20 years, Gideon Baena, who was wrongfully convicted of a crime and deported to the Philippines, was finally reunited with his family in California, thanks to his family’s persistence and his U.S. lawyer.

Two decades ago, Baena was deported from Arizona while his family was in California and didn’t really know what was happening. He was put on a plane and dropped off at the airport in the Philippines, a country he barely knew.

“And that was it,” he told Here & Now’s Deepa Fernandes of WBURBoston. “I kinda just stood there at the airport. Most of (my family) were citizens. I didn’t even know I wasn’t a citizen.”

He was homeless for a year in the Philippines, he said, and hardly knew Tagalog then. Communication with family was difficult as the Philippines was just starting to get the internet. (His current Facebook page describes him as self-employed, residing in Marikina and shows pictures of his wife and two kids.)

By 2005, his parents in California started

With

by DAPHNE GALVEZ Inquirer.net

START. Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. (standing, 4th from left) and other officials present the New People’s Army (NPA) surrenderers in a press briefing at the PNP headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City on Friday, Jan. 13. The DILG chief renewed his call for the remaining communist insurgents to leave the armed struggle and avail of the government’s assistance programs. PNA Wrongly deported Filipino reunites with family

Marcos  PAGE A2

by RED MENDOZA ManilaTimes.net

Dr. Edsel Maurice Salvaña of the University of the Philippines–National Institutes of Health said that while the emergency phase of the pandemic might end this year, COVID-19 will likely become an endemic disease like influenza and dengue as its movements become predictable.

"There are still people dying from severe COVID, while others do not want

(WEF), the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Thursday, January 12 . DFA Undersecretary Carlos Sorreta said it was the President who broached the idea of tackling the controversial sovereign fund at the WEF, which will be held in Davos, Switzerland this month.

photo by Joey O. Razon

to get vaccinated, but at least our impact predictions show that our hospitals will not get overwhelmed and other public health threats will be managed," Salvaña said during a public briefing on Thursday, Jan. 12.

Dr. Maria van Kerkhove, WHO's technical lead for COVID-19, said on social media that they see 2023 as the last year of the pandemic.

"I do think that this year, the fourth year of our pandemic, where we can really end this as an emergency. We are on track for that, as we are in a position where we can track this virus and treat these patients for severe

to ‘soft launch’ Maharlika wealth fund in 2023 World Economic DATELINE USA FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA  PAGE A5  PAGE A5

The index was compiled by Arton Capital, a company that promotes the idea of "global citizenship" through second residences and citizenships.

visa-free entry to 34 countries and territories and visa-on-arrival at 41, the Philippine passport ranked 66th on the Passport Index. Philstar.com file photo

Tied for second place among the most powerful passports are those of Sweden, Germany, Finland, Luxembourg, Spain, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland and South Korea.

At third place are  Denmark, Belgium, Portugal, Norway,

The

by GAEA KATREENA CABICO Philstar.com

Secretary Del Toro also presented the ships’ sponsors,

Christine Trinidad, a great-granddaughter  of

Connie Mariano,

and retired

Trinidad,

Forum US, Japan recognize landmark South China Sea ruling ‘COVID emergency phase to end in 2023’  PAGE A5  PAGE A2

briefing

morning,

the

President

said that we have developed excellent fundamentals, there’s much that we can offer to investors and he said ‘you know let’s talk about the sovereign wealth fund that’s being set up’,” he

said in a Palace briefing.

 PAGE A2

MANILA — The killings of alleged drug dealers and users continued even after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. promised a more compassionate approach in the fight against illegal narcotics, watchdog Human Rights Watch said in its latest report.

Marcos

has said he would continue the ‘war against drugs initiated by his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte, but his administration would shift the focus to rehabilitating drug users.

HRW, however, said there was no letup in ‘drug war’ killings and the needed reforms have not been made to existing drug rehabilitation programs.

WASHINGTON D.C. – The Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C., led by Ambassador Jose Manuel G. Romualdez and supported by the Defense Attache Philippine Navy Captain Salvador Henry Quinto, joined the United States Navy in the naming celebration of the United States Ship Telesforo Trinindad (DDG 139) at the Rayburn House Office Building on Capitol Hill on Tuesday, January 10.

celebration was officiated by Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro, who announced the naming of the future Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer after Filipino American Petty Officer 2nd Class Telesforo de la Cruz Trinidad on May 19, 2022.

namely: Ms.

Petty Officer

Rear Adm.

the first Filipino-American in history to become a U.S. Navy Admiral, and the first military woman in American history to be appointed White House Physician. U.S. Undersecretary of the Air Force Gina Ortiz Jones, who is also of Filipino her-

U.S. Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro (leftmost), U.S. Undersecretary of the Air Force Gina Ortiz Jones (2nd from the left), Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez (2nd from the right), and PH Defense Attache Navy Captain Salvador Henry Quinto (rightmost) at the naming celebration of the USS Telesforo Trinidad. Photo courtesy of the USS Telesforo Trinidad Campaign

MANILA — With visa-free entry to 34 countries and territories and visa-on-arrival at 41, the Philippine passport ranked 66th on the Passport Index.

The Philippines is tied with Mongolia and Morocco on the index, which lists the United Arab Emirates passport as the most "powerful" with visa-free entry to 122 countries and territories and visa-on-arrival in 59.

Marcos to ‘soft launch...

Sorreta said the WEF will be a “great venue” to “soft launch” the Maharlika wealth fund, which is yet to secure approval from Congress.

“The WEF is a great venue to do a sort of soft launch for our sovereign wealth fund, given the prominence of the forum itself and global and business leaders will be there,” he said.

The DFA official said that while Congress is still fine-tuning the proposed law, the president already has a very good grasp of the bill’s “broad strokes” and “what he wants to achieve in

whatever form the sovereign wealth fund finally takes.”

“What’s very important is it’s an investment in the future and there’s great confidence the President has and the capability of the Filipino entrepreneurs and local investors even,” Sorreta said.

For her part, Malacañang press briefer Daphne Oseña-Paez said the WEF is an opportunity for the Philippines to let the world know what the Philippines is doing “in terms of being ready and attractive for investments.”

Under the proposed Maharlika Wealth fund law, the government

will get money from the Land Bank of the Philippines and Development Bank of the Philippines, and from dividends of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to raise its P110 billion venture capital.

The first version of the bill, which proposed that seed money will be sourced from Government Service Insurance System and the Social Security System, earned widespread objection – prompting lawmakers to revise and remove the state-owned pension funds from the list of budget sources for the Maharlika Wealth fund. 

‘Nothing’s changed’: Watchdog says ‘drug...

Monitoring by Dahas, a program run by the Third World Studies of the University of the Philippines, found that at least 90 people had been killed in “drugrelated violence” from June 30, 2022 to Sept.  30, 2022.

Government figures showed that 6,252 individuals have been killed during anti-drug operations from July 1, 2016 to May 31, 2022. HRW noted in its report that the government stopped releasing these statistics after Marcos took office.

The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights reported that the death toll was at least 8,663. But human rights

groups estimate the figure is possibly triple the number recorded by the United Nations agency.

End of ‘drug war’

HRW's Robertson stressed that Marcos  “has a golden opportunity to prove that he is serious about human rights by ordering the end of the ‘drug war.’”

The watchdog also urged the current administration to pursue accountability for ‘war on drugs’ victims.

“The authorities have seriously investigated very few ‘drug war’ killings. Only a handful of cases—12 out of thousands—are in varying stages of investigation

by police or active review by prosecutors,” the report read.

There were only two convictions of law enforcers involved in the "drug war"— the murder of 17-year-old Kian Delos Santos, and the torture and frame-up of 19-year-old Carl Arnaiz and 14-year-old Reynaldo ‘Kulot’ de Guzman.

International Criminal Court prosecutor Karim Khan has since  pushed for the resumption  of the investigation into possible crimes against humanity in the context of the  ‘drug war’  as he argued that the Philippines has failed to demonstrate that it has sufficiently investigated killings in police operations. 

US Navy celebrates naming of ship after...

itage, and several active military members also of Filipino heritage also attended the event.

In his opening remarks, Secretary Del Toro said, “A ship’s commanding officer will change hands, and the crew will come and go, but the sponsors hold a special bond through the ship’s entire lifetime. I am excited for the enduring partnership that Christine and Connie will build with this ship and the crew in the years to come.”

“It has been my honor to work with you (Ambassador Romualdez) these past 18 months and to visit your beautiful country and to build the strong partnership that is so deserving and has always existed between the Philippines and the United States.” He added.

“It is my country’s honor to be invited to today’s event as we name your ship, the USS Telesforo Trinidad (DDG 139), after a Filipino American hero. We sincerely appreciate it and I am sure that the family of the late Telesforo Trinidad is just as proud and honored as we are in the Philippines,” the Ambassador responded.

Telesforo de la Cruz Trinidad was a fireman in the U.S. Navy, who received the Medal of Honor for his actions in Mexican waters near La Paz, on board the USS San Diego on Jan. 21, 1915. He is the second service member, and the first and only sailor of Asian descent to receive the award in peacetime. Trinidad served during both World Wars before retiring to the Philippines.*

The Embassy greatly appreciates the hard work of its friends and partners, especially Filipi-

HELP ON THE WAY. Volunteers repack relief goods at the National Resources Operations Center of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Pasay City on Thursday, Jan. 12. The relief goods will be delivered to areas in the Visayas and Mindanao that have been affected by heavy rains and floods caused by a low-pressure area.

PNA photo by Yancy Lim

Secretary Tel Doro with some of the Telesforo Trinidad Campaign Team, now recognized and working in part with the U.S. Navy as the USS Telesforo Trinidad Commissioning Committee. Photos courtesy of the USS Telesforo Trinidad Campaign

Secretary Del Toro (left most) with ship sponsors Ms. Christine Trinidad (center), and U.S. retired Rear Adm. Connie Mariano (rightmost) cutting the cake

Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez delivers his response remarks and extends his appreciation to the family of the late Telesforo Trinidad, the Philippines’ partners that led to the naming of the USS Telesforo Trinidad, and appreciation of the military service by active military personnel of Filipino heritage.

no community organizations, in campaigning for this momentous occasion and in highlighting the honorable military service of those with Filipino heritage. In particular, the Embassy congratulates

the Telesforo Trinidad Campaign Committee, which now officially participates in the USS Telesforo Trinidad Commissioning Committee in partnership with the United States Navy. 

Jordan Clarkson ‘excited’ for Gilas stint in FIBA World Cup

by JOHN BRYAN ULANDAY Philstar.com

FILIPINO American guard Jordan Clarkson of the Utah Jazz in the NBA can’t wait to don national colors anew when Gilas Pilipinas hosts the highly anticipated FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023.

Clarkson reiterated that goal once again in a press conference with local media on Friday, January 13, months after playing in his first home game with Gilas for the fourth window of the World Cup Asian Qualifiers.

“I haven’t really talked much with anybody but I know that’s (what’s coming up this summer) in the future plans,” said Clarkson on suiting for the Philippine national team in the prestigious 32-team basketball showpiece slated on Aug. 25 to Sept. 10.

