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Volume 19 - No. 16 • 12 Pages

APRIL 24-30, 2020

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Trump says he will temporarily suspend DATELINE USA How to support the older immigration during COVID-19 pandemic FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

Filipino community while social distancing

AS older individuals are considered at higher risk for the novel coronavirus, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has advised them to stay at home and limit contact with others.

Studies have shown that people 60 and older and those with severe chronic health conditions — such as heart disease, lung disease and diabetes — are the most vulnerable as COVID-19 continues to spread.

With the social distancing measures in place, it can also heighten the isolation and loneliness that become more common with older age.

“There’s evidence that’s already emerged that COVID-19 can affect our psychological wellbeing. People who are more at risk of u PAGE 2

San Francisco quick to fight COVID-19, slow to help homeless SAN Francisco Mayor London Breed has won nationwide praise for taking drastic early measures against COVID-19 that seem to have spared San Francisco the catastrophic fate of New York and other cities.

But she hesitated over what to do with the city’s estimated 8,000 homeless people during the pandemic — until the issue came back to bite her.

A COVID-19 outbreak at the city’s largest homeless shelter had sickened at least 105 people by Friday, April 17 about a tenth of the entire San Francisco caseload. It led the city — which had planned to pack the homeless into the Moscone Center, the city’s gigantic convention u PAGE 2

signing it later this week.

Trump’s tweet, which came as a surprise to policy experts and administration officials, may AS the coronavirus pandemic puts his adminis- largely be a symbolic move characteristic of the tration under even more scrutiny, President Don- president’s disciplinarian nature; and, what is ald Trump took to Twitter this week to announce actually known about the highly-anticipated exthat he plans to “temporarily” terminate immigra- ecutive order fails to introduce new, permanent tion to the United States. policies.

“In light of the attack from the Invisible EnAccording to an administration official who emy, as well as the need to protect the jobs of our spoke to reporters, the order is expected to temGREAT American Citizens, I will be signing an Ex- porarily bar the issuance of new green cards, a ecutive Order to temporarily suspend immigration policy change already implemented by the State into the United States!” Trump tweeted on Mon- Department in March. day, April 20, unsurprisingly generating controOn Tuesday, Trump further clarified his execversy and confusion among White House officials utive order by saying that the immigration ban and pundits alike. would only last for 60 days (with the possibility As a result, the next morning on Tuesday, April of extension depending on the state of the econo21 administration officials began scrambling to my) and would only apply to those seeking green draft the executive order with the hope of Trump cards.

by KLARIZE

MEDENILLA AJPress

A second administration official said that the executive order will place a 120-day ban for work visas to mitigate unemployment concerns raised amid the massive layoffs and business closures across the country.

Additionally, a White House official confirmed that it would not apply to those with temporary work visas because of the arduous process of sorting out those visas. Also, many immigrants who have temporary work visas work in front line industries — like agriculture, food processing and health care — that are most needed during the pandemic.

But the rest of what the order will include remains largely a mystery. It is unclear what legal executive authority Trump will utilize and what other channels of immigration, like family petitioning and parole programs, will be affected. u PAGE 4

Duterte offers P10M reward to Filipino who can discover COVID-19 vaccine

by RITCHEL

MENDIOLA AJPress

PHILIPPINE President Rodrigo Duterte is willing to give P10 million in reward money to any Filipino citizen who can find a cure for the novel coronavirus.

“Because COVID-19 is public enemy number one not only in the Philippines, but also in the whole world, the president is announcing that he will give a reward of up to P10 million to any Filipino who can discover a vaccine against COVID-19,” Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque announced at a press briefing on Tuesday, April 21.

He added that Duterte will also offer a “substantial grant” to the laboratories of u PAGE 2

STRICTER QUARANTINE MEASURE. Uniformed personnel guard the entrance/exit in Barangay Maricaban, Pasay City on Wednesday, April 22. Military personnel were tasked to assist barangays in implementing stricter quarantine measures including social distancing due to increasing number of COVID-19 cases in the country.

PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan

CA to send up to $1,000 to undocumented households US offers additional assistance

by AJPRESS AS millions of Americans started receiving their stimulus payments from the federal government this week, one group was largely left out of the relief plan: undocumented immigrants.

In light of this, California has announced a $125 million Disaster Relief Fund for the state’s undocumented workers, becoming the first in the nation to provide this type of assistance since the coronavirus pandemic began.

“We feel a deep sense of gratitude for people that are in fear of deportation that are still addressing essential needs of tens of millions of Californians,” Governor Gavin Newsom said in his daily briefing on Wednesday, April 15.

The state is contributing $75 million, while private philanthropic partners are taking care of the additional $50 million.

Around 150,000 undocumented adult Californians will receive a one-time cash benefit of $500 per adult with a cap of $1,000 per household to deal with the specific needs arising from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Individuals can apply for support beginning next month.

Under the federal stimulus package, $1,200 was given to individuals, and $2,400 per couple and $500 for each dependent under the age of 16.

Following the announcement, Filipino immigrant rights advocate Jose Antonio Vargas tweeted at Newsom, saying: “As an undocumented immigrant who was raised in California and call

the Bay Area my home, thank you. Thank you for remembering that undocumented Californians are an inextricable part of our state.”

The state is home to approximately 2 million undocumented immigrants — over 460,000 of whom are originally from Asia, according to AAPI Data. Undocumented workers comprise 10% of the state’s labor force.

“I’m not here to suggest that $125 million is enough, but I’m here to suggest it’s a good start and I’m very proud it’s starting here to the state of California,” Newsom added.

Aside from the monetary relief, the state previously announced that it would provide COVID-19 testing and treatment for its residents, regardless of immigration status. ■

Newsom launches initiative for Californians to safely volunteer volunteer opportunities and encourage those unable to physically volunteer to think creatively WITH COVID-19 creating a about ways to make a difference critical need for community sup- in their communities. port and volunteers across the “Across the state, Californians state, Governor Gavin Newsom are asking how they can help on Tuesday, April 21 announced their neighbors during this criCalifornia Volunteers’ #Califor- sis and we want to channel that niansForAll service initiative to energy into our Californians For connect Californians with safe All service initiative,” said New-

by AJPRESS

som. “Whether it’s volunteering at a food bank to feed older Californians, blood drives or supporting local nonprofits, there’s no shortage of opportunities for Californians to step up and meet the moment.” #CaliforniansForAll unites organizations in desperate need of volunteers with Californians looku PAGE 2

to PH’s fight against coronavirus

by RITCHEL

MENDIOLA AJPress

UNITED States President Donald Trump has offered more aid to the Philippine as it continues to grapple with the spread of the novel coronavirus, the U.S. Embassy in Manila said on Tuesday, April 21.

“President Trump expressed his solidarity and offered additional assistance to the Philippines as it continues to battle the COVID19 pandemic,” the embassy in a statement.

The announcement comes after Trump reportedly called president Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday night, April 19 to discuss how the two countries could collaborate on efforts to contain COVID-19.

“Both leaders agreed to continue working together as long-time allies to defeat the pandemic, save lives, and restore global economic strength,” the embassy added.

Trump also offered his condolences for 11 Filipino soldiers who were recently killed in a clash with the Abu Sayyaf group in Patikul, Sulu, according to the U.S. Embassy.

“The two leaders also discussed how the United States and the

u PAGE 3 President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday, April 10 received a phone call from U.S. President Donald Trump on bilateral cooperation vs COVID-19.

Contributed Photo

Philippines can continue building binding the two nations,” it said.

Presidential Spokesperson upon the string and enduring economic, cultural and security ties u PAGE 2

From the Front Page

APRIL 24-30, 2020 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160

Newsom launches initiative for Californians...

PAGE 1 ing to serve and share their commitment to their neighbors, while ensuring stay-at-home and physical distancing protocols are met.

The initiative will focus on recruiting younger Californians to help the most vulnerable throughout the state, including the elderly who are at higher risk of infection.

Californians are encouraged to join #CaliforniansForAll by signing up at californiansforall.ca.gov.

Participants will receive an email from California Volunteers with information on what they can do in real-time to help out, and those who opt in to volunteer will be contacted by local nonprofit partners when opportunities open up in their area. “Californians are united and there are no limits to our incredible creativity to help and support each other in this moment,� said California Chief Service Officer Josh Fryday. “California businesses, nonprofits and community organizations all play a vital role in the #CaliforniansForAll effort, and the residents of this state are stepping up when they are needed most.� “Californians across the state have been rising up to meet this

California Governor Gavin Newsom

moment and create a culture of me to WE,� said First Partner and honorary chair of California Volunteers Commission Jennifer Siebel Newsom. “I am proud that #CaliforniansForAll will enable even more Californians to engage in volunteerism, and help our communities get through this crisis together.�

The initiative by California Volunteers will partner with a coalition of nonprofit organizations – including the California Association of Food Banks, United Ways of California, the American Red Cross, media platforms, businesses such as LinkedIn, and leading entertainment companies like United Talent Agency (UTA),

File photo from www.gov.ca.gov

Westbrook Media and Creative Artists Agency (CAA) – to offer a variety of volunteer opportunities.

From donating to food banks, checking on neighbors, reinforcing the need for physical distancing, assembling hygiene kits, providing online tutoring, and creating neighborhood chalk art competitions, Californians are uniting to help support each other like never before.

Using #CaliforniansForAll, volunteers will be able to share their efforts and stories on social media, amplifying our collective impactful efforts and uniting the sense of community that ties all of us together. n

BOTTLENECK. Motorists, mostly front-liners, fall in line to get inspected by police at a quarantine checkpoint near the boundary of Las PiĂąas City and Bacoor City in Cavite on Monday, April 20. They may be riding alone on their own motorcycles and yet obviously there is no physical distancing here. Authorities have tightened security at checkpoints as more vehicles are seen on the roads despite the implementation of enhanced community quarantine in Luzon.

PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan

How to support the older Filipino community...

PAGE 1 contracting COVID-19, including people with chronic illnesses, reported higher levels of depression and stress levels,� said Dr. Erwin Tan, director of Thought Leadership-Health at the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) during a recent press briefing.

In the Filipino community, 1 in 3 older adults are affected by social isolation, according to Dr. Paolo Narciso, vice president of impact areas for the AARP Foundation.

The group found that social isolation costs Medicare an additional 7 billion dollars every single year.

Here are some ways to support older adults in the community during the uncertainty of this pandemic: Check in and stay connected Family and friends can reach out and maintain that social connection, especially for older adults who live alone. This can be through texts or regularly scheduled phone calls and video conferences. Experts say this will allow older adults feel more comfortable with seeking help if they need access to food, medicine and other supplies.

AARP has also established Community Connections, a new website that offers steps to find help or give it during the pandemic. Mutual aid can include picking up groceries, providing financial assistance, or lending emotional support to your neighbors. “While we may be physically

isolated because of the virus, we don’t actually have to feel lonely or alone. Social distancing doesn’t have to mean social disconnecting. While maintaining physical distance is important, we can’t risk having more people to be emotionally disconnected.

