021724 - Los Angeles Weekend Edition

FEBRUARY 17-20, 2024 Volume 34 - No. 14 • 2 Sections – 16 Pages

US tells Marcos: Ask and we are here USA

DATELINE New eligibility rules are a financial salve for nearly 2 million on Medi-Cal FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

by helen FloreS 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 MILLIONS of Medi-Cal beneficiaries can now in the delivery of urgently needed aid.

Carlson paid a courtesy call on Marcos at Malacañang, save for a rainy day, keep an inheritance, or hold on to a modest nest egg, without losing coverage, thanks to an eligibility change phased in over the past year and a half. It also has opened the door for thousands who previously did not qualify for Medi-Cal, the health insurance program for lowincome residents that covers over one-third of California’s population.

Until Jan. 1, 3 million Medi-Cal beneficiaries, mainly those who are aged, blind, disabled, in long-term care, or in the federal Supplemental Security Income program, faced limits on the value of financial accounts and personal property they could hold to qualify for coverage.

Now, nearly 2 million of them will no longer face these restrictions, putting them on par with the roughly 12 million other Medi-Cal beneficiaries who don’t have asset limits.

They still must be below Medi-Cal’s income threshold, which for most enrollees is currently $1,677 a month for a single adult and $3,450 for a family of four. However, the change will eliminate a lot of paperwork for applicants and

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

Marcos sees PH attracting more tech investments by alexiS romero Philstar.com

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LA County promotes voting in BIPOC communities for March 2024 primary LOS ANGELES – Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk Dean C. Logan is encouraging voters from diverse communities of color, and naturalized citizens, to take advantage of the many available voting options and participate early in the March 2024 primary elections.

“Every vote carries the weight to shape the future, and we are committed to ensuring that every voter has the means and the opportunity to participate,” Logan said at a press conference at the Chinatown Branch Library on Tuesday, Feb. 13. ‘Let's Get Every Vote In!' isn't just a slogan—it's our call to action to uphold the integrity of our democracy by engaging every eligible voice in the electoral process.”

Logan encouraged residents to consult plan. lavote.gov, the county’s premiere election navigation tool, to quickly and conveniently check their registration status, update their information, change their party affiliation, or request a vote-by-mail crossover ballot.

The Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/ u PAGE A5

U.S. Agency for International Development, Joint U.S. 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 U.S. Marine Corps KC130J Hercules aircraft would be used to help in the u PAGE A2

AGENTS OF PEACE. The military must assume the role of peacemaker while fighting to attain peace, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said on Friday, February 16. Speaking during his Talk to Troops at the Philippine Army’s 401st Infantry Brigade headquarters in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, President Marcos said his government has adopted new approach in tackling internal conflict—encouraging soldiers to become peacemakers while combating groups threatening peace and democracy.

Malacañang photo

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday, February 15 expressed optimism that the Philippines would become more attractive to technology investments as he led the ceremonial lighting up of an undersea fiber optic backbone network infrastructure designed to provide inclusive internet connectivity across the country.

The Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN) spans more than 2,500 kilometers linking the islands of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao with touch points in 21 provinces, including Quezon up to Zamboanga.

Initiated by InfiniVAN, the local affiliate of Japanese telecommunications giant IPS Inc. and its partners Globe Telecom and Eastern Telecommunications, the project is now the longest and highest capacity domestic submarine fiber cable network in the country, according to Marcos.

“With this project, we will be able to better position our country as an even more attractive destination for technology-centric businesses such as hyperscale data centers and AI computing,” Marcos said during the lighting up ceremony held in Makati.

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SMC group wins NAIA rehab bid A CONSORTIUM led by tycoon Ramon Ang has won the contract to modernize the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), the Department of Transportation (DoTr) announced on Friday, February 16.

The SMC SAP & Co. Consortium will have 15 years to upgrade, expand and operate the country's premier airport, with the possibility of a 10-year extension.

The group bested three other bidders, DoTr Secretary Jaime Bautista said during a briefing.

The consortium is made up of San Miguel Holdings Corp., local companies RLW Aviation Development Inc. and RMM Asian Logistics Inc., and Korean airport operator Incheon International Airport Corp.

The DoTr said the consortium will roll out

at least P88 billion in capital investments within its first six years, or around P14.67 billion per year, and at least P122.30 billion during its 25-year concession period.

In comparison, the total capital outlay for NAIA, based on the Manila International Airport Authority's (MIAA) corporate operating budget from 2010 to 2023, was P37.09 billion (P2.08 billion per year).

The DoTr said SMC SAP will pay the government P30 billion upfront and P2 billion annually.

It is also offering the government an 82 percent share for the whole concession period.

The DoTr said the NAIA public-private partnership is expected to generate P900 u PAGE A5 Chief presidential legal counsel Juan Ponce Enrile celebrates his 100th birthday in Malacañang, on Wednesday, February 14.

Malacañang photo

Imee Marcos urged to back brother Bongbong on economic Cha-cha Martial law architect Enrile

by Zacarian Sarao Inquirer.net

Senator Imee Marcos

Inquirer.net file photo

MANILA — Senior Deputy Speaker Rep. Aurelio Gonzales Jr. on Thursday, February 15 called on Senator Imee Marcos to give her full support to her brother President Bongbong Marcos in pushing for amending certain economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution.

Gonzales made the pronouncement after noting how Sen. Marcos appeared to be contradicting her brother’s policies.

“Kung ako si senator – kapatid pa naman si Sen. Imee, tutulungan ko [ang Marcos admin] kasi the

success of her brother is the success of our country and this only the economic provisions and there is no political. So iyon po ang puwede kong masabi,” said Gonzales in a statement.

(If I were a senator – especially since Sen. Imee is his sister, I would support the Marcos administration because the success of her brother is the success of our country.

Moreover, this pertains only to economic provisions and not political matters. That’s what I can say about it.)

“We will follow the President [on amending the restrictive economic provisions of the Constitution],” he added.

According to Gonzales, Marcos’ u PAGE A2

gets Malacañang birthday bash, P100K cash gift by criStina chi Philstar.com

MANILA — Juan Ponce Enrile, former martial law architect under dictator Ferdinand Marcos Sr., marked his 100th birthday on Wednesday, February 14 with a lavish Malacañang celebration attended by three current and former presidents — the kind of revelry that could only be enjoyed in a country where power shields its own.

In his speech celebrating his centennial year, the chief presidential legal counsel turned emotional at the thought of serving two Marcoses in his lifetime and thanked the elder Marcos and First Lady Imelda Marcos "for what they did to make me what I am today,” “(The) happiest moment of my life was when I serve (sic) the first presidency of a Marcos president and the second time u PAGE A2

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From The FronT Page

US tells Marcos: Ask and we...

PAGE A1 delivery of supplies to the victims of the landslide in Maco, Davao de Oro. “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 U.S. C-130s, the U.S. 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 U.S.-Philippines’ EDCA for disaster relief and response, as he encouraged the U.S. 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

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. met with U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Marykay Loss Carlson at the Palace on Tuesday, February 13.

Malacañang photo

Osias in Sta. Ana, Cagayan; Lallo 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.

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 Anniversary of ASEAN-Australia Dialogue Relations scheduled on March 4-6.

Australia holds the distinction of being the ASEAN’s oldest dialogue partner, having established formal relations in 1974. g

the good of the country, and only for the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution and that is very, very clear in Senate Resolution of Both Houses 6,” he added.

Gonzales was referring to Imee’s beliefs pertaining to the 1987 Constitution.

Sen. Marcos previously said that while she had no intention to defend the “Aquino Constitution,” now is not the right time to amend the 1987 Constitution because of many pressing issues that need to be addressed.

The senator was also a fierce critic of the alleged people’s initiative seeking to amend the

1987 Constitution, even going as far as calling on President Marcos to “stand firm and put an end to it.”

The initiative has caused a rift between the Senate and the House. It was seen as a move to diminish the power of the upper chamber because the 24 senators could be easily outvoted by the more than 300 House members.

But recently, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said that he and Romualdez have already agreed to “work professionally” during the 100th birthday celebration of chief presidential legal adviser Juan Ponce Enrile. g

Imee Marcos urged to back brother Bongbong...

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policies are aimed at improving the lives of all Filipinos, “not just a few.”

“We’re all on the same boat or cruise ship called M/S Philippines. Why can’t she just help her brother succeed?

President [Marcos] is the dulyelected President of the Republic with a resounding 31 million votes – the highest in history,” said Gonzales.

“If I were a senator, I would listen to the president because this (economic amendments to the Constitution) is our (Congress’) Valentine’s gift to him; this is for

MANILA BY NIGHT. The well-lighted Jones Bridge and Pasig River Esplanade are among the go-to places in Manila, like in this photo taken Thursday night, Feb. 15. The government wants to revive commercial activities around the river, starting with tourist-friendly open spaces, bicyle and jogging lanes and ferry terminals.

PNA photo by Joan Bondoc

Martial law architect Enrile gets...

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— now that I’m serving the son of that president, our President Bongbong Marcos,” Enrile said, according to a state news release.

During his birthday celebration at Malacañang, Enrile, who earns around P189,00 to P211,900 (Salary Grade 30) monthly as chief state counsel, was also handed a centenarian gift of P100,000 by the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

This is part of the provisions of the Centenarians Act of 2016 that entitles Filipinos who reach 100 years old with a P100,000 cash incentive.

Attendees of Enrile’s birthday celebration, hosted by President Marcos Jr. himself, included former Presidents Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and Joseph Estrada, former First Lady Imelda Romualdez, and other current and former officials, as well as Enrile’s family and friends.

The former defense secretary of Marcos Sr. — who later led the military mutiny that helped unseat him, and ultimately drive his family, including Marcos Jr., out of the country — is a “ pantheon of Philippine history,” the incumbent president said during Enrile’s birthday lunch.

Marcos only had praises

for Enrile, saying that he received valuable advice from the seasoned politician that helped him decide to run as vice president in 2016 — a role Enrile continues to fulfill today as chief presidential legal counsel.

Prior to his current post, which he was appointed to at 98 years old in 2022, Enrile had served four terms in the Senate and became Senate president during the 15th Congress from 2008 to 2013.

Of all the positions Enrile has assumed in his nearly six decades in office, however, he is best known for being the longtime defense chief and chief martial law implementor under the elder Marcos.

It was the supposed ambush attack on Enrile in 1972 that was used to justify Marcos Sr.’s decision to declare martial law that same year. As defense secretary, Enrile carried out several of Marcos Sr.’s orders, which included widespread crackdowns on groups perceived to be allied with communist organizations.

Decades later, Enrile claimed that the military had been “careful” in carrying out orders to arrest dissidents, taking exception with well-documented

evidence compiled by human rights groups that thousands were killed and tortured under Marcos Sr.’s rule.

By 1986, Enrile and other longtime loyalists would withdraw their support for the elder Marcos to throw their weight behind a plot to unseat him. Enrile soon claimed that the attack on him years before was staged.

Enrile was later appointed defense secretary by his former principal’s rival and successor, the late Corazon Aquino, who assumed power after the iconic EDSA demonstrations that many believe ushered in a new era of democracy in the country.

But the former Marcos loyalist heavily criticized Aquino for her approach toward curbing insurgency. He was later fired following the Aquino administration’s attempt to cleanse the government of those who helped plot a coup against her named “God saved the queen.”

Today, Marcos believes that Enrile’s storied political career allows him to be a “pond of sage advice.”

“I must admit, to have him in my corner allows me to sleep better at night,” Marcos said. g

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Filipina American named top cancer advocate in California Jamie Escoto to play a pivotal role in helping reduce the cancer burden in the state

LOS ANGELES – Jamie Escoto, a Filipina American living in Los Angeles, officially assumed her role as State Lead Ambassador (SLA) during the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) Ambassador Summit, held on February 6 at the LGBT Center in San Francisco.

“Jamie Escoto is a volunteer with exceptional dedication and commitment to advocating for policies that provide everyone a just and fair opportunity to prevent, detect, treat and survive cancer. She consistently goes above and beyond to empower and mobilize fellow volunteers and her community. It is an honor to pass the baton to such a deserving leader,” said P. Kay Coleman, former California SLA. Among Escoto’s duties as the top ACS CAN ambassador in the state are building a strong working relationship with California’s U.S. Senators, helping set goals and priorities for volunteers across the state and being a visible statewide volunteer leader on all advocacy issues.

“Our legislators play a critical role in reducing the cancer burden for all Californians. This year, we are urging them to increase access to the Every Woman Counts program, which helps thousands of women get potentially lifesaving breast and cervical cancer screenings and any follow-up care,” said Escoto.

