04063 - Las Vegas Edition

Two PH-born soldiers among 9 killed in US Army copter crash

TWO Filipinos were among the nine soldiers killed in a crash involving two U.S. Army Blackhawk helicopters near Fort Campbell, at the Kentucky-Tennessee border.

Cpl. Emilie Marie Eve Bolanos, 23, from Austin, Texas, and Sgt. Isaac John Gayo, from Los Angeles were part of the 101st Airborne Division Soldiers participating in a nighttime training exercise when the crash happened on Wednesday, March 29 at around 10 p.m. Bolanos and Gayo were both born in the Philippines. She enlisted in Austin, he in Los Angeles, both in 2019.

Both were in Fort Jackson, South Carolina

Applications open for young Fil-Am leaders

PH immersion program

THE Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO) is now accepting applications for its signature immersion program in the Philippines scheduled for the last week of August 2023.

The week-long immersion brings 15 young Filipino Americans—aged 25 to 45 years old—from across different industries to the Philippines, where they meet with business, community and civic leaders in an effort to bridge and strengthen ties between the United States and the Philippines.

FYLPRO works with the Philippine Embassy and the Consulates General in the United States to search for the most outstanding, next-generation Filipino American leaders to participate in its immersion program in the Philippines. Deadline for the submission of

Pentagon: New EDCA sites for ‘regional readiness’

by FRANCES MANGOSING, JACOB LAZARO Inquirer.net

MANILA — The U.S. Department of Defense said the new sites under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the Philippines were aimed at “regional readiness” to address “a range of shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific region” amid concerns over China’s continued assertiveness in the South China Sea and its potential invasion of Taiwan.

The Philippines and the United States on Monday,

April 3 identified four additional locations — including three facing Taiwan and one near Chinese artificial military outposts in the West Philippine Sea — that would allow an expansion of American military presence from the five existing sites under the defense pact signed in 2014.

“These new locations will strengthen the interoperability of the [U.S.] and Philippine armed forces and allow us to respond more seamlessly together to address a range of shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific region, including natural and humanitarian disasters,” Pentagon Deputy Press

China warns Philippine-US base deal ‘endangering regional peace’

CHINA warned on Tuesday, April 4 that Washington was “endangering regional peace” in a new deal with the Philippines that will see four additional bases be used by U.S. troops, including one near the disputed South China Sea and another not far from Taiwan.

“Out of self-interest, the U.S. maintains a zero-sum mentality and continues to strengthen its military deployment in the region,” foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said.

“The result will inevitably be increased

military tension and endangering regional peace and stability,” she added.

Longtime treaty allies Manila and Washington agreed in February to expand cooperation in “strategic areas” of the Philippines as they seek to counter Beijing’s growing assertiveness over self-governed Taiwan and China’s construction of bases in the South China Sea.

The 2014 Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, known as EDCA, gave U.S. forces access to five Philippine bases.

 PAGE 3

Some Filipino tycoons fell o Forbes’ 2023 richest list

MANILA — Forbes’ annual list of the wealthiest Filipinos saw some movement in 2023, as mainstays lost some of their glimmer in the new ranking. Noticeable in the new Forbes ranking was the absence of the Uys of Converge ICT wealth, Betty Ang of food giant Monde Nissin Corp., and the late Roberto Ongpin. Dennis Anthony Uy and wife Maria Grace Uy, who runs publicly-traded broadband provider Converge, and Ang, cofounder of Monde Nissin, joined the list in 2022.

A Zobel made the list, however.

Miguel Corp., eked out a net worth of $1 billion based on the list. The list was built and compiled using stock prices and exchange rates from March 10. Besides that, some mainstays saw their fortunes seesaw in the new list.

Real estate and retail tycoon Manuel Villar, headlining the list as the wealthiest in the country, saw his net worth balloon to $8.6 billion in 2023 from $8.3 billion a year ago.

Secretary Sabrina Singh said in a press briefing in Washington on Monday.

The four new sites are the Camilo Osias Naval Base in Santa Ana, Cagayan; Lal-lo Airport also in Cagayan; Camp Melchor dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela; and Balabac Island in Palawan.

The Pentagon official stressed that the United States was not seeking permanent basing, pointing out that “this is really about regional readiness.”

“So you’re going to see an increase of rotational forces in the region, but this is more about  PAGE 2

DFA: EDCA ‘rea rms’ robust commitment to alliance, economic opportunities for Filipinos

by KAYCEE

Philstar.com

VALMONTE

MANILA — The Philippines on Tuesday, April 4 said recent developments in the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement reaffirm Manila and Washington’s commitment to their decades-old alliance as these also open up economic opportunities for Filipinos with infrastructure developments on the military sites.

“The EDCA will enhance the interoperability of our armed forces to collectively better respond to threats, including those requiring close cooperation and coordination for more rapid and effective humanitarian assistance and disaster response,” the Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on Tuesday.

“EDCA will lead to the construction of facilities and infrastructure upgrades that directly contribute to the enhancement of the capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” it added.

The EDCA allows U.S. troops to use Philippine military facilities for equipment and to store materials

Real estate and retail tycoon Manuel Villar, headlining the list as the wealthiest in the country, saw his net worth balloon to $8.6 billion in 2023 from $8.3 billion a year ago.

Inigo Zobel, a cousin of Jaime Zobel de Ayala, and whose wealth came from a stake in Ang-led San

Ports and casino tycoon Enrique Razon Jr saw his fortunes turn for the better this year as well. His net worth, estimated at $7.3 billion, grew from $6.7 billion a year ago.

Ramon Ang of San Miguel Corp.

Bongbong

Marcos, First Lady to attend King Charles III’s

coronation in London

by DAPHNE GALVEZ Inquirer.net

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza

Araneta-Marcos will attend the coronation of King Charles III on May 6 in Westminster Abbey, London, Malacañang confirmed on Monday, April 3.

Presidential Communications Office Secretary Cheloy Garafil said the President and First Lady had accepted the invitation to attend the coronation and the reception at Buckingham Palace, as invited by the Master of the Household on May 5.

“President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos have accepted

the invitation to attend the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty The Queen Consort at Westminster Abbey on Saturday, 6th May 2023,” Garafil said in a statement.

“Furthermore, the President and the First Lady have accepted the invitation of the Master of the Household, upon command of His Majesty, to a Reception to be given at Buckingham Palace in advance of the Coronation of Their Majesties The King and The Queen Consort on Friday, 5th May 2023 at 5:00 p.m,” she added. 

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos Malacañang file photo

Photo from Facebook/MannyVillar

Corporal Emilie Marie Eve Bolanos, 23, was part of the 101st Airborne Division Soldiers participating in a nighttime training exercise. Photos from Facebook

DFA: EDCA ‘reaffirms’ robust commitment to...

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that may be needed for humanitarian relief efforts. The agreement also allows American soldiers to conduct joint training activities with their Filipino counterparts.

The Palace on Monday, April 3 said the four new EDCA sites will be in Cagayan’s Naval Base Camilo Osias and Lal-lo Airport, Camp Melchor Dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela, and Balabac Island in Palawan.

The first five EDCA sites are located in Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, Nueva Ecija, Palawan, and Pampanga.

“The new EDCA sites are strategic in the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ thrust to strengthen its capacity to protect the people and the state, advance our national interests, and enhance the country’s disaster response capability,” Col. Medel Aguilar, AFP spokesperson, said in a separate statement on Tuesday.

Economic growth

In a separate statement on Monday evening, Philippine time, Pentagon said the U.S. plans to further expand funding to finance EDCA projects on top of the $82 million already spent for infrastructure developments.

The U.S. Department of Defense said this would “spur economic growth and job opportunities in their respective provinces.”

“The United States is committed to ensuring its activities around EDCA sites are responsive to the needs and priorities of local communities,

and we will continue to consult closely with the Philippines on new opportunities that serve our shared interests,” it said.

Prior to the Philippines naming the specific locations, some local government unit officials opposed having an EDCA site in their provinces.

However, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. already spoke to the local officials and discussed its importance.

The DFA also emphasized that the programs and projects under the EDCA are still for the benefit of the country.

“These programs are investments by the Philippines in its own defense and security, benefitting military installations under the full ownership and operational control of the AFP,” the DFA said in its statement on Tuesday.

Constitutional?

Progressive group Sanlakas however pointed out that the 2014 EDCA or the 1998 Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) are “mere executive agreements, which did not pass the rigors of Senate ratification.”

The group also compared EDCA to the government’s refusal to cooperate with the International Criminal Court under the guise of trying to uphold the country’s sovereignty.

“All this talk about sovereignty only but exposes the hypocrisy of the Marcos Jr. Government,” Sanlakas said.

