020422 - Northern California Edition

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NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

Volume 21 - No. 5 • 14 Pages

T HE F ILIPINO A MERICAN C OMMUNITY N EWSPAPER

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USA

DATELINE Biden appoints Fil-Am community leader to regional role at Small Business Administration FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

PRESIDENT Joe Biden appointed a Filipina American community leader to a key regional leadership role at the United States Small Business Administration (SBA).

Geri Sanchez Aglipay was named SBA regional administrator for region 5, according to the White House announcement on Thursday, January 27.

The region covers Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin.

Aglipay, a second-generation American and a daughter of a veteran, has over 20 years of experience in workforce, entrepreneurship, and economic development and is passionate about strengthening collaborative innovation across sectors and industries to create more equitable paths to financial security for small business owners and the self-employed, especially to create a level playing field for socially and economically disadvantaged communities.

Prior to the SBA, she served as Director

FEBRUARY 4-10, 2022

Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, SAN DIEGO, LAS VEGAS, NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY

CDC warns against travel to PH for ‘very high level’ of COVID-19

by AJPRESS

THE United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is warning individuals against traveling to the Philippines, citing the “very high level” of COVID-19 in the country.

The CDC on Monday, January 31 updated its guidance for countries, with the Philippines listed in the Level 4 tier, the highest COVID-19 risk level.

Travelers are advised to “avoid travel to the Philippines” amid the current virus surge. Though the agency said that if individuals must travel to the country, they should ensure they are vaccinated.

TAX season officially opened Jan. 24, but early birds will have to wait for refunds until March, as the Internal Revenue Service is barred from issuing payments before Feb. 15.

“It is our intent that filing is as smooth and easy as possible. We want to make certain that consumers are getting all the credits and refunds they are eligible to receive,” said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig, at a Jan. 28 briefing hosted by Ethnic Media Services.

Rettig strongly recommended filing electronically, and using direct deposit so that funds are deposited directly to a bank account.

Paper returns have the greatest number of delays, he said. Refunds are usually issued 21 days after the tax return has been processed, but not before Feb. 15.

Tax returns and payments are due by April 18, and the IRS is not considering extensions this year, as it did for the past two years during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

For those hoping to avoid costly online tax

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Moderna vaccine receives full FDA authorization Full FDA authorization allows for more physician flexibility when prescribing the vaccine

by KLARIZE

MEDENILLA AJPress

 PAGE 3

Tax season is open!

Here’s how to get your refund quickly

“Even if you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines, you may still be at risk for getting and spreading COVID-19,” the CDC said on its website.

The CDC also reminds travelers to wear wellfitting masks in indoor public spaces and follow all requirements and recommendations in the

REOPEN. People flock to the Promenade Des Dasmariñas, a public urban garden in Cavite, as it resumed operations on Tuesday, February 1 during Chinese New Year. Public parks have been allowed to reopen under Alert Level 2 but only at 70 percent capacity for fully vaccinated individuals and are required to abide by minimum health protocols, including temperature check upon entry, wearing of masks, and physical distancing.

PNA photo by Gil Calinga

NEARLY two years after the earth-shattering coronavirus pandemic began, the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine has become the second major coronavirus vaccine to be permitted for full use, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Monday, Jan. 31.

Previously, the Moderna vaccine — now known as Spikevax — was made available by the FDA under emergency use authorization. The announcement made on Monday follows months of rigorous review by the agency, a standard practice for all vaccines designed for widespread inoculation.

Under the Moderna vaccine’s emergency authorization use period — which began in December 2020 — the biotechnology company administered hundreds of millions of doses, according to the FDA.

 PAGE 2

PH sets new COVID-19 rules Pastor Apollo endorses for arriving foreign travelers Marcos–Duterte tandem

MANILA — The Philippines will enforce new protocols for arriving travelers, Malacañang said Friday, January 28 as the government suspended its COVID-19 risk classifications for countries and territories.

Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said the Philippines suspended the "green-yellow-red list" system, which is used to classify countries, territories and jurisdictions based on their COVID-19 risk levels.

Starting February 1, fully-vaccinated travelers will be required to present a negative RT-PCR test taken within 48 hours prior to departure from the country of origin.

Upon arrival in the Philippines, they will no longer be required to observe mandatory facility-based quarantine. But they will need to self-monitor for any signs or symptoms for seven days with the first day being the date of arrival and report to the local government unit of destination upon the manifestation of symptoms, if any.

Nograles said fully-vaccinated travelers must have any of the following proofs of vaccination against COVID-19: • World Health Organization International Certificates of Vaccination and Prophylaxis

by NEIL

ARWIN MERCADO Inquirer.net

MANILA — Kingdom of Jesus Christ founder Pastor Apollo Quiboloy endorsed on Tuesday, February 1 the presidential and vice presidential bid, respectively, of former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and

Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte -Carpio.

Quiboloy made the remark as he prayed over Duterte-Carpio during the send-off ceremony for the “Mahalin Natin Ang Pilipinas Ride” national caravan from Davao City to to Ilocos Norte.

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Dream come true: Philippines qualifies for FIFA World Cup

by NEIL

VICTOR MASOY ManilaTimes.net

THE Philippine women’s football team on Monday, January 31 booked a ticket to the FIFA Women’s World Cup by outlasting Chinese Taipei in a cliffhanger penalty shootout in the quarterfinal round of the Women’s Asian Cup in India.

No Philippine football team, men or women, had made it to football’s most prestigious tournament.

The Filipinas, ranked 64th in the world, were on the attack early in the match, but the 39th-ranked Taiwanese stood their ground.

At the 49th minute, the Philippine team finally cracked Taiwan’s defense, as Quinley Quindoza delivered the first goal of the match from inside the box off an assist by Katrina Gillou.

The Philippine advantage disappeared when Zhuo Li-Ping converted a fantastic arcing shot from way outside the box to equalize the game at the 82nd minute.

Neither team was able to score during the remainder of regulation time and the extra 30-minute period, setting the stage for the shootout.

The Philippine women’s national football team celebrates after qualifying for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup for the first time.

Photo courtesy of the Asian Football Confederation

 PAGE 3

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FEBRUARY 4-10, 2022 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160

From the Front Page

CDC warns against travel to...

PAGE 1 Philippines.

As of January 31, the Philippines reported 190,818 active cases with 14,546 marked as new cases.

The CDC uses travel health notices to alert to health threats around the world and advise on how to protect themselves, using data reported by the World Health Organization and other official sources.

“If a destination does not provide data, their THN level is designated as ‘unknown’ and travelers are advised to follow THN Level 4 recommendations,” according to the CDC website.

The Philippines is among nearly 130 countries and territories listed as a Level 4

risk, including Mexico, Brazil, Singapore, Ecuador, Kosovo and Paraguay.

The four-level system categories international destinations into the following levels: • Level 1 (low): travelers are advised to be fully vaccinated before traveling to the destination • Level 2 (moderate): travelers should be fully vaccinated before travel and unvaccinated travelers at high risk for severe illness are advised to avoid nonessential travel to this destination • Level 3 (high): travelers are advised to be fully vaccinated before traveling to the destination and unvaccinated travelers should

avoid nonessential travel to this destination • Level 4 (very high level): avoid travel to this destination Meanwhile, as of Tuesday, February 1, the Philippines is suspending its risk classification for countries and is allowing fully vaccinated Filipinos to return without going through mandatory quarantine at a facility.

By February 10, fully vaccinated foreigners from visafree countries will be allowed to enter the Philippines for tourism or business purposes.

Both fully vaccinated Filipinos and foreigners will need to provide a negative RT-PCR test within 48 hours before they depart for the Philippines. g

Pastor Apollo endorses Marcos–Duterte...

PAGE 1

The send-off was done at the compound of Quiboloy’s church in Davao City.

“Marami ang nagtatanong kung ano ang susuportahan ng Kingdom of Jesus Christ. Sabi ko, maghintay tayo sa tamang panahon. At ngayon na ang panahon para lahat sa inyo ang aning suporta. 100 percent ako ay sumusuporta sa UniTeam,” Quiboloy said, referring to the Marcos-Duterte-Carpio tandem.

(A lot of people are asking which candidates the Kingdom of Jesus Christ will support. I said, let’s wait for the right time. Now is the time for to support the UniTeam.)

“Sinasabi ko na sa inyo, itong team na ito will have a landslide win sa darating na eleksyon.

Ako ay nananalangin na tayong lahat ay sumama sa UniTeam,” he added.

(I am telling you, this team will score a landslide victory in the coming elections. I am praying

CHINESE LANTERNS. The Tunnel of Chinese Lanterns at a Quezon City mall is the perfect spot for a Chinese New Year photo for these two mall-goers on Tuesday, February 1. Only fully vaccinated customers are allowed in the city’s malls, unless for purchase of essential goods or availing of services such as medical treatment.

PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler

that we all join the UniTeam.)

Quiboloy, who was recently indicted in the United States for sex–trafficking charges, is a close ally of the Duterte family.

Quiboloy is the spiritual advis- PAGE 1 er of President Rodrigo Duterte. The coronavirus vaccine from According to Atty. Vic Rodri- Pfizer and BioNTech received guez, the spokesperson of Mar- full approval last August, which cos Jr., the tandem will hold its was granted after months of proclamation rally at the Philip- review. pine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan The Centers for Disease Control on February 8—the official start and Prevention (CDC) said that of the campaign period for na- more than 204 million doses of tional candidates. g the Moderna vaccine have been administered across the U.S. so far with almost 75 million people across the nation having been fully vaccinated with it.

The CDC is expected to meet Sub-Technical Working Group on Friday, Feb. 4 to review the on Data Analytics.

FDA’s approval and vote whether Entry of fully-vaccinated foror not to endorse it. The FDA’s eigners approval on Monday also allows Nograles also announced that Moderna to officially market fully-vaccinated nationals of the name Spikevax as well as non-visa required countries will increase flexibility to physicians be allowed to enter the Philipto prescribe the vaccine; under pines starting February 10. emergency use authorization, "Remember we were supposed specifics on how vaccines are to do this nung December 1 pa administered are more restrictive and then we suspended it. And than when they’re granted full then now we’re implementing it FDA approval. again," he said.

In a statement, FDA Fully-vaccinated foreign naCommissioner Janet Woodcock tionals must have passport valid said that while the Moderna for at least six months at the time vaccine has become a popular of arrival, and with return or outoption for Americans, “[full] bound ticket to their country of FDA approval of this vaccine origin or next country of destinamay instill additional confidence u PAGE 3 in making the decision to get

Moderna vaccine receives full FDA...

PH sets new COVID-19 rules for arriving...

PAGE 1

• VaxCertPH • National or state digital certificate of the foreign government which has accepted VaxCertPH under a reciprocal arrangement unless otherwise permitted by the IATF Meanwhile, unvaccinated and partially vaccinated travelers will need to present a negative RTPCR test taken within 48 hours prior to departure from the country of origin.

They will also be required to undergo facility-based quarantine until the release of their negative RT-PCR test taken on the fifth day.

Then, they will undergo home quarantine until the 14th day, with the date of arrival being the first

day.

The government tasked local government units and Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams to monitor arriving passengers undergoing home quarantine.

For children below 12 years old who cannot be vaccinated, they will follow the quarantine protocol applied to the parent or guardian traveling with them.

Nograles added those who are currently undergoing quarantine as of February 1 may avail of the aforementioned testing and quarantine protocols.

The new COVID-19 travel protocols were based on the recommendations of the Task Force on COVID-19 New Variants and

vaccinated.”

As reported in the Asian Journal, fully vaccinated individuals became eligible this past fall to receive Moderna booster shots, which are designed to “boost” immunity against disease and infection. The CDC now considers three doses of the vaccine (two full doses and one booster) in order to be “up to date” in a vaccine regimen.

The move to announce full FDA authorization formalizes the agency’s confidence in the vaccine, a move that could

Unsplash.com photo by Ian Hutchinson

influence more Americans to get vaccinated against the coronavirus. Currently, more than 539 vaccine doses (from all available brands) have been administered across the country, with more than 211 million fully vaccinated — 64.1% of the entire population.

California continues to have the most vaccine doses administered per capita with more than 69 million doses given and 27.3 million people fully vaccinated, making 69.1% of the state fully vaccinated. g

(650) 689-5160 • http://www.asianjournal.com

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • FEBRUARY 4-10, 2022

3

Jonas Sultan back in US for training camp, eyes title shot It’s day 6 of COVID and a rapid antigen test by

MaRk GionGco

comes back positive - stay home, say virologists

Inquirer.net

FILIPINO bantamweight prospect Jonas Sultan is back for a training camp in the United States as he eyes a crack at a world title.

Sultan (18-5, 11KOs) left for the U.S. on Saturday, January 30 after spending his vacation with his family.

“I’ve been training since December, it didn’t stop even when my wife gave birth because I know I have to be ready anytime I’m given a chance for the world title,” said Sultan, who is ranked No. 4 by the World Boxing Organization and seventh by the World Boxing Association in the 118-pound division, in Filipino.

The 30-year-old Zamboanga City native made his case for a title shot after upsetting the previously unbeaten Carlos Caraballo of Puerto Rico last October at Madison Square Garden in New York.

Sultan won by unanimous decision to claim the WBO Intercontinental belt.

Two of the three bantamweight titleholders are Filipinos with

by

WBO Oriental bantamweight champion Jonas Sultan at the NAIA Airport as he waits for his flight to the United States Saturday, January 29.

Inquirer.net photo

Nonito Donaire and John Riel Casimero holding the WBC and WBO belts, respectively.

If given a choice, Sultan prefers a shot at top pound-for-pound fighter Naoya Inoue, who owns the IBF and WBA (Super) titles.

“I want Inoue because I don’t want two Filipinos fighting for

the world title. But I am ready for whatever fight will be good,” said Sultan, who will also serve as one of Jerwin Ancajas’ sparring partners.

Ancajas is scheduled to defend his IBF crown against Fernando Martinez of Argentina on February 22 in Las Vegas. g

Goodbye ‘Marites’? Facebook adds notification when you screenshot conversation in Messenger

META Chief Executive Officer Mark Zuckerberg announced recently that Facebook Messenger now has notifications when someone screenshots your disappearing messages in a secret conversation.

In his Facebook account, Mark said that the new update is secured with end-to-end encryption.

“New update for end-to-end encrypted Messenger chats so you get a notification if someone screenshots a disappearing message,” Mark

wrote.

Mark also said that they are adding GIFs (Graphics Interchange Format) and stickers in the chat.

“We’re also adding GIFs, stickers, and reactions to encrypted chats too,” he said.

The disappearing messages in Facebook was first introduced in November 2020. The move was part of an effort to provide additional protection.

(Philstar.com)

Biden appoints Fil-Am community...

PAGE 1 of the Midwest Region and National Manager of Women’s Entrepreneurship for Small Business Majority, where she expanded and directed the organization’s strategic education

Geri Sanchez Aglipay

programs, policy, research, and financial development efforts in the Midwest and oversaw women’s entrepreneurship nationwide to address disparities.

Aglipay has served as commissioner of the Cook County Commission for Social Innovation; co-chair of Racial Wealth Gap Committee of Financial Inclusion for All Illinois; and on the advisory council of HHS NIOSH Center of Excellence UIC Center for Healthy Work. She is a graduate of Bradley University.

In addition to Aglipay, Biden appointed Vercie Lark for SBA Regional Administrator of Region 7, which serves Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska.

The president also named several individuals to regional leadership roles at the Department of Agriculture, covering Florida, Kansas, New Jersey, Washington and Wyoming. (AJPress)

Tax season is open! Here’s...

PAGE 1

filing portals, the IRS recommends using the free file program at: https://www.irs.gov/filing/freefile-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free.

The service is available to those with Adjusted Gross Incomes of under $73,000.

For those lacking broadband access, the IRS offers another service: the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, also known as VITA. The service is available to those who earn less than $58,000 annually, seniors or people with disabilities, and people with limited English skills. Services are offered in 350 languages, either by phone or by going into a local IRS office. Several VITA sites are located at community centers. https://www.irs.gov/individuals/free-tax-return-preparation-for-qualifying-taxpayers Rettig advised those availing of free services to only use sites from irs.gov, to avoid scams.

Ken Corbin, Wage and Investment Division Commissioner and Chief Taxpayer Experience Officer at the IRS, noted at the briefing that multiple changes have been made to the Earned Income Tax Credit program, allowing more people to avail of its benefits. For families without children, the benefit has almost tripled from a maximum of $529 for the 2020 tax season, to $1502 this year.

The credit has also been raised for families with children; one qualifying child allows for a maximum credit of $3,733, provided that household income is under $43,492. two qualifying children allow for a maximum of $6,164, provided household income is un-

der $49, 399.

Families with three or more children with an annual income below $53,000 can receive a maximum credit of $6,935.

The minimum age to qualify for EITC has been lowered from 25 to 18, said Corbin, adding that minors who have aged out of foster care or experiencing homelessness can now also qualify for the credit.

People who have investment income under $10,000 and meet the household income guidelines may also qualify for EITC this year, said Corbin.

He noted that the Economic Impact Payments sent out last year to individuals earning less than $72,000 are not considered taxable income, but must nonetheless be reported on your tax return.

