Trump signs Executive Order declaring English as official US language
WAshINGtoN, D.C. — In a historic
policy shift, President Donald trump signed an executive order declaring english as the official language of the United states, marking the first time in the nation’s nearly 250-year history that a national language has been formally designated at the federal level. the order will direct federal agencies to prioritize english in official government communications, documents, and public services. While it will not ban the use of other languages, it rescinds executive order 13166, signed by former President Bill Clinton on August 11, 2000. that order, titled “Improving Access to services for Persons with Limited english Proficiency,” required federal agencies and recipients of federal funding to provide language assistance to individuals with limited english proficiency (LeP) to ensure meaningful access to government services.
“America has always welcomed people from all over the world, but a common
Egg prices soar: How Filipino families and businesses are coping with the surge
Los ANGeLes – the rising cost of eggs has hit filipino households and small businesses hard, as prices continue to climb due to supply shortages and inflation. once an affordable kitchen staple, eggs are now among the most expensive items in grocery stores, with prices soaring over 50% in the past year, according to the United states Department of Agriculture (UsDA). this sharp increase is forcing families and businesses to make difficult adjustments. Why are egg prices rising? the primary driver behind the price surge is the ongoing outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (hPAI), or bird flu, which has led to the loss of millions of egg-laying hens across the country. With fewer hens producing eggs, supply has dwindled while demand remains high, driving up costs. In addition to bird flu, higher feed prices, increased fuel costs, and persistent supply chain disruptions have further contributed to the spike.
Filipinos up for deportation from US
mANILA — At least 80 filipinos have received deportation notices from United states authorities as the new administration pushes through with its plan to kick out illegal aliens. the filipinos are not detained and still have the opportunity to legalize their stay, Philippine Ambassador to the U.s. Jose manuel romualdez said in an interview tuesday, march 4. “so far, they have just received the notice (that they are up for deportation) and some of them, if
I’m not mistaken, already departed voluntarily,” he said. the U.s. government's crackdown on undocumented migrants began immediately after President Donald trump was sworn into office in Jan. 20. earlier this month, the U.s deported illegal aliens from Africa and Asia, some reportedly from China and Vietnam, to Central American nations that are acting as third-country stopovers.
romualdez said none of the
filipino deportees have been put on similar deportation flights to another state so far.
“It only goes to show that, for me, many of those filipinos in the U.s have the chance to be able to have a legal path. that is my hope, that they will look into what status they can work on,” he said.
the Department of foreign Affairs earlier said it is ready to extend necessary assistance to filipinos who may be affected by the immigration crackdown. (PNA)
Marcos to clean up ‘Duterte’s mess’
by Catherine S. Valente ManilaTimes.net
PresIDeNt ferdinand marcos Jr. is committed to addressing the “mess left behind by the previous administration,” particularly in eliminating or reducing activities related to money laundering and terrorist financing, malacañang said saturday, march 1.
Palace Press officer Claire Castro reaffirmed the president’s commitment following the Philippines’ removal from the financial Action task force (fAtf) grey list.
In a video message, Castro said the Philippines’ exit proves that the fAtf saw the marcos administration’s efforts to fulfill
its obligation to address money laundering and terrorism financing issues in the country.
“We, especially the president, will clean up the mess left behind by the previous administration. Let us pray that we will never again be included in the fAtf’s grey list or black list,” Castro said, in an apparent reference to the administration of former President rodrigo Duterte.
“We were placed on the grey list in 2021 after the international watchdog identified 18 deficiencies that the government must address to combat money laundering and terrorism financing in the country,” she added.
If a country is grey-listed, it is under
House to educate public on VP Duterte impeachment amid trial delay
by Gabriel pabiCo lalu Inquirer.net
mANILA — house lawmakers supportive of Vice President sara Duterte’s impeachment will help the prosecution team prepare and educate the people about why the process is necessary if the trial remains delayed, a legislator said on tuesday, march 4. Assistant majority Leader and tingog party-list rep. Jude Acidre admitted in a press briefing that they have no other option as the proverbial ball on the impeachment proceedings is now with the senate, as the house of representatives has finished its
task of sending the Articles of Impeachment to the senate. for us, our choice is only to prepare well for our prosecutors.
As of now, the pre-trial preparations on the part of the prosecution is the best way to go for us, but we are also happy to see that there are steps taken by ordinary filipinos, like the people’s impeachment calls made earlier,” he said in filipino.
“I hope this becomes an avenue to relay to the people, to ordinary filipinos to study the importance and merits of the impeachment case that will be tackled at the senate trial. so I think if the
PH envoy: Defense is each country’s call
by Frances Mangosing Inquirer.net
mANILA — Amid concerns triggered by a contentious meeting between U.s. President Donald trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that put Kyiv’s future uncertain in the absence of fresh security assurances from Washington, the Philippines should be ready to beef up its own defenses, Philippine Ambassador to the United states Jose manuel romualdez said on monday, march 3. the high-profile meeting at the oval office that unfolded in front of the media turned into a tense exchange as the two leaders clashed over the future of russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Zelenskyy left the meeting without signing a mineral deal in exchange for additional U.s. military support to help Ukraine.
“We have to all be ready for that type of situation. It may be some other president in the future, but at the end of the day, each country now has to be ready to be able to beef up its own defense, beef up its own economic security. And that’s always been what we have been doing … that we would like to put up our own resources to be able to modernize our armed
by CeCille Suerte Felipe Philstar.com
the senate hearing on tuesday, march 4, sen. risa hontiveros expressed frustration with the Bureau of Immigration (BI)’s dismal performance in figuring out the details of Guo’s escape in August last year.
“We are inutile as a country. It’s been four months and we still don’t know how fugitives got past our borders undetected,” hontiveros lamented. BI Intelligence Division chief fortunato manahan Jr. agreed with the senator. Ports or sub-ports used by Guo and her siblings to escape also remain unknown, manahan said. how did they manage to escape? or was there a government official who helped them? Which port or coast of our archipelago did they flee from?” hontiveros asked.
Philippine Ambassador to U.S. Jose Manuel Romualdez PNA file photo
Former Bamban Mayor Alice Guo Senate file photo
Vice President Sara Duterte Photo from
BI still clueless on Alice Guo escape...
Counterparts of the BI across Asia have not replied to inquiries about the Guo siblings’ escape, manahan said.
“We will check with the office of the commissioner if any reports have been submitted from November to this year,” he said.
No BI personnel helped Guo escape, Immigration
Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said.
Guo’s most probable mode of exit was through a backdoor in the southern part of the country, the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) said.
Aside from wanted criminals, human traffickers are using this backdoor to transport victims who end up working in scam hubs abroad, the BI previously reported.
Private coastlines and airstrips are not manned by the BI, Viado noted.
Viado has thanked the Inter-Agency Council
Against trafficking for its efforts to curb illegal backdoor exits.
Guo is currently detained and facing charges of qualified human trafficking, among others, stemming from her involvement in Philippine offshore gaming operators (PoGos).
Roque’s whereabouts
hontiveros pressed the BI about the whereabouts of former presidential spokesman harry roque, who is also being probed for his reported involvement in PoGos. “Where, for God’s sake, is harry roque?” she asked. roque had served as legal counsel for Whirlwind Corp., which leased a property to a raided PoGo hub in Porac, Pampanga.
hontiveros said she received a tip that roque –who is allegedly hiding in Dubai – flew to shanghai, China on Dec. 8 last year and stayed there for a day before flying to macau. n
Marcos to clean up ‘Duterte’s...
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increased monitoring by the fAtf due to certain deficiencies in its campaign against money laundering and terrorism financing.
Blacklisted countries, on the other hand, are those with significant strategic shortcomings or with a severe lack of measures to fight money laundering and terrorism financing.
Castro said the Philippines was placed on the fAtf grey list in June 2021 during the Duterte administration due to regulatory weakness in gambling operations, failure to implement financial sanctions, and delays in enforcing the Anti-terrorism Act of 2020.
“Let us remember that Philippine offshore gaming operators were rampant back then,” the Palace official said. Castro also said regulator agencies at the time seemed to have ignored these issues, especially the supposed financial anomalies during the height of the CoVID-19 pandemic.
