032923 - Southern California Midweek Edition

FORMER American Ninja Warrior, Wipeout finalist and rare disease warrior

Pamela Price ran 340 grueling miles from the Santa Monica Pier to the Las Vegas sign with Team Unlimited Women for The Speed Project relay race.

Pamela is mixed Filipina American and ran alongside Korean American, Rosa Kwak (Winner of Ventura Marathon) and Chloe Ang who also represents the Filipino running community.

In 51 hours, Pamela endured freezing temperatures, high elevation, desert heat and high winds as she and her teammates proved that women can do anything they set their mind to. The Speed Project included 65 teams from 12 countries.

Departing at 4AM from the Santa Monica Pier, Pamela took on relay segments, from fast 1 mile repeats for 24 miles in Death Valley to long 8-mile race segments at sunrise.

Marcos: PH ‘essentially disengaging’ from ICC after ‘failed’ appeal to defer ‘drug war’ probe

by DAPHNE GALVEZ Inquirer.net

Court (ICC) after it rejected the government’s appeal to suspend its probe into “drug war” killings. Marcos said the Philippines would no longer appeal the ICC’s decision, and the government is “essentially disengaging from any contact and communication” with the ICC.

“So, at this point, we essentially are disengaging from any contact, from any communication with the ICC,” Marcos added.

The President reiterated that the Philippine government will not cooperate with the ICC probe,

ICC Appeals Chamber denies PH request to suspend ‘drug war’ probe

by XAVE GREGORIO Philstar.com

MANILA — The Philippines failed to convince the Appeals Chamber of the International Criminal Court to suspend the investigation of the tribunal’s prosecutor into the alleged crimes against humanity committed in the course of the “war on drugs.”

In an eight-page decision issued Monday at The Hague in The Netherlands, the Appeals Chamber said it "rejects the request of the Republic of the Philippines for suspensive effect” of the Pre-Trial Chamber’s decision."

Manila, through the appeal filed by the Office of the Solicitor General, has asked the ICC’s Appeals Chamber to reverse the authorization its Pre-Trial Chamber granted to its prosecutors to resume investigation into the “war on drugs” of the Duterte administration. The Philippines also sought for the suspension of the investigation pending resolution of their request, and for the Appeals Chamber to determine that ICC’s prosecutors are not authorized to resume their probe.

THE Biden administration’s decision to end the COVID -19 public health emergency in May will institute sweeping changes across the health care system that go far beyond many people having to pay more for COVID tests.

In response to the pandemic, the federal government in 2020 suspended many of its rules on how care is delivered. That transformed essentially every corner of American health care — from hospitals and nursing homes to public health and treatment for people recovering from addiction.

Now, as the government prepares to reverse some of those steps, here’s a glimpse at ways patients will be affected:

Training rules for nursing home staff get stricter

The end of the emergency means nursing homes will have to meet higher standards

by RHODINA VILLANUEVA Philstar.com

by MICHAEL PUNONGBAYAN Philstar.com

MANILA — Senior Defense Undersecretary

Carlito Galvez Jr. defended the Marcos administration on Monday, March 27 against those criticizing the government for allegedly being too pro-U.S.

“Hindi naman (not really),” he told reporters, stressing that the Philippines and the United States have a Mutual Defense Treaty that shows the long-standing friendship and commitment between the two nations.

agreements with its allies such as the U.S.

“At the same time, we can see the U.S. government is really supporting us in terms of our modernizing,” he said, referring to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) modernization program.

Galvez added that like other states, the Philippines wants to have a free and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

The statement of the Department of National Defense officer-in-charge came in light of those criticizing the national

US lawmaker reintroduces bill to suspend security aid to PH

by KAYCEE VALMONTE Philstar.com

MANILA — A bill that aims to suspend security assistance to the Philippines until perpetrators of human rights abuses in the ranks of the police and military are held accountable has been reintroduced in the U.S. House of Representatives.

again filed the Philippine Human Rights Act (PHRA) before the U.S. House earlier this month in commemoration of the second anniversary of the "Bloody Sunday Massacre" where raids across the Calabarzon region in 2021 left nine activists dead. The PHRA would suspend Washington’s security assistance to the Philippines until the government fully investigates

Galvez explained that just like other countries, the Philippines honors its  PAGE 4

MANILA — For the medical community, the COVID-19 pandemic in the country has come to an end.

In an interview Friday with “The Chiefs” on One News, Dr. Maricar Limpin, immediate past president of the Philippine College of Physicians, said, “As far as we are concerned, I think it has ended because on the ground, we are not seeing too many (COVID-19) cases anymore.”

“In fact,” Limpin added, “the patients we are seeing right now are all non-COVID cases.”

“The medical community has been active in the non-COVID scenario so there are just a few remaining cases for COVID,” said Limpin.

The medical expert likewise said, “We are just waiting for the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare (COVID endemic)… Actually, we have long been waiting for WHO to make such a declaration.”

Limpin added, “I think the WHO is just waiting for the result of their surveillance that right now, only a few deaths from COVID

U.S. Rep. Susan Wild (Pennsylvania, 7th District)

End of COVID emergency will usher in changes across the US health system

Fil-Am athlete runs 340 miles from LA to Vegas

— President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday, March 28 said the Philippine government is ending its involvement in the International Criminal

Marcos: PH ‘essentially disengaging...

citing “very serious questions” on the court’s jurisdiction, interference, and “attacks on the sovereignty of the Republic.”

“We cannot cooperate with the ICC considering the very serious questions about their jurisdiction and about what we consider to be interference and practically attacks on the sovereignty of the Republic,” he said.

“So that’s pretty much it; we

have no longer any recourse when it comes to the ICC,” the President added. The ICC Appeals Chamber has rejected the Philippine government’s request to suspend its investigation into the killings committed under former President Rodrigo Duterte’s bloody war against illegal drugs. The decision came just two weeks after the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) asked

the ICC Appeals Chamber to suspend and reverse the ruling that authorized the reopening of the investigation by the ICC prosecutor.

To recall, the ICC PreTrial Chamber on January 26 authorized ICC prosecutor Karim Khan to proceed with the preliminary investigation, prompting the OSG to submit a notice of appeal on February 3 to reverse this decision. g

Galvez defends Marcos admin’s alleged...

Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).

Last week, retired officials of the AFP expressed their full support for the proposal to allow U.S. forces access to more military locations in the Philippines.

The Association of General and Flag Officers said allowing American troops access will further boost defense capabilities in areas including the West Philippine Sea.

“This 2014 agreement allows the rotation, not permanent stay, of U.S. troops in mutually agreed

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA REGIONAL RAIL AUTHORITY

IFB No. MTL2305150

Premium Head

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The Southern California Regional Rail Authority (SCRRA) is seeking quotes for Premium Head Hardened CWR. Bid documents may be obtained at https:// metrolinktrains.com/doingbusiness (free registration).

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3/29/23

CNS-3683626#

ASIAN JOURNAL (L.A.)

locations where our ally could use temporary facilities,” their statement read.

Current EDCA sites in the country are Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija, Basa Air Base in Pampanga, Antonio Bautista Air Base in Palawan, Mactan-Benito

Ebuen Air Base in Cebu and Lumbia Air Base in Cagayan de Oro.

US bucks sea intimidation

The United States underscored that no member of the international community should be intimidated or coerced into giving up their rights and

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA REGIONAL RAIL AUTHORITY IFB No.

MTL2305166

Lubricator Grease

The Southern California Regional Rail Authority (SCRRA) is seeking quotes for Lubricator Grease Bid documents may be obtained at https://metrolinktrains. com/doing-business (free registration). Electronic Bids are due at 2:00 P.M. (PT) on 4/7/2023.

For further information, contact Arisa Hicks, Contract Specialist, at (213) 452-0250 or hicksa@scrra.net

3/29/23

CNS-3683157# ASIAN JOURNAL (L.A.)

freedoms of the sea that is guaranteed to all.

“The international community has an enduring role in preserving the freedom of the seas, which is critical to global security, stability and prosperity,” the U.S. Navy’s 7th Fleet said in a statement after Arleigh Burke-class guidedmissile destroyer USS Milius asserted navigational rights and freedoms in the South China Sea near the Paracel Islands.

The U.S. Defense Department said this freedom of navigation operation upheld the rights, freedoms and lawful uses of the sea recognized in international law by challenging the restrictions on innocent passage imposed by China, Taiwan and Vietnam and also by challenging Beijing’s claim to straight baselines enclosing the Paracel Islands.

“Unlawful and sweeping maritime claims in the South China Sea pose a serious threat to the freedom of the seas, including the freedoms of navigation and overflight, free trade and unimpeded commerce and freedom of economic opportunity for South China Sea littoral nations,” it said.

