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

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

For PH medical community, COVID pandemic has ended

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

In an interview on Friday, March 24 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

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

by DaPhne galvez Inquirer.net

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos

Jr. on Tuesday, March 28 said the Philippine government is ending its involvement in the International Criminal 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, citing “very serious questions” on the

Galvez defends Marcos admin’s alleged pro-US stance

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.

Galvez explained that just like other countries, the Philippines honors its 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)

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

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, March 27 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.”

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.

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

AIRPORT INSPECTION. Officials of the Manila International Airport Authority, led by General Manager Cesar Chiong and Senior Assistant General Manager Bryan Co, check an immigration counter during a walk-through inspection of terminals of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on Wednesday, March 29. The officials conducted the inspection as Philippine ports brace for an influx of passengers for the Holy Week and the summer months. PNA photo by Avito Dalan

For PH medical...

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 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.

(by Rhodina Villanueva/Philstar.com) n

Marcos: PH ‘essentially disengaging’ from ICC after ‘failed’...

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 Pre-Trial 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. n

Galvez defends Marcos admin’s...

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 government’s decision to allow American troops access to four more sites in the country under the Enhanced Defense 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 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.

U.S. 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 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.n

ICC Appeals Chamber denies PH...

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.

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 Pre-Trial 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, lowranking 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. n

SUMMER DELIGHT. A roadside stall along Moriones Street in Tondo, Manila sells halohalo, a popular summer treat, on Tuesday, March 28. Halo-halo and cold drinks are popular among those who want to beat the heat during the summer months. PNA photo by Yancy Lim waiting for WHO to make such

US lawmaker reintroduces...

rights standards” before it can receive military aid.

“Those standards include the effective protection of labor 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. n

End of COVID emergency will usher...

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 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 labor-intensive 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

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.

Features OpiniOn 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)

EDCA: To be or not to be!

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 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 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

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Melandrew T. Velasco

Commentary

Dateline PhiliPPines

91% of Filipinos OK with optional face mask use - SWS

MANILA — Nine out of 10 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, March 27 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 face-to-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)n

Biggest Balikatan to highlight ‘whole-of-alliance’ 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-of-alliance” 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-ofalliance” 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

PAGE 7

Only 29% of SIMs registered so far

by rainier allan ronda Philstar.com

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

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 InterAgency 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

End of COVID...

PAGE 4

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.

Biggest Balikatan...

PAGE 6

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. n

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).

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) n

with the Philippines under the new administration following “rocky times” in the Duterte years. Since President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. took office, multiple high-ranking officials, including U.S. 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 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 U.S. 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 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.” n

BOUNCEBACK. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (left) graces the Home Development Mutual (Pag-IBIG) Fund Chairman’s Report for the unveiling of the 2022 performance and dividend rates of members’ savings at SMX Convention Center in Pasay City on Tuesday, March 28. Marcos, Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary and Pag-IBIG Fund Board of Trustees chair Jose Acuzar (center), and Pag-IBIG Fund chief executive officer Marilene Acosta unveiled the dividend rate of 6.53 percent per annum for regular savings and 7.03 percent for the Modified Pag-IBIG 2 Savings (MP2) Savings, both the highest dividend rates since the pandemic began in 2020. PNA photo by Alfred Frias

Duterte celebrates 78th birthday without fanfare

by Edith REgalado Philstar.com

DAVAO CITY — Former president Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday, March 28 celebrated his 78th birthday without fanfare, just like he used to do when he was mayor of Davao City for 28 years and president of the country for six years.

The former president is not known to celebrate his birthday with big parties and would make himself scarce every March 28.

Only 29% of SIMs registered so...

portals of their respective telecoms.

Even in his six years in Malacanang, Duterte never held any lavish party for his birthday.

Duterte did not have any engagement as early as Monday, March 27 and on his birthday itself Tuesday. The former president instead stayed home with his family.

The former president joined last Sunday, March 26 in the celebration of the anniversary of the House Of Hope, a halfway house for children afflicted with cancer seeking treatment at the Southern Philippines Medical Center.

Former executive secretary Salvador Medialdea was with Duterte at the House Of Hope anniversary celebration, which was also a thanksgiving ceremony for him.

Medialdea told The STAR that he was with Duterte until 2 a.m. Monday morning at the Dusit Hotel here in Davao City. “We were just talking about anything and we shared jokes,” Medialdea said.

Greetings

President Marcos greeted Duterte on his 78th birthday, promising to continue the good projects he started during his term.

