032824 - Las Vegas Edition

What’s new this tax season?

AS

Austin

“The two

importance of preserving the

Ex-President Duterte, China had deal to keep WPS status quo – Roque

by GABRIEL PABICO LALU Inquirer.net

MANILA — Former President Rodrigo Duterte made a verbal agreement with China when he was still in power to maintain the status quo in the West Philippine Sea, according to ex-presidential spokesperson Harry Roque.

Roque clarified, however, that the agreement—which called for the Philippines to refrain from constructing and repairing installa-

tions in the area—was non-binding and could not apply during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s tenure.

“[It’s] verbal and, hence, not binding on PBBM [President Bonbong Marcos]. Agreement on status quo,” Roque said in a text message to INQUIRER.net.

He made it clear, however, that this deal was not about China’s claim that a former president supposedly agreed to remove BRP

Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal.  PAGE 2

hours, reducing call wait times to three minutes or less and adding customer callback — “though we’re not offering a lot of it right now, because we’re answering calls so quickly,” continued Morehead.

NEARLY nine out of 10 Filipinos said the 1987 Constitution must not be amended, with 75 percent of them saying it should not be amended now or at any other time, the latest survey conducted by Pulse Asia showed.

In the "Ulat sa Bayan" survey conducted from March 6-10, 2024, 88 percent said they did not want the current constitution to be amended now, and 75 percent of them said it should never be amended.

Meanwhile, 14 percent said that while the Constitution could not be amended, it could be amended sometime in the future. Of these, 6 percent said the Charter could be amended during the administration of President Ferdi-

nand Marcos Jr., while 8 percent said that it could be done in the next administration.

Only 8 percent of respondents said they were in favor of amending the Constitution.

Pulse Asia President Ronald Holmes said those opposing the moves to change the 1987 Constitution increased between March 2023 and March 2024, with a 43 percent increase in opposition nationwide and ranging from 31 percent to 58 percent per area.

He added that support for the proposals to amend the Constitution had eased in the Philippines with a 33 percent decline from March last year.

A majority of respondents opposed allowing foreigners to exploit natural resources (86 percent) and to own residential and industrial

ON Thursday, March 21, local elected leaders, health care providers, and Nevadans with guaranteed health care coverage under the ACA celebrated the 14th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) becoming law and highlighted the urgent threat facing Nevadans’ health care if Donald Trump is elected. While President Biden has worked to lower costs, expand health care coverage, and help Nevada reach record-enrollment rates, Trump is promising anew to try to repeal the health care law and gut health care protections for tens of thousands of Nevadans.

In Las Vegas, State Senator Fabian Doñate, Assemblywoman Erica Mosca, health care workers, and Las Vegas residents who depend on the ACA for their health care spoke about the devastating impact a Trump presidency would have on health care protections

LEADING critics of the so-called war on drugs of former president Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday, March 27 slammed the move of his son, Davao City Mayor Sebastian "Baste" Duterte, to revive the brutal policy.

Critics of Mayor Baste assailed his move after seven drug suspects were killed in separate police operations in the city, under the "leave or die" warning of the younger Duterte to drug dealers and users.

In a statement on Wednesday, Bayan Muna chairman and former lawmaker Neri Colmenares said the revival of the drug war has created a "dangerous environment for the people, resulting in more killings and human rights violations."

"As long as the death squads are not dismantled, extrajudicial killings will continue. The worst part is that local officials employ this 'drug war' for popularity and gimmick purposes when they know it did not solve the drug problem under Duterte as drugs are still prevalent after six years of EJK," Colmenares said. He added that the former president was a "dismal failure" in his drug war, which is why he questions why his son is following in the footsteps of a "loser."

"We need to make those responsible for these atrocities accountable and not as a source of inspiration," Colmenares added.

Moreover, he said that if the elder Duterte were to be arrested, convicted and imprisoned

PH Consulate General launches 2024 Very Important Pinoy Tour

LOS ANGELES – The Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles launched the 2024 Very Important Pinoy (VIP) Tour before an audience composed of members of the FilipinoAmerican community in Los Angeles. The guests included representatives of several tour operators and travel agencies. The Tour project was launched earlier in New York and San Francisco by the Philippine consulates in those cities. The Philippine Consulate General

in New York is this year’s lead coordinator for the project. The 2024 VIP Tour is scheduled on July 21 to 30, 2024 with new destinations including Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro and Bukidnon.

In his welcome remarks, Philippine Consul General in Los Angeles, Edgar B. Badajos encouraged the guests to join the VIP Tour. He also urged them to invite their friends to join the Tour, which he  PAGE 3

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte with Chinese President Xi Jinping Malacañang file photo

The Ruins, Negros Occidental

Photo by Jacob Maentz

Pentagon chief reaffirms...

rights of all nations to fly, sail, and operate safely and responsibly wherever international law allows,” according to the readout provided by Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, press secretary of the Pentagon.

“They agreed to bolster bilateral and multilateral cooperation with like-minded partners in the South China Sea and committed to accelerate a number of bilateral initiatives to enhance informationsharing, interoperability, and capability enhancements for the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” it added. Austin also reiterated that the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty extends to both nations’ armed forces, public vessels, and aircraft—including those of its Coast Guard—anywhere in the Pacific, including the South China Sea. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier said the defense will only be invoked if the country faces an

“existential threat.” Over the weekend, the China Coast Guard blocked and used water cannons against a Filipino supply boat, damaging the vessel and injuring three soldiers.

Beijing claims nearly the entire South China Sea, dismissing claims from other countries, including the Philippines, and an international court ruling that found its assertions to have no legal basis. (Gaea Katreena Cabico with reports from Agence France-Presse/Philstar.com)

Ex-President Duterte, China had deal...

“That’s very different. PRRD [President Rodrigo Roa Duterte] never agreed to remove [BRP]

Sierra Madre. They had a gentleman’s agreement that both sides will maintain [the] status quo,” Roque noted.

Roque made the admission of a deal between Duterte and China after the resupply mission to troops stationed at Ayungin Shoal was water cannoned by Chinese Coast Guard vessels.

The incident caused heavy damage to the resupply boats.

In an interview with Politico, Roque said the reason China was attacking Philippines vessels with water cannons was that it might have misunderstood that the gentleman’s agreement would be applicable under Marcos’ terms.

Duterte has been accused by opposition figures of being the president who promised to remove BRP Sierra Madre, which was deliberately run aground

Ayungin Shoal to act as a military outpost.

Other past presidents, namely Joseph Estrada and Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, have categorically denied it.

Lawmakers have urged Duterte to speak up as to whether or not there was a deal with China to withdraw the BRP Sierra Madre.

ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. France Castro asked the House of Representatives leadership to schedule hearings on the issue. g

Filipinos don’t want Charter change...

lands (81 percent).

Some 78 percent said they opposed the removal of the limits on stocks in Philippine corporations that foreign individuals and corporations could own, while 74 percent said they wanted a shift from a bicameral to a unicameral system of government.

About 71 percent of respondents opposed shifting the political system from presidential to parliamentary, changing the present unitary system of government to a federal one, limiting the prohibition of foreign ownership on communications, and allowing foreigners to own equity in mass media and advertising.

Only 7 percent of respondents nationwide said that they were given the people's initiative petition to amend the 1987 Constitution, of which 76 percent said that they did not sign the petition and 24 percent said that they signed. Of those who signed the petition, however, 55 percent said they were not given an incentive after signing it, while 45 percent said they received an incentive.

Reacting to the survey, ACT-Teachers Rep. France Castro said the survey results proved that nearly all Filipinos did not want Charter change and that the government should focus on other "pressing problems."

“danger”

Nevada rallies to protect Affordable Care...

for Latino, AAPI, and LGBTQI+ communities.

In Reno, former Lieutenant Governor Kate Marshall, Assemblywoman Angie Taylor, former Executive Director for the Silver State Health Insurance Exchange Heather Korbulic, and health care advocate and cancer survivor Priscilla Maloney highlighted President Biden’s efforts to protect the ACA’s benefits for Nevadans and their concerns about the future of health care access if Trump is elected.

