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FEBRUARY 15-21, 2024 Volume 35 - No. 7 • 12 Pages

T he F ilipino A mericAn c ommuni Ty n ewspAper

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US tells Marcos: Ask and we are here USA

DATELINE What were last year’s biggest scams?

by Helen Flores

FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

ON Friday, February 9, the Federal Trade Commission released data showing that nationwide fraud losses topped $10 billion in 2023 — 14% more than 2022.

Nevertheless, the dramatic loss owes less to more reports than to more money being lost to each scam per these reports.

At an Ethnic Media Services briefing that morning, FTC officials discussed new trends in top scams, and why learning about and reporting scams is so crucial to protecting consumers.

Top scams of 2023 Last year’s $10 billion in reported losses, compared to $9 billion in 2022, was an all-time first, “but the number of reports we received in 2023 did not increase dramatically,” said Maria Mayo, Acting Associate Director for the Division of Consumer Response and Operations in the FTC Bureau of Consumer Protection.

“One in four consumers reported losing money with a median loss of $500 per consumer,” she continued.

Research shows that less than 5% of u PAGE 4

Philstar.com

MANILA — The United States is ready to assist the Philippines during times of need, US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson assured President Marcos on Tuesday, February 13, as the envoy highlighted how the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) between the two countries has helped the Philippines in the delivery of urgently needed aid.

Carlson paid a courtesy call on Marcos at Malacañang, where they talked about Washington’s provision of two

C-130s of the Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) in the ongoing delivery of food packs and other supplies to residents affected by the flooding in Mindanao.

“Carlson told President Marcos that Washington is pleased to bring two C-130s from the INDOPACOM, although it is not the cheapest or the easiest way to deliver foreign assistance,” the Presidential Communications Office said in a statement.

“But when you ask and you need it, we are here,” Carlson told Marcos, referring to the teams from the U.S. Agency for International Development, Joint U.S.

Fil-Am football fans share mixed reactions to Super Bowl 2024 Kansas City Chiefs secure spot as NFL dynasty

Harvard’s first-ever Filipino classes foster cultural connection, community Beginning and intermediate courses were offered in the fall semester, with an advanced level added for spring “MABUHAY,” “kumusta,” “salamat,” and more Filipino words now echo through Harvard University’s halls.

Last fall, the Ivy League school took a significant stride in acknowledging the linguistic and cultural diversity of the Philippines and its community in the United States with the introduction of Filipino language courses.

As reported by The Harvard Gazette in their Feb. 7 article, these courses, spanning beginner and intermediate levels, have garnered enthusiastic participation from students eager to reconnect with the Filipino language at Harvard. The inclusion of these courses aligns with a broader initiative by the Harvard University Asia Center to enhance offerings in Southeast Asian stJames Robson, the William Fung Director u PAGE 4

Military Assistance Group and INDOPACOM. At the request of the Philippine government, U.S. Marines of the Okinawa-based Third Marine Expeditionary Force assisted the USAID in providing humanitarian assistance in the ongoing disaster relief mission in Mindanao.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday announced that two US Marine Corps KC130J Hercules aircraft would be used to help in the delivery of supplies to the victims of the landslide in Maco, Davao de Oro. u PAGE 2

CENTENARIAN. Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Juan Ponce Enrile receives a Letter of Felicitation and a Centenarian Gift worth P100,000 from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in a ceremony at Malacañan Palace on Wednesday, Feb. 14. Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian (2nd from left) assisted President Marcos in giving honor to Enrile who celebrated his 100th year birthday on Feb. 14.

Photo courtesy of DSWD

IN a thrilling 'Sin City' Super Bowl clash at Allegiant Stadium on Sunday, the Kansas City Chiefs emerged victorious, clinching a 25-22 win over the San Francisco 49ers in overtime. Patrick Mahomes' three-yard touchdown pass to Mecole Hardman sealed the deal, marking the Chiefs' third Super Bowl triumph in five years, a feat unmatched since the New England Patriots in February 2005.

Chiefs enthusiasts gathered at the Filipino-owned Jackpot Bar and Grill in Las Vegas erupted in joy as they witnessed their team's historic win. Amalia Balino, a dedicated Kansas City Chiefs fan, expressed overwhelming happiness, saying, "Sobrang saya. We are very happy."

On the flip side, San Francisco 49ers supporters, like Bobby Greene, lamented their team falling short of claiming a sixth Lombardi Trophy. "I'm depressed," remarked Greene, highlighting the disappointment among 49ers faithful as their team hasn't clinched a Super Bowl victory since 1994.

Amidst the celebrations, one Filipino took special pride in the Chiefs' success. Last summer, the Chiefs signed wide receiver and kick returner Nikko Remigio of Southern California as an undrafted rookie free agent. u PAGE 4

A LIFE IN HISTORY, AND NOT YET THE TWILIGHT

Enrile says ‘no regrets, no mistakes,’ as he turns 100

by Melvin Gascon Inquirer.net

MANILA — On any given workday, this government lawyer dresses up for the office, pores over piles of paperwork, and attends meetings like any other ordinary worker.

Actually, he’s far from ordinary, having stayed in public life for six decades, with his own political highs and lows but never out for long, taking different shades but never really

fading.

Until the twists and turns of Philippine history put him back where he started: a seat in the president’s power circle.

But this time around, his office in Malacañang has an easy access to an elevator— as he requested—because his knees could no longer negotiate the Palace stairs.

“I could not walk the stairway of Malacañang anymore,” Juan Ponce Enrile told his recruiter back in 2022 when first offered the u PAGE 2

Contributed photo

VP Sara Duterte says relationship Biden-Harris campaign with Pres. Marcos remains ‘okay’ earns AANHPI vote in Nevada

Vice President Sara Duterte and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

u PAGE 2

MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte on Monday, February 12, said that she and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. “are okay,” despite the hostility between her family and the president.

“We have no problem with each other, President Bongbong Marcos and I are doing good, we are okay in terms of our relationship both personal and working,” Duterte told reporters in Malaysia where she is set to attend a Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization Council program as Malacañang file photo its president.

However, asked about her relationship with First Lady Liza Marcos, Duterte merely responded “I have no comment as of this time.”

Duterte also said that she and Marcos have not discussed the accusations made against him by her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, nor have they addressed her brother, Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte’s call for Marcos to step down.

The said accusations were made during a prayer rally in Davao City where the former u PAGE 2

THE Biden-Harris campaign jump started its engagement with the Nevada’s AANHPI voters in the new year, and the work has only just started. With Nevada being home to one of the fastest-growing AANHPI communities in the nation, this voting bloc will be critical to Democrats’ success up and down the ballot. The campaign and the Democratic Party are doing the hard work to earn support from AANHPI Nevadans in November and communicate the progress that President Biden and Vice President Harris have made for

Nevada families, which earned them the endorsement of the Asian Americans & Pacific Islanders Rising & Empowering Political Action Committee (ASPIRE PAC).

“Nevada is the most diverse battleground state in the country, and this year’s election will hinge on support from key voting blocs like our AANHPI community. The campaign was on the ground in this critical community early, and our work hasn’t stopped since,” said Biden-Harris for Nevada Campaign Manager Shelby Wiltz. u PAGE 4

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FEBRUARY 15-21, 2024 • LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL

From The FronT Page

US tells Marcos: Ask and we...

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Australia: Valued partner In another development, the Philippines emphasized the importance of Australia’s contributions on defense, security, cyber cooperation and transnational crime.

“ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) continues to view Australia as a valuable partner in safeguarding peace, security and stability in the region,” said Department of Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary and ASEANPhilippines director-general Daniel Espiritu, representing Undersecretary and ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting leader Maria Theresa Lazaro.

The Philippines led discussions on ASEAN-Australia PoliticalSecurity Cooperation during the 36th ASEAN-Australia Forum held in Melbourne, Australia.

ASEAN member-states and Australia will hold the special summit to commemorate the 50th ‘I DO’. About 271 couples exchange their vows during a mass wedding at Paco Park in Malate, Manila on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14. The mass PNA photo by Yancy Lim Anniversary of ASEAN-Australia wedding, officiated by Reverend Redexter Abella, was organized by the city government of Manila.

Dialogue Relations scheduled on March 4-6.

Australia holds the distinction of being the ASEAN’s oldest dialogue partner, having established formal PAGE 1 “When I got out of the Senate decided that taking on another relations in 1974. g job. in 2016, I did nothing except high-profile job was a no-brainer.

At 100, the chief legal adviser study all those books,” he said, “I had nothing to do. It was only of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. pointing to a bookshelf that stood [for the chance] to be of service might well be the world’s oldest beside his desktop computer. to the country again,” Enrile said. government employee, one who “I kept reading, so modesty In some ways, serving in Mr. has outlived the likes of Queen aside—tell me a country and I will Marcos’ Cabinet represents life Elizabeth II, Henry Kissinger, and discuss it with you—its geogra- coming full circle for Enrile, conKathNiel, based on memes circu- phy, strengths and weaknesses, sidered by some as a hero and lating on social media. its problems,” he said. others a villain during the 1986 On Wednesday, February 14, These days, Enrile is busy with Edsa People Power Revolution Juan Valentin Furagganan Ponce finance books written by best- that toppled the regime of the Enrile, so named because his selling American author James president’s late father and namebirthday fell on Valentine’s Day, Rickards, including “The Death sake. marked a full century of exis- of Money,” “The Big Drop” and 1972 ‘ambush’ tence, still active in public service “The New Case for Gold.”

On Sept. 22, 1972, then Deafter a storied career that has Serving a Marcos again fense Secretary Enrile and his spanned six decades.

According to his house staff, convoy were supposedly amEnrile sat down with the Inquir- Enrile loves regular morning bushed in Wack Wack Village in er on Saturday afternoon, Feb- walks around his grass lawn for Mandaluyong City — an “event” ruary 10 at his residence in Das- his daily dose of sunshine. that set the stage for the declaPresident Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. met with U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Marykay Loss Carlson at the Palace on Tuesday, February 13. mariñas Village in Makati City, Many thought Enrile would ration of martial law by the older Malacañang photo one of the country’s most exclu- gradually fade into the sunset Marcos a day later. sive neighborhoods. after he completed his tenure as It was only in 1986, when he Wearing a tangerine shirt, he Senate president in 2016. But and then Lt. Gen. Fidel V. Ramos sat at the head of a white confer- he was plucked from retirement announced their revolt against ence table and gamely replied to when Mr. Marcos assumed office the dictator, that Enrile said the PAGE 1 the policies of the current there has been a noticeable rift questions. His daughter, Katrina as the country’s 17th president ambush had been staged—an adpresident said Marcos was on administration. between her and House Speaker Ponce Enrile, administrator of the two years ago. mission he repeated several times the government’s illegal drugs Cagayan Economic Zone AuthorSara, for her part, dismissed Martin Romualdez.

Enrile said he did not have to in other interviews through the watchlist — which the Philippine Baste’s call as “brotherly love” as Sara herself previously ity, sat on his right flank, taking apply for his job, recalling one years.

Drug Enforcement Agency later she attributed Baste’s actions to acknowledged the alleged rift down notes. night in July 2022 when he got a But in his book “Juan Ponce denied.

‘Tell me a country’ the “despicable treatment” she’s between her and Romualdez, call from then Executive Secre- Enrile: A Memoir,” published in On the other hand, Davao City been receiving from some allies stating that even she wonders why Enrile talked about his obses- tary Victor Rodriguez, who asked 2012, he revised his own histoMayor Sebastian or “Baste” in of Marcos. she is being “attacked” despite sion with reading as a key secret if he would be willing to join an- ry, claiming that the ambush had the same event also called on While the vice president has not being the current administration’s to maintaining a sharp mind even other Marcos Cabinet. He hesitat- been real.

Marcos to resign as he criticized specified who these allies were, ally. (Inquirer.net) u PAGE 3 at his advanced age. ed at first, he said, but eventually “The U.S. Marines from the III Marine Expeditionary Force will assist with the ongoing disaster relief mission with troops from the Marine Air Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing delivering essential supplies for distribution,” the AFP said.

