041323 - Las Vegas Edition.pdf

A MAJORITY of Americans say they or a family member has experienced gun violence, such as witnessing a shooting, being threatened by a person with a gun, or being shot, according to a sweeping new survey.

The national survey of 1,271 adults conducted by KFF revealed the severe physical and psychological harm exacted by firearm violence, especially in minority communities.

Nearly 1 in 5 respondents , including 34% of Black adults, 18% of Hispanic adults, and 17% of white adults, said a family member had been killed by a gun.

The survey “confirms that firearm-related injuries are ubiquitous,” said Dr. Selwyn Rogers, a surgeon and founding director of the UChicago Medicine trauma center. “For every person killed, there are two or three people harmed. These are people who have had fractures, who may have been paralyzed or disabled.”

Beyond causing physical injuries, gun violence has left many Americans living with trauma and fear, Rogers said.

Just over half of adults say gun-related

Expelled Fil-Am legislator Justin Jones reinstated in Tennessee

THIRTY-SIX Nashville Metropolitan

Council members on Monday, April 10 unanimously voted to reinstate Black Filipino American state legislator Justin Jones who was expelled last week for protesting gun violence on the House floor. In less than an hour, Jones was sworn in on the steps of the state Capitol.

After Monday’s council meeting, hundreds of demonstrators who assembled outside the Metro Nashville Courthouse marched to the Tennessee State Capitol, chanting, “This is what democracy looks like” as Jones and fellow lawmaker Justin Pearson, who was also expelled, marched with them.

Jones and fellow Black Democrat Pearson were expelled on Thursday, April 6 after they and state Rep. Gloria Johnson led protesters on the house floor in calling for gun control measures after a shooting at a Nashville

Philippines, US boost military alliance

by BERNADETTE E. TAMAYO ManilaTimes.net

THE United States and the Philippines "redoubled" their commitment to boost their alliance as they reaffirmed that the Mutual Defense Treaty remains the "bedrock" of their cooperation.

Top U.S. and Philippine foreign affairs and defense officials on Tuesday, April 11, held the 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in Washington D.C. to "reforge" their alliance.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and

Defense chief Carlito Galvez Jr. and their American counterparts Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III shared the need to modernize relations between Manila and Washington.

"Our security alliance is an enduring source of strength for both of our nations," Blinken said in a joint press conference with Manalo, Austin and Galvez.

"Today we focused on ways to continue our close partnership under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) so that our forces can work even

Japan, PH, US to keep peace, stability – envoy

by BERNADETTE REYES ManilaTimes.net

JAPAN, the Philippines and the United States have become “trusting partners” working closely to preserve peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, Japanese Ambassador to Manila Koshikawa Kazuhiko said on Monday, April 10 during the 81st commemoration of the Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) at the Mount Samat National Shrine in Pilar, Bataan.

Also at the event were President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Cabinet secretaries, senators, Bataan Gov. Jose Garcia, U.S.

embassy officials, and World War 2 Filipino veterans. Japan and the U.S. were bitter enemies during that war, with Philippine troops fighting alongside American soldiers. Japan has since become one of the U.S.’ closest allies in Asia.

Koshikawa voiced hope that relations between the three countries achieve “greater heights,” as he noted Marcos’ earlier remarks that Japan is “a most reliable partner in times of crises and of prosperity.”

He also conveyed his condolences to the victims of the “fierce battle” that took

Biden ends US COVID emergency status

WASHINGTON — U.S. President Joe Biden on Monday, April 10 officially ended the COVID national health emergency that for more than three years underpinned extraordinary efforts to provide care for a country where more than a million people died from the disease.

The White House said Biden signed a law passed earlier by Congress “which terminates the national emergency related to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

This closes lavish funding streams for COVID tests, free vaccines and other emergency measures thrown together — starting in January 2020 — to try and free the world’s biggest economy from the grip of the global pandemic.

Less clear is the impact the end of the emergency will have on the already tense southern border with Mexico, where U.S. authorities have long struggled to manage the flow of undocumented immigrants and large numbers of asylum seekers. A rule known as Title 42 was used during the official health emergency to impose stringent restrictions on acceptance of undocumented arrivals. That is set to end, forcing the administration to adopt a different legal mechanism if it wants to avoid the politically damaging potential of new influxes.

more closely together," Blinken said.

"Secretary Austin and I also reaffirmed the United States' unwavering commitment to standing with the Philippines against any intimidation or coercion, including in the South China Sea and to preserving a region that's governed by international law, where goods and ideas and people can move freely," he added.

Austin said, "We all reaffirmed today that our Mutual Defense Treaty remains the bedrock of our  PAGE 2

EDCA sites not for o ensive actions – Pres. Marcos

by HELEN FLORES Philstar.com

MANILA — The four new sites within Philippine military bases made accessible to U.S. forces under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) will not be used for offensive operations, President Marcos said on Monday, April 10.

The president made the remarks when asked to comment on China’s recent pronouncement that the designation of new EDCA locations would provoke tensions in the region.

“Now, China’s reaction perhaps was not surprising because they are worried. But we will not – we will not use, we will not allow, the Philippines, we will not allow our bases to be used for any offensive action. This is only to help the Philippines when the Philippines needs help,” Marcos told reporters partly in Filipino after leading the 81st Araw ng Kagitingan rites in Pilar, Bataan.

“So, if no one is attacking us, they don’t have to worry because we will not launch an offensive. What we do is we continue to strengthen the defense of our territory, the defense of the Republic,” he said.

This developed as the biggest ever iteration of the Balikatan exercises involving some 17,600 Filipino and American soldiers officially began on Tuesday,

Marcos urges Filipinos to speak up vs discrimination

by ALEXIS ROMERO Philstar.com

MANILA — President Marcos urged Filipinos on Sunday, April 9 to work toward a more progressive and humane society, oppose discrimination and help the needy as the country commemorated Araw ng Kagitingan, or Day of Valor.

In his message for the occasion, Marcos said Filipinos have been defined by their feats rather than their trials and have emerged as “a nation that stands tall and proud, guided by the principles of justice, truth, and democracy.”

“From the battles fought in the trenches of World War II, to the struggles against insurgent forces, the Philippines has faced numerous challenges that tested our faith yet showed the world the indomitable spirit of every Filipino,” the President said.

“We have staunchly proven time and again that we are never the same after each adversity for we always rise to meet every challenge head-on with grit, grace, and determination,” he added.

Marcos also called on Filipinos to make “wise and sound decisions” to address the country’s pressing problems with compassion and concern for others.

“As the legacy of our heroes and heroines came at a great

and hefty cost, may we also reexamine our values and honor their lives by speaking up against discrimination, extending help to those in need, and working towards a better future,” he added.

Noting that their forebears sacrificed and fought long and hard to defend the nation’s freedom, Marcos reminded Filipinos that their actions today determine the future of the Philippines, including the next generations.

“Together, let us strive towards developing a more humane, fair, and progressive society that allows our citizenry to relish their liberty and achieve their individual and collective aspirations,” the Chief Executive said.

Araw ng Kagitingan commemorates the Fall of Bataan in 1942, when Filipino and American soldiers bravely resisted huge numbers of Japanese invaders. The event is celebrated every April 9, but since it fell on a Sunday this year, the holiday will be observed today, in line with the holiday economics adopted by the Marcos administration.

Ceremonies commemorating the 81st anniversary of the Araw ng Kagitingan was held on Monday, April 10 at the Mt. Samat National Shrine in Pilar, Bataan. Marcos led the event, which were attended by war veterans, dignitaries

Most Americans say they or a family member has experienced gun violence

U.S. President Joe Biden

Photo from Twitter/@POTUS

Philippines, US boost military...

cooperation."

"As Secretary Blinken and I have said clearly and repeatedly, the Mutual Defense Treaty applies to armed attacks on either of our armed forces or aircraft or public vessels, including our Coast Guard anywhere in the South China Sea," he said. Galvez, on the other hand, said the Philippine-U.S. partnership has "weathered many challenges in the past and continues to stand strong today."

"We reaffirm our commitment to the Mutual Defense Treaty, which is our cornerstone of our partnership," Galvez said.

Manalo confirmed that during the meeting, "we redoubled our commitment to modernizing the Philippine-U.S. alliance, recognizing that our partnership will need to play a stronger role in preserving an international rulesbased order."

He said the Philippines welcomes the U.S.' pledge to "fast-track and drum up support"

for the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines as well as the implementation of EDCA projects and investments. There are now nine sites that will house U.S. troops and equipment under EDCA. Both countries plan new exercises in the South China Sea later in the year that will include other countries, Austin said. Asked if the Philippines worried about China's reaction, Galvez said, "We don't expect any violent reaction considering that this exercise is intended for our collective defense."

In a joint statement later released by the U.S. Department of State, the officials reaffirmed their shared determination to defend against an external armed attack in the Pacific, which includes the South China Sea, in accordance with the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty, the 1998 Visiting Forces Agreement, and 2014 Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement. Both sides said they look

forward to continuing discussions regarding the nature of threats that "may arise in different domains — including land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace — and effective responses."

Blinken said they also discussed to deepen the "robust economic ties" through the IndoPacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) which aims, among others, to increase economic opportunities for women and girls in the Philippines.

"We're providing training in growing industries like data science and artificial intelligence, where women have been underrepresented, and boosting digital literacy rates," he said.

Manalo said their discussions were "aligned with the Philippines' priorities on agriculture, food security, promoting energy security as we transition to clean energy, boosting trade, and building resilience of our supply chains, as well as enhancing connectivity and digitalization." g

Biden ends US COVID emergency...

PAGE 1

A senior official in the White House told AFP that the use of Title 42 “is expected to expire on May 11th.”

Although the U.S. is now formally turning its back on the worldwide pandemic, the Biden administration is already

working on a next generation vaccine and other measures to combat any future variant of the virus, the White House said.

“Project NextGen will accelerate and streamline the rapid development of next generation of vaccines and treatments through public-

EDCA sites not for offensive actions...

PAGE 1

April 11. This year’s activities will include live fire exercises at sea until April 28.

beneficial” EDCA sites in the country.

private collaborations,” a senior administration official told AFP. A fund of at least $5 billion is available to “help catalyze scientific advancement” and “stay ahead of the rapidly evolving virus that causes COVID-19.” (Philstar.com)

The Chinese embassy in Manila earlier warned the expansion of U.S. access to military bases in the Philippines would seriously endanger Philippine interests as well as overall regional stability.

Malacañang announced on April 3 the four new locations deemed “suitable and mutually

These are the Naval Base Camilo Osias in Sta. Ana, Cagayan; Lal-lo Airport in Lallo, Cagayan; Camp Melchor dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela and Balabac Island in Palawan.

Marcos said the new EDCA locations were selected due to their susceptibility to natural disasters.

“These are existing bases. The only difference with what we did here is that with the EDCA, we give an opportunity to our only treaty partner, which is the United States, we give them a chance to be able to come and help us in any way, especially –that really started with helping with disaster relief,” he said.