“What a pleasure for me to wish happy birthday my predecessor, PRRD. Happy birthday to you, Mr. President,” Marcos said in a video message posted on his social media account, referring to the former leader by his initials.

Now that he is President, Marcos said he

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. n

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

Former president Rodrigo Duterte and former Cabinet officials reunited in a Christmas dinner held in Taguig City on December 6, 2022. Photo from Bong Go

Criminal organization behind Degamo slay – DOJ House leader open to Senate option on con-ass

THE Department of Justice believes that a criminal organization was behind the killing of Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said the masterminds in the assassination could be the “top people in this criminal organization.”

“We believe that it is a criminal organization that we are dealing with already,” Remulla said in an interview on Monday, March 27.

He added that 11 suspects who were directly involved in the brazen attack on Degamo that killed eight others are now in the custody of authorities.

Remulla said this criminal organization was involved in numerous killings in Negros Oriental in the past, as well as illegal gambling and other illegal activities.

Degamo, he added, has been the object of an assassination plot, but the first two attempts failed.

Remulla said that there are many factors that point to the involvement of Negros Oriental 3rd District Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr. in the killing of the governor.

The lawmaker may be indicted later by the DoJ once prosectors have evaluated the testimonies of the men involved in the attack who are now in the custody of the National Bureau of Investigation.

Charges may be filed against the 11 suspects this week.

“We are hoping to file the complaints by Thursday or Friday. It is just that the prosecutors are now in Davao City for an activity. Maybe 11 people first, but maybe more people afterwards depending on the evaluation that is being conducted. There are a lot of statements being made and you have to look at the evidential value of each statement,” Remulla said.

(By Franco Jose C. Baroña/ ManilaTimes.net) n

by Delon Porcalla Philstar.com

MANILA — A senior administration lawmaker expressed support for the Senate’s plan to use the constituent assembly (conass) mode instead of the House of Representativesapproved constitutional convention (con-con) in revising the 1987 Constitution.

“If the Senate is wary of con-con, why not convene Congress as a con-ass for economic reform?” Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. asked. “Congress will have no control over a con-con. So should we not instead convene as a con-ass?”

Gonzales, representative of Pampanga’s third district, made the move following Speaker Martin Romualdez’s statement that the House is open to discussing with the Senate the mode of changing the Charter’s economic provisions.

Gonzales reiterated his stand to convene Congress as a con-ass to propose changes in the Constitution’s “restrictive” economic

provisions.

“I agree with Senate President Miguel Zubiri that a con-con will have plenary powers, including proposing political amendments. Congress will have no control over a con-con,” Gonzales said. He said a constituent

assembly “is the most expeditious, most inexpensive and most controllable manner of proposing Charter amendments.”

“We could agree under a joint resolution to limit the effort to rewriting the economic provisions. I think

there is consensus on that in both chambers. Any political amendment proposal will be immediately rejected,” Gonzales said. He said the two chambers could also agree to conduct separate voting, with each house mustering at least

“If the Senate is wary of con-con, why not convene Congress as a con-ass for economic reform?” Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. asked. “Congress will have no control over a con-con. So should we not instead convene as a con-ass?” STAR / File

Chinese ships sighted off Pag-asa Island

by Franco Jose c. Baroña ManilaTimes.net

MORE Chinese militia ships have been monitored in areas near islands in the South China Sea that are within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

According to defense and security expert Raymond Powell, based on their automatic tracking system or ATS, at least seven Chinese maritime militia ships were sighted 3 to 5 nautical miles off Pag-asa (Thitu) Island while the Philippine Coast Guard’s (PCG) BRP Melchora Aquino is anchored off the island.

“Philippine Coast Guard ship BRP Melchora Aquino should get a good view when the sun comes up, assuming

they remain within 3 to 5 nm (and well within Pagasa’s territorial sea),” Powell posted on Twitter on Tuesday, March 28.

Fifteen probable China maritime militia and/or fishing ships were visible in Iroquois Reef, which is inside the Philippines’ EEZ and 125 nautical miles from the Palawan coast, he said.

On Monday, March 27, six other militia ships were monitored to be “in the Paracels” before they continued their voyage south, Powell said.

“At Pag-asa, a few of China’s militia ships are in evidence, as most have remained scattered around the area, seemingly intent on staying out of camera shot while BRP Melchora Aquino

is anchored off the island,” the head of Project Myoushu Team of Stanford University’s Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation added.

