051322 - New York & New Jersey Edition

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MAY 13-19, 2022 Volume 15 - No.27 • 16 Pages

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Bongbong Marcos set to win PH presidency DATELINE USA FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

Upbeat song by Pilipino Workers Center encourages the community to get vaccinated IN its ongoing effort to reach communities disproportionately impacted by the pandemic, the State of California recently partnered with 10 community-based organizations, who in turn have collaborated with artists and community members to raise awareness about the importance of vaccination and other actions that help slow the spread of COVID-19.

Community partner Pilipino Workers Center of Southern California (PWC) joined with popular Filipino musicians to write and record an upbeat song that

by AJPRESS

A Marcos is set to make a comeback to Malacañang.

Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., the son of the late dictator of the same name, is slated to be declared the winner of the 2022 Philippine presidential election with over 31 million votes, according to partial and unofficial election results with more than 95% of the votes counted, as of Wednesday, May 11 (Manila time).

The 64-year-old is the only son of Ferdinand Marcos, who led the Philippines from 1965 to 1986 in a 21-year rule marked by human rights abuses, widespread corruption, and ill-gotten wealth estimated to about $10 billion.

Marcos Jr., the former congressman, governor and senator, previously ran for the vice presidency in 2016 and narrowly lost to Vice President Leni Robredo.

The victory comes after the elder Marcos was ousted from power over three decades

 PAGE 2

Amid defeat, Robredo tells supporters fight doesn’t end at polls

by XAVE

GREGORIO Philstar.com

 PAGE 4

Senator Manny Pacquiao

Inquirer.net file photo

BBM’s INSPIRATION. President-in-waiting Ferdinand Marcos Jr. visits the grave of his father, former President Ferdinand E. Marcos, on Tuesday, May 10, a day after the national elections that shows him winning by more than 16 million votes over his nearest rival. The young Marcos is grateful to the Filipino people for giving him the landslide victory and to his father who has been his inspiration throughout his life and taught him the value and meaning of true leadership.

Photo courtesy of BBM Media Bureau

In biggest fight of his Padilla leads senatorial tally life, Pacquiao concedes dominated by politicians to frontrunner Marcos MANILA — Senator Manny Pacquiao has conceded the presidential race to frontrunner Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., throwing in the towel in what could be the biggest fight of his life.

In the latest partial and unofficial count of the Commission on Elections, Pacquiao placed third among preferred presidential candidates, trailing far behind Marcos Jr. and Vice President Leni Robredo.

“Bilang isang boxer at atleta, marunong

 PAGE 2

Presidential frontrunner Bongbong Marcos Philstar.com file photo

MANILA — Actor Robin Padilla took an early lead in partial, unofficial election returns on the Commission on Elections’ Transparency Media Server in a list dominated by politicians.

With 25,594,15 votes recorded so far, Padilla of the administration PDP-Laban party led Rep. Loren Legarda (Antique) who had 23,374,825 votes as of 5:47 a.m. Tuesday,

May 10.

Filipinos on Monday, May 9 voted for candidates vying for 12 vacancies at the upper house.

Broadcaster Raffy Tulfo, an early favorite in pre-election surveys, was at third place in the partial, unofficial tally with 22,589,291 votes followed by re-electionist Sen. Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian who had

 PAGE 4

MANILA — As her archrival took a wide lead in the partial, unofficial tally of votes, Vice President Leni Robredo told her supporters that the ‘Kakampink’ movement that was ignited after she announced her bid for the presidency should not end even after polls close and the counting ends, rallying her supporters to continue fighting even as she acknowledged that the voice of the people is getting “clearer and clearer.”

Past Tuesday midnight, May 10 it was evident that Robredo was poised to lose the presidential race to Marcos, who maintained a solid lead in the preliminary count with over 28 million votes, while she only had over

 PAGE 4

Historic Filipinotown officially unveiled in community ceremony

by DONNABELLE

GATDULA-AREVALO AJPress

LOS ANGELES — After nearly two decades, the Historic Filipinotown Eastern Gateway, located at the heart of Los Angeles and the largest of its kind in the United States, was officially unveiled in a community ceremony on Saturday, May 7.

The arch, which costs about $587,000 is 30 feet high and spans

 PAGE 7

The Historic Filipinotown Eastern Gateway is illuminated at night. Photo courtesy of Search to Involve Pilipino Americans

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MAY 13-19, 2022 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

In biggest fight of his life, Pacquiao...

PAGE 1 akong tumanggap ng pagkatalo. Sana lang kahit talo ako sa labang ito, panalo pa rin ang kapwa ko Pilipino, ‘yung mga mahihirap,” he said in a video statement posted on Facebook on Tuesday night, May 10.

During the campaign, Pacquiao warned that a Marcos victory would spell chaos, since his administration would be beset by protests from “yellows,” thus hampering the development of the country.

In March, Pacquiao also challenged Marcos to a one-on-one debate if the latter was “shy” to face a big crowd.

Since last year, Pacquiao has experienced a series of defeats. In August 2021, Pacquiao unanimously lost to Yordenis Ugas in their WBA (Super) welterweight match, which was his first fight in 25 months.

After this, he announced his retirement from boxing.

Days before the elections, his faction in the PDP-Laban, led by Senator Aquilino Pimentel III, lost to the group of Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi in their bout for the party’s leadership.

The Commission on Elections has since ruled in favor of the Cusi wing’s petition to declare Pacquiao’s group as “illegitimate” and recognizing them as the “true and official members” of the ruling party PDP-Laban.

He also trailed in pre-election surveys, only ranking in fourth with only one-digit voter preference.

However, in the April Pulse Asia survey, Pacquiao improved his numbers, placing third among preferred presidential candidates with a 7% voter support.

In the 90-day campaign period, Pacquiao focused his platforms on alleviating poverty,

jailing corrupt politicians, and free housing.

He said his presidential run is a “revolution of the poor,” saying this fight of his life is for those suffering in poverty like he did when he was young.

The boxer-turned-politician made fighting corruption and poverty the centerpiece of his campaign. He said his impoverished roots make him the best person to succeed President Rodrigo Duterte at the helm of the country.

He vowed to provide houses to millions of Filipinos, build a “mega-prison” for corrupt government officials, and increase the minimum wage of workers.

On the last day of the campaign period, two days before the elections, Pacquiao said he is ready to accept — like a boxer — whatever the results of the May 9 elections will be.

Pacquiao started his political career when he ran for a congressional seat in the South Cotabato province in the 2007 midterm elections.

He lost that election to the AntonioCustodio political clan in General Santos City.

Pacquiao again attempted to enter politics for a congressional seat, this time in Sarangani province, in the 2010 elections. He finally won that round.

In the 2016 national elections, Pacquiao then tried his hand at a Senate seat, where he also succeeded.

He garnered over 16 million votes, landing 7th among the 12 new members of the upper chamber of Congress.

Pacquiao is boxing’s only eight-division champion. He won his first world title as a flyweight in 1998, three years after making his debut as a scrawny 16-year-old. (By Daphne Galvez/Inquirer.net)

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Mayor Adams announces first annual Asian American Pacific Islander Cultural and Heritage Parade in NYC NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams on Wednesday, May 11 announced that the first annual Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Cultural and Heritage Parade in New York City will be held on May 15, 2022. The parade comes as New Yorkers celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month in May, as well as New York City’s being home to the second-largest Asian American and Pacific Islander population in the United States. AAPI Heritage Month pays tribute to the generations of Asian American and Pacific Islanders who have enriched New York’s history for generations.

“Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month celebrates New Yorkers who contribute to the rich culture that makes New York the greatest city in the world,” said Mayor Adams. “As we work to combat a spike in hate crimes, it is important to support and uplift our AAPI brothers and sisters. We are proud to announce the New York City’s first annual Asian American and Pacific Islander Cultural and Heritage Parade and pay tribute to the generations of New Yorkers from the Asian and Pacific diaspora.”

“Now more than ever, it is important to support New Yorkers in the AAPI community and reflect on the rich Asian American and Pacific Islander history,” said Mayor’s Community Affairs Unit Commissioner Fred Kreizman. “The Adams administration is proud to announce the first-ever Asian American and Pacific Islanders Cultural and Heritage Parade.

Together, we will recognize the important contributions of AAPI New Yorkers of the past and celebrate the ones to come in the future.”

“We at Better Chinatown USA are extremely excited about organizing this historic first Asian Pacific American Cultural and Heritage Parade in Midtown,” said Steven Tin, director, Better Chinatown USA. “We are very thankful to Mayor Adams’ office, especially CAU Commissioner Kreizman, Special Events Office & NYPD, for this great opportunity to showcase the exciting Asian Pacific American Cultural Heritage to the American mainstream and our younger generation.”

The inaugural parade will take place on 6th Avenue, proceeding north from West 44th Street to West 55th Street. The parade will begin at 10:45 AM. g

Bongbong Marcos set to win PH...

PAGE 1 ago and is the culmination of a decades-long attempt to rebrand the Marcos family’s image, especially in light of social media and a new generation of voters.

Robredo, who was the only woman in the race, came in second with 14.8 million votes.

Boxer turned senator Manny Pacquiao clinched third with 3.6 million, followed

by Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso with 1.8 million and Senator Ping Lacson with over 881,000 votes.

Marcos’ running mate Davao Mayor Sara Duterte, daughter of outgoing president Rodrigo Duterte, likewise clinched victory in the second highest post of the Philippines with 31.5 million votes.

She was followed by Robredo’s running mate Kiko Pangilinan (9.2 million), Senator Tito Sotto (8.1 million), Doc Willie Ong (1.8 million) and Lito Atienza (267,000 votes).

