012724 - Los Angeles Weekend Edition

JANUARY 27-30, 2024 Volume 34 - No. 8 • 2 Sections – 16 Pages

Marcos to tackle maritime issue during Vietnam visit

by Catherine S. Valente ManilaTimes.net

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will take up maritime issues, agriculture and trade cooperation with Vietnam when he visits Hanoi next week, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Friday, January 26.

In a pre-departure press briefing in Malacañang, Foreign Affairs spokesman Ma. Teresita Daza said the president, First Lady Marie Louise "Liza" Araneta-Marcos, and other key Cabinet officials will be in Vietnam from January 29 to 31 on the invitation of Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong.

Daza said Marcos would meet with Thuong, Prime Minister

Pham Minh Chin, and National Assembly Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue to discuss ways of exploring the deepening of bilateral cooperation across different fronts.

"The president is also expected to meet with business sectors to promote trade and investment relations between the Philippines and Vietnam," Daza said.

The president will also meet with the Filipino community in Vietnam, she said.

There are about 7,000 Filipinos working and residing in Vietnam, Daza said.

It will be Marcos' first trip to Vietnam since he assumed office in 2022 and his first overseas visit of the year, Daza said.

At the same briefing, Foreign

Affairs Assistant Secretary Aileen Mendiola-Rau said Marcos' trip to Hanoi is in line with his commitment to attain food security, considering that Vietnam is one of the biggest exporters of rice to the Philippines.

Mendiola-Rau said there would also be an "in-depth" discussion on agricultural cooperation, including the plan to come up with a rice agreement.

"As the Philippines' sole strategic partner in the Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) region, our ties (with Vietnam) have spanned across various areas of cooperation, including defense and security, FOR PROSPERITY. Therry Sicat, 34, applies finishing touches on the dragon and lion dance costumes at his home in Binondo, Manila on Friday, maritime, agriculture, and Jan. 26 as he prepares for the celebrations of the Lunar New Year on Feb. 10. Dragon and lion dances are performed as a means to chase away PNA photo by Yancy Lim u PAGE A2 evil spirits and usher in prosperous times.

UN rapporteur to get full gov’t support – DFA

USA

DATELINE Fil-Am kids face higher risk of asthma than other Asian ethnicities FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

HEALTH is wealth may sound cliche but not when the future generations are on the line. A study shows that Filipino American kids are at higher risk of asthma compared to their Asian peers.

A study in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology shows that Filipino American children top the chart of asthma prevalence.

Meng Chen, MD and clinical assistant professor of allergy and immunology at Stanford University, shed some light on these findings.

“Using California survey data, we found that childhood lifetime asthma prevalence varied among Asian American ethnic groups, with the lowest prevalence in Korean American children and the highest prevalence in Filipino American children,” said Chen.

Chen and her colleagues pulled the data

by Bernadette tamayo ManilaTimes.net

THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said that in the spirit of openness and cooperation, the government is giving its “full support” for the successful implementation of United Nations Special Rapporteur Irene Khan’s mandate during her country visit.

Khan arrived on January 22 for a 10-day official visit to examine the state of rights PLATFORM FOR OPEN DIALOGUE. Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) Executive Director Undersecretary Paul Gutierrez shakes hands with visiting United Nations Special to freedom of opinion and expression in Rapporteur on Freedom of Opinion and Expression Irene Khan before a welcome dinner in a the country.

“This visit underscores the Philippines’ restaurant in Intramuros, Manila on Tuesday, January 23.

PNA photo by Avito Dalan

Quiboloy dares Hontiveros to help witnesses file cases against him

by Faith argoSino Inquirer.net

MANILA — Religious leader Apollo

u PAGE A3 Quiboloy challenged Sen. Risa Hontiveros

on Wednesday, January 24 to help witnesses bring their sexual abuse allegations against him to court, where he said he could have “fair play.”

Quiboloy made the statement after skipping the probe conducted on Tuesday, January 23 by the Senate Committee on ALTHOUGH inflation and unemployment Women into the alleged crimes committed rates are falling, many Americans are struggling to stay afloat with record-high costs of living.

At a Friday, January 19 Ethnic Media Services briefing, experts across the financial spectrum — from housing to oil to small business — discussed how our current economy is impacting some of its most vulnerable members, and

by Pia lee-Bragoi suggested what’s ahead for 2024.

Philstar.com The struggle for housing Even in the wealthiest regions of the Bay MANILA — China is pleased with the Area like Silicon Valley — the fifth-largest economy in the world — the struggle to find Philippines’ reaffirmation of commitment housing is communitywide, said Nathan Ga- to the one-China policy, as articulated in a neshan, founder of homeless aid nonprofit media interview by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. who also stressed he was not Community Seva.

Though California has 12% of the U.S. pop- endorsing Taiwan independence.

“We appreciate the Philippines reaffirming ulation, it has 28% of its homeless population.

Since 2013, Community Seva has helped its commitment to the one-China policy and about 320,000 of these individuals “by serv- emphasizing that Taiwan is a province of ing hot meals, blankets, sleeping bags, gro- China and the Philippines does not endorse cery gift cards, hygiene products, temporary Taiwan independence,” Beijing’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said at u PAGE A4 a press conference on Wednesday, January

What’s ahead for the US economy in 2024?

commitment to fostering a robust environment for freedom of expression and opinion, in alignment with global human rights principles,” the DFA said on Thursday, January 25.

Khan is the third SR that has visited the Philippines since 2022, “as part of the government’s open and constructive engagement on human rights with relevant UN mechanisms,” the DFA said.

She would “examine the state of rights to freedom of opinion and expression in the country through a series of diverse and u PAGE A2

in the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KJC), the pastor’s organization.

The committee subpoenaed Quiboloy for the next hearing.

“I challenge you: Go to court, make those allegations detailed in an affidavit, and let them [witnesses] sign it. And then charge me with whatever charges you want to do. You are welcome there where our fight will be fair,” Quiboloy said, addressing Hontiveros, in a video statement posted on the Facebook Rumors of a shutdown began circulating on Thursday, Jan. 25, after Media Newser Philippines reported that Nine Media Corp. and CNN have “mutually agreed not to continue page of Buhay Kingdom 2024.

u PAGE A2

with their licensing agreement due to significant financial losses.” P

hilstar.com photo

China ‘appreciates’ Marcos Jr. Reports: CNN Philippines affirmation of one-China policy to shut down ‘due to losses’ 24 in reaction to Marcos’ pronouncement.

“Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory. Realizing the complete reunification in China is where global opinion trends and the arc of history bends.

Any attempt to seek Taiwan independence is doomed to failure,” Wang said.

Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian also welcomed Marcos’ reiteration of the Philippines’ commitment to the one-China policy.

Huang also said the Philippines should follow Marcos’ guidance on the West Philippine Sea issues and not from any of his officials. u PAGE A2

by Camille Santiago Philstar.com

CNN Philippines is ceasing its operations, according to reports.

In a text message sent to Manila Standard, D. Edgard Cabangon, chairman of Nine Media Corp. which operates CNN Philippines, confirmed the news of the network's upcoming shutdown.

He noted that the company will focus on its free TV. “That was planned last year due to losses,” Cabangon said. “We will concentrate more on our own free TV — Aliw TV.”

The CNN licensing agreement with Nine Media ends this year, but there are rumors that the network won't be renewing its contract due to financial difficulties.

Moreover, CNN Philippines employees were asked to attend a General Assembly on Monday, January 29, 2024.

The memo, signed by CNN President Benjamin Ramos, has no agenda indicated.

An official statement will be issued after the said general meeting, Cabangon said. u PAGE A2

A2 JANUARY 27-30, 2024 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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From The FronT Page

Marcos to tackle maritime...

PAGE A1

people-to-people relations," she said.

The Department of Agriculture and its counterpart in Vietnam are working on an agreement that will ensure the continued supply of rice to the Philippines, she added.

Mendiola-Rau said the two countries are also working on a maritime deal to boost cooperation between their coast guards.

She said the president is also

expected to tackle important regional and international issues with Vietnam.

Asked if the issue of the South China Sea will be discussed during Marcos' visit, MendiolaRau said "there's a general topic on maritime discussion when the President meets with the three Vietnamese leaders. But we don't wish to preempt the discussions at this point."

The Philippines and Vietnam have overlapping claims in the South China Sea, along with

China, Brunei, Malaysia and Taiwan.

China asserts that practically all of the waterway is part of its territory. A 2016 ruling by an arbitration tribunal in The Hague has rejected its claim in the South China Sea, but Beijing refuses to acknowledge the decision.

Vietnam and the Philippines ties span almost 50 years, beginning in 1976.

The two countries have set a goal to boost bilateral trade to $10 billion in the coming years. n

China ‘appreciates’ Marcos Jr. affirmation...

PAGE A1

Earlier, China urged the Philippines to “steer a right course” for China-Philippines relations and bring back bilateral ties on the “right track” as soon as possible instead of “shaking the foundation.” It also said the Taiwan question should be handled prudently.

China’s statement came after Marcos congratulated Taiwan’s president-elect Lai Ching-te on his election victory. In a post on X, formerly Twitter,

Marcos told the Taiwan president that he was “looking forward to close collaboration, strengthening mutual interests, fostering peace, and ensuring prosperity for our peoples in the years ahead.” Marcos’ sending message to Taiwan’s new leader prompted Beijing to summon the Philippine ambassador.

In his remarks at the Chinese New Year party last week hosted by the Chinese embassy, Huang said the “China-Philippines

relations now stand at a crossroads, facing a choice of where to go from here.”

“So we need to make a good DEADLINE EXTENDED. Traditional jeepneys ply Agoncillo Street corner Pedro Gil in Manila on Thursday, Jan. 25. The government has extended the deadline for the consolidation of jeepneys and UV Express units until April 30, 2024 under the public utility vehicle modernization choice,” Huang said.

PNA photo by Yancy Lim The ambassador stressed program. that the Taiwan issue is China’s internal affairs and that it “lies at the core of China’s interests.”

The Department of Foreign Khan will also probe disinfor- directed on, not really in the Affairs defended Marcos, saying PAGE A1 his message to Lai was just his cooperative dialogues,” it added. mation, hate speech, and the context of Philippine setting.

Khan has been a UN special expression of marginalized in- Sometimes we share our experiway of thanking Taiwan for dividuals, including Indigenous ences in other countries.” hosting nearly 200,000 Filipino rapporteur since Aug. 1, 2020.

Jose said the UN rapporteur Her mandate includes the Peoples. workers. n Foreign Affairs Undersecre- “has a very positive impression promotion of freedom of opinion and expression, “both offline and tary Charles Jose said Khan’s vis- of the vibrancy of the [Philippine] online, in accordance with inter- it gives the Philippines a chance media, [we have] so many media national human rights law and to reassure the UN of its “strong outlets, so many [television and commitment to fulfill its mandate radio] stations,” he added. standards,” the DFA said.

Khan also supported the view UN SRs are “independent ex- toward promoting the freedom of that “we, in the Philippine govperts” appointed by the Human expression and opinion.”

He said Khan will assess the ernment and generally the PhilRights Council who address either specific country situations or situation in the Philippines in the ippine society, see the media as thematic areas around the world. context of human rights and the an important part of democracy,” The DFA said Khan has a “very protection and promotion of free- he said.

“It is the fourth estate and we positive” impression of the vi- dom of expression and opinion.

“The DFA and the whole Phil- very much support the policy of brancy of the Philippine media.

She will visit Metro Manila, ippine government see her visit protecting and promoting what Baguio City, and Cebu City to as an opportunity for us to signify she came here to assess: the free“explore” legal and policy frame- our openness and willingness to dom of oneself and freedom of works to determine if they are receive visits such as hers,” Jose giving one’s opinion,” Jose said.

After her visit, Khan will presholding up the safety of journal- said in a briefing.

He said his meeting with Khan ent a final report to be considists and their sources, freedom of opinion and expression in the “actually revolved around the ered during the 59th Session of digital age, media freedom, and exchange of views on various the UN Human Rights Council in issues... sometimes not really June 2025, the DFA said. n access to information.

UN rapporteur to get full gov’t support...

Quiboloy dares Hontiveros to help...

PAGE A1

“If you cannot do that, you did not respect my constitutional rights. I will from now on not respect you as a senator of this country because you are hearing innuendos, and you are smearing my reputation,” he added said.

According to Quiboloy, he refused to be the subject of public humiliation by attending a “bogus hearing” with “bogus witnesses.”

He said these witnesses should prove their credibility by revealing their identities.

He also accused Hontiveros of being “unfair” in her statements, already convicting him during the recent hearing.

During the Senate probe, one of the witnesses, alias Amanda, revealed her experience as a former “full-time miracle worker” of the KJC, where she was promoted as a close-in staff at 16 and was forced to have sexual intercourse with Quiboloy at 17.

Other witnesses said some

Religious leader Apollo Quiboloy

KJC members were allegedly subjected to “exploitative activities” such as begging and soliciting money.