Both Rettig and Corbin noted the large number of scams, stemming from people who represented themselves as IRS agents. “The IRS will not call you by phone without a notice in advance. Don’t accept a text, a call, especially if they ask for bank info or to pay with a gift card. That is a scam,” cautioned Corbin.

Consumers can read about the most-prolific IRS scams at https:// irs.gov/newsroom/dirty-dozen Corbin said the agency defines its success when “we meet our taxpayers in the communities where they live and to expand options and choices.”

To meet that goal, the IRS is hiring, especially those who speak a language other than English. Job seekers can search for open positions at the agency usajobs.gov.

(Ethnic Medica Services)

PH sets new COVID-19 rules...

PAGE 2

tion.

The must have any of the following proofs of vaccination against COVID-19: • World Health Organization International Certificates of Vaccination and Prophylaxis • VaxCertPH • National or state digital certificate of the foreign government which has accepted VaxCertPH under a reciprocal arrangement

unless otherwise permitted by the IATF According to Nograles, minors are exempted from the requirement of being fully-vaccinated and providing proof of immunization prior to boarding.

Fully-vaccinated foreigners will not be included in the arrival quota set by the Department of Transportation and its One-Stop-Shop.

(Gaea Katreena Cabico/Philstar. com)

Rae ellen Bichell Kaiser Heallth News

WHAT does it mean if a person’s rapid antigen test result comes back positive after five days of isolation due to COVID-19? According to the experts, that person is most likely still carrying a viral load high enough to infect others.

“Anytime you’re positive by one of these rapid at-home COVID tests, it means that you’ve still got a really high level of the viral protein, and most experts are interpreting that as a high level of virus present in your nasal passage,” said Matthew Binnicker, director of clinical virology at the Mayo Clinic and president of the Pan American Society for Clinical Virology.

The Biden administration is buying a billion rapid antigen tests to ship to American homes, aiming to address the need for increased COVID testing and ease a nationwide shortage of tests. That influx of tests comes on the heels of revised federal guidelines that shortened the isolation period to five days after symptoms started or a positive test, followed by five days of masking.

It’s widely known that PCR tests, the highly sensitive polymerase chain reaction tests that detect viral genetic material, can pick up “dead” virus — material not capable of replicating — and yield a positive result for weeks after recovery, even when the person being tested is no longer

infectious.

But virologists say that’s unlikely to be the case for the rapid antigen tests — which detect certain proteins in the virus and produce results within 30 minutes — that are headed for people’s mailboxes.

The odds are very slim, outside of a laboratory setting, that someone who gets a positive result on a rapid antigen test is a non-infectious person shedding large amounts of dead virus, said Kelly Wroblewski, director of infectious disease programs for the Association of Public Health Laboratories.

There are several reasons for this. First, according to the Infectious Diseases Society of America, “a major advantage” of rapid antigen tests is that they are somewhat blunt tools for picking up on the virus. Therefore, a positive result tends to mean the person has a high viral load, especially if symptoms appeared.

Second, it takes a substantial amount of virus material to register as positive on an antigen test, so a person would need a high level of dead virus sitting around in their nose or throat, and usually that signals a high level of live virus, too.

Third, even if someone did have a high level of dead virus hanging around, quantity alone wouldn’t be enough to trigger a positive test — viral proteins tend to lose their shape after a battle with the immune system, which can render them undetectable by

antigen tests.

In a laboratory setting, a rapid antigen test could detect bits of “dead” virus, said Dr. Sam Dominguez, a pediatric infectious disease doctor and the medical director of the clinical microbiology lab at Children’s Hospital Colorado.

Federally funded scientists did just that to check whether rapid antigen tests would work as well on omicron as they did on other COVID variants. However, Dominguez said, the odds of dead virus — and dead virus alone — triggering a positive antigen test in a human rather than a petri dish are low.

Unlike scientists in a lab, the human body in attack mode isn’t trying to inactivate viruses just so.

It’s trying to obliterate them, proteins and all. “RNA can last longer than the proteins,” said Wroblewski, but neither substance is known for sturdiness. Even for scientists it’s somewhat of an art to keep proteins intact after inactivating the virus.

“It is not easy,” said Dr. Izabela Ragan, a veterinary scientist at Colorado State University who has branched into human virology, and who has worked for about two years on developing a vaccine against SARS-CoV-2. Her work hinges on killing the virus while preserving the shape of its proteins.

The confusion around how to interpret test results stems largely from this conundrum: While there u PAGE 7

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FEBRUARY 4-10, 2022 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160

D ATELINE PHILIPPINES PH, US strengthen ties to improve agriculture sector by caTheRine

TalaVeRa Philstar.com

MANILA — The Philippines and the United States have affirmed their intention to work together to improve the country’s agriculture sector, according to the Department of Agriculture (DA) In a statement on Thursday, January 27, the DA said Agriculture Secretary William Dar recently met with United States Charge d’Affaires Heather Variava.

“During the virtual meeting, Dar briefly shared to CDA Variava the four pillars of the reform agenda to consolidate, modernize, and industrialize the Philippine agriculture sector including initiatives for livestock, dairy, fisheries, among others,”the DA said.

DA also highlighted the DA’s ongoing actions to address the

challenges brought by the pandemic, such as the enhanced Kadiwa ni Ani at Kita program.

The program facilitates the selling of major agricultural goods at reasonable prices to the consuming public through partnerships with local government units and the private sector.

Dar emphasized the urgent need to mobilize necessary resources to undertake critical measures to address the spread of African swine fever (ASF) such as leveling-up existing diagnostic laboratories while stressing the importance of research in the livestock industry.

“Citing damages of Typhoon Odette to the local agri-fishery sector, Dar cited the need for assistance to affected farmers and fishers,”the DA said.

Figures from the DA-Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Operations Center

showed that damage to agriculture caused by Typhoon Odette reached P13.4 billion.

Meanwhile, Dar also encouraged the renewal of the US Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for the Philippines as it helps the Philippines attract investments, create new industries and new jobs and encourage supply chain resiliency.

The US GSP allowed duty-free treatment for products coming from beneficiary countries.

Dar also invited US investors into the industries such as coco chips, coco board manufacturing as well as seafood processing and canning.

“With a number of agricultural partnerships between the two countries, Variava affirmed BACK TO LEVEL 2. Passengers show their vaccination cards before entering the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange on Monday, Jan. 31.

The “no vaccination, no ride” policy in Metro Manila will be lifted Tuesday, February 1 as the quarantine classification will be lowered to Alert that US programs are in place Level 2.

PNA photo by Jess M. Escaros Jr. to support and complement the Philippines’ undertakings in the agriculture sector,”the DA said. 

‘US, Japan maritime stance IMF retains growth outlook on aligns with Philippines interests’ PH despite Omicron onslaught

by RaYMonD

RaYonDaYon Philstar.com

MANILA — The International Monetary Fund retained its growth forecast for the Philippines for this year, citing disruptions caused by the Omicron variant that are nevertheless expected to fade.

The Washington-based lender expects the domestic economy to grow 6.3% this year, unchanged from its projection back in October last year, Ragnar Gudmundsson, IMF resident representative to the Philippines, said. This forecast was factored in IMF’s latest World Economic Outlook report released on Tuesday night, January 25.

If realized, this year’s gross domestic product growth would be better than 4.6% expansion that the IMF projected for 2021. The Philippine Statistics Authority was to release the official GDP data for 2021 on Thursday night, February 3.

“The Philippine economy is still projected to grow at 6.3% in 2022. This is because the

carryover from the upward growth revision in 2021 is expected to be canceled out by the rapid spread of the Omicron variant and new quarantine measures in the first quarter of 2022,” Gudmundsson said in an e-mail.

“Strong growth is nevertheless expected during the remainder of 2022, as vaccination proceeds further, policy measures remain appropriately supportive, and private sector confidence improves,” he added.

The fund’s concerns over the economic impact of Omicron variant is highlighted in its bleaker outlook for the global economy. The crisis lender cut its world GDP forecast for 2022 to 4.4%, half a point lower than the October estimate, due to the “impediments” caused by the latest outbreak, although those are expected to begin to fade in the second quarter of the year.

“The global economy enters 2022 in a weaker position than previously expected,” the IMF said in the quarterly update, adding that “the emergence

of the Omicron variant in late November threatens to set back this tentative path to recovery.”

The outlook remains beset by risks, including geopolitical tensions and a wave of price increases hitting consumers and businesses that is expected to last longer than previously expected.

At home, latest government data showed the economy eked out a 6.9% growth (revised downwards) in the third quarter of last year despite the onslaught of Delta variant at the time. This was after the government changed its pandemic strategy by replacing draconian lockdowns with “granular” ones that only restrict mobility in areas with high infection rates.

