012023 - New York & New Jersey Edition

DATELINE USA

Filipino-owned California care home among 4 punished for underpaying workers

SACRAMENTO – An  ongoing compliance drive  by the U.S. Department of Labor found that four Sacramento-area home care providers, among them a Filipinoowned care home, failed to pay employees required overtime despite some of them working 24-hour shifts caring for those in need.

Investigators from the department’s  Wage and Hour Division  found that the home care employers shortchanged their employees and deprived them of their rightfully earned wages, in violation of the  Fair Labor Standards Act.

In total, the division recovered $500,854 in back wages and liquidated damages for 48 workers and assessed $26,469 in penalties.

L&S Gentle Care Inc. and owners Samuel and Imelda Padama failed to pay employees

PH hosts strategic dialogue with US

MANILA will host this week the 10th Philippines-United States Bilateral Strategic Dialogue (BSD) to discuss the challenges the two countries face in upholding their alliance.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) will co-host the dialog with the Department of National Defense (DND) on January 19 to 20.

The DFA, in a statement, said the BSD is an annual event which serves as the main platform for the Philippines and the U.S. “to affirm the longstanding alliance and friendship.”

It also discusses current challenges and identifies new areas for cooperation at the working group and senior officials’ levels.

R’Bonney Gabriel makes history as first Fil-Am Miss Universe

by AJPRESS

THE Philippines may not have secured its fifth Miss Universe crown but Filipinos in the United States and around the world are still celebrating as a Filipina American has been

crowned in this year’s competition.

Miss USA R’Bonney Gabriel, 28, secured the title on Saturday, January 14, beating out 83 other women from around the globe at the 71st Miss Universe pageant held in New Orleans.

“Filipinos are so happy. They are just

over the moon about it,” Gabriel told Good Morning America following her win. “It’s a huge win for the community and just representation. It’s an honor.”

Gabriel, who is an eco-friendly fashion designer, sewing instructor and model from

by DORIS DUMLAO-ABADILLA Inquirer.net

DAVOS – The Philippine economy is likely to sustain a 6.5-percent growth rate this year, one of the fastest pace of expansion seen in the region, Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno said on Monday, January 16.

In a speech during a luncheon hosted by Philippine economic managers for President Marcos and the seven business tycoons attending the World Economic Forum meetings in Switzerland, Diokno estimated that gross domestic product (GDP) growth in 2022 likely exceeded the government’s growth target of 6.5 to 7.5 percent.

Rappler, Maria Ressa

acquitted of tax evasion charge

by TETCH TORRES-TUPAS Inquirer.net

The Court of Tax Appeals on Wednesday, January 18 has acquitted Nobel Laureate Maria Ressa and Rappler Holdings Corporation  (RHC) of four counts of tax evasion.

In a decision by its First Division, the Tax Court ruled in favor of acquittal for “failure of the prosecution to prove

the guilt beyond reasonable doubt” on three counts of violation of Section 255 of the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC) for willful failure to supply the correct information and one count of violation of Section 254 for an attempt to evade tax.

Marcos Jr. presents strength

of

PH economy at WEF meet in Davos

by DAPHNE GALVEZ Inquirer.net

MANILA — During the 2023 World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meet in Davos, Switzerland, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. presented the state of the Philippine economy, telling investors about initiatives being undertaken to ensure the country’s continued recovery and making it more conducive for

business.

He gave the presentation  during the Country Strategy Dialogue at the WEF in Davos, Switzerland on Tuesday, January 17, according to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO).

The PCO said Marcos cited an International Monetary Fund (IMF) projection for the 2023 global economic growth, which will only be

FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND

Miss USA R’Bonney Gabriel is crowned at the Miss Universe pageant in New Orleans on January 14. The 28-year-old model and eco-friendly designer became the first Filipina American to win Miss Universe and the ninth titleholder from the United States.

During the national costume segment, Gabriel donned a NASA-inspired outfit designed by Filipino designer Patrick Isorena.

Marcos admin expects PH to grow by 6.5% in 2023

Joey Concepcion: NAIA privatization to benefit tourism

by Catherine talavera Philstar.com

MANILA — The privatization of operations of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) anticipates the potential growth of tourism as it will improve the airport experience for tourists, according to Go Negosyo founder Joey Concepcion.

“I am glad that (Department of Transportation) Sec. Bautista supports the privatization of NAIA,” Concepcion said over the weekend, referring to the recent confirmation by Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista that the government is preparing to privatize NAIA.

“Our airports create the first impression of our country, and since tourism has one of the biggest potentials for growing our economy, any improvement made here will redound to so many benefits,” Concepcion said.

During an inquiry of the Senate public services committee into the Jan.

1 airspace shutdown, Bautista confirmed that the government is planning to privatize the airport.

He added that the government is open to solicited or unsolicited proposals, but cited a preference for the former.

The transportation secretary explained that the NAIA has already exceeded its rated capacity and needs to be improved and modernized.

Concepcion said that the

lockdown created financial problems for micro, small and medium enterprises in the tourism sector, and that efforts must now be focused on helping the sector.

“In my meeting with Sec. Frasco, we discussed how we can help our MSMEs prepare for the tourism boom. We still have, by far, the best beaches and one of the most welcoming people in the world,” he said, referring to Tourism Secretary Cristina

R’Bonney Gabriel makes history as first...

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Houston Texas, made history as the first FilAm to earn the coveted crown; and before that, she was the first Fil-Am to win the Miss USA and the Miss Texas crowns.

The final question and answer portion asked the top 3 candidates: “If you win Miss Universe, how would you work to demonstrate this as an empowering and progressive organization?”

Gabriel answered that she would use the title to be a “transformational leader,” crediting her experience in fashion as a “force for good” and teaching sewing to human trafficking and domestic violence survivors.

“It’s important to invest in others, invest in our community, and use our unique talent to make a difference. We have something special and we can plant those seeds to other people in our life. We transform them and we use that as a vehicle for change,” she added.

Gabriel’s triumph becomes the ninth Miss Universe win for the U.S.

Amanda Dudamel of Venezuela was first runner-up, while Andreína Martínez from the Dominican Republic was 2nd runner-up. Puerto Rico and Curacao also made it to the top 5.

During the Miss Universe national costume segment, Gabriel donned a NASA-inspired outfit with thigh-high silver metallic boots, silver star wings and a moon headpiece. The get-up — which weighed about 30 pounds — was designed by Filipino designer Patrick

Isorena, who previously created an outfit Gabriel wore in the Miss USA 2022 pageant. Since winning the Miss USA pageant last year, Gabriel has opened up about her family and roots, sharing stories about her father who migrated from the Philippines.

“My dad moved to America from the Philippines on a college scholarship with about $20 in his pocket. He wanted to pave a new life for himself. He met my mom in Texas, who is a country woman from Beaumont. I’m a very proud Filipina Texan,” Gabriel told ABC News in an October 2022 interview.

In addition to her pageant work, Gabriel is currently CEO of her own sustainable clothing line, R’Bonney Nola. She received a bachelor’s degree in fashion design from the University of North Texas.

Gabriel was born on March 20, 1994 in San Antonio, Texas, to Filipino Ramon Bonifacio ‘R’Bon’ Gabriel and American Dana Walker. Ramon immigrated to the United States from Manila, aged 19, to study.

Meanwhile, Filipina-Italian model Celeste Cortesi represented the Philippines, but ended her Miss Universe journey after not advancing to the top 16 in the pageant.

Cortesi failing to make the semifinals of the pageant meant the end of the Philippines’ consecutive runs to at least the semifinals in the annual beauty tilt at 12, which started with Venus Raj’s 4th runner-up placement in 2010 and ended with Beatrice Luigi Gomez making the Top 5 last year. g

PH hosts strategic dialogue...

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The 9th BSD was held in Washington D.C. in November 2021. The two countries take turns in hosting the meeting.

“Both sides view the forthcoming meeting as an important opportunity to progress discussions on concrete initiatives to achieve the objectives

outlined in the Joint Vision for a 21st century U.S.Philippines Partnership adopted by both sides during the 9th BSD,” the DFA said.

“Next week’s discussions will cover the gamut of our relations, including in the areas of defense, economic, people-to-people, and other related cross-cutting issues

at the bilateral, regional, and global levels,” it added.

The 10th BSD is expected to sustain the “positive trajectory and momentum” of the Philippine-US alliance and partnership, guided by the thrusts and priorities of the Marcos administration in advancing peace and prosperity. (by Bernadette E. Tamayo/ManilaTimes.net)

R’Bonney Gabriel

AJPress Photos by Troi Santos

Philstar.com photo

Marcos admin...

1

While growth may just be at the low end of last year’s range in 2023, Diokno noted that 6.5 percent would still be one of the highest, if not the highest growth projection in the Asia-Pacific region.