The hearing stemmed from Senate Resolution No. 884 and Hontiveros’ privilege

Inquirer.net file photo

speech baring Quiboloy’s alleged involvement in the sexual abuse of women and children members of the KJC, similar to events occurring in the alleged religious cult Socorro Bayanihan Services Inc. n

Reports: CNN Philippines to shut down...

PAGE A1 He also told PhilSTAR L!fe that they "delayed the termination of [the] contract due to our deep concern/love to all our employees."

Rumors of a shutdown began circulating on Thursday,

Jan. 25, after Media Newser Philippines reported that Nine Media Corp. and CNN have "mutually agreed not to continue with their licensing agreement due to significant financial losses."

It added that the "decline in ad revenue and increased operating

costs" posed as major contributing factors to the decision.

CNN Philippines is a “predominantly English language free-to-air television” that was launched in 2015 by Turner Broadcasting System Asia Pacific and Nine Media Corp. n

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On social security, current COVID-19 vaccine New Year brings new support for CA homeowners

by NatioNal asiaN Pacific ceNter oN agiNg (NaPca)

IN this month’s column, the National Asian Pacific Center on Aging (NAPCA) wants to share information about social security and the most current COVID-19 vaccine.

Question#1: How much income do I need to earn to get 1 Social Security work credit in 2024? Do I have to work all year to earn credits?

Credits are based on your income for the year. Each year the amount of earnings needed to earn one credit goes up slightly as average wages increase. In 2024, you earn 1 Social Security and Medicare credit for every $1,730 in covered earnings. You must earn $6,920 to get the maximum 4 credits for the year. You might work all year to earn 4 credits, or you might earn enough for all 4 in much less time. You must earn a certain number of credits to qualify for Social Security benefits. No one needs more than 40 credits for any Social Security benefits.

Question#2: I have retired and am receiving Social Security Retirement. Can I still apply for Medicaid and SSI? I heard there is an income and asset limit. I own a house and a car. I also have life insurance.

You can get SSI or Medicaid

if you are qualified based on income and assets threshold by each state. One house and one car are exempt, but some life insurance is counted as an asset.

The monthly maximum federal amounts for SSI in 2024 are $943 for an individual, or $1,415 for a couple. Some states may provide SSP (State Supplementary Payment) on top of the federal standard. For example, if you live in California and have no income, the monthly maximum payment would be $1,182 for an individual, or $2,022 for a couple. If your income has been increased, it would reduce your SSI amount.

Note that the SSA has a special rule to calculate income. The most accurate way to find out whether you are eligible or not is to submit the application and receive the eligibility result through Social Security Administration.

Please contact us if you have any questions.

Question#3: How much can I earn and still get benefits in 2024?

You can get Social Security retirement or survivors benefits and work at the same time. However, there is a limit to how much you can earn and still receive full benefits.

• If you are under full retirement age for the entire year, SSA deducts $1 from your benefit

payments for every $2 you earn above the annual limit ($22,320 for 2024).

• In the year you reach full retirement age: – Up to the month before you reach your full retirement age, SSA deducts $1 in benefits for every $3 you earn above a different limit ($59,520 for 2024).

– Beginning with the month you reach full retirement age, your earnings no longer reduce your benefits, no matter how much you earn.

– SSA will recalculate your benefit amount to give you credit for the months SSA reduced or withheld benefits due to your excess earnings.

Question#4: I read in the news that COVID-19 cases are on the rise recently. Is the latest vaccine still effective in protecting us?

COVID-19 activity is currently high. JN.1 is now the most widely circulating variant in the U.S. and globally and may be intensifying the spread of COVID-19 this winter. COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations, and deaths have increased in recent weeks. Hospitalizations reached 32,861 in the week ending January 13, 2024.

In that same period, deaths went up by 10.3%, with COVID-19 deaths accounting for 4.3% of total deaths in the U.S. u PAGE A4

REMEMBERING THE SAF44. The Davao City Police Office holds a wreath offering on the Day of National Remembrance for the Heroic Sacrifice of 44 members of the Philippine National Police Special Action Force, at the parade grounds of its headquarters in Davao City on Thursday, Jan. 25. The police officers were killed in Mamasapano, Maguindanao in 2015.

PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.

City of Los Angeles Landlords 4% RENT INCREASE ALLOWED For Rent Controlled Properties

EFFECTIVE FEB. 1, 2024 Things you should know: Rent increase allowed Feb. 1, 2024 - June 30, 2024.

Add an extra 1% per utility, up to 6%, if you pay the entire gas and electric bill.

State law requires advance 30-day written notice to tenants for rent increases of less than 10%.

housing.lacity.org

looking to take advantage of $80K COVID-19 relief grant Delinquency date change allows more homeowners to join tens of thousands who have already taken advantage of federal funding earmarked to help Californians recover from COVID-19

SACRAMENTO – The California Mortgage Relief Program has announced an important update that will extend program eligibility to more homeowners across the state. The program has extended the delinquency requirement for mortgage and property tax relief applicants to February 1, 2024.

Since launching in midst of the pandemic, the program has been instrumental in aiding 30,205 households in California who have suffered economic setbacks due to COVID-19. Tuesday’s (January 23) announcement opens the door for additional homeowners to potentially receive a grant of up to $80,000 in federal funds.

Rebecca Franklin, president of the CalHFA Homeowner Relief Corporation, emphasized the ongoing struggles of many homeowners due to pandemic-related financial hardship.

“By extending the delinquen-

cy date, we are broadening the reach of our program to assist more families in need,” Franklin said. “Homeowners should not wait to protect their future and apply online today. These grants represent a crucial support system for Californians, enabling them to catch up on past-due bills caused by the pandemic and secure their financial well-being.”

The California Mortgage Relief Program is distributing federal funds to eligible California homeowners in the form of non-repayable grants that can be applied to various housing-related expenses, including: • catching up on overdue mortgage and reverse mortgage payments, • addressing unpaid property taxes, • reducing or eliminating partial claims or loan deferrals.

California homeowners who

were initially ineligible due to the previous delinquency date continue to be invited to reapply.

The application process is fast and easy, and can be completed online or via a mobile device by visiting www.CAMortgageRelief. org. Applicants must still meet all other eligibility requirements.

The CalHFA Homeowner Relief Corporation (CalHRC) is a special-purpose affiliate of the California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA). CalHFA is an independent state agency that assists low to moderate income Californians by acting as the state’s affordable housing lender. Through CalHRC, the agency is able to disburse The American Rescue Plan Act’s Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) on behalf of the State of California given its extensive expertise in the mortgage assistance and homeownership space. (CA Mortgage Relief Release)

Fil-Am kids face higher risk of asthma than...

PAGE A1 from the California Health Interview survey of 34,146 children where 13 percent are Asian Americans with diverse representations across other Asian ethnicities.

The prevalence of Asthma among Asian American kids was 12.5 percent, almost mirroring the non-Hispanic white children at 12.2 percent. The data, which shows Asian American children sharing a relatively similar rate with non-Hispanic white children, reveals significant risks.

Furthermore, a closer look at the groups reveals a variation: Korean American children had the lowest asthma prevalence at only 5.1 percent while Filipino American children had the highest at 21.5 percent.

This is not surprising given the fact that almost half of the Filipino American children with asthma had an attack a year before the survey was conducted and most of them have an asthma action plan.

Though not an alarming rate, it’s a warning for healthcare institutions.

According to Chen: “Our research highlights the importance

of and need for disaggregating Asian American ethnic groups in order to better understand distinct clinical features, disease risk and management unique to these distinct Asian American communities.”

Correlation of asthma and BMI Another factor in the picture is the body mass index (BMI) which is also a contributor to the risk of asthma. Korean American children are still at their low-risk rate while Filipino American children are at the highest risk — regardless of BMI or weight.

The root cause of asthma starts as early as the mother’s maternal health. This factor, along with prenatal events and genetics, forms the child’s respiratory health.

However, the growing concern of asthma isn’t just particular among Filipino American children. Pediatric asthma has been a public health issue in the Philippines where nearly 1 out of 10 children have asthma.

While there’s no data showing why Filipino American children are more prone to asthma, one thing is certain: it’s a wake-up

call for strategized disease management for Asian American communities. (Mary Villegas/Inquirer.net)

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA REGIONAL RAIL AUTHORITY IFB No. MTL2405440 Crossing Panels The Southern California Regional Rail Authority (SCRRA) is seeking quotes for Crossing Panels. Bid documents may be obtained at https:// metrolinktrains.com/doingbusiness (free registration).

Electronic Bids are due at 2:00 P.M. (PT) on 2/16/2024.

For further information, contact Arisa Hicks, Contract Specialist, at (213) 452-0250 or hicksa@scrra.net 1/27/24 CNS-3774773# ASIAN JOURNAL (L.A.)

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What’s ahead for the US economy...

PAGE A1 housing, advocacy and more,” Ganeshan said. “We shouldn’t forget how entwined the struggle for basic needs like food and hygiene is with the struggle to find housing. However much the economy is improving, it’s riskier for those on the edge if the cost of basic needs is also rising.”

In Santa Clara County alone, where 10,000 people are homeless, over a quarter of all people are food-insecure — and these risks extend well beyond those who are unhoused. Even among those in the high-paying tech world, precarity looms in Santa Clara, the state’s third-most expensive housing market.

“With the ongoing tech layoffs, we’ve seen firsthand a severe impact of housing, as parking lots in Santa Clara are filling more and more with people living in cars and RVs,” added Ganeshan.

“Someone recently said to me ‘I lost my job, but I can always find another one. But I lost my house, and I can’t get another here.’”

The housing market Home prices have drastically outpaced income nationwide because “the pandemic brought drastic changes to supply and demand,” said Rob Warnock, Senior Research Associate at Apartment List.

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA REGIONAL RAIL AUTHORITY RFP NO. SP611-24 DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT CONSULTING SERVICES The Southern California Regional Rail Authority (SCRRA) is seeking proposals for Document Management Consulting Services. Proposal documents may be downloaded at SCRRA’s website at http:// www.metrolinktrains.com/ contracts. Proposals are due on 2/29/2024.

For further information contact: Melissa Cousart, Contract and Compliance Administrator, at cousartm@ scrra.net.

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“Many people took their homes off the market while many others decided to buy — and skyrocketing prices didn’t slow until the middle of 2022, when the Federal Reserve started to raise interest rates — but homes are still 45% more expensive now than they were before the pandemic.”

In contrast, he continued, “Rents fell during the pandemic because there were many more vacant apartments for rent than houses for sale.”

As the economy emerged from the pandemic in 2021, rising rents worsened an affordability crisis which peaked in 2022, when over half of all U.S. renters were cost burdened, i.e. spending over 30% of their income on rent.

Since then, rents have declined 4% as the U.S. has begun a massive construction boom, explained Warnock. Last year nearly 500,000 new apartments entered the market, “with about a million more in the next year or two.”

What’s next for 2024?

“Home sale prices should continue to rise,” he said. “The Federal Reserve said they won’t raise interest rates further, and for more homes on the market, there will also be more interested buyers. However, we expect new rentals to grow strong for the next 12 to 24 months, with new apartments curbing rent costs … It’s a lesson we can all learn from: if you want affordable housing, build more of it.”

Oil and gas Oil prices, too, are stabilizing from pandemic peaks, said Denton Cinquegrana, Chief oil analyst at OPIS. The national average for gas in 2023 was $3.52 a gallon — down nearly 11% from $3.95 in 2022, when Russia attacked Ukraine “and there was a concern that markets would lose seven to eight million barrels a day of oil from Russia,” he explained.

“But as the year went on, oil exports continued to non-sanctioning countries like China and India,” he continued. “Though tensions are rising in the Middle East now, the situation looks similar — oil production hasn’t shut, and the only cost added is from the extra time it takes to avoid the area and ship oil around the Cape of Good Hope instead.”

In the year ahead, Cinquegrana said “prices will probably fall five to 15 cents less than 2023 — likely around $3.45 to $3.50.”

Although the nationwide electrification of cars is further increasing the supply and lowering the cost of oil, “this process is very slow,” he added. “It takes about 10 to 12 years to turn over the fleet” of over 280 million cars registered in the U.S. A stronger dampening of prices may owe to the fact that “the cars we drive now are much more fuel-efficient than they were a decade or two ago, and the fact that since the pandemic, many drivers still work from home.”

AAPI small businesses AAPI is the fastest-growing minority community in the U.S., contributing over $1 trillion in economic output in 2021 alone and making up nearly 10% of all entrepreneurs nationwide — with 2.9 million AAPI businessowners employing 5.1 million people, said Chiling Tong, president and CEO of National Asian/ Pacific Islander American Chamber of Commerce and Entrepreneurship (National ACE).

As AAPI business owners continue to recover from the pandemic, the top challenge they face is “access to capital,” she continued. “Nearly 30% of respondents to our most recent survey have very low confidence that they could fund an emergency $5,000 business expense.”

What aid is available — specifically the COVID-era Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans — AAPI entrepreneurs are more often unaware of, most often due to language barriers, she added.

In 2021, AAPI small business owners had a 66% funding rate through the Paycheck Protection Program compared to 75% for whites.

