Real ID deadline looms: What US air travelers need to know
If you're headed to the airport soon, you might want to double-check your identification
IF you’re headed to the airport soon, you might want to double-check your identification. Starting May 7, 2025, every resident (18 years or older) of a U.S. state or territory attempting to board a commercial aircraft will need to present security with a Real ID license or identification card, or another acceptable form of identification such as a passport. If you’re not able to present a Real ID-compliant card to a Transportation Security Administration agent, you won’t be permitted through the airport’s security checkpoint.
Why the sudden change? Actually, this new requirement has been 20 years in the making. In 2005, congress passed the Real ID Act, which enacted the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation that the federal government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses.” After numerous
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Negotiate not retaliate: Philippines open to cut tariffs on US imports
Gov’t to work with Southeast Asian neighbors to address Trump’s sweeping levies
by ian niCoLas P. CigaraL Inquirer.net
MANILA — The Philippines is open to the
possibility of bringing down the tariffs on American goods coming to the country in a bid to strike a trade deal with U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently announced
HEROINES. Marcela Agoncillo and her daughter, Lorenza, and Jose Rizal’s niece, Delfina Herbosa-Natividad, who sewed the first official Philippine flag in 1898, are immortalized in murals on twin pre-war water tanks at the corner of 15th Avenue and Boni Serrano Avenue in Barangay Socorro, Quezon City, as photographed on Tuesday, April 8. They are daily reminders of Filipino greats who contributed to the independence being enjoyed by Filipinos. PNA photo by Joan Bondoc
Valor may be shown through little acts of kindness, says
Marcos
observance of the 83rd Araw ng Kagitingan on Wednesday, April 9.
PILAR — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has reminded Filipinos that valor is not just about “strength and resolve in the face of adversity.”
He said this quality can also be shown through little acts of kindness that have a positive effect on people.
He gave this message for the
“I join the entire Filipino nation in commemorating the Day of Valor or Araw ng Kagitingan,” Marcos said.
“In honoring our forebears, may we recognize that valor is not solely about strength and resolve in the face of adversity but also about small acts of compassion,
Duterte lawyers seek limits to victims’ role in trial
by
sweeping tariffs on the rest of the world.
Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque told reporters on Monday, April 7 that the
Overseas Filipino voters in the US urged to complete pre-enrollment ahead of May 2025 Philippine elections
by AJPress
WITH the 2025 Philippine national elections fast approaching, overseas voters can cast their ballots online for the first time ever—but only if they complete their mandatory preenrollment by May 7. Registered voters can now cast their ballots online for the upcoming 2025 Philippine national elections—no need for paper ballots or in-person visits.
The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has officially opened the Online Voting and Counting System (OVCS) for registered overseas voters, including those under the jurisdiction of the Philippine Consulate General in New York. This historic shift means qualified voters can conveniently
Nicholas Kaufman, the Duterte camp wants the Pre-Trial Chamber (PTC) 1 to “limit the range” of allowed documents to be submitted by victims as proof of their identity to either only the national ID or an upto-date Philippine passport, to “streamline proceedings” and adopt a “more stringent approach.” In case both IDs are not
No reason for Senate to share Duterte findings with US — Palace
by Luisa Cabato Inquirer.net
That’s because the U.S. “respects” the Philippines’ prerogative regarding the arrest and surrender of former President Rodrigo Duterte. u PAGE 4 u PAGE 4 u PAGE 2
MANILA — The defense team of former President Rodrigo Duterte has objected to some of the items in the proposed mechanism for drug war victims seeking to participate in his trial before the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague. Led by defense counsel
MANILA —There’s no reason for the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations to share its findings with United States President Donald Trump, a Palace official said.
KathLeen de ViLLa Inquirer.net
by Luisa Cabato Inquirer.net
F rom the F ront P age
With U.S. students struggling, educators rethink the school day
by seLen ozturK American Community Media
A growing number of educators are reshaping the school day — and what it means to be a successful graduate.
In the face of chronic absenteeism and low performance among students nationwide, these initiatives include a restructuring of yearly credit hours, or Carnegie units — developed by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching in 1906 — to include career goal-based learning, work experience internships and early college classes.
“One of the positive things that came out of the pandemic is that everybody wanted to get back to school … then we saw chronic absenteeism rates reach record levels,” said Louis Freedberg, former editor of EdSource and current executive producer of education reform podcast Sparking Equity, at a Friday,
April 4 American Community Media briefing.
“This reinforced that our current learning opportunities are not sufficient for young people to get up every morning and want to go to school,” he added.
In the 2021-22 school year, 29.7% of U.S. students — nearly 14.7 million — were chronically absent, compared with 16% in 2019, before the pandemic; in 2022-2023, 27.9% were chronically absent.
The 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress, known as the “nation’s report card”, also saw that for the first time, a third of eighth grade students scored below “basic” in reading levels, being 5 points lower on average compared to 2019; math scores were 8 points lower compared to 2019.
“Keeping kids engaged in school presents a crisis for all forms of education,” said Freedberg. “The notion that we should shoehorn learning
into these six-hour daily bites doesn’t work for all kids.”
“Many other skills may be more important for how students succeed in the workplace and in life after they graduate, like critical thinking, being able to work collaboratively or independently, being able to stick with a task,” he continued, adding that many states are now “figuring out how to measure these durable skills.”
In Indiana, Nevada, North Carolina, Rhode Island and Wisconsin, the same Carnegie Foundation that had developed credit hours nearly 120 years ago is now working with the Educational Testing Service (ETS) to create pilot projects testing students’ skills.
Last October, for instance, North Carolina was awarded nearly $4 million from the U.S. Department of Education to pilot a Skills for the Future assessment project.
North Carolina, alongside
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Negotiate not retaliate...
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Philippines was “definitely” open to the idea of slashing the levies on imported goods from the United States.
“We’re really going to do that (cut tariffs on U.S. products), actually. We will meet soon [with] the economic team,” Roque said.
But the options for the country are not limited there. Roque said the Philippines would also work with other peers in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) in tackling the tariff debacle.
“We all work together as Asean,” she said, referring to the regional bloc, of which the Philippines is a founding member.
Rushing to negotiate
The latest remarks from the trade chief mean the Philippines is joining the rest of the world in rushing to the negotiating table to seal a deal with Trump.
In the region, Bloomberg reported that Vietnam was willing to remove all tariffs on U.S. imports after Trump had announced
that Vietnamese products entering America would be slapped with a punitive 46 percent levy.
On the other hand, China announced on Friday a 34-percent retaliatory tariff against U.S. imports.
But many analysts believe that Manila is in a better position to negotiate with Washington after Trump unveiled a milder 17-percent tariff on Filipino goods, among the lowest in Asia. This was still lower than the 34 percent that the Philippines charges on inbound shipments from the United States, including the estimated cost of non-trade barriers.
Only Singapore was slapped with just a 10-percent tariff —the baseline figure cited by Trump in his “Liberation Day” announcement that fanned global recession fears and sent global markets into turmoil.
Bilateral talks
Moving forward, Roque said she expected to finally meet her American counterpart in a “few days”
Duterte lawyers seek limits...
available, the court should accept “in a staggered fashion” the valid IDs identified by the state insurer Social Security System (SSS), the defense counsel added.
“Limiting the range of identity documents enhances the reliability of the identity verification process and significantly reduces the risk of fraud,” Kaufman said in an April 7 filing of “observations” to the ICC Registry’s suggested procedures for victims.
He argued that the use of varied and insufficiently verified identity documents “could lead to misidentification, doublecounting and the inclusion of false victims.”
These, he noted, could trigger “unnecessary and time-consuming litigation.”
Unrealistic demand
The observations of the defense were in response to the April 2 notice by the ICC’s Registry, which provides judicial and administrative support to the court, on its suggested process and modes for admission, type of identification documents, and legal representation in order for the victims to engage with the tribunal.
to kick-start the trade talks.
Based on data from the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), the United States incurred a merchandise trade deficit with the Philippines amounting to $4.9 billion in 2024, up by 21.8 percent from the previous year.
According to the USTR, which cited the latest available data as of 2022, the Philippines’ average Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) applied tariff rate was 6.1 percent.
The Philippines’ average MFN applied tariff rate was 9.8 percent for agricultural products and 5.5 percent for nonagricultural products in 2022.
“The lower tariff rates imposed on the Philippines compared to neighboring countries can be an advantage for us, as our goods traded to the United States will become more competitive, boosting our exports,” said Reinielle Matt Erece, an economist at Oikonomia Advisory & Research Inc. n
and “obviously intended to exclude the majority of the victims of Duterte’s war on drugs.”