Emotional support helps us to see through a lot of these particular tough times,� Narciso said.

Access to mental health services With the COVID-19 pandemic, individuals around the world are feeling increased anxiety, stress and sadness, which can lead to shifts in sleeping patterns and other physical symptoms.

Social isolation and loneliness are also considered serious health issues and can affect mental health. “Some Asian Americans have difficulty accessing mental health services in part because of negative stigmas. One way I try to talk about it is that taking care of your own emotional health during the COVID-19 pandemic will help you plan clearly and protect your family,� Tan said.

One way to seek help is through Medicare’s telehealth services, which covers mental health counseling, or check if other private insurance plans cover therapy as well. There are other helplines that provide free and confidential support and crisis resources, such as the SAMHSA National Helpline (1-800-662-4357) or the National Institute of Mental Health Crisis text hotline which connects individuals with a crisis

counselor if they text “HELLO� to 741741.

Watch out for and report scams Individuals are encouraged to only seek information and news from trusted sources, such as the CDC, the World Health Organization, their local public health department, or AARP’s website.

Since the outbreak, information on websites sharing fake cures or fake testing sites have falsely been disseminated.

As with any major crisis, this is the time when scammers are targeting vulnerable communities, including those 50 and older.

One of the more recent schemes out there is fraudsters asking older individuals for their $1,200 payment from the federal government as those who receive Supplemental Security Income were also eligible for stimulus relief. “We know that scammers are running a number of schemes like COVID-19 charity scams or fake vaccines claiming to cure you of the coronavirus. AARP is sounding the alarm about coronavirus scams, whether it is through the AARP Fraud Watch Network or through local authorities. If you spot a scam, you can stop a scam.

So please encourage our community to speak up about fraud to the Federal Trade Commission,� said Grace Calvelo-Rustia, associate state director for AARP Pennsylvania.

AARP has a helpline — 877908-3360 — for those who suspect a scam. (AJPress) n

not be announced to the public).

Humihingi po ako ng inyong pagiintindi (I am asking for your understanding),� he said.

Despite Duterte’s move to end the 20-year Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), the relationship between the two countries continue to be cordial. The Philippine president previously praised Trump and said he deserved to be re-elected this November.

The U.S. has so far committed $4 million in health assistance to the Philippine government and the country’s fight against COVID-19.

According to the U.S. Agency for International Development

(USAID), the additional aid is for supporting the Philippines’ laboratory systems, intensifying case-finding and event-based surveillance, fortifying systems to prevent and control infections, expanding risk communication, and supporting Filipino and international technical experts to enhance response and preparedness.

As of this writing, there are a total of 6,599 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Philippines, with 437 fatalities and 654 recoveries.

Meanwhile in the U.S., the number of cases has reached 799,515, with 42,897 deaths and 73,373 recoveries. n

US offers additional assistance...

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PAGE 1 Harry Roque on Monday, April 20 said the call between the two leaders lasted 18 minutes. “It was cordial and it was about bilateral collaboration on COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) but beyond that, I have no authority to divulge any further details,�

Roque added.

Citing Executive Order No. 2 of the Freedom of Information program, Roque said that diplomatic communication is exempted and that the content of the call cannot be disclosed. “We have notes and transcripts but even that po hindi pupuwedeng inanunsyo sa publiko (can-

Duterte offers P10M reward to Filipino...

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PAGE 1 the University of the Philippines and the Philippine General Hospital for vaccine development.

The Philippine General Hospital, one of the main referral hospitals for COVID-19 patients, has also asked those who have recovered from the disease for blood donations to be used in finding a cure.

Scientists are checking if they can use the antibodies developed by a recovered COVID-19 patient to help those who are still strug-

gling with the disease to combat it, according to CNN Philippines.

Among the recovered patients who have donated are Philippine Senators Sonny Angara and Migz Zubiri.

Duterte earlier said he will only lift the enhanced community quarantine enforced in Luzon to help contain the spread of COVID-19 once a cure has been discovered.

As of writing, there are a total of 6,710 confirmed cases of COVID19 in the country, with 446 fatalities and 693 recoveries.

Of the health care professionals, 1,602 have been infected with the disease — 422 are workers and 386 are nurses. Medical and radiological technologists as well as nursing assistants have been also infected.

The World Health Organization has described the situation as “worrisome� as 13% of the cases in the country are health care workers when the average for medical workers infected with COVID-19 in the Western Pacific region is only 2 to 3%. n

San Francisco quick to fight COVID-19, slow to help...

PAGE 1 hall, and other big venues — to suddenly switch directions.

While only 123 homeless people had been housed in six hotels as of April 3, last week the city said it had moved 447 people from shelters into some of the 2,082 rooms it had rented.

That included all 340 residents of Multi-Service Center South, the shelter run by the St. Vincent de Paul Society where the outbreak happened. “It’s really a massive undertaking that has the city’s entire focus now,� said Abigail Stewart-Kahn, the city’s director of the department of homelessness and assistive housing.

Meanwhile, the Board of Supervisors — San Francisco’s city council — on Tuesday, April 14 unanimously passed an emergency ordinance requiring the city to rent 8,250 hotel rooms

by April 26 for homeless people, discharged COVID-19 patients and exposed front-line workers.

The board, as well as advocates for the poor and health care workers in San Francisco, had for weeks lashed out at Breed for her approach to the homeless, saying it epitomized the city’s

A man walks his dog past a homeless man sleeping under a message painted on a boarded up shop in San Francisco, California on April 1.

Photo by Josh Edelson

disgraceful handling of its most vulnerable population.

The pandemic has exposed San Francisco’s “deep disregard for the humanity of our unhoused people,� said Dr. Rupa Marya, an internist at UC-San Francisco Medical Center. “COVID-19 is exposing the fracture lines of our society and bringing

to the forefront who we don’t care about.�

While negotiating room rates with hotel and motel owners for more rooms, San Francisco opted first to put only homeless people with confirmed COVID19 infections into hotels, while preparing mass shelters for othu PAGE 4

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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • APRIL 24-30, 2020

DFA repatriates 867 Filipinos from US Decision on Luzon-wide quarantine to be ‘carefully’ studied — Palace

by Ritchel

Mendiola AJPress

OVER 800 seafarers from the United States returned to the Philippines early this week, the Department of Foreign Affairs said on Monday, April 20.

With the arrival of 867 more Filipinos from several Floridabased cruise ships, the agency has repatriated close to 18,000 overseas Filipino workers amid the novel coronavirus pandemic.

“This is the third straight week since the DFA facilitated the series of repatriations that followed the catastrophic economic impact wrought by the COVID-19 global pandemic,” the DFA said.

Composed of seafarers from ships Norwegian Pearl, Sky, Star, Sun, and Escape, the latest batch was assisted by the DFA through the Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C, together with its partner agencies the Department

of Health, the Bureau of Immigration, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), the Department of Transportation (DOTr), and local manning agency (LMA) CF Sharp.

The repatriates underwent mandatory inspection and appropriate protocols supervised by the Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ).

They will also undergo quarantine in BOQ-designated facilities.

The two chartered flights that landed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1 on Monday morning were paid

by Norwegian Cruise Lines, the ships’ mother company. Meanwhile, CF Sharp shouldered the costs for the onward transportation and quarantine facility.

As of writing, the DFA has reported 94 new cases of COVID-19 among Filipinos abroad, bringing the official tally to 1,084.

“Following an increase in reports of confirmed cases over the

past days, today the DFA reports that the total number of Filipinos abroad infected by COVID-19 has breached the 1,000-mark with 94 new cases from the Americas, Europe, and the Asia Pacific,” DFA Assistant Secretary Eduardo Meñez said Tuesday, April 21.

“Based on the updated figures, the rate of new recoveries and new deaths as of today are at 2.28% and 6.99%, respectively,” he said.

The death toll has climbed to 153, while 269 Filipinos have recovered and have been discharged.

“The DFA, through its embassies and consulates, remains committed to supporting global and national efforts against COVID-19 by monitoring the status of our people abroad, providing assistance whenever possible, and helping those who wish to be repatriated in this time of the pandemic,” Meñez said. n

Palace extols Heherson Alvarez as ‘freedom fighter’

by KRizzy

aguilaR Inquirer.net

MANILA — Malacañang on Monday, April 20 sent its condolences to the family of former senator Heherson Alvarez who passed away due to the coronavirus disease (COVID0-19).

Alvarez’s son Hexilon confirmed his death Monday. He was 80.

“The Palace expresses its deep condolences to the family, led by his wife Cecile, friends, colleagues of Senator Heherson ‘Sonny’ Alvarez,” Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said in a statement.

Roque lauded Alvarez for his “distinguished record as a public servant.”

“He served the government for over forty years as a constitutional delegate, freedom fighter, legislator, and former Cabinet member,” Roque said.

“We pray that the perpetual

light will shine upon Senator Sonny, and that his soul, through the mercy of the Almighty, may rest in eternal peace,” he added.

Chief Presidential legal counsel Salvador Panelo also expressed grief over Alvarez’s death by reminiscing his friendship with the late senator.

“My friendship with the late former Senator dates back to my days in the University of the Philippines, which further deepened during the years of the Marcos presidency when we were together in the parliament of the streets,” Panelo said in a statement.

“While we were in the opposite ideological sides during the Aquino years, such divide did not stain our personal friendship, which continued all these years till he succumbed to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) today, April 20, 2020,” he added.

Alvarez was a staunch support-

SF Mayor, Treasurer announce new measures to support businesses in response to COVID-19 DA’s office forms economic crimes against workers unit

SAN FRANCISCO – Mayor London N. Breed and Treasurer José Cisneros on Tuesday, April 21 announced new measures to support San Francisco businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. These efforts include deferring collection of the Business Registration Fee for four months and further deferring collection of Unified License Fees. Unified License Fees include charges from City departments to restaurants and food businesses, bars, convenience stores, many small retailers, hotels, tour operators, and other businesses. The previously announced deferral on business taxes for small businesses and additional supports for small businesses remain in place.

“Many businesses in San Francisco are struggling with a loss of revenue due to the COVID-19 pandemic and we must do everything we can to support them and their employees during this challenging time,” said Mayor Breed. “Deferring the collection of these fees provides some immediate financial relief for business as we continue to try to help them stay afloat and take care of their employees.”

“Our business community is being hit hard financially, and we must continue to take aggressive steps to support them and their employees though this crisis,” said Treasurer José Cisneros.

“I’m proud of our citywide efforts to lessen the burdens on taxpayers, and I will continue to work to assist San Francisco businesses through this difficult time.”

“We must especially support our small businesses in every way possible,” said Supervisor Gordon Mar. “Essential neighborhood businesses and their frontline employees are keeping our communities running, and even merchants forced to shut down are dedicating themselves in creative ways to strengthen our neighborhoods.”