Earlier this month, the PCG reported a decrease in the number of suspected Chinese maritime militia vessels on Pag-asa Island.

The PCG said the observation was made during its Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) flight over Pag-asa Island, Ayungin Shoal and Sabina Shoal.

Only 15 vessels were spotted this time, down from the 42 that were seen earlier this month anchored off the Philippine-administered island in the West Philippine Sea.

Pag-asa Island is the second largest of the naturally occurring land feature in the WPS and the largest of the Philippineadministered Kalayaan Island Group serving as the seat of the local government of the Municipality of Kalayaan in Palawan.

It lies about 480 kilometers west of Puerto Princesa City in Palawan.

More than 400 civilians — including some 70 children — call the island home together with stationed military, law enforcement and civilian government personnel. n

House leader open to Senate...

PAGE 9

a three-fourths vote on a constitutional amendment proposal as required by the Constitution.

“As for the expenses, these would be minimal since there would be no need for an election, unlike in a con-con, no additional salaries and allowances, no additional personnel. Whatever expenses that may be incurred, we could charge them to our own budget,” he added.

Assistant Majority Leader and Leyte Rep. Richard Gomez said it would take only six months for both chambers of Congress to amend the 1987 Constitution.

Gomez said this is doable if the Senate and House of Representatives reach an agreement

EDCA: To be or not to be...

on how to change the Charter.

“When we were doing public consultations and committee hearings, the timeline we set was only six months. We can do that,” he told “The Chiefs” on Cignal’s OneNews.

Gomez said six months should be enough since there is no need to review the entire Constitution, but only a few economic provisions.

Gomez said they are still waiting for the Senate to come up with its counterpart measure.

“That’s why the voting of both houses is very important. The House and the Senate must vote separately, not jointly. With that, there will be check and balance,” he pointed out. n

Duterte celebrates 78th...

understands why Duterte cursed in expressing his frustrations.

“Now I understand why sometimes you cursed when you were president,” he said. “But don’t worry, all the good

things you started, we will continue to work on it. We will continue to make sure that those projects that you started will be successful and I am glad that I am able to continue the good work that you started,” he said.

Marcos also advised Duterte to have time to relax.

“I don’t know if you still know how to take it easy but if you got the chance, please have a good celebration. Happy, happy birthday PRRD!” the Chief Executive said. n

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 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 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 lily-white hegemon with motives pure and intentions immutably fair. It has had its own share of shenanigans and double-dealing. 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 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.

* * *

PH MISSION. Authors Troy Amdahl (left, back row) and Dave Braun take the Oola Dream Tour, a personal development and empowerment program, to Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City on Monday, March 27. The tour, which has been to the United States and Canada, encourages participants to learn and connect with others, starting with an activity as simple as letting children write their dreams on stickers and adding them to a surfboard or buses in some areas. PNA photo by Yancy Lim

COMMUNITY JOURNAL

Success story: Triple triumphs scored for client on Citizen Pinoy this Sunday

PATRICK was petitioned for a green card by his aunt as a cook for her restaurant. Interestingly, not many people are aware that family members can petition other family members for an employment-based green card, provided it is a real job and the employer is earning enough to pay the worker’s salary.

After establishing that the position at his

aunt’s restaurant was a bona fide job, and after the aunt was able to provide additional evidence and documents, the Department of Labor approved the labor certification application, and eventually, the immigrant petition for an alien worker was approved.

Patrick was also able to apply for lawful permanent status and was able get his

PAGE 12

Health@Heart Vital med tips

FIRING squad – drug shortage

“Idaho Gov. Brad Little (R) signed a bill that will allow for executions to be carried out by firing squads, as the nationwide shortage of lethal-injection drugs continues.” (AP)

D3 wonders

Vitamin D 3 supplement has been shown in a study of 12,000 older adults to lower the risk for dementia by 40 percent, compared to people of the same age who did not take the D3 supplement, according to the University of Calgary in Canada and the University Exeter in England and co-authors.

This sunshine vitamin is also known to boost the immune system, improves brain function, prevent osteoporosis, manage blood pH level, prevents rickets (softening bones), strengthens bones, prevents certain types of cancer, boosts mood, lowers risk for diabetes, aids in weight loss, fights inflammation, helps lowers blood pressure, and might help lower risk for heart disease.