Marcos on Monday night, May 9, thanked his supporters, while admitting that the vote count is not over.

“Kagaya ng aking sinabi, hindi pa tapos ang bilang.

Marami na ang nagsasabi na tapos na pero hindi pa talaga kaya antayin natin hanggang maliwanag na maliwanag, mag-100% ang pagbilang (Like what I said, the counting

FOR COUNTRY. Presidential contender Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (center) hoists the Philippine flag while UniTeam’s senatorial candidates wave smaller versions during their miting de avance at Solaire open field in Parañaque City on Saturday, May 7. Marcos and his running mate, Davao City Mayor and presidential daughter Sara Duterte, took a commanding lead in the partial and unofficial tally of votes cast in Monday’s elections, the numbers reflecting their consistent dominance in the surveys.

PNA photo by Avito Dalan

is not yet over. A lot of people are saying it’s done but really it’s not. So let’s wait until it’s very clear, until the results are at 100%),” Marcos Jr. said in a speech delivered at his headquarters in Mandaluyong City.

He added, “Any endeavor as large as this, does not involve one person. It involved very very many people,

working in very very many different ways.”

Marcos Jr. was 29 when his family went into in Hawaii following a People Power Revolution in 1986. Following Marcos Sr.’s death, the family returned to the Philippines to return back to the limelight and politics.

For her part, Robredo has not officially conceded in the race but has issued a statement to her followers.

“First of all, let me thank you — all of you who voted for me, who convinced their families, friends, acquaintances, and even those who they did not know, who did so in so many ways. To all those who staked their careers and their names in sharing our message,” she said in Filipino.

She added, “Let’s be assured by your contribution: We have started something that has never been seen in the whole history of the country — a campaign led by the people.”

“This is a movement that was formed not only to dismantle an old and decaying system but also to forge a true and positive change. You have embodied democracy, not only in voting but also in showing your love for fellow Filipinos.

This is a very big victory. And our campaign can only be considered a failure if we allow the unity we have formed to fall apart,” she said. g

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From the Front Page

Padilla leads senatorial... Amid defeat, Robredo tells supporters fight...

PAGE 1 19,881,687 votes as of Monday evening.

Sorsogon Gov. Francis “Chiz” Escudero, who is seeking a return to the Senate, had 19,574,868 votes as of early Tuesday morning and former Public Works Secretary Mark Villar had 18,691,370. Re-electionists and former senators rounded off the Top 12 candidates, with Rep. Alan Peter Cayetano (Taguig) getting 18,595,322 votes, Senate Majority Leader Migz Zubiri with 18,089,102 votes, Sen. Joel Villanueva with 17,880,482 votes. Sen. Risa Hontiveros — a member of the small Senate minority — got 14,918,162 votes so far.

Sons of former President Joseph Ejercito Estrada — former Sens. JV Ejercito and Jinggoy Estrada — are also poised for a return with 15,283,247 votes and 14,557,851 votes, respectively.

(Philstar.com)

Robin Padilla

Philstar.com photo

Upbeat song by...

PAGE 1 encourages listeners to protect themselves and others against COVID-19. The song, entitled “Get Vaccinated,” features a blend of both English and Tagalog.

To help spread the message even further, PWC issued a social media dance challenge to the public, inviting viewers to record their own dance videos and share them on social media. Participants can follow PWC’s choreography or develop their own moves dancing to the Get Vaccinated song and then post it on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok with the hashtag #PWCGetVaccinated. They can challenge up to three friends to share their best dance moves by tagging them in the post.

“This upbeat song connects with our community, especially those coping with the stress and trauma of the pandemic,” said Malou Villacisneros, external relations director of the Pilipino Workers Center. “Through music and dance, we can engage with people of all ages and gender identities as we celebrate our resiliency and continue to build awareness about keeping each other safe and healthy.”

Pilipino Workers Center’s project is part of a statewide “Vaccinate ALL 58” COVID-19 campaign. The arts initiative is designed to raise awareness of critical actions Californians can continue to take to help slow the spread of COVID-19, with an emphasis on the importance of vaccinations and boosters. It features original works of art with empowering public health messages about protecting one another, being resilient and supporting their community.

The musicians in the campaign are: Jonathan Buencamino (vocals) is a Filipino singer, musician, and lead vocalist of the Filipino pop-rock band, Introvoys.

He has one of the most distinctive voices in the OPM/Pinoy Rock scene.

Paco Arespacochaga (drums) is a Filipino musician, songwriter, and drummer for the Filipino pop-rock band Introvoys. He’s received numerous Gold and MultiPlatinum awards, as well as the Guillermo Mendoza Award.

PAGE 7

PAGE 1 13 million votes.

But in her message to supporters at around 2 a.m. on Tuesday, Robredo cited reports of “irregularities” that marred the elections, which has led to some people still waiting in line to cast their vote as thousands of vote-counting machines and some SD cards bog down.

“Kaisa ninyo ako sa paniniwala na kailangan isalamin ng halalan ang buo at wastong tinig ng taumbayan.

Mahalagang maging mas matibay ang tiwala ng tao sa proseso ng ating demokrasya. Gagawin natin ang lahat para maabot ang layuning ito,” Robredo said.

(I am one with you in the belief that this election should mirror the full and proper voice of the people. It is important that the trust of the people in this democratic process be stronger.)

But, she continued: “Bagaman may hindi pa nabibilang, bagaman may mga tanong pa sa eleksyon na ito na kailangan matuldukan, palinaw na ng palinaw ang tinig ng taongbayan. Sa ngalan ng Pilipinas na alam kong mahal na mahal ninyo, kailangan nating pakinggan ang tinig na ito dahil sa huli, iisa lang ang bayang pinagsasaluhan natin.”

(While there are some votes not counted yet, while there are questions on this election that needs to be addressed, it is becoming clearer and clearer what the voice of the people is. In the name of the Philippines, which I know you love, we need to listen to this voice because in the end, we just share one nation.)

Still, Robredo vowed that she will not abandon her lifelong advocacies and appealed to her supporters to join her in this battle.

“Kakailanganin ng bansa ang inyong patuloy na pakikilahok, hindi lang ukol sa anumang kahihinatnan ng bilangan at halalang ito, kundi sa pagsusulong ng katarungan, ng karapatan, ng dignidad ng Pilipino sa mga susunod na panahon,” she said.

(The nation needs your continued participation, not just in the outcome of the counting and this election, but in the pursuit of justice, rights and the dignity of Filipinos in

Vice President Leni Robredo gives a post-election statement from her home in Magarao, Camarines Sur in the early hours of Tuesday, May 10.

Photo courtesy of VP Leni Media Bureau

the future.)

Volunteers ready to heed Robredo’s call Cleo Calimbahin, who teaches political science at the De La Salle University in Manila told Philstar.com that the volunteer movement that buoyed Robredo’s presidential campaign can harness its power to hold the next administration accountable.

“They can continue to organize and mobilize to hold the next government accountable.

This is participatory politics and for as long as they are more constructive rather than toxic, they can go a long way,” Calimbahin said in an email.

This is exactly what volunteer organization Dapat si Leni would try to accomplish now that the country has entered what it called a “dark timeline” in its history. Claiming over 10,000 members, the group’s spokesperson, Clyde Gregorio, told Philstar.com that Robredo’s loss is not the end of the road for them.

“I would like to also envision that we would still be at the forefronts,” Gregorio said in a phone call.

“There’s a lot of collective energy that’s very optimistic and idealistic and it would be such a waste if we would stop just because we’ve entered a dark timeline.”

It’s more of the same for Robredo, who said her Kakampinks created a movement never before seen in Philippine politics.

“Napakalaking tagumpay nito at maituturing lang na bigo ang kampanya natin kung hahayaan nating malusaw ang nabuo nating

samahan,” she said.

(This is such a huge victory and our campaign will only truly lose if we will let the organization we built be dismantled.)

No shock It is third time’s the charm for Marcos, who had twice lost in political contests with Robredo before: First in the 2016 vice-presidential race and then in his poll protest before the Presidential Electoral Tribunal.

Robredo’s apparently massive loss to former Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. does not come as a shock. After all, the nation has been shown surveys by private pollsters indicating that she is bound to lose to him.

Then there was also Robredo’s problem of being the underdog in a race dominated by Marcos who had a well-funded political machinery and a well-oiled propaganda campaign mainly waged on social media.

Compounding this problem is the failure of the opposition, or at the very least presidential candidates not affiliated with the administration, to consolidate at the beginning of the election cycle to mount a strong resistance to a Marcos resurgence.

Robredo attempted to hitch a ride to Malacañang on the pink wave of her supporters who campaigned for her in their communities, fought disinformation seeking to discredit her, and showed up in the hundreds of thousands at rallies where they endured heat, rain, thirst and hunger just to hear her speak.

But ultimately, the

mammoth crowds at her rallies were dwarfed by a larger sector of society longing for the return of a Marcos to the presidential palace.

Dark times for key sectors For some key sectors, Robredo’s loss is theirs as well.

Like for Karapatan secretary-general Cristina Palabay, who warned of a “deja vu” of the “human rights crisis” experienced under Marcos’ predecessor, President Rodrigo Duterte, and under the brutal martial rule of his father.

“The democratic backsliding and the deeper plunge into a climate of impunity are the ominous consequences,” Palabay told Philstar.com in an online exchange.

Leon Dulce, national coordinator of Kalikasan People’s Network for the Environment, said a Marcos presidency “bodes a return to the dark ages” for the environment. “[Marcos Jr.] has vlogged a lot of rhetoric on climate action, but on the contrary has refused to account for the various atrocities of his father’s former dictatorship in which he was party to,” Dulce said, particularly picking on the planned revival of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant, which he said is a “false climate solution that poses radioactive risks.”

