042823 - New York & New Jersey Edition

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28 - MAY 4, 2023

DATELINE USA

Injured Filipino couple won’t settle with assailants in violent attack in Sacramento

THE Southern California Filipino couple who was assaulted while strolling and taking pictures near the California State Capitol last February vowed not to settle with their assailants to help discourage similar attacks from being perpetrated on other people.

Photographer Nicanor Nikki Arriola and

Pres. Marcos to discuss ‘evolution’ of PH-US military pacts with Biden

by Jerome AninG Inquirer.net

week, including the Philippines’ military agreements with the United States that need to “evolve” amid the changing geopolitical situations.

“We will clarify again, really, these treaty agreements between the Philippines and America and we will look into them because

DOT: Philippines welcomes over 1.7 million foreigners

by Ghio onG Philstar.com

estimated 320,294 visitors came from the United States, it added.

of the many changes [that have occurred],” the president said in a video interview over state-owned Radyo Pilipinas.

Marcos particularly mentioned the 1951 Philippine-U.S. Mutual Defense Treaty and the 1999 Visiting Forces Agreement.

LOS ANGELES — Hundreds of Filipino American travel enthusiasts and tourism industry players recently flocked to the official launch of the Bisita, Be My Guest (BBMG) program of the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT).

This was the first-ever Philippine tourism fair of the Marcos administration in the United States after the two-year hiatus

A TOTAL of 1,715,757 foreign tourists have arrived in the Philippines from January to April 22 this year, the Department of Tourism (DOT) announced as it continues to welcome travelers amid the government’s efforts to ease some travel restrictions amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Of this number, an

The agency has yet to provide complete figures of tourist arrivals.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco revealed the data during the recent launch of the agency’s “Bisita, Be My Guest” or BBM-G program, a referral and incentive program, at the

by FrAnces mAnGosinG Inquirer.net

MANILA — American troops showed off their firepower during the “Balikatan” (shoulderto-shoulder) war games with their Filipino counterparts on Tuesday, April 25, performing the first test-fire of their premier Patriot and Avenger air defense missiles in the country, in a town facing the West Philippine Sea.

During drills in the coastal town of San Antonio, Zambales, two simulated cruise missile threats from the sky were knocked out by the Patriot, one of the most sought-after air defense systems in the U.S. weapons market.

The Humvee-based Avenger air defense systems with Stinger missiles, which also

Record 89% satisfied with how PH democracy works – poll

by JAnvic mAteo Philstar.com

MANILA — Almost nine in every 10 adult Filipinos said they were satisfied with how democracy works in the country, according to a survey conducted by Social Weather Stations (SWS) more than six months after the 2022 elections.

Results of the Dec. 10-14 survey released last Friday night, April 21 showed that 89 percent of the respondents were satisfied with the country’s democracy, 11 points

above the 78 percent recorded in a similar survey conducted in April 2021.

The latest survey results surpassed the previous record of 86 percent, which was obtained in September 2016, a few months after that year’s presidential elections.

SWS explained that satisfaction with the way democracy works in the country often increases after national elections.

Previous records were set in September 1992 and July 1998, both

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday, April 24 disclosed some discussion points in his agenda when he meets with U.S. President Joe Biden next

BRIGHT AND WIDE. Passersby take photos at the new-look Elliptical Underpass in Quezon City on Tuesday, April 25. The city government hopes the murals will help spread the call to protect nature and species in danger of extinction.

PNA photo by Joan Bondoc

‘Bisita, Be My Guest’ program launched in LA to invite Fil-Ams, travelers to PH

US firepower on display as ‘Balikatan’ nears close

Philippine Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco attends the launch of Bisita, Be My Guest — a new program inviting travelers back to the Philippines — in Burbank, California on Saturday, April 22.

Photo courtesy of the Philippine Department of Tourism

US firepower on...

debuted in the country, targeted drones for the live-fire exercise.

Both weapon systems are being used by Ukraine to defend itself from Russia. The Patriot donated by Western allies arrived only last week in Ukraine after months of training by Ukrainian troops.

But Maj. Gen. Brian Gibson, commander of the 94th Army Air and Missile Defense Command, reiterated that the Balikatan live-fire exercise and its chosen locations were not directed at any perceived enemies.

Not against any adversary

“Balikatan is against no particular individual country or adversary. It’s an opportunity to exercise between our militaries but also some other partners involved,” he told reporters.

“Whether it’s the South China Sea, whether it’s the northern Philippines, whether it’s in another country… it’s the point that we’re doing it together,” Gibson said.

“You’ll see around the globe where our U.S. Patriot forces operate, and not just here in the Indo-Pacific, the recognition that this system is lethal, combat-credible, has a history in crisis, conflicts and peace, to both assure and deter,” he said.

The largest-ever Balikatan exercises, involving almost 18,000 troops from the United States, the Philippines and Australia, are taking place in various locations around the country, amid China’s growing assertiveness in the region. The war games started on April 11 and will end on April 28.

The drills followed the official announcement of four new locations under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), allowing the expansion of American military presence in the Philippines, from an initial five sites under the deal signed in 2014.

The four new sites include three in northern Luzon close to Taiwan (Camilo Osias Naval Base and Lal-lo Airport, both in Cagayan, and Camp Melchor dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela, and one near the West Philippine Sea (Balabac Island in Palawan province).

The Patriot (Phased Array Tracking Radar to Intercept of Target) system was developed by U.S. weapons manufacturer Raytheon and is used in 17 countries. It can track and shoot down attacking missiles and aircraft with a minimum flight time of less than nine seconds and can travel up to 70 kilometers to a target.

The Avenger built by Boeing, on the other hand, is a fully automated, short-range air defense system and is the Army’s premier shoot-on-the-move air defense weapon with a speed of 55 miles per hour (88.51 kph) and a range of 275 miles (442.57 km).

Filipino soldiers were briefed on the weapon systems last week, also in Zambales.

Main event

In another first, on Wednesday, April 26, the two allies will demonstrate their joint capabilities by sinking a mock enemy ship off Zambales with rockets and missiles fired by weapon systems used by the Philippine and U.S. militaries,

Pres. Marcos to discuss ‘evolution’ of PH-US military...

“We have to evolve it. It has to evolve because there is a need to adjust them because there is really an evolution, there are also changes in the situations we are facing here — in the South China Sea, amid the events in Taiwan, North Korea, all of these [where] the situation is a bit simmering,” he said.

Marcos said he would also speak with Biden on “what should we do to lessen the rhetoric because nowadays the exchange of words is a bit serious, [and] offensive words are already being uttered somewhat, so, of course, we worry about that.”

The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) last week announced that Marcos would leave the country on April 30 and his itinerary would begin on May 1 with a meeting with Biden.

This will be Marcos’ second trip to the United States as president. He first met with Biden on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York in September last year.

After the U.S. trip, President Marcos will attend the coronation of King Charles III in London on May 6 and will travel to Indonesia for the 42nd Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) Summit from May 9 to May 11.

Assistance

During the video interview, Mr. Marcos said he would also discuss climate change with his American counterpart and seek help on what strategies

“They’re giving something that’s called green bond, meaning they will give funds to help us fix [the ill-effects of climate change]. For example, the no-build zones [wherein homes] will be moved away from the seas so that they won’t be hit by strong typhoons,” he said.

“We will ask for plenty of help because [we] are recovering from the pandemic. And like in the other trips that I made, [we will pursue] what partnerships can we forge, what new technologies can we bring back to the Philippines that we can use,” he added.

Marcos said the country’s “special relationship” with the United States did not always involve military matters, but also economic affairs and cultural exchange.

“We should look at what good partnerships we can have with the U.S.. We will talk with President

Biden on how we can be continuously assisted. And it covers so many subjects, not just the military that is being discussed nowadays because of the Edca (Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement), but also the economy, tourism, health care, all of them,” he pointed out.

The PCO earlier said Marcos’ visit would help advance his priorities in such areas as agriculture, energy, climate change, digital transformation and technology, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, supply chains, and infrastructure.

At the same time, the president said the Philippines became “well-known” during the pandemic because of its healthcare workers, and recalled that during his overseas trips, foreign leaders would always ask him if their countries could get Filipino nurses, doctors, and medical technologists.

“Because we really became well-known during the pandemic, and we remain their number one preferred source of healthcare workers—that’s one of the things we’ll talk about because there is a problem on immigration, training, all of those things. We want to give a chance to those who want to go abroad to find a good job,” he added.

Marcos said he was looking into his schedule with Biden to see if they could talk about all the matters that he wanted. For items that would not be tackled, he said these would be done through “contacts” in the American government and private sector.