Despite these challenges, 2023 saw an unprecedented 5.5 million new business applications filed, making it the strongest year of new business applications on record; in total, the U.S. has over 33 million small businesses.

In short, expectations for the year ahead are mixed: While 61% of owners have a positive outlook for their own business in 2024, 71% hold a bleak view of the economy itself.

These conditions mean that the economy is “the number one issue” for many in the AAPI and small business community, said Tong. “Although they feel personally positive, this is because they’ve faced three years of inflating costs and supply disruptions. In 2024, they’ll support leaders who convincingly promise a better economy ahead.” n

CHEAPER PRICE. Consumers opt to buy vegetables and fruits at the Kadiwa stalls of the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI) in Malate, Manila on Thursday, Jan. 25 as they are cheaper than in public markets. The BPI is celebrating its 94th anniversary with the theme “Modernisasyon sa Paghahalaman, Susi sa Masaganang Kinabukasan.”

PNA photo by Yancy Lim

These Fil-Am chefs are shortlisted for the 2024 James Beard Awards The James Beard Awards is one of the most anticipated awards in the food industry

by Pau Miranda Inquirer.net

FROM the coveted Michelin star to noteworthy placements on the World’s and Asia’s 50 Best lists, we’re also seeing more Filipinos on awards lists like that of the 2024 James Beard Awards.

Seeing more Filipino names on these respected lists comes as no surprise. After all, Filipino cuisine has aggressively been making its mark in the global food scene in recent years, with more and more restaurants, chefs, and even publications and content creators shining the spotlight on our dishes, ingredients, and flavors.

This is not the first time for Filipinos and Filipino-American chefs and food professionals to be recognized by the James Beard Foundation. But this year, we once again see several Filipino-American chefs listed among the semifinalists.

The executive chef of modern Asian-American restaurant Animae in San Diego, Tara Monsod, and chef Lord Maynard Llera of Los Angeles’ Kuya Lord, are among the semifinalists for the Best Chef: California category. Joe Fontelera, chef of Boonie’s Filipino Restaurant in Chicago, is also one of the Best Chef: Great Lakes semifinalists.

Among the Best Chef: Northwest and Pacific semifinalists are Melissa Miranda of the community-driven Filipinx

Fil-Am chefs included in list of 2024 James Beard Awards semifinalists.

Photo from the James Beard Foundation website

restaurant Musang, and Sheldon Simeon of Tiffany’s Restaurant and Bar in Hawaii. Chris Mauricio of Harana Market is also among the listed nominees for the Best Chef: New York State category.

To qualify for the Best Chefs category, nominees must not only demonstrate “high standards in their culinary skills and leadership abilities,” but they must also be chefs who have shown efforts in fostering a sustainable work culture.

Meanwhile, the Outstanding Chef category recognizes chefs with “high culinary standards and has served as a positive example for other food professionals.”

Aaron Verzosa of the intimate Pacific Northwest-Filipino restaurant Archipelago in Seattle

is part of the “Outstanding Chef” shortlist.

Kaya in Orlando is listed among the semifinalists for Best New Restaurant, while Kimmie and Josh McIntosh of the Philippine-inspired pop-up bakery Milkfish Bakeshop are included in the Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker list.

The James Beard Awards, given by the nonprofit of the same name, aims to “celebrate, support, and elevate the people behind America’s food culture and champion a standard of good food anchored in talent, equity, and sustainability.”

The finalists will be announced on Apr. 3, while the awards ceremony will be held in Chicago on June 10. n

Fil-Am athlete lands 5th place at Winter Youth Olympics He would have clinched the bronze medal if he hadn’t “tripped” which resulted in his foot injury

by Mary Villegas Inquirer.net

FROM academics and beauty pageants to the realms of sports, Filipino achievers have shown how unwavering determination is key to success. Filipino American teen Peter Groseclose’s odyssey at the Winter Youth Olympics didn’t end in vain.

On Monday, January 22, the Gangneung Ice Arena witnessed the Fil-Am athlete’s mettle as he glided for the 500m short track speed skating category. Although his journey from a hopeful medal ended with a near-miss, he still finished 5th place.

Groseclose made a triumphant comeback from his 5-year hiatus.

In November 2023, he secured the fourth spot at ISU Junior World Cup Speed Skating 1 — a kickstart for the grand stage of the Winter Youth Olympics.

With his eyes set on the Philippines’ first medal, Groseclose, 16, navigated the icy curves onto the 500m final.

However, in a fleeting moment of his skating prowess, he collided with China’s Zhang Bohao who finished fourth.

“I got tripped,” recalled Groseclose. This unexpected incident left him with a wounded foot caused by his skate’s blade.

“I think it was my blade that cut the right side of my foot, but I’m okay,” shared Groseclose who earlier finished 1,000m and 1,500m.

Despite the fall, he remained unbroken, given the support of the

With his eyes set on the Philippines’ first medal, Peter Groseclose, 16, navigated the icy curves onto the 500m final. However, in a fleeting moment of his skating prowess, he collided with China’s Zhang Bohao who finished fourth.

Photo from Instagram/@Philippineskating

Philippine Olympic Committee.

“It’s still fifth overall—or five out of 36 entries,” declared Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, the Philippine Olympic Committee President, echoing the country’s pride in Peter’s achievement.

Sean Boxiong Shuai from the US won gold clocking in at 41.498 seconds, China’s Zhang Xinzhe followed suit at 41.755 then Dominik Gergely Major from Hungary at 41.969.

Meanwhile, freestyle skier and the country’s flag bearer Laetaz

Amman Rabe started her ascent in the women’s slopestyle and big air events training at the Welli Hilli Park in Hoengseong.

In addition to this winter sports narrative, Avery Balbanida, one of the three Filipino Olympians set for the Winter Youth Olympics will fly to Pyeongchang on Jan. 25 for the cross-country skiing events.

Groseclose’s skates may have slipped but he’s undeterred and will continue to pursue bigger dreams in the future. n

On social security, current COVID-19...

PAGE A3 Current COVID-19 vaccines are expected to increase protection against JN.1.

As of January 13, 2024, only 21.5% of adults reported having received the updated COVID-19 vaccine. Only 40.9% of adults aged 65 years and older reported having received this vaccine, which is concerning given that they are at higher risk of hospital-

ization or death from COVID-19.

Please make sure you have the most recent vaccine which has been available since late September 2023. If your last vaccine was mid-September or earlier, get vaccinated. It's not too late. *** National Asian Pacific Center on Aging (NAPCA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life of AANHPI older adults and their families. We operate

a NAPCA Senior Assistance Center for Older Adults and Caregivers and is available in 5 different languages. If you have additional questions on Medicare, Medicaid, Affordable Care Act Health Insurance Marketplace, Social Security Retirement Benefit, Supplemental Security Income, or COVID/Flu vaccination, there are 3 ways you can reach us today – Call: (English) 1-800-336-2722; Email: askNAPCA@ napca.org; Mail: NAPCA Senior Assistance Center, 1511 3rd Avenue, Suite 914, Seattle, WA 98101.

Dateline PFilipinos hiliPPines who think they’re poor down,

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARY 27-30, 2024 A5

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those who are hungry up - OCTA

by Red Mendoza ManilaTimes.net

NO TO CHA-CHA. Members of the Nagkaisa Labor Coalition stage a protest against charter change outside the Senate building in Pasay City on Tuesday, January 23. The group urged senators to redirect their focus on pressing demands of workers, including wage hike, ending labor contractualization and unemployment.

PNA photo by Yancy Lim

China has placed 50 ships ahead of PH mission

by Nestor Corrales Inquirer.net

CHINA has deployed at least 50 maritime militia ships at Panganiban (Mischief) Reef ahead of another mission to resupply Filipino troops on a decrepit World War II-era ship serving as the Philippines’ outpost at the nearby Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal, according to an American maritime expert.

Ray Powell, who leads Project Myoushu (South China Sea) at the Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation at Stanford University, told the Inquirer on Thursday, January 25 that 35 big ships belonging to Qiong Sansha Yu fleet and 15 smaller ones were spotted at Panganiban.

He said “there may be more that I cannot see.”

Over the weekend, Powell said that a major rotation of maritime militia vessels was under way across the South China Sea. He said on Thursday that “most of them” were deployed to Panganiban in the West Philippine Sea, waters within the Philippines’ 370-kilometer exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

‘They never really fish’

The Qiong Sansha Yu ships are China’s “professional” militia vessels, Powell said.

“They are identified as fishing ships but they really never fish.

They are essentially paramilitary vessels,” he said.

These ships were “mostly responsible for blockading Ayungin Shoal and there are more than [the] usual [number] at Mischief Reef right now,” Powell told the Inquirer.“China may be keeping force levels high there until after the Philippines’ next resupply of nearby Second Thomas Shoal,” he said.

Artificial island Philippine maritime law expert Jay Batongbacal said Panganiban was “the largest artificial island” in the South China Sea built by China. It is about 232 km west of Palawan province and 37 km southeast of Ayungin.

According to Batongbacal, it has port facilities that service the People’s Liberation Army Navy, China Coast Guard and maritime militia fleets. Panganiban is being used as a base by Chinese maritime surveillance aircraft and “could also be used as an air base by combat aircraft,” he said.

Panganiban also has antiair and antiship missiles, radars and jammers, and it is the closest

Chinese military base to the Philippines, said Batongbacal, who is head of the Institute for Maritime Affairs and the Law of the Sea of the University of the Philippines College of Law. “Most likely the militia fleet is being sent there because it is best positioned to operate closer to the Philippines, and also because of availability of supplies and facilities for the vessels and crew,” he told the Inquirer. But Batongbacal said the vessels’ “deployment per se is not yet an escalation considering that these kinds of deployments have been going on ever since those bases became operational.”

Flash point China took control of the Panganiban Reef in 1995. Four years later, the Philippine military grounded the landing ship BRP Sierra Madre on Ayungin, where it has deteriorated over the years.

Ayungin has been a flash point in the recurring tensions between the Philippines and China in the West Philippine Sea as the Chinese coast guard, militia and navy try to thwart every effort to bring fresh supplies to the troops on the Sierra Madre.

On Nov. 10 last year, a China Coast Guard (CCG) ship also fired u PAGE A7

MANILA — The number of Filipinos who claimed they were poor decreased in the fourth quarter of 2023, but those who said that they experienced involuntary hunger increased, according to the latest survey

by OCTA Research released on Friday, January 26.

In the pollster's Tugon ng Masa survey from December 10 to 14, 45 percent, or an estimated 11.9 million Filipinos, said that they considered themselves as poor in the fourth quarter of 2023, a slight decrease from the 46 percent, or 12.1 million families, who said that they were poor in the previous quarter.

OCTA said that the decrease was aligned with the downward trend in self-rated poverty that has been observed in the third quarter.

Self-rated poverty increased in Mindanao by 10 percentage points from 58 percent in the previous quarter to 68 percent, but was offset by notable decreases in self-rated hunger in the National Capital Region, from 41 percent to 28 percent, and in the Visayas by 12 percentage points, from 59 percent to 47 percent.

Meanwhile, those who experienced involuntary hunger increased by 14 percent, or an equivalent of 3.7 million families, an increase of four percentage points from the previous quarter, where only 10 percent, or 2.6 million families, said that they experienced hunger.

OCTA said that the increase, translating to around 1.1 million families, deviated from the downward trend observed in the second and third quarters of 2023.

Broken down by area, Visayas had the most respondents saying that they experienced involuntary hunger at 19 percent, followed by Mindanao at 18 percent, Balanced Luzon at 11 percent, and National Capital Region at 8 percent.

Mindanao saw an increase

of those who said they experienced involuntary hunger, from 9 percent in the previous quarter to 18 percent.

Among those who said that they experienced hunger, 89 percent said it happened once or a few times, while 11 percent

said it was often or always.

The survey, which had 1,200 respondents, had a margin of error of plus or minus three percent nationwide and plus or minus six percent for NCR, Balanced Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. n

A6 JANUARY 27-30, 2024 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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OpiniOn

Features

Cha-cha fast break

IF gathering the required number of signatures nationwide for a people’s initiative to amend the Constitution proves so easy, with the threshold allegedly already met even before the month is over and a nationwide plebiscite planned for July, the nation can be sure it will not be the last time that this mode of amending the basic law of the land will be employed.

And the nation can be sure that it can quickly deteriorate into a bad habit, based on the whims of whoever or whichever group is in power. Amendments can be reversed with every change of leadership, and reversed again, with plebiscites not even coinciding with elections. If provisions can be changed with such speed, simply through legislative action, even annual amendments are possible.

Like many rules in this country, and business contracts especially those involving the government, constitutional provisions can quickly lose their integrity if these can be changed at the drop of a hat, or as quickly as the funding for a signature campaign is rolled out. Yet this is what proponents of the ongoing fast break for Charter change are doing.

President Marcos is correct in saying that the 1987 Constitution “was not written for a globalized world.” But the means is just as important as the end in making the Charter attuned to globalization.