Hya Bendaña, a daughter of a jeepney driver, said she sees that Robredo losing the elections would result in the continuation of car-centric transportation policies, which would result in the worsening of the traffic crisis in cities.

National Union of Journalists of the Philippines vice-chairperson Kath Cortez also sees “darker and more frightening times” for the media under the Marcos administration as she fears that it is possible for the incoming president to replicate what his father did to gag the press.

“We expect that more cases of attacks on press freedom will happen in the next six years of his administration,” Cortez told Philstar.com in an online exchange in Filipino. “We fear that even more news outlets and journalists will be forced to censor their reports PAGE 7

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OPINION

FEATURES

Get the vote buyers

5

THE Commission on Elections has vowed to act on complaints of vote buying and other forms of fraud. With reports of outright vote buying and allegations of technical tampering emerging, the Comelec should make good on its promise.

Vote buying and electoral fraud are not new; the late PDP-Laban co-founder Aquilino “Nene” Pimentel was a confirmed victim of vote shaving and padding or Oplan Dagdag-Bawas. The “Hello Garci” votepadding scandal that marred the election of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in 2004 has not been conclusively resolved, although she finished the full six-year term.

In this year’s elections, there were the usual reports of cash being distributed in envelopes to voters. There are allegations of tampering with the voting machines. What’s new in this year’s vote is the prevalence of e-wallets for better concealment of the buy and sell of votes.

One case stands out because the complainants claim they were offered cash assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development by barangay officials accompanied by the campaign staff of local candidates in exchange for their

votes. The cash was supposed to be coursed through their GCash accounts, but would require vetting and approval by the candidates. The complainants are seeking the disqualification of two local candidates for violation of the Omnibus Election Code’s express prohibition against such acts.

The Comelec should not only conduct a thorough and credible probe of the case but also make an effort to assess the extent of such activities, by providing hotlines for anonymous tips or formal complaints.

For their part, GCash and other mobile wallet app providers should follow guidelines released before the elections by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. The BSP guidelines directed banks and financial institutions including e-wallet providers to be on alert for certain transactions that could indicate digital vote buying. The guidelines were detailed and the BSP can seek post-election compliance reports from the banking and

Editorial

Philstar.com

financial services industry.

If the banks and financial institutions report possible vote-buying activities through certain accounts, these should be forwarded to the Comelec, which should act promptly and decisively on the complaints,

and go after the perpetrators. Comelec officials have lamented the difficulty of catching vote buyers, and their lack of authority to efficiently regulate campaign finance. The BSP move should help correct these problems. (Philstar.com)

‘Tuloy ang laban’: The perception of victory is not true victory if the truth is trampled on and the election process is corrupted to diminish the will of the people The Fil-Am Perspective GEL SANTOS-RELOS THE New reported:

York Times “Ferdinand

Marcos Jr., the son of an exiled dictator, is set to win a sweeping presidential victory in the Philippines. Marcos had more than double the votes counted for Leni Robredo, the current vice president, according to the latest tally.”

The perception of victory is now being touted by Marcos and the UniTeam, his

minions of political dynasties, the Marcos loyalists, and unsuspecting Filipinos who have been consuming fabricated stories and fake news peddled by troll farms and “influencers” on social media.

The Marcos family reportedly contracted the services of the British PR

Firm Cambridge Analytica to rebrand the Marcos image in preparation for their goal to reclaim power and go back to Malacañang with Bongbong as president.

Troll farms were used as part of the disinformation tactics on social media platforms and apps like Facebook, TikTok and

YouTube to whitewash the brutal years of the Marcos conjugal dictatorship, the conviction of Imelda Marcos of graft, and the culpability of Bongbong Marcos himself in non-payment of his income and the family’s estate tax and ill-gotten wealth liabilities, of which he is the administrator.

Duterte-Marcos troll farms were also used to instill mistrust, hate and disdain against Leni Robredo, the Aquino family, the Liberal Party, as well as their political opponents and critics, as part of the disinformation effort to win the election and hold on to power.

PAGE 9

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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NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • MAY 13-19, 2022

Dateline PhiliPPines

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Lacson: ‘I’m going home’ Comelec affirms junking of Marcos cases MANILA — Sen. Panfilo “Ping” Lacson said on early Tuesday, May 10 that he will go home and serve his family “for a change”, with Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. climbing past his rivals in the presidential race.

“I’m going home. After being away too long looking after the needs of other people, it is time to serve my family for a change,” Lacson said on Twitter.

“Enjoying peace and quiet in these challenging times will probably be my life’s

greatest reward,” he added.

Based on partial, unofficial results from Comelec, Lacson is in fifth place among the presidential candidates.

Former senator Bongbong Marcos widely leads the presidential race while Vice President Leni Robredo is in second.

On election day, Lacson said that he is not inclined to accept a Cabinet position, if he is offered one, and said he does not have any plans of running for another term in the Senate. (Philstar.com)

Upbeat song by Pilipino Workers...

PAGE 4 Melody Del Mundo (vocals) is a Filipina singer, musician, and original vocalist of the 90’s dream-pop band, Sugar Hiccup. She received an Awit Award (the Philippine equivalent of a Grammy) for best alternative recording.

QT Paduano (vocals, songwriter, line producer) is a Filipina singer and lead vocalist of the band Agaw Agimat, known for its poppunk-rock songs with messaging centered on political and social issues.

Francis “Kiko” Reyes (guitar) is best known for being the guitarist for the Filipino rock band, The Dawn. He was the chief radio announcer and musical director for the rock station NU107.5 FM and uses the onair stage name, Francis Brew.

Mike Villegas (songwriter, musical arranger) is a musician, composer, and arranger. He has performed with and written many songs for OPM bands and artists such as Color It Red, Rizal Underground, Bayang Barrios, Jet Pangan, and Aiza

Seguerra.

Using art to convey important public health information has been a feature of the State’s public awareness efforts. It was first launched in 2021 in partnership with The Center at Sierra Health Foundation, and features projects in Los Angeles, Oakland, Bakersfield, Sacramento, San Diego, Oxnard, Fresno and Alameda, and engages Latino, Black/African American, Asian American/Pacific Islander, and Indigenous artists and communities. The program is aligned with the State’s commitment to equity and reaching communities disproportionately impacted

by COVID-19.

“It’s inspiring to see community groups and artists, who have been at the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic, working together to create powerful art.

Their work is a reminder to everyone that the actions we take moving forward will create healthier outcomes for our communities. We thank them for sharing their gifts

on this art project and for the work they do each day alongside their community,” said Chet P. Hewitt, president and CEO of The Center at Sierra Health Foundation.

“Creative expression inspired by COVID-19 prevention measures serves as a good reminder that individual and collective actions are still needed to keep communities safe as the pandemic persists.

Even as hospitalizations and infection rates decline, it’s important that Californians remain vigilant and protect themselves and their communities from COVID-19 by getting vaccinated and boosted, and wearing a mask when it can protect them and others,” said Dr. Tomás Aragón, Director of the California Department of Public Health and State Public Health Officer.

For more information on COVID-19 and the latest public health information, visit covid19.ca.gov.

To find a vaccine near you, visit MyTurn.ca.gov or call 833-422-4255. g

Amid defeat, Robredo tells...

PAGE 4 in fear that they would become the next target of closures or any attack.”

Indigenous people, too, are seen to be affected by Robredo’s loss in the elections, with former Rep. Teddy Baguilat (Ifugao), who ran for senator under her ticket, telling Philstar.com in a phone call that their future is “very bleak” considering that other candidates do not fully understand their issues.

For Dr. Eduardo Barrenechea of Doctors for Leni-Kiko, Robredo’s loss means they and their countrymen would have to continue to face “less than ideal conditions” in healthcare, but this would not mean the end of the world.

“We will continue to fight the good fight for the very people we serve and care for.

We will continue to provide medical care as

best as we can, despite the difficulties with the current limitations and barriers that stem from existing health structures and policies,” Barranechea said in a statement.

But Bonifacio Ilagan, a Martial Law victim and one of the convenors of the Campaign Against the Return of the Marcoses to Malacañang, painted a bleak picture of a Marcos victory.

“Goodbye to the rest of the ill-gotten wealth that the Marcoses still possess in their estate, goodbye to the rationale of EDSA 1986. The convictions that Imelda and Marcos Jr had been slapped with could no longer be carried out. And we will go down in history as a people who have never learned its bitter lessons,” Ilagan told Philstar.com in an email. g

by William

B. Depasupil

anD Catherine ManilaTimes.net

THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) en banc has dismissed two petitions seeking a reconsideration of its ruling dismissing the disqualification cases against leading presidential candidate Ferdinand “’Bongbong” Marcos Jr. Dismissed on Tuesday, May 10 by the Commission en banc were the consolidated cases of Ilagan, et al. vs Marcos (filed by the martial-law survivors); the Akbayan, et al. vs Marcos (filed by party-list group Akbayan and other civic leaders), the Mangelen vs Marcos (filed by a faction of Partido Federal ng Pilipinas); and the Fr. Christian Buenafe, et al. case.

The first case was earlier junked by the Comelec Second Division while the Buenafe case was dismissed by the First Division for lack of merit.

However, there are still two more pending disqualification cases before the poll body.

Nemesis Gatdula, Comelec’s clerk of court, said that the cases dismissed by the en banc may still be elevated by the petitioners to the Supreme Court.

“They may file a petition for certiorari with the Supreme Court within 30 days from today upon receipt of the decision pursuant to the rules of court and the Comelec’s rule of procedures,” Gatdula said.