“Their insistence on the use of national IDs is unrealistic, with the obtention and issuance of the cards plagued with consistent issues of delay. Their suggestion to produce passports is antipoor, as only the socially mobile have the luxury to avail [themselves] of cross-country travel,” Conti said in a statement to the Inquirer.
Burden on defense
Aside from the type of IDs, the defense also disagreed with the Registry’s proposal that the longtime lawyers of victims be allowed to serve as temporary legal representatives “to safeguard their right to participate” until the court designates their actual counsel.
This suggestion was backed by the ICC’s Office of Public Counsel for Victims (OPCV), which stressed the need to protect the interests of the victims while awaiting the appointment of their common legal counsel to avoid “any gaps in their legal representation.”
Citing a backlog in the distribution of national IDs in the Philippines, the Registry recommended a wide range of Philippine governmentissued IDs and documents, including the senior citizen card, persons with disability card, National Bureau of Investigation clearance, and voter’s certification with dry seal.
But the defense dismissed the backlog issue as a “vague assertion” for the expanded list of proposed IDs.
Kristina Conti of Rise Up for Life and Rights, one of the lawyers assisting victims in the ICC proceedings, said the defense’s observations were “out of touch and harsh”
But the defense insisted that the pretrial court recognize only the OPCV as the sole legal representative of the victims to avoid “slowing down the proceedings” by numerous submissions of their individual lawyers.
The OPCV, which provides legal assistance, research, and court representation to victims, works independently from the ICC.
“Permitting submissions by individual lawyers for some, but not all, applicants while simultaneously appointing the OPCV for others will result in twice the number of submissions before this Chamber,” Kaufman claimed. “It will be unwieldy [and] unnecessarily
encumber the defense… This will impact on Mr. Duterte’s right to a speedy judicial process.”
New defense team member
This developed as the PTC also announced that seasoned international defense lawyer Dov Jacobs has joined the legal team of Duterte as an associate counsel.
The 45-year-old French lawyer has at least 15 years of experience in international law and international criminal law, both as a practitioner and as an academic, information on his personal website showed.
Jacobs was part of the defense team of former Ivory Coast President Laurent Gbagbo who was acquitted in 2019 of charges of murder, rape and other crimes against humanity in the ICC.
He is also a defense counsel for Mahamat Said, a former high-ranking militant leader in the Central African Republic currently on trial at the ICC for war crimes and crimes against humanity.
In Malacañang, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace press officer Claire Castro said on Tuesday that Kaufman might have more things to worry about other than what he called “political manipulation” of arguments as the only potential hurdle in the former president’s legal woes.
In a press briefing, Castro pointed out that Kaufman’s client “admitted his acts of killings.”
Duterte has also repeatedly taken full legal and moral responsibility for the bloody war on illegal drugs that killed more than 6,000 mostly poor drug suspects in alleged shootouts and vigilante-style killings. (With a report from Julie M. Aurelio)
Valor may be shown through little acts of kindness...
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generosity, and kindness that create meaningful ripples of positive change in our communities,” he said. Marcos noted that the remarkable stories of all Filipinos, who proved their patriotism during World War II, continue to inspire the present generation in “building a country worthy
of their sacrifice.”
The president further said, “Indeed, this year’s commemoration shows that our country is a cradle of heroes and heroines—a home of noble men and women who, regardless of risk or cost, willingly gave a part of themselves and even their lives for the sake of their beloved nation.”
“Through acts of genuine service and self-offering to the nation, we can prove that we are not only made of the same noble stock as our noteworthy ancestors but also the rightful heirs of their heroic legacy and the faithful successors of their struggle to build a strong, secure and prosperous Bagong Pilipinas,” he added. n
Real ID deadline looms: What US air
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delays, the act is a way to raise the minimum national standard of security, preventing access to certain federal facilities, commercial aircraft, and nuclear power plants unless you have an enhanced, state-issued license or identification card.
In a recent interview with Axios, a TSA spokesperson explained that travelers who don’t possess a Real ID by the deadline are highly encouraged to bring their passport or another accepted document with them when flying domestically. Still, it’s likely some travelers will forget to bring them, and the new requirements will lead to longer lines, which is why “TSA also recommends that these passengers arrive a little earlier than normal to allow time for the identity verification process.”
Arriving in an era of enhanced and more scrupulous security – a trend that includes contactless, multimodal (face and fingerprint recognition), and machine-learning biometrics – the Real ID’s primary purpose is to decrease fraud. As such, all Real ID licenses
and cards are typically marked with a star (or encircled star) in the upper right-hand corner, though some states have slight design variations. The Real ID also requires your full legal name, including your middle name, for the purpose of aiding background checks.
These new requirements, however, can provide challenges for people with varied naming structures, specifically when it comes to middle names. Typically attached to one’s ethnicity, culture, or marital status, middle name conventions aren’t always consistent across different forms of documentation and have caused problems in an increasingly digital world.
In anticipation of the May 7 deadline, Spokeo used research and government resources to explore how these different middle name conventions may complicate the process of getting a Real ID.
The origins and evolution of middle names and their conventions It’s hard to believe, but middle names weren’t always a common part
of naming conventions. According to author Stephen Wilson, the custom of giving middle names likely started in 13th-century Italy, where it became common among elites before spreading to other social classes. The majority of the middle names, which took another century to reach the outer countryside, were those of saints, “with the idea that those saints would protect the children who bore their names.” The custom soon migrated to France and Spain, then to most of Europe and the early United States by the beginning of the 19th century.
The idea behind them?
Experts believe the most prominent reason stems from concerns over lineage and inheritance, and attempts to preserve family or community names. But that’s not the case in all countries and cultures. Throughout Hispanic countries, the concept of a middle name doesn’t exist. In Spanish culture, people either have one or two given names—like Pedro or José Luis—and two surnames u PAGE 4
With U.S. students struggling...
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at least 16 other states, are also outlining these skill goals in “graduate portraits” that are influencing education policies across the country’s school districts.
“This is something that’s definitely picking up steam across the country,” said Freedberg: “What do we want our graduates to leave school with? Not just whether you got A’s or B’s, but broader descriptions of a variety of skills” including networking abilities, communication, cultural competence, civic engagement and conflict navigation.
“When modern public schools were started, Carnegie developed credit units to fuel the workforce. But in order for people to be really good workers, they need to be well-rounded,” said Shalonda Gregory, principal of Metwest High in Oakland, California — a nontraditional school which has implemented this skills-based models through Big Picture Learning (BPL).
BPL, a network of over 140 schools nationwide and over 100 more worldwide, encourages students to
learn skills for the careers they want through field internships and mentorships up to two days a week — Tuesdays and Thursdays at Metwest — alongside core curriculum classes the rest of the school week.
Every student entering ninth grade at Metwest creates an Individual Learning Plan with actionable goals not only for “careers or education beyond high school, but also for who the person is that you want to be, how you want to show up in this world,” Gregory explained.
“If a student is really interested in wanting to become an architect, even in standard classes like English, math and science, for instance, we try to find ways to engage them by connecting the content to that interest … while also helping them find internships with architect firms,” she continued, “so they’re not just graduating with their diploma but career-ready life skills, and some of our students have graduated with their associate’s degree as well.”
One current graduating senior, Johnny, “is
really passionate about skateboarding. He’s been interning at a skateboard shop, and in prior years, at auto shops, doing collision repairs and regular fixes,” Gregory explained. “Because of those opportunities he’s going to work at the skateboard shop in May, and work on cars as a side hustle to fuel his future.”
Although Metwest is only 23 years old, its work-based educational approach — also known as Linked Learning — have already spurred similar initiatives across the Oakland Unified School District, including internship programs, pre-college support and a year-long graduate capstone program.
“High school is not the end game,” said Anne Stanton, president of the Linked Learning Alliance (LLA). “In the very recent past, we had a very bifurcated ’50s model where students were sorted into vocational or college tracks … but young people at this period in their lives, as their brains are continuing to develop, can contribute in so many ways, and in our country, we think a lot less
Real ID deadline looms: What US air
(the first belonging to the father and the second to the mother), a way to honor both lineages. More recently, to avoid confusion with anglophone countries, it’s become more popular for Hispanic people in the U.S. to add hyphens between their surnames.
Traditional naming conventions in China and Russia also have their own unique patterns. Chinese names typically consist of three characters, with a single-character surname followed by a one or twocharacter given name. In some families, children are given the same middle character as a way to identify their generational place in the family. Meanwhile, Russian names have three parts: a first name, a patronymic, and a surname. The patronymic is based on the father’s first name (with a suffix that signifies “son of” or “daughter of”) and is often used with the first name to represent someone’s gender, familial link, and regional background.
