051822 - Southern California Midweek Edition

MAY 18-20, 2022 Volume 32 - No. 39 • 14 Pages

Winning president, VP may be proclaimed by May 25

by CECILLE

SUERTE Philstar.com

FELIPE

MANILA — The proclamation of the winning president and vice presidential candidates can be done immediately or no later than May 25 as the Senate and the House of Representatives sitting jointly as the National Board of Canvassers see no major issues hampering the canvassing, Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri said on Saturday, May 14.

In an interview over dwIZ, OUTGOING. President Rodrigo Duterte salutes past the color guard while onboard the command car in the trooping the line ceremony during the Philippine Military Academy commencement exercises at the Fajardo Grandstand, Borromeo Field in Fort Gen. Gregorio H. del Pilar, Zubiri said an early proclamation Baguio City on Sunday, May 15. Duterte called on new PMA graduates to “be both a warrior and peacemaker” while ensuring they always would allow the senators to PPCRV volunteers count votes in the partial unofficial tally in the Quadricentennial Pavillion, remained true to their oath.

PNA photo by Rey Baniquet

USA

DATELINE US, ASEAN commit to non-militarization in disputed sea FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

MANILA — The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the United States have reaffirmed their commitment to ensure maritime security and safety, freedom of navigation, non-militarization and self-restraint in the conduct of activities in the South China Sea. “We are dedicated to maintaining peace, security and stability in the region and to ensuring maritime security and safety, as well as freedom of navigation and overflight and other lawful uses of the seas as described in the 1982 UNCLOS,” the ASEAN-US Special Summit 2022 Joint Vision Statement read, referring to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. The statement, crafted in Washington late last week, also called for “unimpeded lawful maritime commerce.”

 PAGE 2

CA lawmakers push to tighten licensing at nursing homes SACRAMENTO — When Johanna Trenerry found a nursing home for her husband after his stroke, she expected his stay would be temporary.

He never came home.

Arthur Trenerry died at Windsor Redding Care Center in Northern California in October 2020. The 82-year-old great-grandfather is among more than 9,900 California nursing home residents who have died of COVID-19.

The nursing home where Trenerry died is licensed by the state, but not under its current owner, Shlomo Rechnitz. The state denied Rechnitz a license, citing at least one death and multiple cases of “serious harm” at other nursing homes he owns or operates. To get around that, Rechnitz formed a business partnership with one of the home’s former owners, who continues to hold the facility’s license.

Some California lawmakers want to put

 PAGE 3

 PAGE 2

UST, May 11. Bongbong Marcos Jr. leads the polls.

Philstar.com by Jazmin Tabuena

With cases and hospitalizations increasing, LA County residents encouraged to layer safety protections WITH the highly infectious BA.2 subvariant and sublineages fueling case and hospitalization increases, Los Angeles County residents are encouraged to layer safety protections such as masking, testing, and staying away from others when sick.

For the week ending April 23, Omicron once again accounted for 100% of all positive cases that were sequenced, with the BA.2 lineage and sublineages accounting for about 97% of these positive sequenced specimens in LA County.

While BA.2, excluding BA.2.12.1, continues to be

the predominant subvariant, accounting for about 85% of positive sequenced specimens, LA County is seeing slight upticks in the more transmissible sub-lineage, BA.2.12.1, with about 12% of positive sequenced samples identified as BA.2.12.1 for the week ending April 23. For the week ending April 23, 9.1% of sequenced samples were identified as sub-lineages, BA.2.3 or BA.2.3x, thought to be more infectious than BA.2. The CDC estimated that, for the week ending May 7, BA.2 accounted for 56% of sequenced samples and BA.2.12.1 accounted for an

increasing proportion of sequenced specimens in the U.S.: 43%, compared to 37% for the prior week.

With these highly infectious subvariants and sublineages in circulation, cases continue to increase in LA County. The average number of daily new cases reported over the last seven days increased to 2,944 compared to the 1,071 reported one month ago, an increase of 175%.

The higher case numbers are beginning to translate to small increases in hospitalizations, as they typically

 PAGE 2

Petition to reverse Comelec decision on Marcos’ disqualification case reaches SC

by TETCH

TORRES-TUPAS Inquirer.net

MANILA — Civic leaders on Tuesday, May 17 have asked the Supreme Court to stop the Senate and House of Representatives from canvassing the votes cast for former senator and presumptive president Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. The prayer for a restraining order was contained in a petition to reverse the decision of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) dismissing the bid to cancel Marcos’ certificate of candidacy (COC).

