Sen. Schumer urges immediate restoration of funding
Senate Minority
DEMOCRATIC
Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) has strongly condemned the Trump administration’s decision to abruptly freeze and terminate nearly all U.S. foreign aid to the Philippines, calling the move "a shortsighted mistake that hurts Filipinos, the United States-Philippines relationship, and American interests in the region."
Schumer is urging the administration to immediately unfreeze and reinstate the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) programs, which support crucial initiatives in food security, health, education, and disaster preparedness.
"The U.S.-Philippines relationship is critically important, and the Filipino community in the US – and especially in New York – is a valued and vibrant community," Schumer stated. "The bottom line is that the aid we provide to the Philippines is a winwin that helps both the people there and
VACCINE skepticism, along with a more virulent strain of the influenza virus, is contributing to an extremely difficult season for the common flu.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 37 million cases of flu this season as of Feb. 22. This has led to 480,000 hospitalizations, and 21,000 deaths from flu. 98 pediatric deaths from flu were reported by the CDC.
“This took everyone by surprise,” said Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, Professor of Medicine and director of the Immunocompromised Host Infectious Diseases Program at the University of California, San Francisco. “We were expecting an average flu season, but what we’ve seen is far from average,” he said at a Feb. 28 Ethnic Media Services news briefing.
Flu Symptoms Flu symptoms often come on suddenly and severely. “It’s like you’re minding your own business, and all of a sudden, you feel like you got hit by a dump truck,” said Chin-Hong.
He noted that influenza affects both the upper and lower respiratory system, unlike
Marcos, Trump agree to meet but no definite date yet – Palace
UN panel: Corruption still pervasive in PH government
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
MANILA — As an impeachment court, the Senate cannot comment on the petition filed by Vice President Sara Duterte with the Supreme Court contesting her before impeachment trial.
The Senate made its position known in a Manifestation Ad Cautelam or “in lieu of the required comment” filed on Thursday, March 6 with SC through legal counsel Maria Valentina Cruz.
The chamber said the Constitution explicitly directs the upper chamber to convene as an impeachment court to hear and decide on cases involving
impeachable officials.
The Senate said it has the sole authority to decide on impeachment cases in accordance with its mandate under the Constitution, and thus cannot comment on Duterte’s petition seeking to nullify the impeachment proceedings against her.
“Respondent Senate, which has the sole power to try and decide all cases of impeachment under the Constitution, cannot therefore possibly make a comment on the Petition and thus, asks the Honorable Court that it be excused from submitting the comment,” the Senate said in its pleading.
“Respondent Senate further
THE California Labor Commissioner’s Office has ordered a Torrance-based caregiving agency to pay $2.2 million in unpaid wages to dozens of Filipino home care workers in the South Bay Area of Los Angeles County, according to a Feb. 20 citation. To celebrate this long-awaited victory for the dozens of affected workers, the Filipino Migrant Center and other allied workers’ advocacy groups organized a rally on Feb. 24 outside the headquarters of Amity InHome Care Services.
“We’re here to uplift the efforts of the caregivers [who worked for Amity In-Home Care Services], whose brave fight against wage theft and labor exploitation has culminated in a monumental investigation and outcome in this case,” said Romeo Hebron, executive
MANILA — A total of 1,167,908 foreign travelers visited the Philippines in January and February, slightly higher than in the same months last year, the Department of Tourism (DOT) has reported.
This is higher by around 0.96 percent compared to the 1,156,771 foreign tourists in January and February 2024, based on DOT statistics available on its website.
Over 25 percent of the foreign visitors in 2025 or 295,611 came from South Korea, “the Philippines’ top source of tourists
since 2023,” the DOT noted.
The United States was second in the list of the Philippines’ top tourist markets with 229,836 travelers, followed by Japan with 83,208, Canada with 65,145, and Australia with 61,564, it added. In addition, 53,545 tourists from China, 41,388 from Taiwan, 34,451 from the United Kingdom, 29,352 from Singapore, and 21,252 from France came to the Philippines.
With a slight increase in tourist arrivals in the beginning of 2025 also came the growth of revenues for the Philippine tourism industry. In her statement, Tourism
Marcos, Trump agree to meet...
po ito (We have no definite time yet but the intention is there so it will proceed)," she added.
Philippine Ambassador to the U.S. Jose Manuel Romualdez earlier bared plans for a potential face-to-face meeting between Marcos and Trump.
Upon his return to the White House, Trump signed an executive order freezing all U.S. aid for 90 days pending review.
However, U.S. security and defense aid to the Philippines were listed as among those exempted from the freeze order. The U.S. has been the
Philippines’ strongest and oldest military ally.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio previously reiterated the U.S.’ "ironclad" commitment to the Philippines in the face of China’s continued aggression in the disputed parts of the West Philippine Sea. (PNA)
UN panel: Corruption still pervasive in...
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 decisionmaking by any form of undue political pressure, violence, threats or corruption,” it said. n
DOT: Over 1.167 million foreign tourists...
Secretary Christina GarciaFrasco revealed the country earned $1.1 billion or P65.3 billion from tourism activities, products and services in January 2025 alone.
The amounts were higher “by an impressive 136.1 percent in terms of U.S. dollar and 151.46 percent in terms of Philippine
peso” when compared to tourism income in 2019 or before the COVID-19 pandemic halted travel, pegged at $821 million or P43 billion, she noted.
She added the January 2025 amounts exceeded the country’s tourism revenues in January 2024, recorded at over $652 million or P36.5 billion.
“The surge of income for
Philippine tourism is a sign that the industry is not only bouncing back from the pandemic but is also evolving and expanding, contributing significantly to the country’s economic stability and growth,” Frasco said.
She noted the Philippines earned an “all-time high tourism revenue of approximately P760 billion in 2024.” n
‘Senate cannot comment on Sara’s petition...
requests that this Manifestation Ad Cautelam be admitted in lieu of the required be considered as compliance with the En Banc Resolution dated February 25, 2025,” it added.
A Manifestation Ad Cautelam is a declaration made “out of caution” as a response to a petition filed in court.
Copies of the Senate’s manifestation were furnished to the Fortun Narvasa & Salazar law office, which serves as counsel for Duterte; the House of Representatives, through Speaker Martin Romualdez; House Secretary General Reginald Velasco; and the Office of the Solicitor General.
The Senate has scheduled the start of Duterte’s impeachment trial on July 30.
Government accountability
As Duterte questions her impeachment before the SC, a senior lawmaker said the overwhelming public preference for senatorial and local candidates with zero record of corruption – based on the latest Social Weather Stations survey – should leave no doubt on the need to have her removed permanently from public office.
“The message is crystal clear: they have anomalies. If seven of 10 Filipinos say weeding out misfits in government is their priority, then it is also our duty to show that we really mean business in going after those who abuse the use of government coffers,” Rep. Jay Khonghun said.
An SWS survey, commissioned by the Stratbase Group and conducted from Feb. 15 to 19, showed that 70 percent of Filipinos would vote for candidates who actively champion anti-corruption efforts.
Khonghun noted that the Senate had two session days left to act on the impeachment complaint transmitted by the House of Representatives, but chose to adjourn early instead of addressing the matter.
He was debunking a claim repeated recently by Sen. Cynthia Villar that the impeachment complaint was transmitted on the last day of session on Feb. 5.
Piattos and Piatos
Meanwhile, House Deputy Majority Leader and La Union Rep. Paolo Ortega V said “Mary Grace Piattos” is not the only
fictitious name in Duterte’s confidential funds disbursement record.
He said the word “Piatos” appeared in other documents, specifically “Pia Piatos-Lim” and “Renan Piatos.” Ortega said the name “Xiaome Ocho” also appears on the list, seemingly drawn from a Xiaomi cellphone model from 2018.
“The special treatment to the Piattos is too much. There is a Mary Grace Piattos, there is a Pia Piatos-Lim, there is a Renan Piatos. Why is it that they seem to be qualified to receive confidential funds,” Ortega said.
Like Mary Grace Piattos, Ortega said none of the supposed signatories have any records of birth, marriage, or death from the Philippine Statistics Office.
“I hope that they didn’t use the funds to buy a warehouse of chichirya. But it is more concerning because we do not really know where the funds went,” Ortega said.
“We thought that there is only one funny name on the list of confidential funds recipients. But it looks like the entire family of Piattos and one cellphone model was included,” he added.
“You’ll be torn between laughing and getting furious when you see ‘Xiaome Ocho’ on the list,” Ortega pointed out.
Ortega said the impeachment complaint, which the House of Representatives has already transmitted to the Senate for trial includes certifications dated Dec. 8 and Dec. 11, 2024, from the PSA.
He said the House committee on good government and public accountability is examining a list of confidential funds recipients.
According to the PSA, out of 1,992 names linked to the Office of the Vice President (OVP)’s confidential funds, only 670 had a “most likely match” in PSA records. Meanwhile, 1,322 individuals had no birth records, 1,456 had no marriage records (with only 536 possible matches), and 1,593 with no death records (with just 399 possible matches).
“What kind of confidential funds disbursement is this where we cannot pinpoint if the people who received it are true. This is public funds, but seems to have been used in imaginary payroll,” Ortega said.
The findings were detailed in a letter from National Statistician and Civil Registrar General Claire Dennis Mapa to Manila Rep. Joel Chua, chairman of the House committee on good government and public accountability.
The name “Mary Grace Piattos” first emerged at a House hearing where it was revealed that she supposedly signed an acknowledgment receipt on Dec. 30, 2022.
The name – an odd mix of a well-known café and a popular snack brand – became associated with the OVP’s questionable use of confidential funds.
“She needs to explain who exactly makes up this ‘Budol Gang’ when she presents her defense at the impeachment trial,” Ortega said, referring to Duterte.
“We will continue reviewing the documents attached to the impeachment complaint to expose more members of this ‘Budol Gang,’” Ortega emphasized. (With reports from Delon Porcalla, Jose Rodel Clapano)
US senator condemns USAID cuts...
America’s best interests."
In 2024 alone, USAID disbursed $180 million to the Philippines for economic development, health initiatives, education, and social services. This included $52.71 million for economic development, $42.79 million for health funding, $25.02 million for education and social services, $22.82 million for democracy and governance efforts, and $8.089 million for humanitarian assistance.