ACS CAN continually advocates for local, state, and federal policies that protect people from tobaccorelated diseases, an issue very close to Escoto’s heart. Close to 17 percent of Filipino American men and over 9 percent of

State Lead Ambassador Jamie Escoto in front of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network sign.

Filipino American women smoke cigarettes, according to the National Health Interview Survey 2006-2018.

“I got addicted to smoking menthol and clove cigarettes when I was 16 years old. I smoked for over ten years,” she said.

“And I lost my dad, papa Jimmy, to lung cancer. I find solace in being able to honor his legacy by working to reduce the suffering and death caused by cancer. He is my inspiration, and my kids are my engine.”

Follow @forpapajimmy on TikTok to learn more about Escoto’s cancer advocacy work. For more information on how ACS CAN advocates for cancer patients, survivors and their families on the local, state and federal levels, visit: FightCancer.org/CA. The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS

CAN) advocates for evidencebased public policies to reduce the cancer burden for everyone. We engage our volunteers across the country to make their voices heard by policymakers at every level of government. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer.

Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and advanced proven tobacco control measures. We stand with our volunteers, working to make cancer a top priority for policymakers in cities, states and our nation’s capital. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.

(ACS CAN Release)

Jamie Escoto at ACS CAN Ambassador Summit in San Francisco.

TRADITION. The Alpha Phi Omega fraternity ETA Chapter holds its annual Oblation Run at the University of the Philippines Diliman Campus in Quezon City on Friday, Feb. 16. Naked members ran around the Palma Hall, with this year’s theme centered on protests against charter change.

PNA photo by Joan Bondoc

Meet O, the Fil-Am-founded AI assistant for families Ohai CEO and founder Sheila Lirio Marcelo dedicates the project to caregivers and chief household officers

by AndreA PosAdAs Inquirer.net

IF you’ve invested in your own digital helpers around the house, then this new virtual assistant for families is right up your alley. On Jan. 22, family-oriented tech company Ohai launched its first virtual assistance platform powered by artificial intelligence.

Led by Filipino-American entrepreneur Sheila Lirio Marcelo, Ohai’s founder and CEO, the team approached the project with high hopes of leaving a positive impact on busy families and households.

The company has also strived to help the resident multitaskers of every family take more practical approaches to caring for themselves and their loved ones.

Ohai’s AI household assistant dubbed “O” is an all-purpose digital companion that monitors families’ schedules, scans emails, books appointments, coordinates daily errands, and accomplishes other task-tracking duties. It functions as a virtual organizer to lighten the Ohai launches new virtual assistant O for household coordination Photo screengrabbed from Ohai website mental load of every household and avoid conflicts within families worldwide. O specially caters to and families who live in separate homes or cities, “chief household officers” who bear the brunt of to name a few. family endeavors.

Ohai’s latest project also alludes to Marcelo’s “With Ohai, my commitment to positively time at family marketplace Care.com, where she impacting families globally is stronger than ever,” developed a penchant for serving families and Marcelo shared on Ohai’s website. “We are focused caregivers for over 14 years. on developing solutions for Chief Household Though most humans now use AI to accomplish Officers, primarily women, helping them achieve tasks, Ohai created O to learn alongside its users their utmost potential.” in completing to-do lists and agendas every day.

Marcelo added that Ohai’s virtual assistant O’s free interface provides schedule summaries pinpoints and resolves communication issues that and calendar alerts, while its premium version negatively impact family dynamics. These include delegates tasks among family members and takes Photos courtesy of ACS CAN divorced parents who need to look after their kids appointments by phone calls. g

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

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

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

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

housing.lacity.org

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New eligibility rules are a financial salve for...

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the county workers who verify their eligibility.

For a long time, this group of Medi-Cal beneficiaries could have no more than $2,000 in the bank — $3,000 for a married couple — though the home they lived in, as well as one car and certain types of other personal property, were exempt.

“If you had $5,000 in assets, you would have to spend $3,000 on something to prove that you were beneath the limit to qualify,” says Tiffany Huyenh-Cho, a senior attorney at the advocacy group Justice in Aging. “We had people who prepaid rent, spent money on car repairs, bought a new couch or appliances — things to reduce their assets in order to get to the $2,000 limit.”

Now, Huyenh-Cho adds, “you don’t have to remain in deep poverty. You can save for an emergency; you can save for retirement or for a security deposit if you want to move.”

And those who have hoped to leave a little something for their children when they die can now do so, even if they need expensive long-term care.

The first phase of the rule change was implemented in July 2022, when the threshold was raised dramatically to $130,000 for an individual and $195,000 for a two-person household, making it a nonfactor for the vast majority of those concerned. After all, most people with incomes low enough to qualify for Medi-Cal would not have that much saved. For this reason, the total elimination of the so-called asset test ushered in this year is expected to help fewer people financially than the first change did.

Still, there are some people with more than $130,000 in the bank whose savings would have been wiped out in shockingly short order had they needed long-term care in a nursing facility or at home. Now, they can qualify to have Medi-Cal pick up that cost.

Joanne Shinozaki, a resident of Granada Hills, a Los Angeles neighborhood, hired private fulltime caregiving last year for her mother, Fujiko, who has dementia.

But it cost nearly $11,000 a month, which Shinozaki quickly realized would burn fast through the roughly $200,000 in savings her father had left when he died early last year. Reluctantly, she put her mom in a memory care home, which was less expensive. But after a 10% increase in January, it is now costing $9,000 a month,

although that includes food and utilities.

Because of the money Shinozaki’s dad left, her mom did not qualify for Medi-Cal under the old rules. But now, that money no longer counts against her.

Shinozaki, a veterinarian who quit her job to coordinate her mother’s care, needs to return to work soon.

She has applied for Medi-Cal for her mom and is waiting for it to be approved.

“It would mean being able to bring her back to the house where she’s lived since 1988, if she’s well enough to come home,” Shinozaki says. To do that, she will need to get her mom access to caregivers via Medi-Cal’s In-Home Supportive Services program.

Indeed, another benefit of the change in eligibility rules is that it supports the caregiver economy, says Kim Selfon, a Medi-Cal and IHSS policy specialist at Bet Tzedek Legal Services, which provides free legal assistance to people in LA County.

Advocates who work with MediCal enrollees and applicants say they often have to explain the difference between assets and income. “I think a lot of people are confused,” says Stephanie Fajuri, program director at the Center for Health Care Rights, an LAbased nonprofit that helps people navigate Medi-Cal and Medicare.

“They say, ‘What do you mean?

I could be making $1 million a year?’ And we say, ‘No, that’s income.’”

So, let’s be clear: Under the new rules, yes, you can have a second house. But if you are renting it out, that’s income — and given today’s rental prices, it will likely disqualify you from full Medi-Cal benefits. You can also keep an investment account regardless of the balance, but distributions from it as well as any interest, dividends, and capital gains it generates are also income.

Again, most beneficiaries are unlikely to have a large pool of assets and still have income low enough to qualify for Medi-Cal. But if you suddenly inherit a modest sum, or even a large one, now you can keep it, though it may briefly affect your coverage.

Unfortunately, the 1.1 million Medi-Cal beneficiaries receiving Supplemental Security Income are still subject to an asset test, because different rules apply to them.

Advocates and legal aid attorneys say there hasn’t been enough public education about the elimination of the asset limits

and that many people still believe their bank accounts or personal property rule them out.

People may also fear the state will take their house and other assets after they die to recoup what it spent on their care. That worry could intensify now that people can keep all their assets and still be on Medi-Cal. But a 2017 change in the law restricted the state’s ability to put a claim on your house or other assets after you die and made it relatively easy to insulate them entirely.

The state can claim only up to the amount Medi-Cal spent on certain medical services, including longterm and intermediate care and related costs. Even in those cases, it cannot touch your home or any other asset if you have protected it by putting it in a living trust or through some other legal move that keeps it out of probate court.

And the state can’t put a claim on it if there is a co-owner who outlives the Medi-Cal beneficiary.

“Now that people can hold unlimited assets, they need to be more cognizant of protecting them should they need long-term care,” says Dina Dimirjian, a staff attorney at Neighborhood Legal Services of Los Angeles County.

The Department of Health Care Services, which oversees Medi-Cal, has published on its website (dhcs.ca.gov) an FAQ on the elimination of the asset test. Another good source of information, and legal assistance, is the Health Consumer Alliance (healthconsumer.org or 888-8043536).

The end of the asset test will also cure a big bureaucratic headache for beneficiaries and applicants and free up countless hours for Medi-Cal eligibility workers in county offices.

“People had to navigate this and figure out what counts and what doesn’t count, and they had to prove it, and the county had to verify it,” says David Kane, a senior attorney at the Western Center on Law & Poverty. “It’s a good thing we can say goodbye to it.” (Bernard J. Wolfson/KFF Health News) This article was produced by KFF Health News, which publishes California Healthline, an editorially independent service of the California Health Care Foundation.

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

ANTI-RABIES. A staff of the Davao City Veterinarian’s Office injects anti-rabies vaccine on a dog at the City Hall Annex Building in Davao City on Friday, Feb. 16. The free vaccination for cats and dogs is held 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from Mondays to Fridays, except on holidays.

PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.

California building bigger, better zero-emission charging network SACRAMENTO – California is making it easier to charge your electric vehicle.

The California Energy Commission (CEC) on Wednesday, February 14 approved a $1.9 billion investment plan that advances the state’s electric vehicle (EV) charging and hydrogen refueling goals.

This funding builds on $1.8 billion already invested and will help deploy 40,000 new public EV chargers statewide and other zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) infrastructure across California, creating the most extensive charging and hydrogen refueling network in the country. The investments are part of Governor Gavin Newsom’s unprecedented $10 billion budget for ZEVs, which is bolstered by billions of dollars for clean transportation from the Biden-Harris Administration.

At least 50% of the ZEV infrastructure deployed through the four-year funding plan will benefit disadvantaged or low-income communities – places often hit the hardest by air pollution.

Combined with funding from the federal government, utilities and other programs, these investments will help the state achieve its goal of deploying 250,000 public EV chargers at sites throughout California, such as highway corridors and shopping centers. This is in addition to private installations and home chargers.

“Our clean transportation future is here with more than 1 in 4 new cars sold in our state being electric. That’s why California is building a bigger and better zero-emission charging network – the most extensive in the nation,” said Gov. Newsom.

“No other state in America is doing more to make our zero-emissions future a reality.”

As the state nears 2 million ZEVs sold, these investments are critical to meeting projected infrastructure needs. Last year, Governor Newsom signed a bill extending the Clean Transportation Program and providing a dedicated source of

File photo/www.gov.ca.gov

funding for EV charging through 2035.

In addition, to improve the EV charging experience, the CEC is developing first-in-theworld state regulations for EV charger reliability and reporting. A performance-based standard will apply to all new publicly funded EV chargers which, among other things, will be required to disclose operational data to help drivers make more informed choices about when and where to charge their EVs. In 2023, 25% of new cars sold in California were zero-emission. The state surpassed both its zeroemission truck sales and vehicle sales goals two years ahead of schedule and surpassed its 10,000 fast EV chargers goal more than a year ahead of schedule. The success of the state’s programs has led to ZEVs becoming a top export and has spurred major advances in manufacturing and job creation.

(Gov. Newsom’s Press Office Release)

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UP atmospheric physicist takes to the skies SMC group wins NAIA rehab... with NASA: Monitoring air quality on NASA817 PAGE A1

DR. Gerry Bagtasa of the UP Diliman College of Science – Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology (UPD – CS IESM) took flight with NASA on Sunday, February 11, 2024, as part of an air pollution measurement campaign called ASIA-AQ (Airborne and Satellite Investigation of Asian Air Quality).

NASA817 — more specifically the NASA DC-8 plane — is an airborne science laboratory based in NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Palmdale, California. It is flown to other parts of the world to gather data to support the research and experiments undertaken by the global scientific community.

The objective of this particular series of flights with the Filipino team, consisting of DENR-EMB, the Manila Observatory, and Dr. Bagtasa, was to assess the air quality of multiple Asian cities by utilizing satellite remote sensors and air quality models. With the equipment of the modified Douglas DC-8 jetliner, they were able to observe the atmosphere and detect various pollutants such as particulate matter, ozone, carbon dioxide, and methane, which are not usually locally measured above the ground.

“The purpose is to improve our understanding of the dynamics of air pollution in the region,” Dr. Bagtasa said.

With the Filipino team, they were able to help plan the flights by providing air quality and weather forecasts.

