012024 - Los Angeles Weekend Edition

JANUARY 20-23, 2024 Volume 34 - No. 6 • 2 Sections – 16 Pages

DATELINE

PH, China to cut down sea tension USA

by BERNADETTE E. TAMAYO

NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

Fil-Am city council candidate seeks a progressive Los Angeles

ManilaTimes.net

THE Philippines and China discussed ways to dial down tension in the South China Sea and agreed to address incidents in the region "through diplomacy," the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Thursday, January 18.

The Philippines and China on Wednesday convened the 8th Bilateral Consultation Mechanism (BCM) ACCORDING to a 2023 U.S. News and on the South China Sea in Shanghai, China. Foreign Reports report, Los Angeles is the second-most expensive city in terms of cost of living.

To most, that’s not a surprising find, especially to those who live in the City of Angels, in which homelessness and lack of affordable housing are two interconnected issues that have plagued the city for decades.

Despite local lawmakers’ promises to expedite housing solutions, the problem persists, but there’s one Los Angeles City Council hopeful who has first-hand experience in advocating for renters and homeowners.

Ysabel Jurado, a Filipina American housing rights attorney, is currently running to represent Council District 14 (CD 14) of Los Angeles, where she grew up and currently resides.

Through a progressive platform and years

Affairs Undersecretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro led the Philippine delegation.

Manila and Beijing have a long history of maritime territorial disputes in the waterway, but relations sharply deteriorated recently over a series of incidents involving vessels from both countries.

Confrontations were at their most intense around the Ayungin Shoal, which Beijing refers to as the Ren'ai Shoal, where Manila has stationed a grounded naval vessel, the BRP Sierra Madre, to assert its territorial claims.

Last December, the DFA filed a diplomatic protest against the China Coast Guard for using a water cannon on Philippine vessels delivering supplies to Filipino fishermen in Bajo de Masinloc or Scarborough Shoal and soldiers stationed on the Sierra Madre.

China filed a counter protest, insisting that Ayungin is part of Nansha Qundao or Spratly Group of Islands.

The Sierra Madre was deliberately grounded at Ayungin in 1999 to serve as a "constant Philippine government presence" in the area, the DFA said.  PAGE A2

Jinggoy Estrada acquitted of plunder, convicted of bribery

by GABRIEL PABICO LALU Inquirer.net

 PAGE A3

As voters head to polls worldwide, what role for diaspora communities?

WITH 2024 being the biggest election year in history — as over 70 countries with over four billion people send citizens to the polls — the role of diaspora communities is more FEAST OF STO. NIÑO. Devotees visit the exhibit of Sto. Niño images at Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City on Friday, Jan. 19. Over 500 images from various cities will be on display until Jan. 28 in honor of the Child Jesus, whose feast is celebrated every third week of January. crucial than ever.

PNA photo by Yancy Lim At a Friday, January 12 Ethnic Media Services briefing, speakers discussed how AI and social media spread disinformation among diaspora groups, and shared how diaspora communities will engage with elections in their home lands of Mexico, India and Taiwan.

Diaspora communities and voting “The right to vote is one of the main demands of diaspora populations” and their noting that all their needs are being taken

by HELEN FLORES home countries have responded, said KathPhilstar.com care of by their service providers, unlike in leen Newland, Senior Fellow and Co-Founder the country. of the Migration Policy Institute.

MANILA — To lure more foreign visitors “I was talking to a friend and he said, ‘I In 1980, only 21 countries enfranchised cit- to the Philippines, President Ferdinand am going to Thailand.’ And I said, ‘Why go izens abroad, whereas by 2020, 141 countries Marcos Jr. has ordered government to Thailand? Go to the Philippines where did — nearly three quarters of the countries agencies to consolidate all tourism services, it’s nicer, cheaper.’ But he said, ‘In the in the world. from flight and hotel booking to arranging Philippines, (I book) the hotel, I have to be Diaspora voting varies dramatically. In drivers and tour guides. the one to arrange for my driver. I have to some countries, like India and Taiwan, voters During a meeting with the Private Sector be the one to arrange my tour guide and if are required to physically return. In others, Advisory Council (PSAC) Tourism Sector I want to go out of town, I pay each step of like the U.S., overseas voting is “hands-off” at Malacañang on Thursday, January 18, the way,’ ” Marcos said. without outreach to diaspora, so that “people Marcos cited a story of his friend who opted “So there’s the thing. I guess, consolidate to visit Thailand instead of the Philippines,  PAGE A4  PAGE A4

MANILA — Senator Jinggoy Estrada and businesswoman Janet Lim-Napoles were acquitted of plunder by the Sandiganbayan Fifth Division on Friday, January 19 in connection with the infamous pork barrel scam.

However, the anti-graft court division convicted Estrada of one count of direct bribery and two counts of indirect bribery, sentencing him to a jail term of eight years to nine years and four months for direct bribery and two years to three years for each count of indirect bribery.

Estrada, who was present during the case promulgation, is also penalized with a special temporary disqualification from holding public office and perpetual absolute disqualification from exercising the right to suffrage.

“Wherefore, in light of the foregoing premises, the Court finds accused Jose ‘Jinggoy’ P. Ejercito Estrada and Janet Lim Napoles not guilty of  PAGE A2

Marcos orders gov’t agencies: Consolidate tourism services

Manila currently holds the ‘world’s worst traffic in metro area’ title For those who still believe that the traffic situation in Metro Manila is just a minor hiccup—well, here’s your reality check

by KLEO CATIENZA Inquirer.net

Manila has the world’s worst traffic congestion among metro areas.

ADMIT it or not, the Philippines seldom tops any global ranking— may it be a worldwide student assessment or a powerful passports list. Filipinos seem to be so used to seeing other countries take the spotlight that when we do snag a high rank, skepticism becomes our default reaction. (“Really? Is this source credible?

I don’t think so.”)

Inquirer.net photo This time, though, Metro

Manila has clinched a top spot, and it’s something that probably every local won’t argue with.

The metropolitan area ranks first for having the worst traffic congestion among 387 metro areas in 2023.

According to TomTom International BV — a multinational traffic data provider and location technology specialist—local motorists spent an average travel time of 25 minutes and 30 seconds per 10 kilometers in the metro last year.  PAGE A4

Actress Dolly de Leon at the 2023 Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival closing ceremony.

Photo from instagram/@dollyedeleon

Dolly de Leon, 4 other Filipinas on Forbes’ ‘50 Over 50: Asia’

by KRISTOFER PURNELL Philstar.com

FIVE Filipinas, including actress Dolly de Leon, were included in Forbes magazine's third annual "50 Over 50: Asia" list.

The 50 women in the list hail from 14 different countries and over two dozen sectors like fashion and finance, even 112-year-old environmentalist

and "mother of trees" Saalumarada Thimmakka from India made the cut.

For de Leon's writeup, Forbes took note of the actress' historic nominations at the Golden Globes and BAFTAs following her scenestealing role in "Triangle of Sadness," and she has two films currently at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival — "Between The Temples" and "Ghostlight."  PAGE A2

A2 JANUARY 20-23, 2024 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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

FROM THE FRONT PAGE

PH, China to cut down sea...

PAGE A1 This was in response to China's "illegal occupation" in 1995 of Panganiban Reef or Mischief Reef, it said.

This month, China held military drills in the South China Sea as the United States and the Philippines conducted their own joint exercises in the same waters.

During the BCM, Beijing said the two countries held a "candid and in-depth exchange of views" on the situation in the South China Sea, which it claims almost in its entirety despite an international tribunal ruling that its assertions have no legal basis.

Both sides agreed "that maintaining communication and dialogue is essential to maintaining maritime peace and stability," China's foreign

ministry said in a readout.

They said they would work to improve their "maritime communication mechanism," Beijing added, in a bid to "properly handle maritime emergencies, especially the situation on the Ren'ai Shoal."

Manila, in turn, said the two countries "agreed that continuous dialogue is important to keep peace and stability at sea" and "assured each other of their mutual commitment to avoid escalation of tensions."

The BCM was held following the agreement reached between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Forum in the United States last November "to ease and manage tensions in the South China Sea."

It was followed by a phone call between Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in December.

"Both sides presented their respective positions on the Ayungin Shoal [in the West Philippine Sea] and assured each other of their mutual commitment to avoid escalation of tensions," the Foreign Affairs department said.

The Philippines and China have agreed to improve their maritime communication mechanism, particularly between their foreign ministries and coast guards.

They agreed to start talks on possible academic exchanges on marine scientific research between Filipino and Chinese scientists, the DFA said. 

Dolly de Leon, 4 other Filipinas on Forbes’...

PAGE A1

Also on the list is supermarket chain Puregold co-founder Susan Co, who together with husband Lucio, have a combined net worth of $2.3 billion (P1.29 trillion).

Co is also the vice-chair of retail holding company Cosco Capital which has stakes in

commercial real estate and liquor distribution businesses, and holds directorship in dozens of other companies.

Another businesswoman on the list is Medlink Networks president Esther Go, who is also a director in other local corporations such as Equicom Health Services, Equicom

Savings Bank and Security Bank.

Anna Ma. Margarita "Meean" Dy, the first female Chief Excutive Officer of Ayala Land Inc., and recent Ramon Magsaysay Award winner Miriam Coronel-Ferrer — recognized for her efforts in conflict resolution and gender inclusivity — round up the Filipinos on the list. 

PASIG BIGYANG BUHAY MULI. The showcase area of Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli: Pasig River Urban Development project at Jones Bridge in Binondo, City of Manila on Wednesday, Jan. 17. The project, under the guidance of First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, envisions the Pasig River to become “a living river” of multiple benefits with safe walkways and bikeways along its banks, greener corridor and a string of parks for nearby communities.

PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan

Senator Jinggoy Estrada waves from his car as he leaves the Sandiganbayan along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City on Friday, Jan. 19.

The anti-graft court acquitted Estrada of plunder charges in connection with his alleged involvement in the multi-billion-peso pork barrel scam but found him guilty of one count of direct bribery and two counts of indirect bribery.

PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler

Jinggoy Estrada acquitted of plunder...

PAGE A1 plunder based on reasonable doubt,” the dispositive portion of the 369-page ruling states.

“However, the Court finds accused […] Estrada guilty beyond reasonable doubt of one count of direct bribery, defined and penalized under Article 210 of the Revised Penal Code […] Furthermore, accused […]

Estrada is found guilty beyond reasonable doubt of two counts of indirect bribery, defined and penalized under Article 211 of the Revised Penal Code,” it also says.

The court likewise asked the senator to pay a P3 million fine, but since Estrada’s bond for his bail and travel was more than that amount, the Sandiganbayan Fifth Division would keep the money for now.

Meanwhile, Napoles, who attended the case promulgation online, was convicted of five counts of corruption of a public official and another two counts for a similar violation. She was sentenced to serve a jail time of eight to nine years per count and was ordered to pay a fine of P29.62 million.

Napoles was further asked to indemnify the government with P262 million and ordered to be

censured.

“Correspondingly, accused Janet Lim Napoles is found guilty beyond reasonable doubt of five counts of corruption of public officials defined and penalized under Article 212, in relation to Article 210, paragraph 2 of the Revised Penal Code. She is hereby sentenced to suffer the indeterminate penalty of imprisonment of eight years as prison mayor, minimum, to 10 years and eight months of prison mayor, as maximum, for each count. She is also ordered to pay a fine of P29,625,000,” states the decision.

“Accused Janet Lim Napoles is further ordered to indemnify the government of the Republic of the Philippines in the amount of P262,034,000 with interest of 6% per annum reckoned from the finality of this decision until full payment, by way of civil liability,” it also says, This plunder case against Estrada, Napoles, and others stemmed from transferring Estrada’s Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) or pork barrel to bogus nongovernment organizations (NGOs) owned by Napoles.

Estrada was charged with plunder for allegedly receiving kickbacks worth P55.79 million from Napoles due to the scheme.

Over the years, there has been a debate about whether Estrada could be considered the “main plunderer” in the case.

The senator, however, asserted that the prosecution could not prove such allegations and failed to substantiate their case against him, as there are supposedly no pieces of evidence pointing to him as the “main plunderer” or the pork barrel scam’s mastermind.

The prosecution accused Estrada of accumulating illgotten wealth after he allegedly gained P55.79 million from the shady scheme, aside from being “an active participant in the conspiracy to commit plunder.”