“But within five days from the receipt of the decision of the en banc, if there is no TRO or

s. Valente

orders for said resolutions, then these cases are deemed final and executory on the part of the commission,” he added.

A total of seven disqualification cases were filed against Marcos. All were already dismissed at the Comelec division level.

Marcos’ camp lauded the Comelec for dismissing the four appeals for his disqualification.

Victor Rodriguez, Marcos’ spokesman, said that the decision proved that the poll body is true to its mandate to be fair to all candidates.

“We are happy to receive the news that the Comelec en banc has dismissed all the Motions for Reconsideration on the DQ cases which the First and Second Divisions have earlier ruled in favor of frontrunner Bongbong Marcos,” Rodriguez said in a statement.

Amid criticisms that Marcos is unqualified for the country’s highest position, Rodriguez said “the unanimous en banc decision has proven, once and for all, that no amount of undue political pressure can weaken the resolve of the honorable Commission to be on the side of truth and justice.”

“We have always believed that the poll body will stay true to its mandate to deliver fair, honest and credible elections, including the dismissal of non-meritorious and politically-motivated petitions such as these,” he added. g

Historic Filipinotown officially...

California Attorney General Rob Bonta speaks at the Historic Filipinotown Eastern Gateway community celebration on Saturday, May 7. AJPress photos

Donning a barong, LA Mayor Eric Garcetti attended the gateway celebration, sharing the creation of Historic Filipinotown when he was a city councilmember.

PAGE 1 about 82 feet across the width of Beverly Boulevard at the eastern entrance into Historic Filipinotown.

Officially called “Talang Gabay - Our Guiding Star,” the monument was designed by Filipino artist Eliseo Art Silva with Celestino Geronimo, Jr. The project was prioritized by the city’s Department of Public Works, led by Commissioner Emeritus Jessica Caloza, with management and oversight provided by the Bureau of Engineering.

The gateway is the culmination of two decades of planning and organization by the Historic Filipinotown community.

Then-councilmember Eric Garcetti commissioned a study in March 2003 on potential improvements to the neighborhood. Current councilmember Mitch O’Farrell’s office identified funding for the gateway and engaged the community in the design process. Renderings were released in June 2020,

u PAGE 10

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‘Tuloy ang laban’: The perception...

PAGE 5 A U.S. Filipinos for Good Governance (USFGG) project — using the technology of AI (Artificial Intelligence) big data that was used to surveil the intrusion of Chinese vessels in West Philippine Sea — exposed these troll farms through the website TrollExposer. com that tracks and named these trolls of Marcos and Duterte. It also discussed how the Duterte administration has been using taxpayers’ money to finance these troll farms to redtag Leni Robredo and the opposition.

The perception of victory is based on rushed announcement of election results by Comelec on election night with such speed that puts U.S. elections to shame, despite the Philippines having the slowest and unreliable internet connection in Asia, and even while many people were still in line and not able to cast their votes yet; AMID breakdown of many vote counting machines (VCM) that also transmit votes across the country that has lead to long lines in precincts, amid the questionable advice for people to just leave their ballots, without them actually seeing their votes put in the machine themselves; AMID disenfranchisement of people who were not able to cast their votes because their names were mysteriously not found in the list, or those who were not able to vote because of the fiasco caused by defective machines which should have been checked before and approved to work well during election day; AMID blatant violation of the Omnibus Election code that prohibits vote buying, hakot, giving away of election materials and list of candidates to vote for on election day; AMID questionable linear pattern of election results transmitted that many data analysts and statisticians would say is not characteristic of voting results pattern of real people casting their votes from different locations. All through the night from 8 p.m. the share of the votes between Marcos and Robredo had been at 68% to 32%. Marcos defenders would argue this is because of “cumulative count of votes”, but many experts sharing their interpretation of the graphs that reveal such pattern would say this is impossible in any process when we are talking about human beings. This could only happen if it had been deliberately programmed to be that way; AMID Comelec’s inaction to all complaints all through the campaign to the day of election, leaving a lot of people lost, helpless, disenfranchised, unable to exercise their right to vote. Amid Comelec’s apparent favoring the Marcos campaign over the others, when in fact it should be nonpartisan and strictly working to protect the integrity of the elections; All these questions and irregularities give credence to how the Duterte Administration had tactically set up the election process and the machinery to run it: Comelec leadership all appointed by Duterte from among his minions in Davao; The recent appointment of George Garcia as new Comelec Commissioner. Garcia was Bongbong Marcos’ attorney in his electoral protest against Leni Robredo during the 2016 VP race; Comelec allowing the printing of 65% of the ballots and configured Secure Data (SD) cards in most regions without observers or away from public view; The awarding of contract to F2 Logistics Philippines, Inc., linked to Dennis Uy, one

of the Duterte’s crony and major campaign contributor based in Davao. Yes, it is the same Dennis Uy who owns Udenna Corp., the holding company of Davao businessman Dennis Uy, that acquired the stake of Chevron and Shell in the $4.5 billion deep water gasto-power project in Malampaya. Now, F2 Logistics got the deal to distribute the ballots, VCMs, and other supplies used in the May 9 elections.

Senator Imee Marcos seating as the chairman of the Senate committee on electoral reforms, especially amid the investigation on the alleged data breach at election system provider Smartmatic.

The unofficial and partial results of the May 9 elections have crushed the spirit of millions of those who found hope to finally have a clean and honest government in the candidacy of Leni Robredo and Kiko Pangilinan. These people from different walks of life, of all ages, but especially the youth — formed the grassroots movement that have shown their support through all the jam-packed political rallies, music, arts, person-to-person campaign.

Google Trends, which correctly predicted the victory of Duterte and Trump in 2016, of Biden in 2020, of France’s Emmanuel Marcon in 2022, among others, also showed Robredo with 49% vs. Marcos 32% in Google searches.

The supporters of Robredo-Pangilinan contended that the Marcos-Duterte campaign had been using mind-conditioning dirty tactics, employing questionable surveys and now this — the questionable release of questionable election results to claim victory.

People criticize Marcos and Duterte for avoiding debates and serious interviews with independent credible news organizations, a red flag of their unwillingness to be transparent and accountable to the people even as candidates — a red flag on how they would lead the country should they win the election.

Addressing her supporters in the morning of Tuesday, May 10, Robredo said: “Kaya sinasabi ko sa inyo, walang nasayang.

Hindi tayo nabigo.

Pinakamahalaga, hindi pa tayo tapos. Nagsisimula pa lang tayo. May landas na nagbukas at hindi ito nagsasara kasabay ng mga presinto. May kilusang isinilang at hindi ito papanaw sa pagpagtatapos ng bilangan. Ang namulat, hindi na muli mapipikit. Hindi natin kailanman hahayaang makatulog muli ang pag-asang magising.”

VP Leni Robredo and her running mate Sen. Kiko Pangilinan will meet with their volunteers on Saturday, May 13 in Manila to thank all their supporters and to discuss what they plan to do moving forward as they soldier on to continue the fight for “gobyernoing tapat”. *** 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. *** Gel Santos Relos has been in news, talk, public service and educational broadcasting since 1989. She was a news anchor, TV host and radio commentator and public service host for ABS- CBN and DZMM. She is now working on her advocacies independently, serving the Filipino audience using different media platforms. You may contact her through email at gelrelos@icloud.com, or send her a message via Facebook at Facebook.com/Gel.Santos.Relos. Also on Twitter, Instagram: Gel Santos Relos

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Historic Filipinotown officially...

PAGE 7 and construction began in March 2021.

Silva, in an interview with the Asian Journal, said the monument is predominantly inspired by his belief that art, which comes from God, is ought to be shared to all mankind.

“My goal is to come up with a link for Filipino art, which I believe has God’s presence in it. It should be known to the world and be appreciated,” Silva said.

Silva said the precolonial houses of nobility known as “Maginoo House” is the main vernacular Philippine Architecture used as a basis for the gateway.

But he said the design idea of putting a human face in the sun located at the center of the arch is what makes it a standout.

“This is what we want to do here, we are ‘filipinizing’ the Filipinotown and what that all means is putting a Filipino face to Filipinos in America,” he said.

The title of the iconic landmark, Silva said, was also culled directly from the name of the Rizal Monument (Motto Stella: Guiding Star) at the Luneta Park in Manila.

“Philippines’ national hero Jose Rizal is indeed ‘The True North’ or the Guiding Star of all Filipinos wherever they may be. Rizal is subtly represented by the Philippine Sun with a ‘human face’ (the

centerpiece Parol) which was the design of the flag of the first Republic of the Philippines which eulogized Rizal in the June 12,1898 Declaration of Independence for having foretold, guided and inspired the independence and filipinization movement of the Philippines, humanizing and reclaiming for all Filipinos their humanity and identity,” he said.

Silva’s design was also reflective of the Filipino ancestor’s ship-building traditions.

“The ‘Talang Gabay’ of our seafaring ancestors are: The North Star at night, and the ‘direction of the flight of birds,’ symbolized by stylized ‘Sarimanok’ motifs installed as roof adornments in our ancestors’ homes. Some boats and ships of our ancients installed bird accessories as well,” he said.

Aside from boats and houses, the arch’s shape is also inspired by salakot, a famous headgear in the Philippines, which symbolizes friendship among different races, among natives and immigrants.

“Symbolically, the monument can be viewed as two hands raising up a giant salakot, with both the pillars a virtual standin for arms and the corner braces as hands holding up the salakot-shaped arch,” he said.