The measures Mayor Breed and Treasurer Cisneros announced today are the following: Deferral of Business Registration Fee The City will extend the 2020 Business Registration Fee deadline by four months to September 30, 2020. At the end of April, Business Registration Renewal instructions are mailed to businesses to renew their registration to maintain their ability to do business in San Francisco for the upcoming fiscal year. This year, the registration renewal fee is now due by September 30, 2020 instead of by May 31, 2020. Mayor Breed will be working with Treasurer Cisneros to notify businesses that the Business Registration Fee can be deferred. This will lead to $49 million in deferrals for 89,000 businesses.

Deferral of Business Licensing Fees The City will provide tax relief for businesses by further delaying the City’s collection of the unified license fees until September 30, 2020. The unified license fees include, but are not limited to, charges to restaurants and food businesses, bars, u PAGE 4

San Francisco releases map of coronavirus impact by zip code SAN FRANCISCO – Mayor London N. Breed and Director of Health Dr. Grant Colfax on Monday, April 20 released a new map that displays confirmed cases of coronavirus in San Francisco by zip code. The map shows that the populations and locations in the City that are most affected by health disparities, income inequality, and structural racism are also the most affected by the pandemic to date. This data demonstrates the importance of the City’s ongoing focus on equity and efforts to support vulnerable populations during the coronavirus response.

San Francisco has prioritized vulnerable populations in its coronavirus response, including those over 60, with underlying health conditions, people experiencing homeless and those living in congregate settings. The City

has been working with community leaders and supporting outreach to community in multiple ways. This includes providing inlanguage support in Spanish, Chinese and more languages in key intervention areas, including the contact tracing program, and all public materials about the Stay at Home Order, face coverings, and other ways that people can protect themselves.

The map reflects only the people who have tested positive in a given zip code, and is not a complete picture of the whole population. It includes a case count and rate of cases for each location, based on the data collected to date. It does not show the overall prevalence or the total numbers of cases of coronavirus in the neighborhoods, since most people have not been tested. u PAGE 4

er of former president Corazon Aquino, and was a fierce critic of the Marcos regime.

Panelo added Alvarez’s activism brought “positive changes in public administration, most especially in the field of human rights.”

He also wished for the recovery of Alvarez’s wife.

Alvarez and his wife Cecile were reported to be infected with the coronavirus last March.

Last April 6, the late senator’s son said his mother has been extubated while Alvarez remained in a critical condition. n

by Ritchel

Mendiola AJPress

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte will “carefully” study his options before deciding what to do with the enhanced community quarantine enforced in Luzon to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), Malacañang said on Wednesday, April 22.

“The decision will be carefully studied as the lives of the people and the nation are at stake,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said during a press briefing.

Senator Bong Go said Duterte was slated to announce the next action that the government will take with regards to the quarantine by April 23.

On Tuesday, April 21 Roque said Duterte is weighing whether to “maintain, relax or lift” Luzon’s quarantine, following the recommendations given to him by health experts and former heads of the Department of Health during Monday’s meeting.

“Ang option na lumabas kahapon ay ipagpatuloy, ‘di naman kaya i-relax o di naman kaya completely itigil ang ECQ sa iba’t ibang lugar ng bansa, depende sa dami ng kaso ng COVID-19 (The option being recommended yesterday was continue, relax or completely stop ECQ in different areas in the country, depending on the number of COVID-19 cases),” he said.

However, Roque revealed that experts lobbied for Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal,

President Rodrigo Duterte

Quezon), and portions of Bulacan to remain under quarantine after April 30 due to the high number of COVID-19 cases in those areas.

The Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases, meanwhile, noted that the infection rate of COVID-19 has slowed down from three days to five days due to the quarantine.

“Actually, we are able to see, along with the private sector, that we have been able to slow down the infection rate of COVID19. You can see that the rate of doubling is well… in some studies comparing the Philippines to other countries, we are between five to 10 days,” said Secretary to the Cabinet and IATF spokesman Karlo Nograles.

“Because some countries double (the infection rate) every three days, while other (countries) double between two days to three days. The Philippines is within the segment that its cases

Malacañang photo by Ace Morandante

double every five to 10 days,” he added.

According to Nograles, this is one of the bases they will consider while deciding the next steps on what to do after April 30.

Roque also said that the Palace agrees with the statement of World Health Organization Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warning that the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic is yet to come.

“We further agree with the WHO chief’s assertion that ‘it’s a virus that many people still don’t understand.’ It is for this reason that President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has been in consultation with different experts across different sectors on how to best address the COVID-19 situation in the country,” Roque said.

He added, “He even set aside politics and met Health secretaries of previous administrations as he weighs the different options for our people.” n

APRIL 24-30, 2020 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160

San Francisco releases map of coronavirus... San Francisco quick to fight COVID-19...

PAGE 3 “I want to stress that when it comes to coronavirus, no zip code or neighborhood is inherently safer than another. Every San Franciscan should continue to follow public health requirements—stay home, stay six feet apart, and cover your face when you’re outside for essential needs. This map should not make anyone more relaxed, or more fearful,” said Mayor Breed.

“We must make progress reducing the spread of coronavirus everywhere in our city in order to emerge from this pandemic.”

The numbers of cases in the City – just over 1,200 – are small compared to the overall population of San Francisco, which is over 800,000. Therefore, any increase in the number of tests conducted will greatly influence zip code case counts and rates.

City officials cautioned against drawing inaccurate conclusions from the map.

“Health emergencies exploit the inequalities in society. People with fewer resources, chronic illnesses, underlying health conditions and who have experienced institutionalized stigma and discrimination are going to be more at risk for getting sick,” said Dr. Colfax. “This map is sobering. But, unfortunately, it is not surprising.”

The 94107 zip code, which includes SoMa, currently shows one of the highest rates of cases in the city. This is partially due to the MSC South Shelter being located in that zip code. The shelter is the location of the city’s largest outbreak, with 96 cases among guests to date.

The highest number of cases are currently in the 94110 zip code, in the Mission. Citywide, 25 percent of positive cases are among Latinos, although they made up only 15 percent of the San Francisco population. This likely reflects risk factors such as living in crowded conditions, and whether residents have sufficient support to stay home and reduce their outings.

The City has also seen the impact on the Latino community at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, where more than 80 percent of the hospitalized coronavirus patients are Latino, which is a much higher rate than the usual Latino patient population of about 30 percent at that hospital.

“Nationally, people of color and low-income communities are hardest hit by the corona-

virus. For many, the disparate impact of COVID-19 on people of color comes as no surprise,” said Sheryl Davis, Executive Director, San Francisco Human Rights Commission. “The systemic problems of food insecurity, unequal housing access, limited transit options and opportunity gaps in communities of color contribute to the impact the pandemic is having on our Asian Pacific Islander, Black and Latino communities. We must acknowledge a need to shift how our city systems partner and collaborate with those most impacted to change outcomes, not just during this crisis - but moving forward. Our response must also be rooted in trusting the resilient communities most at-risk of exposure to the coronavirus to guide a community-led response. As the community tells us what they do and don’t need to feel safe, prepared, and remain healthy, we are working to provide competent, timely health guidance, essential needs and improved access to care for our most vulnerable populations.”

Prior to the COVID-19 outbreak in San Francisco, the San Francisco Human Rights Commission (HRC) and the Office of Racial Equity were focused on making the City more equitable for low-income people, communities of color, and other underserved residents. Following the Stay Home Order on March 16th, HRC convened a weekly roundtable to identify community needs and minimize geographic, cultural, and racial impacts of the virus. The roundtable includes the Mayor’s Office, the Housing Authority, HOPE SF, Office of Economic and Workforce Development, Department of Disability and Aging Services, Department of Public Health, and community-based organizations.

The HRC roundtable has guided the distributions of 1,500 meals a day throughout the City, distributed thousands of distance learning materials, conducted community outreach, and hosted community webinars focused on helping vulnerable populations and communities of color.

The roundtable has also funded programs to provide emergency housing and essential needs for vulnerable and underserved residents. Most recently, HRC’s outreach team has been distributing face coverings and information cards in partnership with community stakeholders and the San Francisco Police Depart-

ment. Importantly, the City’s Emergency Operations Center has embedded an Equity Officer into its operations, and the Officer is focused on ensuring the City’s response is intersectional and does not exacerbate pre-existing structural issues.

San Francisco’s efforts to promote equity in this current health emergency began in late January and include: • Inclusion of community partners in San Francisco’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) through the establishment of a Community Branch made up of community, faith and private sector organizations.

• Equity Officer and team embedded at the EOC. • Multilingual community forums and neighborhood outreach efforts in partnership with local community organizations.

• Upon learning that some members of the Latino community are reluctant to work with contact tracers, DPH held a webinar geared to Spanish-language media. DPH conducted a demonstration in Spanish and emphasized that immigration status has no bearing whatsoever on the work.

• DPH has opened COVID-19 symptom screening and testing sites in the Castro-Mission neighborhood and at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, in the heart of the Mission and Potrero Hill.

• DPH opened the first Field Care Clinic in San Francisco in the Bayview. This will ensure that neighborhood residents have access to urgent care and primary care for the duration of the pandemic, no matter how full the hospitals get. The Field Care Clinic is also a COVID-19 testing site.

• The City has also supported the health of the community in SoMa and the Tenderloin and Chinatown through mandated cleaning of SROs, and multi-lingual outreach for those diverse neighborhoods.

• In the homeless community, the City has increased social distancing and food access in shelters and has been moving people from shelters into hotels for their safety. The City responded aggressively to an outbreak at MSC South, conducting aggressive case investigations, mass testing, moving everyone out and deep cleaning the building.

The map is posted on the City’s Coronavirus Data Tracker, DataSF.org/COVID19. n

PAGE 2 ers living on the streets.

Breed declared a state of emergency on Feb. 25, nine days before the city reported its first confirmed case of COVID-19, and took center stage as six Bay Area counties issued stay-athome orders for all residents on March 16.

But the mayor resisted using her authority to provide hotel rooms for the homeless, citing logistical difficulties. Staff and resources were needed to ensure “chaos” didn’t overtake the hotels, she said.

“I know that people are asking: Why don’t we just open the doors and let everyone who is homeless have access to a hotel room? I wish it were that easy,” Breed said at a news briefing.

Some progressives took matters into their own hands, moving people out of shelters and into hotels despite the city government’s reluctance. City Supervisor Dean Preston put up $10,000 of his own money to help reserve at least 30 rooms at the Oasis Inn near City Hall.

On April 4, another supervisor, Matt Haney, led a guerrilla action with six staff members and about 25 guests from Hospitality House, one of the city’s oldest shelters. The residents put their belongings on moving carts and pushed them to a nearby vacant hotel.