Eventually, the Sandiganbayan Fifth Division allowed Estrada and Napoles to file a demurrer to evidence or seek outright dismissal of the cases against them. But these were denied in June 2019, as it was established that he approved the transfer of his PDAF to Napoles’ NGOs. 

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DATELINE USA

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARY 20-23, 2024 A3

Despite deficit, Newsom’s budget guarantees funding for essential state programs

Assemblymember Akilah CALIFORNIA'S deficit is Weber (D-La Mesa), and estimated in the tens of billions, funding for the Ralph though in his latest budget Gov. J.Bunche Center for AfriNewsom maintained funding can American Studies at for key services including UCLA. education, housing and climate In a statement released change.

Jan. 11, State Controller Gov. Gavin Newsom Malia M. Cohen, who presented a $291 billion is responsible for spending plan to the California accountability and Legislature on Jan. 10. Despite disbursement of the a looming shortfall estimated state’s resources, says that at tens of billions of dollars, she has faith in Newsom’s Newsom avoided making projections. cuts to critical expenditures “While the Governor in education, public safety, had difficult choices to curbing organized retail theft, make to address the housing for the homeless, budget shortfall, I’m mental health care reform, climate action, and other issues California Gov. Gavin Newsom File photo/www.gov.ca.gov confident that the budget announced (Jan. 10) will that are priorities.

During his speech, delivered at the auditorium keep California moving forward and continue the of the Secretary of State building in Sacramento, work necessary to support vital public health and Newsom clarified that he expects the state to have safety programs along with other core services,” a $37.9 billion deficit. That figure is considerably Cohen stated. “As Controller, my office is prepared lower than the nearly $68 billion deficit projected to provide the tools and resources necessary to last month by the nonpartisan Legislative Analyst ensure the state meets its financial obligations and maintains economic stability.”

Office (LAO).

Newsom’s budget plan reflects $18.4 billion in “Those of you who’ve been writing about a different number I hope you’re immediately correcting,” total budgetary reserves, including $11.1 billion in Newsom said moments into his presentation. the Rainy Day Fund.

Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber thanked “We’ve been pretty damn transparent with you by making the point publicly, not just privately that that Newsom’s for keeping funding flat for programs that was not the number, but it continues to be reported are central to the services her department delivers, including two new digital programs that promote as the gospel.”

On Jan. 13, the LAO released an analysis of transparency in political financing and provides Newsom’s budget proposal that placed the amount electronic notarization of business documents.

“The January Budget includes resources for the of the budget deficit problem to about $58 billion, $10 billion lower than its original projection and Secretary of State to maintain its core ongoing nearly $20 million more than the Department of operations,” said Weber.

“In addition, the Budget includes funding to Finance calculations.

In addition to ordering a reduction on general support the Help America Vote Act mandates fund spending last month, Newsom proposed and resources to continue the CAL-ACCESS a number of actions to bridge the budget gap Replacement System (CARS) Project and to support during his presentation, including the possibility of the continuation of the Notary Automation Program declaring a budget emergency, which would allow Replacement Project (NAP 2.0) which are mission him to borrow cash from the state’s reserves. He critical and vital to the services the SOS provides also suggested making “moderate cuts” totaling to the public, Legislature, and its stakeholders,” $8.5 billion in spending from some programs that Weber added.

Several Republican lawmakers expressed their support climate change initiatives, housing and other services; and reconsidering the healthcare disapproval of Newsom’s spending plan, including Assembly Minority Leader James Gallagher (R-Yuba wage increase.

“Our state is in a strong position to close this City), who called the Governor’s budget “pure shortfall while protecting key priorities and programs fantasyland.”

Senate Minority Leader Brian W. Jones (R-San that millions of Californians rely on,” Newsom remained upbeat about the state’s economic Diego) and Vice Chair of the Senate Budget and forecast. “I look forward to partnering with the Fiscal Review Committee, Sen. Roger Niello (R-Fair Legislature to meet this moment with a balanced Oaks) also shared their views on Newsom’s budget approach that meets the needs of Californians and proposal.

Jones stated in a Jan. 10 statement that Newsom’s safeguards our state’s future.”

During the Q&A session after his presentation, plan is “year six of ‘Gavinomics’ where his budgets Newsom, in response to a question posed by Cal- turn surpluses into deficits and his policies push ifornia Black Media stated that he took deliberate Californians to flee.”

Niello stated that the governor’s rhetoric is a way steps to safeguard programs that the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) had identified as im- to weave “through a deficit of dollars.”

“As the governor pulls revenue gimmicks and portant. They included the state’s equity multiplier funding program designed to support schools with accounting tricks, it’s impossible to bury the truth: significant numbers of socioeconomically disadvan- California is bleeding because of a decade of taged children – an initiative strongly advocated by  PAGE A4

CITY OF LOS ANGELES COVID-19 TENANT PROTECTIONS ENDING Things you should know: COVID-19 renter protections are ending.

February 1st deadline to pay rental arrears for rent owed from Oct. 1, 2021-Jan. 31, 2023.

5 days to respond to an eviction notice from the court.

Tenants cannot be evicted without a reason or just cause.

Be informed.

Be protected.

Be at home. housing.lacity.org

Housing rights attorney Ysabel Jurado is running for Los Angeles City Council’s 14th District.

Photo courtesy of her campaign

Fil-Am city council candidate seeks a progressive...

PAGE A1

of social justice organizing and representing renters, Jurado, if elected, would be the first Filipino LA city council member.

“I’ve always been an organizer and I never thought I would run for office, it’s true. But I feel called for this by my community. We [Filipinos] are the second-largest Asian population in Southern California and yet we haven’t had a council member ever is wild to me,” Jurado told the Asian Journal in a late 2023 interview in her home in Highland Park.

Jurado and seven other challengers (including the incumbent Kevin de Leon) will appear on the ballot for the primary election on March 5.

Currently, Jurado has been endorsed by several progressive organizations, such as the Democratic Socialists of America — Los Angeles, Ground Game LA, and the Pilipino American LA Democrats (PALAD). She’s also received endorsements from LA City Controller Kenneth Mejia (who is also Filipino American) and LA City Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez of the 1st council district.

CD 14 comprises much of the east and northeast region of LA proper, stretching from Boyle Heights and Downtown LA to Eagle Rock and Highland Park.

Born in Echo Park and raised in Highland Park, Jurado described her upbringing as what many would consider the epitome of

the American Dream. Through the 1965 Immigration Act, Jurado’s maternal grandmother immigrated to the U.S., which encouraged many of Jurado’s family members to follow suit.

Settling in Echo Park, the family was very poor to the point where Jurado’s father worked three jobs. Eventually, the family made enough over three years to buy a house in Highland Park — where Jurado still lives to this day. “[We’ve had this house] since the 80s. This is the house I grew up in. My mom passed away here and my Lola passed away here, so I’m deeply rooted here,” she said.

While juggling the difficulties of being a young single mother, Jurado attended UCLA Law, where she took on jobs defending workers against wage theft and exploitation, which was motivated by her own father’s experiences as an immigrant worker.

This was around the time of the 2008 housing crisis when Jurado became motivated to fight against gentrification on behalf of families that were similar to her own: working-class immigrant families that had lived in LA for decades and were now facing displacement.

“That’s when I brought into my scope to be a community economic development lawyer, and added housing to the mix,” Jurado explained.

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jurado

said she was the only Tagalogspeaking eviction defense attorney. Working with clients in both LA and Orange counties, Jurado represented many renters who weren’t just facing eviction but deportation as well.

“I think there’s a lack of compassion when we think about our unhoused neighbors. I always try to put it into the kind of conversation that housed people can understand,” Jurado said.

Jurado continued, “Imagine half your stuff being taken away from you, and imagine your mental state being challenged 365 days a year, where people are consciously ignoring you. Or, do you remember when you’re in a meeting and you voiced an idea and nobody reacted? How did that feel? Now sit with that and repeat it for 24 hours and 365 days.”

CD 14 has one of the most concentrated homeless populations, according to the LA Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA). In 2021, the district, under de Leon, opened up a tiny home village, a community of temporary shelters that provide climate-controlled sleeping and living quarters and communal bathrooms.

But Jurado noted that more permanent solutions are needed to ensure that people stay off the streets by developing and expanding community resource hubs for the unhoused,  PAGE A5

A4 JANUARY 20-23, 2024 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

DATELINE USA

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

As voters head to polls worldwide, what role...

PAGE A1

have to find out for themselves how to register,” explained Newland.

The electoral influence of diaspora communities depends not only upon the percentage of a country’s population living abroad and whether they can vote, but also upon whether these overseas voters actually exercise their right to vote, Newland added.

Misinformation through social media, AI Misinformation from abroad could be as impactful for some elections as votes from abroad, said Dr. Rohit Chopra, Associate Professor in the Department of Communication at Santa Clara University.

In the context of elections, misinformation not only inserts a fake claim into public discourse, but also “muddies the difference between what is fake and what is true … with themes, say, like the ‘deep state’ or COVID conspiracies,” he explained, “or of strong pro-Modi sentiment combined with criticism of dissenters in the case of the Indian diaspora …

It’s like the Wikipedia problem, where 80% may be very accurate, but we don’t know what 20% of it is false.”

As AI is increasingly weaponized to spread fake news, the companies and policies behind it are overwhelmingly U.S.based — and so impact diaspora countries “like a trigger effect,” Chopra said, contributing to the rise of fake news globally.

This rise has coincided with a

global increase in authoritarianism and a crisis of legitimacy for the media. Thus, even initiatives to criminalize fake news will involve serious concerns about the concentration of power.

“The political power of the diaspora is not limited to their voting power … we have to rethink the relationship between the state, technology, and the public globally,” Chopra added.

India The Indian election is the largest by far this year, with about 900 million individuals registered to elect 543 members of Parliament across over 50 state parties through a million election booths between April and May, said Dr. Arvind Panagariya, Professor of Indian Political Economy at Columbia University.

Nevertheless, this parliamentary election is very much a presidential one, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the Hindu nationalist BJP party with a 76% approval rating in recent polls.

This popularity owes much to the fact that India has grown from the 10th to the fifth-largest — and fastest growing — world economy, with low levels of inflation and unemployment, and a drastically more efficient social benefits system since Modi’s rise nine years ago.

Given that during this time, Modi has developed a tech corridor in India and promoted intensive collaboration with tech overseas, an issue at the forefront of U.S. Indian diaspora interests is tech development, Panagariya

explained.

Because Modi’s opposition — led by Mallikarjun Kharge of the center-left INC — is more fragmented than 2019, “it’s as though you’re voting for Modi or voting against Modi now,” Panagariya said, and “there’s a consensus” that he’ll win.

Mexico Much is at stake in 2024, when Mexican voters will elect a new six-year president, all 500 Chamber of Deputies members and all 128 Senate members.

“We decide whether we want a continuation of the policies that we have had” under President Obrador, who won as an opposition party by a large margin and “transformed political life in Mexico by aiming to eradicate corruption … or we decide if we want to go back to the past,” said Dr. Diana Alarcón González, former chief advisor and international affairs coordinator for Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico City.

Currently, Claudia Sheinbaum — frontrunner of Obrador’s progressive populist MORENA party — is leading polls with 60% support.

Although the Mexican diaspora, unlike the Indian one, can vote abroad, only 70,000 are registered to vote in June — a very small number, given that 30 to 40 million first, second and third-generation Mexicans (all of whom can register) live abroad, said González.

For comparison, 98 million are registered to vote in Mexico, and  PAGE A5

FLOODED. Residents of Jade Valley Subdivision in Buhangin District, Davao City, wade through floodwaters on Friday, Jan. 19. The flooding is caused by the overflowing of Davao River after heavy downpours on Thursday, Jan. 18.

PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.

Despite deficit, Newsom’s budget guarantees...

PAGE A1

Democrats’ one-party rule and reckless spending,” Niello stated.

Calling California’s economy, the “greatest wealth generator in the world,” Newsom said he

is confident California will close its budget gap, continue on its overall path of prosperity while providing innovative solutions to address social and economic issues.

“This is a story of correction, a story of normalization after a period of a tremendous amount of distortion,” Newsom said.

(Antonio Ray Harvey/Ethnic Media Services)

of sports development and promotion of Filipino cuisine to attract tourists.

Led by Sabin Aboitiz of Aboitiz Equity Ventures Inc., the PSAC recommended that the country embark on a campaign to showcase its native cuisines as well as host major sporting events to attract more visitors,

citing the successful tourism efforts in India, China, Singapore and Thailand.