CPAP and SPO2 monitoring

CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) is the gold standard and the only effective way to treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Worldwide estimate is about one billion (1/8 of the global population),

between ages 30-69, have varying degrees of OSA. In the United States, there are around 18 million people with sleep apnea, 6.2 percent of the US population, or 1 in 15 Americans. In the Philippines, about 11.3 million, have OSA, 10 million with insomnia, and 46 percent of the population (about 114 million) do not get enough sleep, one of highest sleep-deprived nation in Asia.

A significant number of OSA patients on CPAP therapy have not been monitored around the clock (continuous SPO2+heart rate monitoring also while asleep). SPO2 is the blood level of oxygen (O2 saturation, which is normally between 95 and 100 percent, ideally). Patients on CPAP should undergo continuous SPO2 monitoring because while CPAP will keep the airway open for good ventilation, it does not improve the SPO2 of those with asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease that results in poor lung function and leads to low oxygen saturation level). More than 8 million people in the USA are on CPAP therapy and many of them are also using oxygen with their CPAP.

Wellue brand (CheckMe) Bluetooth pulse oximeter for SPO2+heart rate monitors (work with a cellphone App to record large data) are available on Amazon. People who are on CPAP therapy should consult their physician about continuous

overnight SPO2 monitoring, even if they do not feel short of breath during the daytime. The monitoring will show how many drops in heart rate and oxygen saturation and how low the O2 level goes down to, while one is asleep. Blood oxygen saturation below 90 is unhealthy, and below that even dangerous. All organs, the brain, heart, liver, kidneys, etc.) are deprived of enough oxygen if the SPO2 drops below the normal level.

It is worthwhile to do SPO2+heart rate monitoring while asleep because it is non-invasive; just wear the monitor like a watch and put the detector ring around one of the fingers for one week or so. This is just a precaution to prevent a potentially serious problem during sleep.

Silicone butt injections

To improve the butt and achieve a JLo butt admired by women, silicone could be injected to buttocks to achieve a more attractive, sexy, protuberant derriere.

But hold it, and listen to this warning from a model and TV personality Blac Chyna, who sounded an alarm about the potential risks and side-effects of silicone butt or breast injections. They include long-term pain, infections, scarring and permanent disfigurement, embolism (blood clots blocking blood vessels), stroke, and even death. These complications were also found after liposuction procedures. To

NEPHEW PETITIONED FOR EMPLOYMENT-BASED GREEN CARD ON A BRAND-NEW SUCCESS STORY CITIZEN PINOY THIS SUNDAY! This brand-new episode has three lessons and victories: 1) Family can petition other family members for a green card through an employment-based petition; 2) Patrick was able to get his green card in the U.S. without having to return to the U.S. Embassy in Manila; and 3) His green card was approved even without an interview. Watch this success story on a brand-new episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, April 2 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. (Advertising Supplement)

PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS

Success story: Triple triumphs...

green card in the U.S. without having to return to the U.S. Embassy in Manila, and his green card was approved without an

interview.

Coco kills critics with kindness

Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the free app. (Advertising Supplement)

By MJ Marfori Philstar.com

THERE was not a trace of annoyance. He did not even flinch. King of Primetime Coco Martin seemed to have mastered what zen means as a way of life when we had a one-on-one, sit-down interview with him in Ortigas just this week.

Our topic? His critics. Coco’s show, Batang Quiapo, has only been on air for less than three months and it has been the subject of criticism by some online influencers, who haven’t done any research on it, but then proceeded to attack the show. They say Batang Quiapo has been a nuisance to the vendors in the area.

Quiapo, Coco said, “Maayos kami mag-trabaho.

Nagpaalam po kami sa mayor sa Manila City Hall, meron din po kaming permits sa ating kapulisan at barangay at pati po sa Simbahan ng Quiapo at mga kapatid nating Muslim. Lahat yan nakaorganize at pinagpaalaman ng maayos. (We work well. We asked permission from the city mayor, the police, the barangay, even the Quiapo Church and our Muslim brothers and sisters).”

It is an homage to his day one in showbiz.

Leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel (right) was able to earn triple victories for Patrick (left) on a brandnew episode of Citizen Pinoy.

PAGE 11

reduces cell resistance, making insulin able to go into the body cells to do its job.

When we asked Coco about this, he just had a big smile on his face and said, “(This is what the late Miss Susan Roces taught me.)

Sabi niya sa akin, kapag hitik ang bunga, talagang may babato at babato talaga. Ako iniintindi ko na lang siguro iyong mga taong gusto maghanap buhay, gusto gawin iyon.”