That better-than-expected GDP performance convinced economic managers to hike the government’s growth target for 2021 to 5-5.5%. The Philippine government forecasts the economy to grow 7-9% for 2022 and 6-7% by 2023 and 2024. 

by Pia lee-BRaGo Philstar.com

MANILA — Efforts of the United States and Japan to oppose China’s attempts to advance its illegal claims in the South China Sea are aligned with the interest of the Philippines to preserve sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea, the Philippines’ former top diplomat said.

U.S. President Joseph Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida held a summit video teleconference last Jan. 21, during which they agreed, among others, to oppose China’s attempts to change the status quo in the South China Sea and its use of economic coercion to achieve its ends.

Both the U.S. and Japan invoked the 2016 Arbitral Ruling against China’s illegal claims in the South China Sea. “As such, our country should undertake more concrete steps to enforce the 2016 Arbitral Ruling by solidifying the support of the international community,” former foreign affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario said in a statement.

While the U.S. and Japan are not coastal states in the South China Sea, Del Rosario noted that “they have a real and tangible interest in preserving the Rule of Law in the region.”

“International law grants all nations of the world, including the U.S. and Japan, freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea – which is critical for global economic trade and maintaining peace and security in the region,” he added.

The international law that applies in the South China Sea is embodied in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and, specifically, the 2016 Arbitral Ruling won by the Philippines against China in The Hague.

P29 billion for AFP modernization A total of P29 billion has been earmarked for this year’s modernization program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) amid incursions committed

by China in the West Philippine Sea. Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel, chairman of the strategic intelligence committee

of the House of Representatives, said the “fresh funding” for acquisition projects is higher by P2 billion, or 7.6 percent, from the P27 billion the AFP received in 2021.

“The bulk of the new money would enable the Department of National Defense to make the initial payment for the procurement of 32 additional S-70i Black Hawk helicopters worth P32 billion,” Pimentel said.

He said the combat utility choppers from Polish aerospace manufacturer Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. would be “delivered in batches between 2023 and 2026.”

Pimentel also disclosed that in December 2021, the DND made the down payment for the acquisition of two brandnew 116-meter corvettes worth P28 billion from South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries Co. Ltd. At the same time, the administration lawmaker said the DND is also expected to finalize this year the procurement of six 83-meter offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) worth P30 billion from  PAGE 7

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Corrupt, vague stand? Isko ignores criticisms and offers kind words to Robredo, Pacquiao instead

by Gabriel

Pablico Inquirer.net

lalu

MANILA — Instead of engaging in a new word war with Vice President Leni Robredo and Senator Manny Pacquiao — fellow presidential aspirants in the 2022 polls — Manila Mayor Isko Moreno offered kind words to both officials despite their scathing accusations against him.

In a press conference after he delivered his 10-point economic agenda on Monday, January 31, Moreno was asked about the recent comments of Robredo and Pacquiao about him during an interview with YEAR OF THE TIGER. SM Mall of Asia’s Chinese New Year centerpiece is inspired by classic Chinese gardens with blooms of peonies, tall talk show host Boy Abunda, where bamboos and three moon gates decorated with red lanterns which symbolize birth and renewal and wisteria flowers for long life. The main showpiece is a larger-than-life tiger fully covered in flower petals, resting in a floral bed with gold coins and ingots welcoming aspirants were asked why people fortune and prosperity.

ManilaTimes.net photo should not vote for other candidates.

Robredo said that Moreno sometimes has no clear stand, while Pacquiao claimed that the Mayor had corruption issues.

He also urged Filipinos to the Lunar New Year.

by Helen Flores “One, I did not watch the Vice Robredo said the message of continue to demonstrate the Philstar.com President’s interview. So I don’t ideals of bayanihan (volunteerism) the new year remains the same even if the celebration is different and malasakit (compassion), MANILA — President Duterte prayed for a “better” 2022 for especially to those who are most due to the continuing threat of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Filipinos, as the nation celebrated in need.

“Despite all the challenges, “Let us all look forward to more the Lunar New Year on Tuesday, opportunities for growth and there is always hope, we can February 1.

In his message, the President prosperity in the New Year and always start again. Whatever said he hopes the year of the Water become instruments of peace, obstacle we face, we can Tiger would bring Filipinos good harmony and generosity to all,” overcome this not individually, not amid hostility, but by working fortune and renewed strength, Duterte said.

The President, through together and being there for each as the country recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic and “other Proclamation 1236, has declared other,” she said in Filipino.

“Thank you for the trust, challenges that have tested our Feb. 1, 2022 as a special nonworking day to commemorate support and solidarity with our mettle as a nation.” dreams for our country. I wish “Through our courage, faith and Chinese New Year.

Chinese New Year is “one you all a happy, peaceful, and determination, we have become more resilient and capable (of of the most revered and festive prosperous year ahead,” the Vice events celebrated, not only in President said. building) back better,” he said.

The local government of Manila “It is my fervent prayer that China but also in the Philippines,” prohibited the holding of public 2022 will be a better year for all the proclamation read.

Vice President Leni Robredo events celebrating Chinese New of us, in terms of wealth, health, relationships and progress,” on Tuesday joined the Filipino- Year to prevent the spread of Chinese community in celebrating COVID-19. g Duterte said.

Duterte prays for a ‘better’ 2022 for Filipinos

know if she aids something like that, and I wish her good luck,” Moreno said.

“With regard to Senator Manny Pacquiao, we would like to thank Senator Pacquiao for giving us such honor and pride to the world of boxing. And yung dangal na naibigay sa atin ay hindi natin makakalimutan yon, so maraming salamat sa karangalang ibinigay sa atin ni Senator Pacquiao sa mundo ng boxing,” he added.

(About Senator Manny Pacquiao, we would like to thank Senator Pacquiao for giving us such honor and pride in the world of boxing. And the pride that he has given us, we will never forget that, so thank you very much for the glory that Senator Pacquiao has given us in the world of boxing.)

After the interviews with Abunda, Robredo’s answers gained controversy after she launched criticisms of the other aspirants — calling former senator Bongbong Mar-

cos a liar and an absentee during tough situations, Senator Panfilo Lacson a person who talks a lot but has no on-the-ground action, and saying that good attitude may not be enough for Senator Manny Pacquiao.

Pacquiao, on the other hand said that aside from Moreno, Marcos also had corruption issues. Meanwhile, the boxer-turned-senator said he does not know why Robredo and Lacson should not get votes.

On Wednesday, February 2 Domagoso denied he used excess campaign contributions he received for his losing senatorial run in 2016 to buy a P50-million mansion.

“There was extra money left, so I asked the [proper] government agency, what I am supposed to do with the excess? I was told I should pay taxes, so I followed that as a citizen,” said Domagoso, who said earlier that his net worth amounted to about P70 million. g

‘PH ready to move on from pandemic’

PRESIDENTIAL Adviser for Entrepreneurship Jose Maria “Joey” Concepcion III hailed the decision of the government’s pandemic task force to scrap travel restrictions for foreign nationals entering the country for business and tourism and the easing of quarantine and testing protocols for inbound travelers, saying this is a sign that the country is ready to “move on” from the pandemic.

The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) last week ruled to suspend the Red, Yellow and Green list classification countries, scrap mandatory facility-based quarantine for arriving passengers and allow the entry of travelers from non-visa required nations for business and tourism.

“Nagpapasalamat kami sa (We thank the) IATF for heeding the call of the private sector. Ang nakikita namin (the way we see it), we are now starting to move on,” Concepcion said.

The official expressed hope the government will soon consider

completely phasing out the alert levels in Metro Manila and around the country and instead put in place a “pandemic exit strategy” to further spur the country’s economic recovery.

“We will craft a plan on how each sector can develop their exit plan. The idea is to reach a point wherein there are no more alert levels. We will develop a standard protocol,” he added.

If all goes well, Concepcion said it is likely that Metro Manila and other areas where COVID-19 cases are steadily on the decline may be placed under Alert Level 1, which will allow business establishments to operate on increased capacity.

“That’s the objective of the private sector and hopefully that can be done by April,” the official said.

From there, the next goal will be to bring students back into classrooms.

Concepcion said that with the rollout of the pediatric vaccination, the private sector will urge the IATF to open schools for faceto-face classes “provided that

both students and teachers are already fully vaccinated.”

He added that the next priority must be to bring students back in classrooms as long as they come from households with 100-percent vaccination rate or with no unvaccinated senior citizens in the house.

“Vaccinated kids belonging to 70 percent vaccinated households or no unvaccinated senior citizens in the house and living in areas with 80 percent of the population vaccinated can also attend faceto-face classes,” Concepcion said.

He allayed concerns on students and teachers being infected, saying the mask mandate should be strictly implemented.

Concepcion stressed that bringing students back to schools is part of the change in mindset about living with the viral disease.