Among the impacted programs is a tuberculosis (TB) detection, prevention, and treatment initiative, which received over $20 million in 2024. The Philippines has one of the highest TB rates in the world, and Schumer warned that halting this funding would drastically worsen public health outcomes.
"The vacuum left by the United States drawing back on delivering much-needed and productive foreign aid to nations like the Philippines would be quickly filled by adversaries like China and Russia," Schumer warned.
New York state
Assemblymember Steven Raga echoed Schumer’s concerns, emphasizing the critical nature of USAID’s work.
"Slashing USAID funding to
the Philippines is a detrimental move that harms families and individuals who rely on critical services for healthcare, disaster preparedness, and economic development," Raga said.
Councilmember Julie Won also voiced strong opposition to the cuts, highlighting the impact on Filipino Americans with ties to family back home. "We cannot allow Trump to unilaterally withhold tens of millions in funding for tuberculosis and HIV programming, workforce development, and disaster relief," Won stated.
Healthcare leaders and advocates further emphasized the devastating consequences of terminating USAID funding.
"The devastating decision to cut USAID funding to the Philippines will have profound consequences for vulnerable communities," said Potri Dirampaten Nur, a registered nurse and advocate from Mindanao.
Rachelle Ocampo, NYS President of the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA NY), warned that the funding cuts jeopardize life-saving maternal and child healthcare services, disaster response efforts, and economic stability. "This isn’t just about numbers or handouts; it’s about actual human lives,"
Ocampo stressed.
Lolita B. Compas, MA, RN, former president of the Philippine Nurses Association of New York, pointed out that USAID also plays a vital role in improving disaster resilience, especially for vulnerable populations.
"These cuts don't just represent numbers on a spreadsheet— they represent vital healthcare programs, disaster preparedness initiatives, and economic development projects," Compas said.
Marlon Garzo Saria, President of the Philippine Nurses Association of America, Inc., added that USAID funding is critical to ensuring essential healthcare and humanitarian programs continue uninterrupted. "We respectfully urge the US government to consider resuming this crucial funding," Saria said. The Trump administration's move to end USAID’s presence in the Philippines threatens to unravel years of collaborative progress, including partnerships that have improved public health outcomes, education access, and economic resilience. Schumer and other advocates are urging the administration to reverse course immediately and reinstate critical aid to the Philippines. (AJPress)
Senate President Chiz Escudero
Philstar.com file photo
Philstar.com file photo
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To patients, parents, and caregivers, proposed Medicaid cuts are a personal affront
by Bernard J. Wolfson KFF Health
TUSTIN — Cynthia Williams is furious with U.S. House Republicans willing to slash Medicaid, the government-run insurance program for people with low incomes or disabilities.
The 61-year-old Anaheim resident cares for her adult daughter, who is blind, and for her sister, a military veteran with severe post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health conditions. Medi-Cal, the state’s version of Medicaid, pays Williams to care for them, and she relies on that income, just as her sister and daughter depend on her.
“Let’s be real. We shouldn’t have to be here tonight,” Williams told a raucous standing-room crowd of over 200 people at a recent town hall. “We should be home, spending time with our loved ones and our families, but we’re here. And we’re here to fight, because when politicians try to take away our health care, we don’t have the option to sit back and let it happen.”
The House last week approved a Republican budget plan that could shrink Medicaid spending by $880 billion over 10 years, only partially paying for an extension of expiring tax cuts from President Donald Trump’s first term, plus some new ones he has promised, totaling as much as $4.5 trillion.
A spending cut of that magnitude would have a huge impact in California, with nearly 15 million people — more than a third of the population — on Medi-Cal. Over 60% of MediCal’s $161 billion budget comes from Washington.
Williams was among about a dozen providers, patient advocates, disabled people, and family members who stood up one after the other to tell their stories. Rep. Young Kim, a Republican whose district includes this relatively affluent Orange County city, declined an invitation for her or a staff member to attend. But her constituents delivered their message loud and clear to her and the other Republicans in Congress: Hands off Medicaid.
Josephine Rios, a certified nursing assistant at a Kaiser
Permanente surgical center in Irvine, said her 7-year-old grandson, Elijah, has received indispensable treatments through Medi-Cal, including a $5,000-a-month medication that controls his seizures, which can be life-threatening. Elijah, who has cerebral palsy, is among the more than 50% of California children covered by Medi-Cal.
“To cut Medicaid, Medi-Cal, that’s like saying he can’t live. He can’t thrive. He’s going to lie in bed and do nothing,” Rios said. “Who are they to judge who lives and who doesn’t?”
Two thirds of Californians across party lines oppose cuts to Medi-Cal, according to a new survey by the California Health Care Foundation and NORC at the University of Chicago.
The town hall here was one of three organized late last month by “Fight for Our Health,” a coalition of health advocacy groups and unions, to target Republican House members whose California districts are considered politically competitive. The other two were in Bakersfield, part of which is represented by Rep. David Valadao, and Corona, home to Rep. Ken Calvert. Multiple other town halls and protests have sprung up across the country in recent weeks.
The coalition has reprised a campaign — part of a broader national movement — that fought against the GOP’s unsuccessful 2017 effort to repeal the Affordable Care Act.
The Republicans’ loss of House control in the 2018 midterm elections has been widely attributed to their stance on health care. Valadao was among the GOP members who lost their seats in 2018, though he took his back two years later. Still, he voted for the House budget proposal last week, despite the fact that about twothirds of the population in his district is on Medicaid — the highest in the state — and even though he is one of eight GOP House members who sent a letter to Speaker Mike Johnson warning about the “serious consequences” of deep cuts to Medicaid. Valadao’s office did not respond to requests for comment.
Calvert, who’s been in the
House for 32 years and eked out reelection last November, also voted for the budget, as did Kim. All nine GOP members of California’s congressional delegation supported it, as did all House Republicans except one.
Critics of the budget plan say it helps the rich at the expense of society’s most vulnerable — an argument that was vigorously repeated at the Tustin town hall. But supporters of the plan say that extending the tax cuts, key provisions of which are set to expire at the end of this year, would avoid a large tax hike for average Americans and benefit low-income families the most.
“American families are facing a massive tax increase unless Congress acts by the end of the year,” Calvert said in a statement to KFF Health News before the vote. He vowed the GOP would not touch Social Security or Medicare. He did not offer similar assurances on Medicaid, but said, “We are not interested in cutting the social and healthcare safety net for children, disabled, and low-income Americans. We are focused on eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse.”
The document greenlit last Tuesday does not specify spending cut details, though it instructs the Energy and Commerce Committee, which oversees Medicaid and Medicare spending, to cut $880 billion — a large chunk of the up to $2 trillion in total cuts. The GOP’s razor-thin majority means Johnson will have a narrow path to get a more detailed budget passed. Republican support, whether from fiscal hawks who want deeper spending cuts or House members worried about slashing Medicaid, could ebb and flow as the details are hashed out.
Moreover, the House must reach a compromise with the Senate, which has passed a much narrower budget resolution that leaves the big tax cuts out for now.
Like Kim, Valadao and Calvert declined invitations to attend or send staffers to the town hall meetings in their regions. At the Tustin meeting, multiple speakers chided Kim for her absence. At one point, the u PAGE A4
Filipino caregivers rally against home care...
director of the Filipino Migrant Center.
According to the Feb. 20 citation, Amity misclassified its agency’s caregivers “as independent contractors.”
California Labor Commissioner Lilia Garcia-Brower said, “Misclassifying workers is not a simple paperwork error. It is a deliberate violation of the law that denies employees earned wages, protections and benefits they are legally owed and entitled to.”
Additionally, Amity had also violated several labor laws, including refusing to: pay for overtime, provide workers’ compensation insurance and give the proper wage statements to the workers.
The total citation, including interest and other penalties, amount ran up to $2,327,2577, with about $2.2 million that will be paid to the misclassified caregivers.
The citation followed a yearslong investigation into dozens of complaints from at least 50 workers who began filing formal complaints against Amity in 2019.
According to its website, Amity In-Home Care Services serves as “a non-medical service home care agency” that provides “assistance and custodial care” to patients. (Amity has not responded to requests for comment on this story.)
Amity CEO Linda Reyes, who is also Filipino, was at the center of many of their workers’ complaints.
Precy Tanuyan, a former Amity employee who worked with the agency for three years, shared that she was supposed to be paid twice a month, but either she would not receive her check or the check would bounce.
Tanuyan said, “I would have to call Nancy and tell her I have to pay for my house and other bills, but she would make up excuses and make me run around to get my check. While workers like me were suffering, Nancy had multiple other businesses and appeared to be living a life of luxury.”
In 2023, Bet Tzedek Legal Services got involved in the case which led to a state inspection of Amity’s headquarters. The state then issued a stop order, because of the company’s refusal to provide workers’ compensation insurance, the
Labor Commissioner’s Office said in a statement.
Among those affected include Alma Bernal, a Filipina caregiver who worked for Amity between 2019 and 2022. Bernal shared her story at the Feb. 24 rally, stating that Amity would not pay her on time, which caused her “anxiety from worrying” to the point where she needed “medication due to [her] high blood pressure.”
Once she got in touch with the Filipino Migrant Center, she learned about workers' rights and much of Amity’s treatment of its workers was not only abnormal but illegal.
The state’s investigation into Amity found that employees frequently worked more than 12-hour work shifts—sometimes 24-hour shifts—without a break or overtime pay. Bernal also shared that her paychecks would regularly bounce “due to insufficient funds,” a common occurrence among Amity’s employees.
This citation, seen as a win for workers' rights, is somewhat of
a rarity in California, a state that had a 47,000-case pileup in 2024 (according to an audit of the Labor Commissioner’s Office). Labor disputes such as this often take even longer, if they are ever investigated.
Filipino Migrant Center stated that in-home caregiving positions—which are often filled by undocumented immigrants and non-English speakers—are especially at risk for exploitation. As previously reported in the Asian Journal, many of these workers are often isolated and dependent on their employers who deprive them of their rights and wages.