Considering that ABS-CBN is now a content creator and Batang Quiapo has been airing in many platforms, including TV5, the show has been consistently trending and rating well. Coco’s research team has also some good news.

“Noong i-na-analyze namin siya ng team, oo, it’s stronger than Ang Probinsyano that’s why we’re very grateful. That’s why hard work talaga, iyong pag-pupursige namin sa production talagang todotodo pa,” he said.

“Iba siya sa teleserye na ginagawa ko at MMFF ko kapag pasko. Ito, bumalik talaga ako kung saan ako nanggaling, sa roots ko. (This is different from the TV series and the MMFF movies I’ve made. Here, I return to where I came from, to my roots).”

This is Coco’s way of helping the film industry, he said, “Ako naman, kung hindi tayo gumawa ng pelikula patuloy na mamatay ang industrya.”

Coco is also fighting for a more inclusive showbiz as he hosted the first-ever junket for the regional press in Manila for his endorsement for RiteMed.

Sleep and heart health

A new study on 300,000 people revealed that poor sleep is associated with a shorter lifetime for heart health. It also suggests people with sleep apnea, especially untreated, are at a higher risk for poorer cardiac health. People who slept poorly had two years less of heart health, meaning they developed cardiac disease two sooner than those who were sleeping well, achieving restorative rest. The research was done by the University of Sydney, Australia, and the University of Southern Denmark. A restful sleep is vital to general health. Lack of sleep is like lowbat in devices, with poorer performance and efficiency, and shorter life.

Amazing metformin

A retrospective analysis showed metformin users had a 24 percent reduction in relative risk of developing osteoarthritis. Its versatility as a drug includes improving fertility to increasing lifespan. Metformin is the first drug in the initial treatment of T2 diabetes. It acts to reduce insulin resistance. For our body insulin produced by the beta cells of our pancreas to work, it must be able to enter (penetrate) the more than 37.2 trillion cells in our body.

About 90 percent of T2 diabetics are noninsulin dependent, meaning their body is able to produce insulin, but it is unable to get into the cells (a condition called insulin resistance), so then insulin is unable to be absorbed to do its job in sugar metabolism, resulting in high blood sugar level (known as diabetes T2). Insulin-dependent diabetes is caused by the pancreas not producing enough insulin, causing diabetes (about 10 percent of all diabetes). On the other hand, in diabetes due to insulin resistance, the pancreas produces enough insulin, but it is unable to penetrate the cell. Metformin

Off-label use of metformin includes weight reduction, infertility, polycystic ovarian syndrome, prevention of pregnancy complications, and obesity. Metformin has also been found to improve executive function skills, learning and memory attention among patients with Alzheimer’s. It is now being tested for the management of inflammation and metabolism conditions. Those on metformin need Vitamin B-12 supplement. Lactic acidosis, which is rare, should be watched for. Generally, metformin is very safe, the second most common drug prescribed globally (52 percent of all international prescriptions), and taken by more than 120 million people around the world.

* * *

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.

* * *

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.

* * *

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

In the case of Batang

Speaking of todo todo, from the M-W-F schedule of taping, Coco said the show now shoots almost every day.

For a change, he was the one who housed the regional press from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao in buzzing Ortigas. He learned the good news during the event from his endorsement bosses that in just less than three months, the brand generated more than P1.2B in sales or a 25-percent increase from its previous year performance and they credited that to the King of Primetime. With this feat, Coco said his reward for himself is rest and it will happen this Holy Week.

“Ang ganda ng sinabi sa church,” he said. “Kung madami ang lumalabas para magsaya, mag-swimming, ako, ito ang panahon ko magpahinga. Doon lang ako sa bahay, matutulog ako.” n

The song that Rey Valera regretted writing

By alex Brosas Inquirer.net

IF there’s one thing that prolific singersongwriter Rey Valera is so sorry that he’s written, it is the popular OPM classic, “Kung Tayo’y Magkakalayo.”

Valera said that he had a sinking feeling that the ballad may have to do with many a breakup among lovers at the height of its popularity because of its bleak message.

“Kasi, later ko na lang na-realize na ang mga kanta palang ginagawa naming mga songwriter ay may epekto ‘yan sa isip ng ating mga kababayan. Ikaw ang dahilan kung bakit nagkahiwalay ‘yung dalawa, eh, dahil naisabuhay nila ‘yung nasa isip nilang kanta,” Valera explained during the grand mediacon for “Kahit Maputi Na Ang Buhok Ko: The Music of Rey Valera.”