The U.S. challenges excessive maritime claims around the world regardless of the identity of the claimant.

“The United States upholds freedom of navigation for all nations as a principle. As long as some countries continue to claim and assert limits on rights that exceed their authority under international law, the United States will continue to defend the rights and freedoms of the sea guaranteed to all,” it added. g

ICC Appeals Chamber denies PH request...

Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra explained in an interview with CNN Philippines’ Balitaan that the Philippine government’s appeal itself has not been rejected and would take months or even years to be resolved. But the Appeals chamber had rejected their move to suspend the proceedings pending the resolution of their appeal.

The ICC’s Appeals Chamber said the Philippines failed to provide persuasive reasons for it to suspend Prosecutor Karim Khan’s investigation while it tackles Manila’s request to scrap the probe entirely.

“In the absence of persuasive reasons in support of ordering suspensive effect, the Appeals Chamber rejects the request. This is without prejudice to its eventual decision on the merits of the Philippines’ appeal against the Impugned Decision,” it said in the decision signed by Presiding Judge Marc Perrin de Brichambaut.

The Impugned Decision refers to the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber’s decision allowing Khan’s investigation into the situation in the Philippines, particularly the alleged crimes committed

between November 1, 2011 and March 16, 2019 in the context of the “war on drugs” campaign.

The ICC Appeals Chamber said the Philippines failed to explain how its claim of lack of jurisdiction over the country or the absence of legal basis for the resumption of Khan’s investigation would “defeat its very purpose and create an irreversible situation that could not be corrected.”

It said the Philippines also did not specify what the “far-reaching and inimical consequences” Khan’s probe will have on suspects, witnesses and victims and did not say how these “would be very difficult to correct and may be irreversible.”

It also said that the Philippines can continue its own investigations on the “war on drugs” regardless of the ongoing proceedings before the ICC.

“For the foregoing reasons, the Appeals Chamber is not persuaded that the implementation of the Impugned Decision would cause consequences that ‘would be very difficult to correct’ or that ‘may be irreversible,’ or ‘could potentially defeat the purpose of the appeal,’” it said.

In allowing resumption of

probe into Philippines, the PreTrial Chamber said domestic proceedings in the Philippines "do not sufficiently mirror the expected scope of the Court’s investigation, since they only address the physical, low-ranking perpetrators and at present do not extend to any high-ranking officials.”

Government figures peg the number of people who have died in anti-drug operations from July 2016 to May 2022 at 6,252, but human rights organizations say around 30,000 have been killed, some in summary executions. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. adopted the stance of his predecessor, former President Rodrigo Duterte, on rejecting cooperation with the ICC and has called its investigation into the “drug war” a “threat to Philippine sovereignty.” Duterte, along with his former police chief now Sen. Ronald dela Rosa, were the top minds behind the “drug war,” locally known as Oplan Tokhang.

The former president maintained that he will never cooperate in the ICC’s investigation, Dela Rosa said his participation will depend on the Marcos administration. g

US lawmaker reintroduces bill to suspend...

and prosecutes any military or police personnel engaged in human rights abuses.

Should the the bill pass into law, Washington will require Manila to comply with a set of "basic human rights standards" before it can receive military aid.

"Those standards include the effective protection of labor

Fil-Am athlete runs 340 miles from...

leaders and activists, journalists, religious and faith leaders, and dissidents; a functioning judiciary capable of prosecuting members of police and military units; and the withdrawal of military forces from domestic policing activities, in accordance with the constitution of the Philippines," U.S. Rep. Wild wrote in an opinion piece

published on The Hill on March 10. The bill is supported by multiple groups, including the Democratic Socialists of America, the Malaya Movement, the International Coalition for Human Rights in the Philippines - U.S., Migrante USA, among others. Wild also introduced the bill in 2020 and 2021. g

For PH medical community, COVID pandemic...

are being recorded and there are less severe infections being transmitted. That is what they are looking at now.”

“But Ithink we are already there. Even among the health experts, even among the (medical) practitioners, we are not that wary anymore about COVID-19,” said Limpin.

“If youlook at the Philippines and comparing the Philippines with other countries, I think we are in a better position because our positivity rate and the number of people being infected and dying from COVID-19 is far lower compared to even developed countries like the US and European countries,” the health expert said.

She pointed out, “I think the primary reason why we are doing better is because many of our people are still wearing masks.”

However, Limpin said, “Our main concern is the transmission of the disease to the vulnerable population. These are the elderly, those with lowered immune system because among

this vulnerable population, there are still those dying from COVID-19,” she noted.

She aded, “Many of them did not have any vaccination or if they had vaccination, maybe just the primary series. They didn’t receive boosters. That is the problem so I think we need to step up as far as vaccination is concerned.”

“There was so many misinformation that circulated so the government has to step up with the vaccination program. We are not just talking about COVID vaccination here because in reality, uptake for all kinds of vaccination, even expanded immunization across all different infections, is low primarily because of the vaccine hesitancy brought about by misinformation of the [anti-vaxxers],” stressed Limpin.

She also cited the possibility of another emerging infection threatening the country’s health care system.

Asked if the country is prepared for this, Limpin said, “It depends because we need the proper infrastructure for that. We need

to strengthen our health system. I’m hoping that the government will be able to put up all the necessary infrastructure for us to be able to prevent another emerging infection.”

She added, “It will then depend on how fast the government will respond because it will respond according to the budget. There are restrictions and limitations as far as the government is concerned, but we also need to get data and conduct a study on this.”

Earlier, a Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey showed that 93 percent of adult Filipinos are hopeful the worst of the COVID-19 crisis in the country is over.

The Department of Health also reported that local government units in Metro Manila recorded decreasing COVID cases, with OCTA Research Fellow Guido David noting that the positivity rate, or the percentage of people found positive for SARS-CoV-2 among the total number of individuals tested in the National Capital Region, remained below five percent. g

A trained dancer, Pamela traded in her pointe shoes for sneakers after discovering her love for distance running. Diagnosed with Behçet's disease in 2013, a rare autoimmune disorder caused by inflammation of the blood vessels, Pamela lives with permanent nerve damage on her right side.

Scouted for NBC's hit show, American Ninja Warrior, she also starred in TBS' reboot of Wipeout, making it to the finals. Suffering from multiple concussions and a rotator cuff injury, Pamela continues to compete, run the mountains of SoCal and rock climb.

She has finished first place at races such as Valencia Trail Race, Spacerock Trail Race, Spartan Trail and Tougher Mudder. Off the course, she is the senior executive producer of the Hollywood Beauty Awards, known as the 'Oscars of beauty' and a journalist/Vice President of the daily news site, LATFusa.com.

In 2020, Pamela launched the care package community and rare disease resource program: We Care When You Flare, operated under WE CARE WHEN Inc. She is an active member of The American Behcet’s Disease Association and activist for the #BehcetsWarrior community, corresponding with women and men living with Behcet’s Disease around the world. g

End of COVID emergency will usher in changes...

for training workers.

Advocates for nursing home residents are eager to see the old, tougher training requirements reinstated, but the industry says that move could worsen staffing shortages plaguing facilities nationwide.

In the early days of the pandemic, to help nursing homes function under the virus’s onslaught, the federal government relaxed training requirements. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services instituted a national policy saying

nursing homes needn’t follow regulations requiring nurse aides to undergo at least 75 hours of state-approved training. Normally, a nursing home couldn’t employ aides for more than four months unless they met those requirements.

Last year, CMS decided the relaxed training rules would no longer apply nationwide, but states and facilities could ask for permission to be held to the lower standards. As of March, 17 states had such exemptions, according to CMS — Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, and Washington — as did 356 individual nursing homes in Arizona, California, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Virginia, Wisconsin, and Washington, D.C.

Nurse aides often provide the most direct and laborintensive care for residents, including bathing and other hygiene-related tasks, feeding, monitoring vital signs, and keeping rooms clean. Research has shown that nursing homes with staffing instability maintain a lower quality of care.

Advocates for nursing home residents are pleased the training exceptions will end but fear that the quality of care could nevertheless deteriorate. That’s because CMS has signaled that, after the looser standards expire, some of the hours that nurse aides logged during the pandemic could count toward their 75 hours of required training. On-the-job experience, however, is not necessarily a sound substitute for the training workers missed, advocates argue.

Adequate training of aides is crucial so “they know what they’re doing before they provide care, for their own good as well as for the residents,” said Toby Edelman, a senior policy attorney for the Center for Medicare Advocacy.

The American Health Care Association, the largest nursing home lobbying group, released a December survey finding that roughly 4 in 5 facilities were dealing with moderate to high levels of staff shortages.

Treatment threatened for people recovering from addiction

A looming rollback of broader access to buprenorphine, an important medication for people in recovery from opioid addiction, is alarming patients and doctors.