“Unlike both military agreements, our membership in the ICC was by virtue of the

Senate ratification of the Rome Statute in 2011, 11 years after the Philippines signed in 2000,” it added. While the Senate concurrence is needed when ratifying treaties and Congress has oversight on the executive, the Supreme Court in 2016 ruled that the EDCA is not a treaty but an executive agreement former President Benigno Aquino III entered into to implement the VFA and the Mutual Defense Treaty.

The high court also ruled in 2010 that the VFA is constitutional.

U.S. military presence

Meanwhile, Anakbayan said it opposes the upcoming shoulder-to-shoulder military exercises between American and Filipino soldiers. The group said further U.S. military presence in the Philippines as it also is a “symptom of prolonged foreign dominance over Philippine economy and politics.”

Manila and Washington are holding their biggest Balikatan exercises next week. Over 12,000 American soldiers, 5,000 Filipino troops, and over 100 from the Australian soldiers are set to participate in joint military drills to advance interoperability.

“For the youth, the Balikatan exercises is also a direct attempt to further stir up the rising tensions between the U.S. and China towards a war for control over the resources of the Philippines and neighboring countries–something which could happen with Filipinos at a loss,” it said. g

Some Filipino tycoons fell off Forbes’ 2023...

posted a net worth of $3.4 billion in 2023, larger compared to his $2.45 billion wealth in the previous outing. He bested the Sy family and Andrew Tan of Alliance Global Group Inc. in the 2023 ranking.

The Sys, topbilled by Henry Sy Jr., ranked fourth in country in 2023. His net worth slid down to $2.5 billion from $2.8 billion a year ago. His family saw their wealth slid down in the same period as well.

Tycoon Lucio Tan saw his net worth double to $2.4 billion in 2023 from $1.2 billion in the previous outing.

The net worth of Lance Gokongwei of conglomerate JG Summit retreated in 2023 as well. His wealth stood at $1.4 billion, a far cry from the $1.6 billion a year ago.

Tony Tan Caktiong, founder of global fast-food giant Jollibee Foods Corp, suffered a similar fate. His net worth in 2023 slid down to $1.2 billion from $1.3 billion in the previous list. (Ramon Royandoyan/Philstar.com)

Pentagon: New EDCA sites for...

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supporting combined training, being able to respond to natural disaster, humanitarian disasters in the region,” she explained.

The United States will be pouring more funds into the new Edca sites on top of the $82 million already allocated to the existing ones, namely Basa Air Base in Pampanga, Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija, Lumbia Air Base in Cagayan de Oro City, Antonio Bautista Air Base in Palawan, and Benito Ebuen Air Base in Mactan, Cebu.

The Pentagon said the U.S. defense department would work closely with its Philippine counterpart to pursue modernization projects in the new locations.

But Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, at a press briefing in Beijing on Tuesday, said the U.S. action “would only lead to more tensions and less peace and stability in the region.”

“Facts are very clear that the U.S. has been increasing its military deployment in the region driven by a zero-sum mentality in pursuit of selfish interests… Regional countries need to think about what is right for the region and mutually beneficial so as to make a choice that serves regional peace and stability as well as their own interests,” Mao said.

Military drills

On Tuesday, April 4. the armies of the Philippines and the United States wrapped up the first phase of a major exercise that focused on what an Army official had earlier described as a “defense of the archipelago from potential foreign aggressors.”

“We don’t want to have any conflict against anyone. But nevertheless, we should always be prepared should there be one,” the Army’s 5th Infantry Division commander, Maj. Gen. Audrey Pasia, said in his speech at the closing ceremony of the first phase of the Salaknib joint

drills, an army-level exercise of the two allies.

“We all live in this tumultuous world where friendship and alliances are still maintained for survival and for the protection of their mutual interests. Let that mutual interest bind us together as we move forward,” he said.

The Salaknib drills are a prelude to the biggest-ever Balikatan joint military exercises set to begin next week with more than 17,000 participating troops.

According to the U.S. Embassy, some 5,400 members of the AFP and 12,200 U.S. military personnel will be part of the 38th Balikatan from April 11 to 28.

During the nearly monthlong exercise, American and Filipino soldiers will be developing interoperability and improved capabilities in the areas of “maritime security, amphibious operations, live-fire training, urban and aviation operations, cyberdefense, counterterrorism, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness.”

“The Balikatan Exercise enhances both the AFP and the U.S. Armed Forces’ tactics, techniques and procedures across a wide range of military operations,” said AFP spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar.

Pretext

“It increases our ability to work together effectively and efficiently in response to various crisis situations,” he added.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) described the four new Edca sites as proof of the “robust commitment” between the Philippines and the United States in facing “emerging security challenges in the region.”

“Edca will lead to the construction of facilities and infrastructure upgrades that directly contribute to the enhancement of the capabilities of the [AFP],” the DFA said in a statement.

Former Foreign Secretary

Albert del Rosario also welcomed the addition of more Edca sites, saying it would help in the enforcement of the rule of law in the South China Sea where there has been an increased presence of Chinese maritime militia vessels even in the waters covered by the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.

“With the help of our ally, this will also enhance our capabilities to deter aggression against our sovereignty,” Del Rosario said in a statement.

The provincial government of Palawan on Tuesday also adopted a resolution supporting the expansion of Edca to include the town of Balabac “to promote peace security and humanitarian assistance in the Philippines.”

Provincial Board Member Ryan Maminta said Edca had proven to be favorable to the province in terms of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

In Congress, a Makabayan lawmaker warned that the Philippines was now turning into a base of the United States with the expansion of Edca sites.

“There are nine Edca locations which are also bound to increase using whatever pretext like prepositioning, disaster preparedness and the like, inevitably trampling on our sovereignty,” said House Deputy Minority Leader France Castro. She cited Article 3, Paragraph 2 of Edca, which stated that “when requested, the designated authority of the Philippines shall assist in facilitating transit or temporary access by [U.S.] forces to public land and facilities (including roads, ports and airfields), including those owned or controlled by local governments, and to other land and facilities (including roads, ports and airfields).”

“In other words, we cannot refuse if the U.S. requests access to utilize whatever land or facilities, wherever in the country, including private property,” Castro noted. g

Applications open for young Fil-Am leaders...

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applications is on 14 April 2023.

For more information on the 2023 FYLPRO immersion

program, please visit this page: https://fylpro.org/filipinoyoung-leaders-programimmersion-2023-applications-

are-now-open/. For questions or concerns, please send FYLPRO an email at immersion@fylpro. org. (Inquirer.net)

Two PH-born soldiers among 9 killed in...

PAGE 1

for basic training and in Fort Eustis, Virginia for advanced individual training. Gayo’s awards and decorations include the U.S. Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal and the Overseas Service Ribbon. In March 2020 Bolanos was assigned to the UH-60 Helicopter Repairer and UH-60 Air Crewmember for the Combat

Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division.

A promising non-commissioned officer, she served nine months in Germany, graduated from Basic Leader Course in 2022 received multiple Army awards.

The other soldiers who were killed in the helicopter crash are listed below:

Warrant Officer 1 Jeffery

Barnes, 33, of Milton, Florida

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Zachary

Esparza, 36, of Jackson, Missouri Sgt. Issacjohn Gayo, 27, of Los Angeles

Staff Sgt. Joshua C. Gore, 25, of Morehead City, North Carolina Warrant Officer 1 Aaron Healy, 32, of Cape Coral, Florida

Staff Sgt. Taylor Mitchell, 30, of Mountain Brook, Alabam

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Rusten Smith, 32, of Rolla Missouri

Sgt. David Solinas Jr, 23 of Oradell, New Jersey. (Inquirer.net)

United States Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall III (center) and acting Defense Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. (left) lead the

groundbreaking ceremony for a runway rehabilitation project under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement at Basa Air Base in Pampanga on March 20. Inquirer.net photo by Marianne Bermudez

Noticeable in the new Forbes ranking was the absence of Dennis Anthony Uy who runs publicly-traded broadband provider Converge. Uy joined the list in 2022. Philstar.com file photo

Harvard University offers Tagalog course for

first time in its history

FOR the first time in its history, Harvard University is offering a Tagalog language course starting the 2023-24 academic year.

The Department of South Asian Studies secured funding to hire a preceptor in addition to two who are already teaching Bahasa Indonesian and Thai. Tagalog is the fourth most spoken language in the United States.

The department’s Asia Center raised financial support for three-year term appointments for each preceptor and are renewable for up to five additional years, reported The Harvard Crimson.

FTC briefing targets scams hitting API communities in California

FEDERAL and local agencies, community stakeholders, and ethnic media came together to raise public awareness and encourage people to report when they’ve been scammed.