“The citation against Amity and Nancy is a victory for the workers and community to hold Nancy and Amity accountable and for justice to be brought to the workers,” Bernal said at the rally. “We want the suffering and exploitation of the workers to end. To all the workers like me who were victimized by Nancy Reyes of Amity and other agencies, don't be afraid to stand up and fight back!” n
America faces the worst flu season...
a common cold, which mostly causes symptoms above the neck. Flu symptoms include high fever, body aches, severe fatigue, coughing, and shortness of breath. Symptoms usually last a week or two, but complications such as pneumonia can extend recovery time, particularly in children, the elderly, and people with chronic illnesses. Antivirals like Tamiflu are available, but must be taken within the first 2 days.
Children should be taken to the hospital if they show signs of dehydration or extreme lethargy.
“If a child cries but doesn’t have tears, that’s a sign of dehydration and a major red flag,” said ChinHong.
Virulent strain
A more virulent strain of the influenza virus, H3N2, is making the rounds this season, along with the standard H1N1.
“H3N2 has always been more difficult, because there are more different subtypes and more ways that it can change,” said Dr. Benjamin Neuman, Professor of Biology and former Chief Virologist at the Global Health Research Complex at Texas A&M University. “It may well be that changing the approach in vaccinating for two different versions might be effective at stopping the spread. But people would have to take the vaccine for that to work.”
Vaccination rates have dropped dramatically over the past 5 years amid vaccine skepticism voiced by public figures. The Food and Drug Administration — helmed by noted vaccine skeptic Robert
Kennedy Jr., — announced last week that it would not hold its upcoming meeting with its Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee. The cancellation was not announced on the FDA website. Committee member Dr. Paul Offit confirmed the email cancellation he received in an interview with Inside Medicine.
FDA approval essential Neuman said he was alarmed by the cancellation of the meeting. “FDA approval is an essential part of the process of updating a new vaccine,” he explained. “The really nice thing about these meetings is that we get the government agencies showing their data to the public in a way that I, you, or anyone can see,” he said. “We also get insight into what some of the corporations making the vaccines are doing.”
Canceling such a meeting, he warned, disrupts the process of ensuring that flu vaccines are as effective as possible.
“Theoretically, the FDA could approve a new vaccine version without the meeting,” he said. “But that would mean people are approving something they haven’t fully seen or understood. I don’t think the world is any better off for that.”
Dangerous precedent
The cancellation could set a dangerous precedent, said Neuman. “This is an alarming early sign, and if things continue this way, we could see more advisory boards shut down,” he said.
Flu vaccination rates for all populations are in the mid40%, a drop from 2020, when
56% of the US population was vaccinated. Fewer than 43% of adults over 65 and only 45% of children have received the flu vaccine.
Deportation fears
As the flu spreads rapidly, many immigrants are avoiding medical care altogether due to fear of deportation, said Dr. Daniel Turner-Lloveras, cofounder of the Latino Health Innovation Alliance/Salud Con Tech.
“There is a silent epidemic happening,” he warned. “Many immigrant families are afraid to seek care, even when their children are very sick, because they worry about immigration enforcement.”
Such fears are not unfounded.
Last month, reports emerged of an Immigration and Customs Enforcement van parked outside a community health clinic in Adelanto, California.
Turner-Lloveras cited data showing that 22% of undocumented immigrants avoid necessary healthcare due to deportation concerns. “I have patients who ask, ‘If I go to the ER, will ICE be waiting outside?’
That kind of fear is making people wait until it’s too late,” he said.
Health disparities
This fear has deadly consequences, not just for the undocumented parents, but also for their U.S.-born children, who are fully eligible for care. “The data already shows that Latino children are twice as likely as white children to be hospitalized for flu-related complications,” said Turner-Lloveras. “And they’re also less likely to be vaccinated and more likely to be uninsured.”
“A child might have legal access to healthcare, but if their parents fear stepping into a clinic, they won’t get the care they need,” he said.
To counteract this, he called for mobile health clinics, telemedicine, and workplace vaccination programs: options that would allow immigrants to access care without fear of deportation. “We need to bring vaccines to where people feel safe,” Turner-Lloveras emphasized. “If we don’t, we’re not just hurting undocumented individuals; we’re failing an entire generation of children who were born here and deserve better.” (Sunita Sohrabji/Ethnic Media Services)
CDC firings undermine public health work far beyond Washington
by rachana Pradhan KFF Health News
THE Trump administration’s sudden firing of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention employees gutted training programs across the nation whose participants bolstered the workforce of state and local public health departments that for decades have been starved of resources.
The programs are designed to cultivate a new generation of public health leaders, many of whom have gone on to work at the CDC. That was far from its only purpose. Local and state officials said the departures threaten to undermine the nation’s constant effort to identify and control infectious disease outbreaks.
The terminated CDC employees helped prevent and respond to outbreaks such as dengue fever and the flu. They worked with local officials to quickly test for viruses and ensure that testing in public health labs complies with federal regulations. Others monitored potential cases of tuberculosis or provided health education to adolescents to prevent sexually transmitted infections, according to interviews with fired workers and local public health officials.
As a CDC public health adviser, Gaël Cruanes had been working at New York City’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to detect cases of tuberculosis, a serious illness that spreads through the air and usually attacks the lungs.
The Public Health Associate Program deploys recent college graduates and other earlycareer workers for two years.
After starting his job in October, Cruanes said, he contacted newly arrived immigrants and refugees potentially at risk of spreading TB in hopes of getting them into the city’s clinics for screening.
“It’s purely for the safety of the public at the end of the day,” Cruanes said. He and other trainees were fired in midFebruary.
“It’s unconscionable,” he said.
A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Human Services, Andrew Nixon, declined to comment. The White House and CDC didn’t respond to requests for comment.
The Trump administration’s swift staff reductions in February targeted probationary employees, many hired in the past two years, who lack civil service protections against firings. The administration on Feb. 26 ordered federal agencies to submit plans by midMarch for large-scale layoffs, a move that could encompass a much broader swath of workers.
After CNN published this article, at least some fired CDC workers in the training programs were notified on March 4 that their terminations had been rescinded.
Affected employees were cleared to work on March 5, according to emails viewed by KFF Health News. “You should return to duty under your previous work schedule. We apologize for any disruption that this may have caused,” said the emails, which were unsigned and sent from an internal CDC email address.
The reversal came less than a week after a federal judge ruled that the Trump administration’s
To
widespread terminations of probationary employees were likely illegal.
Seven CDC employees — including from the associate program — assigned to the New York City health department were originally terminated, Michelle Morse, the agency’s acting commissioner, testified during a City Council hearing Feb. 19.
In an interview, Morse said the health department was exploring how to retain them.
“We’re looking into what the CDC could do,” she said, “but we are really just trying to use our own levers that we have within the health department to see what’s possible for those staff.”
Since its creation in 2007, the Public Health Associate Program has placed 1,800 people in nearly every state and territory, plus the District of Columbia, according to the CDC.
The sudden firings meant “there was no lead time to try to figure out what we’re going to do,” said Anissa Davis, the city health officer at the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services in California.
Three participants of the associate program worked at the Long Beach department, Davis said. A CDC public health adviser was one of four employees working on sexually transmitted infections and HIV surveillance.
Two others were with the 13-person communicable disease control team, which includes staff who respond to outbreaks in nursing homes, hospitals, restaurants, and schools, Davis said.
“They are invaluable,” Davis said. “Public health is always under-resourced so having these people really helps us.”
The U.S. public health system was already under severe strain at the onset of the covid-19 pandemic — tens of thousands of jobs disappeared after the 200709 recession hit, and spending also dropped significantly for state and local health departments, according to a KFF Health News investigation. The backlash against pandemic-era restrictions drove many more officials to resign or retire. Others were fired. Still, officials said the pandemic also inspired some to pursue public health careers.
Scientists in the CDC’s Laboratory Leadership Service program were also fired in February. The CDC in 2015 started the two-year training fellowship to improve lab safety and quality following a series of failures, including in 2014 when CDC staff in Atlanta were potentially exposed to anthrax.
The program each year recruits a small number of doctorate-level scientists; several work in state or local health departments.
At least 16 of 24 fellows in the program were fired in midFebruary, according to two scientists who were terminated and spoke on the condition of anonymity for fear of professional retaliation.
“Now we can’t be a resource for these labs anymore,” one of them said. Public health labs need the CDC scientists “because they’re underfunded, understaffed,” the other said. “They are at their capacity already.”
Lab fellows’ responsibilities included helping with outbreak
investigations and responses, including by training local staff on how to safely run tests or analyzing samples to identify the cause of an illness. Fellows were recently involved in setting up a new test in Florida to detect Oropouche, a relatively unknown insect-borne disease that has no vaccine or effective treatment.
The World Health Organization in December said more than 11,600 cases had been reported in 2024 in South America, the Caribbean, the U.S., Europe, Canada, and Panama. The Florida Department of Health didn’t respond to a request for comment.
Fellows also helped develop the capacity to test for dengue fever in American Samoa, one of them said.
“When new stuff happens that’s urgent, it’s almost all the time we get pivoted to it,” the person said. Participants in different training programs received the same form letter notifying them of their terminations, according to documents viewed by KFF Health News.
The letters said that terminated people had shown poor performance: “Unfortunately, the Agency finds that you are not fit for continued employment because your ability, knowledge and skills do not fit the Agency’s current needs, and your performance has not been adequate to justify further employment at the Agency.”
However, the fellows’ supervisors had written memos and emails saying they were in good standing, according to documents viewed by KFF Health News. Cruanes said he had not had a performance evaluation when he was terminated — his first was supposed to be Feb. 18, three days after he received his notice. He was among the CDC staff reinstated on March 4.
In Minneapolis, a CDC public health adviser had been providing sexual and reproductive health education in two high schools, as well as doing citywide work on STI testing, said Barbara Kyle, the city’s school-based clinic manager. The department was trying to shift those responsibilities to remaining personnel. “We’re right now just scrambling,” she said.
The city has relied on trainees through the CDC program for more than a decade, Kyle said.
“These two years of learning public health, on-the-ground experience, has really been such a positive move for our country,” she said. “So that concerns me if we lose that pipeline.”
Healthbeat reporter Eliza Fawcett contributed to this report from New York City.