A bustling manufacturing sector, record-low unemployment rate, alongside a stable and resilient banking system, could alleviate buffers against external headwinds, all indicating a resilient economy, the finance chief said.

Liberalizing more economic sectors, improving ease of doing business and allowing modern transformative industries to take root and grow are further seen to sustain the economy.

Diokno also said the Marcos administration had created a more competitive and enabling environment through public-private partnership (PPP) to further expand the “Build, better, more” infrastructure agenda of the administration.

This is seen to further boost investments on top of the government’s goal to spend at least 5-6 percent of GDP on infrastructure, Diokno noted, stressing all these would form the backbone for the rapid and sustained growth for the Philippines.

But because of the current challenges, Diokno said the

Philippines is taking the first steps toward launching the Maharlika Investment Fund, the country’s first ever sovereign wealth fund that will support the goals set by the administration in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028.

“The fund, which will be established in keeping with the highest standards of accountability and sound fiscal management, aims to diversify the country’s financial portfolio,” the DOF chief said, adding, he looked forward to discussing the fund during the WEF meetings.

“May the next few days bring forth more intensive collaboration and cooperation towards genuine economic transformation,” the DOF secretary said.

The seven tycoons who are in Davos to support Marcos’ inaugural participation at the 2023 WEF are: Sabin Aboitiz (Aboitiz); Kevin Andrew Tan (Alliance Global); Jaime Zobel de Ayala (Ayala Group); Lance Gokongwei (JG Summit Holdings); Ramon Ang (San Miguel Corp.); Teresita SyCoson (SM Investments); and Enrique Razon (International Container Terminal).

President Marcos and his official delegation, composed of government officials and business leaders, arrived in Switzerland on Sunday afternoon, Jan. 15 (Sunday evening Philippine time). g

Rappler, Maria Ressa acquitted of tax...

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The case was filed in 2018 by the Department of Justice (DOJ) over the failure of Ressa and Rappler to declare P162.41 million profit from the issuance of Philippine Depositary Receipts (PDRs) in 2015.

PDRs are financial instruments used by some entities to receive foreign investment without violating the constitutional requirement of full Filipino ownership.

The CTA said the transactions of RHC mentioned in the case “cannot be considered as regularly or frequently engaged in the purchase of securities and resale thereof to customers.”

Citing the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) opinions, the Tax Court said “it is not repugnant to the nature of a holding company to engage in financial activities to

raise capital for its subsidiaries. In fact, RHC is registered with the BIR as an entity engaged in the Line of Business-‘Financial Holding Company Activities’.”

On allegations that foreign ownership following the issuance of PDRs to foreign entities NBM Rappler L.P. and Omidyar Network (ON), the CTA said “PDRs are not statements nor are they certificates of ownership of a corporation.”

A Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) Circular for Brokers No. 237599 stated that “for as long as PDR remains unexercised by its holder, the PDR holder has no right of ownership over the underlying shares and all such ownership rights pertain to and belong to the issuer.”

In this case,  the CTA said, “there is nothing in the wordings of the PDR

instruments and the PDR subscription Agreements that would show that foreign entities NBM and ON will become owners of the shares of stock of RI upon the issuance of the PDRs.”

“In sum, since the accused is not required to pay the income tax and VAT on the PDR transactions for the taxable year 2015, the elements of Sections 254 and 255 of the 1997 NIRC, as amended, are rendered nugatory and without legal support. The plaintiff, therefore, failed to prove the guilt of the accused beyond reasonable doubt,” the court said.

With the dismissal of the tax case at the CTA, there are now only three remaining cases against Rappler–1. the appeal on the Cyber Libel case, another tax case, and appeal on Rappler’s shutdown before the Court of Appeals. g

Filipino-owned California care home...

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for all hours worked at one location in Vacaville and a second in Fairfield, both in California, resulting in  one worker getting wages as low as $3.98 per hour.

The Padamas also failed to pay overtime rates and maintain records of hours worked. The division recovered $108,396 in back wages for eight care givers and assessed $4,936 in penalties.

“The majority of care workers are women and low-wage earners who provide essential services for those most in need in our communities,” said Wage and Hour Division District Director Cesar Avila in a press statement. “The U.S. Department of Labor is committed to holding care service employers accountable and ensuring their workers are paid in full and as required by federal

law.”

In fiscal year 2021, the division recovered $13.8 million in back wages for more than 17,000 workers across the nation in the health care industry, known for both low wages and high rates of violations.

As the U.S. population ages and demand for home healthcare services increases, employment in a variety of  health care sectors is projected to grow 16

percent from 2020 to 2030  –faster than the average for all occupations – adding about 2.6 million new jobs.

The division enforces the law regardless of where a worker is from and can speak confidentially with callers in more than 200 languages.

For more information about the  FLSA  and other laws enforced by the division, contact its toll-free helpline at 866-4US-WAGE (487-9243). (Inquirer.net)

Marcos Jr. presents strength of PH economy at WEF...

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at 2.7 percent, slower than the 3.2 percent posted last year.

This figure is a significant decrease from the 6 percent recorded in 2021.

“But for the Philippines, we project our economy to grow by around 7.0 percent in 2023. Our strong macroeconomic fundamentals, fiscal discipline, structural reforms and liberalization of key sectors instituted over the years have enabled us to withstand the negative shocks caused by the pandemic and succeeding economic downturns and map a route toward a strong recovery,” Marcos said, as quoted by the PCO.

“We have seen inflation accelerating globally in recent months… We are mindful that while protectionist policies may be appealing, even necessary in the short term, there will ultimately be no long-term winners,” he added.

The President also said the Philippines joins the call for

all governments to unwind any trade restrictions, and the country will reinforce its commitment to the World Trade Organization (WTO) reform.

Countries, Marcos said, also need to ensure that sufficient welfare measures are in place to cushion the impact of elevated inflationary pressures, especially towards the most affected and vulnerable sectors.

He also reiterated the Philippines’ support for the timely and effective delivery of practical, workable outcomes and encourage economies to continue finding common ground in critical global issues.

The President said the Philippines continues to focus on sustaining recovery, promoting a local environment that will nurture businesses by helping them maximize their competitiveness and facilitate their entry into the global market.

He also stressed the importance of economic and technical cooperation

to assist the development of smaller economies and enable their participation, especially of small businesses and economic segments with untapped potential in the global economy.

Marcos also touted how the Philippines’ development plan comes up with strategic measures to quicken economic and social recovery toward inclusive and resilient development.

“The government also recognizes the importance of digitalization as a key driver for long-term economic growth and as a tool for economic transformation,” the President said, promising to empower and enable micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to participate in the digital economy.

“We have begun largescale deployment of digital connectivity across the Philippines to ensure universal connectivity, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas,” he added.

The President also

underscored the importance of education, skills development and lifelong learning to enhance the employability of workers as he emphasized the need to address the current social vulnerabilities.

Government interventions and public-private partnerships (PPPs), he said, must be strengthened to improve access to employment opportunities.

Health systems and social protection must also be enhanced to abate and mitigate present and future risks.

Also present during the country dialogue were House Speaker Martin Romualdez, Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno, Trade Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual, and Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan.

Joo-Ok Lee, the head of the Regional Agenda – AsiaPacific, and member of the Executive Committee at the World Economic Forum, acted as moderator. g

WILD CHILI. A worker pours a plastic full of “siling labuyo’’ or wild chilis in a plastic crate for delivery at the Agribusiness Development Center of the Department of Agriculture Kadiwa store on Elliptical Road, Diliman, Quezon City on Monday, Jan. 16. Siling labuyo is being sold for P200 per kilo at the Kadiwa store.

FEATURES OPINION

Signs of the times

It’s a testament to the sad state of agriculture that Filipinos traveling abroad are bringing onions upon their return to the country. Onion prices in the Philippines are now, hands down, the highest in the world. Sugar prices are not far behind, refusing to come down to reasonable levels.

Because of this state of food insecurity, 10 flight attendants of Philippine Airlines who tried to bring in onions and other fresh produce from Dubai and Riyadh on Jan. 10 are getting sympathy even from some senators.

The Bureau of Plant Industry reported that the 10 brought into the country 27 kilos of onions, 10.5 kilos of lemons and a kilo each of blueberries and strawberries without the required phytosanitary clearance and without properly declaring the fresh items, which are classified as “regulated importations.”

After being apprehended with the commodities at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1, a video showed the PAL crew stomping on the items, spraying them with disinfectant and poking the goods with chopsticks and pens. Customs personnel noted that one of the 10

Babe’s Eye View

IT’S been an extremely busy week for us in Washington, DC as we prepare to host in Manila the Bilateral Strategic Dialogue with the United States.

Last Thursday, January 12, I was invited by the Center for Strategic and International Studies senior

was recorded saying on video that the destruction was meant to prevent anyone else from consuming the items. PAL management said the airline is fully cooperating in the investigation of the incident and does not condone violations of the law by its personnel.