“The country cannot afford a long-term effect of less than ideal quality of education due to the online learning modality being implemented by the Education department,” he said. (ManilaTimes.net)

‘US, Japan maritime stance aligns...

PAGE 4 Australian defense contractor Austal Ltd. Pimentel said he was glad that while super typhoon Odette devastated provinces in Mindanao and Visayas in December 2021, it also “clearly

demonstrated the growing importance” of AFP’s naval and air assets in disaster relief operations.

Global risk agencies have tagged the Philippines as one of the world’s most disaster-prone countries, being at the center of a typhoon belt and inside the

Pacific Ring of Fire frequented by volcanic eruptions and earthquakes.

Pimentel cited the crucial role played by Philippine Navy vessels and Philippine Air Force planes in mobilizing disaster relief workers, equipment and supplies in the aftermath of Odette. g

It’s day 6 of COVID and a rapid antigen test...

PAGE 3 is a wealth of testing options available, there is no foolproof way to gauge whether a person is actually infectious.

“I wish there was,” said Binnicker. “There is no test that we have for infectiousness.”

The best option is to take a patient’s sample, stick it in a dish of thriving living cells, and see what happens to the healthy cells. If there’s live virus, said Dirk Dittmer, a virologist at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, “then the cells would die, just like the lung cells in your body would die.” But the finicky process takes about three days and can be done only in labs cleared to handle such pathogens, rendering it impractical.

Instead, the most widely available tests rely on totally different methods. They fall into two categories, typically called molecular tests and antigen tests.

Molecular tests, including PCR, look for specific bits of the virus’s RNA. With the exception of a few over-the-counter options, the tests are processed in a lab. They are capable of detecting tiny bits and pieces of the virus’s genetic material by copying whatever is floating around in a person’s sample over and over, amplifying it “a million- to a trillion-fold,” said Dr. Marie Louise Landry, director of the Clinical Virology Laborato-

ry at Yale New Haven Hospital.

That’s why, she explained, “PCR can detect very low levels of viral RNA for weeks and even months after infection, when a patient is no longer infectious.”

Rapid antigen tests, on the other hand, look for viral proteins rather than the virus’s genetic material. Many of them look for nucleocapsid or “N” proteins, which are abundant in infected cells and form a protective capsule around the virus’s genetic material. Unlike molecular tests, rapid antigen tests work only with what’s available — no copying or amplifying involved. These tests drag a person’s sample across a special piece of paper that contains a fence of antibodies designed to grab onto the virus’s N proteins. If enough proteins snag on the fence, a visible line of color will appear.

“Even single molecules can turn a PCR positive,” said Dr. Michael Mina, an epidemiologist who has been a vocal supporter of rapid testing throughout the pandemic and is now chief science officer for the health care company eMed. But, he added, it takes “about 100,000-1,000,000 molecules to turn the rapid antigen test positive.”

But what about the official recommendation that people with COVID should isolate for five days at home — followed by five days

of masking? Data from the world of sports, where resources and testing methods abound, offer a glimpse into how variable that period of infectiousness might be.

A preliminary study of NBA players and employees found that among 70 people infected with omicron, by Day 5 after their first positive test about 40% of them were still likely infectious.

“What we’re recommending is that between Days 5 and 10, you can take an antigen test. If it’s positive, you stay in isolation till Day 10,” said Binnicker.

CDC public affairs specialist Jasmine Reed said the best approach is to use an antigen test toward the end of the five-day isolation period if the person’s symptoms have improved. “If your test result is positive, you should continue to isolate until Day 10,” she said.

Wroblewski said an important gauge of contagiousness is the simplest: how someone is feeling.

“If you have a high fever and a cough, don’t go see people. I feel like we somehow forgot that part,” she said. “Let’s not put so much emphasis on the test and the technology that we forget basic infection control practices: that if you’re sick, stay home.” g This story was produced by KHN, which publishes California Healthline, an editorially independent service of the California Health Care Foundation.

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OPINION

FEATURES

Back to the bottom

AFTER edging up by three spots last December, the Philippines sank back to the bottom of the COVID-19 Resilience Ranking in January, for the third time in five months. The ranking, drawn up by media and data company Bloomberg, again rated the Philippines as the worst place to be during the pandemic among the world’s 53 largest economies.

The slide back to the bottom was due to the return to Alert Level 3 in the National Capital Region and several other areas following a renewed surge in COVID-19 cases driven by the highly contagious Omicron variant.

Explaining the Philippines’ return to the bottom spot, Bloomberg also said in its report: “Difficulties administering vaccines in remote areas continue to be a vulnerability as the country sees an Omicron surge worse than other Southeast Asian countries like Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand.”

The resiliency rankings are based on the number of COVID cases and deaths, vaccine coverage, lockdown severity, universal health care coverage, community mobility and human development index.

While the Philippines managed to emerge last year from deep recession in 2020, its worst

economic performance since World War II, the quality of the pandemic response has led many analysts to describe the country as the regional laggard in recovery. The response has been hampered by insufficient COVID testing, disastrous contact tracing, and a health infrastructure that has been inadequate even before the pandemic.

Coming from a low base amid the 9.5 percent gross domestic product contraction in 2020, GDP grew by 5.6 percent last year. The government says this is the best proof of the country’s resilience. Economic growth from a low base, however, must be accompanied by greater effort to improve public health care capacities.

COVID-19 has highlighted the weaknesses of the health care system. The country does not need the resilience index to see where improvements are urgently needed. (Philstar.com)

Editorial

Philstar.com photo Philstar.com photo

Filter out the noise: Watch ‘PANATA SA BAYAN: The 2022 Presidential Candidates Forum’

The Fil-Am Perspective

February 3 at 7pm PST/ Feb 4 at 9 am PHL Time

GEL SANTOS-RESTOP whatever it is you are doing on February 3, Thursday at 7 pm PT and watch “PANATA SA BAYAN: The 2022 Presidential Candidates Forum” to know who can and will possibly be the next President of the Philippines.

This is especially important if you are a dual citizen like this author, and/or you have family in the Philippines whose lives will be very much affected by this very consequential election happening on May 9, 2022.

This first Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster sa Pilipinas (KBP) forum, simulcast over 300 member stations of the KBP, will give you the chance to get to know six Presidential candidates: Vice President and Former Representative Atty. Leni Robredo, Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, Former Senator and Ilocos Norte Governor Bongbong Marcos, Former Senator and PNP Chief Panfilo Lacson, Representative and boxing champion Manny Pacquiao and unionist/labor rights activist Ka Leody de Guzman.

With the highly divided nation in the age of social media and fake news, a lot of us do not really have the opportunity to earnestly get to know these candidates

who are applying for the position of President of the Philippines — the most powerful position in the nation accorded with public trust. Who will be the true tried and tested leader and public servant who deserve our trust and our vote?

The future of our Motherland in the next six years and even thereafter depends on this election because votes have consequences not only in the near six years but even beyond that.

The results will have tremendous effect on the lives, health, safety, education, opportunities, and values system of people, not only of this generation but of the succeeding ones.

The May 9, 2022 elections will also define who we are as a nation and as a people because we make a decision based on our values, we pick the candidate who shares the same values. We elect the next President and Commanderin-Chief of the Philippines based on what we know about them — their qualifications, their personality, their character, their achievements, their vision, and the programs and initiatives they will put forward to help our lives become better and our democracy stronger.

This forum will be the first time we will see them all together in one platform, unfiltered, unscripted, unedited. We will listen to how they answer to the hard questions we hope the moderators and panelists will ask all off them, and we will pay attention to the content and substance of their responses, as well as on their demeanor and attitude as they present their positions to the Filipino people.

This will be the first of the series of debates for both President and Vice-President in the near future, leading up to election day.

The 2022 Presidential Candidates Forum will be moderated by Rico Hizon of CNN Philippines and Karen Davila of ABS-CBN. Panelists include: Elmer Acol of Bombo Radyo; Roby Alampay of One News; Dan Andrew Cura of Far East Broadcasting Company; and Ed Lingao of TV-5.

Make an informed decision.

Watch this forum and subsequent debates before casting your sacred vote as a responsible and conscientious citizen of the Philippines. *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints

Vice President Leni Robredo

Manila Mayor Isko Moreno

Former Senator Bongbong Marcos

Former Senator Ping Lacson

Senator Manny Pacquiao

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

Gel Santos Relos has been in news, talk, public service and educational broadcasting since 1989 with ABS-CBN and is now serving the Filipino audience using different platforms, including digital broadcasting, and print, and is

Labor rights activist Leody de Guzman Philstar.com file photos

***

working on a new public service program for the community. You may contact her through email at gelrelos@icloud.com, or send her a message via Facebook at Facebook.com/Gel.Santos.Relos.