“I’m getting prepared for that as well with my family and my team. I’m excited for that. We know that’s on the horizon. We will start to prepare to get everything down logistic-wise to get over there and get ready to compete.”

Clarkson

game last August against Lebanon and Saudi Arabia along with Kai Sotto of the Adelaide 36ers in the Australia National Basketball League.

Owing to his caliber as the former NBA Sixth Man of the Year, Clarkson as expected stamped his class with 27 points, seven assists

and six rebounds in a close Gilas’ 85-81 loss against Lebanon.

He then continued with 23 markers, six dimes and five boards as Gilas trounced Saudi Arabia, 8446, at the Mall of Asia Arena for his first game in the Philippines.

But first things first for the 30-year-old Clarkson, who is out to lead the young but feisty Utah squad in the aftermath of the departure of franchise players Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert.

“I’m embracing it (leadership role) well. Coach Will Hardy has a lot of confidence in me, as well as the organization and my teammates. Me being a guy in the league for nine years now, it’s my time to share experiences and knowledge and put it together for this team,” he said.

Clarkson is currently averaging 20.7 points, 3.9 rebounds and 4.5 assists as the starting guard for the Jazz (9th in the Western Conference at 21-23) and one of its leaders along with Lauri Markkanen and veteran Mike Conley. 

California Attorney General sues drugmakers over in ated insulin prices

by

CALIFORNIA Attorney General Rob Bonta on Thursday, January 12 sued the six major companies that dominate the U.S. insulin market, ratcheting up the state’s assault on a profitable industry for artificially jacking up prices and making the indispensable drug less accessible for diabetes patients.

The 47-page civil complaint alleges three pharmaceutical companies that control the insulin market — Eli Lilly and Co., Sanofi, and Novo Nordisk — are violating California law by unfairly and illegally driving up the cost of the drug. It also targets three distribution middlemen known as pharmacy benefit managers: CVS Caremark, Express Scripts, and OptumRx.

“We’re going to level the playing field and make this lifesaving drug more affordable for all who need it, by putting an end to Big Pharma’s big profit scheme,” Bonta said at a news conference after filing the lawsuit in a state court in Los Angeles. “These six companies are complicit in aggressively

hiking the list price of insulin, at the expense of patients.”

In the lawsuit, Bonta argued that prices have skyrocketed and that some patients have been forced to ration their medicine or forgo buying insulin altogether.

The attorney general said a vial of insulin, which diabetics rely on to control blood sugar, cost $25 a couple of decades ago but now costs about $300.

A 2021 U.S. Senate investigation found that the price of a long-acting insulin pen made by Novo Nordisk jumped 52% from 2014 to 2019 and that the price of a rapid-acting pen from Sanofi shot up about 70%. From 2013 to 2017, Eli Lilly had a 64% increase on a rapidacting pen. The investigation implicated drug manufacturers and pharmacy benefit managers in the increases, saying they perpetuated artificially high insulin prices.

“California diabetics who require insulin to survive and who are exposed to insulin’s full price, such as uninsured consumers and consumers with high deductible insurance plans,

pay thousands of dollars per year for insulin,” according to the complaint.

Eli Lilly spokesperson Daphne Dorsey said the company is “disappointed by the California attorney general’s false allegations,” arguing that the average monthly out-of-pocket cost of insulin has fallen 44% over the past five years, and the drug is available to anyone “for $35 or less.”

Mike DeAngelis, a spokesperson for CVS, said it would vigorously defend itself, saying that pharmaceutical companies alone set list prices. “Nothing in our agreements prevents drug manufacturers from lowering the prices of their insulin products, and we would welcome such action. Allegations that we play any role in determining the prices charged by manufacturers are false,” he said.

OptumRx, a division of UnitedHealthcare, said it welcomes the opportunity to show California “how we work every day to provide people

ANGELA HART AND SAMANTHA YOUNG Kaiser Health News

KADIWA ON WHEELS. Residents queue as a Kadiwa on Wheels rolls out on G. Ocampo Street in Barangay St. Joseph in San Juan City on Thursday, Jan. 12.  The Kadiwa on Wheels, which will be visiting different barangays in San Juan City, is part of the national government’s campaign in bringing cheap and quality agricultural products to the public amid the rising prices of basic commodities. PNA photos by Joey O. Razon

already played for Gilas back in the 2018 Asian Games in Indonesia before debuting in a FIBA-sanctioned

Jordan Clarkson Philstar.com photo

How ‘powerful’ is the Philippine passport...

Poland, United Kingdom, Ireland, New Zealand and the United States.

With a passport power rank of 66, the Philippines placed slightly lower than in the 2022 index, when it was at 64th.

On the separate Henley Passport Index, the Philippine passport is at 78th place with Uganda. According to that index, the Philippines has visafree access to 67 countries and territories. The ranking, which is based on data from

the International Air Transport Association, is an imporvement from 80th place in a previous index in 2022.

Henley offers services in citizenship by investment, which would allow the wealthy to acquire second or new citizenships.

Visa applications

Countries may require foreign nationals to obtain a visa, an entry document needed to ensure that one is authorized to enter the destination country in the first place. There are also

different kinds of non-immigrant visas issued depending on the purpose of travel.

Visa application requirements would often include proof of employment, bank statements and other proof of financial means, a detailed itinerary of the trip including a proof of accommodation, and an interview with an officer at the embassy or consulate.

This is on top of a visa application fee that could reach thousands of pesos. (Philstar. com)

US, Japan recognize landmark South...

PAGE A1

Hayashi added they “confirmed our strong opposition against unlawful claims and coercive and provocative efforts and actions by China in the South China Sea.”

According to a media note

released by the U.S. and Japan, the ministers reaffirmed their support for “unimpeded lawful commerce and full respect for international law, including freedom of navigation and overflight and other lawful uses of the sea.”

The U.S. and Japanese officials also stated that their basic positions on Taiwan remain unchanged, and reiterated the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. (Philstar.com)

Wrongly deported Filipino reunites with...

PAGE A1

going “from lawyer to lawyer” to no effect. Some two years ago, however, Baena saw an internet video on Shan Potts’ law practice and how he successfully pursued a client’s case. Baena hired Potts.

His case reached the California Superior Court, which ruled his conviction unconstitutional and voided it. Potts’ team then successfully petitioned the Department of Homeland Security to reopen his case and restore his status as a green card holder.

Back in California, Baena told WBUR, “I want to spend as much time before going off finding work. I kind of just want to spend a few weeks with family,

just going from family to family, letting them know I’m home.”

They barely know him, he said. (Inquirer.net)

‘COVID emergency phase to end...

PAGE A1

disease," van Kerkhove said.

She added that countries should know how to use the different tools that have been developed over the past three years, such as vaccines and medicines against the virus, as well as health surveillance measures.

Salvaña said that extending the state of a public health emergency would depend on several factors among them

vaccine administration and pay of health care workers.

In a previous briefing, Department of Health (DoH) Officer in Charge Maria Rosario Vergeire said that while the DoH has recommended the extension of the state of a public health emergency, it would respect President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s decision on the matter.

"We will heed to the decision of the Office of the President if and when not to extend [the state

of public health emergency]," Vergeire said.

Meanwhile, Salvaña reiterated that bivalent vaccines afford extra protection against severe disease due to the Omicron subvariant.

"We will wait for the data on the second bivalent vaccine, but the first bivalent vaccine will give protection against infection and severity, especially on newer Omicron sublineages," Salvaña said. 

California Attorney General sues drugmakers...

with access to affordable drugs, including insulin.” And company spokesperson Isaac Sorensen said it has eliminated out-ofpocket costs for insulin.

Other companies targeted in the suit, and the trade associations that represent them, did not immediately respond to inquiries seeking comment, or declined to comment on the lawsuit. Instead, they either blamed one another for price increases or outlined their efforts to lower costs. Costs for consumers vary widely depending on insurance coverage and severity of illness.

California follows other states, including Arkansas, Kansas, and Illinois, in going after insulin companies and pharmaceutical middlemen, but Bonta said California is taking an aggressive approach by charging the companies with violating the state’s Unfair Competition Law, which could carry significant civil penalties and potentially lead to millions of dollars in restitution for Californians.

If the state prevails in court, the cost of insulin could be “massively decreased” because the companies would no longer be allowed to spike prices, Bonta said.

Bonta joins fellow Democratic leaders in targeting the pharmaceutical industry. Gov. Gavin Newsom has launched an ambitious plan to put the nation’s most populous state in the business of making its own brand of insulin as a way to bring down prices for roughly 3.2 million diabetic Californians who rely on the drug.

“Big Pharma continues to put profits over people — driving up drug prices and restricting access to this vital medicine,” Newsom spokesperson Brandon Richards told KHN. “That is why California is moving towards manufacturing our own affordable insulin.”

By launching an aggressive attack against the pharmaceutical industry, California is also wading into a popular political fight. Many Americans express outrage at drug costs while manufacturers blame pharmacy middlemen and health insurers. Meanwhile, the middlemen point the finger back at drugmakers.

Edwin Park, a Californiabased research professor with Georgetown University’s Center for Children and Families, said California’s push to enter the generic drug business, while

also suing the pharmaceutical industry, could ultimately lead to lower patient costs at the pharmacy counter.

“It can put downward pressure on list prices,” Park said, referring to the sticker price of drugs. “And that can lead to lower out-of-pocket costs.”

There isn’t much transparency in how drug prices are set in the U.S. Manufacturers are predominantly to blame for high drug costs, because they set the list prices, Park said. A growing body of research also indicates that the pharmaceutical middlemen are a prime driver of high patient drug costs. To lower prices, it’s critical to target the entire supply chain, experts say.

“The list price has definitely gone up,” said Dr. Neeraj Sood, a professor of health policy,

medicine, and business at the University of Southern California who has studied drivers of high insulin costs. “But over time a larger share of the money is going to the middlemen rather than the manufacturers.” n This story was produced by KHN, which publishes California Healthline, an editorially independent service of the California Health Care Foundation.

KHN (Kaiser Health News) is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues. Together with Policy Analysis and Polling, KHN is one of the three major operating programs at KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation). KFF is an endowed nonprofit organization providing information on health issues to the nation.

A 2021 U.S. Senate investigation found that the price of a long-acting insulin pen made by Novo Nordisk jumped 52% from 2014 to 2019 and that the price of a rapid-acting pen from Sanofi shot up about 70%. From 2013 to 2017, Eli Lilly had a 64% increase on a rapid-acting pen. Unsplash.com photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya

Gideon Baena was wrongfully convicted and deported to the Philippines. He is seen here with his mother, Rose Baena.

Photo courtesy of Gideon Baena

Lifestyle checks

ALONGSIDE the call for courtesy resignations from over 900 generals and full colonels in the Philippine National Police, authorities have said lifestyle checks would be conducted, as part of efforts to weed out PNP officers involved in the illegal drug trade.