During the public health emergency, the Drug Enforcement Administration said providers could prescribe certain controlled substances virtually or over the phone without first conducting an in-person medical evaluation. One of those drugs, buprenorphine, is an opioid that can prevent debilitating withdrawal symptoms for people trying to recover from addiction to other opioids. Research has shown using it more than halves the risk of overdose.

Amid a national epidemic of opioid addiction, if the expanded policy for buprenorphine ends, “thousands of people are going to die,” said Ryan Hampton, an activist who is in recovery.

The DEA in late February proposed regulations that would partly roll back the prescribing of controlled substances through telemedicine. A clinician could use telemedicine to order an initial 30-day supply of medications such as buprenorphine, Ambien, Valium, and Xanax, but patients would need an in-person evaluation to get a refill.

For another group of drugs, including Adderall, Ritalin, and oxycodone, the DEA proposal would institute tighter controls. Patients seeking those

medications would need to see a doctor in person for an initial prescription.

David Herzberg, a historian of drugs at the University at Buffalo, said the DEA’s approach reflects a fundamental challenge in developing drug policy: meeting the needs of people who rely on a drug that can be abused without making that drug too readily available to others.

The DEA, he added, is “clearly seriously wrestling with this problem.”

Hospitals return to normal, somewhat

During the pandemic, CMS has tried to limit problems that could arise if there weren’t enough health care workers to treat patients — especially before there were covid vaccines when workers were at greater risk of getting sick.

For example, CMS allowed hospitals to make broader use of nurse practitioners and physician assistants when caring for Medicare patients. And new physicians not yet credentialed to work at a particular hospital — for example, because governing bodies lacked time to conduct their reviews — could nonetheless practice there.

Other changes during the public health emergency were meant to shore up hospital capacity. Critical access hospitals, small hospitals located in rural areas, didn’t have to comply with federal rules for Medicare stating they were limited to 25 inpatient beds and patients’ stays could not exceed 96 hours, on average.

Once the emergency ends, those exceptions will disappear. Hospitals are trying to persuade federal officials to maintain multiple COVID-era policies beyond the emergency or work with Congress to change the law.

Surveillance of infectious diseases splinters

The way state and local public health departments monitor the spread of disease will change after the emergency ends, because the Department of Health and Human Services won’t be able to require labs to report COVID testing data. Without a uniform, federal requirement, how states and counties track the spread of the coronavirus will vary. In addition, though hospitals will still provide COVID data to the federal government, they may do so less frequently.

Public health departments are still getting their arms around the scope of the changes, said Janet Hamilton, executive director of the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists.

In some ways, the end of the emergency provides public health officials an opportunity to rethink COVID surveillance.

Compared with the pandemic’s early days, when at-home tests were unavailable and people relied heavily on labs to determine whether they were infected, testing data from labs now reveals less about how the virus is spreading.

Public health officials don’t think “getting all test results from all lab tests is potentially the right strategy anymore,” Hamilton said. Flu surveillance provides a potential alternative model: For influenza, public health departments seek test results from a sampling of labs.

“We’re still trying to work out what’s the best, consistent strategy. And I don’t think we have that yet,” Hamilton said. (Rachana Pradhan/California Healthline)

This story was produced by KHN (Kaiser Health News), a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues. Together with Policy Analysis and Polling, KHN is one of the three major operating programs at KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation). KFF is an endowed nonprofit organization providing information on health issues to the nation.

Former American Ninja Warrior, Wipeout finalist and rare disease warrior Pamela Price ran 340 grueling miles from the Santa Monica Pier to the Las Vegas sign with team Unlimited Women for the Speed Project relay race.

Palace creates task force to prepare for PH hosting of FIBA World Cup

by Kristina Maralit ManilaTimes.net

MALACAÑANG on Tuesday, March 28 released an Administrative Order creating a special Inter-Agency Task Force to ensure the unhampered preparations of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas' (SBP) for the country's hosting of the FIBA Basketball World Cup in August.

Signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on March 27, AO

No. 5 states that the Task Force shall be chaired by the Philippine Sports Commission chairman with the heads or designated representatives of

the Departments of Foreign Affairs, Health, Interior and Local Government, Public Works and Highways, Tourism, Transportation, Customs and Immigration as well as the Philippine National Police and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority as members. The Task Force will streamline, integrate, harmonize and coordinate all government efforts with the plans and programs of the SBP for the "effective preparation and successful participation of all delegates in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023."

All heads of departments, bureaus, offices, agencies or instrumentalities of the government, including government-owned or -controlled corporations, and state universities and colleges were ordered to extend full support and assistance to the PSC and SBP.

"The successful organization and hosting of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 requires the involvement, coordination, and support of all concerned government agencies, local government units, and the private sector," the order said.

The order takes effect immediately. g

Biggest Balikatan to highlight ‘whole-ofalliance’ defense approach — analysts

by Kaycee Valmonte Philstar.com

MANILA — The Balikatan (shoulder to shoulder) exercises this year between the Philippines and United States will be showing the "whole-ofalliance" approach in exploring combat and defense practices, analysts said. This year’s exercises will see the participation of 17,680 military personnel — 12,000 from the U.S., 5,000 from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and 111 from the Australian forces. This is nearly twice as many as last year’s 9,000 troops who participated in drills across Luzon. And with "whole-of-alliance" approach in this year's exercises, the combat and defense practices will make use of not only the Philippine facilities, which the United States have access to, but also share tactics with each other as troops emphasize interoperability.

Chester Cabalza, founder and president of International Development and Security Cooperation, noted the use of the Philippine rotational sites under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement and the simulation of naval warfare. "It can be construed as a

whole-of-alliance approach and stronger strategic partnership since like-minded nations are expected to share combat experiences and defense best practices mainly due to geopolitical circumstances and not on ideological issues," Cabalza told Philstar.com.

This means going beyond issues with or involving China.

With new exercises such as a simulation of naval warfare exercises and highlighting the AFP's role in territorial defense, Cabalza said this year's Balikatan will help troops familiarize themselves with possible strategies to defend the country's seas.

U.S. President Joe Biden has said he wants to establish stronger ties with the Philippines under the new administration following "rocky times" in the Duterte years. Since President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. took office, multiple highranking officials, including US Vice President Kamala Harris, have visited the Philippines to reaffirm Washington's commitment to its treaty partner and former colony.

Warmer ties with U.S.

Former President Rodrigo Duterte’s "independent foreign policy" saw warmer ties with China and a declared "separation

91% of Filipinos OK with optional face mask use -

MANILA — Nine out of 10

from the United States both in the military…not social, but economics also." Duterte also threatened to scrap the Visiting Forces Agreement, which allows the joint exercises in the Philippines. He later rescinded the order to terminate the agreement, citing US assistance during the pandemic.

With the large contingent joining this year’s exercises, this could provide a learning opportunity for all countries observing the Balikatan. Aside from Australia, representatives from Japan and the United Kingdom will be observers at the joint military drills.

"We can consider this as another manifestation of an ‘accommodationist’ Philippine foreign policy towards the U.S. – a label that can be used for our China policy under Duterte," WR Numero Research CEO Robin Michael Garcia told Philstar. com in a text message.

"We are shifting more towards the U.S. under the presidency of Bongbong Marcos."

Important military exercise Analysts noted that the exercise comes at a time of rapid geopolitical changes in the region, taking note of developments in the South China Sea as well as the entire u PAGE 7

Filipinos approve the voluntary use of masks, but most of them continue to wear face coverings outdoors, a survey conducted by Social Weather Stations showed. Results of a December 10 to 14 survey released late Monday found that 91% of the 1,200 adults polled nationwide approve the order making the wearing of face masks indoors and outdoors voluntary.

Of those, 64% said they “strongly approve” and 27% said they “somewhat approve.”

Only 3% of Filipinos said they somewhat disapprove” and only 1% said they “strongly disapprove.”

The survey also found that 54% of the respondents said they always wear a face mask when leaving the house. Twenty-two percent answered “most of the time” and 15% answered “sometimes.”

Only eight percent said they “rarely” wear a mask when leaving their homes, and one percent answered “never.”

Filipinos are still required to wear masks in public transportation and in medical settings.

The Philippines has so far confirmed more than four million COVID-19 cases, including over 66,000 deaths, since the health crisis began in early 2020. There are currently 8,626 active cases in the country. Masks for kids

Ninety-one percent of the

household heads in the country agree with the voluntary wearing of masks for children in faceto-face classes, the survey also showed.

Of those, 65% said they “strongly agree”, 26% said they “somewhat agree”, 3% said they “somewhat disagree” and 2% said they “strongly disagree.”