Other PSAC members present were Lance Gokongwei of JG Summit Holdings Inc., Lucio Tan III of LT Group, Rene Limcaoco of Hertz Philippines and Lourdes Josephine Gotianun-Yap of Filinvest Development Corp. 

Marcos orders gov’t agencies: Consolidate...

PAGE A1

the system. So it’s because when you’re on vacation, you just want to stay at the beach and have a nice time. So I think it’s the facilities that we have to develop,” the president said.

The chief executive likewise directed the Department of Tourism to look into the potential

Manila currently holds the ‘world’s worst traffic...

PAGE A1

(That’s a 50-second increase from its previous record.)

Fridays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. were particularly nightmarish— with the travel time stretching up to 35 minutes and 30 seconds per 10 kilometers.

Almost five days stuck in traffic To put things into perspective, Filipino drivers (and commuters) were on the road for about 240 hours in 2023. One hundred seventeen of those were spent trapped in traffic, or almost five days of contemplating the With 2024 being the biggest election year in history, the role of diaspora is more crucial than ever. taillights of the car in front of Unsplash.com photo by Arnaud Jaegers you.

And if you’re wondering what you could have achieved with that significant amount of time, TomTom claims you could breeze through 48 books during those traffic-laden hours in the metro area.

We might as well be first placers in the “most patient” category.

How did TomTom come up with the results?

The TomTom Traffic Index relies on floating car data “collected from various sources” (which spans 551 billion kilometers globally) to assess and analyze traffic conditions in different cities.

It’s influenced by quasi-static

factors such as road infrastructure and speed limit, and dynamic factors such as traffic congestion and flow changes. The interplay between these two then determines the average travel time spent in each location.

This means that the bad traffic situation in Metro Manila isn’t merely a local opinion but a data-driven hard reality.

(So, here’s to hoping that the officials concerned take notes and make an effort to find solutions that can alleviate the gridlock soon.)

Note: “Metro area” covers both the city center and the nearby rural areas. 

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DATELINE USA

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Fil-Am shot dead in Daly City, mother searches for answers

by CHERIE QUEROL MORENO Inquirer.net

GETTING READY. A volunteer keeps the Archdiocesan Shrine of Santo Niño de Tondo in Manila clean while there are only a few churchgoers on Friday, Jan. 19. It will be the center of activities related to the Jan. 21 feast of the Child Jesus.

PNA photo by Ben Briones

Fil-Am city council candidate seeks a progressive...

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which she said would prevent criminalization and prioritize health and well-being.

Another priority Jurado has is helping communities preserve and maintain affordable housing to avoid displacement.

To aid in this goal, if elected, she would work on strengthening tenants' protections, expanding access to counsel, and working with community land trusts that make sure property is affordable in perpetuity for residents as well as business owners.

Like many Angelenos, Jurado expressed disappointment in the LA City Council racist tape scandal

that broke in 2022 involving the incumbent, de Leon. Though she is distancing her campaign away from using that scandal as fuel, she believes that the district requires fresh leadership.

Jurado acknowledged the rich history of Filipino leadership in LA — including legendary organizer Ruby de Vera and LA City controller Kenneth Mejia and the deep history of organizing among Filipino farmworkers — and noted that the Filipino community has always been one of her strongest motivators.

“Uplifting the Filipino American agenda to the forefront of local government means so

much to me. Our struggle for visibility always continues, and I’m a community organizer first,” she said, noting that her campaign not only sought the advice of policy experts but also of everyday people in the district.

She added, “The work we’re doing right now is coalition building, and that’s the work that we intend to do when we’re in office instead of being this distant person on an ivory tower. I’m a regular working-class person like you, and I’m running because I know what it’s like to struggle in this district.” (Klarize Medenilla/ AJPress)

given that “an official declaration of independence means Beijing’s military intervention and America’s involvement,” said Rong Xiaoqing, veteran reporter at Sing Tao Daily.

Nevertheless, throughout his campaign, Lai stressed “that he is not pushing for independence, only allowing the people the option to choose it or not,” Rong continued Despite the decisiveness of this victory, voting was hard for the diasporic people of Taiwan; only 4,000 of its 700,000 U.S.-resident citizens were registered in 2024. As remote voting isn’t allowed, and the DPP has opposed attempts to legalize it, “you not only have to go back to Taiwan

to vote, but you have to go to the city or village where you were registered,” he explained.

This difficulty favors the DPP given that many Taiwanese families went overseas before the party was formed in 1986, and many now are businessmen and international students — and thus have ties with the older, Chinese nationalist KMT party.

“I hear many complaints from Taiwanese immigrants who can’t take a flight because they’re poor or elderly that their voting rights are impeded,” said Rong. Now that the DPP has won, “it’s difficult to predict how Beijing will react” — and how this diaspora will be affected. (Selen Ozturk/ Ethnic Media Services)

As voters head to polls worldwide, what role...

PAGE A4

11 million first-generation Mexicans live in the U.S. Thus, said González, although the Mexican diaspora is large enough to influence electoral results, “our greatest challenge is to increase their participation.”

Taiwan With a historic third consecutive party win of Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive (DPP) candidate Lai Ching-te on Saturday, January 13, voters rebuffed mainland China by aligning themselves with the DPP-associated view of Taiwan as de facto independent.

This win will not only affect Taiwan’s relations with China but also with the U.S., especially

SAN FRANCISCO – As the first death anniversary of Frances Kendra Lucero nears, Liezel Chan Lucero is anxious to hear the answer to the question tormenting her family: “Why was my daughter’s life taken?”

The eldest of Liezel and her husband Florendo “Ollen” Lucero’s three children, 27-year old Frances Kendra was shot and killed March 6 last year, in front of her young daughter and son at her parents’ home in Daly City.

Police arrested the alleged gunman they identified as Romier Narag, then also 27, Frances’ onagain/off-again partner and father of their two children.

Narag is scheduled to appear at a preliminary hearing Feb. 26 at San Mateo County Superior Court in Redwood City, reset from the Dec. 13 original date. He is facing murder and associated weapons charges.

“I want him to see the pain caused by the loss of our beloved Frances,” Chan Lucero told Inquirer.net USA. “I want to know why he took her life, why he took our daughter, made my grandchildren motherless, and left us with unbearable grief.”

San Mateo County prosecutors say Narag and Lucero had returned home from a dinner date when they had an argument upon their return at the home of Frances’ parents, where the couple also lived. Narag suddenly pulled out a gun and fired four shots at Lucero as she tried to flee, hitting her body and her leg.

The fatal shooting occurred on Eastgate Drive in a quiet residential neighborhood near the Westlake Shopping Center. The elder Luceros were at work at the time and learned about the violent incident only after a relative called them to rush home “because of an emergency involving Frances.”

“I tried calling Frances on my way home, but she wasn’t picking up,“ Chan Lucero recalled her frantic drive. She had no idea what awaited as she braved the pouring rain, but the sight of police, emergency vehicles and yellow tape around their property pointed to the worst outcome.

“When I saw the body bag I broke out and cried knowing someone had died,” she said.

Community support The tragedy cast a pall over the

Filipino American community that immediately reached out to the Luceros.

The crime scene is steps away from a city park with a facility housing the Pilipino Bayanihan Resource Center (PBRC), site of Fil-Am empowerment meetings, education workshops and civic celebrations.

Just days after the fatal shooting, PBRC provided sanctuary for the bereaved family, friends and

concerned citizens at a Mass and vigil attended by now-Mayor Juslyn Manalo, a member of the San Mateo County Domestic Violence Council (SMCDVC). She also led a community gathering at the City Hall of Daly City to console the family.

“I stand with the Lucero family for justice for Frances whose life ended too soon tragically.

I have been working alongside  PAGE A7

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FEATURES

OPINION

‘Living water’

THE past decades have seen several campaigns to rehabilitate the Pasig River. Among the most notable were those led by Amelita Ramos during her husband Fidel Ramos’ presidency, and then when Gina Lopez served for just 10 months as Rodrigo Duterte’s first secretary of the environment and natural resources.

Ramos had said that he could swim in the Pasig in his youth.

Today the river remains unsafe for swimming, unless one is willing to risk developing respiratory, skin and other disorders. But solid waste management has improved, and finding floating corpses and aborted fetuses in the river has become less common. Water lily is regularly collected. This is partly to allow the smooth movement of the Pasig River ferry service and other watercraft. But the water remains so heavily polluted it cannot sustain aquatic life.

Making the river safe for swimming may remain a dream. But expanding the ferry service can ease the acute inadequacy of mass transport facilities.

That inadequacy has compelled Metro Manila residents to use private vehicles, leading to an everexpanding vehicle density. With no corresponding expansion in the road network, except for toll roads whose stiff rates keep away the majority of motorists, the situation has turned Metro Manila into the most traffic-congested metro area in the world, according to the latest TomTom Traffic

Index.

Rehabilitating the Pasig and expanding the ferry service are looking more attainable with the involvement of top businessmen in the latest effort to revive the river. Last Wednesday, January 17, the Marcos administration launched its own rehabilitation effort, kicking off the “Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli” in the city of Manila.

Joining President Marcos and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos at the ceremonial launch were JG Summit’s Lance Gokongwei, SM Investment Corp.’s Teresita Sy-Coson, Kevin Tan of Alliance Global Group Inc., Manny Villar of Vista Land and Ayala Corp.’s Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala.

The campaign aims not only to revive the river but also to develop the riverbanks along the 25-kilometer stretch from the mouth of the Pasig in Manila to the Laguna de Bay into public parks and mixed-use commercial areas. As envisioned by the President, the river will be maximized as facilities, sustainable practices like urban a “maritime highway,” while its banks will be gardens.” “a permanent exhibit area of green technology Campaigns have been launched in the past that works – from solar lights to rain harvesting to make the Pasig a “living water” again. With

Editorial

ManilaTimes.net photo

the resources and commitment of several of the country’s wealthiest, public expectations are high that the Pasig’s revival will be a success.

(Philstar.com)

Read more

Sketches

ANA MARIE PAMINTUAN DID President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. deliberately post on X his message congratulating Taiwan’s pro-independence president-elect Lai Ching-Te, or was it a lapse on his part, unmindful of its possible impact on Beijing?

If it was a lapse, then Beijing has reason to give him the rude advice to “read more” and not to “play with fire” in issuing statements about Taiwan, which China considers as its renegade province.

BBM had posted: “On behalf of the Filipino people, I congratulate President-elect Lai Ching-te on his election as Taiwan’s next president. We look forward to close collaboration, strengthening mutual interests, fostering peace, and ensuring prosperity for our peoples in the years ahead.”

Marcos and his government should be insulted by the undiplomatic comment of the Chinese foreign ministry’s spokesperson Mao Ning: “We suggest President Marcos read more to develop a proper understanding of the ins and outs of the Taiwan question and

come to a right conclusion.”

Does that imply that the president of the Philippines is no read, no write? (Rodrigo Duterte might agree.) Even if it’s just no read, it’s an insult to the leader of the Philippines.

Mao Ning also told a press conference that the Philippines should stop the “wrong words and deeds” on the Taiwan issue because it might encourage the separatists on the island.

Since the advice, however, was given not by BBM’s counterpart Xi Jinping but by a factotum in Beijing, Malacañang has chosen not to comment on the ministry’s statement, leaving the reaction to the Department of Foreign Affairs.

The DFA, which apparently was not consulted when BBM posted the message on Monday, January 15 issued a statement reaffirming the Philippines’ commitment to the one-China policy.

Marcos’ post was simply “his way of thanking” Taiwan, the DFA explained, for hosting nearly 200,000 overseas Filipino workers and conducting a “successful democratic process.” *** Beijing continued to huff and puff on Wednesday, grousing that BBM was the only head of state professing to adhere to the one-China policy who personally congratulated Lai.

By Wednesday evening, BBM’s defense chief must have had enough. Gilbert Teodoro accurately described the Chinese statement as an insult, and dished out his own strong words.

“It is unfortunate that the PRC Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson stooped to such low and gutter level talk – resorting to insulting our President and the Filipino nation, and further debasing herself, the Ministry, and Party she represents in the process,” Teodoro declared in a statement.

“But then again, we should not at all be surprised – being a nation and people enjoying the privileges, rights, and freedoms of a democratic society – that an agent of a Party and system of government incompatible with our way of life and who routinely spouts State-sanctioned propaganda and disinformation would go that far and that low.”

While the Chinese statement is unfortunate, he said, “I am, myself, unsurprised. The Spokesperson’s statements were ‘on brand.’ We, and the world, should not expect more.”