“Now, what we choose is what we see most often… hit by storms, by disasters,” the Chief Executive added.

Signed in 2014, EDCA allows U.S. access to Philippine bases for joint training, prepositioning of equipment and building of facilities such as runways, fuel storage and military housing. Permanent basing is prohibited.

To date, the U.S. has allocated over $82 million for projects at the five existing EDCA locations – 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 MactanBenito Ebuen Air Base in Cebu.

The announcement of the

new EDCA sites came amid growing concern over Beijing’s increasing assertiveness in the South China Sea and its saberrattling directed at Taiwan.

Meanwhile, some 12,000 U.S. troops will join this year’s joint training exercises in various sites in Northern Luzon, Palawan and Antique.

Top Philippine and U.S. military officials led the opening ceremonies on Tuesday at Camp Aguinaldo.

“Preparations are going on for the formal opening of Balikatan Exercise 2023,” Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesman Col. Medel Aguilar said.

He said American soldiers would be arriving in batches based on the scheduled activities that they would be joining.

“Arrival of U.S. forces is time-phased depending on the schedule of their participation in the assigned events,” Aguilar explained.

Over a hundred participants from the Australian Defense Force will also be joining some of the events for the first time, while representatives from Japan will take part as observers.

For the first time, there will be joint littoral live fire exercises at sea – involving rockets and artillery – particularly in the waters of Zambales. The AFP will also be using its newly acquired assets, including FA-50 fighter jets. (Michael Punongbayan/Philstar.com)

Marcos urges Filipinos to...

PAGE 1

from Japan and the U.S. and officials of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines and the local government of Bataan.

The theme of this year’s commemoration is “Kagitingan ng mga Beterano, Pundasyon ng

Nagkakaisang Pilipino (Veterans’ Heroism, Foundation of United Filipinos).”

Never forget Speaker Martin Romualdez reminded the nation never to forget the sacrifices made by the generation of Filipinos who made it through or were martyred during the Fall of Bataan in the name of regaining the country’s freedom.

“We suffered, we fought, and we prevailed,” said the Leyte congressman who heads the 312-member House of Representatives. “We honor and recognize our heroes, who willingly laid down their lives so that we can enjoy the blessings of freedom today.”

“As we look back into that dark day, we must never forget the sacrifices of Filipino resistance fighters who stood up against the might of foreign invaders in World War II, which gave the rest of our nation the inspiration and strength to fight on,” Romualdez, an administration stalwart and cousin of the president, said.

He said the event is a “historic reminder that Filipinos will always fight on, move forward and prevail with unity,” which reflect the same fortitude that carried the nation through the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Let this day remind us that we are strong as a nation, that faced even with seemingly insurmountable odds, we will

always prevail as long as we are united, and as long as we continue to draw our strength from the virtues of our heroes,” Romualdez said. “We do not give up, we press forward, and we overcome.”

‘Defend Phl sovereignty’ In its own message, the Federation of Free Workers (FFW) urged the citizenry to continue fighting for the country’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

“As the Filipino nation pays tribute to the heroism and sacrifice of our veterans, the FFW also honors the sacrifices of our soldiers who continue to defend our nation’s sovereignty and protect our people. Let us stand together as a nation in upholding our rights and freedom,” FFW president Sonny Matula said in a statement.

Victoria Bellosillo, FFW Women Network president, also expressed support and gratitude to members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) stationed in the disputed areas of the West Philippine Sea.

“As they serve and defend our territorial integrity, we also remind our armed forces that it is their solemn duty to defend the dignity and human rights of our people,“ Bellosillo said.

While the labor group supports all peaceful and diplomatic means to resolve the country’s territorial disputes with China, it called on the government to prepare able citizens as reserve forces on a voluntary basis to support the AFP in case of any eventuality.

The FFW stressed the need to ensure that the country is always ready to defend the nation’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. g

BIG BLOOMS. A staff member of a flower rental shop in Barangay Pag-asa, Quezon City arranges giant flowers on Wednesday, April 12. Business owner Jean Abela said her business began in 2021 and has since gained steady clients, including celebrities, politicians, government establishments, private events, and advertising companies. PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler

Pres. Marcos led the Araw ng Kagitingan celebration in Bataan, which were attended by war veterans, dignitaries from Japan and the U.S. and officials of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines and the local government of Bataan. Malacañang photo

Expelled Fil-Am legislator Justin Jones reinstated...

PAGE 1 school killed six people, including three 9-year-old children.

The three broke House rules by using a bullhorn, and Republican House leaders voted to expel Jones and Pearson from the Legislature. Johnson, who is white, was spared.

Meanwhile, the Shelby County Board of Commissioners was to meet on Wednesday, April 12 to consider reappointing Pearson to his seat. Tennessee Democrats on Tuesday will press for his reinstatement.

Pearson was quoted by NBC News: “When you have people

For uninsured people with cancer, securing care can be like spinning a roulette wheel

by Charlotte huff Kaiser Health News

EIGHTEEN months after April

Adcox learned she had skin cancer, she finally returned to Charleston’s Medical University of South Carolina last May to seek treatment.

By then, the reddish area along her hairline had grown from a 2-inch circle to cover nearly her entire forehead. It oozed fluid and was painful.

“Honestly, I was just waiting on it to kill me, because I thought that’s what was going to have to happen,” said the 41-year-old mother of three, who lives in Easley, South Carolina.

Adcox had first met with physicians at the academic medical center in late 2020, after a biopsy diagnosed basal cell carcinoma.

The operation to remove the cancer would require several physicians, she was told, including a neurosurgeon, because of how close it was to her brain.

But Adcox was uninsured. She had lost her automotive plant job in the early days of the pandemic, and at the time of her diagnosis was equally panicked about the complex surgery and the prospect of a hefty bill. Instead of proceeding with treatment, she attempted to camouflage the expanding cancerous area for more than a year with hats and long bangs.

If Adcox had developed breast or cervical cancer, she likely would have qualified for insurance coverage under a federal law that extends Medicaid eligibility to lower-income patients diagnosed with those two malignancies. For female patients with other types of cancer, as well as pretty much all male patients, the options are scant, especially in South Carolina and the 11 other states that haven’t yet implemented Medicaid expansion, according to cancer physicians and health policy experts who study access to care.

In the face of potentially daunting bills, uninsured adults sometimes delay care, which can result in worse survival outcomes, research shows. The odds of patients getting insurance to help cover the cost of treatment play out a bit like a game of roulette, depending upon where they live and what type of cancer they have.

“It is very random — that’s, I think, the heartbreaking part about it,” said Dr. Evan Graboyes, a head and neck surgeon and one of Adcox’s physicians. “Whether you live or die from cancer shouldn’t really be related to what state you live in.”

The Affordable Care Act gave states the option to expand Medicaid eligibility and cover more people. Shortly after the law passed, just 2.6% of adults ages 18 to 64 with a new cancer diag-

nosis lacked insurance in Medicaid expansion states versus 7.8% in nonexpansion states, according to a study published in JAMA Oncology in 2018. Researchers at the American Cancer Society, who conducted the analysis, estimate that about 30,000 uninsured people are diagnosed with cancer each year.

But in all states, lower-income uninsured patients with breast or cervical cancer may have another route for coverage, even if they don’t otherwise qualify for Medicaid. Adults with cancer detected through the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program can enroll in Medicaid for the duration of their cancer treatment, as a result of advocacy efforts and federal legislation that started more than three decades ago.

In 2019, 43,549 breast and cervical cancer patients were enrolled, according to a Government Accountability Office report published in 2020.

“If you’re lucky to be diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer, you’re good,” said Dr. Fumiko Chino, a radiation oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, who studies cancer treatment access and affordability. “But otherwise, you may have some significant obstacles.”

PAGE 4

who make comments about hanging you on a tree and hanging Black people on a tree as a form of capital punishment, when you wear a dashiki on the House floor and a member gets up and they talk about your dashiki saying it’s unprofessional, they’re really sending signals that you don’t belong here.”

Democrats in Washington have rallied around Jones and Pearson since their expulsion.

Vice President Kamala Harris traveled to Nashville on Friday, April 7 to meet with the “Tennessee Three,” as the group has been called, praising

them for “channeling” their constituents’ voices in speaking out against gun violence. President Joe Biden also called the lawmakers and invited them to visit the White House. He had called their expulsion “shocking, undemocratic, and without precedent.”

In a joint statement after Jones’s reinstatement, William Lamberth and Jeremy Faison, who lead Tennessee’s House Republicans, noted that the state’s constitution “provides a pathway back for expulsion.” (Inquirer.net with reports from by NBC News and Reuters)

Japan, PH, US to keep peace, stability...

PAGE 1

place in Bataan during WW 2 and offered his respects to the war veterans who contributed to the peace and security being enjoyed by Filipinos today.

Koshikawa “expressed the deep remorse felt by the Japanese people due to the country’s past actions and concurrently affirmed their best wishes for everlasting peace and determination in upholding a law-based global order,” the Japanese embassy said in a statement.

He also stressed that Japan seeks to “prevent a repeat of the tragedies of war for the sake of future generations, amid the increasingly tense international security environment.”

Koshikawa said Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Marcos have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen cooperation in a wide range of areas during the President’s official visit to Japan in February.

Proof of that commitment is the fifth meeting of the Japan–Philippines Maritime Dialogue (JPMD) held last March 29 in Tokyo and attended by Japan’s National Security Secretariat, the National Ocean Policy Secretariat, the Ministry of Defense, and the Japan Coast Guard and their Filipino counterparts.

The Japanese side was headed by Hayashi Makoto, Ministry of Foreign Affairs deputy director general of the Southeast and Southwest Asian Affairs Department.

The Philippine side was headed by Maria Angela Ponce, assistant secretary of the Maritime and Ocean Affairs of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

The two sides discussed the latest developments in the seas surrounding their countries, and ways to strengthen cooperation in the Sulu-Celebes Seas and the Luzon Strait, the embassy said.

Japan has been locked in a dispute with China over the Senkaku islands in the East China Sea.

The Philippines, meanwhile, has been protesting the incursions of Chinese naval ships in Philippine-controlled islets in the South China Sea.

The Japanese embassy said Tokyo and Manila both affirm the “importance of rules-based, free and open maritime order,” and continue to work together toward the realization of a free and open Indo-Pacific, it said.

The Japan-Philippines Maritime Dialogue was formalized in light of the JapanPhilippines joint statement of June 2009, the embassy said.

The first meeting was held in Tokyo on Sept. 9, 2011, the second in Manila on Feb. 22, 2013, the third in Tokyo on June 11, 2019, and the fourth in a teleconference format on Oct. 22, 2021. g

NEW GUARDS. New jail guards fall into formation at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) grounds in Muntinlupa City on Wednesday, April 12. Bureau of Corrections Director General Gregorio Catapang Jr. installed 335 new jail guards at the NBP’s Maximum Security Compound and designated Sr. Insp. Purificacion Hari as superintendent, replacing Chief Insp. Lucio Guevarra. PNA photo by Avito Dalan

DAY OF HEROES President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. leads the 81st commemoration of the Araw ng Kagitingan in Mount Samat, Bataan on Monday, April 10, 2023.