The Pulse Asia survey had 1,200 respondents with a margin of error of plus or minus 2.8 percent. g Nearly

"This proves that not all surveys are created equal. The methodology used by a survey that used a mobile app to gather its responses from respondents is questionable," Manuel said.

Kabataan Party-list Rep. Raoul Manuel, on the other hand, said the earlier survey by Tangere noted that 52 percent of respondents were in favor of Charter change.

During his first term, Trump was one vote away from repealing the ACA. Now, he wants to try again—which could take away health care protections for as many as 100 million Americans with preexisting conditions like cancer, asthma, and diabetes; raise premiums and health care costs by thousands of dollars a year for millions of Americans; raise seniors’ prescription drug costs by hundreds of dollars per year; jeopardize free preventive care like cancer screenings, annual check-ups, and cholesterol tests; cause uninsurance rates for communities of color to skyrocket; kick millions of young people off their parents’ coverage; and take away access to mental health care or substance abuse treatment for millions.

In the past few months alone, Trump has repeatedly said he would attempt to overturn the ACA, calling the landmark law “a catastrophe,” and saying Republicans should “never give up” trying to repeal the ACA— despite the fact that the law is more popular than ever and a record number of people are signing up for health care. And this week, his MAGA allies in Congress released a budget straight from Trump’s wishlist that would gut the Affordable Care Act.

“The ACA was a gamechanger for Nevadans – particularly for the Latino community,” said state Senator Fabian Doñate. “Between 2013 and 2015, the uninsured rate of non-elderly Latinos in Nevada declined from 34 percent to 19

percent and the rate of uninsured Latino children in Nevada was nearly cut in half. President Biden has protected the ACA and taken additional actions to strengthen health care access — including capping the price of insulin at $35. Donald Trump wants to strip all of the progress we’ve made, and would be devastating for Latino communities.”

“When I was 26, the ACA didn't exist, and there were a few years where I didn’t have health coverage,” said Assemblywoman Erica Mosca. “The ACA changed that, but Trump and MAGA Republicans have already promised to gut the program if elected. This would be devastating for Americans under 26 and for u PAGE 4

UNSHAKEN FAITH. Catholic pilgrims brave the sweltering summer heat while reciting novena prayers during the Stations of the Cross at the San Agustin Church in Intramuros, Manila on Thursday, March 28. Health authorities have reminded travelers and pilgrims engaging in

Week rituals to exercise caution and stay hydrated, as 15 areas across the country, including Metro Manila, are forecast to

index

PNA photo by Avito Dalan

Nevada state Senator Fabian Doñate (center) and Assemblymember Erica Mosca (left) were joined by health care workers and Las Vegas residents during an event highlighting the 14th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act.

2.

have

that you may not

for a

Medicare Part D prescription drug plan during GEP even if you need drug coverage with Original Medicare as drug coverage is not included. The GEP is specifically for enrolling in Medicare Part A and/or Part B, not for Part D. To have a stand-alone Part D plan, you may have to wait for the upcoming Medicare Open Enrollment Period that occurs between October 15 and December 7 every year.

3. What can I do during MA OEP (Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period)? As mentioned in <1>, MA OEP is only for those who already are enrolled in MA plan. You can switch from one MA plan to another, or you can disenroll from your Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). If you return to Original Medicare, you have the option to enroll in a stand-alone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. Note that MA OEP does not apply to Original Medicare beneficiaries, that means you cannot switch from Original Medicare to MA plan, you cannot join a part D prescription drug plan or cannot switch one part D plan to another if you’re in Original Medicare.

4. Can I add a Medigap plan to Original Medicare during GEP or MA OEP? Medicare basically covers 80% of the cost for each Medicare-covered service or item after you’ve paid your deductible. If you decide to stay with Original Medicare (Part A and B) and want to cover the

20% financial gap that Medicare doesn’t pay for, you may want to add a Medigap plan to your Original Medicare. Ideally, the best time to purchase a Medigap policy is during your Medigap OEP, which starts the first day of the month that you're both 65 or older AND enrolled in Medicare Part B. This period lasts for six months. During this period, Medigap companies must sell you a policy at the best available rate regardless of your health status, and they cannot

PH Consulate General launches 2024...

described as “a good way to learn more about Filipino culture and heritage, especially since this is the first time the tour is offering a visit to Northern Mindanao.”

Mr. Jose C. Clemente, President of Rajah Tours, discussed this year’s Tour itinerary as well as the transportation and accommodation arrangements. Following Mr. Clemente’s presentation, Ms. Soleil P. Tropicales, PDOT San Francisco Tourism Attaché, presented the “Love the Philippines” campaign. The guests’ reception of the 2024 VIP Tour was largely positive and enthusiastic.

More information on the VIP Tour 2024 is available on its official Facebook page https://www. facebook.com/veryimportantpinoytour2023 and website http:// viptourphilippines2023.com.

Critics slam revival of drug war in Davao...

by the International Criminal Court, "it may deter officials employing death squads from continuing their brutal practices."

He suggested the local government dismantle the drug syndicates and the supply side of the drug problem while arresting government officials who serve as "drug syndicate protectors."

"Again, we demand an end to the revival of the bloody and anti-poor drug war, and we call

for the dismantling of death squads, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive and rightsbased approach to addressing drug-related issues in Davao City as well as the whole country," Colmenares said.

Human Rights Watch, on the other hand, expressed "deep concern" about Baste Duterte's declaration, as it could worsen the "already dire" human rights situation in the city. It called on the administration

of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to rescind the previous administration's anti-drug policies and for the police to "stand down."

Kabataan Party-list Executive Vice President Renee Louise Co, meanwhile, said the current drug war is a "war against poor individuals in Davao and nationwide while not penalizing the large drug lords or resolving the economic crisis that pushed many youths to use illegal drugs." g

The VIP Tour, started in 2004, is an annual activity organized by all Philippine Foreign Service Posts with support from the Philippine Department of Tourism offices in the United States and Rajah Tours. g

SMOOTH RIDE. The usually congested EDSA-Ortigas Avenue intersection and flyover, spanning Quezon City, San Juan and Mandaluyong, have few passing vehicles on Maundy Thursday morning, March 28. It is a common sight during the Holy Week when Metro Manila dwellers go out of town.

PNA photo by Joan Bondoc

Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village, Cagayan de Oro

Photo from Bucket List

White House to convene AANHPI education leaders for historic summit

WASHINGTON – The White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders (WHIAANHPI) has announced that it will convene higher education leaders from across the nation on April 2, 2024, for a historic leadership development summit at the University of California, Berkeley.

The event, which will be co-hosted with the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM), will bring together Biden-Harris Administration officials and higher education leaders, faculty, administrators and staff to share best practices and address urgent challenges facing Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders (AA and NHPI) in higher education.

The summit will also spotlight innovative institutions of higher education – including Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions (AANAPISIs) and Native Hawaiian-Serving Institutions (NHSIs) – that have made strides to build inclusive campus communities, create culturally responsive academic support services and promote student success.

Over the past two years, WHIAANHPI has hosted numerous virtual and in-person events to engage with AA and NHPI communities across the nation.

This includes efforts to highlight federal internship and fellowship opportunities, demystify the federal jobs application process and raise awareness about critical federal resources available for minority-serving institutions.

Following the April 2 summit, the White House Initiative will continue to deepen its engagement with higher education leaders, students and faculty to empower AA and NHPI communities and bolster pathways to public service.

“Our White House Initiative is laser focused on building on President Biden’s commitment to strengthen the capacity of minority-serving institutions that have long served as engines of opportunity and empowerment for millions of Americans,” said WHIAANHPI Executive Director Krystal Ka‘ai.

“With our higher education leadership development summit, we look forward to continuing to strengthen our engagement with students and higher education leaders to advance educational equity for our diverse AA and NHPI communities.”

“Minority-serving institutions often serve as empowering and helpful resources for students and recent graduates interested in public service, including those from Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities,” said OPM Director Kiran Ahuja. “As the federal government’s chief human resources agency, OPM is deeply committed to developing policies and services that advance equity across federal agencies and remove barriers for underserved communities.”

