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FEBRUARY 2-8, 2024 Volume 17 - No.17 • 16 Pages

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Speaker just ‘facilitator’ of people’s DATELINE USA initiative, not its ‘orchestrator’ FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

by KRIXIA SUBINGSUBING, MARLON RAMOS Inquirer.net

MANILA — Leaders of the House of Representatives on Tuesday, January 30 insisted that they had no hand in the ongoing people’s initiative (PI) to amend the Constitution, countering senators’ claims at a Senate hearing during which the leading proponent of the

signature drive confirmed meeting with Speaker Martin Romualdez and other lawmakers.

Romualdez, who is accompanying President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on his official trip to Vietnam this week, admitted that he had met in his townhouse with the Ramos-era group People’s Initiative for Reform Modernization and Action (Pirma) and its convener, Noel Oñate, to discuss the people’s initiative.

Photo from Instagram/@ricohoey3

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Marcos, Duterte ‘drug war’ erupts

Meet the only Fil-Am golfer swinging his dreams in the PGA Tour

by ALEXIS ROMERO Philstar.com

BASKETBALL may be the Philippines’ quintessential sports but one Filipino American golfer is set to prove that amidst the hurdles of golf not being accessible to everyone, he is waving the Philippine flags in the PGA Tour.

This year, Rico Hoey is changing the game with Philippine flags standing tall — an unusual sight in a PGA Tour. He kickstarted his fourth PGA Tour game as a full-fledged member at the initial round at The American Express Tournament on Thursday, January

 PAGE 4

However, he clarified that his role during the meeting was merely as a “facilitator” and not as an “orchestrator.”

“While I support the spirit of civic engagement and participatory governance, my involvement in the people’s initiative has been purely advisory and in no way extends to mobilizing or leading their signature campaign,” Romualdez

FUN TIME. Members of the crowd at the Bagong Pilipinas kick-off rally pass around a huge ball at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on Sunday, Jan. 28. Around 400,000 people, including members of the Marcos administration Cabinet, lawmakers, local government officials, and the public, attended the event.

PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler

MANILA — Turning the tables on former President Rodrigo Duterte who had publicly called him a drug addict, President Marcos said on Monday, January 29 his predecessor is highly addicted to the painkiller fentanyl, the serious side effects of which may have affected his thinking and behavior.

Duterte, father of Vice President Sara Duterte, accused Marcos of being a drug addict in an expletive-filled speech in Davao City last Sunday, January 28, the latest in a series of events that showed a deepening rift between the two families.

The former president said Marcos was even

‘Difficult news’: CNN Marcos: PH firm on sovereignty, Amid Duterte-Marcos verbal spat, Philippines signing seeks peaceful talks with China public must stay neutral – groups off on January 31

by RUSSEL P. LORETO, TYRONE JASPER C. PIAD Inquirer.net

MANILA —Employees of award-winning broadcaster CNN Philippines gathered on Monday, January 29 in a general assembly to hear the sad news that had been circulating the past few days.

CNN Philippines president Benjie Ramos announced that nine years after debuting in the local broadcasting industry, CNN Philippines

 PAGE 3

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stressed on Tuesday, January 30 the Philippines’ resolute stance in defending its sovereignty against Chinese provocations, while emphasizing the country’s commitment to resolving issues through peaceful dialogues.

Marcos acknowledged that the South China Sea “remains to be a point of contention” during his meeting with Vietnamese President Vo Van

Thuong in Hanoi.

Marcos’ state visit also witnessed the signing of memoranda of understanding on “incident prevention and management in the South China Sea” and on cooperation between the coast guards of the Philippines and Vietnam.

“We are firm in defending our sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction against these Chinese provocations,” Marcos said.

 PAGE 4

by ZEUS LEGASPI Inquirer.net

MANILA — Multiple progressive groups have reminded Filipinos to remain impartial amid the heated exchange of accusations between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and former President Rodrigo Duterte.

Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) President Renato Reyes Jr. said in a statement on Tuesday, January 30 that the two factions are merely fighting over who controls the country’s ” spoils ” as neither

 PAGE 2

represents genuine change.

“At the end of the day, we cannot place our hopes in any of these factions given the interests they represent,” Reyes stressed.

Anakbayan, meanwhile, condemned the “pointing of fingers” between the two camps.

“Imbis na gumawa ng mga kongkretong hakbang para apulahin ang lumalalang krisis na dinaranas ng mamamayan, mas pinipili ng mga kampo ni Marcos Jr. at mga

 PAGE 4

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Marcos, Duterte ‘drug war’...

PAGE 1 on the drug watch list of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency. The PDEA denied on Monday that Marcos had ever been on its drug list.

Asked to react to Duterte’s tirades, Marcos said the use of fentanyl may have taken a toll on his predecessor.

“I think it’s the fentanyl.

Fentanyl is the strongest painkiller that you can buy.

It is highly addictive and it has very serious side effects, and PRRD has been taking the drug for a very long time now,” he said, referring to Duterte.

“When was the last time he told us that he was taking fentanyl? About five, six years ago, something like that,” Marcos told reporters at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay before leaving for Vietnam.

“After five, six years, it has to affect him, so I think that’s the reason he acted that way.

So, you know, I hope his doctors take better care of him. They should not allow this problem to persist,” he

added.

Pressed if he was categorically denying that he was involved in illegal drugs, Marcos laughed and replied: “I won’t even dignify that question.”

Duterte on Sunday also warned Marcos that the efforts by some administration allies to amend the Constitution through a people’s initiative signature campaign could lead to his suffering the fate of his late father and namesake, who was ousted in the 1986 People Power revolution.

Swindling the people The former president claimed that politicians behind the signature campaign, including Marcos’ cousin Speaker Martin Romualdez, are “swindling” the people and are trying to perpetuate themselves in power.

In its website, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration said fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid drug approved by the Food

From the Front Page

and Drug Administration for use as an analgesic or pain relief and anesthetic.

According to the agency, fentanyl is approximately 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin as an analgesic.

Fentanyl overdose can cause stupor, changes in pupil size, clammy skin, cyanosis, coma and respiratory failure leading to death, the drug enforcement agency said.

When he was president, Duterte admitted to using fentanyl because it made him feel better. In one of his speeches, Duterte said his doctor had advised him to stop using the drug because he might lose his cognitive ability.

The 78-year-old former president also disclosed in 2018 that his partner, a former nurse, had warned him that fentanyl could turn him into an addict.

Duterte hurled the accusation against Marcos PAGE 4

Speaker Romualdez just ‘facilitator’...

PAGE 1 said in a statement sent to reporters. “The initiative and its operations are entirely led and managed by the group themselves.”

He also denied involvement in vote-buying and urged the public to “avoid conflating support for civic discourse with direct involvement in specific initiatives.”

Operational aspects During Tuesday’s Senate committee hearing on electoral reforms and people’s participation, Oñate admitted that Romualdez and other members of the House had been helping them in their nationwide campaign.

He said he met with Romualdez on Jan. 8 to discuss the operational and administrative aspects of the process.

Fielding questions from Sen. Francis Escudero, the Pirma official said he initially approached former Ako Bicol Rep. Alfredo Garbin Jr. and Cagayan de Oro City Rep. Rufus Rodriguez a month ago to discuss efforts to alter the Charter.

In several social gatherings, Oñate said he shared his experience pushing for Charter change (Cha-cha) during the Ramos administration.

He said they decided to solicit the assistance of House members since the Constitution mandated that the signatures of voters per legislative district were needed in proposing constitutional revisions through the people’s initiative. with the congressmen because 3 percent per congressional district was needed, and [they] are the leaders of the congressional districts,” Oñate said.

The Constitution also requires a petition signed by at least 12 percent of the registered voters nationwide.

Photo evidence Quizzed by Sen. Imee Marcos, who presided over the hearing as committee chair, Oñate said he had never spoken with Romualdez and Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co, who heads the House appropriations committee.

“I did not talk to [Co],” Oñate told Marcos.

“Is that so? Are you sure?

Because you had many meetings, parties, and dinners.

Are you sure that the Speaker and Co were not there at your events?” Marcos asked.

Garbin also claimed that the two House leaders did not attend any gatherings they hosted to discuss Cha-cha.

However, Marcos presented a photo showing Garbin and Oñate with Romualdez, Co and several lawyers.

The picture, apparently sent from Oñate’s mobile phone, had the caption “People’s Initiative for Charter Change Staff Meeting,” taken on Jan. 8.

Pressed to comment on the photo, Oñate admitted they met with Romualdez to ask for assistance as the “CEO of the (House).”

He initially hesitated to provide other details of the meeting but later recalled that it was held at the Speaker’s house in Makati City.

Reminded by Marcos that he just mentioned that he had never met with Romualdez and Co, he replied: “It [just] slipped my mind.”

According to Marcos, it was “very clear” that Romualdez was indeed backing the people’s initiative despite his previous denials.

To which Oñate responded, “Yes. We coordinated with the speaker and the congressmen in getting the 3 percent per congressional district. That’s correct.”

No direct involvement The House leadership sought to defend Romualdez and themselves from allegations that they were personally involved in the initiative.