“The injunctive relief sought is clearly urgent. Petitioners respectfully ask this Court to act without any delay in considering this application,” the petition stated.

The petitioners were referring to the Comelec’s January 17 resolution and Comelec’s en banc ruling dated May 10.

The Senate and House of Representatives will convene on May 23 to canvass the votes cast for President and Vice President.

‘Only remedy available’ In their petition before the high court, the petitioners said: “A temporary restraining order is the only remedy available to enjoin Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Sara Duterte and restrain the Congress of the Philippines from rendering this Petition moot and, in the event this Court rules in favor of the petitioners, allowing a candidacy that should never have been to ripen into a presidency of an ineligible candidate.”

If the SC would grant their petition for

 PAGE 3

Over 3M Filipinos based abroad went back home because of COVID MANILA — Over 3.11 million Filipinos previously based abroad have come home because of the pandemic as of May 13, more than the 1.77 million estimated number of overseas Filipino workers in 2020 reported by the Philippine Statistics Authority.

According to the Task Group on Management of Returning Overseas Filipinos, nearly 2.067 million of the 3.11 million were previously OFWs, while 724,361 were non-OFWs and 313,205 were listed as foreign nationals.

"A total of 6,523 deceased returning overseas Filipinos had arrived in the country from July 7, 2020 to May 14, 2022.

Of which, 640 died due to COVID-19," the

task group said in its report dated May 14.

The pandemic brought the world to a halt in the first half of 2020, pushing OFWs and other overseas Filipinos to either seek refuge in their host countries or be repatriated.

As of Monday, May 16, reported COVID-19 infections have ballooned to 521.476 million across the world according to Johns Hopkins University data. In the Philippines, COVID cases have already reached 3.68 million.

The task group also reported that 32,594 of the returning overseas Filipinos tested positive for the virus during their quarantine upon arrival. Only 50 remain admitted at

 PAGE 3

Philstar.com photo

Comelec: Nothing wrong with winning candidates taking oath before June 30

MANILA — The Commission on Elections clarified that candidates may take oaths even before the end of June as long as they officially assume their respective positions by 12:01 p.m. on June 30.

In a press briefing held Tuesday afternoon, May 17, Comelec Commissioner George Garcia explained that there have been other elected officials who held their oath taking even before the supposed inauguration provided under the 1987 Constitution.

“I will not answer specifically as regards to the vice presidentelect taking her oath in advance… but I just want to cite an example, there have been many instances where winning congressmen, senators immediately conduct

their oath taking before a notary public, a judge, or a barangay captain right after their proclamation,” Garcia said in a mix of English and Filipino.

He said this is common practice among winning local candidates, as some of them would want to celebrate already. However, Garcia clarified that their oath should be what is stated under the constitution. “[The] formal oath can happen later so it may be possible that you can take your oath now and then you’ll have another oath later. There is no prohibition that you will have several oaths,” Garcia said.

This comes after Davao city mayor and presumptive vice

 PAGE 5

2 MAY 18-20, 2022 • SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797

From the Front Page

Winning president, VP may...

PAGE 1 continue their legislative work and pass some local bills under the 18th Congress.

“I feel the proclamation can be expedited. If I have my way, we will proclaim the new president and vice president in the afternoon. But we will allow time for our colleagues both in the majority and the minority to give their privilege speeches, and eventually we will proclaim.

Maybe the latest is May 25,” he said.

Zubiri expressed belief that there would be no major issues or motions to be raised during the canvassing, considering the wide leads of presumptive president Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and presumptive vice president Sara Duterte-Carpio over their rivals in the race.

As of Monday afternoon, May 16, partial and unofficial counting of the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) indicated that Marcos garnered

more than 31 million votes as against the over 14.8 million votes for Vice President Leni Robredo.

In the vice presidential race, Duterte-Carpio got over 31.5 million votes as of Monday afternoon, compared to Sen. Francis Pangilinan’s more than 9.2 million votes.

Zubiri said session is set to resume on May 23 with the Senate’s approval of the resolution convening the National Board of Canvassers with Senate President Vicente Sotto III and seven senators to represent the Senate.

To represent the chamber, aside from Zubiri, are Minority Leader Franklin Drilon, Grace Poe, Aquilino Pimentel III, Pia Cayetano, Imee Marcos and Francis Tolentino.