In the past years, lifestyle checks have also been announced in agencies perceived to be among the most corrupt, such as the Department of Public Works and Highways, the Bureau of Internal Revenue and the Bureau of Customs. But after some fanfare in the announcements, the lifestyle checks mostly fizzled out.

Editorial

honest-to-goodness lifestyle check is the Anti-Money Laundering Council. Corruption and drug offenses are crimes covered by the Anti-Money Laundering Act, so the PNP can seek AMLC help in ferreting out police officers with unexplained wealth.

This is not to say that such probes into possible illegally amassed wealth cannot be pursued. Those who intend to conduct lifestyle checks, however, will need to coordinate with other agencies whose records may establish if a government official or employee is living beyond his or her means.

Tax declarations in particular will be helpful, and more accurate than the annual statement of assets, liabilities and net worth that government officials are required to submit. The SALNs are kept under lock and key by the Office of the Ombudsman under a policy that reverses moves for greater transparency in governance.

Probers, however, may request the ombudsman for copies of SALNs of officials under investigation. These asset declarations can be compared with BIR records.

Another agency that can be tapped for an

Such lifestyle checks will be even more welcome if they are expanded to include not only PNP officers suspected of drug links, but also of other illegal activities including corruption. Are the PNP and the Department of the Interior and Local Government, whose head called for the courtesy resignations, prepared to expand the wealth check?

While most of the senior police officers have so far heeded the call and submitted their courtesy resignations, several have also expressed hope that the probe will not be arbitrary or selective and will be devoid of politics. Properly carried out, a lifestyle check is useful. But if it is to be conducted on those who have submitted their courtesy resignations, it should cover as many officers as possible. And it should be carried out with the necessary expertise, backed by documents, to avoid accusations of unfairness. (Philstar.com)

Let us not disrupt ourselves

THERE have been serious disruptions in the world. Funny that the Philippines has been trying bravely to contribute its share. On the first day of 2023, the Philippine air space became a dangerous place to be. No, there was no war, but uncontrolled air traffic can be disastrous. All the more planes landing and taking off. Somehow, an alleged technical glitch paralyzed the air control system of the Philippines and its air space.

How many times has it happened in the world that a country’s whole air space is like a big black hole? I cannot remember anything of that sort happening – ever. Of course, there are countries who limit the use of their air space, but the whole world knows about it. Airlines avoid that country just as that country would apparently prefer to be in isolation.

The Philippines is the opposite. Tourism is a major front face, just like welcoming

foreign investments. Which means we do not have enough international airports for the kind of volume of passengers, tourists or business people that we want to lure into the country. That is why losing one’s functional capacity to direct air traffic, local and international, is not only a disruption but a disaster.

We Filipinos have to get used to being jolted more often than before. The state of the world is totally erratic. Not yet that volatile but already erratic. The Russian invasion of Ukraine is considered by Western Europe as a signal that it, too, can be Russia’s ultimate target. That is why the EU is supporting Ukraine all the way, it seems. If Ukraine falls, other countries consider themselves next in line.

Western Europe means NATO, too, and that drags so many other non-European countries into the fray – all the way to Australia.

Filipinos cannot say that it is none of our business. Our business is millions of Filipinos working overseas, and most host countries employing Filipinos are somehow involved with the Russian-Ukraine conflict. Our business is already disrupted

by war even though the armed hostilities have stayed directly between Russia and Ukraine.

We know only too well that Ukraine does not fight for itself at this stage but for everybody else threatened by a Russiacontrolled by Putin.

Several countries in South America are having their own internal conflicts, and they, too, drag others into their problems. China is like a dark cloud from a huge mountain staring at us, not only Taiwan. What claims it is making on Taiwan, China is also making on our seas and our islets. We cannot even try to develop our oil and gas reserves without asking China for permission. Our waters, our economic zones, yet we cannot make a simple economic move without China telling us it is okay.

Inflation continues to squeeze the budgets of Filipinos who already never had enough –except for the 10-20% at the top. Businesses know how things are, and their employees know as well. No one wants to add doom to the gloom because business needs hope to survive. But it is not only sibuyas, it is

almost everything else. Inflation is not 7% to Filipinos; inflation is how much prices for basic commodities increase.

I understand that the 2022 presidential elections caused money to reach millions of Filipinos, maybe enough for them to stave off the immediate impact of inflation. But nobody is giving money to ordinary and poor Filipinos anymore, not until the next elections. Subsidies will mitigate the fear and pain, and the government is borrowing more money before it is making enough to amortize a government debt that has ballooned from 6 trillion pesos to 13 trillion.

Government knows that poverty is much more than government statistics claim. That is why it pursues the programs of subsidy and borrowing early to slow down the discontent from a population struggling to make ends meet. Government also knows that borrowing and borrowing will fracture not just our balance sheet but our credit rating as well. There must be some impetus for extra production of basic needs like food, extra employment, and

the pump-priming of small and medium enterprises.

We need the people to be motivated, to be inspired by vision and leadership, to take extra steps to do more, build more, produce more, and ask less. Soon, people will be desperate for some good news and it is the ripe moment to rally them. They will need to see, to hear, and to feel reality coming closer to making hope come true. Leadership is so critical at this point. It is not easy to reverse dependency to productivity.

I know disruptions will happen. They are inevitable at this period of history, ours and the world’s. But we need not try to shoot ourselves in the foot by creating disruptions instead of stability. We do not need weekends like the last one when military and police camps in Metro Manila go on red alert, then try to assuage the natural curiosity of Filipinos who see and hear the unusual by giving inane explanations.

The AFP’s Chief of Staff is quietly relieved, and as quietly, a recently-removed Chief of Staff is reinstated. The Defense Department’s Officer-in-Charge

resigns and a new Defense OIC is appointed. All quietly. As though these are simply routine events.

People should not be distracted from the emergency of feeding their families and making them feel more secure about the immediate future. Political leadership should prepare us for disruptions that the times bring and not the political leadership being the disruption. However, I must commend those involved in that recent unknown crisis. They managed to keep most of the public unaware that a serious drama was happening.

Putting that strange scenario behind us, we look to local leaders to minimize the impact of inflation. We understand that the re-opening of the economy will need more time to go full blast. It is a day-to-day struggle for most Filipinos, and we must find ways to help one another. Kapit bisig, kapatid. * * *

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.

2023 promises even stronger momentum in US-PH ties

MARYKAY CARLSON

THE last five months of 2022 coincided with my first five months serving as U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines – an exciting time marked by non-stop engagements that strengthened our ironclad relationship as friends, partners and allies.

Only three weeks after I presented my credentials to newly elected President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited the Philippines. Numerous other high-level exchanges between our two countries followed.

President Marcos met with President Biden in New York in September. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin III met with DND Officer-in-Charge Jose Faustino Jr. twice soon thereafter, in Hawaii and in Cambodia.

Many other senior U.S. officials met Philippine leaders from government, business and civil society in 2022, including a 28-company trade mission from the U.S.ASEAN Business Council, a

Congressional delegation led by Senator Ed Markey, multiple State Department officials, the Secretary of the Navy and a constellation of generals and admirals from the U.S. military. These visits culminated with Vice President Kamala Harris’ historic trip to the Philippines in November, when, in addition to meeting with President Marcos and Vice President Sara Duterte, she became the most senior U.S. official ever to visit Palawan.

In my 37 years as a diplomat, I have never seen this level of bilateral engagement in such a short period of time. It is a testament to the significance of our relationship. And if what we see on the calendar for the new year is any indicator, our ties will continue to flourish in 2023.

All of us at the U.S. embassy are committed to strengthening the U.S.-Philippine relationship, a cornerstone of the Biden administration’s Indo-Pacific Strategy. We are excited that the Philippines became a founding partner in the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework, and we look forward to expanding our collaboration during the U.S. APEC host year. This week, the U.S. embassy will highlight the rich U.S.-Philippine economic

partnership during the fifth IndoPacific Business Forum (IPBF), the U.S. government’s premier annual regional event to promote trade, investment and economic cooperation. The United States is the largest market for Philippine goods and services in the world, and the IPBF will highlight the Philippines’ role as an essential economic partner in multiple sectors. We are honored by the many Filipino leaders from government and the private sector who will join us for this event.

Later this month, officials from the U.S. State and Defense departments will lead a senior U.S. interagency delegation to the annual U.S.-Philippine Bilateral Strategic Dialogue. The delegation will meet with representatives from the Departments of Foreign Affairs and National Defense, and other Philippine government partners to strategize about ways to advance cooperation in multiple fields, including energy and food security, defense, support for the judiciary, protecting the environment and enhancing people-to-people ties.

In April, the U.S. and Philippine militaries will begin Exercise Balikatan 23, the

largest joint military exercise in the history of our Alliance. Our forces will work shoulder-toshoulder on shared operations and tactics on land, at sea and in the air. Philippine and U.S. forces will also conduct multiple humanitarian and civic assistance projects during the exercise, including school renovations and health engagements with local communities. Balikatan 23 will highlight the ironclad U.S.Philippine Alliance as a source of strength and stability for our peoples and others in the IndoPacific.

2023 will also be a year to celebrate a milestone in bilateral ties: the 75th anniversary of the Fulbright program in the Philippines, and of people-topeople exchanges between our countries. Fulbright Philippines is the oldest continuously operating Fulbright program in the world. The program was the first in a rich array of exchanges with the Philippines, including the International Visitors Leadership Program, the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative and many other programs. Thousands of Filipinos and Americans have benefitted from these exchanges and brought those benefits back to their communities. We are

also excited to welcome Peace Corps volunteers back to the Philippines this year.

Every day, the U.S. embassy team and I strive to channel the positive momentum in U.S.Philippine relations to advance our shared priorities. The economic, political, security and cultural efforts highlighted above represent just a fraction of what we expect to do in 2023.

The work we do together with our Filipino friends, partners and allies is important: the U.S.Philippine relationship is central

to ensuring an Indo-Pacific region that is free and open, connected, prosperous, secure and resilient.

I can’t wait to see what we can achieve together in 2023 and beyond. (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.

* * * MaryKay Carlson is U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines.

JOSE MA. MONTELIBANO

ANDY

DING

President Fredinand Marcos Jr. with U.S. President Joseph Biden Malacañang file photo

PHILIPPINES

Rising egg prices, shortage beset Pinoys

by DANESSA RIVERA Philstar.com

MANILA — Apart from sugar and onions, Filipinos are facing supply shortage as well as rising prices of eggs, which used to be one of the cheapest sources of protein.

Data monitoring of the Department of Agriculture (DA) showed medium eggs retailed at P7 to P9 per piece as of Thursday, January 12. A year earlier, it cost P6 a piece.

The egg industry has been reeling from the impact of the avian influenza or bird flu and the high cost of production.

Increasing egg supply could take at least one year after the effects of the bird flu, Philippine Egg Board Association chairman Gregorio San Diego said during a briefing of the Philippine Chamber of Agriculture and Food Inc. (PCAFI) recently.

“Increasing the number of

chicken will take about a year,” he said.

In explaining the timeframe, San Diego said hens are produced from imported parent stocks.