They had previously affirmed their support for the people’s initiative and coordinated with Pirma on doing the grunt work in the legislative districts but had consistently denied direct involvement in it.

In a press briefing on Tuesday, Deputy Speaker David Suarez, Majority Leader Manuel Dalipe, Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales, and Bataan Rep. Geraldine Roman said they were insulted by the “malicious interpretation” of Romualdez’s photo with the Pirma members.

“Let’s not take things out of context,” Suarez said. “Like any other Filipino meeting, it always ends up with a picture.

It shouldn’t be taken with malice, it had nothing to do with ill intent and the photo was just used for propaganda and political gain.”

Echoing his sentiment, Roman noted that even if they were involved in the people’s

initiative, Article 17 of the 1987 Constitution itself mandates Congress “to provide for the implementation” of the people’s right to propose amendments to the Constitution via the initiative, which requires the signatures of 12 percent of the country’s registered voters, of which every legislative district must be represented by at least 3 percent of their voters.

“It has to be as organic as possible. We cannot ourselves be the ones to push the initiative. Hindi kami tanga (We’re not stupid),” Roman said.

Promise of gov’t aid During the Senate hearing, Marcos also presented screenshots of the supposed exchange of Viber messages among a group of chiefs of staff of House leaders.

In one of the messages, a certain Ayeen Sian instructed the lawmakers’ staff members about the “People’s Initiative Project.”

Sian reportedly said that the House members who will take part in collecting signatures for the people’s initiative may send a request for the release of a total of P20 million worth of government aid from the Department of Social Welfare and Development, the Department of Health and the Department of Labor and Employment.

“Please be advised that this is strictly confidential,” Sian told the House staffers.

Marcos also presented nine witnesses, four of whom admitted they received money in exchange for signing the petition submitted to the Commission on Elections.

Upon the request of her colleagues, the senator issued a subpoena compelling lawyer Anthony Abad to attend the next hearing.

Abad’s name appeared in the forms Pirma distributed to gather signatures for the people’s initiative.

Escudero, a lawyer, said Oñate’s admission could torpedo the entire Cha-cha campaign as the Supreme Court had previously ruled that politicians should not take part in a people’s initiative.

The high court, he said, had declared that “once the government or government officials support, participate in or endorse a so-called ‘people’s initiative,’ this is no longer an expression of the people’s sovereign will.” g

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‘Difficult news’: CNN Philippines signing...

PAGE 1 would cease operations on all media platforms on Wednesday, Jan. 31 as Nine Media Corp., the franchise holder of the global media brand, struggled to keep the company financially afloat.

“It is with heavy heart that we share the difficult news that Nine Media’s news production will stop its operations due to serious financial losses, made even worse by the pandemic,” said Ramos, who turned emotional as he delivered the news.

“Despite our best efforts … it has become increasingly clear that we are not able to sustain our operations,” he pointed out.

CNN Philippines had trouble paying its annual franchise fees of P55 to P60 million after its advertising revenues fell short of its costs as fewer people watched free TV. In the nine years it went on air, CNN Philippines had accumulated financial losses exceeding P5 billion.

CNN Philippines first aired in 2015 after Nine Media secured a licensing deal with The Cable News Network

(CNN), an international news channel based in Atlanta, Georgia, owned by Turner Broadcasting Corp.

It has been using RPN 9’s free TV frequency, which will revert to government control following the shutdown.

International recognition In an advisory on Monday, CNN Philippines extended gratitude to all its staff, partners and viewers for their support.

“To our staff, we thank you for your commitment and dedication,” it said. “And to our viewers, our sincerest gratitude for your loyalty and trust over the past nine years.”

The media outlet is signing off with several accolades under its belt.

Just last month, CNN Philippines was named “Premier Business Best Broadcast Media Company in the Philippines” at the first Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Awards.

Veteran journalist Rico Hizon was also recently awarded “best factual presenter” at the Asian Academy Creative Awards.

All CNN Philippines employees were retrenched and would be given separation pay as a result of the outlet’s closure, a source told the Inquirer.

The source said that although they are officially employed until Feb. 29, CNN Philippines would no longer be producing content.

Asked if the affected employees could be absorbed by other media outlets under the ALC Group of Companies, the source said the management did not mention anything about it.

The ALC Group owns other media entities such as Business Mirror, Philippine Graphic, Pilipino Mirror, Aliw Channel 23 and Cook Magazine.

In an advisory on Monday, the broadcaster said it would “discontinue operations on all media platforms effective Wednesday, Jan. 31.”

The network reportedly lost more than P5 billion as it tried to compete with media giants on free television “To our staff, we thank you for your commitment and dedication,” CNN Philippines

3

Veteran broadcast journalist and senior anchor Rico Hizon leaves the CNN Philippines headquarters in Mandaluyong City on Monday after the local franchise holder of the global media brand announced it will cease operations on Jan. 31 due to financial losses.

Inquirer.net photo by Grig Montegrande

said. “To our partners, including CNN Worldwide/ Turner Broadcasting Corp., we are grateful for your support.”

“To our loyal viewers, thank you for giving us purpose. We are honored to have served you,” the media corporation added.

The decision not to renew the CNN franchise and shut down the Philippine operations—which will affect about 300 employees—had been made last year and approved by Nine Media of the Cabangon family, but the latter decided to defer implementation until after the

Christmas holiday season.

Transparency from employers Meanwhile, the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) issued a statement on Friday urging media workers to organize and demand transparency from their employers, especially in light of the shutdown of CNN Philippines.

“Each newsroom that goes dark is one less source of reliable information for the public and is a loss for our community and profession,” said Jonathan de Santos on X (formerly Twitter).

“It is cruel to have to find out about your company’s potential plans from news reports and from gossip instead of from leadership that expects media workers to be on call and updated on issues of the day but are silent on pressing workplace issues,” NUJP said.

“The apparent lack of communication between management and staff over the coming changes highlights the need for workplace organizing to, at minimum, ensure that employees are kept abreast of corporate developments that will affect them,” it added. g

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Filipino internet mourns the passing of Chris Punsalan’s beloved grandmother

by Mary Grace ToMines Inquirer.net

HONORING THE WORD. A staff of the Philippine Christian Bookstore (PCBS) arranges Holy Bibles and other books on Christian living and spiritual growth on display at its store inside Centris Mall, Quezon City on Monday, Jan. 29, which is National Bible Day in the Philippines. Republic Act 11163 authored by Senator Manny Pacquiao and signed by President Rodrigo Duterte in 2018 institutionalized PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler the observance every last Monday of January to recognize and honor God and His word.

Amid Duterte-Marcos verbal spat...

PAGE 1

Duterte na magbardagulan para sa sariling interes nila,” Anakbayan national spokesperson Kate Almenzo said.

(Instead of taking concrete steps to address the worsening crisis experienced by the people, the camps of Marcos Jr. and the Dutertes choose to engage in a brawl for their interests.)

Fisherfolk group Pamalakaya likewise condemned

Duterte’s “hi-jacking” of the fight against Charter change, noting that the former president himself did not honor the Constitution during his administration.

The group alleged that Duterte “openly surrendered” the country’s “national sovereignty to China in exchange for foreign loans,” which they said increased Beijing’s military presence in the West Philippine Sea to the detriment of Filipino

fisherfolk.

In a speech during a prayer rally at Davao City on Sunday, a fuming Duterte alleged that Marcos has been on the watch list of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA). He claimed the list was shown to him when he was still mayor of Davao City.

But PDEA denied such a claim, saying President Marcos Jr. was never on the government’s drug watch list.g

Marcos, Duterte ‘drug war’...

PAGE 2 during a prayer rally attended by opponents of the people’s initiative campaign in Davao.

It was held on the same day the administration conducted a rally for its governance branding “Bagong Pilipinas” in Manila.

The vice president, who is also the education secretary, attended the Bagong Pilipinas event but left early to participate in the Davao prayer rally.

During the Bagong Pilipinas rally, Marcos emphasized the need for unity and positive change and assailed what he described as “toxic politics.”

Duterte’s accusations against the president and the speaker further fueled rumors of an internal strife within UniTeam, the coalition that carried Marcos and Duterte to election victory in the 2022 elections.

Appeal to AFP, PNP In his speech , Duterte also called on the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police to protect the Constitution.

However, it was not the

first time Duterte criticized Marcos. Months before the 2022 polls, Duterte described Marcos as “spoiled” and a “weak leader” with “baggage.”

The former president, known for his freewheeling and profanity-laced speeches, also claimed that a candidate for president who belongs to a wealthy family was using cocaine but did not name names.

Talk about the supposed cracks within UniTeam surfaced after Marcos’ allies in the House of Representatives realigned the confidential funds of agencies led by Duterte, the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education.

Last October, the former president accused Romualdez of “swallowing” discretionary funds and labeled the House of Representatives as the “most rotten” institution.

House members denied the allegations and approved a resolution affirming the chamber’s integrity.

In a media interview in

Hawaii last November, Marcos denied that there were cracks in the UniTeam alliance.

“I don’t think so. It is even becoming more solid,” the president said.

PDEA, meanwhile, said that its national drug information system (NDIS), the intelligence database of drug personalities, does not include the name of President Marcos from its inception to the present.