Within the US, a majority of middle names for girls are monosyllabic. In a 2016 study from now-defunct genealogy site MooseRoots, 7 out of the top 10 girl middle names from the years 2010 through 2015 (the most recently studied years) had only one syllable, while boy names tended to be more traditional (Michael, James, Lee) throughout history. In addition, plenty of parents buck traditions with middle names, opting for ones inspired by pop culture or that imbue certain traits.
Regardless of the convention, women are most likely to have issues squaring away their middle names over various documents. According to the Center for American Progress,
an estimated 69 million American women and 4 million men don’t have birth certificates that match their current legal name. Whether someone has changed their middle name because of marriage, assimilation, or gender identity, many will face the consequences of new and proposed laws and regulations, like the recent SAVE Act, which would require people to present a passport, birth certificate, or alternative citizenship document when they register to vote or update their voter information. Critics say a voting rights bill like this can discriminate based on discrepancies in identification paperwork, making it even more difficult for married women to vote, reports the 19th. What to know about getting a Real ID
In order to obtain a Real ID, you’ll need to check your state’s driver’s licensing agency website to determine the exact documents you need. However, according to the Department of Homeland Security, you’ll need at minimum documentation showing: full legal name; Social Security number; date of birth; two proofs of address for principal residence; and lawful status. Still, middle names can make this process more challenging. One of the more common problems can involve married women who have swapped out their middle name for their maiden name. When Concord, New Hampshire, native Patricia Kamel switched her maiden name (Eaton) to her middle name, she ignored the middle name on her birth certificate (Joyce). The new name was accepted by credit cards, banks, and even the DMV, but when she applied for her Real ID in 2019, clerks told her she needed a
birth certificate or marriage license that matched those other documents.
That initial requirement has since been relaxed in New Hampshire, but the majority of other states like New Jersey still require secondary document names to match primary ones. The rigidity even provoked a Change.org petition to be posted regarding discrimination against married New Jersey women. For some who now use their maiden name as a middle name and changed their Social Security accordingly, the only option to get a Real ID is to go probate court (a $250 expense) to legally change their full name, or use their birth middle name and change their Social Security name, which won’t match any other documents.
There are similar issues that Hispanic people and others without a middle name should consider. Many times, when these recorded names are digitized, U.S. clerks don’t grasp the naming conventions and assume the second given name is actually a middle name, or that both last names should be hyphenated. If one’s first name is “Juan Pablo,” then that should be reflected across all documents, not “Juan” in some and “Pablo” in others.
In any event, it’s crucial to have the correct paperwork (or proper changes to it) as you prepare for the nationwide switch. Once you’re set with the right documents, the easiest way to get a Real ID is to schedule an appointment at your local DMV. The changes can provide logistical hurdles, but if you follow instructions and make the switch as soon as possible, you may save yourself a lot of time and hassle down the line. (Jake Kring-Schreifels/Inquirer.net)
With U.S. students struggling...
of what a 16-year-old can do than we should.”
In California alone, the San Francisco-based LLA is implementing work-based learning initiatives in 80 school districts and 250 schools serving 330,000 youth statewide thanks to $500 million that the state legislature invested in Golden State Pathways, a college and career readiness program. Across its total 977 school
No reason for Senate to share Duterte...
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But Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa made a suggestion otherwise, believing it is appropriate for the panel to forward its findings to Trump so that the assets of the aircraft owner that brought Duterte to the Netherlands can be frozen.
Dela Rosa said this was in accordance with an executive order (EO) recently signed by Trump, stating that any non-American person or organization can face sanctions if they assist the International Criminal Court (ICC) in investigating, arresting, or prosecuting a “protected person” without the consent of their country of origin.
`Protected person’
A “protected person” refers to a U.S. national or military personnel or any individual who is a lawful resident of a U.S. NATO ally or a “major non-NATO ally,” a designation the Philippines holds.
But during Monday’s, April 7, briefing, Castro rejected dela Rosa’s suggestion by citing a portion of the same EO that the senator was referring to:
“The United States remains committed to the accountability and to the peaceful cultivation of international order at the ICC. And the parties to the Rome Statute must expect the decisions of the
United States and other countries not to subject their personnel to the ICC’s jurisdiction consistent with their respective sovereign prerogatives.”
Castro explained in a mixture of Filipino and English, “So, this means that through this executive order, the United States respects the prerogatives of countries that are considered its allies. Therefore, whatever prerogative our country exercises, the U.S. will respect it.”
Chartered plane Castro, in a briefing on March 14, confirmed that the Office of the President paid for the chartered plane that brought Duterte to ICC headquarters in The Hague, Netherlands. She said this was part of the administration’s
commitment to comply with the International Criminal Police Organization.
This was not the first time that Dela Rosa criticized the Marcos administration over Duterte’s arrest.
The senator had previously accused President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of breaking his promise not to cooperate with the ICC on Duterte’s case.
“He told me before: ‘Don’t worry, I will never cooperate with the ICC because after you, who’s next? It might be us.’ That’s what he told me,” Dela Rosa told reporters in Filipino in a phone patch interview with Senate reporters.
This allegation was shrugged off by Castro, pointing out that dela Rosa could easily defend himself before the ICC if he is indeed innocent. n
Overseas Filipino voters in the US...
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vote for senators and partylist representatives using their phones, tablets, or computers from anywhere in the U.S.
districts, California has approximately 5,496,271 students.
“We’d like to get 600,000 young people in California having these experiences,” said Stanton. “But for young people to apply their academic learning in the real world requires a deeper engagement in that social contract by the employers providing these opportunities.”
“Even school district
superintendents often turn over every two years,” she continued. “It’s about who owns this vision of engaging youth. If it’s owned by students, families, communities, employers, you can’t break it down, no matter who the leadership is.
“The core of our work to support young people in the real world requires that it’s never just one teacher or one part of their lives doing it,” she added. n
But before overseas Filipinos can cast their votes, all voters must complete their pre-voting enrollment no later than May 7, 2025. This essential step verifies a voter’s identity and grants access to the online system during the official voting period, which runs from April 13 to May 12, 2025.
Key Deadlines to Remember:
April 12, 2025: Last day to use the test voting feature and familiarize yourself with the online system.
May 7, 2025: Final deadline to complete online pre-enrollment at https:// ov.comelec.gov.ph/enroll
(Note: The site is geoblocked in the Philippines.)
April 13–May 12, 2025:
Official overseas absentee voting period.
COMELEC has also released the following lists to confirm voter eligibility: National Registry of Overseas Voters (NROV) Certified List of Overseas Voters (CLOV) for those registered under the Philippine Consulate General in New York CLOV (Seafarer)
Eligible voters are encouraged to check their status and spread the word within their communities to ensure every voice is counted in this crucial election year.
As part of its commitment to ensuring a smooth and inclusive electoral process, the Philippine Consulate General in New York is undertaking a mass enrollment and information campaign within its jurisdiction to assist kababayans in understanding and
accessing the OVCS. Visit the Philippine Consulate’s overseas voting webpage for the latest updates: tinyurl. com/nypcgovs. The Philippine Consulate General in New York will conduct the Final Lockdown and Sealing of the Automated Counting Machine to be used for overseas voting in the 2025 Philippine National and Local Elections.
All interested parties are invited to witness the proceedings on Friday, April 11, 4:00 p.m. at the lobby gallery of the Philippine Center on 556 Fifth Avenue, in accordance with COMELEC Resolution No. 11079.
For more information and detailed instructions, visit https://info-ov.comelec.gov. ph. You may also contact COMELEC directly at ov.concerns@comelec.gov. ph for any support you need on pre-voting enrollment. n
Sen. Ronald `Bato’ Dela Rosa Voltaire F. Domingo/Senate PRIB
FeAtures OPiniOn
Why we must fear Trump’s tariffs
WHEN United States President Donald Trump unleashed last week new tariffs on American imports from dozens of countries, the Philippines included, Canada immediately vowed to institute countermeasures, while China and the European Union (EU) vowed to also fight back. Nearer home, Vietnam will form a task force to address the situation, while Thailand and Malaysia said they will negotiate to bring down the stiff tariffs imposed by the U.S.
In the Philippines, the reaction from the government and the country’s biggest business groups was, as Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry chair George Barcelon said, to look at the tariffs “from the positive side.”
Editorial
Philippine exports to the U.S. will be charged a 17-percent tariff starting April 9. In contrast, more punishing tariffs were slapped on most of our competitors in Southeast Asia: Vietnam at 46 percent, Thailand at 36 percent, Indonesia at 32 percent, Malaysia at 24 percent, and Cambodia at 49 percent.