We’d like to speak with current and former personnel from the Department of Health and Human Services or its component agencies who believe the public should understand the impact of what’s happening within the federal health bureaucracy. Please message KFF Health News on Signal at (415) 519-8778 or get in touch here. KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces indepth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFF—an independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism.
VACANCIES. Job hunters
Vaccines are the best prevention against flu. Unsplash.com photo by CDC
Dateline PhiliPPines
2025 elections: Lakas-CMD named dominant majority party
MANILA
— The Commission on Elections
has designated the country's largest political party, Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD), as the dominant majority party for the midterm elections, replacing the Rodrigo Duterte-led PDP-Laban, which held the position during the 2022 polls.
The Nacionalista Party retained its status as the dominant minority party, Comelec Chairperson George Garcia announced Thursday, March 6, in a resolution that ranked 11 political parties based on their historical significance, elected officials and nationwide organizational presence.
These designations grant both parties priority placement for poll watchers, access to official election returns, and dedicated servers for independent vote counting and verification.
Garcia explained that in every election, the dominant majority and minority parties are given priority in assigning watchers inside the precinct, while other parties may also assign watchers but are often not accommodated due to limited space.
Nine other parties received accreditation:
• Akbayan Citizens Action Party
• Aksyon Demokratiko
• Liberal Party of the Philippines
• Nationalist People's Coalition
• National Unity Party
• Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan
• Partido Demokratikong Reporma
• Partido Federal ng Pilipinas
• United Nationalist Alliance.
A total of 11 national political parties submitted their petitions for accreditation.
The Comelec also recognized 15 local political parties as major parties in their respective regions and provinces:
• Arangkada San Joseno Inc. (ARANGKADA) for the City of San Jose Del Monte, Province of Bulacan
• Asenso Manileno Movement (ASENSO MANILENO) for the City of Manila
• Bileg Party (BILEG) for the Province of Ilocos Sur
• Filipino Rights Protection Advocates of Manila Movement (FRONTLINERS ANG BIDA) for the National Capital Region
• Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod (HTL) for the City of Davao
• Kabalikat ng Bayan sa Kaunlaran (KABAKA) for National Capital Region
• Kusog Bikolandia (KB) for Region V
• Malayang Kilusan ng mga Mamamayang Zambaleno (MAKIMAZA) for the Province of Zambales
• Partido Balikatan ng Bataan (BALIKATAN) for the Province of Bataan
• Partido Navoteno (NAVOTENO) for the City of Navotas
• Serbisyo ng Bayan Party (SBP) for the National Capital Region
• Solidarity for Transformation, Advancement Nationalism Towards a Dynamic, United and Progressive Quezon Province (STAND-UP OR STAN Q) for the Province of Quezon
• Together as One (TAO) for Region II
• Unang Sigaw Partido ng Pagbabago (UNANG SIGAW) for the province of Nueva Ecija
• Umpungan ng Mapagmalasakit Party (UMP) for the Province of Maguindanao. (Philstar.com)
DA bans US poultry imports
by iris Gonzales Philstar.com
MANILA — Agriculture
Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. has banned the importation of chicken and poultry products from Indiana, New York and Pennsylvania amid the outbreak of bird flu in the United States.
In his Memorandum Order 14, Tiu Laurel said that based on the report submitted by the Deputy Administrator and Chief Veterinary Officer of Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, as of Feb. 20 there were several outbreaks of H5N1 high pathogenicity avian influenza in Indiana, New York and Pennsylvania, affecting domestic birds as confirmed
by the National Veterinary Services Laboratories.
Tiu Laurel said the prohibition covered domestic and wild birds and their products including poultry meat, day-old chicks, eggs and semen originating from the three states. Meanwhile, Tiu Laurel has lifted the temporary ban on the importation of domestic and wild birds, as well as poultry products from France.
‘No need for IRR’
Sen. Cynthia Villar, chairperson of the Senate committee on agriculture, food and agrarian reform expressed frustration over what she described as the poor implementation of laws, blaming the implementing
rules and regulations (IRR) for diluting legislative intent.
At Wednesday's March 5 Kapihan sa Manila Bay forum, Villar questioned why Republic Act 12022, or the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, has not been implemented amid the continuing entry of smuggled agricultural products and the struggles of farmers, livestock raisers and fisherfolk.
She pointed out that in some cases, the IRR changes the spirit of the law, undermining its original purpose.
“That’s why I made it clear in the law that there is no need for an IRR. The law itself serves as the IRR,” she said. (With reports from Cecille Suerte Felipe)
by dominique nicole flores Philstar.com
MANILA — Filipino men are more likely than women to oppose candidates advocating for the legalization of divorce, according to a recent noncommissioned survey.
Public opinion research firm WR Numero reported on Thursday, March 6, that while Filipinos remain divided on supporting candidates advocating for the legalization of divorce, opposition is stronger among men, with four in 10 against it, compared to around three in 10 women.
Support for pro-divorce candidates stands at 33% nationwide, with women slightly above the average at 36.1% and men below it at 30.5%.
Overall, opposition is slightly higher, with about 39% of Filipinos rejecting candidates pushing for divorce legislation. Meanwhile, nearly a third, or 28%, remain undecided — a trend observed across both genders.
“Of course, our Christian, if not Catholic, heritage plays a
role, as the Catholic Church has a clear stance against divorce,”
WR Numero CEO and President Cleve Arguelles said in Filipino.
“We can also see that there are issues related to violence against women and children,” he added.
Across age groups, there is a stark difference between the youth and older Filipinos. More Filipinos aged 30 years and below have shown more openness in supporting divorce legislation, accounting for 40.5%.
Meanwhile, 54.2% of Filipino respondents who are senior citizens expressed their disapproval of candidates with plans to legislate divorce in the country. Arguelles said that support for pro-divorce candidates varies significantly by region. In Metro Manila, 51.2% of respondents backed such candidates, well above the national average.
In contrast, support in other regions hovered around 30% or lower, which Arguelles attributed to cultural and values-based differences in relationships.
“I think again this supports our tentative explanation that it involves one’s belief system,
access to the internet, access to information,” he added. How is divorce different from annulment?
The Philippines remains the only country in the world, aside from the Vatican, without a divorce law.
While annulment exists as an alternative, it is limited to specific grounds under the Family Code of the Philippines. These include fraud, lack of parental consent, unsound mind, physical incapacity to consummate the marriage, psychological incapacity or undue influence.
Divorce, in contrast, simplifies the legal process for couples seeking to end their marriage by reducing the burden of proof required in court.
A House bill seeking to legalize absolute divorce swiftly passed in 2024 but faces challenges in the Senate. It was defined as the “judicial dissolution of a marriage or the termination of the bond of matrimony.”
The proposed grounds include physical violence or gross abuse toward the petitioner or their
OPiniOn Features
Comelec, bare your teeth
As of last Wednesday, March 5, the Commission on Elections said it had issued show-cause orders to six senatorial candidates and 34 party-list groups, requiring an explanation for their continued illegal posting of campaign materials.
While the Comelec has no control over the display of campaign materials on private property, it can regulate and impose penalties related to the posting of such materials in public spaces, as provided under the Fair Elections Act and two Comelec resolutions. Prohibited areas include public school premises, government office buildings, parks, footbridges, bridges, waiting sheds, electric posts, utility wires and trees.
The Omnibus Election Code also provides rules governing campaigns.
The Comelec has reminded candidates and partylist groups that violation of election law is a criminal offense. Aside from perpetual disqualification from public office and the loss of the right to vote, those found guilty face imprisonment ranging from one to six years, fines of up to P10,000 or both penalties.
Such warnings, however, have been routinely issued in previous elections. Except on private property, the Comelec has not been emasculated by the courts in carrying out its mandate related to
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.
these issues. The Comelec’s failure to show that it can and will enforce laws and rules has made not only candidates but also the general public believe that such warnings are nothing more than a best-efforts pledge or, worse, a joke. If anyone has been punished, the candidate must have been a minnow in an ocean of violators. Such cases are easily forgotten by the nation and written off as token enforcement of the law. Only the punishment of a big fish for election offenses will convince the nation that election laws in this country are meant to be followed.
Social media has helped highlight the extent of blatant violations of the laws and rules on fair campaigning. There is heightened public awareness – and disgust – over the brazenness of the violations.
The Comelec cannot afford to ignore that disgust. It has announced initial moves against the violators. It’s time for the Comelec to get serious about enforcing election laws. And no small fry, please. (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
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
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
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
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)
* * * 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.
ManilaTimes.net photo
Voters want bets asserting West PH Sea rights – SWS Palace
by Janvic mateo Philstar.com
MANILA — Eight in 10 Filipino voters will support candidates they believe will assert the country’s rights against China’s aggression in the West Philippine Sea, a recent commissioned survey conducted by Social Weather Stations (SWS) showed.
The Feb. 15 to 19 survey, commissioned by the Stratbase Group, showed that 78 percent of the respondents prefer “a candidate who believes that the Philippines must assert our rights against China’s aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea.”
Only 22 percent said they prefer “a candidate who does not believe that the Philippines must assert our rights against China’s aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea.”
Support for candidates seen ready to fight for the country’s rights in the West Philippine Sea was highest among those in Metro Manila at 87 percent, followed by those in the rest of Luzon at 83 percent, the Visayas at 76 percent and Mindanao at 67 percent.
The survey results reflect a separate Stratbase-commissioned poll, also conducted by the SWS in February, showing top issues Filipinos consider in selecting their favored candidates.
In the survey, 77 percent of respondents prefer candidates advocating national security and sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea.
At a forum last week, Stratbase president Dindo Manhit said the survey results underscore the urgency for the Philippines to reinforce its defense posture, uphold international law and collaborate with allies to deter any threats.
“Filipinos recognize that a firm and united approach – through diplomacy, military readiness and strategic partnerships – is essential in safeguarding our territorial integrity. These numbers send a clear message: the nation stands resolute in defending what is rightfully ours,” he said.
“The increasing tensions in the West Philippine Sea and East China Sea remind us that sovereignty and territorial integrity directly impact the security, economy and livelihood of our people,” he added.
The February SWS survey had 1,800 respondents and a margin of error of plus/minus 2.31 percent.