“President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. was never in our NDIS,” PDEA said in a statement.

Despite the denial, Duterte said he will never apologize to Marcos.

At a press briefing, PDEA spokesman Derrick Carreon told reporters that access of politicians or local government officials to the drug list is limited to their specific jurisdictions.

“Perhaps if we were to surmise the level of coverage of authority of a mayor, if we were to speak local authorities, he will only have access within the area of his political unit,” Carreon said. g

CHRIS Punsalan has shared the sad news of his 97-year-old Kapampangan grandmother, Anicia Santos Manipon passing on Monday, January 29, 2024.

Punsalan, who is a musician and FilAm content creator, became well-known for being a full-time caregiver to his grandma. Their social media journey began in 2019 when his TikTok video about his typical day as a caregiver went viral. Since then, Punsalan continued to document their moments, and their inspiring videos have earned him a massive following on various social media platforms, including 2.4 million TikTok followers, 962,000 Facebook followers, and 1 million Instagram followers.

Chris Punsalan has shared the sad news of his 97-year-old Kapampangan grandmother, Anicia Santos Manipon passing on Monday, January 29. Photo from Instagram/@chrispunsalan

In a TikTok video, Punsalan expressed his heartbreak over his grandmother’s passing, saying, “My heart is broken, grandma fought so hard and lived such a fruitful life. I’m relieved that she can finally rest and she’s in better hands than we could’ve ever provided. I love you forever Grandma.”

Many digital and video creators have also expressed

their sympathy and shared their memories of Grandma.

Social media users have penned their gratitude to Punsalan for sharing his grandmother with them.

The collective heartache resonates, and Punsalan has not posted anything following the confirmation of his grandmother’s passing. May she rest in peace. g

Marcos: PH firm on sovereignty, seeks...

PAGE 1 The Philippines and China earlier agreed to improve communication and “calmly deal” with incidents in the strategically and economically important waterway.

Relations between the Philippines and China have deteriorated in recent months, with both sides clashing on several occasions in the disputed waters and trading

accusations over the incidents.

Marcos also expressed his “great concern” over tensions across the Taiwan Strait to Thuong. He noted that any conflict in Taiwan would affect the northern parts of the Philippines and may compromise the safety of approximately 170,000 Filipinos working and residing on the democratic island.

Marcos’ congratulatory

message to Taiwan’s president-elect Lai Chingte earlier this month drew a sharp rebuke from Beijing.

Philippine authorities, however, reiterated the country was committed to the One China policy.

Beijing claims Taiwan as its territory and has vowed to take the island one day—by force, if necessary. (Gaea Katreena Cabico/Philstar.com)

Meet the only Fil-Am golfer swinging his...

PAGE 1 25.

“It was kind of cool having everyone out here, my family, my dad, girlfriend, coaches, everyone,” Hoey said during the tournament. “Feels like a home event for me. I only live an hour away. I grew up out here, playing junior tournaments out here, so it was fun.”

Filipino American golfer Rico Hoey’s journey Born in the Philippines and raised in Rancho Cucamonga, California, Hoey grew up in an athletic family with both sisters also playing golf. This Filipino American golfer’s passion began at home.

Honing his skills at Rancho Cucamonga High and USC, he’d already showcased his talents that proved his success one day — competing not just for the U.S. but also for the Philippines during his

teen years. He was part of the Philippine National team in 2013 Putra Cup and was one of the top players in the “Dream Team.”

He won the Callaway Junior World Championship and the Junior America’s Cup in 2012.

Before he claimed his ticket to the PGA Tour, his journey was not without hurdles.

In 2017, after turning pro and playing for PGA Tour Canada for the first time where he triumphed in the Freedom 55 Financial Championship at around 22 years old, he suffered injuries, inconsistent results and low spirits.

Thanks to the director of golf at Goose Creek Golf Club in Southern California, Ross Fisher, who saw his golf potential and gave him a job at Goose Creek.

“It was a low point for me, where it’s like, I’m injured, I have nothing to do, I’d rather

do something than sit around, and (Fisher) was the one who envisioned everything, even through those tough times,” Hoey shared with PGA Tour. com.

Fast forward to 2023, his career took an unexpected turn — a win at the Korn Ferry Tour’s Visit Knoxville Open with high stats marked his comeback and paved the way for his chance at the PGA Tour.

Meanwhile, Hoey will start at No.10 this Thursday with four birdies before his turn.

While birdie holes 1,4, 5, 6 and 7 will put him in a tie with Christiaan Bezuidenhout for second place.

This Filipino American golfer’s history is still being written, with each tournament and round a new chapter in his burgeoning career. We just can’t wait to see what’s next for Rico Hoey. (Mary Villegas/ Inquirer.net)

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NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • FEBRUARY 2-8, 2024

OPINION

FEATURES

The untouchables

5

AS President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte swapped charges of illegal drug use, one question inevitably came up: if they are both sure of their allegations, why hasn’t either of them been charged or arrested on drug-related offenses?

Duterte cast the first stone by accusing Marcos, in a prayer rally in Davao City on Sunday night, January 28 of being a drug abuser. Back when he was mayor of the city, Duterte said, Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was on the drug watch of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency. He did not name Marcos, Duterte said, because they are friends. The PDEA denied this on Monday, Januaruy 29. During the 2022 presidential race, Duterte had also warned voters about an alleged cocaine addict among the contenders. He did not name the candidate.

President Marcos said he would not dignify the accusation with a reply. But he said Duterte’s tirade might have been caused by prolonged use of fentanyl, a powerful opioid that has caused deaths in the U.S. and other countries. Duterte had admitted during his presidency that he had been prescribed fentanyl against chronic pain following a motorcycle accident when he was

68 years old.

Fentanyl is a controlled substance in the Philippines; cocaine is a prohibited drug.

Duterte had carried out the bloodiest crackdown in the country’s history against prohibited drugs, since his days as Davao City mayor until he became president. He had campaigned for the presidency in 2016 on a platform of ridding the country of the drug menace in six months.

At the end of his presidency, the police reported killing over 6,000 drug personalities in law enforcement operations. Nearly all those killed were from low-income families, including several teenagers. Meanwhile, alleged largescale traffickers such as Cebu businessman Peter Lim, who was on the PDEA’s list of most wanted but whose family reportedly supported Duterte’s campaign for the presidency, appeared untouchable. If Duterte had known all along that Bongbong Marcos was a drug addict,

Editorial

ManilaTimes.net photo

why was the latter spared from the brutal crackdown on illegal drugs? Was it also out of gratitude for the Marcoses’ political support?

Duterte’s war on drugs was hounded by criticism of selective law enforcement. Today drug killings continue, although the scale is much less than during Duterte’s time. The

Marcos administration has been pursuing a kinder, gentler approach to fighting the drug scourge, with emphasis on rehabilitation. The word war that has erupted between President Marcos and Duterte shows the complexity of the drug problem and the need for new approaches. (Philstar.com)

Charter change: Only the economic provisions should be included

Babe’s Eye View BABE ROMUALDEZ SO much controversy is being unnecessarily generated with this Charter change issue but in reality, changes to the overly protectionist economic provisions in the 1987 Constitution should be debated upon because it hinders the country from

realizing its full economic potential. So many limitations on foreign ownership to just 40 percent in various sectors such as advertising and mass media, and even educational institutions, is already irrelevant today.

We’re glad that after initially indicating that economic Charter change was not a priority, President Marcos is now seeing the need to make adjustments, saying that the “1987 Constitution was not

written for a globalized world.

And that is where we are now.

We have to adjust so that we can increase the economic activities in the Philippines and attract more foreign investors.”

In a report published by pwc.com, the Philippines in 2020 ranked “third most restrictive out of the 84 countries in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)’s foreign direct investment

regulatory restrictiveness index (FDI Index)” based on four types of restrictions – foreign equity limitations; discriminatory screening or approval mechanisms; restrictions on the employment of foreigners as key personnel and other operational restrictions.

“The restrictions are evaluated on a 0 to 1 scale (1 being the most restrictive).

It is no surprise that the Philippines scored 0.374,

as we have several laws restricting FDI and most of them are enshrined directly in the Constitution,” the report said.

All the investment pledges and other economic gains from the foreign trips that the President has made would come to a full stop if the problematic provisions and restrictions that businessmen and potential investors have been complaining about are not addressed. This is also a

major reason why we have been losing out in terms of foreign direct investments to our neighbors in ASEAN like Vietnam, and other countries that have a similar political system as ours, because our economic policies have been too restrictive and inflexible – not to mention outdated and unresponsive to the changing needs of a highly globalized world.

There are a lot of investment PAGE 10

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

7

ANC to continue airing – ABS-CBN THE ABS-CBN News Channel (ANC) will remain on the air, parent network ABS-CBN said on Monday, January 29, despite the looming shutdown of broadcasts by SkyCable.

"ANC, the ABS-CBN News Channel, will continue its operations on February 26 as recently announced," the network wrote.

ANC programs will remain on air through partner cable television providers

nationwide and online via its YouTube channel and the ABS-CBN News website.

These programs will also be on iWantTFC and The Filipino Channel.

ANC's late night news bulletin, "The World Tonight," can also be viewed on the pay TV Kapamilya Channel at 11 p.m. on weeknights.