The April 2 summit marks a major step in WHIAANHPI’s efforts to put the promise of higher education in reach for more Americans – and builds on several key actions taken by the Biden-Harris Administra -

What’s new this tax...

tion, including: Celebrating AANAPISI

Week: In September 2023, President Joe Biden issued the first-ever White House proclamation to recognize National Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions (AANAPISI) Week.

Launching a higher education listening tour: In late 2023, WHIAANHPI kicked off a national listening tour to deepen community collaborations and strengthen the infrastructure of both AANAPISIs and Native Hawaiian-Serving Institutions as they prepare students to thrive in the workforce. To date, WHIAANHPI has made initial stops at Queens College, City University of New York (CUNY) and the University of Massachusetts Lowell, with additional visits to AANAPISI and AANHSI campuses being planned later this year.

Tackling barriers to educational attainment: With the release of the Administration’s first-ever national strategy to advance equity, justice, and opportunity for AA and NHPI communities in January 2023, WHIAANHPI and the US Department of Education are working to create a higher education system that is more inclusive, equitable and affordable for all Americans.

The White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders (WHIAANHPI), established by President Joe Biden through Executive Order 14031, is charged with coordinating programs advancing equity, justice and opportunity for AA and NHPI communities. (Inquirer.net)

Fil-Am kid to represent Nevada in the National Scholastic K-5 Chess Championship

JARL Reyhan Bitoon, 11-yearold Filipino American from Henderson, Nevada just recently won the State of Nevada Chess Scholastic Championship in the K-5 division. He will represent Nevada in the upcoming National Scholastic Championship in Virginia this July 27, 2024.

Jarl is the son of Filipino Chess Grandmaster Richard Bitoon and registered nurse Joyce Lee Bitoon, both originally from Cebu City, Philippines.

the IRS launched a full-scale Direct File pilot program for eligible taxpayers in 12 states to file their returns for free, directly through the IRS. These states are Arizona, California, Florida, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington and Wyoming.

Direct File also has a live chat feature for tax help in English and Spanish.

Eligible taxpayers must “report income from jobs that generate from a W-2, and can claim a standard deduction — and any deductions for educator expenses and student loan interest,” said Morehead. “They also may be claiming an earned income tax credit, child tax credit or credit for other dependents.”

Direct

be directed to the direct E-file page for their state return.

Those who don’t use Direct File have other free options.

Taxpayers who made $79,000 or less in 2023 can also E-file through Free File Alliance, a group of commercial tax companies in partnership with the IRS. This year, the service is available through one partner, ezTaxReturn.com, in Spanish.

Getting help

Those who need help filing taxes also have a range of options.

For instance, those making a low-to-moderate adjusted gross income — generally under $64,000 — are eligible for free tax help by IRS-certified volunteers through Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, while those 60 years or older are eligible for Tax Counseling for the Elderly.

For military and some veteran households, The Department of Defense has MilTax, offering free preparation help and electronic filing software for federal income returns and up to three state income tax returns, with no income limit.

Taxpayers looking for inperson aid can go to a Taxpayer Assistance Center, many of which now have extended hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays, alongside Saturday events where people can get help from IRS employees, make payments by check or money order, get help with identity theft, authenticate their identity, ask about account adjustments and get help interpreted in multiple languages.

On the IRS website itself, help is translated into seven languages — Spanish, Vietnamese, Russian, Korean, Haitian Creole, traditional Chinese and simplified Chinese — while a resource page with more information about federal taxes is available in 21 languages. Those seeking paid help can sort certified preparers by area and qualifications through the IRS directory.

“Once a taxpayer files their return, they may want to know when they’ll get their refund,” said Morehead. “With millions of tax returns going out each week, Where’s My Refund remains the best way to check your status. The tool is available in English

and in Spanish, and provides IRS confirmation of receiving a federal tax return, approval of the tax return and refund, and an issuing date of the approved refund. Information for returns from tax years 2023, 2022 and 2021 is also available.”

Avoiding scams

“If we’re talking about refunds, we need to address scammers that try to mislead taxpayers into believing that they’re owed a refund,” he continued. One new scheme involves a mailed cardboard envelope with an enclosed letter of “notice relating to your unclaimed refund,” that includes the IRS masthead with contact information not belonging to the IRS.

Taxpayers should also avoid “ghost preparers” who don’t sign tax returns in hopes of profiting by promising a big refund and charging fees based on its size.

Recent immigrants in particular are targeted by aggressive phone calls where scammers impersonate IRS agents with fake names and identification numbers.

“Victims are told they owe money to the IRS, and it must be paid promptly through a gift card or wire transfer under threat of arrest or deportation, or suspension of a business or driver’s license,” said Morehead. “To trick them into sharing private information, scammers may tell them they have a refund due or leave an urgent callback request.”

Those suspecting tax fraud should remember that the IRS does not initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text message or social media, or ask for personal or financial information through these channels like scammers do.

More information about recognizing and reporting various tax scams is available through the IRS.

“Unfortunately, tax scammers are always inventing new ways to trick people,” said Morehead. “But success for us means improving the experience that taxpayers have with us, and we’ve been successful. With these new services, we want to see that continue.” (Selen Ozturk/Ethnic Media Services)

Jarl’s achievements as a chess prodigy include:

• Plainview, Texas rated tournament champion in December 2017 at age 5

• Texas Tech University, K-5 Champion, perfect score in Feb 2019 at age 7

• Houston Scholastic Summer Chess Festival Champion July 20, 2019 at age 7

• Texas Tech University K-5 champion in September 2019 at age 7

• Nevada State Championship 2024 K-5 champion at age 11. g

Jarl started playing chess at the age of 4. His dad GM Richard is his primary instructor and owner of Star Wizard Chess Club in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Philippines signs pact with nonprofit to aid Filipino victims of human trafficking in US

WASHINGTON – Philippine Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez, on behalf of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), has signed a Memorandum of Collaborative Agreement with Polaris to assist Filipino victims of human trafficking in the United States.

Polaris Chief Executive Officer

Catherine Chan signed the agreement on behalf of the organization, which leads a survivor-centered, justice- and equity-driven movement to end human trafficking.

“The Philippine Embassy will not waver in extending protection to overseas Filipinos, which is one of the pillars of foreign policy. We truly appreciate the support of Polaris in pursuing our mandate,” Romualdez said. Since 2007, Polaris has operat-

ed the U.S. National Human Trafficking Hotline, which connects victims and survivors to support and services and helps communities hold traffickers accountable.

DMW Officer-in-Charge Hans

Leo Cacdac said the agreement “reflects our continuing efforts to expand our network of partners to prevent human trafficking and provide necessary assistance to victims.”

Cacdac said Polaris is a well-established organization with a wide network of service providers within and outside the U.S.

“Our partnership will help us identify potential victims of human trafficking among Filipinos entering the U.S. and provide them with immediate legal, shelter and other assistance,” he said.

Cacdac credited the late DMW Secretary Maria Susana Ople for

laying the groundwork for this initiative.

“She had known Polaris for a long time having been an anti-human trafficking advocate who devoted her life to the cause of ending modern slavery. This is her legacy,” Cacdac said.

The agreement outlines the various services that the DMW – through the Migrant Workers Office in Washington, D.C. – and Polaris can provide to the Filipino victims of human trafficking.

The services include repatriation, legal and accommodation assistance, as well as case evaluation and referral to U.S. law enforcement agencies.

Polaris is also prepared to provide training to Philippine Embassy and MWO personnel on assisting human trafficking victims. (Inquirer.net)

Nevada rallies to protect Affordable Care...

communities like mine in East Las Vegas.”

“As the owner of a health care clinic serving the LGBTQIA+ community, I have seen directly how much the Affordable Care Act and President Biden’s actions have helped my patients access affordable health care,” said Rob Phoenix, a Las Vegas resident and owner of the Huntridge Family Clinic. “Donald Trump has promised to rip away those protections— including those for preexisting conditions. A Trump presidency would be dangerous for my patients.”

“Before the ACA, I used to dread going to the doctor purely because of what it might cost — I know others across the state likely share this same fear,” said Jason Karsh, a Las Vegas resident who relies on the public marketplace.