Katsumi Iwasaki is originally from Tokyo but has lived in the Bay Area for more than thirty years. After losing his partner of more than two decades to cancer, the soft-spoken octogenarian went on dating apps at the urging of friends to cope with the loneliness.

That decision would ultimately lead him into the perilous world of romance scams, costing Iwasaki both his life savings –totaling more than $400,000 –and “my love.”

“I trusted him, because he was an Army officer, and because he was good looking,” recalls Iwasaki, chuckling slightly at the memory. Today he lives monthto-month on a meager budget. “Be careful out there,” he says, in reference to the growing minefield of scams and scam artists that in 2022 alone cost consumers $8.8 billion.

Iwasaki shared his experience during a March 30 forum on scams targeting API communities organized by the Federal Trade Commission to raise public awareness and

encourage people to report when they’ve been scammed. His was among a litany of cases discussed during the gathering, which was hosted by the FTC’s Western Regional Office in San Francisco and included representatives from federal and local agencies, community stakeholders, and ethnic media.

Community engagement key

“Scammers are everywhere… they’re not just on the phone anymore. They’re in the mail, they’re in advertising, they’re online,” said Rosario Mendez, an attorney with the FTC’s Division of Consumer and Business Education Bureau of Consumer Protection based in Washington DC, who opened the briefing. She noted the record amount consumers lost last year – over $8 billion. “It’s more than we’ve ever seen,” she said. Mendez’ office has undertaken a series of nationwide listening tours to meet with local communities and to hear directly from them about the types of scams they’re encountering. The FTC can and does prosecute fraud cases, but its effectiveness depends on what it learns from the public, Mendez said.

She shared a story from a recent session in Louisville,

Kentucky where a Korean reporter described a scam that one community member had fallen victim to. The FTC used that information to put out an alert in Korean that was then run across nearly two dozen Korean media outlets.

“The ripple effect is very real,” she said, highlighting the role community engagement with her agency plays in helping to staunch the bleeding.

Making it easier to report scams

“This is the first convening of this type in the state with the API community,” said San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu in his opening remarks, calling the city the “capital” of the nation’s Asian American community when it comes to “deciding how our community is taken care of.”

Chiu’s office recently opened a hotline for residents to report potential scams. The portal is available in English, Spanish, Chinese and Tagalog. According to Chiu, the hotline’s launch came in response to the “flood” of reports his office has fielded about scams targeting largely immigrant and minority populations.

“We want to make it easy for residents in San Francisco and

PAGE 5

“We’re very excited and hopeful that these positions will be a game-changer in terms of the Asia Center’s long-term mission to build Southeast Asian studies at Harvard, as well as the university’s engagement with the region,” Harvard Asia Center Executive Director Elizabeth K. Liao told The Crimson. Eleanor V. Wikstrom ’24, co-president of the Harvard Philippine Forum and a Crimson

PAGE 1

It was later expanded to nine, but the locations of the four new bases were withheld until Monday while the government consulted with local officials.

The four sites had been assessed by the Philippine military and deemed “suitable and mutually beneficial”, the Presidential Communications Office said in a statement Monday.

The U.S. Department of Defense confirmed that the locations announced were the four new EDCA sites.

It also said in a statement it would add to the “$82 million we have already allocated toward infrastructure investments at the existing EDCA sites”, without specifying by how much.

Three of the sites are in the northern Philippines, including a naval base and airport in Cagayan province and an army camp in the neighbouring province of Isabela, Manila’s statement said. The naval base at Cagayan’s Santa Ana is about 400 kilometres (250 miles) from Taiwan.

Eleanor V. Wikstrom ’24 and Marcy C. Antonio, co-presidents of the Harvard Philippine Forum: Getting Tagalog offered has been one of the goals for “as long as HPF has been in existence.” Contributed photos Editorial chair, said getting Tagalog offered has been one of the goals for “as long as HPF has been in existence.”

Wikstrom, who wrote an op-ed in The Crimson in 2021 criticizing the lack of offerings in the Tagalog language at Harvard said she met resistance to her advocacy efforts and questions about the value of learning Tagalog.

"We’re working against a historical memory that is actively erasing the understanding of

the importance of the FilipinoAmerican relationship,” Wikstrom added.

HPF Co-President Marcky C. Antonio ’25 hoped that securing Tagalog course offerings at Harvard will spur more academic exchanges between Harvard and the Philippines.

“I think there’s also this sense that we need to make sure we teach this right — not only Tagalog language, but Filipino culture as a whole,” he told The Crimson. g

China warns Philippine-US base deal...

Another site will be an air base on Balabac Island, off the southern tip of Palawan Island, near the South China Sea.

Cagayan Governor Manuel Mamba has publicly opposed having EDCA sites in his province for fear of jeopardising Chinese investment and becoming a target in a conflict over Taiwan.

But Philippine acting defence chief Carlito Galvez told reporters recently the government had already decided on the sites and that Mamba had agreed to “abide with the decision”.

The agreement allows U.S. troops to rotate through the bases and also store defence equipment and supplies.

Martial matters

The United States has a long and complex history with the Philippines.

They share a decades-old mutual defence treaty, but the presence of U.S. troops in the Southeast Asian country remains a sensitive issue.

The United States had two major military bases in the

Philippines but they were closed in the early 1990s after growing nationalist sentiment.

U.S. troops return to the Philippines every year for joint military exercises, including Balikatan, which kicks off next week. With more than 17,000 soldiers taking part, it will be the largest yet.

The pact stalled under former president Rodrigo Duterte, who favoured China over the Philippines’ former colonial master.

But President Ferdinand Marcos, who succeeded Duterte in June, has adopted a more U.S.-friendly foreign policy and has sought to accelerate the implementation of the EDCA. Marcos has insisted he will not let Beijing trample on Manila’s maritime rights.

While the Philippine military is one of the weakest in Asia, the country’s proximity to Taiwan and its surrounding waters would make it a key partner for the United States in the event of a conflict with China. (Philstar. com with reports from AFP)

HEADING HOME. Throngs of passengers wait for buses at a terminal in Cubao, Quezon City on Wednesday, April 5. Authorities implemented inspections and various security measures at bus terminals, airports, and seaports to ensure the safety of Holy Week travelers.

PNA photo by Joan Bondoc

FTC

briefing targets scams hitting API...

across California to report to us,” explained Chiu, noting the sense of shame and powerlessness that can come in the wake of being scammed often prevents victims from coming forward. “You feel stupid… like it’s your fault. We need to overcome that.”

Tip of the iceberg Romance scams like the one Iwasaki fell prey to are just the tip of the iceberg. Speakers recounted dozens of scams they’ve encountered, from shady travel agencies with hidden fees to unscrupulous immigration services that can leave victims in jeopardy of being deported. Equity and home improvement scams are a particular issue in the API community and can leave especially older homeowners underwater or force the sale of their home.

Scammers operate both domestically within the U.S. and increasingly abroad. The rise of artificial intelligence also poses additional challenges on the near horizon, as scammers are turning to the emerging technology to perpetrate more sophisticated scams. Chiu called that potential “frightening.”

Renee Coe is a third-year law student at UC Berkeley and is currently working with the non-

profit Bay Area legal Aid on a twoyear research project looking into how scams are impacting immigrant communities. She shared the story of one Indian student studying in the US who lost $18,000 to a fraudster claiming to be with ICE.

“One thing that scammers do is they emphasize the urgency of the situation so much that you don’t have time to reach out to friends or family” before it’s too late, said Coe, noting the victim in this case was only able to recover $700 of the total amount she lost.

This story “highlights some of the challenges with recovery from scams, and also some of the areas where our laws could be more protected,” Coe explained, noting victims have just 10 days to report unauthorized withdrawals from banks, during which time banks are required to investigate or be liable for losses.

Investment scams, particularly those involving crypto currencies, have ballooned in recent years. Maeve Elise Brown is the Executive Director of Housing and Economic Right Advocates (HERA) based on Oakland. She recalled a friend whose losses totaled in the six figures, and who lost even more

Archbishop calls on faithful to show love through deeds

by William B. Depasupil ManilaTimes.net

ARCHBISHOP Jose Cardinal Advincula on Holy Thursday, April 6 called on the faithful to be Christ-like and make a difference by showing our love, not through words but through deeds.

Advincula said that Jesus showed us his love when he washed the feet of his disciples during the Last Supper and his death on the cross to save mankind from their sins.

"On this night (Last Supper), Jesus showed the extent of his love to his disciples and all of us that is why he washed their feet. That is why he gave us his body and blood," the prelate said in his homily during the Mass at the Manila Cathedral.

"Jesus loves us to that extent and Jesus is not afraid to show the extent of his love to us," he added.

after an agency approached him claiming to be able to retrieve his money. Brown believes both instances involved the same entity.

