February 9-11, 2022 • SoCal aSIaN JOurNaL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797
From the Front Page
California to end indoor mask...
PAGE 1 of vaccination status. The areas include: public transit (e.g. airplanes, trains, subways, buses, ride-shares); K-12 schools and childcare; emergency shelters; health care settings; state and local correctional facilities and detention centers; homeless shelters; and long-term care settings and adult and senior care facilities. The following individuals are exempt from wearing masks at all times: • Persons younger than two years old. Very young children must not wear a mask because of the risk of suffocation. • Persons with a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability that prevents wearing a mask. This includes persons with a medical condition for whom wearing a mask could obstruct breathing or who are unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise
unable to remove a mask without assistance. • Persons who are hearing impaired, or communicating with a person who is hearing impaired, where the ability to see the mouth is essential for communication. • Persons for whom wearing a mask would create a risk to the person related to their work, as determined by local, state, or federal regulators or workplace safety guidelines. • California is also amending its regulations for “mega” events starting Feb. 16. The guidance will return to thresholds of 1,000 attendees for indoor mega events and 10,000 attendees for outdoor mega events. • For indoor mega events, verification of fully vaccinated status or pre-entry negative testresult is required of all attendees. • LA County won’t lift mask
mandate • Despite the state’s plan to end the mask mandate, Los Angeles County officials said it will remain in place as cases remain high in the region. • “This is not the right time to stop wearing our masks when around others indoors, and in outdoor crowded settings,” said LA County Public Health Director Barbara Ferrer. • As of Monday, Feb. 7, Public Health confirmed 29 additional deaths and 4,360 new cases of COVID-19. The number of cases and deaths reflect the weekend reporting delays. Of the 29 new deaths reported, four people were between the ages of 5064, seven were between the ages of 65-79, and 18 were over the age of 80 years old. Of the 29 newly reported deaths, 23 had underlying health conditions. To date, the total number of deaths in LA County is 29,457. n
PAGE 1 fully extradite him.” Ortha was referring to Article 11 of the U.S. extradition treaty with the Philippines in 1996. It requires the U.S. government to return the involved individual to the Philippines once the proceedings in the foreign country have been concluded. According to Ortha, there is a possibility for the U.S. to seek the provisional arrest of Quiboloy, which can be done before the extradition request. Foreign Affairs spokesman Assistant Secretary Eduardo Meñez said the Philippines has not yet received a request from the U.S. government for Quiboloy’s provisional arrest. “As far as we know, no request has been filed yet either here or in Washington,” Meñez said. A Filipino diplomat told The STAR that the extradition treaty does not provide for provisional arrest. “That would be a violation of due process and Philippine criminal jurisdiction,” the diplomat said. On Saturday, the FBI released the wanted posters of Quiboloy and two other officials of the religious sect Kingdom of Jesus
Christ following their indictment in November 2021. Quiboloy, a personal friend and spiritual adviser of President Duterte, was indicted for conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking by force, fraud, coercion as well as sex trafficking of children and cash smuggling. Any communication related to the case of Quiboloy, who is in the most wanted list of the FBI, should be coursed through diplomatic channels, Malacañang said on Monday. “We will pass through the diplomatic channels. The DOJ has spoken about the issue,” acting presidential spokesman Karlo Nograles said at a press briefing when asked whether it is Duterte’s obligation to report to the U.S. embassy the whereabouts of Quiboloy. Nograles echoed the statement of Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra that the DOJ could issue an immigration lookout bulletin order against Quiboloy. Quoting Guevarra, Nograles said the justice department has not received any official communication from the U.S. to extradite Quiboloy. “Extradition cannot be done
motu propio (upon one’s initiative), especially if the subject is our own citizen,” Nograles said. Quiboloy’s lawyer Ferdinand Topacio questioned the timing of the FBI’s release of a “most wanted” poster on the religious leader, who described himself as the “Appointed Son of God.” Topacio said the issue is being used to tarnish President Duterte’s reputation and undermine the vice presidential bid of Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio and presidential aspirant Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. On Nov. 10, 2021, the California district court issued a federal warrant for Quiboloy’s arrest. “The FBI’s release of a wanted poster for Quiboloy follows multiyear efforts by law enforcement,” Heather Fabrikant, spokesperson for the U.S. embassy, said in a text message to The STAR. “It is not related to the Philippines’ presidential election campaign.” Topacio said the timing may be a “distraction” against the Duterte administration as the May elections draw near, in which the U.S. might be interfering. n
US: Quiboloy arrest not related to PH...
1 N&7 Ƒ X11hƑ XJ7&N$ Ƒ Ƒ 11Ƒ 7S JƑ= & N
© ¯ǘÀr£ À¼r ©ƌ~¯¨ ÕÕÕƌÀr£ À¼r ©ƌ~¯¨ ƿŰŭ ųūű ŭūū űŬŮŰ ƙ ƿū ŲůŲ ŬŬų ųŲůŲ
H> O T 2 O'8!
HK'b T > '
O 7'ơHK'b T > '
Ë££Ûơ ÆÆ Õ¯¼¡ÀÆrÆ ¯©À Æ rÆ r¼ ¹£Ë r© ¹£rÛ ¼ r Û
rËÆ Ë££Û À © ¯ ~ À © ¹¼ ¨ £¯~rÆ ¯©À
b ¼ÀrÆ £ £rÛ¯ËÆÀ Æ rÆ ~r© } rÀ £Û ~ËÀƯ¨ à
c Y8 KOT 8 i>YK YO'8 OO 6 / S&ƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑŨƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑ
Hƙ 0YH O'T ¯©Æ ©Ë ÆÛ ÀƼrÆ Û ¯¼ }ËÀ © ÀÀ ¯¹ ¼rÆ ¯©À
'8JY'K 8>cƑ
~¡ ¯ËÆ ¯Ë¼ }¼r© © Õ À ¼Ô ~ ¯ ~ À © ¨Ë£Æ ¹£ £¯~rÆ ¯©À Ǚ }¯¯¡ r Ư˼
ƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑŨƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑ6 7 1Xh=7 ƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑŨƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑ=JS& NƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑŨƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑ J& S=b7 ƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑŨƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑƑ NSb==
(818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797 • http://www.asianjournal.com
Duterte not endorsing any bet ‘at this... PAGE 1
compromise the interest of the government,” he said. Asked whether the PDP-Laban faction, chaired by Duterte, is also not endorsing a presidential bet following Duterte’s remark, Cabinet Secretary and acting presidential spokesman Karlo Nograles said the party has yet to reach a consensus on the matter. “The PDP-Laban is still talking about this, the national executive committee as well as the leaders of the PDP Laban,” Nograles said at a press briefing on Monday. “The consensus building and decision-making of the PDPLaban is still going,” he said. “What the President said last night was at this time he does not support any candidate but he also said that ‘unless there is a compelling reason for me to change my mind,’” Nograles said. Duterte’s daughter, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, is running in tandem with presidential aspirant Ferdinand Marcos Jr. In his public address in January, the President said he would expose the characters of those seeking the presidency “in due time.” He described one political hopeful as “too corrupt” and another as not ripe for the presidency. His daughter and her running mate Marcos officially kicked off their campaign on Tuesday, February 8, promising national unity should they win in the May 9 elections. The event was held at Philippine Arena in Bulacan, considered the world’s largest arena. “We here in the Philippines, all of us overcame past crises because we were united. Now we need to again unite as we face this pandemic, because even the most competent and hardworking could only do so much if they are alone,” he said in Filipino. The former senator said his tandem with Duterte-Carpio represents the collective desire of the people to really unite for the betterment of everyone and the country. “That’s why the Duterte-Marcos tandem is a very significant symbol because if the one coming from the North and the other from the South join forces, I think the two of us can unite the entire Philippines,” Marcos pointed out. The Philippine Arena has seating capacity for 55,000
people, but organizers said only 25,000 would be allowed to witness the event in compliance with government’s health protocols. Bulacan Vice Gov. Wilhelmino Sy-Alvarado, who is seeking the gubernatorial post under PDP-Laban Cusi wing, vowed to support the tandem of Marcos and Duterte-Carpio. This developed as the senatorial candidates of the UniTeam also began their campaign on Tuesday, with House Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda firing the first salvo at the Liberman Gymnasium in Pandan, Antique, her home province. The three-term senator vowed to launch a campaign focused on employment generation and green pandemic recovery for every Filipino family. “The crisis of unemployment is one of the major problems that needs to be addressed urgently. My goal is to strengthen government interventions to give our people hope, especially the poorest of our poor, belonging to the most vulnerable and marginalized sectors of our country, an assurance that they are given priority and adequate assistance as we tread on the path towards sustainable and green pandemic recovery,” Legarda said. People’s crusade Clad in pink, supporters of Vice President Leni Robredo across the country and abroad joined on Tuesday the official start of her three-month presidential campaign with mini-rallies and motorcades, which her supporters call people’s crusade. Robredo herself and her running mate Sen. Francis Pangilinan, together with members of their Senate slate, motored to Camarines Sur – her home province – where they were warmly welcomed by their supporters. Pink is Robredo’s campaign color. Members of Robredo’s Senate slate who joined her campaign kickoff in Camarines Sur were Sen. Risa Hontiveros, former senator Antonio Trillanes IV, former Ifugao Rep. Teddy Baguilat, lawyers Chel Diokno, Alex Lacson and Sonny Matula. Detained Sen. Leila de Lima sent a representative. “It is only timely and proper to start the hardest fight of my life here. Thank you for joining me. Thank you for your sacrifices,” the 56-year-old Robredo said
Pangalagaan ang iyong DMV to-do list sa online!