They also provided insights into local weather patterns, drawing from Dr. Bagtasa and the Manila Observatory’s recent publications and expertise in contextualizing the data being collected.

The experience NASA817 flew four times to the Philippines on February 6, 7, 11, and 13, and for each flight, there were a few available seats for observers. Dr. Bagtasa and scientists of the Manila Observatory and DENR joined different flights, and of the 8-hour experience, the plane would constantly change altitudes from 1000 ft to 10,000 ft, then back again, to gather more data at different levels of elevation

billion (P36 billion per year).

DoTr Undersecretary Timothy John Batan said he expected a concession agreement to be signed in the next 30 days.

The rehabilitation of the airport has been going on for the last three decades and has spanned six administrations, starting with that of president Fidel V. Ramos.

The consortium thanked the DoTr "for conducting a fair and comprehensive bidding process," and commended President Marcos Jr.'s administration "for its commitment to modernizing NAIA." It said it is "committed to collaborating closely with the government and our various stakeholders, harnessing every Dr. Gerry Bagtasa with a crew member of the NASA DC8.

Photos courtesy of Dr. Gerry Bagtasa resource available to us, to transform NAIA into a modern international gateway that Filipinos will be proud of."

Finance Secretary Ralph Recto on Friday welcomed the MIAA board's decision to bid out the rehabilitation of NAIA, which is the biggest public-private partnership (PPP) project under the Marcos administration.

Recto said the airport has been operating beyond capacity for nine years, leading to poor service and passenger inconvenience.

The project will address issues such as undercapacity, congestion and underinvestment A view from inside the NASA DC8 while in flight. in the country's primary gateway. project presents an avenue throughout the region.

The Department of Finance's “In almost any airplane for international cooperation, Privatization and Corporate ride, we encounter some brief partnering with local scientists, Affairs Group (PCAG) evaluates bumpy to very bumpy, turbulent researchers, and experts to PPP proposals before presenting moments, right? Imagine that implement a unified strategy them to the Investment happening for 8 hours — the across various Asian nations in Coordination Committee (ICC) flight was brutal. I guess mainly addressing not only regional air and to the National Economic due to the low-altitude nature quality concerns but also gaining and Development Authority of the flight,” Dr. Bagtasa a broader understanding of the (NEDA). commented. “And to make it interpretation of satellite data The NAIA project got the more exciting, I experienced the and air quality modeling.

NEDA board's nod on July 19 last Dr. Bagtasa and the Manila year in just six weeks, the fastest hardest of hard turns and rolls in Observatory partnered with approval in Philippine history. an airplane during the flight.”

With humor, he also went on the DENR to join the flights to Bautista also said that to say, “Most of the researchers provide their local knowledge renaming NAIA was not a on the plane wear some on the air pollution of the requirement by the DoTr from transdermal patch behind the country. While the data gathered the bidders. ear for motion sickness. I didn't, on these trips are still being He said, however, he would and I was in the backmost seat. processed and have yet to be have to consult with the DoTr After around 5 to 6 hours into the published, NASA817 will now legal department if SMC-SAP is flight, considering that I've been move on to South Korea, taking allowed to change the airport's on probably >100 flights in my measurements in Taiwan on the name. lifetime, it was my first time to way. After Seoul, it will then fly The airport, originally known to Malaysia and Thailand. After as the Manila International throw up in a plane ride.”

Despite the bumpy ride, the ASIA-AQ campaign, the Airport, was named after former the flights are crucial to the NASA DC8 will be retired. (Maria Sen. Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino campaign, ASIA-AQ. NASA’s Alexandra Marmol) Jr. who was assassinated at the tarmac upon his return to the country from the United States.

Batan said the NAIA project

Flight path of the 8-hour trip around Metro Manila and surrounding regions flying alternately between 1000 ft and 10,000 ft.

LA County promotes voting in BIPOC...

PAGE A1 County Clerk works to protect the right to vote and ensure its integrity by expanding safe options to allow everyone who is eligible to vote to cast their ballot.

Community leaders and new voters from Asian and Latino communities in Los Angeles also participated in the press conference.

“In this idea of wanting to increase turnout and vote centers as a resource … we really rely on networks of people, especially in our communities where you have someone who you trust to bring with you,” said Nancy Yap, executive director of the Center for Asian Americans United for Self Empowerment (CAUSE).

“Now, because you can go to any vote center, the in-person resources are so valuable.”

“I work as a nurse in one of the hospitals here, and I call Los Angeles my home for the last 15 years. I only became a

U.S. citizen a few months ago, in November 2023,” said Lovely Gomez, a first-time Filipino voter. “This year I am excited to vote for the first time in a U.S. election.”

“COFEM is proud to take part in this press conference to let voters in our Latino community know how crucial they are in the democratic process,” said Francisco Moreno, executive director of the Council of Mexican Federations in North America (COFEM). “COFEM has long been involved in reaching out to Latino voters.

We are dedicated to empowering immigrant communities to be full participants in the social, political, economic, and cultural life of the United States and of their home country.”

“After 26 years hiding as undocumented immigrants, my wife and I adjusted our status through a family petition, and in 2021, after five years as a

permanent resident, I applied and obtained my citizenship,” said Rafael Fabian, a new Latino voter who will participate for only the second time in the March primary. “At my oath ceremony, I was handed a voter registration, and I realized the importance of my duty as a citizen.”

“It is critical to elevate the voices of the families most impacted by policies and decisions made by our elected officials, which continue to create racial inequities,” said Ernie Serrano, integrated voter engagement organizer for Strategic Concepts in Organizing and Policy Education (SCOPE).

“My work at SCOPE is focused on engaging voters and making sure they understand the importance of getting out to vote. We talk to voters at the doors and over the phone. Our goal is to make sure that voters feel empowered to have their voices heard at the ballot box.” g

Marcos sees PH attracting more tech...

PAGE A1 “We will also be able to provide faster internet (and) more efficient digital services to Filipinos located in both urban and rural areas of the country. More importantly, this will help facilitate our efforts to digitalize public data and government services to cater to the needs of our people efficiently,” he added.

Marcos described the project as a “game changer in the Philippines’ quest to be amongst equals in terms of internet interconnectivity and digital transformation.”

“Because of this connection, we now find a long-term solution that delivers high-connectivity and high-speed internet for our people and facilitates the realization of the Bagong Pilipinas (new Philippines) that we envision for our country,”

the president said.

“With the completion of the PDSCN, let me express our excitement and our optimism as we zoom in on faster fiber internet speeds for Filipinos.”

Marcos thanked the companies behind the PDSCN for choosing to do business in the Philippines and for making possible the high technology transfer that he said would allow the country to be at par with its more advanced peers in the technology-driven global marketplace. “I look forward to further collaboration and partnership in different endeavors where we could gain from your experience and your expertise.

We are excited to see your many investments that will come to fruition in the near future,” he said.

Marcos vowed to support

public-private sector investment and to promote ease of doing business in the country to facilitate the establishment of critical infrastructure in telecommunications. He added that the project is a testament to Japanese ingenuity and technological advancement that the Philippines aims to emulate and the “strong bonds” of friendship that connect the two countries forever.

“With the help of our private sector partners, we continue to pursue measures towards providing the Filipino people with reliable and affordable internet services, which will enable us to improve our standing in the world in terms of broadband and mobile internet speed and coverage,” the chief executive said. g

took a year before it was completed.

The process started with the signing of a transaction advisory services agreement with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Feb. 2, 2023, followed by NEDA's approval of requirements.

In August 2023, the invitation to bid for the rehabilitation of NAIA was released.

"We really worked hard to see to it that these are implemented in the fastest possible time because we think that this is a very important project," said Bautista.

Once NAIA is privatized, MIAA will become a regulatory body, and its employees will be offered to work with the new operator.

Two congressmen are upbeat on NAIA's future now that the San Miguel group has taken over its rehabilitation and operations.

Albay Rep. Jose Maria Clemente "Joey" Salceda believes the bid by the San Miguel-SAP consortium is the "best deal" out of the biggest public-private partnerships in the country.

"The SMC proposal offered an eye-popping 82.6 percent government share out of airport revenues, not to mention an upfront outright payment of at least P30 billion to the government," Salceda, the chairman of the House Committee on Ways and Means, said.

He urged the group to commit to the immediate improvements to the airport once they take over in September, which include the installation of walkalators across Terminal 3, the interconnection of the three terminals, and better lounge facilities for overseas Filipino workers.

Salceda believes that the 82.6 percent government share in airport revenues offered by the consortium makes it an "excellent deal" for the government months after the enactment of the PPP code.

House Deputy Minority Leader and Bagong Henerasyon Partylist Rep. Bernadette HerreraDy said she was "cautiously optimistic" of the deal and urged the consortium to make sure all NAIA clientele will be accorded "respect, fairness, and worldclass standards of service," "The contract was awarded because the government wants to fix the long-broken system at NAIA. Public patience has been worn thin. The new management should understand that the

public and Congress will not have reasonable but thin tolerance for mismanagement, mishaps, and mayhem," Herrera-Dy said.

She said she is open to any reasonable increases in airport fees as long as travelers will see the value and feel the improvements in services, courtesy, client experience, and less corruption at NAIA. Sen. Mary Grace Poe, chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Services, said the winning bidder faces a herculean task of giving the decades-old structure crucial expansion and modernization so it could graduate from the list of the world's most infamous airports.

"We trust that the DoTr will continue to ensure efficiency and transparency every step of the way in this monumental development project," Poe said.

"The success of this rehabilitation will not only give the Filipinos safety and convenience but pride in welcoming the world with a world-class gateway," she said.

(Ed Paolo Salting, Niña Myka Pauline Arceo, Red Mendoza, Javier Joe Ismael and Franco Jose C. Baroña/ManilaTimes.net) SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA REGIONAL RAIL AUTHORITY RFP No. E758-25 ON CALL STATE OF GOOD REPAIR PROJECT MANAGEMENT, C O N S T R U C T I O N MANAGEMENT AND STAFF ASSISTANCE SERVICES SCRRA is seeking proposals for ON CALL STATE OF GOOD REPAIR PROJECT MANAGEMENT, C O N S T R U C T I O N MANAGEMENT AND STAFF ASSISTANCE SERVICES. Solicitation documents may be obtained at http://www. metrolinktrains.com/contracts/.

Electronic proposals are due on or before 2:00 PM (PST) on April 12, 2024. The contract to be awarded will be funded in part by grants under the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Transportation Administration.

For further information contact: Jaime Saucedo, Contract & Compliance Admin. at saucedoj@scrra.net.

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OpiniOn

Features

Roadmap for the maritime industry

IN an archipelago of 7,641 islands, development of a maritime industry has been a necessity since pre-colonial times. The effort, however, can use a major boost. Several countries with sizeable coastlines developed modern shipbuilding industries decades ago. Today the world’s top three are in Asia: China, South Korea and Japan.

With over 100 shipyards, the Philippines is ranked among the world’s top 10 countries in terms of commercial shipbuilding, employing tens of thousands of fulltime workers. Up to 90 percent of the activities in the industry, however, involve mainly ship repair, maintenance, upgrading and refurbishing. Outside of commercial shipbuilding, the country also cannot produce the ships needed by the navy and coast guard for efficiently patrolling and enforcing national sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea. Domestic shipbuilders have cited the lack of local suppliers for the needed parts that meet international standards. These shipbuilding inputs are currently being imported mostly from Japan, South Korea and China.

President Marcos has approved a 10-year roadmap to make the domestic maritime industry nationally integrated, environmentally sustainable and globally competitive. Executive Order No. 55 signed on Feb. 8 adopts the Maritime Industry Development Plan, which aims to modernize

and expand domestic shipbuilding, produce a strong merchant marine fleet and develop a highly competitive maritime workforce.

The MIDP, drawn up by the Maritime Industry Authority, also aims to enhance maritime transport safety, which remains a major problem in the country.

The Philippines is one of the top sources of seamen in global shipping. Compliance with global standards of training and accreditation, however, must be guaranteed to ensure continuing and expanded demand for Filipino seafarers. The family of President Marcos’ secretary of agriculture is in the shipping industry. So is the head of the President’s private sector advisory council. They can brief him on what the industry needs.

Executive Order No. 55 stresses the importance of the shipping industry and the need to achieve the full potential of the Philippines as a maritime nation. Beyond approving the Maritime Industry Development Plan, a serious effort is needed to attain its objectives. (Philstar.com)

Editorial

ManilaTimes.net photo

Performance review

Sketches

ana MarIe PaMIntuan This love month, Malacañang is in no loving mood. It has launched a performance review of all presidential appointees, “to ensure that those who are qualified will remain in office.”