Photo by Rene H. Dilan

For uninsured people with cancer...

The total amount billed to the insurer during the year following a cancer diagnosis can be steep.

For instance, costs in 2016 averaged $168,730 for lung cancer and $137,663 for colorectal cancer, according to a 2022 study that calculated insurance claims for several common malignancies diagnosed in privately insured patients.

Since uninsured adults can struggle to afford preventive care, their cancer may not be identified until it’s more advanced, making it costlier for the patient and the health system, said Robin Yabroff, an author of the study in JAMA Oncology and a scientific vice president at the American Cancer Society.

Patients who can’t get financial assistance through a safety-net facility sometimes rack up medical debt, use credit cards, or launch fundraising efforts though online sites, Yabroff said. “We hear stories of people who mortgage their homes to pay for cancer treatment.”

Cancer patients can purchase insurance through the ACA health insurance marketplace. But they often must wait until the regular enrollment period near the end of the year, and those health plans don’t become effective until the start of the next calendar year.

That’s because the federal law was designed to encourage people to sign up when they are healthy, which helps control costs, said MaryBeth Musumeci, an associate teaching professor of health policy and management at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. If a new diagnosis were a qualifying event for new coverage, she said, “then it would incentivize people to stay uninsured while they were healthy and

they didn’t think they really were going to need coverage.”

Meanwhile, the on-ramp to Medicaid coverage for lower-income patients with breast and cervical cancer is a story of successful advocacy, dating to a 1990 law that created the national breast and cervical screening program. Mammography started to be widely recommended in the 1980s, and advocacy groups pushed to reach more underserved individuals, said Katie McMahon, a policy principal at the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, the organization’s advocacy arm.

But research showed that some uninsured adults struggled to get care for those cancers detected through the screening program, McMahon said. A 2000 law allowed states to extend Medicaid to them, and by 2008 all 50 states and the District of Columbia had done so, according to the 2020 GAO report.

For other cancer patients, one of the remaining avenues to coverage, according to Chino, is to qualify for disability through the Social Security Administration, after which they can apply for Medicaid. The federal agency has a lengthy list of criteria for cancer patients. It also has a Compassionate Allowances program, which offers faster reviews for patients with certain serious medical conditions, including advanced or aggressive cancers.

Although the rules vary, many patients don’t qualify until their disease has spread or the cancer requires at least a year of intense treatment, Chino said. That presents an inherent catch-22 for people who are uninsured but have curable types of cancer, she said.

“To qualify for Medicaid, I have to wait for my cancer to be incur-

Most Americans say they or a family member has...

able,” she said, “which is very depressing.”

For example, the Compassionate Allowances program doesn’t list basal cell carcinoma, and it covers head and neck cancer only if it has spread elsewhere in the body or can’t be removed surgically.

Adcox said that before her 12-hour operation last June, her financial assistance application with the Medical University of South Carolina was still pending.

Someone from the hospital, she recalled, estimated the bill would be $176,000 and asked how much Adcox could put down. She cobbled together $700 with the help of loved ones.

But she did qualify for financial assistance and hasn’t received any bills, except from an outside lab services provider. “It’s over,” Adcox said. She’s since undergone radiation and will have more reconstructive surgeries. But she’s cancer-free. “It didn’t kill me. It didn’t kill me.”

Still, not everyone finds a safety net.

Brian Becker, of El Paso, Texas, was uninsured and not working when he learned he had chronic myelogenous leukemia in summer 2021, said Stephanie Gamboa, his ex-wife and the mother of their young daughter. His cancer physician required an upfront payment, she said, and it took several months to borrow enough money.

He started chemotherapy the following year, and over months lost weight and became weaker, returning to the emergency room with infections and worsening kidney function, Gamboa said. The last time their daughter saw her father, “he couldn’t get out of bed. He was literally skin and bones,” Gamboa said.

Becker started the process to request disability benefits. The text he sent Gamboa, which she shared with KHN, stated that review of his application began in June 2022 and was expected to take six months.

The denial letter, dated Feb. 4, 2023, arrived more than a month after Becker’s death in December at age 32. It read in part: “Based on a review of your medical conditions, you do not qualify for benefits on this claim.”

KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFF—an independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism.

crimes, injuries, and deaths are a “constant threat” or “major concern” in their communities. Black and Hispanic adults were more likely than white adults to describe gun violence as a constant threat or major concern. About 3 in 10 Black or Hispanic adults say they feel “not too safe” or “not safe at all” from gun violence in their neighborhoods. (Hispanics can be of any race or combination of races.)

Women also reported high rates of concern about firearm violence, with 58% saying gun-related crimes are a constant threat or major concern, compared with 43% of men. More than half of intimate partner homicides are committed with guns.

Parents are worried about their children as well.

About 1 in 4 parents of children under 18 say they worry daily or almost daily about gun violence, the KFF survey found, and 84% of adults report having taken at least one precaution to reduce their family’s risk from gun violence. More than one-third of adults say they have avoided large crowds, such as at music festivals or crowded bars, for example.

Gun violence surged during the pandemic. There were a record 48,830 firearm-related deaths in 2021, an increase of 23% from 2019, according to an analysis by the Pew Research Center. The increase among children was even sharper. Firearm deaths among Americans under 18 — which include those due to homicide, suicide, and gun-related accidents — increased 50%, from 1,732 in 2019 to 2,590 in 2021.

Guns have become the leading cause of death among children and adolescents ages 1 to 19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The pandemic also coincided with a huge increase in gun purchases, which grew an estimated 64% from 2019 to 2020.

According to the KFF survey, 29% of adults have purchased a gun at some point to protect themselves or their families, with 44% of parents of children under 18 keeping a gun in the home. Yet 78% of parents in gunowning households fail to follow safety recommendations, such as locking guns and ammunition, storing guns unloaded, and storing guns and ammunition separately, practices that have been shown to reduce the risk of thefts, accidents, and suicides.

Dr. Abdullah Pratt, an

emergency physician at the UChicago Medicine trauma center, has lost a dozen close friends to gun violence, including his brother. His father never recovered from that loss and died about seven years later, at age 64.

“As soon as my brother got killed, he stopped taking his medications and started chain-smoking out of nowhere,” Pratt said.

Gun violence also wears away communities, Pratt said.

In neighborhoods with high crime rates, the daily drumbeat of loss can lead residents to conclude there’s no point in voting, going to school, or trying to improve their lives. “They think, ‘What am I voting for if I can’t have basic access to safety on a day-to-day basis?’” Pratt said.

And while mass shootings and homicides grab headlines, Rogers, the surgeon, noted that suicides account for more than half of firearm-related deaths in the U.S. and cause ripples of grief throughout a community. Researchers estimate that every suicide leaves at least six people in mourning.

Pratt said he feels guilty he wasn’t able to help a close friend who died by suicide with a gun several years ago. The man had recently lost a job and had his car repossessed and came to Pratt to talk about his troubles. Instead, Pratt spent the visit asking for parenting advice, without realizing

how much his friend was hurting.

“There were no red flags,” Pratt said. “A couple days later, he died.”

Gun violence has also shaped the trajectory of Bernice Grisby’s life.

Grisby, now 35, was shot for the first time when she was 8, while playing on the swings at her school in Oakland, California. She was shot a second time at age 15, when she was talking to friends after school. One of her friends died that day, while another lost an eye; Grisby was shot in the hip and experiences chronic pain from the wound.

Two of her brothers were fatally shot in their 20s. Her 15-year-old daughter was recently robbed at gunpoint.

Rather than leaving Oakland, Grisby is trying to save it. She works as a street counselor to young people at high risk of gun violence through Oakland’s East Bay Asian Youth Center, which aims to help young people living in poverty, trauma, and neglect. “My life is a gift from God,” Grisby said. “I am happy to be here to support the youth and know that I am making a difference.” (Liz Szabo/Kaiser Health News) KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFF—an independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism.

Gun violence surged during the pandemic. There were a record 48,830 firearm-related deaths in 2021, an increase of 23% from 2019, according to an analysis by the Pew Research Center. Pexels.com photo by Katie Godowski

April Adcox meets with Dr. Evan Graboyes, a head and neck surgeon at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. The availability of Medicaid coverage for cancer patients depends upon where they live and the type of cancer they have. “Whether you live or die from cancer shouldn’t really be related to what state you live in,” says Graboyes. Andrew J. Whitaker for KHN

Dateline PhiliPPines

US raising processing fees for non-immigrant visas by May 30

MANILA — The U.S. State Department has raised processing fees for some categories of non-immigrant visas, the U.S. Embassy in Manila announced Thursday, April 13, adding the new fees will be effective from May 30.

The fee for business and tourist visitor visas (B1/B2) and other non-petition based visas like student and exchange visitor visas will be $185 from $160 at the end of May.

Meanwhile, the visa processing fee for temporary workers in the following categories will be raised to $205 from $190:

ICC prober: Duterte ‘encouraged’ drug war crimes

by Janvic Mateo Philstar.com

illegal drugs.

Q-1: Participant in an International Cultural Exchange Program

R-1: Temporary religious worker "Other consular fees remain the same, including the waiver of the two-year residency required fee for certain exchange visitors," the U.S. Embassy said. "Applicants who have already paid a visa application fee that is currently valid and non-expired, but who have not yet appeared for their visa interview or are waiting for their case to be processed, will not be charged any additional fees." (Philstar.com)

‘ASEAN must address brain drain in healthcare sector’

MANILA – Southeast Asian countries must adjust and find ways to address human capital flight, particularly in the healthcare sector for the benefit of the region, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said on Thursday, April 13. The issue on brain drain in the region’s health sector, particularly the emigration of nurses and doctors, was discussed during the President’s meeting with Temasek Foundation executives at Malacañang Palace.

“We are very proud of (our nurses and doctors) and the role they play during the height of the pandemic but as I said, we are a victim of our own success,” President Marcos told Temasek officials led by its chair Ms. Jennie

Chua Kheng Yeng.

“But you know, we have to adjust and find other ways. We have to give them at least equal opportunities at home. It is very clear that most Filipino overseas workers are willing to take less in terms of pay so long as they can stay here," Marcos pointed out.

If Singapore can find a solution to that problem, it would immensely help the Southeast Asian region’s healthcare sector, the President said.

Ms. Jennie Chua said the Singapore nursing association has agreed to register nurses in Singapore to arrest human capital flight in the sector after the country lost 400 nurses to New Zealand, which offered permanent

residency (PR).

Under New Zealand’s PR, nurses can bring their families with them, allow their children to go to local schools, and apply for housing.