“If Donald Trump is elected, me and the tens of thousands of Nevadans could go back to having to fear not having the coverage or the money to address our necessary medical needs”

“I know what it is like to not have healthcare,” said JP Coleman, a Las Vegas resident, Huntridge Family Clinic staffer, and HIV advocate. “I know what it’s like to not be seen. The

Affordable Care Act has played a crucial role in expanding access to affordable healthcare for many people within the LGBTQIA+ community – including myself as an HIV+ person. President Biden has protected the ACA and individuals like me with preexisting conditions.”

“Trump’s agenda to rip away the ACA would be devastating for the state of Nevada: More than 460,000 Nevadans could potentially lose their coverage and 33,000 young adults up to age 26 could be kicked off their parent’s health care plan,” said former Lieutenant Governor Kate Marshall. “We can’t give him another chance to harm our families. We must reelect President Biden, whose leadership has delivered record

low uninsurance rates – including here in Nevada.”

“The Affordable Care Act continues to be a lifesaver for hundreds of thousands of Nevadans,” said Assemblywoman Angie Taylor. “But the fate of it hangs in the balance – Donald Trump is campaigning on a promise to terminate the ACA.”

“Thanks to the ACA, hundreds of thousands more Nevadans now have access to health care,” said Heather Korbulic, former Executive Director for the Silver State Health Insurance Exchange. “Not only has President Biden protected the ACA; he passed the Inflation Reduction Act, under which nine in ten Nevadans get financial assistance to lower monthly premiums.” g

Jarl Reyhan Bitoon Contributed photo

Polaris operates the US National Human Trafficking Hotline, which connects victims and survivors to support and services. From left, Polaris representatives

The week leading up to Easter Sunday is marked by vibrant processions and elaborate rituals that fill the streets. In towns and cities across the archipelago, devotees carry heavy wooden crosses and undergo self-flagellation to emulate the suffering of Christ. While controversial to some, these acts of sacrifice and penance are viewed by adherents as a sincere expression of faith and repentance.

Editorial

At its core, Holy Week celebrates the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. But in the Philippines, these events take on additional layers of meaning, intertwined with indigenous beliefs and folk traditions. Many of the rituals blend Catholic symbols with pre-colonial animist practices, reflecting the country's complex spiritual heritage.

One of the most iconic Holy Week traditions is the pabasa, an epic chanting of the life, passion, and death of Jesus over several days. Crowds gather to hear the passages recited in an ancient poetic language. The kinship and solidarity on

Commentary

O THELIA J UMAPAO

THIS week, the U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments that could limit access to mifepristone, a popular and widely-used drug for medication abortion that is safe, effective and FDA-approved.

More than half of the abortions in the United States have relied on medication abortion as a safe and effective way to end a pregnancy. But what is it and how does it affect the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community?

While twenty-two million Asian Americans are living in this country – including 4.4 million Filipinos – there is almost little to no research that examines the reproductive health care needs of our communities.

IN an interview on Bloomberg

TV last Wednesday, March 20 as reported in another national daily, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. made two related comments that could represent important government policy stands. First, regarding China’s increasing aggressive moves against Philippine vessels in the West Philippine Sea; second, about the United States’ repeated assurance of its “ironclad” defense commitment under the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty.

Reacting to recent reports on China’s pugnacious maneuvers and verbal statements, Marcos Jr. said, “We must do a more robust defense of our territorial rights as recognized by the international community and international law.”

But he quickly added that war with China is “precisely what we want to avoid.”

Elaborating, he explained:

“We want to do everything we possibly can, together with our partners and allies, to avoid the situation [of a war breaking out]. This is not poking the bear [China], as it were. We are trying to do quite the opposite.”

Thus, instead of “poking the bear,” he disclosed that “we are trying to keep things at a manageable level, to continue the dialogues, whatever they are, at every level… That’s what we hope to continue [doing].”

display is a reminder that religious faith is often expressed through communal acts.

While the solemn processions seem bizarre to outsiders, they hold profound importance for the devout. For many Filipinos, self-denial, sacrifice, and expressions of humility during this period are a means to spiritual renewal and closeness with the divine.

At its heart, Holy Week represents the Filipino spirit's resilience and faith's enduring power to transcend hardship. The sacred rituals provide a sense of community, continuity, and catharsis in a nation that has endured years of colonial oppression and natural calamities.

Whether witnessed in person or witnessed through newscasts, the indelible images of Holy Week in the Philippines showcase a people whose piety runs immeasurably deep. It is a celebration of the redemptive power of sacrifice and an affirmation that faith can be a source of strength, even in the most challenging circumstances. (AJPress)

In a first-ever study published by the National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum (NAPAWF) on the experiences and knowledge of AAPI women with medication abortion, thirtyfive percent had never heard of medication abortion and nearly half had no idea where to access medication abortion if they needed it. AAPIs also face language, cultural, immigration, and other related barriers to reproductive healthcare. For instance, many of the resources and information provided by clinics are not translated into Asian languages, alienating more than one-third of the AAPI community who have limited English proficiency. With the future of mifepristone access hanging in the balance,

I’ve found myself reflecting on my own reproductive health journey. I grew up in a tightlyknit Filipino home. And despite being raised by my mother and uncle who, like many Filipino immigrants, worked in the healthcare field, I rarely felt comfortable speaking up or asking questions about my own reproductive well-being and health.

This was reinforced by the Catholic school I attended as a child. In junior high, I still remember signing a pledge card to “never have sex” after being taught that abstinence was the only choice. Looking back, I’m certain that my cultural and religious upbringing impacted my ability as a young person to understand my own body.

It has taken me a long time to unlearn the shame and guilt that I was taught growing up – and truth be told it is a journey I continue to this day. As a community organizer at NAPAWF’s Florida chapter, I’ve helped to organize safe spaces for young people to have more open conversations about reproductive health care.

Last year, we met with a group of students from the Florida Asian American Student Union (FAASU) to share the results of our medication abortion study and empower them to participate in an honest dialogue about their journey and experiences. Moment by moment, this is how change happens. When larger systems and institutions fail to see or hear us, building a better and different future together is possible. My relationship with my family continues to evolve. Even though as an adult, I still rarely talk openly about my sexual and reproductive health with my mom, I no longer want to keep secrets from her or my family.

(It’s interesting to note that it was the first Marcos presidency that reached out to China in the 1970s, with American blessings certainly – remember Imelda Marcos “making mano” to Mao Zedong in Beijing? There followed a period of tightening relations with “the bear,” which became a major trade partner of both the Philippines and America.)

Regarding the United States’ repeated assurance of defense support, Marcos Jr. claimed that the U.S. was” very supportive” of the Philippines and was “very seriously” taking the Mutual Defense Treaty.

That may be true only since the early 2010s, when Barack Obama was the U.S. president. He was the first to extend the application of the MDT up to the West Philippine Sea. Hillary Clinton, then Obama’s secretary of state, visited the Philippines and reiterated America’s defense commitment earlier articulated by Obama.

Note that the treaty has never been invoked in any instance, or threat, of armed conflict by either party since its signing in 1951. Essentially it provides that in the event of an armed attack against one of the parties, the other party is obligated to come to its defense. Marcos Jr. said that he was doing everything to avoid invoking the MDT over the increasing number of incidents involving dangerous maneuvers by Chinese Coast Guard and militia vessels within Philippine waters. They have been harassing small boats delivering food supplies and

other necessities to Philippine Marines manning an old naval ship, purposely grounded in the Ayungin Shoal to serve as maritime post in our territory.

“We are avoiding that,” he pointed out, “because we think about peace in the national interest.” Invoking the MDT over the tense situations created by China’s aggressive actions against Philippine vessels should be done only in the face of an “existential threat” to the Philippines, he added.

Most significant to note was that he seemed wary about relying exclusively on America’s support.

“It is dangerous for one to think in terms of when something goes wrong, we’ll run to Big Brother,” Marcos Jr. stressed. Apparently aware of what critics say about the Philippines’ over-dependence on U.S. protection, he asserted, “That’s not the way we treat (the matter) at all. We do this for ourselves. We do this because we feel that we have to do it. And it’s not at the behest of the United States.”

Marcos Jr. also responded to warnings by critics of dangerous implications of his having added, in April 2023, four more of the country’s military bases as sites for the U.S. to install military “facilities” and stockpile war materiel exclusively for their use, as allowed by the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement or EDCA.