Disinformation Meanwhile, the National Maritime Council (NMC) has labeled as “disinformation” claims spreading on Chinese social media that the province of Palawan was historically part of China.
In an interview with staterun People’s Television, NMC spokesman Alexander Lopez said while Chinese explorer Admiral Zheng He had visited Southeast Asia in the 14th and 15th century, there is no historical record that he had ever set foot on Palawan.
“It is very clear: Palawan has been, is and will always be part of
the Philippine territory. It has to be very clear, there is no debate there,” he added.
Asked why China is spreading such a claim, Lopez replied: “You know, it’s part of what they call cognitive warfare. They are trying to shape the minds of the people, internal audience, external audience, so that their opinion would shift to their favor... So we need to debunk these lies actually, these discourses.”
Lopez emphasized the importance of the Philippines’ presence in the West Philippine Sea, the area in the South China Sea that is within the Philippines’ 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone and continental shelf.
“With those activities, we are asserting our rights, our jurisdiction, our sovereignty over the area,” he said. In 2016, an international tribunal based in The Hague voided China’s maritime claim in the South China Sea, but Beijing refused to recognize the landmark ruling.
In a recent statement, National Security Adviser Eduardo Año described the claim that Palawan was historically part of China as “baseless” and “revisionist.”
“We are currently tracing the source of this disinformation which first appeared in Chinese social media app Weibo and Red Note, a TikTok-like mobile application but we wish to underscore that they do not come from official government sites nor have they been carried by Chinese mainstream media outlets,” Año said.
“Nonetheless, these false narratives, proliferated through digital disinformation and information warfare tactics, appear to be part of a broader effort to undermine Philippine sovereignty and manipulate public perception both in the Philippines and China,” he added.
Año urged the public to remain vigilant against disinformation campaigns and rely on verified historical and legal sources rather than on propaganda. (With reports from Alexis Romero)
Who’s more against divorce? More Filipino...
marital infidelity and abandonment. In the Senate, among those who
expressed support for divorce include Senators Risa Hontiveros, Raffy Tulfo, Robin Padilla, Pia Cayetano and Imee Marcos. They submitted Senate Bill 2443, or the “Dissolution of
Marriage Act,” as a substitute bill to several other proposed measures on the matter that will institute divorce in the country. It has been pending for second reading since 2023. n
by Julie M. Aurelio Inquirer.net
MANILA — A Malacañang official on Thursday, March 6 proposed that the government inspect bridges constructed during the Duterte administration following the collapse of a newly opened one in Isabela, which President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said was due to cost cuts that resulted in a “flawed” design.
Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro, the Palace press officer, said the inspection would determine whether other bridges were “under-designed,” allegedly like the Cabagan-Sta. Maria Bridge in Cabagan, Isabela, which collapsed last week, injuring eight people and damaging several vehicles.
“It’s also good to suggest — and the administration will probably do this — that we inspect all of the bridges, especially those built during the time of former President [Rodrigo] Duterte, with the help of the DPWH (Department of Public Works and Highways) and the local government units,” she said.
“We don’t know if these were also under-designed. So, as much as possible, all of them should be inspected.”
Castro made the remarks during a press briefing after President Marcos visited the bridge Thursday morning and received a briefing on the incident from Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan.
Marcos blamed the bridge collapse on cost-cutting, which led to a “flawed, poor” design, and on overloading.
“The cause of this is a design flaw. The design was wrong,” he said.
Marcos said the project cost was supposed to have been P1.8 billion, but for cost-saving reasons, it was brought down to under P1 billion.
“So, when the detailed design was made, the design was really weak,” Marcos told reporters after inspecting the damaged span.
What was billed as a suspension bridge did not have the cables to support its arches, the president said.
“This is the only suspension bridge in the world that I’ve seen that is not supported by cables. As you can see, the steel gave way. If they used cables, it wouldn’t collapse,” Marcos said.
“And those trucks should never have been on the bridge. So, who is responsible for that?” he said, noting that the bridge was
designed to support a 44-ton load.
But three trucks carrying rocks weighing a total of 100 tons attempted to use it. The first one was able to cross the bridge, but one section of the bridge over a dry riverbed gave way under the second truck.
The president said that the P900 million initially spent for the bridge went up to P1.2 billion because of retrofitting.
“Now we have to go back to zero. We will spend a lot again,” he said, lamenting the costs. “We will replace the support of the bridge, but it’s like constructing a new bridge.”
Asked who would be held liable, the president said he wanted to fix the problem first but vowed to find the culprit.
‘We will find out’
“Believe me, we will find out who is responsible. Who is responsible is basically who made the design because their design was poor. Look what happened. And then also, those trucks should never have been on the bridge. So, who’s liable for that? Is it the province?” Marcos said.
He added that authorities also have to be more careful in monitoring the load capacity of bridges and the weight of vehicles crossing them.
Castro said the construction of the bridge spanned three administrations, beginning with President Benigno Aquino III, but 90 percent of it was completed during the term of President Rodrigo Duterte and retrofitted under Mr. Marcos.
Earlier, she said the 990-meter bridge, which crosses the Cagayan River in Isabela and opened to vehicular traffic in February, allegedly suffered from “underdesign” based on an initial investigation.
‘Duterte legacy’
During Thursday’s press briefing, Castro said the government’s investigation would also determine why the bridge construction proceeded despite the alleged flawed design.
“This will be investigated from the time that the design was crafted, up to the time that it was continued, even if the design was poor. Why it was completed during the term of the former President and it was even labeled as part of the Duterte legacy,” she said.
Castro said the investigation would also look into any liability of officials in the Marcos administration.
“There will also be an investigation if someone made money from this, not once, not twice, but many times. The president will find out all of this through this investigation,” she added.
Name those responsible Members of the Makabayan bloc in the House of Representatives have called for a congressional inquiry into the incident.
House Deputy Minority Leader France Castro (ACT Teachers party list), House Assistant Minority Leader Arlene Brosas (Gabriela party list), and Kabataan Rep. Raoul Manuel filed House Resolution No. 2249, urging an investigation to identify those responsible and determine whether corruption or negligence played a role.
“Allegations of corruption, inadequate inspections, substandard materials, and possible collusion between contractors and government officials have surfaced, as the DPWH has long been perceived as an agency plagued with corruption, as evidenced by multiple cases of infrastructure failures across the country,” the resolution stated. n
In engineering, an under-design means that a structure, system, or component has insufficient capacity, strength, or performance to meet expected loads, stresses, or operational requirements.
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.
“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.
Gayle’s inspiring journey to a new life: A success story on Citizen Pinoy
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.
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.
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 was short-lived. The marriage did not work out, and he abandoned Gayle and Sofia. Left to fend for herself, Gayle took caregiving jobs, eventually finding a supportive Italian family who 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
Hailee Steinfeld Photo from Instagram/@voguephilippines
Fil-Am ‘High School Musical’ stars
Olivia Rodrigo, Vanessa Hudgens reunite at Oscars 2025 party
MANILA — Different generations of FilipinoAmerican “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). n
ABS-CBN’s Dolphy Theater, ‘It’s Showtime’ studio part of the sale to Ayala
DOLPHY Theater and "It's Showtime" studio are part of the ABS-CBN compound that Ayala Land bought from the 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 offices and studios will be consolidated in the remaining 1.4 hectares of the property to be retained by the company,” ABS-CBN's disclosure read. Under the memorandum of agreement, the payment to ABS-CBN shall be on installment basis, payable for 10 years.
“Downpayment shall be placed in an escrow account
as the spouse of a U.S. citizen was approved eventually, and she received her
PMASC, UERM-MAASC hold medical missions in Carcar and Cavite
LOS ANGELES – Members of the Philippine Medical Association of Southern California (PMASC) and University of the East Ramon Magsaysay-Medical Alumni Association of Southern California (UERM-MAASC) mostly doctors, nurses, and paramedical personnel and community volunteers from Los Angeles, California conducted and performed medical and dental mission, gift giving and feeding program for the underserved families in the City of Carcar, Province of Cebu and City of Cavite, Province of Cavite.
The PMASC under its current president Dr. Warren Gabrillo III spearheaded the mission in Carcar City on January 31 to February 4 supported by president-elect Dr. Agnes Joaquin and pastpresident Dr. Salvador Arella and his wife Dr. Emma Arrella together with 70 members of the medical mission team in coordination with local officials from the office of Mayor Patrick Barcena. More than a thousand patients mostly adults and children received primary care and dental services, free medicines including multivitamins for all ages. Hypertension, diabetes, and cholesterol problems and arthritis are the usual medical conditions including upper respiratory problems like colds, and flu-like symptoms were common. A gift giving and feeding program for 250 children was also part of PMASC humanitarian mission in the city. Backpacks, school supplies, chocolates and Jollibee meals were provided including mascot entertainment to the delight of the children. The team went back to Manila on February 4 to prepare for the next
humanitarian mission in Cavite City.
On February 5, Dr. Rita Guimaelon, UERM-MAASC president and Dr. Neda Ballon Reyes, past president, together with 60 mission volunteers proceeded to Cavite City to complete the 2nd half of the medical mission in partnership with the Office of Cavite City Mayor Denver Chua. More than 1,500 patients were served in the three-day mission, 80 patients received minor surgical procedures, and 400 patients were provided dental and oral care treatment. A relief distribution was conducted for 600 families who were victims of the recent fires and floods located in Barangay 5 and Barangay 7 of the city. The affected families received
kilos of rice, canned goods, noodle and assorted groceries including hundreds of loaves of bread donated by Gardenia Bakery. A feeding program was also conducted for 500 children with entertainment. PMASC and UERM-MAASC would like to take this opportunity to give thanks to the Lord and to those who made this medical mission possible –Carcar and Cavite city officials, the mission donors, and the dedicated doctors, nurses, dentists and paramedical personnel both from United State and Philippines who continue to provide their valuable time and effort in helping our nation in need, one barangay, one community at a time, said Dr. Ed Banez, overall mission coordinator.
‘It’s
Showtime’ hosts lament educational crisis in PH
by anne Pasajol Inquirer.net
THE “It’s Showtime” hosts expressed concern over the “systemic and educational problem” in the Philippines, which was apparently highlighted after a show contestant admitted being unknowledgeable about the Commission on Elections (COMELEC).