THE recent approval of the U.S. State Department for the sale of 20 F-16s to the Philippines aligns with the Trump administration’s mantra of “deterrence through strength” – the same message that U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth highlighted during his visit to Manila.
Reiterating that the relationship between the
“[T]his is an advantage for us since imports from us will be cheaper,” Philippine Exporters Confederation president Sergio OrtizLuis Jr. told the Inquirer.
“Technically, if you look at it from a general perspective, that’s positive for us,” noted Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.
Wrong signal
“T]he Philippines will be in a better position as an alternative source of U.S. importers versus our neighbors,” added Danilo Fausto, president of the Philippine Chamber of Agriculture and Food. Malacañang said it
will have a “very minimal” impact on the economy since the Philippines “does not export much to the U.S.” Such a penchant to look at the bright side
in every troubling situation is not bad, but this mindset can be rather disturbing in the current economic case. It sends the wrong
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AFP modernization in full swing
Philippines and the U.S. is “ironclad” – a term that was first used during the first term of President Trump, the U.S. Cabinet official underscored that the US will deliver and prioritize its shift to the Indo-Pacific region “in a way that is unprecedented to match the threats of the future, with the recognition that for the 21st century to be a free century, America needs to stand alongside its allies and partners shoulder to shoulder,” and that together they will “establish the
deterrence necessary to prevent war.”
As Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro noted, the enduring support of the United States – as seen when the Philippines was exempted from a global foreign aid freeze and the green light given for $336 million in military aid –shows the importance the U.S. puts on the stability of U.S.-Philippine relations as “a linchpin of securing peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.”
We’re hopeful that
we could secure a longterm loan from the U.S. for the purchase of the brand-new aircraft and other defense items, which could be delivered in tranches, similar to the acquisition of the 10 Blackhawk helicopters last year. Hopefully, the terms for a military financing package could soon be discussed by officials of the Department of National Defense and their American counterparts.
This most recent development is another
significant indication of the Trump administration’s commitment to enhance bilateral relations with the Philippines and help strengthen the capability of our armed forces.
President Marcos has been very focused on the AFP modernization program, knowing how critical it is to equip the armed forces in order to address the evolving challenges that our country faces. Modernization is now in full swing to turn the AFP into a force that can
“hold its own on the global stage” and stand “shoulder to shoulder with the world’s finest armed forces.”
Not too long ago, I had a good meeting with Republican Senator Lindsey Graham (chairman of the Senate committee on the budget and one of President Trump’s closest friends and allies in the U.S. Senate). I informed him that we have always been a real partner of the United States not merely in terms of our mutual defense treaty
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Kanlaon Volcano erupts, maintains Alert Level 3
by ian Laqui Philstar.com
MANILA — Kanlaon Volcano in Negros erupted early Tuesday morning, April 8, producing a massive ash plume and pyroclastic flows, the state volcanology bureau Phivolcs reported.
The “explosive eruption” began at 5:51 a.m., prompting Phivolcs to maintain Alert Level 3 over the volcano. This indicates heightened unrest and the possibility of further eruptions.
The eruption generated a towering plume of ash and volcanic gases that reached an estimated height of 4,000 meters. Prevailing winds are carrying the plume southwest, according to Phivolcs. Monitoring systems, including IP cameras and thermal imaging, detected pyroclastic density currents descending the southern slopes of Kanlaon Volcano. Such currents are fastmoving flows of hot gas,
ash, and volcanic debris that move close to the ground during explosive eruptions. Phivolcs continues to monitor Kanlaon’s activity closely as it warns nearby communities to remain vigilant against potential hazards. n
AFP modernization in full swing...
PAGE 6 but economically as well.
To achieve our goals in bumping up the capability of our armed forces, we need to be economically prosperous so that we have enough resources to buy more U.S.-made defense equipment and increase our interoperability and modernize our military.
Senator Graham was extremely pleased when I mentioned that one of the biggest aspirations of our Air Force was to acquire the F-16s, because it so happens that Lockheed Martin manufactures the aircraft in Greenville, in his home state of South Carolina – this probably precipitated the acceleration of the approval.
Of course, a lot of work will have to be done in terms of securing the financing with favorable terms. But at the end of the day, what is really important is we need to work closely with the United States and speed up our AFP modernization program, strengthen our defense posture and continue our joint maritime exercises with like-minded nations who believe in the importance of promoting a rules-based maritime order and a free and open IndoPacific.
Karma I went to Charlotte, North Carolina over the weekend
where the Philippines was the country of honor during the 15th Annual Ambassador’s Ball of the Allegro Foundation, a non-profit organization benefiting children with disabilities.
A number of North Carolina’s wealthy individuals donate to the foundation, and as I told the 300 guests representing the Charlottearea business and society, having an opportunity to do something good, especially for a fellow human being, is truly a blessing.
“It is a blessing to do good, because if there is one thing undisputedly true, it is karma. When you do something good, something good comes back to you, your family or your country. So I think there is so much karma that has taken place, especially here in the United States, which has been blessed with so much and is able to do good all over the world. We are hopeful it will continue to do so despite the many challenges it faces today,” I said in my remarks.
The yearly Ambassador’s Ball honoring U.S. allied partners is the main fundraising activity of the non-profit organization founded by Pat Farmer. The event was a great opportunity for us to promote the Philippines,
giving out the jeepney and kalesa figures as well as tourism brochures that included high-end destination spots.
A highlight of the evening was the grand prize auction of a signature trip to the Philippines for two persons with roundtrip tickets donated by Philippine Airlines, complete with a complimentary stay. The winning bid came from Felix Sabates, a wealthy philanthropist from Florida who was a former NASCAR team owner.
Just recently, Forbes came out with a list of the wealthiest individuals in the Philippines. I have known all of them and they have their own charitable foundations. They are good Filipinos doing what they can in helping their fellowmen – that’s why they continue to be blessed. To a certain extent, we Filipinos are more blessed than most because we are good people who are inherently kind to our fellowmen – believing that good deeds will result in good karma. (Philstar. com)
* * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
* * * Email: babeseyeview@gmail.com
Why we must fear Trump’s...
PAGE 6
signal to Filipino consumers and workers that there is nothing to be worried about, that everything will be fine, that it will be business as usual. The truth is that Trump’s tariff policy, if implemented for a long period, presents a huge risk that will affect the global economy.
The UN Trade and Development (Unctad) issued on April 4 an alert that the international trade system is entering a critical phase that threatens growth, investment, and progress. As major economies are set to impose sweeping new tariffs, “global economic growth could decline further [and] in a low-growth, high-debt global economy, higher tariffs risk weakening investment and trade flows… This could erode confidence, slow investment, and threaten development gains.”
Large-scale trade war
Unctad added that the most vulnerable will be the countries with minimal responsibility for the U.S.’ trade imbalances, stressing that the solution must come through dialogue and negotiation, not escalation. The immediate reactions to Trump’s tariffs bolster this fear. Several countries have threatened to engage the
U.S. in a trade war, sending financial and stock markets plunging.
The point is that even this early, the Philippines should already worry about the bigger picture and what lies ahead if the high U.S. tariffs persist. It should brace for what economists refer to as the potential secondary impact. History has shown that nothing good results from a large-scale trade war.
As corporations worldwide struggle, they will cut expenses and, in turn, impact on the country’s biggest revenue earners — overseas Filipino workers and the business process outsourcing (BPO) industry.
These two alone will deal a severe blow to the entire consumer-driven Philippine economy. Lesser remittances and BPO earnings will force Filipinos to spend less, affecting various industries from property to consumer goods.
Also consider that less international maritime trade means fewer Filipino seafarers. The domino effect goes on until we wake up one day to an economy in a recessionary tailspin characterized by declining economic activity, job losses, and instability.
Collateral damage
An assessment last month by trade and development
economist Annette Pelkmans-Balaoing cited the indirect but significant effects on the Philippines of Trump’s tariff escalation. If this causes a slowdown in global demand, Philippine exports of electronics, garments, and processed food will suffer.
The worst that can happen is a prolonged trade war. “The last time the world saw a full-scale trade war, during the 1930s, it plunged the global economy into recession. The SmootHawley Tariff Act of 1930 led to retaliatory measures that collapsed global trade and deepened the Great Depression.
The economic devastation fueled nationalism, protectionism, and extremism, paving the way for World War II as nations turned inward and blamed foreign actors for their misfortunes. The lessons from history are clear: aggressive protectionism rarely ends well,” she pointed out.