* * *

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.

* * *

Othelia Jumapao is a Florida organizer at the National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum (NAPAWF) who works to push political campaigns around civic engagement and abortion access. They are passionate about reclaiming their Southerner identity and carrying on the work of past Southern social justice activists. They also organize with Malaya Movement Florida for human rights and sovereignty for Filipinos and Filipino Americans in their free time.

As a practicing Catholic, I also feel emboldened to become involved and support the work of Catholics for Choice, a national organization of Catholics that supports abortion access. I am proud to be part of a new generation of young people in our community who understand the value in not feeling ashamed to talk about what matters to us and our bodies. We deserve more. And together we can overcome the deeply rooted cultural stigmas that have taught us to be silent about the decisions we make for our reproductive health and future.

He assured the public that these bases, along with the first five bases strategically located across the country previously approved by his predecessor, would not be used to launch offensive actions against China.

The EDCA is not a treaty. It is an executive agreement, initiated by the U.S., between the Philippine and U.S. governments, signed in 2014 under the Benigno Aquino III administration. The U.S.

The additional sites are: one additional in Palawan; two located in Isabela and one in Cagayan (often pointed out by foreign and local observers as chosen because they are closest to Taiwan, which China has long intended to take over, through force if necessary).

military facilities installed within the selected Philippine bases are absolutely controlled by the American military and are offlimits to Filipinos, military or civilian. (Top Philippine defense and military leaders, however, may be allowed inside.)

Because the EDCA sites are practically U.S. military bases within Philippine bases, they could indeed be targets of attacks by enemies of the U.S. – especially now that missile warfare is increasingly being utilized by belligerent parties.

“No, we would not allow that,” Marcos Jr. said, “unless we are

at war, perhaps.” Realizing the momentous implication of what he just said, he hastened to add, “But that’s why we want to keep away from that situation [of a war breaking out] as much as we can and maintain that.” He did not explain how.

“Maybe you could describe it as an uneasy peace,” he did say, “but it’s peace nonetheless.” (Philstar.com)

* * *

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

PhiliPPines

US to expedite aid initiatives to boost PH military’s capabilities

MANILA – The United States has agreed to expedite assistance aimed at beefing up the various capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) Secretary Lloyd Austin III made this pledge following a phone call with Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. on Wednesday, March 27.

"They agreed to bolster bilateral and multilateral cooperation with like-minded partners in the South China Sea and committed to accelerate a number of bilateral initiatives to enhance informationsharing, interoperability, and capability enhancements for the AFP," the DOD statement said.

Both defense chiefs also underscored their countries' shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific grounded in transparency, the rule of law, respect for sovereignty, and the peaceful resolution of disputes. During the call, Austin reiterated the U.S. commitment to the Philippines following the March 23 incident where a Filipino resupply ship to Ayungin Shoal was harassed and damaged by a severe water cannon attack from China's Coast Guard ships that also resulted in injuries among some of the crew.

both countries 'armed forces, public vessels, and aircraft— including those of its Coast Guard—anywhere in the Pacific, to include the South China Sea," the DOD statement added.

The two officials discussed the importance of preserving the rights of all nations to fly, sail, and operate safely and responsibly wherever international law allows.

"Secretary Austin reaffirmed the ironclad U.S. commitment to the Philippines following the PRC (People's Republic of China) Coast Guard and maritime militia’s dangerous obstruction of a lawful Philippine resupply mission to Second Thomas Shoal on March 23. He emphasized U.S. support for the Philippines in defending its sovereign rights and jurisdiction and reiterated that the U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty extends to

They also stressed that the 2016 Arbitral Tribunal Ruling is final and binding on the Parties and called on China to abide by its obligations under international law.

"The officials discussed historic momentum in U.S.-Philippine defense ties and reaffirmed their mutual commitment to strengthening the U.S.-Philippine alliance, which has upheld peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region for over seventy years," it added. (PNA)

Security Council warns of foreign interference in 2025 polls

by Michael Punongbayan Philstar.com

MANILA — There may be foreign interference in next year’s midterm elections and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) should prepare to counter cyberattacks, the National Security Council (NSC) warned on Wednesday, March 27.

Foreign interference may come in the form of hacking and other internet-related intrusions or influencing the Filipino’s voting preferences or decisions through misinformation or fake news, according to the council.

The DICT itself has reported persistent sources, which the government should be prepared for during the midterm elections, NSC assistant director general Jonathan Malaya said.

SMC starts works on Pangasinan tollway

by elijah Felice Rosales Philstar.com

MANILA — Food-to-infrastructure conglomerate

San Miguel Corp. (SMC) has started the civil works for the Pangasinan Link Expressway (PLEX), laying the bedrock for a P34-billion project that would improve travel and tourism in Northern Luzon.

“We see a consistent pattern abroad. We have seen foreign interference in elections in most democracies,” he added.

The United States and other countries accused China of being behind a series of hacks into lawmakers and key democratic institutions, an allegation that China denies with claims that it is against, and also cracks down on, all forms of cyberattacks. Malaya said preparations for possible foreign interference include securing the election database from hacking and safeguarding the transmission of election results.

“It could be as subtle as troll farms or disinformation… to sway the public to a certain political thought. Or it could be as serious as hacking the electoral database. Or interfering with the transmission of votes,” he said.

New voting tech safe The Commission on Elections

“Given that it’s an election year, we should be starting to prepare now on how to protect the integrity of the electoral process and protect it from cyberattacks,” he told ANC.

(Comelec) on Wednesday assured the public that the technology to be used in next year’s elections is safe from possible cyberattacks.

The poll body started preparations early to ensure that the system is “tested” and all security measures are put in place, Comelec Chairman George Garcia said.

“The features and the wish list that we included in the hardware, software and transmission ensure the protection against any cyberattack,” he added.

Garcia issued the statement in reaction to the NSC’s warning of possible foreign interference in next year’s elections. He said the Comelec’s information technology personnel are being prepared for such a possibility.

The Comelec chief also stressed the need for the support of all stakeholders and the vigilance of the electorate in protecting the sanctity of the electoral process. g

SMC on Thursday, March 21 broke ground for the first phase of PLEX, setting in motion the construction for a toll road that will run for 42.76 kilometers.

The groundbreaking was held in a site spanning the municipalities of Binalonan and Laoac in Pangasinan.

SMC president and CEO Ramon Ang stressed the important role that PLEX will play in boosting mobility and trade in Pangasinan. The project, as designed, will connect the eastern and western corridors of the province.

“We believe in the bigger potential of the province and its people, and that is why we continue to invest here. We look forward to continuing our strong partnership, and with the help and support of the provincial government, create more jobs, livelihood and business opportunities,” Ang said.

PLEX is estimated to shorten the travel time from the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX) to Pangasinan’s capital Lingayen to less than an hour, from 1.5 hours.

The first phase of PLEX covers a total of three segments: a 6.9-km stretch from Binalonan to Manaoag; a 11.3-km road to Calasiao; and a 22.17km section to Lingayen, along with a 2.39-km spur line to Calasiao.

PLEX will be connected to TPLEX, another toll road operated by SMC, providing an access link to the New Manila International Airport — also being built by SMC — in Bulacan.

SMC on Thursday, March 21 broke ground for the first phase of PLEX, setting in motion the construction for a toll road that will run for 42.76 kilometers. Philstar.com file photo

There is a possibility that PLEX will be extended down the line. The second phase of PLEX will provide an access road to Alaminos, home to famed destinations Hundred Islands and Pilgrimage Island. Under the concession agreement, SMC will shoulder all of the cost in putting up the expressway. The province, on the other hand, will take a five percent share in toll and commercial revenues, and will also get a 30 percent cut in earnings before taxes once the project’s internal rate of return exceeds 10 percent.

Ang vowed to finish the toll road as scheduled if the concessionaire gets the right of way for the project on time.