It can be recalled that during the Feb. 28 episode of the noontime show, Heart Aquino, one of the contestants of the “Sexy Babe” segment, was asked to give a message to the Comelec.
Aquino answered that she was unfamiliar with the government agency — a response that the show hosts found “bothersome.”
During the “It’s Showtime” episode on Monday, March 3, the TV hosts — led by Vice Ganda — then spoke about their realizations after the finale of their “Sexy Babe” segment.
“Dalawang bagay ang narealize ko —napakarami talagang magagandang nilalang sa Pilipinas. ‘Yung pangalawa, may systemic and educational problem sa Pilipinas May educational crisis sa Pilipinas
na dapat natin i-address,” Vice Ganda said.
Jugs Jugueta nodded in agreement, “I think we have to find the right balance, parang maganda at matalino.”
Vice Ganda stressed that the public should be alarmed and ask the necessary questions:
“Saan kaya nagsisimula ‘yung educational crisis sa Pilipinas? Sino ang naaapektuhan nito? Ano ang dapat nating gawin, at paano kaya dapat natin ito harapin? Ito ba ay dapat pagtawanan lang natin? Ito ba ay dapat pagchikahan lang natin sa Twitter nang one day then tapos na?”
Karylle shared the same sentiment as she pointed out how the instance with the segment contestant gave a temperature check on the youth.
‘Yung malaman mo ‘yung totoong temperatura ng mga kabataan ngayon, na hindi pala alam ng karamihan yung COMELEC ang sakit. Hindi ko alam kung anong gulat ‘yung naramdaman ko,” she stated.
Vice Ganda further underscored that the youths make up a huge percentage of voters, and lamented how a part of the group might be uninformed. Ogie Alcasid stressed that aside from the
youth, parents should also be informed as voters. May mga bagay kagaya no’n na napakahalaga na dapat may pakialam tayo,” Amy Perez added. Vice Ganda chimed in, “Even COMELEC, dapat ma-alarm din ang COMELEC na baka kailangan meron din silang gawin na pagdi-disseminate ng impormasyon — the government in general.”
Kaya siya tinawag na systemic kasi hindi lang isa kundi marami ang may kinalaman,” he continued. Lahat tayo bahagi ng krisis na ito.”
After unanimously agreeing that they should have more educational content, the hosts then went to have a quiz bee about Philippine history among the studio audience.
Meanwhile, the Comelec said it extended an invitation to Aquino to their event to brief her about the duties of the poll body.
“We fully understand her,” COMELEC Chairman George Erwin Garcia said. “It is our solemn duty to explain who we are and what we are doing.”
“It is our failure,” he added.
“We have to immediately rectify.”
LUCIANO CLAN HOLDS FIRST EVER GRAND REUNION IN CALIFORNIA. The Luciano family, who originated from Sta. Rosa, Nueva Ecija, held their first-ever grand reunion last February 15 at Hillcrest Recreation Center in Fullerton, California. With a theme “Keep Families Together. Reunited, Reconnected”, the Luciano meet-up was able to gather more than 80 family members from as far Canada, Indiana, Missouri, North Carolina, and Illinois. In California, family members are from various cities in San Francisco, Los Angeles and Orange Counties. Other family members from the Philippines, New York, Michigan, Florida, United Arab Emirates, London were invited to join the fun via Zoom. With the success of the first event, Roland Cruz, overall chairman of the grand reunion, said he hopes to hold this annually. “We are so grateful for this
Banez, Over-all Mission Coordinator together with members and volunteers of the medical mission team in Carcar City (top photo) and Cavite City (bottom photo).
Olivia Rodrigo and Vanessa Hudgens at the Vanity Fair Oscars 2025 after-party Getty Images Entertainment via Instagram
with
Banez, Over-all Mission Coordinator (right photo) in Cavite City together with mission volunteers.
by Kristofer Purnell Philstar.com
California’s community colleges offer 200+ career education programs to help students begin the career of their dreams
by Xong Her registered nurse sacramento city college graduate
WHEN I was in high school,
I didn’t think attending college was going to be possible. Not only was the high cost of going away to college intimidating, I knew I wanted to stay close to home to work and help my parents. I also didn’t want to take out massive student loans for a degree that may or may not help me find a job. Thanks to my local California community college, I was able to earn a college degree and nursing license and begin a career as a registered nurse while staying close to home.
Like many immigrant families, my parents worked hard to earn enough money to support me and my family. To lessen their burden, my siblings and I helped where and when we could. Since my parents spoke little English, they earned money by doing what they knew best — farming. That meant that we woke up early to help our parents get ready to farm before heading to school and went back to the farm to help after school or to begin chores in our home. Weekends were spent picking
and packaging the produce to sell at the market. While I felt like no one could be working harder than me at the time, I know my story isn’t unique; long days of hard work are a reality for many families. With my grades, I could have gone away to a four-year college, but I knew that it wasn’t the best option for me. Instead, I chose to attend my local community college because that meant that I could complete my first two years and earn my associates degree for little to no money out of pocket, and continue to live at home, work and help my parents, giving me the best of both worlds.
After my first year at Sacramento City College, I knew I made the right choice. I liked the small class sizes and being able to take all the classes I needed without debt because all of my courses and books were covered through financial aid. My experience was so positive that I knew I didn’t want to transfer to a four-year college but instead complete Sacramento City College’s
nursing program through career education.
Career education is a program that provides students with the education, skills and certification or license needed to begin a career in a trade or vocation. These are specialized jobs like nursing, mechanics, technology and more.
California’s community colleges offer more than 200 career education programs taught by experts who are already in the field, so students like me are getting training from people who are actually working in the career we want to be in. Best of all, many of the career education programs can be completed within two years.
No matter where you are or what your age, if you want to make more money and get certified or licensed in a specific trade or vocation, there is probably a California community college that can help. Learn more about the career opportunities available at a community college near you by visiting ICanGoToCollege. com.
Filipina actress Jaclyn Jose part of Oscars’ ‘In Memoriam’ 2025
by jan Milo severo Philstar.com
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.
Bianca Gonzalez excited to work with Gabbi Garcia, Mavy Legaspi in ‘PBB’
by HannaH Mallorca Inquirer.net
BIANCA Gonzalez is looking forward to welcoming Gabbi Garcia and Mavy Legaspi into the “Pinoy Big Brother” family, saying she’s happy for the opportunity to work with them despite coming from different networks.
Garcia and Legaspi were confirmed as the newest hosts of “Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Edition Collab,” a joint effort between ABS-CBN and GMA to celebrate the reality show’s 20th anniversary. The upcoming edition will witness housemates from the Kapamilya and Kapuso networks staying at the Bahay ni Kuya
“This is the first time I will work with Gabbi. We did the pictorial together and we taped [for a show] which is so fun. With Mavy, I worked with him before where we did a panel discussion and I’ve always loved how articulate he is,” Gonzalez told INQUIRER.net during the MEGA Woman 100 book launch, when asked about working with the Kapuso stars.
“I’m looking forward to working with both of them. In another world, hindi mangyayari ‘to (this won’t happen). But we’re able to work with each other despite coming from different networks,” she added.
Touching on the working relationship among the “PBB” hosts, Gonzalez said they always make it a point to make their newest members feel comfortable. “Whenever we have a new addition to the family, for example, last season Alexa [Ilacad] joined us. We always try our very best to [make them feel welcome].”
“Kasi kami na ang mga ate at kuya, lalo na ako (We are the ates and kuyas now, especially me),” she continued. “We always try to make them feel at home. Every host who joined us has a unique flavor to bring to the table.”
‘Pinoy Big Brother’s’ legacy
As the new edition of “Pinoy Big Brother” is set to hit GMA’s airwaves for the first time, Gonzalez said she is still in disbelief over the reality show’s milestone.
“I keep on telling our staff that even if we did the pictorial and contract signing… For 19 years, it has been on ABS-CBN and now even hearing our voiceover [being] different — because it’s the voiceover of GMA — hindi pa talaga siya fully nagsisink in. Feel ko during the launch when we air and the logo is up, d’un pa lang totally magsisink in,” she said.
(I keep on telling our staff that even if we did the pictorial and contract signing… For
19 years, it has been on ABSCBN, and hearing our voiceover being different — because it’s the voiceover of GMA — it still hasn’t fully sunk in. I feel like it will totally sink in for me when we air and the logo is up.)
The host said one of the reasons why
“Pinoy Big Brother” clicked is because it made the viewers feel involved with the lives of its housemates.
“For some reason, as Filipinos, we love cheering for people or tearing people down. ‘PBB’ is a show where you can do all that. [On our end], every season, people’s lives literally changed. ‘Yun pa lang, enough na ‘yun (Through that, it’s enough) to keep going,” she said.
During the interview, Gonzalez also expressed her gratitude to the lifestyle magazine for recognizing her through the many stages of her life.
“I’m honored because there are many women who juggle [their responsibilities] while being [in different stages] of their lives. Yet, ‘MEGA’ still chooses me as one of the women they acknowledge and they’ll share the story of. More than anything, I’m grateful and honored,” she said.
The “Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Edition Collab” is set to air on Sunday, March 9. n
Contributed photo
(From left) Gabbi Garcia, Bianca Gonzalez and Mavy Legaspi. Photo from ABS-CBN Corporate Communications and GMA Corporate Communications
In Instagram, Jaclyn’s daughter Andi Eigenmann posted the screenshot of Oscars’ tribute for Jaclyn. Photo from Instagram/@andieigengirl
Why Sam Milby has a ‘different view’ on infidelity and second chances
by natHalie toMada Philstar.com
CHEATING is often seen as a deal breaker in relationships, but for actor Sam Milby, the situation is not always black and white.
While many consider it an unforgivable betrayal, the “Everything About My Wife” star recently shared a “more nuanced” take on the matter, stressing the importance of accountability, humility and effort in rebuilding what was broken.
“Love can be sweeter the second time around,” he began during a recent interview with The STAR. “And when it comes to cheating, I have a different view.”
For the Cornerstone artist, every situation is unique. “It depends. We’re human. We make mistakes,” he explained.