Vindicating the rights of victims

“Don’t be afraid to make a fool of yourself,” said Brown, echoing Chiu and the other speakers about the importance of coming forward. “We’re both sad and happy to learn about new scams. Sad that people are being scammed, and happy for having learned about it.”

Iwasaki eventually did come forward, sharing his story with the organization Asian Pacific Islander Legal Outreach, which has brought his case to litigation.

Iwasaki says he’s now preparing to go to court and is hopeful that he will see some – if not all – of his money returned.

“Don’t feel this is your fault,” stressed Chiu. “Part of why we’re here today is to say, no it’s not your fault. You are a victim of a fraud. You need to have your rights vindicated. And if you need justice done, we are the agencies that are looking to do that justice.”

He added, “So we encourage you to reach out to us.” (Peter Schurmann/Ethnic Media Services)

What the Lord has shown during the Last Supper, Advincula pointed out, was an example to follow, stressing that like Jesus, "let us show our love not through word, not only through emotions but also through deeds."

'Advincula said that spoken love is not true love, and one should not be accepted as truth, if it does not match with deeds.

"Let us not also be afraid to show our love for God and others," he further said. Let us not be ashamed of your love to our families, to husband and wife, brothers and sisters, relatives. Show your love to each other,"

According to Advincula, nobody should presume that who he or she loves knows that love.

"Do not be afraid to show your love to your fellow man by sympathizing and journeying with them," he said.

He explained that the Church's practice and emulation of Christ' washing of the feet of those that need attention and concern is an assurance that they were not alone in their life's journey.

"Through them we would like to show that the spirit of synodality is alive, nobody is left

behind, nobody is alone in life's journey, we are all together," Advincula said.

And more importantly, the Cardinal stressed, "do not be afraid to show how much you love God, do not be ashamed to express your faith in God."

The extent of such love by Jesus, Advincula said, would be witnessed and seen by the people on the night of Black Saturday and the next three days after leading to Christ's resurrection.

"Jesus will not speak much. He will be silent most of the time but in silence, he will show the magnitude of his love," Advincula further said.

"A love that made him took down to wash the feet of his disciples, a love that made him offer his body and blood to be our food and drink, a love that embrace the mockery of the people, a love that have him embrace and carry the cross, a love that made him die on the cross, and a love that brought him to the glory of the resurrection."

"Jesus shows us the extent of his love. Let us always show our love. Let us not be afraid of how much we love Jesus by loving

each other," he concluded. Heeding the call of His Holiness Pope Francis to become a more listening and compassionate church, Advincula washed the feet of 12 persons who represented the 12 sectors of society. They were Dr. Ryan B. Capitulo (LGBT community), Raffy Tima (Media), lawyer John Rex Laudiangco (Commission on Elections), Judge Caroline A. Rivera-Colasito (Judiciary), Johann Joseph Ararao (Intramuros Administration), Cyril John Sunnga (Kalesa driver), John Michael Roldan (Jeepney driver), Manuel Jorge Manarang (Angkas rider), Fr. Ernesto M. Panelo (Mission-station priest), Sr. Liane Rainville, DW (Religious missionary), Alberto A. Mandia (Farmer) and Iluminada Sta. Ana (Dumagat indigenous elder).

The gesture of washing the feet is part of the Liturgy as it commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with his apostles. This significant practice of the Catholic Church is a symbolic act of humility, service and love which is also associated with acts of charity and compassion. g

Manila Archbishop Jose F. Cardinal Advincula washes the feet of 12 Catholics representing the different sectors of society during the Last Supper Mass at The Manila Cathedral on Holy Thursday, April 6, 2023. This act of humility commemorates what Jesus Christ did to his 12 disciples before he was betrayed by one of them. ManilaTimes.net photo

Nurses’ exodus

EVEN before the COVID pandemic, the global demand for nurses had already been high. Advanced economies could dangle high salaries and other attractive incentives to recruit nurses from other countries. Global health experts warned that lower-income states could not match such remunerations and benefits, and were hard-pressed to address the loss of their health professionals.

As early as 2010, member states of the World Health Organization, worried about this trend, had adopted a Global Code of Practice on the International Recruitment of Health Personnel. Among other things, the code urged wealthy countries to recruit health professionals through bilateral agreements, in consultation with the health department in the workers’ country of origin.

Editorial

recruit health professionals from overseas. Canada, for example, eased language requirements for residency. Germany allowed foreign-trained doctors to move directly into assistant physician positions. Even Finland began recruiting health workers from overseas.

The destination country was also encouraged to provide some form of support for public healthcare programs in the source country, and to encourage foreign health professionals to return to their home country after a certain period, and after acquiring certain skills. The question has always been whether migrant health professionals wanted to return home.

The nursing shortage burdened the Philippines at the height of the COVID pandemic, when even the top hospitals that could afford high salaries reported losing a substantial number of their nursing staff. Amid the pandemic, wealthy countries moved aggressively to

The problem requires less affluent and developing economies to innovate and exert more effort to hang on to their health professionals particularly nurses. On Wednesday, March 29, President Marcos ordered the Commission on Higher Education to address the country’s loss of nurses to states that offer better remuneration. He noted that Filipino nurses are known for the quality of their service. He said that in his meetings with leaders of other countries, they always asked him for nursing staff from the Philippines.

CHED officials have said that so far, several programs are already in place to address the problem. Among these are shorter courses for various nursing competencies, the “re-tooling” of those who fail the nursing board, and a “return

EDCA is about deterrence, not con ict

Babe’s Eye View

BABE ROMUALDEZ

THOSE arguing against expanding the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the additional four new locations miss the whole point when they declare it is tantamount to preparing for conflict, or that our efforts to enhance the capability of our military through modernization could get us embroiled in a war over the Taiwan issue which, in their view, is “none of our business.”

Totally wrong. We, together with like-minded countries, want to prevent an armed conflict from occurring within our area. At the same time, we want to deter any more incursions into our territory. No one can dispute that we have been very patient in the face of the aggression that China has been repeatedly demonstrating for so many

Point of View

DESPITE some local oppositions against the expansion of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently announced his approval to allow the United States to build additional military facilities in four extra locations inside Philippine territory.

Though President Marcos Jr. has not yet identified these extra locations, there are talks that additional U.S. military facilities can be built in 1) Cagayan North International Airport, 2) Lal-lo and Naval Base Camilo Osias, Sta. Ana in Cagayan, 3) Camp Melchor Dela Cruz, Gamu in Isabela and 4) Philippine Air Force Base, Balabac Island in Palawan. Secretary Carlito Galvez, officer-in-charge of the Department of National Defense, said that some elected officials in Camarines Sur have expressed interest to make the province an extra site for EDCA.

Apparently, all these locations can provide the U.S. operational access to Philippine territories to respond to any military contingencies in key flashpoint of conflicts in Asia: the Taiwan

years, where we have been filing diplomatic protests for every instance of bullying against our fishermen and the harassment to which they have been subjecting our Coast Guard personnel in areas that are unquestionably within our exclusive economic zone.

La Salle professor Richard Heydarian – a foreign policy and economic analyst whom I have a high regard for because the points he raises on various issues are rational and highly cerebral – correctly pointed out that “diplomacy can only be effective when deployed from a position of strength, otherwise one has limited leverage when dealing with rivals and hostile powers. Worse, diplomacy from a position of weakness is tantamount to glorified surrender.”

And that is precisely how people should view the “potential strategic value of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement,” he says, as well as the ongoing efforts to establish the Australia-UK-U.S. (AUKUS) alliance and a possible JapanPhilippines-U.S. (JAPHUS) alliance that could serve as mechanisms of “integrated

deterrence” aimed at preventing major power conflicts and “nightmare scenarios such as military adventurism against Taiwan…”

EDCA is a key pillar of the bilateral defense and military cooperation between the Philippines and the U.S., and the approval of four additional locations was a major decision of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., knowing full well that it would boost the collective defense capabilities of both nations. It is also meant to promote interoperability, as well as address existing and potential security threats, including natural disasters, that could hit vulnerable areas in our country.

All of these agreements – the Mutual Defense Treaty, the Visiting Forces Agreement and EDCA – form part of our defense and security strategy to protect our sovereign rights over our maritime territory. At the same time, they can potentially serve as mechanisms of deterrence by preventing threats or actions that could escalate into confrontation, leading to armed conflict or possibly war.

I came across an article

service” program that offers nursing scholarships in exchange for a certain mandatory period of working in the Philippines. A “Nurse para sa Bayan” will be similar to the “Doktor para sa Bayan” scheme under Republic Act 11509.

written by Erick Nielson Javier of the National Defense College of the Philippines, and published online in March last year at The Diplomat. Titled “Rethinking the Philippines’ Deterrence in the South China Sea,” Javier puts across the argument that “Manila should change the narrative from a focus on ‘how to defend’ against China toward a more active strategy of deterring China.”