Teodoro is a close friend and former legal counsel of Bongbong Marcos. Was he expressing the sentiment of BBM on the Chinese insult? *** In the land of the

comprehension-challenged, it took some time before BBM’s other supporters recognized the insult he received and came out in his defense. Several administration lawmakers issued their statements on Thursday.

Being of BBM’s generation, I can understand why he would see Taiwan as an independent republic, as the self-ruled island describes itself.

He grew up with Taiwan having its own currency (one of the world’s most stable), its own armed forces and diplomatic corps.

Taiwan issues its own visa, and its passport is the 35th strongest in the world in the latest Global Mobility Index. Taiwan passport holders currently have visa-free access to 143 countries and territories. China is ranked 62nd in the index, with visa-free access to 85 countries and territories.

(Related to this, the Philippine passport is ranked 73rd, with visafree access to 69. We’re behind Singapore (ranked No. 1 together with France, Germany, Italy, Japan and Spain, with visa-free access to 194 countries and territories); Malaysia (12th), Brunei (20th), Timor-Leste (56th), Thailand (63rd) and Indonesia (66th).)

Taiwan’s political system is different from China, which the mainlanders may want to embrace instead of the other way around in case reunification

Screengrab from X/bongbongmarcos

happens.

The Taiwanese enjoy one of the highest per capita incomes in the world, with Global Finance magazine ranking it as the 14th richest among 193 countries and territories in 2023 based on GDP per capita adjusted for purchasing power.

BBM grew up with Taiwan being called by its formal name, the Republic of China. That makes it an independent republic like the Philippines, right?

Beijing wants the international community to call Taiwan “Chinese Taipei.” But Taipei is the capital of the ROC. Right?

President Marcos may be right in his appreciation of the situation

of Taiwan. But even some of his allies have openly advised him to be more careful when it comes to issuing statements especially concerning China. A statement posted on his personal social media account carries special weight.

The president being the architect of Philippine foreign policy, circumspection is a virtue when it comes to statements on international affairs. (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.

Philippines – not for sale

Glimpses

JOSE MA MONTELIBANO DOING the right thing for the wrong reason is doing the wrong thing.

Doing the wrong thing for the right reason is hell paved with good intentions.

It is not wrong to have Constitutional change but you need the right reason and the right way. And so far, there is nothing right with all the reasons given, nor the manner by which the attempt is being made.

And, by the way, ChaCha is a dance. It demeans Constitutional change with its frivolous name.

Do not sell the motherland.

The Philippines is not for sale. If other countries are willing to sell their land to foreigners, migrate to that country. Do not bring that attitude here because our own national situation is different from ours. It is easier for those who want to sell the motherland, in pieces or wholesale, to simply leave their identity as Filipinos behind and go in peace wherever.

The economic provisions that are being pointed to as requiring a change, if these include selling Philippine soil to foreigners, are not economic in nature. They are essentially political, they are about amending patriotism and nationalism, because they are selling the only thing left for all Filipinos – their identity.

Our Filipino identity is rooted in the land and the waters within which we were born and raised.

We are Filipinos because we are children of the motherland called the Philippines. We are first identified as children of the land before we are brothers and sisters by blood. If it is only by blood that we are brothers and sisters, we could be Malaysians if we were born and situated in Malaysia, or Indonesians if we were born and situated in Indonesia; in other words, we would still be brothers and sisters but not Filipinos.

Our land and waters identify us first before blood and citizenship, because our land and waters give us our family name. There can be Filipinos of mixed or other blood, and there are. We can be related by blood or not, but we are still Filipinos if we are from

our land and waters. Even our citizenship can be shared with those not even born here, with people of different blood, if they choose to be with us in our land and waters and if our leaders and authorities approve of their wish to be Filipino.

But our land and waters must stay totally as integral and whole just like us, rich or poor, but not for sale. Not when landlessness and homelessness litter the motherland.

That some Filipinos are for sale is also a fact. It does not make the Filipino people for sale, nor the motherland for sale. History has shown that traitors are an anomaly in all countries. Money and corruption have created more traitors than we know – under the guise of business.

Should we amend our Constitution in any way? Yes, definitely yes. But how, I am not yet sure. Because we need to have a national conversation to discuss what ails us the most, or what inspires us the most. Because Constitutions are there to protect what will hurt the people, and to set visions to inspire the people.

We have to begin with what

pains, weakens, and destroys the Filipino – especially the most perennial ones. I believe there is little question that the worst curses we live through day to day, year in and year out, decade after decade, are poverty and corruption. We cannot talk about them singly because they can prosper and perpetuate themselves only by existing as twin monsters. Nothing had brought more suffering to Filipinos more than poverty and corruption.

When we discuss our Constitution, we should first consider how it has fared in curbing poverty and corruption.

That should be its priority, the dismantling of poverty and corruption as the primary measure of how effective the Constitution is. Foreigners not owning land have not made us poor and corrupt, greedy politicians and only-for-profit businessmen have.

No Constitution can do well in this regard. I do not mean just the 1987 Constitution but even the one before it. After all, contrary to what the disgraceful and untruthful EDSA-pwera ad says,

EDSA only happened because there was no freedom – and no money. EDSA happened because the Marcos dictatorship had bankrupted the national treasury.

The Central Bank (CB) became the Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) because its bankruptcy triggered its rebirth.

The 1987 Constitution did not fail the Filipino people in suppressing or eradicating poverty and corruption. The Constitution is implemented and enforced by public officials and employees. The Constitution is lived out by law-abiding citizens.

Who failed the intent and vision of the Constitution? Because a national conversation that focuses on the daily wrongs that make Filipinos suffer the most may yet become the foundation of understanding what a Constitution is.

A real People’s Initiative can look good in concept. How can it happen, though, when most Filipinos, about 80%, never understood the 1987 Constitution? As of April 2023, 44% of Filipinos said they know LITTLE of the Constitution, 34% said they knew NOTHING

about the Constitution. That is why there is a need to know the Constitution before any thought of changing it.

Filipinos, however, know the honest from the corrupt, because they have received money or favors from the corrupt in exchange for their cooperation, or their votes. Filipinos know it is not the Constitution that makes and keeps them poor, that it is not the Constitution that is corrupt, but those who are responsible for making the Constitution work for us.

Life is not easy anymore, and it will become even more confusing, more dangerous, more unstable.

Meanwhile, millions of Filipinos have not had their inheritance from the motherland in their control for five centuries. Until then, keep our land and waters ours if we have to fight and die.

The motherland will always be our safe harbor, and she is not for sale. (Inquirer.net) *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

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

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Minority solons assail P449.5 billion unprogrammed funds in 2024 budget

by IAN LAQUI Philstar.com

E-LOTTO. Senator Raffy Tulfo (left) discusses with Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) General Manager Melquiades A. Robles (right, inset) and PCSO Chair Junie E. Cua (left, inset) issues raised by stakeholders regarding online placing of bets for lotto games during a hearing at the Senate in Pasay City on Thursday, Jan. 18. Tulfo has filed a measure against the online placing of lotto bets, which, he said, is aimed at safeguarding public welfare and encouraging responsible gambling practices.

PNA photos by Avito Dalan

Comelec may pause voter registration to verify signatures in People’s Initiative

by CRISTINA CHI Philstar.com

MANILA — The Commission on Elections may have to temporarily pause its voter registration for the 2025 midterm elections to allow its election officers to sift through the signatures collected in the People’s Initiative seeking to change the Charter.

Comelec spokesperson John Rex Laudiangco said that the poll body has yet to begin its verification process of the ongoing People’s Initiative signature drive to change the 1987 Constitution as the signature pages need to be submitted and certified first.

But if the People’s Initiative campaign “pushes through,” the poll body could pause its voter registration to give way to the verification of signatures as there is only one election officer per municipality and city, Laudiangco said in an interview with Teleradyo Serbisyo on Friday, January 19.

Laudiangco said that about 630 municipalities and cities nationwide have already submitted their signature pages supporting Charter change.

“Our election officers in nearly all segments have received signature pages. This is spread out across the country,” Laudiangco said in Filipino.

But the Comelec officer explained that there are still several steps before the poll body can start verifying the signatures.

After the submission of signature pages, the Comelec will certify these with the total

number of signatures collected, Laudiangco said.

Once those behind the People’s Initiative campaign submit a petition, Laudiangco said, the Comelec will assess whether the submission is “sufficient in form and substance.”

This means that the poll body will assess the correctness of the details in the petition, whether it has jurisdiction, and whether the total number of signatures complies with the requirement of having at least 12% of the total registered voters in the country and each legislative district is represented by at least 3% of their registered voters.

Only after the Comelec has approved the petition can election officers proceed to verification, Laudiangco said.

“We check if the person is real, if they are an active and registered voter, and we will compare their signature with our records,” the Comelec official added.

While Laudiangco said that the Comelec will have to carry out all tasks under its mandate as part of its constitutional duty, the voter registration process may need to be halted to allow each election officer to verify the signatures.

The Comelec official also said that the conduct of the People’s Initiative campaign comes just in time as the poll body can crosscheck the signatures with the information of those who will register as voters.

Minority lawmakers at the House of Representatives have called on the poll body to ensure the authenticity of the signatures collected in the People’s Initiative campaign amid allegations of

Liezel Chan Lucero leads prayers at the scene of her daughter’s murder.

Contributed photo

Fil-Am shot dead in Daly...

PAGE A5 her mother Liezel to keep her daughter’s legacy honored,” Manalo reiterated her support with Inquirer.net USA. In September SMCDVC convened a special task force in response to the five intimate partner violence fatalities reported last year including Lucero and Claribel Estrella of San Mateo, described as a Fil-Am volunteer at a shelter for the unhoused who stabbed to death in July allegedly by her ex-partner whom she had met at the shelter.

“Intimate partner violence is a crisis that demands our experts come together, identify the gaps, and take action now. We have the resources to prevent domestic violence and save lives,” District 2 County Supervisor Noelia Corzo said in announcing the task force of which she and Sheriff Christina Corpuz are members.

“This is precisely why our all-volunteer team ha been in existence for 21 years,” Colma City Council member Joanne del Rosario, who is 2024 president of Alliance for Community Empowerment (ALLICE), told Inquirer.net USA. “Understanding the dynamics of intimate partner abuse, such as recognizing signs of abusive behavior and the most dangerous

time for a survivor, is key to prevention.

That’s why we continue to give free presentations that are open to the public,” she said, explaining the mission of the Fil-Am nonprofit based in Daly City.

Frances Kendra was laid to rest on March 27 after a twoday wake where loved ones said goodbye. Mourners remembered her as bright, amiable, and enterprising – a “fashionista” fascinated by the healing power of crystals, which she turned into jewelry she sold online. She worked as an assistant optician at Seton Medical Offices. Most importantly, they praised her as a devoted mother, caring sister and her mother’s best friend.

While Chan Lucero struggles with her grief, she is thankful to have custody of her grandchildren, now 5 and 4 years old. They are all getting therapy to help deal with their mixed emotions.

She admits to being nervous about the impending trial but says she is hopeful to win justice for her daughter.

To get help for or learn more about intimate partner violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-7997233. In San Mateo County, contact 1-800-300-1080 or www. corasupport.org. 

widespread vote-buying.

The Comelec is expecting three million new registered voters ahead of the May 2025 midterm elections, bringing the total number of registered voters to 71 million.

Voter registration for the May 2025 midterms elections resumes on February 12. 

MANILA — Rep. Edcel Lagman (Albay, 1st district) and other minority lawmakers urged the Supreme Court (SC) to “nullify” and prevent the government from utilizing the P449.5 billion unprogrammed funds in the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA).

In a 27-page petition released on Tuesday, January 16 Lagman and his co-petitioners asked the high court to order the respondents, which include the Senate, House of Representatives and certain departments of the executive branch, from “funding, releasing and implementing the constitutionally infirm excess appropriations of P449.5 billion.”

“This Petition is limited to the declaration of nullity and unconstitutionality of the excess of P449.5-B in unprogrammed appropriations inserted by the Bicameral Conference Committee in the 2024 General Appropriations Bill,” the petition read.

“Moreover, this petition does not seek to stop or derail the operation of the National Government…,except to pray for the nullification of the constitutionally infirm excess of P449.5-B in unprogrammed appropriations,” it added.

Aside from Lagman, among

the petitioners are Rep. Gabriel Bordado Jr. (Camarines Sur, 3rd district) and Rep. Mujiv Hataman (Basilan).