The 10 could face charges for violation of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act as well as Presidential Decree 1433, the Plant Quarantine Law of 1978. These are meant to prevent smuggling and to protect local crops from potentially harmful organisms from abroad. The lack of phytosanitary clearance has been cited by the government for refusing to release into the market, amid the tight supply and surging prices, tons of misdeclared yellow and red onions confiscated at the ports.

Authorities said they are studying the

appropriate charges to be filed, adding they want the flight attendants penalized because similar cases have been recorded in recent weeks, which could pose phytosanitary risks to domestic produce.

Those sympathizing with the flight attendants, on the other hand, say the government should do more to stop rampant smuggling of tons of agricultural

commodities instead of going after miniature fry bringing in a few kilos of precious onions.

More importantly, the public wants the government to take decisive action in significantly bringing down the prices of onions. If onions weren’t more expensive than pork and beef, who would bother lugging them into the country all the way from the Middle East? (Philstar.com)

Focusing on economic diplomacy

vice president Victor Cha to deliver the keynote speech for the annual forecasting conference of the CSIS on the challenges in the Indo-Pacific Region. The discussions featured experts and scholars from , and with me in the panel were Kurt Campbell, White House Deputy Assistant to the President and Coordinator for IndoPacific Affairs of the National Security Council, and South Korean Ambassador to the

U.S. Taeyong Cho with CSIS senior fellow and Japan chair and deputy director for Asia Nicholas Szechenyi as moderator.

There are so many developments in the IndoPacific region today but one does not really need to gaze into a crystal ball to predict what could happen in the foreseeable future, particularly in our part of the world in Southeast Asia, especially since we are

cognizant of the realities we face. The challenge simply is for all stakeholders to work together in dealing with these realities in a manner that would redound to the economic benefit of all our peoples. EMBED

Like any other nation, the member-countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, including the Philippines, are emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic with their respective

economies still experiencing the negative impact of the pandemic on many aspects, including the health and livelihood of the people.

In order to fully surmount the challenges and keep the momentum of economic recovery going, the region needs to double down on economic activities and ramp up investments in a wide array of industries and sectors.

The Philippines has been

forthright in stating what we need not just from the United States but from our other partners as well. And what we need is to work with major developed countries to get over the slump and completely recover – not through aid, but through increased trade and investments.

For all of us, it is very clear that our number one priority at this time is to see to it that

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CORA MACABAGDAL-ORIEL President

BABE ROMUALDEZ

Dateline PhiliPPines

Remittances slip to 6-month low Call for wealth tax revived

bottom 55M Pinoys do

MANILA — A wealth tax could fatten the Philippines’ tax haul as the growing number of dollar millionaires exposed the realities of inequality in the country, global nonprofit Oxfam said.

Erika Geronimo, executive director of Oxfam Pilipinas, reckoned that the ranks of millionaires in the country have grown by 43.5% since 2012.

The statement came as the global elite has nestled themselves in a posh Swiss ski resort for the World Economic Forum, where President  Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and an entourage of government officials and business magnates are in attendance.

“Inequality experienced in the Philippines is starker with the nine richest Filipinos having more wealth than the bottom half (55 million) of the population,”  she said.

Oxfam Pilipinas qualified that figure as Filipinos whose wealth bloated upwards of P278.24 million, or $5 million, and beyond.

The figures are even more severe  in a global context. Oxfam noted that the richest

1% amassed two-thirds of new wealth generated since 2020, at an estimated total of $42 trillion. This is equivalent to twice as much money generated by the “bottom 99%”  of global population.

Geronimo argued that if a wealth tax, targeted especially towards Filipino millionaires, is passed into law, this could leave the country $3.8 billion wealthier.

“This amount is enough to increase our health budget by two-fifths,”  she added.

Data from the Bureau of Treasury showed that the country’s tax haul grew 12.5% yearon-year to P237.1 billion as of November 2022. Year-to-date, collections expanded 12.6% on-year to P2.2 trillion.

Super-Rich Tax bill

Suggestions to impose a wealth tax on the elite have been floated within the legislature in the past two years. The Makabayan bloc at the House of Representatives has refiled a Super-Rich Tax bill which proposes a 1-3% tax on billionaires.

by Louise Maureen siMeon Philstar.com

MANILA — Dollars sent home by overseas Filipinos workers grew at a softer pace in November, hitting a six-month low even amid the holiday season as inflation rose in many OFW host countries.

Data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed that personal remittances – the sum of net compensation of employees, personal transfers and capital transfers between households – reached $2.93 billion in November last year.

The amount is 5.8 percent higher than the previous year’s $2.64 billion.

However, this was the lowest recorded in six months or since the $2.71 billion in May 2022.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort attributed

the slowdown in OFW remittances to the relatively higher exchange rate that partly led to lower amounts of dollars sent by OFWs to the country.

“Higher inflation also in host countries of OFWs could have increased the cost of living of OFWs abroad, thereby partly reducing the amount sent to the country,” Ricafort said.

Nonetheless, the increase was brought about by the 5.5-percent rise in remittances sent by landbased workers with work contracts of one year or more, to $2.26 billion from $2.14 billion.

Similarly, remittances from sea and land-based workers with work contracts of less than one year improved by 6.2 percent to $620 million from $580 million.

For the 11-month period, personal remittances inched up by 3.4 percent to $32.65

billion from $31.59  billion in the same period in 2021.

On the other hand, cash remittances coursed through banks also slipped to a sixmonth low of $2.64 billion. This was also the lowest recorded since the $2.43 billion in May 2022.

Still, the expansion in cash remittances in November was due to the growth in receipts from land and seabased workers.

Cash remittances from land-based workers increased by 5.6 percent to $2.08 billion while the amount sent home by seabased workers jumped almost six percent to $560 million.

From January to November 2022, cash remittances picked up by 3.3 percent to reach $29.38 billion from the 2021 level of $28.43 billion.

“The growth in cash remittances from the U.S.,

Joey Concepcion: NAIA privatization to...

Frasco.

Concepcion said that the biggest assist for the sector can come from making it easy for people who fly in and out of the NAIA.

“The airport experience must be improved, not just for the tourists but also for the OFWs who have only a few days to spend with their families here,” he said.

“An efficient airport will also ensure they will be able to make it back in time to their employers and keep their jobs,” he added.

Earlier this month, Concepcion suggested reviving the private sector proposal to modernize NAIA after an airport glitch that halted all air travel within the country’s airspace.

“NAIA is strategically located and any improvements made here will redound to so many benefits to the country,” Concepcion said.

He emphasized that any inefficiencies in the NAIA translate to big losses in business down the line and are felt throughout the country.

“I believed then, as I do now, that the private sector can contribute so much if allowed to participate,” he added.

On New Year’s Day, thousands of travelers were stranded at Philippine airports after a “loss of communication” as the country’s busiest hub in Manila forced hundreds of flights to be canceled, delayed or diverted.

Aviation authorities detected in the morning a “technical issue” involving the air traffic management center or ATMC at Manila’s domestic and international airport.

“Having seen how badly key systems in our air transportation system need to be modernized, and how severely any glitch can affect the whole country, I hope that this time, we can revive this proposal and see it through,” Concepcion said, referring to a proposal made by a private sector consortium in 2018.

To recall, a consortium comprised

of some of the country’s biggest conglomerates – Aboitiz InfraCapital Inc., AC Infrastructure Holdings Corp., Alliance Global Group Inc., Asia’s Emerging Dragon Corp., Filinvest Development Corp., JG Summit Holdings Inc. and Metro Pacific Investments Corp. – made a proposal for the modernization of the NAIA.

Under the consortium’s proposal, NAIA will have a 20 percent increase in efficiency, pushing it to become a world-class gateway at par with the world’s best airports. In addition,  there were no government guarantees, and no moratorium on the construction of another major airport.

In 2018, the consortium’s unsolicited proposal was recommended for approval by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to the Manila International Airport Authority, the primary government agency for the project.

By August that year, the consortium secured from the Philippine government an original proponent status for its plan to rehabilitate the NAIA. It was approved by the National Economic and Development Authority board in November 2019.

However, in March 2020, then-DOTr secretary Arthur Tugade said he will cancel the unsolicited proposal and offer it to parties that are ready to accept the government’s terms and conditions if a deal is not finalized.

In July 2020, the consortium withdrew the proposal due to unresolved issues with the government.

“All of the conglomerates were interested in seeing the project push through,” Concepcion said, adding that it would have been good for their respective businesses, such as in air travel, real estate or retail.

“We were all in agreement that connectivity is important, and even the tycoons who were not formally part of the group pitched in to see how they can help,” he added.

Organized labor links NAIA glitch

to privatization

Organized labor on Sunday, January 15 linked the recent airspace shutdown to the planned privatization of the NAIA.