Countries such as ours have very little say in the global economy. We simply become collateral damage in the looming global trade war following Trump’s punitive tariff policy. It’s true that we can hope for the best, but we must also brace for the worst.
(Inquirer.net)
RAISE TAXES. Doctors, medical professionals and health advocates gather at the Lung Center of the Philippines auditorium in Quezon City on Tuesday, April 8 to call on election candidates to support higher taxes on alcohol, cigarettes and vape products. The event presented the “Health Tax Heroes and Hazards” gallery to identify candidates’ voting records on the Sin Tax Law of 2012, Sin Tax Reform Law of 2020, and the so-called Sin Tax Sabotage bill which proposed lower tax rates supposedly to curb illicit trade.
PNA photo by Joan Bondoc
Mt. Kanlaon Screenshot from a Philstar.com video from Phivolcs
Imee Marcos to officials involved in Duterte arrest: Tell the truth
by Charie abarCa Inquirer.net
MANILA — Sen. Imee Marcos on Monday, April 7 urged government officials involved in the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte to tell the truth during the Senate’s third hearing on the matter on April 10.
“Magpakatotoo na, please lang!” the presidential sister said in a statement.
(Let’s be real, please!)
“Mabuti at nagdalawangisip ang administrasyon, pero sana hudyat na ang kanilang anunsyo ng pagnanais ibunyag ang katotohanan, na sa wakas, maliwanagan ang sambayanan patungkol sa totoong mga pangyayari,” she added.
but there will be a hearing and there are officials who will attend. Senator Imee requested for some of them, like General Torre, who she said has to be at the hearing,” said Escudero in an interview with dzBB on Sunday, April 6. Escudero also said Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla was once again invited.
Roque told: Return to Philippines
by Jose rodeL CLaPano Philstar.com
MANILA — Instead of posting vlogs attacking the government, former presidential spokesman Harry Roque should return to the Philippines and face the House inquiry into his alleged involvement with Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs), La Union Rep. Paolo Ortega V said on Tuesday, April 8.
Roque’s antics on social media showed his “rotten style of evading accountability,” Ortega pointed out.
Senate President Francis
(It’s good that the administration had second thoughts, but hopefully, their announcement signals a true would give the officials involved a third chance on April 10 to explain.
On April 3, Cabinet members snubbed the Senate panel on foreign relations’ invitation to attend its second hearing on Duterte’s arrest, staying committed to the Palace’s earlier decision to decline the invitation, citing executive privilege and the sub judice rule.
Only the following persons attended the inquiry:
• Securities and Exchange Commission’s Chief Counsel Atty. RJ Bernal
• Securities and Exchange Commission’s Supervising Securities Review Counsel Atty. Ferdino Logie Santiago
• Atty. Alexis Medina. n
In a video posted on Tuesday, the former spokesman accused the Marcos administration of using issues with China to distract from the public’s anger over the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Ortega highlighted Roque’s lack of commentary on China’s aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea.
“They will only comment in defense of the aggressive tactics of China. But when it
comes to our own country, in the West Philippine Sea, they don’t utter a word,” he said.
In the Netherlands, Roque applied for asylum following the detention of Duterte for alleged crimes against humanity stemming from his bloody war on drugs. Roque failed in his bid to be part of Duterte’s defense team at the International
Criminal Court. Ortega said Roque might no longer return to the Philippines.
“He has cases and Congress is waiting for him,” he noted.
Facing an arrest order for contempt of the House, Roque is accused of human trafficking over his alleged links to Lucky South 99, a raided POGO hub. n
Sen. Imee Marcos Photo from Facebook/@ImeeMarcos
Former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque Jr. Photo from the House of Representatives
PH, US launch air drills, aim for ‘strategic deterrence’
by Francisco Tuyay ManilaTimes.net
THE Philippine and U.S. air forces kicked off joint exercises Monday, April 7 aimed at boosting operational coordination and enhancing "strategic deterrence," the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said.
The drills follow months of confrontations between Beijing and Manila over disputed areas of the South China Sea, with significantly larger U.S.-Philippine air, land and sea exercises set for late April.
"Enhancing combat readiness and elevating joint mission effectiveness" would be central to the Cope Thunder exercise, Philippine Air Force commander Arthur Cordura said Monday at a ceremony at Clark Air Base in Mabalacat, Pampanga, to launch the drills.
Philippine Air Force spokesman Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said the PAF is deploying 729 personnel and various types of aircraft, including FA50PH, A-29B Super Tucano, S-76A and S70i Blackhawk helicopters.
The U.S. Pacific Air Forces (Pafac), on the other hand, sent 250 personnel and 12 F-16 fighter jets.
The exercise will highlight field training exercises on aircraft maneuvers and tactics.
For the first time, the PAF is hosting an International Observer Program (IOP) as part of the exercise, participated in by representatives from the Royal Malaysian Air Force, Royal Thai Air Force, Royal Australian Air Force, Japan
Air Self-Defense Force, and Indonesian Air Force.
The exercise will also feature Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs) covering a wide range of domains including fighter and close air support operations, helicopter operations, cybersecurity, communications, aircraft maintenance, logistics, security and medical services.
Military ties between the Philippines and the United States have deepened since the 2022 election of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., with Manila pushing back on sweeping Chinese claims in the South China Sea that an international tribunal has ruled are without merit.
The U.S. State Department last week approved a longmooted sale of 20 F-16 fighter jets to the Philippines, though Manila said the deal was "still in the negotiation phase."
Speaking at Monday's ceremony, U.S. Maj. Gen. Christopher Sheppard said that "the pace of our alliance is accelerating."
Cope Thunder, which
will continue through April 18, aims to enhance "asymmetric warfare capabilities," operational coordination and strategic deterrence, according to the Philippine Air Force.
"Further down the road, we look forward to the seamless transition to exercise Balikatan, which will continue to push the boundaries of our interoperability," Cordura added.
Like the majority of Balikatan's planned activities, Cope Thunder will be conducted on northern Luzon island, the area of the Philippines closest to Taiwan.
As China encircled Taiwan with planes and ships in a simulated blockade last week, AFP Chief Romeo Brawner warned troops that their country would "inevitably" be involved should the self-ruled island be invaded.
Beijing insists Taiwan is part of its territory and has threatened to forcefully bring it under its control.
(With reports from Agence France-Presse)
US takes down old travel advisory vs Manila
by Franco Jose c. Baroña ManilaTimes.net
MANILA — The United States Transportation Security Administration (TSA) on Sunday, April 6 removed an outdated 2018 travel advisory mistakenly displayed at Sacramento International Airport, following swift intervention by Philippine transportation officials.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) confirmed no new U.S. advisories have been issued against Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) or any other Philippine airport, dispelling confusion caused by the resurfaced notice.
On Sunday, a social media post circulated
showing a U.S. advisory cautioning travelers about "security concerns" at NAIA, a notice originally issued in 2018 but rescinded in 2019 after the Philippines implemented major security upgrades.
DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon immediately contacted TSA officials in Manila, demanding clarification and urging the advisory's removal to prevent unnecessary alarm. By 9 a.m., the TSA confirmed the erroneous posting had been taken down.
"This outdated advisory does not reflect the current situation," Dizon said in a statement. "The Philippines has long complied with international aviation security standards, and we acted swiftly to correct this
misinformation to protect our reputation and reassure travelers."
In August 2019, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) lifted the advisory after validating NAIA's enhanced security measures. Since then, no new warnings have been raised against Philippine airports.
The DOTr and the New NAIA Infra Corp. reiterated their commitment to maintaining the highest safety and security standards at NAIA and all Philippine airports.
"This incident underscores the importance of accurate information," Dizon said. "We will continue working closely with international partners to ensure seamless and secure travel for all passengers." n
REMEMBRANCE. The Philippine flag is lowered to half-staff at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier memorial at Libingan ng mga Bayani in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Tuesday, April 8. The Philippines observes the 83rd Day of Valor (Araw ng Kagitingan) on April 9 in honor of World War II heroes.
PNA photo by Yancy Lim
COPE THUNDER. Philippine Air Force and US Air Force personnel wave in front of a US F-16 fighter jet during the opening ceremony of Cope Thunder, an annual bilateral exercise between the US Pacific Air Forces and the Philippine Air Force, at Clark Air Base near Angeles City, on April 7, 2025.
Photo courtesy of the Armed Foces of the Philippines
COMMUNITY JOURNAL
Emergency interview and an expedited visa for Don Tagala’s mother on Citizen Pinoy this Sunday
Don Tagala, the award-winning reporter on TFC News, desperately wanted his mother, Vinia, to come to the U.S. because his sister, Almira, became critically ill in 2019. His mother could be there for her children for emotional support and to make crucial lifedecisions.