The lawmakers also argued that increasing the original amount of unprogrammed funds is prohibited under Article 6 (Section 25, paragraph 1) of the Constitution.

Under the mentioned provision by the Constitution, Congress cannot go beyond the appropriations sought by the president in the National Expenditure Program.

“If unprogrammed appropriations are increased beyond the ceiling imposed by the president, their subsequent funding and release, whether righteous or contrived, will balloon the government's expenditures beyond the fiscal program,” the petition read.

According to a table provided by the petitioners, the unprogrammed funds requested by the executive branch increased from P281.9 billion to almost P731.5 billion in the GAA. “As a result of the insertion made by the Bicameral Conference Committee and ratified by the House of Representatives and the Senate, the GAA carries the infirm appropriation of P731 billion of which P449.5 billion is the exorbitant excess,” the petition read.

Albay 1st District Representative Edcel Lagman Philstar.com file photo

Based on the website of the Department of Budget and Management, unprogrammed appropriations are funds set aside for specific expenses that will only be released if certain events occur during the fiscal year.

These events include getting proceeds from new loans for foreign-assisted projects, collecting revenue from new taxes not originally planned and surpassing the target collections for non-revenue measures.

On Monday, January 15, Presidential Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil said the executive department will answer the petition if ever required by the SC. 

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LIFESTYLE CONSUMER GUIDE COMMUNITY MARKETPLACE

Emergency interview and an expedited visa for Don Tagala’s mother on Citizen Pinoy this Sunday DON Tagala, the awardwinning reporter on TFC News, desperately wanted his mother, Vinia, to come to the U.S. because his sister, Almira, became critically ill in 2019.

His mother could be there for her children for emotional support and to make crucial life-decisions.

The hospital where Almira was on life support even emailed the U.S. Embassy explaining the circumstance

and requesting for a visitor’s visa for Vinia. However, the Embassy instructed the hospital to go through the normal process.

Time was running out, so Don went to leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel to seek his assistance and expert advice.

Confident that Vinia would abide by the terms of her visa and return to the Philippines, Atty Gurfinkel immediately

sought an emergency visitor visa and expedited interview, so Mommy Vinia could arrive in the U.S. as soon as possible.

Unfortunately, while all preparations were going on, Don’s sister passed away on June 24. The visitor visa application was updated, asking the Embassy to still expedite the visa to now enable Don’s mother to attend the funeral, instead of the original request to visit Almira at the hospital.

Atty. Gurfinkel was able to secure an emergency interview on June 26 (where the earliest available appointment would have normally been August 13) and an expedited visa was also issued the same day.

On June 28, 2019, Mommy Vinia arrived in New York, four days after her daughter passed on. She was able to attend the funeral and be there for Don. While it was a bittersweet reunion for Don and his mother in the U.S., it is important to know what to do and where to seek help if an emergency arises.

Watch this encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, January 21 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 ABS-CBN North America News Correspondent Don Tagala (left) welcomes his mother, Vinia free app. (right), at JFK International Airport.

(Advertising Supplement)

LEADING U.S. IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY MICHAEL J. GURFINKEL EXPEDITES AN EMERGENCY VISITOR’S VISA FOR DON TAGALA’S MOTHER, ON AN ENCORE SUCCESS STORY OF CITIZEN PINOY THIS SUNDAY! Don Tagala (left), ABS-CBN news correspondent for North America, needed a visitor’s visa for his mother so she could come to the U.S. to be with her critically ill daughter. Time was running out, so Don sought the help of Atty. Gurfinkel who was able to secure an emergency interview at the U.S. Embassy. The earliest appointment had been August 13, but Mommy Vinia was able to be interviewed earlier, and her visa was issued on an expedited basis. Watch this success story on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, January 21 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo.

(Advertising Supplement)

Fil-Am rapper MBNel thrilled to perform during Cebu’s Sinulog 2024 festival

By Charmie Joy Pagulong Philstar.com

FILIPINO American hiphop artist MBNel, real name Jhonel Dongon, is thrilled to be performing at the Trademark Club in Cebu City on Sunday, January 21 during the Sinulog Festival 2024 celebration. It comes full circle for him to put on a show in Cebu as he spent parts of his childhood there and is also the hometown of his mother.

MBNel, who understands “a little bit” of Bisaya and Tagalog,

is currently in the Philippines for promotional activities and for his set on Sunday in Cebu.

The last time that the 27-yearold rapper visited Cebu was when he was 11 years old.

“It was dope,” he said to The STAR in a one-on-one interview last Wednesday when queried about his reaction upon learning that he will be performing in Cebu. “It was super exciting just to see it ‘cause my family is from Cebu. So I had to do some research on (things that) I didn’t PAGE B3

Filipino American hip-hop artist MBNel — real name Jhonel Dongon — is thrilled to be performing at the Trademark Club in Cebu City on Sunday during the Sinulog Festival 2024 celebration.

Philstar.com photo

B2 JANUARY 20-23, 2024 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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It’s 2024 and celebrity body-shaming should stop

by MJ Marfori Philstar.com

Just this week, Penduko star Kylie Verzosa was beautifully frolicking around Amanpulo in her bikini and yet she wasn’t spared from body shaming. A social media user quickly commented, ‘Oh no! Is she sick?’ Kylie’s quick reply was ‘I’m at the healthiest I’ve ever been and I have the best energy levels!’

PHilstar.com photo

IT is bewildering that even bodies that are close to perfect and in the pink of health are still a concern for social media users.

Just this week, Penduko star Kylie Verzosa was beautifully frolicking around the luxury island Amanpulo in her bikini and yet she wasn’t spared from body-shaming.

A social media user, who by the way is nameless and faceless as per usual, quickly commented, “Oh no! Is she sick?”

What’s cool about Kylie was that she quickly pinned the comment and answered the social media user.

“I’m at the healthiest I’ve ever been and have the best energy levels! I’ve just come to the conclusion that whenever I post my body, people will criticize, that I’m too much

of this, too little of that, no matter how much I take care of myself,” she remarked.

“I take the best care of myself in all aspects of my life and I hope you, guys focus on your health and well-being, too!”

Kylie even posted a separate entry on her Instagram platform to inform more social media body shamers about the nittygritty of her health regimen.

“Something you probably don’t know about me, I’m obsessed with my health and live a very healthy lifestyle.

I’ve cut out beef, chicken, pork, rice, alcohol, dairy, carbs and sugar. I do cardio, pilates, run, box, weight lift, take my vitamins, sauna and ice bath on a daily basis but people will always have something to say,” she posted.

Wow, now that is dedication, discipline that can tantamount to what an athlete does in a day.

PAGE B3

MEDICAL MISSION IN NUEVA ECIJA. Munoz (The Science City) Mayor “Baby” Armi L. Alvarez (seated, 3rd from left, in light blue shirt) poses with the members of the Philippine-American Association of Nevada medical mission team, headed by Daniel C. Fabito, MD, FACS, FPCS, PAAN president (in scrub suit), Luz Micabalo, Philippine-American Charity Foundation President, and Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, (standing, 4th from the left) chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA and Asian Journal columnist. During the 5-day mission in Munoz and Talavera, the missionaries provided consultations and free medications to more than 500 individuals, and performed surgeries, including for various tumors, thyroid and gallbladder surgeries, hernia repair, hysterectomy, and dozens of minor procedures.

Photo courtesy of Dr. Philip Chua

Jed Madela, Sheryn Regis, Jona headline Valentine concert tour in US

by Donnabelle l. GatDula AJPress

LOS ANGELES — Three of the Philippines’ phenomenal “birit” (which means ability to sustain high notes when singing) performers are expected to wow audience with a series of Valentine shows at premier casino-resorts in the United States.

The trio’s performances will kick off the year-long celebration of TFC’s 30th year anniversary.

Exceptional and powerful vocalists Jed Madela, Sheryn Regis and Jona Viray will be performing their best at “Jed, Sheryn, Jona Live in Concert” on February 2 at Cache Creek Casino Resort in Brooks, California; February 3 at Choctaw Casino & Resort in Durant, Oklahoma; and February 10 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, California.

In a recent intimate media huddle hosted by TFC The Filipino Channel attended by the Asian Journal, the three seasoned singers of ABS-CBN said they are all honored and excited to entertain the American music aficionados with their wellthought repertoire of love songs and outstanding performances.

Kerwin Du, head of ABSCBN International Platform Operations, said the conceptualization of the U.S. concert tour had started since April last year and putting together three world class artists like Madela, Regis and Viray, will definitely be a memorable musical experience for the American audience.

“It’s always been the vision of ABS CBN International, the Filipino channel to showcase world class Filipino talents in North America. And Jed, Sheryn, Jona, they personify this world class talents.

They’re all champions in their own rights, not only in local Philippine singing competitions, but also international singing competitions.

And more importantly, they have longevity,” Du said.

“In the entertainment industry, having established careers that spanned decades. So, we at TFC are, we’re very proud to bring Jed Sheryn and Jonah for a show here in the casinos. We’re very proud to bring them over to start 2024, which, incidentally, is also the year that TFC is celebrating its 30th year anniversary,” Du added.

In bringing in this roster of power vocals in one show in

the U.S.-based casinos, New Paradise Entertainment chief executive officer (CEO) Dan Tran said he believes in Filipino talents.

Tran said he wants to showcase these world-class entertainers in his chain of casinos. “When we had a meeting with Kerwin some months ago, the idea was to come up with a a show that could fill up big venues like our casinos, which can accommodate thousands of audience,” he said.

Having been in hospitality and entertainment business for a long time, Tran said he believes Filipino artists are one of those talents that could actually fill up such big venues. “Combining these three powerful talents together for the first time will create a greater impact. This is one way also to kickstart showcasing your talents to the world,” he said.

Madela, who just recently celebrated his 20th year in the business, said this is the first time that they will perform together in a series of concerts in different casinos here in the U.S. and he is so flattered and excited for the opportunity to be singing with equally talented singers as a kickoff celebration of TFC’s 30 years anniversary celebration.

“Imagine 30 years and for us to be chosen as the kickoff of the yearlong celebration is a big thing for us... So for me it’s such an honor but that at the same time it’s also a challenge for us three artists you know to start with a bang, diba (right)? and I’m very sure with TFC, bringing these shows, iba talagang i-eexpect ng mga Kapamilya natin (our Kapamilyas will expect something different),” said Madela, who has been dubbed as one of the greatest male voices the Philippines has ever produced.

Madela, whose real name is

John Edward Tiña Tajanlangit, was the first Filipino to win the World Championships of Performing Arts title. Born in Iloilo City, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration at University of San Agustin in Iloilo City.

In 2003, 16 Asian countries participated in the Voice of Asia consisting of 18 contestants. He ranked first place consistently for three days in the internet poll survey, and was given the “People’s Choice Award” on the finals night for being the Grand Champion in the internet polls.

He also won the Silver Trophy, judged by a panel of jury in the actual competition. He received a plaque for being the “Sponsor’s Choice” in the competition. Five months later, Mainhill Awards of Kazakhstan awarded him as the “Best Voice of Asia Male Singer of the Year 2003.”

Madela shared the limelight with George Benson and Billy Joel who both received the Lifetime Achievement Awards in the same award-giving body. His powerful voice was showcased at the competition, as he sang these three winning pieces: “I’ll Be Around”; “Labis Akong Umibig” (I Loved Too Much); and his showstopping festival arrangement of Martin Nievera’s classic hit “Be My Lady” wherein he held the final high note for 17 seconds, eliciting a standing ovation. All songs were composed by Vehnee Saturno who was with him during the competition in Kazakhstan.

Madela also made waves during the 2005 World Championship of the Performing Arts (WCOPA) in Los Angeles, California, when he singlehandedly won all major industry awards, six gold medals for all six categories he joined, the Champion Vocalist World Star Trophy, and the most coveted PAGE B3

Fil-Am rapper MBNel thrilled to perform...

PAGE B1 know ‘cause I’m like out of touch.

But my parents know what it was and surprised when they’ve seen it.”

His family couldn’t believe it at first that he will be staging a show in the Queen City of the South. “But I have a few family members that (are) gonna come out to see me perform. A few some of them that I haven’t met yet. I met probably back when I visited when I was a kid. Yeah, they’re gonna come out and just see me perform. So it’s exciting.”

MBNel is also looking forward to seeing the parade in the Sinulog festival. He shared, “And I was seeing videos on YouTube and Instagram, and (the festival) looked super dope. And just trying the food out, and just there for the ride and see how it is.”