Apart from the use of two US C-130s, the US government has also extended $1.25-million emergency support.

Marcos visited Davao last week and extended P265 million worth of financial assistance to communities affected by the floods in the region.

A total of 1,389,073 individuals or 415,494 families were affected by the heavy flooding and landslide in 818 barangays in Northern Mindanao, Davao Region, Soccsksargen, Caraga and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, according to disaster officials.

Meanwhile, Marcos cited the importance of the sites under the US-Philippines’ EDCA for disaster relief and response, as he encouraged the US to make full use of those facilities.

For Carlson, there is so much that can be done more efficiently “through the mechanism that exists.”

“But sometimes you just need an extra push, and it is also a good demonstration of how good the alliance can deliver,” she said.

In April last year, Malacañang announced four new EDCA sites in the country: Naval Base Camilo Osias in Sta. Ana, Cagayan; Lal-lo Airport in Lal-lo, Cagayan; Camp Melchor dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela and Balabac Island in Palawan.

Marcos had said the additional EDCA sites would not be used for offensive actions, adding that the locations were selected due to their susceptibility to natural disasters.

“These are existing bases. The only difference with what we did here is that with the EDCA, we give an opportunity to … our only treaty partner, which is the United States, we give them a chance to be able to come and help us in any way, especially – that really started with helping with disaster relief,” he said in an interview in April last year.

VP Sara Duterte says relationship with...

Enrile says ‘no regrets, no mistakes...

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Dateline USa

LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • FEBRUARY 15-21, 2024

GoFundMe has become a health care utility

by ElisabEth RosEnthal KFF Health News

GOFUNDME started as a crowdfunding site for underwriting “ideas and dreams,” and, as GoFundMe’s co-founders, Andrew Ballester and Brad Damphousse, once put it, “for life’s important moments.” In the early years, it funded honeymoon trips, graduation gifts, and church missions to overseas hospitals in need. Now GoFundMe has become a go-to platform for patients trying to escape medical billing nightmares.

One study found that, in 2020, the annual number of U.S. campaigns related to medical causes — about 200,000 — was 25 times the number of such campaigns on the site in 2011. More than 500 current campaigns are dedicated to asking for financial help for treating people, mostly kids, who have spinal muscular atrophy, a neurodegenerative genetic condition. The recently approved gene therapy for young children with the condition, by the drugmaker Novartis, has a price tag of about $2.1 million for the single-dose treatment.

Perhaps the most damning aspect of this is that paying for expensive care with crowdfunding is no longer seen as unusual; instead, it is being normalized as part of the health system, like getting bloodwork done or waiting on hold for an appointment. Need a heart transplant? Start a GoFundMe to get on the waiting list.

Resorting to GoFundMe when faced with bills has become so accepted that, in some cases, patient advocates and hospital financial aid officers recommend crowdfunding as an alternative to being sent to collections.

My inbox and the “Bill of the Month” project (a collaboration

by KFF Health News and NPR) have become a kind of complaint desk for people who can’t afford their medical bills, and I’m gobsmacked every time a patient tells me they’ve been advised that GoFundMe is their best option.

GoFundMe acknowledges the reliance of patients on its platform. Ari Romio, a spokesperson for the company, said that “medical expenses” is the most common category of fundraiser it hosts. But she declined to say what proportion of campaigns are medically

related, because people starting a campaign self-select the purpose of the fundraiser. They might choose the family or travel category, she said, if a child needs to go to a different state for treatment, for example.

So although the company has estimated in the past that roughly a third of the funds raised on the site are related to costs for illness or injury, that could be an undercount.

Andrea Coy of Fort Collins, Colorado, turned to GoFundMe in 2021 as a last resort after an air-ambulance bill tipped her family’s finances over the edge.

Sebastian, her son who was then a year old, had been admitted with pneumonia to a local hospital and then transferred urgently by helicopter to Children’s Hospital Colorado in Denver when his oxygen levels dropped. REACH, the air-ambulance transport company that contracted with the hospital, was out-of-network and billed the family nearly $65,000 for the ride — more than $28,000 of which Coy’s insurer, UnitedHealthcare, paid. Even so, REACH continued sending Coy’s family bills for the balance, and later began regularly calling Coy to try to collect — enough so that she felt the company was harassing her, she told me.

Coy made calls to her company’s human resources department, REACH, and UnitedHealthcare for help in resolving the case. She applied to various patient groups for financial assistance and was rejected again and again. Eventually, she got the outstanding balance knocked down to $5,000, but even that was more than she could afford on top of the $12,000 the family owed out-of-pocket for Sebastian’s actual treatment.

That’s when a hospital financial aid officer suggested she try GoFundMe. But, as Coy said, “I’m not an influencer or anything like that,” so the appeal “offered only a bit of temporary relief — we’ve hit a wall.” They have gone deep into debt and hope to climb out of it.

In an emailed response, a spokesperson for REACH noted that they could not comment on a specific case because of patientprivacy laws, but that, if the ambulance ride occurred before the federal No Surprises Act went into effect, the bill was legal.

(That act protects patients from such air-ambulance bills and has been in force since Jan. 1, 2022.)

But the spokesperson added, “If a patient is experiencing a financial hardship, we work with them to find equitable solutions.” What is “equitable” — and whether that includes seeking an additional $5,000, beyond a $28,000 insurance payment, for transporting a sick child — is subjective, of course.

In many respects, research shows, GoFundMe tends to perpetuate socioeconomic disparities that already affect medical bills and debt. If you are famous or part of a circle of friends who have money, your crowdfunding campaign is much more likely to succeed than if you are middle-class or poor.

When the family of the former Olympic gymnast Mary Lou Retton started a fundraiser on another platform, *spotfund, for her recent stay in the intensive care unit while uninsured, nearly $460,000 in donations quickly poured in. (Although Retton said she could not get affordable insurance because of a preexisting condition — dozens of orthopedic surgeries — the Affordable Care Act prohibits insurers from refusing to cover people because of their medical history, or charging them abnormally high rates.)

And given the price of American health care, even the most robust fundraising can feel inadequate. If you’re looking for help to pay for a $2 million drug, even tens of thousands can be a drop in the bucket.

Rob Solomon, CEO of GoFundMe from 2015 to March 2020, who in 2018 was named one of Time magazine’s 50 most influential people in health care, has said that he “would love nothing more than for ‘medical’ to not be a category on GoFundMe.” He told KFF Health News that “the system is terrible.

It needs to be rethought and retooled. Politicians are failing us. Health care companies are failing us. Those are realities.”

Despite the noble ambitions of its original vision, however, GoFundMe is a privately held for-profit company. In 2015, the founders sold a majority stake to a venture-capital investor group led by Accel Partners and Technology Crossover Ventures.

And when I asked about medical bills being the most common reason for GoFundMe campaigns, the company’s current CEO, Tim Cadogan, sounded less critical than u PAGE 4

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JUST MARRIED. About 48 couples pose for a photo op after saying their vows in a mass wedding ceremony organized by Parañaque City Mayor Eric Olivarez at the Elorde Sports Complex on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14. ACT-CIS Party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo (center) and Rep. Gus Tambunting (3rd from left) acted as the wedding sponsors.

PNA photos by Avito Dalan

Enrile says ‘no regrets, no mistakes...

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“This [staged ambush] is a lie that has gone around for far too long such that it has acquired acceptance as the truth…. This accusation is ridiculous and preposterous,” he wrote.

Despite that “sad episode,” Enrile said there was no bad blood between him and the Marcos family, as he had made sure of their safe exit from Malacañang at the end of that uprising.

“Many people misunderstood my relationship with this family; [Edsa People Power happened] because there was this junta already planning to take over the government,” he claimed, alluding to the bickering within Marcos’ inner circle at the time, which, he said, forced him to form his own group.

In the Senate Enrile continued as defense chief, this time under Marcos’ successor Corazon Aquino. But his increasing criticism of her government, amid the coup attempts that were linked to Enrile’s allies in the military, prompted her to fire him. Aquino would continue to deal with that threat until 1989.

By 1987, with the country under a new republic and constitution, Enrile threw his hat into the senatorial arena and led the Senate through its now historic chapters—some of these, proud moments for the chamber (the vote to remove the U.S. bases in

1991), others controversial (the impeachment trial of President Joseph Estrada in 2000).

While he was senator, Enrile also ran for president in the general elections of 1998, but lost to Estrada.

His support for Estrada, who was impeached in 2000 and ousted the next year by another popular uprising, cost Enrile his reelection bid. But he returned to the Senate in 2004 and went on to complete two terms, becoming its oldest Senate president in 2008.

‘A very simple life’ In 2013, Enrile and two other senators were implicated in the pork barrel scam for allegedly funneling P172 million of his Priority Development Assistance Fund to bogus nongovernment organizations. He was detained in 2014, but released on bail after a year.

He is still battling plunder charges in the Sandiganbayan.

Enrile said his struggles early in life, in his native province of Cagayan, steeled him for the difficult challenges ahead.

“I knew what it is to be poor, to be a lowly person, to be abused; I used to be called a bastard. I was a houseboy. I cooked, cleaned the asses of the children of my bosses, washed the clothes of my benefactors,” he said.

These days, on top of his salary, which he wouldn’t disclose as “it’s public record,” he sus-

tains himself with a “little pension” from his daughter Katrina, who used to run the family’s Jaka Group of Companies.

But he doubts that the government will bestow on him the P100,000 cash incentive for 100-year-olds under the Centenarians Act, according to Katrina.

“My dad lives a very simple life.

He says he has enough T-shirts and is comfortable with his life as he has always been,” she said.

‘No perfect government’ Enrile said the infighting between the Marcos and Duterte families is par for the course.

“That’s normal; there’s no guarantee that everybody is good because even in heaven, you have Lucifer,” he said “The trouble with us is that we are thinking that there is a perfect government—there’s no such thing,” he said.

Despite the controversies and scandals in his long career, Enrile said he has no regrets about decisions that have shaped the country’s history, for good or ill: “Whatever I did in all my years in government, as well as outside, I did them with full knowledge and complete planning.”

“But one thing I can tell you: I never ordered anybody to be killed. I don’t kill people, not even by any means. I charge them if I have to charge them but I never ordered,” he said, his voice rising. g

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FEBRUARY 15-21, 2024 • LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL

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Nikko Remigio: A proud Fil-Am on a Super Bowl team

by Nimfa Rueda

kids, and too white for the Black kids. And then, you’re not really Filipino because you’re only half,” he revealed.

LOS ANGELES – Among the Looking back now, Remigio hot topics leading up to the realized he was learning how Super Bowl game between the to deal with adversity and to Kansas City Chiefs and the San “keep pushing through tough Francisco 49ers at Allegiant situations, knowing how to Stadium in Las Vegas, tight end react in times of struggle and rookie Nikko Remigio. hardship.”

Who is Nikko Remigio?

It was his desire for acceptance Remigio, 25, has been on the that got him interested in sports, Kansas City Chiefs’ reserve/ where “you’re cherished and injured list since August last loved by everybody.” “It didn’t year and returned to the field in matter what race you were,” his first pro season at the Super Remigio said. “It made you feel Bowl. like you were just like everybody He was born on Nov. 4, 1999 else – not different.” to a Filipino father and a half Remigio’s Filipino father was Black, half white mother. born in Seattle, Washington and raised in Southern California.

His family is from Iloilo and Muntinlupa.

His mom, who is half Black and half white, is from Pontiac, Michigan. His parents met in Santa Ana, California, in 1988.

His parents divorced when Remigio was a young child, but they have maintained a good relationship.

“I really admire the morals they instilled in me,” he said. “They were always there if we were really struggling, but gave us the space to navigate challenges by ourselves in order to fully learn what we’re capable of, and who we are.”

Remigio is proud of his heritage and representation is more important to him than winning games or making headlines.