Major global challenges ahead

Babe’s Eye View BABE ROMUALDEZ THERE has been a rapid increase of cybercriminals hacking the online accounts of depositors from major Philippine banks. So far, there have also been a number of arrests.

However, many continue to be apprehensive because hacking syndicates keep developing new and more sophisticated ways to launch cyberattacks. According to the Bankers Association of the Philippines, more than P1 billion was lost last year due to cyber fraud, with the criminals using emails, text messages and even social media to dupe people into disclosing sensitive data or personal information to hack credit cards, debit cards and the like.

But more than individual credit card holders or depositors, cyber criminals are focusing their attacks on private businesses and government institutions. Earlier this month, a news report claimed that the servers of the Commission on Elections had been hacked, with the usernames and PINs of vote counting machines

allegedly downloaded, raising concerns that the outcome of the May 2022 elections could be compromised.

During an inquiry last Friday, January 28 by the Joint Congressional Oversight Committee on the Automated Election System, Department of Information and Communications Technology Undersecretary and Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) executive director Cezar Mancao – a recent visitor here in Washington, DC – said their preliminary investigation showed that the Comelec servers have not been hacked because they were offline when the supposed attack happened, but raised the possibility that the system of Comelec contractor, Smartmatic, may have been compromised.

Experts warned that cyber criminals are getting more creative and sophisticated in their tactics, increasing their reach across industries.

According to a Californiabased cybersecurity research company, the annual cost of global cybercrimes is projected to reach $10.5 trillion by 2025.

Aside from the use of social media to target victims, one

particular trend that everyone should watch out for is the rise in ransomware attacks. Simply put, a ransomware attack involves the use of malware (malicious software) to gain access to a computer system, which would then become inaccessible unless the victim pays a ransom. Sometimes, hackers also threaten to leak sensitive information unless payment is made.

While there are instances when a hacking attempt fails, the damage to a system may still be costly. This is what happened to the Defence Academy of the UK (a school for diplomats and British personnel from the Armed Forces, the Civil Service and other government departments) that was targeted by hackers in March last year.

Although the hackers did not succeed, the damage was still significant due to the time that had to be spent in repairing the damage to the system and restoring the network.

Just very recently, Canada’s Foreign Ministry was also targeted by hackers, resulting in the disruption of internet-based services and downtime in some internal systems, preventing diplomats from accessing some

online services. The attack came just a few days after Canadian officials issued a warning for the public to be vigilant in the face of cyber threats including “state-sponsored” cyberattacks.

A few days ago, the domestic intelligence agency of Germany disclosed that a Chinese hacking group known as APT (Advanced Persistent Threat) 27 has started attacks against German companies, particularly those involved in technology and the pharmaceutical industry.

Active since 2010, APT 27 has been targeting critical sectors and foreign embassies to collect information pertaining to government, defense and technology sectors, according to German officials.

The United States of course is one of the biggest targets of these cybercriminals. Last year, hackers targeted oil companies, among them Colonial Pipeline Company, the biggest pipeline system in the U.S. for refined oil products. The attack caused such panic that the company officials decided to shut down the 5,500-mile pipeline system – the first time ever in its 57-year history – effectively cutting off the supply of gasoline and other fuels to the East Coast, causing

shortages, higher prices and long lines at gasoline stations.

According to investigators, the hackers, who were affiliated with Russian cybercrime group DarkSide, were able to obtain a password from a private network account used by employees to remotely access Colonial’s computer network. The company paid a $4.4-million ransom, although the FBI was able to recover $2.3 million of the ransom money.

The FBI also said that Eastern European cybercriminals have been trying to hack U.S. companies engaged in the transportation, defense and insurance industries by sending fake letters containing a USB stick loaded with malicious software that, if inserted into a computer, could steal information or access a company’s network.

As the World Economic Forum’s Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2022 report noted, the pandemic has demonstrated the interconnectivity of businesses, and how digitalization has exposed the global population to a new trajectory of cyber threats and attacks. The experience of such companies as Colonial Pipeline clearly

shows that an attack on one can have a domino effect on others.

No less than U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas had said that they “consider ransomware to be one of the gravest threats in the cybersecurity domain that we in the United States and, quite frankly, the world is vulnerable to.”

There is absolutely no doubt we need to support the CICC team of USec Mancao and increase their yearly budget (which was a meager P11 million) if we are to strengthen our anti-cybercrime efforts and capacitate the agency in performing its mandate as lead agency in coming up with effective measures to “prevent and suppress increasing future cybercrime activities” that will surely pose the greatest threat not only to private businesses but our national security as well.

(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.

*** Email: babeseyeview@gmail.com

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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Friday, February 4, 2022

INSIDE >>>

LIFESTYLE • CONSUMER GUIDE • COMMUNITY • MARKETPLACE

SFIO adopts new corporate name ‘Starfleet Innotech, Inc.’ STARFLEET Innotech, Inc. announced the formal change of its corporate name, replacing its previous name “Smokefree Innotec, Inc.” The new identity reflects the conglomerate’s ambitious new direction as a global asset management company.

FRAUD WAIVER AND THE LATEST DEVELOPMENTS IN U.S. IMMIGRATION THIS SUNDAY ON CITIZEN PINOY. Jun (right) was a crewman who jumped ship in 2002. He overstayed in the U.S. for several months, before returning to the Philippines in 2003. In 2007, his mother petitioned him as a single child. Finally, after many years of waiting, Jun was interviewed at the U.S. Embassy, but he was denied due to fraud. Jun’s sister (3rd from left) and his mother (2nd from left) consulted with leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel (2nd from right), who was able to file a fraud waiver, which was approved. Watch this success story on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, February 6 at 7:00 PM PT (10:00 PM ET thru select Cable/Satellite providers), right after TV Patrol Linggo. Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the free app.

(Advertising Supplement

Petition denied at embassy due to fraud for jumping ship on an all-new Citizen Pinoy this Sunday LEADING U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel provides the latest immigration developments, as featured on his YouTube channel: US Immigration TV. On Sunday, February 6, he also features another success story that is inspiring and hopeful.

Jun was a crewman who jumped ship and overstayed a few months in the U.S. in 2002. He returned to the Philippines in 2003, and in 2007, his mother petitioned him as single.

After almost 16 years of waiting, Jun was finally scheduled for his interview at the U.S. Embassy. Unfortunately, he was denied due to fraud.

Distraught and desperate to get Jun to the U.S., his sister and their mother went to leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel to seek his help.

The Law Offices of Michael J. Gurfinkel was able to file a fraud waiver, which was approved, and Jun was issued his immigrant visa, allowing him to rejoin his family in the U.S. Watch this success story on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, February 6 at 7:00 PM PT (10:00 PM ET thru select Cable/Satellite providers).

Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the app for free.

(Advertising Supplement

“This is an important moment in our history as a company,” said Jeths Lacson, chairman and chief executive officer of SFIO. “When we began developing our plans for a network of innovative companies working in conjunction to explore new frontiers of innovation, we couldn’t help but draw inspiration from the sci-fi classics we grew up with. As Starfleet, we’re leading this new alliance, sharing knowledge and resources to help our businesses go where none of their industries have gone before.”

SFIO is focused on innovation through disruptive collaborations across its three key industries: Food and Beverage (F&B), Real Estate, and Technology. With a strong presence across New Zealand, Australia, and the Philippines — as well as new offices in the United States and United Arab Emirates — the company invests in high-growth businesses, supporting them through partnerships and opportunities, before leveraging their international presence to help them scale exponentially.

Guided by tradition, driven by innovation, and enabled by collaboration — SFIO says they are on a hyper-growth path towards building a thriving global business ecosystem.

“This past year, we’ve gathered a formidable roster of technologists, strategists, communicators, and leaders to drive Starfleet Innotech, Inc. into the future,” Lacson said.

“Armed with what I believe is a truly interstellar team, our goal is to kick our businesses across the F&B and Real Estate industries into warp speed.”

Over the next three years, SFIO plans to elevate their portfolio on the global market and pioneer new technologies, with the goal of uplisting to a major stock exchange by 2024.

(Advertising Supplement)

10

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LUNAR NEW YEAR 2022: How to usher in the Year of the Tiger

by AJPRESS

Lunar New Year!

Welcome the Year of the Water Tiger!

HAPPY

Unlike the fixed new year of the Gregorian calendar commonly celebrated on January 1st, the date of the Lunar New Year (also known as Chinese New Year) varies, determined by the appearance of the new moon — which is why it’s called the Lunar New Year, as it’s based on the lunisolar Chinese calendar.

The Lunar New Year usually falls sometime between January 21 and February 20. The Year of the Water Tiger began on February 1 and lasts until January 21, 2023.