The two chambers will check the certificates of canvass submitted manually to the Senate and electronically to the House.

“We will convene by May 24…if they match and no other

differences or erasure, we will canvas immediately and proclaim the elected president and vice president,” Zubiri added.

“I’m confident that in this case, with the huge mandate given to the president and vice president, the margin from the second, third and fourth are so wide, no one will ask too many questions,” he added.

He, however, stressed that motions would still be entertained during the canvassing.

Zubiri declined to comment on the possible choices for the next Senate president, saying they would rather focus on the tasks left for the current congress, which adjourns on June 3.

The reelectionist senator ranked eight in the Senate race, as of yesterday.

PAHIYAS FESTIVAL. Tourists take photos of decorated houses during the Pahiyas Festival in Lucban in Quezon Province on Sunday, May 15. The “In the meantime, there is still festivities are the Philippines’ best-known harvest festivals to honor San Isidro Labrador, the patron of farmers. PNA photo by Joey O. Razon much work to be done. We are still in the middle of a pandemic and we must focus our energy on current challenges the country is PAGE 1 facing,” Zubiri pointed out. g the marine environment.

ASEAN member-states and the “We recognize the benefits U.S. gathered for the ASEAN-US The two sides noted the United Nations General Assembly of having the South China Sea Special Summit, the first-ever to Resolution A/RES/75/239 as a sea of peace, stability and be held in Washington, on May emphasizes how the UNCLOS prosperity. We emphasize the 12 to 13.

Health reported 15 additional sets out the legal framework importance of practical measures At the working lunch hosted deaths and 3,489 new positive within which all activities in the that could reduce tensions by U.S. Vice President Kamala cases Saturday, 2,707 new oceans and seas must be carried and the risk of accidents, Harris during the special summit cases Sunday and 1,941 new out. misunderstandings and on Saturday, May 14 (Manila cases today. The number of UNCLOS is of strategic miscalculation,” they said. time), the Philippines thanked cases and deaths are likely to importance as the basis for ASEAN and the U.S. stressed the U.S. for being the most vocal reflect reporting delays over the national, regional and global the importance of undertaking partner in reaffirming the 2016 weekend. Of the 15 new deaths action and cooperation in the confidence building and arbitral ruling. reported since Saturday, one marine sector, and its integrity preventive measures to enhance In his speech, Foreign Affairs person was between the ages of needs to be maintained, the trust and confidence among Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr., 30-49, one person was between parties said. parties. who represented President the ages of 50-64, five people They reaffirmed the need to Duterte, said the benefit of the “We are committed to were between the ages of 65- advancing our cooperation in pursue peaceful resolution of arbitral award is not exclusive to 79, and seven people were aged the maritime domain through disputes in accordance with the Philippines as it provides legal 80 years or older. Of the 15 ASEAN-led mechanisms,” the universally recognized principles clarity to all countries with similar newly reported deaths, all had statement read. of international law, including problematic maritime features. underlying health conditions.

ASEAN and the U.S. plan to forge UNCLOS. “The U.S. is our most vocal Information on the one death new ties and promote cooperation “We underscored the partner in reaffirming the 2016 reported by the city of Long and coordination among relevant importance of the full and Arbitral Award and upholding a Beach is available at longbeach. agencies, including maritime effective implementation of the rules-based international order. gov. longbeach.gov. To date, law enforcement agencies, to 2002 Declaration on the Conduct We deeply appreciate that. We the total number of deaths in LA collaborate to improve maritime of Parties in the South China Sea most certainly welcome the County is 32,037. domain awareness, search and in its entirety,” the joint statement U.S. Senate’s call for a common Public Health has reported a rescue, maritime security and read.

ASEAN approach to reaffirm the total of 2,915,694 positive cases to curb illegal, unreported and The need to maintain and Award,” Locsin said. of COVID-19 across all areas of unregulated fishing through promote an environment The U.S. State Department LA County. The positivity rate is sharing of information, best conducive to the Code of Conduct said Washington will continue 2.6%. practices and expertise, including in the South China Sea (COC) to stand by the historic South There are 312 people with technical assistance, which will negotiations was also emphasized China Sea ruling despite earlier COVID-19 currently hospitalized. complement and not duplicate as the two sides welcome further pronouncement of presumptive Testing results are available existing mechanisms. progress toward the early president Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for more than 11,936,751 The two sides also committed conclusion of an effective and that he will shelve the decision individuals, with 22% of people to continuing efforts to protect, substantive COC consistent with and negotiate directly with China. testing positive. g restore and sustainably manage international law.