“One of the big things not only for me — but I know for my dad and his sisters, and my grandma and grandpa — is just people being able to pronounce our last name the right way,” said Kansas City Chiefs rookie wide receiver Nikko Remigio, a proud Fil-Am, is set to make his Super Remigio (pronounced ruh-meBowl debut.

Photo from Instagram/@nikkoremigio HEE’-oh). g Inquirer.net

Growing up Asian and Black American in a predominantly white neighborhood in Orange County, California, Remigio felt different and faced racism.

In an interview with Berkeley News, Remigio said the other kids wanted to touch his hair because it was long and “super curly.”

He was also told to stay out of the sun because his skin was getting too dark. There were more overt forms of racism, “like being called a nigger or a chink, and getting the slanted eyes gesture to my face,” he said.

Having a mixed-race identity also had its challenges. “It’s like you’re too Black for the white

Fil-Am football fans share mixed reactions to...

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Despite showing immense potential during the preseason, Remigio was placed on injured reserve before the season commenced.

The halftime show brought another highlight, featuring a highenergy performance headlined

by R&B star Usher. The 45-yearold Grammy-winning artist delivered a 13-minute spectacle at Allegiant Stadium, roller-skating, dancing, and singing his greatest hits. Surprise appearances by renowned collaborators, including Fil-Am guitar virtuoso H.E.R., Alicia Keys, will.i.am, Lil Jon, Jermaine Dupri, and Ludacris, added to the excitement.

H.E.R., whose real name is Gabriella Sarmiento Wilson, showcased her impressive guitar skills during Usher's hit songs 'U Got It Bad' and 'Bad Girl.' After her surprise guest appearance, the Grammy, Emmy, and Oscar winner took to social media, sharing a childhood photo of herself singing at a 49ers game with the caption "How it started vs. how it's going.

Who would've thought. Thank you, Usher!"

Chiefs fan Lisa Frederick expressed pride in having a FilAm artist during the halftime show, stating, "We are so proud. I am so proud na may Fil-Am na nasa halftime." (I am so proud that there’s a Fil-Am during the halftime show.) As the Chiefs prepare for their victory parade in Kansas City, Missouri on Wednesday, fans are eager to join the celebration of their team's remarkable achievement.

(Bev Llorente/TFC News, ABS-CBN News Las Vegas)

“We will continue to build on our strong relationship with AANHPI Nevadans, listen to their needs, and communicate how the Biden-Harris Administration has delivered for families as well as what hangs in the balance in 2024.”

Through prominent surrogate travel, early paid media spending, and increased involvement from political organizations within the community, the campaign

What were last year’s biggest...

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consumer fraud victims report at all.

The most common scam category was imposters “pretending to be a trusted entity like a business, a government agency, a family member or a romantic interest”; number two was online shopping and negative reviews; three was prizes and lotteries; four was investments; and five was business and job opportunities.

The most commonly reported form of imposter scams were business imposters, with $752 million in losses last year.

Per one example, Mayo said, “A consumer gets what appears to be a banking alert about fraudulent activity with their account and is given a number to call. The call is transferred to a fake U.S. Marshal who tells the consumer their money is in danger because of a money laundering scheme. The consumer withdraws funds from their personal accounts and transfers them to a crypto wallet that the Marshal set up.”

Government imposter fraud was the second-most reported type of imposter scam — in fact, losses to FTC imposters skyrocketed from a median loss of $3,000 in 2019 to $7,000 in 2023.

While investment-related fraud was number four overall, it was the category where people reported the most losses: a total of $4.6 billion with a median loss of over $7,000 for these scams, which involve transferring money to people promising to teach them how to trade stocks.

For the first time ever, “email was the most reported contact method of scammers in 2023, Mayo said. “In 2022, text was number one, but before that phone calls were always number one.”

Nevertheless, people contacted by phone reported the highest median losses of $1,480, while those contacted through social media lost the most money overall, $1.4 billion.

Regarding common methods of payment, people who paid scammers by bank transfer reported losing $1.9 billion, while those who paid by cryptocurrency lost $1.4 billion.

AI scams The FTC is increasingly worried about scammers using artificial intelligence to “turbo-charge fraud” through impersonation, said Lois Greisman, Associate Director of the FTC Division of Marketing Practices.

For instance, the scammer would get a voice clip of the victim’s aunt from social media and clone it to call the victim, saying that the aunt has “been in a terrible car accident, they’re in the hospital, there’s no insurance information, so they need you to wire thousands of dollars for lifesaving surgery,” she explained.

Nor is AI limited to voice cloning scams, Greisman added, “but also seeping into scammers’ messages: “‘My crypto investment method works because I’ve trained the AI to beat the stock market’ — with all the hype around AI these days, that’s a very compelling claim to make.”

How, then, do you spot a scammer?

“One of the best ways is by what payment instrument they ask you to use,” said Greisman.

“If they’re insisting on payment by wire transfer, gift card, payment apps or crypto, that’s a huge bright red flag … because it gives scammers the greatest measure of anonymity, and the likelihood of law enforcement being able to trace and return the money is extremely difficult.”

Why consumer reporting matters Reporting scams like these to the FTC matters because the data helps nearly 3,000 state, federal, local law enforcement entities nationwide stop fraud, and because it helps prevention outreach, Greisman continued.

“When we see, for example, spikes in gift card scams, we reach out to the industry to see what they can be doing to curb abuse of cards,” she added.

“When we see text messaging becoming a frequent point of contact, we reach out to the telecommunications industry.”

People can now report frauds and bad business practices in their preferred language — and anonymously if they wish — by phone at 877-382-4357, or online in English or Spanish by going to reportfraud.ftc.gov or by emailing fraud@ftc.gov.

Identity theft can be reported in one’s preferred language at 877-438-4338, or in English or Spanish at identitytheft.gov.

“To help people spot and avoid scams and identity theft and talk about what they experience, we offer information at ftc. gov/languages” in languages including Amharic, Arabic, simplified and traditional Chinese, French, Mam, Korean, Russian, Somali, Spanish, Tagalog, Ukrainian and Vietnamese, added Larissa Bungo, Senior Attorney at the FTC Division of Consumer & Business Education.

“While scammers are really good at what they do, knowledge is power, and the best thing we can do is try to share what we know about spotting scams,” she said. “When people report fraud, they can share as much or little as they want to. We’re interested in knowing what happened. We want to know the story.” (Selen Ozturk/Ethnic Media Services)

Harvard’s first-ever Filipino classes foster cultural...

PAGE 1

of the Asia Center, underscores that this initiative reflects Harvard’s commitment to fostering global understanding and engagement, particularly in regions of increasing economic importance and geopolitical influence.

Aligned with the varied Photos courtesy of David Cervera backgrounds of its students, the courses have fostered dialogues on Filipino society, traditions and contemporary issues. Intermediate students, be in his re-election campaign. for example, engage in activities Additionally, The Nevada State Democratic Party also held a GOTV event with the AANHPI legislative caucus to underscore PAGE 3 the importance of voting not just in the primary, but in the general his predecessor of the health election, too. system, whose high prices and The Democratic National financial cruelty have arguably Committee has also made multiple made his company famous. ad buys in Nevada targeting the “Our mission is to help people AANHPI community, including help each other,” he said. “We a multilingual six-figure ad blitz are not, and cannot, be the encouraging Nevadans to vote solution to complex, systemic and a campaign celebrating problems that are best solved Lunar New Year that launched with meaningful public policy.” just last week.

And that’s true. Despite The Biden-Harris administration the site’s hopeful vibe, most is building an economy from the campaigns generate only a small bottom up and the middle out fraction of the money owed. Most for Nevada’s AANHPI families. medical-expense campaigns in Asian American unemployment the U.S. fell short of their goal, has already fallen by more than and some raised little or no half nationwide – after that money, a 2017 study from the unemployment rate quadrupled University of Washington found. under Donald Trump. The Small Campaigns made an average of Business Administration (SBA) about 40% of the target amount, has distributed more than $16 and there is evidence that yields million in loans to AANHPI — measured as a percentage of entrepreneurs, and Asian- their targets — have worsened American business ownership has over time. grown by 18 percent. Nevadans Carol Justice, a recently retired are also spending less of their civil servant and a longtime hard-earned money on health union member in Portland, care, thanks to the administration Oregon, turned to GoFundMe putting a $35 cap on insulin because she faced a mammoth for Medicare recipients and a unexpected bill for bariatric record-breaking nearly 100,000 surgery at Oregon Health & Nevadans getting healthcare Science University. through the Affordable Care Act She had expected to pay this year. g about $1,000, the amount left

Biden-Harris campaign earns AANHPI...

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REGULATING E-TRIKES. Electronic tricycles (e-trikes) ply the streets of Tondo, Manila on Thursday, Feb. 15. Concerned national government agencies and local government units have begun discussions on how to regulate the use of e-bikes and other unregistered electronic vehicles (e-vehicles) nationwide as they pose a “grave risk” to their drivers, other motorists, and pedestrians, and slow down the flow of traffic.

PNA photo by Yancy Lim

is touting these achievements early. Ahead of the primary, Biden-Harris for Nevada’s first campaign event involved acting Labor Secretary Julie Su speaking to members of southern Nevada’s AANHPI community to talk about how the Biden-Harris administration has delivered for them, and President Biden himself visited an AsianAmerican owned boba tea shop in Las Vegas – a signal of how essential the community will

such as reading news articles and sharing opinions, promoting a deeper understanding of Filipino culture and perspectives.

“It also acknowledges the contribution of the overseas Filipino workers, the migrants, and the growing Filipino diaspora in the world,” Preceptor Lady Aileen Orsal shares to the publication.

Hailing from Cavite, Orsal is among the instructors for this new language offering at Harvard.

Affectionately addressed as “ate” (older sister)

by her students, she emphasizes the impact of the courses, not only on the university and its students but also in highlighting the significance of language, notably one of the most widely spoken in the U.S. In a recent study, Tagalog emerged as the second most spoken language, following English and Spanish, in numerous U.S. cities. In Nevada, it stands as the predominant language spoken after English and Spanish. (Hans Carbonilla/ Inquirer.net)

GoFundMe has become a health... of her deductible, after her health insurer paid the $15,000 cap on the surgery. She didn’t understand that a cap meant she would have to pay the difference if the hospital, which was innetwork, charged more.

And it did, leaving her with a bill of $18,000, to be paid all at once or in monthly $1,400 increments, which were “more than my mortgage,” she said. “I was facing filing for bankruptcy or losing my car and my house.” She made numerous calls to the hospital’s financial aid office, many unanswered, and received only unfulfilled promises that “we’ll get back to you” about whether she qualified for help.

So, Justice said, her health coach — provided by the city of Portland — suggested starting a GoFundMe. The campaign yielded about $1,400, just one monthly payment, including $200 from the health coach and $100 from an aunt. She dutifully sent each donation directly to the hospital.

In an emailed response, the hospital system said that it couldn’t discuss individual cases but that “financial assistance information is readily

available for patients, and can be accessed at any point in a patient’s journey with OHSU. Starting in early 2019, OHSU worked to remove barriers for patients most in need by providing a quick screening for financial assistance that, if a certain threshold is met, awards financial assistance without requiring an application process.”

This tale has a happy-ish ending. In desperation, Justice went to the hospital and planted herself in the financial aid office, where she had a tearful meeting with a hospital representative who determined that — given her finances — she wouldn’t have to pay the bill.

“I’d been through the gamut and just cried,” she said. She said she would like to repay the people who donated to her GoFundMe campaign. But, so far, the hospital won’t give the $1,400 back.

KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces indepth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFF—an independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism.

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5

Coalition vs Charter change launched

by Franco Jose c. Baroña ManilaTimes.net

A NUMBER of religious and civic organizations on Wednesday, February 14 formed a coalition against attempts to amend the 1987 Constitution.

The Koalisyon Laban sa Cha-cha (Coalition against Charter change) said revising the Constitution will not solve the country's problems, as claimed by its proponents.