Labor coalition Nagkaisa said the glitch may have been machinated to build up support for the conversion of NAIA into a private airport.

“So, it’s not really the Aquino name that the administration seeks to change in the airport but the character itself, with the President giving his go signal for NAIA’s privatization,” Nagkaisa said in a statement.

President Marcos previously gave the go signal for NAIA’s privatization within the year.

Nagkaisa opposed the privatization plan, saying it is not an all-out solution to public transportation problems.

According to Nagkaisa, successful public transportation systems, including the best airports around the world remain owned and controlled by the state.

The group stressed that governmentowned and controlled airports provide not just affordable and efficient transportation options for the public but also as a vital source of public employment.

It further noted that quality and efficient operations of any public utility is not simply a function of modern machines and equipment, but also of competent managers and most importantly, by a regular and protected workforce.

“We also regret to learn about CAAP employing some 7,000 non-regular workers, but won’t support the position of Senator (Joel) Villanueva that privatization can address this problem of endo in the aviation industry. It’s the reverse that will happen as in every privatization program, it is labor that is first to go or outsourced to third-party service providers,” the coalition said.

What the country needs at this time, Nagkaisa said, is strong, accountable, comprehensive, responsive, effective and democratic public services. g

Call for wealth tax revived as 9 richest...

PAGE 6

They said it would raise around P236.7 billion a year from the 50 most wealthy Filipinos alone.

Proponents said the tax on billionaires would help fund government programs and social services for the poor and “would further help shift the burden away from regressive consumption taxes toward the handful of the wealthiest who can contribute more to our public coffers.”

The bill, which was also filed during the Duterte administration, has been pending at the committee level since last July.

Congress, like most in government, is dominated

by the landed, the wealthy, and the elite.

Under this new administration, economic managers said they were keen to pursue fiscal consolidation to boost revenues. This strategy, if realized, could see a host of new taxation measures and reforms which could burden Filipinos as economic conditions prove too harsh and difficult.

“It’s time we demolish the convenient myth that tax cuts for the richest result in their wealth somehow ‘trickling down’ to everyone else. Forty years of tax cuts for the super-rich have shown that a rising tide doesn’t lift all ships —just the

superyachts,”  said Gabriela Bucher, Executive Director of Oxfam International.

Oxfam’s new research hammered home a point about trickle-down economics.

“The very existence of booming billionaires and record profits, while most people face austerity, rising poverty and a cost-of-living crisis, is evidence of an economic system that fails to deliver for humanity. For too long, governments, international financial institutions and elites have misled the world with a fictional story about trickledown economics, in which low tax and high gains for a few would ultimately benefit

us all,”  the report read.

As it is, the coronavirus pandemic widened the inequality gap around the world, especially in the Philippines. Filipinos continued to endure brutallyhigh inflation, which has persisted as the economy found its recovery from the pandemic threatened.

The combined effects of expensive fuel prices, supply-chain disruptions, and a weak peso have altogether battered the purchasing power of Filipinos. Inflation shrank the value of the local unit, as data showed a peso coin in 2018 was only worth P0.88 by the middle of last year. (Philstar.com)

Foreign countries ‘pirating’ Filipino nursing students

by Mayen JayMalin Philstar.com

MANILA — European countries are now “pirating” nursing students from the Philippines to address the huge demand for health care workers.

Vilma Garcia, De La Salle University Medical Center employees’ union president, said the United Kingdom and Germany are actively recruiting and offering “attractive packages” to Filipino nursing students.

“Foreign countries are giving very attractive packages to our 2nd year nursing students so that they can continue their studies in their country and

they will provide everything – tuition and lodging,” she said in an interview.

“Then, when they are already practicing, they can bring their family with them. That’s a big offer and we cannot equal that,” Garcia added in Filipino and English.

According to her, since 2022, foreign countries are directly contacting the school administration in the recruitment of nursing students.

Garcia estimated that about a fourth of their nursing students have accepted the offer. “Of course, they’re still young and they also want to

Remittances slip to...

could lead to more OFW remittances in December as well as higher inflation locally.

November 2022,” the BSP said.

As to overall remittances for the 11-month period, the U.S. topped the list with a share of 41.4 percent, followed by Singapore with 6.9 percent and Saudi Arabia with 5.8 percent.

Other top sources include Japan, the UK, United Arab Emirates, Canada, Qatar, Taiwan and Korea.

Despite the slowdown in November, Ricafort said increased holiday spending during the last month of 2022

On the downside, he warned that risks of a U.S. recession could slow down remittances moving forward amid weaker global trade, investments, employment and other economic activities.

Remittances remain one of the major sources of dollars, together with revenues from the business process outsourcing sector, tourism receipts, and earnings of exporters that help boost the country’s gross international reserves. g

Saudi Arabia, Singapore and Qatar contributed largely to the increase in remittances from January to

ALERT APP. National Capital Region Police Office chief, Maj. Gen. Jonnel Estomo, and Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos (2nd and 3rd from left) lead the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding of the S.A.F.E NCRPO alert mobile application at Camp Bagong Diwa in Bicutan, Taguig City on Monday, Jan. 16. Alerts made via the mobile application will be monitored by NCRPO’s Tactical Operation Centers, which will then coordinate police response. PNA

Foreign countries ‘pirating’ Filipino...

PAGE 7

experience studying abroad.”

Part of the contract, she said, is that the nursing student will have to work in the host country after graduation.

The school administration, Garcia said, is not stopping the nursing students and letting them decide if they would accept the offer from other countries.

But she expressed fear that the ongoing recruitment of Filipino nursing students will further worsen the prevailing manpower shortage in private hospitals.

At this time, Garcia said De La Salle could not operate fully and can only accommodate 43 percent of the bed capacity due to lack of nurses. With a 250bed capacity, she said De La Salle is the biggest private hospital in Cavite.

A 250-bed capacity hospital would require 340 nurses to fully operate. However, she said De La

Salle only has 100 nurses working at this time.

Garcia noted that many of the nurses have opted to resign because of low salaries and being overworked. Private hospitals could only afford an entry-level salary ranging from P12,500 to P16,000 a month.

Even the employees’ union, she said, has been helping out in the recruitment of new nurses to address the shortage.

“We are already looking to the provinces for new graduates, but we can’t keep up with the competition especially from foreign countries,” Garcia explained.

She said the manpower shortage in De La Salle is not unusual, but a common situation happening in most private hospitals nationwide.

Garcia called on the government to immediately address the problem besetting the country’s health care system. g

Foreign traders: Clear roadblocks to PH growth

by Franco Jose c. Baroña ManilaTimes.net

WHILE being upbeat on the Philippine economy, foreign business leaders are also wary about the bottlenecks on the road to recovery that the government needs to remove.

Chris Nelson, executive director and trustee of the British Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, said his group is “very much optimistic for the Philippines,” but “obviously inflation is still a concern because that directly impacts the consumers.”

“We have to remember that the Philippines is a very consumer-driven economy,” Nelson said during The Manila Times Roundtable interview on Friday, January 13. “But it is good that as of this time the pace has significantly strengthened.”

He stressed that inflation “will definitely impact” the pace of consumerism.

For Nelson, the conclusion of the Duterte administration moving into the start of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s government “was generally a good start.”

He pointed to proposed laws that were passed during the past administration, such as the amendments to the Retail Trade Liberalization Act and the Foreign Investment Act “that were all very good trends.”

“We were very supportive of these

measures because these are the things that we would like to see continue going forward to allow the Philippine economy to fully open up. We need these laws to be fully implemented,” he said.

He particularly would like to see the ratification of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).

The world’s biggest free trade deal, the RCEP came into force on Jan. 1, 2022. Over a decade in the making, the RCEP was introduced at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) summit in Bali, Indonesia, in 2011.

Another roundtable participant, Italian Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines Executive Director Lorens Ziller, said that he was also upbeat on the economy.

Ziller noted that Moody’s and the World Bank have tagged the Philippines as the fastest growing economy in Southeast Asia “which we kind of expected from a democratic point of view and the drive the Filipinos have to come back after the pandemic.”

“It is true, inflation is a little bit of a concern, as we have seen the onions in the country have the highest price compared to the rest of the world. So, that is something that should make us think why. Some say there is a cartel behind it. Well, I do not know. Anyway

that is part of the inflation, I guess,” he said.

Nevertheless, Ziller said compared to the Duterte administration, President Marcos has opened up the Philippines to the world.

Marcos “is very outgoing, and that is a very positive thing. I think he has done all the right things so far, and we hope he will continue like this,” he added.

One primary concern is the government’s digitalization program, which has encountered “bottlenecks” particularly in the Internal Revenue and Customs bureaus.

“I think there has been certain resistance to digitalization,” Ziller said. He said foreign business groups are very willing to help remove the bottlenecks.

Nelson said this problem affects the efforts to make doing business with the government easier.