“It’s not only President Biden and me. We have businessmen, we have [officials] from different departments with us so that can really clarify what is really the partnership of the Philippines and the United States,” he said. n

Record 89% satisfied with how PH...

PAGE 1

election years, when satisfaction with the country’s democracy peaked at 70 percent.

It again peaked in September 2010, a few months after the election of the late Benigno Aquino III, at 69 percent.

Satisfaction, however, fell to a disappointing 44 percent in June 2004, a month after the controversial polls that re-elected Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

As reported earlier, some 60 percent of the survey respondents said that “democracy is always preferable to any other kind of government,” up from 54 percent recorded in April 2021.

SWS data showed that it is five points below the record-high 65 percent

recorded in June 2013 and 13 points above the record-low 47 percent in June 2014.

Preference for democracy has been above 50 percent since June 2015.

Meanwhile, those who said that an authoritarian government can be preferable to a democratic one “under some circumstances” rose from 20 percent in April 2021 to 26 percent in December 2022, a point shy of the record 27 percent obtained in a September 2010 survey.

The remaining 15 percent of the respondents said it did not matter for them whether the Philippines has a democratic or non-democratic regime, down from 26 percent in the April 2021

survey.

The survey had 1,200 respondents and a margin of error of +/- 2.8 percent.

In January, London-based think tank The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) classified the Philippines as a “flawed democracy” in its Democracy Index 2022.

From 54th in 2021, the country improved to 52nd out of the 167 countries and territories included in the annual index.

“Flawed democracies” are those that have free and fair elections and where basic civil liberties are respected, but there are significant weaknesses in some aspects, including governance, political culture and participation.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. meets with U.S. President Joe Biden during the second bilateral of the president on his six-day working visit to New York City. Malacañang file photo should be adopted.

WAR GAMES PREP. American soldiers prepare missiles for the Avenger air defense system, a self-propelled surface-to-air missile system, during a live-fire demonstration in this year’s Philippine-US “Balikatan” military exercises in San Antonio, Zambales, on Tuesday, April 25, 2023.

Photo by Marianne Bermudez / Philippine Daily Inquirer

‘Bisita, Be My Guest’...

from the COVID-19 pandemic. The U.S. has consistently been on the top list of international travelers to the Philippines with about 500,000 arrivals in 2022.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco told reporters on the sidelines of the BBMG launch in Burbank on Saturday, April 22 that the current administration is optimistic that the U.S. market would continue to be one of the leading countries with the highest number of international arrivals to the Philippines.

“I am extremely delighted to know that the Philippines continues to be a top of line destination for our friends here in the United States. The United States has continued to be a very strong source market for us having been number one last year and number two (as of the first quarter of 2023) this year so we are very excited to welcome more of our Filipino and foreign friends to the Philippines,” Frasco said.

“Last year, it was the United States market that really sustained Philippine international tourism, having been number 1 and having garnered 500,000 international arrivals. As we have just closed out the first quarter, we have already received over 300,000 visitors from the United States,” she noted.

Frasco reiterated President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos’ call for all Filipinos (including those who live in the U.S.) around the globe to become Philippine tourism ambassadors.

“I’m here, together with our team from the Department of Tourism, carrying with us the love and warmth of the Filipino people as we

champion Philippine tourism. We are here to invite our fellow Filipinos to become tourism ambassadors for the Philippines by inviting a foreign friend, guest or spouse to visit any of our beautiful islands in the country in exchange for prizes such as a house and lot, condominium units, free airline tickets and holiday packages and tours,” Frasco said, while explaining the mechanics of the BBMG program.

She described the various destinations that overseas Filipinos and foreigners alike can enjoy, such as Cebu, Palawan and Bohol, for its beaches and water activities like diving. For surfing, she recommended Siargao and La Union; the Cordilleras and Baguio for nature adventures.

“If you want to experience Filipino food, of course, we have the very delicious offerings of Pampanga, as well as in many other places where the delicacies are actually quite distinct regionally,” the secretary added.

“The Philippines is now the world’s leading beach destination and the world’s leading dive destination as well as Asia’s leading tourist attraction,” she added.

The tourism chief also called on Filipino Americans to be part of their endeavor in achieving a goal of a 100% turnaround of the country’s tourism industry by next year.

“The target for the Philippines last year was set at 1.7 million international arrivals but because of the strong interests that continue for the Philippines, we received over 2.65 million international arrivals therefore surpassing our targets. This year, overall by the end of 2023, PAGE 7

New York State Assemblymember Steven

B. Raga celebrates 100 days in office with historic legislative achievements

NEW York State

Assemblymember

Steven Raga has successfully completed his first 100 days in office, during which he demonstrated significant progress in promoting legislation that addresses a wide range of community needs, ultimately contributing to the betterment of all New Yorkers.

During this period, Assemblymember Raga played a critical role in the development and passage of three vital pieces of legislation, one of which has been enacted into law by Governor Kathy Hochul. A04016, which empowers residents of assisted living programs to access hospice services, guarantees comprehensive end-of-life care.

In addition, A04453 enhances the transparency and accountability of government agencies in New York by addressing their ability to claim copyright protection, while A06512 ensures safety and coordination by providing notice to school districts and nonpublic schools in New York City of relevant

construction projects.

Apart from his leading role in these legislative initiatives, Assemblymember

Raga demonstrated his dedication to a broad spectrum of issues by cosponsoring over 250 bills and more than 50 resolutions that encompassed various sectors, such as education, housing, healthcare, the environment, social justice, and economic development.

“I am honored by the progress we have achieved during my first 100 days in office,” Assemblymember Raga said. “Collaborating with my colleagues and constituents, we are addressing urgent concerns and effecting meaningful change in the lives of New Yorkers. I eagerly anticipate building on this momentum and accomplishing even more in the months to come.”

Raga is the first Filipino American elected to any public office in New York State. Representing the 30th District in the New York State Assembly, which includes parts of the neighborhoods of Woodside, Elmhurst, Jackson Heights, Maspeth, Middle Village, and Astoria, he is committed to championing legislation that supports the well-being, growth, and prosperity of his constituents and all New Yorkers. n

New York State Assemblymember Steven B. Raga

Features OpiniOn A new man in the PNP

The Philippine National Police changed leadership on Monday, April 24 amid an ongoing purge targeting officers linked to drug trafficking. Gen. Rodolfo Azurin bowed out of the PNP just days after finding himself entangled in controversy over a raid that yielded 990 kilos of shabu, of which 42 kilos were allegedly pilfered by the police raiders.

The PNP also continues to face unresolved accusations of serious abuses in the socalled war on drugs waged by the previous administration.

Maj. Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr., the new PNP chief, will have to carry out the preferred approach of the Marcos administration to the drug scourge, which is less bloody and does not openly encourage police to shoot first and ask questions later.

Acorda, a native of Ilocos Norte who reaches the retirement age of 56 this December, will also have to allay public concerns about a seeming deterioration of peace and order amid a string of brazen assassinations targeting mostly politicians and, in one daring attack in Metro Manila, a broadcaster. An encouraging aspect

is that perpetrators have been arrested or identified in several of the cases including the murders of Negros Oriental governor Roel Degamo and radio commentator Percy Lapid. But much more is needed to end the impunity in committing murder in this country.

Within the PNP, Acorda will also have to deal with reports of simmering unrest over a proposal to cut and overhaul the retirement pensions and benefits of military, police and other uniformed personnel. President Marcos, for his part, reportedly instructed Acorda to exercise maximum tolerance in dealing with government critics.

Acorda, whose last posting was as PNP intelligence chief, is aware of the

long festering problems in the police organization. Since its creation, the PNP has become tainted by scandals linking its members including former PNP chiefs to large-scale corruption. Lower ranking cops, meanwhile, have been implicated in a wide range of criminal activities including protection rackets and murders related to

e-sabong, jueteng and other forms of illegal gambling.

Housecleaning is a constant challenge within the PNP, even as it carries out its principal mandate of keeping the public safe. These are best carried out with public trust and confidence in the PNP, from its chief down to the new recruits. (Philstar.com)

Philippines-US relations: Stars fully aligned

between the United States and the Philippines.

THE announcement that U.S. President Joe Biden will be hosting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the White House during their bilateral meeting on May 1 definitely underscores the special friendship and the ever-strengthening ties

President Marcos will be bringing key Cabinet members who will engage with their counterparts to cover many aspects of the bilateral relations between our two countries. As Malacañang put it, this allimportant visit to the U.S. will “substantively progress efforts to further deepen relations and political ties, to bring about lasting socio-

economic partnerships, as well as to enhance defense and security cooperation.”