Among its founding members were Sen. Ana Theresia "Risa" Hontiveros, Kidapawan Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo, Bishop Jonel Milan of the K4Philippines Intercessors Movement, Caritas Manila Executive Secretary Fr. Antonio Labiao, Ging Quintos-Deles of the Buhay ang EDSA Campaign Network, Minnie Anne Mata-Calub of the National Council of Churches in the Philippines (NCCP), Josua Mata of Nagkaisa Labor Coalition, and members of Akbayan youth.

"Our Constitution is robust but not fully implemented and completed with the necessary implementing laws," the coalition said in a statement.

"The leaders we entrusted with power do not fully implement the Constitution and provide necessary implementing laws because of a selfish agenda," it added.

The coalition refuted claims of pro-Cha-cha lawmakers that the Constitution and its economic provisions are to be blamed for chronic poverty.

It said there is no reason to change the Constitution if President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. himself

is "in denial of the corruption and human rights abuses of his father's dictatorial regime."

Instead of revising the Charter, the coalition said the government should eradicate corruption, protect the environment, break political dynasties and ensure electoral integrity.

"We view attempts to alter the Constitution, especially with questionable motives and limited public participation, as threatening our nation's well-being," said Bagaforo, chairman of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines' Episcopal Commission on Social Action, Justice and Peace.

Bagaforo is also the head of Caritas Philippines.

The Kidapawan prelate said the 1987 Constitution "is not a political plaything" but was crafted "after a dark period to serve the Filipino people, upholding human dignity, human rights, and the common good.

"We echo the CBCP's stance: Any revision must adhere to these moral principles," Bagaforo said.

Hontiveros hailed the "true unity" of religious and civic groups against Cha-cha.

"This is true unity: The unity of the people who will fight for the good of the many, not just for the interests of the few," she said.

The senator urged people to join the coalition and other groups against Cha-cha.

"We are tired of crying because of broken hearts and broken promises. So let's wipe our tears and wholeheartedly bear the cross of the fight against Cha-cha so that our

town can become a truly friendly town," Hontiveros said.

The NCCP, an ecumenical fellowship of non-Roman Catholic denominations in the country, has expressed its opposition to Cha-cha.

"It will open up the economy to further foreign exploitation and foreign military bases. The former will further mire the people in poverty while the latter will compromise Philippine sovereignty," NCCP's vice chairman for women Jennifer Ferariza-Meneses said.

Akbayan Youth Chairman Justine Balane said student councils were rising against Cha-cha, which he said would "short-change" the youth.

"In the face of our nation's pressing problems, present Charter Change initiatives are divisive, wasteful, and unnecessary. We urge our politicians to put solving our people's hunger, poverty, and poor education first," said Deles.

"A just and equitable society for all Filipinos cannot be achieved through self-serving Charter changes, but through a genuine commitment to the people's welfare. We urge the government to fulfill its duty and prioritize the needs of its citizens," Labiao added.

Mata said that what Filipinos need are living wages, jobs and rights.

"If your heart isn't here, you're probably only after power and wealth. We urge our legislators to prioritize policies that would address the chronic poverty amidst the widening gap of income inequality in the country," Mata said. g

ONE BILLION RISING. More than 3,000 students of St. Scholastica’s College in Manila make the “number one” sign as they took part in the “One Billion Rising 2024” global movement on Thursday, Feb. 15. The campaign calls for an end to all forms of violence against women.

PNA photo by Yancy Lim

Philippines to repatriate 14 in Gaza; remaining Filipino nun ‘unreachable’

MANILA – The Philippine government is racing to repatriate 14 out of the 15 Filipinos still in Gaza amid reports of Israel’s planned military operation in Rafah.

Philippine Ambassador to Jordan Wilfredo Santos said on Thursday, February 15 the Philippine embassies in Jordan, Egypt, and Israel are closely coordinating to extract them as soon as possible.

“I cannot give an exact date for their evacuation as the situation is very fluid. But it should be soon,” he said in a text message.

Santos said these Filipinos would still need to cross the border safely to Egypt.

The only possible point of exit from the besieged enclave is through the Rafah border crossing situated between Gaza and Egypt.

“In previous evacuations, some were not able to exit Gaza for Egypt as the roads were blocked and it was unsafe for them to do so and they were left behind or had to join subsequent evacuations,” Santos said. “The important thing is that so far, we have not received any information on casualties among Filipinos in Gaza.”

DFA Undersecretary Eduardo Jose de Vega, in a separate text message, said the 14 are currently in Rafah and had long indicated that they wanted Religious and various group’s launch ed Wednesday, February 14 at Knight’s of Columbus, a coalition against a renewed push for Charter to cross but “were undecided as to whether they Change(Cha-Cha) which they said will not solve the country’s contrary to its proponents.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Rene Dilan really wanted to stay.”

The embassy, he said, is advising them every day to take safety measures “in light of possible attack.”

Meanwhile, Santos reported that the Filipino nun who decided to stay in Gaza amid the ongoing Hamas-Israel conflict has been unreachable since December 2023.

“We are still trying to get in touch with the Filipino nun in Gaza City. But no one is answering the landline in her church,” he said. “We will continue to reach out to her. She is the 15th Filipino remaining in Gaza.”

Santos said the church she was staying in was reportedly hit by “sniper fire” but the embassy lost contact with it due to a breakdown in communications.

“We lost contact with her around late November and early December when Israel increased its attacks on Gaza City,” he said.

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu earlier ordered the Israeli forces to prepare for the evacuation of civilians in Rafah ahead of an expected military operation in the southern Gaza city.

Australia, Canada, and New Zealand were among the latest to warn Israel not to push through with it, saying it would be “catastrophic” as Rafah serves as a refuge to about 1.5 million Palestinians and other foreign nationals. (PNA)

6

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OpiniOn

Features

Secessionist aspirations

AFTER initially ignoring the call for Mindanao secession aired by his predecessor, President Marcos said it was “anchored on a false premise” and is a “sheer constitutional travesty.” Any Mindanao secession is “doomed to fail,” the president said, as he reiterated that the national territory “will not be diminished, even by one square inch.”

He subsequently emphasized that a stronger Mindanao will mean a stronger Philippines. And a critical component of a stronger Mindanao, he said, is making the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao stronger. The BARMM sprung from secessionist aspirations of the group now in control of its government, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, whose leaders have rejected the call of former President Rodrigo Duterte for Mindanao secession.

With the BARMM administration getting billions in funding from the national government, to do largely as it pleases under the autonomous arrangement, it would be counterproductive for the region to support any secessionist aspiration, especially one that springs from political warfare rather than from a genuine dream of carving out an independent state.

The MILF has been down the secessionist path for decades, along with the original separatist group, the Moro National Liberation Front. The MNLF forged a peace pact with the government and its leaders were given autonomous control

over the original ARMM. As MNLF chieftain Nur Misuari famously lamented, however, rebellion was easier than governance. He became enmeshed in corruption, and when his hold on power was threatened, he staged a mini rebellion that exacerbated the problems in Mindanao. The ARMM bred warlords led by the Ampatuans, who had the impunity to massacre 58 people in a single assault when their stranglehold on power was challenged.

Today the BARMM remains the poorest region in the country, with poverty incidence at 37.2 percent as of 2022. With the poverty are its concomitant elements: inadequate health care, malnutrition and undernutrition as well as undereducation. Armed violence remains high, keeping away tourists and investors who can be drivers of economic growth.

Transparency, accountability and good governance are critical in creating a stronger BARMM. But studies have shown a low capacity for effective governance among those in charge of the region. The regional leadership is given an

Editorial

Babe’s Eye View BaBe romualdez IN the coming months, close to 60 countries will be having elections, but none as consequential as the elections in the United States. Additionally, the world is going through a lot of challenges that continue to make it difficult for many countries to recover from the pandemic, among them climate change, the war in Ukraine, the escalating conflicts in the Middle East and tensions in the IndoPacific region.

The ongoing NATO drill dubbed as “Steadfast Defender 2024” – said to be the biggest NATO military exercises since the end of the Cold War – participated in by 31 NATO allies and Sweden involving 90,000 troops and personnel, over 1,100 combat vehicles as well as 50plus warships and over 81 air platforms, is raising concerns about the war in Ukraine spreading across Europe.

According to Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR)

The Broader View Harry roque SO said the still-popular Rodrigo Duterte, who has unflinchingly faced and cheated death many times over. In our recent phone conversation, the former president divulged that the International Criminal Court will issue a warrant for his arrest anytime soon. As he has consistently vowed, Tatay Digong would only face charges related to the war on drugs campaign filed before the Philippine courts. He would seek death rather than have the foreign tribunal, with the complicity of local law enforcers, drag him to The Hague court.

First, it would constitute an illegal arrest. The ICC lost its jurisdiction over the drug war because the Philippines is no longer a State Party to the Rome Statute. The Court Prosecutor failed to trigger the Court’s jurisdiction before our withdrawal became effective on March 17, 2019. As contended by two Appellate Chamber judges, the Prosecutor can no longer open a preliminary investigation once the State’s withdrawal officially took effect.

Second, the octogenarian has

ManilaTimes.net photo

overly wide discretion, with little accountability, in the utilization of public funds, including those billions provided by the national government.

Poverty, underdevelopment and social injustice fuel desperation and drive people to take up

arms. If the BARMM goes the way of the ARMM, secession can be revived in the region. Preventing this from happening is the best way to ensure that aspirations for secession will be eliminated in Mindanao. (Philstar.com)

The world is watching: US election developments General Christopher Cavoli, Steadfast Defender 2024 will demonstrate the ability of the Alliance “to reinforce the EuroAtlantic area via trans-Atlantic movement of forces from North America.”

The exercises will test new defense plans and see how quickly U.S. forces could be deployed to reinforce their European allies in countries bordering Russia and the eastern flank of the alliance. The drills, which will continue until May, “will be a clear demonstration of our unity, our strength and our determination to protect each other, to protect our values and the rules-based international order,” General Cavoli said.

The Oct. 7 attack of the terrorist group Hamas against Israel and the consequent war in Gaza has also stoked fears that a full-scale war between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah could spill over to the Middle East.

Many say that we are living in an increasingly “VUCA” world marked by volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity – with 2024 set to be a historic, recordbreaking year because over 50

countries will be holding national elections that could affect the lives of over two billion voters across Europe, Africa, Latin America and Asia.

Experts say that among the consequential poll exercises are the ones in the UK, India, Iran, Pakistan, Indonesia, Russia (although some critics claim this would be a mere “rubber stamp” activity) as well as the Taiwan elections held last January because of their potential global impact.

But the elections that people are closely watching would be the November 2024 presidential elections in the United States because the outcome would be of great consequence to the foreign policy of the U.S., which in turn could impact the situation in Europe, the Middle East and the Indo-Pacific region. Obviously, the big question right now in the minds of leaders and many people across the globe is – who is going to be the next president of the United States: will it still be Joe Biden, or will the world see a Trump 2.0?

To say that developments are heating up in the U.S.

political scene would be an understatement, especially after the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments regarding the decision of the Colorado Supreme Court to disqualify former president Donald Trump from the state’s Republican primaries and remove his name from the primary ballot.

During the hearing that lasted for more than two hours, the justices – who come from both sides of the political spectrum – seemed doubtful of the legal authority of a state to disqualify candidates in a federal election by deciding who gets to appear on the ballot because of the possibility that this could lead to partisan decisions.

“I would expect that a goodly number of states will say, ‘Whoever the Democratic candidate is, you’re off the ballot’ and others, for the Republican candidate, ‘You’re off the ballot.’

And it’ll come down to just a handful of states that are going to decide the presidential election,” Chief Justice John Roberts put it, describing it to be a “pretty daunting consequence.”

Justice Elena Kagan was even

more blunt in her remarks: “Why should a single state get to decide who gets to be president of the United States?”

