042123 - San Diego Edition

Most CA taxpayers have until Oct. 16 to file taxes

APRIL 18 marked the 2023 Tax Day around the United States, but this year, some taxpayers across California have several months to file and pay their taxes.

The IRS previously announced an extended deadline for Californians to October 16, 2023 due to the damages from the storms in December 2022 and January 2023. The state of California also extended the state tax filing and payment due dates to the same October date.

The following counties are eligible for this extended tax relief, per the IRS announcements.

Residents and businesses in Alameda, Alpine, Amador, Butte, Calaveras, Colusa, Contra Costa, Del Norte, El Dorado, Fresno, Glenn, Humboldt, Inyo, Kings, Lake, Los Angeles, Madera, Marin, Mariposa, Mendocino, Merced, Mono, Monterey, Napa, Nevada, Orange, Placer, Riverside, Sacramento, San Benito, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Francisco, San Joaquin, San Luis Obispo, San Mateo, Santa Barbara, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Siskiyou, Solano,

DFA: US allots more than $100 million for EDCA

by John Eric MEndoza Inquirer.net

MANILA — The United States has now allotted more than $100 million for the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), the Department of Foreign Affairs said Wednesday, April 19.

DFA Secretary Enrique Manalo said the U.S. pledged another $18 million on top of the initial $82 million for EDCA during the recent 2+2 ministerial meeting between Manila and Washington.

“To date, the U.S. allocated a total of over 100

million U.S. dollars to EDCA projects, including additional 18 million U.S. Dollars announced during the third 2+2 ministerial dialogue last weekend in Washington,” Manalo said during an inquiry of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations.

“This would cover projects in both existing and new agreed locations,” he added.

Currently, there are five existing EDCA sites located at Antonio Bautista Air Base in Palawan, which is closest to the Kalayaan Group of Islands; Basa Air Base in Pampanga, the home of the Philippine Air Force’s fighter planes;

Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija, the country’s largest military camp and a frequent location of Philippine-U.S. military exercises; Mactan-Benito Ebuen Air Base in Cebu; and Lumbia Air Base in Cagayan de Oro City.

Malacañang has recently announced four additional EDCA sites, which include the Camilo Osias Naval Base in Sta. Ana town and Lal-lo Airport in Lal-lo town in Cagayan province; Camp Melchor dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela; and Balabac, the southernmost island in Palawan province.

According to Manalo, there had been significant

‘Improved Philippine ranking in terror index shows waning insurgency’

by alExis roMEro Philstar.com

MANILA — The Philippines’ improved ranking in the Global Terrorism Index (GTI) proves that the government is “on the right track” in fighting insurgency, the National Security Council (NSC) said on Monday, April 17.

The Philippines is the 18th most affected by terrorism among 163 countries in this year’s edition of the GTI, a report produced by think tank Institute for Economics and Peace that analyzes the impact of terrorism worldwide.

While the country’s ranking improved from 17th last year, it was the second most affected country in Asia, second only to Myanmar.

The GTI assesses each country using a zero to ten scale, with higher values reflecting higher impact of terrorism. The Philippines’ latest score is 6.328 or “medium impact.”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – A group of former U.S. service members and Filipino American community advocates released an open letter to President Joe Biden, urging that the issue of abandoned Amerasian children be included in the terms of the U.S.-Philippine Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, as “a surge of new Amerasian children can be expected in future years” with expanded U.S. troop access to Philippine military bases.

Amerasians are abandoned children of American military fathers who served in the Philippines during the Cold War and the war in Vietnam.

“These Filipino Amerasians faced widespread discrimination, underemployment, poverty, domestic violence and sexual abuse, according to a 1999 study by a Pearl S. Buck foundation. Sadly, the United States Government short changed them. Fortunately, they have received sympathetic world-wide media attention,” the letter released by the Filipino Amerasians Reunification Coalition said.

The coalition asks for a humanitarian executive order “that would protect the rights and welfare of current and future Filipino Amerasian children and adults by including them in the U.S.-PH EDCA Agreement terms

Bongbong

“We welcome with great enthusiasm and optimism the latest results of the Global Terrorism Index released by the Institute for Economic and u PAGE 2

Fil-Am couple sheds light on hate incidents following assault in Sacramento

by donnabEllE Gatdula-arEvalo AJPress

WHEN Filipino American veteran photojournalist Nicanor “Nikki” Arriola and his wife Julienne were attacked and assaulted in front of the California state Capitol in Sacramento, he knew it was a calling to speak out against hate incidents.

“It’s like a storyteller becomes a story,” said Nikki Arriola in an interview with the Asian Journal, recounting how he has usually been behind the camera in reporting anti-Asian attacks.

The couple was visiting relatives in Sacramento, with the photojournalist equipped with his two cameras during a stop at the Capitol to “take some human

u PAGE 4

Philippines aims to be health information management destination hub for Asia Pacific

BPO industry continues to perform well, expects 1.7 million direct jobs by year end

by MoMar G. visaya AJPress

by daphnE GalvEz Inquirer.net

MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Tuesday, April 18 tasked the members of the national and regional peace and order councils to address cases of political violence, even those stemming from the illegal drug trade. Marcos said political violence and illegal drugs are currently the two biggest concerns threatening peace and order in the country.

According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), Marcos

u PAGE 2

MANILA — Former Secretary of Foreign Affairs Albert del Rosario — who played a key role in securing the landmark Hague ruling that invalidated China’s expansive claims in the West Philippine Sea — has passed away. He was 83 years old.

The Management Association of the Philippines, a business group, announced the passing of its former president on Tuesday, April 18. Del Rosario — also a businessman — was a MAP member for 45 years.

Prior to his appointment as foreign affairs secretary under the late Benigno Aquino III, Del Rosario served as Philippine

PHILIPPINE government officials and industry leaders from the IT-Business Process Management (IT-BPM) and Healthcare Information Management Services (HIMS) sectors held a business forum last week at the Philippine Center to share updates on the Philippine economy, the state of the country’s ICT industry as well as opportunities in the industry.

Department of Trade and Industry Undersecretary

Rafaelita Aldaba discussed the new industrial policy of the Philippines, which aims to grow globally competitive and innovative industries, build a more dynamic industry ecosystem and pursue regional development through innovation and entrepreneurship.

Aldaba said economic forecasts predict that the Philippines will become a 1 trillion economy by 2034, joining the ranks of China, Japan, Korea, Australia, Taiwan, and Indonesia. She

u PAGE 2

Group urges Biden to include issue of Filipino Amerasians in EDCA terms

Marcos orders peace and order councils to address political violence, illegal drugs

Albert Del Rosario, ex-top diplomat who won Philippines’ maritime case vs China, dies at 83

MOTHER AND CHILD CARE. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. leads the groundbreaking of the St. Bernadette Mother and Child Hospital in the City of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan on Wednesday, April 19. The health care facility, classified as

pharmacy. PNA photo by Rey Baniquet

Dr. Rafaelita “Fita” M. Aldaba, Undersecretary for the Competitiveness and Innovation Group of the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) explains the new industry policy of the Philippines. AJPress Photo by Momar G. Visaya

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Inquirer file photo / Marianne Bermudez

Filipino American veteran photojournalist Nicanor “Nikki” Arriola (pictured) and his wife Julienne were attacked in broad daylight during a visit to the California state Capitol in Sacramento last February. In the months following the attack, they are still recovering from their injuries and are making it their mission to speak out against hate incidents. Contributed photo

Philippines aims to be health...

highlighted the economic performance of the country, which expanded by 7.6% in 2022. The country’s economic performance has been posting a growth rate of over 6% in the last 10 years before the pandemic.

The undersecretary also focused on the potential for investment in HIMS in the Philippines.

The country aims to become the HIMS destination hub for the Asia Pacific region, with the adoption of automation, new technologies, and highly skilled workers. The country’s capabilities in HIM, combined with a favorable investment climate and government support, make it an attractive destination for investors.

‘Improved Philippine ranking in terror...

Peace showing a much improved ranking for the Philippines at 18th place for the year 2022 compared to being in the top 10 countries worst affected by terrorism several years ago,” the NSC said in a statement.

“This could only mean one thing: That the Philippine government is on the right track and by that we shall continue all counter-insurgency efforts we started years back, focusing mainly on our local peace initiatives and good governance espoused by NTF-ELCAC (National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict) under the guidance of our chairman, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.,” it added.

The NTF-ELCAC, which was formed under former president Rodrigo Duterte in 2018, seeks to provide “an efficient mechanism and structure” that will implement a whole-of-nation approach in achieving “inclusive and sustainable peace.”

The NSC said the better ranking was a testament to the Philippine government’s “unrelenting resolve to address the root causes of insurgency.”

It cited the implementation of the Bangsamoro Organic Law, the creation of NTF-ELCAC, the “aggressive campaign” in preventing and countering violent extremism and the passage of the Anti-Terrorism Act.

“While it may be true that the Philippines remains to date as the second ‘most impacted country’ by terrorism in Southeast Asia, the 2022 GTI noted that the Philippines recorded its lowest level of terrorism since the inception of the GTI,” the council said.

According to the NSC, the Philippines previously languished in the top ten list of countries battered by terrorism, along with war-torn states like Iraq, Afghanistan and Somalia.

“Such notoriety, according to the same reports, was due to the atrocities mostly committed by the communist terrorist group New People’s Army and armed groups affiliated with known international terrorist organizations,” the NSC said.

Citing GTI data, the NSC pointed out that from 2011 to 2020, the Philippines had hovered around the tenth spot in the index until it showed great improvements for the years 2021 (16th place) and 2022 (18th place).

The NSC said the Philippines’ ranking worsened between 2016 and 2017 when the country dropped from 12th place to 10th place, a development it attributed to “atrocious attacks” launched by communist rebels. Despite the country’s better ranking, the NSC admitted that its work is “far from over.” n

US allots more than $100 million for...

progress in eight of 16 projects in the initial five EDCA locations. Of the eight projects, six are estimated to be completed this 2023, including the runway

project at Basa Air Base, the storage facility at Mactan Air Base, and the Humanitarian Disaster Relief warehouse in Fort Magsaysay. The EDCA, signed during

the administration of the late President Benigno S. Aquino III in 2014, allows U.S. troops access to and to store defense equipment and supplies in Philippine military bases. n

“Our vision is to make the Philippines the Health Information Management destination hub for Asia Pacific,” Aldaba shared. “We aim to grow globally competitive and innovative industries and build a more dynamic industry ecosystem through our new science, technology, and innovation-driven industrial strategy.”