“The government should be able to allow people to set up and do business quickly. They have to figure out how to shorten the time frame in setting up businesses in the country. This will definitely help in making the Philippines an investment destination,” he said.

If the government wants to move things “you have to move it quick[ly],” he said.

DFA exec grilled over zero acquittal of overseas Filipinos from criminal raps

by Daniza FernanDez Inquirer.net

MANILA — A Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) official was grilled by senators on Tuesday, January 17 over the zero acquittal of overseas Filipinos from criminal cases from January to June last year.

During the Senate committee on migrant workers hearing, Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva shared the DFA’s report showing zero acquittals while 1,278 individuals were convicted in the first half of 2022.

DFA Undersecretary Eduardo Jose De Vega said they do not get a lot of acquittals a year.

“Offhand, I hope — kasi (because) I was not undersecretary then — we don’t get a lot of acquittals. That’s the fact,” De Vega said.

“Usually, a maximum [of] maybe less than a dozen a year, maybe. Kasi ang nangyayari diyan, most of time, ang nangyayari, nasesettle, hindi na dumederetso pa sa kaso,” he explained.

Villanueva said that the situation was “unacceptable.”

“This is not acceptable. These are facts. These are figures that we have on our hand. We wanted to find out ilan ‘yung na-acquit (how many were acquitted)? Kung walang na-a-acquit (If none), what the hell are we doing here? We don’t even evaluate the things that we do,” the senator pointed out.

“May weak evidence gathering ba tayo? ‘Yung mekanismo ba may problema?

Talaga bang kulang iyong legal representation natin du’n sa mga benepisyaryo from sa start of the case o late na tayo nakapasok kasi dahil ganu’n? That’s what we wanted to find out kasi that’s the only way we can improve our services to our people,” he went on.

lamented the zero acquittals.

“[Baka] mahina ‘yung mga abogadong nakuha ng ating DFA na para idepensa ‘yung ating mga Filipino nationals na may problema sa abroad,” Tulfo said.

(Maybe the lawyers that the DFA deployed are weak to defend our Filipino nationals who have problems abroad.)

De Vega asserted that at least overseas Filipinos are getting legal representation than none.

Tulfo then responded: “Don’t say that kaysa wala. So, dapat po talagang kailangan na kailangan na magkaroon ng legal assistance ang sinumang Pilipino kasi kasama ‘yan sa mandato ninyo na dapat ‘pag may Pilipino in distress. Kailangan tulungan at gastusan kaya nga tayo may legal assistance fund.”

(Don’t say rather than any. Filipinos deserve legal assistance because it is included in your mandate to help Filipinos in distress. You have to help and spend money on them. That is why we have a legal assistance fund.)

Focusing on economic...

(What happens is, most of the time, cases are settled and not pushed through.)

(Do we have weak evidence gathering? Do we have a problem with the mechanism? Do we really lack legal representation for beneficiaries from the start of the case, or are they entering late? That’s what we wanted to find out because that’s the only way we can improve our services to our people)

Senator Raffy Tulfo, the panel chairperson, likewise

Tulfo’s committee is deliberating measures to provide and expand free legal services to OFWs. g

Foreign traders: Clear roadblocks...

PAGE 5 PAGE 8

“What the people really want is speed,” Nelson said. “The Philippines needs to keep up the momentum because you have to appreciate that it’s a very competitive environment out there.”

Nordic Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines Executive Director Jesper Svenningsen shared Ziller and Nelson’s optimism, and believes that the Philippines is a good destination for companies from Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden.

Svenningsen said President Marcos’ talk on promoting e-governance is “something we are really looking forward to as this will make things more transparent, less red tape.”

“That is something we really hope to see implemented fully in 2023,” he said.

The Nordic countries are “all champions in e-governance processes and we would be very happy to share our knowledge with the Philippine government,” he said.

“We are the leading country in the aspect of e-governance and we certainly know that it takes a long time; it is not something you are able to do in a day. It’s really an ongoing process. In the Nordic countries it’s been going on for more than 10 years now, so we are willing to share our experiences and just reach out to us,” Svenningsen said.

He said that the Philippine government should understand what foreign companies need to stay longer in the country.

“Bottlenecks should be removed; the

government should do away with more sets of hurdles,” Svenningsen said.

He also said the Philippines should move to renew the European Union Generalized System of Preferences Plus (GSP+).

GSP+ gives developing countries a special incentive to pursue sustainable development and good governance. Eligible countries have to implement 27 international conventions on human rights, labor rights, environment and good governance.

“GSP+ needs to be extended. That has to be done because this will really benefit the Philippines,” Svenningsen said.

Nelson also noted the importance of consistency in implementing laws governing business and investments, particularly on contracts being awarded.

“The rule of law has a huge impact in foreign investments. The government should make sure that rules do not change in the middle of the game. We need more certainty,” he said.

While welcoming improvements in implementing economy-related laws, “constitutional changes with respect to foreign investments are only needed when what is being removed are those that are bad for business,” Nelson said.

“To me, the real point is how can the Philippines focus on what it does best, what are its advantages to others and how can it improve those to make people come here,” he said. g

our economy not only rebounds, but grows at levels that are even higher than before the pandemic. And if we are to significantly and meaningfully contribute to global economic growth, we must do our part to ensure that the economic health of the Southeast Asian region remains healthy and robust.

While some forecasts indicate that the global economy will slow down this year due to the effects of geopolitical issues, growth is expected to expand in our region, and I am convinced that this will help buoy the global economy. In addition, being competitive will help thwart any form of coercion – which is why we also welcome the establishment of the ASEAN-U.S. Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the renewed interest and commitment of the United States to expand economic cooperation with ASEAN as a whole and with key bilateral partners, starting with the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity or IPEF that was launched last year.

Certainly, we welcome the Biden administration’s efforts to revitalize economic activities between the U.S. and the region –absent of a Free Trade Agreement – through the IPEF. Although negotiations are still in the early stages, we are determined to get to an outcome that will ultimately lead to massive outflows from the U.S. in terms of investments, jobs generation, technological assistance as well as best practices and standards.

Let me just point out that there is a strong clamor among companies – both from the region and in the U.S. – for an FTA. Given the proliferation of regional trade agreements, it is high time the U.S. started seriously exploring this possibility. Otherwise, it risks getting left behind by other countries that are already engaged in preferential trade agreements with the region.

To say that there are massive opportunities for American companies to do business in

the region is an understatement. ASEAN is definitely open for business – whether as part of the global supply chain, engaging in e-commerce and the digital economy or working together on sustainable infrastructure that will benefit both the region and the rest of the world.

Economic prosperity for the ASEAN region and for the Philippines is a key element for economic security. That is why aside from the United States, we are reaching out to countries like China – which is currently the biggest trade partner of the Philippines – that can help us achieve our economic objectives. How we deal with China is always based on what will be best for our country’s interests.

Considering the intense competition between the two super powers – the United States and China – we are hopeful that the lessons from the war in Ukraine will make nations realize the folly of trying to take over another country. Any attempt at such will not succeed because the like-minded nations would never allow that to happen. As we have all seen, what is happening in Ukraine can impact even the farthest country in the world. In the end, everyone loses, which is why we are hoping and praying that the situation does not escalate any further and will be resolved sooner rather than later.

What it all boils down to is this: each country wants to ensure economic prosperity and security – a clear direction the Marcos administration is taking today – because when all is said and done, we will only do what is best for our national interest and will remain focused on our economic diplomacy to achieve peace and security. (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. *

FOREIGNER NO MORE. Senator Francis Tolentino (left), chairperson of the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights, administers the oath of allegiance to professional basketball player Justin Brownlee at the Senate in Pasay City on Monday, Jan. 16. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. granted Filipino citizenship to the 6-foot-5 shooting guard through Republic Act 11739. PNA photo by

COMMUNITY JOURNAL

A success story for crewmen: Overstayed crew member obtains immigrant visa in Manila through Obama-era provisional waive 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” and she knew that the “Attorneyof-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 Barack Obama issued the Provisional Waiver regulation in 2016, enabling Julie to avoid the 10-year 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

“ATTORNEY-OF-LAST-HOPE” MICHAEL J. GURFINKEL HELPED OVERSTAYED CREW MEMBER GET A VISA ON AN ENCORE SUCCESS STORY OF CITIZEN PINOY THIS SUNDAY! When Julie (left, photo above) 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, photo above) on several occasions, until President Obama created the Provisional Waiver program. This was an answer to Julie’s prayer, as she was able 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 an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, January 22 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. (Advertising Supplement)

XBB.1.5 is kraken!

evasive and has the highest immune-escape ability, 63 percent more resistant to antibodies. Scientists do not know if kraken will respond to the current vaccines.

PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS

WHEN it comes to diseases, especially contagious ones, prevention is the best strategy to avoid infection and transmission to others. And the best preventive tool we have is the vaccine, followed by hygiene, masking, and social distancing, as in the case of COVID-19. All these mitigating measures are aimed at preventing spread of the infection, hospitalizations, and deaths.