People can falter, he pointed out, but what truly matters is what comes after.
“I have a few friends that made that mistake. It’s what you do with the mistake that matters. If you show more effort — if you show na yung effort na para … ‘Oh, I made a mistake, I’m so sorry. I’ll make all the effort para bumawi ’ — I believe in second chances.”
He recognizes that being cheated on is painful, and the betrayed party has every right to walk away.
“It’s hard. They have every right — kung sino man yung tao — they have a right to leave the person if they cheated… Lalo na ‘pag mag-asawa, they have a right. But I still truly believe in second chances.”
Sam believes the decision ultimately lies with the person who was wronged. “It’s up to the person who was wronged. It really depends on their reaction. If you made a mistake, you humbly admit it, and you come to them like, ‘I made a mistake. This is so wrong. I was in a moment of weakness, and I’m so sorry.’”
For him, genuine remorse is key. He stressed the importance of making amends and proving that the mistake was a lapse in judgment rather than a reflection of one’s character.
“If you make an effort and
show that you’re trying to make bawi — showing them that they are really the only person in your life, and you’re sincerely sorry — I really believe in second chances. You can feel the sincerity of someone saying, ‘I made a mistake, and I’m so sorry. You are the only one that I want.’”
But forgiveness, he said, is not automatic — it must be earned. “Humility is so important for me — humility, honesty and being genuine. I think people deserve a second chance. We’re human. We make mistakes.”
Sam, nevertheless, acknowledged that marriage is a different story, as it carries a deeper level of commitment.
“I mean, it’s different, obviously, especially when you’re married. But especially in the Philippines, there are so many cases like that. It’s a choice. You have every right if you want to leave. But if you feel it’s necessary, I think we’re human — we deserve a second chance.”
At the end of the day, he believes that people who truly regret their actions can redeem themselves.
“I think people can make bawi and make the second chance count.”
Meanwhile, in “Everything About My Wife,” he plays the womanizer Miguel who will come in between the married couple Dominic Brizuela and Imogen Karuhatan played by real-life husband and wife
Dennis Trillo and Jennylyn Mercado. Now on its second week of showing, the film is the local adaptation of a megahit Argentinian film (which also spawned versions in other countries, including South Korea) that tells the story of a husband who wants to give his wife away. It is directed by Real Florido and co-produced by CreaZion Studios and GMA Pictures.
But his character has also experienced deep heartbreak.
“My character kasi parang nag -give up na siya sa pagibig ,” Sam reflected on his role’s main takeaway.
“He had the love of his life, and then nawala siya sa buhay niya . So, sumuko na siya ,” he continued.
Because of this, his character distracts himself with fleeting romances.
“He is trying to fill his life with mga flames kasi parang yung feeling niya , ‘I’m just gonna enjoy, ‘cause I’m not gonna find love like that.’”
But despite his character’s initial despair, Sam believes that love always finds a way.
“But laging may pag-asa . I think that’s the main thing,” he said.
For him, the take away from the film is that love can come at different points in life, even when one least expects it. “You find love in different parts of your life… So, there’s always a chance. There’s always hope for … laging may pag-asa para sa pag-ibig ,” he said.
Maine Mendoza celebrates 30th birthday
by cHristina alPad ManilaTimes.net
AHEAD of her actual birthday on Monday, March 3, Maine
Mendoza celebrated turning 30 with a fun early 2000s-themed party.
Instagram Stories from her industry and non-showbiz friends showed Mendoza channeling Jennifer Garner’s beloved character, Jenna Rink, in the 2004 movie, “13 Going on 30.”
The party, held at Uma Nota in Bonifacio Global City, gathered Mendoza’s family and friends from both inside and outside the entertainment industry. Among them were her “Eat Bulaga” co-hosts Vico Sotto and wife Pauleen Luna, Tito Sotto, Ryzza Mae Dizon, Miles Ocampo, Jose Manalo, Allan K, as well as celebrities Oyo Sotto and wife Kristine Hermosa, Maja Salvador and Ciara Sotto, among many others. Her former onscreen partner, Alden Richards, was also present.
The Atayde family also joined the celebration, headed by Mendoza’s husband — actor and Congressman Arjo Atayde — along with her sister-in-law Gela.
Meanwhile, on March 3, Mendoza shared artistic photos from her birthday shoot, simply captioning them, “Hello 30!” Mendoza started in showbiz in 2015 as one of the new talents on “Eat Bulaga.” A viral internet personality before joining the noontime show, she skyrocketed
Angel
Aquino to aspiring artistas: ‘Respect is a big virtue’
ANGEL Aquino has a sound advice for those who aspire to join showbiz. The model-turned-actress underscored a virtue that she believes makes a difference in staying in the business of acting.
“Respect is a big virtue that you should have when you enter this business. It’s something that will, you know, give you a long life in this business if you respect yourself, your coworkers, everybody around you, and that boils down to the smallest
Angel Aquino
Maine Mendoza channels
In ‘Everything About My Wife,’ Sam plays the womanizer Miguel who comes in between the married couple Dominic Brizuela and Imogen Karuhatan played by real-life husband and wife Dennis Trillo and Jennylyn Mercado. The film is now on its second week of showing.
to fame as half of the accidental love team AlDub with Richards. She later established herself as
a respected host, actress, and comedian, earning admiration for her charm and authenticity.
Dealing with assets omitted in a divorce case
Barrister’s Corner
Atty. Kenneth UrsUA reyes
YOU and your spouse may have gone through a lengthy and contentious divorce proceeding. This is usually the most difficult period of a person’s life. Finally, time heals all pain. You and your spouse get tired of bickering and being mean to one another that you both decide to compromise each other positions and resolve all issues in your divorce case through settlement. Shortly thereafter, the divorce judgment is finally entered by the Court and you get a sigh of relief. Later you discovery that “Oops!,” your ex-spouse had community asset and/or debt that was left out of the divorce judgment. This may be a pension, retirement account, a hidden bank account, or a piece of real estate property which was not divided in the judgment. What is one to do in this situation?
The answer can be found in California Family Code §2556 California Family Code §2556 provides “In a proceeding for dissolution of marriage, for nullity of marriage, or for legal separation of the parties, the court has continuing jurisdiction to award
community estate assets or community estate liabilities to the parties that have not been previously adjudicated by a judgment in the proceeding.”
California Family Code §2556
Even if the parties did not expressly reserve jurisdiction on that piece of asset, the Court retains the power to divide a specific property if there is a community interest in it.
The Court’s “continuing jurisdiction” over omitted community estate assets or debts is invoked by filing a post judgment Motion, or Request for Order in the divorce case. Family Code §2556 provides “A party may file a postjudgment motion or request for order in the proceeding in order to obtain adjudication of any community estate asset or liability omitted or not adjudicated by the judgment.”
The postjudgment partition of the unadjudicated community estate claims is properly entertained by the court even absent an express reservation of jurisdiction in its prior judgment. Marriage of Moore & Ferrie (1993) 14 CA4th 1472, 1483, 18 CR2d 543, 549, fn. 9. The postjudgment motion is available to any omitted asset or debt not adjudicated by the divorce judgment. However, Family Code §2556 does not extend to division and adjudication of any separate property. Marriage of Klug (2005) 130 CA4th 1389, 1396, 31 CR3d 327, 331–332. If an asset was partially
omitted, the Court can still divide and adjudicate the portion that has been omitted postjudgment under Family Code §2566 . Community Property adjudicated under § 2556 shall be divided equally “unless the court finds upon good cause shown that the interests of justice require an unequal division of the asset or liability.” Family Code §2556
* * *
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, APLC. This article is not a solicitation. *
Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of the Family law section, Estates and Trust, and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, APLC. is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail Kenneth@kenreyeslaw.com. Web: kenreyeslaw.com (Advertising Supplement)
Angel Aquino to aspiring artistas...
Pastor’s Notes
reverend rodel G. BAlAGtAs
I LIKE what someone wrote about Lent: “Lent is less a time for us to be doing religious ‘things’ than for us to be open to the transformative ‘things’ God wishes to do for us.” As I shared in my homily last Sunday, Lent is a time of renewal.
This is because that is God’s wish for us, especially during this time of confusion and deep division among people. God wants us to have a clear vision of His Kingdom in the “here and now,” not just in heaven. He desires for us to align ourselves with the heart of Jesus, which is full of love, kindness, mercy, and compassion for all people. Our Lenten practices, such as fasting, abstinence, and prayer, would be more meaningful if they lead us toward a life of charity and service to others, especially those in need, and if we become agents of
The voices of Lent
transformation in the pursuit of a world characterized by peace and justice. Thus, Lent is a time to be led by the Spirit, as Jesus was in this Sunday’s Gospel, confronting the evils of greed, corruption, selfishness, self-preoccupation, arrogance, indifference, and hatred that persist in today’s world. But how do we prevent ourselves from being influenced by these evil ways? It is through having a critical, discerning, guarded, and courageous heart and spirit. We must say “no” to the negative voices that harm our souls and instead listen to Jesus’ voice. His voice challenges us to be kind, generous, and compassionate toward others. Jesus’ voice reminds us that “One does not live on bread alone.” It warns us that the love of power, money, and pleasure can corrupt us and cause us to lose our souls.
Fr. Gregory Boyle’s recommendations for the voices we need to hear in his new book Cherished Belonging encompass attitudes that we should embrace this Lent and
beyond:
1. God is loving.
2. God IS inclusion.
3. Demonizing is always untruth.
4. We belong to each other.
5. Separation is an illusion.
6. Tenderness is the highest form of spiritual maturity.
7. “Kindness is the only non-delusional response to everything” (George Sanders).
8. Love your neighbor as you love your child.
9. We are all unshakably good.
10. A community of cherished belonging is God’s dream come true. May you have a grace-filled Lent, marked with a renewed heart, mind, and spirit. Amen.
In Christ’s love, Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas
* * * 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. PAGE B4
player in the industry,” Angel emphasized. Angel spoke to a group of reporters who attended the launch of the Heart Failure Week, observed this year from February 10 to 15. Angel started out modeling when she was scouted by director Jeffrey Jeturian when she was 19. The 52-year-old eventually donned the dresses of famous designers, becoming their favorite muse, and then she ventured into acting.