It’s been only hours since he got to Manila during the interview and he’s having a good time already. “I’ve only been here for… since last night. I haven’t gotten sleep really ‘cause I had to wake at 4 a.m. (for a separate media interview). But my time so far has been fun.

“Like I don’t really do too much yet (but) we just tried a couple of restaurants and we walked around like this little mall area like 10 minutes away (from the

hotel)... I’m excited to see what days (ahead) would be like.”

After visiting the Philippines, MBNel will be going back to the States and trying to put some music stuff together.

Moreover, the title of his latest offering 8 To Infinity album is inspired by the street where he grew up in the States, 8th street in the south side Stockton, California.

“In a nutshell, (to describe the album) I just had to say the name 8 To Infinity. Its 8, it’s for the street I was raised on, the neighborhood area I was from.

And to infinity, it’s like the infinity sign. It is the 8 sideways and taking to infinity is just taking it as far as I can,” explained MBNel. The record showcased the different types of musical arrangements of his sounds. As he elaborated, “I wanted to try different kinds of sounds in my music so that’s why some songs are, like a rap band, other songs are heavy melody, some are like trying to sing like I just wanted to (come up with a) full package of different sounds sonically. Just to kinda entertain my different audiences that I have that like for different reasons.”

He just “put in a whole package,” he added.

Last year, MBNel shared

the stage with fellow FilipinoAmerican rapper EZ Mil in New York City’s SOB show as part of Filipino Heritage Month.

He described EZ Mil as “super talented” and praised his songwriting creativity.

“It was dope. We just got to the studio and we sent each other the tracks. He is super talented and his lyricism is dope, his penmanship. It was dope working with him.”

MBNel was also surprised when EZ Mil cited him as his music inspiration. “It was super dope ‘cause he is super talented and you know, hearing him kinda, it makes me wanna go hard on my lyrics too,” reacted MBNel. The two likewise came up with a song collaboration called Coin$ and plan to work on more music in the future.

“I feel like our chemistry is there,” he enthused.

MBNel also named FilipinoAmerican artists H.E.R. and Bruno Mars as his dream collaborators, given the opportunity.

He ended the interview encouraging fans and aspiring artists to “keep believing in your dreams, “never give up,” and “whatever it is that you’re chasing, just chase it fully.” n

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It’s 2024 and celebrity body-shaming...

PAGE B2 In line with this, the former Miss International did not stop there. She opened a business related to loving one’s body.

It’s called SOLA, a shapewear line that is her first venture into business where she is now the creative director and founder.

Kylie shared during an intimate launch that she wants to make a difference, even when it comes to business.

“I’ve been in showbiz for eight years and because of

this… this has opened doors for me to experience multiple things. One of the things I realized is how brands are so aspirational yet unattainable due to their price,” she shared.

“With SOLA, we want to turn your aspirational wants for high-quality items into attainable realities. We want you to have your dream products in your hands and on your body. SOLA is a brand for everyone and anyone who wants to own who they are and

feel empowered.”

The brand offers sizes from XXS to XXL, which are inclusive to many women, Kyle added.

“Our first collection is our shapewear collection called ‘Mercury’ because we see there’s a huge gap in the Asian market that provides good quality shapewear. Our first line comes in five styles, three colors, and six sizes with everybody in mind,” she said.

When Kylie was asked how

this would affect her showbiz career, she answered, “I don’t think I am slowing down anytime soon. I love acting, and I’ve been in showbiz for the past eight years. I even have a film coming out around February or March called Elevator with Paulo Avelino.

If anything, I feel that being an entrepreneur pushes me to do better in showbiz and vice versa.”

Her business is launching its pre-order on Jan. 23. n

Jed Madela, Sheryn Regis, Jona headline...

PAGE B2 and ultimate title “Grand Champion Performer of the World” — the first Filipino to win the title. He bested over 3,000 contestants from 52 countries to win the grand prize.

He is also the first Filipino artist to be inducted into the Hall of Fame of the World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA), ranking him alongside renowned actress-singer Liza Minnelli. WCOPA is a true International “Olympic” style event with over 55 licensed countries competing for both Junior and Senior Grand Champion of the World of Performing Arts. He has released nine albums to date.

Viray shared Madela’s enthusiasm, saying that her heart is full of gratitude for being chosen to perform in the first-ever event of TFC’s year-long anniversary celebration.

“I feel really grateful to TFC ABS-CBN for giving me the opportunity to be one of the artists for the 30th anniversary of TFC. Actually nung mga nakaraang buwan, hindi ko po alam na ganito pala siya ka-big deal.

Akala ko po that time, it’s the same thing na magkakaroon lang tayo ng tour, na mag-peperform for our community. Pero nung nalaman ko po na this is for the 30th anniversary ng TFC ito, katulad ng sinabi ni Jed (I did not even think it was a big deal for the last few months. I thought at that time, it’s just a tour and that we’ll be performing for our community. But then I learned that this is for the 30th anniversary of TFC, just like what Jed said),” said Viray, who is dubbed as the Philippines’ Soul Princess.

She added, “Aside from being grateful, I also feel nervous and challenged at the same time kase, siyempre bilang malakihang show po ito, at sabi nga po kanina ni Sir Dan Tran, malalaking venues, we’re performing for thousands of people... so nandun po talaga yung pressure to really perform well to give our best (Aside from being grateful, I also feel nervous and challenged at the same time because this is a big show and as Sir Dan Tran said earlier, it’s in large venues, we’re performing for thousands of people… there’s that pressure to really perform well to give our best).”

Viray was catapulted to mainstream prominence after she emerged as the first grand champion of Pinoy Pop Superstar.

She was the lead singer of trio girl-group La Diva, alongside Maricris Garcia and Aicelle Santos, following her career as a solo artist. Following the group’s disbandment and her return as a solo artist, she released her single “Help Me Get Over,” which was awarded the Song of the Year Award at the 6th PMPC Star Awards for Music. She ended her decade-long exclusivity with GMA in February 2016 and transferred to ABS-CBN, changing her screen name to Jona.

Viray has won nine Awit Awards, Aliw Awards, PMPC Star Awards for Music and World Championship of Performing Arts.

In 2018, Jona made Awit Award history as the first Filipino artist sweeping all digital categories – Most Downloaded Song for “You,” Most Downloaded Artist, Most Streamed Song for “Pusong Ligaw,” and Most Streamed Artist – while her self-titled album won Best-Selling Album of the Year.

She is also known for her belting technique, melismatic singing style, and her ability to sing operatic arias.

On the other hand, Regis, who has been in the business for more than two decades now and is known as The Crystal Voice of Asia, said being chosen from among all the ABS-CBN talents is such a privilege.

“I feel so privileged that I think there’s my word very privileged because of all the artists that you have, like you have a lot of choices, in ABS CBN. But I’m one of those artists and of course, to work with big artists like Jed and Jona, you know, I feel so honored and for my 20 years also in the business, I wanna say that this is a God given opportunity at the same time, all the people behind it, TFC, Mr. Dan Tran, I’d like to say thank you so much for choosing me also,” Regis said.

The 43-year-old Regis rose to fame after finishing first runner-up in the television talent show Star in a Million in 2003. Being known as the Queen of Teleserye Theme Songs, she sang the theme songs for several hit television series on ABS-CBN including Marina (2004), Krystala (2005),

and Kampanerang Kuba (2005).

Regis is popularly known as a “power belter” noted for her belting range and technical ability. During her 20 years in Philippine entertainment industry, she has since earned four multi-platinum albums and five gold records to her credit. In 2004, she placed second in one of Asia’s most renowned music festivals since 1990, Voice of Asia.

Regis’ many accolades include the Asian Star Entertainment Award for “Asian Best Female Performing Artist” and an Awit Award for “Favorite Female Recording Artist,” the local counterpart of Grammy Awards.

Asked about their message to the Filipino community, the trio said they would perform their very best as part of their showing their gratitude to Filipinos in the U.S. who have been very supportive of TFC and Filipino artists throughout the years.

“To all our Filipino fans, thank you so much for their support. And of course, this big event of TFC is such a milestone for both TFC and then the artists also because being a Filipino artist, celebrating it with a big network of ABS CBN in America [is] a great opportunity... As a Filipino American, I’m gonna say that TFC really gave us the life of... and the heart of Filipino, whenever and whenever we feel like doubtful if you’re so sad, a lot of things, a lot of entertainment – binigay ng TFC for us to feel happy, to feel loved, na hindi makakalimutan kahit saan po tayo (TFC gave for us to feel happy, to feel loved, that they don’t forget us wherever we are),” Regis said.

Madela and Viray echoed Regis’ appreciation to the Filipino Americans who have been supportive of all the TFC talents.

“Thank you very much for supporting TFC. You are the lifeline of everything kase kung wala kayo na sumusuporta sa the Filipino channel at sa aming mga artists, hindi tatagal ng hanggang ngayon... ng 30 years ang TFC (You are the lifeline of everything because if you’re not there to support the Filipino channel and us artists, we would not be around until now… and the 30 years of TFC),” they said. n

Janno Gibbs shares why he’s pushing through with the theatrical release of his directorial debut film, ‘Itutumba Ka Ng Tatay Ko,’ wherein he starred with and directed his late father Ronaldo Valdez.

Philstar.com photo

Janno’s directorial debut film is ‘best parting gift’ from late dad Ronaldo Valdez

by Charmie Joy Pagulong Philstar.com

A DAY after holding a press conference regarding the “mismanagement of the investigation and mishandling of sensitive data” related to the death of his father, veteran actor Ronaldo Valdez, Janno Gibbs reacted to the apology issued by the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) to their grieving family.

“The QCPD extends its sincere apologies to the Gibbs family regarding the recent incident where a member of our police force inappropriately took a video of the late Mr. Ronaldo Valdez. We acknowledge the gravity of this lapse in judgment of some of our personnel, and we deeply regret any distress this may have caused,” the QCPD said in its statement on Monday, January 15.

The QCPD further assured that “involved personnel will face appropriate administrative charges for their actions.”

“In fairness to the police right after the presscon, (QCPD) general (director Brig. Gen. Redrico) Maranan who issued the press (statement), called me right away,” Janno disclosed during the media conference on Tuesday for his forthcoming directorial debut film, Itutumba Ka Ng Tatay Ko, at the Viva Café in Araneta City.

“He got hold of my number personally. He said to me that he watched my presscon and

that he is apologizing to me personally, (saying): ‘Don’t worry. It was really wrong. I will issue a press release right away.’”

According to the singer-actor, it made them feel better and that Maranan “sounded sincere.”

Amid what happened, Janno decided to push through with the release of Viva Films’ Itutumba Ka Ng Tatay Ko on Jan. 24.

The action-comedy stars Janno alongside Ronaldo.

They are joined by Louise delos Reyes, Juliana Parizcova Segovia, Xia Vigor, and Anjo Yllana.

It was his first time directing his father in the comedy that turned out to be his last film.

For Janno, it’s his “great tribute” to his dad and the “best parting gift” from him.

He hopes moviegoers will support the film.

“Aside from this is my first directorial job, it’s a comedy na feeling ko ay hinahanap ng mga masang Pilipino and of course, this is a great tribute to my dad,” Janno said.

“It’s good that I got the notso-good details out of the way in an earlier presscon. I’m sure you’re all aware of that. I wanted to get that out of the way para makapag-promote (latest film).

“Alangan namang pumunta ako dito promoting my film (feeling) very sad, filled with repressed anger, sadness and PAGE B7

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SoCal bids farewell to ConGen Badajos In the Mix

Mic Diaz

Rayver Cruz

Photo from Instagram/@rayvercruz

Rayver on Julie: She is perfect

by AllAn PolicArPio Inquirer.net

BECAUSE his new primetime drama series is called “Asawa ng Asawa Ko,” Rayver Cruz went to a recent press conference expecting that he would be asked if he has ever called his girlfriend, Julie Anne San Jose, his “asawa,” and whether or not marriage is already in the cards for the couple.

He was right.

“It’s funny because I knew that everyone would ask me about those things! I can’t call her ‘asawa’ because we’re not yet married. If you ask me when we will get married, all I can say is that I want to surprise Julie.

She has to be caught off guard.

Kasi baka mauna pa kayong makaalam!” he said, laughing, in a group interview.

“In God’s perfect time,” he said.

The 34-year-old actor can’t deny, however, that the idea of marriage crosses his and Julie Anne’s minds once in a while.

“It’s something we talk about sometimes. First of all, I’m already 34. I’m not getting any younger. That’s where things are headed. You know how much I love her,” said Rayver, who described their relationship as being on a “different level.”