During the Lunar New Year celebration, people across the globe greet with either Gong Xi Fa Cai, which means “you attain greater wealth,” or Kung Hei Fat Choi, which means “congratulations and be prosperous.”

The 12 zodiac animals are, in order: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. 2022 is the Year of the Water Tiger, “which indicates a prosperous year due to the Tiger’s auspicious signs (strength, exorcising evils and braveness),” according to ChinaHighlights. com.

2022, 2010, 1998, 1986, 1974, 1962, 1950, and 1938 are regarded as Tiger years. Tigers are known as natural born leaders who are courageous, assertive and stubborn, yet generous.

Similar to the January 1st new year, there are several traditions and rituals observed during the Lunar New Year, including: Dragon and lion dances In the Philippines, Filipinos who celebrate the holiday typically flock to Binondo in Manila, which is considered the oldest Chinatown in the world. They crowd the streets of Chinatown to watch the Parades of Dragons and Lions, a colorful and dynamic performance accompanied by the loud banging of drums and cymbals. The dragon, in China, is believed to represent great power, auspiciousness, and strength. Meanwhile, the lion

celebrity world

By Ferdie Villar GROWING up, it looked like Rob Gomez would bypass showbiz. Despite catching the showbiz bug back in high school where he appeared in “Walang Tulugan” and an episode for “Pidol’s Wonderland,” he was preoccupied with a number of things, including sports. Plus, his parents asked him to concentrate on his studies.

“I was a football player, that was really my main focus,” he said in an interview with the Philippine Star. “I love sports, (going

to the) gym and working out.

I love (playing) basketball and tennis, swimming, horse riding, everything under the sun I love.”

But Rob has come full circle and heeded the call – his dream as a youth to enter showbiz has become real.

It is no surprise to many as Rob is, after all, part of the Ejercito-Estrada showbiz clan – his mom was a former actress (Kate Estrada), his illustrious showbiz elders include George Estregan and Joseph “Erap” Estrada, and

represents safety and luck.

Wearing and gifting red The color red is prevalent during the festivities as it is a special color in Chinese culture, signifying energy, happiness, and good luck. Most people wear red clothing as it represents vitality as well as strength.

Elders also hand out Ang Pao (Red envelopes) to children. These envelopes contain money, and giving them is believed to bring good luck and long life to both the giver and receiver.

Symbolic dishes Families also gather to have their New Year’s Eve dinner where they usually serve tikoy (year cake),, which is made from sticky rice and symbolizes unity among family members; pancit/ noodles, for long life and represent the eater’s life; and fish and dumplings, which are believed to signify good fortune.

Fireworks The Lunar New Year won’t be complete without setting off fireworks and firecrackers or generally just making noise as it is supposed to drive away bad spirits, bad luck, and the mythical beast called Nian. Filipinos commonly use horns and cooking pots to create noise.

12 round fruits Families also prepare 12 different round fruits as they are believed to bring luck and fortune to them.

The New Year’s Eve dinner is perhaps the most important dinner for families — that’s why it’s necessary for all the members of the family to be present for it.

AJPress llustration by Jillian Peñalosa

Rob Gomez gets the acting bug his uncle is Gary Estrada.

He is currently seen in “Mano Po Legacy: The Family fortune” where he holds his own in varying scenes with seasoned performers like Boots Anson-Roa, Sunshine Cruz and Maricel Laxa.

He plays the character of Joseph, the illegitimate eldest son in the series.

Previous to “Mano Po,” Rob’s entry back into acting was via the Erik Matti film “A Girl + A Guy” (opposite Alexa Miro). He was also seen in “Regal Studio Presents: Bro B4 Rose” with Jeric Gonzales and Kim Domingo.

According to Rob, his mom

was not supportive at first when he tried years ago, but things have changed in his second try at the acting thing. He gets words of encouragement from his family and relatives.

“She always tries to criticize me in a good way, so I can improve. She’s very supportive,” Rob revealed. when asked about pieces of advice that mom Kate and uncle Gary have given him.

“He’s really a good guy. I look up to him so much. He’s a great guy.

(For instance, with my movie,) his comment was very technical, how I walk, how I stand, how I Rob Gomez has finally fulfilled a childhood wish to act in front of the cameras. He is currently Instagram photo/@robgomez.23 PAGE 12 seen in “Mano Po Legacy: The Family Fortune.”

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COMMUNITY JOURNAL

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • FEBRUARY 4-10, 2022

11

How to tell if someone is using your identity McDonald’s USA, fashion trailblazer Humberto TAKING steps to protect your personal information can help you minimize the risks of identity theft.

But what if a thief gets your information anyway? Here are some of the ways thieves might use your stolen information and signs you can look out for from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC): • An identity thief could use your information to get credit or service in your name.

How to spot it: Get your free credit report at AnnualCreditReport.com. Review it for accounts you didn’t open or inquiries you don’t recognize. A new credit card, a personal loan, or a car loan will appear as a new account. A new cell phone plan or utility service — like water, gas, or electric — will show up as an inquiry.

• An identity thief could use your credit card or take money out of your bank account.

How to spot it: Check your credit card or bank statement when you get it. Look for purchases or withdrawals you didn’t make.

Bonus advice: Sign up to get

Leon reimagine Lunar New Year traditions through metaverse experience for fans

The Golden Arches introduces a first ever cross-media collaboration, ‘McDonald’s Hall of Zodiacs: 2022 Lunar New Year by Humberto Leon,’ to include red envelopes at select restaurants and national TV spot text or email alerts from your credit card or bank whenever there’s a new transaction. This could help you spot unauthorized or fraudulent activity on your account.

• An identity thief could steal your tax refund or use your Social Security number to work.

How to spot it: A notice from the IRS that there’s more than one tax return filed in your name could be a sign of tax identity theft. So could a notice that you have income from an employer you don’t work for.

• An identity thief could use your health insurance to get medical care.

How to spot it: Review your

medical bills and Explanation of Benefits statements for services you didn’t get. They could be a sign of medical identity theft.

• An identity thief could use your information to file a claim for unemployment benefits.

How to spot it: A notice from your state unemployment office or employer about unemployment benefits that you didn’t apply for could be a sign of fraud.

If you discover any signs that someone is misusing your personal information, find out what to do at IdentityTheft.gov. (Alvaro Puig/ Consumer Education Specialist, Division of Consumer and Business Education)

Treasurer Ma announces 2022 tax-exempt debt allocation for affordable housing development SACRAMENTO – California State Treasurer Fiona Ma announced on Tuesday, February 1 the California Debt Limit Allocation Committee’s (CDLAC) approval of more than $3.7 billion in allocation available for affordable housing in 2022.

CDLAC and the California Tax Credit Allocation Committee (CTCAC), both chaired by Treasurer Ma, authorize tax-exempt debt and award state and federal low-income housing tax credits (LIHTCs) that together were responsible for the production of 22,946 total units of housing in 2021.

“Affordable housing is a critical need for Californians. The Committees understand we are responsible for allocating resources that help developers build the units that are so desperately needed across our state,” Treasurer Ma said.

The state and federal 4% and 9% LIHTC programs CTCAC administers incentivize the development of qualified new construction projects and the rehabilitation of existing properties. These tax credits are a critical equity source for producing and preserving af-

fordable rental properties that help reach the Governor’s goal of producing 3.5 million units of new housing in California by 2025. To access the federal 4% LIHTCs and specific state LIHTCs, developers must also be allocated private activity tax-exempt bond authority from CDLAC. Combined, CTCAC and CDLAC have provided incentives that have allowed for greater production of housing units over the past several years. The number of housing units developed through these incentives in 2017 was 14,091 while 22,946 were produced in 2021.

Last year, CTCAC and CDLAC authorized funding for 269 projects with bond allocation of more than $4.3 billion, nearly $550 million in annual federal LIHTCs and more than $600 million in state LIHTCs. “The Committees and our teams are dedicated to helping solve California’s housing and homeless needs through a strategic allocation process that will result in more homes for those that need it most,” CDLAC and CTCAC Executive Director Nancee Robles said. “We know our available resources are outpaced by demand, yet we are confident

that the allocation and awards are making a positive and direct impact throughout California.”

Through the LIHTC programs, private investors receive federal and sometimes state income tax credits as an incentive to make equity investments in qualified affordable rental housing projects.

Since 1986, more than 500,000 affordable housing units have been supported in California thanks to LIHTC funding.

Both CTCAC and CDLAC are achieving greater efficiency that maximizes the number of units that can be created with the scarce resources available. CTCAC also awards the 9% federal disaster LIHTC distribution. In 2021, 65 disaster credit applications were received, and 39 awards were awarded for $79.6 million.