The Temasek Foundation

International chair said Singapore does not want to give Filipino nurses citizenship unlike what is being offered by the USA, Canada and New Zealand so they can go back and forth during their working years. Chua commended the Philippines for producing good nurses and doctors, noting Singapore’s emergency room doctors are mostly Filipinos, and praised their training based on life experience. Temasek Foundation, a Singapore-based non-profit philanthropic organization, is an arm of Singapore’s state sovereign fund Temasek Holdings.

The foundation funds and supports programs aimed at building community capabilities in Asia and beyond through philanthropic endowments.

The foundation forged agreements with the Philippines to enhance competencies across industries, through the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) (Digitalization and Industry 4.0) Program, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) with Design Thinking Programme, and Health Care Management Program. (PNA)

MANILA — Former president Rodrigo Duterte and other top government officials appear to have encouraged and condoned crimes related to the previous administration’s so-called war against illegal drugs, according to the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC).

In a court filing dated April 4 but released only on Tuesday night, ICC prosecutor Karim Khan said the alleged crimes, including the killings, are not of “marginal gravity” as claimed by the Philippine government.

“In the present situation, the available information demonstrates that at least more than 5,000 and possibly as many as 30,000 civilians (including children) have been killed by police or by ‘unidentified’ perpetrators apparently acting in coordination with police,” read the 59-page response filed before the ICC Appeals Chamber.

“In many instances, the police allegedly staged self-defense scenarios, planted evidence or otherwise obstructed justice in an effort to justify the premeditated and deliberate murder of civilians,” it added.

Beyond the alleged killings, Khan said that the ICC Pre-Trial Chamber also authorized the investigation of other crimes that fall within the jurisdiction of the court.

The filing said that “available information indicates that torture, other inhumane acts and other crimes were also committed in connection with the ‘war on drugs’ campaign.”

“Nothing about these crimes, committed in large part by law enforcement personnel entrusted with protecting citizens from violence, suggests that the potential cases before the Court are of marginal gravity,” it read.

“To the contrary, they are extremely serious and appear to have been at the very least encouraged and condoned by high-level government officials, up to and including the former president,” added the prosecutor, referring to Duterte, whose administration was marred by thousands of killings, including during police operations conducted in support of his campaign against

Khan’s court filing was in response to the Philippine government’s appeal filed before the ICC Appeals Court, which challenged an earlier decision that allowed the prosecutor to resume its investigation into the Philippine situation.

In the 59-page response, the prosecutor asked the appeals chamber to dismiss all four grounds cited by the Philippines, including the ICC’s supposed lack of jurisdiction over the alleged crimes.

“In the Philippines situation, the Prosecution was authorized to investigate Rome Statute crimes allegedly committed in the Philippines from 1 November 2011 until 16 March 2019 – that is, when the Philippines was a State Party,” read the court filing.

“That the Philippines was not a State Party when the investigation was opened (on 15 September 2021) is immaterial and does not deprive the Court of jurisdiction over crimes allegedly committed during the temporal scope of the investigation,” it added.

In 2018, the Duterte administration initiated the withdrawal from the Rome Statute, the treaty that established the ICC, after former prosecutor Fatou Bensouda announced the start of a preliminary examination into the drug war.

Under the statute, the international court retains jurisdiction over alleged crimes committed while the country was a state party.

Aside from the drug war killings, the investigation also covers the killings in Davao area – alleged by the so-called Davao death squad –between Nov. 1, 2011 to June 30, 2016 when Duterte was either the mayor or vice mayor of Davao City.

The investigation was suspended in November 2021 following an official request from the Philippine government.

On June 24, 2022, Khan asked the ICC judges to authorize the resumption of the investigation, noting that the “deferral requested by the Philippines is not warranted.”

It was granted on Jan. 26, prompting the Marcos administration to file an appeal before the ICC Appeals Chamber.

Last March 27, the Appeals Chamber denied the Philippine

government’s request for it to suspend the investigation while the appeal is pending.

Leave to reply

The Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) has meanwhile asked the ICC appeals chamber for leave to reply to prosecutor Khan’s latest response to its appeal brief against the resumption of the drug war probe.

In its request for leave to reply dated April 11, government lawyers led by Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra said the Philippine government “proposes to file a focused reply at a date to be determined by the Appeals Chamber.”

The OSG representing the Philippine government seeks to respond to five issues raised by the ICC prosecutor in the latter’s response to the Philippine government’s appeal.

The OSG also claimed that the Philippines throughout the proceedings “has not been afforded the same opportunities made available to other States at either the article 15 or article 18 stage.”

“As a result, the material and submissions it has provided have often been overlooked or misrepresented despite the fact that this litigation goes towards preserving its sovereignty rights,” the OSG said in its request.

“The issues identified would provide necessary clarification of the legal and factual arguments put forward by the Prosecution and would allow for the proper adjudication of each of the four grounds of appeal,” it added. g

Former president Rodrigo Duterte Philstar.com file photo

BRAIN DRAIN. Executives of Temasek Foundation pose for photo opportunity with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos during a courtesy call at Malacañan Palace on Thursday (April 13, 2023). Marcos said Southeast Asian countries must adjust and find ways to address human capital flight, particularly in the healthcare sector for the benefit of the region. Malacañang photo

Easter recovery

EASTER Sunday, a special day devoted to the risen Christ, is marked this year with genuine celebration. For the first time since the crippling lockdowns in March 2020 to contain a deadly pandemic, all restrictions on religious rites have been lifted.

Masks are still worn outdoors even if this is no longer mandatory, but throughout this Holy Week, people freely gathered again – for masses and processions, for rituals to remember the passion and death of Christ, to chant in prayer and visit different churches for the Stations of the Cross. In Central Luzon, bloody self-flagellation and live crucifixions, although not sanctioned by the Church, were fully back, with no more restrictions such as those imposed last year by some of the local government units.

This Holy Week, many people are also emerging from the grief of personal loss caused by COVID: the death of loved ones and friends, the loss of jobs and shutdown of businesses. The threat isn’t over; as of Holy Wednesday, April 7, the official COVID death toll in the country stood at 66,396, with the 9,120 active cases bringing the total infections since 2020 to 4,082,580. The cases are widely believed to be underreported because people are no longer getting RT-PCR tests on which the

Babe’s Eye View

BABE ROMUALDEZ

THERE’S hardly enough time for Easter break in Washington, DC as we expect a flurry of activity starting with the 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue on April

11 of Foreign Affairs Secretary

Ricky Manalo and Defense OIC

Charlie Galvez with their U.S. counterparts, State Secretary Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.

The policy-level dialogue is expected to solidify the alliance between the Philippines and the United States even more, with discussions to center on mutual concerns that include energy security, strategic trade and investment cooperation, critical and emerging technologies and infrastructure, supply chains and other areas that would help both nations achieve mutual economic prosperity.

The talks will be a great opportunity for both nations to modernize the alliance which has been in existence for over 70 years, and determine courses of action to effectively counter terrorism and other transnational

Horizons

RICHARD HEYDARIAN

PUTRAJAYA —Malaysian

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has found himself in hot water following seemingly overplacatory statements during a recent visit to Beijing. During his meeting with Xi Jinping, he described China’s paramount leader as a “visionary,” who had “not only changed the course of China but also given a ray of hope to the world and mankind…”

What got his critics particularly worked up, however, were his remarks on the South China Sea disputes. Although Anwar took a generally tough stance on the maritime disputes, he suggested an openness to negotiation over energy exploration activities in disputed areas.

Immediately, former prime minister Muhyiddin Yassin lashed out at his successor, accusing Anwar of making “careless” remarks that “threaten the nation’s sovereignty,” since they concern areas that fall “within Malaysia’s territory and cannot be negotiated over or demanded by China.”

He beseeched Anwar to be “more stern” in defending the country’s sovereign rights. In fairness, Anwar tried to clarify his statements by maintaining

official figures are based. Still, vaccines and infections have created sufficient immunity for people to resume many prepandemic activities. Those who suffered grievous loss are picking up the pieces of their lives and moving into a postpandemic normal.

The lifting of mobility restrictions has allowed the reopening of the economy and recovery of livelihoods. This long Holy Week break has been a boon for travel and tourism and the downstream industries, which were among the worst hit during the lockdowns. The tragedy created by a killer pandemic heightened awareness of the fleeting nature of life and brought many people closer to their Creator. Contemplation of mortality was heightened during the Lenten season, even as Easter’s message of salvation through the Resurrection of Christ has louder resonance.

It’s a new and better day; there is much to celebrate this Easter Sunday. (Philstar.com)

Two

crimes. The agenda will certainly include regional security, considering that the treaty allies are both keen on fostering a free and open as well as a prosperous and secure Indo-Pacific region.

The 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue was established in 2012, with the second one held in 2016. However, it took seven years for the third iteration to happen, which is why the dialogue this April will be very significant as it will set the long-term direction of the security and defense alliance between the U.S. and the Philippines, including future engagements.

As explained by our Defense OIC Charlie Galvez, there are “hundreds of activities” that are being lined up until 2028 for American and Filipino troops, among them joint maritime patrols, inter-service training with coast guards and navies and people-to-people engagements.

It is perhaps no coincidence that the 2+2 ministerial dialogue will happen on the opening of the 38th U.S.-Philippines Balikatan (shoulder-to-shoulder) exercises between Filipino and American troops with other like-minded nations joining as observers. This will be the biggest iteration

of the exercises with around 12,000 U.S. troops and 5,000 Filipino forces taking part, with a small contingent of Australian forces participating for the first time. Defense OIC Galvez said other allied nations can join in the future, especially in the navy-to-navy and air force-to-air force exercises. The Balikatan 2023 exercises are expected to help the Armed Forces of the Philippines develop its external defense capabilities and contribute to international efforts to counter terrorism and other threats in the region.

We have also arranged for Secretary Manalo to be the keynote speaker at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) Association of Southeast Asian Nations Leadership Forum, where he will share his “insights about a new era in the alliance in the context of the Philippines’ pursuit of its own sovereignty and territorial integrity, and its efforts to advance a more peaceful and prosperous region.”

Shortly after the 2+2 ministerial meeting, the Philippine economic team composed of Finance Secretary Ben Diokno,

Did Marcos Jr. get EDCA right?

that Malaysia’s territorial rights are nonnegotiable.

Dear reader: Let me provide some context so that we can appreciate what’s happening in the broader region, namely how our neighbors are beginning to resist bullying in the South China Sea.

Following the departure of Beijing-friendly Najib Razak in 2018, Malaysian leaders, beginning with Mahathir Mohammad, began taking an increasingly assertive stance in the South China Sea. In a bolt-from-the-blue move in late2019, Malaysia filed an extended continental shelf claim to the United Nations in order to fortify its sovereign rights claims in southwestern portions of the South China Sea basin.