Covered by the February 2 memo–randum issued by the Presidential Management Staff are those appointed before February 1 last year to national government agencies as well as government-owned and controlled corporations, government financial institutions and state universities and colleges.

Because of the timing of the memorandum and the dates covered by the appointments being reviewed, there’s speculation that it’s a purge of those appointed during the short-lived stint of Vic Rodriguez, who quit in September 2022 as President Marcos’ first executive secretary.

The Palace memorandum was released just days after Rodriguez was spotted at the anti-Charter change rally staged in Davao City by the Dutertes and their supporters on Jan. 28, as BBM was launching his “Bagong

Pilipinas” in Manila’s Rizal Park.

Presidential appointees serve at the pleasure of the appointing power, so Malacañang doesn’t even need documentation or a performance audit to get rid of them. Malacañang said the performance review is not a purge, but even if it is, it’s the President’s prerogative.

BBM should put the review power of the executive to better use, by institutionalizing an efficient performance audit not only of all national agencies but also of local government units (LGUs).

Devolution has created so many independent republics across the country, with different rules and requirements for doing business and a host of other activities. Even barangay officials, who are authorized by law to collect various types of fees and raise their own funds, can behave like tin-pot dictators in their turfs. * * * The powers already enjoyed

by LGUs were further expanded by a joint circular approved on Jan. 8, 2015 by the Commission on Audit, the Department of Budget and Management, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Governance Commission for GOCCs and Department of National Defense.

Joint Circular No. 2015-

01 allows confidential and/ or intelligence funds for LGUs “whose peace and order is a priority concern and which have duly allocated CF, but not IF, in their annual appropriation ordinances.”

The amount for the secret funds must be included in the LGU’s Peace and Order and Public Safety plan, which must have a specific appropriation in the LGU’s annual budget. The CF computation will be based on this budget for peace and order.

You can see the abuse of this circular in the P460 million in secret funds allocated annually to Davao City when Sara Duterte was its mayor and her father was president. What was the priority peace and order concern in the city? Did secret funds finance the death squads?

Government service in our country is focused on fundraising and personal profit rather than the efficient delivery of basic services. Roads and bridges, for example, are built and even traffic lights installed to benefit the businesses of local political kingpins or their supporters, for whom there is no red tape.

This focus on fund-raising rather than public service is evident even in traffic management, as shown in the implementation of the nocontact traffic apprehension

scheme. Under the NCAP, the goal of enforcers is not to keep traffic flowing smoothly but to penalize motorists even for minor infractions and collect stiff fines (with the lion’s share going to a private company).

In dealing with businesses, from micro enterprises to large job-generating investments, every office from the barangay to the national agency with jurisdiction over the sector imposes requirements that entail fees. * * * Even if the deadlines set by law for completing transactions with the government are strictly followed (three, seven and 20 days depending on the complexity), the rule is applied at every step of the process.

And the entire process, from the barangay to the national agency, can entail 500 steps.

After the pandemic lockdowns, I resumed meetings with officials and investors from different countries. They all told me similar stories, about their investors assessing business prospects in the Philippines, and being turned off by the mountain of red tape and confusing rules from one LGU to the next, and between LGUs and national agencies.

President Marcos can set economic and other human development targets for

the LGUs, and assess their performance based on how these targets are met within a particular period. How much has local GDP grown? How many enterprises were launched or expanded and how many and what types of jobs were created?

Is per capita income growing?

Are students performing well in public schools? How many patients were served in government health centers, and what types of health care services are available? Is there widespread internet access? Safe water and sanitation? What is the peace and order situation?

Those who meet the targets can be rewarded with more national infrastructure projects, for example, or priority for cold storage and post-harvest facilities in agricultural areas, or selection as venue for major conferences that stimulate the local economy.

Malacañang can also reward the LGU achievers with the speedy release of their national revenue share by the Department of Budget and Management. This is no trivial matter; Congress may have the power of approving budget allocations, but it’s Malacañang, through the DBM, that green-lights fund releases. * * * Businessmen who face the Senate today will surely

express support for the lifting of economic restrictions in the Constitution. But they should also be asked about what more must be done – what can be done – even without Charter change.

Cha-cha is no silver bullet for foreign investments.

While at the Senate, the businessmen may also want to give their views about politicizing wage setting, and the impact on business, especially the micro and small entrepreneurs who make up over 90 percent of businesses in this country, of legislating an across-the-board wage increase that populist senators are pushing.

If we want to attract more investments, Congress should get out of wage-setting, the issuance of business franchises, and other matters that allow lawmakers to hold investors hostage to their myopic self-interest.

And a performance review is needed for LGUs. The concept of devolution itself must be revisited. Under the current set-up, we have incoherent, unpredictable, rent-seeking governance, with little public accountability. (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.

A ticket to anywhere

Eyes Wide Open IrIs Gonzales WHERE are we heading, we might ask ourselves. We ask ourselves this question again and again.

I know because I asked it before and I wonder again now – where are we heading, really?

We may ask it just as Hamlet did in a soliloquy, in the middle of EDSA’s monstrous traffic jam, staring at the sea of red lights ahead of us or when lying restless in borrowed rooms in the arms of the beloved. Or while standing naked in front of the mirror about to get dressed for the day ahead.

But there is no single answer.

There can be many. Or there may be none.

It’s been over a year into Marcos 2.0 so we need to ask our government – where are we heading?

Here’s what we know so far.

Congress is divided over moves to change the Charter.

The president’s sister and the

president’s cousin have become each other’s thorns, muddling further the already dizzying family feud between the Dutertes and the Marcoses.

Senators, meanwhile, are either busy protecting their thrones amid the threat of a new charter or grandstanding in public at the expense of senior citizen bilyonaryos whose crime is inadvertently or allegedly dozing off.

Over at the House of Representatives, lawmakers seem like kids in a game of Simon Says, just doing what they’re told to do. Tell them to change the Charter and they will change it as fast as they can. Tell them to kill a network’s franchise and kill, they will. Even opposition lawmakers are careful and calculated in their actions, you can’t help but wonder where the statesmen are when we need them most.

Amid all the noise, President Marcos himself has broken his silence, saying that proposed amendments to the Constitution will be limited to restrictive economic provisions.

But as moves in Congress go, last-minute insertions and sleight of hand changes happen all too often. We need to keep a close watch on this.

In the meantime, the real needs of Filipinos, especially those living in poverty, are ignored or, worse, have become something to joke about. Government social workers jested that those begging for alms in the filthy streets of Metro Manila earn even more than they do.

Some employers, usually dapper in bespoke suits and signature ties, meanwhile, are jittery over the proposed additional hundredpeso daily wage hike.

Postwar Philippines The past several nights I’ve been reading a dead tycoon’s memoir, detailing the hardships during the World War II era when the Japanese ripped through the Philippines and left it in ruins.

There was famine and poverty and education was at a standstill.

Life was difficult for everyone – rich or poor – back then. Surely compared to that period, we’re in a much better place now but

certainly nowhere near where we should be in this postwar epoch.

Our neighbors have overtaken us by miles and miles.

While we have rebuilt our cities and structures after the war, we have not made significant progress in building or rebuilding our democracy, our institutions, our identity and, most of all, our moral fiber.

Again I can’t help but ask, where are we heading?

I write this existential piece this cool morning of Valentine’s Day as I turn a year older. Yes, I was born on the so-called Day of Love but ironically at the witching hour. I once considered myself an empath because I feel what others are feeling – or at least I think I do – but my dearly beloved said instead of empath, empakta or impakta was perhaps more accurate, given my evil streak.

There’s no denying of course that I have my fair share of that streak, mostly out of a journalist’s frustration over the things happening in society.

Even the traffic is maddening,

not to mention corruption and political hubris.

Don’t ask me about my birthday wish. I don’t really have a big wish for myself. Perhaps I’m too old for that. In fact, the only people who call me young are the seniors, and sadly, some of them are long gone. I guess I’ll just wish for more stories to write and good health, although I definitely don’t want to reach the age of 100 as the immortal Juan Ponce Enrile has achieved.

Cliché as it sounds, my bigger wish really is a better life for this nation of 114 million.

Mostly, I’d like to see the hapless and the desperate really break out of the cycle of poverty.

Fast Car I think of Tracy Chapman’s Fast Car and that gripping performance with Luke Combs at the Grammys. The reason the song broke records again 35 years later is that it’s an anthem for dreamers who want to get out of that vicious cycle of hardship and poverty.

It’s a powerful song that should remind our leaders that

here in our country, there are still some 20 million people living in poverty and we must help them get out of it.

Education, social services, jobs and a home country that gives its people hope are what Filipinos need.

I fervently hope our leaders get our people a ticket out of poverty.

“Any place is better,” as Tracy Chapman said in Fast Car. That indeed is where we should be heading and maybe, just maybe, the dreamers of this country would finally get “that feeling that they belong” and that they could “be someone, be someone, be someone…”

(Philstar.com) *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

*** Email: eyesgonzales@gmail.com. Follow her on Twitter @eyesgonzales. Column archives at EyesWideOpen on FB.

The views expressed by our Op-Ed contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the predilection of the editorial board and staff of Asian Journal.

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Remittances soar to record-high Marcos confers Medal of Merit on Whang-Od by ian niColaS P. Cigaral Inquirer.net

MANILA — Money sent home

by Filipinos abroad hit a recordhigh in 2023, thanks to a stronger peso that bloated the value of remittances which, in turn, helped households stay afloat amid stubbornly high inflation last year.

Cash remittances coursed through banks amounted to $33.5 billion, up an annualized rate of 2.9 percent, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reported on Thursday, February 15.

The 2023 inflows were the highest on record or since the BSP started tracking cash remittances in 1970. At the same time, last year’s remittance growth was consistent with the central bank’s projection of a 3-percent expansion for 2023, albeit slower than the 3.6-percent uptick in 2022.

In December 2023 alone, cash remittances grew 3.8 percent to $3.3 billion, the fastest growth in a year amid the seasonal spike

during the Christmas shopping season.

Peso appreciation Nicholas Mapa, senior economist at ING Bank in Manila, said the peso’s strength against the U.S. dollar propped up the value of money sent home by Filipino migrants, who are also likely enjoying better job prospects in their host countries as the global economy recovered from the pandemic’s onslaught.

“Remittance flows continue to grow at a very robust and consistent, roughly 3-percent pace, helped along by the steady deployment of workers and sustained expansion of host countries,” Mapa said.

“The slight pickup in dollar remittances may be tied to exchange rate nuances with the dollar fetching less pesos late last year,” he added.

Data showed higher inflows from the U.S., Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates contributed to the huge amount in 2023. Among these countries, the U.S. was the largest source,

cornering 40.9 percent of the total.

Jeremaiah Opiniano, executive director at Institute for Migration and Development Issues, said rising costs of living at home might have prompted Filipinos abroad to send more money to their families. This, as expa Healthy inflows “Inflation may have also been felt in other countries, so you wonder if overseas Filipinos are again doing sacrifices for the sake of their families,” Opiniano said.

“Note that those abroad have felt the impact of the pandemic on themselves and their families, and they may be trying to recoup lost incomes,” he added.

This year, the BSP projects growth in cash remittances to stay at 3 percent.

“We can expect the same robust pace of growth for remittances again this year as it delivers a healthy dose of foreign inflows while also supporting consumption via peso purchasing power,” ING Bank’s Mapa said. g

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 to cross but “were undecided as to whether they 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.

ManilaTimes.net

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday, February 14 conferred the Presidential Medal of Merit on 106-year-old traditional tattoo artist Maria "Whang-Od" Oggay, hailing her as a "national treasure" and "an enabler for unity."

During awarding rites in Malacañang, the president recognized Whang-Od for her contributions to the preservation of traditional arts and practices.

"We are honoring Apo WhangOd for works that have made her and the country famous, for other achievements that make her a Filipina worthy of our respect and of our admiration," Marcos said.

"She is a pioneer in shattering gender stereotypes, venturing into tattooing when it was just a man's exclusive preserve. She is a keeper of oral traditions and a mentor, teaching a new generation of artists, thus ensuring that her art form lives on to tell tales of her community's history," he added.

Marcos lauded Whang-Od for her contributions to upholding indigenous culture through her tattoo work, saying that she elevated the country into the international light.

"Her craft and stature as an internationally recognized artist raised international awareness “We will continue to reach out of our country's rich cultural to her. She is the 15th Filipino heritage," the president said. remaining in Gaza.”