Although people are letting their guards down following President Joe Biden’s declaration last month that the pandemic was over, there are still around 67,000 cases of COVID-19 with almost 500 associated deaths on average per day for the past couple of weeks. On January 4, 2023, there were 207,391 cases of COVID-19, with 2,126 deaths, and around 47,000 hospitalizations, a 17 percent increase over 2 weeks before. After the BA.4 and BA.5, the dominant subvariant now is the BQ.1.1, with 34 percent of the cases nationwide, followed by XBB.1.5 (named kraken), with 28 percent of the cases, and vying for first place.

Sea monster

The new subvariant of omicron called XBB.1.5 or kraken, named after the legendary gigantic sea monster, is drawing a lot of concerns among scientists. It is showing rapid rise in hospitalization, especially among those 70 and older, in certain states in the U.S. Kraken, which caused a huge outbreak in Asia the fall of 2022, is highly transmissible (the fastest yet) compared to the other past sub-strains, doubling weekly in the United States. It could already be in the Philippines, but under the radar. As long as there are people out there who are unvaccinated, and people who do not wear masks to protect themselves and others, the virus will continue to replicate in the bodies of those individuals and mutate to newer (potentially more deadly) strains and sub-variants. The more bodies the virus infects and goes through, the more it mutates. Kraken has been shown to be highly immune-

Protect yourself

Still the best way to protect oneself is to update your COVID-19 vaccine and get vaccinated with the latest bivalent vaccine. The recent news about its side effects have been shown not to be true among the general population. The vaccines are safer than COVID-19 infection. In view of these new waves, resume using your NIOSH-approved N95 mask when outdoors, in stores, etc., engage in frequent handwashing, and continue to do social distancing and avoiding crowds. When exposed to any infected person or someone coughing and when you develop a cough, with or without fever or malaise, test yourself. If positive, let your physician know, and stay home; isolate yourself to protect other members of the household.

Foods for ED

There are about 30 million men in the United States who have erectile dysfunction, the inability to maintain good erection to perform effective penetration and sexual intercourse.

The following food items are suggested by food experts (and items to avoid) for those with ED for sexual health – Mediterranean diet is recommended by the Massachusetts Male Aging Study, with mostly veggies, whole grains, fruits, healthy fats (olive oil, avocados), and the following items: fish, blackberries, and other berries, chocolate, spinach, oatmeal, watermelon, pistachios, avocados, pomegranate, bananas, chili peppers, and most green and multi-color leafy vegetables.

Items to avoid are soy-based products, licorice, alcoholic beverages, and sugary drinks, like soft drinks, which are general toxic to the body. If the above preventive measures and trial with prescription ED pills (like Viagra, Cialis, Levitra, etc.) fail, medical consultation is prudent.

Cervical cancer

Cancer of the mouth of the womb (cervical) could now be prevented with a vaccine, thank God for medical science! The first-generation Gardasil was produced by Merck in 2006 for young girls and boys to prevent Human

Papillary Virus (HPV, the cause of cervical cancer in 96 percent of cases). In 2021, there were almost 15,000 cases of cervical cancer, with almost 4300 deaths in the U.S. Women 21 to 65 are recommended to have a Pap smear test every 3 years. Oropharyngeal and anal cancers are also (sexually) caused by HPV infections. Since 2017, Gardasil-9 (effective against 9 strains of HPV) is the only available HPV vaccine in the United States.

But the problem is some mothers refuse to allow their young (as early as 9 years old) sons to get Gardasil for fear of possible complications (rare and mild). This then exposes these young boys to HPV and spread it to the girls they have sex with who would then have HPV and a high risk for future cervical cancer. The 99-plus percent preventive power and efficacy of Gardasil is sadly severely reduced when boys are not also vaccinated. That translates to thousands of deaths annually from an otherwise preventable cervical cancer.

A great lesson Science is clear: If the U.S. was locked down (no-onein without quarantine first, no-one-out) since January 1, 2020, masking and social distancing required when the first case was diagnosed in Washington State, and vaccination for all federally mandated when the MRNA vaccines were first developed, this pandemic in the U.S. could have been prevented. And so with the national economic devastation (countless billions of expenses), mental anguish, disrupted education of our children and the negative impact on their and our psyche and emotion, etc. A medical situation should be managed by medical scientists, epidemiologists, and not by politicians or misinformed mothers, or civil right activists/protestors, or radio-TV anchors.

If we haven’t learned our lesson yet from the way the government and we, The People, have poorly handled and mismanaged this pandemic, the next severe one could possibly annihilate countless millions of us in the United States. *

The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people live a healthier lifestyle to prevent illnesses and disabilities

DOST Balik Scientist taps Pinoy experts in US to support Philippine STI

THE Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Balik Scientist Program (BSP), in efforts to strengthen Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) capabilities in the Philippines through knowledge transfer, provided a recent orientation amongst Filipino scientists in the U.S. through the Consumer Electronic Show (CES) and Philippine Business Mission.

The BSP strategically holds promotion and orientation to spark the interest and patriotism among our Filipino scientists. As part of this mission in the U.S., three scientists immediately signified commitment to participate in the program this 2023. These scientists’ expertise falls under the industry and health sectors.

The BSP continuously encourages Filipino scientists abroad in several strategies and promotions to generate awareness of the compelling impacts they could bring along with them to the Philippines. Balik scientists are engaged to conduct capacity building, knowledge transfer, assessment activities, R&D activities, production of policies and publications, curriculum development, and building linkages that creates impacts.

Two Balik scientists shall be focusing on the industry sector. One, a creative director and expert on packaging and design shall help improve and bring new ideas and technologies that the country can adopt in terms of packaging and design of Philippine products for which to be at par with the packaging and design of global standards. The other, a biochemist and molecular and computational biologist, shall focus on the turning Philippine plastic waste back to its raw form and be able to create new and sustainable products. Both Filipino scientists plan to engage themselves

as a Balik scientists with the Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI) of DOST where research and development have been implementing such initiatives.

The third Filipino scientist shall be engaged as a Balik scientist under the health sector. He is an expert in mass spectrometric techniques and applies them to environmental biomonitoring, clinical toxicology, and therapeutic drug monitoring. His works pioneer the application of highresolution mass spectrometry to the suspect screening of environmental chemicals present in biological samples which can be extracted not just from blood nor urine but from human hair. He plans to engage with the University of the Philippines Manila (UPM) in close coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).

“The Philippines has a reservoir of talents among our young and local researchers that promises to make the Philippines spectacular,” said DOST Undersecretary Leah J. Buendia.

“We can strengthen the Philippine science community and STI ecosystem by having you and the rest of our Filipino scientists. We hope that you will consider the Balik Scientist Program to share your ingenuity in giving back to the Filipino people,” she added.

The BSP was established in 1975 to counteract the nationwide concern on “brain drain” or the emigration of highly trained professionals from our country, in search of a better standard or living and quality of life, higher salaries, access to advanced technology and more stable political conditions in different places worldwide.

(DOST Release)

A success story for crewmen...

PAGE 11

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 an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, January 22 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)

and achieve a happier and more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable or appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute for your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to

your health.

* * *

Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation

in the United States. He is a recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry Truman, President George HW Bush, Muhammad Ali and Astronaut Gus Grissom (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888.com, Today. SPSAtoday.com, and philipSchua. com; Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com.

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

DOST technologies at par with global technologies in CES 2023, Silicon Valley

THE Department of Science and Technology (DOST), in an effort to strengthen emerging technologies such as Semiconductor Manufacturing Services (SMS), Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Space Technology industry in the Philippines, presented engagement opportunities to scientists during the Consumer Electronics Show (CES 2023) in Las Vegas, Nevada, and at the Business Mission in Silicon Valley in California from January 5-11, 2023.

CES is the most influential technology event in the world — the proving ground for breakthrough technologies and global innovators. This year, CES 2023 highlighted technologies on sustainability, digital health, metaverse, electric vehicles, transportation, and mobility from over 4,000 exhibitors thereby providing various insights and possibilities for the Philippines to utilize market intelligence and benchmarking.

The Philippine delegation, composed of the DOST, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), the Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines Foundation, Inc. (SEIPI) and the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC), sought possible partnerships with governments and key industry players through the Philippine Business Forum highlighting the country’s investment-ready environment.

DOST participated in one of the fora, World Electronics Forum (WEF), where DOST Undersecretary Leah J. Buendia presented technologies and programs of the Philippine government which are at par with the emerging global technologies.

Technologies observed in CES 2023 include:

• SentiV from France, a scouting robot for monitoring field crops;

• Agwa from Israel, an AI-assisted indoor home vegetable-growing device; and

• Land Evaluation Engine by satellite data and AI from Japan, an application for monitoring the lands of interest from space.