Hospitality House prioritized those age 60 or older or those suffering from underlying health conditions. They made sure those people could care for themselves in a hotel room, said its executive director, Joe Wilson.

“People are loving having their own bed, their own private bathroom,” Wilson said a few days

later. “We’re urging the city to really step up and accelerate its actions.”

“Our position all along has been to get people into private rooms,” said Jennifer Friedenbach, executive director of the Coalition on Homelessness in San Francisco. “Why not do it early? The city is paying for the rooms.”

City officials estimate that renting 8,250 rooms will cost $58.6 million a month, including food and security. Up to $40 million of that could be reimbursed by the state.

On April 3, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced Project Roomkey, a statewide initiative that aimed to open up 15,000 hotel rooms to the state’s homeless population, with a 75% reimbursement rate from the federal government.

Around that time, Los Angeles — home to the state’s largest concentration of homeless, about 58,000 people — began moving people into hotel rooms, pulling them out of shelters, hospitals and access centers, or off the streets. But Los Angeles has also moved slowly.

The goal was to house homeless people in 15,000 hotel rooms, said Heidi Marston, interim executive director of Los Angeles’ Homeless Services Authority, but as of Friday only 629 had moved in.

“It gives them an opportunity to rest and recover,” Marston said. “It’s a good opportunity for us to engage with folks without the stress of having to live on the streets. We’re committed to not going back to where we were.”

Unlike San Francisco, Los Angeles hasn’t had a large outbreak at a homeless shelter, though

authorities reported last Monday that four people staying in shelters in L.A. County have tested positive for the virus.

In San Francisco, the city originally looked into large venues that could be used to “thin out” the shelters. A plan to house 400 people at the Moscone Center was scrapped after a publication for the homeless, Street Sheet, showed the plans involved putting mats on concrete floors divided by masking tape.

The city has repeatedly cited logistical concerns in moving people into hotels, while saying that many living on the street preferred to stay there.

“We don’t want to be renting 3,000 rooms that sit empty for a couple weeks, but we want to be flexible enough to be able to manage the medical surge, as well as manage the need for our vulnerable populations, both in our shelters and on our streets, as well as in our single-room occupancy hotels,” said Trent Rohr, director of San Francisco’s Human Services Agency.

Advocates for the homeless said the Multi-Service Center South outbreak could be repeated unless hotel rooms are quickly made available.

“It’s very scary to think about what’s going to happen with them and very painful to know this could have been prevented,” Dr. Juliana Morris, a primary care physician at UCSF who works with patients at shelters, said at a virtual news conference.

“While Mayor Breed should be commended for her acting so rapidly to protect so many people in San Francisco, who got left behind were our unhoused,” Marya said. (Brian Krans / California Healthline) n

Trump says he will temporarily suspend...

PAGE 1 The announcement of the executive order is yet another attempt from Trump and his administration to slash, not only illegal immigration, but also legal immigration channels. Previously, he has called to restrict family petitioning and lottery visa programs.

Most recently, his administration tightened the public charge rule, making it more difficult for lower income undocumented immigrants to achieve legal permanent status.

“It would be wrong and unjust for Americans laid off by the virus to be replaced with new immigrant labor flown in from abroad,” Trump told reporters on Tuesday night.

Though the move is temporary and doesn’t signal a major shift in current immigration policy under Trump, it could affect tens of thousands of immigrants waiting to immigrate, many of whom are looking to reunite with family members who are U.S. citizens.

Data from the Dept. of Homeland Security found that last year 459,000 people were issued

green cards, which is a 13% drop from 2018.

On Tuesday, April 1 the newly-appointed White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany sent a statement praising the president’s commitment “to protecting the health and economic well-being of American citizens as we face unprecedented times,” but she provided no additional details or timing for the executive order.

Though a full-blown ban of immigration has never been enacted in the U.S., the president has broader authority to restrict immigration during national emergencies and risks; as previously reported in the Asian Journal, the Supreme Court in 2018 upheld Trump’s authority to impose the controversial travel ban that restricted travel from Muslim-majority countries that the administration classified as national security risks.

As expected, the president’s tweet garnered push back from immigration advocates and organizations like the National Immigration Forum (NIF).

“This is not about policy,”

Ali Noorani, executive director of the NIF, said in response to Trump’s tweet. “It is about a message that the president wants to send. He wants people to turn against ‘the other.’ And, regardless of the valuable contributions immigrants are making to the response and recovery, he sees immigrants as the easiest to blame.”

The announcement of the executive order comes at a time when Trump’s approval rating has faltered significantly during the COVID-19 era. According to aggregated data from RealClearPolitics, Trump’s job approval went down 5 points from early April. (His current approval rating is 46% among American adults, but his approval among Republicans, specifically, is at 93%.)

A Washington Post poll found that 54% of Americans largely view the president’s response to the pandemic negatively while 72% said that state governors like New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo and California Gov. Gavin Newsom have handled the pandemic well. n

SF Mayor, Treasurer announce new measures...

PAGE 3 convenience stores, many small retailers, hotels, and tour operators, from departments such as the Department of Public Health, Entertainment Commission, Fire Department, and Police Department. This will lead to $14 million in deferrals impacting 11,000 payees. In March, Mayor Breed announced an initial threemonth delay for the collection of the fee.

Mayor Breed’s other initiatives to support small business include: • Business tax deferrals for small businesses with up to $10 million in gross receipts. Mayor Breed and Treasurer Cisneros notified small businesses that their first quarter businesses taxes can be deferred until February 2021. No interest payments, fees, or fines will accrue as a result of the deferral.

• $10 million Workers and Families First Paid Sick Leave Program, providing up to 40 hours of paid sick leave per employee; • $9 million Emergency Loan Fund providing up to $50,000 in zero interest loans for individual small businesses; • $2 million Resiliency Grants providing up to $10,000 grants to over 200 small businesses; • $2.5 million in support for working artists and arts and cultural organizations financially impacted by COVID-19; • Supporting nonprofits funded by the City so workers don’t lose their incomes; • Issuing a Moratorium on Commercial Evictions for small and medium sized businesses that can’t afford to pay rent; • Advocating for additional resources for small business and workers through the federal CARES Act; • Establishing City Philanthropic www.Give2SF.org Fund, where donations will support housing stabilization, food security, and financial security for workers and small businesses impacted by coronavirus;

• Launching a one stop City website for businesses and workers seeking resources, contacts, and updates during the COVID-19 emergency: www.oewd.org/covid19.

Earlier this month, Mayor Breed and Board of Supervisors President Norman Yee announced the creation of a COVID-19 Economic Recovery Task Force. The Task Force is charged with guiding the City’s efforts to sustain and recover local businesses and employment, and mitigate the economic hardships that are already affecting the most vulnerable San Franciscans. Their work will support San Francisco organizations and individuals throughout the remainder of the Shelterin-Place Order, and will lay the groundwork for economic recovery once the City has made meaningful progress containing COVID-19.

Meanwhile, San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin announced the launch of a new Economic Crimes Against Workers Unit within the DA’s office to investigate and prosecute crimes committed by employers against workers. The innovative unit, one of the first of its kind in the nation, will be led by Assistant District Attorney and Labor Liaison Scott Stillman, who has dedicated his legal career to protecting workers’ rights.

“I am proud to establish this new unit, which will safeguard the rights of some of the most vulnerable people in our society: workers who are being exploited by their employers,” said DA Boudin. “I promised during my campaign that we would create this unit for those workers who far too frequently feel powerless in the justice system – and with a lengthy track record of fighting for employment justice, ADA Stillman is the perfect lawyer to protect their rights.”

The Economic Crimes Against Workers Unit will focus on crimes such as wage theft, labor trafficking, criminal immigration-related workplace retaliation, and enforcement of California’s Unfair

Competition Laws. It will seek to partner with state and local civil enforcement agencies to advance worker protections.

ADA Scott Stillman has spent his legal career fighting for justice on behalf of workers. He comes to the DA’s Office after ten years at McGuinn, Hillsman & Palefsky, where he was a partner. There, he represented workers in a wide variety of cases, including wage and hour disputes, discrimination, retaliation, sexual harassment, and wrongful termination cases. ADA Stillman also served as a member of the Diversity Committees of the California Employment Lawyers Association and the Executive Committee of the Labor and Employment Law Section of the California Lawyers Association. ADA Stillman earned his J.D. from Northeastern University School of Law and his B.A. from Stanford University.

“Throughout my career, I have seen the tremendous and too-often unchecked power that employers can hold over their workers,” said ADA Stillman. “I am eager to harness the resources of the DA’s Office to ensure that employees know their legal rights and that corporations are held accountable when those rights are violated.” He plans to collaborate with labor unions and community-based groups to help achieve these goals.

DA Boudin’s creation of the unit was heralded by labor leaders. “We applaud DA Boudin’s leadership and commitment to using the power of the prosecutor’s office to enforce laws that protect workers’ rights,” said Rudy Gonzalez, Executive Director of the San Francisco Labor Council, AFL-CIO, which represents over 100,000 union members and their families. “We are looking forward to working together with ADA Stillman and the DA’s office to advance justice for workers and the labor community.” n

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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • APRIL 24-30, 2020

6

APRIL 24-30, 2020 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160

OPINION

No room for thievery

FEATURES

THERE are complaints about favoritism in the selection of beneficiaries and in prioritizing the areas for distribution of aid. There are reports of assistance being diverted for personal use, and of relief items such as rice being replaced with cheaper varieties.

Personnel of the Department of Social Welfare and Development were supposed to be in charge of directly handing out financial and other forms of assistance to people who are suffering from the economic impact of measures to contain the spread of COVID-19 or coronavirus disease 2019. But because of the inadequacy of DSWD manpower, the task has been largely relegated to local governments and barangay offices.

Amid the complaints about anomalies in aid distribution, the Office of the Ombudsman has warned barangay personnel that there will be an audit of the utilization of over P200 billion in COVID-related assistance funds and relief goods provided under the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act or Republic Act 11469.

Apart from facing penalties provided under RA 11469, those who misuse the COVID funds will face charges for violating laws against graft and plunder, the ombudsman warned.

Allegations of wrongdoing in aid distribution are

on top of continuing complaints about barangay personnel, together with some police officers, going overboard in punishing people who violate quarantine rules.

In several areas, local executives and barangay officials who like playing god have also imposed narrow window hours – apart from the nighttime curfew hours – for going to markets and drug stores even in areas that are not under extreme lockdown. This has effectively promoted crowding and difficulty in observing physical distancing. Recently, the Department of the Interior and Local Government ordered local executives to stop imposing such window hours. The DILG should see to it that its order is followed, with penalties imposed for defiance.

Amid complaints about officials pocketing COVID funds, there is a sound proposal for the publication of the names of aid beneficiaries, in platforms that can report complaints, even anonymously. be accessed by the public for verification of identities Life under quarantine is arduous enough without and qualifications for emergency aid. The govern- people being victimized by abusive and crooked ment must also provide hotlines where people can public officials. Revenue collection has also been

Editorial

WE are in a war against the coronavirus infection.