When Beijing complained, then Malaysian Foreign Minister Saifuddin Abdullah minced no words, dismissing China’s expansive claims as “ridiculous” and, taking inspiration from the Philippines’ arbitration ruling in 2016, even threatened to embark on international arbitration to defend his country’s lawful claims. Despite constant harassment by Chinese maritime forces, Malaysia’s Petronas, has been conducting energy exploration activities in areas that fall within Beijing’s nine-dash line claims. The move, which began in 2020, reflected a major shift in Malaysia’s historically

acquiescent China policy. Almost simultaneously, neighboring Indonesia also began to push back against China. In early-2020, President Joko Widodo visited the energyrich Natuna islands, which overlap with the southernmost tip of Beijing’s vaguely defined nine-dash line, to openly challenge China’s intrusive presence in the area. The Indonesian leader was firm and uncompromising: “We have a district here, a regent, and a governor here. There are no more debates. De facto, de jure, Natuna is Indonesia.”

Jakarta also expanded its military presence in the area to make its uncompromising position clear. Similar to the Philippines, which named its exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea as the West Philippine Sea, Indonesia began to rename energy-rich waters off its northern islands as North Natuna Sea.

As for Vietnam, where antiBeijing sentiments are a national pastime, compromise with China was always out of question, at least officially. In fact, the communist nation has not only bolstered its military and coast guard capabilities in adjacent waters, but it has also openly warned of potential “arbitration and litigation measures” against China over expansive disputes from the Paracel to the Spratly

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas

(BSP) Governor Felipe Medalla, Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman and National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan were to be the main presenters for the Philippine Economic Briefing (PEB) on April 12 which we organized to include our major partners like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, U.S.-ASEAN Business Council and the U.S.-Philippines Society.

Prior to the PEB, our economic managers will be attending the in-person Spring Meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund from April 10 to 16.

Expected to join the economic briefing is Speaker Martin Romualdez. So in basketball parlance, it will be a full court press for us in the economic, diplomatic and security dialogues and initiatives to strengthen our relationship with the U.S., which can rightly be described as in high gear.

All these meetings have been planned way ahead, especially the economic briefings that we have been regularly organizing to showcase the Philippines as a viable investment destination.

The PEB, which will be attended by American business executives, officials from the U.S. government, think-tanks and other institutions, will tackle the latest developments of the Philippine economy and the socioeconomic agenda of the administration of President Marcos Jr. Our economic managers will also share the government’s spending priorities, fiscal and infrastructure programs and the recent reforms that will further open up the economy of the Philippines for more foreign participation in public services and renewable energy.

Following the presentations from the Philippine economic managers, Ndiame Diop, the country director for the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand and Brunei of the World Bank, and Sanjaya Panth, the deputy director for Asia and Pacific of the IMF, will give their reactions. This will be followed by a Q&A session that will be moderated by BSP Managing Director Tony Lambino and Budget Undersecretary Margaux Salcedo.

The timing is really opportune because the overall business

outlook for the first quarter is upbeat based on the Business Expectations Survey recently released by the BSP that showed an increase in confidence from entrepreneurs regarding the business situation in the Philippines. Inflation also eased to 7.6 percent in March – a welcome development as noted by Secretary Diokno, who said that they are determined to sustain this downtrend. Hopefully, we can duplicate all these economic and diplomatic initiatives with some other countries who would like to have a good relationship with us. We have not confined these initiatives just to the U.S. alone as the Philippines is open to the idea of having the same kind of relationship with many of our friends and allies – even with those that we have issues with. After all, we really do not have enemies, only issues – we want to be a friend to all. (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

New York/New Jersey, Las Vegas, San Diego. Philippines

Islands.

But just when Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam began to resist China’s expansionism in adjacent waters, the Philippines was under the thumb of Rodrigo Duterte, who openly extolled the virtues of being “meek” in exchange for China’s “mercy.” The ex-mayor undermined the Philippines’ strategic position by constantly belittling the 2016 arbitral tribunal ruling, our own armed forces’ capabilities, and the value of the Philippine-U.S. military alliance. Against this backdrop, President Marcos’ foreign policy

thrust is a belated correction of Duterte’s misguided policies. But

Mr. Marcos has to ensure that the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) doesn’t end up deepening our dependence on an external power, reducing us to America’s “deputy sheriff” in Asean. In short, EDCA should be leveraged to enhance our own defensive capabilities and deter Beijing’s worst instincts, while avoiding overcommitment to America’s broader regional strategy, particularly over Taiwan. So far, it looks like the current leadership has not

granted Americans access to our most prized bases in the north, namely in Mavulis and Fuga islands, while carefully calibrating Edca to ensure the pact focuses more on the enhancement of our own defensive capabilities vis-àvis the West Philippine Sea. (Inquirer.net)

*

*

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

* * * rheydarian@inquirer.com.ph

'BALIKATAN' BEGINS. Maj. Gen. Marvin Licudine, “Balikatan” exercise director for the Philippines (left), and Maj. Gen. Eric Austin, commanding general of the U.S. Marine Corps' 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, lead the unfurling of the flag at the opening of this year's “Balikatan” exercises at the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Tuesday, April 11. This year's exercise is so far the biggest in history, with around 17,000 participating troops. PNA photo by Joey O. Razon

Marcos rating dips; people unhappy with inflation

by Janvic Mateo Philstar.com

MANILA — Less than a year in office, President Marcos’ trust ratings fell slightly as a majority of Filipinos disapproved of the administration’s performance in curbing inflation, according to a recent survey by Pulse Asia.

Some 80 percent of the respondents said they have “big trust” in Marcos, the concurrent agriculture secretary, with five percent having “small or no trust” and 15 percent undecided. His score dropped from 83 percent in the November 2022 survey.

Results of the March 15 to 19 survey released on Wednesday, April 12 showed that 52 percent of the respondents disapprove of the government’s response to control the rising cost of basic commodities.

Only 25 percent said they approve of the government’s performance on this specific issue, while 23 percent were undecided.

Vice President Sara Duterte and Marcos however continued to enjoy the general approval and trust of most Filipinos, according to the Pulse Asia survey.

Results of the March poll showed Duterte, who concurrently serves as education secretary, obtaining slightly higher approval and trust scores than Marcos.

Some 78 percent of the respondents said they approve of Marcos’ performance, while five percent said they disapprove.

Sixteen percent were undecided.

Duterte obtained an approval

rating of 83 percent, with four percent disapproving her performance and 13 percent undecided.

The top two officials’ approval scores hardly moved from 82 percent and 84 percent, respectively, in a similar survey conducted in November 2022.

Across geographic areas, approval of Marcos’ performance was highest among respondents in the Visayas at 93 percent, followed by those in Mindanao at 87 percent, balance Luzon at 70 percent and Metro Manila at 68 percent.

It was at 87 percent among class E, 78 percent among class D and 65 percent among class ABC.

For Duterte, it was highest among respondents in Mindanao at 98 percent, closely followed by those in the Visayas at 97 percent, Metro Manila at 76 percent and the rest of Luzon at 72 percent.

Duterte’s approval score was at 87 percent among class E, 81 percent among class D and 77 percent among class ABC.

She obtained a trust score of 85 percent, with three percent saying they have “small or no trust” and 12 percent undecided.

Duterte’s score was unchanged from the previous survey.

Across geographic areas, trust with Marcos was highest among those in the Visayas at 93 percent, followed by those in Mindanao at 89 percent and Metro Manila and the rest of Luzon at 73 percent.

It was at 88 percent among class E, 80 percent among class D and 69 percent among class ABC.

Almost all or 97 percent of the respondents in the Visayas and Mindanao trust Duterte, followed by 81 percent in Metro Manila and 76 percent in the rest of Luzon.

Trust in the Vice President was at 88 percent among class E, 80 percent among class D and 69 percent among class ABC.

Meanwhile, Marcos was nevertheless elated by the latest Pulse Asia survey. “The continuous love and trust that the people give to us and VP @indaysaraduterte is truly heartening,” he said in Filipino on Instagram.

The President said the public’s continued support inspires the administration to ensure the success of its programs for the benefit of every Filipino.

“Expect your support to go a long way, especially since it is the foundation of the success of the programs we dedicate for the betterment of every Filipino,” he said.

Other issues

Aside from inflation, the government also obtained approval scores of less than 50 percent in four other issues: reducing poverty (39 percent approve, 33 percent disapprove), increasing pay of workers (44 percent approve, 24 percent disapprove), creating more jobs (45 percent approve, 24 percent disapprove) and fighting graft and corruption (47 percent approve, 22 percent disapprove).

The government obtained majority approval scores in seven other issues included in the survey. g

Romualdez vows passage of bills to sustain economic growth

MANILA – Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Thursday, April 13 assured foreign investors and multilateral lenders that the House of Representatives would continue to pass measures to sustain the country’s robust economic performance.

Romualdez made this remark after officials of the Standard Chartered Bank, the World Bank (WB) and International Monetary Fund (IMF) cited the continued strong and resilient Philippine economy despite global challenges in a briefing held at Fairmont in Washington D.C. on Wednesday, April 12.

“We are committed to passing more measures that the Marcos administration may need to further enhance investment in the Philippines aimed at improving the lives of Filipinos. I urge foreign investors to stay the course with us and share the benefits of progress and development,” he said in a statement.

He welcomed as good news the encouraging comments made by Standard Chartered Bank Global Head of Public Sector and Development Organizations Karby Leggett; WB Country Director for Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand and Brunei Ndiamé Diop; and IMF Deputy Director, Asia and Pacific Department Sanjaya Panth during the presentation of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s economic team led by Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno on the state of the Philippine economy.

Romualdez said the event was part of the Marcos administration’s whole-of-government approach to attracting more foreign investments that would create more income and job opportunities for Filipinos.

“I commend members of the economic team for this briefing. The United States is a major source of investments and funding assistance. The World Bank and IMF are likewise principal development funders,” he said.

He thanked the WB and IMF and several big multinational banks for helping organize the conference, the second held in Washington DC and the third in the U.S.

Members of the economic team who briefed the multilateral agencies, banks and prospective investors were Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Gov. Felipe M. Medalla, Budget

Secretary Amenah Pangandaman and National Economic and Development Authority Director General Arsenio Balisacan.

In his remarks, Diokno said the 2022-2028 Medium Term Fiscal Framework, which Congress passed shortly after it convened in July last year, “serves as a compass to steer the economy closely along the patch of fiscal sustainability and economic growth.”

“The targets and measures under this framework are firmly supported not only by the President but also by both houses of Congress,” he said.

He cited economic liberalization measures Congress recently approved to attract more foreign investments, such as the amended Public Service Act, Foreign Investments Act and Retail Trade Liberalization Act.

Last year, Diokno said the economy posted “a 46-year recordhigh growth rate of 7.6 percent.”

“This was higher than our fullyear target of 6.5 percent to 7.5 percent and exceeded forecasts of local private sector analysts and international financial institutions, placing the Philippines among the best-performing economies in the Asia-Pacific region,” he said.

He said the growth target this year is 6 percent to 7 percent.

“And while slightly lower in recognition of the expected global slowdown, this target remains high but doable,” he added.

Diokno pointed out that the government’s fiscal performance remains strong, with 2022 revenue collections reaching PHP3.5 trillion or about U.S.65 billion, 18 percent higher than the 2021 level.