DATELINE USA
in remarks before supporters in Libmanan in Camarines Sur. Her late husband, former interior secretary Jesse Robredo. served as Naga City mayor for six terms. “Unless we change the old and rotten kind of politics, unless we give our countrymen hope and inspiration, nothing will really change,” she said. Also with Robredo in her first day of campaigning were her three daughters – Aika, Tricia and Jillian – during her motorcade from the town of Lupi to the municipality of Libmanan earlier in the day. Abroad, Robredo’s supporters gathered in front of the Queen Victoria Market in Melbourne, Australia, to express their support for Robredo and Pangilinan. A video posted on Facebook showed Robredo’s supporters, donned in pink clothes, chanting “Gobyernong Tapat, Angat Buhay Lahat!” “We offer to you this campaign, this journey toward the fulfillment of our promise of prosperous and bright future. A future where this is no hunger for food, justice, love and care,” Pangilinan said in Filipino. Raucous welcome Manila Mayor Isko Moreno also kicked off his campaign on Tuesday for the presidency with a caravan around the city. He engaged his supporters by signing framed photos and dancing with them on top of his caravan vehicle with his running mate Dr. Willie Ong and three senatorial candidates – Samira Gutoc, Jopet Sison and Carl Balita. But social distancing proved difficult to implement in Manila, the country’s most densely populated city, his campaign organizers admittted. Moreno himself took off his mask and some of his supporters had their masks down to their chins as they cheered their candidate on. At a press briefing, Moreno’s campaign manager Lito Banayo said it was difficult to implement the Commission on Elections (Comelec)’s guidelines for social distancing in a “noisy” Philippine election campaign. Moreno’s proclamation rally Tuesday night was at the Kartilya ng Katipunan beside the Manila City Hall. Partido Reporma standardbearer Sen. Panfilo Lacson PAGE 8
Nakumpleto ang pagpaparehistro ng sasakyan.
Ang pagpunta online ay ang pinakamabilis at pinakamadaling paraan upang mapangalagaan ang iyong mga pangangailangan sa DMV, at lahat para tanggalin ang pangangailangan na bisitahin ang field office sa maraming mga kaso! Makatipid ng oras sa iyong abalang araw sa pamamagitan ng pag-aalaga ng mga karaniwang gawain sa DMV, tulad ng pag-renew ng pagpaparehistro ng sasakyan o pag-release ng liability, mabilis at madali sa bahay o on-the-go. Alisin ang pagbisita sa DMV mula sa iyong to-do list Gawin ito online ngayon sa dmv.ca.gov!
Kapag ikaw ay handa na.
SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL • FEBRUARY 9-11, 2022
3
Presidential candidate Isko Moreno and his running mate Willie Ong along with senatorial candidates Samira Gutoc, lawyer Jopet Sison, and Carl Balita attend Aksyon Demokratiko’s kickoff rally at the Kartilya Ng Katipunan, Manila on Tuesday night. Philstar.com photo by Edd Gumban
The race is on, campaign season for...
PAGE 1 around Manila. JV Former senator JV Ejercito started his day by attending a mass with his family and some supporters at Pinaglabanan Church in San Juan City. Ejercito’s half brother, former senator Jinggoy Estrada, is also vying for a Senate seat in the May 9 elections. Eleazar Former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Guillermo Eleazar started his day early and had a motorcade around General Mariano Alvarez town in Cavite. He is set to join the LacsonSotto proclamation rally in the afternoon. Legarda House Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda launched her campaign at the Liberman Gymnasium in Pandan, Antique. Villanueva Re-electionist senator Joel Villanueva held a hybrid event— a mix of physical and virtual—to launch his campaign. Videos played during the event show his supporters from different parts of the globe. Other senatorial aspirants are also expected to join the proclamation rallies of presidential and vice presidential candidates. Proclamation rallies The presidential and vice presidential aspirants are set to hold proclamation rallies in different locations across the country to officially start their campaign. BBM – Sara The tandem of former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio will hold their proclamation rally at the Iglesia
With an emphasis on his rags-to-riches story, senator Manny Pacquiao official starts his opening salvo for the 2022 presidential elections in home town General Santos City on Tuesday, February 8. Philstar.com photo by Efigenio Toledo IV
ni Cristo-owned Philippine Arena in Bocaue City, Bulacan. At least 25,000 supporters are expected to attend the event, said Marcos Jr.’s team. As part of health protocols, only fully vaccinated individuals will be allowed inside the arena. Leni – Kiko Robredo and Pangilinan will hold their proclamation rally in Naga City — Camarines Sur’s capital and the city which her late husband, former Interior secretary Jesse Robredo served as mayor for several terms. The tandem of Senator Panfilo Lacson and Senate President Vicente Sotto III is set to face their supporters in the vote-rich Cavite province—where Lacson was born and raised. Before their main proclamation event at the Imus Grandstand late in the afternoon, the tandem is scheduled to attend a mass at the Imus Cathedral. Isko – Doc Willie For Moreno and Ong, their campaign will kick off at the Kartilya ng Katipunan near the
Manila City Hall. The Aksyon Demokratiko in an earlier advisory assured that health protocols would be observed during the kick-off rally amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Pacquiao – Atienza Boxer-turned-senator and now presidential aspirant Manny Pacquiao starts his campaign in his hometown General Santos City. Pacquiao is running with House Deputy Speaker Lito Atienza as his Vice President. Pacquiao earlier said he wanted to conduct his campaign kick-off in General Santos City because it was where he dreamt of rising above poverty. “Ka Leody” Presidential aspirant Leody de Guzman and his running mate Walden Bello, meanwhile, are set to hold their proclamation rally, dubbed “Manggagawa Naman sa 2022”, at the Bantayog ng mga Bayani in Quezon City. Several groups are also expected to converge and will march towards the Bantayog ng mga Bayani. ■
February 9-11, 2022 • SoCal aSIaN JOurNaL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797
(818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797 • http://www.asianjournal.com
Biden names new US ambassador...
PAGE 1
Carlson currently serves as Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Previously, she worked as Deputy Chief of Mission in New Delhi, India for three years and as ad interim CDA for 10 months; and as principal Deputy Executive Secretary of the Secretary of State in Washington, D.C. She has been a foreign service officer since 1985 after
earning her degree in Spanish and International Studies from Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee and Master of Arts in International Relations from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. She also served at diplomatic missions in China, Ukraine, Hong Kong, Mozambique, Kenya, and the Dominican Republic. “The biggest lesson I learned is the need to treat each applicant with respect,” Carlson
Dateline USa
SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL • FEBRUARY 9-11, 2022
said in an interview with the Rhodes College website in 2019. “Consular officers are the face of the United States, and how we treat applicants, even those who don’t qualify for visas, matters.” Heather Variava has been the U.S. Embassy’s ad interim Chargé d’Affaires (CDA) – the embassy’s official representative in the absence of an ambassador — since September last year, succeeding John Law. (Inquirer.net)
NFL hosts COVID-19 vaccination clinic ahead... PAGE 1
“Our partnership with the NFL allows people to come together safely and experience the very best of American football. Straightforward public health measures including vaccinations, testing, masking and hand hygiene make it possible for so many to enjoy the Super Bowl Experience. We thank the NFL and all the fans for taking care of each other throughout the football season and look forward to welcoming everyone to an extraordinary Super Bowl in beautiful Los Angeles,” said Dr. Barbara Ferrer, Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.
The vaccination clinic is open on Thursday, Feb. 10 and Friday, Feb. 11 from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., and from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 12. Appointments are encouraged to reduce wait times but not required. Fans can schedule a vaccine appointment on the MyTurn website. Entry requirements for Super Bowl Experience presented by Lowe’s will follow current LA County Department of Public Health guidelines for entry into Indoor Mega Events. Fans will need to provide proof of full vaccination or proof of a recent negative test result. All fans 18 and older must also present a
photo identification. If fans arrive at Super Bowl Experience and are unable to meet pre-entry full vaccination requirements, the NFL has partnered with Medea Testing Solutions to provide COVID-19 rapid antigen testing with $0 out-of-pocket cost to fans. Testing will take place in Gilbert Lindsay Plaza in front of the Los Angeles Convention Center. Appointments are encouraged as scheduling an appointment will reduce wait times but not required. The LA Rams and Bengals will face off on Feb. 12 at Super Bowl LVI to be held at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood. (AJPress)
SFIO receives letter of interest from US EXIM Bank for up to $28.75-M in debt financing STARFLEET Innotech, Inc. has received a letter of interest from the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM), in support of SFIO’s real estate development projects in the Philippines. In their letter, EXIM, the official export credit agency of the United States, expressed interest in extending financing of up to $28.75 million, towards SFIO’s medical and retirement resort in Montemaria, Batangas, just south of Metro Manila in the Philippines. Potential debt financing from EXIM would be eligible for a maximum repayment term of seven years. This follows a series of partnerships and exploratory talks SFIO has spearheaded towards non-dilutive debt financing for its various projects.
SFIO is currently engaged with a number of local banks in the Philippines to secure similar financing arrangements for their real estate developments, including a bayside, eco-friendly tech village in Batangas. These projects play a crucial role in the global asset management company’s
strategy of collaborative innovation towards building better communities. Profits from these high-yield projects are intended to be reinvested into future growth, helping carry the group towards their plans to uplist from the US OTC Markets to the NASDAQ by 2024. (Advertising Supplement)
designed by:
PERSPECTIVES
AN ASSET MANAGEMENT COMPANY
5
6 FEBRUARY 9-11, 2022 • SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797
OPINION
FEATURES
Human capital development EVEN before the pandemic, development experts had emphasized the need for better education and upskilling of the Philippine workforce. While the country has been one of the biggest global sources of migrant workers, most of them have been in blue collar jobs or household services. Filipino teachers took jobs overseas as maids or caregivers. Even in business process outsourcing, the country has led mainly in voice services, thanks to Filipinos’ English proficiency. In skills BPO, however, other countries such as India are the world leaders. And even in English proficiency, the Philippines has been losing its edge, with several BPO companies reporting difficulties in recruiting workers with the required language skills. With the global economic crisis spawned by the COVID pandemic, hundreds of thousands of overseas Filipino workers have lost their jobs and have been forced to return home. In a working paper, the Manila-based Asian Development Bank said the Philippines must intensify efforts to develop human capital, particularly for repatriated OFWs who will be reintegrated into the economy. ADB economists said resources must be boosted for quality education and training. They said skills diversification is needed as workers must adapt and respond better to changes in the labor market.