“When we import parent stocks, we have to wait for about six months before they lay eggs, where we will get the hens. Then it will take another six months for them to lay eggs. More or less, the cycle is one year,” San Diego said.

Not only in Philippines

“High prices of eggs are not unique to the Philippines. In the U.S., egg prices rose sharply including in New Zealand. Almost every country is affected by the bird flu,” he said.

As of Dec. 29, the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) said 20 provinces in eight regions remain affected by the disease.

Two provinces, Ilocos Sur and North Cotabato, have ongoing cases.

San Diego said the cost of

production remains high.

Feeds are the most basic input – taking up much of an egg’s selling price – as chickens feed on a daily basis.

“The feed component alone accounts for P5. Several years ago, the price of feeds was only P19 per kilo. Now it’s P34 per kilo. Other expenses also increased like electricity,” he said.

Because of high production costs, some egg farmers are hesitant to expand or continue their operations.

Moving forward, demand will play a crucial role in driving egg prices in the market.

“Prices right now remain high because demand increased amid relatively low supply. But later this year, we can’t tell the price movement of commodities and how it will affect consumers, so demand will be a big factor. If demand slows down, egg prices could be maintained or lower,” San Diego said. 

VP Sara to discuss challenges, action plans in education report

MANILA – Vice President and Education secretary Sara Duterte will present to the public the challenges and target action plan for the Basic Education Report (BER) on Jan. 30, according to the Department of Education (DepEd).

In an interview, DepEd spokesperson Michael Poa stressed the education chief's presentation intends to uphold transparency and inclusivity for stakeholders across all sectors, particularly in the disclosure of educational status in the Philippines.

"Ang daming challenges ng basic education. Iisa-isahin natin. Ilalahad natin kung ano po yung challenges ng basic education. Aside from that, syempre nalatag natin yung challenges, ang department ay maglalatag ng mga plans and initiatives (Basic education has so many challenges, we will discuss them one by one, and we will enumerate them. Aside from that, of course, we will also disclose our plans and initiatives)," he said.

The DepEd also gave possible

topics which may be presented in the BER, including challenges on learning loss and curriculum, among others.

"We have problems with school facilities, we have problems with our curriculum which we are currently reviewing… nasasabi na nga yung literacy sa atin (our literacy have been already tackled), we all know about the learning poverty report that the World Bank has issued. These are the things that we are aware of," he said.

Several points concerning child protection and teachers' welfare are also expected to be discussed.

The DepEd earlier announced the BER to be presented on January 30.

Learners' protection

Poa, meanwhile, said 78 complaints have been sent to Learner Rights and Protection Office (LRPO) since its launching in November.

These complaints were sent through "e-mail, Facebook chats, and phone calls."

"So we now have an additional 78, I am now asking for data

because we will be monitoring how fast our resolutions are," he said in mixed English and Filipino.

Poa noted that these reports still undergo proper validation.

"Ang karamihan po na narereport sa atin are incidents of (peer-to-peer) bullying (Most of the reported incidents are peer-topeer bullying)," he said.

In the end, Poa reiterated complainants may relay their concerns with confidentiality through these hotlines.

"Nire-remind natin yung publiko, mayroon tayong ganitong LRPO hotlines, hindi lang sa phone, pati sa email, Facebook and they can contact us para magreport ng ganitong abuses (We are reminding the public that we have these LRPO hotlines, not only in the phone but also in email and Facebook, they contact us to report these abuses)," he added.

Complainants or concerned individuals may send their complaints via the telesafe helpline at (02) 8637-2396, (02) 8632-1372, and 0945-175-9777, or via email at weprotectlearners@ deped.gov.ph. (PNA)

DOH:

4 PH travelers from China infected with Omicron subvariants

MANILA  –  Four of the eight Filipino travelers from China who tested positive for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) were infected with two Omicron subvariants, a health official said on Friday, January 13.

During an online townhall meeting, Department of Health Epidemiology Bureau Director Dr. Alethea de Guzman reported three were infected with BF.7 while one was infected with BA.5.2.

"Ito 'yung mga hindi bagong

variants. Dati na nating 'tong mga nade-detect (These variants are not new. We have been detecting these before)," she said.

The samples of the other four travelers did not have an assigned lineage.

"Minsan pagka-transport nade-degrade 'yung quality ng specimen kaya hindi natin masequence (Sometimes, the quality of the specimen degrades during transport and so we’re unable to sequence them)," de Guzman said.

Earlier, the World Health Organization said BF.7 and BA.5.2 are driving the recent wave of COVID-19 infections in China.

On Dec. 27, 2022 to Jan. 2, 2023, the eight Filipino travelers from China entered the country. They are all unvaccinated and tested positive via antigen screening upon their arrival at the airport.

They had 89 close contacts and only one of these contacts manifested COVID-19 symptoms. (PNA)

Recent weather disturbances leave 17 people dead

MANILA — The recent weather disturbances that triggered floods  and landslides in various parts of the Philippines left 17 people dead and affected half a million people, the Office of Civil Defense reported on Friday, January 13.

Bicol region logged the most number of deaths with five. Four deaths were reported in Zamboanga Peninsula and Northern Mindanao, three in Eastern Visayas, and one in Davao region. Two people remained missing,

while seven people were injured.

Since January 2, a number of  low pressure areas, the shear line  and the northeast monsoon or amihan have been bringing rain to large swaths of the country.

According to the OCD, 523,991 people were affected by the recent weather disturbances. Over 71,442 were forced to flee their homes.

The cost of damage to infrastructure reached P165.7 million, while damage to agriculture was pegged at 252.6

million.

The municipalities of Tubod in Lanao del Norte, Dolores in Eastern Samar, San Miguel in Leyte and Gandara and Basey in Samar declared a state of calamity.

Assistance amounting to P30.9 million was provided to affected communities, the OCD also said.

PAGASA said on Friday that the low pressure area off Mindanao will continue dumping rain to most parts of the country until the weekend. (Philstar.com)

BALLOT PRINTING. Commission on Elections (Comelec) personnel manually check for defective printed ballots at the National Printing Office in Quezon City on Wednesday, Jan. 11. Some 355,184 ballots would be printed for the special elections in the seventh legislative district of Cavite province scheduled on Feb. 25. PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler

PNP chief, o cers face lifestyle check

PHILIPPINE National Police chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr.

on Wednesday, January 11 said the ranking officials who had submitted their courtesy resignations, including himself, will undergo lifestyle check.

In a television interview, Azurin said that this is part of the investigation that will be conducted by a five-man committee tasked to assess the courtesy resignations and likewise make recommendations to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

"As of now we need to ask 'yung member ng committee kung ano 'yung mga iba pang procedure na isasagawa (the members of the committee what the procedures are) but definitely, that would be part of the investigation or inquiry that will be conducted by the committee to assess and evaluate all third-level officers," Azurin told reporters on Tuesday, January 10.

When asked whether Azurin will undergo a lifestyle check, Col. Jean Fajardo, PNP spokesman, told The Manila Times that "as part of leadership by example, Gen. Azurin will also undergo a lifestyle check."

PNP personnel undergo yearly lifestyle checks in accordance with Republic Act 3019 or the "AntiGraft and Corruption Practices," and RA 6713 or the "Act Establishing a Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees."

Azurin had said that about 600 high-ranking police officials, including himself, have resigned after Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. called for the resignation initially of some 300 officers who

have "infected" the government's war on drugs. Abalos did not name them.

The President said Abalos' call had his blessing in a bid to force out the scalawags, with a warning that those who will be found guilty will go to jail.

As of press time, 10 of these police officers are under investigation.

Meanwhile,Fajardo told media in Filipino and English that that about 70 percent of the total number of ranking officials have submitted their courtesy resignations and that they, especially Azurin, expect more, as those coming from the regions that are far from the police headquarters in Camp Crame in Quezon City are to submit theirs "within the day, tomorrow, until this week."

Abalos had previously described the approach as radical and a "shortcut" after previous investigations into allegedly corrupt officers took a long time and produced few results.

It is not the first time such drastic measures have been used to clean up the Philippine police force.

Former president Fidel Ramos cracked down on police in the early 1990s, ordering all officers over 56 years of age or with more than 30 years of service to resign.

The chief of the national police and nine other senior officers resigned as a result.

The planned resignation was recommended by Azurin himself whose own record will be checked, said Abalos.

"This is the only way to cleanse the ranks in a fast manner," Abalos said. "It's difficult to fight a war when it's your ally that will shoot

you in the back."

But Carlos Conde of Human Rights Watch had said it was a "preposterous" move and an insult to the memory of the thousands of people killed in the drug war.

"It does not serve the cause of justice and accountability — far from it," Conde said.

"What Philippine authorities should be doing is investigate these police officials and file appropriate charges in court if warranted."

Police officers have killed thousands of alleged drug dealers and users since mid2016, but critics say the wealthy and powerful have been largely untouched.

Allegations of police graft and abuse are common in the Philippines, with some officers accused of selling drugs seized in operations.

Then president Rodrigo Duterte had pledged to root out deepseated corruption but repeatedly expressed frustration and anger with the extent of the problem.

A security analyst said Abalos was taking a politically safer and less confrontational route to clean up the force.

"If nobody resigns, then he's got all the more justification to start going after corruption via the hardpower route," said Sam RamosJones, director of operations at Philippine Strategic Associates, referring to the courts.

While the method would not rid the force of corruption on its own, it could "send the message to lower ranks that what may have been tolerated under previous leadership no longer will be."

(ManilaTimes.net)

Long lines continue at NAIA, worry Immigration

ALMOST two weeks after an alleged technical glitch paralyzed operations at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), long queues that take hours to clear continue to saddle Immigration officers.

Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco on Wednesday, January 11 said the problem is not anymore that simple, suggesting that "all agencies involved in airport operations must work together to resolve airport lines."

"All counters were manned, but the lines remained long," said Tansingco.

"While passengers were processed expeditiously, more can be done to improve this," he added.

Tansingco shared that the BI (Bureau of Immigration) supports the decongestion of the NAIA and opening of new airports.

As we open our borders, we should innovate in anticipation of the rebound of international tourism," said Tansingco.

He bared that they have reached the maximum capacity of the counters at the airport, and have even assigned two to four immigration officers to counters in certain terminals.

"It's already a space problem. We can add so many officers, but if the space is limited, then there will still be lines," he said.

Tansingco also sought the cooperation of airlines by regulating the influx of passengers by proper scheduling.

"This is a joint concern that we must all address in all aspects," said Tansingco.

"We believe that by working together, this concern can be resolved," he added.

BI spokesman Dana Sandoval said the BI has more than 14 counters at the arrival and departure areas of the NAIA, adding that five electronic gates located in NAIA 3 were also fully operational, lessening processing time to as much as 8 seconds per person.

She said that 14 primary inspection officers were augmented by immigration officers from their rapid response team, which they activate as needed.

She advised travelers to be at the airport three hours before their flight schedule.