Eighty-one percent of the household heads said they will always make their child wear

a face mask when going to school. Eleven percent answered “most of the time” and 5% said “sometimes.”

Only 3% percent said they will “rarely” make their kid wear a mask in school, and 0.5% answered “never.”

The survey was conducted through face-to-face interviews. The sampling error margin is ±2.8% nationwide. (Philstar. com)

Disengagement

GOVERNMENT lawyers lament that the International Criminal Court is rushing the Philippines in its probe of thousands of deaths in the campaign against illegal drugs waged by Rodrigo Duterte when he was president and before that, mayor of Davao City.

On Tuesday, March 28 the ICC announced its rejection of the Philippine appeal to suspend its probe pending a final ruling on the request of its chief prosecutor to proceed with a full-blown investigation of the deaths in Duterte’s so-called war on drugs. The ICC stressed that the rejection of the suspension must not be construed as a ruling on the merits of the chief prosecutor’s request.

Nevertheless, with the rejection of the Philippines’ appeal, President Marcos said the country has no more moves left and is “disengaging” from the ICC, as he deplored its “interference and, practically, attacks on the sovereignty of the republic.”

If the ICC proceeds with its formal probe, the Philippines cannot stop it, but the government can refuse to cooperate. The government, however, cannot stop private individuals from providing information to the ICC or participating in the probe.

Rejecting ICC jurisdiction and refusing to cooperate should not mean stopping the country’s efforts to unearth the truth about possible abuses in the war on drugs, and to give justice to victims. Several former police anti-narcotics operatives have been convicted and sent to prison for the execution of teenage drug suspects.

The government must dispel perceptions that these cases were no mere tokens, as critics of the

drug war believe, and must show that justice is possible for other suspected victims of extrajudicial killings. Critics also lament that accountability has been limited to minor players in the anti-drug campaign.

Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra has said that the government is still trying to put together a broader picture of what happened, to determine if there is basis for allegations that drug suspects were summarily executed in a state-sanctioned systematic campaign that might constitute a crime against humanity. Guevarra has not ruled out the possible accountability of higher officials. He has expressed openness to the creation of an independent fact-finding or truth commission, but only if the members and the appointing power will be Filipinos.

The conviction of the former policemen for the execution of the teenage drug suspects showed that abuses were indeed committed in carrying out what the government insists were legitimate law enforcement operations. The country’s “disengagement” from the ICC need not lead to a stalemate in the pursuit of justice. The wheels of Philippine justice can and must continue to turn, preferably at a quicker pace and with greater resolve to unearth the truth. (Philstar.com)

HOLDING that the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) was pursuant to the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) and the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) between the United States and the Philippines, the Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of EDCA, maintaining that it was not EDCA that allowed foreign troops into the country but the Visiting Forces Agreement. This too was the subject of constitutional litigation, and the Supreme Court upheld its constitutionality. The VFA case was itself interesting because it squarely dealt with the issue that while for the Philippines, it was a treaty, for the U.S., it was an executive agreement. The Supreme Court, relying largely on the representation of the U.S. government that it

Breakthrough

THE distinction between an American party and a Filipino party, according to friends and relatives who have been at both types of parties, is that in Filipino celebrations, the center is the food offerings. Guests are encouraged to eat more and are even offered to take home some of the food that is served.

According to the doyenne of Philippine cuisine, the late Doreen Gamboa Fernandez, in Metro Manila and large urban centers, parties serve traditional Filipino offerings and other cuisine like Chinese style noodles, Spanish paella, American burgers and steaks, Japanese sushi and sashimi, Korean barbecue, British fish and chips and other cuisines native to Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, India, Italy, Middle East, Mexico and other nationalities.

The food selections in the upper class Metro Manila household may be considered as eclectic. But Fernandez has observed that even decades ago, away from major urban

conducted most of its foreign affairs in executive agreements, ruled that for as long as the agreement "had the effect of a treaty" on the U.S., the requirements of the Philippine Constitution were met. It ruled that the EDCA was an executive agreement entered into by the president in implementation of existing treaties and statutes — and was therefore properly the subject of an executive agreement that called for no Senate concurrence.

Since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has declared that he favors the implementation of the agreement, the next issue is deciding on where the military exercises take place and where the American troops are to temporarily make camp. Some local government officials have voiced misgivings, claiming that their constituents do not want to be caught between warring factions. Of course, there is no war, neither is there an imminent threat of one. China, it should not be surprising, is vehemently against EDCA and

centers, it is still mostly native cuisine in all its regional variations that are the daily fare. However, in the last decade or so, it has been observed that Filipino cuisine has increased in stature and has even begun to be internationally recognized. Several decades ago, Filipino cuisine was considered as food for daily consumption. Today, we have television shows that focus on Filipino cuisine with its different variations.

My favorite show is “Chasing Flavors” hosted by Claude Tayag, the well-known Filipino and Kapampangan food gourmet. His show centers on his travels to various regions where he goes out of his way to look for distinctive regional variations. There are now more authors that have written about our native cuisine. There are even authors that have explained and written narratives on Philippine culture as defined by the food that is indigenous to the culture. Some of these authors are Felice P. Sta. Maria and Fernando N. Zialcita.

However, the pioneer in Filipino culinary history is Doreen Gamboa Fernandez.

has warned the Philippines against engaging in military exercises with the Americans, but it would be as detrimental to our sovereignty as a nation to buckle down because China has bared its fangs.

In fact, it has done so many times in the past, and for all the rhetoric and the bombast from our end following incursions of China into maritime zones in the West Philippine Sea over which the Philippines has sovereign rights, we have done very little to put China in its place. Perhaps we have decided that we cannot do it, and that is probably right — strategically. But that is the reason that aside from strategic action, there is normatively regulated action: action that arises from norms and is sanctioned by them. If the only kind of action there was strategic, then certainly it would be foolhardy for the Philippines to even attempt to stand in the way of a giant like China. But the moment we adopt this posture, then small, weak, powerless nations do not stand a chance against the bullying of

Among her books are Tikim (Taste), a collection of essays on Filipino book and culture written before her death on June 24, 2002. This was revised and updated in 2020. It is amazing that the essays in the book have remained relevant to the Filipino culinary scene as of this date.

Alfred Yuson wrote in the introduction to the book:

“Throughout this collection of food essays, features and formal papers culled from a quarter century of authoritative writing, the author repeatedly stresses that what we eat has history behind it, is premised on setting and has a meaning beyond its taste and flavor.”

Fernandez, in her book, also quoted from cultural icons like E. Aguilar Cruz and Martin Tinio. Among her most quotable quotes are from her co-author for several books, cultural researcher and food expert, the late Edilberto Alegre, who said, “… that if Ilocanos favor the bitter (as in pinakbet and the famous pinapaitan, a goat dish with the bile sauce), the Tagalogs the sour (katamtamang asim in sinigang) and many Bicolanos the hot (Bicol express is a

the huge and the mighty — and that is certainly no world order that is a welcome proposition to any state, or to anyone, for that matter!

That is what I have always insisted about the arbitral decision in the case between the Philippines and the People's Republic of China. It transposes the exchange from the level of strategy to the level of normativity. It asks about the norms of conduct by which both parties must regulate their actions — and the pronouncement of the tribunal leaves no doubt that the rights are on our side, and that China has been — and remains — in violation of law. In blatant transgression of the tribunal's judgment, it has converted features into military bastions and taken its firepower closer to the Philippines. Now, it tells us that we should not allow Americans to challenge her dominance over the troubled waters on our western seaboard? By what logic? By what law? And by what inanity should we, Filipinos, insist that

dish of sautéed chili peppers), the Ilonggos have their own predilection. For them, no large dominant flavor but layers and nuances prized over predominance of flavor.”

In this collection of essays, Fernandez dedicates it to her parents, Dr. Alicia Lucero Gamboa of Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija and Aguinaldo S. Gamboa of Silay, Negros Occidental.

The essays are divided into four categories, namely Food and Flavors; People and Places; Books and other Feasts and Food in Philippine History.

The first essay is seemingly timeless and one of the most interesting. The title is “Balut to Barbecue: Philippine Street Food.” She writes: “Street food in the Philippines is not only a convenience for those without time to cook or an economic phenomenon that flourishes during hard times. It is a convenience.”

She categorizes Philippine street food from the points of view from place and manner of vending. The first category is the Walking Street Food. Among the examples she gives are the peanut vendors selling in street corners, the taho vendors who sell in residential areas and

China means well, and that it would not be in our interest to provoke her by joining with Americans in military exercises.