Castro said the country’s removal from the fAtf grey list was expected to facilitate smoother financial transactions, attract more foreign investors, and lower remittance fees for overseas filipino workers (ofWs).
our president will not stop in eradicating activities related to money laundering and terrorist financing,” she added.
the fAtf is the global watchdog for money laundering and terrorist financing. It sets international standards to prevent these illegal activities and the harm they cause society.
the 39-member body also sets international standards to ensure national authorities can effectively go after illicit funds linked to drug trafficking, the illegal trade in arms, cyber fraud, and other serious crimes.
confidence in the country. the provisions in the Anti-terrorism Act on terrorist financing, along with the strengthened Antimoney Laundering Act, played a significant role,” Lacson said in an interview.
Lacson said these combined efforts contributed to the fAtf’s decision, which he believed would encourage more investors to place their money in the Philippines. his legislative efforts include amendments to the AmLA, such as lowering the threshold for covered transactions from P4 million to P500,000, making it more effective in detecting illicit financial activities.
the Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas senatorial candidate underscored that these initiatives were part of a broader push to combat financial crimes.
our goal has always been to crack down on dirty money and hold accountable those who have tarnished the country’s reputation as a hub for financial crimes,” he said.
to address these shortcomings, Castro said that marcos issued executive order 33, which directed government agencies to take immediate action to remove the country from the fAtf grey list. removing the country from the fAtf is a great accomplishment of the president,” she said. “the fAtf recognized the country’s improvements in terms of money laundering and terror financial controls.”
PH investor confidence meanwhile, administration senatorial bet and former senator Panfilo Lacson said the Philippines’ removal from the fAtf grey list would boost the confidence of businesses to invest in the country.
Lacson attributed the country’s improved standing to key legislative measures, including the passage of the Antiterrorism Act of 2020 and the strengthening of the Anti-money Laundering Act (AmLA) — laws he either authored, co-authored, or sponsored. he also cited the total ban on PoGos as a crucial factor.
“Being taken off the grey list should increase investor
Lacson also called for consistent enforcement of antimoney laundering and counterterrorism financing laws to ensure the country does not fall back into fAtf scrutiny.
he reiterated the need to exclude public officials from the Bank secrecy Act to further strengthen transparency measures.
“We already have the necessary laws. the key now is consistent implementation,” Lacson said. n
PH envoy: Defense is each country’s...
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forces and to be able to bring our economy to where we want it to be,” romualdez told foreign correspondents in a forum in manila.
Defense agreements he remained optimistic, however, that Washington’s support for manila would continue and there were no indications that what happened to Ukraine could happen to the Philippines.
“I think all of that will remain. I am confident that it will,” romualdez said when asked whether defense agreements and military aid would continue under the trump administration.
he confirmed a reuters report that Washington exempted $336-million worth of military assistance to manila from its foreign aid freeze and said he was hopeful that “succeeding monies will be made available to us in the next couple of years.”
Both U.s state secretary marco rubio and defense chief Pete hegseth have reaffirmed Washington’s “ironclad commitment” to the Philippines during their respective engagements with Philippine foreign secretary enrique manalo and Defense secretary Gilberto teodoro Jr. last month.
the Philippines has also carried out a number of joint patrols with the United states since January under the new trump administration in the West
Philippine sea, part of the south China sea that China claims almost entirely.
manila has a mutual Defense treaty with Washington in effect since 1951 that calls for each side to come to the other’s defense in case of an armed attack.
the Philippines is also the biggest country recipient of U.s military assistance in the region.
Marcos-Trump meeting the Philippines faces an existential threat in the south China sea, and our desire to develop our defense capabilities to address this threat aligns closely with U.s. interests to maintain peace and stability in this part of the world,” he said.
Plans are already underway for a possible meeting between President marcos and his American counterpart, likely in the spring, romualdez said.
“I believe that an in-person meeting with President marcos would be crucial in further bolstering the U.s.’ continued support for the Philippine-U.s relations and continued presence in the Indo-Pacific region,” he said.
“It’s really a matter of timing.
But President marcos has clearly said that when President trump is available, he would definitely like to fly to Washington and meet with him,” romualdez said.
mr. marcos, who took office in 2022, moved the Philippines closer to the United states since
replacing rodrigo Duterte, who pivoted the country’s foreign policy away from Washington and toward Beijing.
Alliances on monday, the Philippine Army launched a large-scale exercise to test and improve its ability to quickly deploy in response to a potential conflict. the Combined Arms training exercise (Catex), set from march 3 to 22, will highlight the Army’s efforts to shift to external security operations. the exercises will simulate the defense of northern and Central Luzon from an invasion and test newly delivered light tanks and artillery, such as sabrah light tanks and Pandur 8×8 wheeled armored vehicles.
Around 6,000 Army troops will take part in the Catex.
During the weekend, top Army officials from the Philippines, United states, Japan, and Australia also gathered in manila to discuss collective approaches to deter shared threats amid rising tensions with China. the meeting of the “Core 4 technical Working Group” on march 1 and 2 focused on “enhancing interoperability and aligning military exercises among regional partners and allies,” which aimed to reinforce “collective defense capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region,” Army spokesperson Col. Louie Demaala said. n
Sen. Risa Hontiveros Philstar.com file photo
California extends financial aid deadline for college students
by selen ozturk Ethnic Media Services
WIth free Application for federal student Aid (fAfsA) delays and plummeting applications, California is extending financial aid access for all students who need it.
the California student Aid Commission reports a 25% fall in high school senior fAfsA applications — a decrease of 48,000 students — compared to february of last year. overall, fAfsA applications statewide have dropped by 14%, while California Dream Act (CADAA) applications have dropped 38%.
In response, the state has extended this year’s fAfsA and CADAA application deadline by 30 days, from march 3 to April 2. Around 55% of California students receive federal grants, close to the national rate of 56%.
While fAfsA problems aren’t new — rollout delays and technical glitches during last year’s cycle led to a 9% decline in applications as of August 2024 — many experts and students attribute much of this year’s decline to fears that undocumented students will have their information targeted for deportation. the share of financial aidapplying students with at least one parent who’s undocumented has fallen 44% this february compared to last, from about 30,000 Californians to 17,000. things like eliminating the U.s. Department of education, freezing federal funding and increasing immigration enforcement is leading many students to ask themselves whether it’s safe or even possible to apply for financial aid … with their future in question,” said Dr. Daisy Gonzales, executive director of the California student Aid Commission (CsAC), at a thursday, february 27 ethnic media services briefing on the state deadline extension.
“While we can’t speculate on how the federal administration may use the information collected through fAfsA,” she continued, CADAA application information “is held by the state of California, and will only be used to determine eligibility for state and institution-
based financial aid.”
“I’m the daughter of immigrants, and grew up in foster care in LA County. I wouldn’t be who I am today if I weren’t able to access financial aid at the age of 17, go to community college and eventually transfer to a UC,” Gonzales added. “extending this deadline means extending hope and support like this in real time.” for students needing help applying, CsAC — which administers public higher education state aid — has free online and in-person Cash for College workshops, and phone and email hotlines. the hit in financial aid applications we’re seeing right now is even worse than what we saw during a global pandemic,” said Catalina Cifuentes, CsAC chair and executive director of college and career readiness in the riverside County office of education.
“At least during the pandemic, many of those students came back,” she continued. “I’m worried that by the time these students and families realize they could have gotten tuition and fees covered, It’s too late. they may have full time jobs by then, children, spouses, and coming back to school is so difficult for working adults.”
In riverside County, which serves over 420,000 K-12 students across 23 school districts, “we have one of the lower college educated adult populations in California … and a high volume of students that are first in their family to go to college,” Cifuentes explained. “What we tell them is: Apply. see what happens. You have plenty of time to decide if you want to pursue post-secondary, but you only have this window to get the maximum aid available.”
“With two younger sisters to think about, it was a really tough decision to figure out whether college was even an option for me, and whether I was ever going to be able to make it,” said Keiry saravia, a CsAC commissioner and a junior english teaching major at California state University, Northridge (CsUN).
“I’m a first-generation student born and raised in Los Angeles to two immigrant parents from
el salvador,” she continued. “I hope to go to law school after this and become an immigration and criminal lawyer … if I wasn’t able to get financial aid through a Cal Grant, I wouldn’t have even considered going to law school. I would have been more committed to helping my family and ensuring that my sisters could go to college.”
right now, even here at CsUN, where a lot of us have already submitted our our fAfsA, we’re still getting a lot of misinformation about whether we’ll be eligible again, whether it’s even feasible, whether our information will be safe, because we’re a predominantly hispanic community, and a lot of undocumented students are scared,” explained saravia.
“But it just takes students continuing to push for help. more students need to know that they don’t have to stop after one application. they can keep applying until they’re eligible … because without these opportunities, many wouldn’t be in the positions that they’re in now, me included,” she added.