(Pia Lee-Brago/Philstar.com)

With cases and hospitalizations increasing...

PAGE 1

follow case increases. Over the last seven days, the average number of hospitalized cases per day was 288, an increase of 14% from one month ago when the average number of hospitalized cases per day was 253.

Fortunately, deaths, which typically lag hospitalizations by several weeks, remain stable and decreased from one month ago.

Deaths decreased to an average of six deaths reported per day this past week, a 45% decrease from one month ago when an average of 11 deaths were reported per day.

“As always, we extend our deepest sympathies to everyone mourning the loss of a loved one from COVID,” said Dr. Barbara Ferrer, Director of Public Health. “With the proliferation of highly infectious sub-lineages of Omicron, it is easier for infected individuals to unknowingly pass along the virus, resulting in many of us experiencing more spread associated with our gatherings and travel.

And while it is reassuring to note the relatively low rates of hospitalizations and deaths, getting infected for many

is still very risky and something to be avoided wherever possible.

As has been true throughout the pandemic, keeping others safe often requires that many of us align with sensible safety measures. For those who aren’t particularly concerned about their own health or that of their family members, we ask that you please be mindful of the cumulative risks faced by many in the workforce, at our schools, and in congregate living facilities.

With good access to many tools that help us layer in protection for those most vulnerable, we hope that more individuals will take the step of putting back on well-fitting, high filtration masks when using public transit and in transportation hubs, indoor spaces at schools and congregate living facilities, and when inside stores and workplaces.

This would give us a chance at slowing down spread while we continue to increase the numbers of residents and workers up to date with their vaccinations since vaccines give us the most protection from severe illness and death.”

On Monday, May 16, Public

US, ASEAN commit to non-militarization...

Dateline USa

(818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797 • http://www.asianjournal.com

SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL • MAY 18-20, 2022 3

Over 3M Filipinos based abroad went...

PAGE 1

11 quarantine facilities, while 32,515 have since recovered.

The death toll stands at 29.

Meanwhile, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration has also

reportedly given COVID-19 assistance to OFWs by helping 802,538 to return to their home regions.

Another 829,067 availed of “OFW Kalinga,” which is a program for repatriated OFWs.

Nearly 1.024 million OFWs, meanwhile, have availed of the One-Stop-Shop for the Management of Returning Overseas Filipinos “Balik Probinsya and Uwian Na” program. g

returns but not for failure to pay taxes. The Comelec also said that the Court of Appeals did not specifically mention that Marcos is perpetually disqualified from holding public office.

The Comelec added that the 1977 Internal Revenue Code does not require mandatory prison time and does not impose automatic perpetual disqualification to hold public office for offenders.

The Comelec en banc affirmed the January ruling of a poll body division, prompting petitioners to take the case to the Supreme Court.

Arguments before the Supreme Court The petitioners said Comelec committed grave abuse of discretion when it refused to cancel Marcos’ COC, which is actually void from the beginning.

“With Marcos, Jr.’s void COC, the eligible candidate with the next highest number of votes should be proclaimed,” read the petition.

The petitioners also asserted that the Comelec has excluded Marcos from the coverage of the 1977 tax code. They explained that the Court of Appeals did not explicitly mention that Marcos is perpetually disqualified from holding public office “because the Court of Appeals did not have to do so.”

Section 286 of the Tax Code states that “any person convicted of a crime penalized by this (NIRC) Code shall, in addition to being liable for the payment of the tax…if he is a public officer or employee… he shall be dismissed from the public service and perpetually disqualified from holding any public office, to vote, and to participate in any election.”

“Thus, by operation of law, and regardless of whether such disqualification was expressly directed in the judgment of conviction, the consequence of perpetual disqualification is deemed imposed upon the final conviction of Respondent Marcos Jr.,” the petitioners said.

The petitioners also cited

the case of Romeo Jalosjos Sr., where a high court ruling states that disqualification under the law “is deemed part of the final judgment of conviction.

In fact, perpetual special disqualification takes effect immediately once the judgment of conviction becomes final.”

On the question of whether Marcos was a public officer or not when the supposed tax offense was committed, Comelec’s 2nd division said Marcos was not. This was later affirmed by the Comelec en banc.