The bilateral meeting between President Marcos and President Biden will also reaffirm the ironclad commitment of the United States to the defense of the Philippines, with the discussion expected to touch on how the two nations can further deepen economic cooperation, promote inclusive prosperity and

expand the special peopleto-people ties that have been in existence for so many decades – underpinning the close friendship between the Philippines and the U.S.. I received so many messages expressing elation over this latest development, and I responded by telling them the stars seem to be fully aligned because the timing seems to be very opportune, with recent events and activities leading

up to this auspicious state of affairs.

As we had mentioned in our column last Sunday, April 23, the economy of the Philippines is on an upward trajectory, with growth expected to be sustained this year.

In the most recent World Economic Outlook Report by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the projection for the country’s gross domestic product (GDP)

growth was upgraded to 6 percent from the previous 5 percent forecast issued last January. The Philippines is also expected to register the fastest growth in Asia, outpacing India, China, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand whose economies are also projected to expand this year. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) also gave a similarly positive outlook for

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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Babe’s Eye View

BaBe Romualdez

Dateline PhiliPPines

NCR positivity rate rises to 10.6% – OCTA

by Janvic Mateo Philstar.com

MANILA — The number of people testing positive for COVID-19 in the National Capital Region (NCR) further increased over the past week, according to monitoring conducted by the OCTA Research group.

Citing data from the Department of Health, OCTA fellow Guido David said the region’s seven-day positivity rate increased from 7.3 percent on April 16 to 10.6 percent on April 23.

The positivity rate measures the percentage of positive results out of the total number of RT-PCR tests conducted.

The World Health Organization recommends a positivity rate of five percent or below to effectively manage the pandemic.

As of Monday, April 24, David said the nationwide positivity rate is at 10 percent.

In a post on his Twitter account, he noted that the NCR has an average of only 3,120 RT-PCR tests per day, down from around 11,000 in April 2022.

Official government data only take into account RT-PCR tests and not the antigen tests that have become a common way of testing for COVID-19 infection.

While this means that cases could be higher than the official count, David earlier

said that looking at positivity rates and other indicators could still show trends in the number of cases.

Over the past weeks, positivity rates in various areas have seen a steady rise.

On Monday, the DOH reported 429 new cases, with 180 in NCR. He said the positivity rate in the region is on track to hit 15 percent before possibly plateauing by mid-May.

Hospital occupancy remained low at 21 percent.

QC still ‘low risk’

While the number of new cases has slightly increased, the Quezon City government said the city remains at low risk for COVID-19.

Citing an assessment from OCTA Research, the city government said the number of average daily new cases increased from 17 last week to 22 this week.

The positivity rate, meanwhile, increased from 5.9 percent to 8.3 percent.

“The city remains at low risk level,” it said in an advisory in Filipino. “But the local government continues to remind everyone to stay safe and follow minimum health protocols to protect yourself from the virus and other contagious diseases.”

The city government said it has administered over 6.8 million doses of

President Marcos counting remaining days in his presidency

by alexis RoMeRo Philstar.com

MANILA — He is just about to enter his second year in office, but President Marcos said he is already counting the remaining days of his administration, describing everything he does as “urgent.”

Marcos said being a president is a “real privilege” that allows him to help a lot of people, so he is trying to maximize his time.

“It’s like a countdown in six years. I do not count the years. I do not count the months. I count the days, how many days left before it ends so I want to ensure that I will finish everything I need to accomplish within those days,” the president said in an interview with state-run Radyo Pilipinas last Monday,

April 24.

According to Marcos, he needs to set priorities and address concerns that require immediate action.

“Before you know it, your

schedule is already full because you need to do all these things and you really need prioritization, you need to choose what to prioritize,” he said.

“That’s the way it is. You cannot do anything. You need to do it. As I said, you cannot just postpone. One thing I learned since I assumed office is that everything is important, everything is urgent.”

Marcos said he needs to be aware of new developments both here and abroad in the morning so he would know the issues to ponder on as well as matters to discuss at meetings.

“That’s what we are doing now. So far, we have been efficient somehow,” the chief executive said, adding that some work cannot be

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. led the simultaneous bamboo and tree planting ceremony in San Mateo, Rizal on Tuesday (September 13, 2022).

Photo by STAR / KJ Rosales

‘Bisita, Be My Guest’ program launched in LA to...

we will able to garner over 4.8 million international visitors and anticipate a 100 percent recovery for international travel next year,” she said.

This projection, she said, is earlier than what was projected before she assumed office that the country would reach the pre-pandemic travel numbers by 2025. The country recorded 8.26 million visitors in 2019.

She likewise expressed gratitude for the overwhelming response they got from the U.S.-based Filipinos.

“Thank you so much for continuing to champion the Philippines by showing your love for our country and your great interests across our islands. As we are very excited to launch this program here in the United States and we are very hopeful that with the help of our fellow Filipinos here in the United States, we could continue to herald the good news about Philippines, the love and warmth of the Filipinos await you,” she said.

Frasco also assured that the DOT, consistent with its mandate to help in the government’s sustainable growth, is doing its best to come up with various programs like the BBMG, to give not only the country’s tourism sector a boost but also the entire Philippine economy.

She recognized the tourism revenue contribution coming

from the domestic front.

“Domestic tourism continues to help our regions and provinces greatly in terms of its contribution to the economy. And that is why we fully foresee, a 100 percent recovery of domestic tourism this year with no less than 122 million domestic trips taken by our fellow Filipinos. All of these translate to the most important purpose of pushing for Philippine tourism and that is the livelihood and employment of our fellow Filipinos. The tourism industry generated no less than 5.2 million for employment jobs for Filipinos last year,” she noted.

Prior to the U.S. launch, the DOT met with various travel stakeholders and Filipino communities in Japan and Germany to continuously promote the Philippines as a prime tourist destination.

Photos

“Since the start of the Marcos administration, we have begun the work of aggressively promoting the Philippines worldwide. As a matter of fact, I just returned from ITB Berlin, having brought the biggest Philippine delegation. Thankfully, with the support of our friends from various places in Europe, that particular exhibition generated for the Philippines $250 million in negotiated sales,” she said.

“We are also very grateful for the opportunity to have pitched for the Philippines in various jurisdictions including the United Kingdom as well as Saudi Arabia. We’ve also been to Thailand as well as Japan and many other jurisdictions by maintaining our positive relationship with fellow government ministers as well as our government-togovernment relations, country to country,” she added.

To be able to attain their goal of 100 percent recovery by 2024, she said aside from BBMG and other tourism development initiatives, the DOT head said the Marcos administration is seeing to it that it would maintain friendly relationships with other nations.

“We are blessed by the fact that our president maintains a stance to be a friend to all and enemy to none and that has benefitted Philippine tourism greatly because our dual partnerships with countries that share our interests and the push for tourism continues to be sustained,” she said.

When asked about peace and order concerns, Frasco said while she has not encountered any from her meetings with the tourism stakeholders, she assured that the Philippine government, coinciding the implementation of these tourism promotion strategies, is making sure that security and peace and order in the country’s tourism destinations are of utmost priority.

The BBMG event in Southern California also highlighted exhibition booths from various travel agencies, aviation and airline firms, real estate and Filipino American entrepreneurs. Mr. Pure Energy Gary Valenciano was also a guest performer at the launch.

BBMG was officially launched by DOT last December 13, 2022. Aside from the DOT, the campaign, which will run from January 2023 to April 2024, will also include participation from the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).

Under the incentive program, registrants will be provided with a travel passport that they can use to go across key destinations, get stamps, and claim a prize at the airport. This will also give them a privilege card featuring discounts at accredited establishments across the country. There are also raffle prizes for qualified sponsors. For more details about the program, you can go to http://bbmg.philippines. travel. (by Donnabelle Gatdula-Arevalo/AJPress) n

DOT: Philippines...

PAGE 1

Philippine Travel Fair in Los Angeles, California.

The program aims to bring in more foreigners by tapping Filipinos, especially those based abroad, who have foreign spouses or friends. Those who will be able to bring foreign visitors can win condominium units, airplane tickets and holiday packages in select destinations.

Frasco said the agency, along with the Department of Migrant Workers and the Tourism Promotions Board, brought the BBM-G program to the U.S. “to give opportunities to fellow Filipinos to become ambassadors for the Philippines.” n

US firepower on...

PAGE 2

the main event for this year’s Balikatan.

Retired Philippine Navy patrol ship BRP Pangasinan (PS-31), a World War II-era vessel decommissioned in 2021 after more than seven decades of service, will be called back into action for a final mission.

law,” said Archie Balingbing of Taitech Marine Sales and Services Corp., the company contracted to clean the ship, in a video taken by the U.S. Navy.

Hazardous and toxic wastes were removed “because it can cause pollution to the sea,” she said.