Recalling the Julian Felipe (Whitsun) Reef incident that began in March 2021 where over 200 Chinese “fishing ships” were anchored in an area that was clearly within the exclusive economic zone of the Philippines, Javier emphasized “the importance of coordinated maritime patrols of the Philippine Coast Guard, Navy and Air Force in securing the country’s waters and asserting its territorial claims” and the urgent need to have a fallback – “strong deterrence” – in case diplomacy fails.

Despite diplomatic protests filed against this blatant incursion, China refused to recall the vessels suspected of being maritime militia – but eventually dispersed when the Philippines dispatched military aircraft on overflight missions, increased

President Marcos gave an accurate assessment: “Our nurses are the best; the whole world is our rival here.” One thing certain is that the country cannot afford to be complacent and ignore the problem. (Philstar.com)

the presence of Philippine Navy vessels, including our warships BRP Jose Rizal and Antonio Luna, along with Philippine Coast Guard vessels that conducted sovereignty patrols in the region, and later joined by the US Navy’s Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group and Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group.

In the opinion piece by the chairman of the Global Council of the International House of Japan and former Asahi Shimbun editor-in chief Yoichi Funabashi titled, “To counter China’s ‘reactive assertiveness,’ ‘quiet deterrence’ is called for” and published in Japan Times, the author wrote about China’s behavior of “reactive assertiveness” as an excuse for aggressive actions in the South China Sea.

“China repeatedly took coercive action against neighboring countries in disputes over territorial rights to a number of reefs and reacted with outrage to minor actions by its neighbors, which it described as ‘provocations’,” Funabashi said, illustrating how China “may feign passivity and claim it has no choice but to respond to ‘provocations’ by others, but in reality, it was the instigator.”

Let me be clear, however: We will continue to find ways and means for a peaceful resolution to the issues surrounding our maritime territory in the West Philippine Sea. Yet there is also no doubt that now more than ever, we have to make a firm stand that what is ours is ours, and that we will not give up even one square inch of our territory to any foreign power, as clearly and firmly enunciated by President BBM.

We do not want conflict. All we want is to protect our territory and assert our sovereign rights, and we have made that clear to all our allies. That is also the reason why we are in unison with like-minded nations who want to ensure freedom of navigation and recognize the importance of maintaining security and stability in international waters as a driver of economic prosperity in the region.

At the end of the day, absolutely no one wants conflict – only peace and stability. (Philstar.com) * * *

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

EDCA expansion and Philippine security interests

Strait, Korean Peninsula and the South China Sea.

When the Philippines and the United States signed EDCA in 2014, the two countries agreed to train together in order to strengthen their interoperability in responding to natural disasters, humanitarian situations, terrorist threats and maritime security challenges.

With EDCA, the Philippine government allowed the construction of five American military facilities in Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija, Basa Air Base in Pampanga, Antonio Bautista Air Base in Palawan, Mactan-Benito Abuen Air Base in Cebu and Lumbia Air Base in Cagayan de Oro.

Since then, Filipino and American armed forces have been holding joint and combined military exercises in the area of humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR), search and rescue operations, counter-terrorism cooperation and maritime domain awareness.

What is being downplayed by Filipino and American authorities about EDCA is its strategic intention to counter China’s growing international influence, particularly in the South China Sea where most parts of the West Philippine Sea are located.

In the joint press briefing with Secretary Galvez on Feb. 2,

2023, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III admitted that EDCA is “part of our efforts to modernize our alliance, and these efforts are especially important as the People’s Republic of China continues to advance its illegitimate claims in the West Philippine Sea.”

Thus, EDCA’s larger goal is to support American efforts to get strategic advantage over China amidst their worsening major power rivalry.

In fact, Pentagon leaders just requested last week the U.S. Congress to approve the $842-billion budget for the Department of Defense (DOD) in order to modernize the U.S. military as it prepares for a possible confrontation with China.

General Mark Milley, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, stressed during the most recent budget hearing that China’s current actions “are moving it down the path toward confrontation and potential conflict with its neighbors and possibly the United States.” He added that preparing for war “is extraordinarily expensive, but it’s not as expensive as fighting a war. And this budget prevents war and prepares us to fight it if necessary.”

Apparently, EDCA expansion is part of U.S. access arrangements in Asia to

decisively implement American military deterrence strategy and defense preparation plan against China. As such, EDCA expansion largely serves American military interests to counter China rather than caters to Philippine national interests to harmoniously live at peace with China. Hence, EDCA expansion can inevitably harm Filipino security interests as China can hit the Philippines in armed conflict situations with the U.S. because of American military facilities in Philippine territories. The Chinese embassy in Manila already warned that EDCA expansion can “seriously harm Philippine national interests and endanger regional peace and stability.”

The Chinese embassy further explained, “Whereas the U.S. claims that such cooperation is intended to help the disaster relief efforts of the Philippines and some Americans even tout the EDCA sites as driver of local economy, it is plain and simple that those moves are part of the U.S. efforts to encircle and contain China through its military alliance with this country.”

Filipino and American security officials exclaim that EDCA aims to strengthen PhilippineAmerican military alliance and to reaffirm the commitment of the U.S. to defend the Philippines

against external attacks.

EDCA, however, can only deepen Philippine reliance on the U.S. for its defense. Instead of relying heavily on the U.S. for its national defense, the Philippines needs to pursue selfreliance to defend itself.

Senator Imee Marcos, chair of the Senate committee on foreign relations, hits the nail on the head when she calls for the revival of the Self Reliance Defense Program (SRDP) initiated in 1974 by then president Ferdinand E. Marcos. She urges the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to resuscitate the SRDP in order to “scale down our dependence on foreign goodwill in the sticky web of geopolitics.”

Senator Marcos also challenges the EDCA expansion when she underscores that EDCA “is addressing the escalation of tensions in the Taiwan strait, not the Philippine interests in the West Philippine Sea.”

Local Filipino residents have also voiced their apprehensions against EDCA expansion.

Governor Manuel Mamba of Cagayan province already conveyed worries of his constituents that EDCA could turn his province “into a key target of the Chinese military if a conflict involving the U.S. military breaks out over Taiwan.”

Though Governor Mamba showed his respect to President

Marcos Jr.’s approval on EDCA expansion, he said, “It is the President’s call, not mine,” highlighting that “I maintain my stand against any foreign forces stationed in my province. Still, I am against EDCA sites in my province.” Governor Mamba also raised the lack of local consultations and stakeholders’ participation on the proposed EDCA expansion in Cagayan. Rather than promote Philippine security interests, EDCA expansion can therefore endanger Philippine interests as it can drag the country into a war not of its own choosing.

As candidly argued by Harry Roque, an expert in international law and foreign relations, “Participating in any war does not serve our national interest. We must never allow our territory to become a launch pad for an offensive attack against another state.”

It is therefore imperative for patriotic and freedom-loving Filipinos to oppose EDCA and its expansion to make the Philippines a zone of peace rather than the battleground of an American proxy war. (Philstar.com)

* * *

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

THE plans of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to increase its monetary autonomy so as to reduce reliance on certain foreign currencies and payment systems reflect the de-dollarization process going on in several parts of the world, said an economist of Indonesia's Bank Central Asia (BCA).

In the ASEAN Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors meeting, which ended on March 31, member countries have agreed to reinforce the use of local currencies in the region and reduce reliance on major international currencies for cross-border trade and investment. David Sumual, chief economist of the BCA, which is the largest privately owned bank in Indonesia, told Xinhua in a recent interview that the current global monetary system does not reflect the dynamic market.

"The trade and investment relations have changed fundamentally, yet the global monetary architecture remains practically the same," he said, adding that not only in Southeast Asia but also in Latin America and the Middle East, the de-dollarization process has started to show. Sumual said the more use of local currencies in the region means reducing the demand for the U.S. dollar and other major currencies. It will not only encourage cross-border trade and investment but also reduce external shocks to the regional economy.

DND chief urges youth to uphold freedom, justice, equality

MANILA – Department of National Defense (DND) chief Carlito Galvez Jr. urged the present generation of Filipino to continue upholding the values of freedom, justice and equality.

Galvez made the call ahead of the country's observance of the 81st Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) on April 9.

"On this special occasion, let us take a moment to honor and remember the bravery and sacrifices of our Filipino heroes, who fought for our country's freedom," he added in a statement on Thursday, April 6.

Galvez also said the "courage and selflessness" of these heroes in the face of adversity and oppression serve as a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of the Filipino spirit.