Angel has not been absent from TV these days, with one project after another. She was part of the longest running TV show “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano ,” and now she reunites with Coco Martin in “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo.”
Her staying power in the fashion and entertainment scene is evident in her presence on TV, and Angel added that it is respect coupled with determination that has helped her keep in the right track.
“You have to be committed to what you do. You have to have the right reasons for doing it,” she advised. Angel cautioned against those who believe in easy fame, arguing that it is not the only reason to enter showbiz.
Kasi kung para ka lang sumikat , then maraming paraan . With the social media now, it’s so easy to be famous, but to be remembered and to be respected, takes a lot more effort,” Angel said. (Philstar. com)
Michele Gumabao gets candid on joining ‘Pinoy Big Brother,’ Miss Universe Philippines again
MICHELE Gumabao shared her honest thoughts about rejoining two contests she was part of in the past: “Pinoy Big Brother” (PBB) and Miss Universe Philippines.
The current opposite hitter for Creamline Cool Smashers was announced as the ambassador for Unleash, a pet app that features pet care solutions, such as mobile grooming, telemedicine, pet sitting, pet training, and a petfriendly café.
Philstar.com caught up with the statuesque volleyball star at the sidelines of the gala’s app held last week in One Esplanade, Pasay City.
“PBB? Pwede bang pumasok ulit?” she replied back, admitting that she was unaware that a new season of the popular reality show is set to premiere this Sunday, March 9.
“Medyo mahirap kasi I have volleyball. Nag-enjoy naman ako sa ‘PBB.’ But schedule ang pinaka-mahirap. So, let’s see
Miss Universe Philippines 2020 2nd Runner Up Michele Gumabao Charlie Mango, Jay Jay Torre via Michele Gumabao’s Instagram
Mic diAz
SEVERAL days ago, loyal fans and music enthusiasts flocked to The View Music Bar & Lounge in Torrance for a show that seemed to be an antithesis to celebrating romantic love. Local band Playback Jukebox mounted a post-Valentine’s Day show aptly called “How do you fix a broken heart?”
So how do you do that?
Just like the song “Fixing A Broken Heart” by Australian pop rock band Indecent Obsession suggests, Playback Jukebox took cues and sang a selection of carefully curated songs that sound as though they were especially made for the brokenhearted — songs reminiscent of days of longing for love long gone and pondering could have been.
The trio comprised of vocalist Benjie Collantes, drummer Paco Arespacochaga and keyboardist JJ Buencamino carried out a slew of well-loved OPM songs such as “Ipagpatawad Mo” by VST & Co., “Don’t Know What to Do” by Ric Segreto and “Di Na Natuto” by Gary Valenciano along with a series of hits by popular Pinoy rock band True Faith. Playback Jukebox also performed New Wave charttoppers such as “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” by Tears for Fears, “Stitches and Burns” by Fra Lippo Lippi and “A Little Respect” by Erasure.
How do you fix a broken heart?
Jake
Playback Jukebox dug into their treasure trove of covers of ‘80s hits from their album Got You Covered Vol. 1, and sang “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” and their recently released cover of ‘90s hit “Fixing a Broken Heart” from which this postValentine’s show was named.
The trio now has two original songs to their name, “Won’t You Come Home (I’m Sorry),” which was released last year and their latest single “Lungkot,” which was launched at this show.
Drummer Paco Arespacochaga reminded the audience not to lose hope and that when there’s sadness, there’s happiness, and urged everyone including DJ Jake Martin who opened the show with unforgettable tunes from the ‘80s and ‘90s, members of Party Party People, Club
Manila Los Angeles and the La Salle Alumni Association to join him in singing “Kung mayroon lungkot, may saya.” He further exclaimed, “good things are about to happen in 2025.”
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
kung kakayanin ulit. I didn’t even know na may upcoming now,” the spiker added.
She was a housemate in the 2014 edition titled “Pinoy Big Brother: All In,” with Joshua Garcia, Maris Racal and Daniel Matsunaga, who won the edition.
Michele is currently in wedded bliss after tying the knot with PBA strength and conditioning coach Aldo Panlililo last February 25.
She said that she is trying to juggle her schedule as a recently married professional volleyball player, as well as taking care of five of her fur
babies with her husband. Michele also said that she has not considered joining beauty pageants even if Miss Universe Philippines has lifted the age limit.
“Ay, hindi na po. As much as I say I don’t close my doors to anything, medyo, ano na po, I think I’ve already closed that door and chapter in my life,” Michele said. Michele was crowned Binibining Pilipinas Globe 2018. Two years later in 2020, she ended with a 2nd runner-up finish at the inaugural edition of Miss Universe Philippines, which was won by Rabiya Mateo. (Philstar.com)
Playback Jukebox
Photo by Jason Bascon
Friends and family of Playback Jukebox
Photo by Jason Bascon
Friends of Playback Jukebox
Photo by Jason Bascon
DJ
Martin Photo by Jason Bascon
Playback Jukebox and their fans
Photo by Jason Bascon
Playback Jukebox
Photo by Mic Diaz
My P.E.P. (People, Events,Places)
TO celebrate Women’s Month, kindly allow me to give tribute to some remarkable women in their own quiet, simple way this March.
My mom, Rosita Constantino Medina, St. Mary’s and UST high school alumna, is a Kapampangan. She loves to cook and sing and joins Bible studies. She has many friends in the entertainment world being the niece of the late LVN director Felicing Constantino. She is related to former President Diosdado Macapagal on the Vitug side.
She remembers that it was her best friend actor Georgie Quizon (known for Stariray, Close to You and Captain Barbell films), comedian Dolphy’s brother, who arranged preparation for her debut that was published by the old Manila Times and Manila Bulletin. Singer Cenon Lagman, dubbed as the Prince of Kundiman, was her childhood best friend. Fernando Poe Jr., or FPJ, the King of the Philippine Movies, was also her childhood friend (Rosita’s relative was the gardener of the Poe family).
Singer-actor Fred Panopio (his hit songs were Pitong Gatang, Tatlong Baraha, and Markado) was her neighbor in Quezon City.
I was fortunate to recover a few photos of her younger years since most of them were included in a fire that destroyed our house years ago.
Honoring my mom this Women’s Month
* * * While doing the usual brisk walking with my mom in Green Valley, Fairfield in California, we happened to pass by the house of Fe Cangco, 68, a neighbor along Adagio Drive, who migrated to the U.S. in 1998. She used to work in a post office in San Francisco for two years and in Max’s Restaurant (already closed) Vallejo City for over ten years. She has five children, one of whom is a police officer in Suisun City, Alvin Cangco, a friend of my nephew Michael Isip.
* * *
One of the persons I could not forget during my CITEM days is Dr. Mina T. Gabor, founder and first executive director of the Center for International Trade, Expositions and Missions. She has made significant contributions to the country’s trade promotion efforts. She is a former tourism secretary.
I learned a lot of managerial skills from her and she even trusted my foreign language skills in dealing with our product specialists.
MTG is a name that echoes with reverence and admiration in the corridors of international travel and tourism. Her journey, from her early days to her present position of influence, is an inspiring narrative of unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism and exceptional leadership.
Thanks for giving me the opportunity to be the editor of CITEM Trade Update that gained acceptance and recognition locally and abroad.
* * *
U.S. First Lady Melania Trump said in the past that “I’m proud of
what this country continues to do for women. In the United States, women are playing vital roles in society. They are mothers, wives, doctors, CEOs and elected officials, to name just a few.”
She adheres to equality, freedom and the responsibility women have to help each other achieve success. “As an immigrant myself, having grown up in a communist society, I know all too well the value and importance of freedom and equal opportunity – ideals which this great nation was founded and has continued to strive towards throughout its history.”
* * *
The Philippines’ First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos cites the exceptional role of women in society. She recognizes women as “the primary caretakers and educators in the family and they are a big contributor to our workforce.”
She has thrown her support behind the worldwide movement to eliminate all forms of violence against women.
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Loida Nicolas Lewis, who is in the Philippines for a fireside chat and book presentation on March 16 from 2 p.m to 4 p.m. at The Studio Space of Fully Booked Bonifacio High Street, Building 6, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, wrote that: “As I remember all the wonderful women around me, I am reminded of a scripture that speaks to women’s hearts: ‘Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus’ (Philippians 4:6-7). Let’s not be anxious or stressed — instead, let us keep going in joyful gratitude, knowing that God hears us and will help us at the right time.”
* * * Ed Sicam, husband of Paulynn Sicam, was my editor at the Manila Chronicle. He assigned me to cover for the TV stations as I had then a column TV Network Update.
I remember he assigned me to interview Lea Salonga, the little girl who was little no longer. So I went to a restaurant where I saw Lea and her mom. Lea’s mom was so sweet and thoughtful even when I was already working in Malacanang as information
* * * One person I could not forget is my lifestyle editor at the Philippine Daily Inquirer, the late Lita T. Logarta. She was a very supportive, thoughtful and understanding boss. She assigned me to interview oftentimes ambassadors assigned to the Philippines and to cover other
events and personalities. She even allowed me to write for other sections like sports, entertainment and travel. When I was based in Tokyo as a correspondent of the Philippine Daily Inquirer, I would fax my stories to the news desk. * * * 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
Rogelio Constantino Medina
Rosita Constantino Medina with her daughter Victoria Isip at the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. Photos collated by Rogelio Medina
AJ columnist Rogelio Medina with Fil-Am
Fe Cangco of Green Valley, Fairfield, Solano County, California.
Philippines President Bongbong Marcos with First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos
Ed Sicam (standing, 3rd from left) with his family
Left photo: Rosita Flores Constantino (3rd from left) with the Darling Twins (Aurora and Esperanza) of Premiere’s Kuskos Balungos’ film; Right photo: Rosita with Fernando Poe Jr. during their teenage years.
U.S. First Lady Melania Trump
The indefatigable Mina T. Gabor
officer.
Lately, I have been getting in touch with my former editor, who was so kind to me as ever.
Loida Nicolas Lewis is slated to have a fireside chat and book presentation in Manila on March 16, 2025 hosted by Karen Davila. Philippine Daily Inquirer’s Lifestyle Editor Lita Logarta (1987-1994)