PAGE 6

rushed.

The presidency requires a lot of planning and things can get complicated, Marcos stressed, adding that such

scenarios are expected.

President Marcos... NCR positivity rate rises to 10.6%...

“I am lucky because I have been watching the events and activities of the president because of my father,” Marcos said. n

PAGE 6

COVID-19 vaccines. A total of 2.6 million adults and minors are considered fully

vaccinated, while almost 1.6 million first and second booster doses have been administered. n

President Marcos is expected to witness the littoral live-fire event on Wednesday.

Last week, the ship underwent a rigorous cleaning process and was stripped of hazardous material and chemicals.

“We made sure that we are in compliance with the

BRP Pangasinan, a former U.S. Navy patrol craft escort built in 1943, was commissioned by the Philippine Navy in 1948. The decorated former Malvar-class patrol vessel saw action in different parts of the country before it was decommissioned in March 2021. n

LOW-PRICED. A wide array of fresh but affordable vegetables available for consumers at the Department of Agriculture-Agribusiness Development Center Kadiwa store in Diliman, Quezon City on Tuesday, April 25. A kilo of bitter melon (ampalaya) is sold at PHP65; cauliflower, PHP80; broccoli, PHP120; eggplant, PHP55; squash, PHP30; string beans, PHP60; sponge gourd (patola), PHP60; winged beans (sigarilyas), PHP100; finger chili, PHP60; sweet potato (kamote), PHP60; okra, PHP70; carrots, PHP50; and cucumber, PHP60. PNA photo by Ben Briones

Passengers crowd the counters as they troop early to the NAIA Terminal 3 in Pasay City on April 2, 2023 to avoid the influx of passengers heading to their respective provinces for the holy week break. Philstar file photo by Miguel de Guzman

Philippine Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco (center) is joined by officials of the Department of Tourism and Tourism Promotions Board on Saturday, April 22 during the launch of Bisita, Be My Guest in Southern California.

courtesy of the Philippine Department of Tourism

The first Philippine Travel Fair in Southern California featured travel and tour operators, local Fil-Am businesses and organizations.

Photo courtesy of the Philippine Department of Tourism

Injured Filipino couple won’t settle with assailants in...

his wife, Julienne Ochengco, made the decision after meeting with prosecutors.

The couple believes they are victims of a hate crime, as the attackers specifically targeted them, the only Asians among other tourists in the vicinity.

Ironically, Arriola had been covering the rise of anti-Asian attacks in California as a photojournalist particularly the case of the Roque family who were verbally and physically assaulted at a McDonald’s restaurant drive-thru in North Hollywood last year.

“What we are sure at the moment is that we will push through with the case,” Arriola stressed. “Even those who will handle case for us claim that is a big strong case.”

Oscar M. Lopez passes at 93

MANILA — Oscar Lopez, businessman and patriarch of the Lopez clan, has passed away at age 93.

“He was our North Star, the inspiration, and guide for succeeding generations of Lopez Group executives and employees who learned to treasure and practice with him the Group’s distinct

core values: a pioneering entrepreneurial spirit, business excellence, unity, nationalism, and social justice,” First Philippine Holdings, where Lopez sat as chairman emeritus, said in a statement on Sunday, April 23.

Lopez was the

The Arriolas met with Deputy District Attorney is Emilee Divinagracia and Assistant Deputy D.A. Rochelle Beardsley who, incidentally are both Filipinas that will handle our case,” happily shared Arriola.

Detained suspect

One of the suspects, Keylen Xavier Lee Farley, who is now detained at the Sacramento County Main Jail, was arraigned last March 15 before the Department 62 of the Sacramento Superior Court. The other suspect, still unidentified, is at large.

An investigation led to Farley’s arrest and the subsequent filing of three felony counts by the Sacramento District Attorney: two counts for robbery of the

degree and aggravated assault and a third count for elder abuse.

Farley allegedly attempted to steal a professional camera in broad daylight from Arriola who then had two large

cameras on his shoulders. In the struggle captured on video, Arriola is seen being knocked to the ground.

In the same video, Farley is seen dragging Arriola on the pavement and kicking him in the chest multiple times. Ochengco was also reportedly pushed to the ground as she tried to restrain the man from attacking her husband.

Farley then rushed to a getaway car driven by the other suspect while the victims were taken to the University of California Davis Medical Center.

Traumatic injuries

The elderly Arriola says he and his wife are still suffering from physical injuries, psychological trauma and are unable to work as caregivers as before.

“I suffered six broken ribs apart from bruises and abrasions. My wife’s knees suffered even more after the incident as she was already using a cane due to weakened knees for a month before the attack. She also had a lot of bruises even in her chest,” Arriola says. His wife, he says, suddenly burst into tears at the memory of the attack.

“We really need all the help and support we can get as bills kept piling up through the days that we cannot got to work and even had to attend to the case hearings,” Arriola appealed.

NaFFAA is raising funds for the couple at https://www.gofundme.com/f/ vf6zak-fight-for-justice-elderly-filamsattacked, as well as NAFCON at tinyurl. com/helpthearriolas.” (Inquirer.net) n

Trying to keep a brave face, couple Nicanor Arriola (left) and wife Julienne Ochengco comfort each other in the hospital despite still suffering from the physical and psychological injuries they sustained from assault at the State Capitol in Sacramento. Contributed photo second

Oscar Lopez

ABS-CBN photo PAGE 9

New PNP chief Acorda vows to maintain cleansing of ranks

by Frances Mangosing, JeroMe aning Inquirer.net

MANILA — President

Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has picked Police Maj. Gen. Ben-

Acorda Jr. as the new

chief of the 228,000-strong Philippine National Police, a move hailed by lawmakers and colleagues.

In his acceptance speech during the change-ofcommand ceremony led by the President on Monday, April 24 at Camp Crame, Acorda, the former chief of the PNP Directorate for

Oscar M. Lopez...

Intelligence, promised to continue his predecessor’s campaign to cleanse the police organization of scalawags.

“My stand on [illegal] drugs is clear—no police should be involved in pushing, using or whatever means of illegal drug trade,” he pointed out.

“You will be charged and removed from the service. This is my warning to each and everyone of you, our fight will be holistic in prevention and aggressive in operations,” he told policemen. “Under my leadership, rewards and punishment will be quick and decisive, it shall be fair and impartial and due process shall be observed.”

Acorda vowed that the PNP would be transparent under his watch: “To the media, our long-time partners, we welcome critics as our independent source of check and balance. We are allies in bringing out the truth… We

chairman emeritus of local conglomerate, Lopez Holdings Corp. The Lopez family incorporated the conglomerate in 1993 as the holding company for its major investments.

Lopez Holdings Corp. has stakes in various business sectors: power and energy through First Gen Corp. and Energy Development Corp., media via ABS-CBN and Sky Cable, the property sector through Rockwell Land Corp. and First Philippine Industrial Park, as well as in manufacturing via First Philec Corp. It was ABSCBN that first reported on his death.

ABS-CBN News was first to report his passing on late Saturday night, April 22.

Apart from First Philippine Holdings and Lopez Holdings Corp., Lopez was also the chairman emeritus of First Gen, EDC, First Balfour, Rockwell Land, among others.

Forbes listed Lopez as 45th in its 2022 edition of Philippines 50 Richest, with a net worth of $245 million.

While he is known for

his contributions across the business sector, First Philippine Holdings said his legacy will be being among the pioneers in putting into consideration the environmental and community impact of business dealings. He founded a climate thinktank, which is now named after him.

The Oscar M. Lopez Center for Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Management Foundation, Inc. was created to look for solutions and technologies that develop climate risk information for use of communities.

Lopez studied at Harvard College and graduated cum laude in 1951 and finished his graduate degree – a Masters of Public Administration – in 1995.

He received a Doctor of Humanities honoris causa from De La Salle University and Ateneo de Manila University as well as a Doctor of Laws honoris cause from the Philippine Women’s University and the University of the Philippines. (Philstar.com) n

jamin

LAST DAY. Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. (right) bids farewell to the Philippine National Police as he leaves the service after nearly 40 years during his retirement ceremony at Camp Crame in Quezon City on Monday, April 24, with PNP deputy chief for administration Lt. Gen Rhodel Sermonia beside him. In his retirement speech, Azurin said he remained true to his promise to ensure peace, order and stability in the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler

Philippine banks in Forbes’ World’s Best Banks list

by Lawrence agcaoiLi Philstar.com

MANILA — Prominent business magazine Forbes has included 10 financial institutions from the Philippines in its recently published list of The World’s Best Banks for 2023.

The 415 banks that earned a spot on Forbes ranking were evaluated in categories, such as digital services, customer services, financial advice and trust.