Meanwhile, Pangandaman told the audience that the government’s priorities and expenditures are aligned with the medium-

term development plan and the 8-point socio-economic agenda of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

She said the bulk of the budget - roughly 38.1 percent - has been allotted to the social services sector “to ensure revitalized education, quality healthcare, and strengthened social protection.”

A sizable part of the outlay was also allocated for physical, social and digital infrastructure, she said.

“Here’s the good news: as of last month, the national government has identified 194 high-impact and urgently-needed infrastructure flagship projects. These will be given top priority during the annual preparation of our government’s budget,” she said.

“America is an age-old friend of the Philippines. We hope to strengthen this friendship even more as we continue to nurture our robust people-to-people ties, invigorate our dynamic bilateral relations and pursue economic transformation,” she added For his part, Balisacan said the government aims to sustain its annual infrastructure spending at 5 percent to 6 percent of gross domestic product from 2023 through 2028, or between U.S.20 billion and U.S.40 billion a year.

He said a total of 3,770 infrastructure projects with a funding requirement of U.S.317.5 billion had been identified.

“Indeed, the Marcos administration has aggressively pursued several initiatives to encourage greater local and foreign investment and private sector participation in infrastructure development…we welcome and urge the investor community to consider placing its resources in the country’s flagship infrastructure projects,” he said. (PNA)

Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez Philstar.com photo

Results of the March 15 to 19 survey released on Wednesday, April 12 showed that 52 percent of the respondents disapprove of the government’s response to control the rising cost of basic commodities. Malacañang file photo

VEGAS&STYLE

Vanessa Hudgens takes pride in her Pinoy roots

by Jerry Donato Philstar.com

HER recent and first visit to the Philippines was in stark contrast to the ones made by foreign artists and celebrities. Vanessa Hudgens, a Hollywood star, came not to promote any latest recording or acting endeavor or headline a musical showcase. She was here to understand more her Filipino heritage via starring in an international travel documentary.

As you and I know, the project will give viewers a glimpse into her relationship with Filipino mother Gina and sister Stella as well as tackle her tale as a global talent. Vanessa’s sojourn was personal and familial.

She may be born and raised in the U.S, but Vanessa is evidently and proudly Filipino. She is like a cousin based abroad that one warmly welcomes to the family and enthusiastic about knowing

bits and pieces of life here. Her social media posts and interviews in local media show her acknowledgement that there’s a forever Filipino in her heart. Even Vanessa’s previous media conversations, let’s say, as a lead star, who promoted an upcoming show, or as a UNICEF supporter, who asked help for Filipinos (that included children) affected by Yolanda, can attest to this.

Vanessa deserves to be named a Global Tourism Ambassador for the Philippines, the latest title that has been added to her being an actress, singer and producer.

“(It) is an honorary title bestowed by the Department of Tourism (DOT) to Vanessa Hudgens,” said Joyce Ramirez of PublicityAsia, which was responsible for bringing the Filipino-American star to the country, in collaboration with TEN17P as the production company, in an e-mail chat. The

conferment of such title was also in partnership with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Creative Communications.

From the piece of information given to this paper by PublicityAsia, and as what one could gather from the courtesy call made by the actress to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., the government, through the title, recognizes “exceptional and outstanding individuals for their contributions to help promote the Philippines as one of the world’s best tourism destinations.”

Thus, the Philippine government looks forward to collaborate with Vanessa in putting across “the message that the Philippines will always strive to give the world our best.”

“Just to be clear, the project is privately funded. The objective is to produce a documentary film that can be shown in an international streaming channel

to help promote the country,” said Joyce, who added that it took a few months to get the star on board the project, “as schedules needed to be cleared.” As the past few days showed, everything was written in the stars or the stars had just aligned.

From what we have known so far, Vanessa spent a few days at Pangulasian Island Resort in El Nido, Palawan. The picturesque place will be seen as a backdrop for some parts of the documentary.

According to Joyce, the actress, as she had expressed herself, is looking forward to visit the Philippines more often, but that depends on her schedule. This is true since, as being shared, Vanessa will star in upcoming films such as French Girl and Bad Boys 4.

As for her next visit to the country, places Cebu and Mindanao, where she traces her roots, are on her list, plus making a stop and interaction with indigenous tribes. Vanessa might also head to the North as she wishes to meet the 106-yearold Apo Whang-od, a traditional tattoo artist.

As a celebrity, she is a sight to behold and commands attention when Vanessa enters a room, as shown during her press conference. It can be attributed to her affable personality, complemented by that genuine smile, a best accessory one can sport.

With her Philippine visit, Vanessa had also a glam team, composed of Steven Doloso, Nante Alingasa and Mimi Qiu Reyes, who were in charge of her makeup, hair and nails, respectively, and Liz Uy as the stylist. Vanessa donned the

Atelier Patty Ang formal wear for the Malacañang event and wore the same brand for the press conference.

Again, Vanessa’s visit to the homeland of her mom, who, at the age of 25, went to the U.S., reminded everyone of the actress’ rise to fame and stardom.

Armed with innate talent in performing and enthusiasm in musical theater, she was Gabriella Montez in the Walt Disney Pictures-produced High School Musical and further established herself by acting in films like Spring Breakers, Gimme Shelter, Bad Boys for Life, and Tick, Tick…Boom!.

She showed her acting and producing prowess in rom-com films such as The Knight Before Christmas and The Princess Switch, with its installments

Switched Again and Romancing the Star, all streamed on Netflix. It’s a delight to see Vanessa taking on diverse characters and telling the latter’s unique and individual stories.

Everyone simply anticipates new projects, which include the documentary, from our kababayan Vanessa, who likes Filipino food such as adobo (vinegar-braised chicken), pansit (noodle dish) and halohalo (a summer dessert) and shows interest in tinikling folk dance (whose steps imitate the movements of a bird called tikling). Her idea of Filipino Christmas tradition also includes having pansit, lumpia (spring roll), adobo and puto-bumbong (rice cake) on the table. With that, Vanessa truly embraces and takes pride in her Pinoy heritage.

Why these halfie celebs shouldn’t be accused of Filipino baiting

by MJ Marfori Philstar.com

WHILE being Filipino is very “in” right now, thanks to social media and the crusade for diversity, it seems unfair for many celebrities with Filipino roots to be judged by anonymous and random online trolls of Filipino baiting.

So, what is Filipino baiting? Well, it is when one is accused of using one’s Filipino blood to gain clout online or in the real world. There are content creators who suddenly divulge that they are Filipino, especially when they want to get more likes or have more followers online.

While that can be very obvious, this also seems to be the judgement for Vanessa Hudgens, who visited the Philippines for the first time last week. Clearly, she came in for a job with PublicityAsia that has successfully brought in Hollywood stars in the past.

Vanessa also managed to score a Global Tourism Ambassador honor, thanks to Ten17Productions which is producing her documentary and has a government official at the helm of its production.

Up until this Holy Week, my interviews on the socials and television have been on fire because of some judgmental netizens shooting her visit down and a half of her fans finding Vanessa real cute while singing Itsy Bitsy Spider flawlessly in Bisaya (one of the languages spoken in the Philippines) along with her mom Gina.

Based on our experience, Vanessa was so professional, kind and poised during the whole press conference with the media. Me and my colleagues, who managed to have a one-onone, also noticed this about her. Vanessa’s top was even similar to GMA 7’s Aubrey Carampel for its pearl embellishments and the actress giddily bantered, “Oh, it looks like we got the pearl memo.” As for us, she even asked for a retake of our selfie because she genuinely wanted a better one just like anyone else.

To think, the local team was rushing her but during her interaction with us, Vanessa was making us feel like she was giving her all and her time, specifically for our interview. For the record,

I am not the anonymous witness in an online article published by our Philippine STAR regarding what happened during Vanessa’s press conference, but I am sharing my experience on another angle to share how I also found the actress so endearing.

Mind you, this is not the first time we interviewed Vanessa. We were able to have a oneon-one online chat with her over the lockdown for a film she produced and starred in, Princess Switch 2, on Netflix. There, she already talked about growing up with adobo, lumpia, pancit and all the relatable Filipino things. This was in 2020. The accusations of Filipino baiting Vanessa is receiving right now clearly shows that netizens who are accusing her did not do much research. Vanessa is just one of many Filipinos in Hollywood who are also finding out about their identity as they cruise through life just like you and me. Another one is Miss Universe 2022 R’Bonney Gabriel.

R’Bonney has been visiting the

Philippines since she was little. She goes to Malate, sits through Manila traffic and goes bargainhunting just like many of us when in town.

Though she grew up in Texas, she shared with us in a previous interview that her Filipino father and aunts have had an influence on her. She is coming over in May for the first time since 2019 and she is saying that she is indeed proud to be part-Filipina. Now, because of the sudden Pinoy bashers on her page, she has been extra-cautious about mentioning her Filipino heritage.

In the case of R’Bonney and Vanessa, the two clearly just had the spotlight on them to actually talk about that part in their lives. They are just doing their jobs that happen to make them share a part of themselves, which is being Filipino. Besides them, many Filipinos who are making a name for themselves abroad should be celebrated and not pulled down and apart. If we could also be kinder, it is certain that it would be easier for our people to fly high in the global scale of things.

Vanessa, a Global Tourism Ambassador for the Philippines, has recently made her first sojourn to the homeland of mom Gina to shoot an international travel documentary. The latter has given the Hollywood star a glimpse into her Filipino heritage. As a celebrity, she is a sight to behold and commands attention when she enters a room. It can be attributed to her affable personality, complemented by that genuine smile. Philstar.com photo

The author with Filipina American Hollywood star Vanessa Hudgens, who recently visited the Philippines for the first time. Philstar.com photo

Vanessa uploaded photos of herself on Instagram on Thursday, March 30 wearing a swimsuit while taking a dip at the Pangulasian Island Resort.

Photo from Instagram/@vanessahudgens

Maine fulfills flight attendant dream

by Jan Milo Severo Philstar.com

ACTRESS Maine Mendoza fulfilled her dream of becoming a flight attendant.

In her Instagram account, Maine posted photos of her journey, which will be featured in the Season 3 of her lifestyle show "Maine Goals."

"The path I was supposed to take 8 years ago. My teenage self would be so happy," she captioned the post.

"Flight attendant training/crash course for #MaineGoals Season 3 pilot week! Catch us on @tv5manila Gandang Mornings weekdays at 8:30am and weeknights at 8pm on BuKo Channel @feelgoodsabuko.

"Can’t wait for you to see what we have in store this season. Exciting goals ahead!" she added.

Before becoming a celebrity, Maine graduated with a degree in Hotel Restaurant and Institution Management (specializing in Culinary Arts) from De La SalleCollege of Saint Benilde.

Recently, she and fiance Arjo Atayde went to Paris and Amsterdam for a romantic getaway.