The hospital where Almira was on life support even emailed the U.S. Embassy explaining the circumstance and requesting for a visitor’s visa for Vinia. However, the Embassy instructed the hospital to go through the normal process.
Time was running out, so Don went to leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel to seek his assistance and expert advice. Confident that Vinia would abide by the terms of her visa and return PAGE 12
LEADING U.S. IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY MICHAEL J. GURFINKEL EXPEDITES AN EMERGENCY VISITOR’S VISA FOR DON TAGALA’S MOTHER, ON AN ENCORE SUCCESS STORY OF CITIZEN PINOY THIS SUNDAY! Don Tagala (left), ABS-CBN news correspondent for North America, needed a visitor’s visa for his mother so she could come to the U.S. to be with her critically ill daughter. Time was running out, so Don sought the help of Atty. Gurfinkel who was able to secure an emergency interview at the U.S. Embassy. The earliest appointment had been August 13, but Mommy Vinia was able to be interviewed earlier, and her visa was issued on an expedited basis. Watch this success story on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, April 13 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. (Advertising Supplement)
ABS-CBN North America News Correspondent Don Tagala (left) welcomes his mother, Vinia (right), at JFK International Airport.
Berberine for diabetes
Health@Heart
PhiliP S. Chua, md, FaCS, FPCS
A NEW study shows that Berberine ursodeoxycholate is a potential effective treatment supplement option for persons with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D), with significant reductions in A12C and fasting glucose levels. This natural derivative drug is a novel gut-liver anti-inflammatory metabolic modulator that could help in the management of T2 diabetes. It also lowers nonhigh cholesterol blood level, a very promising addition to current armamentarium for T2 diabetes. Do not take or alter any medication without consulting with your physician.
Fluoride in water?
On April 2, 2025, Utah became the first state to ban fluoride in public drinking water, going into effect May 7, 2025. This substance is naturally found in soil, foods, and water, but synthetically produced for use in water, mouthwashes, toothpastes and many chemical products. Fluoride was added to the municipal water supply to reduce the prevalence of tooth decay, a most common health problem among children.
However, studies have shown that fluoride causes dental fluorosis, skeletal fluorosis, thyroid and neurological problems. In 2014, fluoride was documented as a neurotoxin, and in 2017, a report suggested exposure to fluoride while in the womb led to poorer cognitive outcomes for the baby. Other problems include acne and other skin conditions, cardiovascular problems, reproductive issues, and in some cases, fluoride poisoning. The WHO recommends drinking water to contain no more than 1.5 ppm fluoride, and the Unites States’ EPA asked people to report levels above 2 ppm.
Calcium lowers cancer risk
A higher level of calcium intake from dietary sources and supplements was found to be constantly associated with lower risk for colorectal cancer (CRC). according to the NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study among 471,396
adults, with a 7-year followup. The detailed findings are as follows:
“During more than 7.3 million person-years of follow-up (median, 18.4 years), there were 10,618 first primary CRC cases. Participants in the highest quintile of total calcium intake (2056 mg/d for women, 1773 mg/d for men) had a 29% lower risk for CRC (hazard ratio [HR], 0.71) than those in the lowest quintile (401 mg/d for women, 407 mg/d for men). The inverse association was observed across all tumor sites, including the proximal colon (HR, 0.75), distal colon (HR, 0.73), and rectum (HR, 0.61). Dairy, nondairy, and supplemental calcium sources all contributed to risk reduction. Overall, for each additional 300 mg/d in total, dietary, and supplemental calcium intake, there was an 8%, 10%, and 5% decrease in CRC risk, respectively. In Black individuals, there was a 32%, 36%, and 19% decrease in CRC risk, respectively.”
Apple cider
Nutritional experts report vinegar, like apple cider and Italian oil-vinegar dressing before meals, can help flatten spikes in glucose (blood sugar) level. Eating protein and fats first before carbohydrates in meals also helps bring down sugar spikes.
Exercise and longevity
Past clinical studies have shown that regular physical exercise, as a part of living a healthy lifestyle, may help extend longevity. A new study reveals that higher levels of physical activity, strenuous exercises, may not benefit life span as previously regarded. It appears that moderate physical activities, like climbing stairs, walking, even regular house chores like carrying grocery bags, etc., are still crucial for overall health and quality of life. A sedentary couchpotato life is unhealthy.
Cannabis warning
Research at Stanford suggests clinicians “should warn their patients about the potential of cannabis to harm cardiovascular health.” It is now evident in a large scale 2024 epidemiological studies on 430,000 (cannabis users) responders, there was a 49 percent increase in heart attacks and twofold increase in stroke. A 2022 study
at Stranford University, analyzing 50,000 subjects in the ULK Biobank, revealed similar findings.
CR cancer in children
The colorectal cancer rates among children, teens, and young adults have been rising in recent years. Researchers investigated different types of diets and bacteria to find out if gut microbiome and diet have any impact on colorectal cancer development. They discovered that a low-carb, low fiber diet combined with a particular strain of E. coli can lead to an increase in polyps in the colon, which can develop into colorectal cancer. Low carb diets, like the keto diet, may have negative health consequences. The study was published in Nature Microbiology.
Olive oil
Now trending in health and nutrition is taking 1 to 2 tablespoons of coldpressed extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) every day, at night. This super healthy oil is rich in antioxidant, like polyphenols and vitamin E, which protect body cells from damage caused by free radicals. It also contains oleocanthal, an antiinflammatory agent against arthritis and cancer. EVOO also regulates appetite and promotes weight control, protects the brain, and boosts the immune system.
Premature death
Swapping butter for plantbased oils, like (especially) olive oil, soybean oil, and canola oil, may lower the risk for premature death. Substituting 10 grams of butter a day with an equal amount of plant-based oils was associated with 17 percent reduction in overall mortality and a 17 percent decrease in cancer mortality. The cohort study, which was posted in JAMA Internal Medicine, involved 200,000 among 3 different populations: the Nurse Health Study (19902023), the Nurse Health Study II (1991-2023, and the Health Professionals Follow-up Study (19902023), all healthy subjects, with a 33-year follow-up. A simple, painless, switch that maximizes longevity.
The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people to live a healthier lifestyle, to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve a happier and
14
Dolly de Leon joins Nicole Kidman in chilling new season of ‘Nine Perfect Strangers’
FILIPINO actress Dolly de Leon continues to break new ground internationally as Hulu unveils first-look images from the highly anticipated second season of "Nine Perfect Strangers," where she stars alongside Hollywood stars including Nicole Kidman, Mark Strong, and Annie Murphy.
De Leon, who rose to global prominence with her performance in "Triangle of Sadness," appears as part of an entirely new ensemble cast in the upcoming season of the psychological drama based on Liane Moriarty's bestselling novel. The show follows nine strangers attending a high-end wellness retreat run by the enigmatic Masha Dmitrichenko, played by
Kidman, in the snowy isolation of the Austrian
As the retreat unfolds, Masha pushes each guest — and herself — toward the edge in the name of healing. The gripping narrative promises a tense exploration of emotional extremes, secrets, and personal transformations.
This marks another major milestone in de Leon's expanding international career, following her celebrated role in the Cannes Film Festival Palme d'Or-winning movie, "Triangle of Sadness," which earned her historic nominations at the Golden Globe and BAFTA Awards.
Her latest appearance in "Nine Perfect Strangers"
season 2 signals a continued presence in globally recognized productions.
Joining de Leon and Kidman in the cast are Henry Golding, Lena Olin, Christine Baranski, Lucas Englander, King Princess, Murray Bartlett, Maisie Richardson-Sellers and Aras Aydin.
The second season premieres May 21 on Hulu, with the first two episodes streaming on launch day, followed by weekly releases.
The show is produced by CreaZion Studios, an award-winning production company aiming to elevate Philippine content to the global stage. (ManilaTimes. net)
Emergency interview and an expedited visa...
PAGE 11
to the Philippines, Atty Gurfinkel immediately sought an emergency visitor visa and expedited interview, so Mommy Vinia could arrive in the U.S. as soon as possible.
Unfortunately, while all preparations were going on, Don’s sister passed away on June 24. The visitor visa application was updated, asking the Embassy to still expedite the visa to now enable Don’s mother to attend the funeral, instead
of the original request to visit Almira at the hospital.
Atty. Gurfinkel was able to secure an emergency interview on June 26 (where the earliest available appointment would have normally been August 13) and an expedited visa was also issued the same day.