Ready for global challenges

Jack Madrid, president and chief executive officer of the IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) presented the success of the industry in the Philippines. He said that the country is a preferred destination for global business partners due to its resilience and the ability to generate a significant number of jobs for the economy.

The industry has shown impressive growth in both headcount and revenue, with 70% of its business coming from North America.

The United States continues to be the largest market for the IT-BPM sector, according to Madrid.

The industry has grown to 1.6 million Filipino employees in the country over two decades ago and hopes to add 1.1 million more in just six years or by the end of 2028, based stated in its roadmap.

“Our industry has shown much resilience through the

Jack Madrid, president and chief executive officer of the IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) said that the country is a preferred destination for global business partners due to its resilience and the ability to generate a significant number of jobs for the economy. AJPress Photo by Momar G. Visaya

past decade, regardless of global recessions, natural disasters, and even a most unexpected pandemic,” Madrid said. “The bedrock of the growth of this industry has been the Filipino talent, and in the case of the healthcare information management industry, that bedrock is our large number of U.S. registered nurses and medical professionals.”

Despite facing global challenges, the industry has continued to grow.

During the pandemic, the industry quickly transitioned to a work-from-home setup, mobilizing over 1 million employees, with no dip in productivity or customer satisfaction ratings. Madrid emphasized that the success of the industry is due to the talented Filipino workforce, particularly in the healthcare information management industry, where there is a large number of U.S. registered nurses and medical professionals.

“Our industry has diversified and evolved towards much higher value functions, showing the ability of the Filipino workforce to take on complex and specialized roles,” Madrid explained. “The Filipino workforce has proven to be resilient and adaptable, continuously upskilling and reskilling to meet the evolving demands of the global market.”

In his opening remarks, Consul General Senen Mangalile

welcomed the attendees and highlighted the purpose of the event, which was to showcase the Philippines as the premier investment destination. He emphasized that the Philippines is one of the fastest growing economies in Asia, with a continuously improving rating for ease of doing business.

“The Philippines is the premier investment destination in our part of the world,” Mangalile said. “There is so much that the Philippines has to offer which in more ways than we currently imagined could be game-changing for you and your business.”

Consul General Mangalile encouraged the attendees to explore the industries that the Philippines has to offer, particularly in healthcare information management services, which can provide topnotch quality patient care.

The Philippines is still a preferred destination for global business partners, with 70% of the industry’s business coming from North America, according to Madrid. However, there is a challenge of talent supply not meeting demand, which is crucial to maintain the industry’s growth

The IT-BPM industry’s roadmap for 2028 aims to deliver one million additional direct jobs and grow the industry to a total of 2.5 million direct jobs by 2028, generating close to 60 billion in revenue. n

Bongbong Marcos orders...

made the statement during the 1st Joint National Peace and Order Council and Regional Peace and Order Council Meeting in Malacañang, where he noted the increasing violent activities in the country, particularly since the 2022 elections.

“They happened just after the election and they just… halos sunod-sunod. Kaya’t naging very prominent sa pag-iisip ng taong-bayan na masyado na talagang naging malala ito,” he said, as quoted by PCO.

(They happened one after the other. That’s why it became very prominent in the public’s minds that the situation has worsened.)

“Of course, that is true because even one is too much. But nonetheless, in terms of the political violence, I think, I hope, and we must continue to look out for, and watch out for this is that the experience that we have been having,” Marcos added.

The president also told the councils to address the proliferation of illegal or loose firearms that fuel violence in the country, warning about the rise of warlordism.

He added that another problem concerning peace and order is violence perpetrated by drug syndicates quarreling over territory with the involvement of some members of the police force.

“It stems from the territorial fights over areas where drugs are distributed, who controls the drug trade in that area. Kung minsan naririnig natin, mayroong talagang scalawag diyan,” Marcos said.

(We can hear reports that scallawag police officers are involved.)

“So kailangan talaga natin bantayan nang

mabuti that these activities that are growing have to be dismantled,” he added.

(So we need to ensure these growing activities are dismantled.)

The PCO said the 1st Joint NPOC and RPOC Clusters’ Meeting was organized to provide updates on the country’s peace and order issues, aid policy decisions, and facilitate immediate action from concerned agencies.

The 2016-2022 accomplishments include the successful surveillance and intelligence operations by the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA), anti-insurgency and anti-terrorism efforts, anti-illegal drugs campaign, and effective COVID-19 response.

Through the anti-insurgency and anti-terrorism efforts and the revitalized National Task Force on Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTFELCAC), the PCO said the government disbanded 67 guerilla fronts, neutralized 8,645 Communist Terrorist Groups (CTG), and facilitated the surrender of 28,713 rebel members.

In the fight against illegal drugs, the government reported a total of 261,642 anti-illegal drug operations conducted from 2016 to 2022, which resulted in the arrest of 376,582 drug personalities and the seizure of 12 tons of marijuana, 14 tons of shabu, 190,324 pieces of ecstasy, and 500 kilograms of cocaine.

Regarding the overall peace and order situation, the government reported that the total crime volume in 2022 decreased by 11.87 percent, from 235,059 in 2021 to 207,143.

The PCO said that crime solution and clearance efficiency by the end of 2022 were 82.28 percent and 96.72 percent, respectively. n

Albert Del Rosario, ex-top diplomat...

Ambassador to the United States under former President Gloria Arroyo’s administration.

“He was a consummate diplomat and an inspiring leader who led the DFA with integrity and unwavering commitment to public service,” Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo said in a statement on Tuesday.

“You will be missed, Mr. Secretary,” Manalo said of his former boss.

Del Rosario, the diplomat Del Rosario served as the secretary of foreign affairs beginning February 2011 before resigning in March 2016 due to health reasons. His term was supposed to end in June, the same time as Aquino’s.

The DFA described him as a “staunch advocate” of protecting Filipinos here and abroad. Under his term as foreign affairs chief, Del Rosario led the evacuation of Filipinos working in wartorn countries such as Libya and was also on the frontline of negotiations for the case of Mary Jane Veloso, an overseas Filipino worker who was put on death row in Indonesia after being caught smuggling heroin into the country.

The Philippines filed its case to invalidate China’s expansive claims across the South China Sea at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in 2014. The court’s decision on the case was released months after Del Rosario’s resignation in May 2016.

Despite stepping down from the post, Del Rosario continued to actively engage in discussions on the West Philippine Sea. He also criticized the foreign policy thrust of President Rodrigo

Duterte – whom Del Rosario said left a “shameful legacy” after Duterte “quickly shelved the Arbitral Award” in exchange for Chinese investments.

As the country’s envoy to the U.S., a position he held beginning 2001, del Rosario secured a $1.2 billion funding assistance to the Philippines along with other business opportunities such as investments into the country’s Business Process Outsourcing Industry, among others. He was reportedly recalled after disagreements with Arroyo. Del Rosario, the businessman Del Rosario has a vast experience in the private sector.

Stratbase ADR Institute notes that before he entered public service, Del Rosario was on the

Watch for the yellow envelope –

15 million CA MediCal enrollees’

eligibility under review

Hedin

by Mark

Media Services

Ethnic

MEDICAL enrollees are encouraged to update their information to keep their status as the state reviews eligibility for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic. For the first time in three years, an estimated 80 million Americans whose health care is through Medicaid will have their eligibility for it checked.

If you’re one of those people and live in California, keep an eye out for a yellow envelope appearing in your mailbox, state Department of Health Care Services officials said at an April 12 press briefing hosted by Ethnic Media Services and California Black Media.

board of directors of “over 50 firms.”

Aside from his company Gotuaco, del Rosario Insurance Brokes, he was chairman of Stratbase and the Makati Foundation for Education. He also served as president of the Philippine Telecommunications Investment Corp. He was MAP President in 2007, while he was also conferred the MAP Management Man of the Year in 2014.

Del Rosario graduated from New York University with a Bachelors Degree in Economics.

He is survived by his wife, Gretchen de Venecia, and their five children. (by Kaycee Valmonte/Philstar.com) n

Most CA taxpayers have until...

Sonoma, Stanislaus, Sutter, Tehama, Trinity, Tulare, Tuolumne, Ventura, Yolo, and Yuba counties who have been affected by severe winter storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides are eligible for tax relief.

To help alleviate some of the hardship many have endured during this trying period, the FTB has extended the filing and payment deadlines for individuals and businesses in California until October 16, 2023.

This relief applies to deadlines falling on or after January 8, 2023, and before October 16, 2023, including the 2022 individual income tax returns due on April 18 and the quarterly estimated tax payments, typically due on January 17, 2023 and April 18, 2023. Those payments were previously

extended to May 15, 2023 for those impacted by winter storms. The IRS announced tax relief for Californians affected by these winter storms. Taxpayers affected by these storms qualify for an extension to October 16, 2023 to file individual and business tax returns and make certain tax payments. This includes:

• Individuals whose tax returns and payments are due on April 18, 2023.

• Quarterly estimated tax payments due January 17, 2023, April 18, 2023, June 15, 2023, and September 15, 2023.

• Business entities whose tax returns are normally due on March 15 and April 18.

• PTE Elective Tax payments due on June 15, 2023. (AJPress) n

2020’s Families First Coronavirus Response Act required Medicaid programs nationwide to keep

everyone enrolled during the COVID-19 public health emergency, suspending the “redetermination” process.

But with that emergency now considered over as of March 31, states have to confirm everyone’s eligibility again.

California’s Medicaid program, MediCal, is the country’s largest, serving about 15 million people – including 5.7 million children, 70% of them nonwhite. Over the next 14 months, the state will be reviewing accounts to make sure contact information is up to date and that everyone enrolled is still eligible.

The yellow envelopes that began going out earlier this month in the mail indicate that DHCS is requesting additional information. If you get one of those, DHCS Assistant Deputy Director Yingjia Huang said, reply within the deadline it states, usually about 45-60 days.

Group urges Biden to...