“If you cannot trust your financial institution, all other perks and services dwindle,” Parijat Banerjee, global head of business services at LatentView Analytics, said.

Forbes’ World’s Best Banks 2023 reflects trust and other industry trends especially after the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank in the U.S.

Compiled in partnership with market research firm Statista, the list is based on a worldwide survey of 48,000 banking customers in 32 countries.

The Top 10 banks in the Philippines include CIMB Bank, Lucio Tan’s Philippine National Bank (PNB), Ayala-

led Bank of the Philippine Islands, Aboitiz-led Union Bank of the Philippines, and Sy-led BDO Unibank.

Completing the list were state-run Land Bank of the Philippines, Metrobank Group’s Philippine Savings Bank (PSBank), Yuchengcoled Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC), Maya Bank of PLDT’s Voyager Innovations, and Gokongwei-owned Robinsons Bank Corp.

According to Forbes, the biggest banks were not necessarily the best as online banks are at the top in many countries, reflecting the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on customers’ digital comfort.

Over the past two years, Banerjee said that banks rapidly adopted new digital technology that made customers’ experiences more robust, swift and personal – all necessary to appeal to Millennial and Gen Z customers.

CIMB Bank is the 31st largest lender in the Philippines in terms of assets at P30.26 billion as of end-2022, while PNB is the seventh largest bank with

Philippines-US relations: Stars...

total resources amounting to P1.17 trillion.

BDO, owned by the family of the late retail and banking magnate Henry Sy, continued to dominate the industry with assets of P3.92 trillion and capital of P459.82 billion.

BPI is the country’s third largest bank with assets of P2.6 trillion and capitalization of P316.07 billion. The 171-year-old bank aims to complete its merger with Robinsons Bank , the country’s 16th largest bank with resources of P183.25 billion.

UnionBank is the country’s 9th largest bank with resources amounting to P961.58 billion, while RCBC is ranked sixth with P1.18 trillion.

On the other hand, PSBank – the thrift banking arm of the Metrobank Group – is the country’s largest mid-sized bank with assets of P263.37 billion and capitalization of P35.74 billion.

Maya Bank is one of the six entities granted digital banking licenses by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.n

New PNP chief Acorda...

will be transparent.”

He is expected to lead the PNP for almost eight months, with his retirement set on Dec. 3 when he turns 56 years old, the mandatory retirement age.

Acorda replaced now retired Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr., whom the President thanked for his leadership and service to the country.

‘Dependable’

Explaining his choice of Acorda, Mr. Marcos said in an interview over stateowned Radyo Pilipinas: “There are many things happening in our police, we’re looking at them. We’re having problems so there is a need for us to place a dependable commander [and Acorda] is somebody who is well-known to me.”

The president said he knew the abilities and reputation of Acorda inside the PNP and that Acorda’s name was “always part of the shortlist” for PNP chief.

“He is well-recognized within the police force and even in our civilian

leadership, especially in the places he’d been in— he became a PD (provincial director) and RD (regional director). We heard his name and the report about him is good so I said, maybe, he is the one most fit [to be PNP chief] now,” he said.

Ilocano roots

Just like his predecessor, Acorda traces his roots back to Mr. Marcos’ home province of Ilocos Norte where he grew up and finished his elementary and secondary education at Gabaldon Elementary School’s Special Education Center in the capital city of Laoag and Bacarra National Comprehensive High School in Bacarra town, respectively, before moving to the Philippine Military Academy where he graduated in 1991. He also has a Master’s Degree in Management from the Philippine Christian University.

Acorda’s father and namesake served as a lawyer for the Citizen’s Legal Assistance Office,

the economy, with growth also projected at 6 percent. While the Philippines will also be facing challenges like the rest of the world, ADB Philippines country director Kelly Bird sees the country growing “at its potential this year and next, and is on track toward its goal to become an upper middle-income country.”

During the Philippine Economic Briefing we hosted in Washington, DC last April 12, the country’s economic managers led by Finance Secretary Ben Diokno, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Felipe Medalla, Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman and National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan were able to deliver a clear message to all the attendees composed of American business executives, U.S. government officials, think tanks and those from the business, financial and investment community that the Philippines is open for business and is ready to engage the United States to further strengthen trade and investment ties as well as deepen public-private sector collaboration.

The participants were impressed with the presentations and the succeeding Q and A that highlighted how “the Philippine economy managed to weather the storms and stay the course towards sustainable economic growth” amid a challenging global environment, as Secretary Diokno put it. Among the sectors that generated a lot of interest include energy, information technology-business process management (IT-BPM), semiconductor and agribusiness. There are also tremendous opportunities in logistics, transportation, manufacturing, tourism, health, education and digital connectivity.

Aside from the IMF-World Bank Annual Spring Meetings and the Philippine Economic Briefing, there was also the 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue of Foreign Affairs Secretary Ricky Manalo and Defense OIC Charlie Galvez with U.S. State Secretary Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.

to-shoulder as allies to bring greater security, prosperity and stability to the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.”

Speaker Martin Romualdez – who was at the Philippine Economic Briefing – also led a delegation of congressmen to Washington and engaged with members of the U.S. House of Representatives that included Majority Leader Steve Scalise of Louisiana. The visit was capped by a meeting between Speaker Romualdez and his American counterpart, the new Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy of California. As described by Speaker Martin, the meetings were very fruitful and engaging, with legislators from both countries recognizing the important role they play in ensuring that the benefits of the “dynamic relationship” between the two nations would become even more tangible.

“Our message to the U.S. legislators was clear. The U.S.-Philippine relation is strong, and is reaching new heights and levels of understanding under the administrations of President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. and U.S. President Joe Biden,” Speaker Romualdez said, explaining that the delegation of Filipino congressmen managed to impress upon Speaker McCarthy the need to ramp up discussion between legislators from both countries in order to boost bilateral relations.

In other words, the whole Philippine government’s relationship with the United States is on an upswing. But what is most significant is that all these interactions do not solely address concerns regarding defense and security but, more importantly, also focus on the economic aspect of the relationship as our nations seek mutual prosperity and economic security.

I hope those naysayers who continue to carp about our defense agreements with the United States would look more closely on the positive side of having more opportunities for trade mainly due to peace and security. (Philstar.com)

now known as the Public Attorney’s Office, in La Union province. His mother, Purificacion Casuga Acorda, was a government nurse in La Union.

Prior to becoming PNP chief, he widely served in his home province of Ilocos Norte as chief of operations and plans, intelligence officer and assistant provincial director for operations in 2008, and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group deputy chief of operations in 2010.

He headed the Palawan provincial police and the regional police office in Northern Mindanao before he headed the Directorate for Intelligence in August 2022.

The low-profile Acorda has no known baggage and will be stepping into the PNP leadership without major controversies linked to his name in a career spanning more than three decades.

The new PNP chief also earned numerous accolades, including the Bronze Cross Medal, a prestigious single-

The 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue recognized the important role of the alliance in maintaining peace and stability in the IndoPacific region and put forth a shared vision that supports an international rules-based order and deeper economic ties, along with an “enduring commitment to stand shoulder-

grade military decoration of the AFP awarded for heroism involving risk of life, and several presidential citations, awards and decorations.

Acorda served as the chief of staff of the PNP Civil Security Group and was one of the officials who pioneered the creation of the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group.

Right choice

Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. welcomed Acorda’s appointment and assured him of his agency’s support.

Senators on Monday also lauded the appointment of Acorda, with Sen. Ronald dela Rosa saying that he was the “best choice” to lead the PNP.

Dela Rosa, himself a

* * *

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

* * * babeseyeview@gmail.com

former PNP chief, described Acorda as a “silent operator” and a “very professional officer” who knows how to stand his ground despite “pressures from selfish politicians.”

Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri was also elated over Acorda’s designation as he noted the police general’s accomplishments when he led the Northern Mindanao regional police.

Sen. Risa Hontiveros said she received information that Acorda was “wellmeaning and idealistic,” qualities that would help him implement reforms in the police organization.

In the House of Representatives, dangerous drugs committee chair Rep. Robert Ace Barbers said Acorda should continue

cleansing the PNP’s ranks amid controversies surrounding its antinarcotics drive.

In Pangasinan province, Arturo Lomibao, also a former PNP chief, said he believed Acorda was prepared to assume the post with his “experience, knowledge and skills” despite “jumping over” three senior officers occupying three-star positions.