On June 28, 2019, Mommy Vinia arrived in New York, four days after her daughter passed on. She was able to attend the funeral and be there for Don.
While it was a bittersweet reunion for Don and his mother in the U.S., it is important to know what to do and where to seek help if an emergency arises. Watch this encore episode of CITIZEN PINOY – this Sunday at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the free app. (Advertising Supplement)
Dolly de Leon (leftmost) joins an international cast in Hulu’s ‘Nine Perfect Strangers’ season 2, set in the Austrian Alps.
Photo from CreaZion Studios
Alps.
Kay Sibal’s Broadway dream comes true in SIX
by MoMar G. Visaya / AJPress
FOR Kay Sibal, stepping onto a Broadway stage for the first time in SIX is nothing short of a dream come true. As she made her Broadway debut last month portraying Catherine Howard in the electrifying pop musical that reimagines the six wives of Henry VIII, Sibal is embracing a moment that feels both surreal and deeply personal.
"This has been a dream show of mine for so long," Sibal told the Asian Journal in an interview. "So, in a way, it is exactly what I imagined it to be, because it’s just been the dream show. But at the same time, who can ever predict something like this? It’s such a rare opportunity."
Sibal's journey with SIX began years ago, when she first discovered the show’s concept album in high school. "Somebody showed me the album, and I was like, ‘This sounds like what you hear on the radio!’ That excited me so
much because pop music has always been a big part of my life," she recalled. "I love musical theater, but pop music runs very deep in me, and SIX blends both worlds so seamlessly."
That early connection turned into a full-circle moment when she was cast as Catherine Howard, a role inspired by pop icons like Ariana Grande and Britney Spears. The connection to Grande, in particular, is almost eerie. "The last song I performed before being knocked out on The Voice was One Last Time by Ariana Grande," Sibal shared. "Not only that, but I was also styled in a pink sparkly outfit with a high ponytail—just like I am now in SIX! The parallels are wild, but it also makes perfect sense. Ariana has been such a big inspiration to me for so many years."
The Road to Broadway Sibal’s path to SIX began in 2021 when she submitted a self-tape for the show’s virtual open
call while she was still in college. "I was a senior at the time, and they called me back in person during their audition tour in L.A., where I was studying. Later that school year, they brought me to New York for another callback. And then in 2023, they asked to see me again."
Initially, Sibal auditioned with material from Anne Boleyn, drawn to the role in part because of Andrea Macasaet, the original Broadway Boleyn and a fellow Filipina performer. "Seeing someone who looked like me in the role made such a difference. It showed me that there was space for me in this show," she said. But as the audition process continued, she was called back for Catherine Howard, the role she ultimately landed. "Now that I’m playing Howard, it makes so much sense. I feel a lot of parallels and connection with her. The team was very smart to see that in me."
From The Voice to SIX Sibal’s rise to Broadway follows a high-profile stint on The Voice, where she was part of Gwen Stefani’s team. The experience was a major learning curve. "It was my first time being seen as an individual solo artist, which meant I underwent a lot of personal growth," she said. "Being interviewed about my personal story, my family, and my dad on national TV was a new challenge. But I think The Voice helped me get to know myself better, which ultimately prepared me for this Broadway role."
One of the most significant moments from The Voice was meeting Sofronio Vasquez, the first Filipino to win the competition. "I’m so proud of him. Filipinos have been part of singing competitions for years, but to have one actually win The Voice— that’s huge," she says. "It also makes a big difference to viewers all over the country who might not have met a Filipino person before. Seeing someone like Sofronio succeed on that stage was a win for our entire community."
Though she was initially encouraged by her family
to pursue a more traditional career path, Sibal’s passion for music and performance never wavered. "Of course, my family told me I should go into nursing or engineering—typical Filipino advice," she laughs. "But they also supported me in music from a young age, putting me in choir and piano lessons. That foundation
made it possible for me to dream of something like this."
Now, as she steps into the spotlight on Broadway, Sibal is proof that dreams, when combined with talent and perseverance, can become reality. "Being here feels like everything has led up to this moment. It’s both a dream and a fullcircle journey." n
Kay Sibal
Photo from Instagram/@KaySibal
Photo from Instagram/@KaySibal
(l-r) Kelsie Watts (Jane Seymour), Najah Hetsberger (Catherine of Aragon), Krystal Hernandez (Anna of Cleves), Kay Sibal (Katherine Howard), Taylor Marie Daniel (Catherine Parr), & Gianna Yanelli (Anne Boleyn)
Photo byJoan Marcus
(l-r) Kelsie Watts (Jane Seymour), Kay Sibal (Katherine Howard), Najah Hetsberger (Catherine of Aragon), Gianna Yanelli (Anne Boleyn), Krystal Hernandez (Anna of Cleves), & Taylor Marie Daniel (Catherine Parr) Photo byJoan Marcus
My grandparents returned a huge amount of money to Amb. Babe Romualdez’s grandparents during the war
Rogelio ConStantino medina My P.E.P. (People, Events,Places)
JULES del Gallego, first cousin of Philippine Ambassador to the U.S. Jose Manuel “Babe” del Gallego Romualdez, told me that my grandfather, ship captain Lt. Col. Peregrino Bunye Medina, together with my grandmother Paz Calzado Bendicio Medina, returned a huge amount of money to the family of Don Juan del Gallego, especially to Dona Potenciana (wife of Don Juan) on Dart street in Paco, Manila at the height of World War II.
“My grandfather Juan died in June 1941, and that’s why your grandfather saw my grandmother instead,” said Jules, author of the book “The Brothers Luna.”
When my grandmother Paz was still alive, she made a handwritten account of that event: “World War broke out December 1941. Pumutok ang balitang binomba na ng mga Hapon ang Pearl Harbor kaya nagkakagulo na ang mga tao sa Maynila.” She rented a truck for P200 for her mother and siblings that would bring them to Tuy, Batangas, near Balayan, her mother’s birthplace. My grandmother Paz waited for my grandfather Peregrino.
“ Nang gabing binomba na ang Camp Aguinaldo ay biglang dumating si Pereg at walang dala kung di isang maletang balat na malakingmalaki. Sinalubong ko si Pereg sa pintuan at napuna ko ang napakabigat na maletang dala-dala niya. Hindi ako sinagot ni Pereg at tuloytuloy na pumasok sa loob ng bahay, isinara ang pintuan at binuksan ang maleta. Laking
gulat ko nang makita ang laman ng maleta na punongpuno ng pera,” reminisced my grandmother.
My grandfather said that his ship was captured by Japanese soldiers and it was fortunate he saved the money that was intended for the salary of the people of the Del Gallego Saw Mill and for the daily expenses of the Del Gallego family. Then my grandmother accompanied my grandfather to the Del Gallego family in Paco, Manila to return the money to the right owner.
Jules del Gallego recounted to me that, “The steamship Santa Teresa captained by your grandfather was sunk by the Japanese. According to my late aunt Carmen, your grandfather showed up at the Del Gallego’s Dart Street Mansion with the 45 thousand payroll money. He invited my grandmother and her family to move to Balayan.”
I found out in my grandmother’s handwritten story that my grandfather Peregrino Bunye Medina applied as a captain in the army of the United States. “He was accepted and was given the rank of Lt. Col. assigned in a certain ship, the S.S. - 155 of the U.S. Army. He also took with him Pedro de Mesa (husband of Maura, sister of Paz) as his radio operator in the ship assigned to him.”
* * *
While I was looking for chicken longganisa, a kind fellow Filipino assisted me. His name is Nick Santos who has been working at Seafood City in Vallejo City for 12 years now.
He regularly reads Asian Journal Northern California edition to be updated about the Philippines and the Filipino American community in the U.S.
* * *
Singer Eduard Banez, founder of spluk.ph, has been in the U.S. for 10 years now.
A visionary media entrepreneur with a deep passion for storytelling and digital innovation as well as a former TV news anchor, international VJ, and Nickelodeon artist, Eduard has built a platform that bridges Hollywood and Asian media, bringing global stories to Filipino audiences.
With his extensive experience in entertainment, journalism, and content creation, he has positioned spluk.ph as a powerhouse in digital media. His dedication to empowering voices and creating meaningful connections has shaped spluk.ph into a leading force, redefining how Filipinos engage with stories that matter.
His rendition of “ Kahit Maputi Na Ang Buhok Ko” has been a super-hit among OPM enthusiasts.
* * *
U.S. Pres. Donald Trump pledged to rescue the astronauts stranded in space for 9 months. Recently, they safely splashed down in the Gulf of America, thanks to Elon Musk, SpaceX, and NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration).