The justices also noted that “insurrection” is a broad term, and that the language in Section 3 of the 14th amendment which bars any “officer of the United States” who has taken an oath to support the Constitution but “engaged in insurrection or rebellion” from holding public office, is “vague” as it did not specify the president or vice president in the long list of elected position that the section applies to.

The justices also indicated the opinion that Section 3 cannot be applied unless Congress enacts legislation first that would allow it.

Aside from Colorado, one other state that has disqualified the former president from the presidential primary ballot is Maine, with 15 more cases having been filed in various states that include New York, Texas and Virginia.

But regardless of who becomes president, we are pleased to have friends from both sides of the aisle,

continually working with them, making sure that the relationship that we have been able to sustain over the years remains strong not only in terms of security cooperation but particularly in the economic aspect.

In fact, we can expect more business activity with the United States in the coming months, such as the reinvigorated U.S.Philippines Society with a lot of new members composed of top American companies arriving next week. Next month, we will be expecting a large U.S. Presidential Trade Mission headed by Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo.

Without a doubt, I am extremely confident that our relationship with the United States will continue to thrive even beyond the November U.S. presidential elections. (Philstar. com) *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

*** babeseyeview@gmail.com

Over his dead body lived – and continues to live – a full life. He has nothing to fear or lose at this point.

When I asked for his intel source, FPRRD refused to reveal it on the phone. Obviously, some groups are monitoring his activities. I do not doubt the veracity of the information since the former chief executive still has access to various intelligence reports. It also coincides with the story peddled by an anti-Duterte politician and a supposed complainant in the war on drugs case that the ICC would request the Philippine government for Digong’s arrest soon.

The Rome Statute states that once the Pre-Trial Chamber (PTC) determines probable cause, it can issue a warrant or summons for an accused to ensure the person’s appearance in the trial; the person does not obstruct the investigation or court proceedings; and prevent the person from continuing the commission of the crime (Article 58, Section 1).

I am grateful that the Philippine National Police (PNP) has stated they would not serve an arrest warrant to FPRRD according to the wishes of the ICC. This complies with the verbal directive of President Bongbong Marcos, Jr. to all Executive agencies to desist from cooperating with the ICC. On the

other hand, I am disappointed that Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra thinks there is no need for a memorandum circular vis-àvis the issue. With due respect to my fellow cabinet member under the Duterte administration, I believe that a verbal order carries less legal force. It can easily be superseded by another public pronouncement. I recall that in November, the chief executive suddenly backtracked from his original position of non-engagement with the ICC since assuming office in 2022.

Thankfully, PBBM clarified last month that the government will not lift a finger to help the Court investigation.

Under the best evidence rule, when the subject of inquiry is the contents of a document, no evidence shall be admissible other than the original written document itself. Under any circumstance, a presidential issuance would compel government agencies, including the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the National Bureau of Investigation, to disengage from an ICC-related proceeding.

Investigation & arrest In terms of a preliminary investigation, the ICC process differs from our local courts. In the Philippines, the investigation is considered a statutory right.

Under the Revised Rules on Criminal Procedure, the accused has the right to participate in the probe and to examine the evidence submitted by the plaintiff. If the evidence is voluminous, the complainant must specify the evidence that will be used against the respondent. Upon receipt of the subpoena, the accused should file a counter-affidavit and that of his or her witnesses and other supporting documents within ten days.

In contrast, the ICC follows the European inquisitorial justice system, which prioritizes the expeditious resolution of a criminal case. The international Prosecutors can directly gather and collect evidence to buttress their case against suspected individuals who may have committed an atrocity crime within the Court’s jurisdiction.

They have the sole right to examine evidence and keep documents or information confidential. They have the prerogative to request the presence of persons under investigation, victims, and witnesses. Should they decide that the evidence at hand is sufficient, they may even forego directly questioning a person under investigation. They are also not obligated to notify individuals who will be charged

before the Pre-Trial Chamber.

Nonetheless, the Prosecutors are mandated to impartially and equally assess both incriminating and exonerating evidence when determining the criminal responsibility of an individual.

Persons under investigation, meanwhile, are not entitled to file a counter-affidavit. They are not allowed to access the evidence presented by accusers. However, the Statute protects their right against selfincrimination and the right to legal representation (Article 55).

They cannot be subjected to any form of duress like torture, or questioned in a language that they cannot fully understand and speak. While being investigated, they cannot be arbitrarily arrested or detained except on grounds established in the Statute. Prosecutors or national authorities requested by the Court shall extend the same rights to persons believed to have committed a crime within the jurisdiction of the Court.

Once the Pre-Trial Chamber decides favorably on the application and evidence submitted by the Prosecutor, it will issue an arrest warrant for the accused. Since the ICC does not have a police force, they must entirely rely on the law enforcement agencies of a

State Party. Article 59 stipulates that upon receipt of a request for provisional arrest or arrest and surrender, a member country must immediately apprehend the person according to its laws and the provisions of Part 9 (of the Statute).

If we apply it to the Philippine situation, the ICC request will go through the foreign affairs and justice departments. The latter agency will then cascade the arrest order to the PNP or NBI. They may even seek the help of the AFP. Can the ICC immediately and forcibly bring FPRRD to The Hague? The answer is no. The former president has the right to apply to the competent authority in the custodial State for interim release pending surrender (Article 59). The competent authority shall consider whether there are urgent and exceptional circumstances to justify interim release and whether necessary safeguards exist to ensure that the custodial State can fulfill its duty to surrender the person to the Court. Tatay Digong can also petition the Supreme Court for a writ of habeas corpus. (Philstar. com) *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

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LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • FEBRUARY 15-21, 2024

7

Two Pinoy nurses cared for Kate Middleton

by Pia Lee-Brago Philstar.com

MANILA — Two “amazing and kind” Filipino nurses looked after the Princess of Wales Kate Middleton

while she was recuperating in hospital after abdominal surgery.

In a post on social media, Patricia Spruce of the Somerset NHS Foundation Trust mentioned that Prince William spoke of two

Filipino nurses who looked after Middleton.

“Prince William said that Katherine had two Filipino nurses looking after her and they were amazing and kind,” she said. g

Senate approves ‘Eddie Garcia’ bill

by Javier Joe ismael ManilaTimes.net

MOBILE SCHOOL. The School by the Roadshow of Kaibigan Ministry, Inc., a non-governmental organization, conducts mobile education among indigent youths and their parents at the Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila on Wednesday, February 14. The mobile school is an alternative educational system, which aims to reach the grassroots level where poor parents could not afford to send their children to schools. PNA photo by Yancy Lim

FDA chief open to medical marijuana as doctors warn of harm by gaea Katreena CaBiCo Philstar.com

MANILA — The chief of the country's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said on Tuesday, February 13 that he is "very open" to the medical use of cannabis or marijuana, but doctors warned that the legalization of the substance could expose Filipinos to "unnecessary harm."

Last week, a joint panel of the House of Representatives approved a consolidated bill that seeks to make legal the medical use of marijuana, but without removing it from the country's list of dangerous drugs.

In a briefing Tuesday, FDA Director General Samuel Zacate expressed openness to the use of marijuana for medical purposes.

"Filipinos must have a wide range of therapeutic indications or drugs of choice. So ako for the record [...] is very much open for marijuana as long as it has been streamlined and does not pose harm to the public," Zacate said.

Although open to considering medical marijuana, Zacate said the issue is still "subject to the wisdom of the legislative [branch]."

Under current regulations, the FDA has the authority to grant hospitals compassionate special permits for using unregistered medical products, including processed medical cannabis.

According to the United States National Institute on Drug Abuse, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) found in marijuana "has proven medical benefits in particular formulations."

These medications are prescribed to patients undergoing chemotherapy, suffering from wasting syndrome due to AIDS, or experiencing neuropathic pain associated with multiple sclerosis.

'Harmful' In a separate briefing, medi-

cal groups led by the Philippine Medical Association (PMA) opposed the proposed measures to legalize cannabis for any use other than those with medical value approved by the FDA. "Although there is variability in the experience on the harms of legalizing cannabis in various states or countries, there is a clear trend towards the harmful effects that outweigh the purported benefits," the PMA said in a statement read by neurologist Dr. Leonor Cabral-Lim. For the medical association, the proposed House measure is a "de facto bill for recreational marijuana."

"Cannabis used as a recreational drug, and used as medicine for unproven medical indications is a dangerous drug," it added.

PMA experts warned of potential negative impacts on brain development due to prenatal cannabis exposure. They also pointed out the increased vulnerability of young people to developing dependency on the substance.

"The legalization of cannabis is a step that could irreparably harm the social fabric of our nation by enabling easier access to marijuana for Filipino youth," the PMA said.

'Medical cannabis office' Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, who chairs the House's dangerous drugs committee, said that the proposed legislation would not legalize marijuana as it will remain classified as a prohibited drug under the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

The bill also seeks to create a Medical Cannabis Office under the Department of Health, which will grant accreditation to doctors and other licenses for the medical use of cannabis.

Public health reform advocate Tony Leachon questioned adding the responsibility to the DOH. "The Department of Health is

64% of Pinoys think PH headed in right direction MANILA – A significant majority of Filipinos believe the country is headed in the right direction under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., according to the latest survey results released

by OCTA Research on Wednesday, February 14.

Based on the Tugon ng Masa survey conducted from Dec. 10 to 14, 64 percent of Filipino adults said the Philippines is headed in the right direction based on the policies and programs articulated and implemented by the current administration, while 21 percent believed otherwise.

“The percentage of adult Filipinos who think that the country is headed in the right direction increased from 62 percent last October 2023 to 64 percent in December 2023," OCTA said.

OCTA said the two-percentage point increase in Filipinos who

believe the country is on the right track is the "first time a rise in the positive outlook" on the country’s trajectory has been observed since October 2022.

In the major areas, the highest percentage of Filipinos who believe the Chief Executive is steering the country well is in Metro Manila at 81 percentage, while the lowest percentage is in Balance Luzon at 57 percent.

In terms of socioeconomic classes, the pollster said Class ABC registered the highest agreement that the country is headed in the right direction at 76 percent.

On the other hand, 38 percent of those under Class E had pessimism regarding the Philippines' direction.

OCTA's survey had 1,200 respondents and a ±3 percent margin of error at a 95 percent confidence level. (PNA)

Bill protecting OFW remittances hurdles House panel MANILA – The bill protecting the remittances of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) hurdled committee level at the House of Representatives.

During the hearing on Tuesday, February 13 the House Ways and Means Committee approved the substitute bill to House Bills 185, 1190, 2944, 3020, 4170, 4257, 4343, 4397 & 4469, or the proposed OFWs Remittance Protection Act. The bill provides for a 50 percent discount on OFW remittance fees imposed by banks and non-bank financial intermediaries.

In return, banks and other financial intermediaries will receive tax deductions equivalent to the discounts provided to OFWs. Kabayan Party-list Rep. Ron Salo said the original proposal included a provision limiting the

total annual tax deduction for these financial intermediaries to PHP24,000 per OFW. Salo noted that the House panel approved a motion to remove the proposed cap to further encourage OFWs to send their remittances.

“It is imperative that we lessen the cost incurred by OFWs in their remittances, which account to a staggering USD36.1 billion or 8.9 percent of the country’s gross domestic product," Salo said.

The proposed law would also prevent these financial institutions from increasing remittance fees without prior consultation with the Department of Finance, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, and the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration.

Salo said this provision shields OFWs from unexpected fee increases. (PNA)

so overloaded with work. Why would you bring that to the DOH?" he said.

During his confirmation hearing as the DOH chief, Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said he was in favor of the legalization of medical marijuana.

When asked about Herbosa's stance on medical cannabis in September 2023, Leachon responded partly in Filipino: "If he approves medical cannabis, we don't know who else to turn to."

Thailand is set to urgently move a bill to ban the recreational use of cannabis after the kingdom decriminalized the substance in 2022. g

THE Senate approved on second reading Senate Bill (SB) 2505 or the proposed Eddie Garcia law on Monday, February 12.