Other features of the arch are the gumamela flower, along with the intricate flora and vine work, painted within

Councilmember Mitch O’ Farrell, artist Eliseo Art Silva, Commissioner Emeritus Jessica Caloza and Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti

The gateway project was prioritized by LA’s Department of Public Works, led by Commissioner Emeritus Jessica Caloza, with management and oversight provided by the Bureau of Engineering.

the corner braces which were culled from 18th century Philippines; and the capiz windows integral to bahay na bato house, both connected by a central panel that upholds a bamboo teal roof.

The purpose of the design is to give visitors entering the HiFi neighborhood a homely reception as if they are being welcomed with warm hospitality in a traditional Filipino house, Silva said.

Another symbolism in the infamous gateway is the references to the native Filipino lanterns or parols, which are hung during Christmas season in front of the windows of houses to symbolize a Filipino family’s hospitality. The parol is also a Filipino symbol of the Star of Bethlehem to send a message that the Holy family is welcome to their home.

“Thus the three lanterns installed and lighted on the arch extends a warm welcome to everyone who visits the HiFi,” Silva said.

During the official dedication of the gateway, some key local government officials, Filipino American community leaders and celebrities shared their respective views and visions for the landmark’s installation.

In his speech, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti encouraged the Fil-Am community and all other races to be inspired by what really this monument stands for.

“As long as the community is unified, it (the project) will get done. This is important for us, for us all, to own this, not to designate a neighborhood, this is not just for Filipinos but for all non-Filipinos to embrace Filipino culture and history and recognize it as well,” Garcetti said.

The city leader also called for the community to be proactive and be vigilant in facing all the challenges of today’s world.

“We, not only marked history, we are committed to making history, and this is my challenge to you. What will you do next, what new business will you open and celebrate Filipino food, what organization will you donate to, what ways you will do to help us solve the housing crisis, what will you do to help raise our wages, and how will you recognize the essential workers that helped so many of us survive the COVID” Garcetti said.

Joselyn Geaga-Rosenthal, LA Building and Safety commissioner and long-time

“Talang Gabay, Our Guiding Star,” designed by artist Eliseo Art Silva, contains design elements nodding to Filipino culture: the parol; the gumamela flower also known as hibiscus, which pays tribute to frontline workers; and the sarimanok.

AJPress photos by Andy Tecson

HiFi resident, in her speech, echoed Garcetti’s call for greater cooperation among all the communities in the area.

“The gateway will be an invitation to all of us to give every little bit of your life. Let’s help to support our future projects. This project did not happen as an an accident.

It’s part of history. We are making history for our future generations,” Rosenthal said.

For his part, Councilmember Mitch O’Farrell, who represents Historic Filipinotown and who is instrumental in making funds available for the project, said this arch was a “labor of love.”

“This project is a multiyear of labor of love. It was first identified in a master plan 20 years ago. When you do a master plan you identify goals, one goal was an eastern gateway and a western gateway. All these years later, since I was able to identify the funding, working with the artist and the community, look at the vision that they came up with, we’ve been able to facilitate this. I’m honored to represent this community in the city council and we’re gonna do greater things,” O’ Farrell said.

“This community is so deserving of such an iconic, impressive landmark. The Historic Filipinotown Eastern Gateway pays fitting tribute to the incredible contributions of the Filipino community in Los Angeles and beyond,” the councilmember said.

Caloza, the first Filipina who served as a Board of Public Works commissioner, lauded O’Farrell’s utmost dedication to the project.

“Councilmember Mitch O’ Farrell has been an incredible champion of the Filipino community and helped paved the way to get this built and I helped him as a public works commissioner to put this together. This is the largest

Filipino monument, not just in LA, not just in California, but the entire country. And we did it with the leadership and support of the community. We make sure that we empower communities. This is what representation means,” the former public works commissioner said.

California’s first Filipino American Attorney General Rob Bonta, for his part, said that this gateway commemorates the Filipinos’ triumphant struggle to make a difference and be recognized in this part of the world.

“I am so proud as we cement our mark on the story of America and the story of California. This monument is a symbol of an incredible contribution that we made to building this state, this nation.

This is also a recognition of our beautiful story that has been a part of the fabric of the American story,” he said.

“It has been our Californian dream, our American dream, our immigrant story to come in this country definitely seeking opportunity for ourselves and for our family and also to make a difference and this gateway here in Historic Filipinotown recognizes that we have made a difference, year after year, generation after generation,” Bonta added.

Bonta recalled a significant sign of struggle of Filipino immigrants in the United States more than a century ago.

“One of the things that has motivated me and inspired me is a photograph that I keep in my office that shows in a hotel lobby in Stockton in 1920s which says, ‘Positively No Filipinos Allowed.’ It reminds of me of the hate that we faced, the pain, the struggles that we overcame. And today, it feels different. A hundred years later, this archway is saying not just the Filipinos are allowed, but we belong,”

the attorney-general, whose family originated from the province of Dumaguete, said.

Search to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA) executive director Kimmy Maniquis, meanwhile, said this is really a “big deal” for the Filipino community, not just in LA but for all the Filipinos.

“Having artistic pieces like this grand and this public, to celebrate our history is really meaningful and this is just so beautiful. I can’t express how beautiful it is. I am excited that the community comes together today to celebrate this. It’s a big deal,” Maniquis said.

Coinciding the grand launch of the Eastern Gateway, SIPA is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

The newly constructed SIPA community center on Temple Street is slated to be opened later this year.

Fil-Am actress Tia Carrere, who sang the U.S. National Anthem during the event, said this is a huge accomplishment for all Filipinos, especially those who came to the country as immigrants.

“I am so happy to be here celebrating the unveiling of the Eastern Gateway. My maternal grandmother came on the ship to Hawaii to work in a plantation, and the fact that I am here toda. It’s a big day for Filipinos all around,” she said. (Carrere, a Grammy Award winner for her music and a former model, will join stand-up comedian Jo Koy, in a movie “Easter Sunday” out on August 5).

In addition to the official ribbon cutting and lighting ceremony on Saturday, there were cultural performances and HiFi community organizations, such as the Pilipino Workers Center, Search to Involve Pilipino Americans, and Filipino American Service Group Inc., had booths along Beverly Boulevard. g

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COMMUNITY JOURNAL

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Atty. Gurfinkel answers immigration questions from Kapamilya in New York City on a brand-new episode of Citizen Pinoy LEADING U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel met with Kapamilya from New York City and neighboring areas, where he provided valuable information regarding their immigration concerns.

Cris petitioned his mom as an immigrant in 2013. In 2014, his mother returned to the Philippines to take care of her sick husband (Cris’ father). Sadly, he died in 2019. Cris’ mother is still in the Philippines, and he would like to know if she can still come back to the U.S. Ben’s daughter has Down Syndrome and she is staying with Ben in New Jersey. They petitioned her in 2012 and they recently received a letter from the NVC saying she will soon be interviewed in Manila. Ben is worried, and wants to know what would happen if his daughter is denied a visa and gets stuck in the Philippines.

Niki has been a green card holder since 2016 and she petitioned her husband in 2019. The husband is now in the U.S. on a tourist visa. His immigrant visa interview is coming up. Their

lawyer says he needs to fly back to Manila for the interview. Niki asks if it is possible to have his adjustment of status interview here in the U.S. instead.

Ruther’s U.S. citizen mother petitioned his brother in the Philippines. Unfortunately, their mother died in 2019. In 2021, the family received a notice from the National Visa Center saying Ruther’s brother can start working on his documents. Since they know that when the petitioner passes away, the petition dies as well, Ruther wants to know if there are other options for his brother to immigrate to the U.S. Atty. Gurfinkel answers these questions and more in “Your Tanong, My Sagot,” with Kapamilya from New York City. Watch this brand-new episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, May 15 at 7:00 PM PT (10:00 PM ET thru select Cable/Satellite providers), right after TV Patrol Linggo. Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the free app.

(Advertising Supplement)

ATTY. GURFINKEL ANSWERS QUESTIONS FROM KAPAMILYA IN NEW YORK. Leading U.S. immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel (2nd from right) answers immigration questions from Kapamilya in New York City on “Your Tanong, My Sagot.” Among the questions Atty. Gurfinkel answers are: from Ruther (2nd from left) – My U.S. citizen mom petitioned my brother years ago. In 2021, we received a notice from the National Visa Center that my brother can start preparing his documents. However, our mother died in 2019, and we know that when the petitioner passes away, the petition dies as well. Are there other options for my brother to immigrate to the U.S.?; from Niki (right) – I have been a green card holder since 2016. I petitioned my husband in 2019. He is now here in the U.S. on a tourist visa. His immigrant visa interview is coming up soon and our lawyer says he needs to fly back to Manila for it. Is it possible to have his green card interview here in the U.S.? Watch this episode of “Your Tanong, My Sagot” on a brand-new episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, May 15 at 7:00 PM PT (10:00 PM ET) through select Cable/ Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo.

(Advertising Supplement)

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Clark County population expected to grow by 1M in 2060 By realtOr FelY QuiteVis-Bateman

MORE and more people are expected to flock into Clark County in Nevada as construction and development continue to

Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman (foreground) with a group of Filipino Americans at an event in Nevada. Fil-Ams are the largest Asian group in Clark County.

come into the area.

In a recent study done by the University of Nevada Las Vegas’ Lee Business School’s Center for Business and Economic Research cited by the Las Vegas

Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman with Ron Quilang from Henderson, NV who is running for Assemblyman for District 21. As the largest Asian American group in Clark County, Quitevis-Bateman believes there should be an elected Fil-Am in government.

Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman helps those who need business financing, including loans for small businesses. For more information, call (702) 538-4948 or send email to fely@precious-

Review Journal, Clark County is estimated to add about 1 million more residents to its fold by 2060, putting the population by that time to about 3.38 million.