Preventive maintenance Bagong Henerasyon partylist Rep. Bernadette HerreraDy, meanwhile, called on the Department of Transportation (DoTr) and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) to perform a complete preventive maintenance examination of major buildings and equipment at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) as well as other airports to guarantee that the New Year's Day glitch will not happen again.

"Isn't this an indication that we should check everything we have in order to avoid a similar incident? Because this is a problem with maintenance," Herrera-Dy said in a statement on Wednesday.

"[Are] the DoTr and CAAP compelled to do anything to inspect the current facilities in order to avoid such a thing?" she added.

Last week, Herrera-Dy introduced a resolution in aid of legislation calling for an investigation into the airport incident, saying the House "must get to the bottom of it so we can prevent a repeat of that awful day."

Aside from possible immediate corrective measures, HerreraDy believes the investigation

should focus on discovering who was responsible for the NAIA incident.

"So far, no one has owned up to this unfortunate and embarrassing incident. Those responsible for this fiasco must be held accountable," HerreraDy said.

Herrera-Dy also urged the government to compensate the tens of thousands of passengers affected by the New Year's Day air traffic trouble.

"Apology without compensation is insufficient," Herrera-Dy said.

No to privatization In another development, Sen. Joseph Victor "JV" Ejercito rejected the proposal to privatize the NAIA, saying that public utility services vital to national security must remain under government control.

The senator warned that the NAIA, the country's main gateway, could suffer the same fate as the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP), a power transmission operator that was privatized in 2009.

He noted that about 40 percent of the NGCP's stakes are owned by the State Grid Corp. of China. "We know for a fact that we have a dispute with China."

He cited the January 1 "technical glitch" that shut down Philippine airspace which led to the cancellation of some 400 flights and affected over 65,000 passengers.

"But with what happened at the airport, with one instance, it can paralyze the whole airspace system," Ejercito said on Wednesday.

"Air traffic froze for several hours. So, with one flick, we can be paralyzed without electricity," he said in an interview.

Ejercito added, "We have to know what vessels or aircraft are entering our airspace, especially that we have a dispute right now." (William B. Depasupil, Moises Cruz and  Bernadette E. Tamayo/ManilaTimes.net)

DFA draws parameters on joint oil ventures

by BERNADETTE E. TAMAYO ManilaTimes.net

THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) will come up with "parameters" that will guide the Philippines in any future oil and gas ventures following the Supreme Court ruling voiding a joint marine seismic agreement, DFA spokesman Ma. Teresita Daza said.

She made the remark when asked to elaborate on the statement of Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo that talks with China on oil and gas development will resume.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday, January 10 declared as unconstitutional the Joint Marine Seismic Undertaking (JMSU) entered into by Philippine, Vietnamese and Chinese oil firms in 2005.

Voting 12-2-1, the high tribunal invalidated the tripartite agreement between China National Offshore Oil Corp., Vietnam Oil and Gas Corp., and Philippine National Oil Co. involving an area in the South China Sea covering 142,886 square kilometers.

The court ruled that the JMSU is unconstitutional for allowing wholly owned foreign corporations to participate in the exploration of the country's natural resources without observing the safeguards provided in Section 2, Article 12 of the 1987 Constitution.

In a text message on Thursday, January 12, Daza said the DFA is "carefully studying" the high court's decision on the joint marine seismic undertaking.

"The Department's actions and policy recommendations are, at all times, anchored on the Philippine Constitution and laws," Daza said.

She pointed out that cases decided by the Supreme Court "form part of our legal system."

The DFA "is duty-bound to take applicable cases into consideration in any future discussion with China on oil and gas," Daza stressed.

"We

China said that its 2005 joint marine seismic agreement with Vietnam and the Philippines had "played an important role in promoting stability, cooperation and development in the region."

China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Wang Wenbin said that the national oil companies from China, the Philippines and Vietnam signed the tripartite deal in the South China Sea (SCS) in 2005 and conducted joint seismic undertakings in some parts of the SCS.

"It was an important step by the three countries to implement the DoC and a useful experiment for maritime cooperation between parties to the South China Sea," he said in a briefing Wednesday, January 11.

The Chinese Embassy in the Philippines shared Wang's statement on the matter.

Wang said China "remains committed to properly handle maritime disputes" in the SCS with countries directly concerned, including the Philippines, through dialogue and consultation, and "to actively explore ways for practical maritime cooperation including joint exploration."

He noted that during the recent state visit to China of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., "the two sides agreed to bear in mind the spirit of the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation on Oil and Gas Development signed in 2018."

Wang said Chinese President Xi Jinping and Marcos have agreed to "resume discussions on oil and gas development at an early date, building upon the outcomes of the previous talks, with a view of benefiting the two countries and their peoples." 

"It is, however, premature to discuss the case's legal implications on any future agreement with China, as substantive discussions have yet to commence," she said.

are still in the process of setting the parameters that will guide any future oil and gas talks," Daza added.

Passengers are seen at the check-in counter of the departure area of the NAIA Terminal 1 in Parañaque City. ManilaTimes.net file photo

A success story for crewmen: Overstayed crew member obtains immigrant visa in Manila through Obama-era provisional waiver regulation, on Citizen Pinoy this Sunday

JULIE came to the U.S. as a crew member in 2004 and overstayed, leaving her eight-year-old daughter, Jolina, back in the Philippines. The years of separation broke Julie’s heart, but she believed her sacrifice would help build a better future for her daughter.

Julie had been watching “Citizen Pinoy”

Catriona arrives in New Orleans for 71st Miss Universe

By HannaH Mallorca Inquirer.net

CATRIONA Gray has set foot in New Orleans, Louisiana, in the U.S., ahead of the 71st Miss Universe, where she was tapped to be one of the backstage commentators.

The Miss Universe 2018 titleholder was appointed as a backstage commentator for the upcoming coronation night, alongside Emmy Award-winning host Zuri Hall, who is also an “Access Hollywood” correspondent.

Meanwhile, Miss Universe 2012 Olivia Culpo and celebrity stylist Jeannie Mai-Jenkins will be the hosts for the pageant.

Gray shared photos of herself at an airport in New Orleans on her personal Instagram page on Friday, Jan. 13. n

Vhong glad after court denies appeal to cancel his bail

By Jan Milo Severo Philstar.com

KAPAMILYA host Vhong Navarro is glad after the court denied the appeal of model Deniece Cornejo to cancel his bail that allowed him to temporarily get out of jail.

“Thanks God,” Vhong told his lawyer Mariglen AbrahamGarduque upon learning the

court’s decision.

“We are very happy with the resolution of the court on the motion,” Abraham-Garduque said.

In a decision dated January 12, the Taguig Regional Trial Court (Taguig RTC) Branch 69 dismissed Cornejo’s motion for reconsideration.

“At the outset, a perusal of the instant motion readily reveals the

absence of any conformity from the Office of the City Prosecutor of Taguig City (OCP-Taguig).

Time and again, the Supreme Court has emphasized that criminal actions shall be prosecuted under the direction and control of the prosecutor,” the Taguig RTC held.

“Thus, when the public prosecutor does not give his or

“ATTORNEY-OF-LAST-HOPE” MICHAEL J. GURFINKEL HELPED OVERSTAYED CREW MEMBER GET A VISA ON A BRAND-NEW SUCCESS STORY OF CITIZEN PINOY THIS SUNDAY! When Julie (left) completed her contract as a crew member in 2004, she planned on returning to the Philippines to her eight-year-old daughter. However, she unknowingly overstayed while visiting family, and then could not leave due to the 10-year ban. She consulted with Atty. Gurfinkel (right) on several occasions, until President Obama created the Provisional Waiver program. This was an answer to Julie’s prayer, as she was to return to Manila for her immigrant visa on an approved provisional waiver, and immediately return to the U.S. as a green card holder. Watch this success story on a brand-new episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, January 15 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. (Advertising Supplement)

and she knew that the “Attorney-of-Last-Hope”

Michael J. Gurfinkel might be able to help her. She had been consulting with him in January 2008, August 2013, and January 2016 before the priority date on her mother’s petition became current.

A change in the law that Julie had been praying for happened when then President PAGE B2

Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray Photo from Instagram/@catriona_gray

‘Ang Dating Kami’ takes centerstage Jan. 21

ANG Dating Kami,”

a musical comedy show featuring Miguel Vera and AiAi delas Alas, is set to titillate audiences on January 21, 2023 at 16600 Civic Center Drive in Bellflower, CA. Showtimes are at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m.

“

Ang Dating Kami” will provide the audience an insight to Miguel and Ai Ai’s love story, how it all started and ended, the ups and downs in between, and how it eventually evolved today. The stories will be narrated via popular song and dances, and is lighthearted, funny and nostalgic. It will also depict how it all works out when two individuals set all differences aside and decide to become family. The show touches on life’s imperfection, second chances, forgiveness, mixed families and celebrating each other despite the past.

A success story for crewmen...

Barack Obama issued the Provisional Waiver regulation in 2016, enabling Julie to avoid the 10year bar if she left the U.S. for her visa.

When her mother’s petition became current, she was able to file for and get her provisional waiver approved. Despite several hurdles, including the delays due to the pandemic, the embassy interview was finally set.

Although the U.S. Embassy gave her a challenging time with multiple interviews and additional requirements, Julie was still able to get her visa issued in September 2022 without being charged with fraud or requiring a fraud waiver. She was also able to bring her now 26-year-old daughter, Jolina, to the U.S. with her under the Child Status Protection Act.

Watch this success story on a brand-new episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, January 15 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/ Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the free app. (Advertising Supplement)

Five benefits of establishing a revocable living trust

Barrister’s Corner

Reyes.

Ticket prices for “Ang Dating Kami” are $150, $100, $85 and $70.

For more information or to inquire about tickets, call or text to (714) 322-2528, (818) 210-9190 or (626) 991-2455.

(Advertising Supplement)

Vhong glad after...

PAGE B1

her conformity to the pleading of a party, the party does not have the required legal personality to pursue the case. In this case, there is no conformity from the public prosecutor. Since the Motion to Reconsider pertains to the presentation of the prosecution’s evidence, it involves the criminal aspect of the case and, thus, cannot be considered without the public prosecutor’s conforme.”

“Applying the foregoing

rule and jurisprudence, the present motion deserves scant consideration from this court. Wherefore premises considered, the Motion for Reconsideration with Motion to Inhibit is hereby denied for lack of merit,” it added.

The Taguig RTC granted Navarro’s petition for bail last December 5. He was temporarily released from the Taguig City Jail Male Dormitory after he posted P1 million bail. n

THERE is never the perfect time to think about who you would like to inherit from your estate in case you pass away or at least who among your closest friends (BFFs) and family members are even deserving of inheriting from your estate. In doing so, you should also think about which vehicle you plan to use in implementing your estate plan. One of the best vehicle in implementing your estate plan is a revocable living trust. Five major benefits of establishing a revocable living trust are:

1. Your estate can avoid the time, cost, and hassle of going through the probate court process.

If you pass away without a will (intestate) in California, one of your close family would have to file a petition in probate court to probate your estate. Your estate will be divided and distributed according to the California probate code rules of intestate succession. Even if you have a

will when you pass away, your family would still need to file a petition in probate court if your estate is worth over $166,250 and go through the probate process. This can become a circus if certain beneficiaries contest the validity of the Will or the distribution of the estate. Your estate will pay for attorney’s fees, probate referee fees, appraisers and other experts, CPA fees, etc. If people contest the case, your estate would end up paying legal fees to defend the estate in litigation. The entire process can take anywhere from 9 months to years depending on the contentiousness of the probate case.