"As Apo Whang-Od's works Santos said the church she was appeal to diverse cultures and 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 MANILA — Sen. Risa Netanyahu earlier ordered the Hontiveros appealed to the Israeli forces to prepare for the Senate leadership to approve evacuation of civilians in Rafah her subpoena that would compel ahead of an expected military controversial pastor Apollo operation in the southern Gaza Quiboloy to attend her committee city. investigation into the alleged Australia, Canada, and New abuses within the Kingdom of Zealand were among the latest to Jesus Christ ministry. warn Israel not to push through During the Kapihan sa Senado with it, saying it would be press briefing on Thursday, “catastrophic” as Rafah serves February 16, the deputy minority as a refuge to about 1.5 million leader said Senate President Juan Palestinians and other foreign Miguel Zubiri has not yet signed nationals. (PNA) the subpoena order Hontiveros

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

by Catherine S. Valente

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. awards the Presidential Merit Award to 106-years old traditional tattoo artist Apo Whang-Od during a ceremony at the Malacanang Palace on Wednesday, February 14.

Malacañang photo

across political divides, she becomes an enabler for unity and an example of an idea that binds us all. She is truly a national treasure," he added.

Whang-Od is a "mambabatok" (traditional Kalinga tattooist) from Barangay Buscalan in Tinglayan town, Kalinga, and the last of her generation.

She does the art the traditional way, by using wood attached with a thorn from a citrus tree, and ink from natural dye and soot.

She tattoos without any chemical anesthetic.

Whang-Od does the tattooing with her grandnieces, continuously training and passing on the cultural heritage to them.

In 2018, she was awarded the Dangal ng Haraya award for Intangible Cultural Heritage by

the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.

Marcos also awarded several government workers for their "remarkable and honest work that has made a positive impact on the lives of the Filipino people."

Among them was Fernando Viado, a government worker from Antipolo City, who became partially deaf because of a workrelated incident.

"Nonetheless, he continued to be the best mechanic he could be for the City Government of Antipolo. When they see opportunities — when these public servants see opportunities to make a difference in the lives of the people they serve — our awardees respond with audacity, turning bold ideas into reality," Marcos said. g

Hontiveros asks Senate leadership to approve subpoena for Quiboloy issued against Quiboloy during the previous Jan. 23 hearing.

In her Feb. 6 letter to Zubiri, Hontiveros sought the approval of the subpoena so that Quiboloy can be compelled to attend the next scheduled inquiry and respond to allegations from former ministry members that they were raped and forced to sell goods on the streets to fund his lifestyle.

Hontiveros said she doesn’t want to brand it “obstruction of justice,” as she clung to hope

the Senate president would sign the subpoena as part of his “ministerial duty” of signing papers.

“I don’t want to sow intrigue.

It’s better if you ask him about it,” Hontiveros said.

Zubiri did not respond to reporters’ questions about the matter.

Hontiveros said she would rather not think that Zubiri was doing Quiboloy a favor because both of them come from Mindanao. (Philstar.com)

A8 FEBRUARY 17-20, 2024 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • FEBRUARY 17-20, 2024 B1

WKND

Saturday, FEBRUARY 17, 2024

LIFESTYLE CO N S U M E R G U I D E COMMUNIT Y MARKETPLACE

Stuck in the Philippines: Mommy Connie’s journey back to the US with the guidance of Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel on Citizen Pinoy this Sunday IN 2017, Mommy Connie returned to the Philippines for a vacation and medical checkup.

However, it was not until 2018 that she discovered her green card was missing. By the time it was found in 2019, it had already expired, leaving her stranded in the Philippines for an extended period, exacerbated by the global pandemic.

Concerns loomed over the potential classification of Mommy Connie’s green card as “abandoned.”

The expiration of her green card posed a threat to the petition for her other daughters, a process they had been patiently waiting for a decade.

Dianne, Mommy Connie’s daughter, undertook extensive research to find a solution. Discovering the possibility of an SB-1 visa for residents who overstayed outside the U.S., the family attempted to secure an interview at the U.S. Embassy, only to be thwarted by pandemic-related closures.

In a stroke of fate, Dianne stumbled upon Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel’s episode on his U.S. Immigration TV YouTube channel, offering hope to green card holders stuck abroad due to COVID-19.

After her initial consultation with Atty. Gurfinkel, Dianne felt that he was too expensive and decided to consult with three other lawyers, who told her that her mother’s case was hopeless.

Dianne (left) researched all resources available to help her Mommy Connie (right) be able to return to the U.S. despite her expired green card.

Despite initial budget constraints, Dianne eventually retained the services of Attorney Gurfinkel in February 2023. The family decided to have Mommy Connie fly to the U.S. with a stopover in Doha, Qatar, where she was not allowed to board in Doha.

On her second attempt via a direct flight with Philippine Airlines, she was not allowed to board due to her expired green card.

Attorney Gurfinkel tirelessly investigated the reasons behind the repeated denials. Convinced that there was no justifiable reason for the refusals, the family made another attempt in May 2023. This time, Mommy Connie successfully boarded a flight to New York, where she was allowed entry by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection at JFK. Mommy Connie’s perseverance paid off as she not only renewed her green card but also safeguarded the petition for her other daughters, providing an inspiring example of overcoming adversity in the pursuit of the American dream.

Watch this success story on a brand-new episode of Citizen Pinoy on Sunday, February 18 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite Mommy Connie (extreme left) was able to return to the U.S. on providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. Citizen her third try, with the help of leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may Michael J. Gurfinkel. download the free app.

(Advertising Supplement)

STUCK IN THE PHILIPPINES: MOMMY CONNIE RETURNS TO THE U.S. DESPITE PANDEMIC CHALLENGES AND AN EXPIRED GREEN CARD, ON A BRAND-NEW SUCCESS STORY ON CITIZEN PINOY THIS SUNDAY! Mommy Connie (center) is a green card holder (LPR) but returned to the Philippines in 2017 for a vacation. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, she was unable to return to the U.S. in time. The COVID-19 pandemic and an expired green card made it even more difficult to return at once. She had also petitioned her daughters, and those petitions could be in jeopardy if she “abandoned” her green card by overstaying outside the U.S. Her daughter, Dianne (left), consulted with leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel (right) after she watched an episode on Atty. Gurfinkel’s YouTube channel, U.S. Immigration TV Channel, where he discussed that there was hope for cases where green card holders were stuck in the Philippines due to COVID, and could not return. With the help of Atty. Gurfinkel, she was able to board her flight to New York and return to the U.S., where she was able to renew her green card and managed to keep the petitions for her other daughters alive. Watch this success story on a brand-new episode of Citizen Pinoy on Sunday, February 18 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo.

(Advertising Supplement)

Daniela Stranner: Actress on the rise DANIELA Stranner is quickly emerging as one of the prominent stars in Philippine entertainment what with her remarkable talent and versatility.

“I fell in love with acting after my first project,” Stranner said.

She demonstrated her acting prowess early in her career, starring in her first project on the small screen, the primetime soap “Make It With You” with Liza Soberano and Enrique Gil. She was also part of the miniseries “Fractured,” with Francine Diaz

and Seth Fedelin, and “Tara, G!,” alongside Kaori Oinuma and Anthony Jennings.

Stranner’s silver screen debut with “Love at First Stream,” opposite Anthony Jennings, directed by Cathy GarciaMolina, solidified her standing as a promising talent. Her performance in the movie earned her a nomination for Best Actress at the Metro Manila Film Festival The young actress has been captivating in 2021. audiences with her remarkable talent and “I like to do my own thing, study versatility.

Photo from Instagram/@ danielastrannerrr PAGE B5

B2 FEBRUARY 17-20, 2024 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

Xyriel Manabat sold fish balls, enjoyed ‘normal’ life during showbiz hiatus

By Kathleen a. llemit Philstar.com

IT was a conscious decision for Xyriel Manabat to take a break from the limelight and live like a regular, private citizen for six years.

The recently-turned 20-yearold showed how she has grown from being the wonder child to a mature young adult as she spoke beyond her years while answering questions from the press. She celebrated her 20th birthday last January 27.

Xyriel was last seen in the popular afternoon drama “Wildflower” in 2017. She then took a break and was seen again in another nightly revenge melodrama “Dirty Linen” in 2023.

“Kinailangan ko rin po ‘yun para mag-grow, para mas makilala ko ‘yung sarili ko. Mas malaman ko ‘yung mga limits ko, mas malaman ko ‘yung strength ko. And para mag-mature ako

Xyriel Manabat Photo from Instagram/@xyrielmanabat_

ng ganito, marami po akong pinagdaanan sa loob ng six years na ‘yun,” the former child actress said.

Normal life As she talked about how she

lived her life those six years, Xyriel’s eyes beamed, as if recalling a wonderful time in her life as just regular Xyriel, not the child star who carried the show opposite the formidable Coney Reyes in “100 Days to Heaven.”

“Lahat ng pwede kong matutunan: nag-bike, nag-luto, nag-bake, namalengke, nagjogging. Sumama sa pagtitinda, nag-tinda ng fishball, fries.

Tumulong kay mama maghimay ng saging. Tumambay, maglipas ng buong araw sa kwarto.

Mag-print ng napakaraming walang kwentang papel,” she enumerated.

“Alam n’yo po ‘yun? Gusto ko lang ma-maximize ‘yung araw na [masabing], ‘Im living’,” she added.

Xyriel’s acting reputation precedes her as she revealed that offers were made from her home network, ABS-CBN, and even from other networks, but the then teenage Xyriel chose to PAGE B7

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DILG, MMDA, Metro Manila mayors meet in HiFi; ConGen Farewell Cup gathers golfers for a good cause In the Mix

Mic Diaz MEMBERS of the Philippine Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and Metro Manila Mayors converged at the Filipino American Community of Los Angeles (FACLA) headquarters in Historic Filipinotown last Tuesday, January 30.

Headed by Secretary of DILG Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos, Jr., the Philippine delegation was in Los Angeles to meet with local city officials in Los Angeles and Orange counties and learn about emergency response and disaster risk reduction and management programs that they may be able to implement in their own local districts and areas of jurisdiction in Metro Manila.

Secretary of DILG Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos, Jr. shared with Filipinos present at FACLA the various programs that President Ferdinand “Bonging” Marcos, Jr. and his local government has implemented. The Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan (BIDA) Program aims to reduce drug demand, to promote communitybased rehabilitation and to improve awareness by utilizing information, education and communication materials.

DILG Staff were present alongside Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Atty. Don Artes and other MMDA staff.

The Metro Manila Mayors who were present were San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora who is also the president of the Metro Manila Council, Caloocan City Mayor Dale Gonzalo Malapitan, Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval, Muntinlupa City Mayor Ruffy Biazon, Navotas City Mayor John Reynald Tiangco, Pasay City Mayor Imelda CalixtoRubiano and Pateros Mayor Miguel Ponce.

They were accompanied by Vice Mayors such as Pasay City Vice Mayor Waldetrudes Del Rosario who also represents the Metro Manila Vice Mayors’ League, Mandaluyong City Vice Mayor Carmelita “Menchie” Abalos, Caloocan City Councilor Carolyn Cunanan who also represents the Metro Manila Councilors’ League and Vice Mayor of Las Piñas April Aguilar Nery.

Philippine Consul General of Los Angeles Honorable Edgar Badajos, his vice consuls, deputies and staff were also present to guide the Philippine delegation and to make sure the program ran smoothly.

City of Artesia Councilmember Melissa Ramoso presented a city pin to Secretary Abalos while Moises “Jun” Aglipay, Jr. presented a certificate of recognition from the office of California Assemblymember Mike Gipson to Secretary Abalos.

Local public officials such as Councilmember Ramoso, City of Santa Ana Councilmember Phil Bacerra, City of Los Angeles Board of Transportation Commissioner Cris Liban, and

The Philippine delegation with City of Artesia Councilmember Melissa Ramoso (6th from left).

DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos (left) with City of Artesia Councilmember Melissa Ramoso.

DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos (left) with Moises “Jun’ Aglipay, Jr.

MMDA and MMFF Chairman Atty. Don Artes leading the toast to the Philippine delegation and Fil-Am community.

FACLA officers and members led by president Trinity Foliente (seated, 5th from left) pose for a photo with DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos (seated, 4th from left).

FACLA president Trinity Foliente with San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora.

DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos (right) with Mary Maceda.

Photos by Joey Yumul

City of Los Angeles Commissioner of Public Works Susanna Reyes were present.