Sen. Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada, chairman of the Senate Committee on Labor, said that the bill aims to protect movie and television workers from abuse, extended working hours, harassment, hazardous working conditions and economic exploitation.

The measure was named after veteran actor Eddie Garcia, who died in 2019 after suffering a neck injury while shooting for a television series.

Under SB 2505, the industry worker shall be protected by their employers or principal in the workplace. Workers will be provided just wages, social security and welfare benefits, and insurance.

The worker and the employer or principal shall execute an agreement or an employment contract in a language or dialect understood by both parties.

The contract shall include the job position and status; job description; period of employment or service; details of compensation and other workers’ benefits including rate, method, and schedule of payment; authorized deductions, if any; hours of work and proportionate additional payment or overtime pay; board, lodging, and medical attention and workers’ grievance mechanism among others.

The normal work hours shall be eight hours a day, which can be extended to a maximum of 14 hours, exclusive of meal periods.

In no case shall the total number of work hours be more than 60 hours in a week except for those aged 60 and above who shall be allowed, under exceptional circumstances as defined by the Tripartite Council, to work beyond eight hours but

The measure was named after veteran actor Eddie Garcia, who died in 2019 after suffering a neck injury while shooting for a television series.

File photo

in no case exceeding 14 hours.

The bill also provides that the minimum wage rates of workers or independent contractors shall not be less than the applicable minimum wage in the region.

The employee shall also be entitled to social security and other benefits.

Work for minors shall be governed by Republic Act 9231, or the Special Protection of Children Against Child Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act. g

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FEBRUARY 15-21, 2024 • LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (702) 792-6678

February 15, 2024

VEGAS&STYLE JOURNAL

INSIDE

LIFESTYLE • CONSUMER GUIDE • COMMUNITY • MARKETPLACE

Mikey Vee releases new single Danae (Crush) off his upcoming debut album TO promote his upcoming debut album, REM, Mikey Vee is excited to announce the release of his 4th single, Danae (Crush) ft.

Ericalisa and Chazer11, Available for streaming on Spotify and most DSPs by February 12, 2024!

Danae (Crush) draws inspiration from 17th Century baroque painter Rembrandt's painting of the same name. The painting depicts a sensual Danae laying in her bed, beckoning to her new lover, Zeus, the Greek God of Lightning. Similarly Danae (Crush) follows a young couple during the onset of a budding relationship. The song takes the audience through every stage from the first locking of eyes to the very first kiss to the eventual culmination of their intimacy through lovemaking. Danae’s main theme revolves around the idea of desire and passion as well as the romance revolving around a love that may or may not be fleeting alluding to the relationship between Zeus, a god, and Danae, a human. As Ericalisa elegantly sings in the bridge, “Don’t know if it’s love but only time will tell, let me know that I can trust…” These motifs are brilliantly brought to life through a unique disco-renaissance style production mixing old school with a modern flair. Climaxing with an incredible transition into a House/rnb fusion and finally ending with an old-time sample

Gabbi Garcia

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, Library District Executive Director Kelvin Watson and Stephen Jackson, member of Southern Nevada Sports Hall of Fame.

about the meaning of love, Danae (Crush) is a groovy hit with a unique, unforgettable sound that will have every single person on the dance floor!

Mikey Vee, former member of the Filipino-American rap group Doyen, has evolved into his own unique sound as an artist, rapper, and producer hailing from Daly City, CA. Influenced by artists such as Mos Def, Lupe

Fiasco, Kanye West, Andre 3000, Pharrell, J Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Chance the Rapper, Smino, and JID, among others, Mikey sets himself apart from the typical Bay Area sound with his unique wordplay, impactful lyrics, catchy hooks, and versatile style. With his debut, Mikey Vee aims to establish himself as an artist of boundless talent and mastery of his craft. g

Philstar.com

NADINE Lustre was reminded of her own relationship with her father when she filmed the action-thriller “Roadkillers.”

In the Studio Viva-produced series, Nadine takes on the role of Stacey Sunico, a daughter trying to make amends for the past trouble she caused her doting and forgiving mechanic father Nato (Bodjie Pascua). She later learns about her father’s clandestine life as henchman for a corrupt politician.

When her father falls gravely ill during COVID times, a desperate Stacey goes to extreme lengths to save him — but fails.

Now, she must face the ultimate challenge of fulfilling her father’s dying wish: to be buried next to her mother. However, someone knows the crime she has committed, leading Stacey down an even deadlier and more dangerous path as she will do whatever it takes to honor her father’s final request.

Apart from exploring the extent of what a child can do for a parent, even if it means bordering on the extreme and the criminal, the series highlights the unique relationship dynamics between a father and a daughter.

For one, it was Nato who taught Stacey how to drive and troubleshoot car problems — skills that would come in handy as the story progresses.

When Nadine was asked if she connected to her character on this aspect, the actress shared that there was indeed some common ground between her own upbringing and relationship with her father and those of her character.

“Nakakatawa yung sakin kasi nung napanood po ng dad ko yung ‘Roadkillers,’ sabi niya parang ako lang si Bodjie,” she began in response to The STAR’s question during the post-screening mediacon on Friday, February 9.

“Nung nag-shoot nga po kami with Tito Bodjie, talagang he reminds me of my dad like with everything, the jokes, the way he talks.

“And my dad is really a mechanic by profession. I also grew up really as a daddy’s girl, so I love tinkering with things, even the white out tape, even those of my classmates, I would fix.”

“Just because I was fascinated with my dad na mahilig and magaling siya magkumpuni ng mga stuff, like even the controller of a playstation, he can fix it.

Photo from Instagram/@maymay

Gabbi Garcia and Maymay Entrata: PH’s next beauty queens?

by Ronnie CaRRasCo iii ManilaTimes.net

WHAT do Gabbi Garcia and Maymay Entrata have in common? Both are beauty queen materials.

Interviewed by some members of the entertainment media at separate events, both Gabbi and Maymay were asked if they have plans of joining national beauty pageants.

There’s no denying that Maymay is being groomed by former pageant hopefuls themselves and fellow celebrities that she has what it takes to clinch a major title, thus stand a chance to represent the country.

Maymay, however, isn’t keen Stacey.”

One thing that Nadine really on trying her luck: “It is not what enjoyed while doing this series was the action-packed scenes.

There were car chases, gun fights, some grappling and close action.

“I really love doing action.

Even with direk Rae, as soon as she told me about the project, of course, I would say yes because

by Marinel Cruz I’ve really wanted to do action Inquirer.net for a long time,” she shared.

“With regards to preparaWHEN actress Glaiza de Castion, I also underwent training tro agreed to be part of Louie in firing, assembling guns, and Ignacio’s horror-thriller “Slay stunts. We really had to rehearse Zone,” she also committed to (the stunts) especially because wearing two very different hats: the environment, the conditions, one as an actress, the other as a as you can see in the scenes, are producer. sandy, there’s dirt, and it’s rocky, Glaiza said this meant that she so it’s really very tricky. As much was already involved in the proas possible, the director wanted cess of creating her character, the stunts to be realistic. vlogger/social media influencer “At the end of the day, Stacey Veronica Ledesma or V. “When is not a superhero, she’s just a the project was first presented to normal person. So it’s really a lot me, it was just a concept. I only of that but I really enjoyed it a knew that it would be a thriller lot, especially the training.” and that I would be working with Nadine said she hopes to do Mamang Pokwang. My character more films with similar themes was only at 10 percent in terms and tones in the future. of development. She didn’t even “More darker and grittier pro- have a name yet,” Glaiza told Injects, I guess. It’s really just be- quirer Entertainment in a virtual cause my previous projects were interview from Korea where she mostly rom-com (romantic-com- is shooting a TV series. edy) and drama. So now, I’m at “To make the story relevant, a point (in my career) where I we tried to define her first in want to explore different genres terms of her occupation. There and I want to take on more chal- are so many interesting personlenging roles,” she said. alities on social media these “Nakakatawa kasi may nabasa days. We see a lot about them, po akong article with the head- either real-life stories and line, ‘Nadine ayaw na mag-love- news, or work-related posts. team, gusto maging psychopath,’ Like me, we sometimes work (laughs). Yun naman po yung lagi with brands so we have an imkong sinasabi because it is very age to protect.” interesting, you know, like doing “This is why I said ‘yes’ to it. I a role of a psychopath or a kill- liked the idea that I’m involved in er or someone who is deranged, the creative process. Of course, just trying to figure out how this during the shoot, Direk Louie also person’s mind works.” had a lot of inserts in relation to She elaborated that she’s fond my character and Mamang’s, so of going into the “intricate de- this is really a collaboration,” the tails” and studying people for actress added. characterization. Plus, she enGlaiza then tried to explain joys watching crime documen- what the story is about based on taries, horror and psychological V’s perspective. “She regards thrillers. the topic of the slay zone as a big “So, I want to dive into that platform for her as an influence. and so far naman po, all of the She has many secrets. I don’t projects or at least, I guess, the think she’s aware if she has aldirection that I’m taking is really ready overcome her insecurities headed towards that,” she said. and has accepted her past. We She disclosed that her next can’t even be sure if Veronica project is the folklore horror film assumed a new identity when “Nokturno” with Mikhail Red, she changed her name to V,” she her director in “Deleter,” which said. won her the Best Actress award Big responsibility during the 2022 Metro Manila The film is set in a rural area Film Festival. called Pulang Araw, which is “So, I’m really, really excit- headed by the newly appointed ed to see what projects will be police captain Corazon Fernanpitched to me. I’m so looking dez (Pokwang) and is being proforward to it.” moted on social media by V. The

Nadine Lustre gets reminded of own relationship with dad in ‘Roadkillers’

by Nathalie tomada

Photo from Instagram/@gabbi Maymay Entrata

my heart so desires.”

The Kapamilya actress says she might rethink her decision though if her condition is met: “Remove the Q & A portion!”

Isn’t Maymay asking for the impossible? Isn’t she aware that this is one of the highly anticipated segments in any beauty contest — whether it be local, national or even barangay (village)?

A test that there’s more to physical beauty than meets the eye, why is Maymay scared of it when she seems she can nail it after all?

In stark contrast, joining beauty pageants has been Gabbi’s childhood dream.

But given her showbiz commitments, commercial endorsements and alike, “I don’t think I

can be able to squeeze it in my time table...but we’ll see!”

Without stressing the obvious, Gabbi’s problem lies in having too little time to achieve a big goal as opposed to Maymay’s with so much time but with too little “confidence.”

Has Maymay been browsing old editions of prestigious national pageants and is afraid she might turn out to be another Janina San Miguel who was a major disaster at the Q&A portion but nonetheless finished Binibing Pilipinas World 2008?

Or is Maymay simply taking a cue from our first ever Miss Universe Gloria Diaz to be oneself and not pretend to be someone that she is not?

I get it.

Glaiza de Castro on serial killings, feeling unsafe

Nadine Lustre leads the cast of Rae Red’s action-thriller series ‘Roadkillers,’ which starts streaming on Viva One on March 1.

Philstar.com photo

So, I grew up like that (looking up to my dad) exactly like how Stacey is.

“Although my dad, hindi naman siya henchman ng pulitiko (laughs), but just the same sobrang naaastigan din ako sa dad ko. So while we were shooting the whole series, every time I had an interaction or scene with Tito Bodjie, I remembered my dad.”

Though Nadine could never imagine herself resorting to Stacey’s drastic decisions in the series, she could draw parallels between hers and her character’s traits.

She said, “I guess I am stubborn but not on that level because with Stacey, with the things she has done, she’s really on the extreme side… In a sense, I can also do everything for my family but not up to that extent.

“I also love Stacey because — sorry for the word — no BS siya.

I believe that’s also the kind of person that I am. She’s, as in, dedma like wala siyang pakialam sa sarili niya kahit magmukha siyang madungis or anything. At some point, I’m also like that.

I’m very simple. It’s just that now I’m very different because, you know, if I’m on work mode, iba talaga. But on a normal day, sobrang relax lang ako.