Retired Police Col. Paterno Orduña, a former intelligence officer of the Pangasinan police, described Acorda as a “hardworking” and “lowprofile” junior officer in Pangasinan when Lomibao served the Ilocos regional police. (With reports from Marlon Ramos, Julie M. Aurelio, Yolanda Sotelo and John Michael Mugas) n

COMMUNITY JOURNAL

Emergency interview and an expedited visa for Don Tagala’s mother on Citizen Pinoy this Sunday

DON Tagala, the award-winning reporter on TFC News, desperately wanted his mother, Vinia, to come to the U.S. because his sister, Almira, became critically ill in 2019. His mother could be there for her children for emotional support and to make crucial life-decisions.

The hospital where Almira was on life support even emailed the U.S. Embassy explaining the circumstance and requesting for a visitor’s visa for Vinia. However, the Embassy instructed the hospital to go

through the normal process.

Time was running out, so Don went to leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel to seek his assistance and expert advice. Confident that Vinia would abide by the terms of her visa and return to the Philippines, Atty. Gurfinkel immediately sought an emergency visitor visa and expedited interview, so Mommy Vinia could arrive in the U.S. as soon as possible. Unfortunately, while all preparations were going on, Don’s sister passed away on June 24. The visitor visa application was updated, asking the Embassy to still expedite the visa to now enable Don’s mother to attend the funeral, instead of the original request to visit Almira at the hospital.

Atty. Gurfinkel was able to secure an emergency interview on June 26 (where the earliest available appointment would have normally been August 13) and an expedited visa was also issued the same day.

On June 28, 2019, Mommy Vinia arrived in New York, four days after her daughter passed on. She was able to attend the funeral and be there for Don.

While it was a bittersweet reunion for Don and his mother in the U.S., it is important to know what to do and where to seek help if an emergency arises.

Watch this brand-new episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, April 30 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the free app.

(Advertising Supplement)

Fil-Am actor Arielle Jacobs to lead Broadway cast of ‘Here Lies Love’

by AJPress

FILIPINA American actor Arielle Jacobs will lead the Broadway cast of “Here Lies Love” in the role of former Philippine first lady Imelda Marcos.

The musical, written by David Byrne and Fatboy Slim, will begin preview performances at the Broadway Theatre in New York on June 17 ahead of opening on Thursday, July 20.

“I’m so honored to be able to tell this story and to step into the shoes of

Imelda Marcos, literally and figuratively,” said Jacobs said in a statement. “Here Lies Love is a very transformative and powerful opportunity for everyone involved, and I think will also be the same for everyone who comes to experience the production.”

“Here Lies Love” tells the story of Imelda Marcos’ rise to power and subsequent fall at the hands of the Philippine People Power Revolution. Director Alex Timbers said, “Arielle blew us away in the casting process. She combines such charisma, wit, strength, and

for North America, needed a visitor’s visa for his mother so she could come to the U.S. to be with her critically ill daughter.

Time was running out, so Don sought the help of Atty. Gurfinkel who was able to secure an emergency interview at the U.S. Embassy. The earliest appointment had been August 13, but Mommy Vinia was able to be interviewed earlier, and her visa was issued on an expedited basis. Watch this success story on a brand-new episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, April 30 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. (Advertising Supplement)

LEADING U.S. IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY MICHAEL J. GURFINKEL EXPEDITES AN EMERGENCY VISITOR’S VISA FOR DON TAGALA’S MOTHER, ON A BRAND-NEW SUCCESS STORY OF CITIZEN PINOY THIS SUNDAY! Don Tagala (left), ABS-CBN news correspondent

ABS-CBN North America News Correspondent Don Tagala (left) welcomes his mother, Vinia (right), at JFK International Airport.

Arielle Jacobs

Photos by Harold Julian

On premature ejaculation

PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS

ABOUT 33 percent of men have experienced premature ejaculation at one time or another. If it occurs rarely or occasionally, it is not a permanent issue to be seriously concerned about.

If persistent, this condition could be devastating to the couple.

What is premature ejaculation?

The most satisfying lovemaking is when orgasm of the partners occurs exactly at the same time. Normally, the timing does not have to be perfect for a couple to have an enjoyable sex, but if the male ejaculates before penetration or just one minute or less after penetration, it is called premature ejaculation. In some cases, premature ejaculation could also happen during masturbation. When male climax occurs too soon, the man feels inadequate and the woman, unfulfilled and disappointed. But there is hope.

How long should intercourse last?

There is no set rule for this. In a survey of 4,400 heterosexual partners, the act lasts for an average of 19 minutes, 10 minutes of foreplay, and 9 minutes of actual penetrating intercourse. Other studies show the average vaginal sex lasts about 5 minutes. Some women want longer foreplay before orgasm is possible. Certain positions make some men ejaculate later or sooner. Being candid with each other and exploring various techniques will help the couple find the best strategy.

What causes prejaculation?

The exact cause is not known. It was previously thought to be psychological, but science now knows the cause is a complex interaction between psychological and biological factors. The psychological role includes sexual abuse, early sexual experiences, depression, poor body image and selfesteem, the guilt of rushing through sexual encounters, and the actual worry about premature ejaculation itself. The other factors are stress, anxiety, problem in the relationship, and erectile

dysfunction. The biological factors are inherited traits, abnormal levels of the hormones, infection of the prostate or urethra, abnormal levels of brain chemicals (the neurotransmitters).

When should a physician be consulted?

If premature ejaculation happens most of the time, it is time to see a physician, no matter how embarrassing. In some cases, talking to a physician could be so reassuring it could help. Some men think ejaculation after 5 minutes of sex is premature. Actually, as I have stated above, 5 minutes is, on average, normal for most people; occasional prejaculation is not a problem. Ejaculation outside the vagina, results in no pregnancy.

How is prejaculation diagnosed?

Premature ejaculation is confirmed if the man always or nearly always discharges his semen within 60 seconds of penetration; unable to delay ejaculation during the sex act all the time or most of the time; when he feels frustrated and depressed over it and usually avoids sex because of it. The two types of prejaculation are: Primary (life-long), when the man experiences premature ejaculation his whole life, from the very first sexual encounter; Secondary (Acquired), when it develops after having no ejaculatory problems in the past.

Besides asking about the details of your sexual life, the physician will also ask about your personal, medical, and family history, and some info about your partner. This is followed by a complete physical examination. If erectile dysfunction is also present, a male hormone (testosterone) level and other tests might be ordered. A referral to a urologist might be needed.

What is the treatment for prejaculation?

The management for this condition includes behavioral modification, medications, topical anesthetics, and counseling. Each man varies in response to the treatment. Behavioral therapy combined with a drug could be a most effective option. Masturbation an hour or two before sexual intercourse to delay ejaculation sometimes helps. Another is abstinence from intercourse for a period of time and performing other modes of sexual play with the

woman to reduce anxiety and pressure before the actual intercourse.

Doing Kegel pelvic floor exercise to strengthen weak pelvic floor muscles that can cause prejaculation helps. When one holds back on passing gas (sort of puckering, tightening the anus), the muscles involved are the pelvic muscles. To do the Kegel exercise, hold the contraction for 3 seconds and then relax for 3 seconds, repeating this same cycle (3 sets of ten) a day. This can be done while sitting, standing, or even walking.

What is the pausesqueeze technique?

This is another maneuver that can help treat prejaculation. Start the sexual encounter the usual way until the urge to ejaculate starts. Have the woman squeeze the end of the penis at the area between the head of the penis and the shaft, maintaining the vaginal squeeze for several seconds, until the urge to ejaculate wanes or stops. Repeat as often as needed. Make this your routine strategy with your sex partner. After repeated use, the man eventually feels he is in control of his ejaculation better.

Another option is to stop sexual stimulation or withdraw the penis out of the vagina, and wait until the arousal has declined, and then start again, a technique called start-stop-start. Available in the drug stores are special condoms that could help delay ejaculation, with benzocaine or lidocaine numbing anesthetic agent in them. Some of them are Lifestyles Everlast Intense, Trojan Extended, and Durex Performax Instense. The anesthetic agent (like EMLA, a prescription drug, or Licdocaine spray) could be applied to the penis 10 minutes before sex to minimize sensitivity and aid in delaying ejaculation. Sometimes these could reduce arousal in either partner.

How about pills?

Although these drugs have not been approved by the FDA specifically for premature ejaculation, the following have been tried by physicians: antidepressants (Paroxitine), analgesics (tramadol), clomipramine, phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (Viagra, Cialis, Levitra); and the following which are still being tested: modafinil, dapoxetine,

Fil-Am actor Arielle Jacobs to lead...

fierce intelligence that it was immediately clear to all of us she should lead our Broadway company.”

Jacobs has starred on Broadway as Princess Jasmine in Disney’s “Aladdin,” in the hit musical “Wicked,” and played Nina Rosario in the final cast of the four-time Tony Award and Grammy Award winning musical “In The Heights.”