(It’s because, I later realized that the songs that we songwriters do have an effect on the minds of our fellowmen. You were the reason why the two separated, because they brought to life the song they have in mind.)

He likened it to a stanza in the national anthem which had the line “ang mamatay nang dahil sa ‘yo” (to die for you).

“Inaano tayo na ibigay ang buhay para sa (bayan) di’ ba? Ganoon din ang kantang ‘Kung Tayo’y Magkakalayo.’ Bagama’t hindi mo nararamdaman na maghihiwalay kayo, konting ano, parang mararamdaman mong magkakahiwalay kami. ‘Yan, pinagsisisihan ko ‘yang kantang ‘yan hanggang ngayon. Parang may nagawa akong kasalanan,” he explained further.

(We’re asked to give our life (for the country), right? It’s much like in “Kung Tayo’s

PAGE 13

The work addict in Coco can’t seem to have enough because after starring in an official Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entry last December, he is headlining the Summer MMFF film Apag, his reunion project with direk Brillante Mendoza.

undergo a cosmetic procedure that could be potentially deadly is obviously unwise and a waste of money. Life and health first before beauty.

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 “Daig Kayo ng Lola Ko.”

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 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, 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.

“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.”

Ryza prefers a villain role: I get to play around with the character

By Alex BrosAs Inquirer.net

AS Margie, the gold-digging girlfriend of Yassi Pressman’s father in “Kurdapya,” a new comedy series over TV 5, Ryza Cenon is again playing a contravida role, which she said she enjoyed doing.

“Mas nag-e-enjoy ako sa pagiging kontrabida because mas nalalaro ko po siya. Puwede na rin namang maging bida ang kontrabida, eh. May mga times na nagpapaawa rin naman ang mga kontrabida na ginagawa ng bida. Kasi ang bida, kailangang magpaawa lang siya, period. Pero ang kontrabida, halo-halo po na emosyon,” she said during the show’s grand mediacon for the series. (I enjoy being an antagonist more because I am able to play around the role. An antagonist can also become

a protagonist. There are times when an antagonist may also act pitiful, just what a protagonist does. It’s because the role of the protagonist calls for it, period. But the antagonist, there’s a whole range of emotions involved.)

The challenge, Cenon said, lies in the delivery of the punchline and the timing by which it will be delivered, something that is new to her.

“Alam natin na ang genre na comedy ay nasa timing ‘yan, eh. Dalawa lang ang iisipin sa iyo kapag pinanood ‘yan, either matatawa sila or sasabihin OA, corny naman,” she said. (We all know that the comedy genre is all about timing. They will only think about two things when they watch you, either they will laugh or they will says it’s OA or corny).

Cenon feels that all roles, be it good

Marco on rumored romance with Cristine

By Anne PAsAjol Inquirer.net

MARCO Gumabao opened up about his rumored romance with Cristine Reyes and said that while the two of them share something “special,” he currently does not want to put any label on it because it “puts a lot of pressure” on a relationship.

Gumabao and Reyes sparked dating speculations after they were spotted together in Siargao, and were seen holding hands while out in Makati. The actor was then asked about their relationship status during a press conference of the TV series “Kurdapya” last Thursday, March 23.

“Basta you’ll find out when the time is right,” he answered. “Hindi naman sa hindi pa right time [ngayon] pero siguro, we’re just enjoying ‘yung time namin na

kami muna, na wala munang nakikiusyoso.” (It’s not like it’s not the right time yet, but maybe we’re just enjoying our time with just the two of us, with no one meddling.)

Gumabao continued that he prefers to keep his love life private because he does not want other people chiming in on his relationship. Gumabao

also described the actress as a “wife material,” adding that there’s nothing wrong with dating a single parent.

“Happy naman kami sa tahimik na buhay,” he stated. “Hindi naman kami nagde-deny ni Cristine. Of course, napag-usapan na rin namin to, we’re not denying anything… Parang mas

masarap lang na private at walang nakiki-ano.”

(We are happy with our quiet life. Cristine and I are not denying anything. Of course, we already talked about this. We’re not denying anything. I just feel like it’s better to keep this private so no one will [meddle in our relationship].)

“What we have now is special, I can say. Ayoko munang magsabi ng mga label-label na ganyan (I do not want to say anything about labels just yet),” he added. “For me, labels put a lot of pressure on your relationship. Basta ako, kaming dalawa, happy kami.” (The two of us are happy.)