The Comelec’s decision in January cited the case of Republic vs. Sandiganbayan as its basis for saying that Marcos was no longer a public officer upon his departure for Hawaii in 1986, the last day for him to file the ITR for the taxable year 1985.

Comelec said Marcos’ departure is deemed as an abandonment of his post as governor of Ilocos Norte.

But the petitioners asserted that the same ruling mentioned Provisional Constitution which provides that “all elective and appointive officials and employees under the 1973 Constitution shall continue in the office until otherwise provided by proclamation or executive order…”

Besides, the petitioners added, Marcos himself did not deny the allegation that he was a public officer during the questioned year.

SC action The high court is currently on a decision-writing break but under its rules, the case will be raffled to a justice-in-charge.

The justice-in-charge can recommend to the Chief Justice an action on the petition specifically on the plea for a temporary restraining order. If approved, a restraining order may be issued.

However, it would immediately be subject to confirmation by the Court en banc (full court). If confirmed, the restraining order will be enforced. g

Petition to reverse Comelec decision on...

PAGE 1

a restraining order, they said it can exclude only the votes cast for Marcos Jr., leaving the unaffected votes for the other candidates.

“It is not petitioners’ desire to impede the Congress of the Philippines from performing its constitutional duty; it is rather petitioners’ desire to ensure that Congress, in performing this duty, does not end up performing it in vain,” petitioners said.

The case A complaint was filed against Marcos before a Quezon City court for violating the National Internal Revenue Code.

Specifically, Marcos was sued for breaching the 1977 Internal Revenue Code as he failed to file income tax returns (ITRs) from 1982 to 1985 and did not pay the income taxes due.

In 1995, the Quezon City court found Marcos guilty and imposed nine years imprisonment as a penalty. The court also directed Marcos to pay a fine for his failure to file his ITRs and pay the taxes due. The case was elevated to the Court of Appeals.

Two years later, the Court of Appeals affirmed the lower court’s ruling and ordered Marcos to pay the deficiency income taxes due with interest, a total of P36,000 fine for nonfiling of income tax returns from 1982 to 1985.

Marcos took the case to the Supreme Court but eventually withdrew it, making the decision of the Court of Appeals final and executory.

2022 presidential elections Marcos filed his COC to run for president in the 2022 elections.

In his COC, he declared that he is eligible to run for President of the Philippines and he answered “no” to the question if he has been found liable for any offense, which carries the penalty of perpetual disqualification to hold public office.”

Last January, the Comelec dismissed the petition to cancel Marcos’ COC, saying the Court of Appeals affirmed Marcos’ conviction to file income tax

FIELD OF SUNFLOWERS. Michael Caballes, Bukid Amara owner and farmer, inspects the sunflower plantation at his farm located in Lucban, Quezon on Saturday, May 14. The farm promotes science-based farming and helps lure tourists to the province. PNA photo by Joey O. Razon

CA lawmakers push to tighten licensing...

PAGE 1

an end to those types of business arrangements and ban people or entities from buying or operating nursing homes unless they have a license — which is the situation in most states. They’re also proposing an overhaul of the licensing process to reject applicants with poor performance and those without adequate experience or financial resources.

The ambitious effort, which the industry considers an overreach, could make California’s oversight the gold standard and a model for other states trying to improve nursing home care. Nationwide, more than 152,000 residents of nursing homes have died of covid during the pandemic, according to federal data.

“The public health emergency that we’ve experienced could be something that becomes a catalyst for making real change,” said Dr. Debra Saliba, a UCLA professor of medicine who served on a National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine committee that released a comprehensive report on nursing homes in April. “One of the things that we have right now is the determination, the resources to make things happen.”

In his State of the Union address in March, President Joe Biden said the quality of care had declined in nursing homes taken over by investors — and vowed to set higher federal standards. In anticipation of the speech, the White House released a proposal calling on Congress to boost funding for nursing home inspections and to give federal regulators the

authority to deny Medicare funds to underperforming facilities. The administration also directed the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to propose minimum staffing standards within a year.

States are also taking steps to improve quality. New Jersey, for example, this year adopted a law that toughens penalties for health violations and requires nursing homes to disclose financial records.

In California, lawmakers are considering several proposals, including the changes to nursing home licensing rules.

Companies and individuals can buy or run nursing homes in California before they get a license, a process that even an industry lobbyist described at a legislative hearing this year as “backward” and unique to the state.