PAGE 1

of engagement. This would heal this festering wound between the Filipino and American People.”

The EDCA terms of engagement are being negotiated by Secretary of State Blinken and Defense Secretary Austin with their PH counterparts in 2+2 meetings in Washington. Earlier, they have agreed to increase the number of PH military-run joint bases to nine.

“Your Amerasian executive order will be timely in light of the 15,000 visiting U.S. troops now in “Balikatan” training with Filipino soldiers. A surge of new Amerasian children can be expected in future years,” the letter states.

The coalition urged Biden to support Filipino Amerasian legislation in the U.S. Senate and House (“Uniting Families Act of 2021” (H.R. 4522 in www.congress.gov) that wold reunite Amerasians with “their fathers and/or American siblings who have accepted financial responsibility for them since they have proven through their DNA to be the offspring of the

American service member.”

The coalition also asks the Biden administration to “seriously promote democracy and protect human rights” with the government of President Marcos Jr. “Your reasonable increases of mutual defense funding, trade and economic incentives to the PH would assure peace in the West Philippine Sea and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. We believe EDCA will protect the Filipino People’s sovereignty from outside aggression and intimidation,” the letter says.

The letter was signed by Loida Nicolas Lewis, National Chair (NY) U.S. Filipinos for Good Governance (FB.com/ USFGG) & convenor Filipino Amerasians Reunification Coalition; John Haines, USN Ret. (WI) and Chad Southard ,USMC Ret. (GA), Fathers of Filipino Amerasians (FAFA) founders; Angela Aquino, founder chair, EqualRightsforChildren.org (NY); Christopher Lapinig, Esq, FARC Legal Counsel (CA); Eric Lachica, coordinator USFGG & FARC (Washington DC). n

But people can also check their coverage status online and over the phone.

Huang also estimates that 30% of Medi-Cal recipients will receive notices that they’ve been automatically renewed for a year. Health care for

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of San Diego (City) is seeking to receive Electronic Bids for the below named Public Works project. The solicitation, including plans and specifications, may be obtained from the City’s website at: https://www. sandiego.gov/cip/bidopps Contractors intending to submit a Bid must be prequalified. Please refer to the solicitation for instructions.

Project Name: Energy Efficiency, Renewable Energy, Energy Resiliency, and Zero Emissions Retrofits To Municipal Facilities Project Number: K-23-2177DB2-3 Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting: 4/27/23 at 1:30 PM. Pacific at Team Meetings License Requirement:

It is the policy of the City of San Diego to encourage equal opportunity in its Construction and Consultant contracts. Bids or proposals from local firms, small, minority-owned, disabled, veteran-owned, and women-owned businesses are strongly encouraged. Contractors are encouraged to subcontract with and/or participate in joint ventures with these firms. The City is committed to equal opportunity and will not discriminate with regard to race, religion, color, ancestry, age, gender, disability, medical condition or place of birth; and will not do business with any firm that discriminates on any basis. Bids shall be received no later than the date and time noted above at: City of San Diego’s Electronic Biding Site PlanetBids at: https://www.planetbids. com/portal/portal. cfm?CompanyID=17950

Claudia C Abarca, Director Purchasing & Contracting Department April 17, 2023 4/21/23

CNS-3691464# ASIAN JOURNAL

Albert del Rosario, a businessman, served as Foreign Affairs secretary of the Philippines under the administration of President Noynoy Aquino. Philstar.com photo

Watch for the yellow envelope – 15 million CA...

undocumented immigrants

On top of that, she noted, California has become the first state in the country to allow undocumented 26- to 49-yearolds to enroll in its Medicaid program.

Mayra Alvarez, Executive Director of Children’s Partnership, a national children’s advocacy agency, added that the state has extended its policy of providing “continuous coverage” for children up to 5 years old. The full breadth of medical services on the table includes

everything from typical medical and preventive care to dental care and prescription coverage. You don’t have to indicate your citizenship status when applying for MediCal, Alvarez said, and furthermore, she explained, undocumented Californians also need not worry that using MediCal will impact their applications for a green card under “public charge” rules, a widespread, long-standing fear. New rules in late 2022 barred any past, current or future use of public safety net protections, such as Medicaid,

but also including housing, food and tax credits, from being deemed a “public charge,” and jeopardizing immigration applications. Nor does signing up your child for benefits count against you.

2-3 million could lose benefits

Nonetheless, Huang said, the state expects between 2 million and 3 million Californians will lose their benefits, many others may become newly eligible.

People who have been hired at jobs where health insurance is included may lose their eligibility for MediCal. Others may now be earning enough that they will be shifted from Medi-Cal coverage to the Covered California program, which subsidizes people’s health care on a sliding scale.

“For families on Medi-Cal, it may have been a long time since they last renewed their coverage,” Alvarez noted. She said that her biggest fear is that people who are still eligible for MedicaidCal will lose their coverage in this “unwinding” process, simply because the state can no longer find them.

“If, for example, a termination notice is sent to an old address, they may never get that information, and those who actually might still be eligible may end up losing their coverage. Families need to know that if they’ve moved since March 2020, they need to update their contact information,” she emphasized.

This “redetermination” won’t happen overnight, and the yellow envelope DHCS officials

mentioned is only one of several ways to find out about your eligibility status.

Community outreach

You can also call or email your county office. The contact information for all 58 California counties can be found here. Or you can check on your account online. That page will direct you to one of two web pages, benefitscal.com, that applies to 45 California counties, or mybenefitscalwin.org/#/home for the other 13, where you can see if you’re eligible, apply for benefits, report changes and more.

On top of all that, Huang said, the DHCS is devoting “a huge budget” for partnerships with community-based organizations to hire trusted messengers in the community to augment its own 1,700 “coverage ambassadors” to help people get or stay insured.

Another thing to take into consideration is if there are new members of the family who hadn’t been born at the time of the last eligibility check, or if you’ve assumed new caretaking responsibilities.

“Now is the time to make sure we’re taking the necessary steps to keep our coverage,” Alvarez said. “Anybody, regardless of their immigration status, regardless of their income, can apply for MediCal.”

“This is especially important for people of color, who are more likely to rely on MediCal for coverage, and more likely to be at risk of losing that coverage.”

“It’s a lifeline for so many in our communities.” n

Fil-Am couple sheds light...

interests photographs that I could use for my work and my advocacy.”

However, the tourist experience took a turn and months later, the couple is determined to take action to prevent more hate crimes and incidents.

“This is definitely an eyeopener, not only for us, but for the entire society. We have to stand firm in letting the authorities know that we cannot just let these incidents pass and stay unnoticed. We should, as a society, also be vigilant against these types of crimes,” Arriola said, who noted that similar cases in the past have been left unresolved as most of the victims often opted to let them slide due to the fear of retaliation from assailants and possible immigration-related repercussions.

“We have met actual people who have experienced the same fate but who remained mum. They thought it’s just going to be a waste of time and the case will not prosper at all. Some of these people were ‘undocumented’ and they fear that coming out in the open and telling their ordeal will adversely affect their stay in the U.S. But we explained to them that [immigration] and police matters are totally different,” he added.

On February 1, while Arriola, who was wearing his press badge, and his wife Julienne were strolling and taking pictures at the Sacramento State Capitol, a 6-foot man believed to be in his 30s tried to grab Arriola’s camera. When the couple struggled, the assailant kicked, punched and dragged them toward his getaway car. This incident reportedly happened in front of a crowd of witnesses.

“He didn’t hesitate. I was even wearing my press ID. He knew there were a lot of people taking videos and pictures of him. We knew it was not random. He had got his prying eyes on us before he decided to attack us,” Arriola recounted.

The suspect, identified as Keylen Xavier Lee Farley, was charged with three felony counts by the Sacramento District Attorney, according to reports. The counts include two for robbery of the second degree and aggravated assault and a third count for elder abuse.

Arriola said their case is not considered a hate crime since there were no racist slurs involved during the incident.

Arriola, 63, suffered six broken ribs, head concussions, and abrasions all over his body while Julienne, 65, had knee and other bone injuries. Both were confined at the University of California Davis Medical Center for several days after the assault.

In the weeks following the assault, the Arriolas have actively been engaging themselves in the community and church groups to retell their story and let the public learn from their experience.

The assailant, who is now in jail, is awaiting a preliminary hearing on May 1.

“We can forgive him (the assailant) as God has told us offenders can change if given a chance, but we cannot let him get away with what he has done to us. We have the law. We have to let the law do its work,” said Arriola.

For her part, Thelma Sugay, president of the Fil-Am Press Association of California said they recently learned that police are now investigating a “person of interest” as the driver of the getaway vehicle.

Sugay is also helping the Arriolas with their next plan of action. “According to Nikki, his plan is after he goes through with this, he could come up with a manual to serve as some sort of guide for [future] hate crime victims. He would try to learn the process and he would share all his knowledge and the pitfalls so it could be expedited for the next one,” she said.

“I think, this is a very noble (move on the part of Nikki). I think he does not want this incident that almost cost his life to be insignificant. He just wants to help people to go through or those who might be going through this process to learn how to deal with it and don’t be afraid,” said Sugay.

According to Nikki, they are also planning to hold a series of anti-hate forums and symposiums on this matter to help educate the public.

“We will never stop until we get justice. We’ve been badly hurt. We are still suffering up to now from our injuries. We’ve been traumatized. We thought that will be the end of us and we’ll just die there,” Arriola lamented.

“The wounds may heal but the trauma will still be there for God knows how long. Sometimes, I will just find myself crying. We cannot even go back to our normal jobs,” Julienne said.

Since last month, Arriola had been in and out of the emergency room due to continued swelling and inflammation from his broken ribs. His wife, who had been diagnosed with osteoporosis, is still hurting and sometimes needs assistance when walking and standing up.

Since they migrated to the United States in 2001, caregiving has been the Arriolas’ main source of income. However, they can barely cope with their daily finances since their injuries are preventing them from carrying out their normal work routines, which require heavy lifting and standing for long periods.

Despite the ordeal that they went through, the couple still believes in the goodness of society.

They credit the witnesses who were able to get the plate number of the getaway car and those who tried, in a way, to stand between Arriola and the assailant.