“The provincial government will also receive a substantial share of the project’s earnings, which it can use to provide more social services to our kababayans,” Ang said. g

CALM BEFORE THE CHAOS. Travelers take advantage of the lean crowd at a bus terminal in EDSA, Cubao, Quezon City on Holy Tuesday, March 26. The real battle began Wednesday when some worked just half a day to avoid the rush before the national non-working days beginning Maundy Thursday. PNA photo by Joan Bondoc

Fil-Am director Isabel Sandoval, Arjo Atayde team up for ‘Moonglow’

by Iza IglesIas ManilaTimes.net

UNITED States-based Filipino filmmaker Isabel Sandoval returns to her roots in the Philippines to shoot her fourth feature, "Moonglow," starring internationally award-winning actor and neophyte Quezon City Congressman Arjo Atayde.

Sandoval, recognized for her directorial prowess in the critically acclaimed 2019 film "Lingua Franca," as well as notable Filipino works like "Señorita" and "Aparisyon," alongside several U.S.-based series, is gearing up to start filming on the noir crime thriller this April.

Born and raised in Cebu before moving to the US in 2005, Sandoval brings a unique blend of Filipino storytelling and international filmmaking experience to "Moonglow," where she will not only direct and write but also take on the role of producer, editor, and actress.

"It feels like coming home in more ways than one. I made my first two films in the Philippines before making 'Lingua Franca' in the US. It elevated my profile in Hollywood and the global scene," Sandoval said in an interview with the Philippine media. "I want to come back home with a project that's exciting and would [serve as] an opportunity to showcase world-class Filipino talent both in front and behind the camera. And one of those talents is, of course, Arjo Atayde, who is an award-winning actor.

"So, yes, it's nice to be back home with a project that I think presents an exciting new vision of what Filipino cinema can be internationally," she added.

"Moonglow" follows the story

of a jaded female police detective who breaks into the mansion of a corrupt police chief she works for and steals a large sum of money almost entirely accumulated from graft and corruption.

The police chief enlists his nephew Charlie, played by Atayde, to get to the bottom of the case and find out who stole the money from him.

Sandoval describes "Moonglow" as her "most ambitious and radical" film to date, pushing the boundaries of style and theme.

"In a way, it feels like your standard Philippine noir crime thriller genre film, but that's just the premise of the film. It really blossoms into something lyrical and poetic and more like my style," she enthused.

"As a director, after having directed three films, my style is really more of a blending of strong political themes but with a visual style and flourish that's more lush and lyrical and poetic — think Wong Kar-wai's 'In the

Mood for Love.' So it's me kind of doing a 'Casa Blanca' classic noir in the style of Wong Kar-wai," she continued.

The film is also set in the 1960s and 1970s, given Sandoval's desire to explore the era's distinctive aesthetics and cultural milieu. It presents Filipino characters in a light rarely seen in contemporary cinema.

"I want to set it in a period like the '60s and '70s. One is because of how interesting, chic, and arty the production design, our direction and the fashion could be in a way I haven't really seen in Philippine cinema in a long time — besides, of course, the classics during that time. So I want to go back to that era and show Filipino characters not just living in the slums but being stylish, chic, and fashionable," she explained.

Sandoval furthered that she chose "Moonglow" as the film's title because it encapsulates the mood, atmosphere, and tone she

aims to evoke in the movie.

"When we think of noir, there are a lot of well-known and iconic noirs from Hollywood, like Billy Wilder's Double Indemnity, Casa Blanca, and, of course, Erik Matti's masterpieces in the Philippines — the tone is always bleak, dark, and gritty," she conveyed.

"My film acknowledges that we are set in the milieu but gives it more hope, optimism, and romanticism. It's really my way of looking at the world — that I don't think of people as irredeemably evil or that reality is hopeless and utterly bleak. I find glimmers of hope, magic, romance, poetry amidst all the bleakness," she declared.

Sandoval hopes to premiere "Moonglow" this year at the Venice Film Festival, while her agent at Creative Artists Agency is already working on securing international distribution. Besides Atayde, "Moonglow" will also star Carlitos Siguion-Reyna and Agot Isidro.

How Jennylyn got caught in the crossfire of Xian and Kim’s breakup

by RonnIe CaRRasCo III ManilaTimes.net

LITERALLY a series at its shortest on love that is bound to die with no more repeat. Such is the sad fate that befalls GMA’s “Love. Die. Repeat.” (LDR), which goes off the air in the coming days. A supposed comeback vehicle on TV of Jennylyn Mercado in 2021, filming had to be called off in September of the same year due to the lead actress’ medical emergency. It was later found that Jennylyn would become a mother anew, this time with husband Dennis Trillo. [Jennylyn has a 15-year-old son with actor Patrick Garcia.]

Meanwhile, LDR was supposedly the “unofficial entry point” of her leading man Xian Lim — a transferee from ABS-CBN — to GMA. In lieu of the temporarily shelved project, Xian was cast in a forgettable fantaserye that hardly competed in the ratings game.

Several months after giving birth, Jennylyn was all set to face the cameras again. LDR resumed taping in April 2023 and wrapped up in November.

Seven months of taping for a three-month airing? Well, that’s how it is — or has been — particularly on GMA, with the exception of consistent top-rating programs.

So, is the Jennylyn-Xian show a flop?

The production peeps are quick to justify that, among other things, LDR is a mini-series or a show equivalent to 13 weeks. In TV parlance, a mini-series stays on air for one season. Whether it

falls short of expectations is another story.

In LDR’s case, an insider shares: “Hindi naman kataasan ang ratings, pero hindi rin naman kababaan.” (Its ratings are neither very high nor very low). But is it true that between the lead cast members, it is Xian who is taking the blame for LDR’s not-so-impressive ratings?

Well-placed sources find a direct link between the rating figures and Xian’s bad publicity as of late, involving his erstwhile girlfriend, Kim Chiu.

In the breakup — sensationalized all over social media — it is Kim who is perceived as the aggrieved party and therefore gets public sympathy. Xian, naturally, is considered the bad boy who should await comeuppance.

Jennylyn Mercado’s comeback TV mini-series, ‘Love. Die. Repeat.’ is about to end sans much success, and many believe it is her leading man, Xian Lim, who is to be blamed for turning off viewers. Photo from Instagram/@xianlim

Social Security to remove barriers to accessing SSI payments

TODAY, the Social Security Administration published a final rule, “Omitting Food from InKind Support and Maintenance (ISM) Calculations.” The final rule announces the first of several updates to the agency’s Supplemental Security Income (SSI) regulations that will help people receiving and applying for SSI.

“A vital part of our mission is helping people access crucial benefits, including SSI,” said Martin O’Malley, Commissioner of Social Security. “Simplifying our policies is a common-sense solution that reduces the burden on the public and agency staff and helps promote equity by removing barriers to accessing payments.”

SSI provides monthly payments to adults and children with a disability or blindness, and to adults aged 65 and older, who have limited income and resources. SSI benefits help pay for basic needs like rent, food, clothing, and medicine. People applying for and receiving SSI must meet eligibility requirements, including income and resource limits. Under our old rules, ISM includes food, shelter, or both a person receives - the agency counts ISM as unearned income, which may affect a person’s eligibility or reduce their payment amount. Under the final rule, beginning September 30, 2024, the agency will no longer include food in ISM calculations. The new policy removes a critical barrier for SSI eligibility due to an applicant’s or recipient’s receipt of informal food assistance from friends, family, and community networks of support. The new policy further helps in several important ways: the change is easier to understand and use by applicants, recipients, and agency employees; applicants and recipients have less information to report about food assistance received from family

and friends, removing a significant source of burden; reducing month-to-month variability in payment amounts will improve payment accuracy; and the agency will see administrative savings because less time will be spent administering food ISM.

The agency continuously examines programmatic policy and makes regulatory and sub-regulatory changes as appropriate. Look for more SSI announcements in the coming weeks.

For more information on the SSI program, including who is eligible and how to apply, visit https://www.ssa.gov/ssi.

To read the final rule “Omitting Food from In-Kind Support and Maintenance Calculations,” visit https://www. federalregister.gov/documents/2024/03/27/2024-06464/ omitting-food-from-in-kind-support-and-maintenance-calculations.