It cannot be done through deception, or by buying

support, as Cha-cha critics say the proponents are doing. An amended Constitution cannot simply be presented to the nation, with the people being told to sign blindly on the dotted line, and to just read what they signed after the fact.

Making the country more competitive in a globalized world also requires so much more than just easing foreign ownership restrictions.

Local business groups and foreign chambers alike have long pointed to the problems that make the Philippines unattractive to investments, and these have nothing to do with constitutional restrictions.

Apart from inadequate infrastructure and high power costs, the investors have long cited red tape and ineffectual rules and processes for ease of doing business, the failure to enforce the ManilaTimes.net photo sanctity of contracts, a weak and compromised regulatory environment and judicial system, and of way even for a critical project can take years. constitution can always use amendments, but the uncoordinated business rules of national agencies These problems require resolute action and objective is just as important as the method for its and local government units. Simply acquiring right cannot be cured by instant Cha-cha. A country’s attainment. (Philstar.com)

Editorial

‘Great Wall of Democracy’

Horizons

RichaRd heydaRian OVER a century ago, Sir Halford John Mackinder, a renowned geographer, asserted that whoever controls Eurasia (“The Heartland”) controls the world. Today, one could argue that whoever controls Taiwan controls the world economy.

Taiwan alone is responsible for close to half of the world’s total semiconductor production and, even more impressively, more than 90 percent of the most highend varieties.

The Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Limited is arguably just as important to the 21st-century high-tech global economy as Saudi Arabia was to the 20th-century oil-driven global economy. Without Taiwan-made semiconductors, you practically

The Broader View

haRRy Roque WILL the real “Ferdinand” please stand up? Who between the chief executive and the house speaker – namesakes and cousins – is the one running the country?

In the last six months, I have received such loaded questions from my social media followers and political supporters.

Foremost, let me say that President Bongbong Marcos Jr. has the trust and goodwill of the Filipino people. Speaker Martin Romualdez, on the other hand, is much-loved by his fellow congressmen. Perhaps, he might become the most popular Lower House leader in history.

Based on a December Pulse Asia survey, the president (trust rating: 73 percent and approval rating: 68 percent), along with Vice President Sara Duterte (trust: 78 percent, approval: 74 percent), continues to enjoy majority support. By comparison, the Tacloban solon is the most disapproved (13 percent) and distrusted (14 percent) among our four highest-ranking officials.

Despite the poor showing in performance and presidential surveys, Romualdez continues to wield a considerable influence on key legislative and even executive matters.

Given a fragmented UniTeam alliance, the impasse in Congress over the Charter change initiative and the contrasting policy views between PBBM and Martin of late,

can’t run most of the newgeneration computers, cellphones, cars, and, crucially, weapons systems. And this is precisely why the fate of the self-ruling island nation is a matter of global interest.

For a conspiracy of factors, however, Philippine-Taiwan relations have been generally tepid, if not troubled, over the past decade. Throughout my conversations with top Taiwanese officials over the years, including Presidents Ma Ying-jeou and Tsai Ing-wen, I couldn’t help but notice the paucity of strategic communications between our two nations.

Almost all nations in the IndoPacific region adhere to a “One China” policy, but we differ in terms of operationalizing it. Many of our neighbors have actively courted large-scale Taiwanese investments, while others have gone a step further by even exploring intimate strategic ties.

Singapore, for instance, has had regular joint military exercises with Taiwan.

In contrast, we rarely appoint professional diplomats to run our de facto embassy in Taipei.

Instead, that prized yet tricky office often goes to politically connected businessmen and political appointees. Another complicating factor is maritime tensions, most notably when a Taiwanese fisherman was killed

by Philippine Coast Guard forces in 2013 — sparking a major diplomatic crisis that imperiled the welfare of hundreds of thousands of Filipinos working in the selfruling island nation.

As if that weren’t enough, Taipei also doesn’t recognize the 2016 arbitral tribunal award, which ruled the Taiwan-occupied Itu Aba as a “rock” incapable of generating its own exclusive economic zone in the Spratlys.

Against this backdrop, President

Marcos’ unprecedented greeting of his new Taiwanese counterpart was no trivial matter. Our president explicitly congratulated Lai Chingte on his election as “Taiwan’s next president,” thus effectively reaffirming the self-ruling island nation’s democratic sovereignty.

It didn’t take long before Lai returned the favor by underscoring how he “deeply value[s] the enduring friendship” between our two nations. He also emphasized the need for “enhancing our economic and people-to-people ties” as well as “championing democracy, peace, and prosperity in the region.”

As a geopolitically literate leader, Mr. Marcos understands the peculiar significance of Taiwan for the Philippines on two levels.

First, geography shapes foreign policy. As someone from Ilocos Norte, Mr. Marcos knows a thing or two about how close Taiwan is to our northernmost provinces.

Taipei is closer to Manila than any Southeast Asian capital, while Taiwan’s southern territories are barely 100 kilometers away from our northernmost base in Mavulis.

Second, our president also recognizes that allies can’t be neutral, either ahead of an impending conflict or during an all-out war. By all indications, the United States, our treaty ally, has made it clear that it won’t sit idly by in the event of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan. And other U.S. allies, especially Japan but also Australia, have indicated their inevitable involvement in any U.S.led countermeasure against China.

In short, a coalition of democratic nations — from Japan in the north to the U.S. in the east and Australia in the south — are making sure that instead of Taiwan fearing becoming a “Ukraine 2.0,” it should be Chinese leaders who should fear turning into a “Putin 2.0” in an event of total war.

By all indications, Mr. Marcos is not only looking at closer economic ties with Taiwan, particularly in the realm of semiconductors and high-quality manufacturing, but also proactively deterring any cataclysmic conflict in the region.

Thus, his efforts to calibrate our alliance with the U.S. in such a way that reinforces “integrated deterrence” against any Chinese kinetic action.

After six years of anti-Western rants under former populist President Rodrigo Duterte, the Philippines is beginning to embrace its role as part of a broader “Great Wall of Democracy” in Asia. (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.

*** rheydarian@inquirer.com.ph

Defiance not a few of my followers have pointed out a leadership vacuum in government.

The leadership issue is a problem that PBBM must resolutely and expeditiously address, according to former president Rodrigo Duterte.

Otherwise, it will become an open invitation for military adventurism and possible takeover. FPRRD expressed this apprehension to me three days ago. Both of us do not want our motherland to be controlled by the barrel of the gun, similar to what the people of Thailand and Myanmar have experienced.

Moreover, the former president supports PBBM and VP Sara as duly-elected officials. The tandem received the largest mandate since the 1981 landslide presidential victory of the elder Marcos. As public servants, they have a steady hold on the confidence and satisfaction of the people.

Mayor Digong said PBBM must consistently demonstrate to the nation his judicious control of the executive department and firm command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). That no presidential relative, friend or associate can override his powers as head of state and government.

That Marcos is unafraid to make tough decisions in the name of our national interests, even if he alienates those closest to him.

While the Constitution gives primacy to civilian authority over the military, it mandates the AFP to protect the Republic and the people. Therefore, the lack of solid and galvanizing leadership on the president’s part would

most likely tempt the military to replace his government with a puppet state. Digong swore that no Duterte, himself included, would ever become a figurehead for any dummy regime. His family would only participate in democratic, constitutional and legal processes. I hope this puts a Duterte-led destabilization rumor against PBBM to permanent rest.

Contradictory In recent months, the speaker seems to be out of tune with the president. Martin has defied some of PBBM’s wishes on contentious issues.

In his first year in office, Marcos said there was no need to tinker with economic provisions under the 1987 Constitution to achieve national economic growth and prosperity.

Last December, the National Economic and Development Authority declared that the Philippines was one of the strongest economies in Asia in 2023. The speaker, meanwhile, has prioritized changing the economic aspects of the Constitution. Last year, the Lower House passed a resolution calling for Charter change via a constitutional convention.

Fortunately, the Senate rejected this proposal. (Unfortunately, PBBM has changed his earlier position.)

Then came the so-called people’s initiative spearheaded by PIRMA or the People’s Initiative for Reform Modernization and Action. It should be called a politician’s initiative instead, following the exposé of some legislators that congressmen are directly involved in gathering

Speaker Martin Romualdez and President Bongbong Marcos Jr.

signatures per legislative district.

The Senate wants to investigate the alleged P20-million mobilization fund for each representative, as well as the P100 bribe per voter’s signature. A bone of contention is the House proposal that the bicameral should vote jointly instead of separately in modifying the Constitution. As expected, this does not sit well with our nationally-elected senators. All 12 senators garnered at least 15 million votes nationwide. Again, may I remind our legislators that a people’s initiative can only amend and not revise the Constitution, unlike a constitutional convention or a constituent assembly (Lambino vs. Comelec).

To resolve the bicameral tension, PBBM convened a meeting between the leaders of both Houses. Reportedly, the president directed the Senate to lead the constitutional

amendments.

However, the signature campaign continued in congressional districts. This could only mean that the speaker has defied the president’s directive.

The ongoing investigation of the International Criminal Court (ICC) on the anti-drug war campaign in the Philippines is another issue wherein the speaker has diverged from the president. PBBM has consistently said the Philippines will not cooperate with The Hague Tribunal due to lack of jurisdiction.

For the 100th time, he emphasized that the country will not assist the Court in any way, shape or form.

He has ordered all government agencies, including the police and local government units, to desist from participating in any ICCrelated probe. I laud the president for dismissing the calls of the Lower House for the Executive branch to cooperate fully with the Court. It also signifies one thing:

Philstar.com file photo

the speaker cannot always use Congress as a weapon against his political rivals such as FPRRD and Inday Sara.

The speaker has become a divisive figure in government and, by extension, to the Marcos administration. Not only has Martin antagonized and alienated the powerful Duterte camp, but he has also ruffled the feathers of the senators of the Republic.

There is no other recourse for the president at this point. To prove he is the one, true “Ferdinand” in charge of the country, he must give up on the presidential cousin.

It is time for a healing and unifying legislator at the helm of the House of Representatives. (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.

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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Dateline PhiliPPines

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARY 27-30, 2024 A7

PH faces ban in Olympics, Asian Games, SEAG due to non-compliance with WADA Code MANILA — The Philippines stands the risk of the flag not being flown at the Paris Olympics and the Paralympic Games and in all regional and continental— Asian Games and Southeast Asian Games — and the world championships unless the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) complies with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Code.

Compounding the potential woes will also be a ban on country from hosting regional, continental and world championships.

The WADA made the warning in a notification to the PSC dated January 23 that stressed its noncompliance of the WADA Code and prompted the government sports body to address outstanding non-conformities identified in the WADA Code Compliance Questionnaire.

The PSC was notified through the Philippine National AntiDoping Agency (Phinado) in September last year to comply with the WADA Code but has barely responded since.

The WADA gave the PSC four months to comply with the deadline already expiring last

Monday, January 22.

"Should the outstanding nonconformities not be solved by January 22, 2024, the Philippines Sports Commission would be automatically alleged as noncompliant by WADA's Executive Committee," said the notice, which was signed by WADA Director General Olivier Niggli The WADA said the PSC has to comply with the code on developing and implementing effective, intelligent and proportionate Test Distribution Plan and include all Registered Testing Pool athletes from sports or disciplines, among others.

The WADA pinpointed a case of an athlete who yielded a positive anti-doping result in 2016 but wasn't notified by the PSC or its anti-doping arm.

The Montreal-based agency gave the PSC until February 13 to dispute "WADA's allegation of non-compliance and/or the consequences of non-compliance and/or the reinstatement conditions proposed by WADA." "If the PSC does not dispute any of these elements in writing to WADA, within 21 days from the date of this Formal Notice, the allegation of non-

by Red Mendoza

district to get the signatures for the people's initiative that would enable both houses of Congress to "vote jointly" as a constituent assembly instead of "voting separately." It was a move that was opposed by the Senate who came out with a manifesto against the campaign.

Romualdez on Thursday, January 25 sent a letter to Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri assuring him that the House will support the Resolution of

compliance will be deemed admitted, the consequences of non-compliance and the reinstatement conditions proposed by WADA will be deemed accepted, and this Formal Notice will automatically become a final decision with immediate effect," the notice said.

The WADA attached with its notification the consequences of non-compliance and reinstatement conditions by the PSC that includes the banning of the Philippine flag in all major international competitions.

The consequences also include the Philippines losing its WADA privileges and funding and a ban of any Filipino to sit as members of the boards or committees or other bodies of any signatory, members or association of signatories of the world agency.

The PSC, WADA said, must satisfy the outstanding critical requirements and comply with all the consequences of noncompliance to be reinstated.

The Philippine Olympic Committee was furnished a copy of the WADA notification.

(ManilaTimes.net)

Romualdez to Sen. Marcos: Prove it ManilaTimes.net

MANILA — Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez denied that he was behind the signature campaign for the people's initiative to amend the 1987 Constitution and challenged Sen. Maria Josefa Imelda "Imee" Marcos, who made the allegation to "prove it."

Marcos claimed that Romualdez bankrolled P20 million per

Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez

Both Houses (RBH) 6 that would amend the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution.