Due to the success of the state LIHTC awards made in 2020 when the total allocation was increased from $109 million to more than $600 million, Governor Newsom approved another $500 million in state LIHTCs in 2021. Treasurer Ma looks forward to her role in administering these critically important programs in 2022. (CA Treasurer’s Office Release)

CHICAGO – To ring in Lunar New Year with style and innovation, McDonald’s has teamed up with Humberto Leon, co-founder of fashion brand Opening Ceremony, to create a one-of-a-kind collection of zodiac animal designs. Focused on the Year of the Tiger and its courageous and fearless qualities, the “McDonald’s Hall of Zodiacs: 2022 Lunar New Year with Humberto Leon,” is an immersive and interactive experience for fans that is set in the metaverse. As a Chinese-Peruvian American, Leon’s creative vision is largely shaped by his cross-cultural identity and passion to serve and celebrate his diverse background.

“Lunar New Year is not only a time to celebrate with family and friends, but also gives us Asian Americans the perfect opportunity to share our cultural heritage with people throughout the various communities we call home,” said Leon. “Partnering with McDonald’s means a lot to me because it’s a brand that has always been committed to embracing and celebrating the universality of all cultures, helping me see myself in the brand and in the world. Kicking off Lunar New Year with McDonald’s in a way that underscores the creativity and innovation of the Asian American community, makes me proud to offer a true expression of my identity and the influences that have shaped it, to which I know many will relate.”

Experience the Hall of Zodiacs As a first in the U.S., McDonald’s is sending fans to a new place for their Lunar New Year celebrations. Starting today until Feb. 15, fans can enter the life-like exhibit on virtual reality social platforms, AltspaceVR and Spatial, to experience the elegant McDonald’s gallery hosting Leon’s work. While there, fans can take in Leon’s zodiacs and receive horoscope readings that give foresight into their year ahead, based on birth year and zodiac animal. And feng shui expert and popular content creator Cliff Tan’s interior design

direction takes it up a notch to give the feel-good space balanced energy. The exhibit can also be enjoyed via mobile and desktop, with additional info and instructions on how to access it at McDHallOfZodiacs.com.

McDonald’s worked in tandem with multicultural ad agency, IW Group, to bring this campaign to life.

“We’re excited to reach our fans in a meaningful way that captures the essence of the Year of Tiger showcasing bravery, strength and confidence through art, while leveraging a digital experience that meets them in spaces they enjoy,” said Elizabeth Campbell, McDonald’s Senior Director of Cultural Engagement. “Bringing on Humberto Leon, a trailblazer who uses the world around him to influence his work and others, is what makes this a next-level moment for McDonald’s. We’re honored to celebrate this Lunar New Year through his art expressions and hope our fans will enjoy this very cool and celebratory experience with us.”

Honor Lunar New Year traditions As part of the cross-media collaboration, McDonald’s and Leon also produced a TV spot that features the designer’s reflections on beloved traditions for Lunar New Year while also speaking to his diverse identity.

The spot, which you can watch at https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=EUteGm5dv8k, aired nationwide starting Monday, January 31 on Asian news channels in English, Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese.

Share good luck and prosperity And it wouldn’t be Lunar New Year without stunning red envelopes! Traditionally filled with money and given out to symbolize prosperity, these red envelopes designed exclusively for McDonald’s customers will feature Leon’s Year of the Tiger design. Customers who visit participating restaurants will receive a packet of two red envelopes that can be given to friends and

family to honor the tradition of sharing good fortune. The participating restaurants are in Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, and Atlanta starting on Feb. 1, and available while supplies last: • 9852 Westminster Ave, Garden Grove, CA 92844 • 7503 Garvey Ave, Rosemead, CA 91770 • 255 Winston Dr, San Francisco, CA 94132 • 1150 S De Anza Blvd, San Jose, CA 95129 • 1125 Peachtree Industrial Blvd, Suwanee, GA 30024 • 40-18 Main St, Queens, NY 11354 • 8435 N Beltline Road, Irving, TX 75063 • 1460 Hwy 6, Sugar Land, TX 77479 This Lunar New Year celebration represents a longstanding commitment to the Asian American community, which includes celebrating meaningful cultural moments, such as last year’s Lunar New Year partnership with leading global Asian artist collective, 88rising and distributing custom red envelopes during San Francisco Chinese New Year Festival in 2020. The Golden Arches commitment extends to education as well, as it feeds and fosters the communities it serves. Through programs like the McDonald’s APA Next platform, which includes an annual scholarship for Asian Pacific Islander American students in financial need and a partnership with self-care app Shine, the brand strives to support students in and out of the classroom.

McDonald’s USA, LLC, serves a variety of menu options made with quality ingredients to millions of customers every day.

Ninety-five percent of McDonald’s approximately 13,500 U.S. restaurants are owned and operated by independent business owners. For more information, visit www.mcdonalds.com, or follow us on Twitter @McDonalds and on Facebook at www. facebook.com/mcdonalds.

Meanwhile, Humberto Leon PAGE 12

12

FEBRUARY 4-10, 2022 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

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Rob Gomez gets the acting...

PAGE 10

speak, how I look in front of the camera…I should look like a leading man… kailangan maayos mong makita yung mga camera mo. He is such a nice person, he is well respected by people, by everyone he has been involved with. I wish to be like him one day.”

One thing he has learned in his young career is to communicate with his director. After all, it’s the director who sees everything on the screen and he thinks it’s worth it asking different inputs that he can consider when essaying the role he’s playing.

“For this role (in ‘Mano Po’), I learned that you really have to talk to the director. Of course, it’s his eye on the screen, something I (also) learned from direk Erik,” said Rob. “Since I’m working with direk Ian (Loreños), it’s his Rob Gomez has finally fulfilled a childhood wish to act in front of the cameras. He is currently Instagram photo/@robgomez.23 perspective. He is very kind and seen in “Mano Po Legacy: The Family Fortune.” very approachable.”

Year of the Water Tiger. ity basket which contains rice, The 23-year-old says that he According to Chiu, sweeping is kiat kiat, a bell and a red envewants to do a lot more and will not advised until the fifth day of lope containing P888, among try his best to succeed in this the new year and one should not others. “We always put P888, business. wash their hair on New Year’s then after nine days I deposit it “(After,) I want to do some- Day to avoid “washing away” to a bank account. Then we eat thing in between, something wealth. She said that arguing the rice after nine days.” above, something below naman, and swearing are not allowed As for the wishing paper, Kim maybe an action film, maybe as it brings bad luck and taking is steadfast in her belief that ussomething more interesting, medicine should also be avoided ing it has led her to fulfill her anything actually. If they give me so that one does not get sick the dream of owning a vacation the best opportunities, I will try entire year. house. to give them the best results,” he Meanwhile, those who are “Proven and tested, everyone stated. looking for love this new year who comes to our house writes Enjoying the things that he is should try wearing a brand new on these. It’s impossible that doing right now and sold on the red underwear. what you wrote here does not idea that his craft is an extension “2022 is an interesting year, a come true. I wrote something of his creativity, Rob also be- year of opportunities, a year of here, it really came true. I was lieves that things will come his development but also a challeng- able to buy a vacation house,” way in due time. ing year. But we must never lose she claimed.

“It’s all about timing and God’s hope and pray for good things to However, if the wish does not will,” he declared. come our way,” she was quoted come true, Kim says it is okay as *** as saying. it comes down to timing.

Leave it to Kim Chiu to keep The episode also featured a “The Chinese gods won’t her fans abreast on what to do visit to a feng shui expert. Both judge you, so it’s okay,” she told for the Chinese New Year. agreed on a couple of things for fan.

In a recent episode in her You- good luck, including a prosperity During the episode, it was also Tube channel, Kim, according to basket and wishing paper. revealed that lucky colors for this Inquirer.net, gave tips to her fans “We always have this at year are yellow, red, white, gold on some do’s and don’ts for the home,” Chiu said of the prosper- and silver.

McDonald’s USA, fashion trailblazer Humberto...

PAGE 11 is the co-founder of Opening Ceremony, a cult fashion brand that launched in 2002, first as a retail destination in New York, Los Angeles, and Tokyo, and then as an eponymous label of women’s and men’s ready-to-wear, footwear, accessories. From 2011 to 2019,

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

Leon served as the co-creative director of the French fashion house KENZO. As the campaign for the release of his Fall/ Winter 2018 collection at KENZO, Leon wrote and directed his first film, The Everything, starring Milla Jovovich, Alexandra Shipps, Kodi Smit McFee, and Leo Reilly. In 2020, Leon

EMPLOYMENT

SERVICES

opened his first restaurant in Eagle Rock, California. CHIFA has received the prestigious Bib Gourmand Award by the MICHELIN Guide and earned a coveted spot on Condé Nast’s “The Best New Restaurants in the World” and the Los Angeles Times “101 Best Restaurants” lists for 2021.

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