“We hear a lot these days about student debt, rising tuition, skepticism about the value of higher education,” said shawn Brick, associate vice provost of student financial aid at the UC office of the President. “We need to focus not just on return on investment, but the value in terms of understanding the options it gives you for the rest of your life, educationally and employmentwise.”
the UC system, which includes 10 campuses, has extended its own financial aid priority filing deadline to April 2, matching the state.
In the 2022-2023 academic year, nearly 70% of UC undergraduates received financial aid and over 50% paid no tuition. over 75% of California state University undergraduates received aid; over 60% paid no tuition. financial aid is about more than covering tuition. It can help students cover other costs while enrolled in school — that includes food, housing, transportation, books and supplies,” added Brick. “You can afford college. We’ll make sure that’s a reality.” n
Non-citizens ‘between a rock and a hard place’ as Trump pushes for national registry
by Peter schurMann Ethnic Media Services
there’s a video circulating on social media of a Latino man walking into a target store with a U.s. passport glued to his forehead. “me walking around with my passport to avoid ICe questioning me,” the caption reads, a laugh track in the background.
It’s dark humor, for sure, and the comedy only works because it’s true. Now more than ever.
on february 25, the trump administration issued its latest guidelines on immigration enforcement, creating a national registry requiring the estimated 13 million undocumented immigrants now living in the country to register or face criminal prosecution.
“they are reanimating a provision of Us immigration law that has been dormant for decades that requires certain groups of non-citizens to register with the government,” said Nayna Gupta, policy director with the American Immigration Council.
that provision, the Alien registration Act of 1940, passed on the cusp of WWII and the onset of the Cold War, targeted with a
broad brush any non-citizen for suspected ties to communist or fascist groups. It cast a shadow of fear in immigrant communities across the country.
“this will force many people… to make a very hard choice between two options that carry serious risk,” Gupta explained. either register as required and be subject to removal, or don’t register to avoid mass deportation and then be subject to criminal prosecution.”
she added, “It leaves noncitizens between a rock and a hard place.”
Gupta spoke during a virtual press briefing hosted by the immigrant advocacy group America’s Voice looking at the latest steps taken by the trump administration as it pursues its campaign of mass deportations.
Under the new requirements, all individuals who entered the country without a visa— regardless of how long they have lived here—will be required to register and carry proof of that registration at all times.
Immigrant rights groups say the language of the current measure is a draft and that further amendments or changes could be made. In the meantime, Gupta warns it will likely lead to
cases of racial profiling.
“If you are a federal agent and asked to find people in violation of this requirement, you are being incentivized to profile,” she said.
“And that will be targeted toward citizens, non-citizens with status and the undocumented.”
Carlos Guevara, senior director of policy at the Immigration hub, described the measure as a “nationalization of the ‘show me Your Papers’ laws,” first passed in Arizona and texas in 2010, authorizing law enforcement to check the immigration status of anyone they suspect of not being in the country legally.
While the ACLU and others sued to block implementation of the Arizona law, known as sB1070, arguing it violates the fourth Amendment’s protection against unreasonable search and seizure, the supreme Court has largely left it and similar legislation untouched. Any litigation around the current measure would come once the language is finalized and issued, explained Gupta, noting several organizations are already considering filing suit.
According to Guevara, children are increasingly vulnerable under these new regulations. u PAGE 4
WOMEN’S MONTH. A vendor of fresh fruit drinks takes part in the Kababaihan (Women) Festival at the Quezon City Hall on Tuesday, March 4. As part of the International Women’s Month, female entrepreneurs will take over the covered walk until March 7. PNA photo by Joan Bondoc
House to educate public on VP Duterte...
senate would not start a trial immediately, I think for many of us in the house and with many more advocates, we would bring the discussions to the people,” he added. According to Acidre, there are many ways of making the people informed about the impeachment procedures aside from staging rallies.
he said the signature campaign launched by religious groups and other nongovernment organizations calling for the immediate start of the impeachment trial is “a good way to show the senate what is the true sentiment of our people.” many schools are conducting forums about the impeachment; that is an important step as we can explain to the people the matter, which would allow them to have a deeper understanding of these issues,” he added.
Duterte was impeached after 215 house of representatives members filed and verified a fourth impeachment complaint, citing several issues like alleged misuse of confidential funds lodged within her offices, threats
Non-citizens
to ranking officials including President ferdinand marcos Jr., and conduct unbecoming of a vice president. Under the 1987 Constitution, a trial should start forthwith if at least one-third of all house members — in this case, 102 out of 306 — have signed and endorsed the petition. trial however has yet to start because the senate did not discuss the Articles of Impeachment at the plenary before the session adjourned on february 5. recently, senate President francis escudero said that the trial would start on July 30 with the new set of lawmakers sitting as senator-judges. there have been concerns, however, with the trial being set as late as July. Acidre said Duterte would benefit the most from the delay as it may be indicative of a culture of impunity, where observations made by different house committees are not given much weight. In september 2024, the house committee on good government and public accountability started the hearing on fund use anomalies involving the Department of
education (Deped) under Duterte and the office of the Vice President (oVP). the committee found several glaring concerns, like a high likelihood that fake identities were used in signing the acknowledgment receipts (Ars) for confidential fund (Cf) disbursements.
At one point, Antipolo 2nd District rep. romeo Acop said the name mary Grace Piattos, which was used to sign off the Ars, bears a first name similar to a coffee shop, and a surname that is a famous potato chip brand. Later on, Lanao del sur 1st District rep. Zia Alonto Adiong showed two more Ars — one for oVP and another for the Deped — which were both received by a certain Kokoy Villamin. however, the signatures and handwriting of Villamin differed.
manila 3rd District rep.
Joel Chua, a member of the prosecution team, also warned about the possibility that evidence crucial to the impeachment case may be tampered with, while witnesses may be threatened if trial continues to be delayed. n
‘between a rock and a hard...
“We have six million American kids who live with an undocumented loved one,” he noted, adding the “climate of fear and uncertainty” is driving families to keep their kids home from school, the hospital, church, all places no longer seen as off limits to federal immigration agents. reporting out of san Diego recently noted the presence of ICe vehicles outside a local clinic, with health care providers attesting to a subsequent drop in the number of patients they are seeing.
Guevara said these moves are in sync with trump’s broader “deportation agenda,” including a reduction in the number of immigration judges and a recently passed house bill that threatens to strip public funding for vital health care programs. the goal is to make conditions such that migrants will opt to self deport, said David Leopold, former president and general counsel with the American Immigration Lawyers Association, an unlikely option for many, if not most migrants here.
“We are dealing with folks who have been here for decades. they’ve raised their families here. self-deportation or just going back to a country you have no memory of, is not as easy as it sounds.”
An estimated 80% of undocumented immigrants in the Us have lived here for 15 years or longer, data show.
Pointing to the economic harm trump’s policies could inflict given the pivotal role immigrants play across a number of vital sectors, he adds, “this policy is about self-deporting our own economic advantages.”
the number of deportations during trump’s first month in office are in fact lower than numbers seen during former President Joe Biden’s final months in office. But the panelists agreed the administration is actively taking steps to bolster infrastructure—including through the expansion of private detention centers—to house an expected increase in the number of migrants detained. the administration is trying to rapidly expand its infrastructure to carry through on its threat of mass deportation,” Gupta said.
they are asking congress for money to set this up, to expand detention capacity.”
With the new registry, the government can also now rely on federal prisons. “they can prosecute someone and put them in federal prison for 6 months before initiating a removal process.”
With that expansion into private prisons comes a loss of accountability, transparency, and access by legal aid providers, something Gupta said is already being seen in places like maryland, where lawyers struggled to meet with clients detained for a prolonged period.
According to Leopold, when it comes to immigration, the media needs to help the public better distinguish fact from fiction, including the fact that being undocumented is not a criminal act warranting imprisonment but a civil violation.
“Pick any term you want from 1930s Germany and replace it with immigrant,” he said, describing the current atmosphere. he added, “It is going to get much worse than we see today… this is just the beginning.” n
Trump signs executive order declaring...
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language unites us,” trump stated. “this order ensures that english remains at the heart of our national identity and government operations.”
Policy and practical implications the executive order represents a significant departure from language access policies that have accommodated the nation’s linguistic diversity.
According to the U.s. Census Bureau, over 350 languages are spoken in American households, with 21.7% of individuals aged five and older speaking a language other than english at home. Additionally, about 25.1 million individuals in the U.s. are considered LeP, comprising approximately 8% of the population. many LeP individuals rely on multilingual services in government, healthcare, and legal sectors to access critical information.