Incidentally, the country is also observing Philippine Veterans Week (PVW) which falls from April 5 to 12 this year.

The PVW's theme for this year is "Kagitingan ng mga Beterano, Pundasyon ng Nagkakaisang

Pilipino."

"As we commemorate this important day and week, let us also renew our commitment to uphold the values of freedom, justice, and equality that our heroes fought so hard to defend.

Let us always be proud of our nation's history, and continue to strive towards a brighter and more prosperous future for all Filipinos," Galvez said.

For this year's Philippine Veterans Week, the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office has lined up various commemorative and special activities to memorialize the valor and heroic deeds of our Filipino veterans.

"As your Defense Chief, I enjoin everyone to participate in these events and to take inspiration from the courage and sacrifice of our veterans," he added. April 9 of every year, by virtue of Executive Order 203 signed in 1987, is declared as "Araw ng Kagitingan" to honor the thousands of Filipino and

Philippines defense, foreign affairs officials to meet with counterparts as Balikatan begins

MANILA — Foreign Affairs

Secretary Enrique Manalo and Defense Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. will be in Washington next week as the United States and the Philippines discuss ways to further develop key areas of bilateral cooperation.

The meeting coincides with the April 11 opening ceremony of this year’s war games back home, with over 17,000 American, Filipino, and Australian troops participating in this year’s Balikatan. Manalo and Galvez, along with the Philippine delegation, will be in Washington DC from April 10 to 12.

Manalo and Galvez will be meeting with their counterparts, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III – both of whom have already visited Manila.

In August last year, US top diplomat Blinken reaffirmed US’ “iron-clad commitment” to its Mutual Defense Treaty with the Philippines. US Defense Secretary Austin’s visit in February, on the other hand, saw the announcement of four new approved sites under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation

Agreement.

According to the Department of Foreign Affairs, officials will hold talks on “important global prosperity issues” such as energy, security, trade and economic cooperation. The Philippines also sees the meeting as a way to further develop existing areas of bilateral cooperation." Talks will also cover “identifying concrete initiatives for promoting regional security, achieving mutual economic prosperity, modernizing the alliance, and countering terrorism and other transnational crimes.”

This year’s 2+2 meeting will be the third iteration of the ministerial dialogues, which was established in 2012 and it will be the first session held since 2016. The Philippines has sought warmer diplomacy and defense ties with the United States under President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s administration.

While there, the DFA said Manalo will also be a keynote speaker at the CSIS ASEAN Leadership Forum to discuss how the alliance stands in the Philippines’ policies. (Kaycee Valmonte/Philstar.com)

Marcos thanks Arroyo for guidance

by Catherine S.

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. thanked former president Gloria Macapagal Arroyo for all her help and guidance on her 76th birthday on April 5.

"I would like to extend a very grateful and very joyful happy birthday to former president Gloria Macapagal Arroyo," Marcos said in a video uploaded on his Facebook account.

Without her "advice" and "guidance," Marcos said that "many" of the decisions made by his administration would not have been possible.

"I cannot do this greeting without mentioning all the help and assistance and guidance that you have provided in all of the things that we have been," he said.

"So thank you very much for that, President GMA, and I'll just add a very, very happy birthday," the President added.

Arroyo supported the presidential candidacy of Marcos in the 2022 elections.

In November last year, Marcos

American forces who fought for the country’s liberty and democracy.

On April 9, 1942, or after 93 days of resistance, an estimated 60,000 Filipino and American troops were taken prisoners of war by the Japanese.

This year, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. declared April 10, Monday, a regular holiday in observance of "Araw ng Kagitingan.” (PNA)

referred to Arroyo as his "secret weapon" during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit in Thailand.

Arroyo was the country's first female House speaker and led the lower chamber from 2018 to 2019. She has so far served three terms as representative of Pampanga's second district, from 2010-2013, 2013-2016 and from 2016-2019. g

He added that sudden policy changes of U.S. and other central banks always caused volatility in the region, so the Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nation) countries hope to use more local currencies so as to promote economic stability and reduce spillover effects like high inflation.

According to local media, in mid-March, Indonesian President Joko Widodo urged regional administrations to be less dependent on foreign payment networks and start using credit cards issued by domestic banks to shield any transactions from possible geopolitical fallout.

Since Western countries blocked the Swift (Society for Worldwide International Financial Telecommunications) banking system for Russia, many Russian tourists could not finish transactions in Indonesia.

"That's why Indonesia wants to develop a domestic payment network," he said.

Regarding the difficulties ASEAN is facing to follow its plan, Sumual said one of them is to harmonize the existing payment systems of member countries, and to build standards and regulations.

"If we want to achieve cross-border payment cooperation covering more countries in the region, this is our homework to do right now," he said. (ManilaTimes.net)

vows sustained drive to boost economy, Filipinos’ quality of life

Marcos

MANILA – President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has vowed to sustain his administrationís initiatives to further boost the nationís economy and uplift the quality of life of Filipinos as inflation rate in March eased to 7.6% from 8.6% in February. Unti-unti nang umiigi ang inflation rate sa bansa sa pagbaba nito sa 7.6% para sa buwan ng Marso mula sa 8.6% noong Pebrero, he said in a Twitter post

on Wednesday, April 5.

(Inflation rate is slowly easing in the country as it dipped to 7.6% in March from the 8.6% in February.) Patuloy lamang ang mga inisyatibo ng pamahalaan para sa pagbangon ng ating ekonomiya at nang kalidad ng buhay ng bawat pamilyang Pilipino, Marcos added.

(The government will continue its initiatives in reviving the economy and uplifting the lives of every Filipino.)

National Statistician Dennis Mapa earlier said the slowing of inflation in March was mainly due to slower price increases in the food and non-alcoholic beverages group of commodities as well as in transportation and housing, utilities and fuel.

The core inflation, however, which excludes items that are considered volatile like food and energy, rose again to 8% in March from 7.8% in February. (Inquirer.net)

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Malacañang photo

VEGAS&STYLE JOURNAL

‘MIGHTY FLOWER: HOW CANNABIS SAVED MY SON’

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

by

/ AJPress

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 Grammy-winning 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 Of-

Las Vegas sings out for autism

SOFA’s first gala was a resounding success, bringing together individuals, families, and organizations dedicated to raising awareness, action, acceptance and advocacy in support of ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) The event, held at the Milan Ballroom at the M Resort in Henderson, saw an impressive turnout of more than 300 people, mostly dressed

with a touch of blue in honor of Autism day.

The gala began with officers of SOFA and special guests talking about the importance of SOFA’s mission which are the 4 A’s (Acceptance, Action, Awareness and Advocacy, in addition to starting the campaign to make our State the premiere ASD friendly State. The highlight of the speakers was a message from SOFA’s President on the groups effort in changing the

lives of families affected by ASD. This was followed by a delicious full course meal and an amazing benefit performance by none other than The Concert King of the Philippines, Martin Nievera.

Throughout the evening, the event featured several engaging performances by Martin Nievera, one of the most inspiring moments of the evening was the collaboration between Santino, Robin and Ram Nievera, as they joined their father in an amazing rendition of footloose and sweet child of mine. Attendees were treated to an outstanding performance and were enthusiastic about joining in spreading the organization’s message.

The event also featured a video with several testimonials from prominent members of the community such as Judge Sunny Bailey and Chad Golightly on the struggles of families affected by ASD from finding resources to late development due to lack of awareness or denial. It is a powerful message that reminds people that ASD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects 1 in 54 children in the United States. Making it one of the most common developmental disorders. One of the guests who was there with her son who is in the spectrum said “This was truly a magical night” as her son was so happy with the music and danced during Santino’s and his brother’s performance. The mother was in tears as she mentioned that they had not had a glorious night such as this in a long time. The event ended with a standing ovation for the

ficer of Masaya Medical, a brand dedicated to producing the highest-quality 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 pro-

cess.

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 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

performers, a call to arms by the SOFA leadership team followed by dancing until the last call. SOFA’s strength lies in its leadership team’s ability to make things happen. They are led by Katrina Ojeda(President), an educator for 27 years who knows firsthand the struggles of a mother with a child in the spectrum, Jennifer Vinuya(VP) who has been working in the healthcare field for over 25 years and serves as a volunteer for several worthy organizations, Sally Balecha(Secretary) a successful realtor who is also a known community leader for years, Sonny Vinuya(Treasurer) a representative for the Governor’s office and longtime community leader and Gloria Caoile(Engagement Director) who is one of the most influential community leaders in the AAPI community.

Overall, the gala was a tremendous success, bringing together a community of people committed to raising awareness and support for autism. The event was a celebration of hope, resilience, and progress, and left attendees inspired and energized to continue their work towards a brighter future for individuals with autism.