“In California, nursing home owners and operators can operate without a license even after they’ve been denied a license,” said state Assembly member Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance), author of AB 1502.

“Many of these owners and operators have, unfortunately, an extensive history of neglect and abuse.”

Muratsuchi’s bill would require an owner or company to apply for a license 120 days before buying or operating a nursing home and include financial records that contain the names of all owners and investors. The state would reject applicants who fail to meet standards for character, performance in other homes, and the financial ability to run the home. Homes operating without

a license would lose Medicaid funding and couldn’t admit new residents.

The powerful California Association of Health Facilities, which represents more than 800 nursing homes, has blocked previous licensing legislation and has set its sights on Muratsuchi’s bill. The group is led by Craig Cornett, a veteran of the state Capitol who has worked for four Assembly speakers and two Senate leaders.

The organization has made just over $2 million in political contributions and spent $5.9 million lobbying lawmakers from Jan. 1, 2011, through March 31, 2022, according to records filed with the California secretary of state’s office.

The bill fails to consider the state’s “complex regulatory environments” and would create “extensive” disclosure requirements on ownership applications that “in many cases would fill an entire room with boxes and boxes of paper,” Jennifer Snyder, a lobbyist for the association, told lawmakers in January.

The measure would “eliminate the ability for most current owners in California to actually apply or even apply for a change of ownership,” she added.

But this year, the industry faces an altered political landscape.

Covid has pushed lawmakers to act — and Muratsuchi has gained a valuable co-sponsor for his bill, Democratic state Assembly member Jim Wood, head of the Assembly Health Committee.

PAGE 5

4 MAY 18-20, 2022 • SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797

Dateline USa

(818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797 • http://www.asianjournal.com

COOLING DOWN. A group of teenagers enjoys getting drenched under the rain on Salvia Street in Barangay Kaligayahan, Novaliches-Fairview in Quezon City on Tuesday, May 17. The frequent rains have been a welcome occurrence during the summer months. PNA photo by Oliver Marquez

SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL • MAY 18-20, 2022 5

o t k l a T ! c o D r u yo

Comelec: Nothing wrong with winning...

PAGE 1

president-elect Sara DuterteCarpio has expressed intent to hold her inauguration earlier than the end-June proclamation.

Duterte-Carpio said she is hoping to take oath in Davao city on June 19. She says she also wanted to attend the oath taking of running mate presidential-elect Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.

Over on Twitter, columnist Manuel Quezon III pointed out that Duterte-Carpio will be taking her oath before the presidentelect on June 30. “She is expected to be with the President-elect,” Quezon said.

While the official canvassing for the president and vice president will begin once Congress resumes session next week, the partial and unofficial tally of this

year’s national elections shows Duterte-Carpio and Marcos Jr. leading by a wide margin.

Duterte-Carpio leads by over 22 million votes with 31.561 million versus Sen. Francis Pangilinan with 9.232 million votes.

Meanwhile, Marcos. Jr. leads with over 16 million votes, garnering 31.104 million versus Vice President Leni Robredo with 14.822 million. (Philstar.com)

PAGE 3 Wood has condemned nursing homes for not doing enough during the pandemic and has directed state regulators to conduct stricter oversight.

Muratsuchi’s measure has cleared the state Assembly and awaits a hearing in the Senate.

Investigations by news organizations CalMatters and LAist last year found that at least two California nursing home operators without licenses were running dozens of facilities even though officials at the state Department of Public Health had declared them unfit to do so.

The homes remain open, in large part because finding another nursing home for residents is incredibly difficult.

In July 2016, state regulators denied a license to Rechnitz — who had purchased the Windsor Redding Care Center, where Arthur Trenerry died — citing 265 health and safety code violations at his other facilities in the previous three years.

Nevertheless, Rechnitz continues to operate the home in partnership with a former owner, Lee Samson, who

is listed as a license holder in state records.

Mark Johnson, a lawyer who represents Rechnitz and his company, Brius Healthcare, said that Windsor Redding Care Center’s “license is in good standing” and that Rechnitz is managing the facility under an agreement “that is customary in the skilled nursing facility industry.” Rechnitz has filed a new and updated license application with the state, Johnson said.

Johanna Trenerry said she had no idea Rechnitz had been denied a license. Had she known, she said, she would never have placed her husband of 60 years at Windsor Redding.

Even before her husband caught covid, Trenerry and her children were trying to transfer him to another home because he seemed overly medicated, could no longer hold up his head, and fell numerous times trying to get out of bed, she said. Once, she recalled, the nursing home brought out the wrong person when the family visited.