Aside from re-skilling and upskilling, the ADB paper said reintegration can include tapping the skills of returning OFWs so they can help their communities transition to selfreliant microeconomies. Considered modern-day heroes, OFWs and their remittances have powered the country’s consumption-driven economic growth and helped keep the economy afloat even during global downturns. The OFW phenomenon, however, has steep social costs, as even Pope Francis had pointed out when he visited the Philippines. And the country must pursue the long-term goal of creating enough decent job opportunities so Filipinos will see no need to seek greener pastures abroad. Getting meaningful employment starts with proper education. Although education is now free all the way to college, there are still too many progress, with education officials attributing this Filipinos who cannot afford the miscellaneous costs to decades of neglect and smug complacency. and other demands of formal education. Improving The country is just starting to recover from its the quality of free education also remains a work in worst crisis since World War II. The success of
Editorial
The Fil-Am Perspective GEL SANTOS-RELOS FEBRUARY 8, 2022 marked the official campaign season in the Philippines leading up to the May 9 Election Day. As the candidates held kickoff rallies in different places of the country, all eyes are on the most important position that will potentially change the trajectory of the country, for the better or for the worse, depending on who will win among the presidential candidates vying to succeed President Rodrigo Duterte. This is how international news agency Reuters described the five leading contenders for the Presidency: Panfilo “Ping” Lacson The 73-year-old senator and former Philippine National Police Chief has been in government for more than 50 years. Lacson rose through the ranks in law enforcement starting off with a post at the PC Metropolitan Command (Metrocom) from the early 70s to Philippine National Police Chief from 1999-2001. He was a retired police officer when he ran for office and became Senator from 2001 to 2013, and again from 2016 to the present.
Philstar.com photo
recovery will hinge in large part on the quality of a nation’s most precious resource, its people. The pandemic should spur greater investments in human capital development. (Philstar.com)
Election season heats up in the Philippines: Who will succeed Rodrigo Duterte? He was born in Imus Cavite and was educated in Philippine public school in elementary and high school. He earned his Bachelor of Arts Majoring in Philosophy at the Lyceum before going to the Philippine Military Academy. If elected President, he wants to get rid of corruption and invest in health care and small businesses. He chose former actor/ comedian and now Senator Vicente Tito Sotto III as his running mate. Manny Pacquiao The 43-year-old boxing icon has earned the respect and admiration of people around for being the only man to hold world titles in eight different divisions. This achievement also made him win the hearts of the Filipino people for the “Pinoy pride” he brought to the country. It is a rags to riches story for the Pacman who amassed wealth from the sport. After he became a born-again Christian, he said he wanted to give back to the people by literally giving away money and aid to the needy. This calling also compelled him to join politics and served
two terms as a congressman and is now a senator. He retired from boxing in September and is now running for president with the campaign promise “to improve the healthcare system, eradicate corruption, spur economic growth and provide housing for the poor.” Reuters reported that “Pacquiao was until recently one of Duterte’s staunchest supporters, backing his war on drugs and efforts to restore the death penalty, but their relationship has soured.” He also criticized Duterte for his close relationship with China. He chose Jose “Lito” Atienza, a congressman and former Manila mayor and environment secretary. Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso His claim to fame before entering the political arena was his being the celebrity matinee idol they call “Isko Moreno.” Reuters described him as “The mayor of Manila and former movie heartthrob grew up in the slums, scrapping for leftover food in restaurants and collecting junk to help his parents.” Isko reinvented himself, went
to school to pursue higher studies that would prepare him for a career in politics. Reuters chronicled that: “He became a city council member in 1998 and Manila’s vicemayor for three terms before an unsuccessful run as senator. He was elected Manila mayor in 2019, beating incumbent and deposed former president Joseph Estrada.” Isko won the respect of the people of Manila and of the nation for cleaning up Manila and restoring many of its historic sites. Domagoso’s campaign promise: “Zero tolerance of Chinese maritime aggression in the South China Sea and his economic agenda centres on housing, labour, health and infrastructure”. Isko chose Willie Ong, a doctor who has 16 million followers on Facebook looking for free medical advice. Leni Robredo Let me quote what Reuters stated: “Vice President Robredo, 56, is the leader of the opposition and the only female candidate. A former human rights lawyer, she served as Duterte’s housing minister but quit after
being excluded from cabinet meetings and has become one his staunchest critics. “After condemning what she called ‘senseless killings’ in his war on drugs, she was appointed Duterte’s ‘drugs tsar,’ but he sacked her after just 18 days.” Robredo is pressing for public sector transparency and has vowed to lead a government that cares for the people and to bolster the medical system. Should Robredo win, she would be the third woman to lead the Philippines after democracy champion Corazon Aquino in 1986 and Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in 2001. She is running with Francis Pangilinan, a lawyer and senator, and is currently in second place in the polls. Bongbong Marcos According to Reuters: “The namesake of the late dictator, Marcos, 64, is a former governor, congressman and senator who has emerged as a clear frontrunner in opinion polls. “Since returning to the Philippines in 1991 from exile after his father’s overthrow, the Marcos family has sought to rebuild an image tainted by the
elder Marcos’ often brutal rule and the plunder of billions of dollars of wealth. “Known as ‘Bongbong,’ Marcos Jr. has named Sara Duterte-Carpio, Duterte’s daughter, as his candidate for vice president. However, the vice president is elected separately. Popular with many younger people who were born after his father’s dictatorship, Marcos claims to offer a ‘unifying’ brand of leadership. “Observers have attributed his lead in polls to a strong presence on social media, one that critics say is attempting to rewrite the family’s controversial history.” *** 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.
*** 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 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.
What will happen to the billions of the ‘Son of God?’
Sentinel
RAMON TULFO ECCENTRIC religious leader Apollo Quiboloy, who styles himself as the “appointed son of God,” may soon be extradited to the United States after being indicted in a federal court for sex trafficking and money smuggling. Quiboloy has been placed on the Wanted List of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The pastor of the Davaobased Kingdom of Jesus Christ, The Name Above Every Name may spend the rest of his life in a federal prison, sex trafficking being a very serious offense. What will happen to his billions of pesos in the banks and investments in big corporations and real estate? Quiboloy, one of the country’s richest and most powerful individuals in terms of assets and political connections, is not married and has no children. Candidates for national office go to him for his “blessing,”
in order to win the vote of his followers, who number by the millions. In the 2016 election, Quiboloy lent his jet and helicopter to then cash-strapped presidential candidate Rodrigo Duterte so he could campaign throughout the country. Quiboloy has two television channels and a radio network, the Sonshine Media Network International. The network also has an online presence. The broadcast network has been handed to the pastor by the government on a silver platter. If the charges against him are true, it’s unthinkable for Quiboloy, who tells his flock that sinners would suffer the fires of hell, to violate his very preaching. Quiboloy claims to have stopped an earthquake in Mindanao on Oct. 29, 2019. The preacher once made a veiled threat to a television host, a weirdo like him, by saying that celebrities should not be boastful. Quiboloy said celebrities shouldn’t be boastful, or else bad things might happen to
them, like what happened to the sacrilegious Beatle, John Lennon, who was shot dead by a fan. The grade-A eccentric pastor claims to have 4 million followers in the country, and 2 million in other parts of the world. Many of his followers abroad are in the US, the reason he came to visit regularly. On Quiboloy’s last trip to the US on his private jet, federal agents seized gun parts and a big amount of cash on board. * * * Quiboloy is not the only eccentric leader in the country; there are others who scare the wits out of their followers with their fire and brimstone sermons. The reason Filipinos are scared to offend religious leaders is that they believe these individuals represent God on earth. That belief dates back to the Spanish era, when priests impregnated women followers, because “they served God’s purpose.” Until Filipinos get rid of the notion that they can’t enter
heaven unless they blindly follow the teachings of their church, this country will continue to produce the likes of Quiboloy. Pinoys need to have more education so they can have the power of discernment. * * * Reports that Quiboloy is President Digong Duterte’s spiritual adviser are downright inaccurate. The two are good friends, and their friendship dates back many years. I remember the time Davao City Mayor Duterte and I went on a three-day vacation to Macau years ago, and we were fetched at the Hong Kong airport by Quiboloy’s limousine. The relationship between Digong and Quiboloy doesn’t go beyond friendship. Digong is not guided by any religious dogma as he is spiritual. There is a big difference between religiosity and spirituality. If the President doesn’t believe in priests being Christ’s representatives on earth, why would he believe that Quiboloy
is the anointed son of God? * * * Ferdinand Topacio, one of Quiboloy’s lawyers, says the candidacies of Bongbong Marcos and Sara Duterte are in jeopardy because the FBI would undermine “whichever candidate the US does not want to win in this country.” Duh! Why would Marcos and Duterte-Carpio’s candidacies be in peril because of Quiboloy being placed on the FBI’s wanted list? Following Topacio’s logic, since Quiboloy endorsed Marcos and Duterte-Carpio during a recent visit with the controversial religious leader, the FBI might work for their defeat. Quiboloy chose his lawyer well; they’re both eccentric. * * * Eccentricity is the name of the game in Philippine politics. The more “unique” a candidate is, the more likely he’ll win. Voters will likely remember them at the polling booth. Voters want to see their candidates sing, dance or
perform wacky acts on stage. But Filipinos don’t have the monopoly of voting for peculiar candidates. A porn star, Ilona Staller, won a seat in the Italian parliament in the 1987 election. She was known to show her breasts in public. When Gen. Douglas MacArthur was a military commissioner in Japan in the post-war period, some prostitutes won in the first ever democratic election. This made MacArthur comment to his subordinates: “They must have had many clients.” * * * Joke! Joke! Joke! An applicant for unemployment benefits in Australia filled out the needed form. Here are his answers to the following questionnaire: Occupation: Burglar. Reason for unemployment: Everyone is home. ***