By rescinding executive order 13166, the new directive eliminates federal requirements for language assistance, giving agencies the discretion to provide translations or multilingual services but no longer mandating them. this shift could significantly impact non-english speakers, particularly in communities where government-provided translations are essential for accessing voting materials, healthcare services, emergency response, and legal aid.
Critics argue that the order will create barriers for immigrants and non-english speakers, making it harder for them to participate fully in civic life.
Vanessa Cárdenas, executive director of America’s Voice, expressed concern, stating:
“this isn’t just a symbolic move — it will have real consequences. removing language assistance
means millions of people will struggle to access critical services, from healthcare to the justice system.” State and local impact
Although more than 30 states already recognize english as their official language, the federal directive may create tensions with state and local governments that have extensive language-access programs. In California, New York, and Illinois, for example, where local laws mandate multilingual services, officials are assessing whether the executive order conflicts with existing policies. education officials are also reviewing its potential effects on english as a second Language (esL) programs in public schools, particularly in districts with high numbers of nonenglish-speaking students.
The road ahead As the executive order is signed and implemented, its legal and practical ramifications remain uncertain. Advocacy groups are expected to challenge the measure in court, arguing that it disproportionately harms immigrant communities and nonenglish speakers by restricting access to government services. meanwhile, federal agencies will need to determine how to implement the directive while navigating existing state and local language-access policies. the decision reignites longstanding debates over language, identity, and inclusion in American society. Whether the order stands or faces legal challenges, it signals a shift in federal language policy that could reshape the country’s approach to multilingualism.
(AJPress)
Egg prices soar: How Filipino families...
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Impact on Filipino food businesses for many filipino restaurants and bakeries, eggs are a core ingredient in countless dishes, from baked goods to traditional meals. the price increase has put a strain on small business owners, forcing them to make tough choices — whether to raise prices, reduce portion sizes, or find ingredient alternatives.
“We use eggs in so many of our baked goods and main dishes,” shared a filipino bakery owner in Los Angeles. “We’re trying to absorb some of the cost, but we’ve also had to slightly increase our prices. It’s tough because we know our customers are also struggling with rising grocery costs.”
filipino bakeries have been especially impacted, as eggs are essential for many traditional pastries and desserts like ensaymada and leche flan some have turned to smaller farms or wholesalers to manage expenses, but balancing affordability with sustainability remains a challenge.
How Filipino families are adjusting for many filipino households, eggs are a versatile and reliable protein source, making them a staple in daily meals. With prices skyrocketing, families have adapted with creativity and resourcefulness. they buy in bulk when prices drop, explore local Asian markets for better deals, and substitute eggs with alternatives in recipes. some families have even reserved eggs for special dishes, carefully balancing tradition with practicality.
these inventive cooking adjustments allow families to stretch ingredients without compromising on taste or cultural heritage. By sharing tips and insights within their communities, they help preserve beloved dishes and strengthen their collective resilience in the face of rising costs.
Government response and possible solutions to address the crisis, the UsDA has announced measures such as increasing biosecurity protocols to prevent further bird flu outbreaks, providing financial
aid to poultry farmers to help repopulate egg-laying flocks, and exploring egg imports from other countries to stabilize supply and ease domestic shortages. however, experts warn that it may take several months before production normalizes and prices begin to stabilize. In the meantime, consumers can help mitigate the impact by supporting local farms, joining community coops, or exploring alternative protein sources to ease reliance on eggs.
Navigating the challenges ahead filipino small businesses are responding to rising costs with resilience, leaning on community support to navigate these tough times. they are adjusting with creativity and determination, while families carefully manage their meals and budgets to make ends meet.
Despite the challenges, families are embracing resourcefulness, discovering new ways to sustain themselves, and holding onto hope for relief as they continue to make the most of every meal. (AJPress)
U.S. President Donald Trump White House photo
Filipino desserts heavily rely on eggs
ingredient. The egg shortage significantly impact the cost of these beloved treats. Unsplash.com photo by Jacob Kapusnak
TEMPORARY SHELTER. Members of the Lagundi family stay at an evacuation site in Barangay UP Campus, Quezon City on Tuesday, March 4. They were among the approximately 1,000 residents of the Daan Tubo community displaced by a fire the day before. PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler
Dateline PhiliPPines
Pres. Marcos: Supporters of admin’s candidates are real people, not trolls
by Faith argosino Inquirer.net
mANILA — President
ferdinand marcos Jr. once again warned the public about fake news, pointing out that supporters of the administration’s Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas are real people and not trolls. on his official Youtube vlog uploaded on sunday, march 2, marcos said fake news is among the challenges faced by Alyansa, especially amid the campaign season.
“fake news is everywhere. that’s why we, as citizens, must be careful. As we always say, the new generation of filipinos knows how to discern between true and false information. Now that fake news and disinformation are spreading again, we must be extra cautious about what we read online,” he said in filipino. one of the things that makes me happy about the rallies we attend is that I get to see our supporters in the Alliance firsthand. they are real people, real filipinos—not just keyboard warriors or trolls. they are real individuals whom we shake
hands with, talk to, and check in on,” he added. marcos also said the testimonies from Alyansa’s supporters, whom he claimed thanked them for various government initiatives and programs, cannot be faked. that is why we must continue what we have started. Whether it’s a campaign or not, fake news is always there. Campaign or not, nothing will stop our government from serving,” he added. Although it was unclear
why marcos released such a statement, netizens posted photos of Alyansa bets interacting with a crowd of supporters. this is not the first time marcos addressed an issue related to troll farms during campaign season. In the 2022 polls, marcos revealed that he was offered to use online troll farms to boost his campaign, but he rejected the offer and even urged his critics to find even just one of his supposed trolls. n
Pimentel to draft impeachment rules, set stage for VP Duterte trial
by Charie abarCa Inquirer.net
mANILA — In his bid to help speed up processes in relation to the impeachment trial against Vice President sara Duterte, senate minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III said his office would be submitting proposed and revised rules for the judicial proceeding.
Pimentel made the categorical stand on tuesday, march 4 after he was asked to comment on senate majority Leader francis tolentino’s remark, saying that Pimentel should start drafting the rules if he’s in a rush.
“Trabaho muna, bago boto senators have a constitutional duty that comes before anything else. having said that, my office will be submitting our proposed rules for the impeachment to help speed up the process,” Pimentel told reporters. Both Pimentel and tolentino are campaigning for the upcoming midterm polls in may.
Pimentel is running for a congressional
is vying for another term in
senate President Chiz escudero previously said that the
DepEd eyes mental health offices in schools
by Neil JaySoN ServalloS Philstar.com
mANILA — mental health and well-being offices will be established in highburden areas after education secretary sonny Angara on tuesday, march 4 signed the implementing rules and regulations of the Basic education mental health and Well-Being Promotion Act. the measure seeks to improve mental health facilities and services in schools nationwide.
Led by a schools division counselor, the office will prioritize learners’ well-being and create an enabling learning environment.
the Department of education is tasked with ensuring that there is at least one counselor per school, or multiple associates in large schools. Deped will also build care centers.
these mechanisms will take pressure off school leaders and prevent cases of bullying, Angara said, citing the case of rizal high school (rhs) in Pasig where studentled violence recently made headlines.
rhs principal richard santos said reforms for mental health and anti-bullying in schools are welcome developments.
About 382 bullying cases have been recorded at rhs, santos said.
of the number, 48 resulted in physical injuries, he noted.
“the sheer scale of these incidents is compounded by the fact that rhs has only one guidance counselor to cater to a student population of 12,584,” santos said.
the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013 is being reviewed by the Deped and the second Congressional Commission on education.
Anti-bullying and rightsbased education will be integrated by the Deped into the curriculum to address underreported bullying cases.
An anti-bullying policy and code of conduct will also be included in the learner’s handbook.
social and behavior change materials will be distributed nationwide to reinforce
awareness and advocacy against bullying.
Intervention mechanisms are being enhanced by the Deped’s Learner rights and Protection Division to ensure faster case resolution and better support systems.
the agency will localize the telesafe Contact Center
helpline to adapt to the language, context and cultural approach of each region.