Romualdez branded Marcos' allegations as "baseless" and "gossip" and challenged the senator to "prove it."

In a press conference at the Manila Golf Club in Makati on Friday, January 25, Romualdez admitted that he has "hardly spoken" to his cousin, including during the holidays as she was out of town.

"I don't know where all of this is coming from her," Romualdez said.

Romualdez stressed that he still respects Marcos as a senator and as a relative and that he is open to receiving calls or texts from her.

Meanwhile, Romualdez refuted Vice President Sara Duterte's claim that he was attacking an ally of the administration, saying “I do not know what she is talking about.”

“I respect her and as my vice president and secretary of Education, she has my full ManilaTimes.net file photo support,” Romualdez said. n

JOBS FAIR. The Davao City Public Employment Service Office conducts a jobs fair at Tugbok District Hall in Mintal on Friday, Jan. 26. Some 300 applicants showed up, with 19 applicants hired on the spot by local firms and three for overseas deployment.

PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.

China has placed 50 ships ahead of...

PAGE A5 a water cannon on a Philippine resupply boat on its way to the ship.

In February, a CCG vessel pointed a military grade laser at a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) patrol ship also on its way to Ayungin, temporarily blinding its crew on the bridge.

Airdrop last weekend The last resupply mission to the Sierra Madre was in December last year. A senior military officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the military airdropped supplies to the ship last weekend after the resupply by sea was postponed.

Asked whether Beijing could still be trusted with its deployment of its maritime militia vessels close to Ayungin just days after the Philippines and China agreed to deescalate tensions in the area, Batongbacal said that such trust was “not necessarily dependent” or connected to this move.

“Trust in China is a function of the entire relationship, not a single action like this one,” he said. “Government at this point can only observe and remain vigilant about the subsequent activities of those vessels.”

China claims nearly the entire

South China Sea, including the West Philippine Sea, bringing it into maritime disputes not only with the Philippines but also Vietnam, Brunei, Malaysia and Taiwan.

It rejected the 2016 arbitral award which recognized Philippine sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea and nullified Beijing’s expansive claims, saying China had no legal and historical basis.

In his monthly press briefing in Beijing on Thursday, Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson Col. Wu Qian accused the Philippines of “violating China’s sovereignty and making provocations in the South China Sea” while “in collusion with external powers” with Manila’s plans to reinforce construction in the Spratly Islands.

PH-Vietnam cooperation The PCG and the Vietnamese Coast Guard (VCG) would be signing a proposed memorandum of understanding (MOU) on maritime cooperation which the two sides have been working on since 2018 during President Marcos’ visit to Hanoi next week, according to PCG spokesperson Rear Adm. Armand Balilo.

The MOU “aims to enhance the strategic partnership and cooperation between the PCG

and VCG toward the promotion, preservation and protection of their mutual interest in the Southeast Asian region,” the PCG said.

Skepticism The final draft of the MOU said the agreement would allow Manila and Hanoi to better manage conflicts in the South China Sea “in accordance with principles of international law, the national laws of each party, and international conventions to which both Vietnam and Philippines are parties.”

China tends to view progress in the resolution of border disputes among other South China Sea claimants with skepticism, but its response to this MOU could be muted because the deal is not about recognition of maritime claims, according to a Reuters report quoting Phan Xuan Dung, researcher on Vietnam at the Singapore-based ISEAS (Institute of Southeast Asian Studies) think tank.

“The two most promising areas of cooperation between the Philippines and Vietnam are food security and maritime security,” added Alexander Vuving, of the Hawaii-based Inouye AsiaPacific Center for Security Studies, Reuters reported. n

The Rule of Law vs. Economic Gain: Professor Yang Li on the Impact of IP Protection Disputes Amidst Evolving China-US Trade Relations

by RichaRd Lee After months of intense negotiations and escalating tariffs that have disrupted the global economy, the United States and China have taken a significant step toward easing trade tensions. At the center of this conciliatory move is a mutual agreement on protecting intellectual property rights, which has been a core issue driving the trade dispute.

In a significant announcement, both superpowers have agreed to implement and enforce measures to ensure the strict protection of intellectual property (IP).

This breakthrough is expected to bridge a gap that has long separated the two economies.

The new framework for intellectual property (IP) protection is being praised as a win for international innovators and businesses.

They have frequently expressed concerns about alleged IP theft and forced technology transfers in China. Under this agreement, China has pledged to revise its laws to enhance the enforcement of IP rights. This includes imposing stricter penalties for violations of these rights.

In exchange, the U.S. has agreed to substantially reduce tariffs on Chinese goods. This action has the potential to boost trade and reduce market volatility.

However, China’s concessions on intellectual property (IP) rights have led to the world’s two largest

economies engaging in a different type of trade war.

Using intellectual property law enforcement to exert pressure or gain unfair advantages in trade negotiations, the so-called weaponization of intellectual property law has become a familiar strategy in global commerce, especially in the tense China-US trade relations.

Recognizing the gravity of the situation and the need for expert guidance, the China-US Business Summit recently announced its decision to appoint Professor Yang Li as the head of its China-US Trade Dispute Consultation Commission. The Summit’s decision underscores Professor Li’s expertise and his accomplishments in the field, reinforcing his status as a thought leader whose perspectives can steer the discourse towards more constructive and law-abiding approaches to resolving trade disputes.

The appointment of Professor Li to this critical role holds the promise of a shift towards more principled negotiations between China and the United States. The Commission’s spokesperson informed the reporter, “With Professor Li leading the way, the Commission is expected to promote dispute resolutions that uphold intellectual property rights, respect the rule of law, and honor due process. This development is a hopeful sign for the international

community, indicating a commitment to fairness and legality rather than opportunism and short-term gains.”

Professor Li is highly regarded in intellectual property law for his outstanding reputation. He is known for his insightful analysis and scholarly contributions. His extensive body of work includes numerous influential papers highlighting the crucial role of the rule of law and due process in resolving international intellectual property disputes. His work is instrumental in shaping China’s intellectual property protection framework.

While some may argue that the “weaponization” of IP laws is just another lever in the grand scheme of trade negotiation, Professor Li warns of the far-reaching consequences of such practices. According to him, this approach undermines the very essence of the rule of law, eroding trust and cooperation between nations. When intellectual property law is used as a bargaining chip rather than a shield of innovation, it not only distorts the legal frameworks but also causes long-term damage to the fabric of society by encouraging a climate of conflict and retaliation.

This tactic has been particularly common in the ongoing trade disputes between China and the United States, where intellectual property issues

often take center stage.

The consequences of these practices go beyond just the economic realm and also impact the political and social arenas, influencing the relationship between the world’s two largest economies.

At a recent symposium attended by leading legal minds from across the globe, Professor Li underscored that while intellectual property rights are a legitimate and essential aspect of international trade,

their misuse undercuts the very principles they are meant to protect. “It’s not just about legal outcomes; it’s about the process and perception of justice,” Professor Li remarked.

“When we bend the law to serve short-term trade goals, we erode trust in the system designed to protect inventors and creators, which can have profound implications beyond the cases at hand.”

As the two nations grapple with complex trade issues,

the voice of top legal scholars like Professor Li is vital in steering the conversation toward sustainable and just legal practices. His insights come at a critical time when global tensions are high, and the temptation to cut corners for national gain is ever-present. His call for adherence to due process is a timely reminder that the law should serve as the great equalizer, not a weapon of economic conflict, and most importantly, it serves as the bedrock of society.

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Saturday, JANUARY 27, 2024

LIFESTYLE CONSUMER GUIDE COMMUNITY MARKETPLACE

A nurse’s American dream comes true, despite her first employer backing out, this Sunday on Citizen Pinoy GROWING up, Rina missed her parents, who immigrated to the U.S. in search of greener pastures. Rina believed that being a nurse would be the fastest way for her to be reunited with her parents and other siblings in the U.S. So, immediately after she passed her NCLEX Board Exam in 2005, her parents found a company willing to sponsor Rina for a green card.

Unfortunately, there was a retrogression of priority dates, and Rina’s petition could not move forward. In the meantime, she had already found a job as a nurse in Singapore and had to leave her daughter to be raised by her relatives in the Philippines. This situation was difficult because it was a déjà vu of how Rina’s life was growing up when she was separated from her parents, and she did

Leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel (right) was able to retain the priority date from the previous petition for Rina (center), so she was able to finally reunite with her mother, Connie (left), and the rest of her family in the U.S.

not want this for her child.

After six years, the retrogression was lifted, and Rina tried to revive her petition from the facility. Unfortunately, the new management was no longer offering employment and had to withdraw the sponsorship.

Desperate to find a way to reunite with her parents and to be able to bring her children,

Rina and her children with Atty. Michael Gurfinkel

Rina and her family explored other possibilities. They found another place who was willing to sponsor Rina.

The family had also retained leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel to help with Rina’s case, and he was able to transfer/retain the original 2006 Priority Date of the previous employer’s petition to the new employer’s case.

In July 2019, Rina’s visa was issued together with her two kids. Her husband’s visa followed soon after. Rina’s American Dream was finally fulfilled.

Watch this success story on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, January 28 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the free app.

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LEADING U.S. IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY MICHAEL J. GURFINKEL (RIGHT) RETAINS THE PRIORITY DATE FROM THE ORIGINAL EMPLOYER, EVEN AFTER THE LATTER WITHDREW THE PETITION. When Rina (left) passed her NCLEX Board Exam in 2005, a convalescent facility was willing to sponsor Rina to come to the U.S. All went well until there was a retrogression of priority dates. After the retrogression, Rina found out that the facility was under new management and was no longer interested in pushing through with the case, so they withdrew her petition.

Fortunately, Rina’s family found another facility who was willing to sponsor her. The family retained Atty. Gurfinkel, who championed Rina’s case, was able to transfer/retain the original 2006 Priority Date of the previous employer’s petition to the new employer’s case. Rina’s American Dream finally came true. Watch this success story on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, January 28 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo.

(Advertising Supplement)

Alessandra and Empoy reunite in ‘May Forever’ THE iconic big-screen couple, Alessandra de Rossi and Empoy Marquez, is set to rekindle the magic that captured the hearts of millions in their 2017 blockbuster hit, “Kita Kita.” This time, they grace the screen as the endearing characters Lola May Laurel and Lolo Evergillo Laurel in the highly anticipated movie, “May Forever.”

The film opens with the elderly couple, Lola May and Lolo Ever, being reluctantly relocated to an advanced Assisted Living Facility (ALF) by their children.

Initially skeptical, the couple soon discovers the joy of living

in a high-tech facility, especially when they realize their friends from yesteryears are also residents. The ALF becomes a backdrop for a heartwarming tale of love, friendship, and forgiveness.

As Lola May and Lolo Ever reminisce about their youth, the audience is taken on a nostalgic journey through their experiences in 2024. Secrets, crushes, and untold stories resurface, creating a tapestry of emotions that resonates with the viewers. Despite the challenges of aging, the couple finds solace Alessandra and Empoy reunite in ‘May PAGE B3 Forever’ ManilaTimes.net photo

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Aga: Crafting love beyond Pechanga Resort Casino wishes age in new movie everyone a prosperous 2024 Year of

by Tessa Mauricio-arriola ManilaTimes.net

THE name, filmography, and unwavering artistry of Aga Muhlach are as revered as ever in Philippine Cinema. To this day, his presence alone commands attention, and when word about a rare new film he has accepted explodes, so does the giddy excitement of both showbiz media and the Filipino audience ensue. This time, however, for his upcoming movie “Ikaw Pa Rin ang Pipiliin Ko,” reactions are a mix of good and bad.

Now 54, the former teen idol of “Bagets” and superstar leading man of his time finds himself facing the challenge of portraying the older half of a character entangled in a May-December romance with the vibrant superstar du jour, Julia Barretto, 26. The scenario initially gave the multi-awarded actor of such movies as “Sana Maulit Muli” and “Miracle in Cell No. 7,” pause.

He, therefore, understands why it stirred quite the online buzz and would like those who have prematurely judged the pairing to be in bad taste to know he didn’t take the offer lightly. A huge hush rippled through Viva Cafe at a media conference recently when Aga finally addressed the controversy.

In taking on a role of an older man falling in love with a younger woman, “When this role was first given to me, I said seasoned actor Aga Muhlach made sure the narrative reflects his age and principles, and ultimately society’s sentiments. ABS-CBN photo PAGE B4

the Dragon with $200,000 EasyPlay & cash drawings, celebrations

AS the Year of the Dragon approaches, Pechanga Resort Casino welcomes everyone to join in the celebration of the festival with a series of promotions and giveaways in February 2024.

Lunar New Year $200,000 EasyPlay & cash drawing Pechanga Resort Casino celebrates the Lunar New Year by giving away $200,000 in EasyPlay and cash prizes on Friday, February 2, 9, 16 & 23.

Pechanga Club members can earn varying amounts of entries to the drawing by playing slots or table games from 2 p,m. to 10 p.m. each day for a chance to win big. Sixty winners will be drawn to receive $250, $500, or $750 in EasyPlay at 10 p.m.