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
The views expressed by our Op-Ed contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the predilection of the editorial board and staff of Asian Journal. ADVERTISING AND ADVERTORIAL POLICIES ROGER LAGMAY ORIEL Publisher & Chairman of the Board
CORA MACABAGDAL-ORIEL President
CHRISTINA M. ORIEL Editor-in-Chief
MOMAR G. VISAYA Executive Editor
US HEADQUARTERS: 1210 S. Brand Blvd Glendale, CA 91204 Tels: (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797 Fax: (818) 502-0858 • (213) 481-0854 e-mail: info@asianjournalinc.com http://www.asianjournal.com With offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York/New Jersey Las Vegas, San Diego, Philippines
IVY MANALANG Vice President - Marketing Los Angeles Asian Journal
DING CARREON Videographer
ANDY TECSON Photographer
Asian Journal Publications, Inc. (“AJPI”) reserves the right to refuse to publish, in its sole and absolute discretion, any advertising and advertorial material submitted for publication by client. (“Client’s Material”) Submission of an advertisement or advertorial to an AJPI sales representative does not constitute a commitment by AJPI to publish a Client’s Material. AJPI has the option to correctly classify any Client’s Material and to delete objectionable words or phrases. Client represents and warrants that a Client’s Material does not and will not contain any language or material which is libelous, slanderous or defamatory or invades any rights of privacy or publicity; does not and will not violate or infringe upon, or give rise to any adverse claim with respect to any common law or other right whatsoever (including, without limitation, any copyright, trademark, service mark or contract right) of any person or entity, or violate any other applicable law; and is not the subject of any litigation or claim that might give rise to any litigation. Publication of a Client’s Material does not constitute an agreement to continue publication. Client agrees and covenants to indemnify AJPI and its officers against any and all loss, liability, damage, expenses, cost, charges, claims, actions, causes of action, recoveries, judgments, penalties, including outside attorneys’ fees (individually and collectively “Claims”) which AJPI may suffer by reason of (1) Client’s breach of any of the representations, warranties and agreements herein or (2) any Claims by any third party relating in any way to Client’s Material. AJPI will not be liable for failure to publish any Client’s Material as requested or for more than one incorrect insertion of a Client’s Material. In the event of an error, or omission in printing or publication of a Client’s Material, AJPI shall be limited to an adjustment for the space occupied by the error, with maximum liability being cancellation of the cost of the first incorrect advertisement or republication of the correct advertisement. Under no circumstances shall Asian Publications, Inc. be liable for consequential damages of any kind. ASIAN JOURNAL PUBLICATIONS, INC. publishes the Los Angeles Asian Journal, published twice a week; the Orange County and Inland Empire Asian Journal, Northern California Asian Journal, Las Vegas Asian Journal and the New York / New Jersey Asian Journal which are published once a week and distributed to Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange Counties, Northern California, Las Vegas and New York and New Jersey respectively. Articles published in this paper do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Letters to the Editor are welcome. Letters must contain complete name and return address. The materials, however, are subject to editing and revisions. Contributions and advertising deadlines are every Mondays and Thursdays. For advertising rates and other informations, please call the L.A. office at (213) 250-9797 or send us an email at info@asianjournalinc.com
SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL • FebRUARy 9-11, 2022
(818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797 • http://www.asianjournal.com
Dateline PhiliPPines
Robredo’s campaign kicks off in hometown Pacquiao named ambassador for the homeless Naga with promise of new politics by Bernadette
e. tamayo
ManilaTimes.net
by Xave
GreGorio
Philstar.com
NAGA CITY — Vice President Leni Robredo returned to her roots in Naga City to launch her campaign for the presidency, promising to bring to the country the brand of leadership she is known for in her bailiwick of Bicol. A crowd gathered for Robredo’s grand rally on Friday at Plaza Quezon, where she was joined by her running mate Sen. Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan and eight of her 12 senatorial candidates. Prior to the rally, the Robredo-Pangilinan ticket had barnstormed the towns of Lupi,
Libmanan and Tigaon, and the city of Iriga in Camarines Sur, where they received a warm welcome from residents. It comes as no surprise that Robredo started campaigning in her bailiwick, the Bicol region, as she won by landslide here in the 2016 vice presidential race despite other Bicolanos running against her. For 2022, Robredo said she is also counting on the “solid” Bicolano vote, which amounts to around 3.6 million voters as of 2019. But Robredo said Bicolanos should vote for her not solely because she is one of them, but because of the kind of
governance she has to offer. “That’s the kind of governance that is honest, sensible and competent, without corruption, without strife, without deception,” Robredo said in Filipino at her campaign stop in Libmanan. While Robredo’s voter base is strong in Bicol, she still has a lot of catching up to do to displace survey frontrunner former Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, who enjoys a double-digit lead over the vice president. But should she pull off this Hail Mary, it would be her third time defeating the deposed dictator’s son. n
51% find it ‘difficult’ to spot fake news by Janvic
mateo Philstar.com
MANILA — One in every two Filipinos find it difficult to spot false information on traditional and social media, a survey conducted by Social Weather Stations (SWS) showed. The December 2021 poll showed that 38 percent of the respondents found it “somewhat difficult” to spot fake news, while another 13 percent said it was “very difficult.” Thirty-seven percent of the respondents said it was “somewhat easy” to spot fake news, while another 11 percent said it was “very easy.” SWS president Linda Luz Guerrero announced the results during the 2022 SWS Survey Review
virtual forum on Monday. According to Guerrero, 20 percent of the respondents said they “often” spot fake news on traditional and social media. Some 40 percent said “sometimes,” 35 percent “seldom” and four percent “never.” The survey also found that a majority of the respondents believe the problem of fake news is as serious in traditional media as in the internet. Seventy-percent said the spread of fake news on television, radio and newspapers is a serious problem (32 percent very serious, 38 percent somewhat serious), up from 60 percent obtained in a similar survey in December 2017 (29 percent very serious, 31 percent serious).
Some 21 percent were undecided (down from 27 percent), while only nine percent said it was somewhat not serious or not serious at all (down from 13 percent). Those who believe that the spread of fake news online is serious also increased from 58 percent in December 2017 (32 percent very serious, 26 percent somewhat serious) to 67 percent in December 2021 (32 percent very serious, 35 percent somewhat serious). Twenty-four percent of the latest survey’s respondents were undecided (down from 33 percent), while eight percent said the spread of fake news online was somewhat not serious or not serious at all (same as in 2017). n
SEN. Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao was named as an “Ambassador for the Homeless and Vulnerable” by the international philanthropic organization Spring Rain Global (SRG). The honor was bestowed to the presidential candidate as he led the groundbreaking of a community center of a housing project at the reclamation area in Barangay Subangdako, Mandaue City, Cebu. Pacquiao’s camp on Monday said the SRG lauded him for championing the cause of the homeless. The senator said that if elected president, his government will not only complement the reclamation housing project but will also work closely with the local government units for the full and immediate implementation of his free housing program. Pacquiao said he plans to build at least 10 million houses, which will be distributed “for free” to about 1.6 million informal settlers and to over 9 million families who were renting apartments or were sharing space with their extended families. The SRG is an international organization that raises and facilitates funding for various humanitarian projects, especially in Third World countries. It has been working with the country’s Vincentian Missionaries, the Malibu Matimco Village Home Owners Association Inc. (MMVHAI), the Chamber of Real Estate
Philippine Senator Manny Pacquiao
ManilaTimes.net photo Photo by John Orven Verdote
and Builders Association (Creba) and the Mandaue City government in the construction of 3,000 housing units in Sitios Malibu and Matimco in Mandaue. Pacquiao also led the groundbreaking of the community center which he donated. He also turned over 10 generator sets donated by Veloce Esports and Team Pacquiao GG to 10 communities in Cebu province, which still has no electricity because of the devastation caused by Typhoon “Odette.” Although these private sector partnerships that build shelters for poor Filipinos “are helping bridge the housing gap, these projects are barely enough to make a dent in addressing the country’s massive housing shortage,” he said. This was why housing is one of the priority programs under his “Health of the Nation” policy platform, he said. Pacquiao said he realized that “it is impossible to address
the country’s housing problem without the full and direct support of the government” after building five housing subdivisions called Pacman Villages in General Santos City and the province of Sarangani. “These NGOs (nongovernment organizations) and private organizations like the SRG, the Vincentian Missionaries, MMVHAI and Creba can only do so much to reduce the backlog,” he said in a statement. Pacquiao said his experience where he was forced to sleep on the streets and his family had to live in makeshift shanties had fueled his desire to make housing a priority concern. He said that having a decent home does not only provide shelter, warmth and comfort but also gives people a sense of dignity and the motivation to improve their way of life. After the groundbreaking rites, Pacquiao proceeded to nearby Barangay Tipolo to distribute relief packs to at least 500 residents. n
ings at the Makati prosecutor’s office on Monday, February 7. She and her parents were represented by their lawyer. Also present were the lawyers of the hotel and Chua’s boyfriend, Rico Atienza. The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, which filed the case against Chua and the other respondents, were represented by two police officers.
Senior Assistant City Prosecutor Maria Corazon Molina presided over the preliminary investigation, which lasted nearly an hour. The prosecutor set the next hearing on Feb. 14. Chua and eight others were charged with violating Republic Act 11332 or the Mandatory Reporting of Notifiable Diseases and Health Events of Public Health Concern Act. n
Global rights coalition launches independent... ‘Poblacion Girl’ a no-show at fiscal’s hearing PAGE 1
border comparisons and we’ll be able to share solutions.” Election observation from the international community has become common practice around the world and is described as an international norm. “Research will be the order of the day,” Arao said when asked what the observer mission would look like on the ground, comparing election observing to “a person doing data gathering.”