Representatives of local Filipino American organizations such as Trinity Foliente, Dr. Lourdes Capulong and Mr. Aguayon of FACLA, which hosted the event, Redy Babasa-Thompson of the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce Greater Los Angeles, Lissa Pacheco-Chow of the Filipino American Press Club of California, Jucevi Virtudes of SoCal Filipinos and the Asian American Press Club of the U.S., and Fred Docdocil of Mabuhay

Credit Union were in attendance, among others.

Longtime resident and champion for Historic Filipinotown and owner of Park’s Finest Johneric Concordia provided everyone with a sumptuous meal that included Mama Leah’s Coconut Beef Adobo, Baby Back Pork, Salmon and Coconut Jackfruit and Mushroom Adobo. *** Golf enthusiasts from all Southern California assembled at Brookside Gold Club in Pasadena PAGE B3

Kim Chiu turns emotional talking about moving on, acceptance

by Jessica ann evangelista Inquirer.net

KIM Chiu broke down in tears as she shared her sentiments about moving on, saying acceptance is key, even if it’s painful.

During the “Expecially for You” segment of It’s Showtime on Valentine’s Day, February 14, the TV hosts were touched by the story of a contestant named Fe who shared about separating from her husband after he cheated on her, yet she accepted him again seven years later given her love for him and their children. The husband, however, died during the pandemic.

Vice Ganda first offered his sentiments on the topic, saying moving on from the death of a loved one is a difficult process.

“Kapag nawalan ka ng mahal sa buhay, pinipilit mong magmove on pero kahit san ka pumunta at kahit anong gawin mo, nakikita’t nararamdaman mo siya. Pupunta ka sa mall, gusto mo mag-enjoy, pero nararamdaman at naaalala mo siya,” he said.

Chiu then pitched in and

Kim Chiu

remarked that everything that’s happening in people’s lives is meant to happen and that it is easy when they accept this mindset.

“Tsaka lahat ng nangyayari sa buhay natin, ‘di naman yon by chance or by accident. Lahat naman ng nangyayari sa buhay natin is written. Ginawa na ‘yon bago pa man tayo pinanganak.

Mas madaling tanggapin ang

Photo from Instagram/@chinitaprincess

lahat ng bagay,” the actress said while in tears.

The “Pinoy Big Brother” alumna underscored that the contestant’s life event was an example of how a situation that is meant to happen shapes someone’s personality.

“So, parang lahat ng nangyayari sa bawat tao, like si Mommy Fe, hindi naman PAGE B3

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • FEBRUARY 17-20, 2024 B3

It is time you make these New Year’s ‘skin resolutions’ Beauty Talk with Imee

ConGen Farewell Cup players on the golf course.

DILG, MMDA, Metro Manila mayors...

Imee Ong-maghanOy WOW, It is 2024!

Is it just me, or don’t you all get the feeling that time passes more quickly now than it ever did? Not too long ago we were just welcoming the year 2023, and before I knew it, we are now entering–yet again – another year!

I don’t know but maybe being in the beauty and cosmetics industry, you tend to notice more of these nuances, so to speak. It’s like seeing exactly how time can either be your greatest enemy or your best ally when it comes to your skin – I most certainly see the latter. Because, after all, it is what I do as an aesthetician –– I help you achieve your best skin at any age as if time has been very kind to you no matter how much of it has passed. BUT this (just like every other good thing) takes commitment, work and wisdom.

Allow me to engage you in some skin-wisdom we would like to call “Skin resolutions” for a more beautiful 2024-version of you.

Having healthy and greatlooking skin is tantamount to how you take care of it. And you do so by knowing first of all, what normally keeps your skin tissues in its optimum state and condition. This is where we encounter the word “collagen.”

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body. It provides structure, support or strength to your skin, muscles, bones and connective tissues. This protein helps in the production of new cells in your middle skin layer (dermis), plays a role in replacing dead skin cells, and gives structure, strength and elasticity

Philippine cinema icon Hilda Koronel, a valued client of iSkin.

to your skin, among other vital functions. As we age (and we all do), your body produces less collagen, and existing collagen breaks down at a faster rate. The collagen is also lower in quality compared to when you were younger. This brings us to the our main goal of how we train our bodies to support collagen production to maintain that youthful state of our skin.

We all know this but it is worth repeating: A well-balanced diet rich in Vitamin C, Zinc, Glycine, Proline and Copper will significantly help in supporting collagen-production.

Lifestyle changes such as avoiding exposure to ultraviolet light, eating too much sugar and refined carbs, and smoking are essential if you want to see changes in your skin (look naturally glowing even look younger over time, fresh-looking and just loving the skin you are in). This process may take time especially after menopausal stage and for those who have had unpleasant lifestyle habits to begin with. But IT CAN BE DONE… And HAS BEEN DONE to clients who want to look and feel good when they see their reflection in the mirror. We have been doing this for years

and it is not a one-size-fits-all approach. We customize our treatment based on your skin’s needs whether it be dermal fillers, collagen supplements, vitamin-infused facials or facial contouring that are centered on collagen boosting components – name it, we’ve customized it all and made it work to our clients’ satisfaction.

One of our valued client who is a prominent celebrity and one of the most beautiful faces in Philippine cinema is Hilda Koronel. *** Known to several Filipino-American awarding circles, Imee has recently been awarded the “Premier in Beauty and Skin Treatment.” for iSkin Face and Body Spa. She maintains a monthly beauty column on Asian Journal, and a YouTube Channel, “Beauty Talk With Imee.”

Imee Ong-Maghanoy is an established aesthetician, a business owner and CEO of iSkin Beverly Hills, iSkin MedSpa and MiSkin MedSpa. Imee has been in the aesthetics industry for more than 20 years. She has a degree in Biology and Doctor of Dental Medicine. iSkin MedSpa and MiSkin MedSpa are fast emerging as a top spa destination in LA. iSkin is located at 8665 Wilshire Blvd penthouse Beverly Hills, CA 90211. MiSkin MedSpa is located at 9227 Haven Ave. Suite 120 in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, 91370.

Kim Chiu turns emotional talking...

PAGE B2 nangyari ang paghihiwalay nila by accident. Sadyang itinadhana ‘yon and then binalik sa kanya, and then tinanggal uli sa kanya,

Photos by Mic Diaz and Mike Buenagua

and that made her strong,” she declared.

Chiu and her boyfriend of 11 years, Xian Lim, called it quits last December. Prior to

the announcement of their breakup, however, Lim was being linked to his nowrumored new girlfriend, Iris Lee. g

PAGE B2 for what is probably Philippine Consul General Edgar Badajos’s last send-off golf tournament on Saturday, February 3.

Organized by tournament director and San Fernando Valley Golf Club president Charlie Bonilla, Bradelinas Foundation Chairman of the Board Felicito Buenagua and Filipino American Community of Los Angeles president Trinity Foliente, this golf meet aimed to raise funds for a nonprofit organization, Bradelinas Foundation.

The foundation intends to accelerate the reduction of extreme poverty, to reverse the polarizing effects of social media by disseminating facts and to restore trust through community service and dialogue, feeding programs, medical and dental missions, and supporting learning centers.

Consul General Edgar Badajos, as he completed his “18th hole,” urged attendees to “continue being connected to our homeland and to never tire of helping countrymen back home.”

To augment Bradelinas fundraising efforts, a Close to the Pin Fundraiser awaited the golfers at Par 3.

This fun-filled event presided

by Bonilla welcomed golf contenders from various organizations such as Philippine Military Academy of Southern California and Rotary Club of Historic Filipinotown led by Macky Fortu, United Fil-Am Golf Association led by Freddie Castañeda, Birdie Buddies led

by Jigs De Guzman, University of the East Alumni Association led

by Frank Vergara, Lions Brilliant Club led by Nick Delicana, and United Pinoy Association led by Angelo Hernal.

Bradelinas Foundation Board of Directors members Mark Anthony Bonnet, Cesar Canonizado and Floraine Domingo lent a helping hand with the program and snacks for everyone while media practitioner and board member

Consul General Edgar Badajos’ ceremonial tee-off.

Bradelinas Foundation Board of Directors at the tourney with ConGen Badajos (3rd from left).

ConGen Farewell Cup players at the pre-game ceremony.

ConGen Farewell Cup tournament director Charlie Bonilla (extreme left) gives some remarks during the ceremony.

ConGen Farewell Cup organizers with ConGen Edgar Badajos (4th from left).

of the Filipino American Press Club Mic Diaz hosted the pregame ceremonies.

The board members of Bradelinas Foundation invite everyone to visit www. bradelinas.com to learn about the foundation’s undertakings.

*** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. *** micdiazpresents@gmail.com

B4 FEBRUARY 17-20, 2024 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS The founders and board members of the Manila International Film Festival – Omen Ortiz (chairman/co-founder), Ebradu Udarbe (president/co-founder), Lisa Lew (executive producer/co-founder), Ruben Nepales (media consultant/co-founder), Janet Nepales (media consultant/co-founder), Celia Abaya Dy (ticketing manager/co-founder), Leo Dela Cruz (chief financial officer), Erickson Ilog (chief operations officer), Ron Ramores (chief marketing officer), and Meriden Angeles (coordinating producer) – would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our friends, sponsors, volunteers, media and community partners who made the inaugural MIFF a success!

Mabuhay ang Pelikulang Pilipino!

Panels and Workshops Filmmakers Breakfast: Atty. Romando Artes - Metro Manila Film Festival Atty. Rochelle Ona - Metro Manila Film Festival Atty. Joji Alonso -Kampon Francis De La Torre - DGA, Almost Paradise Bryan Diamante - Mallari Quark Henares - Where Is The Lie (Marupok AF) Perci Intalan - Becky and Badette Anthony Francisco - Groot Patricio Ginelsa - Lumpia With A Vengeance Michele Josue - Happy Jail, Nurse Unseen Robert Balthazar NBCUniversal Erika North - Rise Media/ Amazon Studios Asia Faith Santilla, DGA Mark Arbitrario, PGA Robert Balthazar Anthony Francisco Pepe Diokno Karishma Gidwani Patricio Ginelsa Quark Henares Perci Intalan Marie Jamora Michele Josue Sumalee Montano SAG-AFTRA Actors Panel: Giselle Tongi, FilAm Arts Patricia Salumbides, SAGAFTRA Boots Anson-Roa John Arcilla Joanna Bacalso Dante Basco Jon Jon Briones Melody Butiu Eugene Cordero Enchong Dee Carlin James Reggie Lee Vincent Rodriguez III Jason Rogel

How to Award Season: An Insider’s Guide to Position Your FIlm and TV Project for Awards David Magdael Annalee Paulo Producing Your Next Project In The Philippines: Presented with the FDCP Hon. Benjamin Abalos Mari Acevedo Mark Arbitrario Cece Asuncion Tirso Cruz, III, FDCP Michele Josue Joey Reyes, FDCP Cinematographers’ Panel: Michael Shugrue Mark Irwin, ASC Andrej Bartkowiak, ASC Steven Shaw, ASC Ueli Steiger, ASC Alexandra Cha, ASC Jacek Lasku, ASC ABS-CBN Adam Biggs Adam Lang AEON Medical Equipment & Supplies Alex Lowe Alex Pineda ALIN Cargo Express Aliza Ojalo Always VIP Service Amarone Kitchen & Bar Restaurant American Ranch & Seafood Market Andy Tecson Angel Quinsay Anna-Marie Josue Arambulo Live Ari Juson Arko Arkopolis (DJ Mikko Palon) Artelice Patisserie Ashley McQueston Asian Journal Asian World Film Festival Atlas Lens Co. Balita Barbaros Tapan Bianca Nicole Nepales Birns & Sawyer Blackout Security

BMC Films Café 86 Camaya Coast Beach Properties Care Pharmacy, Inc. Caren Flores Carlotta Films Chastity Monterola Tax Care Basic Services Cher Calvin Chic Compass Magazine Chime TV Chris Trondsen Christian Reasonda Christine Araquel-Concordia Cora and Roger Oriel Coverfly Crème Caramel LA D1 Productions David Maquiling Dessa Diamond Management Directors Guild of America Don Papa Rum Dr. Valerie Guevara Dy and Celia Dy Drea Castro Dyana Ceballos Ed Rame Eisel Serrano Elton Lugay Emmanuel Munda Enzo Apalit Eric Corrales Eric Militello Eseel Borlasa FACE Fe Koons Fiesta Fastfood FilAm Arts FilAm Creative FilAm News Film Development Council of the Philippines Final Draft Fidelia Hospice Flor Aque Gabriel Britz Gabriel Lerman Garth Garcia GeoCel Enterprises, Inc. Gerry’s Grill Gian Barbarona Gil Quito Ginger Dimapasoc Ginger Po Giselle Tongi GMA-7