After bragging he is a “wartime president,” we would think President Donald Trump would finally unite the country in leading us all, regardless of political affiliation, race, age, gender, income, and immigration status toward safety and to mitigate the spread of this pandemic.

But instead, Trump has again pushed to irresponsibly re-open the United States for business, despite serious warnings from scientists, health officials and experts, many governors and mayors that “we are not there yet” and that relaxing the social distancing safety measures would put the lives and safety of the American people at risk.

More ominous is a dire warning from the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that “There’s a possibility that the assault of the virus on our nation next winter will actually be even more difficult than the one we just went through.”

CDC Director Robert Redfield said in an interview with The Washington Post, “We’re going to have the flu epidemic and the

Commentary

REYNALDO ARCILLA FOR the past three weeks, I’ve been trying to replenish the twice daily maintenance medication that my wife and I need, to no avail.

Not one of the Mercury Drug and other drugstores in and around our area (Muntinlupa City) have them. I’m talking about medication for hypertension, Type 2 diabetes and another for the heart — health issues that are common among persons of age group 60 and above.

The reason given is that they are out of stock and there have been no deliveries. They also said they would call us as soon as supplies become available. Still nothing available as of this writing.

I’m almost sure the same situation exists in other areas in Metro Manila, if not the entire country.

The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may wish to look into this situation before it becomes dire.

Another form of ‘modern piracy?’

Three weeks ago, I wrote about the accusation leveled against the United States by a German official for committing what he called “modern piracy” for the alleged

badly hit by the quarantine, and every centavo of that P200-billion COVID relief fund must be utilized judiciously. There is no room for thievery in this pandemic. (Philstar.com) ■

CDC director warns of deadlier second virus wave this winter as many GOP-led states open despite uptick in cases

The Fil-Am Perspective GEL SANTOS-RELOS

Philstar.com photo

coronavirus epidemic at the same time.”

In the report, Redfield explained that having two simultaneous respiratory outbreaks would put unimaginable strain on the health-care system. The COVID-19 pandemic alone has overwhelmed hospitals, and contrary to the claims of the Trump administration, the United States has concerning shortages in test kits, ventilators, hospitals beds, ICU, and even protective equipment for health-care workers, who have already killed so many of our front liners in the line of duty.

As of press time on Tuesday, April 21, COVID-19 has killed more than 44,000 Americans and infected more than 816,240 people. Many parts of the country continue to report a record number of deaths and infection cases.

Globally, total cases have topped 2.5 million, with a nearly 176,000 death toll.

This is the reality we are now facing and yet, Trump has been encouraging people from different Republican-led states to protest against the social distancing, stay-at-home and shelter-in-place safety measures.

Trump even praised these protestors for their “patriotism,”

saying they love this country and want to go back to work. He has been encouraging and inciting protesting people to defy the safety orders of the governors, which the demonstrators say violated their “civil rights” — eating out in restaurants, getting tattoos, chilling in the bars, getting their hair and nails done, working out in the gym, attending concerts, partying, etc.

CEOs have also been pressuring Trump about their businesses’ growing losses, leading them to fire or furlough workers and causing an uptick in the unemployment rate, and investors selling their shares in the stock market has lowered the GDP. These are “numbers” Trump has been obsessed with and critical to his re-election.

Trump himself has been complaining how the social distancing measures have prevented him from holding his campaign rallies, which he boasted had been attended by hundreds of thousands of American people, the numbers of which he claims the world has never seen before.

Another important number for Trump: crowd size and ratings!

Therefore, the president has been using the taxpayer-funded coronavirus daily briefings to

US luring medical professionals diversion of face masks ordered

by Berlin from China. This was later labeled as fake news. Nonetheless, the masks reportedly remain unaccounted for.

France and Canada also talked about shipments of face masks being allegedly diverted from China to the U.S. These, too, were denied by the U.S. But one thing the U.S. cannot now deny is its attempt to lure, to pirate if you will, medical professionals from other countries, including the Philippines, to come to the U.S. to help in battling COVID-19 with a promise to disregard the usual waiting period.

The U.S. State Department posted the following advisory in its website: “We encourage medical professionals seeking work in the US on a work or exchange visitor visa (H or J), particularly those working on #COVID19 issues, to contact the nearest U.S. Embassy/Consulate for a visa appointment. Please see more information here: http:// ow.ly/rPU450yX6fJ.” No doubt, many Filipino nurses, and doctors too, will want to take advantage of the opportunity to avail of the U.S. offer.

Fortunately for us, the IATFEID has decided that the temporary deployment ban on health workers exempts only those with existing contracts returning to their jobs abroad and those with contracts signed as of March 8.

The temporary suspension is “until the national state of emergency is lifted and until COVID-19related travel restrictions are lifted in the destination countries.”

As it were, the country already had a shortage of nurses even before COVID-19, mainly because many chose to work in other countries because of higher pay.

President Rodrigo Duterte, aka Digong, says he has no “emotion,” one way or the other, about the deployment ban and that he does not mind seeing Filipino health workers leave while the number of COVID-19 cases in the country is rising.

“I do not blame anyone. I am not angry. I do not have emotions actually about this. But if you Filipino nurses want to serve other countries, other people, it’s OK with me,” he said.

“America is part of the problem of the Filipinos now kasi sa karaming tinamaan sa kanila, marami nang patay, maski sino nalang nananawagan sila basta ‘yung nars, mga nars, sige punta kayo sa embassy, i-process nila ang visa, one day; kinabukasan, lipad ka na (because many people there have been infected, many are dead, [that is why] they are calling on anyone; nurses, you can go to the embassy, it will process your visa in one day; the next day you can already fly [out of the country]),” Digong lamented.

Last Sunday, the U.S. Centers

rewrite history about his inaction for two months after he was warned about the possible threat of the pandemic by our own intelligence agencies. He has called COVID-19 a hoax and accused the Democrats of using it to kick him out of office. He has taken advantage of the briefings to spread lies, confusing the American people with his “doublespeak” to give him political cover.

And even after the coronavirus has progressed to be a pandemic, killing so many Americans, Trump remained fixated on his ratings and his need to be praised by the governors before he starts heeding their call for help from the federal government. Further, he has directed coronavirus stimulus funds to give more money to rich corporations instead of ordinary hardworking Americans.

Trump also announced Tuesday that he will stop immigration to the United States for 60 days, explaining that this freeze will block green card recipients from moving to the country but allow temporary workers to arrive.

Trump regurgitated his demonizing claims against immigrants.

As the Post reported, Trump decreed late Monday, April 20 that he “wanted to protect the coun-

try from the threat of foreigners bringing the virus to U.S. shores and to stem the economic crash the pandemic has triggered — and he retweeted the same post Tuesday, in one measure of his enthusiasm for the plan.”

WE ARE IN A WAR. And yet this president continues to divide the nation and has been riding on and enflaming the frustrations of the people to demand the relaxation of social distancing and force their local government officials to open for business — all because of his personal and political motives.

This is a betrayal of the oath he took as president of the United States: to protect the people’s safety and lives. More Americans have been killed by this war against the coronavirus more than any other war before!

This is selfish. This is short-sided. This is electioneering. This is criminal. This is immoral.

We are in a war and our first goal is to keep our people safe and alive. But this president, who has put the blame to all but himself, continues to pull the country into his quagmire, stirred by his own greed for power and money more than anything else.

This is not a Democrat argument. This is a fight for our life.

Former Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Steele called out Trump for defending those protesting stay-athome orders to stop the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. Steele pointed out that those protestors “aren’t just putting their own lives at risk, they’re also endangering the lives of vulnerable people around them.”

“Go to work and die?” he asked in a report by MSNBC. “Go to work and get sick? What is the point of that?”

He continued, “And if you weigh your job greater than you weigh your grandparents’ lives or your children’s lives or your own life, maybe that’s your individual choice, but that’s not something that I’m willing to take a risk with my life on.”

WHAT is more important to you? Money and “civil liberties” or your life and the lives and safety of your family and country? ***

for Disease Control and Prevention reported 720,630 COVID-19 cases in the U.S., an increase of 29,916 cases from its previous count, and that the number of deaths had risen by 1,759 to 37,202.

Trump politicizing COVID19?

Not too long ago, U.S. President Donald Trump spoke on the phone with Chinese President Xi Jinping and they reportedly agreed to cooperate with each other in battling COVID-19. China sent face masks and other paraphernalia to the U.S. afterwards.

So, why does Trump now keep on blaming China for causing the pandemic, notwithstanding the fact that there has been no concrete evidence uncovered to justify the accusation?

The answer: politics! Trump is running for reelection this November and the Democrats are accusing him of being “soft” on China.

Trump also seems to be trying to cover up his failure to act posthaste in battling COVID-19 by using China as a scapegoat.

Ex-military men and Locsin in Cabinet As far as I can recall, President Digong’s idol, the late president Ferdinand Marcos, appointed during his nearly 20-year watch only two ex-military officers — Alejandro Melchor Jr. and Ernesto Mata. All his other Cabinet members were civilian technocrats who proved themselves to be highly qualified and effective.

Of course, there was Gen. Carlos Romulo, who was not, strictly speaking, from the military. He was a journalist and an editor. He was also the spokesman of Gen. Douglas MacArthur during World War 2. It was he who coined MacArthur’s famous “I shall return” vow when he left the Philippines for Australia. MacArthur at first wanted to say “We shall return,” but Romulo advised him that the Filipino people would believe him more if he said “I shall return.”

The main reason given by Digong for appointing so many exmilitary men to his Cabinet is that they were more disciplined and followed orders without questions or something to that effect.

Many suspect it is more than that. They say that if discipline is the main reason he appoints exmilitary men to his Cabinet, all the more reason he should demand that of the civilians in his team.

They cite, for instance, his defiant, recalcitrant, quarrelsome, disobedient and insubordinate Foreign secretary, Teodoro “Tweeterboy” Locsin Jr. They believe, as I do, that Locsin should have been fired long ago, especially after he appeared before the Senate Foreign Relations committee and stated that the Visiting Forces Agreement with the U.S. should be “vigorously reviewed” instead of abrogated as Digong wanted.

The question that has been bugging us is what is the compelling reason President Digong couldn’t let go of Locsin, even af-

ter committing such a flagrant insubordination? To begin with, he is suspected of actually belonging to the Yellow horde, whose members are unabashed U.S. worshipers.

Mr. President, Sir? Imelda’s jewels There is a proposal to sell the jewelry confiscated from former first lady Imelda Marcos to augment the funds for fighting COVID-19.

I believe this is not the right time to do that. “Babaratin lang ang mga iyan!”

Incidentally, the only Marcos I have heard of who is doing something to help the victims of COVID-19 is one Francis Leo Marcos who apparently is not related to the late president.