Reyes, who shares her daughter Amarah with her ex-husband Ali Khatibi, has yet to publicly speak up about her rumored romance with Gumabao as of this writing. n

The song that Rey Valera...

PAGE 12

Magkakalayo.” Even if you are sure that you will not break up, when you hear the song you will have that little doubt at the back of your mind. So I regret writing that song until now. It’s like I have sinned).

As a songwriter, Valera feels he is different as he write songs to give life to the sentiments of other people.

“Ang mga kantang ginagawa ko ay hindi concerned sa buhay ko. Mas may kinalaman sa mga audience na pinanonood ko. Ang ibig kong sabihin, gumagawa ko for specific segment ng society. Iniisip ko, para masabi nila ang gusto nilang sabihin, ako na lang ang magsasabi sa kanila. Ganoon ‘yung paggawa ko ng kanta,” he explained.

(The songs I make do not have anything to do with my personal life, but more on the audience that I watch. What I’d like to say is that, I make songs for a specific segment of society. It’s like they want me to speak the works that they want to say and hear. That’s how I make songs.)

“

Kahit Maputi Na Ang Buhok Ko: The Music of Rey Valera” stars RK Bagatsing in the lead role. Also in the cast are Aljur Abrenica, Rico Barrera, Gelli de Belen, Christopher de Leon, Lolot de Leon, Jenine Desiderio, Meg Imperial, Ronnie Lazaro, Gian Magdangal, Carlo Mendoza, Ara Mina, Pekto Nacua, Eric Nicolas, Dennis Padilla, Epy Quizon, Arman Reyes, Ricky Rivero, Rosanna Roces, Lloyd Samartino, Shira Tweg, Lou Veloso and Gardo Versaoza. n

Marco Gumabao and Cristine Reyes Photos from Instagram/@mrdavidmilan via @ gumabaomarco, @cristinereyes

Ryza Cenon Photo from Instagram/@iamryzacenon

Rey Valera during the mediacon for his movie. Inquirer.net photo by Alex Brosas

M I G H T Y F LO W E R : H O W C A N N A B I S S AV E D M Y S O N ’

Dr. Anabelle Manalo -Morgan looks back at her journey from basketball to science and how it helped save her son

by MoMar G. Visaya / AJPress

IN 2016, Dr. Annabelle Manalo-Morgan gave birth to her son, Macario. At just two days old, Macario began suffering from severe seizures that required neurosurgery, which ultimately removed 38% of his brain.

Doctors predicted a future of limited speech, movement, and uncertainty for Macario, and the medications required for his recovery left him in a permanent haze.

“When Macario got sick, I knew had to do something,” Dr. Anabelle told the Asian Journal. “And now that he’s well and better than well, he’s healthy, I have to share that goodness. I have to try to help and contribute because that’s what God gave me.”

That journey has been documented and it is now a memoir published by Forbes Books called Mighty Flower: How Cannabis Saved My Son Part heartfelt memoir, part exploration of a watershed time and place for medicinal cannabis, Mighty Flower outlines the circumstances that have shaped Dr. Annabelle into who she is now and what she stands for.

“I feel humbled. I mean, it has really been a tough journey and to see this day, it’s almost I just want to celebrate, you know, and I want to celebrate with people that have been supporting me,” she told us at the launch of the book.

Among them is her husband Gramps Morgan a member of the Grammywinning reggae group Morgan Heritage, known for their socially conscious lyrics and fusion of reggae, R&B, and hip hop. She said

that as a couple, they wanted their firstborn to have a Filipino-sounding first name and Macario, which also means means “fortunate” or “supremely blessed” fit to T.

Born and raised in Canada, Dr. Anabelle is a cell and developmental biologist who spent over 10 years at Vanderbilt University working in neuroscience and cardio-oncology before moving into the clinical trial space.

Today, Dr. Annabelle is the Founder and Chief Scientific Officer of Masaya Medical, a brand dedicated to producing the highestquality CBD and educating the world on its medical applications.

Her dad, an engineer was from Taal, Batangas, and her mom, a singer was from Nueva Ecija. They met and fell in love in Canada,

where they still live and reside.

Dr. Anabelle moved to the United States to play basketball and got herself a basketball scholarship to pursue this career.

“I wanted to be a basketball player, I didn’t want to be a doctor or a scientist,” she quipped.