One lucky winner will be drawn for the ultimate cash prize of $25,000. Come discover the thrill of potentially winning multiple times. $5,000 Lucky Red Envelope giveaway Pechanga lets players get even luckier with the “Lucky Red Envelope” promotion this Lunar New Year. Pechanga Club members can just simply visit the Promotional Area every Tuesday in February from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. for a chance to win up to $5,000 in EasyPlay!

Lunar New Year Luck Lion Dance In celebration of the Lunar New Year, Pechanga Resort Casino presents a splendid Lucky Lion Dancer Performance on Saturday, February 10 (i.e. the first day of the Lunar New Year). Starting at 3 p.m., the Lion Dancer Team, which symbolizes auspiciousness and good luck, will begin their performance the Pechanga north entrance and wind their way into the casino and through the casino floor. Guests will be able to receive Red Packets to give to the Lion Dancers to pray for a Good New Year.

Exclusive dining specials

Pechanga Resort Casino also welcomes guests to reserve tables for family dinner or business lunch to enjoy exclusive Lucky Lunar New Year Dining Specials the chefs of Bamboo, Blazing Noodles and Umi Sushi & Oyster Bar have meticulously prepared.

Chef Marie Surakul at Bamboo serves Steam Whole Fish ($108), Long Life Noodle ($48), Hidden Teaser (shrimp and seafood egg roll) ($28), Green Jewel (bok choy and stir-fried shiitake mushrooms) ($28), and Seven Sea Fried Rice (king crab meat, scalloped, shrimp, green onions, eggs, X. O. sauce) ($78). All these dishes should satisfy your taste buds.

Blazing Noodles, just off the

Pechanga hotel lobby, dishes up six traditional Asian specialties for the occasion. These include Angus Tenderloin Fried Rice ($38), Duck Lettuce Wrap ($24), Fried Chicken Galantine ($24), Wok Fried Lobster ($128), Pan Fried Sea Bass ($56), and Braised Veggies ($28).

Umi offers casino guests a wide variety of dishes with an assortment of festive delicacies, including 5 Spice Duck Yakitori ($26), Tempura Bass with gyoza sauce and pickled cucumbers ($38), Lobster Fried Rice with pickled radishes, fried shallots and shiso ($68) and Yakisoba with A5 wagyu, cabbage and fried ginger ($66). All dishes incorporate elements that PAGE B3

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Liza stuns at first press day of ‘Lisa Frankenstein’

By Jessica ann evangelista Inquirer.net

Liza Soberano

Photos from Instagram/@lizasoberano

AS the theatrical release date of her Hollywood debut movie, “Lisa Frankenstein,” draws near, Liza Soberano showed off her beauty during the day 1 promotion for the movie.

On Instagram, the Filipino actress posted a photo of herself wearing an elegant one-piece suit and rocking off the look as she did the first press day of “Lisa Frankenstein” in Los Angeles, California.

Hollywood star Kathryn Newton, who will play the title character in the movie, reposted PAGE B5

Alessandra and Empoy reunite in ‘May...

PAGE B1 in each other and their enduring friendship with the lively residents of the ALF. “May Forever” explores the themes of love and friendship, proving that forever exists for those who truly love. The tagline, “Dahil si Ever, for May. At si May, for Ever,” encapsulates the enduring bond between the characters.

Alessandra de Rossi shines as Lola May Laurel, the outspoken and loving wife who chose Ever over numerous suitors in their youth. Opposite her, Empoy

Marquez portrays Lolo Ever, the kind husband who, despite being a former delivery rider, now faces the comedic bullying from his beloved wife.

The supporting cast includes Michelle Vito as Nurse Vicky and Drei Arias as Nurse Chris, who add charm to the story.

Archie Alemania as Lolo Rudy Buncalan, Vangie Labalan as Lola Amada, Anthony Ocampo as Lolo Brendon, TJ Valderrama as Lolo Tolits, Mitoy Yonting as Bruno Laurel, and Zach Francisco as T45, the robot nurse with a unique preference

for timekeeping, complete the ensemble cast.

Directed by a talented team, “May Forever” promises to deliver a poignant and entertaining narrative that spans generations, proving that the concept of forever is not limited by time but is a testament to genuine love and lasting friendships. As Lola May and Lolo Ever take center stage once again, audiences eagerly await the heartfelt reunion that promises laughter, tears, and a timeless celebration of love.

(ManilaTimes.net) n

Pechanga Resort Casino wishes...

PAGE B2 signify prosperity and happiness.

The dining specialties in Blazing Noodles, Bamboo and Umi will be available from Feb. 3 through Feb. 18. Reservations are recommended at Umi Sushi & Oyster Bar and can be made by visiting www.Pechanga.com/eat or calling (951) 770-8504.

Lunar New Year property décor The Lunar New Year symbolizes the fresh start of a new year, a new beginning. In celebration of the Year of the Dragon and to boost the festive atmosphere, starting from January 2024, Pechanga will decorate the entire property with traditional new year elements and designs for the Year of the Dragon, utilizing a wide array of bright red lanterns, refined oriental-style garden bridge, beautifully bloomed peach blossoms, and much more. Throughout the floor, you will be able to find countless photo-op spots for your selfies or family portraits, while capturing the stunningly displayed Lunar New Year decorations.

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

Pechanga Resort Casino offers one of the largest and most expansive resort/casino experiences anywhere in the United States. Voted best casino in the west USA Today and rated a Four Diamond property by AAA since 2002, Pechanga Resort Casino provides an unparalleled getaway, whether for the day or for an extended luxury stay. Offering 5,500 of hottest slots, 152 table games, a 1,100 room and suite hotel, dining, luxury spa, and golf at Journey at Pechanga, Pechanga Resort Casino features a destination unrivaled anywhere in California. Pechanga Resort Casino is owned and operated by the Pechanga Band of Indians. For more information, call toll free (877) 711-2946 or visit www.Pechanga.com. Follow Pechanga Resort Casino on Instagram, Facebook and on X @ PechangaCasino.

(Advertising Supplement)

B4 JANUARY 27-30, 2024 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

In the Mix

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Aberdeen School of Nursing opens, CMLA epic new year’s party

Mic Diaz ABERDEEN Institute School of Nursing officially opened its doors at its Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting on Saturday, January 13 in Van Nuys.

Led by its Anthony Riccomini and Dr. Bernard SanchezRicomini, Aberdeen Institute is the newest school of nursing to open in the San Fernando Valley.

Centrally located in Van Nuys, the school is committed to offering the best in healthcare education, offering CNA and LVN programs.

Its owners Anthony and Bernard, and partners Dr. Emelie Cervantes, Glenda Galura, Alodia Laygo, Leila Villon, Carlota Espino among other partners were joined by several representatives from healthcare organizations in the San Fernando Valley and Los Angeles areas such as Encino Hospital Medical Center, Sherman Oaks Hospital and various care facilities.

Representatives from various local public offices such as City of Los Angeles Councilmember Imelda Padilla, Gabriela Agarie of State of California Assemblymember Cardenas’s office, Jack Trent-Dorfman of Assemblymember Gabriel’s office, Jasmin Hernandez of California State Senator Mejivar’s office presented Certificates of Recognition to Aberdeen Institute.

Keynote speaker Ms. Lena Resurreccion, former chief of the State of California Department of Public Health congratulated Aberdeen Institute for upholding the quality education and training that future healthcare students deserve.

The Greater San Fernando Valley Chamber of Commerce (GSFVCC) led by its Chief Executive Officer Nancy Hoffman Vanyek and its Communications and Special Events Director Fuyumi Hashimoto and members of the Filipino-American Chamber of Commerce Greater Los Angeles (FACCGLA) led by its President Lois Klavir and United Chambers of Commerce President Annie Nepomuceno welcomed the school to the business community, thanking the school for providing opportunities for prospective

Photos by Mic Diaz, Ronnie Cruz and Robert Ryan

nursing students and for reenergizing and revitalizing the local communities of San Fernando Valley.

Henry Chen of FACCGLA expressed that he is so happy and proud that there is another nursing school owned by Filipinos and that as a member of FACCGLA he is here to support Aberdeen.

Bernard Ricommini said that he believes that with all of the members of the institution with a total of over 50-60 years of experience in nursing and health education, Aberdeen will be able to provide nurses that are reliable, professional and nurturing with excellent nursing skills.

Andrew Ferreyra, a new student at Aberdeen said that

some of the reasons he enrolled at Aberdeen is the room to expand, job placement, training and experiences that he will get at Aberdeen.

JayR Vienes Datu who is a graduate of Preferred College of Nursing in Long Beach stated that the curriculum enabled him to become a successful NCLEX PAGE B6

Aga: Crafting...

PAGE B2 right away, ‘Ha? I can’t do this!

Hindi ko kaya ‘to!’” he candidly admitted, unraveling the layers of discomfort that flashed across his mind in playing an older man romantically involved with a much younger woman.

He openly acknowledged the potential awkwardness of it all.

His reflections, in fact, even extended beyond the script, encompassing his real-life role as a father.

“Yes, I thought about it. That I have a daughter, and there were parts of the script where I thought, ‘What’?” he continued.

As everyone knows, Aga’s beautiful fireball of a daughter, Atasha, has started a career in show business and has yet to debut in a movie amid her promising TV commitments.

“But just to make it clear, Julia is way older than my daughter, ha,” Aga chuckled, injecting a touch of humor into the serious discussion.

Despite his initial reservations, however, the seasoned actor recognized the intrinsic beauty in the story crafted by the noted writer and director Denise Ohara, who wears both hats for this Viva Films production. So, rather than retreating, Aga went about the project, suggesting modifications to ensure that the bittersweet tale delivers not just quality but decency and respect for the audience and his own sensibilities.

“Before we started rolling, we had to change a lot of scenes. I was very careful with this thin line [that comes with a] MayDecember story. I was like, ‘Let’s fix this, that; out na yan at yan [let’s take out this and that scene].”

He also insisted that he gets to “act his age” in his role, reflecting the level of responsibility and conservatism that comes with it, as he began envisioning the delicate dance between his serious choir conductor character and Julia’s passionate and free-spirited choir member. Once the changes were made and Aga’s concerns were addressed and guaranteed a go, the production began, and he was swept away by the result. In so many words, he describes it not only as a stirring cinematic exploration of age and love but also as a testament to the actor and the

entire production’s commitment to authenticity. “At the end of the day, it’s this beautiful story that mattered,” he expressed.

True enough, Aga’s detailed backstory is effectively reflected in the two official movie trailers launched side-by-side with his solo interview. From the snippets alone, one can see him acting his age with a specific set of principles as Michael, who encounters a drunk Jas (Julia) drunkenly singing off-key at a bar. The same characterizations continue playing out when their paths cross again at choir practice.

Jas — coming late to practice — is surprised to see that Michael is their new musical conductor, preparing for a concert honoring George Canseco, one of the Philippines’ most prolific and talented composers.

Skeptical about Jas’ skills, Michael arranges more practice sessions with the smart-alecky beauty, and between rehearsing for the concert and talking about their passions, their friendship turns into something more. Michael is separated from his wife, but, of course, everyone around them — as’ father included — is against their relationship. The conflict boils over when what started as a “you-and-me-againstthe world” situation begins breaking the two apart.

“There’s so much more to this movie than just a MayDecember affair,” assured Aga, who rightly declared that as an actor, he is steadfast in his belief that the story’s quality supersedes age-related concerns. “I look at it as a blessing really that I still get to work and get the chance to be paired with the younger generation. Bottom line is the story — it has to be good.

Age doesn’t matter in terms of work,” he asserted.

Set against the backdrop of Canseco’s timeless classics, including “Gaano Kadalas Ang Minsan,” “Ikaw Pa Rin ang Pipiliin Ko” serves as Viva Films’ Valentine offering. Besides Aga and Julia, it boasts a talented ensemble cast, including Cindy Miranda, Nonie Buencamino, and Frost Sandoval. Written and directed by Gawad Urian awardee Denise Ohara, it set to hit cinemas nationwide on February 7. n

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Pastor’s Notes ReveRend Rodel G. BalaGtas WHILE spending a holy hour one morning last week, I felt a heavy sense of depression. I found myself questioning why I was feeling this way. Typically, during prayer, I would feel elated, consoled, inspired, and strengthened. However, that early morning experience of prayer was different. It was a time of desolation rather than consolation, of dryness rather than joy. This reminded me of a book I read many years ago titled “When the Well Runs Dry” by Fr. Thomas Green, S.J. The book explores various individuals’ experiences of prayer, suggesting that while there may be periods of consolation, there can also be times of desolation.

The book encourages those going through a period of desolation in prayer not to be discouraged, but to continue practicing disciplined prayer, as the feeling of desolation is not permanent. One should look forward to the joyful and consoling moments of prayer.

Later on in the week, I further reflected on my recent prayer experience. I realized that there is one entity who does not want me to pray or promote prayer among our people in the parish: the devil. It became clear to me that he was trying to hinder this important vision and mission by attacking me. The period of desolation in prayer last week seemed like an attack from the devil. When someone is

The devil’s attack on prayer diligently cultivating discipline in prayer, the devil will attempt to make that person feel depressed, unmotivated, and uninspired.