No, America is not the lilywhite hegemon with motives pure and intentions immutably fair. It has had its own share of shenanigans and doubledealing. But its sins are not the issue here. The point is whether it makes sense to desist from alliances with the United States in respect to this very limited field of defense preparedness and readiness at China's bidding, the very country that has thumbed its nose at international law and our rights? Some local officials have reportedly profited from deals made with Chinese corporations over resources of the country within their respective constituencies. If so, then their opposition to EDCA and to military exercises in their localities is as unprincipled as their shady deals.

It is not a question of canonizing one hegemon as good and the other as evil. No one is engaged in such

the vendor on a bicycle moving from place to place.

The second category includes the Sitting Vendors offering baskets or trays of products like rice cakes, syrup-coated bananas or banana cues, pork barbecue and quail eggs.

Next are the Market and Church Yard Food whose food wares depend on the time of the day. It begins with breakfast, then are replaced by snacks and then lunchtime fare, primarily noodles, fish and meat dishes. It ends with snack foods.

The next are School Street Food, which are found outside every elementary, high school and college. Their offerings range from boiled corn, “dirty” ice cream, fish balls and cheap lunches with plenty of rice.

The next category is Food at Office and Factory sites. These are jeepneys or small vans from the back of which one can buy a variety of fare, ranging from sandwiches to lunch dishes.

Today, office workers refer to these as Jollijeeps.

Among the other interesting essays are the Flavors of Negros, the Filipino Kitchen, the Restaurant of Yesteryears and Mother Cuisine.

childish characterizations. What we have to do with rather is the stark reality that China has fired water cannons at our fishing boats, shooed our fishermen away from the Scarborough Shoal, cordoned off reefs and features well within our exclusive economic zone and simply shoved aside a legally rendered judgment of a competent tribunal that had adjudicated on our rights over this section of the sea. And then there is the useful point made by Foucault that after the Treaty of Westphalia, balance of power has become a crucial consideration, and the painful, hurtful and disappointing events of late in this part of the world have warned us quite clearly I think about the deleteriousness of a lack of balance! (ManilaTimes.net)

* * * 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.

* * * rannie_aquino@sanbeda.edu.ph

From a historical point of view, Fernandez also wrote a lengthy essay on Philippine foodways answering the question, what is Filipino food? Among the most typical and widespread examples of Filipino cuisine, she cites two. The first is the sinigang, which is meat, fish or seafood stewed in sour broth with vegetables. The second is kinilaw which has uncooked fish marinated in vinegar or lime juice. At the end, Fernandez states that Filipino cuisine persists despite efforts by colonization and neo-colonization, unchanged in its traditional ways or slightly changed with its contact with other cultures. She says: “Its vigor augurs well and offers much hope for the folklore, the folkways, the folk art and the folk culture which many have feared are too fragile to survive modernity and global tides.” (Philstar. com)

* * *

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

* * * Email: elfrencruz@gmail.com

Only 29% of SIMs registered so far

MANILA — The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) will continue coordinating with local government units (LGUs) nationwide to boost the subscriber identity module or SIM card registration, which as of March 21 has only 49.20 million subscribers registered.

The figure represents 29.12 percent of the total 169 million subscribers nationwide.

DICT spokesperson Anna Mae Yu Lamentillo, undersecretary for public affairs and foreign relations, said they have tapped the department’s Tech4ED or Technology Empowerment for Education, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Economic Development centers to boost the SIM card registration drive.

The Tech4ED project is among major programs of the DICT that aims to establish e-centers in areas with limited internet access.

“To encourage the public to register their SIMs, the DICT continues to collaborate with LGUs in spreading awareness

and information. For far-flung areas and isolated locations, the DICT is working with the National Telecommunications Commission to facilitate SIM registration,” Lamentilo said.

The DICT, headed by Secretary Ivan John Uy, continues to remind the public to register their SIMs through the official portals of their respective telecoms.

Lamentillo said the DICT expects an increase in SIM registration in the next four weeks, with the April 26 cutoff nearing.

She admitted that the government has yet to decide whether it would extend the procedure as it expressed belief that Filipinos will flock to the registration portals before the deadline.

The DICT plans to convene on the possible extension of SIM registration a week before the April 26 deadline, she said.

Announcing an adjustment in the deadline as early as now will discourage subscribers from registering their SIMs soonest.

“As soon as the interagency group has decided, we will let the public know. As of now, we don’t

look at that option [extension] seriously,” Lamentillo said. “We still have one month and a lot can happen in one month and we want to maximize the period to see where it will lead us.”

The DICT is committed to sustain its efforts to provide assisted registration in areas where residents are having difficulty accessing the internet.

“I think we will have a sudden surge of SIM registrants toward the end, although we would like to remind everyone that they should register ahead of the deadline,” Lamentillo said.

“What we can assure you is that we are going to geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas to assist in SIM registration. We expect most of the late registrants to come from urban centers,” she added.

Lamentillo advised telco providers to no longer improve the package of incentives that they give out upon registration of SIM.

She expressed belief that telco players have given enough, from freebies of internet data to raffling of concert tickets, to encourage users to register. g

Gov’t boosts protection of overseas Filipinos

THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) are "partners" in protecting the rights and promoting the welfare of overseas Filipinos (OFs), Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo said.

Manalo made the remark when he met with Migrant Workers Secretary Susan "Toots" Ople to discuss the turnover of the Assistance-to-Nationals (ATN) duties from the DFA to the DMW.

The DFA on Twitter said Manalo assured Ople that the two departments "are partners in the third pillar of the Philippine foreign policy," which is the protection of OFWs.

Manalo on Tuesday, March 28 hosted a working lunch for Ople and other DMW officials to strengthen capabilities for providing ATN to distressed overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

Biggest Balikatan to highlight ‘whole...

Indo-Pacific region as well as the possibility of Chinese action along the Taiwan Strait.

Cabalza noted that China is becoming a “major military threat” in the South China Sea.

China has repeatedly said that is not seeking hegemony in the region but that it will take steps to defend its interests.

The Asia Power Index by Australia-based think tank The

Lowy Institute previously noted that while China continues to gain power over its neighboring countries in the region, the United States remains the most influential country in Asia. The institute further explained that while China is gaining influential momentum, other countries do not trust Beijing as much.

However, Cabalza pointed out that the exercises go beyond China’s perceived threats in the

region.

"It is not centered on containing China per se, but it will be a military exercise on familiarity on the ground and leveraging on technological defense equipment," Cabalza said, noting that it is the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ chance to show its "biggest venture of transformation from internal security operations to territorial defense." g

The government's ATN program started in 1995.

In the past 27 years, the Philippines has "achieved recognition from other countries in taking action to assist distressed overseas Filipinos, majority of them OFWs," the DFA said.

Under Republic Act (RA) 11641 creating the DMW, the DFA will continue to provide ATN services to overseas Filipinos who are not OFWs.

It will also continue its ATN services for OFWs in jurisdictions where there are

no resident migrants workers Offices (MWOs) formerly Philippine overseas labor offices (POLOs).

Manalo and Ople tackled the transition of ATN functions to DMW, including the training of DMW personnel, exchange of information on ATN processes and organization development.

They also discussed close cooperation between Philippine embassies, consulates, and MROs.

The DMW chief has also confirmed that the Aksyon Fund

was already being utilized.

The Aksyon (Agarang Kalinga at Saklolo para sa mga OFW na Nangangailangan) Fund was created under RA 11641 for the DMW's ATN services for OFWs. In anti-trafficking efforts, effective cooperation among all the member agencies of the Inter-agency Council Against Trafficking resulted in the Philippines achieving and maintaining Tier 1 status in the annual Trafficking in Persons Report from 2017 to 2022, the DFA said. (ManilaTimes.net)

TOOLS OF THE TRADE. The rescue team of Barangay Mintal in Davao City showcases their fire, water urban search rescue equipment on Tuesday, March 28. The demonstration aims to show the readiness and convergence of local and national governments in responding to disasters and emergency situations. PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.

A man removes the sim card tray from his phone to check if they are properly placed. Philstar.com photo

The Asian Journal MDWK

Wednesday MARCH 29, 2023

Bamboo: I enjoy working with kids

By natHalie toMada Philstar.com

HE has been described in the press as the “last man standing” in the Philippine franchise of The Voice. This is because Bamboo holds the distinction of being the longeststaying celebrity coach in the ABS-CBN reality-talent show, which is currently staging the fifth season of its kids edition.

But the rock icon, as fellow The Voice Kids coach KZ Tandingan called him in this virtual interview, said mentoring is a good thing to do at this point in his career.

“Every season is different and I do enjoy it. I enjoy working with the kids. It’s a good thing to do at this point for me because, again, I’ve been in the business for a while. So being able to sort of guide young artists, that’s a gift in itself, you know. And as much as I’m teaching, it’s not a surprise when I say, you learn as well,” Bamboo said.