“I would like to thank all the people who’ve extended help and those who are helping us go through this situation. My fellow journalists both here and in the Philippines, my churchmates, the Fil-Am community, my family and I are very grateful for all your support,” Arriola said.

Fil-Am groups have created GoFundMe initiatives for the Arriolas. The fundraiser, organized by the National Alliance for Filipino Concerns (NAFCON) member organizations, LA Kalusugan Collective (LAKAS) and the Filipino Migrant Center, can be found at http://tinyurl.com/ helpthearriolas. The National Federation of Filipino American Associations Greater LA has also started a GoFundMe page at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/ vf6zak-fight-for-justice-elderlyfilams-attacked.

“We implore you to join us in calling for justice. As an organization, NaFFAA GLA, we strongly condemn this brutal act of violence and demand that California Attorney General Rob Bonta investigate this crime as a potential Anti-Asian hate crime. We must hold the attackers accountable for their actions and ensure that justice is served,” the organization wrote on the GoFundMe page. n

BEATING THE DEADLINE. Employees of Smart Communications assist a phone subscriber in registering her SIM card, at a mall in Davao City on Wednesday, April 19. The deadline for the nationwide SIM card registration is on April 26. PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.

Dateline PhiliPPines

Cagayanos hold rally vs 2 EDCA sites

ABOUT 7,000 people gathered at the Rizal Park in this city to convince President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to change his mind on designating two military camps in Cagayan province as Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites.

“We are asking for a miracle that the President will change his mind about EDCA,” Tuao, Cagayan Mayor William Mamba told the participants of the prayer rally.

Clarita Lunas, retired regional supervisor from the Department of Education and a provincial consultant on education, said the concept of the prayer rally started after The Naval Base Camilo Osias in Santa Ana and the Lal-lo Airport have been selected as locations where the U.S. military can stock weapons and equipment under the EDCA.

Seven other sites have been named in other parts of the country.

Lunas, one of the convenors of the prayer rally, told The Manila

Times “the only weapon we have, during our meeting [with other convenors] is prayer.”

Lunas said the EDCA sites are “clear areas where American forces will launch their impending war because of China’s plan to recover Taiwan. She said it is a conflict “that Cagayan has nothing to do with.”

“Because of this, many lives will surely be lost and properties damaged,” Lunas said.

She made it clear that Cagayan is not against President Marcos, “neither are we against the national policy.”

“What we are fighting is the establishment of two EDCA sites in our province,” she said. “It is the duty of our leaders to protect the Cagayan people from the hardship and suffering brought about by a potential war between the U.S.-China over the Taiwan issue.”

In his speech during the rally, Cagayan Gov. Manuel Mamba said that for him, “EDCA is simply war.”

PH not meddling in Taiwan affairs

“Additional EDCA sites are an obstacle to the economic development of Cagayan.

Foreign investors from China, South Korea, Japan and even Taiwan will be afraid of Cagayan because of the fear that Cagayan will become a stronghold in America’s war,” said Mamba.

He said the presence of the EDCA sites will be an obstacle to the realization of the Cagayan Development Agenda 2025 and the Cagayan International Gateway Project (CIGP) which aims to open the international airport in Piat, Cagayan, and the international seaport in Aparri.

“A peaceful and productive relationship with our Asian neighbors will bring prosperity to Cagayan. We want Cagayan to be the center of agro-industrial hubs in the international port, and not the center of foreign military bases whose clear objective is to enable war between America and China,” he said.

Mamba said that the presence of foreign forces in the province puts Cagayan in a “risky situation” if war breaks out between America and China.

“If the EDCA sites are meant to protect our territory in the West Philippine Sea against China, these sites should be established near the West Philippine Sea and not in Cagayan, a province in the North that is very far from the said Philippine territory,” the governor said.

“The only military forces we want and need in Cagayan are our own Armed Forces of the Philippines,” he said.

Mamba said armed conflict as a means of settling disputes between nations is unacceptable.

“Our strength is to be a friend to everyone and not an enemy to anyone,” he said. (ManilaTimes. net) n

currently looking for work abroad - SWS

MANILA – The Social Weather Stations (SWS) on Thursday, April 20 released the results of its recent survey showing that 7 percent of adult Filipinos are currently looking for work abroad.

The poll, conducted from December 10 to 14 last year, also found that nearly 2 out of 10 adult

Filipinos, or about 17 percent, aspire to live abroad.

The SWS noted that Canada (16 percent) is picked by the respondents as the top country for work abroad, followed by Saudi Arabia (12

by Franco Jose c. Baroña, Bernadette e tamayo and Kristina maralit ManilaTimes.net

THE Department of National Defense (DND) has denied that the Philippine government is meddling in China’s dispute with Taiwan.

“We reiterate that our primordial concern in Taiwan is the safety and well-being of the Filipinos living and working on the island,” DND spokesman Arsenio Andolong said in a statement.

Andolong was reacting to the statement of Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian that the safety and welfare of the thousands of Filipinos working in Taiwan could be jeopardized if Manila continues to recognize the independence of the island nation.

Beijing has long claimed that Taiwan is a province of China.

Andolong also disagreed with Huang that the situation

in Taiwan is similar to Manila’s security concerns in Mindanao.

“We wish to emphasize that the issues are different from each other. The whole context and rich experience of our peace process in Mindanao, which allowed the participation of the international community, is aligned with the Philippines’ position of resolving disputes peacefully,” he said.

Andolong stressed that the DND “deems it prudent to prepare for any contingencies to ensure the safety of Filipinos overseas, especially those based in Taiwan.”

He said that considering the complex regional security landscape, the DND seeks to improve the Philippines’ defense capabilities “through all the means available to us.”

Andolong made it clear the implementation of the Enhanced

Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) between the Philippines and the United States “is not directed against any country and is in line with our efforts to modernize our alliance and enable collective defense and peace, promote our national interest, protect our national sovereignty, ensure the livelihood and welfare of our fisherfolk and communities, and enhance our capability to respond to emergencies and disasters, as well as provide humanitarian assistance.”

He renewed the appeal to all concerned parties and states “to adhere to the rule of law and diplomacy in managing differences.”

Speaking at a forum on Friday, April 14, Huang advised the Philippines to “unequivocally u PAGE 7

7% of Filipinos

SALVO. Cagayanos let their sentiments out during a rally at Rizal Park in Tuguegarao City on Monday,

ManilaTimes.net photo by Franco Jose Baroña

A worthwhile campaign vs malnutrition, child stunting

THE Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) has just launched a campaign against malnutrition and child stunting in the country through initiatives that will complement the government’s Philippine Multi-Sectoral Nutrition Project.

This comes after a study by the World Bank showed that the country has one of the worst cases of child stunting in the world. The Philippines ranked fifth with the highest stunting prevalence among countries in the East Asia and Pacific Region. It is also among the top 10 worst countries in the world. In last week’s editorial, we traced malnutrition as one of the causes why Filipino elementary-school students got very low marks in science, mathematics and English proficiency in Southeast Asia.

According to the World Health Organization, stunting is a growth and development impairment of children resulting from poor nutrition, repeated infection and inadequate psychosocial stimulation.

According to MAP President and BDB Law founding partner Benedicta Du-Baladad, the group’s presence in the food, retail, health care, education and logistics industries, as well as other sectors, would help leapfrog progress in resolving malnutrition through sustainable and effective interventions and actions.

Rightly so; the MAP will broaden its role beyond fund generation and philanthropy to a shared responsibility in addressing malnutrition in the country. Henceforth, it will actively participate in the programming and governance of nutrition strategies and interventions, using the muchvaunted project management skills of its members.

Dr. Cielito Habito, governor in charge for the MAP

Babe’s Eye View

BaBe Romualdez

THE Philippine Economic Briefing (PEB) we hosted at the Fairmont Hotel in Washington, DC was extremely successful and attended by close to 170 top business executives from various American companies and organizations. Our team of economic managers led by Finance

Secretary Ben Diokno, Bangko

Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor

Felipe Medalla, Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman and National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA)

Secretary Arsenio Balisacan gave their presentations during the PEB that was held on the sidelines of the seven-day International Monetary FundWorld Bank (IMF-WB) Annual Spring Meetings in Washington.

Joining the economic team managers during the briefing were Foreign Affairs Secretary Ricky Manalo, Information and Communications Technology

Secretary Ivan Uy, Congressman Mujiv Hataman of Basilan, GSIS president and general manager

Horizons

RichaRd heydaRian

WHEN Pulse Asia released its latest approval rating for our top political leaders based on interviews with 1,200 randomly selected respondents across the country between March 15 and 19, the partisan reaction was excruciatingly predictable.

On one hand, impresarios and diehard supporters of the House of Duterte and House of Marcos were ecstatic. Their leaders’ apparent popularity, per the survey, was taken as an unquestionable reaffirmation of their unshakable belief in the magical powers of their patrons.

Meanwhile, some supporters of the opposition reverted to a familiar playbook: shooting the messenger! Per tradition, “False Asia” began to trend anew on

Cluster on Resilience and Recovery, said MAP’s diverse ecosystem would muster the strength of the private sector to mobilize and help the government achieve its nutrition’s objectives. He said child stunting is a “major threat” to the country’s future. If the problem is not addressed in an urgent and decisive manner, we will be placing our country’s future in the hands of stunted children who will become adults with limited capacities to be productive, competitive and creative.

Its exponential effect on national development and progress will be calamitous.

The MAP will collaborate with the Department of Health, National Nutrition Council, and Department of Social Welfare and Development. It will also ask the government to declare stunting as a priority national agenda. Beyond words, concrete actions should be cascaded to the community level. This would allow the local government units to allocate funds for feeding programs with emphasis on maternal nutrition, babies and toddlers. Vegetable farms in the communities and vegetable gardens in the elementary schools should be encouraged again.

According to the Global Nutrition Institute, schools and educators have a role to play in reducing malnutrition around the world. They can do these through various ways.

First, girls’ participation in schooling can be

improved. Girls’ schooling can reduce adolescent pregnancy — a risk factor for small birth size — as well as raise the age of marriage and reduce total fertility. Clearly, in the long run what girls learn in school is even more important. This is not just basic literacy and numeracy, but also information on health and nutrition.