With a revocable living trust, your trustee or successor trustee if you were the initial trustee, would administer the trust and distribute the estate according to the trust document without having to open a probate court case. If the trust is funded with all your assets, it is possible to administer and distribute the trust assets without any Court involvement at all. This process is a lot faster than going through probate.

2. Your estate is not public record. When you file a probate

case, the public has access to your probate case file. The public will know the assets of the estate including the values of those assets. If the Will is admitted into probate, the terms of the Will is open to public scrutiny.

Establishing a revocable living trust makes your estate affairs private. Strangers do not have access to the terms of your living trust. Only certain beneficiaries and possible heirs can request a copy of the revocable living trust after you pass away.

3. You can dictate who will inherit from your estate. If you pass away without a Will, your estate will be divided and distributed in Probate Court following the rules of intestate succession in the California probate code. Certain relatives will be entitled to a share of your estate even if you feel they are not deserving.

By establishing a revocable living trust, you can designate who you want to inherit from your estate. You can designate what and how much each one will received from your estate after you pass away. The assets distributed to each beneficiaries does not have to be equal. The people you

Aside from Vera and Delas Alas, the other cast members

Ai-Ai delas Alas

Francis Velasco

Miguel Vera

‘It’s Showtime’ host Vhong Navarro ABS-CBN photo

Nar Cabico

Joseph Gelito

Leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel (right) was able to get a visa for his client, Julie (left) and her daughter, on a brand-new episode of Citizen Pinoy.

Atty. Kenneth UrsUA reyes

include Joseph Gelito and Boy Rose, with the special participation of Francis Velasco. The show is directed by Jack Ross.

The shows production manager is Nenen Espina, with technical direction headed by Luigi Dizon and lights by Alvin

Solving IRS tax problems

settlement is only based on your ability to pay.

Atty. RAymond BulAon

IF you just received the dreaded first letter from the IRS saying that you owe them money, don’t despair. Perhaps you had a balance owing on your last tax return (or returns from past years) that you couldn’t pay. Maybe you got audited and you didn’t have the chance to respond. Perhaps you took money out of your retirement plan and didn’t pay the taxes owed on the withdrawal. Who knows. There are a multitude of reasons how people end up in IRS hell. But one thing that I find in common in all the tax problems cases I handle is that the taxpayer has failed to do something in a timely manner. And now the IRS is on their tail. They want their money and they want it now. There are ways to end your tax problems. The first step is to decide that you will finally do something about it because the longer you wait, those nasty penalties and interest will keep accruing. Even worse, if you own a home or other real property, the IRS may file a federal tax lien. This may hinder your ability to refinance your mortgage and may also affect your credit.

Another way to get the IRS off your back is to negotiate an installment agreement. Depending on your income and assets, again, you may not even need to pay the full amount that you owe. But this requires a detailed analysis of your income and assets. The penalties and interest will still accrue, but you may be able to get the penalties reduced if you qualify.

Pechanga Resort Casino celebrates the Year of the Rabbit with $100,000 EasyPlay, cash drawings

AS the Year of the Rabbit approaches, Pechanga Resort Casino welcomes everyone to join in the celebration of the festival with a series of promotions and giveaways in January 2023.

Lunar New Year $100K EasyPlay & Cash Drawing

Another way to get the IRS off your back is to negotiate an installment agreement. Depending on your income and assets, again, you may not even need to pay the full amount that you owe. But this requires a detailed analysis of your income and assets.

Lastly, as a last resort, IRS taxes can also be wiped out in bankruptcy. If not, they can at least also be paid through a payment plan which is under the supervision of the bankruptcy court. For taxes to be wiped out in bankruptcy, you should have filed your tax returns timely, and they have to be more than 3 years old. Also, they should not have been assessed within the 240day period prior to filing your bankruptcy case. The rules can be complex and confusing, but I am just trying to give you an idea of what might be possible. An experienced bankruptcy attorney can do a more thorough analysis and let you know if bankruptcy might be the best solution for you. There is a way out of your tax difficulties. The further you get into the IRS collection trap, the harder it is to get out if the problem is getting worse every day that you wait because you may be putting everything you’ve worked hard for at risk. Why wait until the IRS intensifies its collection efforts against you?

Pechanga Resort Casino celebrates the Lunar New Year by giving away $100,000 in EasyPlay and cash prizes on Friday, January 20 & 27. Pechanga Club members can earn varying amounts of entries to the drawing by playing slots or table games from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. each day for a chance to win big. Sixty winners will be drawn to receive $250, $500, or $750 in EasyPlay starting at 7 p.m., with an announcement every hour afterward. One lucky winner will be drawn at 10 p.m. for the ultimate cash prize of $25,000. Come discover the thrill of potentially winning multiple times.

$5K Lucky Red Envelope Giveaway

Pechanga lets players get even luckier with the “Lucky Red Envelope” promotion this Lunar New Year. Pechanga Club members can just simply visit the Promotional Area every Tuesday and Thursday in January from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. for a chance to win up to $5,000 in EasyPlay!

Lunar New Year Luck Lion Dance

In celebration of the Lunar New Year, Pechanga Resort Casino will arrange a splendid Lucky Lion Dance Performance on Saturday, January 28. Starting at 3 p.m., the Lion Dance Team, which symbolizes auspiciousness and good luck, will begin their performance at the Pechanga north entrance and wind their way into the casino and through the casino floor. Guests will be able to receive Red Packets to give to the Lion Dancers to pray for a Good New Year.

Exclusive Dining Specials Pechanga Resort Casino also welcomes guests to reserve tables for Family Dinner or Business Lunch to enjoy exclusive Lucky Lunar New Year Dining Specials that the chefs of Bamboo, Blazing Noodles and Umi Sushi & Oyster Bar have meticulously prepared.

fish signifies abundance and has proved a customary tradition for Lunar New Year throughout the ages.

Blazing Noodles, just off the Pechanga hotel lobby, dishes up six traditional Asian specialties for the occasion. These include King Crab Fried Rice, Beef Tenderloin, Fried Whole Lobster, Crispy Chilean Sea Bass, and dishes which incorporate elements that signify good luck, prosperity and healthfulness.

The dining specialties in Blazing Noodles, Bamboo and Umi will be available from Jan. 15 through Jan. 29. Reservations are recommended at Umi Sushi & Oyster Bar and can be made by visiting www.Pechanga. com/eat or by calling (951) 770-8504.

Lunar New Year Property Décor

The fact is that the IRS will not go away until the 10-year statute of limitations for collections runs out. If you are close to the 10year expiration date, you may be able to just wait it out provided there is no immediate legal threat. But for many taxpayers, the IRS has plenty of time left to collect and they can still do serious damage to you and your family’s welfare. Keep reading.

If you do not have the income and resources to pay the entire tax liability, you may qualify to significantly reduce what you owe through an Offer in Compromise. Not everyone qualifies to have their taxes reduced this way, but it is certainly worth looking into. The IRS will look at “reasonable collection potential” by reviewing your income and assets, and if you don’t have much to give to the IRS, they may accept just what you’re able to afford. And it doesn’t matter if you owe 10K, 100K or 500K. In an Offer in Compromise, the amount doesn’t even matter. The

I understand that taking the first step is often the hardest. A lot of people procrastinate because they think that they don’t have the money to pay the IRS anyway so why deal with it now rather than later? Well, the fact that you currently don’t have the money may actually work in your favor because if you don’t have it, this may be the best time to deal with your IRS problems! If you owe more than $10,000 to the IRS, I provide a free consultation. Call my office so we can talk.

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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.

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None of the information herein is intended to give legal advice for any specific situation. Atty. Ray J. Bulaon has successfully helped more than 6,000 clients in getting out of debt. For a free evaluation of your situation, please call his office at TOLL- FREE 1-866-477-7772.

(Advertising Supplement)

Umi Chef Kiyo Ikeda plans to impart good fortune through his bold flavors using a wide variety of dishes. Casino guests can enjoy a 2.5-lb Lobster served with Miso Stir Fried Noodles, Bell Peppers & Thai Basil ($128), Sashimi Wrap with Daikon ($42), and Duck & Vegetables with Lettuce Cups ($32).

Chef Marie Surakul at Bamboo serves Whole Fish, Holiday Noodles, and other specials. She points out that noodles are a symbol of happiness and longevity. Whole

For the Spa

IT’S 2023 and it’s great to be back! After 2 years, my column is now active and I can’t wait to share more ideas, advice and beauty know-hows.

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU –Isn’t this is our favorite mantra whenever the new year starts? It is, after all, an effective way

The Lunar New Year symbolizes the fresh start of a new year, a new beginning. In celebration of this festival, starting from January 5, 2023, Pechanga will decorate the entire property with traditional new year elements, utilizing a wide array of bright red lanterns, refined oriental-style garden bridge, beautifully bloomed peach blossoms, traditional calligraphy spring couplets and much more. Throughout the floor, you will be able to find countless photo-op spots for your selfies or family portraits, while capturing the stunningly displayed Lunar New Year decorations.

For more information on Pechanga events and promotions, please call (877) 711-2946 or visit our website Pechanga.com. Must be at least 21 years of age to participate in promotions.

Come enjoy Pechanga’s four diamondrated service with a peace of mind, and to learn more about the health and safety measures that have been implemented, please visit pechanga.com/covid.

Pechanga Resort Casino offers one of the largest and most expansive resort/casino experiences anywhere in the United States. Voted the best casino in the West by USA Today and rated a Four Diamond property by AAA since 2002, Pechanga Resort Casino provides an unparalleled getaway, whether for the day or for an extended luxury stay. Offering 5,400 of the hottest slots, table games, world-class entertainment, 1,100 hotel rooms, dining, spa and golf at Journey at Pechanga, Pechanga Resort Casino features a destination that meets and exceeds the needs of its guests and the community. Pechanga Resort Casino is owned and operated by the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians. For more information, call toll free (877) 711-2946 or visit www. Pechanga.com. Follow Pechanga Resort & Casino on Facebook, Instagram and on Twitter @PechangaCasino.

(Advertising Supplement)

New year, new you

to tell ourselves that we are doing something new for our benefit. But the question here is, “do we really achieve this?” Do we really become a new (and improved) version of ourself? Sad to say but most of the time, we don’t. This is one of the reasons why I keep saying “Beauty is a lifestyle.” It takes more than just following beauty tips, a fad diet or changing your exercise routine to achieve overall wellness and maintain it. It takes a change of mindset, a

routine –– and sticking to it. To achieve beauty in all aspects, we should see the bigger picture.