She joins Jose Llana (“The King and I”), who will play his original role of Ferdinand Marcos, and Conrad Ricamora (“How to Get Away with Murder”), who will reprise his role as Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino.”

Tony Award winner Lea Salonga also joins the cast in a special five-week-only guest engagement from July 11-August 13. Additional casting will be announced soon.

Tickets are on sale now at Telecharge. com or by phone at 212-239-6200. The Broadway Theatre box office will open on Saturday, May 20. “Here Lies Love” transforms the Broadway Theatre’s floor space into a dance club environment, where some audience members will stand and move with the actors, and others will enjoy from seats located around the theatre.

From its world premiere at The Public Theater in 2013, “Here Lies Love” has enjoyed popular and critical acclaim. The

show returned to The Public in 2014-2015, debuted at London’s Royal National Theatre in 2014, and most recently opened at Seattle Repertory Theatre in 2017.

The creative team for “Here Lies Love” on Broadway includes three-time Tony Award® nominee David Korins (scenic design), Tony Award® winner Clint Ramos (costume design), Tony Award® winner Justin Townsend (lighting design), M.L. Dogg & Cody Spencer (sound design), and three-time Tony Award® nominee Peter Nigrini (projection design), with casting by Tara Rubin CSA, Xavier Rubiano CSA, Gail Quintos and general management by Foresight Theatrical. Additional creative team members include ATW Jonathan Larson Grant recipient J. Oconer Navarro (music director), Billy Bustamante (assistant director), Renée Albulario (assistant choreographer), Bobby Garcia (casting consultant/Philippines), Gregory T. Livoti (production stage manager), and Ryan Gohsman and Sheryl Polancos (assistant stage managers). Giselle “G” Töngi is the show’s Cultural and Community Liaison.

“Here Lies Love” is produced by Hal Luftig, Patrick Catullo, Diana DiMenna and Plate Spinner Productions, Clint Ramos, and Jose Antonio Vargas, with Aaron Lustbader serving as Executive Producer. n

and silodosin. Counseling combined with medication has also been found effective among many patients.

The most important first step is to openly acknowledge the problem, and then seeking medical consultation. Premature ejaculation is treatable. The more candid, positive, and open-minded the man is, the more effective the therapy is. * * *

The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people live a healthier lifestyle to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve

a happier and more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable or appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute for your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health.

* * *

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

Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He was a recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry Truman, President George HW Bush, Muhammad Ali and Astronaut Gus Grissom (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888.com, Today. SPSAtoday.com, and philipSchua.com; Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com.

Jose Llana, Arielle Jacobs, and Conrad Ricamora

Photo by Harold Julian

Fil-Am Josh dela Cruz on how life has changed since hosting Blue’s Clues

By Nathalie tomada Philstar.com

IT’S been some four years since Josh dela Cruz was selected from thousands of hopefuls to become the host in Blue’s Clues & You, the reboot of Nickelodeon’s iconic children’s show Blue’s Clues.

The Filipino-American actor was cast to play Josh, the human sidekick to animated puppy Blue, making history as the first Asian-American to be a regular in the series that originally ran from 1996 PAGE 15

Enrique Gil denies breakup with Liza Soberano: ‘I love her to death’

By haNNah mallorca Inquirer.net

LIZQUEN fanatics may now heave a sigh of relief.

After years of speculations, Enrique Gil finally opened up about his relationship with longtime girlfriend Liza Soberano as he confirmed that it is still going strong even if they’re busy with their respective careers.

Gil made the clarification about the status of his seven-year romance with Soberano on ABS-CBN’s TV Patrol on Tuesday, April 25, after he signed a two-year

exclusive contract with the network on Wednesday. The actor said that by now, they are already “used” with the break-up rumors hounding their relationship.

“We’re good, we’re good,” he said, when he was asked about his relationship with the actress. “She’s just really busy with her stuff there. I am going to be visiting her maybe when my schedule clears up. I think she’s coming back here. But yeah, we’re good.”

“There” meant Soberano’s fledgling Hollywood career under her new management,

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Careless, and she had been spending the most parts of the year in the United States for work.

Nonetheless, the “Dolce Amore” star said that he’s fully supportive of his girlfriend’s career move “no matter what,” because he loves her “to death.”

“Because Hope [Soberano] is in the U.S., she is doing her own thing which I am going to support no matter what. I love her to death,” he said.“I just really support her no matter what. I know it’s hard to go

Filipino-American actor-singer Josh dela Cruz on becoming the current Blue’s Clues host: ‘I work hard every single day to make sure that I do the very best I can. So that I can keep representing Filipinos and the potential that we have.’

The magic continues: Aladdin celebrates 9th Anniversar y on Broadway

by MoMar G. Visaya / AJPress

ALADDIN, the hit musical based on the Academy Award®-winning animated film, celebrated its 9th anniversary on Broadway last March. The hit musical opened at the New Amsterdam Theatre to critical acclaim on March 20, 2014, and quickly established itself as one of the biggest new blockbusters in recent years.

THE Broadway production is now among the top 20 longest-running Broadway shows in history as it recently played its 3,000th performance. It has broken 16 New Amsterdam Theatre house records and spawned nine productions on four continents

“We’re coming up to legendary status,” Michael James Scott, who plays the role of the Genie, told the Asian Journal. “Nine years of Aladdin is a triumph. It’s just that doesn’t happen in Broadway, in our industry often.”

The show’s longevity and how it has stood the test of time around the world are a testament to its success. The heart of the story is what stands out to some of the cast members as the story is universally loved, and everyone knows the tunes of Aladdin in every corner of the world.

In the 3,093 performances comprising Aladdin’s run thus far, a cumulative audience of 4.3 million has been treated to a staggering number of special effects:

• Aladdin and Jasmine have flown over 100 miles on the magic carpet while singing the Oscar-winning “A Whole New World”

• The Genie has set off over 115,000 pyrotechnics in the showstopping “Friend Like Me”

• In the Act Two opener “Prince Ali,” the cast and wardrobe team have made more than 200,000 lightningfast costume quick changes

“It’s an honor to be a

eight years now.

part of this beautiful longrunning show that so many people have been in and out, and I’m so grateful to be a part of it now,” shared Sonya Balsara who joined the cast as Princess Jasmine early this year.

Filipino American Angelo Soriano is in his eighth year in the show. As a swing, he has taken on most of the twelve male ensemble tracks and two principal tracks for the roles of Omar and Iago.

his favorite parts to play in the ensemble are the ones in the high adventure where he gets to be a guard from the palace that sword fights with Aladdin’s best friends.

He also loves playing Iago “because anytime you get to play a Disney villain, it is definitely a moment to celebrate.” Another Filipino American, Don Darryl Rivera, originated the role and Soriano gets to take over when Rivera is not available.

“Playing Iago onstage is so fun,” he quipped. “My Iago also gets to be a part of the scheme and the planning on how to get the street rat.” He added that as Iago, he loves doing the evil laugh in front of the audience, and the audience loves it too.

Being a part of the show’s ninth anniversary is very special to him because he gets to celebrate the legacy that he and his work family have created. Since he has been with the show for eight years now, he has seen fellow artists come and go, including a handful who have left and returned.

“I have to be ready to go at any moment’s notice,” he told us. “The show really keeps me on my toes.” He said that sometimes he knows two weeks before the show which track he will be doing, while other times he only finds out two minutes before the show.

Soriano says he enjoys performing the show from many different points of view, which keeps it exciting and new for him. He adds that

“It’s very special to have seen every iteration of the show possible with the different types of cast members,” he shared.

Within the large cast is a small but thriving group of Filipinos. At one point, the number reached nine, a definite rarity on Broadway.

Soriano has worked with former castmates like Joshua de la Cruz (who is now on Blue’s Clues) and siblings Adam and Arielle Jacobs who

Michael Malakiel (Aladdin) and Dennis Stowe (Jafar)

Michael Maliakel as Aladdin and Shoba Narayan as Jasmine Michael Maliakel as Aladdin

Michael James Scott as Genie and Michael Maliakel as Aladdin photos by Matthew Murphy

Arabian Nights

Photo by Deen van Meer

Angelo Soriano has been with the company of Aladdin on Broadway for

Michael James Scott (Genie) and Sonya Balsara (Princess Jasmine) AJPress Photos by Momar G. Visaya

Fil-Am Josh dela Cruz on how life has changed...

to 2006.

The Philippine STAR had a virtual one-on-one with Josh recently to talk about his show’s movie-musical version, Blue’s Big City Adventure, where Josh the character brings Blue with him to New York City to pursue an opportunity of a lifetime — audition for a Broadway show. To state that the storyline rings familiar to Josh is an understatement given his background. The musical theater actor was the lead of Broadway’s Aladdin when he won the part in Blue’s Clues & You.