The announcement came after another news channel, CNN Philippines,

announced its shutdown on Monday, January 29 following "significant financial losses." It will formally go off-air on Wednesday, January 31.

SkyCable's operations are expected to go off-air for good by the end of the next month, following the Philippine Competition Commission's approval of the sale of the cable provider to PLDT for P6.75 billion.

(ManilaTimes.net)

Marcos calls for immediate ceasefire in Gaza

MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R.Marcos Jr. reiterated the Philippines’ call for a ceasefire in Gaza amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

In December 2023, the Philippines supported the United Nations (UN) resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

The Philippines supports the efforts of the United Nations to deliver urgent humanitarian assistance and essential supplies to

Palestinian civilians caught in the midst of the conflict in the Gaza Strip. We also continue to support the UN peacekeeping missions in the region,” Marcos said in a meeting with Vietnamese President Võ Van Thuong.

“We urge all parties to exert restraint to prevent the escalation of the conflict and that the Philippines supports the immediate ceasefire in Gaza,” said Marcos.

The president also said that the Philippines supports

a two-state solution, as both Israelis and Palestinians deserve security.

Israeli forces have been bombing Gaza since October 2023, but the antagonism between Israel and Palestine has been ongoing for decades since the former occupied Palestinian land.

The Palestinian side has borne the majority of the violence, with the Gaza siege resulting in the death of at least 20,000 locals. (Inquirer. net)

Deeper devotion of faithful seen as Quiapo Church now a national shrine MANILA – Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna on Tuesday, January 30 expressed hope that the elevation of the Quiapo Church to a national shrine will inspire more Catholics to develop an even more intense devotion.

“We expect more people to be drawn to our very popular Quiapo Church, which had created a huge religious and cultural impact on the nation as a whole, even bridging the gap between societal classes particularly during the holding of the annual ‘Traslacion’, easily the most deeply-revered religious event in the country,” she said in a statement.

Lacuna added that even before the official declaration, the Quiapo Church or Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno, had long been esteemed as a shrine not only by Manila residents and devotees of the Black Nazarene but also by the Catholic faithful both here and abroad.

Quiapo Church

During Monday's rites, January 29, Msgr. Bernardo Patin, secretary-general of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), handed over to Quiapo Church rector Fr. Jun Sescon the decree that now classifies the basilica as a national shrine during the solemn declaration which

PNA file photo by Joan Bondoc

was attended by over 70 bishops, other members of the clergy and devotees.

Canonically known as the Saint John the Baptist Parish, the Quiapo Church was recognized by Pope John Paul II in 1987 as the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene for its cultural impact on the PAGE 10

SIGNATURE CAMPAIGN INQUIRY. Senator Imee Marcos (in green, left photo), chairperson of the Committee on Electoral Reforms and People’s Participation, presides over an investigation at the Senate in Pasay City on Tuesday, Jan. 30 regarding controversies surrounding the People’s Initiative, including signature-buying, in order to amend the constitution. Also present during the Senate inquiry are Commission on Elections Chair George Erwin Garcia (leftmost, lower photo) and Noel Oñate (middle, upper right photo), lead convenor of People’s Initiative for Reform, Modernization and Action.

PNA photos by Avito Dalan

49% of Pinoys believe life will improve

by Ma. Reina TolenTino ManilaTimes.net

NEARLY 50 percent (49 percent) of adult Filipinos believe their lives will improve in the next six months, as shown in the latest OCTA Research "Tugon ng Masa" survey on optimism and pessimism about the country's economy and quality of life.

The survey was for the last quarter of 2023.

"About 49 percent of adult Filipinos believe that their quality of life will improve over the next six months. Meanwhile, about 45 percent believe that their quality of life will stay the same, and only 4 percent think that it will worsen," OCTA Research said.

In Metro Manila, 54 percent of the respondents said they believed their lives would improve.

Optimism was highest in the Visayas, with 58 percent of respondents saying they believed their lives would improve. This was followed by 49 percent in Balance Luzon and 40 percent in Mindanao.

On the other hand, the percentage of respondents who believed their life would be worse (pessimism) was highest in Mindanao at 10 percent.

This was followed by Metro Manila at 3 percent, Visayas at 2 percent and Balance Luzon at 1 percent.

"In terms of socioeconomic classes, the lowest percentage of adult Filipinos who believe that their quality of life will improve over the next six months is observed in Class E (35percent), while the highest percentage of those who said that their quality of life will improve also came from Class E at 8percent," OCTA Research said.

"Class ABC had the highest percentage of those who said that their quality of life will be better in the next six months (56 percent)," it added.

Meanwhile, 38 percent of the respondents said they believed the country's economy would improve in the next six months.

"This is the first time in three quarters that a recovery in this data point was observed," OCTA Research said.

"Additionally, 51 percent think that the economy will remain the same, while 8 percent believe it will become worse."

In Metro Manila, 45 percent of respondents believed the economy would improve.

The percentage was higher in the Visayas, with 53 percent of respondents

saying they believed the economy would improve in the next several months.

Thirty-seven percent of respondents from the Visayas believed the economy would remain the same, while 8 percent believed it would worsen.

In Mindanao, 36 percent of respondents believed the economy would improve.

Half of the respondents from Mindanao believed the economy would remain the same, while 13 percent believed it would worsen.

In Balance Luzon, 30 percent of respondents believed the economy would improve.

More respondents here (59 percent) believed it would remain the same, while 7 percent believed it would be worse.

"In terms of socioeconomic classes, the highest percentage of adult Filipinos who believe that the Philippine economy will improve over the next six months is in Class ABC (51 percent)," OCTA said.

"In contrast, the highest percentage of adult Filipinos who think that the Philippine economy will worsen over the next six months is in Class E (12 percent)," it said.

The survey, conducted from December 10 to 14, had 1,200 adult respondents interviewed face to face. g

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PUVMP removes Philippines from Bersamin to meet UN Rapporteur Khan Third World status – transport group

by Catherine s. Valente

by Bella Cariaso Philstar.com

MANILA — Compliance with the public utility vehicle modernization program (PUVMP) is necessary for the Philippines to not be considered a Third World country, a transport group claimed.

“We are already delayed in our modernization program.

This is the reason why we are still being categorized as a Third World country.

The modernization is included in the qualifications for us to be removed from the third world country,” Liga ng Transportasyon at Operators ng Pilipinas president Orlando Marquez Sr. said in a radio interview.

President Marcos earlier approved a three-month extension, or until April 30, for the consolidation of PUVs. The deadline for the consolidation – a key component of the PUVMP – lapsed last Dec. 31, 2023.

The crackdown on colorum or unauthorized public

ManilaTimes.net

utility jeepneys was supposed to start on Feb. 1.

Marquez said that while he supports the extension, he is opposing the PUVMP provision in which the entire cooperative will be suspended if one member commits violations.

Other transport groups have criticized the PUVMP amid the phaseout of traditional jeepneys, such as the Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide or Piston led by its president Mody Floranda and Manibela led by Mar Valbuena.

Floranda said that under Republic Act 4136, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board and the Department of Transportation have no right to cancel PUV franchises.

Appoint traffic czar The Philippine government should appoint a traffic czar and implement a holistic plan to address the traffic crisis in Metro Manila, according to a business group.

In a statement on Monday, January 29,, the Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) said the crisis “can be mitigated with strong political will, competent management with resolute short, medium and longterm measures.”

“Policy must reflect the reality that road space is a finite public resource which must be judiciously and efficiently used to move people, instead of private vehicles,” they added.

The group recommends the declaration of a traffic crisis and the appointment of a new traffic management team headed by a traffic czar as a first step.

In its recommended plan, Metro Manila would be organized into four traffic management zones headed by a qualified zone traffic manager. The Mabuhay Lanes would also be revived as alternate routes to relieve traffic congestion along major routes.

PAGE 10

EXECUTIVE Secretary Lucas Bersamin will meet with United Nations Special Rapporteur Irene Khan in Malacañang, the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) confirmed on Wednesday, January 31.

In a statement, the PTFoMS said that Bersamin and Khan are scheduled to hold a meeting at 4 p.m.

Thursday at the Bonifacio Hall in Malacañang.

Khan arrived in the Philippines last January 22 and will be in the country until February 2 to assess the current state of rights to freedom of opinion and expression.

The PTFoMs did not mention if the human rights situation in the Philippines, particularly the issue on the previous administration's war on drugs, would be discussed during the meeting between Bersamin and Khan.

But the meeting comes amid reports that the International Criminal Court

(ICC) investigators were able to gather information and evidence for a possible case of crime against humanity on former president Rodrigo Duterte and other personalities linked to the drug war of the previous administration.

Last week, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. insisted that the Philippine government "will not lift a finger to help any investigation" of the ICC. "Let me say this for the 100th time. I do not recognize the jurisdiction of [the] ICC in the Philippines. I consider this as a threat to our sovereignty," Marcos told reporters in a chance interview in Quezon City.

"Therefore, the Philippine government will not lift a finger to help any investigation that the ICC conducts," he added.

The president said that while ICC officials "can come and visit the Philippines," authorities would ensure that "they do not come into contact with any agency of government."