Second, the school can serve as a platform for nutrition education and other nutrition-related services. There is evidence on school-based modules for nutrition education, particularly in encouraging healthy eating and promoting exercise to curb obesity. Hygiene and handwashing should also be encouraged, well as the teaching of modules addressing risky activities linked to adolescent pregnancies.

Third, make school meals a nutrition intervention and use school feeding as a potential support to

agricultural development. In addition to its nutrition, education and social protection objectives, school feeding is increasingly asked to support agricultural development through homegrown school feeding programs.

Adding a new objective increases the trade-offs that must be considered. In the case of homegrown school feeding, decentralization makes fortification — one means by which school meals can reduce micronutrient deficiencies — more challenging, but not impossible. Over time, however, homegrown school feeding may improve dietary diversity and increase food security among low-income producers. These are doable and concrete measures that the schools can do and that the MAP should encourage. The future of a stunted Filipino nation is difficult to contemplate. (ManilaTimes.net) n

Philippine economy on an upward trajectory

Wick Veloso and SSS president and CEO Rolando Macasaet. We have had numerous economic briefings in Washington in the past, but I must say that the one we held last Wednesday, April 12 was the best I have ever seen in all my years, as the presentations highlighted the Philippine economy to be dynamic, as well as responsive and adaptive to challenges and opportunities.

There is no doubt that our security alliance with the U.S. played a key role, but it is clear that ensuring economic security is equally critical in order to build a resilient and inclusive economy that will strengthen both the Philippines and the United States. Solidifying our alliance through more trade and investments can increase commerce, empower our people and ensure a peaceful, secure and prosperous environment for all of us.

In his presentation, Secretary Diokno emphasized that infrastructure spending is front and center of the Philippines’ growth strategy, with the government committed to reverse the under-investment in infrastructure that has been going on for more than a decade, averaging at only two percent of

gross domestic product (GDP) growth.

This focus on infrastructure spending was echoed by Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, who disclosed that the Philippines is determined to maintain infrastructure spending at 5-6 percent of GDP in the medium term, knowing full well that infrastructure is “the backbone of the economy.”

American investors were also pleased to know that the bulk of the administration’s infrastructure budget is aimed at improving physical connectivity throughout the Philippines through the construction of accessible road networks, railways, buildings and flood control infrastructure, among many others.

Improving the country’s digital infrastructure was also a priority as this will help ensure that the Philippines continues to be a viable investment destination, with P24.13 billion or $434.3 million allocated to accelerate the country’s digital transformation, Secretary Pangandaman disclosed.

Secretary Diokno also bared that the “economic liberalization measures that the Philippine government has enacted in recent years have opened up key high-

growth sectors to international participation,” outlining the reforms such as the amendments to the Retail Trade Liberalization Act (RTLA), Foreign Investments Act (FIA) and the Public Service Act (PSA) that relaxed foreign restrictions on investments in the Philippines.

“Companies engaged in solar, wind, hydro and tidal energy are also welcome to invest in the Philippines’ renewable energy sector now that it has been opened up to full foreign ownership,” Secretary Diokno told the businessmen present.

As I explained to the attendees, our economic managers, in partnership with the legislature, the private sector and other stakeholders, are making changes to improve infrastructure and establish game-changing measures that will facilitate not only more economic activities for the Philippine business sector but also more foreign investments. But what struck me most during the briefing were the extemporaneous remarks of Ndiamé Diop, the World Bank’s Country Director for the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand and Brunei. In my experience as a news reporter, I know for a fact that when a person speaks

extemporaneously, it means that he has real knowledge on what he is talking about, compared to someone who totally reads from his prepared remarks.

Mr. Diop noted the Philippines’ “remarkable growth story” and how it rebounded very strongly from the COVID-19 pandemic with 7.6 percent growth. He agreed with the interconnected structural reforms mentioned by Secretary Diokno, adding that “prudent macro-fiscal and macro financial management” is also behind the resilience of the country’s growth and macro stability.

The country’s push for infrastructure could really accelerate the transformation of the Philippine economy in the next decade. Recalling a World Bank analysis almost a decade earlier showing that productivity loss due to lack of infrastructure was around $54 million every day or about $80 billion a year, lifting the infrastructure spending to 5 percent is therefore a “game changer,” the WB executive said. He also noted that the investment regime of the Philippines has for a long time been “one of the most restrictive in the region,” but what the government has been doing

over the last few years to open up these infrastructure services to foreign direct investment and all types of investment is “very significant.”

We are the fastest growing economy right now in our part of the world, a fact affirmed by many, including the IMF that expects the Philippines to record the fastest economic growth in Asia. Having ended 2022 with the fastest growth in the last 40 years, things are really looking good, especially with the recently concluded 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue that has made American investors feel more reassured due to the strengthened relations between the Philippines and the U.S.

As I told the briefing attendees, investing in the Philippines is both a smart and strategic economic decision. By supporting the growth and development of our country, they are contributing to the stability and prosperity of the region. (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

Explaining the popularity of Duterte and Marcos

Twitter, the one social media platform that is not dominated by far-right influencers, who tend to be wit-shy. A familiar coterie of intellectual charlatans leaned on their art of nitpicking to expose supposed flaws in either the survey design or the very integrity of the polling agency. Right off the bat, let me make this crystal clear, dear readers: Both sides are wrong.

To begin with, baselessly questioning the integrity of authoritative survey agencies such as Pulse Asia, which is led and staffed by folks of utmost professionalism, is deeply unethical. Mind you, mindless attacks on credible institutions— in favor of dodgy “analytics”— constitutes its own form of disinformation.

To understand the apparent popularity of President Marcos and Vice President Sara Duterte, there are three data sets and factors to keep in mind. First of

all, a cursory look at the Social Weather Stations’ surveys in the post-dictatorship shows that all Filipino presidents, with the notable exception of Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, had extremely high net satisfaction ratings in their first year in office. In fact, the late President Fidel Ramos, arguably our most competent by our admittedly humble standards, started at close to +70 net satisfaction rating.

Second, the popularity of both House of Marcos and House of Duterte reflects a more fundamental structural reality, namely widespread dissatisfaction with our broken democratic institutions, which failed to uplift the vast number of Filipino people out of destitution three decades after the fall of a kleptocratic dictatorship.

After all, how on earth can we call ours a democratic system when up to 90 percent of legislative offices are dominated

by political dynasties, while 40 richest families have been gobbling up the bulk of newly created growth in recent memory?

Not even Latin American nations have such a comprehensive oligarchic system! Mind you: the concentration of power in the hands of dynasties was even exacerbated during reformist presidencies, with close to 80 percent of congressional seats in the hands of few families by the mid-2010s. No wonder then, all reputable global surveys show that only a minority of Filipinos are fully committed to liberal democratic politics. To put things into perspective: A 2017 Pew Research Center survey, confirming an earlier World Values Survey in the early-2010s, showed that more than eight out of 10 Filipinos were either supportive of or open to an authoritarian system. In 2020, another Pew Survey showed that almost half of

Filipino respondents said “most elected officials do not care” about the welfare of ordinary citizens.

The political scientist Adele Webb described this phenomenon as “democratic ambivalence.” I described it earlier as nothing less than “democracy fatigue,” even if we never truly had a democracy. In short, our oligarchs gave a bad name to democracy.

And this brings us to the third factor: The return of what German sociologist Max Weber described as “charismatic” leadership, namely political figures who are, in the eyes of their diehard supporters, “endowed with supernatural, superhuman, or at least specifically exceptional powers or qualities.” By all accounts, both Mr. Marcos and Duterte are primarily charismatic leaders, thus beneficiaries of what can be best described as “asymmetrical accountability”:

When things go wrong, it’s always the fault of their underlings or institutions under their watch, but when things go right, the credit goes to the charismatic leader. The concept of command responsibility is nonexistent. It’s all about faith in political will.

This partly explains why our top two leaders enjoy extremely high approval ratings even if all reputable surveys show low confidence in either the presidential Cabinet or, more specifically, the Department of Education, which is run by the vice president. In Philippine politics, subjective charisma trumps objective competence. (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

186 groups write to ask for Mary Jane Veloso’s release for Women Emancipation Day

by Kaycee Valmonte Philstar.com

MANILA — Celia Veloso, mother of detained Filipino Mary Jane Veloso, is asking Indonsia’s Minister of Women and Empowerment and Child Protection Gusti Ayu Bintang Darmawati to finally free her daughter after over a decade of detention.

Nearly 200 organizations from the Philippines and abroad penned a separate request to free Veloso. The request comes ahead of Indonesia’s Women Emancipation Day on April 21.

Avito Dalan

PH not meddling in Taiwan...

oppose Taiwan independence rather than stoking the fire by offering the U.S. access to the military bases near the Taiwan Strait if you care genuinely about the 150,000 [overseas Filipino workers].”

On Sunday, April 16, Sen. Ana Theresia “Risa” Hontiveros demanded that Beijing recall Huang over his “threatening” statements.

Hontiveros said if China has issues with the U.S., he should “not drag the Philippines” into their fight.

Beijing has accused Washington of creating tension in the region by expanding its military presence.

Huang said the Philippines is “stoking the fire by offering the U.S. access to the military bases near the Taiwan Strait” referring to the bases designated as EDCA sites.

Two of the four new sites — which will house visiting U.S. troops and their equipment — are in Cagayan province which is near Taiwan.

“These are truly disgraceful statements from Ambassador Huang Xilian. How dare he threaten us,” the senator said.

“Our OFWs in Taiwan will continue to work where they work. End of story. Filipinos will thrive and make a living according to our wishes,” she stressed in a statement.

“The Palace should tell Beijing to recall their representative in Manila as soon as possible,” Hontiveros said.

She said Huang “has no business being a diplomat if he

is unable to engage with us in a respectful and dignified manner.”

The Philippines, she said, will never interfere with the issue of Taiwanese independence. “That is exclusively for the people of Taiwan to tackle.”

She said it was China “who has been stoking tensions in the region, claiming territories that aren’t hers.”

“It is China who continues to bully, harass, and intimidate other smaller nations in the region. It is China who is making all this mess,” Hontiveros said, Hontiveros said Huang “along with his country’s ships and artificial islands in the West Philippine Sea, should pack up and leave.”

“We, in the Philippines, respect the right of the Taiwanese people to self-determination, and this right must be upheld by all other nations that share this planet, even including the autocratic regime of China,” she said.