She played collegiate basketball in New Orleans when Hurricane Katrina hit, an unexpected curveball as she was on her way to achieving her dream. Dr. Annabelle ended up at Eastern Kentucky University where she received her bachelor’s in Biology. She began her graduate studies in Neuroscience at Georgetown University, ultimately earning a Ph.D. in Cell and Developmental Biology from Vanderbilt University.

Dr. Anabelle said she bared her soul in this book.

“The book talks about my upbringing as a young Filipino girl growing up with a strict father and how all of that prepared me for that moment when I had to save my son,” she said.

It has also been quite the process.

She finished writing the book in 2019 but it didn’t get published until early 2023.

“When I held the book, I had to turn it over, five or six times wondering if this was really it or just a sample,” she recalled laughing.

“I’m a very private person so putting my heart and soul into telling my true journey, and telling things that I normally wouldn’t talk about, that was the hardest part,” she revealed. “But I knew that all of those pieces have to be shared because they’re important.”

The Miracle of Macario

At the book launch held at Forbes Media’s offices near Union Square, Macario was like a regular boy running around, jumping, and screaming. At one point, he sang along as his dad performed onstage. There is no trace that he was born with severe epilepsy and that he had almost 40 percent of his brain removed at five weeks old and was put on every medication.

Most people say that necessity is the mother of invention but in the case

‘

Dr. Morgan with husband Gramps Morgan, Loida Nicolas Lewis and members of the Fil-Am community

Annabelle Manalo Morgan, PhD at the launch of her book Mighty Flower: How Cannabis Saved My Son published by Forbes Books. A native of Canada, Dr. Annabelle balances life as a scientist, educator, author, and mother of five. Dr. Annabelle has a doctorate in Cell and Development Biology from Vanderbilt University where her focus is on genetic mutations that mimic the offset effects that chemotherapy has on heart disease.

AJPress Photos by Troi Santos

Ryza prefers a...

or bad, is a challenge which is why she makes it a point to make her portrayal different from the previous ones.

“Hindi naman laging perfect ang ginagawa ko. Kailangang mag-level up sa bawat genre na ginagawa mo kasi hindi naman puwedeng ‘yun at ‘yun din ang ipapakita mo kung bigyan ka man ng drama or action. Kailangan lagi mong binibigyan ng bagong flavor ‘yung character mo,” she said. (Not all is perfect in what I do. You need to level up in every genre that you’re doing because it can’t be that you’re always giving the same if you’re given action or drama. You need to give your character a new flavor)

Inspired by Pablo S. Gomez’s popular classic, “Kurdapya” stars Yassi Pressman, who plays the dual role of Kuring and Daphne, who would meet and switch to live out the life of the other. n

Bamboo: I enjoy working with kids

By Nathalie M. 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 longest-staying 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.”

Barbie and David...

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. n

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 to the kids of this generation. “I think what I’ve been trying to do from the beginning was remain as

Besides coaching duties on ABS-CBN’s The Voice Kids (Philippines), Bamboo is headlining upcoming shows in the US and working on new music for release this year. ABS-CBN photo 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 U.S. 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. n

Dr. Anabelle Manalo-Morgan looks...

of Dr. Anabelle, desperation was. In investigating the options to help Macario’s development, she found out that cannabidiol, or CBD – one of the hundreds of chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant – had therapeutic benefits for numerous conditions, including epilepsy.

Because she was determined to find solutions to save her son, Dr. Annabelle worked to develop the purest and most consistent form of CBD oil, with no other cannabinoids or fillers.

In an op-ed piece, Dr. Anabelle wrote: I took my son off his heavy drug regimen and began administering my creation directly through the feeding tube protruding from his little belly. The results were nearly immediate. Macario soon began to express emotion and had the energy for

normal movements.

Three years later, in 2019, Macario had caught up to his other preschool classmates. Today, he can walk, run, play, and speak as well as his peers.

“After seeing how this plant saved my son, I felt a strong need to lend my voice to set the record straight, once and for all,” she said. “God gave me a gift not just to hold on to but to give it to others.”

Determined to remove the drug’s historical stigma, Dr. Annabelle’s work is fixated on the future, and what she believes to be an emerging cannabis revolution within medicine. “My work doesn’t look back,” she said. “It looks forward, toward the potential of precision medicine of cannabis medicine, of translational biology and an increasing dialogue between holistic care and modern treatment.” n

David Licauco and Barbie Forteza

GMA photo