Many people are wondering why president Marcos’ family does not seem to be doing their bit. Maybe they prefer to do it quietly? *** From an internet friend: “The current pandemic is exposing not only our [US] government’s utter failures to protect its own citizens, but also its profound lack of human decency in dealing with other nations.” — Oliver Stone, legendary Hollywood director.

(Stone was referring to Washington’s “contempt for human compassion and global solidarity to lift draconian sanctions against Cuba, Iran, Nicaragua and Venezuela during this COVID-19 pandemic.” (ManilaTimes.net)

Gel Santos Relos has been in news, talk, public service and educational broadcasting since 1989 with ABS-CBN and is now serving the Filipino audience using different platforms, including digital broadcasting, and print, and is working on a new public service program for the community.

You may contact her through email at gelrelos@ icloud.com, or send her a message via Facebook at Facebook.com/Gel.Santos.Relos.

The views expressed by our Op-Ed contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the predilection of the editorial board and staff of Asian Journal.

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Immigration Corner Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ ON April 22, 2020, President Trump issued an Executive Order (EO) or Proclamation, effective at 11:59 PM on April 23, 2020, suspending for 60 days the entry of immigrants into the U.S., as they may compete for jobs with unemployed Americans caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Some highlights are: 1. It applies to: a. Immigrant visa applicants (both employment- and familybased cases) who are outside the U.S. on the effective date.

Therefore, it does not seem to affect people in the U.S. applying for adjustment of status. b. The person does not yet have an immigrant visa that is valid on the effective date of the proclamation, meaning an immigrant visa has not yet been issued in their passport. c. They do not have any kind of official travel or entry document, such as advance parole, boarding letter, etc. that allows them to enter the U.S. in lieu of having an immigrant visa.

2. This proclamation does not apply to the following: a. Existing green card holders, who may be outside the U.S. on a trip or vacation b. Any alien seeking to enter the U.S. on an immigrant visa as a physician, nurse, or other healthcare professional, who will help in combating COVID-

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • ApRIL 24-30, 2020

Trump’s executive order ‘suspending’ immigration 19, or recovering from COVID19, including their immediate family. c. EB-5 investors d. Spouses and children of U.S. citizens, and members of the Armed Forces and their families e. People with nonimmigrant visas such as tourist visas, H-1B visas etc.

The proclamation will expire 60 days from its effective date, and could be extended or modified. Trump said the purpose of this 60 day suspension is to ensure that unemployed Americans will be first in line for jobs as the economy reopens, and it’s not fair to them to have to compete with newly arrived immigrants who may have “open market” employment authorizations, allowing them to work anywhere.

In my opinion, this Proclamation is not that disruptive to intending immigrants: – Embassies are closed at the present time anyway. No interviews are being scheduled or visas are being issued, and it’s unlikely a person will be scheduled for an interview within the next 60 days.

– For employment-based Labor Certification, the employer went through tremendous trouble and advertising to recruit U.S. workers, and had the job “certified” for the alien. It’s unlikely the employer can advertise and interview a qualified U.S. worker within the next 60

days anyway. How would any job interview occur if everyone is “shelter in place” and many businesses are closed?

If you may be affected by these changes in immigration or your case is subject to this proclamation, you may want to consult with an attorney to evaluate your situation and the effects of Trump’s proclamation on your case. *** Michael J. Gurfinkel has been an attorney for over 35 years and is licensed, and an active member of the State Bars of California and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California. Each case is different and results may depend on the facts of the particular case. The information and opinions contained herein (including testimonials, “Success Stories”, endorsements and reenactments) are of a general nature, and are not intended to apply to any particular case, and do not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter. No attorney-client relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader.

WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com Follow us on Facebook.com/GurfinkelLaw and Twitter @GurfinkelLaw Call Toll free to schedule a consultation for anywhere in the US: 1-866-487-3465 (866) – GURFINKEL Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES ∙ SAN FRANCISCO ∙ NEW YORK ∙ PHILIPPINES (Advertising Supplement)

A wife is finally reunited with her husband in US after his ‘lifetime ban’ for admitting drug use was lifted on a brand-new Citizen Pinoy this Sunday THIS case involved persuading the U.S. Embassy to reconsider a lifetime ban from entering the U.S. for admitting drug use. Junior was petitioned by his wife, Marissa, in 2004. The petition was approved, and he had undergone all the processing, including medicals at St. Luke’s and an interview at the Embassy.

However, while waiting for the visa, they received the devastating news that Junior was

banned for life from entering the U.S. because he admitted, to the doctors at St. Luke’s, he had used drugs year ago. The couple was heartbroken.

Marissa decided to consult with another lawyer, who eventually gave up based on the medical documents from St. Luke’s, saying they could not defend Junior’s case.

Fortunately, friends and family had seen an episode of Citizen Pinoy where the case was like

ADMITTING TO DRUG USE RESULTED IN LIFETIME BAN FROM ENTERING THE U.S.! Junior (left) was looking forward to joining his wife, Marissa (center), in the U.S. Marissa filed the petition and all the necessary paperwork was in order, including an interview at the U.S. Embassy. However, they received the news that Junior was banned from entering the U.S. for life due to drug use. The couple was heartbroken. They were wondering if Marissa had to give up a good job in the U.S. just to be with Junior back in the Philippines. Marissa consulted one other lawyer, who gave up based on the medical documents from St. Luke’s, saying they could not defend Junior’s case. Fortunately, friends and family have seen an episode of Citizen Pinoy where the case was like Junior’s. A consultation with leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel provided hope and the much-anticipated reconsideration and visa issuance. See how a couple is finally reunited for good on an all-new episode of CITIZEN PINOY – on Sunday at 6:15 pm (PST) on TFC. (Advertising Supplement)

McDonald’s celebrates health care workers and first responders with free ‘thank you meals’ Frontline heroes can enjoy free meals at participating U.S. McDonald’s restaurants

IN appreciation for the healthcare workers, police officers, firefighters and paramedics who are committed to our health and safety, McDonald’s will offer free Thank You Meals*, between Wednesday, April 22 and Tuesday, May 5, as a token of appreciation for their selfless service.

While the majority of America is staying home, McDonald’s has remained open, with our franchisees and hardworking (Advertising Supplement) restaurant employees serving

Junior’s. The couple consulted with leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel and they learned that there may be hope even if one has admitted to drug use in the past.

Watch how the Law Offices of Michael J. Gurfinkel was able to convince the Embassy to reconsider and issue the visa, on a brand-new episode of CITIZEN PINOY – on Sunday at 6:15 pm (PST) on TFC.

hot meals to communities who need quick and affordable options, especially those on the frontlines such as healthcare workers and first responders.

The company is grateful for the ongoing dedication and commitment of McDonald’s employees who enable McDonald’s to stay open to serve our communities during these challenging times.

Each Thank You Meal will be available at no charge via drive thru or carry out at participating

McDonald’s restaurants nationwide through May 5. The Thank You Meal, available during breakfast, lunch or dinner, will feature a choice of sandwiches, drinks, and a side featuring small World Famous Fries or a Hash Brown, along with a note of appreciation. It will be served in McDonald’s iconic Happy Meal box, in the hopes of bringing a smile along with delicious food.

PAGE 9

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April 24-30, 2020 • NOrCAl ASiAN JOUrNAl

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160

Friday, April 24, 2020

OMETHING

ILIPINO

Remembering Leila Benitez-McCollum, the first lady of Philippine TV

by MoMar

L

G. Visaya / AJPress

EILA Benitez-McCollum, Philippine television and radio legend, passed away on April 8 due to complications from the coronavirus disease. Her niece, Vivian Talambiras Cruz, an active leader in the Fil-Am community, told the Asian Journal that she spoke with Benitez the night before she died.

“She was a bit lethargic and spoke about going to the airport to go home to Pagsanjan,” Cruz shared. “She has many beautiful memories of Pagsanjan as I do, especially the times we spent at their house by the river which still stands today, a bit dilapidated but nevertheless our memories of that house live in our hearts.”

The 89-year-old icon rose to fame in the Philippines back in the 1950s as one of the hosts of the variety show “Student Canteen,” which began as a radio show and eventually transformed into a television program to discover new singers.

In a career spanning almost two decades, she was called the “First Lady of Philippine Television” and became a household name as her star continued to shine until the early 1970s.

Benitez was brought to Mt. Sinai Hospital in Manhattan eight days prior to her passing because she was unable to eat for a few days and her doctor suggested bringing her so they could check the best options for her, like a feeding tube, if it was necessary. She was tested positive of the virus shortly after be-

Leila with her sons Gerry, Gil & Martin

Leila Benitez McCollum with her sons Gerry, Gil & Martin.

Contributed photo

came,” Cruz lamented. “Gerry (Benitez’s son) called me in the morning saying that the doctor called to say she was unresponsive and in the afternoon, he called to say she passed on. It was a blessing that she was unconscious so that she didn’t feel the pain and not be aware that she was alone at the end.”

Cruz considered her Tita Lei as her second mother. Her grandfather Cirilo and Benitez’s mother Enday were siblings.

Benitez left behind her three sons Gerry and Gil from first husband Gerardo Roses, and Martin from second husband Mervyn Simpson, and four grandchildren. She and her third husband Donald McCollum were married for 38 years, until his death in 2015.

Aside from “Student Canteen,” which in its heyday became the biggest daytime program of its era, Benitez also hosted a couple of television shows, including “Darigold Jamboree” and “The Leila Benitez Celebrity Hour.”

As a child growing up in Batangas, Cruz vividly remembers watching her Tita Lei in Photos courtesy of Vivian Talambiras Cruz “Student Canteen.”

ing moved to the hospital from a rehabilitation clinic.

Before they ended what would be their last phone conversation, Cruz asked her if she had a special craving for food and she told me her she was tired because she hasn’t eaten and they could talk again “tomorrow” and ended with their usual exchange of “I love you.”

“Sadly, that tomorrow never

“Often times my classmates would excitedly tell me ‘Oh your Tita Leila mentioned your family in her program,’” she shared.

“We spent many unforgettable moments at their Pagsanjan house by the river and their mansion in Cubao.”

Benitez, who graduated from Georgetown University, was in the United States when Martial Law was declared in 1972. She decided to stay and later landed a job as a news anchor of the Voice of America, a program under the U.S. Information Agency broadcast across the Asia Pacific Region.

Among the most precious memories Cruz treasures fondly happened in her Tita Lei and Uncle Don’s place in Manhattan, among them special holiday celebrations like Thanksgiving, Christmas and birthdays.

“As an adult living in New York, Tita Lei took it upon herself to take care of some of my needs. When I gave birth, it was Tita Lei and Uncle Don who picked me up from the hospital with my newborn son, Francis,” Cruz shared. “I had German measles on my first trimester and Leila Benitez McCollum with her niece, Vivian Talambiras Cruz. the doctor recommended abortion which I refused. I hid it from my parents but somehow when I was about to give birth they found out and my mom’s blood pressure was so high and when Tita Leila found out, she picked me up from [the] hospital.”