Sarah Geronimo, Matteo Guidicelli now on speaking terms with Mommy Divine

by HAnnAH MAllorcA Inquirer.net

SARAH Geronimo confirmed that she and her husband Matteo Guidicelli are now on speaking terms with her Mommy Divine, weeks after the singer-actress gave a shout-out to her mother at the Billboard Women in Music Awards in the US.

During an interview with Dyan Castillejo on ABS-CBN News’ YouTube channel, Geronimo referred to her mom as her “hero.”

“Totoo naman na ang mga mommies naman po natin ang heroes natin. Ang parents ang heroes natin (Our mommies are indeed our heroes. Our parents are our heroes),” she said while accompanied by Guidicelli.

This led Castillejo to ask the “Tala” singer if she and Mommy Divine are now on speaking terms.

“Yes, thank you, Lord. I love you, Ma,” Geronimo said in response. Guidicelli, too, appeared to be on amicable terms with Mommy Divine as he greeted his mother-in-law with an “I love you” as well.

“I love you, Ma. We love our moms, right?” Guidicelli said.

During the interview, Geronimo said her mom is keeping herself busy by selling fresh produce from her farm. “Ang Mama ko, nagse-sell ng fresh produce niya, gulay, fruits. Binibigyan ako ni Mama ( My mom sells her fresh produce like vegetables and fruits. Mom gives me too),” she said. ‘Late bloomer’ When asked by Castillejo about her “fears” over becoming a mom in a past interview, Geronimo clarified that her sentiments

came from her being “too sheltered” while growing up. “Nanggagaling ‘yun [sa posisyon of being] too sheltered. Let’s just say I’m a late bloomer. Basically, ngayon ko pa lang nae-enjoy ang independence ko and discovering new things about myself, and kami bilang mag-asawa. Nae-enjoy namin ‘yun,” she said. (It came from a position of me being too sheltered. Let’s just say I’m a late bloomer. Basically, I’m

13th Annual Las Vegas Science and Technology Festival returns for nine days of Community STEM Exploration April 26-May 4

Annual festival offers FREE educational events and interactive activities for families throughout Clark County

LAS VEGAS – The Las Vegas Science and Technology Festival is set to kick off April 26, promoting the community’s passion for science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). With over 40 engaging events, the festival aims to inspire young minds and ignite their interests in STEM career fields. Culminating the week-long event is the Giant Science and Technology Expo, to be hosted May 4 at the EXPO at World Market Center, where school-aged children and their families can explore hands-on exhibits and interactive displays.

Presented by the Las Vegas Natural History Museum in collaboration with the Clark County School District, the Las Vegas Science and Technology Festival is a celebration of innovation and education. Its mission is to raise awareness of STEM careers and showcase the unique opportunities available within the community for schoolaged children and their families.

These immersive events include interactive presentations, handson technology workshops, STEM camps, and exclusive behind-thescenes tours of local attractions such as Silverton Aquarium, BlackFire Innovation, Atomic Museum, Southern Nevada Recycling Center and more. These activities are designed to offer families free, fun, and visionary avenues to explore STEM careers together

“Since 2011, we’ve been bringing science out of the textbooks and into the real world, inspiring the next generation of innovators in our community,” said Alexandra Liebman, director of the Las Vegas Science and Technology Festival. “The festival is a great opportunity for businesses to get involved and offer resources, activities, and opportunities for our youth to learn more about their organization, their careers, and the science and/ or technology they utilize in their operations every day.” The festival will once again award $1,000 to the CCSD school with the highest student and family attendance at the Giant Science and Technology Expo

on May 4. In 2023 the Expo saw students from over 200 different Clark County schools, but it was Elise L. Wolff Elementary School that claimed the top spot for the most attendance.

All events are free and open to the public. Registration opens April 1 and is required for all events, as space is limited and based on availability. Below is a partial list of what guests can expect at this year’s festival. For the full event lineup, visit www. scifest.vegas.

Friday, April 26 (Kick-Off): Future Rebels in STEM Day at UNLV (ALL DAY), Nursing and Pharmacy Studies at Roseman University (AM), and Training Lab Tours with NTI (PM).

Saturday, April 27 (Outdoor Explorers Day): BioBlast at Clark County Wetlands Park (AM), Community Art Workshop at Omega Mart (PM) and the City of Las Vegas Technology Career Fair (PM).

Sunday, April 28 (Science is Everywhere Day): Over 20 special tours, demos and workshops at various organizations throughout the valley. Events include the Junior Paleontologist Hike at Ice Age Fossil State Parks, behind-thescenes tours of Shark Reef and the Bellagio Fountains; The Mine Experience at McCaw School of Mines; various engineering and science demonstrations at six Clark County Library District locations; Robots Saving Lives at Southern Hills Hospital; and a special Sustainability Talk with Republic Services followed by a STEM Movie at Galaxy Theatres

Monday, April 29: Ologist Night at the Las Vegas Natural History Museum, meet real scientists and learn about their career fields.

Tuesday, April 30: Meet the Medical Residents at Southern Hills Hospital and learn how to “stop the bleed,” practice on an ultrasound machine and more.

Wednesday, May 1: Open House at the BattleBots Arena, explore behind-the-scenes in the arena followed by a special Destruct-a-thon demo

Thursday, May 2: May the Science Be with You, DRI and the National Atomic Testing Museum welcome the community to explore science through the lens of Star Wars

Friday, May 3: Night at the CSN Planetarium, free planetarium shows and a fun-filled night of space science and STEM activities.

Saturday, May 4: Giant Science and Technology Expo at the World Market Center, FREE fullday of one-of-a-kind science and technology experiences and engaging sciencethemed interactive booths and entertainment; for a complete list of exhibitors, visit: https://www. scifest.vegas/expo

The 2024 Las Vegas Science and Technology Festival is made possible by the generous support of Clark County School District, Nevada National Security Site, CleanSpark, Gene Haas Foundation, NV Energy, MGM Resorts International, Arcata Associates Inc., CalPortland, Cox Communications, Sunrise Health, Republic Services, and NVigate powered by the Nevada State Treasurer’s Office.

Sarah Geronimo with Divine Geronimo (left photo) and Matteo Guidicelli (right photo) Photos Instagram/@sarahgeronimoshot

Health @Heart

MD, FaCS, FPCS

VARIOUS clinical studies around the world regarding the COVID-19 pandemic reveal the following, among others: (1) “Even for people in the highest-risk demographic for mRNA COVID-19 vaccine-associated myocarditis, receiving the primary series of the COVID-19 vaccines was safer than getting COVID-19 without having been vaccinated”; (2) In spite of some (now obviously false) claims, “there has actually never been any link between COVID-19 vaccines and sudden cardiac death”;

(3) After more than 13.57 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been administered globally in the past, and today about 6,000 given each day, these vaccines have been found to be safe and effective in saving billions of lives around the globe, with a complication/death rate of a fraction of 1 percent, compared to 20 to 35 percent mortality rate for COIVID-19, especially during its initial period; (4) The newest strain and more easily transmissible XBB.1.5 is a more immune-evasive variant of omicron BA.2; (5) As of March 16, 2024, there were 10,719 hospital admissions for COVID-19, with a rate of 1.8 percent of all deaths in the United States;

(6) To date, in the U.S., there are 84 percent who had the primary vaccination (16 percent of Americans are still unvaccinated, possible carriers and spreaders) and only 16 percent received the bivalent booster shot; and (7) Those who have not had the second bivalent booster are advised to have them, especially those whose last vaccination has been more than 6 months ago. Death rate from COVID-19 is still significant. Every life matters. Be safe.

Anabolic steroids

Among athletes who are dopers or cheaters in sports using anabolic steroids, is the mortality rate higher compared to non-users? Yes, according to “Danish research pharmacologists in a report in the JAMA, where 1,189 Danish males who were caught doping, compared to 59,450 matched controls.” Steroid users were “over 2.8 percent more likely to die from any and all causes over the following 18 years.” Noteworthy were “the deaths both from natural causes (heart attack, cancer) and unnatural (accidents, homicide, suicide) were all higher among the steroid users, which indicates the anabolic agent had both physical and mental effects.” And users also have “increased risk-taking behaviors.”