“The kids today are just so different. They’re just so immersed in music. I mean, it’s music, YouTube 24/7, you know what I mean? Malawak na yung taste nila. Before, it used to be very different. Now, they’re coming in with a lot of knowledge already.”

Coaching and judging kids’ performances can be a tricky thing, and having to let go of a contestant is the toughest part.

“You start with a team of 18 kids, right? So, of course, you can’t take the 18 all the way — that’s the most painful part. So, you have to impart, sort of, that they appreciate the experience — every single one,” Bamboo pointed out.

“That you give them that gift and every single day, every single time you’re together, not only with their coaches, but together as a group, they share memories, they share a moment in time that forever they can carry.

“At the end of the day, I always say, it’s not about us coaches, it’s about them.”

Even after having done this for a decade, since 2013, and having witnessed “everything,” there are things that have never changed and that’s how he treats the kid contestants.

“No, I don’t think so,” Bamboo replied if he has changed or become careful over the years in his coaching or judging approach, especially

Besides

US and working on

music for release this year. to the kids of this generation.

“I think what I’ve been trying to do from the beginning was remain as real as possible to the moment. That’s always been my goal. This is what it is.

“What’s changed is time. Again, doing this for many years, what’s changed is I have two new coaches right next to me (KZ Tandingan and Martin Nievera). So now, it’s about that chemistry and then trying to build it together. Finding a unified goal for the whole show.

“But with the kids, no, nothing has changed. And again, it’s about individuals. We treat every child differently. KZ said it well, you treat them like artists, as a peer, and then you see the dynamic of how it goes.”

The STAR got to talk to Bamboo during an interview about US shows he’s headlining soon — Fantasy Springs Resort and Casino in Palm Springs, California on April 22 as well as Hardrock Live, Sacramento, California on April 23. KZ is his featured guest in both concerts.

“The highlight of the show for me is the unexpected. We don’t know what happens once you put me and KZ on stage with the band, that sort of chemistry. And I take pride in sort of doing it on the fly. I mean, we let the people guide us through that and the band guide us as well. We’re gonna have fun.”

As a fellow performer, KZ was quick to call Bamboo an icon. And fittingly so, given his track record in the industry, from his early days with Rivermaya, to his eponymous Bamboo band, and to his going

solo.

Asked for his reaction to being regarded as an icon by the likes of KZ, he said, “I don’t think about that. I don’t go to bed thinking about that because I just think… like I’m always of the mindset that I’m just starting again. Because as a full-time musician, it’s about creating albums. It’s about moving forward every single time.

“It’s like when I do an album, I’m always thinking about, how did I do that? And how will I be able to do it again? How can I replicate that magic trick, right? And lucky enough, I’m able to do it from point to point.

“But what I would also say (is) I do that with the knowledge now, sort of knowing, that I can do it with collaboration, with a lot of people involved in the creative process. And that’s the most gratifying thing of the whole thing, of what I do. It’s the gift of my job.”

It’s also about being with the right people, Bamboo continued. “It’s staying with the people who also believe in you, who continue to push you. And (it’s about) always putting yourself in a position where I can always say go where you can grow.

“Then, of course, when you play live, it’s a very humbling thing. That’s where you’re humbled by the support, by the people, by the energy given. That’s why if we’ll have a bad day (during) a gig, to me, it’s not an excuse. You sort of have to give it your all. No matter what, you bring that energy into every performance.”

Besides his U.S. shows, Bamboo has also teased new music.

“I’m in the middle of that process of releasing something as well. Just maintain creating and looking for new experiences. Like, how do I keep it fresh? That’s the whole thing, right?

“So, for me, it’s not just showing up in the studio and doing something right. It’s all about how can I keep, again, everyone engaged. That goes down from me to my manager all the way down the line. It’s about engagement. I think that’s the big challenge now. Keep everyone on their toes.”

The Noypi and Hallelujah hitmaker confirmed that he’s going to release his new music within the year.

Fil-Am Business Association of Glendale joins Celebrate YOUniqueness Festival 2023

A CITYWIDE multi-ethnic “Celebrate YOUniqueness FESTIVAL2023” was held with much success! The event’s goal - “Bringing the Community Together” did happen.

It was a packed standing room venue at the Y. The free Festival is a collaboration by the City of Glendale, YMCA of Glendale and The Foothills and 4-core groups: Armenian Society of LA, Filipino American Business Association of Glendale, Korean-American Foundation of Glendale and Glendale Latino Association.

“It is our hope that this event is just the beginning and that it will become an annual event for everyone to enjoy our youniqueness, share and come together. You should have seen the pride and joy in their faces...” said Edith M. Fuentes, event Co-Chair.

Attendance was estimated at more than 500+.

In attendance also were Senator Anthony J. Portantino, Assemblymember Laura Friedman, Congressman Adam Schiff’s Rep, Mayor Ardy Ardashes Kassakhian, Councilmembers Ara Najarian, Paula Devine, Elen Asatryan and Dan Brotman. Also present from the  Philippine Consulate General Office were Consul Gamble and Cultural and Community Liaison Officer Hazel. FACLA President Trinity Foliente, PWC President Cora Aragon Soriano, President Kathy Lefkovits SIGlendale / Soroptimist Camino Real Region, City Manager Roobik Golanian and more.

Barbie

and David on the impact of ‘FiLay’ tandem

By allan PolicarPio Inquirer.net

BARBIE Forteza and David Licauco were well aware of their love team’s growing popularity while shooting the hit series “Maria Clara at Ibarra.” But it wasn’t until their recent thanksgiving fans’ day that they managed to fully grasp the magnitude of their show’s success and their impact on viewers.

Nakakawala ng pagod. During the event, I had flashbacks of the challenges and hard work we had to put in for the show but looking at the crowd made everything worth it. It made us realize just how many people support us, how many people we were able to make happy,” Barbie told the Inquirer in a recent Zoom session.

Last Feb. 26 at a Quezon City mall, the “FiLay” tandem —from David and Barbie’s respective characters, Fidel and Klay—drew a huge crowd that the Kapuso stars delighted with musical performances and a thrilling dance number.

As he got up the stage, David was instantly reminded why he decided to be an actor in the first place.

“Things have gotten busy with everything that has been happening after the show. It can be overwhelming, especially for someone like me who’s relatively new in the industry. But the moment we saw the crowd, I thought, ‘This is the reason we do this,’” he told the Inquirer. “It’s from the fans we draw the inspiration and strength to continue what we do.”

“I feel like one of our goals as actors is to make people happy, especially if they’re going through something,” David added. “We’re blessed to be in a position to do that… It can be tiring, but you just have to sit back and remind yourself how lucky you are.”

While “Maria Clara at Ibarra” has already ended, the clamor for the screen partnership— now amusingly called “BarDa”—remains strong. And GMA 7, Barbie and David’s home network, reportedly has a new soap in the works for them. But for now, fans can have their fix of the two Kapuso stars in the Sunday fantasy anthology

Lady and Luke

Their four-part installment, which runs until April 2, is titled “Lady and Luke.” The story follows a fussy, authoritative condominium manager, named “Lady,” and her happy-go-lucky sister, Sabrina (Zonia Mejia). Lady’s controlling, cantankerous ways get her into trouble with a tenant named Delilah (Gilleth Sandico), who turns out to be a fortune teller who practices witchcraft.

One day, Lady wakes up to learn that her world has been turned upside down: This time, she’s the one getting controlled. Just like a puppet, Lady finds herself moving or doing things against her will. “Lady can be bossy, to the point of being controlling. But she doesn’t realize it. She micromanages her tenants,” Barbie said. David, on the other hand, plays Luke, a contractor whose personality is the complete opposite of Lady’s. “He takes a more logical approach to solving problems. Eventually, he falls

Continued on Page 10

Everyone was treated to food sampling, dance performances, music, songs, exhibits, arts and crafts, etc. FABAG-GLAC Officers and Board Members came in full force - Pres. Jo Solomonson, Marnie Lacsamana, Nelly Neri Aquino, Lolita Bandong, Goya Morelos, Ami Bautista, Rose Linda Gonzales, Regina Joy Alcazar, Celia Diaz Defato, Olivia Lopez and Dina Jose. Big Thank You goes to Max’s Restaurant, Elvira D Suavillo and House of Grill, Cynthia Lizan for the food donation. And for other FABAG Officers and Board Members’ donation of their Time, Talent and Treasure. The event was Co-Chaired by George Saikali, Pres./CEO of Glendale YMCA. and Edith M. Fuentes, Past President and Board Member of FABAG, she is also a Board member of YMCA.

Birthday girl Kathryn bares next film projects

By HannaH Mallorca Inquirer.net

KATHRYN Bernardo is about to make her return to the big screen with three films in the works, including a reunion project with her boyfriend singeractor Daniel Padilla, and Golden Globe nominee Dolly de Leon.