It didn’t end there because when Francis was baptized, Benitez also became his ninang or godmother.

“She insisted on hosting the reception at their beautiful Beresford place by Central Park.

She cooked dinuguan among other dishes. She was a great cook!,” Cruz exclaimed.

There are no services scheduled at this time but the family is planning a memorial service and a celebration of her life with family and friends will be held at Leila with niece Vivian at a Fiesta in America Leila with Vivian’s son, Francis a later date.

Empowerment Awards a few years ago.

Fashion designers do bayanihan in style Luis shares how he adjusts to the ‘new normal’

By Nika

roque ManilaTimes.net

WITH his pedigree in the entertainment world, and his wide reach in touching lives of viewers since first stepping in the limelight as a VJ in “MYX” and a host in “ASAP,” Luis Manzano has since been the default premiere male presenter on ABS-CBN in hosting reality programs and game shows.

His many accolades and successes are indeed glimmering, while his charm is forever endearing. But while we would appreciate him in the spotlight, with his gregarious and boisterous world surrounding him — how does a muted lifestyle constrained in his Greenmeadows home amid the current Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) affected him?

“To some degree, I’m a loner so it medyo works for me despite what people see on TV. But at the same time it’s sad honestly,” Luis admits in an exclusive interview through an online video chat.

But Luis stressed that while he may have found difficulty in adjusting to his alone time during the quarantine, he knows his conditions are a blessing compared to conditions being faced by people who need to work amidst the COVID-19 crisis.

“We see people by the streets having to work. Our front-liners risking their lives while saving others. I am fortunate and I thank God every night for keeping us safe at home,” Luis noted.

Luis Manzao

ABS-CBN photo

And in adjusting to his “new normal,” Luis shared how he is coping, spending the entire day and keeping himself productive at home.

Luis still keeps himself busy around the house—even if it isn’t much of a variety. “Basically, it’s workout, eat, watch TV, get ready for bed,” Luis revealed.

He also detailed his other activities that keeps him busy during the lockdown. “It’s a bunch of TV, a bunch of news. I’m trying to pick up a new skill. Sulitin natin ito. If it’s something like learning a new language, something about business or stocks,” Luis pointed out.

But above all, aside from still enjoying family ties through convenient innovation, the ECQ is an opportunity for introspection and

reflection.

“It gives us time with our thoughts. It gives us time with the Supreme Being. Para sa akin, pagka ganitong nasa bahay ka lang when everything is a bit more quiet than usual, it gives you a nice conversation with God. That’s the way I see it. When everything slows down, mas masarap pakinggan ang mensahe sa yo ng Diyos.”

These realizations certainly affect his outlook in life.

“I appreciate everything more,” Luis declared. “You get to appreciate the smaller things in life and you realize you appreciate something no matter how minute or grand it will be. We always tend to appreciate something grand.

But sa akin, there is more magic, there’s so much more love and appreciation with the minute details.”

Luis, who turned 39 while the ECQ is still in effect on April 21, looks forward to spending a postbirthday bash with family and friends in Batangas when a possible “relaxed” quarantine happens, aside from resuming his deep passion for diving.

ECQ might be constraining and limiting, but this necessary action certainly does not prevent us from taking advantage of the technology to strengthen ties with family and loved ones, learn new things reflect and ponder on life decisions.

BAYANIHAN in style is how top and up and coming fashion designers are meaningfully expressing their creativity amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

By making their own versions of personal protective equipment or PPEs, not only have these gifted artists helped medical workers stay safe from battling the virus as they treat patients every day, but their designs also bring smiles to those who wear them and see them across hospitals in the country.

A top pick from social media is definitely Iloilo-based designer Ram Silva’s head-turning PPE collection. Inspired by the trending Netflix crime series “Money Heist”— also known as “La Casa De Papel”— his atelier produced maroon-colored hazmat suits for the Internal Medicine department of Western Visayas Medical Center.

The show “Money Heist” follows a group of thieves attempting to rob the Royal Mint of Spain and the Bank of Spain later on. They hide behind Salvador Dali masks, which of course Silva also sent with his hazmat suits to complete the look.

The designer clarified, however, the masks are not PPEs but merely props for the fun photo shoot the medical staff had when his donation arrived.

PAGE 9

Iloilo-based designer Ram Silva’s ‘Money Heist’-inspired PPE collection.

Photo from Instagram/@ramsilvacouture_

Another Iloilo designer by the name of Adrian Pe is doing double duty as a nurse in the frontline and making colorful hazmat suits on his days off.

Photo from Instagram/@senoritoaidz

Barangay councilor and fashion designer Marvin Garcia of Bulakan, Bulacan and his high fashion face masks.

Photos from Facebook/Marvin Garcia

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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • ApRIL 24-30, 2020

Mortgage payment during COVID-19 McDonald’s celebrates health care...

Real Estate Knowledge Martin Santiago, Broker-aSSociate THE federal CARES Act provides two benefits if you have a financial hardship caused directly or indirectly by the coronavirus and your loan is owned or guaranteed by a federal agency including Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, the Federal Housing Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and U.S. Department of Agriculture. Both the state and federal government have negotiated mortgage freezes with many big lenders.

What is mortgage forbearance? Forbearance is when your mortgage servicer or lender allows you to temporarily pay your mortgage at a lower payment or pause paying your mortgage. You will have to pay the payment reduction or the paused payments back later. Forbearance can help you deal with a hardship, such as, if your home was damaged in a flood, you had an illness or injury that increased your healthcare costs, or you lost your job.

Forbearance does not erase the amount you owe on your mortgage. You will have to repay any missed or reduced payments.

How to request a forbearance? Call your servicer and let them know your situation immediately. Ask them what forbearance or hardship options may be available. Some servicers will require that you request forbearance or other assistance within a certain amount of time after a disaster or other qualifying event.

Mortgage forbearance options. Forbearance is complicated. There isn’t a one size fits all because the options depend on many factors. Those factors include: 1) The type of loan; 2) The owner or investor requirements in your mortgage loan; and 3) Your servicer. There are key things to consider with each type of forbearance. You’ll want to pay close attention to how your servicer expects you to pay back any missed or reduced mortgage payments.

Here are some forbearance examples to guide you: • Paused Payments Option-Paid During Existing Mortgage: Your servicer allows you to stop making payments for six months, but you must pay everything back at once when your payments are due again. What to consider: You may owe a big bill that comes due all at once. For example, if your servicer allowed you not to pay your mortgage for six months, at the end of the forbearance period, you may owe all six of your missed mortgage payments in one month. Interest on the paused amounts will continue to accrue until you repay them.

• Mortgage Payment Reduction Option: Your servicer allows you to reduce your $1,000 monthly mortgage payment by half for three months. After the three months are over you have one year to pay back the amount of that reduction. What to consider: The amount of the reduction would be spread out over 12 months and added to your mortgage payment once the reduction period is over. This means your monthly mortgage will increase during that one-year period.

Using the example above, you would pay $500 for three months

and starting on the fourth month you would need to pay $1125.00 ($1,000 + $1500/12) each month for the next 12 months. Interest on any reduced amounts will continue to accrue until you repay them.

• Paused Payment Option-Paid back at End of Mortgage: Your servicer allows you to pause payments for one year, and that amount is repaid by either adding it to the end of your mortgage loan or by you taking out a separate loan. What to consider: You can extend the term of your loan for some amount of time to pay back the paused payments or take out a separate loan. Extending your loan means the missed payments will be added on to the end of your loan. For example, if you were given a 12-month period where you didn’t have to pay your mortgage, you’ll have 12 months of payments added on to the date when your loan was supposed to be paid off by. Extending with a separate loan means that when your mortgage is due you’ll also have to pay off this separate loan. This is like a balloon payment, which is one large payment due at the end of your loan. Interest on the missed amounts will continue to accrue until you repay them. *** Martin Santiago is a broker associate at Compass Burlingame, a full-service residential brokerage firm. He is also a licensed mortgage loan originator & an International Associate at the American Institute of Architects. The information presented in this article is for general information only and is not, nor intended to be a formal legal advice nor the formation of a broker-client relationship. Call or email Martin at (415)850-7704; teammsquare@gmail.com; www.teammsquare.com.

(Advertising Supplement)

Fashion designers do bayanihan in...

PAGE 8 Another Iloilo designer by the name of Adrian Pe is doing double duty. That is, in between working as a CVOR (cardiovascular operating room) nurse, he churns out colorful hazmat suits to give to his colleagues, which netizens have likened to the “Teletubbies” and “Power Rangers” costumes.

“My goal is for each member of the healthcare team to feel confident rather than

EMPLOYMENT

scared and intimidated when they step inside the battlefield each day. The Pink Ranger once said, ‘We can’t change the past but we can work for a better future.’ I hope these hazmat suits empower everyone, nurses and patients alike,” he wrote on Facebook.

Interestingly, Pe had help from the nurses of The Medical City Iloilo whose emergency room and OR skills came in useful in cutting and sewing

the designer hazmat suits. And as more and more people offered to help Pe, so did his PPE ideas grow with newer suits inspired by the “Star Wars” movies in black, white and red. As of April 13, Pe and his friends have produced and donated a total of 463 suits to a number of hospitals in Iloilo and nearby provinces of Guimaras and Aklan.

Giving a more sophisticated PAGE 10

FOR RENT

SERVICES

PAGE 8 “We have been inspired by the way our franchisees have been going above and beyond to support their local communities throughout this trying time,” said Joe Erlinger, President, McDonald’s USA. “I couldn’t be more proud of how our company, franchisees and supplier partners have come together to give back to those who are working tirelessly for our country.

That is truly our McDonald’s system at its best.”

Day or night, these frontline heroes can simply show their work badge, or be in uniform, to receive one of the below Thank You Meal options: Breakfast A choice of an Egg McMuffi n®, Chicken McGriddles® or a Bacon, Egg and Cheese Biscuit.

All options come with any size soft drink, tea or hot coffee and a Hash Brown.

Lunch and Dinner A choice of a Double Cheeseburger, 6-Piece Chicken McNuggets® or a Filet-O-Fish® will be offered. All options come with any size soft drink, tea or hot coffee and small fries.

Serving these brave men and women would not be possible without McDonald’s dedicated and unwavering restaurant employees, who are also doing their part to help during this time.

McDonald’s employees are the heart of the business, and their health and safety has been, and will continue to be, the company’s top priority. McDonald’s has implemented nearly 50 new safety measures to ensure the well-being of its employees, and is continuing to explore additional safety steps in accordance with guidance issued by local and national health authorities including the CDC. “Emergency physicians and other health care workers on the frontlines are spending hours a day on their feet, often missing meals in their efforts to care for their patients,” said Dr. William Jaquis, President of American College of Emergency Physicians.