The U.S. Embassy in Manila, in a text to reporters, said it has “no specific response to Ambassador Huang’s comments, other than to say what we have said repeatedly: EDCA sites will support combined training exercises and interoperability between U.S. and Philippine forces to ensure that we’re even better prepared for future crises.”

“EDCA is a key component of the U.S.-Philippne alliance, and is not about any other third country,” the embassy said.

In a statement over the weekend, National Security Council Assistant Director General and spokesman Jonathan Malaya reacted strongly to

Huang’s insinuation that the Philippines is a willing participant in the attempt of the U.S. to push its “anti-China agenda” by adding four more EDCA sites.

“National Security Adviser Eduardo M. Año has made our position clear that the increased security cooperation between the Philippines and the United States is meant to develop and strengthen the capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to enable it to protect and defend the territory of the Philippines and is not meant to contain or counter any nation in the region or to interfere in another nation’s affairs,” Malaya said.

He noted that Año even had a meeting with Huang last week to assure the Chinese government that the Marcos administration is for the peaceful resolution of the Taiwan issue and the continued stability of the region.

“The identified EDCA sites are Philippine bases which we want to further develop based on the requirements for strategic basing and development of the AFP. These were not U.S.-dictated but identified by our armed forces,” Malaya said.

“By developing our military and base infrastructure, we are pursuing our national interest and actually contributing to regional peace and stability,” he said.

Malaya also maintained that the country observes the One China policy and subscribes to the principle of the Association of Southeast Nations “of noninterference in approaching regional issues.” n

“As a mother, it is very painful for me to see my daughter in jail when she did nothing wrong,” her mother wrote. “My daughter has suffered for a wrong she has not committed.”

Veloso has been behind bars for over a decade now but hopes for her release sparked after Indonesian President Joko Widodo granted clemency to a woman on death row for similar drug smuggling charges.

“We vow to never stop until Mary Jane is free and reunited with her family. She and her family have already suffered so much,” Joanna Concepcion, chairperson of Migrante International, said in a statement on Thursday, April 20.

“We appeal to the Indonesian Women’s Minister to give attention to the pleas from the global community calling for clemency and Mary Jane’s immediate freedom”

The open letter was signed by the Good Shepherd Sisters, Institute for Interfaith Dialogue in Indonesia, International Migrants Alliance, the Global Alliance Against Traffic in Women, among others. It was made available in English and Bahasa Indonesia.

13 years in jail

Veloso was arrested in 2010 after officials caught her smuggling heroin sewn into the lining of her luggage upon her arrival in Yogyakarta at the Adisucipto International Airport. She was sentenced to death by firing squad months after her imprisonment.

In April 2015, former President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III personally appealed to the Indonesian government to grant Veloso clemency after her recruiters — those who tricked her into smuggling illegal drugs – already surrendered.

“Women human trafficking victims like Mary Jane should be protected,” the letter from the groups read. “While the real perpetrators of serious crimes such as illegal recruitment and human trafficking… should be prosecuted and convicted.”

But it has been eight years since her reprieve and Veloso is now spending her 13th year in jail.

The latest attempt to ask the Indonesian government for executive clemency was made during President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s state visit there last year.

A mother’s call for help

Prior to the Philippine delegation’s flight to Indonesia in September last year, parents of Veloso personally handed a letter to the Department of Migrant Workers hoping that Marcos Jr. would ask Widodo for executive clemency on their daughter’s behalf.

The government did not announce that it would ask for clemency, with Department of Foreign Affairs Spokesman Amb. Ma. Teresita Daza said then that “we might preempt the discussions that will happen during his visit to Indonesia.”

The open letter cited the old age of Veloso’s parents, who have since developed health problems. Groups said her parents “are constantly fearful of not living long enough” to see her home.

“[When] her life was spared from execution, we had a little bit of hope but once again the hearing of her case has stalled,” Celia Veloso wrote.

“I hope Mary Jane will be granted clemency because my daughter has experienced and endured a lot of hardships.” n

7% of Filipinos currently...

percent), Kuwait (9 percent), United Arab Emirates (9 percent), Japan (7 percent), Qatar (6 percent), and United States of America (6 percent).

The survey also showed that 7 percent of Filipino households

have a family member working overseas.

It said 75 percent of the households with an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) currently abroad claimed they would “often” receive money from their OFW family members, 17 percent

said they “sometimes” receive money, 5 percent said “seldom”, and 3 percent said they “never” received remittances.

The poll interviewed 1,200 Filipino adults nationwide with a margin of error of ± 2.8 percent. (PNA) n

Migrante International Chairperson Joanna Concepcion and detained overseas Filipino worker’s father Cesar Veloso present a letter of appeal on September 2, 2022 urging President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ask Indonesia’s President Joko Widodo to grant Mary Jane executive clemency on humanitarian grounds. Philstar.com photo

MARATHON HEARINGS. Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa comforts Pamplona Mayor Janice Degamo on Wednesday, April 19 after three days of marathon hearings on the killing of her husband, Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo. During the Senate hearing, dela Rosa assured the public that his committee would not be influenced by any propaganda presented by individuals or groups related to the unsolved killings in Negros Oriental. PNA photo by

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REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 03/04/2023.

Signature: Tyler Nelson.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/20/2023. AJ 1147 03/31, 04/07, 04/14, and 04/21/2023. AJSD 1147

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT NO. 2023-9007466

Smile Creations Dental

Practice located at 9750 Miramar Road Suite 133, San Diego, CA 92126.

Registrant: Claudine Tsui DDS A Dental Corp, 14241 Meadowrun St, San Diego, CA 92129. This business is conducted by Corporation. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 03/08/2003.

Signature: Claudine Tsui. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 04/04/2023. AJ

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT NO. 2023-9008236

The Shellfish Affair located at 778 South Fox Run Place, Chula Vista, CA 91914.

Registrant: AXP Logistics LLC, 408 Nutmeg Street, San Diego, CA 92103.

This business is conducted by Limited Liability Company.

REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE.

Signature: Adriana Guevara Gluyas. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 04/12/2023. AJ 1159 04/14, 04/21, 04/28, and 05/05/2023. AJSD 1159

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2023-9007026

a. Ariel Keilani’s Flower Crown located at 19 Osborn Street, National City, CA 91950.

b. Dok Keo’s Kids Collection located at 19 Osborn Street, National City, CA 91950.

c. AK Phone Home located at 19 Osborn Street, National City, CA 91950.

Registrant: The Law LLC, 4824 Bram Avenue, Bonita, CA 91902. This business is conducted by Limited Liability Company. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 03/20/2023.

Signature: Vilayphone Lynnda Ratsachak. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2023-9006937 TEA11 Industries located at 2633 E. 15th St., National City, CA 91950. Registrant: Alfredo Everardo Tovar, 2633 E. 15th St., National City, CA 91950. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE.

Signature: Alfredo Everardo Tovar. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/28/2023.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT NO. 2023-9007041 KinfiaZ located at 8685 Rio San Diego Drive #4103, San Diego, CA 92108.

Registrant: Natallia Zemliakova, 8685 Rio San Diego Drive #4103, San Diego, CA 92108.

Advertisement for Bids

Notice is hereby given that the San Diego Unified School District, acting by and through its governing board, will electronically receive bids for the furnishing of all labor, materials, transportation, equipment, and service for:

CRAWFORD HIGH SCHOOL CONCRETE AND SLOPE REPAIR

A mandatory site visit is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on THURSDAY, APRIL 27, 2023, in front of the main office of Crawford High School, 4161 Colt Way, San Diego, CA 92115. Contractors and subcontractors must preregister with the District prior to attending the site walk at sandiegounified.org/sitewalks. The Bid and Contract Documents may be downloaded free of charge at the District’s new online Planroom at sandiegousdplans.com All bids must be received electronically at or before 1:00 p.m. on MAY 11, 2023. Firms interested in submitting a bid package must go to tinyurl.com/SDUSD-PlanetBids then search under “Bid Opportunities” for “Invitation number” CP23-0933-08-00-00 Crawford High School Concrete and Slope Repair. For new vendors, please register under “New Vendor Registration”. The project estimate is between $730,000.00 and $760,000.00. This is not a PSA project and does not require prequalification. The District requires that Bidders possess any of the following classification(s) of California State Contractors License(s), valid and in good standing, at the time of bid opening and contract award: A or other appropriate license, subject to District approval. SAN DIEGO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT, Linda Hippe, Director, Purchasing and Contracts, Strategic Sourcing and Contracts Department CP23-0933-08-00-00.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2023-9007058

New Vision High Profile Luggage Tags located at 1308 Battle Creek Rd., Chula Vista, CA 91913.

Registrant: Theresa Lynette Gamlin, 1308 Battle Creek Rd., Chula Vista, CA 91913. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 03/29/2023.

Signature: Theresa L Gamlin. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/29/2023. AJ 1150 03/31,

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT NO. 2023-9006962

Highway Laundry located at 1555 Palm Ave Suite L, San Diego, CA 92154. Registrant: GC Laundries, 1392 Tavern Rd, Alpine, CA 91901.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2023-9006552

PEPS Solutions located at 1308 Descanso Avenue, San Marcos, CA 92069.

Registrant: Jose L Garces, 1308 Descanso Avenue, San Marcos, CA 92069. This business is conducted by Individual.

REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 02/02/2023.

Signature: Jose L Garces. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/23/2023. AJ

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2023-9006963

St #1, San Diego, CA 92116. This business is conducted by Married Couple. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE.

Signature: Alya Raeann Tamanaha. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/28/2023. AJ 1154 04/07, 04/14, 04/21, and 04/28/2023. AJSD 1154

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT NO. 2023-9007981

California Design Group located at 3985 Riviera Dr., A, San Diego, CA 92109.

Registrant: Jerome Sebastian, 3985 Riviera Dr., A, San Diego, CA 92109. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 04/26/2007.

Signature: Jerome Sebastian. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 04/10/2023. AJ 1160 04/14, 04/21, 04/28, and 05/05/2023. AJSD 1160

This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 03/29/2023.