They kept him “so drugged up,”

said Nancy Hearden, one of the Trenerrys’ eight children. “And I think it was just because it was easier for them. He wasn’t getting to go to his rehab. I felt, ‘We’ve got to get him out of this place.’”

Then he got covid.

Sixty of the 84 residents at the facility came down with the disease in September 2020 — and at least two dozen of them died. According to a lawsuit filed by family members of 15 residents who died, including the Trenerrys, employees of the home were forced to work despite having covid symptoms. The lawsuit refers to state citations that found the home didn’t supply enough personal protective equipment to staffers, didn’t test staff, and placed covid patients and untested patients in the same rooms with residents who weren’t infected.

Johnson denied the allegations.

(Samantha Young/Kaiser Health News) This story was produced by KHN, which publishes California Healthline, an editorially independent service of the California Health Care Foundation.

CA lawmakers push to tighten licensing...

COVID-19 vaccines help PREVENT “long COVID.”

It’s okay to have questions about COVID-19 vaccines for kids.

Feel good about the facts.

COVID-19 vaccines LOWER the risk of heart inflammation.

COVID-19 vaccines DO NOT cause infertility in children.

VaccinateALL58.com

6 MAY 18-20, 2022 • SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL

A continuing war

OpiniOn & Features

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797

THE spokesperson for the Philippine National Police dismissed the words as hyperbole. With President Duterte, however, warnings to kill drug traffickers are rarely empty threats.

Meeting with some Cabinet members last Wednesday night, May 11, Duterte again defended his brutal war on drugs, and said that before stepping down on June 30, he wanted to see three or five more drug lords fight it out with the police and be killed.

Duterte was borne to power on an anti-crime platform, memorably promising to end the drug menace in six months. Six years later, with over 6,000 drug suspects killed in police anti-narcotics operations, the President himself has admitted that he has yet to fulfill his promise. Throughout his bloody campaign against drugs, shabu continued to be smuggled into the country by the ton.

Despite a possible investigation by the International Criminal Court, the President says he has no regrets and sees no reason to apologize for his methods in fighting the drug menace. At the start of his presidency, he had said that the involvement even of local government executives, police generals and barangay officials complicated

efforts to fight the drug menace.

Several local government officials and dozens of barangay captains were among those killed in his war.

In his speech, he noted that the lieutenants of slain drug lords simply took over the lucrative operations. He expressed hope that the incoming administration would continue his war on drugs. Being a former city prosecutor, he also offered to provide legal assistance to law enforcers who are sued for carrying out the campaign against illegal drugs.

It is unclear if the incoming Marcos administration will have the same brutal approach to the drug menace. The persistence of the problem shows that the drug killings have not provided sufficient shock and awe to deter drug dealers from engaging in one of the most lucrative although illegal enterprises.

President Duterte’s war has also been deficient in addressing the other major aspect of the illegal approach involving families, the community, drug scourge: the demand. This is a far more schools, civil society and the religious sector. complex element that calls for a multipronged Perhaps the incoming administration will have

Editorial

Philstar.com photo

a deeper grasp of the problem, and a better tack in addressing both supply and demand. (Philstar. com)

Where do you stand? Christian love, forgiveness and justice in the age of fake news, disinformation and deceit The Fil-Am Perspective Gel SantoS-ReloS IF we think that the U.S. and Philippine elections were the worst times we as citizens of both countries would have to endure, the lowest pit our people could find ourselves in, the May 9, 2022 Philippine elections was a sober and scary reminder that the worst is upon us: the regime of deposed President Ferdinand Marcos and the outgoing President Rodrigo Duterte lives on in their children at the same time, along with an ever growing list of political dynasties and convicted plunderers and abusers of power in Philippine history.

The recent election in the Philippines had left us all so exhausted and exasperated with the division we have found ourselves in – them vs us, red vs pink – which sadly made us feel, at some point, “Mahirap mahalin ang kapwa Pilipino”, “Mahirap maipagmalaki na ako ay isang Pilipino”.

But we press on, move forward, hoping against all odds that somehow the majority of us would prove that in the end we will prove them all wrong, and that majority of us will decisively choose the truth over lies, the good versus evil, the greater good of all over personal interests.