Without trying to sound quite preachy, let me share with you a very important lesson: Your body is more valuable than anything. And to keep our body healthy, we have to consciously remind ourselves of what we put in our body. We also have to have the right motivation. When you exercise, do yoga, or enroll in a weight loss program, your goal is to look good but I

remind my clients that “looking good” is just the bonus. You would eventually see past that and to realize that doing those for health reasons is a much sustainable goal and a greater motivating factor. And this is what I motivate my clients with. We all age. That is a fact of life. But picture yourself “aging gracefully;” enjoying your precious time traveling, spending quality time with your family, not having to be under

Oliver Tolentino again comes to the rescue of Miss Universe Philippines

HOLLYWOOD fashion designer Oliver Tolentino has once again answered the call to rescue the Philippines’ bet in a Miss Universe competition. Pageant fans will remember that it was 2015 when the celebrity designer received a phone call from Pia Wurtzbach’s team while he was skiing on a mountain in Aspen, Colorado. Pia didn’t have a proper gown the day before her Miss Universe preliminaries, so Tolentino immediately sent a red gown from his Beverly Hills boutique to Las Vegas, and the rest is history – Pia wore the famous red “rescue” gown and advanced to the finals.

Now seven years later the designer has answered the call to help Celeste Cortesi in New Orleans. He was asked to rush a national costume in four days. Additionally, he created her preliminary gown that she wore recently within a week’s time.

Celeste’s evening gown is an Art Deco blush blue column gown made of a combination of tulle and heavily embellished French lace, accented with strips of Thai silk and thousands of crystals hand sewn on the gown. The gown features two see-through front slits and a godet featuring a butterfly pattern. Celeste requested the color blue because it’s special to her. Celeste means heavens in Italian and her father looked up at the sky when he was holding her and knew her name would be Celeste. She also requested a butterfly be incorporated in the design because she associates them as signs from her father. One appeared to her when she asked for a sign if she should join Miss Universe Philippines.

For the national costume, Celeste dressed as Darna, the popular Filipino superhero character that pageant fans have long wanted as the

national costume, but for which permission to use wasn’t granted until just this year.

Tolentino had to rush the costume when Team Philippines visited the designer’s boutique in Beverly Hills, California, upon Celeste’s arrival in the United States. It wasn’t until then that they realized what they already had wasn’t working out.

Tolentino normally doesn’t work with costumes, but he couldn’t refuse Celeste’s request for help. Because of the Christmas holidays and his own travel plans, Tolentino couldn’t source materials until January 2nd, just a day before Celeste was due in New Orleans. He took four days to create her look, using a headpiece and some other metal work accessories provided by Jerome Navarro.

That was at the same time he was producing the blue

preliminary gown which is meticulously time-consuming since every crystal was handsewn on the gown.

As far as answering the call for help, according to Tolentino, “Anyone who knows me knows that I pride myself on helping Filipinos on the international stage, whether it is actors, singers, or other high-profile people, so they represent us well to the world. Naturally, when Celeste’s team asked for my help, I dropped everything to make sure she would have what she needed to compete for the Philippines in Miss Universe.”

The request for providing an option on a preliminary gown started at a social dinner last month in Manila where the designer and Celeste met while Tolentino was working in his Makati boutique. Over dinner Team Philippines shared they

had some good options but didn’t feel like they yet had the perfect gown. Tolentino quickly took Celeste’s measurements and told them he’d work on something. He suggested they stop in his Beverly Hills boutique when they were scheduled to arrive on December 21, just a day before he was due to fly out of L.A. for a weeklong Christmas holiday.

On that day in the Beverly Hills boutique the designer presented a shell for the blue gown he’d created. The team liked the unfinished gown, but with the Christmas holidays Tolentino had only five days to work on it before sharing the finished version on New Year’s Eve, just days before Celeste was due in New Orleans. Celeste and the team loved the gown, which is stunning in person, a goal to win the judges sitting feet away.

Tolentino is mostly based in Beverly Hills where he has dressed almost 100 Hollywood celebrities for everything from the Oscars, Globes, Emmys, Grammys, and other award shows. He became the first Filipino designer after Pitoy Moreno to dress an Oscar winner at the Academy Awards. Tolentino is also a big promoter of Philippine fabrics in the international stage with celebrities like Carrie Underwood, Jessica Alba, Emmy Rossum, and Sophia Bush wearing his piña outfits. Additionally, Tolentino was the first designer to dress Oscar and Golden Globes nominees in piña tuxedos. Several of his creations are found in textile textbooks, and a piña and abaca gown of his was featured in Hong Kong Tatler.

For information on his boutiques, please visit www. OliverTolentino.com or @ theOliverTolentiino on Instagram. n

Miss Universe Philippines Celeste Cortesi’s evening gown is an Art Deco blush blue column gown made of a combination of tulle and heavily embellished French lace, accented with strips of Thai silk and thousands of crystals hand sewn on the gown.

Photo courtesy of Oliver Tolentino Couture

Hollywood fashion designer Oliver Tolentino designed an evening gown for the preliminary competition as well as a national costume for Miss Universe bet Celeste Cortesi of the Philippines. Photo shows the designer with the gown that features two see-through front slits and a godet featuring a butterfly pattern.

Imee ong-mAghAnoy

On welcoming the New Year

I’m merely his servant.

reverend rodel G. BAlAGtAS

A CLOSE friend asked me what one word I could think of to describe my wishes this New Year. I told him that I don’t have one word but two words: one for my well-being and one related to my ministry as the pastor of this parish.

For my well-being, I think of the word “grounded,” which means living a centered life through prayerful moments with God. It’s because I believe it’s the best way to deal with the demands and challenges of ministry. If my life is not grounded in prayer, and my time with God, then I will find myself experiencing anxiety, fear, and the heaviness of my role as a pastor.

Being grounded in prayer allows me to examine my true intentions and weaknesses. It allows me to dig into my layers of emotions, acknowledge them, and put them into the hands of God. It makes me surrender everything to Him, to realize that He’s in charge and

In today’s First Reading (Is 49:3, 5-6), Prophet Isaiah seems to express the exact sentiment of being grounded in God through his words, “I am made glorious in the sight of God, and my God is now my strength.”

In his weekly article on the Sunday Readings, In Exile, Fr. Ron Rolheiser discusses the need for this “grounding” during the more than thirty weeks of “Ordinary Time” in the church calendar. He says: “As our lives grow more pressured, more tired, and more restless, perhaps more than anything else we long for ordinary time, quiet, routine, solitude, and space away from the hectic pace of life. For many of us the very expression, “ordinary time” draws forth a sigh along with the question: “What’s that? When did I last have ‘ordinary time’ in my life?” For many of us, “ordinary time” means mostly hurry and pressure, “the rat race,” “the treadmill.”

Friends, it’s vital to find time to be centered on God and our life’s purpose. We need to carve out some time during the day to take a long breath and dwell in the loving presence of God.

The second word that relates

to my ministry as a pastor is “excitement.” Things in life and work need to excite me so that I can live life with a purpose. Excitement involves being inspired to plan and work with others to bring life and vibrancy to our parish. It’s seeing our potential and possibilities and not being bogged down with the negativities of life and criticisms.

Excitement brings joy to our life and cultivates creativity.

It keeps us alive in spirit no matter what our age. It inspires others to participate in the life of the community. Finally, it draws people to God!

So for each of you, what word or words would describe your wishes for the new year? What do you want to cultivate in your life?

May God fill your hearts and minds with his love and peace! May the New Year bring the necessary excitement to your life!

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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.

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Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas is the pastor of Incarnation Church in Glendale, California.

New year, new you...

any any medication as you go through your 60s and 70s (or even further!) The good news is: It can be achieved. All you need is the right motivation and the proper tools. That said; in line with starting the “new year (with the) new You,” I am thrilled to share what we have going at the “newly-improved” iSkin and MiSkin MedSpas for the past year or so. We have recently embraced the concept of rebranding and taking our brand and services to the next level.

A destination spa at the heart of Beverly Hills

Overlooking Hollywood hills, with gorgeous ambiance and an inebriating aura of luxurious lifestyle at the penthouse is where you will find our iSkin MedSpa Beverly Hills. We offer the latest medical spa technologies like Emsculpt Neo, Exilis RF and ultrasound for face and body contouring, as well as medical-grade health innovations such as HydraFacial , IV drip glutathione, and many more. And what MedSpa would it be without the famous IV drip bar? We offer a variety of IV cocktails that suit your needs and your lifestyle. We also do stem cell and a basically everything you’ll need from enjoying a zen spa-day to hosting a luxurious “spa-party”

for you and your friends and family. Speaking of “family,” MiSkin MedSpa is our sister company located at the Inland Empire in Rancho Cucamonga, and offers the same services as iSkin Beverly Hills. Both spas carry ONLY the latest and FDA-approved technology, making us the leading medical spa with experienced providers and comprehensive protocol, experienced providers We pride ourselves in providing comprehensive and unique protocols catered specifically for individual needs. A signature protocol on how to look 10 years younger, a treatment/correction for a slimmer face? Name it, we have it.

And if you’re wondering what topical products we use, say no more. We have USA-only-made products under our exclusive skincare line, iSkin Beverly Hills. We use only quality ingredients formulated for anti-aging, skin rejuvenation, treating acne and skin discoloration.

Look who’s come to visit

Over the last decade, our beloved and faithful celebrity endorsers Hilda Koronel, Pops Fernandez, KC Concepcion, and power couple Nonito and Rachel Donaire never fail to support us with their presence and endorsement. Quite a number of Filipino celebrities have also been stopping by and making our spa an official part

Employees’ reproductive-health choices are protected under anti-discrimination laws

Protecting Employee & Consumer Rights

Atty. C. Joe SAyAS, Jr

Q: I PREVIOUSLY worked as a clerk in a large office. I used to like working there, but recently my manager made me so miserable at work. It started when I requested time off to have a contraceptive implant. I had mentioned it to a colleague and I’m guessing she told my manager, who told me that he wanted to “counsel” me. He explained his religious belief that contraception is wrong. The manager kept coming to talk to me at my desk and would explained at how contraception is wrong. I told him he was making me uncomfortable, but he kept saying that he was just trying to help me do the right thing. When I came back from my leave, the same manager acted very negatively towards me. He started unfairly scrutinizing all of my work, and seemed to go out of his way to demean me in front of others. When I finally built up the courage to ask him what was going on, he said that his view of me had completely changed since he found out I was “a sinner.”

He told me that he can never trust my judgment again, and that he didn’t believe I had a future at the company. After our talk, it got even worse. I had a breakdown and quit my job. I feel so angry! I really needed and liked that job. Wasn’t what he did illegal?

A: Yes, what your manager did to you was unlawful.

Under California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (“FEHA”), employees are protected against discrimination, harassment and retaliation based on certain protected categories. FEHA has always provided protection to employees on the basis of sex. But recent amendments to the law has made it even clearer that your manager’s treatment of you was unlawful.

The California Legislature recently passed the Contraceptive Equity Act of 2022. The new law makes it unlawful for employers to discriminate, harass or retaliate against an employee based on “reproductive health decision-making”. This includes any “decision to use or access a particular drug, device, product, or medical service for reproductive health.”