Currently, Clark County was estimated to have a population of about 2.38 million in 2020.

It is estimated to grow by 2.2% in 2022, putting the estimate to around 2.47 million by year’s end. More than half of Clark County’s population live in Las Vegas, which is the seat of the county.

The same study, which was commissioned for a few Southern Nevada agencies and members of the Forecasting Group, show growth in Clark County hovering between 2.4% to 1.0% from 2023 to 2035. From 2040 to 2060, population growth is estimated to be from 0.2% to 0.7%.

Clark County has certainly come a long way from its roots, having only been established in 1909, and was formed when the Nevada Legislature split off a portion of Lincoln County. In 1910, its population was placed only at 3,321. A few major dates for the county included the incorporation of cities like Las Vegas (June 1911), North Las Vegas (May 1946) and Henderson (April 1953). Over the years, its population steadily increased, fueled by steep increases in the mid-80s to late 2000s.

Las Vegas houses Clark County’s largest population, with an almost 1.8 million people living in Las Vegas Census County Divisions (as of the 2010 Census). Las Vegas city by itself is estimated to have nearly 650,000 residents, placing it 26th among largest cities in the United States and first in the State of Nevada.

Billed as the gambling and entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas has been thoroughly developed, with sprawling communities and master-planned developments moving outward to satisfy the demand from the population.

Communities like Green Valley, Summerlin, Red Rock, Mountain’s Edge, Inspirada, Providence, and Cadence are now well-known to residents, realtors and astute property buyers. And more development is underway, perhaps fueled by a good network of freeways and roads, as well as interest from many sectors keen on gaining a foothold in the city and the state.

The LVRJ article stated that although there may be a limitation to how far the boundaries for future masterplanned communities may go, there is still a hot demand for real estate and properties in Las Vegas. Residential developers are still buying land for new projects,

With Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman (extreme left) in photo are (from left) Johnny and Grace Rustia of New Jersey, and Joannie Feliciano and nephew Aldo from Orange County.

Quitevis-Bateman’s clients are scouting for a place to retire.

Development going on in Las Vegas will bring more jobs and new residents to the area.

and house hunters are buying in new subdivisions throughout the valley, per the article.

Currently, in Las Vegas, there are multiple offers for properties who normally close at higher than asking prices. Plus, it is not uncommon for buyers to be put on a waiting list in order to secure a bid for one of the more affordable properties in the market.

This only means one thing for Las Vegas and neighboring regions – there will be demand for more housing, particularly affordable housing. There is already interest from real estate developers looking at other areas close to Las Vegas where they can develop communities to address the needs of a booming population.

Areas like Pahrump, Nevada, which is located in Nye County and is only about 62 miles west of Las Vegas, are being looked at by the property-savvy due to affordability and proximity advantages. With about a million more people estimated to make their way to Clark County – and in particular, to Las Vegas – there is more of a probability for outward development to outside regions.

And now is the time, more than ever, to take a look at those golden opportunities – be it in Las Vegas or in neighboring cities like Henderson, Boulder or Mesquite, and towns like

Pahrump.

More affordable prices, better quality of life, ease of traffic and less crime may be some of the reasons why areas outside of Las Vegas may spark interest to property hunters.

Moreso, there are many advantages to buying land or property in Nevada, or even becoming a resident of the state: a competitive business state tax, a county sales tax of 6.75% (not on food items), and no taxes associated with estate/ inheritance, franchise, gift, inventory/interstate commerce, corporate income and personal income.

Whether you are looking to be gainfully employed, retire or just own a second home or land as an investment, Las Vegas and Pahrump are great places to start your search, and I can help you. Having seen the growth of these communities since 1990s, I can assist you, my kababayans, in your search for the best opportunities.

My company, Precious Properties, is a full-service company serving its clientele since 1992 and you can reach me at 775-513-8447, 805-5592476 and 702-538-4948 for more information. We have investors who buy houses in California and Nevada for cash and quick escrow in as short as 7 days.

(Advertising Supplement)

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Cardinal Antonio Tagle to celebrate mass for Wonders of tea San Lorenzo Ruiz USA 40th anniversary devotion Health@Heart THE Solemn Pontifical Mass of Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Prefect of the Vatican Commission on Evangelization will be held on Sunday, June 1st, at 10AM at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City commemorating the 40th Anniversary of San Lorenzo Ruiz Devotion in the United States. To RSVP or for more information, contact sanlorenzo40th@ gmail.com.

For more information, contact Fr. Erno Diaz at 646-466-8761.

The patron saint of the Philippines and the Filipino people, Lorenzo Ruiz a Chinese Filipino recognized for his martyrdom after his execution in Japan by the Tokugawa Shogunate during its persecution of Christians in the 17th century.

Headed by New York based Father Erno Diaz, the Steering Committee is overjoyed to have Filipino Cardinal Tagle from Rome as the main celebrant of the Anniversary Mass.

Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the United Nations (New York) is the Principal Concelebrant.

Some of the organizers of the NYC Devotion Group of San Lorenzo Ruiz were members of the San Lorenzo Ruiz Chapel community established in 2005 (which eventually closed a few years later and was sold to developers in 2017). Several members of the group were original devotees who advocated for the sainthood of San Lorenzo Ruiz.

“God Almighty has blessed the Philippines with 500 years of Christianity that, in His Divine Providence, produced its first Saint in the person of San Lorenzo Ruiz,” said Father Erno.

“In America, particularly, in New York, 40 years of devotion to San Lorenzo has been a Time of Grace.”

San Lorenzo Ruiz served as an altar boy at the Binondo Church. He was educated by the Dominican friars. He was a member of the Confraternity of the Most Holy Rosary. He married Rosario and had two sons and a daughter.

In 1636, while working as a clerk for the Binondo Church, Lorenzo was falsely accused of killing a Spaniard, Lorenzo sought asylum on board a ship with

Cardinal Antonio Tagle

San Lorenzo Ruiz

three Dominican priests: Antonio Gonzalez, Guillermo Courtet and Miguel de Aozaraza, a Japanese priest, Vicente Shiwozuka de la Cruz, and a lay leper Lazaro of Kyoto.

Lorenzo and his companions sailed for Okinawa in June 1636, with the aid of the Dominican fathers.

The Tokugawa Shogunate was persecuting Christians because they feared that was how the Spanish invaded the Philippines by using religion by the time Lorenzo had arrived in Japan. The missionaries were arrested and thrown into prison, and after two years, they were transferred to Nagasaki to face trial by torture. The group endured many and various cruel methods of torture.

In September 1637, Lorenzo and his companions were taken to Nishizaka Hill, where they were tortured by being hung upside-down over a pit. He died two days later on September 29, 1637, at age 42.

Lorenzo was beatified during Pope John Paul II’s papal visit to the Philippines

in 1981. It was the first beatification ceremony to be held outside the Vatican making history. Lorenzo was canonized by the Pope John Paul II in the Vatican City on October 18, 1987, among the 16 Martyrs of Japan, making him the first Filipino saint.

His canonization was supported by a miracle in October 1983, when Cecilia Alegria Policarpio of Calinog, Iloilo, was cured of brain atrophy (hydrocephalus) at the age of two, after her family and supporters prayed to Lorenzo for his intercession.

Cardinal Tagle is a Filipino prelate of the Catholic Church who has been the Prefect of the Congregation of the Evangelization of Peoples since December 2019. He was the 32nd Archbishop of Manila from 2011 to 2019.

He also serves as president of Caritas International, a federation of Catholic relief, development and social service organizations, and of the Catholic Biblical Federation.

Tagle holds a BA degree

in pre-divinity from Ateneo and a MA degree in theology from Ateneo’s Loyola School of Theology. He earned his Doctorate in Sacred Theology at the Catholic University of America.

He was ordained in the Diocese of Imus, Cavite, Philippines in February 1982. In December 2001, Tagle was appointed Bishop of Imus.

Pope Benedict XVI appointed Tagle the 32nd Archbishop of Manila in October 2011, to succeed Cardinal Guadencio Rosales. He was installed as Archbishop in December 2011. Pope Benedict XVI elevated him Archbishop Tagle to the College of Cardinals in October 2012.

Tagle was the seventh Filipino to be made a cardinal of the Catholic Church. When he became a cardinal he was the second youngest one.

Pope Francis named Tagle Prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples in December 2019.

Tagle was the second Asian to head that Congregation. He was the second Filipino cardinal to lead a congregation of the Roman Curia. Pope Francis promoted him to highest rank of cardinal, CardinalBishop, in May 2020. He is the first Filipino to be included in that rank of the College of Cardinals.

On February 22, 2021, Tagle was appointed by Pope Francis as a new member of the Administration of the Patrimony of the Holy See, the office of the Roman Curia that deals with the “provisions owned by the Holy See in order to provide the funds necessary for the Roman Curia to function”.

“Let us join our Filipino Cardinal in Rome, His Eminence Luis Antonio Tagle, Prefect on Evangelization, as he celebrates a Solemn Mass of Thanksgiving on June 1st at 10AM in St. Patrick’s Cathedral.” Said Fr. Erno.

Comprised of Fil Ams from the TriState area, the Steering Committee members of the 40th Anniversary of San Lorenzo Ruiz Devotion, USA include Fr. Erno Diaz, Atty.

Ferdinand Suba, Joe Ramos, Margie Skeels, Marilyn Abalos, Myrna Gutierrez, and Rolan Gutierrez. g

PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS TEA, the second most favorite beverage in the world after water, has always been considered a healthy drink. A recent worldwide symposium of leading scientists in the field of tea research on the benefits of tea suggests drinking tea may boost the immune system, cardiovascular health, and cognitive function, and reduce the risk of cancer.