Friends, this challenging prayer experience taught me a valuable lesson - that evil does exist, and Satan can attack us, particularly those who are earnestly growing in their prayer life. To combat Satan, we must invoke the name and authority of Jesus Christ. Jesus vanquished him on the Cross and through His Resurrection, and He will continue to prevail against him in our present age.

Prayer, along with the support of fellow Christians, serves as our weapons in battling the forces of the devil.

We should never doubt the power of Jesus Christ in our lives. We need not fear battling Satan and all his tactics because Jesus is always with us through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Satan’s desire and mission are to destroy our relationship with God and with others. He seeks to disrupt peace and harmony in our lives, the world, and the Church. His intention is to separate us from God and create division among us. He is the source of malice, anger, hatred, envy, greed, pride, and self-love. He is the prince

of lies and deception. This is why the gift of discernment is necessary for us to recognize his deplorable and damaging works in our lives. We must not allow hopelessness and discouragement to influence our lives and relationships with others.

Prayer, along with the support of fellow Christians, serves as our weapons in battling the forces of the devil. It is no surprise that Pope Francis has declared 2024 as a Year of Prayer in preparation for the 2025 Jubilee Year. Our world, our country, and our families are in need of prayers. Pope Francis is calling on the faithful to intensify their prayer lives to prepare for this event of grace and to experience the power of God’s hope. During his remarks after the Angelus on a Sunday, he explained that the Year of Prayer is dedicated to rediscovering the great value and absolute necessity of prayer in personal life, in the life of the Church, and in the world.

Let us respond to Pope Francis’ call by intensifying our prayers and cultivating a disciplined prayer life. May prayer become our powerful weapon in combating the forces of evil that exist both in our lives and in the world. *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. *** Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas is the pastor of Incarnation Church in Glendale, California.

Liza stuns at first press day...

PAGE B3 Soberano’s picture and wrote, “Queen slaying ‘Lisa Frankenstein’ press day 1.”

On the Instagram Story of the “Dolce Amore” star, she is seen sitting down, chatting with the movie’s director, Zelda Williams, as they tease what seems to be one of the promotional videos of “Lisa Frankenstein.”

Williams recently said in an interview that she personally handpicked Soberano for her role as Taffy, the cheerleader sister in the Hollywood film.

She noted that the Filipino actress possessed the qualities she was looking for in the character.

“I asked her myself I was like, ‘Please, please, will you tape this? I think you’re right for it.’ And everyone fell in love with her. She’s most people’s favorite part of this whole movie,” revealed the

EMPLOYMENT

director.

As read in the film’s synopsis, “Lisa Frankenstein” tells the story of a high school student in 1989 who accidentally brings a corpse (Cole Sprouse) to life. The horror-romantic comedy is inspired by the Gothic novel “Frankenstein.”

The movie also features Hollywood stars Carla Gugino, Joe Chrest and Henry Eikenberry, among others, and its screenplay is written by Diablo Cody. It will have its global premiere on Feb. 9, but Philippine cinemas will screen it in advance on Feb. 7.

Besides preparing for her Hollywood debut, Soberano revealed that she is currently setting up a U.S.-based production studio and is preoccupied with seven projects for herself and for the artists she will be handling. n

EMPLOYMENT

How to obtain custody and visitation rights for unmarried dads Barrister’s Corner atty. Kenneth URsUa Reyes ESTABLISHING parentage rights for Moms is a lot easier than establishing one for unmarried Dads.

Moms can establish this by simply showing proof of her having given birth to the child. Family Code §7610.

Establishing parentage rights, including custody and visitation rights, becomes more problematic with unmarried Dads because proving yourself as the biological father does not automatically make you the natural father of the child.

Under the family code, there are competing presumptions of paternity which allows the non biological father to be deemed the natural father of the child.

A typical situation is when boyfriend gets girlfriend pregnant. Girlfriend for some reason decides to exclude boyfriend from baby’s life so she breaks up with boyfriend, does not give the boyfriend any information about her delivery, and does not state the boyfriend as the father in the birth certificate or decides to name someone else as the father. Girlfriend does this because her parents disapprove of the ex boyfriend.

One way a presumption of Paternity is created is by executing a voluntary declaration of paternity.

A Voluntary declarations executed before 1997 give rise to a conclusive presumption of paternity and can be overcome only by blood or genetic tests ordered on noticed motion by the mother or presumed father must be made within three years of the date of execution of the voluntary declaration Family.Code. § 7576; Kevin Q. v. Lauren W. (2009) 175 CA4th 1119, 1133, 95 CR3d 477, 485 If the voluntary declaration of paternity is executed after 1996, it is not characterized as a conclusive presumption. Instead, it “shall establish the paternity of a child and shall have the same force and effect as a judgment for paternity issued by a court

of competent jurisdiction” and trumps §7611 presumptions discussed below. A post 1996 voluntary declaration of paternity “shall be recognized as a basis for the establishment of an order for child custody, visitation, or child support.” Family .Code §§ 7573, 7644; Kevin Q. v. Lauren W., supra, 175 CA4th at 1132, 95 CR3d at 485; In re J.L. (2008) 159 CA4th 1010, 1019, 72 CR3d 27, 33.

Another way of establishing presumed father status is if you fall under any of the categories listed (a) to (f) under family code §7611: (a) He and the child’s natural mother are or have been married to each other and the child is born during the marriage, or within 300 days after the marriage is terminated by death, annulment, declaration of invalidity, or divorce, or after a judgment of separation is entered by a court. (b) Before the child’s birth, he and the child’s natural mother have attempted to marry each other by a marriage solemnized in apparent compliance with law, although the attempted marriage is or could be declared invalid, and either of the following is true: (1) If the attempted marriage could be declared invalid only by a court, the child is born during the attempted marriage, or within 300 days after its termination by death, annulment, declaration of invalidity, or divorce.

(2) If the attempted marriage is invalid without a court order, the child is born within 300 days after the termination of cohabitation. (c) After the child’s birth, he and the child’s natural mother have married, or attempted to marry, each other by a marriage solemnized in apparent compliance with law, although the attempted marriage is or could be declared invalid, and either of the following is true: (1) With his consent, he is named as the child’s father on the child’s birth certificate.

(2) He is obligated to support the child under a written voluntary promise or by court order. (d) He receives the child into his home and openly holds out the child as his natural child. (e) If the child was born and

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resides in a nation with which the United States engages in an Orderly Departure Program or successor program, he acknowledges that he is the child’s father in a declaration under penalty of perjury, as specified in Section 2015.5 of the Code of Civil Procedure.

This subdivision shall remain in effect only until January 1, 1997, and on that date shall become inoperative. (f) The child is in utero after the death of the decedent and the conditions set forth in Section 249.5 of the Probate Code are satisfied.

An alleged biological father who does not meet any of the § 7611 conditions for presumed father status has no constitutionally-protected “liberty interest” in establishing a parentage relationship with a child as against the rights of a presumptive father who has an extant parentage relationship with the child. Dawn D. v. Super.

Ct. (Jerry K.) (1998) 17 C4th 932, 940–942, 72 CR2d 871, 876–877 The facts get even more complicated if the girlfriend, whom boyfriend gets pregnant is married to another man because the law provides a conclusive presumption of paternity to the husband of the girlfriend. Under Family Code §7540, the child of a wife cohabiting at time of conception with her husband, who is not impotent or sterile, is “conclusively” presumed to be a child of the marriage. This conclusive presumption may be challenged by showing that the husband was sterile. It may also be challenged by filing a motion for blood or genetic testing under Family Code §7541 but this has to be done within 2 years of the childs birth. In addition, only persons with standing can bring this motion which is limited to the husband, child, mother and a presumed father as listed in Family Code §7611 and 7612.

Even absent a recognized rebuttal, the court has discretion as a matter of due process not to apply § 7540 conclusive presumption of paternity when it would not further the statute’s underlying policies of preserving the integrity and stability of an extant marital family, protecting children from PAGE B7

B6 JANUARY 27-30, 2024 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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Aberdeen School of Nursing opens, CMLA epic...

Anjo Yllana

Photo from Instagram/@anjoyllana

Anjo willing to host ‘Eat Bulaga’ if asked to return

by Jessica ann evangelista Inquirer.net

ANJO Yllana said he’s open to returning to the longest-running Philippine noontime “Eat Bulaga” if he is asked to host it again.

During the press conference of “Itutumba Ka ng Tatay Ko,” Yllana gave a direct answer on coming back to the noontime variety show, saying, “Oo naman, game ako diyan.”

The actor-host resigned from “Eat Bulaga” in 2020 to host another noontime show in another network.

When asked if there were ill feelings between him and the hosting trio of Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto and Joey de Leon, collectively known as TVJ, when he left the show, Yllana gave an honest answer: “Hindi ko naitanong. Pero siguro medyo masama yung loob nila, kasi katapat din nila yung show na tinanggap ko.”

Despite the possibility of resentment between them, Yllana noted that their friendship goes beyond and can survive that.

“Pero ‘yung tagal na pinagsamahan namin nina Joey, ni Tito Sen, ni Bossing, baka ilang araw lang ‘yung sama ng loob nila kasi mas malalim yung pinagsamahan namin,” he affirmed.

The former EB host shared that he has been in communication with his past co-hosts, but they do not talk about their feelings, as he noted that he is happy for TVJ’s triumph in the trademark ownership battle against TAPE and GMA. “Hindi na rin kami nakapag-usap, si Pauleen (Luna) lang, si Joey, si Bossing (Vic) tsaka si Tito Sen minsan pero hindi na namin napag-uusapan ‘yung ganon. Though, happy ako dahil nanalo na sila,” he expressed.

Yllana justified the victory of the hosting trio, saying that they are the rightful owners of “Eat Bulaga” given the history they had with it that goes way back.

“Kasi, isipin mo naman, Tito, Vic and Joey, tapos iba ang pangalan ng show nila, di ba? Talagang mas bagay naman sa kanila ‘yung title na Eat Bulaga,” explained the actor-host.

“So, happy ako na napunta na uli sa kanila yung title, na pumanig sa kanila ‘yung desisyon ng korte. Karapat-dapat talaga ang Tito, Vic and Joey na magdala ng Eat Bulaga,” he added. n

PAGE B4 passer and it enabled him to become a healthcare provider as a LVN. Edward Ramos, a Registered Nurse for 30 years and a faculty member at Aberdeen, said that he looks forward to graduates of Aberdeen as contributing members of our society being an LVN or CNA and later on as nurses or doctors.

Several members of media and press such as media practitioner and host Thelma Sugay of the Asian American Press Club of California, photographer Joey Yumul and Ronnie Cruz of the Filipino-American Press Club of California, Yugel Losorata of Philippine News Today, and photographers Joe Cobilla and Robert Ryan were present to document the event.

Capping the event was a mingling and reunion of longtime colleagues and allies in the healthcare field as well as performances from international R&B singer Honore, balladeer and Registered Nurse Michael Jurolan, Pop Rockstar Diva and CNA Caren Mempin, and phenomenal guitar player Ronnie Cruz joined Aberdeen partner and event host Glenda Galura in celebrating the momentous occasion with their favorite pop, OPM and disco tunes.

Aberdeen owners Anthony and Bernard invite everyone to visit www.aberdeeninstitute. net to learn about their school and programs. *** Club Manila Los Angeles (CMLA) started the year with an epic birthday celebration of one of its founders DJ Jake Martin at The View in Torrance on Saturday, January 13.

Never losing their passion for music and DJing, CMLA has never been distracted by the

Photos by Michelle Sto. Domingo Advincula and Jason Bascon

monetary aspects of organizing dance parties since it started 26 years ago. Marking its 29th year of bringing the dance club scene of Manila to Los Angeles, CMLA and its DJs — Jake Martin, The Spindoctor (Gilbert Villaroman), Ricky Fabre and Darryl Silva — with special guest DJ Dean Andrew once again takes its arsenal of disco, new wave and house tracks to the dance floor, this time to this Torrance nightspot.

Dedicated dance music enthusiasts such as members of Party Party People led by its

founder Michelle Sto. Domingo Advincula and its President Zigmond, Pinky Villegas’ Superfriends, CMLA Family and Spindoctor’s SIP Fam filled the dance floor and danced like there’s no tomorrow.

Steadfast supporters of the local dance scene such as former WEA dancer Katrina Llanes, Movessential Studio owner Abigail Castillo, Viabox owner Vince Roxas, DJ Jerome Sto. Domingo, DJ Dee Buen, Jesse Pacleb, Carlo and Liza Lopez, Melany Del Rosario, Javier Suarez of FastFix Jewelers,

longtime event producers Arnold Manaog, Alger Brion and Mutch Carino, and photographer Jason Bascon were present.