He added that the goal would be “the feeling that someone is monitoring the election.” The launch of the electoral watchdog mission was among the recommendations of the Investigate PH reports that urged independent monitoring of the country’s elections. To recall, the reports released by Investigate PH described an alarming and worsening human rights situation under the administration of President
Rodrigo Duterte, as well as pervasive electoral cheating. The Palace pushed back against the group’s report, calling it “malicious” and claiming it was part of a “smear campaign” against the Philippine government. What if the observer group is obstructed by law enforcement once it gets to the Philippines? “We will raise hell, you can be sure of that,” Arao said. (Franco Luna/Philstar.com)
VACCINATE
KIDS 5+ TO PROTECT
THEM FROM
COVID-19 Talk to a doctor or learn more by visiting MyTurn.ca.gov or calling 833-422-4255
by emmanuel
tupas
Philstar.com
MANILA — Gwyneth Chua, better known as “Poblacion Girl,” did not attend the preliminary investigation hearing yesterday of the charges against her for allegedly breaching quarantine at the Berjaya Makati Hotel in December. A source said Chua was not present during the proceed-
February 9-11, 2022 • SoCal aSIaN JOurNaL
Dateline PhiliPPines
http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797
Moreno presents himself as alternative between two ‘feuding parties’ by John
Eric MEndoza Inquirer.net
MANILA — An alternative to two “feuding parties” that have ruled for decades was how Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, a presidential candidate, presented himself on Tuesday, February 8 at his proclamation rally at the Kartilya ng Katipunan in Manila. Domagoso was referring to the camps of former Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., son of the late dictator, and Vice President Leni Robredo, chair of the Liberal Party — the party of the late president Benigno S. Aquino III, son of Corazon Aquino, the country’s first female president. However, Robredo is officially running as an independent candidate, using pink instead of yellow as her new campaign color. Domagoso pointed out that the late President Ferdinand Marcos ruled for 21 years and the three Liberal Party officials for 18 years — a total of 39 years. “Maybe there were good things they gave us. Maybe there were also things that made us sad, things that hurt our feelings. Whether good or bad, you be the judge — the Marcoses ruled for 21 years, ” Domagoso said, speaking in a mix of English and Filipino. “Let’s move on to the other side,” he continued. “These are clashing families [referring to the Marcoses and the Aquinos]. The group they [the Aquinos] led also had good intentions. But I summed it up, my countrymen. The time of the
Manila Mayor Isko Moreno
Photo from the Manil PIO
red [the Marcoses] lasted for 21 years. The time of the yellows and now the pinks — we’re just being straightforward — 18 years.” ‘Enough is enough’ Domagoso said the country would need new governance. “So how’s the Philippines after 39 years? I ask because that’s one reason why I joined the elections. We have experienced the 39 years. We have given them a chance. That’s enough,” Domagoso said. Domagoso also addressed detractors who said that his presidential bid was premature. “So they said I’m rushing. We have been waiting for 39 years. You took our chance for 39 years. So why not try your luck [with me] for six years,” he said. n
Duterte not endorsing any bet ‘at this... PAGE 3 and his running mate, Senate President Vicente Sotto III, officially launched their campaign in Imus, Cavite. They promised to hold their campaign in a “disciplined” manner. The city was chosen as the jump-off point of their campaign being the birthplace of Lacson, a former national police chief and now on his third and final term in the Senate. Cavite is the country’s second vote-rich province with over 2.1 million voters in 2016. Lacson was No. 1 in the province in the 2007 and 2016 senatorial elections. This is his second attempt at the presidency, the first being in 2004. “We will wage a very disciplined campaign, especially that it is Alert Level 2 here and there are alert levels in other parts of the country,” Lacson told a press conference three hours before the proclamation rally at the Imus Track and Field Oval and Grandstand. “I was born here so I always kick-off my campaign here,” he said.
EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT
Sotto said the traditional campaign trail was for candidates to do a motorcade with few public meetings and stops and a major rally at night, most of the time causing disruption in traffic flow. But this campaign would obviously be different, he said. Lacson and Sotto were unfazed by their standings in the latest surveys, saying much can change during the campaign. “Surveys are a good guide but when Election Day approaches, you will see voters using both their heads and hearts in deciding who to vote,” Sotto said in Filipino. The tandem is backed by three political parties in the country, namely Partido Reporma, which Lacson chairs; the Nationalist People’s Coalition chaired by Sotto; and the National Unity Party headed by their campaign manager, former Interior chief Ronaldo Puno. Sen. Manny Pacquiao launched his campaign in his hometown General Santos City, with his running mate Buhay Rep. Lito Atienza. Pacquiao launched his
EMPLOYMENT
campaign with a promise of an honest and prosperous government that can provide jobs for millions of Filipinos and one that can jail the corrupt. While he has fallen out of favor with President Duterte, with whom he locked horns over the leadership of their political party PDP-Laban, Pacquiao said he would be continuing the legacy of the President. “I will continue the legacy of what’s good for the country, like maintaining … Build, Build, Build. That’s included in economic growth and development– – the infrastructure development. They can expect an honest government and a prosperous government that can provide jobs,” Pacquiao said in Filipino at a press conference. Pacquiao started off the campaign with a caravan of over 500 vehicles in the afternoon. The event was attended by only two members of the PacquiaoAtienza senatorial slate– – Lutgardo Barbo, vice chairman of Pacquiao’s faction within PDPLaban; and broadcaster Raffy Tulfo. n
9 The
Asian Journal
MDWK The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - February 9, 2022
Wednesday FEBRUARY 9, 2022
MAGAZINE
asianjournalpublications
@asianjournalcom
@asianjournal
www.asianjournal.com Los Angeles | Las Vegas | Orange County/Inland Empire | Northern California | New York/New Jersey
Keeping the art of Rondalla alive: Celebrating NEA National Heritage Fellow Tagumpay De Leon F
by AJPress
ILIPINO performer and educator Tagumpay De Leon was recently recognized by the National Endowment for the Arts as a National Heritage Fellow. Affectionately known National Treasure award in the as “Uncle Pi,” De Leon is a Philippines and other Asian performer and instructor countries, the National known as one of Heritage Fellowship is the greatest living the United States’ ambassadors highest honor in the of the Filipino folk and traditional instrumental art arts. In a typical known as rondalla, year, fellowships an ensemble are presented to of stringed between 9 to 15 instruments artists or groups played with the at a ceremony plectrum or pick in Washington, and generally D.C. Due to Tagumpay De Leon with his family during FilAm Arts’ celebration for his achievement on Jan. 29 in Los Angeles. known as plectrum the COVID-19 instruments. pandemic, “It is very Tagumpay de Leon important for the received his honor in a Filipino American virtual Zoom ceremony. community to be Born in 1945 in constantly reminded of Nueva Ecija, Philippines their culture and where they to Illuminada Mendoza, an came from and one way I accomplished pianist, and can accomplish this is to let National Artist Felipe Padilla National Endowment for the Arts Heritage Fellow them hear the beauty of their De Leon, a bandleader and Tagumpay De Leon own music by listening to the composer. rondalla,” said De Leon. Coming from a musically FilAm Arts on January inclined family, De Leon studied a refection of his Filipino 29 held an event honoring American arts community,” said the piano, accordion and violin De Leon’s work and his Giselle Tongi-Walters, executive at an early age. Together with achievement as being an NEA his siblings, he formed the De director of FilAm Arts. National Heritage Fellow. Leon Rondalla and performed at The National Heritage “A community celebration events throughout Manila. Fellowship is presented to is exactly what we needed to “It’s interesting because I master folk and traditional champion Uncle Pi’s life’s work am self-taught. My mom was a artists in the United States by to bring us together since his concert pianist and my dad a the National Endowment for De Leon receives a recognition from FilAm Arts for his countless contributions to the Filipino American community and to marvel at this achievement is most certainly the Arts. Similar to a Living Continued on Page 10 towering achievement as one of the rare few to be known as NEA National Heritage Fellow. AJPress photos by Andy Tecson
entertainment KD gets honest about mental health 10
The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - February 9, 2022
By
Charmie Joy Pagulong Philstar.com
KD Estrada’s last name may be associated with the prominent showbiz and political clan but he is not in any way related to them. In fact, he is the “first artist” in his family. “I get that a lot or any Estradas in general. Kasi when they hear Estrada, there are a lot of Estradas talaga in showbiz. In my family, I’m the only artist,” the actorsinger clarified in an exclusive interview with The STAR. The 18-year-old’s parents are both entrepreneurs as well as his grandparents. However, he somewhat inherited his music inclination from his great-great-grandfather who was a violinist and dad’s brother who is a musician in the United States. He, nonetheless, thanked his parents for supporting his decision to join showbiz, which has been his dream since he was a kid. He
recalled going to auditions for commercials as early as nine years old but “I wouldn’t get the roles because uso kasi dati yung mestizo, as in yung (foreign)-looking talaga na kid. During auditions, I was the only Filipino-looking kid talaga. Lahat sila may lahi, ako lang hindi. And I would get discouraged for a bit.” So he took a break for a few years until he reached 16 when he was scouted to be a Star Magic artist. “Maybe I just needed to wait for a few years talaga ‘til I could get into showbiz. For me din, I don’t want to start like super young age ‘coz I think that would be overwhelming.” Despite his “slow-growing career,” as he put it, he kept going for his passion. “Even if I wasn’t getting the recognition, I still love what I was doing. I still love making music and doing projects. I really want to do this talaga. I just have to be patient if I want to get the recognition.” Then came the Pinoy Big
KD is grateful his PBB stint has given his ‘slow-growing’ career a boost. Photo from Instgram/@kdestrada_
Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA DO you believe in angels? I do. Most people do. The strong presence of angels in the various books of the Bible, especially during the birth of Jesus Christ attests to the role of angels in human history. The feast of the most famous Archangels, Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, is celebrated on September 29 and is called “Michaelmas.” St. Michael is the archangel who fought and won over Satan and is the protector of all people. He is invoked for the protection against all the snares and wiles of the devil and all demonic activity which go on a frenzy when power is at stake. So keep praying without ceasing to God to let St. Michael the Archangel, “Who is like God” wage a victorious battle during this critical time. The Archangel Gabriel, “Strength of God” announced to Mary that she would bring forth a son. St. Zechariah received a message from Gabriel about the birth of John, the Baptist. Archangel Raphael, “Medicine of God” cared for
Brother (PBB) opportunity, which has given him the muchneeded boost for his career, he said. “At first, I didn’t expect that people will like who I am. I don’t have much of a backstory in the first place prior to PBB. I was a slowgrowing Star Magic and Star Music artist. I didn’t get the most views, the most attention din. The spotlight is mostly on the other artists.” He continued, “I was slowly growing while others were like, boom! Their careers are boosting. But then I got PBB and that’s the biggest boost for a person here in the Philippines. You could either make it or break it in PBB.” KD admitted he was “nervous, anxious and super scared” and it showed especially during his first week in the reality game show. When he got out, the first thing that he did was to check his mobile phone and “ordered two boxes of pizza and ate everything in one sitting.” His biggest takeaways from his PBB stint are “selfconfidence, self-esteem and self-love.” During his stay in the house, the former celebrity housemate was diagnosed with depression by PBB resident psychologistpsychiatrist, Dr. Randy Dellosa. “I couldn’t open up my depression inside the house because I think that people can use that against me to nominate me to go outside the house. I kind of know what the strategies of PBB din… But the thing is, I’m fine naman. I just have certain moments na talaga na madadown ako but that doesn’t mean that I’m gonna give up,” said the rising talent. When asked more about how he’s coping with it right now, he said, “There are days talaga na minsan madadown ka even if you are on Continued on Page 12
Angels among us (First of 4 Parts)
“See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that their angels in heaven always look upon the face of my heavenly father.” — Jesus Christ (Matthew 18:10) Tobias on his journey. It was an angel that told Joseph to take Mary for his wife. It was a multitude of angels that told the shepherds where to find the newborn child while angels hovered above the stable during that wondrous night. It was also an angel that warned Joseph of a clear and present danger to the child Jesus. Herod, the unhinged, murderous king descended from a long line of power-mad monarchs, wanted to make sure no one stood between him and his throne. In haste, Joseph left with Mary and the child during the night after the Magi had left for a long and arduous trek to a town in Egypt some scholars estimate to be 200 miles away
where Herod had no authority to commit mass murder. You can bet a host of angels guided them in seeking refuge. Herod’s murderous rampage began when he realized that the Magi had tricked him and had taken a different route home ignoring his sly request to tell him of the Christ child’s location. It is believed 14,000 innocent male babies from the age of two and below were killed in Herod’s most cruel, preemptive strike against this perceived threat to his kingdom. The holy family stayed safely away for years until the king died and the danger had passed. Did these holy innocents become cherubs, angels Continued on Page 12
Tagumpay De Leon, a rondalla performer and instructor, with fellow group mates at the FilAm Arts’ celebration on Jan. 29 in Los Angeles. AJPress photo by Andy Tecson
Keeping the art of Rondalla alive...