“And she’s very boyish, the same as me. And I guess… not necessarily as a daddy’s girl but as a family person. Because how Stacey was brought up, her environment kasi, her dad handles guns and cars because he’s a mechanic. So, I guess a bit similar although there were no guns when I was growing up, cars lang… So, I was very… ‘cowboy.’ That’s how I can relate to

Glaiza de Castro

place suddenly turns into a slay zone when a series of killings happens. In the course of finding out the truth behind the murders, the lives of people close to them are endangered.

Being a coproducer of the film (under Wide International Film Productions) is not so different from what Glaiza does with her music, she pointed out.

“If we hear the word ‘producer,’ we think it entails a really big responsibility. It actually does.

I’m grateful that Wide has allowed me to be part of the creative process. I’m hoping that this will happen in all the projects that we will be making in the future. I’m given additional responsibilities and challenges, and another chance to explore beyond my capabilities as an actor. My work doesn’t just end in acting out my character. I’m excited about the possibilities of me being a member of both the creative and production teams,” she added.

Glaiza described her costar Pokwang as “a mom, a friend and a big sister on the set all rolled into one.” She recalled: “We stayed in one standby area so we became close. She’s very thoughtful. I appreciated all her simple gestures of kindness, of her making sure I’m comfortable. You see, we all look after each other during shoots, especially since what we’re doing is not comedy and a lot of our scenes require physical acting.

As you’ve seen in the trailer—it’s extremely bloody.”

Inquirer.net photo

Lost, scared As to whether or not the film attempts to make a statement on the idea that there could be serial killers in the Philippines, Glaiza said: “Wherever you go, be it in the Philippines or here in Korea, there will be a point in your stay when you’ll feel kind of unsafe. There was a time when, I tried to go to a particular restaurant that I was keen on trying on my own. I rode the subway and when I realized that I was already lost, I felt scared. I stepped out of the train even when I wasn’t supposed to because I suddenly felt claustrophobic. I don’t know what happened to me, but the feeling kind of reminded me of the Itaewon tragedy.”

She continued: “When I was already walking, a weird-looking man followed me and tried to catch my attention by talking to me. I couldn’t understand him, and so I thought I must have dropped something from my bag. I wasn’t sure if he had good intentions, but at that moment, I didn’t feel safe. As much as possible, don’t let your guard down,” she pointed out. “Of course, I also know that we shouldn’t be too quick to judge. Some people could have a chemical imbalance in their brains and are not aware of their medical condition. It’s also possible that they are unaware that what they’re doing is already wrong. It’s interesting to tackle topics like that. I’m sorry if that’s all I could say, at the risk of my explanation ending up being a huge spoiler.”

EntErtainmEnt

(702) 792-6678 • http://www.asianjournal.com

Top style maven on her birthday: ‘My heart is full’

FASHION queen Heart Evangelista is celebrating her 39th birthday this year with "a smile and a heart full of gratitude."

Evangelista has every reason to be. She can now look back with pride and see that the fruits of her labor and sacrifices.

A certified international fashion influencer that has generated millions of dollars to the brands she endorses, the wife of Sen. Chiz Escudero has successfully reinvented herself in every phase of her life starting as a young star in the early 2000s, to becoming an accomplished actress and a teleserye powerhouse before shifting her focus on fashion and the arts.

Indeed, Evangelista is living her dreams. And they were realized not without hard work, determination, and sacrifice. Definitely, there will be more to accomplish, new territories to chart and fresh horizons to explore.

But for now, the fashion icon and trendsetter can sit back awhile and enjoy her accomplishments so far — a trailblazer whose place in the world of international fashion is secure with her crown safely tucked in her head.

No wonder, other local celebrities — and even beauty queens — are now treading the footsteps that she carved into the glittering runway of international fame.

Recently, renowned fashion and beauty vlogger Jesson Capuchino, who is a senior lecturer on fashion design and retail merchandising at the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman, hailed the actressinfluencer for being "The OG Pinay Fashion Influencer," who paved the way for other Filipinas to carve similar paths, including Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach, Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray, and celebrities Anne Curtis and Liza Soberano.

"We cannot talk about fashion influencers here in the Philippines without starting with Miss Heart Evangelista. We all know that she is essentially the first, you know, the OG Pinay Fashion Influencer in the country," Capuchino said.

"You cannot start a conversation about fashion influencer and the fashion influencer culture without her because I think beyond everything else that has been discussed and has been talked about, it was Heart who essentially

LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • FEBRUARY 15-21, 2024

Daniel Padilla thanks Kathryn Bernardo at ABS-CBN contract renewal

KAPAMILYA actor Daniel Padilla thanked former long-time on- and off-screen partner Kathryn Bernardo during his renewal of contract with ABS-CBN on Monday, February 12.

During his speech, Daniel said that their memories together will be forever in his heart.

“Siyempre hindi ko pwedeng kalimutan si Kathryn. Maraming maraming salamat Kathryn sa ating maraming taon na pinagsamahan,” Daniel said.

“You know, hinding-hindi mawawala sa puso ko ang magaganda nating memories at ang ating mga adventures at journeys na pinagsamahan. Thank you very much,” he added.

Daniel also expressed his gratitude to millions of KathNiel fans who supported their journey.

“At siyempre lalahatin ko na ang lahat ng KathNiel, maraming maraming salamat sa lahat ng taon ng pagmamahal at pagsasama natin. Hinding-hindi mawawala sa puso ko at sa aking

9

Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla, also known as the love team KathNiel ABS-CBN photo

memories, ang ating masasayang pinagsamahan,” he said.

“All good memories ang ating masasayang pinagsamahan. All good memories for me at walang walang makakatalo sa mga memories na ‘yon. And for me, wala pa ring fans club na makakatalo sa KathNiel. Sorry but it’s true,”

he added.

Earlier this month, Kathryn also renewed her contract with ABS-CBN after rumors emerged that she will sign with Maja Salvador’s Crown Artist Management or make a surprise move to GMA. (By Jan Milo Severo/Philstar.com)

Luis, Jessy wed anew in Coron church wedding

by Kathleen a. llemit Philstar.com

Heart Evangelista, OG Pinay international fashion influencer Photo from Instagram/@iamhearte

started the ball game on fashion influencers," he added.

While there were several Filipinos before her that attempted to penetrate the international fashion world in the past, the vlogger opined that it was Evangelista among other fashion influencers that really cemented her role at the celebrated Fashion Week in Paris and in Milan in the past years.

"The beauty of Heart is that she is not only a fashion influencer but she also moves merchandise.

That is a very important and a very potent tool to have because, for example, during the Fashion Week the dresses or items that she wears tends to get sold out whether it's a Bulgari ring or a YSL limited edition sunglasses," he pointed out.

What the UP lecturer mentioned in his vlog was not without basis.

In an article, fashion magazine "Vogue" noted luxury brands have keenly observed Heart's

influence. After all, according to Launchmetrics, during the Paris Fashion Week, Evangelista's social media posts generated a staggering US$1.27 million in Media Impact Value (MIV) across 11 placements.

She also emerged as one of the top influencers at Milan Fashion Week, generating an impressive US$1.4 million in media impact value. MIV reflects the cumulative impact of views, likes, engagements and other interactions, as calculated by an algorithm developed by the data analytics company.

As she continues to grow as a person nearing her 40s, Evangelista is resolved to paint her life's journey with vibrant hues, weaving her aspirations into the fabric of reality. And as the fashion cosmos evolves, she will remain a guiding star, illuminating the path for others to follow.

Happiest of birthdays, Heart Jessy Mendiola and Luis Manzano Evangelista! (ManilaTimes.net)

CARPE DIEM! ATTENTION IMMIGRATION LAWYERS!!!

LEGAL IMMIGRATION is a BIG ISSUE these days. MANY in our community NEED your services. There are thousands who may want to expedite their residency or pursue full citizenship but don’t know how to begin and where to go.

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Photo from Instagram/@luckymanzano

AFTER tying the knot in a civil ceremony in 2021, Jessy Mendiola and Luis Manzano exchange vows anew in a church wedding in Coron, Palawan on Wednesday, February 14.

ABS-CBN entertainment reporter MJ Felipe tweeted on X (formerly Twitter) about the couple's church wedding, which was officiated by Father Tito Caluag. The ceremony was attended by family and friends.

The couple tied the knot in a civil wedding on February 21, 2021 at The Farm in San Benito, Batangas.

Some of their friends posted hints of the couple's church wedding on their Instagram accounts, including fashion stylist Patty Yap, who posted a reel of Jessy wearing a custom Martin Bautista creation for her prewedding dinner.

Jessy recently hinted that their dream church wedding is pushing through this year. The couple has not posted any photos regarding their wedding as of press time.

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FEBRUARY 15-21, 2024 • LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL

Health @Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS SMOKING kills. It is that plain and simple. There is no more doubt today that tobacco (cigarette smoking) is the predominant cause of lung cancer, besides other malignancies and cardiovascular diseases that maim, kill men and women, and hurt our society, especially our children. In the United States alone, almost half a million die each year from smoking-related illnesses. These are preventable deaths!

Demographic studies have shown that smokers are about 10 times more prone to die premature deaths than nonsmokers. This unnecessary loss of lives is at an immense direct cost for non-smokers in terms of increased health risks from passive smoking, in higher health insurance premiums and taxes, not to mention personal and family tragedies in all shapes and forms.

As we have alluded to in a past column, secondhand smoke is even more dangerous.

Innocent bystanders are forced to inhale cigarette smoke at their workplaces or in public places, thus increasing their health risk. The Environmental Protection Agency engineers have shown that even the best available ventilation and airmoving equipment were unable to reduce carcinogenic (cancercausing) air contamination to a safe level for a non-smoker sharing workspace with a habitual smoker. Physical isolation of the tobacco addict is most essential as shown by these scientific studies.

Tobacco use leads to four times as many excess deaths annually compared to all other drugs and alcohol abuse combined, ten times more than all automobile fatalities per year, twelve times more than deaths from AIDS, and much more than all the American military casualties (in all wars) in this century put together. That’s how dangerous and damaging tobacco is to the human body, and to society as a whole.

Lung cancer then At the beginning of the past century, lung cancer was almost an insignificant health problem for the world. It became a minor problem in the 1930s (death rate of 5 per 10,000). Today, it has become the main killer among men and women.

Since women started “really” smoking in the 1950s “because it was glamorized in ads by actresses and models as a sophisticated and fashionable habit,” lung cancer in females has increased at least six-fold, an alarming rate, with the death rate comparable to that in males.

Women also have added risks: osteoporosis, thrombophlebitis (vein inflammation and blood clot formation), arthritis, infertility, cervical cancer, and menstrual

Slow suicide irregularities. Pregnant smokers face miscarriages, stillbirths, low-birth weight and SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) babies. Almost 30,000 female lives are snuffed out every year as a result of smoking. Of the 8 million cigarette-related deaths in the world each year, about 1.2 million are due to secondhand smoke and about half are women.

It is now the top killer among women. Today, one woman dies from cigarette-related illness every three minutes! Indeed, “You’ve come a long way, baby!” (as a cigarette ad once proudly proclaimed).

In Marlboro country tombstones abound, or in Salem it is a Lucky Strike if a smoker does not develop lung cancer or deadly cardiovascular diseases.

Millions of smokers afflicted with blockages in their leg arteries couldn’t walk even for less than a mile for a Camel, and Philip Morris, Virginia Slims, and Benson and Hedges have all conceded now that tobacco, including Low Tar and Milk Seven, are addicting and hazardous to health. Smoking is indeed not Kool at all, and even Lord Chesterfield, the Viceroy, and Winston in the Parliament, Kent (can’t) argue with the fact that smoking is self-abuse, a subtle form of suicide. There is a real Advantage in kicking the habit even before it starts. I Hope the future generation will be smarter than ours.

But what is puzzling and bothersome to me is the great dichotomy with which our society (and most especially the government!) deals with the cigarette-health risk issue.