Dr. Annabelle Manalo-Morgan

Celebrities reflect on faith, life this Holy Week

CELEBRITIES may have different ways of spending the Holy Week but it has been a routine for most to use this time not only to enjoy vacations, but also to pause and reflect.

While taking a breather in this period, some of them have still made sure to connect to fans to not lose sight of the essence of the occasion.

Through her Instagram page, actress Julia Montes aimed to inspire others to live in hope as she spoke about the realizations she had after turning a year older last month.

“Let’s not start our day with the broken pieces of yesterday. Every morning we wake up, it is the first day of the rest of our life,” she said. “After my 28th birthday, [I] realized so many things in life and never been more grateful.”

“I promise it’s gonna be [closer] to You this time around,” she continued. “Your plans, not mine. Lifting everything up to you Lord God.”

Singer-songwriter Ogie Alcasid marked this time of reflection by professing his faith in his two new songs entitled “Panginoon Ikaw Lamang” and “Jesus Lord We Praise You.” The two tracks are part of his upcoming EP

“Praise and Worship” which will be released on Sunday, April 9.

“We won’t be shaken by any storm for You are a fortress, a cornerstone. Fear won’t ever break us down for You have conquered the world,” a part of the lyrics of “Jesus Lord We Praise You” went.

Richard Yap, for his part, underscored the importance of allotting time to God through prayers, and how it should be observed during this Holy Week. He also reminded fans of His sacrifices which the actor hopes to not be put in vain.

“Relax [and] recharge, spend time with your loved ones but

It’s time to move on from

by Ronnie CaRRasCo iii ManilaTimes.net

EVEN words said in the simplest of ways can be the hardest to understand. This is how lady director Antoinette Jadaone views the situation involving Liza Soberano in the still-raging word war with former manager Ogie Diaz.

Admittedly though, the lady director purposely opted to reserve her comment on Liza's tell-all This Is Me vlog that started it all, "Gulo, gulo, gulo... gugulo lang if I had spoken. No matter how well-intentioned you are, words will find a different meaning."

Under no circumstance did Ogie say that Liza was spewing half-truths but in fact, was intrigued to ask, “Saan galing ‘yon?”

One thing’s clear though, it’s sad that the 12-year-old manager-talent relationship had to end on a bitter note.

Aside from Jadaone who speaks highly of Liza, Star Magic head Lauren Dyogi chooses to understand Liza’s quarter life crisis.

Dyogi, in fact, is enjoining everybody to move on and leave Liza where she is.

And speaking of where Liza is, given her indomitable spirit in pursuit of her Hollywood dream, it is but fair to wish her luck.

don’t forget to pray. Pray that Jesus did not die on the cross for nothing, that evil doesn’t triumph over good, that honor and integrity will be more important than money and power,” he wrote. “May our Lord Jesus’ sacrifice not be in vain.”

Richard Gutierrez, meanwhile, talked about trusting God and surrendering to His plans as the actor declared his faith during his nature trip in an undisclosed location.

“There are no shortcuts to any place worth going. Trust the path He has laid out for you and you will be rewarded,” Gutierrez said.

Vice Ganda reacts to birthday greeting from ‘Eat Bulaga’ hosts

by Kathleen a llemit Philstar.com

VICE Ganda could not contain his joy upon hearing that the hosts of "Eat Bulaga," led by Joey de Leon, sent him birthday greetings during last Friday's episode, March 31.

"Oh wait lang guys," he said to co-hosts Ogie Alcasid, Karylle and Vhong Navarro. "I’m so happy! Binati nila ko ng happy birthday sa ‘Eat Bulaga!’"

The four hosts opened the segment "Isip Bata" when Vice Ganda revealed that he was greeted on-air by the hosts of their rival noontime show.

“Thank you very much! Kay Tito Joey, sir Joey de Leon, maraming maraming salamat. Binati nila ako do’n. Ang saya.”

“Mabuhay kayo ‘Eat Bulaga.' I love 'Eat Bulaga.'

My God, nabati ako sa 'Eat Bulaga.' Masabi 'yung pangalan mo ng mga Dabarkads. I love it!" the host said.

Vice Ganda turned 47 last Friday.

“Last day na ng March. Birthday ng nanay ko ngayon Birthday din ni Vice Ganda ata. Happy birthday!” said original "Eat Bulaga" host Joey de Leon. His co-hosts, Maja Salvador, Ryan Agoncillo, Paolo Ballesteros, Wally Bayola and Jose Manolo, also greeted the host on his birthday.

For instance, Ogie's advice to Liza to be grateful toward the people who helped her become the person that she is today was taken to mean lack of "utang na loob" by the 25-year-old actress herself.

Ogie insists that he doesn't remember having said that Liza has none, "Magkaiba 'yun sa sinabi kong 'Be grateful'."

For her part, Liza stands her ground that what she raised on her vlog were not complaints. She was merely stating facts.

There's not a scintilla of doubt that Liza was — as far as she's concerned — sticking to the basic facts, yet clearly in a complaining manner.

If at all she wasn't whining, why make an issue of only three alternating directors of the films she did under Star Cinema?

If she felt that every actor has

the right to artistic freedom, why didn’t Liza exercise her carte blanche to select the director she wanted?

Also as important as her choice of director, why was Liza complaining about the only leading man she got paired with?

If the crux of the issue is about stating facts, Ogie parried Liza’s assertion by saying his ward was even offered to do a film with some other partner but the latter was apprehensive the LizQuen fans might not be ready for it.

Also, with nary an intention to ruffle her feathers, Ogie has time and again stressed that he wasn’t refuting every word Liza mouthed but was simply telling his narrative based on what he knew.

Zaijian buys first car, fulfills promise for Lauren Dyogi

by Jan Milo Severo Philstar.com

ZAIJIAN Jaranilla fulfilled his promise to drive ABS-CBN Head of TV Productions Lauren Dyogi in his own car.

In his Instagram account, Lauren posted a video on Monday wherein he was fetched by Zaijian from his office.

“Isang karangalang makisakay sa pinaghirapang sasakyan ng isang mahusay na batang artista. Last year, I was teasing Zaijian who was back then planning to get his own vehicle he could already drive to work. He promised he will let me ride his new car,” Lauren said.

“This week, promise fulfilled

by him and am very honored and proud to share a ride with Zaijian who is destined to be a very important actor of this generation. Congrats Zaijian @zaijianjaranilla1 for all your blessings in life! Cheers to more great roles and projects for you!” he added.

In the video, Lauren said he's proud of what Zaijian has achieved.

“Excited na’ko, matutupad na ang pangako sa akin. Sabi ko ipagdrive nya ko,” he said.

“‘Yun ang pangako nya sa akin nung una pa lang na pinaplano pa lang nya kung ano yung sasakyan nya,” he added.

Zaijian started his showbiz career as the lead star in the hit

Of course, it is an expectedly arduous journey for Liza. The fact that she’s well aware of this herself is even more reason to pray she realizes her dream.

As Liza puts it in a platitudinous way: it’s better to have tried and lost than to have not tried at all.

God forbid, does Liza have a career she can come home to in case she fails?

Reassuringly, Dyogi says yes, ABS-CBN will still be willing to take her back. After getting the boot, will Ogie’s heart thaw with Liza’s display of rekindled “filial” affection if ever?

If we’d answer for the bruised manager, there’s a greater possibility that he will get his hands off Liza’s career all over again. But his “paternal” doors remain open.

teleserye "May Bukas Pa" in 2019. Now 21 years old, he played Ding in the recently concluded "Darna" starring Jane De Leon, Joshua Garcia and Janella Salvador.

Richard Yap, Richard Gutierrez, Julia Montes and Ogie Alcasid Photos from Instagram/@iamrichardyap, @richardgutz, @montesjulia08, @ogiealcasid

Vice Ganda Photo from Instagram/@praybeytbenjamin

Liza Soberano Photo from Instagram/@lizasoberano

Zaijian Jaranilla

Photo from Instagram/@zaijianjaranilla1

Walking vs Health @Heart

WHILE cheetahs, gazelle, horses, deer, and other animals in the wild were obviously born to run, it is becoming clearer, medically, that we humans were born to walk, not to jog or run. While jogging became popular since the late 60s, forty years thereafter, the negative health effects became obvious, overshadowing the health benefits.

jogging

Some seniors eventually require hip or knee replacement.

Current research reveals that walking 8,000 brisk steps or more per day confers great health benefits, practically equal to the benefits from jogging, minus the attendant injuries from running. More importantly, most seniors are only able to brisk walk or walk but not jog anymore. Indeed, brisk walking is in.