From Page 9 composer and an orchestra conductor, but my dad discouraged us from becoming musicians because he always told us, ‘You want an additional way of earning a living,’” De Leon said, according to a University of California, Riverside (UCR) release. Supplementing his passion for music, De Leon graduated with a degree in chemical engineering from Mapua Institute of Technology. He moved to Burbank, California in 1971, according to the National Endowment for
the Arts, and became active with the Fil-Am community with groups such as the Pamanlahi Dance Troupe and Fil-Am Cultural Family Group. He went on to form the Rondalla Club of Los Angeles, which continues to perform today, and is a teacher of the rondalla instruments. Since 2001, De Leon has been an instructor at UCR, teaching every Friday afternoon and passing down the art form to future generations of Fil-Am undergraduates. “I teach because I want to discover new talents,” said De Leon.
PECHANGA RESORT CASINO WISHES EVERYONE A PROSPEROUS YEAR OF THE TIGER!
Come celebrate the Lunar New Year with $100,000 EasyPlay, Cash Drawings at Pechanga AS 2022, the Year of the Tiger, approaches, Pechanga Resort Casino welcomes everyone to join in the celebration of the festival with a series of promotions and giveaways this February. Lunar New Year $100K EasyPlay & Cash Drawing Pechanga Resort Casino celebrates the Lunar New Year by giving away $100K in EasyPlays and cash prizes on Friday, February 11 & 18. Club members can earn entries to the drawing by playing slots or table games from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. each day for a chance to win big prizes. 60 winners will be drawn to receive $250, $500, or $750 in EasyPlay. 1 lucky winner will be drawn at 10 p.m. for the ultimate cash prize of $25,000. Come discover the thrill of possibly of winning multiple times! $5K Lucky Red Envelope Giveaway Pechanga lets players become even luckier with the “Lucky Red Envelope” promotion this February. Club members just simply visit the Promotional Area every Tuesday in February from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. for a chance to win up to $5,000 in EasyPlay! Lunar New Year Luck Lion Dance In celebration of the Lunar New Year, Pechanga Resort Casino will arrange a splendid Lucky Lion Dancer Performance on February 5. Starting at 3 p.m., the “Lion Dancer Team”, which symbolizes auspiciousness and good luck, will start at the north entrance, and cruise around the casino floors. Everyone will be able to get Red Packets to give to the Lion Dancers to pray for a Good New Year. Exclusive Dining and Drinks Specials Pechanga Resort Casino also welcome guests to reserve tables for Family Dinner or Business Lunch to enjoy exclusive “Lucky” Lunar New Year Dining and Drink Specials that have been meticulously prepared by the chefs of Bamboo, Blazing Noodles and Umi Sushi & Oyster Bar. Tastily made by Umi Chef Kiyo Ikeda, the Lobster Three Ways ($98), Sticky Rice Stuffed Chicken ($58) and the Eel Lotus Wrap ($42) will certainly bring you to a new level of dining
experience. Chef Marie Surakul at Bamboo serves Steamed Whole Fish ($98), which means an increase in prosperity, and Long-Life Noodles with Beef Tenderloin ($38). She points out that noodle is a symbol of happiness and longevity, and guests will experience instant happiness while eating these Lunar New Year specialties. Blazing Noodles, just off the Pechanga hotel lobby, dishes up eight traditional Asian specialties for the occasion. From Fried Red Snapper to Stir-fry Lamb Meat with Spicy XO Sauce, these special dishes’ prices range from $22 to $92. The dining specialties in Blazing Noodles, Bamboo and Umi will be available from Jan. 28 through Feb. 13. Reservations are recommended at Umi Sushi & Oyster Bar and can be made by visiting www. Pechanga.com/eat or calling (951) 770-8504. Above all, Pechanga’s expert mixologists created a 5 Spice Old Fashioned Cocktail for the Lunar New Year. Each spices represent one of the five elements: wood, fire, earth, water, and metal, which is symbolic for an everlasting luck and fortune. Guests can stop by the Acorn, Corner or Round Bars from Jan. 28 to Feb. 13. Guests can taste this specialty cocktail for just $12.75. Lunar New Year Property Décors The Lunar New Year symbolizes the fresh start of a new year, a new beginning. In celebration of this festival, Pechanga, starting from January 17, 2022, have decorated the entire property with traditional New Year elements, such as bright red lanterns, refined oriental-style garden bridge, and beautifully bloomed peach
blossoms, traditional calligraphy spring couplets and more. Throughout the floor, you will be able to find countless photoop spots for your selfies or a family portrait, while capturing the stunningly displayed Lunar New Year decorations. For more information on Pechanga events and promotions, please call (877) 711-2946 or visit our website Pechanga.com. Must be at least 21 years of age to participate in promotions. Come enjoy Pechanga’s four diamond-rated service with a peace of mind, and to learn more about the health and safety measures that have been implemented, please visit pechanga.com/covid. Pechanga Resort Casino offers one of the largest and most expansive resort/ casino experiences anywhere in the United States. Voted the number one casino in the country by USA Today and rated a Four Diamond property by AAA since 2002, Pechanga Resort Casino provides an unparalleled getaway, whether for the day or for an extended luxury stay. Pechanga offers more than 5,000 of the hottest slots, table games, world-class entertainment, 1,100 hotel rooms, dining, spa and golf at Journey at Pechanga, Pechanga Resort Casino features a destination that meets and exceeds the needs of its guests and the community. Pechanga Resort & Casino is owned and operated by the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians. For more information, call toll free (877) 711-2946 or visit www.Pechanga.com. Follow Pechanga Resort & Casino on Facebook and on Twitter @PechangaCasino. (Advertising Supplement)
A series of fortunate events: Markki’s road to wellness By
rito P. asilo Inquirer.net
MARKKI Stroem is turning 35 in March, but he looks much younger than he was, say, before the pandemic. These days, the singer-actor-host shuttles from one project to another, and he says that every road that led to this point in his life could be the result of a positive lifestyle change. He looks as fit and healthy as he feels. “I got really, really big right before the pandemic started,” Markki disclosed to us. “I think it was because I was coming from [the play] ‘Angels in America.’ I gained a lot of weight for that role because I needed to look like I was a little older, because my face looks young. “But it took me a while to lose the weight again. I found an online coach to help me out because I had symptoms of COVID during the first week of the pandemic. At the time, we didn’t have swab tests yet. “So when I got home from the emergency room, I couldn’t get swabbed. I didn’t know if I had COVID—and I was freaking out! I had a hard time breathing, but since I
Markki Stroem Photo from Instagram/@markkistroem
didn’t have such heavy symptoms, I found someone to help get me back into physical wellness. My other problem was that I was also getting anxiety attacks and depression because of my lack of workouts. “And when I got back into working out, I really started to like … no, love … myself more. And that isn’t only because I was in shape, but also because my body was releas-
ing positive endorphins. Better framework “[When that happens], you stop getting these bad negative thoughts that usually fill your head when you’re not active. I’m not saying that everyone needs to do it, but for me, working out has really put me in a much better framework. “And from that, I did TED Talks last year on mental health, called Sanity—which is also the title of my song about the same theme. It focused on mental, physical and emotional health, and how to maintain that during the pandemic. They even released it on [the grassroots initiative] TEDx international YouTube page.” If you think that was the end of Markki’s long and happy run, you’ve got another think coming. “When I got really fit, one thing led to another,” he explained. “From TED Talks, I got my first series, which is ‘Love at the End of the World,’ because they said I was in good shape. I did it. But after posting a photo from the series, I was contacted by Direk Carlo [Enciso Catu] and read for the role of Bianca aka Continued on Page 13
Fely Quitevis-Bateman: Seizing opportunities and making sound investments FELY Quitevis-Bateman has been in the real estate industry for almost five decades now, starting her career in Manila back in 1974. Through sheer handwork and determination, she was able to create a name for herself after moving to the United States. The Nevada-based businesswoman established Precious Properties and has been calling Pahrump home for the past 30 years. Pahrump is located in Nye County, about 60 miles west of Las Vegas and an hour east of Death Valley National Park, a place known for extremes. Through the years, Quitevis-Bateman has held positions in Nye County and she takes pride in these roles, which she navigated with ease. “I have been very proud of all the positions I held especially being a Nye County Commissioner where together with the other 4 commissioners we carefully determined how to spend the county’s budget and the approval of different projects that came to our table for approval,” she relayed. Quitevis-Bateman invested not just her money but her time as well. She knew she had so much to learn in the industry and believed that for her to succeed, she had to invest in improving her mental fortitude to grow a successful business venture.