GMA Pinoy TV Helena Wirth Cakes Helping Hands of Beverly Hills HiFi Kitchen Holiday Inn Long Beach Ice House Ideal Medical Group Ignition Films Imee and Richard Maghanoy Irene Soriano Isidric Panganiban iSkin Med Spa of Beverly Hills Island Pacific Inquirer.net Janet Alino Janice Javier Jannelle So Jason Lustina Jazz Tangcay JC Caparas Jeff Francisco Jennilyn Abrot Jet Transport Joe Cobilla Joel Lagoyan John Eric Concordia Jordan Zandonatti Joy Marino Julian Bataclan Jun and Minda Chin Jush Andowitt Justin Foronda Kaladkaren Katie Ortiz Kevin Hynes KJ Matthews Kristine De La Cruz Kristen Surla Kristy Rosacia Kyle Soeltz Laderach-Chocolatier Suisse Leah Anova Leo Bato Lisa Ha Liz Diaz De Leon Lyndon Apostol Lorillee Paras Los Angeles Fire Department Los Angeles Police Department Lydia Solis Malou Kamradt Manila Inasal Manila Up Mano Y Mano Media Mark Arbitrario Mark Labella Mari Acevedo Marie Jamora

Mark Dacascos Marvin Aritrangco Mason Max & Lucy’s Baked Goods Max Pro Group MB Financial & Insurance Services Megaworld Metro Manila Film Festival Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Michael Sullberg Wines Michelle Narvaez Mike Miguel MJ Racadio Montemaria Cellars Moses Park MTB Event Rentals MTB Furniture MYX TV Myhraliza Aala Nadja Gaerlan Naeemah Fukuda Narra Naty Pappas NBC Universal Launch Naiia Lajoie Newport World Resort Nichole Alvarez Nilo Sembrano Nimfa Rueda Nomsi Nurture State Floristry Oliver Carnay Pacific Rim Press Park’s Finest Peter Go Peter Gonzaga Philippine Consulate General of Los Angeles Philippine News Philippine Post Phirst PHLV Radio Power Up Workpool Inc. Prosy dela Cruz Randall Kamradt Ray and Valerie Mangune Red Carpet Connections Reggie Lee Reyza Villarica River Rock Films RLC Residences Rodney Cajudo Rosie Chua Rovyn Bautista San Diego Filipino Cinema Sanzo

Sarah Park Seafood City SIPA Smart Care Mobile Examiner Inc. Smart Care Independent Physician Association Smart Productions Smart Realty Ko. SMDC SoCal Filipinos Sonia Bermejo St. Luke’s Hospice, Inc. Sthanlee B. Mirador Starlink Promotions, LLC Steven Lam Sumalee Montano Sur LA Creative Sushikoto Tadeo Paras Tang & Java Gelato & Coffee Taptap and Chris Camacho Tax Care Basic Inc. TCL Chinese 6 Theatres Ted Benito Thato Mothobi The Lounge Booth TFC Tres Marias The Bookkeepers R Us The Centerstage Productions The Embotidos The Foothills Paper Tia Carrere Tommy de los Reyes Tony Garcia Traveler’s Medical Transport Trending Beverages Troy Laureta Troy Munson TV Talk Amy Valerie Dy Guevara Val Abelgas Van Dichoso Variety Vicinal Logistics and Facilitation Victoria Recano Viktorya Minaudiere Vince Paul-Boncour Vitality Furniture Wellness Goddess Warriors Winston Emano Yamashiro Hollywood

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Lent: A heightened season of grace Pastor’s Notes ReveRend Rodel G. BalaGtas THE Lenten season has commenced! Traditionally, it is viewed as a time of sacrifice, a period in which we forgo certain worldly pleasures and devote more time to prayer. While this is true, let us not overlook the joy, promise, and transformative effects that Lent can bring into our lives.

A fellow priest once described it as an adventure, an exciting opportunity to foster a deeper connection with God. Personally, I see it as a heightened moment of grace, characterized by both joy and inner transformation.

I wholeheartedly extend an invitation to embrace this promising season of grace willfully, earnestly, and enthusiastically.

As we commence this First Sunday of Lent, our Readings prompt us to reflect upon the joy inherent in God’s promise. The legendary account of Noah and the Ark serves as a testament to God’s covenant with all creation. His authority extends over the world and our lives, symbolized by the rainbow in

the sky, signifying His covenant with Noah, his descendants, and all living beings. God has not abandoned humanity; the rainbow serves as a reminder to Him of this covenant, not to us. Just as God saved Noah and the animals from the Great Flood, He will also deliver future generations from a tumultuous world.

Our psalm readings this Sunday, specifically Psalm 25, affirm God’s covenant: “Remember that your compassion, O Lord, and your love are from of old. In your kindness, remember me because of your goodness, O Lord.”

The Second Reading delves deeper into this message of hope. Through Christ’s death and resurrection, we have been cleansed of sin and gifted with a new life. Dianne Bergant, CSA, in collaboration with Richard Fragomeni in Preaching the New Lectionary, explains: “Just as Noah saved others from the devastating waters of the flood, so Christ saved humanity from the ultimate destruction of separation from God. Just as those in the ark had to endure the flood to enter a new creation, Christians must pass through the waters of baptism to embrace a renewed conscience.

Baptism is not merely a simple cleansing, but a transformative experience.”

The Gospel according to Mark

(1:12-15) may be short, but it holds profound symbols and meanings. The desert, despite being a place of wilderness and temptation, also symbolizes purification, renewal, strength, fidelity, and commitment, as demonstrated by Jesus in his resistance to the devil’s temptations.

The forty-day period of fasting calls upon us to approach Lent with a disciplined heart, mind, and spirit of conversion, knowing that doing so can lead us to freedom and joy. Jesus’ proclamation of the Gospel after praying and fasting for forty days in the desert signifies the arrival of God’s kingdom, which Israel has been eagerly anticipating, contingent upon a change of heart (known as metanoia) and acceptance of the Good News that he preached.

Let us embrace the Lenten season with faith, gratitude, and an open heart. May this period of sacrifice and reflection grant us the opportunity to grow closer to God and experience the joy and transformation it brings to our lives. *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. *** Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas is the pastor of Incarnation Church in Glendale, California.

Speakers exhort newly-formed Fil-Am press club to foster hopes to the Fil-Am community From My Point of View dan e. nino NORWALK, CA – Despite the short preparation, the inaugural induction and gala night of newly-formed Philippine Global Media Group was fruitfully carried out at the Double Tree Hotel by Hilton on Feb. 10 in this city, 20 miles southeast from Los Angeles.

Filipino-American community influencers, business leaders,

elected officials and journalists from both Southern California and the Philippines rubbed elbows on a chilly night.

The evening was also a forum where Consul General Edgar B. Badajos bade goodbye and delivered an insightful, erudite and profound speech before an appreciate A-Lister crowd of 130 attendees. The top diplomat in Los Angeles will be reassigned to another post in April.

Among the luminaries who graced the event were Artesia former mayor and current Councilmember Melissa Ramoso, Carson Councilmember Arleen Rojas, West Covina Councilmember Ollie D. Cantos, VII, former Cerritos two-time

Mayor Mark Pulido, Los Angeles Assembly candidate Jessica M. Caloza, former National Press Club of the Philippines and Philippine News Today editorin-chief, Alfred G. Gabot, and Johhny Itliong, son of the late labor leader icon Larry Itliong.

Congen Badajos said, “I congratulate the founders of this group for their vision and initiative to create a platform that brings together some of the best minds in the media industry. I applaud the first batch of officers of PGMG for taking on the challenge of leading this group. You are off to a good start because your officers and members include seasoned PAGE B6

Is it time to update your California revocable trust?

Barrister’s Corner atty. Kenneth URsUa Reyes IT is a good idea to review your existing revocable trust if the terms and provisions are still current. A revocable living trust is a cornerstone of a comprehensive estate plan in California. Its flexibility allows you to adjust your wishes through life’s ups and downs. But how do you actually make those changes? This is typically done by amending a revocable trust in California, delving into the process and common areas of modification.

California Probate Code Section 15401 outlines two primary methods for amending a revocable trust: 1. Following the Trust’s Instructions: Many trusts specify their own amendment procedures. Read your trust carefully. If it outlines specific steps, follow them precisely.

These may involve signing an amendment form, notifying beneficiaries, or obtaining specific consents.

2. If the trust is silent on amendments, you can follow the general procedure for amending the revocable trust.

This is done by drafting an Amendment Documents, Sign and Notarize, and Deliver to the Trustee.

The common terms that are

updated through an amendment to the revocable trust are: 1.

Beneficiaries: Adding, removing, or changing beneficiary designations is a frequent amendment. Ensure new beneficiaries meet any stipulated qualifications and consider tax implications.

2. Distribution Provisions: You can modify how and when assets are distributed, for example, by adding contingencies or creating trusts within the main trust for specific beneficiaries.

3. Trustee Appointment or Removal: Changing trustees due to incapacity, resignation, or your preferences requires careful attention to detail and ensuring a smooth transition.

4. Asset Transfers: Adding or removing assets from the trust involves understanding titling procedures and ensuring proper documentation.

While amending a trust may seem straightforward, legal technicalities and potential pitfalls lurk beneath the surface. Consulting an experienced California estate planning attorney is highly recommended. They can draft a legally sound amendment document, protecting your intentions, advise you on potential tax consequences of your changes, ensure compliance with all legal requirements and formalities, and navigate complex situations involving incapacitated beneficiaries or disagreements among family members.

A revocable trust offers incredible flexibility, allowing

you to adapt your estate plan as circumstances change.

Understanding the amendment process and commonly modified terms empowers you to make informed decisions about your future. Remember, while some basic amendments may be feasible on your own, seeking professional guidance ensures your wishes are accurately and legally reflected in your trust. *** Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice.

The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information.

This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed.

The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, APC. This article is not a solicitation. *** Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. He is founder and Managing Partner of LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, APC located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kenneth@kenreyeslaw.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com.

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Daniela Stranner: Actress on...

PAGE B1 my own character, and build my own character,” Stranner said. Asked if she’s open to having a love team, her response was: “I don’t really want to be stuck with one person because I want to explore.

I want to be the type of actress who wants to work with everyone.”

Most recently, Stranner took on the challenging role of Zyra Aguerro in the television drama “Senior High.” Her portrayal garnered widespread acclaim, as her ability to breathe depth into her character captured attention and resonated with audiences.

She expressed that she liked antagonist a roles because she “gets to explore different emotions.”

However, she also shared her desire to return to romantic comedy and play a character reminiscent of Toni Gonzaga in her favorite Filipino movie,

“Starting Over Again.”

Continuing her streak of compelling performances, Stranner is set to star in”Pamilya Sagrado” alongside Piolo Pascual, Kyle Echarri and Grae Fernandez.

Beyond her acting endeavors, Stranner is a soccer varsity player. “Growing up, I was boyish. That’s why I got into soccer. I used to compete in regional tournaments for soccer,” she shared. This insight into her personal life offers a glimpse into the array of interests and experiences that define her, hinting at even more to discover.

With her undeniable talent and impressive track record — from notable roles in television series to acclaimed performances in films — Stanner’s journey in the industry is gaining momentum.

(ManilaTimes.net)

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Filing bankruptcy again?

What you need to know Pictured are the officers and board members of the Philippine Global Media Group being inducted by Los Angeles Consul General Edgar B. Badajos (extreme left). From left to right: Val G. Abelgas, Manny Ilagan, Dan E. Niño,Bobby Crisostomo, Lydia V. Solis, Rick Gavino, Ruben Nepales, Meh Guevarra, Joe Cobilla, Marc Pijuan, Julian Oriel, and Abner Galino. Several of the officers not shown in photo were in the Philippines during the day of the Induction.

Photo by Noel Ty

Speakers exhort newly-formed Fil-Am...

PAGE B5 journalists, veteran media practitioners who are also community leaders who have the expertise, experience and passion to deliver quality and relevant news to the public.”

The veteran diplomat who sheepishly joked that he was reminded of Proctor and Gamble because of PGMG’s acronym, said, “I don’t know the work plan of PGMG or what are its specific objectives, but I hope that one of them is to stop or prevent the spread of fake news as well as reports that are inaccurate and in some cases outright unethical.”

“These types of news and reports,” he elaborated “pose a serious threat to our community, and even more to your profession because they can mislead, manipulate and polarize the audience, erode trusts in institutions, and undermine democracy.”