Marcos reiterated that government agencies have been instructed not to answer if the ICC gets in touch with them.

"We do not recognize your jurisdiction; therefore, we will not assist in any way, shape, or form, in any investigation that the ICC is doing in the Philippines," he added.

In January 2023, the ICC authorized the reopening of the inquiry after it was suspended in November 2021, and in July 2023, the ICC Appeals Chamber also denied the government's petition against the resumption of the inquiry.

In November last year, Marcos said that returning to the fold of the international tribunal is "under study," although he recognized problems on the jurisdiction issue.

The Philippines withdrew from the Rome Statute in 2019 during the Duterte administration after the tribunal began an investigation into his administration's drug war. g

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AFP expects ‘bigger, more diverse’ Balikatan in April MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday, January 30 said this year’s iteration of the “Balikatan” military exercises with the United States will be longer and more diverse.

Balikatan 2023

“The difference now and last year’s ‘Balikatan’ is we are going to have more exercises in key positions all over the country. Aside from quantity we will heavily lean on towards quality training,” AFP spokesperson Col.

Philstar.com file photo

Francel Margareth Padilla said in a press conference at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

She said the number of Filipino and American soldiers have yet to be determined along with the equipment that will be used in the annual military exercises along with possible locations.

Last year’s “Balikatan” consisted of 17,767 soldiers -- 12,187 Americans; 5, 469 Filipinos; and 111 Australians.

During last year’s iteration, Filipino and American troops conducted the first ever sinking exercise (SINKEX) off San Antonio, Zambales where a decommissioned World War II corvette was sunk jointly.

“Aside from kinetic activities and littoral airspace and landscape, we will also be doing exercises in the non-physical domain such as cyberspace and information warfare,” Padilla said. (PNA)

US DOJ pays courtesy call on SC justices MANILA — Representatives of the U.S. Department of Justice paid a courtesy call on Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo and Supreme Court Associate Justice Jose Midas Marquez to discuss partnership opportunities.

Members of the U.S. DOJ’s Office of Overseas

Prosecutorial Development Assistance and Training met with the SC justices at the conference room last Thursday, January 26.

During the courtesy visit, among the topics discussed was the possible assistance from the U.S. government on the preparation of a man-

ual and training for judges in relation to the Rules on the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020.

Apart from this, the selection process and composition of the Office of the Judiciary Marshalls were also taken up at the meeting. (Nillicent Bautista/Philstar.com)

PUVMP removes Philippines from...

PAGE 9 The group also stressed the need to comply with the National Economic Zone Authority-formulated National Transport Plan existing since 2017, to prioritize mass public transport over private vehicles as well as prioritize allocation of road

space for busways.

The EDSA Busway system, they noted, has been proven as the most cost-effective urban mass transit system.

“But this EDSA Busway remains uncompleted, and must urgently and expeditiously be privatized through the public-private partnership model

and brought to world-class standards,” they said.

“The Busway System must be expanded and replicated to cover other major thoroughfares, such as Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon Avenue, Sucat Avenue, Alabang-Zapote Road and others,” they added. g

Deeper devotion of faithful seen as...

PAGE 7 religiosity of Filipinos.

It has become worldfamous for drawing millions of devotees during the holding of the procession of the Black Nazarene every Jan. 9.

During its 126th plenary assembly in Aklan in July last year, the CBCP has

decided and subsequently announced that from being an archdiocesan shrine, the Quiapo Church will be officially declared as a national shrine on Jan. 29, 2024.

It approved Manila Archbishop Cardinal Jose Advincula’s petition to designate the home of the centuries-old image of

the Black Nazarene as the nation’s 29th national shrine.

A national shrine is a Catholic Church or other sacred place which has met certain requirements, and is given the honor by the national episcopal conference in recognition of the church's special cultural, historical, and religious significance.

(PNA)

PETITION. Former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque (4th from left) and Sonshine Media Network International anchors and reporters file an injunction against an indefinite cease and desist order before the Supreme Court on Tuesday, Jan. 30. The petitioners said the National Telecommunications Commission’s action infringes on their freedom of expression and the press.

PNA photo by Yancy Lim

Charter change: Only the economic...

PAGE 5

opportunities that are available to us, especially from the United States because of the strong economic and security relationship we have today. This is underscored by the highly anticipated Presidential Trade and Investment Mission arriving in March headed by U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, with a top-level delegation composed of CEOs representing over 100 companies. The trade mission is expected to open up more investment opportunities in clean energy, critical minerals, agriculture, infrastructure, innovation economy and other sectors.

Other countries are also looking at investment opportunities in the Philippines, such as Germany that is interested in the renewable energy sector. But like others, a major concern is economic liberalization and “unclear rules” regarding foreign participation. Several foreign chambers in the Philippines have in fact voiced their concerns, saying that the 40 percent minority ownership provision is making foreign businessmen hesitant to invest, resulting in low foreign participation in some key sectors.

As pointed out by the country’s “economic czar,” the recently appointed Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Frederick Go, legislators should review these laws that have become outdated, irrelevant and, more

importantly, are in conflict with newer policies, because they confuse potential investors and hinder efforts to improve the ease of doing business in the Philippines.

Every time a new law is passed, five old ones need to be repealed or amended because this could result in overlapping that create confusion and worse, result in six laws that businessmen have to deal with, Go explained during a forum organized by the Anti-Red Tape Authority, adding that these old laws have generated serious concern from foreign direct investors.

Foreign businessmen and potential investors certainly welcome the Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) No. 6 filed by Senate President Migz Zubiri that seeks to start the discussion on amending specific economic provisions to the 1987 Constitution.

RBH No. 6 would require concurrence from the House of Representatives, which has indicated its support for the proposal through a letter from Speaker Martin Romualdez.

There have been efforts in the past to change the Charter and repeal or amend the economic provisions in the 1987 Constitution, but these have been met with resistance and even distrust because the timing is suspicious, the initiative is surrounded by controversy and there are disagreements regarding the process – Cha-cha or people’s initiative? Actually, the Constitution itself is silent on the mode of amendment.

I firmly believe that the issue about constitutional amendments on the economic provisions should not be dismissed but properly dissected and debated upon through a rigorous process of discussing the pros and cons.

That way, controversies as well as suspicions attached to Charter change would be assuaged, plus the hysteria that some people go into when they hear the phrase “constitutional amendments” would simmer down.

As for the continuing controversy surrounding the push for Charter change through the people’s initiative – this should be investigated to get to the bottom of the issue and must be resolved one way or another.

The bottom line is – we have to do things the right way. If we want to change certain provisions in the Constitution, it should be done properly and in a transparent manner. People should be given a chance to look into the whole issue and have the opportunity to thoroughly study the potential ramifications of any amendment to the Charter.

But definitely – changes should not be rammed down the throats of the Filipino people. (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. *** babeseyeview@gmail.com

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COMMUNITY JOURNAL

11

Leading US immigration attorney reflects on the immigration story of his parents on this Sunday’s Citizen Pinoy ATTORNEY Michael J. Gurfinkel has solved many immigration problems and helped countless families be reunited.

Unknown to many, this leading U.S.

Wedding photo of Sam (left) and Renee (right) Gurfinkel.

immigration attorney also has his own immigration story to tell.

Atty. Gurfinkel’s father, Sam, was a Holocaust survivor during WWII. Sam was only nine years old when Adolph Hitler’s Nazi army rounded up almost all the Jews in his homeland, Poland. He had witnessed the cruelty and the mass murders in the gas chambers and had even seen how the Nazis had killed his own father, mother, and his eight siblings, leaving him the sole survivor of such a large family. Sam was able to escape death by fleeing to the forest, where he eventually joined a Jewish partisan unit that fought against the Nazis.

Across the English Channel is the city of Liverpool, England, where Atty. Gurfinkel’s mother, Renee, lived in fear and hid in air raid shelters – for Liverpool also suffered from heavy and continuous bombings from PAGE 12

IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY HAS HIS OWN IMMIGRATION STORY TO SHARE. Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel’s (right) compassion for immigrants and their dreams runs deep, because his father Sam (left) and his mother, Renee (center) were both immigrants and WWII survivors. Sam was a Holocaust survivor from Poland, and Renee endured endless German bombings in England. Both dreamt of coming to America to live their American Dream, just like Attorney Gurfinkel’s Filipino clients dream the same dream today. Atty. Gurfinkel also takes this chance to offer a tribute and express gratitude for the sacrifices of his mother, Renee, who recently passed on. Watch this special episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, February 4 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo.

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Anatomy of a medical mission

PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS MEDICAL missions to various remote towns in the Philippines are now a regular ritual for many patriotic Filipino American organizations in the United States. Desirous of helping their underprivileged fellowmen and obviously heeding the call from within their own hearts, these dedicated and benevolent countrymen of ours spend time, effort, personal money and some risk to their own health and safety to journey across the oceans to offer their medical expertise and medicines for free to our people.

Balikbayan volunteers, mostly seniors, are quite aware of the fact that theirs is only a small token of what they all want to provide our underserved fellow Filipinos in these villages and rural areas.

What impresses me most is their tenacity, sincerity, sacrifices, and perseverance, in spite of all odds, logistics, funding, their personal safety, etc.