What struck me is NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore’s remark: “My feeling on all of this goes back to my faith. It’s bound in my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He is working out His plan and His purposes for His glory throughout all of humanity. And how that plays into our lives is significant and important. And however that plays out, I am content because I understand that. I understand that He’s at work and all things. Some things are for the good. Go to Hebrews Chapter 11. Some things look to us to be, not so good, but it’s all working out for his good, for those that will believe and that’s the answer.”
* * *
I still could not forget a mysterious man (who looks like American actor Jay Harrington). He was taking photos of me inside the Bouchon Bistro’s rest room in Yountville while I was washing my face with water. When I noticed what he was doing, he shifted to take photos of the frames hanging on the wall. Then he asked if he could wash his face too
and I left innocently. It was my first time to go to Yountville, an incorporated town in Napa County, the “Wine County of California.”
Almost a third of the town’s population lives at the Veterans Home of California.
Yountville is a popular tourist destination, particularly for its wineries and its famed Michelinstarred restaurant, The French Laundry.
While I was in front of the Bouchon Bakery, a group of Filipino tourists greeted me and my mom in Tagalog. We were watching a Mardi Gras parade at that time. Gregorio Fernand Imperial of Legazpi, Albay introduced himself as a licensed real estate broker from RE/MAX PrimePhilippines. He had just attended a 4-day conference in Las Vegas, Nevada. Then he introduced me to Paolo Jesus Villavicencio, a principal broker from Muntinlupa City who in turn introduced me to other female Filipino companions, Juni Calingo, Nikki de Guzman, Atty. Jill Borja and Nadelyn TorresBaldonado. All of them were part of the Philippine team of the RE/MAX Prime.
It was a surprise to me that both Imperial and Villavicencio are friends of the late Rustan Commercial Corporation executive Juan Paolo Tantoco, husband of
Deputy Social Secretary Dina Arroyo-Tantoco, my former boss Congressman Iggy Arroyo’s daughter.
* * * Happy birthday (April 7) to my niece fashion designer Ann K. Isip, who represented me on stage last November 2024 when I received the prestigious Amerika Prestige Award for Inclusive Media Excellence recognition in North Hollywood in Los Angeles.
* * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
* * * rogeliocmedina@yahoo.com
Santa Teresa ship captain, Lt. Col. Peregrino Bunye Medina
Jules del Gallego (seated), author of the book “The Brothers Luna”
NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Bruce Wilmore
Paz Calzado Bendicio Medina
(From left) Rogelio Constantino Medina, Juni Calingo, Nikki de Guzman, Atty. Jill Borja, Nadelyn Torres-Baldonado and Gregorio Fernand Imperial in Yountville.
(From left) Gregorio Fernand Imperial, Rogelio Constantino Medina and Paolo Jesus Villavicencio in Yountville, Napa County, California.
Fashion designer Ann K. Isip
AJ columnist Rogelio Medina (left) with Nick Santos of Seafood City in Vallejo, California.
Bianca Gonzalez speaks at WHO Western Pacific’s World Health Day event
by Anne PAsAjol Inquirer.net
BIANCA Gonzalez was invited by the World Health Organization Western Pacific to speak at this year’s World Health Day, where she underscored the importance of quality healthcare for mothers.
The Western Pacific Region, which is headquartered in Manila, is one of the six regions of the World Health Organization. The nonprofit organization, as per its website, “works with health authorities and other partners in 37 countries and areas with more than one quarter of the world’s population.”
The TV host, who is a UN Women volunteer, documented her stint as one of the speakers at
the event, through her Instagram page on Monday, April 7.
“The theme ‘Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,’ resonates with me so much as a mother, and it was inspiring to hear representatives from the government, diplomatic corps, partners and WHO colleagues from around the region come together to push forward efforts to end preventable maternal and newborn deaths, and prioritize support for the well-being of mothers,” she said.
“I shared my own journey — through a challenging pregnancy and an emotional start to my daughter’s life — and I carry with me the stories of many other mothers who face even harder realities,”
she continued.
Gonzalez pointed out how many women in the Western Pacific region unfortunately do not have access to quality healthcare during pregnancies and childbirths. “That needs to change.”
“We all have a stake in this — whether you’re a parent, a son or daughter, a friend or an advocate, we all play an important role in making mothers everywhere feel safe, supported and cared for during pregnancy, childbirth and beyond,” she added.
Meanwhile, Gonzalez also addressed last February the rampant circulation of death hoaxes on social media as she reminded the public to be vigilant of what they consume and share on the internet.
Berberine for diabetes...
12
more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation, or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable to or appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute for your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health.
*
* The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people to 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 to 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,
Tia Carrere joins ‘Star Wars’ stars in Philippines-set ‘The Last Resort’
FILIPINO American actress Tia Carrere has joined the cast of "The Last Resort," an upcoming romantic-comedy movie set in the Philippines.
Carrere joins "Star Wars" franchise alums Daisy Ridley and Alden Ehrenreich in the film to be directed by Donald Petrie, whose past rom-coms include "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Day," "Miss Congeniality," and "Just My Luck."
According to Deadline, Carrere's character is Reyna who owns a number of resorts.
The role plays into the film's synopsis, where Ridley's character Brooke — wanting to prove herself of running her father's hotel empire — scouts for a new resort location in the Philippines.
There she meets Ehrenreich's Ben, an expatriate pilot who helps her discover the nation's beauty.
"As love and duty collide, Brooke must choose between the life she's built and the one she's only just
begun to love," the synopsis ends.
Carrere is best known for voicing Nani Pelekai in several "Lilo & Stitch" projects for Disney. She will portray a new character in the upcoming live-action film adaptation, while Nani will be played by another Filipino-American actress Sydney Agudong. She starred in two "Wayne's World" movies, "Easter Sunday," "AJ and the Queen," "Relic Hunter,"
and"Duck Dodgers." The two-time Grammy winner had a recurring role in the series "General Hospital."
"The Last Resort" will be penned by Karen McCullah, who was born in the Philippines as her father was assigned with the United States Navy to perform counterespionage duties.
Businessman Manuel V. Pangilinan will serve as an executive producer with Ernesto "Bong" Sta. Maria. Jr. and Raja Collins.
Filipino director Lav Diaz teases Cannes premiere of Magellan film starring Hollywood actor Gael Garcia Bernal
DECORATED filmmaker
Lav Diaz teased his upcoming movie about Ferdinand Magellan starring Gael Garcia Bernal could premiere at this year's Cannes Film Festival.
Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, newspaper columnist, and chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He was a recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, presented by then Indiana Governor, U.S. senator, and later a presidential candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry S. Truman, President George HW Bush, Muhammad Ali, Astronaut Gus Grissom, scientists, and educators. (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888. com, Today.SPSAtoday.com, and philipSchua.com; Amazon.com (“Where is My America?”); Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com.
Diaz was at the Doha Film Festival over the weekend and during a masterclass, he shared with the audience he had finished editing a two hours and 45 minute version of the movie titled "Magellan."
He, however, still plans to make a full nine-hour version — as he is often known for lengthy runtimes.
When asked if he would premiere the movie at the Venice Film Festival, Diaz said he was instead looking at "an important festival in France."
The director has a strong connection to Venice, winning the Best Film (Horizons) award in 2008 for "Melancholia," the
Golden Lion in 2016 for "Ang Babaeng Humayo," and Best Director (Horizons) in 2020 for "Genus, Pan."
Diaz also has ties to Cannes, premiering "Norte, Hangganan ng Kasaysayan" in the 2013 festival's Un Certain Regard category, while "Ang Hupa" premiered in the 2019 edition's Directors' Fortnight.
The full lineup of the 2025 Cannes Film Festival —
be unveiled later this month.
The Portuguese explorer Magellan is best known for encountering the Philippines in 1521, falling at the hands of Lapu-Lapu's fighters in Cebu.
The upcoming movie is inspired by the explorer's wife Beatriz, whom Magellen married two years before his expedition from Spain began.
The edited version of "Magellan," Diaz told Deadline in Doha, will focus on the titular character played by Bernal, while the longer version will involve Beatriz more.
Meanwhile, the director told Screen Daily he plans on adapting into film a piece by Alexandre Dumas by the end of year, several months delayed after falling sick while completing "Magellan."
Filipino-American actress Tia Carrere on the red carpet of the 2025 Academy Awards.
Tia Carrere via Facebook
Lav Diaz Philstar.com file photo
by Kristofer Purnell Philstar.com
by Kristofer Purnell Philstar.com
Bianca Gonzalez
Photo from Instagram/@iamsuperbianca
where French actress Juliette Binoche will serve as Main Jury President — will