Similarly, DOST Advance Science and Technology Institute (ASTI) has on-going project counterparts such as 1) Robot for Optimized and Autonomous MissionEnhancement Response (ROAMER), designed for detecting banana plantation monitoring; 2) Gul.AI, a mobile AI-powered plant growing system for optimum yield; and 3) DATOS, an AI-powered engine land feature detection from satellite images. The striking similarity in the functions between ASTI’s projects and CES technologies demonstrate the relevance of its R&D activities and their potential to address society’s needs.

“Similarly, as we vision to continuously be abreast with countries with cuttingedge technologies, we explored potential investment opportunities and areas for cooperation particularly with startup companies and universities in Silicon Valley,” said DOST Undersecretary Leah J. Buendia. “We also recognize the importance of having a pool of experts in achieving this vision, hence we have the commitment of continuous knowledge transfer and developing our homegrown science and engineering workforce through the Balik Scientist Program,” she added.

The DOST is the lead government agency that provides central direction, leadership, and coordination of scientific and technological efforts and ensure that the results therefrom are geared and utilized in areas of maximum economic and social benefits for the people.

(DOST Release)

To whom Jeric is immensely indebted?

THE first week of December last year was reportedly the start of taping for GMA’s upcoming actionadventure series “Urduja’s Jewels.”

It may be politically correct to say that this is a fitting follow-up project for most of its cast members.

To headline Urduja’s Jewels (UJ) are Kylie Padilla, Gabbi Garcia and Jeric Gonzales.

Humbly, all three of them came from highly successful, top-rating primetime shows on GMA the previous year — Kylie of the first ever sportserye “Bolera;” Gabbi of the mystery romance “Love You Stranger;” and Jeric of the Filipino adaptation of the Koreanovela “Start-Up Ph.”

Not to mention their costars Vin Abrenica and Arra San Agustin of “Lolong” plus Zoren Legaspi of a widelyfollowed afternoon soap.

As early as November, Jeric has already immersed himself into rigorous training for his physically

The be-dimpled actor would not have been cast in ‘Start-Up’ if it were not because of a GMA superstar’s recommendation.

Photo from Instagram/@

demanding role. This came about after Start-Up had wrapped up taping as it ended last year.

We dare say that Jeric’s performance there was way beyond our expectations, the prize of which is an immediate full-length series of a different genre this time.

But did you know to whom Jeric is immensely indebted?

The be-dimpled actor would not have been cast in Start-Up if it were not because of its lead star Alden Richard’s recommendation.

Ergo, the UJ series would not have landed on Jeric’s lap had it not been because of Alden.

The pressure is so intense that Jeric should — at all times — exercise caution never to be dragged again into “gay issues.”

The first few months of 2022 had been tough, if not unkind to him.

Reportedly, GMA had to put its foot down by calling Jeric’s attention as regards the rumors linking him to an anonymous gay businessman.

Soon enough, Jeric succeeded in exonerating himself and has since behaved like a good boy.

Hopefully, Jeric gleaned a valuable lesson or two.

(By Ronnie Carrasco/ Manilatimes.net)

Catriona calls Miss Universe 2022 hosting stint ‘achievement unlocked’

By Kristofer Purnell Philstar.com

MISS Universe 2018 Catriona Gray was honored and full of gratitude to be part of the hosting team of the pageant’s recently concluded 2022 edition.

Catriona served as a backstage commentator alongside  “American Ninja Warrior” co-host Zuri Hall  — it was Catriona’s first time in a hosting capacity at Miss Universe  — while Miss Universe 2012 Olivia Culpo and television host  Jeannie Mai Jenkins were the 2022 pageant’s main hosts.

The beauty queen took to her Instagram account,  days after Filipina American R’Bonney Gabriel was crowned Miss Universe 2022, to reflect on her hosting stint.

“Achievement unlocked.. It’s always been a dream to be in the hosting line up of Miss Universe,” Catriona said, thanking the pageant’s president Paula Shugart and chief executive officer Amy Emmerich.

Catriona also extended her thanks to her styling team for the last-minute preparations despite  not having fittings and for being able to to help

Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray Photo from Instagram/@catriona_gray

her pack for a few hours in Manila while in the middle of the holiday season.

In previous posts, Catriona also shared how lovely it was to work with Zuri backstage, and a group photo that included the newlycrowned R’Bonney and new Miss Universe owner  Anne

Jakrajutatip.

During the Miss Universe 2022  show proper, Catriona was seen backstage visibly in tears during a segment that paid tribute to the late  Miss USA Cheslie Kryst, who had bunked with her before as roommates.

Agwa from Israel, an AI-assisted indoor home vegetable-growing device (left) and Gul.AI a Philippine-made mobile AIpowered plant growing system for optimum yield. Photoscourtesy

DOST Undersecretary Leah J. Buendia (left photo) presented DOST’s programs in 2023-2028 at the World Electronics Forum together with officials from DTI, DICT, PEZA, SEIPI and PTIC, and participants from the government and industry sectors.

people events arts culture entertainment

Here Lies Love to open on Broadway in Summer 2023

HERE Lies Love, the first musical on Broadway about the Philippines––with entirely Filipino principal roles––will premiere in the Summer of 2023 at the Broadway Theatre (1681 Broadway at 53rd Street).

Tony Award® winner Alex Timbers (direction) and Olivier Award nominee Annie-B Parson (choreography) reunite with Grammy®, Oscar®, and Tony Award® winner David Byrne (concept, music, and lyrics) and Grammy Award® winner Fatboy Slim (music) to bring Here Lies Love, the immersive disco pop musical based on the rise and fall of Imelda Marcos and the People Power Revolution of the Philippines, to Broadway, continuing a ten-plus year collaboration on the project. Tom Gandey and J Pardo contribute additional music.

Performances will begin Saturday, June 17, 2023 ahead of an official opening night on Thursday, July 20, 2023.

Here Lies Love is produced on Broadway by Hal Luftig, Patrick Catullo, Diana DiMenna for Plate Spinner Productions, and Clint Ramos and Jose Antonio Vargas––the first-ever Filipino lead producers on Broadway.

Says Tony Award®-winning Designer, Creative Director, and Producer Ramos, who has been involved with the project since 2006: “Exciting lessons are often learned through uniquely surprising works of art. And nothing is more surprising than the way Here Lies Love vibrantly and creatively sheds light on a crucial part of Philippine history. Jose and I are so proud to help bring forth this singularly original show.”

Adds Tony Award®-nominated Producer Vargas, who founded the immigration organization Define American: “Filipinos are among the largest immigrant groups in America––and also among the most invisible culturally, despite the two nations’ shared colonial histories. While the Asian diaspora can no longer be denied in American popular culture, Filipinas and Filipinos remain woefully outside the spotlight. I’m thrilled to help break barriers on what has historically been an

exclusive stage: Broadway.”

Here Lies Love’s staging at the Broadway Theatre will transform the venue’s traditional proscenium floor space into a dance club environment, where audiences will stand and move with the actors. A wide variety of standing and seating options will be available throughout the theater’s reconstructed space, with more details to be announced soon. Sign up now at HereLiesLoveBroadway.com for first access to tickets.

From its world premiere at The Public Theater in 2013, Here Lies Love has enjoyed popular and critical acclaim. The show returned to The Public in 2014-2015, debuted at London’s Royal National Theatre in 2014, and most recently opened at Seattle Repertory Theatre in 2017.

Filipinos are well represented in Here Lies Love’s producing and creative ranks.

Filipino Co-Producers include: Miranda Gohh, Celia Kaleialoha Kenney, Rob Laqui, and Giselle “G” Töngi.

Filipino creative team members include: ATW Jonathan Larson Grant recipient J. Oconer Navarro (music director); Tony Award® winner Clint Ramos (costume design); Gail Quintos (casting director); Billy Bustamante (assistant director); Sheryl Polancos (assistant stage manager); and Giselle “G” Töngi (cultural and community liaison). They are joined by: three-time Tony Award® nominee David Korins (scenic design); Tony Award® winner Justin Townsend (lighting design); M.L. Dogg & Cody Spencer (sound design); and three-time Tony Award® nominee Peter Nigrini (projection design); with casting by Tara Rubin CSA and Xavier Rubiano CSA, and general management by Foresight Theatrical. 

Jo Koy visits Bacolod for inauguration of road he donated to school

by CARLA GOMEZ Inquirer.net

FILIPINO American standup comedian and actor Jo Koy and his family visited this city for the inauguration of a road he donated to a public school.

Jo Koy’s visit only became public when fans spotted him at a coffee shop on Friday and started posting photos of him on social media.

The actor-comedian, whose real name is Joseph Glenn Herbert, and his family went to the Alangilan National High School for the blessing and inauguration of a P1.5 million paved road that he donated to the school.