Bernardo’s film projects were announced during the “New Movie Alert” virtual media conference on Monday, March 27, which coincidentally took place a day after her 27th birthday.

The actress confirmed that she will be working with de Leon in the dark comedy film “A Very Good Girl,” which will be directed by Petersen Vargas.

“It’s such an honor because I would be working with — and she agreed to work with me — with the one and only Ms. Dolly de Leon, ohmigod,” a visibly elated Bernardo began. “For sure, I would learn a lot from her, and I can’t wait to meet her again. So it was such an honor that she found time (to make this movie).”

The film, which is said to be a dark comedy genre with an “eat the rich” concept, will include Marionne Dominique Mancol as the screenwriter, Carmi Raymundo as the creative manager, and Daniel Saniana as the creative supervisor.

Raymundo also revealed that de Leon and Bernardo worked

coaching duties on ABS-CBN’s The Voice Kids (Philippines), Bamboo is headlining upcoming shows in the

new

David Licauco and Barbie Forteza GMA photo

Daig Kayo ng Lola Ko.”

Mayor Kassakhian with FABAG Membersa

Senator Portantino, Councilmembers Najarian and Asatryan with FABAG Officers

Councilmember Asatryan at FABAG booth

Kathryn Bernardo

Sri Sai Krish Institute’s student centered programs

By Amrylois Ferido

SRI Sai Krish Institute (SSKI), an Orange County-based nursing school, was founded in 2012 by owner VJ Bhaskar, and today, it is a successful school that has many students coming back for both of the exceptional programs they offer.

Ejay, Jana say ‘I do’ in lavish garden ceremony

By HAnnAH mAllorcA Inquirer.net

EJAY Falcon has tied the knot with the love of his life, “Starstruck” alum and former actress Jana Roxas, in a lavish garden ceremony on Saturday, March 25.

The couple exchanged vows with the presence of their families, loved ones, and friends at the Enderun Tent in McKinley Hill, Taguig City, less than a year after getting engaged during Roxas’ intimate birthday celebration.

Despite this, snaps of the occasion were shared by their guests and wedding suppliers on social media earlier this weekend, where celebrities such as Joseph Marco, Jake Cuenca, and “Starstruck” season three ultimate survivor Jackie Rice were included in the ceremony rites.

The actor-turned-Oriental Mindoro vice governor donned a sleek white and black tuxedo with a corsage by Francis Libiran, while Roxas went for a dramatic Mak Tumang wedding gown with cap sleeves, accentuated with flower patterns and sequins.

The former actress’ kept her hair up, as she opted to have a pink-based look on her special day, as seen in Nice Print Photography’s Instagram page.

Makeup artist Mac Igarta also shared a closer look at Falcon’s no-makeup makeup

look, baring that he’s “grateful” for being appointed as the latter’s personal makeup artist in his career and life milestones.

The couple’s wedding invitation was also shared by a Pasig City-based invitation printing service on their official Instagram page, which remained faithful to the garden theme.

According to the invite, Rice and Cuenca were appointed as the candle bearers, while Marco was chosen as one of the cord bearers. Meanwhile, actor Aljur Abrenica is chosen as one of the groomsmen.

Rice also shared a photo of herself while posing with Cuenca on her personal Instagram account. She also shared a glimpse of the “The Iron Heart” star and Marco who appeared to be in a conversation with a guest during the event.

One Jamila Paz, also uploaded snippets of the couple’s special day on her personal Instagram account, where the couple appeared to be exchanging their vows and sharing a kiss during the ceremony.

On the other hand, Nice Print also showed glimpses of Falcon and Roxas gazing at each other’s eyes as they exchanged their vows and shared their first dance. The photography studio also shared photos of the lavish reception held at a massive hall decorated with flowers.

The school not only teaches its students to be good nurses but also fosters an environment of care that helps inspire each of those enrolled to have compassion for their patients in the long run. SSKI’s programs prepare each student for a successful and fulfilling career in nursing, while being affordable.

The school currently offers two different programs: the Vocational Nursing program, which was approved in 2015 by the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians, and the Associate Degree Nursing (RN), which was created after the school received approval from the Accrediting Bureau for Health Education schools just last year (2022).

“I took the NCLEX and passed the first time,” student Julieta Smith said, detailing how SSKI’s Vocational Nursing program helped thoroughly prepare her for the important exam. The NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) is an important step towards becoming a registered nurse, therefore Smith passing the first time is something not to be taken lightly.

“I was waiting for Ms. VJ to start the RN program. I didn’t look anywhere, because I just wanted to come back,” student Balinder Chahal said, highlighting the dedication in which many of the students have towards sticking with SSKI.

SSKI’s programs span a total of 19 months, ensuring that students get the best quality of education all the while preparing them for their future in nursing.

The Vocational Nursing program equips students with basic nursing skills to prepare them in caring for real-life patients. Students enrolled in the program not only attend classes but they are also

required to participate in clinical experiences that will prepare them to take the NCLEX. SSKI provides students with the following resources to ensure this comprehensive and thorough education:

• Full Elsevier Package

• Video Clips

• Skills Performance Checklists

• Review Questions with Answers

The program costs $30,000, which many students have felt is a fair price compared to what other schools usually offer.

“When you are an immigrant you don’t want to spend that much money. I already have my masters from India and I have

two little ones so I said let’s try this, it’s affordable,” said Chahal.

Many students, like Chahal, enjoy the affordability of SSKI; however, it is not the only reason that they continue to attend the school even after finishing with the LVN program. After finishing the Vocational Nursing program, students have found themselves returning to SSKI to continue their education through the Associate Degree Nursing (RN) program.

The Associate Degree Nursing program allows students to earn their associate degree in nursing as well as gain additional skills that will prepare them for their career in nursing. The students in this program

are provided with the same resources given within the Vocational Nursing program. They have additional access to:

• Biology equipment

• Lab and Clinical Equipment

• Global Nursing Glossary

• Care Plan Creator

• Many other valuable resources that are listed on the SSKI website. This program is also affordable  “SSKI likes to give an opportunity to students who cannot afford it. Our program gives them a low amount to pay compared to other schools. $70,000 in comparison to $110120,000. It gives them a chance to fulfill their dreams,” said SSKI Director of Nursing Maimoona Qadeer, emphasizing how the school even provides students with their own personal Chromebooks and supplies to fulfill their educational needs.

“I feel that SSKI is very pro-student. The students that come here, many times, are lower socioeconomically. Most of them pay for college themselves,” SSKI consultant Judy Corless said.  With all of the resources that SSKI provides within its programs as well as the affordability, the school is a top choice for many students. “I went to a big college but it is too broad and big so I was afraid. The small setting of the school (SSKI) made it feel like a family,” student Kyeong Lee said.

If you are someone who is looking for a chance to either grow your skills as a nurse and expand your education or perhaps you have an interest in starting your career in nursing, Sri Sai Krish Institute is the place to go. For more detailed information on SSKI and its programs, visit: https://www. sskinstitute.org/

To directly contact the school or its owner, Ms. VJ, for additional information and/or inquiries about enrolling, the email and number below can be used.

vjbhaskar@sskinstitute.org

(714) 890-7023  (Advertising Supplement)

Pictured above, is one of the many places in which students at SSKI are able to study.

It is a resource available to all students and one that is quite valuable.

Above are a group of students who are a part of SSKI’s Vocational Nursing program.

They are pictured surrounding owners VJ Bhaskar (right) and Bhaskar Prabhakar (left) who take pride in each of their students.

This is one of the many simulation labs that can be found at SSKI. Students use these as a way to practice for real life situations in dealing with patients.

Pictured are two students who are enrolled in the RN program at SSKI. They are both in front of another simulation lab used at the school. This helps them prepare for what they will experience in their future careers.

Ejay Falcon and Jana Roxas Photo from Instagram/@niceprintphoto

Birthday girl Kathryn bares...

From

together when the latter was still young, which was shared to the former by the “Triangle of Sadness” star during a pitch meeting.

“We are very honored and very, very grateful that she gave us time to listen to the concept and story. When I was pitching to her, tinanong niya kung sino makakasama sa pelikula. When we said Kathryn Bernardo, immediately, nag-light up ‘yung mukha si Ms. Dolly,” she said. (We are very honored and very, very grateful that she gave us time to listen to the concept and story. When I was pitching to her, she asked whom she would be working with Kathryn Bernardo, Ms. Dolly’s face lit up immediately.)