As could be expected, there are heartless and unsavory comments from some inconsiderate sectors who are just standing by and watching the suffering neglected people, while the missionaries labor and sweat.

The Philippine-American Association of North Carolina (PAANC) in Raleigh, North Carolina, U.S.A., is an example of benevolence and service at its best among the medical missions. Founded in 1988, the PAANC has evolved quietly and without fanfare into a respected and proven humanitarian group, known as Carolina Medical Mission (CMM). Among the stalwart members of CMM who provided significant leadership to the project was the late Fred T. Ng, M.D., his wife, Anita, and Drs. Arturo de Leon and his wife, Rosemary, also of Raleigh.

CMM had its latest mission in Pinamalayan, Mindoro, last January 2024.

The others are the Philippine American Association of Nevada, headed by Daniel C. Fabito, MD, FACS, FPCS; the Philippine American Charity Foundation, Luz Micabalo, RN, president; supported by the Filipino United NetworkUSA Foundation (FUN8888. com) chaired by Philip S.

Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS; and many other groups (medical alumni from various universities, specialty societies, and professional associations, and countless local Philippine physicians) provide general surgery, cataract surgery, medical and pediatric clinics with free medications, and surgical care to thousands of needy people each year.

Locally, in Quezon City, the Hospital on Wheels headed

by Jim Sanchez, MD, travels around the country providing free minor surgical care.

Major surgeries during these medical missions include hernia repair, thyroidectomy, harelip repair, lumps and bumps, circumcision, hysterectomy, gallbladder surgery, mastectomy, dental surgery and eye surgery. Intraocular lenses are donated by Alcon, U.S.A., and surgical packs by SEE International of Santa Barbara, California.

Sometimes, when surgery lasts late in the evening, ordinary flashlights are options and serve to illuminate the operating field for the surgeons when brownout or power failure confronts the team. It seems nothing can stop them from accomplishing their objectives.

The volunteers pay for their own airfare from the United States to their target countries and other expenses on every mission, on average about $5,000 per person.

Practically all of them are joined by their spouses. They also contribute funds for the mission to buy medications and bus rentals. They leave their loved ones and medical practices in the United States and fly thousands of miles to lend a helping hand, no matter how small or how briefly, to our suffering fellowmen.

On each mission, the medical volunteers bring in surgical equipment and instruments, medical

supplies, drugs (mostly purchased in Bambang), besides 15 to 20 balikbayan boxes of supplies shipped from the U.S. Some Philippine-based volunteers provide them with local support.

Service hours, including surgeries, usually last till the end of each day because the demand is always heavy, and patients travel miles by foot to seek medical care. No one is turned away unattended.

Sometimes the supplies of medications run dry, and they have to dole out additional personal funds for the IV fluids and extra medications.

In our latest medical mission in Munoz and Talavera, Nueva Ecija (January 7-12, 2024), my daughters, Sheillah (a family physician; this is her second medical mission), and Rachel (gynecologist) personally purchased at Mercury Drug Store hormones (the mission did not have) for their patients, a fact I learned only after the medical mission. My wife, Farida, a retired pediatrician, and I are very proud of our two daughters who joined us in this medical mission.

We are most grateful to the other compassionate and hard-working missionaries who toiled with us. Within this column, a photo shows the missionaries posing for a photo during their break following a hectic morning.

It always breaks our hearts to go back to the United States without having been able to serve more sick children, women, and men needing medical care because of time constraint; our only consolation is that we are coming back. This sentiment is shared by all medical missionaries.

Having been the pioneer medical volunteer (my very first medical mission, a year after my graduation from medical school) to the remote and secluded

Palanan, Isabela area (and my classmate, Dr. Arturo de Leon assigned to Kapangan) in 1962, under the WorkA-Year-With-The-People (later called MARIA) project of former Senator Raul S. Mangalpus, Senator Ramon Magsaysay, Jr., and Manuel Quezon, Jr., and having joined medical missions the past thirty some years, I could empathize well with these selfless kababayan colleagues and friends of ours and feel their frustration for not being able to do more for our people. Indeed, theirs is a noble act of sacrifice, charity, and love.. *** The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people live a healthier lifestyle to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve a happier and more productive life.

Any diagnosis, recommendation or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable or appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute for your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health. *** 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. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He was a recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, conferred by then Indiana Governor, later Senator, and then presidential candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry Truman, President George HW Bush, Muhammad Ali, and Astronaut Gus Grissom (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday. com, and philipSchua.com; Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com.

Atty. Gurfinkel with his mother, Renee.

At Atty. Gurfinkel’s (3rd from left, in a brown suit) bar mitzvah.

Leading US immigration...

PAGE 11 German enemy planes.

When WWII ended, both Sam and Renee set sail to go to America, believing that there were brighter opportunities for them there.

Fate had the couple meet in California, and after a series of dates, they tied the knot in 1951. Together, they started weaving their American dream with much hard work and persistent hope. Sam held three jobs, working from dawn to dark, while Renee raised their 3 children and ran their egg ranch in Baldwin Park, California.

Sam and Renee Gurfinkel shared the same dreams and beliefs as many Filipino families still do at present – that hard work, perseverance, and a hopeful attitude would bring them the realization of their American Dream. They firmly believed that education for their children was the most important thing to work for.

It is no wonder then that Atty. Michael Gurfinkel feels for and understands those individuals and families who consult with him – because his parents, Sam and Renee, were immigrants themselves, and shared the same “American Dream” over 70 years ago.

Atty. Gurfinkel also takes this chance to offer a tribute and express gratitude for the sacrifices of his mother, Renee, who recently passed on.

Watch this special episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, February 4 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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Minding Your Finances Atty. RAymond BulAon A NOTICE of Federal Tax Lien (NFTL) is a public record filed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) with the County Recorder where you live. When the IRS wants to enforce delinquent taxes against you, there are various mechanisms that the government can use to achieve that goal. This is one of them.

Technically, the IRS has a “secret lien” the moment that taxes are assessed, but this is between you and the IRS, and the public doesn’t know about it yet. But when the IRS makes the lien public by recording it, it puts creditors and everyone on notice that the government has a lien or a secured interest against your property. In other words, it tells everyone that you have an unpaid federal tax debt. Of course, filing the lien is not something that the IRS just does without prior attempts to collect. If you have received several collection notices and do nothing, this is the next step by the IRS to force you to pay. In other words, federal tax lien can be avoided by paying the tax in full before they are filed. But this is not always possible, especially if you owe a large amount.

The federal tax lien could have negative effect on your finances and your credit.

Until the underlying tax debt is resolved, it would be difficult to remove the lien.

By having a lien on your property, it would also be very difficult, if not impossible, for you to purchase a home, refinance your mortgage, and purchase things on credit. While the credit bureaus stopped reporting tax lien information on your

When the IRS files a federal tax lien credit report in 2018, the IRS still makes tax liens a matter of public information.

If lenders, landlords and employers find out about the lien, they may use that negative information against you if you are applying for a loan, a house or apartment rental, or a job.

If you have just received a notice of federal tax lien, the notice will tell you that you can generally apply for a “Collection Due Process” hearing where you can have your side of the story heard and possibly dispute the validity of the tax lien. And if the hearing does not work out in your favor, you can also typically have another chance to do so in tax court.

However, the request for such a hearing needs to be filed in a timely manner.

Read the letter carefully as it will tell you exactly how much time you have.

Now, you may ask: What are my options in resolving the federal tax lien once I get the notice from the IRS? Of course, you can always pay the full amount of the tax debt and resolve it quickly. That’s a no-brainer.

But what if you cannot afford to pay the full amount?

If you qualify for an Offer in Compromise, you will be able to settle the outstanding debt for less than full amount. If the IRS accepts your offer, the lien will be released. Whether or not you qualify for this program will depend on your income, the value of your assets, and the amount of time remaining under the IRS 10year collection statute. The IRS uses a specific formula to determine eligibility and requires very detailed financial disclosures.

Another method is to ask

for an installment agreement that allows you to pay off what you owe over time. If you abide by the terms of the agreement, the IRS may release the lien.

In some cases where the only way to pay what you owe is to refinance your property, the IRS may allow you to subordinate their tax lien to your new loan so that you can access the equity in your property to pay the IRS. All of the above is general information and my purpose is to simply provide you a quick overview of options that may be available. The tax lien is one of the most serious collection tactics used by the IRS because it gives the government rights to all your assets until they collect every penny that you owe. Therefore, DO NOT ignore the notice under any circumstances as doing so may cause you to lose legal rights that you perhaps didn’t even know existed.

If you owe the IRS, the State, EDD or State Board of Equalization, my office can help you find the best solution to resolve your tax liability. You will never have to speak with the IRS again.

I will review your case and help you make the best decision for yourself and your family. ***

I am offering free consultations BY PHONE to anyone who needs help in dealing with their debt problems. *** None of the information herein is intended to give legal advice for any specific situation. Atty. Ray J. Bulaon has successfully helped over 6,000 clients in getting out of debt. For a free attorney evaluation of your situation, please call RJB Law Offices at TOLL FREE 1-866471-8272.