What made Rayver feel that Julie Anne is “the one” for her. “It’s hard to explain. It’s something that you will just know. And I know. I know it’s her,” he said. “It’s Julie whom I want to be with forever.”

For Rayver, Julie Anne is “perfect.”

“She’s lovable, genuine, malambing and kindhearted. She’s a good

daughter and a good sister. I’m lucky that she chose to love me,” he said of her girlfriend, whom he also credited for unlocking new interests and skills he thought he never had. “I started to love music more because of her, especially through our production numbers (in ‘AllOut Sundays’). She nurtured my potential in singing. Now I play instruments, too. Those are things I couldn’t do,” he said.

Pet peeve Rayver and Julie Ann haven’t had any serious fights or misunderstandings so far. But the actor did let on what Julie Anne’s initial pet peeve about him was: He’s slow to reply to text messages.

“I don’t always have my phone in hand. In fact, I would often miss four, five calls from Rodjun (his elder brother). I’m just slow to reply to everyone. Hindi ako ma-cell phone na tao. Just simple things like that. No fights for anything like that,” he said, adding that the recent spate of celebrity breakups doesn’t really affect him and Julie Anne.

“We don’t let negative thoughts affect us … we don’t entertain them. Your relationship will be strong if you put God at its center,” he said.

And should the two Kapuso stars finally find the right time for marriage, Rayver said that—as a more “traditional” guy—a church wedding is what he has in mind.

But he doesn’t want to look too far ahead.

“We can’t plan these things at an early stage, because there will be changes along the way. It’s better to just plan the specifics when the time comes. We both PAGE B6

VARIOUS legacy FilipinoAmerican organizations and several local groups joined together to say au revoir to outgoing Philippine Consul General Edgar Badajos in a wellattended despedida party at the Filipino-American Community of Los Angeles headquarters in Historic Filipinotown last Friday, January 12.

Consul General Edgar Badajos completes his three-year tenure as the leader of the consular section of the Consulate General of the Philippines in Southern California this February. Prior to his assignment in Los Angeles, Consul General Badajos served as consul general in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. His other assignments include stints in the Philippine Consulate General offices in Toronto and New York.

Local public officials including City of Carson Councilmembers Jim Dear and Arlene Rojas, City of Los Angeles Commissioner of Public Works Susana Reyes, Eric Moon and Moises Jun Aglipay who are District Field Representatives for Assemblymembers Miguel Santiago and Mike Gipson respectively, Johnny Itliong who is the son of labor organizer and Filipino champion of the Delano grape strike of 1965 Larry Itliong, members of the Filipino-American Community of Los Angeles (FACLA) led by its president Trinity Foliente, Filipino-American Press Club of California led by co-founders Andy Edralin and Thelma Calabio and its president Lissa Pacheco Chow, Los Angeles County Filipino-American Employee Association (LACFAEA) led by its advisory chair Margie Ordiales, Philippine Women’s Club of Los Angeles (PWCLA) led by its president Cora Aragon Soriano, Kalayaan Inc. led by Lydia Soriano and Catherine Rubio, Filipino-American Chamber of Commerce Greater Los Angeles (FACCGLA) led by its president Lois Klavir, Filipino-American Chamber of Commerce

Consul General Edgar Badajos Photos by Mic Diaz and Andy Tecson

ConGen Badajos with a City of Los Angeles representative

ConGen Badajos (extreme left) with FACLA officers and members

ConGen Badajos with a representative from Assemblymember Miguel Santiago’s office

ConGen Badajos with City of Carson Councilmember Jim Dear

Consul General Badajos (6th from left) with LACFAEA officers and ConGen Badajos (7th from left, holding shirt) with FACCGLA officers members and members

ConGen Badajos (5th from left, holding plaque) with FAPCCA officers and members

South Bay Los Angeles Area (FACCSLAA) led by its outgoing president Moises Jun Aglipay, U.P. Alumni Association of Greater Los Angeles led by its president Evelyn Andamo, Lions Chivalry led by its secretary Emma Landicho-Sy and its membership director Ethel

Mendoza Provido, and the Philippine Nurses Association of Southern California (PNASC) led by its president Catherine Rubio among other organizations were present.

Business and community leaders such as Cora Oriel of Asian Journal, Fred Docdocil

of Mabuhay Credit Union, Lou Razon of Miss Philippines USA, Ron Ramores of the Metro Manila International Film Festival, Geoffrey Jimenez of Miss Filipina International, Ben Crisologo of Merrill Lynch, Cris Hero III of Equity California Real Estate, PAGE B5

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Pastor’s Notes ReveRend Rodel G. BalaGtas THE words of this Sunday’s (January 21) Readings speak of the urgency of time. In the Second Reading, Paul tells us that “time is running out... for the world in its present form is passing away.” In the Gospel, Jesus proclaims that “the time of fulfillment” has come and the kingdom of God is at hand.

Therefore, he admonishes people to “repent and believe in the Gospel.” In the First Reading, Jonah urges the people of Nineveh, the enemy of Israel and a symbol of wickedness in the ancient world, to turn from their evil ways and escape punishment from God. All the readings call for metanoia—a change of heart and a return to God. Do we not see the relevance of these words in our present age?

We long for people to return to God, for nations to cease waging war against each other, for politicians and religious leaders to unite themselves for the sake of the people they serve, and for criminals to refrain from disrupting our peaceful lives.

Indeed, we recognize the urgent need for people to repent in light of many global problems: the deep division and instability in politics and religion, ongoing wars, violence, and conflicts

The urgency of time between nations, the disregard for belief in God and engagement in faith, the evils of inequality, poverty, racism, persecution, and oppression, the ongoing danger to people’s health posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the severe environmental challenges of the climate crisis, and the growing cybersecurity threat to governments, businesses, finance, and privacy.

To bring about conversion in people’s lives, we must undertake three essential tasks.

Firstly, we must continuously bring our concerns to God through prayer and worship.

It is crucial to pray for God’s intervention to eradicate all evil from our society and to send forth good and inspiring leaders who can promote peace and the well-being of all people.

Additionally, we should pray for our families and ourselves, seeking growth in our intimate relationship with God and a commitment to His commandments of love, mercy, and justice. I think the pressing need for conversion is an urgent need for prayer. As we have learned from the Gospel, prayer possesses the power to move mountains, and we must never underestimate its transformative nature.

Secondly, we must persistently engage in evangelization, fearlessly proclaiming our faith in Jesus Christ through both our words and actions. We must refuse to be intimidated by

any secular or ungodly forces, boldly denouncing the lies and false illusions of this world that deceive and harm the souls of our people, particularly the younger generations.

Lastly, we must not allow fear to cripple us, hindering our ability to reach out to others and have faith in our capacity to touch hearts, transform lives, and make a meaningful difference in this world. Fear is our greatest enemy, originating not from God but from Satan; it brings hopelessness, self-doubt, and anguish. Therefore, we must reject and resist it. Instead, we should listen to the voice of God, assuring us that we are capable and empowered. We can face challenges, begin anew, and recognize the goodness and gifts within us. This requires not only self-confidence but also a profound trust in God. During this Ordinary Time in the Church calendar, which occurs after Christmas and before Lent, let us unite in prayer for the conversion of hearts among all people so that we may embrace lives of peace, harmony, and love.. *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. *** Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas is the pastor of Incarnation Church in Glendale, California.

SoCal bids farewell to ConGen Badajos...

PAGE B4 and Leo Abelita of Leo Abelita Dentistry along with the deputy consul and vice consuls of the Philippine Consulate Office were also present.

The Fil-Am Prince of Pop Garth Garcia sang an OPM medley, Henry Chen and Monica Chen brought their baritone and soprano voices to an outstanding rendition of The Prayer and the FACLA dancers danced for a packed house. Consul General Badajos obliged to everyone’s request, thrilling the expectant crowd and performing his favorite songs much to everyone’s delight.

Representatives from several organizations expressed their heartfelt thanks and gratitude for the services that the consul

EMPLOYMENT

general and his office have provided for Filipinos and Filipino Americans in Southern California. *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints

$20 million jury award after employer refuses accommodation to disabled employee Protecting Employee & Consumer Rights atty. C. Joe sayas, JR. A RECENT $20 million award reflects a jury’s clear displeasure with an employer’s refusal to allow a disabled employee a simple accommodation: to sit during his work shift to alleviate pain stemming from a spinal injury.

After the hotel he worked at underwent a major renovation in 2019, Daniel Callahan found that his concierge station would no longer allow space for him to sit down. Mr. Callahan had worked for almost 30 years at the downtown San Francisco hotel. Due to a spinal injury that required use of a cane and prosthetic device for him to move around, Mr. Callahan needed to alternate between sitting and standing throughout his work shift. Prior to the renovation, he was allowed to do so.

Over the course of 8 months, Mr. Callahan suffered through debilitating pain from his inability to sit while at work. He repeatedly asked his employee to modify the concierge workstation to allow him to alternate between sitting and standing. His doctors sent multiple medical certifications detailing Mr. Callahan’s physical

limitations and why the accommodation was needed.

No change was made by the hotel. In September 2019, Mr. Callahan’s pain had gotten so bad that his doctors determined that he was no longer medically cleared to work at the hotel.

In a verdict rendered on September 21, 2023, a jury awarded Mr. Callahan $5 million in non economic damages for his pain and suffering. The jury also additionally awarded $15 million in punitive damages for the employer’s violation of disability discrimination laws requiring employers to provide reasonable accommodation for employee’s disabilities.

(Punitive damages are amounts meant to punish the employer for its egregious conduct, and deter it and other employers from such conduct in the future.)

California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (“FEHA”) makes it an unlawful employment practice for an employer to “fail to make reasonable accommodation for the known physical or mental disability of an...employee.”

Under FEHA, employers have an affirmative duty to make reasonable accommodation for known disabilities.

For choosing renovations that essentially forced out Mr. Callahan from a concierge job he had performed admirably for decades, and ignoring their disabled employee’s repeated

expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. *** micdiazpresents@gmail.com

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

FOR RENT

pleas for an accommodation that would allow him to remain gainfully employed and a productive member of society, a jury found Marriott International, Inc. liable for failure to accommodate their employee’s disability. The $20 million verdict awarded to Mr. Callahan warns other employers to avoid the same mistake.

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. *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. *** The 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 25 years, C. Joe Sayas, Jr., Esq. successfully recovered wages and other monetary damages for thousands of employees and consumers. He 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 a past Presidential Awardee for Outstanding Filipino Overseas.

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Will I have to pay spousal support if I file for divorce?

Barrister’s Corner Atty. Kenneth UrsUA reyes THE purpose of spousal support is not defined by the legislature in that its purpose varies according to the facts and circumstances of each case.

The facts and circumstances of a particular case may be such which call for no spousal support, or for support for a very limited period of time, with the purpose to assist the supported spouse to “get back on his or her feet” as a single person, or until community property is distributed. On the other hand, the facts and circumstances of another case may call for support for an extended period of time, perhaps until death of the supported spouse, the purpose for which to provide assistance to one who cannot support himself.

The two situations mentioned hereinabove are extreme cases, on opposite ends of the spectrum. Quite obviously, the facts and circumstances in a particular case may be such which call for some amount of support for some period of time, though not until death of the supported spouse. For example, the court may order support for that period of time required for the supported spouse to obtain or complete an education, to allow the supported spouse to take care of the children until

they reach an age where a return to employment would be more feasible, or to become selfsupporting within a reasonable time.

Although the use of standard guidelines based on income is encouraged in the award of temporary support, such guidelines cannot be used in awarding permanent spousal support. As indicated hereinabove, the award of support is in large part based on the facts and circumstances of the particular case.

In determining spousal support, the court considers numerous factors, set forth in Family Code Sec. 4320. They include: 1) The extent to which the earning capacity of each party is sufficient to maintain the standard of living established during the marriage, 2) The extent to which the supported party contributed to the attainment of an education, training, a career position, or a license by the supporting party, 3) The ability of the supporting party to pay spousal support, taking into account the supporting party’s earning capacity, earned and unearned income, assets, and standard of living, 4) The needs of each party based on the standard of living established during the marriage, 5)The obligations and assets, including the separate property, of each party, 6) The duration of the marriage, 7) The ability of the supported party to engage in gainful employment without unduly interfering with the interests of dependent children in the custody of the party, and 8) The age and health of the parties.

PAGE B4 have the same family values, which is why I think we’re truly meant for each other,” said Rayver.