About 522 bullying cases were recorded by the helpline from November 2022 to february this year, with physical altercations being the most common form of conflict among students. n
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President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan
ALYANSA IN BACOLOD. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (center) endorses the administration’s 12 senatorial candidates under the Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas coalition during a campaign rally at Victorias City Coliseum in Negros Occidental on February 21, 2025. The 12 candidates are (from left) Senator Pia Cayetano, Makati Mayor Abby Binas, Las Piñas Lone District Rep. Camille Villar, Senator Francis Tolentino, Manny Pacquiao, Senator Lito Lapid, Senator Imee Marcos, Vicente Sotto III, ACT-CIS Party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo, Benhur Abalos, Senator Bong Revilla and Panfilo Lacson. Photo courtesy of Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas
Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel
photo by Avito Dalan
OPiniOn Features
How did they escape?
The story has faded from the headlines, but Filipinos would still want to know how Alice Guo and her purported siblings Shiela and Wesley managed to flee the country in July last year.
finding out how the Guos escaped could expose the weaknesses that allowed it to happen, and identify and hold accountable those who helped them escape.
At a hearing of the senate committee on justice and human rights on tuesday, march 4, sen. risa hontiveros raised a valid point: seven months after the three escaped, the government still has not validated Alice Guo’s story, as told to the senate on sept. 9 last year.
Guo, facing the committee on women, children, family relations and gender equality, said she and her siblings traveled to manila where they boarded a small white boat, which seemed to be a yacht. they transferred to a bigger vessel that appeared to be a fishing boat, and again transferred a few days later to a smaller boat that brought them to malaysia.
multiple government agencies have offices around the Port of manila. there are supposed to be patrols by state forces around manila Bay, including the manila Yacht Club where the yachts dock. how hard is it to find out where the Guos
the bold immigration plan of President Donald trump that offers foreigners a pathway to U.s. citizenship through a “gold card” visa is now a hot button topic, opening up discussions and debates on whether it can spur the U.s. economy or if it will further drive inequality.
Dubbed the “golden visa” program that allows individuals to be granted permanent U.s. residency by investing $5 million, U.s. Commerce secretary howard Lutnick said the proposal will replace the current visa program for foreign investors known as the eB-5 which grants “green cards” (permanent resident cards) to foreigners (plus their spouses and children under 21) who will invest $1 million in a business or company with 10 employees at the very least.
Created in 1990 by the U.s. Congress, the eB-5 Immigrant Investor Program is administered by the U.s Citizenship and Immigration services and aims to “stimulate
NoW that the Philippines, after missing its deadline, finally managed to get out of the gray list of countries under tighter monitoring by the financial Action task force or fAtf, the global dirty money watchdog may want to take a look at one of the biggest financial laundromats in this country: campaign finance.
Pressure from the Paris-based anti-money laundering fAtf compelled the government, among other things, to tighten supervision of casino junkets and strengthen its framework for combating terrorism financing. the complete ban on Philippine offshore gaming operations and the local PoGo copycat IGL or internet gaming licensee also helped.
While Philippine officials are patting themselves on the back, several nongovernment organizations are lamenting that the exit from the gray list was achieved partly at their expense, with their assets frozen and restrictions imposed for being classified as supporters of terrorist groups.
boarded the “white boat” and who facilitated the escape? the Bureau of Immigration could only tell hontiveros that BI personnel had no hand in the escape. At the same hearing, hontiveros lamented the escape of three Chinese PoGo bosses wanted in their country. Lyu Xun, Kong Xiangrui and Wang shangle reportedly escaped during a layover in hong Kong en route to China following their deportation from the Philippines. Authorities are also still trying to piece together how former presidential spokesman harry roque ended up in the middle east as the house of representatives ordered his arrest and detention for contempt. roque has reportedly been spotted in macau and Japan. the BI said he tried to leave for the U.s. from Japan. the nation must find out how people wanted in the Philippines and in other countries manage to slip past border controls. Uncovering what happened will allow the leaks in the system to be plugged. this can prevent impunity and more escapes. (Philstar.com)
the U.s. economy through job creation and capital investment by foreign investors.” Green card holders including those who have eB-5 visas have to live lawfully in the U.s. for five years before they can apply for U.s. citizenship.
According to secretary Lutnick, the new “gold card” initiative would not have the job creation requirement under the eB-5 program which he described as “low priced” and full of “nonsense, make believe and fraud.” In a recent interview, the U.s. Commerce secretary said there are already 250,000 individuals now “waiting in line” to get one of the gold cards, giving the assurance that everyone will be “deeply vetted.”
“Wealthy people will be coming into our country by buying this card; they’ll be wealthy and they’ll be successful, and they’ll be spending a lot of money and paying a lot of taxes and employing a lot of people, and we think it’s going to be extremely successful,” said President trump, disclosing that they can offer as many as 10 million “gold cards” to
several of these NGos have been linked by government security officials to the Communist Party of the Philippines and New People’s Army. the CPP and NPA are designated as terrorist organizations not only in the Philippines but also in the United states and the european Union. the exit from the fAtf gray list means the country is seen to have made significant progress in strengthening measures against money laundering and financing of terrorism. officials have stressed that exiting the list does not mean money laundering has been eliminated. Which is just as well, since filipinos will laugh if told that the exit means the country is no longer a money laundering haven. some quarters are even hoping that the fAtf will also exert pressure on the government for the passage of legislation for genuine campaign finance reforms and easing of bank secrecy laws.
* * * members of all Congresses since the restoration of democracy in 1986, with their powerful self-preservation instincts, have tossed out all proposals for regulating
President Trump’s ‘golden visa’
raise $50 trillion to pay off the $35-trillion U.s. national debt and still have a $15 trillion surplus. there are those, however, who are concerned that the initiative could promote divisiveness and inequality as it would allow the very rich, or the “ultra-high net worth individuals,” to “buy their way” into U.s. citizenship and, unlike the eB-5 visa, will not be required to create jobs or put up businesses. on the other hand, those who approve of the new “golden card” initiative say it will boost the U.s. economy. Critics of the eB-5 program also say it is rife with loopholes and has been prone to abuse, such as alleged backroom deals that have not benefitted rural and distressed urban areas which are supposed to be the intended beneficiaries of the investor visa program. the 10,000 annual limitation in issuing the investor visas has also resulted in long waiting times that turn off potential investors. the fact is, a lot of other countries are also luring investors by offering “golden visa” programs for wealthy individuals who can obtain citizenship by purchasing real
estate or investing money, with the amounts varying in each country.
According to henley & Partners, a leading investment migration consultancy firm based in London, golden visa acquisition is a “process whereby qualified, vetted candidates are granted residence rights in exchange for a defined economic contribution to the host country.”
Data from the British firm says the golden visa legislation is now in place in over 100 countries all over the world, among them Greece, Portugal, Italy, the UK, switzerland, Australia, Canada, spain, singapore, New Zealand, the United Arab emirates and malta.
one of the most popular golden visa countries is spain that is also popular among tourists because of its natural beauty, rich history and diverse culture. Under the spain residence by Investment Program, a foreign individual and his immediate family members can become permanent residents after five years of continuous residence in the country and may become spanish citizens
Still a dirty money haven
election campaign finance and lifting of the world’s toughest bank secrecy laws.
Defanged by lawmakers and the judiciary, all that the Commission on elections (Comelec) has managed to impose is a requirement for all candidates, win or lose, to file statements of contributions and expenditures or soCe within 30 days after election day.
While verification of the accuracy of the financial declarations can be challenging for the understaffed Comelec, Chairman George Garcia has announced plans to upload the soCe for public access, in hopes that interested parties particularly the candidates will be checking each other for possible lying in the statements. the Comelec can then act on complaints.
the Comelec also oversees compliance with spending limits set under the omnibus election Code – currently at P10 per voter for the races for president and vice president, P3 for other positions and P5 per voter for political parties.
Comelec officials have said the spending limits set under the Code passed in 1991 have become unrealistic and must be increased. this will
be welcomed by moneyed candidates, who can then openly spend more for their campaigns without worrying about breaking the rules and facing sanctions. But raising the spending limit may be frowned upon by those with limited resources. for candidates who are flush with cash from illegal activities, the sky’s the limit in campaign spending.
*
* * Alice Guo is under investigation on charges of faking her Philippine citizenship to run for mayor of Bamban, tarlac. PoGos are believed to have bankrolled her campaign for election. offshore gaming and the crimes linked to PoGos, such as cyberscams, kidnapping for ransom and human trafficking, aren’t the only illegal activities that have financed election campaigns in this country. other forms of illegal gambling such as jueteng have been laundered for successful career shifts to politics. If the jueteng lords don’t seek public office themselves, they bankroll the campaigns of candidates and even contribute heavily to the war chests of presidential bets.