Tobacco and diabetes

A new clinical analysis shows a “strong correlation between tobacco exposure early in life (even in the womb of a smoking pregnant woman) and the development of

Latest on COVID

type 2 diabetes later in life. People with preexisting genetic risk have an even greater risk if they smoke. This large-scale study involved about 476,000 adults in the UK Biobank. These findings were presented at the March 18, 2024 annual American Heart Association’s Epidemiology and Prevention/Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Scientific Sessions in Chicago.

Einstein: Smart?

There is no question that Albert Einstein was a genius, but some quarters questioned his decision when he refused to undergo surgery for non-ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm in1948, a procedure with less than 10 percent in-hospital mortality risk, 90 percent success at that time, compared to more than 50 percent death rate when the aneurysm was ruptured. Today, the in-hospital surgical mortality is about 1-2 percent for non-ruptured abdominal aneurysm. His physician respected his decision. Einstein died 7 years later, on April 18, 1955 at the age 76, of a ruptured abdominal aneurysm. Considering the natural lifespan for men in 1955, which was 66.7 years, Einstein may have made the right calculation. He lived 10.7 years longer than the natural lifespan then, without surgery. Of course, only God knows how many years longer he would have lived had he agreed to have the surgery. Tips on boiling eggs

In today’s informational age in all sciences and technology and more, “EGGsperts” even have some scientific tips on how to boil eggs. Here they are: (1) Older eggs have more alkaline whites, with less binding to the cell membrane, making it easier to peel them, so wait at least a few days before boiling them; (2) Use room-temperature eggs – cold eggs placed into hot water are more likely to crack from thermal shock; (3) Don’t poke a hole in the shell, it does not make peeling any easier and could allow cracking and bursting of the egg through the hole; (4) Don’t add vinegar, salt, or baking soda to the water;

(5) Bring the water to a boil before carefully adding the egg, to make peeling easier;

(6) Do not keep the water at a rolling boil: “Egg-white proteins coagulate between 144 and 149 degrees Fahrenheit, while yolks coagulate between 144 and 158 degrees Fahrenheit. Water boils at 212 degrees Fahrenheit, so cooking eggs at a rolling boil is going to lead to tough whites and chalky, overcooked yolks — and probably some cracked shells from all the continuous movement. Give the eggs a quick “sear” in the boiling water, so the whites closest to the shell coagulate quickly. Then, lower the temperature to a very low simmer to gently cook the egg through;

(7) Allow the eggs to boil for 30 seconds, then reduce the heat to a low simmer, cover, and cook to desired doneness: 6 minutes for a

runny yolk, 8 minutes for a jammy yolk, and 13 minutes for a hard yolk; (8) Peel the eggs only when ready to eat them, to prevent bacterial growth; (8) Cool the eggs in an icebath to prevent the greenish ring formation (a reaction between the iron and the hydrogen sulfide from the surface of the yolk); (9) Peel eggs under running water; and (10) Eating one or two eggs a day, but for those with high cholesterol, the recommendation is about 4 eggs or less a week.

Broccoli and stroke

About 15 million people around the world suffer from the stroke each year. A stroke happens when an artery going to the brain is blocked by a clot which prevents blood circulation to the brain tissue. How rapidly the treatment is administered, and the effectiveness of the regimen determine the degree of recovery from stroke.

Scientists at the Heart Research Institute in New South Wales, Australia, have discovered a natural chemical in broccoli that may both prevent and treat stroke. The treatment is either to employ medication that dissolves the blood clot, or preventing blood from leaking into the brain tissue. Only about 10 percent of stroke survivors fully recover, leaving the rest with disabilities and impairments, mental and physical. This discovery was recently published in the journal of American Society’s ACS Central Science. More studies are needed to confirm this finding and for the future drug to be developed and approved by the US-FDA for eventual public consumption. Since the chemical in broccoli is both preventive and therapeutic, its value in cardiovascular medicine is priceless.

* * *

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

* * *

The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people live a healthier lifestyle to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve a happier and more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable or appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute for your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health.

* * *

Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He was a recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, presented by then Indiana Governor, U.S. senator, and later a presidential candidate, Evan Bayh.

Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry Truman, President George HW Bush, Muhammad Ali, Astronaut Gus Grissom, educators, and leaders (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888. com, Today.SPSAtoday.com, and philipSchua.com; Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com.

Zanjoe Marudo marries Ria

have tied the knot.

In his Instagram account, Zanjoe posted photos of their wedding.

"03.23.24," Zanjoe wrote.

"Happy Birthday MY WIFE," he added.

Celebrities such as Angelica Panganiban, Maine Mendoza, Gela Atayde, Isabelle Daza, Jane Oineza and Jake Ejercito, among others commented on Zanjoe's post.

"Uy wife!! Congrats mr & mrs marudo," Angelica wrote.

"Welcome to the family, kuya," Gela commented. Ria and Zanjoe announced their engagement last February.

In her Instagram account, Ria posted photos of her and Zanjoe, including the engagement ring. "Forever sounds good," Ria

captioned the post with white heart and ring emojis. "And tastes even better," Zanjoe commented on Ria's post.

Minding Your Finances

atty. RayMonD Bulaon

QUESTION: I owe a lot in back taxes. I’m constantly getting threatening letters from the IRS. This has become a big problem that I have no idea how to solve. What can I do?

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

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

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

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

Sooner

er the tax debt by a significant amount.

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

They make it sound too easy.

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

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

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

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

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

If you owe the IRS, the State, EDD or State Board of Equalization, my office can help you find the best solution to resolve your tax liability. You will never have to speak with the IRS again. I will review your case and help you make the best decision for yourself and family.

* * *

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

* * *

None of the information herein is intended to give legal advice for any specific situation.  Atty. Ray J. Bulaon has successfully helped over 6,000 clients in getting out of debt. For a free attorney evaluation of your situation, please call RJB Law Offices at TOLL FREE  1-866-471-8272.

(Advertising Supplement)

How Social Security protects you from misleading advertising and communication

by Annie WAlters Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Nevada

SOCIAL Security works with the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) to protect you from scams that use Social Security as bait. Section 1140 of the Social Security Act allows OIG to impose severe penalties against anyone who engages in misleading Social Security-related advertising or imposter communications.

For example, the OIG may impose a penalty against anyone who:

• Mails misleading solicitations that appear to be from or authorized by Social Security.

• Operates an imposter website or social media account designed to look like it belongs to or is authorized by Social Security.

• Sends emails or text messages or makes telephone calls claiming to be from Social Security.

• Sells Social Security’s free forms, applications, and publications without our written approval.

• Charges a fee for a service that Social Security provides free of charge without providing a clearly visible notice that Social Security provides the service for free.

If you receive a suspicious Social Security-related advertisement or imposter communication, please

let us know immediately. We encourage you to report potential scams to the OIG at oig.ssa.gov. You can also send an email to OIG.1140@ssa.gov.

Please try to capture as much information about the communication as you can. Here’s what you can do:

• For suspicious websites or social media accounts, take a screenshot of the webpage. Note the website address or social media link – and how you came across it.

• For emails and text messages, capture the entire message and any message links.

• For U.S. mail, retain the complete communication,

including the outside envelope and all inserts.

• For telephone calls, note the caller identification phone number and any company name or callback number that the caller or recorded message provides. This information will help OIG locate the source of the suspicious communication. You can review Section 1140 at www.ssa.gov/OP_ Home/ssact/title11/1140.htm. You can also check out our publication, What You Need to Know About Misleading Advertising, at www. ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10005.pdf. Please share this information with friends and family and help us spread the word on social media!

Sarah Geronimo, Matteo Guidicelli now...

PAGE 9

just enjoying my independence now and discovering new things about myself, and us as husband and wife. We’re enjoying it now.) Geronimo, however, said she would be “grateful” if she and Guidicelli would be blessed with a child of their own. “But when it comes, we will be

grateful. If God willing,” she said. Geronimo’s relationship with her Mommy Divine became a subject of controversy after she wed Guidicelli in a private Christian ceremony in February 2020. The wedding was discovered by her mother, which led her to storm into the ceremony.

Four years later, the singeractress made headlines after expressing her love for her mother during her acceptance speech at the Billboard Women in Music Awards in California on March 4, and also at the Billboard Philippines Women in Music ceremony on March 22 in Taguig.