Teacher Gervie Jude

Tolimao said Jo Koy also gave an additional donation of P1.2 million for school improvements.

Jo Koy’s adopted sister, Gemma Herbert Simmons, is a cousin of master teacher Veneranda Ortoño, former officer-in-charge principal of the Alangilan National High School.

Gemma is from Barangay Alangilan in Bacolod and is the president of Jo Koi Entertainment.

Jo Koy recently starred in Easter Sunday, a 2022 American comedy film that also featured Negrense Lydia Gaston, an actress based in the United States. 

Catriona calls Miss...

The Philippines’ bet Celeste Cortesi did not make the cut for the Top 16, marking the end of the country’s 12-year streak of qualifying for the semifinals.

Catriona went viral for her wide-eyed yet calm surprise at the Philippines’ early elimination when the Top 16 was announced, assuring that the Philippines and other powerhouse nations like Thailand and Mexico will have more chances in future editions. 

Filipino-American stand-up comedian and actor Jo Koy takes a groufie with students of the Alangilan National High School in Bacolod City.

Vhong thanks wife, sponsors of his freedom during ‘It’s Showtime’ return

By Kristofer Purnell Philstar.com

ACTOR-COMEDIAN

Vhong Navarro was full of gratitude when he returned to his hosting stint on noontime variety show “It’s Showtime,” a majority of it directed at his wife Tanya Bautista-Navarro.

After being welcomed back by his fellow hosts, Vhong asked for a few minutes to share some appreciative words for Tanya, who was supportive of her husband throughout his detention for a rape charge.

“Grabe ka, ikaw ang superhero ng buhay ko. Hindi mo ako iniwan sa hirap at ginhawa,” Vhong said, holding back tears. “Alam ko marami kang pinagdaanan na hirap sa akin  — kung anuman nagawa kong kasalanan noon, patawad  — at hayaan mong bumawi ako.”

Vhong also thanked the likes of Dr. Vicki Belo, actress Annabelle Rama, producers Mother Lily and Roselle Monteverde for their financial support in expanding his legal team.

Fellow host Vice Ganda even joked that Vhong might have gotten a dermatology session while detained when he mention Vicki’s name.

Other people that Vhong offered his thanks for included his family,  legal team, “It’s Showtime” family and fans,

and even his companions and inmates at the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) - Manila and  Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) - Taguig.

“Huwag tayo mawala ng pag-asa, nandiyan ang Panginoon... naging bahagi kayo ng buhay ko,” Vhong ended.

After his short speech, Vhong, Vice, and their fellow co-hosts  including Anne Curtis, Kim Chiu, Ryan Bang, Teddy Corpuz, Jugs Jugueta, Karylle, and Amy Perez engaged in a group hug.

Vhong’s return to hosting “It’s Showtime” marks his public return after being released from penitentiary detention as he awaits the Taguig Regional Trial Court (RTC) 69’s decision on his rape case filed by former model Deniece Cornejo.

The comedian surrendered to the NBI last August 20 after he was dealt arrest warrants for rape and acts of lasciviousness  — he could only post bail for the latter  — and was detained by the NBI and later at the Taguig City jail.

The Taguig RTC  granted Navarro’s petition for bail last December 5 and was temporarily released after posting  P1 million bail; he then kept away from the public from the holidays to spend more time with his family. g

Ate Vi on meeting her first apo: It was heaven!

By nathalie M. toMada Philstar.com

VILMA Santos started the New Year with a new title: Momsie Vi. This, as the veteran star and former congresswoman welcomed her first-ever apo or grandchild, the firstborn of her son Luis Manzano with wife Jessy Mendiola.

“It was heaven the first time I saw my apo! She was so pretty and ang pula pula niya… Peanut!!!” said Ate Vi, as Philippine showbiz’s “Star for All Seasons” is fondly called in the industry, in a message to The STAR on Tuesday, January 17.

She added that she’s very happy that her granddaughter Peanut’s full name is Isabella Rose Tawile Manzano.

“Take note, may Rose… I am Rosa Vilma Santos Recto… oh di ba? Hahahahaha!!!” she gushed.

She also described Luis and Jessy as very hands-on parents.

“Papa na papa si Lucky and mom na mom si Jessy. Galing! Breastfeeding ang Peanut!!! Soooo happy for Lucky and Jessy. Next chapter in their lives,” Vilma said.

It’s also a fresh chapter for Ate Vi. “New chapter in my life as Momsie Vi. First-time lola!!!,” the actress was happy to note.

The parents have yet to share more details about their baby girl, such as the exact birthdate last December and a full face reveal, although the TV host and actress have been teasing glimpses of their daughter on social media.

Ate Vi promised that she will soon share her first-time encounter with Peanut on her YouTube channel after the parents.

But long before Jessy gave birth, the veteran actress was already the most excited grandma-to-be. She first learned she was going to be one on Mother’s Day last year.

She recalled in a previous STAR interview: “Ayun talagang maiyak-iyak ako. Totoo ba, totoo ba? Oh my God! ‘Di kasi ako makapaniwala na sa tagal-tagal kong hinintay talaga ng apo, ngayon meron na.”

In a separate chat less than a month before the birth of Peanut, Vilma also told us that she was postponing out-oftown trips to prioritize the arrival of her apo.

“I’m really so excited with Peanut. In fact, ayaw ko mag-biyahe. I don’t want to travel. Sabi nila, magbiyahe tayo ng December. Sabi ko, ayoko baka manganak bigla. Ayoko lumabas ng bansa hanggang hindi lumalabas si Peanut. That’s how excited I am!” she said.

Since Lucky and Jessy are her neighbors, Vilma has been updated in every step of the pregnancy journey. She observed, “They care for each other. Lucky is taking care of Jess kasi nga medyo nahihirap-hirapan na rin si Jess. I could see that… of course, imagine magkakaroon sila ng pamilya. You see the love in their eyes because they are a family now. They’re having a baby already.

“And you could feel their care for each other and see their preparation.

May kwarto (nursery room) na yung bata, ang ganda ng design lalo na alam nila ang gender, a girl, so you could feel na ganun sila kasaya mag-asawa. Ganun nila inaalagaan ang isa’t isa. You can see their happiness.”

On what kind of first-time grandma she is, she quipped, “Kung minsan nga lumalabas na ako yung stage lola. Kaya kung minsan sinasabi ko, no I can’t decide, siempre mag-asawa yung magdedecision, ‘di ba?

“Eh sabi naman ng anak ko, pwede mo naman hiramin si Peanut every day. Basta tuwing dadating siya, meron siyang suot na diamond hahaha! Crazy talaga, hahaha!”

When asked about her advice to Jessy and Luis about parenthood, Vilma shared that she told them that their lives would really change and that the moment they became parents, they would realize that “you can trade your life for your children.”

Vilma continued that definitely, once Peanut arrives, it’s going to be the couple’s new status or next step in their lives. They are no longer just husband and wife but also parents, and with that, they should expect changes in their priorities.

“It’s more of understanding that their thinking should be hindi na ikaw, ako… or man and wife. It’s family na,” Vilma said.

Meanwhile, Luis and Jessy can also learn a thing or two about staying strong as a couple, as man and wife, from Momsie Vi.

Last Dec. 11, 2022, she and former Sen. and now House Deputy Speaker Ralph Recto marked 30 years of marriage — considered quite a feat in the world of showbiz.

Ate Vi reflected on her marriage: “Nag-aaway din kami, we’re not perfect, our relationship is not perfect. But what I noticed — this is not an advice – at the end of the day, kahit ano yung away namin dalawa, if you really respect your partner, babalik yung love eh. The love and understanding will return as long as the respect is there.”

She continued, “When the respect is gone, palagay ko wala na… Kahit sabihin mo mahal mo but you don’t respect the person anymore, I don’t think the relationship is going to be successful.

“One thing I know is that while my relationship with Ralph is not perfect, up to this day, I do respect the person, I do respect the guy, I do respect my husband.” g

Once dubbed Lea Salonga’s ‘mini-me,’ Esang de Torres now set to make a name for herself

FOR child singers, puberty can be a tricky phase to navigate.

While some emerge from that stage with their voices relatively intact, others have to deal with more drastic changes: The vocal range shrinks; the tone deepens and thickens; and before long, they learn that

they can now barely eke out songs that they used to sing with ease.

That’s the exact predicament “The Voice Kids PH” season 2 second runner-up Esang de Torres found herself in two years ago amid the pandemic. And it sent her into a panic. (By Allan Policarpio/Inquirer.net)

‘It’s Showtime’ host Vhong Navarro

Photo from

From Ate Vi to Momsie Vi: The ‘Star for All Seasons’ (left) has welcomed 2023 as a first-time lola to the firstborn daughter of her son Luis Manzano with wife Jessy Mendiola. The baby girl’s full name is Isabella Rose Tawile Manzano.

Esang de Torres Photo from