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MSEUF Alumni Ass’n of CA hosts grand reunion in LV in late summer 2024 THE Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation (MSEUF) Alumni Association of California will be hosting a MSEUF Grand Reunion in Las Vegas, Nevada from Thursday, August 29 to Sunday, September 1.

The highlight of this grand reunion will be a dinner/dance on August 31. The venue will be the South Point Hotel and Casino (9777 Las Vegas Blvd.) where rooms have been blocked for alumni and guests attending the momentous occasion.

For hotel reservations, please mention the group name “MSEUF Class Reunion” when calling toll-free (866-791-7626) or via the hotel’s direct line (702-797-8961).

The group code when reserving online is MSE0829. Deadline to reserve rooms is by August 8, 2024.

For additional information, please contact the following: Rolando “Butch” Villarama, (916) 600-8472; Mercelita “Mercy” Bruno, (310) 462-9535; or Nonato “Nonet” Palomar, (818) 209-6881. g

In MIFF, the first and biggest gathering of Filipino stars in Los Angeles, Piolo Pascual, John Arcilla, Eugene Domingo, Dingdong Dantes, Alden Richards, Enchong Dee, Cedrick Juan, Beauty Gonzalez, Janella Salvador and Christopher de Leon are among the stars confirmed to attend the inaugural festival from Jan. 29 to Feb. 2. Filipino American stars, filmmakers and creatives are also expected at the closing night awards gala.

Manila International Film Festival jurors revealed, more stars confirmed

AS the Manila International Film Festival (MIFF) started on Monday, January 29, the exciting first overseas edition of the long-running Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) revealed its jury members and announced that more stars are confirmed to attend from the Philippines.

The 2024 MIFF prizes will be given in a star-studded closing night awards gala on February 1 at the Directors Guild of America on Sunset Blvd. The event caps the MIFF whose screenings of the 10 entries in the recent Metro Manila Film Festival will run through February 1 at the TCL Chinese Theaters on Hollywood Blvd.

The jury, composed of accomplished Filipino Americans in film, will decide the winners in nine categories.

The MIFF awards are separate and independent from the MMFF awards given in the Philippines last December.

The following are the MIFF awards categories: Best Picture – The winner will be given the opportunity to make a U.S.-based feature film co-produced by Birns & Sawyer, which will award up to $100,000 worth of camera rental equipment with the support of other industry gear vendors. Founded in 1954, Birns & Sawyer has served filmmakers in Hollywood for over 60 years. With Mari Acevedo at the helm, Birns & Sawyer believes in lifting up the next generation of Filipino content creators, filmmakers and their stories.

Special Jury Prize – A special award to be decided by the jury, given to a film that deserves recognition.

Best Director Best Actor Best Actress

Best Supporting Actor Best Supporting Actress Best Screenplay Best Cinematography Through a partnership with Birns & Sawyer, the Best Picture, Best Director and Best Screenplay winners will each receive the latest version of Final Draft software (a $250 value).

The two other MIFF honors are the Audience Award, voted on by MIFF moviegoers at the screenings, given to a movie that gets the highest score, and the Monty Manibog Lifetime Achievement Award (Hilda Koronel, previously announced).

The distinguished MIFF judges are: Marie Jamora (head of the jury) Marie Jamora is one of the first Filipinos in the Directors Guild of America (DGA), having directed episodes of QUEEN SUGAR (OWN), FIRE COUNTRY (CBS), THE RESIDENT (FOX), GREASE: RISE OF THE PINK LADIES (Paramount+), and both seasons of THE CLEANING LADY (FOX). She was an executive producer and the director of both seasons of FAMILY STYLE (HBO Max).

Mari Acevedo In a pivotal moment in the 70-year history of Birns & Sawyer, one of the oldest and most well-known motion picture camera rental and sales companies in Hollywood, Mari Acevedo led the transition to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in 2019, empowering the dedicated team that contributed to the company’s success. The subsequent year marked another historic milestone as Marie assumed the position of CEO, becoming the first female leader in the

company’s impressive 66-year history.

Leah Anova Leah Anova is a director of photography whose numerous projects have received significant recognition, including her latest feature documentary film, EVERY BODY, directed by Academy Award nominee, Julie Cohen, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival and was distributed by Focus Features.

EVERY BODY was shortlisted

by NYDOC for the 2023 Oscars. The film is currently playing on Apple TV, Amazon Prime, and Peacock.

Reggie Lee Reggie Lee starred as Sgt. Wu on NBC’s hit sci-fi police drama GRIMM. Most recently, Reggie starred as Head Deputy District Attorney Thomas Choi on CBS’s ALL RISE and as Angelo Soto on Netflix’s LINCOLN LAWYER. Before GRIMM, he was best known for his role as Secret Service Agent Bill Kim on the popular FOX show PRISON BREAK. Coming up, Reggie can be seen in the new season of CSI: VEGAS on CBS as Undersheriff Bobby Zhao.

He has also recurred and guest starred in countless TV shows and has performed on Broadway.

David Maquiling David Maquiling made his feature film debut as the Writer/Director of TOO MUCH SLEEP, for which he won an Independent Spirit Award nomination, was featured in Variety’s annual “Someone to Watch” article, and earned the IFP Project Involve Fellowship.

David was recently appointed the Academic and Artistic Director of the School of Cinematic Arts (SCA) Summer PAGE 15

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people events arts culture entertainment

13 Fil-Am chefs named James Beard Awards semifinalists

by MOMAR G. VISAYA / AJPress

EVERAL Filipino American chefs are in the running for the 2024 James Beard Awards as the James Beard S Foundation announced its Restaurant and Chef Awards semifinalists on Thursday, Jan. 25.

The James Beard Awards are among the nation’s most prestigious culinary honors, recognizing the outstanding and talented leaders making their mark on American food. The awards celebrate excellence across a range of experiences, from fine-dining establishments to casual gems, and emerging talents to established luminaries.

Nikko Cagalanan of Kultura in Charleston is in the running for the Emerging Chef Award, given to “a chef who displays exceptional talent, character, and leadership ability, and who is likely to make a significant impact in years to come while contributing positively to their broader community.”

Chef Nikko moved to the United States from the Philippines in 2011 and worked as a nurse. Driven by his passion for Filipino cuisine, he decided to transition to a career in cooking. In 2018, Chef Nikko made the move to Charleston, taking significant steps in his culinary path that in early 2019, he founded Mansueta’s Filipino Food to share his love for Filipino cuisine with the community.

Cagalanan achieved recognition as the Best Filipino Restaurant in South Carolina by Food & Wine magazine, coupled with the prestigious title of Chopped Champion in November. Last year, he opened Kultura, a personal space where he can welcome guests and collaborate with chefs from diverse backgrounds,

allowing them to showcase their own cultures through the art of food.

Aaron Verzosa, coowner and chef of Seattle restaurant Archipelago, is one of the “Outstanding Chef” nominees. Last year, Verzosa, was a semifinalist for Best Chef: Northwest and Pacific.

Kaya, a contemporary Filipino restaurant situated in Orlando, is up for the Best New Restaurant Award. This accolade is dedicated to recognizing recently opened restaurants that showcase outstanding excellence in cuisine and hold the promise of making a significant impact in the years to come. Kaya is run by Chef Lordfer Lalicon and Jamilyn Bailey, who expressed their profound gratitude for the nod on their Instagram account, stating, “What an incredible honor and testament to the hard work and love of the village that lifts us. We are humbled to represent our culture and

our city in this special way.”

Kimmie and Josh Mcintosh of Milkfish Bakeshop in Las Vegas are in the Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker category. The couple started Milkfish as a pop-up bakeshop to uplift Filipino culture through heritage, technique, and ingredients.

Among their offerings are Ube Halaya Babka, Cashew Coco Jam Sticky Buns, Pandan Tres Leches Cake, and Carioca Skewers.

Chefs Melissa Miranda of Musang (Seattle) and Sheldon Simeon of Tiffany’s (Wailuku) got another nod for the Best Chef: Northwest and Pacific along with Lord Maynard Llera of Kuya Lord (Los Angeles) and Tara Monsod of Animae (San Diego) for Best Chef: California.

“I am floored and humbled to be a semifinalist. I’m proud of the work my team has done and grateful for the support from the community. To be PAGE 15

Chris Mauricio of Harana Market (Accord)

Photo from Instagram/@haranamarket

Lordfer Lalicon and Jamilyn Bailey of Kaya (Orlando)

Kimmie Mcintosh of Milkfish Bakeshop (Las Vegas)

Photo from Instagram/@chef.lordfer.lalicon

Photo from Instagram/@milkfish.bakeshop

Photo from Instagram/@chefwonder

Chefs Melissa Miranda of Musang (Seattle)

Nikko Cagalanan of Kultura (Charleston)

Aaron Verzosa of Archipelago (Seattle)

Photo from Instagram/@meltronica

Photo from Instagram/@nikko_cagalanan

Photo from Archipelago Seattle

Joe Fontelera of Boonie’s Filipino Restaurant (Chicago)

Lord Maynard Llera of Kuya Lord (Los Angeles)

Photo from Instagram/@joefontelera

Photo from Instagram/@cheflordmaynard

Sheldon Simeon of Tiffany’s (Wailuku)

Tara Monsod of Animae (San Diego) Photo by Matt Furman

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Anne’s star finally begins to shine Down Under Manila International Film Festival...