Signature: Natallia Zemliakova. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/29/2023. AJ 1155 04/07, 04/14, 04/21, and 04/28/2023. AJSD 1155

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT NO. 2023-9007210 JPM Pro Lights And Sounds located at 1345 E. Madison Ave Spc 18, El Cajon, CA 92021.

Registrant: John Paul Merado, 1345 E. Madison Ave Spc 18, El Cajon, CA 92021. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 03/30/2023.

Signature: Jerome

Sebastian. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/30/2023. AJ 1161 04/14, 04/21, 04/28, and 05/05/2023. AJSD 1161

This business is conducted by Limited Liability Company.

REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 03/28/2023.

Signature: William Justin Glad. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/28/2023. AJ 1156 04/07, 04/14, 04/21, and 04/28/2023. AJSD 1156

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2023-9008530 Ivy Life Solution LLC located at 6546 Windward Ridge Way, San Diego, CA 92121.

Registrant: Ivy Life Solution LLC, 6546 Windward Ridge Way, San Diego, CA 92121. This business is conducted by Limited Liability Company.

REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 04/18/2023.

Signature: Huiling Xia. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 04/18/2023.

AJ 1162 04/21, 04/28, 05/05, 05/12/2023. AJSD 1162

The Vault Motor Sales located at 1392 Tavern Rd Unit 2, Alpine, CA 91901. Registrant: William Justin Glad, 1392 Tavern Rd, Alpine, CA 91901. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE.

Signature: William Justin Glad. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/28/2023. AJ 1157 04/07, 04/14, 04/21, and 04/28/2023. AJSD 1157

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT NO. 2023-9007622

Gel Touch Nail Spa located at 11948 Bernardo Plaza Dr., San Diego, CA 92128.

Registrant: a. Lee Thai, 5510 Alexandrine Ct., Oceanside, CA 92057.

b. Quoc Nguyen, 10158 Challenger Circle, Spring Valley, CA 91978.

This business is conducted by Co-Partner.

REGISTRANT HAS NOT

BEGUN TO TRANSACT

BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE.

Signature: Lee Thai. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 04/05/2023. AJ 1163 04/21, 04/28, 05/05, and 05/12/2023. AJSD 1163

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT NO. 2023-9005402 Grab & Go Subs located at 768 W. Washington Street, San Diego, CA 92103.

Registrant: Elvnholdings Inc. , 768 W. Washington Street, San Diego, CA 92103.

This business is conducted by Corporation. REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE.

Signature: Tanya Myers. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 03/09/2023. AJ 1152 04/07, 04/14, 04/21, and 04/28/2023. AJSD 1152

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2023-9008091 Camino Village Laundromat located at 11275 Camino Ruiz, San Diego, CA 92126. Registrant: Pablito Sy, 10353 Gold Coast Pl., San Diego, CA 92126. This business is conducted by Individual. REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 04/11/2023.

Signature: Pablito Sy. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 04/11/2023. AJ 1158 04/14, 04/21, 04/28, and 05/05/2023. AJSD 1158

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT NO. 2023-9008039 PL Investments, LP located at 244-A Palomar St., Chula Vista, CA 91911.

Registrant: PW Inc., 244A Palomar St., Chula Vista, CA 91911. This business is conducted by Limited Partnership.

REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 05/14/2018.

Signature: Robert Pennell. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 04/11/2023. AJ 1164 04/21, 04/28, 05/05, 05/12/2023. AJSD 1164

by MoMar G. Visaya / AJPress

CEO.

A multi-hyphenate in the Filipino American community, Lewis is a philanthropist, community leader, activist, shoulder-to-cry-on for some, and to most, she is Tita Loida.

She recently hosted a small gathering in her Fifth Avenue residence overlooking the Jackie Onassis Reservoir in Central Park to promote her new book, which is both a prequel and a sequel to her late husband’s book titled

‘Why Should White Guys Have

All the Fun’

Loida talked about how she met Reginald F. Lewis – who would eventually become the first African American billionaire – through a blind date. This was back in 1968 when Loida was in New York as a part of her father’s gift when she graduated in law from the University of the Philippines.

“When I met him, I knew he was unlike anyone else I had ever met,” Loida said.

The two lawyers fell in love, and after one dinner, they strolled back to her hotel. She popped the question, “Darling, do you want a big or a small wedding?’.

“He replied, ‘Small.’ Sumagot! So I asked ‘Where do you think we should have it? He said, ‘NYU, they have a small chapel there’. Then he understood what just happened and said, ‘I have a headache!’,” she shared laughing.

“Why Should Guys Have All the Fun?: An Asian American Story of Love, Marriage,

Motherhood, and Running a Billion-Dollar Empire” is about 80-year-old Loida’s journey so far.

“I insisted on putting Asian American on the title,” she explained. “With the current rise in Asian hate, it was important to showcase that we are just like everyone else, with our own ups and downs, successes and failures so that should be there, front and center”

Loida revealed that she set a goal to write her book before she turned 75, inspired by Katharine Graham who successfully led the Washington Post after her husband’s sudden death.

“As I approached 80, I knew I had to start working on it. By the time I turned 80, I had found a cowriter, Blair Walker, who helped me finish it.,” she shared.

Coping with Grief

Reginald Lewis passed away at the age of 50 after a brief illness. His untimely death left Loida in profound grief.

Loida was disoriented and emotionally inconsolable. “I was totally discombobulated, my mind was not working,” she revealed. She found solace in music but would often cry. After six months, she noticed that the curtains in their bedroom were up, and she felt that it was a sign that she should pick up the pieces and move on.

Reginald’s brother Jean Fugett became chair and CEO but it reached a point where the business had to search for a new CEO. The company spent a fortune to find their new leader but they couldn’t find the right match.

She decided to prioritize a few things: being a mother and father to her two daughters, Leslie and Christina; finishing her husband’s book, and ensuring the success of the company that Reginald built by taking over the company and taking the role of

Reginald’s unexpected passing prevented him from completing his book. Loida approached Blair Walker and asked him to co-authored the book with Reginald. It was an obvious choice to ask Blair to collaborate again three decades later on the companion book.

Taking the reins of the company was an entirely different thing.

To prepare herself, Loida sought the help of a speech coach and learned to dress and act like a CEO. She also learned to approach people differently and tailor her approach to suit their individualities.

“Before I became CEO, my Filipino accent was so thick so we hired a speech coach and I had to work on my pronunciation for words like this, that, and there,” Loida recalled, adding that she had to practice delivering speeches before the board of directors.

At the gathering, she regaled the guests with anecdotes and stories that helped her to grow and become the person she is today. Like her book, her stories focused on various themes such as leadership, communication, and the importance of seeking help when needed.

The book is both an embodiment and a reflection on Loida’s resilience and ability to overcome challenges, both personal and professional. Her determination to take care of her family and the company despite the difficult circumstances is one for the books. n

Mrs. Lewis and her niece Lora Nicolas Olaes at an intimate gathering with local media and members of the Asian American Journalists Association. AJPress Photos by Momar G. Visaya

ABC reporter Nina Pineda moderated the panel discussion with Mrs. Lewis and Mr. Walker who talked about their book.

Photo by Troi Santos

Loida Nicolas Lewis with activist Marni Halasa Mrs. Lewis signing a copy of her book

Mrs. Lewis with Blair Walker, who co-authored the book with Reginald. She asked him to collaborate again three decades later on the companion book, Why Should Guys Have All the Fun.

Photos by Troi Santos

Godofredo Ng, 85

GODOFREDO T. Ng, MD, FACS, a popular general surgeon, medical leader and missionary to the Philippines who has resided in Raleigh, North Carolina since 1967 died from a ruptured cerebral aneurysm on April 17, 2023. He was 85.

Dr. Ng was a 1962 medical graduate of the University of the Philippines and came to the United States soon after graduation with his wife Anita S. Chua, BS Zoology (UP), MS Cell Biology (De Paul University), and Advanced Doctoral (University of Delaware).

Dr. Ng was a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and the Society of Philippine Surgeons in America (SPSA), of which he was one of the founders. He was an active medical and

Building a county budget for all – A step-by-step process

IF it’s spring, then it’s high budget season at the county. Preparations are in full swing for a May 4 release to the public.

Staff began preparing the new two-year budget in February but now it’s crunch time. After examining the data, considering community feedback, and pinpointing funding priorities, a balanced recommended budget must be compiled for review by the Chief Administrative Office for release in early May.

That’s about three weeks away, which may seem like quite a bit of time, but the county budget is no small matter. Last year, the budget for Fiscal Year 2022-23 came to $7.36 billion.

Everything the county does for the region’s residents must be considered with equity and justice in mind. And it’s built on community input from various events, surveys and online opportunities throughout the year.

So, what does the county budget cover? In the unincorporated areas, the county provides things a city typically would, like roads, parks, libraries and more.

But regionwide, the county has even larger responsibilities. For example, it provides services for mental health and substance use issues and provides food and medical assistance to those who need them. The county addresses homelessness and affordable housing, monitors public health for disease outbreaks and inspects restaurants, buildings,

gas stations, price scanners, harmful insects, and beach water.

The District Attorney’s Office, Probation, Office of Emergency Services and Child Support provide services to the entire county too. The Sheriff’s Department oversees the unincorporated area but is also paid by some cities for law enforcement. The county runs elections, collects property taxes, keeps vital records and the list goes on.

Funding must support all existing programs and cover new ones. Where does the money for the budget come from? A large share comes from the state and federal government. But those tax dollars must be spent on certain programs. Some money comes in from property taxes, fees for services and other sources.

Once the state and federal dollars are accounted for, the county looks at what funds are left to spend and considers how to get the most out of the remaining tax dollars.

County staff did all the legwork preparing a recommended budget, but residents get a say, too. Once the recommended budget is released, the public can submit comments online.

But that’s not the end of it. You can give your feedback, either at community meetings on May 16 and May 18, or by attending or calling into the Board of Supervisors budget meetings. A list of key days and times is listed on our open budget website.

You’ll also see last year’s adopted budget.

This year, departments will give their budget presentations to the Board of Supervisors at a meeting on May 11. The board will hold public hearings on June 12 and June 15. A revised recommended budget comes out on June 23, and budget deliberations and adoption take place on June 27.