community The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - February 9, 2022
showed Nevada to be the No. 1 growing state, and it still is up to now, she said. She saw the great opportunity available in Pahrump and the surrounding region, especially since Pahrump is the heart of the desert and the perfect place to enjoy the best of southern Nevada. She became a realtor in Manila in 1974 and came to Los Angeles in 1984 at the age of 41. She had several clients who wanted to retire in Nevada or Arizona so she would do her due diligence and look for properties the retirees could invest in. The first property that she herself bought gave her the idea that real estate is the best Fely Quitevis-Bateman and her husband Russ Bateman investment a person can have. That is why when she saw She went to Harvard Busiselection, I was honored to that opportunities were aplenty ness School in Cambridge from have met and sat down with all in Pahrump, she decided to call 2005 to 2007 after she was the NV Supreme Court justices it home. Decades later came accepted from over 2,000 appli- and selected a candidate that cants to study Owner/President replaced an elected Nye County a flourishing housing market coupled with a considerable Management Program. Judge that passed away a few population increase that neces“I was lucky to be in the 6% months after being elected,” sitated multiple new businesses who were accepted. My class Quitevis-Bateman recalled. opening their doors to the was 21 days a year at $1,000/ The hardworking achievpublic. day and I had the honor to be er bought her first house in Over the past few years, sevin a group of multi-millionaire Pahrump in 1999 although she eral positive economic indicators business owners and a couple of has been selling Pahrump land them are billionaires today,” she since 1992 as a California broker. have helped transform Pahrump to become a sleepy desert town shared. Indeed, she has amassed on the rise as it slowly emerged She makes it a point to great memories in Pahrump, from the Sin City’s shadow. learn from every position she witnessing it rise and grow into According to Kiplinger gets herself into, whether it is what it is today. Letter, a trusted leader in perin Harvard or her hometown of One of her favorite memsonal finance, investments, and Pahrump. ories is when former President economic forecasts, Nevada and “I learned very important Fidel Ramos stayed with them Arizona are the only two states lessons as one of the commisin 2007 for a few days. “He to have a population growth of sioners of the Division of Aging was very happy to have played up to or more than 50 percent too. As a member of the jury golf at Mountain Falls Country till the year 2040. Club,” she quipped. Nevada will continue to Despite her successful grow as predicted with Las and colorful career, QuiteVegas being the entertainment vis-Bateman takes pride and treasures her humble beginnings capital of the world. Today, Quitevis-Bateman shared that and low-key profile. approximately $12 billion-plus She was born in Bugallon, budget is on the pipeline, and Pangasinan and her father some of them are now under used to be a carpenter turned construction. contractor while her mother “Investors should look at dewas a plain housewife who took care of them extremely well. She mographics in their investment process. There are approximateis proud to share her father’s ly eight taxes that we don’t pay success story in helping build in NV including state income some high-rise buildings along tax. We have entertainment, Buendia Ave, Ayala Ave, and sports, fine dining, shopping, Paseo De Roxas in Makati with health care, and many more. her siblings who are engineers, Our international airport is one CPA, and architect. of the best nationwide,” she Pahrump Rising explained. Quitevis-Bateman chose (Advertising Supplement) Nevada because demographics
Fely Quitevis-Bateman in front of the Harvard Business School entrance.
11
Fely with Harvard classmate Rajan Mittal
Fely with her mentor, financial advisor, real estate consultant and loving husband Russ Bateman.
Fely and her family with former Philippine President Fidel Ramos at Mountain Falls Country Club.
Fely (3rd from left) with (from left) husband Russ and her Harvard classmates Rajan Mittal, who is Walmart’s partner in India, and Samir Modi, CEO of Modi Enterprises in India.
12
community The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - February 9, 2022
KD gets honest about mental... From Page 10 medicines. You still have thoughts.” But compared to before, it’s more manageable now, he further told The STAR. “If you have a mental condition, it would take time talaga, (be) patient because it will get better in time. You
have to give time to yourself to help yourself. And, of course, reach out to others din na todo (ang) support sa ’yo.” “Find your core group or support group like your family or friends,” he advised. One of the ways KD
What is the difference between an annulment and a divorce?
nullity within a certain time period depending on the basis for seeking the Nullity. Each learned to deal with it inside ground has a different statute the PBB house was working of limitation. For example, if out with Albie Casiño. “Kuya you are filing the nullity based Albie is such a big help kahit on fraud, you have to file within his stay was short kasi two Atty. Kenneth 4 years of discovering the weeks lang siya. But, in a span uRsuA Reyes fraud. If you blow the statute of two weeks, Kuya Albie did of limitation, this can be used really help me. He made me as a defense to dismiss your WHAT is the difference feel less alone. I would say case. On the other hand there between a divorce and an open up kasi baka yung tao is no statute of limitation in a annulment? Many people think na kinakausap mo is going divorce. You can file a divorce these concepts are the same through the same thing, you at any time regardless of how and interchangeable. There can (also) relate to that person long you have been separated and you can help each other,” are many differences between from your spouse. the two concepts. A divorce he shared. In a divorce, husband and ends a valid existing marriage. “You are not alone,” he wife are presumed to be the In a nullity, a determination reminded fellow young people parents of children born during is made about the validity of who have the same struggle the marriage. In a Nullity, the as him. “It’s so hard when you the marriage itself. When a marriage has no validity so it marriage is annulled, it has the have so much in your head na will affect the presumption same effect as if the marriage hindi mo ma-explain and hindi of parentage of the children. never existed. A nullity results mo ma-open (up) but I want to The Court will have to make in a void. say that you are not alone.” a finding of parentage for the In California, any spouse “Just take it day by day. can obtain a divorce regardless children on a different basis Take baby steps because before it can make orders of the reason. A common you don’t want to overwhelm relating to custody, visitation, basis used is a catchall phrase yourself agad,” he said about and support. “irreconcilable differences.” dealing with anxiety. “You just The treatment of spousal However, anyone who wants have to give yourself just the support (alimony) is different to end a marriage can end smallest push. The smallest between the two. In a divorce, push can go such a long way.” the marriage and there is the spouse that has less nothing the other spouse can Meanwhile, KD is open earning capacity and access to do to stop that. However in to having fellow housemate resources may seek an award a petition for nullity, the court Alexa Ilacad as his love team of spousal support. This is not will not automatically grant partner. “She’s a great friend available in a Nullity since the you the nullity. There has to of mine. She’s my best friend. I marriage is invalid and there is be a legal basis for seeking the would love to work with Alexa no spouse as a result. nullity as outlined in the family din talaga,” he said of the The division of property code. Some of the basis are actress. is also different. In a divorce, 1) entering into a bigamous “To be honest, inside the marriage 2) incestuous marriage community property is divided house, I’ve seen clips of me equally between the spouses. 3)fraud in obtaining the other and Alexa, ang sweet pala In a nullity, since there is no spouse’s consent to marriage 4) namin. Me and Alexa are very valid marriage, there is no incurable physical incapacity 5) sweet inside the house. We community property created unsound mind among others. always tell each other na, and properties are not divided The petitioner would have to ‘Hey, you’re beautiful. Hey, between the spouse. Similarly, prove one of these grounds in you’re handsome,’” shared neither party can receive court to be able to get a nullity. KD and he, too, noticed the survivorship benefits and In a Nullity, there is a “kilig factor” when they were inheritance rights from the statute of limitations. That together. other party in a Nullity. means you have to file your “But I’m not using the kilig in any way. Me and Alexa are genuine talaga with each other. I’m not using Alexa for any agenda. Alexa knows that din. I really want to grow as an artist and if it’s with Alexa, that’s great,” he explained. Would their status be IF you’ve ever had to file “upgrading” to the next bankruptcy in the past for Minding Your (romantic) level? “Career whatever reason, you probably muna. But I would say na me Finances told yourself that hopefully, and Alexa have a genuine love you never have to do it again for each other and that’s not ever. But sometimes you never going away any time soon,” know where life takes you declared KD. Atty. RAymond and if you ever find yourself BulAon in a financial bind where bankruptcy becomes necessary again, fear not. It is not your 13 filings: If you received a fault- and there is no reason to prior discharge in Chapter 13, feel bad or sorry for yourself. you cannot receive a second Here’s what you need to know discharge in any Chapter 13 if you’re in that situation? case that is filed within 2 years There is no shame in trying from the date that your last to protect yourself, your family case was filed. and everything you own when Chapter 13, then Chapter the stakes are just too high, 7: If you obtained a prior and you need to do what you discharge (i.e., a “debt wipe need to do. For example, a lot out”) under Chapter 13, you of people have been struggling will not be allowed a second financially since the pandemic discharge in a subsequent started. All the government Chapter 7 filing unless 6 years assistance helped, I’m sure, but have passed from the filing of that was all temporary. A lot of the Chapter 13 to the filing of people have lost their incomes your Chapter 7 case. There and their businesses in the last is however an exception to 2 years and have not been able this rule: You will be allowed to pay their bills. a discharge in your current I’ve been asked by a lot Chapter 7 case if you either of people lately about how paid all unsecured creditors in often you can get bankruptcy your past Chapter 13 case or relief, so I decided to write you paid at least 70% of the this article. If you have filed unsecured claims and the plan bankruptcy before, you represented your “best effort” may be wondering whether and proposed in “good faith”. it’s possible to do it again. Chapter 7, then Chapter Generally, the answer is that 13: If you discharged your you can file bankruptcy as debts in a prior Chapter 7, often as needed BUT subject you cannot obtain another to some limitations such as the discharge in a subsequent following. I will try to simplify Chapter 13 filing unless four but here are the general rules: years have passed since your Consecutive same Chapter Chapter 7 filing date. This filings: If you are filing under doesn’t mean, however, that the same bankruptcy “chapter” you cannot file a Chapter (7 or 13), the timing is critical. If 13 if your intention is to pay you are trying to file a Chapter creditors the best you can. It 7 after you’ve already filed only means that since there another Chapter 7 in the past, is no discharge available, you need to wait 8 years from whatever is not paid through the date your last case was your Chapter 13 plain will filed. For consecutive Chapter still be your liability. Now you