Maja to leave ‘Eat Bulaga’ due to upcoming wedding, ‘uncertainties’ involving noontime show

by HannaH Mallorca Inquirer.net

MAJA Salvador has confirmed that she would leave the noontime show “Eat Bulaga” due to her upcoming July wedding with fiancé Rambo Nuñez and “uncertainties” surrounding the noontime show.

Salvador’s departure from the noontime show was announced in an official statement by her talent agency Crown Artist Management on its official Facebook page on Thursday, April 13.

“Crown Artist Management would like to announce that with Maja Salvador’s upcoming wedding and with all the uncertainties surrounding ‘Eat Bulaga,’ she will be leaving the show for the time being,” the statement read.

The label also noted that while being part of the show has been the actress’ “dream,” she decided to “give it a pause” for now. “Becoming a Dabarkads was a dream of Maja that came true one and a half years ago, but for now, we have to give it a pause,” they said.

“This decision was already com-

municated to their management, so we’re hoping for your utmost understanding. Maja wishes ‘Eat Bulaga,’ its hosts and staff, all the best! Maraming salamat (Thank you very much), Dabarkads,” the agency further explained.

The date of Salvador’s final episode with “Eat Bulaga” has yet to be disclosed, as of this writing.

The “Wildflower” star’s July wedding to her non-showbiz boyfriend was revealed by the former’s handler to TV host Boy Abunda at an episode of the show

Fil-Canadian singer Tyson Venegas advances to ‘American Idol’ Season 21’s Top 24

by HannaH Mallorca Inquirer.net

FILIPINO Canadian Tyson Venegas is one step closer to becoming the winner of “American Idol” Season 21 after he advanced to the Top 24. Venegas, who made waves after winning the first platinum ticket of “American Idol” in February 2023, was confirmed to move forward to the show’s Top 24, as seen in an announcement on the show’s official Twitter page on Monday, April 10.

The singer also took to his Instagram account to express his excitement about advancing to the next stage of the competition. In the video, he can be seen pumping his fists in excitement about his recent milestone. It can also be noted that the show hasn’t announced the complete set of contestants who advanced to the next round, as of this writing. “SO HAPPY TO ANNOUNCE I MADE IT TO THE TOP 24! I have met so many amazing friends and artists on this journey and I can’t believe it’s not over yet,”

he said in the caption.

Prior to entering the Top 24, the Filipino-Canadian singer paired up with fellow Platinum Ticket winner Kaylin Hedges to perform a rendition of Queen’s “Don’t Stop Me Now” during the show’s Hollywood Week portion.

The performance appeared to have left Idol judges Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan in awe as they were spotted cheering during their

stage.

Venegas first gained attention after competing in Season 2 of ABS-CBN’s “The Voice Teens” where he was part of FilipinoAmerican rapper APL de AP’s team. The singer then amazed the Idol judges with his soulful rendition of Billy Joel’s “New York State of Mind,” where he showed off his riffs and melismas while playing the piano.

Kris enjoys downtime with son Bimby, Mark Leviste in California

IT’S been months since Kris Aquino clarified that Batangas vice governor Mark Leviste is just her “best friend,” but the supposed friendzone did not seem to dull their closeness as they spent some time together in California, U.S. Leviste took to his Instagram Stories on

Sunday, April 9 to share photos of himself bonding with the Queen of All Media, her son Bimby, and designer Michael Leyva at Fashion Island in Newport Beach, California. The photo, however, has already expired from his account, as of this writing.

Aquino was also spotted leafing through clothes at what appeared to be a shopping mall as the vice governor and Leyva watched over her.

“Fast Talk with Boy Abunda” in February 2023.

The actress’ departure comes a month after rebranding rumors hounded the noontime show that led to TAPE producer Tony Tuviera being “kicked out.” Meanwhile, EB mainstays Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon expressed their dismay over the incident. However, Tito clarified at an April 2023 interview with Korina Sanchez that the noontime show “is here to stay.”

The Batangas-based politician then shared a photo of himself shopping at a luxury jewelry brand which appeared to be a special gift to Aquino, which Leviste also posted on IG.

Leviste’s post comes a few days after Bimby revealed during a meeting with TV personalitytalent manager Ogie Diaz, that his mother is currently in a stable condition as she currently weighs at 103 pounds.

“She is now mga 103 [pounds]… For me, kahit 80 pounds si mama, even if she was 80 pounds, she will still be the most beautiful mama ever para sa akin,” he added, as seen in Diaz’s vlog uploaded last April 4.

Aquino’s son also disclosed that the actresshost will always be the “[love] of his universe,” where he added that having a relationship is not a priority at the moment. (Inquirer.net)

Ehrlich Ocampo’s Magical Vegas Awakening: The Journey of A Passionate Leviwand Artist

The spectacular stage show

Awakening is making waves at Wynn Las Vegas. This mythical, magic-filled production—driven by technologically advanced effects, dazzling costumes, expressive choreography, and outstanding sound design—is proving to be a new favorite in the Las Vegas entertainment scene. The show boasts of having a creative powerhouse at its helm. Best of all, global Filipino talent Ehrlich Marz Ocampo gets to showcase his leviwand expertise to help make the show truly unforgettable.

Way before his America’s Got Talent television debut, Ehrlich Ocampo had been innovating a performance art that has caught the attention of live entertainment creatives around the world. His leviwand presentations, a genre of object manipulation that integrates magic, dance, acrobatics, and technology, play to sold-out houses and receive standing ovations. “Leviwand lured me with its artistry, magic, and dance. And when we first danced together, it was like finding my long-lost soulmate,” he shares. Awakening is Ehrlich’s latest addition to his growing performance portfolio. The grand 75-minute show conceived and created by Bernie Yuman, Baz Halpin, and Michael Curry, and narrated by

two-time Academy Award®winner Anthony Hopkins tells the love story between Darkness and Light and how relationships may shatter and get pieced back together.

Aside from being a featured performer in the show’s climax called The Confrontation, a fight choreography with his trusty leviwand on hand, he plays vital behind-the-scenes roles in the production. Aside from training and teaching fellow performers his techniques, he also shares his know-how of LED props including the required programming that helps bring the show to life. The work makes him giddy with excitement.

“Being here in Vegas is so surreal! It blows my mind to think I am a featured performer in the biggest, newest, most technologically advanced show in the entertainment capital of the world. From practicing on the streets in Manila to the Vegas stage, it’s hard to fathom sometimes.”

How does Ehrlich feel that his leviwand technique is vital to the show’s most crucial moment?

“All the years of hard work and commitment are paying off.

It’s a prominent ‘introduction’ of me as an artist and leviwand as an art to the Las Vegas entertainment scene. I feel the pressure to keep up the performance quality and even elevate it more.”

Awakening director and producer Baz Halpin shares the thought process behind the decision to cast Ehrlich. “In casting for Awakening at Wynn Las Vegas, we sought the best talent in the world—unique performers with abilities that not only were of the highest caliber but were such that you could not see them anywhere else. Awakening is the largest spectacle mounted in Las Vegas in the last 20 years. It comprises the highest form of excellence in staging, design, magic, technology, dance, and performance. We searched for a performer who could embody the impossibility of an illusion with the artistry of dance.

Ehrlich Ocampo exemplifies the incredible ability and

that we were looking for. His ‘leviwand’ performance is magical and energetic and captivates the audience.”

Ehrlich Ocampo is skillful at object manipulation, a form of circus performance where an artist physically interacts with one or more objects. He merges illusion and dance artistry to create magical, energetic, and captivating routines. |

America’s Got Talent audition

In 2018, Cirque Du Soleil took notice of Ehrlich’s leviwand innovation, leading them to the decision to cast him in Syma: Sail Beyond Imagination, a touring production on MSC Cruise ships sailing the Mediterranean. He fondly remembers the moment he got the good news. “I was caught

by surprise. I knew it would take a long time for me to get cast because it was such an unusual circus act, but I finally got a project with the biggest circus company in the world.” He was given the role of The Stranger One, an eccentric outcast who mesmerizes the sailor Syma to further explore the depths of the island he is stranded on. The result was a breathtaking performance that merged makeup, acrobatics, and technology in an immersive experience that wowed audiences on the MSC Bellissima. David Poulin, Director for Creation of Cirque du Soleil at Sea gives him high praise, “Ehrlich is the dream artist any manager dreams of. He’s always professional, attentive to detail, and always working towards improving every aspect of his work. You truly believe he’s displaying superpowers.”

Riding on the success of his

and with the judges’ unanimous opinion that “it’s an artwork we’ve never seen before”, it was not a surprise that producers and industry creatives sought him out. Giulio Scatola, Creative Director & Choreographer who happens to be his former boss shares, “When I saw Ehrlich perform, I was so impressed by the artistic and technical aspects of this art form. It was a very original combination of disciplines, bringing together dance, acrobatics, and magic.”

JB Estrada Ehrlich’s journey to the Vegas stage began in 2013 when he began perfecting his leviwand technique. He first introduced his act to international audiences at the Festival Mondial du Cirque de Demain (World Circus Festival of Tomorrow) in 2016. In this largest circus competition in the world, he showcased his magical prop work and display of dexterity before an audience of peers as well as an esteemed jury. He recalls, “I was definitely out of my comfort zone, but I believed it was something special that I wanted to share with the world.”

He performed and delivered a talk at the prestigious Blackpool Magic Convention in 2022, where he shared his expertise in leviwand artistry with the world’s leading magic community. This world-class performer is intent on sharing his talent with individuals interested in his performance style. “I’ve always been passionate about sharing my art with others. My mantra is to ‘make waves’ which means

I believe the work I do in this life must benefit not only me but also others. If other people hadn’t made waves that affected me, I wouldn’t be where I am today. And who am I not to share what I was given?”

Ehrlich Ocampo is a welcome addition to the Las Vegas entertainment landscape. His unique skills are imbued with kindness and generosity. He enjoys sharing his knowledge and talents with everyone, making him a valuable asset to an industry always looking for growth. With his creative drive, we are looking forward to seeing more of his contributions in Awakening and hope to see more of his magical work at Wynn Las Vegas

To see more of Ehrlich Ocampo’s work, visit his official website https://firechill.ph/. Follow and interact with him on his official social media channels in YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok.

Maine Mendoza with her co-stars Photo from Instagram/@mainedcm

Maja Salvador, Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, Joey de Leon

Photos from Facebook/@Crown Artist Management, Facebook/@Eat Bulaga

Tyson Venegas

Photo from Instagram/@tysonvenegas

Kris Aquino enjoys downtime with her son Bimby and Batangas Vice Governor Mark Leviste. Photo from Instagram/@markleviste

artistry

World-class Filipino talent Ehrlich Ocampo showcases his mastery of the leviwand in Wynn Las Vegas’ Awakening. This is the first time leviwand is introduced as an art in the Las Vegas entertainment scene. | Photo credit: Joe Janet, Wynn Las Vegas

Photo credit:

YOU and I, and the 8 billion people around the world, are social animals. Our two-legged and four-legged friends are also “social” creatures. Like us humans, these animals also value, long for, and enjoy companionship. The loners among them usually do not survive long. Most obviously, social life, a sense of belonging, a comfortable feeling of security in numbers, a natural mental sense of community, are essential to health, mental and otherwise.