Organized by the Tea Council of the USA, the meet advocated adding 2 to 4 cups of unsweetened tea into the diet to get the beneficial flavonoids. The four main varieties are white, green, black, and Oolong tea (all derived from Camellia sinensis).

Tea provides substances with biological activity like L-theanine, caffeine, and flavonoids (catechins), which are antioxidants and anti-inflammatory.

Each cup of tea has between 35 to 60 mg of caffeine, compared to 95 mg in a cup of regular coffee. Tea also reduces tension, anxiety, and stress. The flavonoids in tea exert a protective effect against age-related dementia and cognitive decline.

Unlike soft drinks, which are actually slowacting poison to the body of children and adults, gradually causing metabolic syndrome in people over time, tea is a beverage of wonder for our health.

Diet and lifespan Conquistador Juan Ponce de Leon sailed worldwide in search of the elusive fountain of youth in the 16th century, but like those of Greek Historian Herodotus in the 5th century BC and Alexander the Great in the 4th century BC, they were all doomed to fail. The reality is that the real fountain of youth is in our minds, our discipline, attitude, habits, behavior, and diet (this last one is within our easy reach by simply “sailing” to our nearest grocery stores and gym or spa) for healthy food items and exercise. Indeed, a healthy

lifestyle is essential. Orodental health is also vital to brain, cardiovascular, and general health, which impacts longevity also.

A new review of nutrition revealed that it is possible to prolong youth by slowing down aging (effects) and maximizing longevity to the fullest our genes would allow with the proper diet, considering both quality (kind of foods) and quantity (calories we eat).

The findings showed the best diet for a longer life includes fish, a lot of plantbased foods, low sugar, low refined carbohydrates, low red meat (once a week) and no processed meats, and regular fasting every now and then. Of course, no smoking, and alcoholic drinks are limited to one or two a day, and no illicit drugs. The diet needs to change to a high protein diet after age 65, supported with a multi-vitaminmineral supplement once daily.

Plant-based foods include fruits, legumes, grains, vegetables, and seeds (chia, sesame, flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, hemp seeds). For those with arthritis, the recommendation is to avoid nightshades vegetables, like tomato, potato, pepper, paprika, and eggplant.

Vitamin D and cancer A study found that Vitamin D deficiency is seen in nearly 67 percent of Black and 33 percent of Hispanic women living in the Northern hemisphere, making them 21 percent more likely to develop various illnesses, including breast cancer. These women are predisposed to vitamin D deficiency because their skin is darker, with higher melanin pigment, causing them to get less natural vitamin D from sunlight exposure. Vitamin D3 is the preferred supplement. It is healthy to get some sun exposure, especially in the morning. In general, about 40 percent of Americans are deficient in Vitamin D. Other illnesses caused by vitamin D deficiency are osteoporosis, depression, muscle weakness, and, if severe, death.

A half-hour direct exposure to mid-day sun provides about 10,000 to 20,000 IU depending on the area and time of the PAGE 15

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N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY M AY 1 3, 2 0 22

people events arts culture entertainment

Maricel takes pride in children’s creative pursuits

by JerrY

DOnatO Philstar.com

Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes

Photo from Instagram/@

Dingdong gives comedy a shot in reunion project with Marian after 10 years By marinel

CruZ

Inquirer.net

“DONG is a funny guy, I promise,” declared actress Marian Rivera of her husband, action star Dingdong Dantes, who will soon be seen with her in a situational comedy show titled “Jose & Maria’s Bonggang Villa” this month on GMA 7.

While Dingdong has been identified with projects in drama and action, this will be his first time trying comedy. The sitcom, which the couple is coproducing with GMA 7 and APT Entertainment, is also their first project together after 10 years.

“I admit it! I really had a hard time during the first taping days. I told my directors, ‘Direk naiilang ako.’ Yan (Marian’s nickname), whose forte is comedy, really supported me. I’m lucky to have an amazing acting coach in her,” Dingdong told reporters during a recent media conference to announce the show’s premiere on May 14.

Dingdong also said “Jose & Maria’s Bonggang Villa” started out as a fun activity in their home. They would record short videos and upload them under the title “Jose at Maria.” They then decided to “bring it to the next level” by coming up with a sitcom.

Excited to work Marian, who had to turn down offers in the past in order to focus on taking care of their two kids, Zia and Ziggy, said she was very excited to work on this one. “In the past, I had to prioritize being a mom. I turned down shows because of the lock-in taping requirement. I couldn’t bear being away from my kids for a long time. It’s good that we don’t need to go inside a bubble for this one,” she pointed out. “We also made sure that when Dong and I are taping, our parents are there to take care of our children.”

She added: “This also served as our bonding time.

Nagkukulitan kami, naglalambingan. We get to talk to each other all day long. I’m happy to be doing this with Dong. On our way here to the presscon, I told him, ‘The Lord is really kind to us, don’t you think? We prayed for a chance to work together again and He answered our prayer.’”

Dingdong then tried to discuss the show: “Jose and Maria are PAGE 15

BEFORE family life beckoned her, Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan was a thespian. She embraced the craft of reading the text and understanding the subtext and context of any character given on her plate. The actress reached her peak and won the critics’ admiration for her performances. But she was also ready to take the backseat to fulfill her duties as a wife and a mom.

More than a year ago, she returned to TV acting via a Christmas-themed drama series and continued on in Mano Po Legacy: The Family Fortune on GMA 7.

Maricel, the veteran actress, has shown her creative instinct to put herself in someone else’s shoes remains there and sharp.

“I’m thankful, I’m excited and I’m looking forward to more things to come,” said Maricel of scoring a follow-up project to her successful stint in the Mano Po TV adaptation and getting another chance to collaborate again with colleagues in a recent virtual press conference.

“Ako kasi ang damidaming taon nang dumaan, tapos parang nag-iba na yung buhay ko, nag-iba na yung sistema ko,” she reflected on her second wind in acting, “and then ‘pag bumalik ka pala dun sa isang mahal mo, parang hindi mo talaga nakakalimutan yun, and then muscle memory na lang yung gumagana, tapos ‘pag bukas yung isip mo at puso mo, marami ka pang matututunan, kaya exciting (when you return to something that you love, you seem not to forget it and (you rely on your) muscle memory. If you have an open mind and your heart is in it, you will learn more and that makes it exciting).”

Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan

What also made Maricel give acting another try was the encouragement she received from her children.

“Sabi nila (they tell me), ‘Mom, we’re fine. You’ve given us enough time. It’s time for you to shine now,’” shared she. “I didn’t think of myself coming back to showbiz or even imagining na magkakaroon pa ako nang second wind and season na ma-e-enjoy ko talaga.”

The actress was happy to have been rediscovering acting because “I have their blessing and excited silang malaman kung ano yung mga bago kong natututunan.

Tapos, marami rin akong na-eexplore na mga bagay na nagugulat ako (My kids are excited to know new things that I’m learning and I’m also exploring things that surprise me).” She was also doing it for her growth as an artist and “the opportunities just presented themselves at the perfect time” to her.

Like her Mano Po Legacy: The Family Fortune character named Valerie, Maricel’s Gemma is also a mother, and a wife, whose husband is cheating on her.

“Actually, maganda yung (it’s a good thing) that there’s this kind of director like direk Laurice Guillen that

stretches you beyond your capabilities na pati ako nasu-surprise na ‘Ah, may kaya pa akong ganun na i-express’ kasi in reality, wala naman akong asawang nag-loloko,” said she. “Mahirap yung hugutan, pero may isang Gemma na talagang na ininbrace ko at si Gemma ay napaka-multi-faceted na tao and because of the guidance of direk Laurice, I’m able to bring some sort of justice to who Gemma is. I’m trying, I’m a work in progress, like I always tell direk that I’m just so happy that she is patient with me.”

It has helped her to immerse into the role and manage her jitters since it’s Maricel’s first time to work with the lady director, whom she finds the latter’s stamina, strength and abilities are just incredible.

“Sa totoo lang, malaking nerbiyos yung pinagdadaanan ko nung first few weeks,” shared she, “pero nakita ko kasi ito na isang bagay na mag-e-elevate dun sa pagunderstand ko kung ano ba ang ibig sabihin ng pagiging aktor and natutuwa ako kasi mahilig akong magaral at ito yung next thing na pinag-aaralan ko, na marami akong natututunan at nakatutuwa talaga dahil marami kapang pwedeng

malaman at matututunan sa buhay (But I see it as a way to elevate my understanding about being an actor, I like learning and I’m happy about the thought that I can still learn more).”

Also proof to her enthusiasm to learn are her bachelor’s and graduate degrees in Social Sciences and Family Life and Child Development, all earned from the University of the Philippines.

As a mother, Maricel is proud about the creative industries her children have forayed into.

“Donny is the one who is in showbiz,” said she.

“Hannah is more of a creator in digital platforms. Then, my daughter Ella is more on the lifestyle area. Benj is in the music industry. Sa akin namamangha ako every time I see them that they are pursuing the things that they really love. I’d really like to just support them and I’m just really blessed to see that they are now carving their own space, their own platforms, their own following.” Solana is her and husband Anthony Pangilinan’s youngest child.

Although parents like her give their children the space to grow and think things for themselves, Maricel always gives them reminders to appreciate life and its blessings.

“Ang palagi kong reminder is sana kung anuman yung na-eexperience ninyo ngayon na success, sana ginagamit ninyo yun para sa mabuting paraan, na maka-inspire din kayo ng iba pang mga tao na maabot din nila yung mga dreams and aspirations nila (I always remind them to put whatever success they may have to good use and to inspire others in reaching their dreams and inspirations),” said she.