In the meantime, the county wants to know how to keep you informed as it moves along the budget process. Do you prefer email, text or some other form of communication? Visit the budget page on Engage San Diego County (https://engage. sandiegocounty.gov/budget) and give us your ideas. Starting May 4 through June 21, you can leave your e-comments on the budget at the same site.

The county’s Engage San Diego County webpage was created to make it easier for the public to be involved in the planning process of county projects and initiatives. People can find information about active and upcoming public projects, forums and links to numerous ways to take part and weigh in on those projects.

You can also visit the Clerk of the Board’s website (https://www. sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/ cob.html) or call 619-531-5434 to get details about the board’s budget meetings and request translation services.

(Trace DeFore/County of San Diego Communications Office) n

City of San Diego hosts Earth Month and Arbor Day events

Activities are open to everyone and available for volunteer opportunities

SAN DIEGO – The month

of April is Earth Month and the City of San Diego has upcoming events and activities for both Earth Day and Arbor Day to highlight environmental stewardship, the benefits of trees, and to remind San Diegans how to be we can be climate resilient.

As the nation’s 8th largest city, San Diego has a landmark Climate Action Plan which takes bold steps toward creating a more sustainable city to live, work and play.

“Our city remains committed to building a sustainable and climate-resilient future for all San Diegans,” said Councilmember Joe LaCava, Chair of the City of San Diego Environment Committee. “With Earth Month upon us, our community has a valuable opportunity to discover different ways the City supports sustainable goals. I urge all residents to partake in these free educational activities.”

Scheduled events are hosted by several City departments, including Library, Sustainability and Mobility, Transportation, Environmental Services and Parks and Recreation, and are all free to attend.

• Arbor Day Celebration Event – Saturday, April 22, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Need

socio-civic leader in Raleigh. He was past president of the PhilippineAmerican Association of North Carolina and the Surgical Coordinator Carolina Medical Mission, doing countless annual medical missions in the Philippines since 1995.

Dr. Ng is the brotherin-law of Asian Journal weekly health columnist Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a past president of the SPSA.

This humanitarian FilAM surgeon is survived by his wife, Anita, and children, Peter Ng, MD, FACS (who took over his father’s multiple-surgeon practice group); Cheryl Ng O’Malley, a lawyer; David, MBA; Cindy, MSW; and Joseph, BS broadcasting; and 8 grandchildren.

City of San Diego develops new hazard dashboard to track environmental threats

Online tool intended to provide real-time weather and situational data for daily awareness and during emergency conditions

SAN DIEGO – To help San Diegans understand and better prepare for environmental threats like wildfires and flooding, the City of San Diego has developed the San Diego Hazard Dashboard.

This new tool is accessible online and designed to give city staff a common operating picture about current weather conditions, potential environmental threats and emerging information about regional incidents.

By linking the Hazard Dashboard to the City of San Diego website, this information can be provided in a timely manner from a central location and is accessible to anyone. The Hazard Dashboard was developed by the city’s Office of Emergency Services (OES), in coordination with the Department of Information Technology.

“The San Diego Hazard Dashboard is intended to provide regional information and situational awareness about real-time conditions and incidents or emergencies that pose threats to people and property,” said Christopher Heiser, OES Executive Director. “It provides vetted details and links to public data from local authorities.”

Dashboard users can click through a list of options to view current hazards and potential risks, including those from earthquakes, power outages, traffic maps, current weather conditions and radar, state water resources, social media

feeds and more.

Recent examples of environmental threats include the extreme heat that posed potential health risks for vulnerable San Diegans during the summer and fall of 2022. Then, in 2023, powerful wind and rainstorms presented numerous occasions that required city staff to monitor conditions throughout the region with real-time information. The Hazard Dashboard provided emergency personnel with access to data from many sources to coordinate preparedness and responses.

The Hazard Dashboard is not intended to provide direction or emergency instructions to the public. San Diegans are encouraged to always follow the guidance of local law enforcement during an emergency, specifically regarding emergency actions and evacuations. Local fire and law enforcement agencies will provide the most accurate information during regional emergencies or smaller localized events.

The City of San Diego’s Office of Emergency Services strives to promote a secure and resilient City with the capabilities required across the whole community to prevent, protect against, mitigate, respond to and recover from threats and hazards that pose the greatest risk. To learn more, visit sandiego.gov/oes.

(City of San Diego Release) n

Mobile Probation Centers will enhance services for community

THE state awarded San Diego County Probation a $1.2 million grant to establish two Mobile Probation Service Centers that will help its clients and the community access services conveniently.

Join the City of San Diego at the 2023 Arbor Day Event in Mission Bay’s Vacation Isle, located on Hibiscus Lane, as volunteers and City leaders plant trees and beautify the park, reminding us of the benefits of trees and our urban canopy.

• Creek to Bay Cleanup – Saturday, April 22, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Join Think Blue San Diego and partner I Love a Clean San Diego for the largest cleanup in San Diego County this Earth Day. Choose from 4,000 cleanup sites to volunteer and beautify our local environment.

• Earth Day at South Clairemont Recreation Center – Saturday, April 22, 10 a.m. –12 p.m.

Join the City of San Diego Parks and Recreation Department at the South Clairmont Recreation Center, located at 3605 Clairemont Drive, to celebrate Earth Day. The free event will include seed planting, a park cleanup, simple crafts and a selfguided scavenger hunt. There will be informational booths throughout the park as well. All ages are welcome.

• Every Day is Earth Day: One San Diego – Saturday, April 29, 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Join the City of San Diego and community partners at the

Valencia Park/Malcom X Library, 5148 Market Street, for an Earth Month celebration event that will get attendees interested, informed and invested in preparing communities for climate change. Attendees will also enjoy giveaways, food and connect with others in the community.

• Fight Climate Change From Your Kitchen! – Saturday, April 29, 2023, 10:30 a.m. – noon

Wrap up Earth Month by learning how to decode food labels and prevent food waste by making the most of your kitchen food scraps during this free educational workshop at the San Ysidro Library, 4235 Beyer Blvd.

Along with April’s celebratory events, the City of San Diego’s Climate Action and Climate Resilient SD plans and other initiatives under Our Climate, Our Future demonstrate the city’s commitment to climate action and protecting the environment. These evolving programs will help the city achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2035 while benefitting residents through new economic opportunities, improving natural and urban spaces, and protecting vulnerable communities from climate threats like extreme heat, wildfires and sea level rise.

(City of San Diego Release) n

to safely dispose of old tax files?

City of San Diego residents can have paperwork securely shredded and recycled for free

SAN DIEGO – Just finished filing your

inches high, 15 inches wide and 25 inches deep. This free service is for City of San Diego residents only; businesses can find recycling services by going to WasteFreeSD. org and searching for “Paper Shredding Services.” Diverting trash from the landfill is part of the city’s Zero Waste Plan and supports climate action goals. For information about all of the city’s recycling programs and services, please visit sandiego. gov/environmental-services/recycling.

(City of San Diego Release) n

The Board of State Community Corrections grant will allow Probation to purchase two vehicles approximately 22-foot-long, similar to a command center vehicle, that will help its clients in overcoming barriers, including lack of transportation and homelessness that affect their access to supervision and services.

The Board of Supervisors will decide at its June 13 meeting whether to accept the grant, and the vehicle order process will begin after that vote.

Once the Mobile Probation Centers are built, outfitted and ready to head out, they will be marked in a subtle manner to protect the confidentiality of Probation’s clients. The two vehicles can go anywhere but will likely be sent to rural areas and in communities that may have higher concentrations of Probation clients.

“Mobile probation service centers will strengthen Probation’s ability to perform outreach, deliver case management services, and provide linkages to care and assistance directly and swiftly to harder to reach and more vulnerable clients in all regions and in proximity to where they live. They will allow Probation to assist clients in improving their health, safety, success, and

opportunity to grow, connect, and thrive,” said Chief Probation Officer Tamika Nelson.

The mobile centers will be staffed with Probation officers and alcohol and drug program specialists and will include extra laptops for clients to use to search for jobs or other resources. The mobile office may also allow clients to participate in virtual court hearings or teleconferencing with service providers, said Supervising Probation Officer Kristine Lefebvre.

Additionally, just like a permanent office, the centers will also be stocked with hygiene kits, food items and naloxone kits for distribution as needed.

Probation officers may do client assessments to determine needs or barriers, and then they can provide them with a

File photo/www.countynewscenter.com

service or program referral. For example, if someone is experiencing housing instability, Probation can connect them with services. As Probation staff assess needs, they may bring a service provider or partner with them to make the resources even more convenient.

The San Diego County Probation Department is committed to providing the highest quality of compassionate service to its clients and the community. To accomplish this goal, staff use a positive, client-centered approach, and evidence-based best practices for the continuum of care, supervision, accountability and toward restorative justice.

(Yvette Urrea Moe/County of San Diego Communications Office) n

Be ready for local disasters with SD...

PAGE 9

Warning System. The alerts were sent to people who live in communities that would feel the strongest shaking south of Temecula and to some communities north of Escondido and Oceanside.

The Office of Emergency Services launched ShakeReadySD on Aug. 25, 2021 after collaborating with the USGS. The USGS and San Diego County OES are committed to making Earthquake Early Warning available to all. The USGS is working with OES to improve the app and make it more accessible to multi-cultural and multi-lingual communities.

The SD Emergency App has more than 36,000 downloads. In the event of a real earthquake and after a ShakeReadySD alert on users’ phones, users would also receive other emergency notifications such as road closures, shelters, or other relevant critical information as it is determined.

“SD Emergency is a multi-hazard tool that would also send you important information about

other emergencies such as wildfires, extreme weather and terrorism affecting your location in the region,” said Toney. “And it helps people prepare with tips for before, during and after various San Diego County emergencies.”

For people who downloaded the app prior to August 2021, the new feature will only work after updating the app and then configuring the settings including selecting English or Spanish and allowing the app to always track the phone’s location so it can accurately alert the user if an earthquake with moderate to strong shaking is expected in the area. This free app is available for iOS and Android phones.

Visit ReadySanDiego (https://www. readysandiego.org/content/oesready/en-us/ SDEmergencyApp.html) to learn more. To learn more about ShakeAlert EEW, visit ShakeAlert.org and follow @USGS_ShakeAlert on Twitter.

(Yvette Urrea Moe/County of San Diego Communications Office) n