Now, asked how his life has changed since joining the Nickelodeon series, the 34-year-old readily acknowledged to The STAR that it changed a lot.

“The show has changed my life in so many ways. I get to work with incredibly talented people and I get to connect with so many wonderful people who want to have a kid point to the screen and say, ‘He looks like me,’” Josh said.

“And I hope that even if I don’t look like you or if you don’t identify with me on some level, know that it could be you someday, whether it be on film, TV, journalism, science, teaching. Whatever it is, you could be that person, you just have to work hard and be kind to the people around you, build a community to help each other and there’s no stopping you.”

One could say this is a wish fulfilled for Josh because he has always wanted to work on screen after years of being on Broadway. “I’ve always said that this is kind of like a paid scholarship because I’ve always wanted to work in film and television. When I decided that was something that I wanted to do after I was on Broadway, I was like, well, why stop here?” he said.

“I was like, all I want to do is work on TV. I want to learn how to do that, I want to film on location. I want to learn how to direct like, why are they doing this? Or why did they choose to do that instead of this? And because of this job and because of everyone’s generosity on set, I get to ask these questions and have fun learning. But also, have fun doing

Enrique Gil and Liza...

the thing that I always love doing in a completely new way.”

But before Josh became a Blue’s Clues host, he had to hurdle 3,000 others who were also eyeing the role. That he got the job speaks a lot of his artistry and the trust the showrunners had in his capability to deliver (the original host, Steve Burns, was reported to have helped in the audition process for the new host.) But it’s not hard to imagine as well the amount of pressure he must have felt when chosen to lead the show.

How he’s been able to cope with that, he said, “You know, it’s interesting. I do have a lot of anxiety. I have anxiety, I’ve ADD, so a lot of stuff is like bubbling always. But there’s only so much that you can control and the what-ifs you can’t really control. So, you can only focus on what can you do.

“Focus on what are the holistic things that I can do – whether it be to get enough sleep, whether it be to prepare the night before, prepare everything that I need for the next day, make sure to exercise and then once I’m on set, just take it one step at a time.

“I think that’s the only way for me, at least, to deal with the pressure — to just have fun. And I can’t have fun if I don’t make sure that I’ve done all the work.

“I wake up at 4:30 a.m. to finish up some notes from the night before, to prepare and to get it in my brain. Then I work out and then I walk to work and then I go to work and then once I get home from work, I take a shower, I have some dinner and then I work on storyboards and everything for the next day. Ideally, I’m done working by 9 p.m. and then I’m in bed by 10.

“You know, sleeping at the right time, it’s something that I’m working on. (But) being prepared is one of the best ways for me to help with the pressure and the anxiety. And if I’m prepared, I’ll have fun.”

Here’s a bit of Blue’s Clues & You trivia: His character is named Josh also because of him.

He revealed: “They gave me the option whether to keep my name as Josh. I think some of the names that

were floated around were Ben or Nick. But I decided to go with Josh. And I put so much of myself into this character. Everything I do, it’s only a piece of who I am. It’s a piece of the whole and only so many people in my life know who Josh is completely.

“But I put all of my hard work into this role every single day. And we’re very similar in how silly we are and how physical we are. But yeah, there’s a lot of method acting because I’m typically a very dark and brooding person. So, I’m glad that finally somebody asked me (about it).”

With Josh on board, audiences from the US and around the world have been enjoying a taste of Filipino culture through the show.

Having the chance to share a part of his heritage through this platform is so important to Josh. “I’m so honored to be here. I’m so honored to have had this opportunity, that I was prepared, that all the right people were in the room when they made the decision. And that I have the support system that got me here. I’m so honored and I’m so blessed because it is important to know that we’re not just villains,” he said.

“We’re not just people that know martial arts, even though martial arts is amazing. We’re not just Asian, we’re Filipino to be specific. I think the more specific we are, the more people can realize like oh, so much like me, you know? The fact that we get to say, loud and proud, ‘Lola,’ is incredible, because no one knew what Lola was. What’s a Lola? ‘That Lola?’ No different (laughs). Different, it’s my grandma.

“And now people are saying, oh your Lola is on there. And it makes me think about my lolas and I’m just so thankful for them. I wouldn’t be here without them. They’re no longer with us. But I’m just filled with so much joy and so much gratitude that I get to do this. I work hard every single day to make sure that I do the very best I can so that we can keep doing this and so that I can keep representing Filipinos and the potential that we have. This isn’t the end, you know. This is just the beginning.” n

on a new path but I support her nonetheless. And who knows? You might be seeing her coming back in the near future.”

Despite their longdistance relationship, Gil shared that they make it a point to check in on each other no matter what.

“It’s hard [being in a longdistance relationship], we don’t talk like we used to due to different time zones. But we still keep in touch and she’s good there. She has a team with her there which is really good,” he said.

After he showed up during his contract signing with ABS-CBN executives with his year-old Bichon Frisé in tow, he said that the pup would be his companion for the moment while Soberano is in the U.S. “I need dogs, and Hope is in the U.S., so Millie keeps me company. This is my new baby,” he said, while cradling his furbaby during the report.

During the contract signing, Gil said he is going to be focusing on his career as a solo artist for now.

“It is about me coming back to doing my own path as a solo artist. What we’re going for is a multi-level genre, so pwedeng may pagka-romance, action, and a lot of comedy in it as well,” he said.

The “Forevermore” star will reportedly star in an upcoming film and series with the network, although details are yet to be disclosed, as of this writing.

The celebrity couple — also known as LizQuen — have been in a relationship since 2014, although they went public with their romance only in 2019. Aside from “Dolce Amore,” the sweethearts have worked together in several films and teleseryes including “Alone Together,” “Forevermore,” “Bagani,” “My Ex and Whys,” and “Dolce Amore,” among many others. n

The magic continues: Aladdin celebrates 9th Anniversary...

performed as Aladdin and Princess Jasmine (definitely not at the same time; Arielle joined the cast from her stint in Australia and Adam already left the cast).

He says that it is also special to represent himself as one of the handful of Filipino Americans performing on stage. He mentions that it inspires him to be the best version of himself possible and he still gets excited to scan the audience and see someone that looks like him.

Soriano says that most of the time, he sees his cast mates more than he sees his actual family or his wife at home. He explains that they are a closely knit company, and what we see on his social media posts is what it is. Soriano mentions that it is a privilege to be a part of the Aladdin family, and he feels lucky to have been a part of the show for eight years. He adds that the show has been an amazing journey for him, and he is excited to

see where it will take him next.

Michael Malakiel made his Broadway debut as Aladdin about a year and a half ago. He expressed his gratitude for being part of a show that has stood the test of time and has a loyal audience, acknowledging the rarity of being part of a show.

He credits the show’s success to the amazing people who come together to tell the story every night.

“Having someone that looks like me in a leading role on Broadway is huge,” he said. “Representation really matters.”

He believes that representation is not just about checking the diversity box but ensuring that all identities are valued in the industry, which was built and supported by mostly white folks. He credits Disney on Broadway for leading the charge on diversity and allowing actors of color to support themselves in the business.

Dennis Stowe, who plays Jafar, talked

about his experience of being the only person of color in earlier shows that he had been part of and how it is important to be that representation for one little child who is looking at them from the audience.

“It made me realize how important it is, you know, representation for them to see themselves and to feel included in this world, it’s so very important,” he said.

He believes that representation can help people respect even those whose cultures they may not see or interact with daily, like the show’s fictional Agrabah. He also thinks that Disney on Broadway is doing better when it comes to representation but acknowledges that there is always room for improvement. He would like to see the industry move towards a time when the most equipped person gets the role regardless of their identity.

Malakiel on the other hand shared his family’s experience of seeing Aladdin as a movie and being excited to see a story that

was about people who looked like them.

“It was hands down my favorite Disney movie growing up and I had two brothers and we were just obsessed with the film and played it on repeat for hours on end,” he shared laughing.

They were so obsessed that they would recreate the marketplace scenes in their living room and jump off buildings and pretend to be Aladdin.

“It was completely surreal flash forward many years that I finally got to perform this role on Broadway. I mean, it was something that I never even dreamed it might be possible and to have that happen,” he explained. “And to be flying a carpet every night and someone’s actually paying me to do, I mean all of it feels completely insane.”

That is why these cast members’ hearts are full of gratitude for being part of a show that tells a story that people love and enjoy. For them, it’s a gift that keeps on giving. n

Enrique Gil and Liza Soberano Photo from Instagram/@enriquegil17