“So, that’s where I am right now.” 

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NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • MAY 13-19, 2022

‘Breathe Again’ pairs Ariella, Tony for the first time

By Leah

C. SaLterio Philstar.com

BEAUTY queen Ariella Arida, Miss Universe Philippines 2013, is set to surprise viewers when she goes sexy and daring with steamy scenes in her first starring role in the film, Breathe Again, directed by Raffy Francisco.

Although she previously did supporting roles in director Darryl Yap’s Sarap Mong Patayin and Nuel Naval’s More Than Blue, both for Viva shown last year, Ariella is so grateful for Breathe Again. “The role is so easy to relate to,” she acknowledged. “This is the first lead role that Viva gave me. They gave me so much trust.”

It was the first time for Ariella to work with Tony Labrusca, her leading man in Breathe Again, filmed in Anilao, Batangas. They shot mostly outdoors.

The film streams on Vivamax starting June 3.

“Before that, we had our training for our free diving, so doon pa lang, I got to know Tony more,” Ariella said.

“Especially nasa dagat kami. Iba kasi ang nabibigay na vibe ng dagat. So I think it helped us better that we connected instantly.”

Apart from the workshop before the lead stars started filming, Ariella and Tony trained together in free diving, which is different from scuba diving.

“When the character was pitched to me, I was very excited,” Ariella admitted.

“First time ko gagawin na free diver ako.

But we really had training before we started shooting.”

“Akala ko, it would just be easy na makikita ng tao, sisisid ka lang pero kailangan mo din ng technics na hindi siya talaga basta pwedeng gawin.”

Although this is their first time together to do free diving, Ariella acknowledged Tony is a lot better than her. “He’s a good swimmer. With him, I feel safe underwater. He was there to guide me through.

“I’m really so grateful to Tony. He’s a great actor. I’ve watched his films.

Ariella and Tony have trained together in free diving, which is different from scuba diving, to help build on their chemistry. Photo from Instagram/@araarida

Our scenes, although intimate, we could laugh right after. He is one co-actor who after we did the scene, I could ask him how was the scene we did. Hindi ako mahihiya.

“Kahit intimidating at first for me si Tony, sa simula lang pala ‘yun. Hindi pala siya ganu’n talaga. On and off set, we’re good. That brings out the natural aura of the characters we are playing.”

Ariella also commended their director for guiding them even through the underwater scenes. “If we go deep underwater, mas malalim si direk Raffy,” Ariella said. “Kung matagal kami sa ilalim, mas matagal si direk.”

Director Raffy had a hand in writing the script, too, for Breathe Again. “The past five years, I’ve fallen in love again with the ocean,” he admitted. “I reignited my love affair with diving and I discovered this new sport, free diving.

“Free diving makes it accessible for people to enjoy the underwater world, unencumbered by all the equipment. All you need are masks, fins and a snorkel

and you can stay underwater for a long time. That’s something I want to share within this realm of a full-length film.”

Direk Raffy proudly pushed the boundaries of his film in terms of sexiness. “The core of the movie is finding yourself,” he explained. “Breathing is a very personal thing. The journey of the narrative towards the main character is finding your breath again.”

Unless one might think Breathe Again is only “sexy and romantic,” Ariella shared towards the end, there is something that will jolt the viewers.“Ikabibigla nila and that is why it’s titled Breathe Again. Inter-connected ang mga pangyayari from beginning to end.”

Tony noted his “beautiful and very confident” first-time leading lady was very gracious all throughout their filming.

“What really shone for me, Ara (as Ariella is fondly called), was just so gracious about everything,” Tony said. “This was just a fun film to make, although it was not the easiest filming underwater.

“I saw her character and how game she was. She didn’t complain. No bad attitude. I was just really amazed with her work ethic,” he added.

Conquering his fear of the ocean is something Tony had to deal with to film Breathe Again. “Mahilig akong magswimming, pero ayoko ‘yung hindi ko nakikita ‘yung ilalim ng dagat,” he said.

“May mga scenes kami na nasa gitna ng dagat, so I was feeling anxious already. There was also a scene na gabi, nag-dive kami. That was a challenge for me. Na-conquer ko din naman ‘yun.”

There was a time when both of them were practically on the beach the whole day. “She told me, ‘Baka ‘pag hinalikan mo ako, salty na ako,’” Tony recalled.

“Even our intimate scenes, easy lang.”

His take-away on his character, Robert, in Breathe Again, Tony maintained, “Sometimes, we meet the right person but at the wrong time. We fall in love, pero bawal pala. Masarap talaga na meron kang makilalang tao na nakaka-intindi sa ‘yo. Masarap magmahal kahit saglit lang.” g

Dingdong gives comedy a shot in reunion project...

PAGE 14 a married couple who has just transferred to an old house. They will get to meet all the cast members there. Their misadventures begin when they start to transform the house into a bed & breakfast. A lot of fun things will happen.”

Also part of the show are Shamaine Buencamino, Pinky Amador, Pekto, Benjie Paras, Loujude, Hershey Neri, and onscreen partners Zonia Mejia and Jamir Zabarte. Director John “Sweet” Lapus is at the helm.

A coproducer, too Asked what it’s like to be the show’s coproducer, Marian said, laughing: “I didn’t feel that I was one. The only indicator was that they kept making me sign checks and then they would take all these checks away. Seriously, they would also ask us about who we want to invite to the show as guests. In terms of the script, we didn’t have to worry about it because we have a great team handling it.”

Dingdong agreed by saying: “I’m glad that they don’t make us worry about the backend stuff and allow us to focus more on our performance. This is because our partnership with GMA 7 and APT is already a solid one. What’s important for us is that we’re able to give our creative inputs. For example, we are allowed to contribute ideas on how to improve the show while we’re taping.

“This project is really personal to us. Whatever happens, we make sure that everyone on the set is having fun doing it, and that we are able to entertain our audience through it. We also make sure that as artists, we are learning a lot from the experience,” added Dingdong.

Marian is also featured in a documentary titled “Miss U: A Journey to the Promised Land,” which Dingdong directed and began airing on GMA 7 on May 7.

“This is a story that pays tribute to the sacrifices made by mothers for their kids. In every Filipino family, there’s a loved one who is an OFW. This is my gift to them. I have been in show biz for a long time but I have not been so open about my story until this one,” said Marian, who will be seen along with her own mom in the program.

Meanwhile, Dingdong is the game master of the local version of the American game show “Family Feud.” He said he hoped that the show would accommodate regular viewers as contestants soon.

“Everyone at home is hooked on the show, including my dad. They would shout their answers and get frustrated if the contestants don’t get them right. I would often remind them, ‘It’s different when you’re actually in the studio.’ So we decided to make an episode that featured Marian along with my siblings,” Dingdong said of the episode that aired. g

Wonders of...

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PAGE 13 day, and distance from the equator. Foods that contain this vitamin include salmon, canned tuna, egg yolk, cod liver oil, swordfish, mackerel, and sardines. One tablespoon (14 grams) of cod liver oil has more than 3 times the recommended dose of vitamin D, so one teaspoon covers it. A normal level of vitamin D, which is inexpensive and readily available without a prescription, is also good against COVID-19.

Test for Alzheimer’s There are an estimated 6 million Americans, 850,000 in the UK, and around 245,000 in the Philippines with Alzheimer’s dementia. The disease is named after neuropathologist, Dr. Alois Alzheimer, who, in 1906, discovered amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in a woman’s brain, which are the hallmarks of the disease.

Brain imaging and spinal tap fluids are the two most common procedures to detect early signs of Alzheimer’s, but as of May 4, 2022, a new diagnostic blood test to detect Alzheimer’s at a high accuracy rate (16 years before the symptoms develop) has been approved. It was developed at Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri.

To know well in advance when such a devastating illness will deprive a person of memory and transform the patient into a helpless baby-like state is certainly most welcome.

The one involved could plan with the family ahead of time.

There are Alzheimer’s cases where the patient instantly loses total memory, like flipping a light switch followed by total darkness in a split second.

COVID-19 updates On Sunday, May 8, the Philippines had 152 new COVID-19 cases, 45 of them in Manila. There were 1,399 new cases from April 25 to May 1, an average of 200 cases daily, 5 percent lower than the previous week. The national total is 3,687,018, with a death toll of 60,439.

Almost 68 million (about 75 percent) have been fully vaccinated and 13.2 million also have had their booster shot. The very first case was on January 30, 2020, in a woman who arrived in Manila from Wuhan City, the first case outside of China.

As of Tuesday, May 10, 11:48 AM (EST), the total global COVID-19 cases stand at 518,023,291, with 6,278,760 deaths, and new cases pegged at 362,765; U.S. – 83,688,188 total cases, 1,024,752 deaths, 73,056 new cases; the Philippines – 3,687,320 total cases, 60,439 deaths, 127 new cases.

There is a potential severe wave of COVID-19 in the coming Fall and Winter seasons in the U.S. which could infect as many as 100 million, almost a third of the population. Vaccines save lives. More than 11.7 billion shots worldwide (579 million in the U.S. alone) have proven how safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines are.

With those statistics, it is prudent at this juncture for everyone, especially seniors and those immunocompromised, to get vaccinated, and to continue masking properly and maintain social distancing even if fully vaccinated, because of the potential new undetected strains and the waning protection from the vaccines. Death following reinfection happens in 1.8 percent of cases. Elon Musk of Tesla and SpaceX has been infected twice. *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. *** The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people live a healthier lifestyle to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve a happier and more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable or appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute for your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday.com, and philipSchua.com; Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com.

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MAY 13-19, 2022 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

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