Brisk walking is defined as walking 3 miles an hour: If one can recite lyrics of a song, with a pause (to breathe) between phrases, but unable to sing them, they are walking briskly.

The new study demonstrated that “walking just one to two days is still associated with significant reduction in allcause and cardiovascular mortality.” Each additional day of walking provides even greater health benefits.

“People taking just 8,000 steps one or two days a week are also less likely to die over a ten-year follow-up period, 14.9 % less likely to die compared to people who were sedentary, and 16% reduction for those who walked 3 to 7 days a week,” concludes the study published in JAMA Network. This is, indeed, a wonderful finding, which would inspire and encourage everyone, especially seniors, to take those 8,000 steps to better health. And add another day at their own pace and comfort every week or two till they reach their goal.

For those with medical issues, consult your physician before embarking on any exercise regimen.

Spring COVID booster?

by KAthleen A. llemit Philstar.com

There has been fake news on television and social media that claimed the bivalent COVID-19 booster was unsafe, causing cardiovascular sideeffects. Thanks to a new French study, the world now has factual scientific data. The population-based study “found no evidence of an increased risk of cardiovascular events at 21 days among the recipients of the bivalent vaccine versus recipients of the monovalent vaccine, including strokes, heart attacks, pulmonary embolism and all four events combined.” This is welcome news, especially to those immunocompromised and seniors with health issues, since the spring booster (bivalent) is recommended by the CDC, because those who had the original booster, with or without having been infected, are all recommended to have a spring booster. The reason is the immunity of those who had the first booster, and even those who have natural immunity from getting the infection have protection that would have waned by spring. Natural immunity is less stable, less consistent, and less effective than immunity from the vaccines. At any rate, the bivalent booster has been proven all over again to be safe and effective. Getting the bivalent booster this spring will confer safety from a serious residual COVID-19 infection and as of Monday, April 3, 2023, there were still more than a million (1,066,175) active cases, and 10 new deaths.

Seaweed and endometriosis

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (like omerga-3 and omega-6) reduce proliferation of endometriosis lesions and are most beneficial in managing this common female illness where tissues that line the inside of the uterus grow outside the womb and in places they do not belong (like the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and bowels, or even the lungs and the brain). It causes abdominal pains and irregular and painful period, among other symptoms, as well as pain during intercourse or bowel movements.

Seaweed, fish and nuts contain a lot of polyunsaturated fatty acids, and are found to be helpful when added to the diet. Seaweed has been long proven to benefit women with endometriosis, alleviating their symptoms. Adding more vegetables, particularly cruciferous ones, legumes, and fruits, providing rich antioxidants and fiber, also help. Dietary changes, adding those items listed above plus ginger, turmeric, and gluten-free items, certainly benefit women with endometriosis, as pointed out in the British Medical journal Open in 2020. This diet, together

BIANCA King posted several videos and photos of her first child with her non-showbiz husband Ralph Wintle on Instagram.

In one of the videos, Bianca is shown in various stages of her pregnancy. The end of the clip shows her carrying her child. Actress Iza Calzado left a comment on the post of her sister-in-law. "There they are!"

Bianca's husband, Ralph, is the brother of Iza's husband, Ben Wintle.

Iza herself recently announced the birth of her firstborn, Deia Amihan, named after her famous TV character, Amihan, in "Encantadia." Bianca and Ralph are based in Australia, where they tied the knot in 2021. The actress announced her pregnancy in August last year.

with prescribed therapy by a gynecologist, will make life a lot more comfortable to women with endometriosis.

Toxin triggers MS

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a long-term condition that afflicts the central nervous system, causing muscle weakness and vision problems, as the immune system stacks the outer coating of the nerve cells to the eyes. MS most often victimizes young adults between the ages 20 and 40, also seniors, more in women than men. There are about 2.8 million individuals around the world living with MS. The cause of MS is still a mystery. A new study has determined that “a toxin from a common bacterium may trigger MS in people with a genetic susceptibility.” This recent discovery would lead to more scientific investigation worldwide to eventually find a prevention and/or cure for multiple sclerosis, a gravely debilitating disease.

Do fish drown?

When thrown back to a body of water, fish do not drown. However, they do drown (suffocate) when the water does not have enough dissolved oxygen in it, like in eutrophication (too much nutrients or harmful chemicals in water), or drought. They also drown following the removal of their fins (as in harvesting sharks’ fins for Chinese soup delicacy). Throwing back sharks after fin removal results in their suffocation since they need their fins to swim. When their gills are damaged by predators, they also drown. So, technically, fish do drown too.

* * *

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

* * *

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

* * *

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

by Annie WAlters Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Nevada

SOCIAL Security works with the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) to protect you from scams that use Social Security as bait. Section 1140 of the Social Security Act allows OIG to impose severe penalties against anyone who engages in misleading Social Security-related advertising or imposter communications. You can review Section 1140 at www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/ssact/ title11/1140.htm.

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

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

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

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

approval.

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

If you receive a misleading or suspicious Social Securityrelated advertisement or imposter communication, please let us know immediately. Try to capture as much information about the communication as you can.

Here’s what you can do:

• For suspicious websites or social media accounts, please take a screenshot of the page. Please note the website address or social

media link – and how you came across it.

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

• For U.S. mail solicitations, please retain the complete communication, including the outside envelope and all inserts.

• For telephone solicitations, please note the caller identification phone number and any company name or call back number that the caller or recorded message provides.

You can help us stop misleading advertising and communications.

We encourage you to report potential scams to the OIG at oig. ssa.gov. You can also call our fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271 or send an email to OIG.1140@ssa.gov.

This information will help OIG locate the source of the suspicious solicitation or communication. You can also check out our publication, What You Need to Know About Misleading Advertising, at www. ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10005.pdf.

Please share this information with friends and family and help us spread the word on social media!

Bianca King with

her

THE Social Security Board of Trustees today released its annual report on the financial status of the Social Security Trust Funds. The combined asset reserves of the Old-Age and Survivors Insurance and Disability Insurance (OASI and DI) Trust Funds are projected to become depleted in 2034, one year earlier than projected last year, with 80 percent of benefits payable at that time.

The OASI Trust Fund is projected to become depleted in 2033, one year sooner than last yearís estimate, with 77 percent of benefits payable at that time. The DI Trust Fund asset reserves are not projected to become depleted during the 75-year projection period.

In the 2023 Annual Report to Congress, the Trustees announced: The asset reserves of the combined OASI and DI Trust Funds declined by $22 billion in 2022 to a total of $2.830 trillion. The total annual cost of the program is projected to exceed total annual income in 2023 and remain higher throughout the 75-year projection period. Total cost began to be higher than total income in 2021. Social Securityís cost has exceeded its non-interest

income since 2010.

The year when the combined trust fund reserves are projected to become depleted, if Congress does not act before then, is 2034. At that time, there would be sufficient income coming in to pay 80 percent of scheduled benefits.

The Trustees continue to recommend that Congress address the projected trust fund shortfalls in a timely fashion to phase in necessary changes gradually,î said Kilolo Kijakazi, Acting Commissioner of Social Security. ìSocial Security will continue to play a critical role in the lives of 67 million beneficiaries and 180 million workers and their families during 2023. With informed discussion, creative thinking, and timely legislative action, Social Security can continue to protect future generations.

Other highlights of the Trustees Report include:

Total income, including interest, to the combined OASI and DI Trust Funds amounted to $1.222 trillion in 2022. ($1.107 trillion from net payroll tax contributions, $49 billion from taxation of benefits, and $66 billion in interest)

Total expenditures from the combined OASI and DI Trust Funds

amounted to $1.244 trillion in 2022. Social Security paid benefits of $1.232 trillion in calendar year 2022. There were about 66 million beneficiaries at the end of the calendar year.

The projected actuarial deficit over the 75-year long-range period is 3.61 percent of taxable payroll ñ higher than the 3.42 percent projected in last yearís report.

During 2022, an estimated 181 million people had earnings covered by Social Security and paid payroll taxes. The cost of $6.7 billion to administer the Social Security program in 2022 was a very low 0.5 percent of total expenditures.

The combined trust fund asset reserves earned interest at an effective annual rate of 2.4 percent in 2022.

The Board of Trustees usually comprises six members. Four serve by virtue of their positions with the federal government: Janet Yellen, Secretary of the Treasury and Managing Trustee; Kilolo Kijakazi, Acting Commissioner of Social Security; Xavier Becerra, Secretary of Health and Human Services; and Julie Su, Acting Secretary of Labor. The two public trustee positions are currently vacant.

Dr. Anabelle Manalo-Morgan looks back...

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

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

AJPress

Troi

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.”

first child. Photo by Bianca King, Argel Diosep Photography via Instagram

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

photo by

Santos

EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT PSYCHIC