On one hand, they are most vocal and vigilant against the so-called illegal drugs and other substances that pose a moderate public health dilemma, promulgating most aggressive laws and heavy criminal sanctions against their production, distribution and use. On the other hand, society and the government have long subsidized with tax monies the production and distribution of tobacco, which is by far the country’s most serious and deadly substance.

Yes, our government and society are peddling drugs, not the moderately dangerous ones but the deadliest one, tobacco. The one that makes lives miserable. The one that kills the breadwinner or the mother in the family, victimizing the children and their future.

The one that separates loved ones. The one that destroys hopes and dreams.

When I immigrated to the United States, I thought economics was the reason why the government was quite tolerant of the tobacco industry, from whom it was getting so much revenues in taxes, etc. making it acceptable and even essential for its survival. I later learned that the amount of money the government gets from the tobacco industry is nowhere near the billions of dollars it spends

Features

yearly in research, hospitalization/ disability/work loss and treatment of cigarette-related diseases.

So, it is not economics. With the cigarette industry’s mighty lobbying dollars, the majority of our legislators are obviously scared to stop and eradicate the killing fields. It seems money blinds many of them.

But the tide appears to be changing, at least in the United States. The courts in North America have eventually scratched the surface in bringing about some justice, albeit delayed, in the tobacco death arena. Dying or dead smokers have successfully won handsome awards from some giant tobacco companies, who, finally, after more than seven decades, have officially admitted that tobacco is an addictive drug, carcinogenic, and can kill in more ways than one, and that they had known this fact for decades but had lied about it.

Having said that, I strongly feel that people who wish to smoke (or to jump off a cliff or off a tall building to hurt or kill themselves) have the right to do it. That is their constitutional right, and while I am against tobacco as an individual and as a cardiac surgeon, I shall defend the right of the cigarette addicts to smoke in places where smoking is not prohibited by law.

The only exception/limitation to that right, or any other right under our Constitution, is when its exercise adversely affects or conflicts with, harms, or curtails, the rights of others. The smoker has the right to smoke and enjoy it, but he does not have the right to force or expose his loved ones, his friends, or strangers, to the more dangerous and more carcinogenic fumes coming from his cigarettes.

This is where the line has to be drawn morally, socially, and legally. *** 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 main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people live a healthier lifestyle to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve a happier and more productive life.

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

It’s official: Bea Alonzo, Dominic Roque announce split

by Iza IglesIas ManilaTimes.net

CELEBRITIES Bea Alonzo and Dominic Roque finally broke their silence to officially announce the end of their engagement after weeks of speculation surrounding their relationship status.

In a joint statement released Sunday on social media, the former couple wrote, "After much thought, consideration, and care, we have mutually decided to amicably end our engagement.

It was not an easy decision. We wanted to have more time to carefully deliberate and pray about it, but there have been many speculations, questions, and insults." "Unfortunately, some confirmed our break-up without our consent, and some created ridiculous stories that had no basis and were utterly false, so we felt the need to share this announcement with great sadness, for our peace of mind and our families," Alonzo and Dominic Roque and Bea Alonzo confirm reports that they have broken up on Sunday, Feb. 11, Roque said.

The former couple urged the ending weeks of speculation about the status of their relationship.

Photo from Instagram/@beaalonzo public to refrain from further spreading hurtful comments also stopped posting each other sources who spilled information saying, "Please understand that on their respective Instagram supposedly from the couple. this is an extremely painful yet accounts, the last of which was This was followed by TV host united decision, and we sincerely three weeks ago taken from their Boy Abunda also confirming on request for everyone to kindly Japan trip.

February 6 that the two canceled spare us from more cruel and They were also found to be their wedding plans. very hurtful words thrown on absent from each other's recent Abunda also dismissed rumors social media." Alonzo and Roque family events. that they were supposed to hold concluded their statement by Finally, they took notice of how the wedding in Tagaytay in April expressing gratitude for the Alonzo answered that there were but confirmed that the former understanding and support no concrete wedding plans yet couple had an ocular in Europe they have received. They also during a recent media interview. and Japan for their wedding that requested privacy as they Putting two and two together, was supposedly set at the end of "navigate [their] future lives with netizens assumed Alonzo and the year. respect, kindness, compassion Roque were no longer pushing Abunda also shared that his and dignity." Rumors of the through with their wedding. sources said that Alonzo, 36, engaged couple's separation In a vlog on his YouTube gave back the engagement ring started when eagle-eyed netizens channel "Ogre Diaz Showbiz to Roque, 33. noticed Alonzo not wearing her Update" early this week, the The actor proposed to Alonzo on engagement ring in some of comedian host hinted they July 18, 2023. The pair has been in her recent photos. The couple indeed broke up, citing different a relationship since 2021.

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Minding Your Finances atty. RayMonD Bulaon QUESTION: I owe a lot in back taxes. I’m constantly getting threatening letters from the IRS. This has become a big problem that I have no idea how to solve.

What can I do?

Answer: For what it’s worth, take some comfort in knowing that you are not alone. There are millions of Americans in similar situations, dealing with debt hanging over their heads and concerned about how it will affect their future.

The good news: You have many options. To fully understand and take advantage of your options, we urge you to see a qualified tax resolution professional. He or she will take a close look at your previous returns, looking for mistakes that may have resulted in an inflated tax debt amount. This process alone can substantially lower your IRS debt.

Once you and your qualified tax professional have analyzed your previous returns, the next step is to negotiate a resolution with the IRS. You will most likely be looking at one of two options – the Offer in Compromise or the Installment Agreement.

The Offer in Compromise was created for people who owe a substantial amount to the IRS but who, for whatever reason, are unable to pay off their tax debt, even over time. The Offer in Compromise allows taxpayers to negotiate a settlement amount that will take care of the entire tax debt once and for all. This settlement agreement can low-

Sooner or later, you need to face your IRS tax problems er the tax debt by a significant amount.

Unfortunately, the Offer in Compromise program is often misunderstood, partly because people see a lot of ads on TV and the internet promising them that they can simply settle their tax debt “for pennies on the dollar.”

They make it sound too easy.

Don’t be fooled. While this is true for people who qualify, what the advertisers don’t tell you is that this is based on a formula used by the IRS in determining eligibility. A lot of offers are rejected because they fail to consider the formula in making offers that stand no chance of acceptance from the time they are filed. Buyer beware. If it sounds too good to be true, maybe it is. Again, I am not saying that it doesn’t work. All I am saying is that what you should offer the IRS must be based on the IRS’s calculation of what is acceptable given your own unique circumstances.

If you do not qualify for the Offer in Compromise – and to do so you must be able to prove eligibility – then you may consider the Installment Agreement, which allows you to pay off your debt by making manageable monthly payments.

The IRS has different types of installment agreements depending on how much you owe, the value of your assets, your income, and how much time the IRS has to collect what you owe over the 10-year collection period imposed by law.

If you have no available equity in assets and your income is not sufficient to cover your monthly

living expenses, the IRS can also put you in uncollectible status.

That means that the IRS will not take any collection actions as long as you remain in this status and your financial circumstances do not change. Yes, the interest continues to run on the outstanding debt, but it could be a way to buy time. Example: Remember what I said about the 10-year collection statute? The IRS has 10 years to collect from the date of assessment. If you are close to the expiration of the 10-year period, being put in uncollectible status does not stop the running of the statute. So, it may be possible to remain in uncollectible status until the 10-year period expires. This could be one way of getting rid of your IRS tax problems.

If you owe the IRS, the State, EDD or State Board of Equalization, my office can help you find the best solution to resolve your tax liability. You will never have to speak with the IRS again. I will review your case and help you make the best decision for yourself and family. *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. *** None of the information herein is intended to give legal advice for any specific situation.

Atty. Ray Bulaon has been in private practice for 23 years and have helped more than 6,000 clients obtain debt relief. For a free attorney evaluation of your situation, please call RJB Law Offices at TOLL FREE 1-866-471-8273.

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Social Security administration updates Equity Action Plan INCREASING access to programs and improving service are the main goals of the updated Equity Action Plan released by the Social Security Administration (SSA) today.

“We will administer our programs equitably by reducing administrative burdens and reaching underserved people,” said Martin O’Malley, Commissioner of Social Security. “In line with the Administration’s whole-of-government approach to deliver better outcomes for the American people, I’m pleased to share our Equity Action Plan 2023 Update.”

In 2022, SSA released its first

Equity Action Plan in accordance with the President’s Executive Order, Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government.

The updated SSA Equity Action Plan includes several new focus areas: • Ensure language does not pose barriers to apply for benefits and access services; • Reduce pending Supplemental Security Income (SSI) underpayments and assess root causes of improper payments; and • Increase awareness of survivors benefits, especially among people disproportionately im-

pacted by COVID-19.

The new Equity Action Plan also builds on progress made since 2022 to: • Simplify the SSI application; • Update the agency’s systems and Social Security number business processes; and • Provide more demographic data to the public to further identify, monitor, and address where there are service inequities.

For more information about the actions outlined in the Equity Action Plan, please visit http://www. ssa.gov/equity. To learn about a whole-of-government approach to advance equity for all, visit http:// www.whitehouse.gov/equity

Gabby Concepcion on aging with grace

by Raoul Chee Kee Inquirer.net

GABBY Concepcion has a way of putting people at ease, which he proved last week at SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City. It certainly helps that he has maintained his matinee-idol-good looks.

The actor, who is in his late 50s, wore a pastel-colored suit over a gray tee and immaculate sneakers. He talked about aging and how many of us have similar experiences that come with growing older or, as he put it, “the opposite of being young.”

Gabby then related the first time he felt the “pins and needles,” as well as some numbing in his extremities.

“Actually, there are a lot of ‘first time feelings,’ like waking up and my hands and feet feeling numb.

Akala ko pagod lang ako pero napapadalas,” he said.

He made it a point to consult with a doctor who prescribed medicine designed to treat one’s

Gabby Concepcion

nerves.

Quality of life “When I was younger—many moons ago—my Mom gave us vitamins, but the one she said we should really take is a vitamin B complex. They’re found in food like lentils, fish, pork and fruit.

People say, ‘Don’t sweat the small stuff,’ but it’s sometimes important to focus on the small

Inquirer.net photo

stuff before [conditions] worsen.”

Gabby then said that he makes it a point to enjoy life. “I enjoy staying in my beach house. Life is short but we still have time to enjoy, but make sure to put value on the quality of that life.”

The actor was the guest speaker in “A Talk on Peripheral Neuropathy” by a health care brand last weekend.

‘Time to shut up’: Boy Abunda on Bea Alonzo, Dominic Roque’s statement about confirming breakup without consent

by Jan MIlo seveRo Philstar.com

KAPUSO host Boy Abunda refused to comment on ex-couple Bea Alonzo and Dominic Roque's statement about their breakup.

Boy first confirmed that the couple have broken up until Bea and Dominic released a statement on Instagram last Sunday, February 11.

In their statement, Bea and Dominic expressed disappointment in other people for reporting the news without their consent.

In a report by GMA News, Boy was asked about the issue at the sidelines of his contract renewal with GMA. “There’s a time to speak and a time to shut up," Boy said.

"Right at this moment, I’m choosing to shut up — but not for long," he added.

Bea and Dominic confirmed that they have "mutually decided to amicably end" their engagement in

TV host Boy Abunda

their Instagram posts last Sunday.

The former couple posted one of their photos together in one of their past travels that came with a quote post that included their statement.

Published as is, they wrote: "After much thought, consideration, and care, we have mutually decided to amicably end our engagement.

It was not an easy decision. We wanted to have more time to

Philstar.com photo

carefully deliberate and pray about it, but there have been many speculations, questions, and insults."

"Unfortunately, some even confirmed our break-up without our consent, and some created ridiculous stories that had no basis and were utterly false so we felt the need to share this announcement with great sadness, for our peace of mind and our families."

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LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • FEBRUARY 15-21, 2024

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FEBRUARY 15-21, 2024 • LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL

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