“Kasi sabi niya, ‘I don’t know if she remembers but we worked together when she was very little. Noon pa lang, nakitaan ko na she’s very professional, she’s very humble.’ Tapos natatandaan daw niya na naka-kwentuhan daw niya si Tita Min (Kathryn’s mother),” she further added. (She said, “I don’t know if she remembers but we’ve worked together when she was very little. Even before, I saw that she’s very professional and very humble.” She also remembered that she even spoke with Kathryn’s mother, Tita Min, before.)

“A Very Good Girl” will kick off filming “very, very soon,” while it is slated for a 2023 release. Details about the cast, plot, and premiere date are yet to be disclosed.

Another Lamasan film

Bernardo will also be reuniting with veteran filmmaker Olivia Lamasan in the upcoming Black

Sheep Productions film “Elena 1944,” which tells the story of comfort women during the Japanese occupation in the Philippines.

The storyline of the historical action-drama was brought to life by Patrick Valencia and Enrico Santos, while Vanessa Valdez will serve as the creative manager.

This marks the actress’ reunion project with Lamasan after “Barcelona: A Love Untold” in 2016.

“This was pitched to me pre-pandemic. In 2019, to be exact. Then fast forward, I turned 27. Buo na ‘yung loob kong gawin siya. It is something na nagre-represent ng pagkababae ko and I love to do a project like that, representing women empowerment,” the actress said.

(This was pitched to me pre-pandemic. In 2019, to be exact. Then fast forward, I turned 27. I’m fully ready to do it. It is something that represents my femininity, and I love to do a project like that, which represents women empowerment.)

Additional details about the production timeline, premiere date, and castmates were not revealed, as of this writing.

During the event, Bernardo also confirmed that a reunion film with Padilla would be filmed after “A Very Good Girl,” but she remained tightlipped about the details. She also hinted that her partner would be working on solo projects in the future as well.

The couple made headlines earlier this month, after they were included among the top celebrity taxpayers by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) for 2022.

Modifying down child and spousal support obligation after a divorce

DIVORCED parties are sometimes ordered to pay child support and spousal support in the divorce judgment. The support orders are generally based on the parties’ financial situation and custody arrangements at the time of the settlement or trial. However, what if your income decreases after the divorce or what if your spouse’s income increases after the divorce due to a promotion or a better paying job? Do you have the right to modify your support obligation?

If your income has gone down substantially from the time that the child or spousal support determination, you may be able to file a modification of your support obligation. Losing a job or having less income constitutes a material change of circumstances that would allow the court to modify down your support obligations.

at several months or even an average of the last 12 months income. If your average income has decreased, you may be able to modify your child support to a lower amount. Bear in mind that there are other factors that come in the equation such as the amount of actual timeshare you spend with your child and the income of the other parent. If the other parent’s income has gone down, this may adversely affect your child support obligation.

Spousal support may also be modified unless you stipulated in a divorce judgment that it is non modifiable. However, spousal support are usually calculated differently than guideline. The court will look at other factors in deciding whether to modify this. Those factors are listed in family code section 4320.

If you are unemployed, the other party may be expected to try to impute income on you. However in light of the recent cases in California, they would have to prove that you had the ability and the opportunity to obtain employment.

order, the current order will continue to be in effect and the same amount will accrue regardless of whether your income declined or your spouse income increased. It is important to file a post judgment request for order to modify support as soon as your financial situation changes.

* * * 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.

Barbie and David on the...

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after the “tinatangi kita” episode aired. “When that scene aired, the one where Fidel confesses his love for Klay and tells her, ‘Tinatangi kita,’ it really made a mark. There were a lot of heavier developments

happening in that episode— our scene wasn’t really the highlight—but it stuck with the viewers,” Barbie said.

Child support in California is based on guideline formula. One of the factors that is considered in the guideline formula is your gross income. Usually the court would look for her,” he related. Did they foresee the love team continuing after “Maria Clara at Ibarra”? Barbie said she had an inkling that she and David would be on this journey for a while longer,

“That’s when I realized ‘Iba rin talaga ‘yung David Licauco! Mukhang medyo matagal-tagal pa siguro kami magsasama!’” she said. “And true enough, we’re busy right now. And we were able to cross over to a different project. I’m thankful and I’m so happy. Ang sarap sa puso when something good and unexpected happens.”

The tandem’s chemistry

A lot of the tandem’s success had to do with the characters they played and their cat-and-mouse dynamic. The challenge therefore is for the actors to sustain their chemistry as they take on different roles and projects.

“I don’t think the chemistry will go away. If anything, David and I have only gotten closer. There’s pressure, but more in terms of improving our acting, or meeting people’s expectations when it comes to character development…

I think the challenge is doing our scenes, and making sure that it’s not Klay and Fidel they see,” Barbie pointed out.

As an entrepreneur, David couldn’t help but acknowledge that every decision or move can also lead to not-so-good outcomes. “I think people liked me because of my character. What if they don’t like my character in the next series?

That’s something that has crossed my mind. But I guess I just have to let go of that kind of thinking,” David said.

It might be for the better, he said, if he just takes things one day at a time. “I have to focus on doing better. I think I just have to enjoy and live in the moment,” he said.

But one thing’s for sure: David wants to continue working with Barbie. “I don’t want to look too far ahead. Whether we end up doing a movie or a series, I will do my best to make the love team work. Barbie always gives good performances, so it would be embarrassing if I don’t do my part,” he said.

IF you have questions about health insurance, we offer answers to some of the most common questions we hear from our clients.

Which health insurance plan is the best?

No health insurance plan is the best for everyone. Each individual and family has a unique situation with regard to income from work, the number of children, and medical conditions. Choosing the best health insurance requires a look at what is affordable, and the plans offered by the various health insurance providers in your area.

What changed when the ACA went into effect?

Several changes were made to how health insurance companies operated when the ACA (Affordable Care Act) went into effect. One of the most significant was that the health insurance companies could no longer deny coverage due to a pre-existing condition. The insurance companies were also required to offer a comprehensive set of benefits, including preventative care and rehabilitation, among others. Another change that made a real difference for families was that parents could keep their children on their health insurance until they reached age 26. Can I combine my work health insurance with Medicare?

If you are still working and have reached age 65, you can sign up for Medicare Part A (hospital insurance), Part B (medical care), and D (prescription drug plan), or a “Medigap Plan.” Many working

If your income has gone down or your spouse’s income has increased as a result of a new job, a promotion, or you got laid off or hours cut, it may be possible to modify both your child support and spousal support obligation. Without modifying the

* * * Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. 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 or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com. (Advertising Supplement)

Health insurance: Frequently asked questions

people over age 65 do not sign up for anything other than Part A, as there is no cost for Part A, but the other parts come with a premium, which will already be covered through group health insurance.

How can I make sure I can still go to my doctor?

When you sign up for health insurance, and you want to continue to see a specific healthcare provider, you must ensure that the provider is in the network of the health insurance company. Be aware that some doctors are not in any network or may charge much more than what your health insurance company will pay. You will be responsible for paying the balance outof-pocket. This is true even if you have PPO insurance and visit the doctor you like out of network. You can also call your doctor and speak to the administrative staff to find out if he or she is in the network.

Can I change health insurance plans?

You have the right to change your health insurance plan during the “Open Enrollment Period.” Under certain circumstances, you may be able to change your plan outside the Open Enrollment Period, called a “Special Enrollment Period.” The situations that can allow you to change your health insurance outside the Open Enrollment Period, include adding new members to your household. Some plans may not allow you to add a new member. In these cases, you can enroll the entire family in a new plan.

What are cost-sharing reductions?

Cost-sharing reductions are discounts that allow you to pay a lower amount for deductibles, copayments, and

coinsurance. These discounts are offered in the “Silver” health insurance category. It is worth finding out if you are eligible for these deductions, as the savings can mount up over time, particularly if you or a family member has an ongoing need for expensive medications.

How do you choose the right health insurance plan?

It is essential that you select a health insurance plan that matches your individual needs and is affordable. Every individual and family has unique needs. Some are generally healthy and rarely visit the doctor, while others have health issues. These matters must be evaluated when choosing a health insurance plan, and it is advised that you work with a local insurance agent to assist you in finding the most appropriate health insurance plan. If you choose the wrong plan, you may have to wait many months before you have the chance to change your plan during the Open Enrollment Period.

* * * Melody Avecilla is an insurance expert. Her one-stop-shop agency has been a preferred go-to insurance resource for over a decade. She has a Masters in Business Administration from Loyola Marymount and earned her CLU (Chartered Life Underwriter) designation at The American College. Her team has been voted best in the industry for years in a row. Fun fact about her. She has multiple patents for the world’s first retractable high heels. In between work, she hosts a global leadership podcast called “dreamers to leaders.” She’s takes a hyper focused approach in elevating customer experience in running her businesses. Insurance is her flag ship enterprise.

(Advertising Supplement)