Anti-crime watchdogs had
through the acquisition of real estate with a minimum value of €500,000; investment funds, bank deposits or listed company shares in spanish financial institutions with a minimum value of €1 million; or a government bonds investment with a minimum value of €2 million.(Unfortunately, spain is suspending its golden visa program effective April 3, 2025 due to concerns about rising property prices and housing affordability for citizens.) the Golden Visa Program of Greece is also much sought-after with its diverse qualifying options that include a specialized real estate investment of €250,000 to convert commercial buildings into residential use; €400,000 for the purchase of a single property with a minimum size of 120 square-meters and $800,000 for the purchase of properties in certain cities and islands with more than 3,100 residents. even young filipino professionals are showing increased interest in the eU’s golden visa programs, says an article from schengen News that quoted a recent report by an international property marketing consultancy, with Portugal and Greece as top choices. the golden visa program is something that we should also try to do in the Philippines to attract quality investors to come in as this will help boost the economy. While the Philippines has the special Investor’s resident Visa that allows foreign visitors to stay indefinitely and then apply for citizenship after 10 years of continuous residency, the minimum required amount of $75,000 is “too cheap and too low,” said a local businessman. I certainly agree with him. the Philippines has become a very attractive investment destination with the government offering various incentives to investors and a skilled, educated and english-proficient work force who are worth their weight in gold. (Philstar.com)
previously noted that moneyraising criminal activities such as kidnapping for ransom and daring robberies of banks and armored vehicles tended to spike during election season. Apart from gambling barons, among the biggest donors to election campaigns are smugglers and drug traffickers. When the candidate backed by such lowlifes wins, the campaign donors become untouchable, intensifying their criminal activities with impunity. some of the offenses are international criminal activities that transcend borders, so the fAtf should be interested in the opportunities for money laundering related to such crimes.
even groups designated as foreign terrorist organizations – the targets of the fAtf focus on combating terrorism financing – engage in criminal activities to raise funds. the Abu sayyaf, one of such organizations, has a long track record of lucrative fund-raising through ransom kidnapping and extortion. security officials say the New People’s Army is among the biggest maintainers of marijuana farms around the country. there’s a legally binding
* * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. * * * Email: babeseyeview@gmail.com
United Nations Convention Against Corruption, adopted by the UN General Assembly in october 2003 and which entered into force on Dec. 14, 2005. Corruption has been one of the biggest hindrances to the elimination of poverty and the achievement of UN development goals. the global campaign against money laundering is a critical component of any battle against corruption. the fAtf should be interested, for example, in the laundering of slush funds and kickbacks by politicians and other government officials worldwide.
It can set up a black or gray list of countries and territories that are money laundering havens for crooks in government and their cohorts in the private sector. exiting the fAtf gray list is a step forward. With pressure from the fAtf perhaps Philippine lawmakers will finally be compelled to legislate campaign finance reforms and relax bank secrecy laws. (Philstar.com)
* * *
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
UN panel: Corruption still pervasive in Philippines government
by Pia lee-Brago Philstar.com
mANILA — A United Nations committee remains concerned that corruption is still “pervasive” in all branches of government and in the wider public sector in the Philippines.
the UN Committee on economic, social and Cultural rights on monday, march 3, issued its findings, officially known as Concluding observations on the Philippines’ implementation of the International Covenant on economic, social and Cultural rights (ICesCr) and efforts to fight corruption, after the review on the Philippines on feb. 18 in Geneva, switzerland.
“While noting the information provided by the state party regarding efforts to combat corruption, the committee remains concerned that corruption remains pervasive in all branches of government and in the wider public sector,” the Concluding observations on the seventh Periodic report of the Philippines read in part.
It is also concerned about reports that anti-corruption bodies, such as the office
of the ombudsman and the Commission on Audit, lack sufficient financial and technical resources to effectively investigate all such allegations.
the committee recommended that the Philippines “promptly, independently and impartially investigate and prosecute all cases of corruption, in particular high-level corruption, including corruption in the government and the judiciary, and if a person is convicted, apply penalties commensurate with the seriousness of the offense” and “ensure the effectiveness of anti-corruption bodies by immediately providing them with sufficient human, technical and financial resources with a view to enabling them to effectively and independently discharge their mandates.”
While noting the information provided by the Philippines regarding recently enacted legislative measures and policy interventions to protect and uphold economic, social and cultural rights and citations of the Covenant by the supreme Court, the committee remains concerned that the direct application of the Covenant by
domestic courts, particularly lower courts, continues to remain low.
the committee reiterated is previous recommendation that the state party take all appropriate measures to ensure the protections of economic, social and at the constitutional level, to institutionalize writs of amparo concerning the Covenant rights, and to ensure that those rights are protected by the domestic courts at all levels, and that the state party enhance training for judges, lawyers and public officials on the Covenant.
It is concerned about reports of instances of pressure, threats, intimidation and intervention by public officials in the judicial system, including at the national, regional and municipal levels.
“the committee recommends that the state party safeguard, in law and in practice, the full independence, impartiality and safety of judges and prosecutors and prevent them from being influenced in their decision-making by any form of undue political pressure, violence, threats or corruption,” it said. n
HARD LABOR. Construction works in Intramuros, Manila on Tuesday, March 4 continue amid rising temperatures. Health officials advise drinking water often, limiting time outdoors from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., using protection like hats and umbrellas, and wearing light and loose clothing. PNA photo by Yancy Lim
Hollywood star Hailee Steinfeld honors her Filipino roots
The Filipino American actress graces the cover of Vogue Philippines
by gavin Martinez Inquirer.net
stePPING into the spotlight with filipino pride, filipino American singer and actress hailee steinfeld is honoring her filipino roots as she graces the cover of Vogue Philippines for its march issue, the Wonder Years: the fashion Issue.”
the “Pitch Perfect 2” and “Bumblebee” star stuns in a metallic ocean blue and silver mini dress paired with clear heels, with additional looks showcasing designs from saint Laurent, Prada, Gucci, max mara, et ochs and Cong tri. Beyond the fashion, steinfeld’s cover story highlights her connection to her heritage and the values instilled in her by her family. she reflects on how her filipino background has shaped her character and further emphasizes resilience, kindness and the importance of family bonds.
Hailee Steinfeld
“I carry my filipino heritage with so much pride. And I feel like [it’s] deeply rooted in the values that my parents have instilled in both my brother and I: resilience and kindness and a deep sense of family,” she shared with Vogue Philippines.
the “hawkeye” actress also teased her upcoming film, “sinners,” hinting at its personal significance.
“I find that with what I do, there’s always something to learn about yourself. But when you get to learn about yourself and your family, that’s something that can be really special,” she said, adding that the film will make her sentiments clearer to audiences. even though she’s born and raised in the U.s., steinfeld has her filipino lineage to back her up. her maternal grandfather, ricardo, hails from Panglao, Bohol – a family history that has kept the Philippines close to her heart.
As she juggles multiple projects, she thrives on a busy schedule and finds excitement in a packed calendar. for her, the thrill of working on different ventures, from acting to music and beyond, keeps her passion alive.
Filipina actress Jaclyn Jose part of Oscars’ ‘In Memoriam’ 2025
by Jan Milo severo Philstar.com
Fil-Am ‘High School Musical’ stars Olivia
Vanessa Hudgens reunite at Oscars 2025 party
by Kristofer Purnell Philstar.com
DIffereNt generations of filipino American “high school musical” stars reunited at one of the many oscars parties held after the 97th Academy Awards. olivia rodrigo and Vanessa hudgens both attended the Vanity fair oscars afterparty held in the Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, coming together on the red carpet after snapping individual photos. Both actresses-singers wore black outfits — olivia in a leather halter top roberto Cavalli dress and Vanessa in one-shoulder thigh-high feathery Dolce & Gabbana dress.
this marked Vanessa’s first red carpet appearance since giving birth to her first child with husband and American football player Cole tucker who was her date for the night. meanwhile, olivia was accompanied by boyfriend Louis Partridge, star of the “enola holmes” movies. the two previously crossed paths at the 2022 met Gala when Vanessa was co-hosting the red carpet and olivia was an invited guest. Vanessa starred in the three “high school musical” films, while olivia broke out in the “high school musical: the series” inspired by the trilogy.
In the show, olivia’s character Nini auditions to play the role of Gabriella montez
originated by Vanessa. other former Disney stars in attendance at the after-party were miley Cyrus, selena Gomez, and Lindsay Lohan, as were new oscar winners mikey madison and Zoe saldaña.