By Aric John Sy cuA ManilaTimes.net

FILIPINA celebrity Anne Curtis is currently the cover girl of an Australian publication in a feature titled, “Screen Queen: The Australian TV and film mega-celebrity you’ve never heard of.”

Anne Curtis is cover girl of the January 27of the edition of Australian magazine “Good Weekend.”

Photo from Instagram/@annecurtissmith

Curtis, born and partly raised in the Australian state of Victoria appeared on Saturday’s (January 27) edition of “Good Weekend.”

“In the Philippines, Anne Curtis is the mega-celebrity Australia doesn’t know it has: mobbed in the streets of Manila and more popular than Taylor Swift. For the film and TV star, it’s a long way from her upbringing in rural Victoria,” wrote author Margaret Simons in the introduction.

Simons went on to talk about the TV hostactress’ profile, mentioning her major breakthroughs including a several personal highlights, including her 2017 to businessman Erwan Heussaff.

“She knows Australia, but Australia doesn’t know her,” Simons wrote. “This mega celebrity, this citizen of Australia, this woman swept up by the machinery of celebrity since she was a

child, now entering midlife, gives the impression of being in the process of discovering herself – of becoming more.”

“Good Weekend” also explored Curtis’ hosting of the ABS-CBN show “It’s Showtime,” her relationship with co-host Vice Ganda, and explained the concept of a Filipino noontime program to Australian readers.

The feature noted that the actress-host would visit the Australian city of Melbourne twice a year, but calls the Philippines home.

Besides Curtis, other famous Filipino-Australians include X Factor winners Marlisa Punzalan and Cyrus Villanueva, as well as former Eurovision Song Contest entrant Sheldon Riley.

According to Australia’s Home Affairs Ministry, there are 310,620 Filipinoborn people living Down Under as of the end of June 2021.

13 Fil-Am chefs named...

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able to create the food I want and push the culture forward means the world to me,” Monsod said. “The San Diego food scene deserves to be recognized and I’m proud to represent.”

As a BIPOC LGBTQ chef in her first Executive Chef role, Tara Monsod’s emphasis on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment extends into every facet of operating Animae. In addition to fostering a diverse team which reflects her drive for a more inclusive industry, Chef Tara has proven herself as an outstanding leader in San Diego’s booming culinary scene by producing a menu filled with complex and delightful dishes that highlight her identity as a first-generation Filipino American.

Offering guests a journey into her upbringing, Monsod’s food displays a heightened sense of refinement, showcasing expertly prepared dishes from across Asia. Tara is proud to lead a restaurant that serves a community that represents the second-largest Filipino American population of any county in the nation— for many Filipino families, Animae is the first fine dining establishment where they have felt truly at home.

Chris Mauricio of

Harana Market (Accord) is a semifinalist for Best Chef: New York State while Erik Bentz and Elaine Uykimpang Bentz of Cafe Mochiko (Cincinnati) and Joe Fontelera of Boonie’s Filipino Restaurant (Chicago) are duking it out for Best Chef: Great Lakes. The husband-and-wife team of Mark and Jennifer Berdin of Kadence (Orlando) are up for Best Chef: South.

These chefs were recognized for setting high standards in their culinary skills and leadership abilities and are making efforts to help create a sustainable work culture in their respective regions while contributing positively to their broader community.

Harana Market, formerly of Woodstock recently moved to its bigger location in Accord. Their lease in Woodstock ended and since they have been growing since they opened, Chris and Eva decided to expand. They have since become the go-to Filipino spot in the Hudson Valley area.

The announcement was a big surprise that they did not expect, almost three years to the day of their first service, according to the Instagram post of Harana Market.

“Regardless of what happens in the next round, this is a significant win for Filipino food and culture. It’s

also a win for generations of our family. As you probably know by now, the food Chris makes is as they learned it from their Grandma who learned it from her ancestors and it’s how we eat it around our table if you were to ever come visit our home. That Chris can make it to this world-renowned list without compromising or conforming, and remaining true to their food, flavors, and culture is outstanding,” the post further said.

This year’s winners will be celebrated at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony on June 10 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

The James Beard Awards, considered to be among the nation’s most prestigious honors, recognize exceptional talent in the culinary and food media industries, as well as a demonstrated commitment to racial and gender equity, community, sustainability, and a culture where all can thrive.

Founded more than 30 years ago, the James Beard Foundation “celebrates and supports the people behind America’s food culture, while pushing for new standards in the restaurant industry to create a future where all have the opportunity to thrive,” according to its announcement.

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Program at USC. He is also a faculty member at SCA, where he is the Lead Faculty for USC’s SCA Neighborhood Academic Initiative (NAI) Filmmaking Workshop for underrepresented high school students.

Sumalee Montano Sumalee Montano was originally an investment banker and is now an actorproducer. Onscreen, she has worked extensively in film and television, including series regular and leading film roles. She got her start in ER, recurring as the first Filipina nurse, Duvata Mahal. Sumalee currently stars as Tala Bayani in THE DEAL, a motherdaughter sci-fi story that she based on her own Filipina mom and produced with Dean Devlin. She has produced or executive produced eight films to date, including NANNY, Grand Jury Prize winner at Sundance 2022.

MIFF will see the biggest gathering of Filipino movie stars and filmmakers in Los Angeles. MIFF, whose mission is to showcase, promote and help uplift Philippine cinema, has invited the filmmakers and stars behind the 10 films. The talents from the Philippines will attend various MIFF events, including Q&As and personal appearances at select screenings, at the TCL Chinese Theatres.

The 10 films debuting in America at MIFF are: Jun Robles Lana’s “Becky and Badette,” starring Eugene Domingo and Pokwang; Lemuel C. Lorca’s “Broken Heart’s Trip” (Christian Bables); Nuel Naval’s “Family of Two (A Mother and Son Story)” (Sharon Cuneta and Alden Richards); Zig Dulay’s “Firefly” (Alessandra De Rossi and Euwenn Mikaell); Pepe Diokno’s “GomBurZa” (Enchong Dee, Dante Rivero and Cedrick Juan); King Palisoc’s “(K)Ampon” (Beauty Gonzalez and Derek Ramsay); Derick Cabrido’s “Mallari” (Piolo Pascual and Janella Salvador); Jason Paul Laxamana’s “Penduko” (Matteo Guidicelli and Kylie Verzosa); Mae Cruz-Alviar’s “Rewind” (Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes); and Conrado Peru, Rommel Penesa and Christopher de Leon’s “When I Met You in Tokyo” (Vilma Santos and Christopher de Leon).

In a partial list of confirmed talents coming from Manila, John Arcilla, the first Filipino actor to win the Volpi Cup for

Revealed. The 2024 MIFF jurors, composed of six accomplished Filipino Americans in film, are: Marie Jamora (head of the jury), Mari Acevedo, Leah Anova, Reggie Lee, David Maquiling and Sumalee Montano. Their votes in nine categories will be announced in an exciting, star-studded closing night awards gala on Feb. 2 at the Directors Guild of America on Sunset Blvd.

best actor in the 2021 Venice Film Festival (for Erik Matti’s “On the Job: The Missing 8”), Piolo Pascual, Eugene Domingo, Dingdong Dantes, Alden Richards, Enchong Dee, Beauty Gonzalez, Janella Salvador, Ysabel Ortega, Christian Bables and Christopher de Leon lead the talents who will grace the screenings and Q&As of the 10 films, the closing night awards gala and other events in the five-day film festival.

Also scheduled to attend the MIFF are the Film Development Council of the Philippines’ (FDCP) Tirso Cruz III and Jose Javier Reyes, chairman and consultant, respectively. FDCP is the national film agency offering incentive programs to international co-productions and offshore productions in the Philippines.

The MMFF will be represented by Romando “Don” Artes, chairman; Tim Orbos, executive committee member; Rochelle MacapiliOna, executive director; Irene Jose, executive committee member and COO of The Araneta Group’s entertainment unit; Boots Anson Roa-Rodrigo, actress and team member; and Noel Ferrer, spokesperson.

The LA-based MIFF founders are Omen Ortiz, chairman; Ebradu Udarbe,

president; Lisa Lew, executive producer; Ruben Nepales and Janet Nepales, media relations consultants; and Celia Abaya Dy, ticketing manager. Also on the MIFF team are Leo Dela Cruz, chief financial officer; Erickson Ilog, chief operations officer; Ron Ramores, chief marketing officer; Cindy Sison, consultant; and Meriden Angeles, coordinating producer.

Lew, a multiple Daytime Emmy-winning Filipina producer, is producing the closing night awards gala at the DGA which will also be graced

by Filipino American stars, filmmakers and creatives. The gala features a red carpet, cocktails, an awards show and a dinner/after-party.

Other events promoting collaboration and cooperation between the Philippines’ filmmakers and Hollywood and beyond are also scheduled

by MIFF. The complete screening schedule and ticket information are available on MIFF’s website: https:// manilainternationalfilmfest. com/.

The TCL Chinese Theatres is located on the third level of Ovation Hollywood (formerly Hollywood & Highland), 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, CA 90028. The DGA is located at 7920 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90046.

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