Barrister’s Corner
Finally, there are different immigration consequences between a divorce and a nullity when an immigrant spouse is involved. In a divorce, the immigrant spouse who obtains a greencard from a US Citizen spouse stands a bigger chance of keeping his or her greencard and ultimately become a US Citizen. In a nullity, the immigrant spouse may lose their greencard status when the marriage is found to be invalid since it is the basis for the greencard. It can jeopardize the immigration status of the legal permanent resident spouse. *** Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, APC This article is not a solicitation. *** Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, APC. is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kenneth@ kenreyeslaw.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com. (Advertising Supplement)
Filing bankruptcy again? Here’s what you need to know may ask: Why file a Chapter 13 then if a discharge is not available under these circumstances? The answer is that it depends on what your goals are in filing the current Chapter 13. For example, one reason for filing may be to get court protection while consolidating nondischargeable debts such as IRS taxes. Or it may be to stop a foreclosure and pay back the arrears through a 3 to 5-year payment plan. There are other “tricky” rules you need to know about that apply to dismissals and conversions from one chapter to another, but I could just imagine how your head may be spinning by now trying to make sense of all these rules. The best thing to do if you are in a situation where you may need to file bankruptcy again (although you’ve already done so in the past) is to consult with a knowledgeable bankruptcy attorney who can analyze your case and provide correct guidance. For a free consultation, call Toll-Free 1-866-477-7772. NOTE: Due to pandemic safety concerns, I am offering free consultations BY PHONE to anyone who needs help in dealing with their debt problems. *** NOTE: Due to virus safety concerns, I am offering free consultations BY PHONE OR VIDEO to anyone who needs help in dealing with their debt problems. *** None of the information herein is intended to give legal advice for any specific situation. Atty. Ray J. Bulaon has successfully helped over 6,000 clients in getting out of debt. For a free attorney evaluation of your situation, please call RJB Law Offices at TOLL FREE 1-866-477-7772. (Advertising Supplement)
Angels among us... From Page 10 without wings? Do the millions of the unborn of our time the world over cut down by murderous abortionists become cherubs? Does God repurpose innocent souls upon their deaths to become angels themselves? There is a belief that souls are indestructible. If so, do souls get recycled back to be born at another time and place? Only God knows for certain. Angels were strong proactive characters when the story of humanity unfolded during biblical times. And while today, cynics, atheists and those on the dark side might argue that angels are figments of the human imagination, there are countless people who will brave the scorn of scoffers, fight back vehemently and attest to the very real presence of angels in their lives. The belief in the presence and power of angels to intervene is strong in popular conservative culture. In a remarkable 1999 Hallmark film, “A Season for Miracles,” an angel plays a pivotal role in helping a loving aunt to two children whose incarcerated, drug addicted mother places them in a situation forcing them to
run and escape from the foster care system that threatens to split them apart during Christmas. The film is based on a novel by Marilyn Pappano and scripted by Maria Nation. Michael Pressman directed the film. It is a heartwarming story set in a small town called Bethlehem during Christmas with engaging characters like Agatha and Corrina. For those with a penchant for romance, the story has spades of it as well. So check this film out on youtube whether it is Christmas or not. In my opinion, this is a timeless piece of good work worth watching a hundred times. It will be an hour and some minutes to lighten your load and feel the presence of angels in your life as well. Suspend disbelief. That is the only way to feel the presence of angels. (To be continued…) ***
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.
*** Nota Bene: To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com
World premiere of community 13 ‘Angkor: The Lost Empire of Cambodia’ exhibition Island Pacific promotes Filipino street food at debuts at the California its first ever SuperBall: Fish Ball Eating Contest Science Center February 16 The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - February 9, 2022
LOS ANGELES – The world premiere of “Angkor: The Lost Empire of Cambodia” exhibition debuts at the California Science Center February 16, 2022. Through 120 original artifacts - half on tour outside Cambodia for the first time – and hands-on exhibits, guests will use the lens of science to explore the ancient empire of Angkor. Once considered the most extensive metropolis in the world, Angkor houses over 100 temples, now mysteriously quiet and surrounded by the dense Cambodian forest. “Angkor: The Lost Empire of Cambodia,” developed by Museums Partner in collaboration with the California Science Center, the National Museum of Cambodia, and the Cambodian Ministry of Culture, uses science to reveal insights into the rise and fall of ancient Angkor as well as its enduring legacy. Guests will learn how the tools of archaeology, from decoding inscriptions to aerial surveying and laser scanning, have enriched our knowledge about the engineering and cultural marvels of an empire, the daily life of its people, and the environmental challenges that shaped its future. Exhibition tickets go on sale February 6, 2022 and can be purchased at https:// californiasciencecenter.org/ visit/admission/get-tickets. Science Center President and CEO Jeffrey N. Rudolph notes that, “I’m pleased to collaborate with the Cambodian Ministry of Culture, National Museum of Cambodia and Museums Partnerto bring the world premiere of this exhibition to the California Science Center. It shows, in a profound way, how the tools of science can advance our understanding of the ancient past and preserve cultural heritage for future generations.” Science Center Senior Vice President, Diane Perlov,
says “Our hope is that this extraordinary exhibition inspires interest not only in the legacy of Angkor, but interest in the process of science, the knowledge that science reveals, and the heritage it preserves.” “Angkor: The Lost Empire of Cambodia” exhibition is on display at the California Science Center from February 16 through September 5, 2022, along with a visually stunning IMAX movie featuring an epic adventure where science, mystery and ancient civilization intersect. Adult combo tickets for both the exhibition and IMAX movie are $25.25, with various discounts available. Exhibition tickets are $19.95 for adults and IMAX ticket prices range from $6.75 to $8.95 with additional discounts when purchasing both the exhibition and IMAX movie, and special discounts for Members, groups of 15 or more people and private events. To buy exhibition and/ or IMAX tickets call 213744-2019 or visit https:// californiasciencecenter.org/ visit/admission/get-tickets. Please check the Science Center website for the latest COVID protocols. The exhibition is set to tour nationally and internationally at the culmination of its debut at the California Science Center. About the California Science Center The California Science Center is a dynamic destination where families, adults and children can explore the wonders of science through interactive exhibits, live demonstration, innovative programs and aweinspiring films. The California Science Center and IMAX Theater are located in historic Exposition Park just west of the Harbor (110) Freeway at 700 Exposition Park Drive, Los Angeles. Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. Parking is $15 for cars.
Veteran actress Cherie Gil in her Mega cover on February 2022. Photo from Instagram/@therealcheriegil
Cherie shaves hair as she starts new life in New York By Jan
Milo Severo Philstar.com
VETERAN actress Cherie Gil shaved her head marking her “rebirth” as she flies to New York to start her new life. In her interview with Mega, Cherie said she had to make sure that her mental, emotional and spiritual well-being are getting the priority. “I was getting tired of myself. And I was just so angry and unhappy, so I sold everything and packed up,” she said. “I got rid of all the clothes I had that symbolized a past life… I’m completely finding myself and coming to terms with who I really am. It’s just great to have this opportunity
and to be alive to start over. It’s like a rebirth of sorts,” she added. She also revealed that she had therapy and counselling. “Years and years of doing that, I learned that it just boils down to doing the hard work on and with yourself by whatever means. What’s hair di ba? It grows back. It’s symbolic to my personal growth. When a woman is in distress, she cuts her hair,” she said. “May mga nagsasabi kasi marami akong pera but in fact, they don’t know anything. I’m just a human being. We go through the same ropes of the downs, the highs and the lows. I am not going to be surprised if I die a pauper, but I have lived a life,” she added.
A series of fortunate...
From Page 10 Bingo, my character in the Cignal Play series ‘My Delivery Gurl,’ which required me to walk in heels. “So, I got myself a pair of heels, started walking around the house, took videos of myself learning how to walk, and then I got a message from a Hollywood designer who sent me a message, saying, ‘Can you walk for my show in Dubai Fashion Week?’ It got me a gig in Dubai! “And that’s all because of my decision to start embarking on my fitness and wellness journey. One thing just led to another— so it was literally like putting one hat after taking one out, then putting one wig on and so on (laughs).” For Markki, it was a series of fortunate events influencing each other—and it all began with the resolve to get fit again.
WHILE Los Angeles awaits the 56th Super Bowl event, California-based Filipino Supermarket Chain Island Pacific promotes popular Filipino Street Food fish-ball by holding its first ever SuperBall: Fish Ball Eating Contest. For the love of street food and games, Island Pacific, in partnership with Mekeni and the SoCal Filipinos Community, will reward $1,000 in cash to the SuperBall Champion who can eat as many fishballs as they can in one minute. The runner-up with also take home $500, and the three finalists will receive a consolation prize of $100 each. Imagine eating your favorite Mekeni Fishballs and winning cash prizes – it’s like hitting two birds with one stone! The contest is open to everyone who loves Filipino Street Food, enjoys watching the Super Bowl, wants free food and instant cash, or just needs something fun to do over the weekend. Basically, anyone can join so long as they’re ready to eat dozens
(or even hundreds) of fish balls! To qualify for the SuperBall Finals on February 12, interested participants must do the following: 1. Purchase Mekeni Fishballs at their local Island Pacific store using their Bonus Rewards card. (Tip: buy as many as you can finish in one minute). 2. Capture their own video eating as many Mekeni fishballs as they can in one minute. 3. Upload the video and sign up here: bit.ly/ islandpacificsuperball. Island Pacific will shortlist the top five SuperBall finalists who will make it to the SuperBall Finals on February 12, 12 noon, at the selected Island Pacific store in Southern California. Submission is open until February 9, 2022, 11:59pm PST. The finalists will be announced on their Facebook page. Bonus: Filipino celebrities Donita Rose and G Töngi are also expected to host the SuperBall Finals. (Advertising Supplement)