Club Manila Los Angeles will be taking its infectious collection of dance tracks to Las Vegas on February 3 in Retro Pop Up Dance Party at C3 Bar & Grill. *** 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. *** micdiazpresents@gmail.com

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Wellness expo offering visitors to ‘go & get better’ for free AN exhibit showcasing the health & wellness tourism products and services that are available in the market today – including beauty and anti-aging offerings from the country’s leading dermatology clinics and boutiques – is one of the main attractions of the Health & Wellness CONFEX 2024 that will be held on January 26-28, 2024 at the SMX Convention Center at the Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City.

Co-presented by the Department of Tourism (DOT), in partnership with the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), and the Philippine Gaming and Amusement Corporation.

The threeday event will allow visitors to experience a number of health and wellness services of the exhibitors for free. For instance, the DOT booth will have trained hilot who can apply this age-old Filipino healing technique on visitors on a first-come, first-served basis.

Meanwhile, the DOH, which will have a five-section pavilion on the exhibition floor, will offer various consultation services. Section 1 will focus on dermatology and geriatrics, while Section 2 will provide nutrition and weight counseling. Healthcare professionals will man Section 3 which will offer HIV testing and counseling. Vaccination against flu will be available at Section 4, but this service will be limited to the first 115 visitors only per day. Section 5 will be for general consultations and for the monitoring of vital signs. Free medications may also be given to some visitors who need them.

This global initiative that aims to promote the Philippines as a health and wellness tourism destination will gather under one roof the stakeholders of the multitrillion dollar health & wellness industry. These include awardwinning wellness resorts to globally accredited hospitals that provide medical tourism packages, all the way to organic farms and specialty shops that offer a wide range of innovative, sustainable and eco-friendly health and wellness products and services.

With the theme “Go & Get Better,” this regenerative tourism-focused event will also feature a conference, business matching session, and various experiential activities. It is, in fact, the centerpiece of a global multimedia campaign that is designed to promote the country’s many health & wellness destinations, as well as its extensive array of health and wellness offerings.

As such, it will serve as the platform for launching an innovative television travel show-vlog that will allow viewers to explore the fascinating world of health & wellness amid the breathtaking natural wonders of the Philippines. Called OTW, the acronym for “On Travel & Wellness,” it will take viewers on a virtual trip to the country’s many tourist spots, while highlighting, at the same time, the importance of wellbeing, of keeping healthy and safe while leading an active lifestyle. Made up of 13 30-minute episodes, this show will feature stunning views of the picturesque beaches, magnificent dive sites, towering mountains and verdant woodlands that the Philippines is famous for. In addition, it will provide an indepth look at the country’s diverse wellness practices – including traditional healing arts – through compelling anecdotes and discussions with regional experts. OTW will be aired on GMA 7’s GTV. While Health & Wellness CONFEX 2024 is primarily designed to promote the Philippines as a world-class health & wellness tourism destination, it will also put

a special focus on catering to visitors who have become more health-conscious because of the pandemic, and who are looking for ways to live healthy and safely, yet still actively, in an environment where COVID-19 has become as common as the flu.

Another new segment forming part of the event, a wellness festival called Masigabo, is especially dedicated to Filipino migrant workers to be held on the third day of the expo. The Masigabo Wellness Festival consists of programs and activities that pay tribute to the industry and sacrifices of Filipino migrants, both Filipino immigrants and overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). More importantly, these activities are designed to make them feel better, relaxed and valued.

Experts will also be around to provide them with tips on how to remain healthy and improve their well-being amid issues confronting them.

And in line with this year’s theme, and with so many Filipinos living, residing, or working abroad, Masigabo seeks to encourage our Filipino migrants to become our country’s active tourism ambassadors to tell their friends overseas to come to the Philippines where they can “Go & Get Better!”.

The event is likewise supported by the Department of Agriculture, Department of Migrant Workers, Tourism Promotions Board, and Duty Free Philippines.

January 26-28, 2024 SMX Convention Center Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City, Philippines The Health & Wellness CONFEX is the only international B2B2C trade fair, sourcing platform, business matching, knowledge exchange, and brand showcase exclusively focused on sustainable wellness and lifestyle products and services with one objective of promoting the Philippines as a world-class destination for health & wellness.

It was launched in partnership with the Philippines’ Department of Tourism and the Tourism Promotions Board in April 2018 at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai, UAE, the biggest travel show in the Middle East, alongside a festivity for Filipinos dubbed as “Kabayan Fiestahan.”

The event was held in 2019 at the SMX Convention Center participated by key players in the wellness and medical tourism sectors and by various related industry stakeholders. It is considered the pioneer and the

only trade fair of its kind in the Philippines.

A series of webinars dealing with the virus and health and wellness, in general, took the place of this modest wellness tourism campaign during the pandemic, together with the television program “Graceful Living” aired on ANC Channel and hosted by Cory Quirino, focusing on the hows and whys of healthy living.

The 2024 event will even be a greater version with the following segments: • Conference and Exposition (ConfEx) on January 26-28, 2024 at SMX Manila • On Travel & Wellness (OTW), a TV-Vlog Travel Show on GMA 7’s GTV • Philippine Wellness Festival dubbed Masigabo in honor of Filipino Migrants 2024 Theme: “Go & Get Better: Regenerative Tourism Recharges All” With its theme “Go & Get Better: Regenerative Tourism Recharges All”, this event will raise awareness of the criticality of traveling with a mission to contribute to regenerative tourism. It urges everyone to be cognizant in having more purposeful intentions as they travel. Embracing a contributive mindset to support regenerative tourism enables us to help communities and tourist sites recover and progress as we explore them.

“Go & Get Better Metaverse App” Powered by Ark of Dreams (AOD) The Health & Wellness CONFEX 2024 is supported

by Ark of Dreams (AOD), a technology company that levels up brand user’s experiences with its interactive rewards platform, allowing the customers in engaging quests to redeem rewards from partnered brands.

By downloading the “Go & Get Better Metaverse App”, the visitors at the Media Launch and at the ConFex proper will be asked to explore the attractions or exhibitions, take part in the described quests, and earn points that entitle them to getting the rewards from the participating exhibitors.

“Go & Get Better”: The DecaWellness Tenets The idea of taking responsibility not only for one’s own well-being but that of a community and nature may be challenging, if not down-right daunting. For this reason, the Health & Wellness CONFEX with its “Go & Get Better” campaign has come-up with a lifestyle

guide to wellness that is easy to understand and follow.

Dubbed The Deca-Wellness Tenets, 10 key steps towards a better you and a better world are propounded for people to observe.

The global wellness economy according to Global Wellness Institute was valued at US$4.9 trillion in 2019. It slowed down to US$4.4 trillion in 2020 due to the widespread impact of COVID-19 pandemic. In 2022, the industry posted US$5.6 trillion, and is predicted to grow by an average of 9.9% per year to reach nearly US$7.0 trillion in 2025.

In 2020, the Philippines ranked #21 in the Global Wellness Economy Country Rankings, behind our ASEAN neighbor Indonesia (#19), but ahead of Thailand (#24), Malaysia (#26), Vietnam (#33), Singapore (#44), Myanmar (#71), Cambodia (#85), and Laos (#113). This shows that the country has the potential to rank among the Top 10 Wellness Economy Markets soon with the strong support of the government and the collective efforts of the private stakeholders.

“On Travel & Wellness” (OTW) OTW is an innovative television travel show-vlog that takes the viewers on a fun, vibrant, and informative virtual trip to the country’s breathtaking tourist spots while highlighting the importance of well-being, maintaining health, and staying safe while leading an active life. Apart from captivating the viewers with stunning views of the sunkissed beaches, magnificent dive sites, towering mountains, and verdant woodlands that the Philippines is famous for, it also takes an in-depth look at the country’s diverse wellness practices – including traditional healing arts – through compelling anecdotes and discussions with experts.

In short, OTW shows how travel can be a way to refresh, revive, and bring back balance and harmony to one’s life. This 30-minute, 13-episode show will be aired on GMA 7’s GTV. “Masigabo Wellness Festival” The Philippine Wellness Festival dubbed “Masigabo” is a celebration of life, love, togetherness, and family.

Envisioned to be a campaign for Filipinos to start living a healthy lifestyle, it is a program educating the people on the basics of a healthy lifestyle, like eating the right food, getting enough sleep, and doing simple exercises, among others. The expected result of this campaign is “wellness of community” where love abounds and people grow as one happy individual. Forming part of the Health & Wellness CONFEX, “Masigabo” pays tribute to Filipino Migrants in recognition of their sacrifices and contributions to strengthening our economy and securing the well-being of their families back home.

“Masigabo” is a Filipino word for loud and hearty that is often used in the phrase “masigabong palakpakan”, which means a loud and cheerful round of applause and that is exactly what Filipino migrant workers, better known as Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW), deserve. Aptly referred to as the Philippines’ new heroes, OFWs have for years been faithfully sending money to their families back home, which immensely contributed to the Philippine economy with their remittances reaching US$36.14 billion in 2022 alone.

Our vision is to reach out to as many Filipino migrants as we can beyond Philippine shores through a wellness tourism roadshow, a global campaign that seeks to promote the country as a world-class health and wellness center. With so many Filipinos living, residing, or working abroad, “Masigabo” seeks to encourage our Filipino migrants to become our country’s active tourism ambassadors to help speed up realizing our goal. n

How to obtain custody and visitation rights for...

PAGE B5 the stigma of “illegitimacy,” and promoting individual rather than State responsibility for child support ... as where the ostensible § 7540 presumptive father never developed a parental relationship with the child and the only established parent-child relationship is with a third person. Brian C. v. Ginger K. (2000) 77 CA4th 1198, 1200–1201, 92 CR2d 294, 296; In re Kiana A. (2001) 93 CA4th 1109, 1115, 113 CR2d 669, 675.

Procedurally, the ex boyfriend should file a Petition for Parentage as soon as the child is born. While the case is pending, the ex boyfriend may seek temporary visitation order although this may be on a limited

or even monitored basis. If successful in proving parentage, the ex boyfriend may be granted custody and visitation rights.

However, the ex boyfriend would also have the obligation of paying child support based on California guidelines. *** 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, APC 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, APC. is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kenneth@kenreyeslaw.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com.

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How bankruptcy can get rid of your financial stress Bankruptcy is nothing more than a legal remedy that allows you to regain control of your finances so that you can get back on your feet as quickly as possible.

Minding Your Finances Atty. RAymond BulAon ARE you having problems paying your debts? Are creditors calling you day and night threatening you with a wage garnishment, repossession, or foreclosure? Are you starting to feel hopeless and depressed about your situation and don’t know where to turn for help?

We are living in tough financial times. Economists are foreseeing a recession right around the corner. Soaring gas prices, businesses still struggling from the pandemic shutdowns, a lot of people who resorted to using credit cards to stay afloat while unemployed during the pandemic – these are just some of the causes of the financial hardship that a lot of people are experiencing. Or perhaps you may have suffered a job loss, foreclosure, lawsuit, divorce. or other unexpected calamity and you now find yourself overwhelmed with debt. You realize that your debt problems are not simply going to go away unless you do something about them but just don’t know where to start.

You have the right under federal law to file bankruptcy and get immediate relief from debt.

Bankruptcy is nothing more than a legal remedy that allows you to regain control of your finances so that you can get back on your feet as quickly as possible. Of course, it is not the answer to all financial problems but when appropriate for your situation, it may be the only way for you to get out of the mess you’re currently in.

Although Congress has passed tougher bankruptcy laws over the years, debt relief is still available – whether they are wiping out debts under Chapter 7, or reorganizing under Chapter 13. Depending on your circumstances, your debts can be wiped out under Chapter 7 in only a few months, or the Court may ask you to repay your creditors with lower monthly debt payments over a 3- to 5-year period. Either way, the goal is to help you recover financially and help you start a new life free from the burden of excessive debt.

Briefly, Chapter 7 allows you to cancel or discharge your debts

but in return, you must give up whatever non-exempt assets you may have. The good news is that most people don’t have much and whatever little they have, they are often protected by the exemption laws in bankruptcy.

So, it is a misconception that “once you file bankruptcy, you will automatically lose everything.” The truth is that most people keep everything they have (homes, cars, bank accounts, retirement plans, etc.) and they lose nothing at all. An experienced and knowledgeable attorney can evaluate your case and help you plan so that you can maximize your exemptions and claim the full benefits allowed by law.

Chapter 13, on the other hand, is a debt reorganization or debt consolidation plan. The court requires you to submit all your income information as well as a monthly budget to assess your ability to pay. Your Chapter 13 plan payments will be based on the surplus income as determined by the Court.

Chapter 13 allows you to keep valuable property such as your home or car (although you were behind on your mortgage and car payments at the time of filing) and will stop foreclosure and repossession immediately on the day your case is filed.

Credit card debts are included in your monthly payment under Chapter 13, and, in most cases, they can be significantly reduced or even totally eliminated.

The only way to know if bankruptcy is right for your situation is to consult with a professional who has the knowledge and experience to advise you regarding your options under bankruptcy law.

If you need debt relief, it is unnecessary for you to continue suffering under the huge burden of debt when the solution you need may be right under your nose. If anything, at least find out if bankruptcy is for you. Do it for yourself and your family. *** 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. *** 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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B8 JANUARY 27-30, 2024 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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