Palme d’or winner “Anora” topped the oscars this year as it won five of its six nominations including Best Picture, Best Actress for madison, and filmmaker sean Baker winning Best Director, Best original screenplay, and Best editing. the honors made the director the first individual to win four oscars for the same film, and the only other person since Walt Disney in 1953 to win four oscars in one night (Disney’s wins were for four different categories).
the late veteran actress Jaclyn Jose was part of the In memoriam tribute of the 97th Academy Awards on monday, march 3. Jaclyn was joined by other hollywood celebrities such as Gene hackman, maggie smith, Gena rowlands, michelle trachtenberg, shannen Doherty and olivia hussey, among others, at the tribute. the Academy honors friends and colleagues we lost over the last year. take a moment to remember the artists and filmmakers we lost in 2024-2025,” oscars wrote on its website. In Instagram, Jaclyn's daughter Andi eigenmann posted the screenshot of oscars' tribute for Jaclyn. my nanay is among other hollywood artists and filmmakers who are remembered by the Academy this year,” she wrote. Jaclyn succumbed to heart attack in her home in Quezon City last year. DoLPhY theater and "It's showtime" studio are part of the ABs-CBN compound that
Land bought from
media company. Vice Ganda confirmed during a recent episode of noontime show "It's showtime" that their decades-old studio that housed different Kapamilya noontime shows is part of the sale. In a disclosure dated february 27, ABs-CBN said it signed a memorandum of agreement with Ayala Land for the sale of its property in Quezon City, amounting to P6.2 billion. According to the disclosure, the sale covers 30,000 square meters out of the total 44,027.30 square meters of the property. the property houses several buildings, including production facilities. the company’s
tV host-comedian Vice Ganda took a firm stance on the vital role of Philippine Congress as he urged voters to elect senatorial and congressional candidates who are knowledgeable about crafting laws that are beneficial to all, instead of those who resort to just giving money during elections.
In the march 4 episode of “It’s showtime,” Vice Ganda led his cohosts in asking random audience members about current events. those who would guess the correct answer would be given P2,000 cash. one of the questions was which of the three branches of government — executive, legislative, and judiciary — is in charge of the lawmaking process. When the audience gave the right answer — legislative — Vice Ganda reminded the public that the primary responsibility of the legislative body is to create laws, not distribute financial assistance.
“Legislative—’yan ‘yung branch ng Kongreso at saka ng senado. Ang trabaho talaga nila ay gumawa ng batas. Kaya ang
dapat na iboboto natin ay ‘yung gagawa ng batas, ‘yung may alam na gawing batas, at may planong gumawa ng batas,” the host said. (Legislative—that’s the branch of congress and then the Senate. Their job is to make laws. So what we should vote for in congress and the Senate are the ones who will make laws, who know how to make a law, and have plans to make a law.)
“Ang Kongreso at senado, ang ginagawa po niyan talaga ay gumagawa ng batas—hindi nagbibigay ng ayuda, okay? ‘Yun talaga ang pangunahin nila — law-making. Kaya dapat, gagawa
sila ng batas, hindi mamimigay sila ng pera,” he added.
(congress and the Senate, what they’re really doing is making laws—not giving aid, okay? That’s really their main function—law-making. So they should, they will make laws, they will not hand out money.)
Vice Ganda’s statement came after he was named as one of the top celebrity taxpayers of 2024 during ceremonies held in Quezon City on Wednesday, march 5.
In his speech at the recent Bureau of Internal revenue (BIr) Quezon City tax Campaign Kickoff, the tV host emphasized the importance of paying taxes and questioning where these taxes go.
“Karapatan natin na kumuwestiyon at magsalita at bumoses dahil pera po natin ang ginamit doon kaya lahat po tayo obligasyon natin magbayad ng buwis dahil tayo rin naman ang makikinabang dyan,” he said. (it is our right to question and speak and raise our voices because it was our money that was used there, so we all have an obligation to pay taxes because we are also the ones who will benefit from it.) this also comes after a beauty pageant
Jessica ann evangelista
CItIZeN Pinoy is proud to
share the inspiring success story of Gayle, a determined mother who, despite facing numerous challenges, achieved her dream
of securing a future in the United states for herself and her daughter, sofia. Gayle married her U.s. citizen boyfriend in 2010, and in 2017,
Gayle and sofia came to the U.s., and her husband filed petitions for their residency. Unfortunately, their happiness PAGE 11
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sAN mAteo – As part of the public and economic diplomacy efforts of the Philippine Consulate General in san francisco, Consul General Neil ferrer visited the new office of ABs-CBN International in san mateo, California on february 26, 2025, and met with ABs-CBN Global Chief operating officer (Coo) and concurrent managing Director for North & Latin America Jun Del rosario.
Consul General ferrer and Coo Del rosario explored possible areas of cooperation
and collaboration, including the information dissemination campaign for online voting, which will be implemented for the very first time among U.s.based overseas voters at the 2025 Philippine National elections. for his part, Coo Del rosario reiterated the commitment of ABsCBN, as the Philippines’ leading content company, in promoting filipino talent worldwide and in developing & championing the country’s creative industries. he hopes that the new Philippine
Creative Industries Development Act (PCIDA) would help bring the country’s creative industries to its rightful place in the world. following the call, the undersigned presented mr. Del rosario a copy of the DfA oPD book, “the frontiers of foreign Policy: essays on Philippine soft Power.”
Accompanying Coo Del rosario were ABs-CBN Global head of marketing Pam Castillo and ABsCBN North America News Bureau PAGE 11
CArLA Pulido ocampo, daughter of indefatigable Leah Pulido ocampo (executive director of the Department of trade and Industry’s Center for International trade, expositions and missions), is a film editor, screenwriter, documentary filmmaker, and cultural worker residing in the indigenous territory of Bontoc, in the mountainous region of the Philippine Cordilleras. she is a co-founder of groups that are purveyors of alternative cinema culture in Northern Philippines: habi Collective, Balay habi studio, and Pelicula Union.
she started out in film by composing theme songs and guitar-based scores for her classmates’ shorts, at the then film Department of the College of mass Communication, University of the Philippines – Diliman, where she graduated cum laude in 2005 (Bachelor of Arts in film and Audio-Visual Communication).
As tourism officer of sanchez mira municipality in Cagayan, she is best known for her filmography centering on the culture and lore of the indigenous Bontok Igorot people. she is writer, researcher and editor for the seminal documentary “Walang rape sa Bontok” (2014), which won the 38th Gawad Urian award for Best Documentary in 2015, and which was shown in the festival Internacional signos da Noite in Portugal for two consecutive years (2016 and 2017) as well as in film festivals in the United states, thailand and france.
her short film “tokwifi” (she’s the director, screenwriter, editor and colorist) won the special
Jury Prize at the 7th QCinema International film festival in 2019. It also won the Best short film in the 16th Cinemalaya Philippine Independent film festival, 43rd Gawad Urian, and 68th fAmAs Awards. It was shown in thailand, Indonesia, malaysia, spain, myanmar, Chile, and taiwan film festivals. tokwifi (pronounced “tokwee-fee”) is a short film that explores the what-ifs of differing love languages. But more than that, it is also a parable reflecting two significant issues in Philippine media – (1) how women characters are “boxed” within men-dependent stereotypes throughout the history of local television; and (2) how famous Philippine personalities – labeling our indigenous mountain people as “primitive”, “uncivilized” or perennially unkempt – has time and again broken the indigenous heart.
* * * During the last sunday of february, Pastor Ken Jensen at non-denominational Northgate Church on Lake herman road in Benicia, California talked about matthew 26:31-32 which states that “tonight you will all desert me; for it is written, ‘I shall strike the shepherd and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.’ But after I am raised up I will precede you to Galilee.” he mentioned about our flaws and failings are no surprise to God. our pride can blind us to our flaws. there is the portion in a song that has ingrained into my mind: “Who else is worthy? there is no one. only Jesus.”
After the church service, I happened to see at Northgate my niece Angela Valdez with her hubby Jose and her talented daughter tali as we had a little talk.
* * * even though I am here in the
U.s., I extended my birthday greeting to senator Jinggoy estrada (february 17). I asked him about his three wishes on his birthday.
“Good health especially for my parents. enact more bills that can help our marginalized sector of our society. to have a reAL UNIteD country,” he said. I hope and pray there will be real unity in the Philippines.
*
* * Deanne marie mate, or Dia, from Cavite was crowned recently as miss reina hispanicoamericana 2025 in Bolivia. she is the granddaughter of Justice secretary Boying remulla.