He also sees himself having a family with Julie Anne in the future. “Of course, [I would like to be a father]. I always have fun times with my nephew. Eventually, years from now, I would like to have a family of my own,” he said.

How many kids does he have in mind?

“Whatever God gives us … Kung gaano karaming savings!” he joked.

In “Asawa ng Asawa Ko,” which started

The factors set forth hereinabove are only several of the many factors the court will consider in deciding the issue of spousal support. In that the amount and duration of an award is largely based on the facts and circumstances of the case, it is advised that one who is requesting support, or is opposing a request for support, obtain experienced counsel, who will be able to present the facts and circumstances in the best light possible. *** Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, APLC. This article is not a solicitation. *** Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a 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 Visit our website at kenreyeslaw.com.

Southern California Filipino journalists form new press club From My Point of View DAn e. nino

LOS ANGELES – A group of seasoned Filipino journalists, broadcasters and news photographers have formed a new media group to help professionalize the FilipinoAmerican media industry in their efforts to serve the information needs of the Filipino community.

The Philippine Global Media Group, Inc. (PGMG) brings together journalists in print, broadcast and social media, initially in Southern California, with hopes of including media professionals from all over the United States and the global Filipino diaspora to better serve Filipinos in their respective communities, according to veteran journalist Val G. Abelgas, publisher-editor of the Philippine Post and president of the new group.

“Filipinos play a very important role in the US and in other countries all over the world, and it is paramount that the Filipino media professionals come together and help inform their countrymen in the global diaspora of news developments in their respective communities and in our homeland, the Philippines,” Abelgas said.

“By sharing a common goal of rallying fellow Filipinos to play (Advertising Supplement) an even more pro-active role

in their communities, Filipino journalists can help improve the image of Filipinos before the world and, at the same time, support the Philippines’ development goals,” he added.

The PGMG will hold its inaugural induction and gala night on February 10, 2024 at 6 p.m. at the Vineyard Ballroom of Double Tree by HiltonNorwalk at 1311 Sycamore Drive, Norwalk, CA 90650.

Consul General Edgar B. Badajos will be the inducting officer and keynote speaker, while T. J. Manotoc, North America bureau chief of ABSCBN International, will deliver an inspirational address.

The officers of the PGMG are: Val G. Abelgas, president; Lydia V. Solis, associate editor of the Philippine Post and Weekend Balita contributor, and Nimfa U. Rueda, US Bureau chief of the Philippine Daily Inquirer, vice presidents; Dan E. Nino, columnist of the Philippine Post, Asian Journal and freelance journalist, secretary; Rick Gavino, photographer of Philippine Post, treasurer; Manny Ilagan, former Philippine Department of Tourism regional director and freelance writer, chairman of the board; while members of the board include: Ruben V. Nepales, Rappler columnist; Meh M. Guevarra, editor of Philippine Tribune; Bobby Crisostomo, chief photographer of the Philippine Post; Marc Pijuan, publisher of San Gabriel Examiner; Julian Oriel, publisher of Philippines & Asian Reports (San Diego); Abner Galino, former news

Rayver on Julie: She is perfect...

airing last Jan. 15, Rayver plays Jordan, a man whose life suddenly falls apart after his wife, Cristy (Jasmine Curtis-Smith), gets abducted by a rebel group called the “Kalasag.” No trace of Cristy is found.

But one day, the authorities present Jordan with a box containing Cristy’s severed finger, which supposedly proves her death. Devastated, Jordan finds comfort in his friend Shaira (Liezl Lopez). Their relationship eventually blooms, and they end up starting their own family. But unknown to him, Cristy is alive and, all along, has been hatching

a plan to escape from her kidnappers.

She succeeds only to find out that her husband is now happy with his new family.

Love for acting It’s Rayver’s first time working with Jasmine, and the experience, he said, was a breeze. “There was chemistry.

Jasmine had noticed that I’m a bubbly and happy person. She’s right. And so, the challenge for me was to really feel what my character went through. It’s no joke, what he had to face. I had to prepare and dig deep,” he said. “It’s

hard for me to be vulnerable and deep on the set.”

While Rayver is known more as a dancer-performer, he does love acting and wants to do it to the best of his ability. And the soap’s director, veteran actress and filmmaker Laurice Guillen, had the right words to fire up Rayver’s motivation. “She wanted to stretch me as an actor. She told me, ‘You have been at a crossroads. Do you want to be known forever as the Rayver Cruz who’s good at dancing and entertaining? Or do you want to be a serious actor, too?’ And I

editor of Weekend Balita and now associate editor of the Post; Donnabelle Gatdula Arevalo, correspondent of Asian Journal; Joe Cobilla, photographer of Philippine Post; and Ella Wagner, former Editor of California Examiner and freelance journalist.

List of officers and new members will be updated after the induction ball.

The PGMG plans to hold seminars and workshops to uplift the professional and ethical standards of its members, launch scholarships for deserving Filipino journalism students, hold press forums for community organizations, FilipinoAmerican local officials, and visiting Philippine officials in coordination with the Philippine Consulate General.

Early sponsors of the Induction Night are Philippine Airlines, Rajah Tours, Dichoso and Company, CPA, Inc. and Azul Balikbayan.

For ticket and sponsorship inquiries for the Induction and Gala Night, please call or email Val Abelgas (562) 469-8030 val.abelgas@aolo. com ; Manny Ilagan (213) 447-7087 manilagan@gmail. com ; Rick Gavino (323) 8689932 rick1434@yahoo.com ; Dan E. Nino (562) 508-8099 denino1951@gmail.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. *** denino1951@gmail.com

told her straight that I want to be known as an actor,’” Rayver related.

He particularly appreciates Direk Laurice’s patience and ability to make him more open. “When she’s talking to me, I open up … I feel like I’m diving into the scene,” said Rayver, who had to unlearn some of his acting habits and tendencies for his character.

“I enjoy the feeling of being a beginner, of a student of the craft,” he said. “Everything I knew, I had to unlearn because the show called for something different.” n

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARY 20-23, 2024 B7

Are you trapped in debt with no way out?

Minding Your Finances Atty. RAymond BulAon

Photo from Instagram/@jannolategibbs

Janno’s directorial debut...

PAGE B3 resentment. So I wanted to get it out of the way and I did. I was able to let out all my emotions there… Now, I get to promote my movie na masaya naman.”

Janno believed that this is the “perfect time” to launch Itutumba Ka Ng Tatay Ko so that the people will see his father in a new light after what happened.

“Someone said to me, ‘Is it too soon to release the movie after what happened?’ For me, I believe this is the perfect time to release the movie kasi yung… Sorry, I don’t want to cry but the last image of my dad was… It wasn’t nice. So hopefully this erases that. We will see him in all his glory (in this film),” expressed Janno who got emotional while talking about working with his father for the last time.

It wasn’t that hard to direct his dad who showed his support to his son while filming. Janno recalled, “I remember one instance, our confrontation scene. I was rewriting the script before taping the scene. Then I sent it to him. I said, ‘I will give this to my dad so that he can study it.”

When Janno arrived on the set, Ronaldo said, “Who wrote this dialogue? Ganda eh.” “Of course, kilig naman ako nun,” reacted Janno.

His favorite filming moments with his father were the action scenes, sharing, “Ang sarap kasi directing him. And medyo pinahirapan ko siya a bit, technically. We had fun. I have pictures that I posted. You can see in the stolen shots that we were happy.”

Before his passing, Ronaldo filmed the eSports-themed GG (Good Game), the horror film Poon and a movie with Beks Battalion.

Janno admitted they are still in the healing process following the demise of Ronaldo and that they are grieving together as

family.

“Like I said, family is the best support. Hindi kami naghihiwalay muna now because we are still in the healing process. We are not (yet) fully recovered but I’m good,” stated Janno.

He also said that their recent family vacation in Japan also helped them cope after what they went through. “That travel which I got bashing (where they were) also saying nagsasaya kaagad ‘di ba after (what happened).”

Then he explained, “But that was a scheduled trip. At first, one of my kids said to just postpone it because of what happened. But I said no, the more we should go through it eh. Let’s go ahead. We need it para makahinga, para makalayo sa tsismis and everything. So it really helped.”

They went to Japan a few weeks after the passing of Ronaldo on Dec. 17.

“There were some bashings but luckily kinuyog naman siya nung ibang netizens, saying, kanya-kanya tayo ng ways of grieving. Meron kasi nagsayaw pa ako eh, nag-TikTok pa ako eh,” he continued.

But he didn’t mean any harm or show disrespect to his father, he maintained. “I don’t want to use my social media kumbaga pagkakitaan yung grief namin.

Yung puro na lang malungkot, nag-iiyakan. Parang ginagamit mo naman yung sitwasyon. So I wanted to show magsasayaw ako.”

Moreover, Janno has recently called out certain vloggers whom he said had been circulating fake news about his father’s death.

He said, “You know ako hindi but itutumba kayo ng asawa ko.

Si Bing (Loyzaga) ang medyo mainit ang ulo sa mga… Parang gusto niyang habulin eh. Parang gusto niyang sumample ng isa eh. Because she was very close to my dad.” n

BEING in debt and doing nothing about it can have more serious consequences than you think.

First, it can impact your financial future. Uncontrolled debt can deprive you the opportunity to put money aside for emergencies, save money for a home or college for your children, or perhaps for retirement.

Every day I see a lot of people past retirement age who continue work just to be able to pay their debts. Some of them are not in the best of health but are forced to work because they just can’t afford to miss a paycheck. Sadly, a lot of them also have zero savings in the bank so the day they stop working, they don’t even know how they are going to survive financially.

Debt problems tend to get worse over time if you ignore them. For example, you can get sued by creditors, your wages garnished, or your bank account levied. If you own a home, a judgment lien can be filed against your property, making it difficult to sell when the time comes. The judgment against you also earns interest so over

time the debt just keeps getting larger. All of the above can happen at the same time while your credit also suffers for many years making it impossible for you to re-establish.

In other words, bad debts can haunt you for many years unless you deal with it now.

The very first step is to know your options. Unfortunately, these days, there is a lot of misinformation out there that people are too scared to do anything for fear that they will make a mistake. Or sometimes, they listen to bad advice given by family or friends who don’t really understand the

by making drastic changes with the way you spend your money. For example, if you’re already in debt, you need to stop borrowing as soon as possible or you’re just digging yourself a bigger financial hole every single month. Don’t use credit cards to pay other credit cards and you need to pay close attention to where every dollar goes. Watch your monthly expenses closely and eliminate those you can live without. If you cannot afford to pay cash for something that you want at this time, you simply cannot afford it, period. By cutting your expenses, you may be able

If you’re already in debt, you need to stop borrowing as soon as possible or you’re just digging yourself a bigger financial hole every single month. legal issues involved in their situation.

Listen to me: Your family and friends may care a lot about you, but they are often NOT the best source of advice for your debt problems. They mean well and they want the best for you but if you simply take their advice without consulting with an attorney first, this could keep you stuck in your problems for a very, very long time. Trust me, I know, because I have seen this many times in my practice as a debt relief attorney.

There are situations where bankruptcy can still be avoided

to come up with some extra cash that you can use towards debt repayment. If you are like most people and are paying 2229% in interest on your credit cards per year, paying only the minimums will guarantee that you will be in debt for a very long time and so you need to pay more than this in order to make progress in your goal to be debt-free someday. I know this takes a lot of discipline especially when you don’t have a lot of disposable income.

If you are no longer able to help yourself or if you are already behind in your debt

payments and creditors are threatening legal action, filing bankruptcy may be your last resort. If you don’t file bankruptcy, things can only get worse, and you may find it very difficult or impossible to recover financially. Why suffer if the law allows you a chance to start over and rebuild your finances again? If you know nothing about how bankruptcy works, you should at least speak with an experienced and knowledgeable bankruptcy attorney who can explain to you the pros and cons of such a solution.

If done right, believe it or not, this can actually be the best thing that you can ever do to change your life for the better.

You owe it to yourself and your family to at least explore this possibility if you are out of options. It is often not as bad as you think and may be what you need to eliminate financial stress in you life once and for all. *** NOTE: Due to the current lockdown order caused by COVID-19, I am offering free consultations BY PHONE to anyone who needs help in dealing with their debt problems. *** None of the information herein is intended to give legal advice for any specific situation. Atty. Ray J. Bulaon has successfully helped over 6,000 clients in getting out of debt. For a free attorney evaluation of your situation, please call RJB Law Offices at TOLL FREE 1-866-471-8272.

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