That social nature starts the day we are born, in the arms of our mother, nurtured in the crib, and developed into a complete positive mental state through interactions with both our parents, siblings, grandparents, and friends. All these enable us to develop lasting relationships and a rewarding mental health, which affects and influences all other lives we touch. Human beings’ capacity to live a stable and happy life and our survival as a species heavily depend on our culture, education, social skills, attitude, and social behavior.

The history of man on earth shows that cavemen started forming small groups, literally for security and for survival against the harsh and unforgiving environment, and vicious attacks from animals preying on them.

That dependency on each other is still very evident even today, in this modern, technologically advanced society of ours. Indeed, no man is an island, and a loner is, comparatively, at a much graver risk of ill-health and attrition.

A sense of belonging keeps us, humans, connected with our fellowmen, within our own circle, our community, conferring upon our being the reward of acceptance, a gratifying inner satisfaction that we are “in,” and “one of them,” akin to being a member of a club or a fraternity/ sorority or a party. This sense of belonging is fundamental for our emotional and physical wellbeing, a powerful prescription that effectively enables each of us to cope with the sometimes unfriendly and harsh environment and social order.

Attitude

Our social skills, which are vital to our acceptance as a member of a group or community, are developed or impeded by our attitude, which, like social prowess, also significantly impacts our life and our health. Both are pre-requisites to health, happiness, and inner peace in each of us human beings. A good attitude compliments and boosts our social skills and acceptability

On belonging, attitude

to “belong.”

Here are some quotes of wisdom I have come across which are inspiring philosophical parachutes in life for those who, like many of us, sometimes find themselves falling towards the pit of discouragement and despair:

• Anthony J. D’Angelo, in The College Blue Book, said, “Wherever you go, no matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine.”

• To quote Oscar Wilde, “If you don’t get everything you want, think of the things you don’t get that you don’t want.”

• Voltaire expressed it beautifully when he stated, “Life is like a shipwreck, but we must not forget to sing in the lifeboats.”

• An ancient Persian saying puts a great perspective on our daily aches and pains in life – “I had the blues because I had no shoes until upon the street, I met a man who had no feet.”

• And as some of us may curse some bad days we encounter and wish they never came, Cavett Robert offers these poignant words: “If you don’t think every day is a good day, just try missing one.”

Indeed, every day is a good day, although others are better, and others not as good. But each day is a gift. Not waking up to another day is a deadly waste, but not appreciating another day as we open our eyes each morning in our journey through life is a tragedy. How each of us greets the day depends greatly on our attitude. Indeed, attitude impacts our health, our life, and our everyday happiness and success. A person with a chip on his shoulder, with a negative attitude or pessimistic view of life, will obviously be miserable most of the time. And the opposite is true, as Annette Goodheart brilliantly points out: “Just because you’re miserable doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy life.”

Happiness is basically an attitude. Gaining inner peace is an attitude. We have that Godgiven power to feel what we want to feel. And we can even psyche ourselves.

In a world where global peace is still a dream, a world beset with an economic crisis, with terrorism, with greed and corruption, with energy, food and water shortage, global warming and its devastating side-effects on typhoons, earthquakes and flooding, good social skills and attitude, in the midst of all these disasters, are the best weapons against helplessness, despair and depression. They, indeed, impact our health and life.

With all these complex problems confronting us, we often find ourselves in the gutter of hopelessness, wherefrom, Oscar Wilde suggests, we can

look up at the heavens and “see the stars.” Indeed, a positive attitude, a happy outlook in life, especially these days, can help us tremendously in conquering our fears, insecurities, and dilemmas. Without total surrender, when we sometimes lose or fail, we should remind ourselves to get up and fight even harder. After all, “defeat is not bitter unless you swallow it,” as Joe Clark states.

To this, I will add my own: “No one can succeed in life who does not have the courage to fail”; and, “The greatest risk in life is in not taking any risk at all.”

Someone said, “You cannot adjust the direction of the wind, but you can adjust your sails.”

Very true, indeed. Simple words of wisdom that could make our day, if not our life.

But, of course, we should not simply leave everything to God. We must do our share. He promises to help those who help themselves. As I live my life each day, I remind myself of an ancient proverb that says, “To everyone is given the key to heaven; the same key opens the gates to hell.” It’s indeed a matter of personal choice. And that choice inevitably depends on our attitude in life. Some people believe their fate is predestined, and that they can’t do anything about it. Others, inspired by good attitude and a positive social frame of mind, design, create, and charter their own destiny.

Finally, I strongly believe that leaving this world after this life is not a tragedy. Dying without significance, without making a difference, without leaving behind a good legacy, certainly is.

* * * 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.

Las Vegas Science and Technology Festival invites local families to discover STEM throughout our community

Annual event offers nine days of free STEM activities, experiences, resources, and career opportunities for children and their families to explore throughout Clark County

LAS VEGAS – The Las Vegas Science and Technology Festival returns to the Las Vegas Valley with nine days of FREE educational events for the whole family. Kicking-off April 28, the festival features over 40 events and concludes with a Giant Science and Technology Expo at the World Market Center on May 6.

The annual community event, presented by the Las Vegas Natural History Museum in collaboration with the Clark County School District, strives to spark students' curiosity and inspire them to explore careers in STEM by highlighting the unique science, technology, engineering, and math programming within our community.

All week long, school-aged children and their families can enjoy a variety of activities including interactive presentations, handson technology workshops, STEM movie nights, and behind-thescenes tours of popular local attractions such as Shark Reef and the Bellagio fountains. Those unable to attend the activities during the week can visit the Giant Science and Technology Expo for a full day of unique and engaging science-themed experiences and educational entertainment like robotics demonstrations, meet and greets with animals and local scientists, as well as a chance to see some of the giant fossils discovered right here in Nevada.

“Nevada has such a rich history when it comes to science, technology, engineering and math,” said Alexandra Liebman, director of the Las Vegas Science and Technology Festival.

“Since 2011, we’ve been able to showcase various STEM projects, companies, and groups throughout town. Whether they’re hosting an event or are exhibiting at the Giant Science and Technology Expo, the Festival is a great opportunity for businesses to get involved and offer resources, activities, and opportunities for our youth to learn more about their organization, what they do,

and the science or technology they utilize.”

New this year, the Las Vegas Science and Technology Festival will award $1,000 to the CCSD school that has the most students and families attend the Giant Science and Technology Expo.

All festival events are free and open to the public. Registration is now open and required as participation for some events is limited and based on availability.

The 2023 Las Vegas Science and Technology Festival is made possible by the generous support of Clark County School District, Nevada National Security Site, NV Energy, MGM Resorts International, Gene Haas Foundation, Cox Communications, Arcata Associates Inc., and NVigate, powered by the Nevada State Treasurer's Office.

Below is a sampling of the scheduled events, for a full listing visit www.scifest.vegas.

Friday, April 28 (Kick-Off):

Rebel Science Explorers at the UNLV College of Sciences (AM), Tour at BlackFire Innovation Center (afternoon), and Public Talk with Vice Dean of UNLV School of Medicine (PM)

Saturday, April 29 (Outdoor Explorers Day): BioBlast at Clark County Wetlands Park; Junior Paleontologist Hike at Ice Age Fossil State Parks; Base Camp Family Day at Sunset Park; and STEM Movie Saturday at Galaxy Theaters at the Boulevard Mall –Vertical Freedom

Sunday, April 30 (Science is Everywhere Day): over 20 community partners across the valley offering special tours, demos and workshops featuring science and technology in their organizations

Events include, but are not limited to: Behind-the-scenes tours of Shark Reef and the Bellagio Fountains; The Mine Experience at McCaw School of Mines; various engineering and science demonstrations at six Clark County Library District locations; Robots Saving Lives at Southern Hills Hospital; Sign

Science Techie Tour at Neon Museum; and a special tour of the Atomic Museum

For a full list of events, visit www.scifest.vegas/science

Monday, May 1: Mission to MARS, interactive presentation by Dr. Arya Udry, a participating scientist on NASA’s 2020 Mission to MARS at West Sahara Library

Tuesday, May 2: Ologist Night at the Las Vegas Natural History Museum, meet real scientists and learn about their career fields

Wednesday, May 3: Interactive event with medical residents at Southern Hills Hospital (AM); STEM Movie Night at Galaxy Theaters at the Boulevard Mall –Legend of the Enchanted Reef

Thursday, May 4: May the Science Be With You, DRI and the National Atomic Testing Museum welcome the community to explore science through the lens of Star Wars

Friday, May 5: Night at the Planetarium, join the CSN Planetarium and the Las Vegas Astronomical Society for a funfilled night of space science and STEM activities.

Saturday, May 6: Giant Science and Technology Expo at the World Market Center, FREE fullday of one-of-a-kind science and technology experiences and engaging sciencethemed interactive booths and entertainment; list of exhibitors can be found here: www.scifest. vegas/expo

Started in 2011, the annual Las Vegas Science and Technology Festival has quickly become the largest educational event in Nevada. Through engaging and educational programming, the Festival strives to spark curiosity and highlight the amazing science, technology, engineering, and math taking place right here in our community. The Festival makes science fun, accessible, and engaging for everyone—kids, families, and adults. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter @scifest_ vegas Instagram @scifest_vegas. Visit www.scifest.vegas for more information.

Plan for your future during Financial Literacy Month

by Annie WAlters Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Nevada

APRIL is Financial Literacy

Month. Social Security is a vital part of any financial plan. . Our online tools can help you understand your potential Social Security benefits and how they fit into your financial future.

You should periodically review your Social Security Statement (Statement) using your personal my Social Security account at www.ssa.gov/myaccount. Your Statement is an easy-to-read summary of the estimated benefits you and your family could receive, including potential retirement, disability, and survivors’ benefits.

Our Plan for Retirement tool in your personal my Social Security account allows you to check various benefit estimate scenarios. You can compare how different future earnings and retirement benefit start-dates might affect your future benefit amount.

Please tell your friends and family about the steps they can take to improve their financial knowledge by exploring their

personal my Social Security account. If they don’t have an account, they can easily create one at www.ssa.gov/myaccount.

EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYMENT PSYCHIC

The American College of Surgeons (ACS) Nevada Chapter held a lecture-dinner-meeting at Lawry's Prime Rib on Hughes Parkway, Las Vegas, on Thursday, April 6, 2023. Among the attendees were (l-r) Edward Quiros, MD, MBA, FACS; Jennifer Baynosa, MD, FACS, ACS Nevada Chapter president; Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, cardiac surgeon and columnist of this paper; Camille W. Spencer, NV-ACS Director; Daniel C. Fabito, MD, FACS, FPCS; and Honorio M. Cruz, MD, FACS. All four gentlemen above are Fellows of the American Collkege of Surgeons and past presidents of the Society of Philippine Surgeons in America.