“McDonald’s Thank You Meal is a much appreciated gesture for those risking their lives each day to take a break with a hot meal amidst the turbulence.”

During past times of national crisis, McDonald’s has helped and served communities in need, from donating funds to disaster

relief efforts to providing food for those impacted by natural disasters. McDonald’s commitment to feeding the nation’s healthcare workers and first responders throughout the current pandemic is a continuation of that dedication. Additionally, McDonald’s local franchises have also been working throughout this crisis to support the thousands of communities their restaurants call home.

“Our restaurants have always been a place for the community to come together and share everyday feel-good moments with family, friends and neighbors,” said Vicki Chancellor, an Atlanta-based Owner/Operator and chair of McDonald’s Operator’s National Advertising Committee.

“And, now during times like this, it’s more important than ever for our restaurants to continue to serve and help the communities that have supported us for so long.”

Nearly all McDonald’s U.S. restaurants remain open and are offering convenient and contactless ways for customers to enjoy McDonald’s favorites through drive thru, carry out, McDelivery, and mobile order & pay with our app. *Thank You Meals offered at participating US McDonald’s 4/22/20 through 5/5/20. Valid ID required. Limit one per person per day. Menu options may vary by restaurant. Visit McDonalds.

SERVICES

com for more details.

McDonald’s approach to challenging situations is guided by our belief that we are all in this together, and our system has come together in extraordinary ways to help each other, our customers and the communities we serve. In the U.S. we remain committed to leading by example as an organization, which is why we’ve donated $3.1 million in food to support local communities, made commitments to support truck drivers across the country, donated 1 million N95 masks to Chicago and the state of Illinois and donated $1 million to the Illinois COVID-19 Response Fund to ensure nonprofits in our home state have the supplies they need during this time. McDonald’s has always been a home base for our communities, and we’re proud to provide calm and comfort to them throughout this crisis. We are here to serve.

McDonald’s USA, LLC, serves a variety of menu options made with quality ingredients to nearly 25 million customers every day. Ninety-five percent of McDonald’s 14,000 U.S. restaurants are owned and operated by independent local business owners. For more information, visit www.mcdonalds.com, or follow us on Twitter @McDonalds and Facebook. www.facebook.com/ mcdonalds.

(Advertising Supplement)

10

April 24-30, 2020 • NOrCAl ASiAN JOUrNAl

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160

Scammers trying to use celebrities to get private information

celebrity world

By Ferdie Villar THE novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has not stopped bad people from using social media and other platforms to try and steal private information from people in the guise of money giveaways intended to benefit those having a hard time nowadays.

Recently, Vice Ganda and Marian Rivera called out face Facebook pages bearing their images and/or pretending to be them or affiliated with them that claimed to be giving away P5,000 to fans or cash-strapped individuals in the midst of the economic crisis created by COVID-19, according to The Philippine Star.

While Marian posted a screenshot of the alleged fake Facebook account “Marian Rivera Dantes” and warned followers via an Instagram story that the account and contents are a lie, Vice went on Twitter to denounce the Facebook page “Vice Ganda Family,” exclaiming “Mga manggagantso!!! Mga demonyo!!!#SCAM” and also posted a screenshot of the face account’s Facebook page.

Vice followed up his Twitter post with a reminder to the public to be vigilant during these times as scammers and crafty individuals are on the lookout to make a quick buck.

“FAKE! Mag-ingat po tayo sa mga fake news at mga scammer,” he said.

Fans of both Marian and Vice were quick to denounce the reported fake Facebook accounts, and promised both stars that they will help report the accounts to authorities. *** And talking about celebrities helping the down-on-their-luck during this pandemic, here’s one featuring former Miss Universe winner (2018) Catriona Gray.

The Filipino-Australian beauty recently gave video conference attendees an update on her “No Work, No Rice” campaign with the nonprofit organization Young Focus Philippines.

The video-con was organized by the Miss Universe Organization’s #UniverseUnited campaign, which was also attended

by Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach and Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tunzi, according to a news report from The Philippine Star.

According to the report, Catriona revealed that they have been able to reach about 6,000 families through the project and have donated 60,000 kilograms of rice.

She was quoted as saying, “I feel like this situation has given every individual the opportunity to rise to the occasion and find the spirit of generosity, and also finding a place to give back to the community.”

Via her Instagram account, Gray revealed that the campaign supports vulnerable Filipino families at this time.

“Since our lockdown is still on going, our service to the families remain ongoing, too. $11 or Php550 gives one 15kg bag of rice to support a whole family, which is replenished every 10 days. Any small bit of kindness helps! LINK IN BIO www.youngfocus.org/rice (heart emoji) we couldn’t have given this much without you all,” she said in the Instagram post.

Catriona Gray is indeed compassionate, beautiful and proactive… really deserving of her Miss Universe title! *** It seems that Ellen Adarna, who was linked to John Lloyd Cruz until about August of 2019, has found a new love – and it’s a foreigner named Carlos Lemus.

In an article in PEP.ph, Adarna confirmed in an interview with Mo Twister that she is, indeed, in a long-distance relationship with a Spanish guy.

According to the sexy actress, it does not bother her that she is in that kind of a relationship especially since her priority remains to be her son, Elias, whom she co-parents with John Lloyd.

Vico Sotto, son of Eat Bulaga host Vic Sotto and talented actress Coney Reyes, is now the mayor of Pasig in the Philippines. Mayor Sotto has been widely lauded for giving his help to indigent families who are victims of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

Marian Rivera warned fans of an alleged fake Facebook page via Instagram that claims to be giving away money to Kapuso fans.

Inquirer.net File Photo

“It actually works well for me. I have to spend time with my son,” she was quoted as saying.

“It works well for me. I am not hassled at all.”

Asked whether she will give a tell-all interview sometime in the future, presumably about her relationship with John Lloyd and their break-up (which neither have confirmed), Adarna was hesitant and non-committal.

It was last January when the actress posted a photo on her Instagram account, which turned out to be Carlos. Another post showed a photo with her and Carlos’ backs to it.

Vice Ganda is one of the celebrities victimized by scammers who have created a social media site claiming to be giving away money to affected Filipinos during the novel coronavirus pandemic.

Inquirer.net File Photo

Rey Reyes, a Filipino community leader in Northern California, celebrated his birthday last March 19 with his family at the Reyes residence in Daly City.

Richard Lao, a CPA-Broker based in San Ramon, CA, celebrated his birthday last April 17 at his home with family members.

Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray has joined a nonprofit in the Philippines to provide rice to needy families during the economic crisis created by COVID-19.

Philstar.com File Photo

Ellen Adarna recently confessed in an interview that she has found a new love.

Inquirer.net File Photo

Barbie’s to-do list after lockdown By

Dolly Anne CArvAjAl Inquirer.net

CELEBRITIES are used to being mobbed wherever they go.

But all of a sudden, there is no clamor for photo-ops and autographs as stars are quarantined, just like all of us. And just like that, the pandemic has rained on their (showbiz) parade.

Since TV and movie projects have been put on hold and controversies are nonexistent in the time of COVID-19, I find it more interesting to interview stars now that they can be more of themselves.

Quarantine has stripped off the glitz and glamour. It is making us see showbiz personalities as ordinary people, too.

For the third part of my “QuarantInterview” series, I am featuring Kapuso sweetheart Barbie Forteza. Let’s take a peek into the cocooned life of Barbie in her “dollhouse.”

Here’s my chat with Barbie: How do you and Jak (Roberto, her boyfriend) keep your relationship strong in the time of COVID-19?

He knows my routine well so, he serves as my alarm clock every day. I usually wake up to his video call. Basically, he starts my day with his sleepy voice, and I

Barbie Forteza Photo from Instagram/@barbaraforteza

do not mind hearing it at all.

What’s the most productive thing you’ve done during quarantine?

I’m finally working out again—and, this time, I get to do it regularly. When I feel like my body is getting used to an exercise and I don’t sweat as much anymore, I combine two or three exercises together so that there’s more effort and, so far, it’s been working well.

If you could choose to be under quarantine with any celeb,

who would you pick?

I would love to be under quarantine with either Meryl Streep or Sean Penn. I’d only have one question for them, “How do you do it?”

What’s the first thing you want to do when the pandemic is over?

Get my haircut and treatment, go to my derma, get my eyelash extensions, get pampered at the nail salon, get a massage, eat ramen and have coffee with Jak. What are the “quarantunes” on your playlist that help you stay calm?

I only listen to music when I’m working out. Rihanna keeps me going and sometimes, I even sing along with her while I plank.

What are the top five things on your grocery list during this crisis?

Eggs, mushrooms (surprisingly), butter, milk and instant coffee While you watch the rerun of your show “Meant to Be,” what do you remember most about it?

I remember how much fun we had doing it. When I watch some of the scenes, I remember the inside jokes we shared during blocking, especially my scenes with Sef Cadayona (who played Kuya Bats).

Piolo calls for climate action on Earth Day 2020

By IAn

BIong Inquirer.net

TO mark the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, actor Piolo Pascual on Tuesday, April 21, encouraged the public to take climate action as he shared his commitment to protect the environment and conserve energy.

“This 50th anniversary of Earth Day, I am taking climate action by being aware of my environment and its needs, conserving energy, electricity, reducing carbon emission, not suing plastic, especially the single-use ones, buying only essential stuff to reduce damage to our natural resources, to practice zero-waste management starting with my household,” Pascual said in a video posted on Instagram on the eve of Earth Day 2020.

Pascual, a known environmental advocate, also pledged to plant more seeds “for trees and plants to grow around us,” noting that he will be “conscious of a new way of living that is in

Piolo Pascual

harmony with nature.”

“Our planet is in crisis. We demand a new way forward.

This earth day 2020, let’s do all this to build a better future,” the actor said.

Pascual is among the country’s ambassadors for the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), an international non-governmental organization dedicated to wildlife and nature conserva-

Photo from Instagram/@piolo_pascual

tion.

“Quintessential Filipino actor Piolo Pascual, known for his healthy lifestyle and participation in various environmental initiatives, promotes all project sites for forest protection and watershed management as a Forest and Water Conservation Steward,” WWF Philippines describes Pascual on their website.

Fashion designers do bayanihan in...

PAGE 9 feel to protective gear next is Marvin Garcia. The fashion designer, who is also a councilor in Barangay Maysantol in Bulakan, Bulacan, has rallied his team to make face masks since the pandemic began, using special non-woven fabric he has

in stock for his brand, Marvin Garcia Collections. Giving each piece a unique touch, the designer has incorporated beadwork and lace on the masks reminiscent of high fashion gowns.

He has been giving out these masks for free to security guards

and healthcare workers, as well as to prisoners, traffic enforcers and anyone else who needs to go out and require protection.

To date, the artist-cum-public servant has given out more than 2,000 face masks and continues to produce and distribute them during the quarantine.

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