The decision to undergo a medical procedure for contraception is

of their itinerary when they got to L.A. They were: Beverly Vergel, Ruffa Guiterrez, Raymond Guiterrez, Lorin and Venice Bektas, Lovi Poe, Arci Munoz, Bunny Paras, Robin Nievera, Jacklyn Jose, Tim yap, LJ Moreno, Garth Garcia, Ylona Garcia, Mica Javier, Sam Richelle, Nicole Anderson, Pia Campos, Ding Dong Avanzado and Jesse Zaragosa-Avanzado, with their daughter Jayda Avanzado, Tony Labrusco, Janelle So, Mica Javier, JayR, Jaya, Kuh Ledesma, Joey Albert, Jed Madela, and Gigi De Lana, to name a few. Hollywood celebrities and producers have also been frequenting our spa and loving it, namely: Ryan Delany, Brenna Damico, Anna Maria Kline, Isa, Carlin James, Cheryl Burke (from “Dancing with the stars”), Melissa Borge, Claudia Ghariban (producer for Ellen Degeneres and Kate Hudson), Rev Gharivian (My Darling Production), as well as four-time Emmy Award winner, Hollywood Producer Lisa Lew. HFPA (Hollywood Foreign Press Association) members

certainly protected against discrimination at work. Your manager’s treatment of you based on that decision was unlawful discrimination, harassment and retaliation based on reproductive-health decision making. He may have also constructively terminated you, in that he made it untenable for you to continue working. The employer’s conduct here constitutes unlawful termination for which you are entitled to recover damages.

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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.

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The Law Offices of C. Joe Sayas, Jr. welcomes inquiries about this topic. All inquiries are confidential and at no-cost. You can contact the office at (818) 291-0088 or visit www. joesayaslaw.com. [For more than 30 years, the law firm successfully obtained significant recoveries in wages and monetary damages for thousands of employees and consumers. Mr. Sayas was named Top Labor & Employment Attorney in California by the Daily Journal, selected as Super Lawyer by the Los Angeles Magazine for 11 years, and is past Presidential Awardee for Outstanding Filipino Overseas.] (Advertising Supplement)

and award-winning Fil-Am journalist Ruben Nepales and his wife (and fellow Hollywood FilAm journalist), Janet Nepales have been frequent guests as well. Visit iSkin Med Spa and MiSkin MedSpa for a free consultation. iSkin is located at 8665 Wilshire Blvd., Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90211 (424-382- 1002) MiSkin MedSpa is located at 9227 Haven Ave. Suite 120 in Rancho Cucamonga, CA.

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Imee Ong-Maghanoy is an established aesthetician, a business owner and CEO of iSkin Beverly Hills, iSkin MedSpa and MiSkin MedSpa. Imee has been in the aesthetics industry for more than 20 years. She has a degree in Biology and Doctor of Dental Medicine. iSkin MedSpa and MiSkin MedSpa are fast-emerging as top spa destinations in LA. iSkin is located at 8665 Wilshire Blvd., Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90211 (424-382- 1002) MiSkin MedSpa is located at 9227 Haven Ave. Suite 120 in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. (Advertising Supplement)

Which debts are discharged in Chapter 7 bankruptcy?

winner, Albert Camus, to say that an eternity of futile labor is a hideous punishment. But debtors with too much debt, in reality, are the modern-day Sisyphus.

‘Busting out of debt’

THE Constitution of the United States of America allows bankruptcy to its citizens and residents to allow them to become productive again if they are saddled with accumulated debt.

The Supreme Court calls Chapter 7 bankruptcy “the fresh start.” You may have good income but debt repayment could be eating up all of your disposable income. In this case, you are compared to Sisyphus, the character in Greek mythology who is condemned to roll a rock up to the top of a mountain, only to have the rock roll back down to the bottom every time he reaches the top. The debtor with too much debt is the same as Sisyphus because no matter how much his income is, he pays his minimum required payments each month, left with no disposable income every month, only to have to pay out the same amount to his creditors next month and forever, leaving nothing for the debtor himself in savings. The debtor becomes a hamster running inside the wheel. It goes nowhere. Are you a modern-day Sisyphus?

The myth of Sisyphus prompted the French philosopher and Nobel-prize

To break out of the debt cycle, or in bankruptcy slang, the Chapter 7 “bust out” of debt allows debtors to petition the court to grant relief from debt by “discharge” of debt by court order. The discharge order prohibits the creditor from collecting the debt, in effect wiping it out.

But what debts are discharged and what debts are not discharged?

Dischargeable debts

The bankruptcy code states that a debt is dischargeable, unless it is excepted from discharge. §523 of the bankruptcy code contains a list of debts, which are not discharged. Generally speaking, most debts are discharged. For example, credit card balances up to any amount, medical bills, unpaid rents, payday loans, any kind of unsecured or secured loans or credit lines, bank loans, utility bills, car loans, and even home mortgages are discharged in Chapter 7. Even hundreds of millions of court judgments for the collection of debt are wiped out.

Non-dischargeable debts

What kinds of debts are not discharged? Child support, alimony, student loans (unless 3 prong test of hardship is proven in an adversary proceeding), HOA for the house where you live (not HOA

for your rental property which is dischargeable), damages caused by intentional torts (willful intent to cause damage to the person or property is proven, income taxes owed where the requirements for discharge are not met (income taxes are dischargeable if specific requirements for discharge are met.)

Therefore, if you have too much credit card debt — for instance, you owe $40,000 of credit cards, a judgment for unpaid rent of $200,000, owe $1 million to the casino in Pechanga, owe a $2 million in a civil lawsuit, say for breach of contract — a Chapter 7 discharge will wipe all of your debts away. But if you owe $300,000 of student loans, unless you can prove hardship under the three-prong test in an adversary proceeding, you are stuck with the student loans until you die, unless Uncle Biden gives you a way out of it.

* * * Disclaimer: None of the foregoing is considered legal advice for anyone. There is absolutely no attorney-client relationship established by reading this article.

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Lawrence Bautista Yang specializes in Bankruptcy, Business, Real Estate and Civil Litigation and has successfully represented more than five thousand clients in California. Please call Angie, Barbara or Jess at (626) 284-1142 for an appointment at 20274 Carrey Road, Walnut, CA 91789 or 1000 S. Fremont Ave., Mailstop 58, Building A-10 South Suite 10042, Alhambra, CA 91803.

(Advertising Supplement)

Five benefits of establishing a...

PAGE B2

designate as beneficiaries of your living trust does not even have to be close family members. You can designate anyone as a beneficiary, with certain exceptions, of your estate.

4. You can structure your estate to minimize estate taxes

If your estate is valued above the estate tax exemption, establishing a trust can allow you to divide up your estate into smaller sub trusts to minimize the overall estate tax effect on your estate. It allows you to set up a vehicle for certain charitable giving which carries tax advantage and asset protection.

5. You can choose who will administer your

estate after your death When you establish a revocable trust, you can appoint someone else as trustee or you can appoint a successor trustee if you are the initial trustee. The trustee will be administering (managing) the trust after you pass away without a need to open a probate court case. This allows for continuity in operating the trust and the efficient and cost effective distribution of estate assets. If you are concerned about whether you can trust any family members as your trustee, you can appoint an institution as a professional trustee to carry out the terms of the declaration of trust. These type of trustee services are often offered by banks, financial institutions, wealth management

Reinstatement for surviving beneficiaries of an I-130 petition filed by a deceased relative

DEAR Attorney Tan, My U.S. Citizen mother filed an I-130 immigrant petition on my behalf, which has a priority date in February 2000 and which has been approved. She filed the I-130 petition after I came to the U.S. in 1999 as a tourist from the Philippines. Since my arrival, I have lived in the U.S. and have been out of status. Since I was petitioned as an unmarried adult daughter, I was advised that I had to wait several years to get a green card. Recently, my mother passed away. Can I still get a green card through my mother’s petition? -Apparently In Limbo

Dear Apparently In Limbo, When your mother passed away, the I-130 that was approved on your behalf was revoked by operation of law pursuant to 8 CFR Section 205.1. However, depending on the facts of a particular case, all is not lost. You may be eligible to get a green card pursuant to INA Section 204(L).

Under INA Section 204(L), relief from an automatic revocation of an I-130 petition is available to certain surviving relatives. Surviving relatives who are eligible to seek 204(L) relief include a 1) principal or derivative beneficiary of an I-130 petition that was filed by a deceased permanent resident or U.S. Citizen, and 2) derivative beneficiary of an I-130 petition that was filed by a permanent resident or U.S. Citizen where the principal beneficiary has died. Section 204(L) relief is also available to derivative beneficiaries in I-140

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Atty. DArrick tAn

employment-based petitions where the principal beneficiary has died.

Another requirement for Section 204(L) relief is that the person seeking relief must have “residence” in the US. What is meant by “residence?” It is your primary home or principal actual dwelling place. At least one beneficiary must have resided in the U.S. when the petitioning relative died, and must continue to reside in the U.S. when seeking Section 204(L) relief. It is worth noting that all beneficiaries of a petition can benefit from Section 204(L) relief as long as at least one of the beneficiaries meets the residence requirement. Further, although “residence” is required, Section 204(L) does not require actual physical presence in the U.S. when the relative died.

In your case, it appears that you are eligible to obtain a green card. You are a principal beneficiary of an I-130 petition filed by your US Citizen mother. Further, you appear to meet the residence requirement in that you have been in the US since your arrival in 1999—you resided in the US when your mother passed away, and currently reside in the US. A check of the USCIS visa bulletin indicates the priority date for the I-130 petition filed by your mother on

firms, and business management firms for a reasonable fee. This minimizes conflicts within the family and prevents negligence and wrong doing by inexperienced family members.

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Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, APLC. This article is not a solicitation.

your behalf is current, so you can file an I-485 adjustment of status application, requesting reinstatement of the I-130 petition filed by your mother pursuant to Section 204(L).

As a sidenote, Section 204(L) relief is also available if one’s relative died while the I-130 was pending, not only after the I-130 petition was approved. Section 204(L) relief therefore is broader than Humanitarian Reinstatement of a petition under 8 CFR Section 205.1, which can only be requested by the principal beneficiary when the petitioner him/herself has died, and after approval of an I-130.

Relief under Section 204(L) is discretionary, and can be denied if factors in support of relief are not presented properly. It is accordingly recommended that you seek the assistance of an experienced attorney.

* * * 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.

* * * Darrick V. Tan, Esq. is admitted to practice law in California and Nevada. Mr. Tan is a graduate of UCLA and Southwestern University School of Law. He is a member of the Consumers Attorney Association of Los Angeles and is a former member of the Board of Governors of the Philippine American Bar Association.

LAW OFFICES OF DARRICK V. TAN, 3580 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 900, Los Angeles, CA 90010. Tel: 323-6390277. Email: info@dtanlaw.com (Advertising Supplement)

* * * Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, APLC. is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kenneth@kenreyeslaw.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com.

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