A singer-songwriter, Dia is in a relationship with oPm singer Juan Carlos Labajo.
* *
*
President Donald J.trump signed an executive order to protect all women and end the war on female athletics.
“from now on, women’s sports will be only for women,” said the president who wants to keep men out of the women’s sports.
*
* * the late Au Kumano was a member of the famous Vicor Dancers and solid Gold Dancers. she appeared in a Dolphy produced movie with Alma moreno and rolly Quizon. she was also seen in rapper-comedian Andrew e and Queen of All media Kris Aquino’s films. she was a choreography instructor of the defunct German moreno’s that’s entertainment show on GmA7 and was a part of a dance group at eat Bulaga noontime show. singer Yeng Constantino used to call her “Ate Au” as a sign of respect.
Au came from a family of artists. Among them were National Artist for Dance Leonor orosa-Goquingco, father of Philippine Glass sculpture ramon Gahol orlina, and LVN Director felicing Constantino.
*
*
* When I interviewed Kris Aquino during the taping of her show directed by Jose Javier reyes some years ago, she was kind, accommodating and humble. I was then working during the day at malacañang Palace and at night as a freelance journalist in a broadsheet.
Years have passed and Kris Aquino remains strong and and firm to go on with life. I am praying for her recovery.
treated her as one of their own. though the elderly parents she cared for passed away, their son ernie continued to support Gayle. facing insurmountable obstacles to obtaining permanent residency, Gayle sought the help of leading U.s. Immigration Attorney michael J. Gurfinkel after seeing an announcement on tfC for in-person consultations in Chicago. Atty. Gurfinkel provided hope by advising Gayle on pursuing her husband’s original petition despite his abandonment. through Atty. Gurfinkel’s dedicated efforts, Gayle's adjustment of status as the spouse of a U.s. citizen was approved eventually, and she received her green card, ensuring a stable and promising future for her and sofia. Watch this success story on an encore episode of Citizen Pinoy on sunday, march 9 at 6:30 Pm Pt (9:30 Pm et)
* * * Paulo Xavier Ilano from the Philippines recently attended Alorica’s 2025 kickoff event in Las Vegas, Nevada, where company leaders gathered to celebrate achievements, discuss the future of the organization, and strengthen partnerships. the event brought together more than 120 leaders from across Alorica, led by co-Ceos michael Clifton and max schwendner. Pictured in a group photo somewhere in this column are Alorica’s Co-Ceos max and michael, alongside company leaders Anastasia Bellos, Jesse rodriguez, Alexandra spredemann, Cielito merriam, Carlos tala, sarah Le Blanc, ricardo Cantú, Annette tucker, Luis morales, Paulo Xavier Ilano, Lauren Cox, maddie Kunik, Grace Chiu, scott
* * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
* * * rogeliocmedina@yahoo.com
Sky River Casino announces exciting March promotions and new table game
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Promising filmmaker Carla Pulido Ocampo of ‘Tokwifi’ and ‘Walang Rape sa Bontok’ fame. Photos compiled by Rogelio Medina
The new Miss Reina Hispanicoamericana 2025 is Dia Mate, a Filipina singer-songwriter, who was recently crowned in Bolivia.
Six-year-old Tali with her parents, Jose and Angela Valdez at Northgate Church in Benicia, California.
President Trump signs an executive order that keeps men out of the women’s sports.
Senator Jinggoy Estrada
Au Kumano of the Vicor Dancers and Solid Gold Dancers.
Kris Aquino
AJ columnist Rogelio Constantino Medina inside the office of First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos; behind is her office desk.
PX Ilano (standing, extreme left with long hair), representing Alorica-Philippines.
Karlin, Alejandro Vela, Lourdes Gallero, michelle fernando, ross ong, eduardo heart, and Austin Levine.
michael
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Postal inspectors remind consumers to be alert for imposter scams during National Consumer Protection Week
the U.s. Postal Inspection service is kicking off National Consumer Protection Week, march 2-8, 2025, with a warning about the dangers of imposter scams. Imposters are scammers who work very hard to convince consumers they are a friend or relative, or that they are from a legitimate source, such as a bank or government agency. these fraudsters then take personally identifiable information (PII) and use it to steal victims’ money.
there are many types of imposter scams,” Inspector in Charge (INC) eric shen of the Criminal Investigations Group says. “But they all start with messages like, ‘I’m in trouble…,’ ‘I need…,’ ‘You’ve won!..,’ or ‘I have a great offer for you!’ these scammers lull consumers into a false sense of trust, gain access to privileged information, and then drain financial accounts.”
“With a few simple tips, consumers can protect themselves from imposter scams,” INC shen says. here are some tips:
• Take your time to make financial decisions. Whether it’s investments or unsolicited offers, like the lottery or sweepstakes, don’t rush into sending your money to someone you don’t know.
• Is it really a representative from your bank sending that email or text? to be certain, call your bank at the number you were given when you opened your
account. Don’t call a number that you haven’t verified and never click on any links in an email or text.
• Grandparents: Before sending money to help a grandchild who says they’re in a desperate situation, make sure it’s really them! Call them or their parents at a number you recognize to confirm they sent you a message.
• If you meet someone over the internet who professes their love for you right away, but needs financial assistance to meet you, exit the conversation as quickly as you can.
• The Postal Service will NEVER send you an unsolicited text. Any text or email claiming you have a UsPs delivery problem is designed to steal your PII. Delete these messages, but before you do, send the bogus text or email to spam@uspis.gov.
• Put your phone number on the National Do Not Call registry at 1-888-382-1222 or at www.donotcall.
gov.
• If you are a victim of a scam or suspect fraud, report it: submit an online report to the Inspection service or call us at 877-876-2455.
remembering these simple tips will help keep consumers’ personal information and finances safe. for more information on how to spot an imposter, visit our website at www.uspis.gov/ncpw-2025.
(USPS release)
PCGSF, ABS-CBN Int’l affirm commitment to...
California K-12 students encouraged to get artistic about keeping California clean
Clean California program accepting multimedia art contest submissions until Mar. 24; Cash prizes awarded for winning entries
sACrAmeNto — A statewide multimedia contest led by the Clean California program is accepting entries from K-12 students through monday, mar. 24. the contest calls on students to create either a 30-second video or an 8.5” x 14” (or smaller) handmade poster to illustrate how litter impacts California communities.
“At Caltrans, we take pride in our communities we call home, and we encourage all Californians to be responsible stewards of our great state,” said Caltrans Director tony tavares. “We hope this contest helps students understand that it doesn't matter how old you are, you can make a difference and help keep California clean.”
“the youngest Californians have some of the most creative solutions for big challenges, including environmental issues and sustainability,” said Barry edwards, president of Keep California Beautiful. “this is a great opportunity for students to showcase their creativity. By addressing one of the state’s most pressing issues — mitigating litter and beautifying community spaces — students can help educate others across
the state on the importance of keeping California clean.”
Using the Clean California initiative’s tagline “Just one Piece of Litter Can ruin [fill in the blank],” students can submit a video or poster that depicts how even one piece of litter can ruin a picture, be it a water bottle in front of a historical building or a fast-food bag in a community garden. students are encouraged to be creative in their entries. students in grades 3-12 will be required to share a summary of their project (in 500 words or less), including sources used and any additional ideas for reducing litter at their school and in their community. one winner will be selected from each of the following grade groups: K-2, 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12. each winner will receive a $500 gift card. the K-12 multimedia Contest is open to California students attending public, private, charter, or home schools, to express their creativity while inspiring others to keep California clean. Parental permission is required to enter. Visit CleanCA.com/education to review the complete rules and instructions and enter for a
chance to win. Learn more about projects building your community at build.ca.gov.
Governor Gavin Newsom’s Clean California initiative is a sweeping, $1.2 billion, multiyear cleanup effort led by Caltrans to remove trash, create thousands of jobs, and join with communities throughout the state to reclaim, transform and beautify public spaces. since launching Clean California in July 2021, Caltrans and its local partners have picked up more than 2.9 million cubic yards or litter — enough to cover nine lanes of Interstate 5 from san Diego to the Canadian border. Caltrans has hosted more than 500 free dump days in communities throughout the state — resulting in the collection of more than 12,000-plus mattresses and 50,000 tires. the initiative has drawn roughly 60,000 community clean-up volunteers and created more than 18,000 jobs, including positions for individuals who were formerly incarcerated, on probation, or experiencing housing insecurity. for more information, visit CleanCA.com. (clean cA release)
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