The consul general who is also a writer in his own right, believe that one way of combatting fake news is to evaluate the credibility of news sources.

“Credibility is the quality of being trustworthy, reliable and authoritative. It is based on factors such as reputation, expertise and transparency of the source.”

He exhorted that journalists themselves have a big role to play in this endeavor. He emphasized, “They should not only uphold the highest standards of quality, integrity and accountability in their own work, but also help their audience to apply those standards to other news sources. They should not only verify their sources, fact-check their stories, correct their errors and disclose any conflict of interest but also enhancing their own credibility and relevance. They can demonstrate that they are not just purveyors of information, but also guide the public.”

“You are not just creating a media group, you are creating a community. You are not just providing news, you are providing hope, you are not just reporting facts, you are telling stories.”

The Abra lawyer turned diplomat concluded his speech by quoting Irish poet and playwright Oscar Wilde. “In America, the president reigns for four years but journalism governs forever and ever.”

As an afterthought, in a somber tone, he said, “Friends I won’t say goodbye for now, but till we meet again.”

The newly-installed PGMG president Val Abelgas in his acceptance speech said, “It is with humility and pride that I accept the mantle of leadership of this media group. It aspires to contribute in its own way to the hopes of Filipinos here in our adopted land, more particularly here in Southern California, to achieve the political and economic empowerment our community richly deserves. To be able to do that, we felt that we, as journalists, need to bind together and set goals on how we can

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help the Filipino community become an even more relevant and important part of American society.”

The first PGMG president lamented the rising costs and dwindling revenues caused by the advent of internet. Community newspapers, particularly those catering to the Filipino market, are ailing.

Filipino newspapers that continue to survive are forced to reduce the number of pages and copies, while many are forced to either shut down or stop printing and stay digital, just like Philippine Post.”

He continued, “But the bigger problem is that almost all the Filipino newspapers that stay in print had to sub-contract editorial functions to the Philippine-based journalists, who do not have a grasp of what’s really happening in the community nor feel of the pulse of Filipinos here in the U.S. We totally understand that publishers have to cut down costs. But as longtime journalists, we at the PGMG feel that we have to do something to reverse the trend.”

“We also noticed that many of the Filipino journalists have either retired or have passed away, just leaving just a few trained and experienced journalists to chronicle the Filipino community’s challenges and successes in this adopted land.

Even some Filipino organizations have died natural deaths because the aging members failed to inspire their young generation to embrace the history and culture of the home country, the Philippines, so that they could continue to lead their parents’ Filipino organizations.”

“That’s where PGMG hopes to help. We plan to imbibe, through our publications and writings, the love for the Philippines, help the young generation understand and appreciate the rich history and heritage of the Homeland, so that they can take the mantle of leadership of our community from their parents and grandparents.”

“We also plan to find and train young Filipinos who will take over from us in the doming years. Let me also call for the Filipino community, particularly its business leaders, to please support all Filipino newspapers in your respective communities.”

T.J. Manotoc, the ABS-CBN North America News Bureau Chief who was the inspirational speaker decried AI (Artificial Intelligence)-powered algorithm on its bad influence on social media that lead to misinformation and manipulation.”

He said, “We have to remind ourselves of our role and responsibility as journalists: our passion to inform, educate, inspire and foster hope.” *** 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. *** denino1951@gmail.com

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Minding Your Finances Atty. RAymond BulAon IF you’ve ever had to file bankruptcy in the past for whatever reason, you probably told yourself that hopefully, you never have to do it again ever.

But sometimes you never know where life takes you and if you ever find yourself in a financial bind where bankruptcy becomes necessary again, fear not. It is not your fault – and there is no reason to feel bad or sorry for yourself. Here’s what you need to know if you’re in that situation.

There is no shame in trying to protect yourself, your family and everything you own when the stakes are just too high, and you need to do what you need to do.

For example, a lot of people have been struggling financially since the pandemic started. All the government assistance helped, I’m sure, but that was all temporary.

A lot of people have lost their incomes and their businesses in the last two years and have not been able to pay their bills.

I’ve been asked by a lot of people lately about how often you can get bankruptcy relief, so I decided to write this article.

If you have filed bankruptcy before, you may be wondering whether it’s possible to do it again. Generally, the answer is that you can file bankruptcy as often as needed BUT subject to some limitations such as the

following. I will try to simplify but here are the general rules: • Consecutive same Chapter filings: If you are filing under the same bankruptcy “chapter” (7 or 13), the timing is critical.

If you are trying to file a Chapter 7 after you’ve already filed another Chapter 7 in the past, you need to wait 8 years from the date your last case was filed. For consecutive Chapter 13 filings – If you received a prior discharge in Chapter 13, you cannot receive a second discharge in any Chapter 13 case that is filed within 2 years from the date that your last case was filed.

• Chapter 13, then Chapter 7: If you obtained a prior discharge (i.e., a “debt wipe out”) under Chapter 13, you will not be allowed a second discharge in a subsequent Chapter 7 filing unless 6 years have passed from the filing of the Chapter 13 to the filing of your Chapter 7 case.

There is however an exception to this rule – you will be allowed a discharge in your current Chapter 7 case if you either paid all unsecured creditors in your past Chapter 13 case or you paid at least 70% of the unsecured claims and the plan represented your “best effort” and proposed in “good faith.”

• Chapter 7, then Chapter 13: If you discharged your debts in a prior Chapter 7, you cannot obtain another discharge in a subsequent Chapter 13 filing unless four years have passed since your Chapter 7 filing date. This doesn’t mean, however, that you cannot file a Chapter 13 if your intention is to pay creditors the best you can. It only means that since

there is no discharge available, whatever is not paid through your Chapter 13 plan will still be your liability. Now you may ask, “Why file a Chapter 13 then if a discharge is not available under these circumstances?”

The answer is that it depends on what your goals are in filing the current Chapter 13. For example, one reason for filing may be to get court protection while consolidating nondischargeable debts such as IRS taxes. Or it may be to stop a foreclosure and pay back the arrears through a 3- to 5-year payment plan.

There are other “tricky” rules you need to know about that apply to dismissals and conversions from one chapter to another, but I could just imagine how your head may be spinning by now trying to make sense of all these rules. The best thing to do if you are in a situation where you may need to file bankruptcy again (although you’ve already done so in the past) is to consult with a knowledgeable bankruptcy attorney who can analyze your case and provide correct guidance. ***

The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. *** None of the information herein is intended to give legal advice for any specific situation. Atty. Ray J. Bulaon has successfully helped over 6,000 clients in getting out of debt. For a free attorney evaluation of your situation, please call RJB Law Offices at TOLL FREE 1-866-471-8272.

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Enrique Gil shows why moving on is hard in ‘Nakaraan’ MV

By Jan Milo Severo Philstar.com

THE music video for “Nakaraan,” an official sound track from Enrique Gil’s comeback movie “I Am Not Big Bird,” has just been released.

Sung by Davao singer Joem, the track features scenes from

Gil’s comeback movie, which is currently showing in Philippine cinemas.

While “Nakaraan” is a soundtrack that one can listen to while riding on a bus and dramatically staring out the window, its official music video teases fans of the antics of Enrique and his co-stars, Nikko

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Natividad, Red Ollero and Pepe Herera, and their colorfully complicated “iyak-tawa” experiences in Bangkok.

Enrique is also seen in tearjerker scenes in the music video because, as they say, moving on is not linear.

The song has been making PAGE B7

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Galerie Joaquin brings top Enrique Gil shows why moving...

Filipino artists to LA Art Show GALERIE Joaquin, one of Manila’s most dynamic art galleries brings some of its leading artists to the L.A. Art Show which opened with a Vernissage on the 14th of February and runs from Thursday, February 15 to Sunday, February 18. It will be located at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

Some of the artists that Galerie Joaquin is bringing to L.A. are artists who capture a strong sense of Asian and Filipino sensibilities.

The concept of Galerie Joaquin’s participation is to serve as a cultural discourse to present some of the concerns, interests, and subjects expounded upon by its Filipino artists.

Some of these artworks take into account a nostalgic history of the Filipino colonial past such as the Spanish Colonial Period and the American Colonial Period as expounded upon by artist, Dominic Rubio. Rubio is considered one of the masters of Neo-genre art in the Philippines.

Also, delving into the nostalgic past is artist Almer Moneda. His black and white subjects through colorful backgrounds highlight forgotten cultures and practices of Filipinos. Self-taught artist, Alexander Calceta’s subjects are often extracted from daily life such as objects, gestures, and situations. He also explores other techniques and approaches like those of modernism by experimenting and combining classic art with modern to create a dynamic fusion.

Engulfed in a vast spectrum of verdure is Art Lozano’s emblematic vintage cars, symbolizing innovation and the development of the human condition. The absence of the

PAGE B6 waves since its release last February 9, captivating fans who attended the movie’s promotional mall tour where Joem performed it in front of thousands of viewers.

This was followed by airplays, from Manila’s largest radio stations, full-blown media pickups, TV and physical guestings.

Last February 13, Joem also graced the movie’s premiere night.

In the movie, Enrique Gil plays Luis who is going through a

breakup by traveling to Thailand but finds himself caught up in a case of mistaken identity.

“Nakaraan” captures the journey of Luis and the people who recently find themselves at the end of a relationship, being the ones who had been left behind.

It delves into the struggle to move forward when one’s heart remains anchored to the memories of a lost love.

Its relatable theme makes it a poignant anthem for those still navigating broken relationships. Enrique Gil

Philstar.com photo

Xyriel Manabat sold fish balls, enjoyed...

human figure in his illustrations further suggests and uncovers the mystery of adventure, hoping to imprint sentiments of courage, excitement, and diligence. RV Basco earnestly captures themes of resilience and empathy through figurative illustration, with recurring young characters as the primary subjects and perceivers of the artist’s anti-utopian terrene. Aljo Pingol focuses on the flower power generation of the 60s and the 70’s bringing them forward into today’s Modern and Contemporary world. A contemporary artist of the whimsical pop genre, Farley del Rosario rose to prominence with a series that riffed on classic art canon pieces and iconic

movie scenes, taking off from the familiar with his signature childlike flair. Errol Mendoza is an L.A.-based Filipino artist who has spent a lot of time in theater and opera but is now focused on developing his skills and talents as a visual artist.

“Timeless Reverie,” located at booth 415, runs from February 14 - 18, 2024. The L.A. Art Show is at the West Hall of the Los Angeles Convention Center. For inquiries contact +63 917 5343942 or email info@galeriejoaquin.com.

PAGE B2 live normally. She stressed that she is thankful for the trust that the networks had in her during those years.

“Sa loob ng six years na ‘yun, nakaka-tanggap kami ng offer kahit sa kabilang network. Hindi po nawawalan, pero sariling desisyon ko, sariling stability sa utak ‘yung ini-aim ko,” Xyriel revealed.

The young star knew the value of not missing out on life’s important milestones, including growing up and experiencing things that normal teenagers would do. The thought of missing out on her teenage years convinced her to take that break.

“Kumbaga gusto ko na hindi ko mami-miss ‘yung youth ko kasi malaki po sa early age ko ‘yung nawala.

“Pero at the same time, na-enjoy ko po ‘yun.

Pero gusto ko lang po ‘yung gigising ako ng isang araw na wala akong iisiping schedule. Wala akong iisiping work, wala akong call time. Gigising ako para tumambay, gigising ako para pumunta sa school, ‘yung parang normal na buhay? Gusto ko po ‘yung regular life,” she said.

No regrets please At 20, she talked about regrets, and it is one

thing that she does not want to harbor in the years to come.

“Super, duper happy nga ako sa work, sa career, tapos may na-miss ako o one day look back ako, ‘Ay sayang.’ Ayoko ng regrets. So ‘yun po. Gusto ko stable ‘yung sa career ko, but at the same time, mabalance ko ‘yung sa normal life ko na, at one point in my life, naging normal akong tao. Pumupunta ako sa SM hindi para sa work. Pupunta ako sa SM na dadaan lang ako. O pupunta ako sa school kahit walang pasok. Tatambay lang,” she said.

Now that she is back to her usual grind, Xyriel showed that she still is the same – the young thespian on to becoming more visible on TV screens.

Of late, she joined a formidable casting of young acting talents in “Senior High” that include her child star contemporaries, Andrea Brillantes and Zaijian Jaranilla. She even managed to gain a fandom out of her pairing with Elijah Canlas on the show. They became one of the popular couples as RoxChie, a portmanteau of their characters, Roxy and Archie.

Their characters’ ending was sort of a cliffhanger, and many fans are hoping to see the show’s second season. Xyriel is up for it. g

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