Our natural human reaction is to hate and curse those who chose the lies, the evil, and the personal interests, but then again, we needed the divine grace to realize that they, too, – most of our kababayans – were victimized and robbed of the truth and the facts they needed to make informed

and conscientious decisions.

How do we heal as a nation?

How do we go back to our core values and come together as one people? How do we hold on to our faith, our concept and belief of what is good and bad in us and in other people? How do we raise our children in this age of lies and disinformation when the world we are raising them in appears to reward these and demonize the truth warriors?

I want to share this Open penned by Christina Astorga, a former faculty member of Ateneo de Manila University and order chair of the Theology Department of Christian University founded on the principle espoused by St. Ignatius: to educate its students to be “Man for Others” for the “Greater Glory of God”.

May it help us all reconcile the conflicting values we now face as a nation: A RESPONSE TO NIKKO BUENDIA’S OPEN LETTER TO THE ATENEO DE MANILA UNIVERSITY Dear Nikko, I am a former faculty of the Ateneo de Manila University, and former Chair of the Theology Department. I am not responding to you on behalf of the Ateneo de Manila University, but as a Filipino citizen and as an educator.

I would be the first one to tell my students to stand up for the truth, to speak the truth, but always in love. “Veritas in Caritate” — truth in love. And if what you said about how they behaved towards others of opposite belief is true, then I would agree that they should be reminded of speaking truth in love.

VP Leni has always reminded her supporters of relating with those with opposite belief with respect. She says that we focus on actions, not on persons. To condemn lies, defamations, fake news, but not to attack and bully

persons.

If the students have failed in love, then they must be reprimanded, reminded, be told to do better next time.

But we were young once, and we know how our passions can be combustible, when our outrage can get the better of us.

But between those without any moral outrage over the Marcos atrocities, and those with moral outrage that may have gone over the top, I will go for the latter than for the former.

You have spoken about our students’ failure in love, but I speak about your failure in truth.

Your letter is a subterfuge of historical revisionism. You implied that Ateneo de Manila is teaching their own “version of truth” as if it is not the OBJECTIVE TRUTH, BASED ON EVIDENCE UPON EVIDENCE, that the Marcoses plundered the country, left it in shambles, and while they live extremely extravagant and opulent lives on STOLEN MONEY, thousands are eating “pagpag” from the garbage. We still have to recover the accumulated plunder of $10 billion (U.S. dollars) and much of that must have been used for the massive hakot and vote buying in the last election, caught and recorded in many videos.

Imelda has been convicted of 7 counts of plunder, and while she lives like a queen in her mansion, Leila de Lima, who has been proven innocent by her own accusers, is still languishing in prison.

The Marcoses have still to pay the gov’t 203 billion in estate tax debt! They regard themselves as above the law.

They steal flagrantly, tell lies to our faces, fail to pay their taxes repeatedly, violate electoral laws blatantly, because they think of themselves as the untouchables.

They are not accountable to

US-Asean Summit in Washington

Babe’s Eye View BaBe Romualdez THERE is no doubt President Joe Biden and his White House team went all out, laying out the red carpet for the US-ASEAN Special Summit in Washington, DC. The atmosphere during the intimate dinner hosted last Thursday, May 12 by President Biden for the ASEAN heads of state at the White House was extremely cordial. Foreign Affairs Secretary Teddy Locsin and I engaged freely with President Biden on an informal basis.

In sum, the discussions during the two-day summit were substantive. At the US-ASEAN Business Council lunch, senior U.S. officials led by Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo and U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai were joined by U.S. business leaders to exchange views on economic cooperation, the digital economy, sustainability, health care and supply chain resilience on the first day.

The meetings continued the next day with Vice President Kamala Harris leading the discussions.

Special Envoy on Climate John Kerry, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm also held dialogues on climate change, regional transition to clean energy and sustainable infrastructure.

President Biden came to the State Department later in the afternoon to talk with the ASEAN leaders about regional stability, maritime security and cooperation as well as post-pandemic recovery.

Over the past four years of working in Washington with President Duterte guiding our foreign policy, I have come to the conclusion that our relationship with the United States has never been better, with the partnership getting stronger over the years despite the occasional bumps and regardless of who is in the Oval Office or who sits in Malacañang.

Overwhelming majority During the entire campaign period, I have purposely stayed away from making any comments

for obvious reasons. Now that the people have spoken – giving Ferdinand Marcos Jr. a stunning majority with over 31 million votes equivalent to about 60 percent of all votes counted and the biggest margin ever in any presidential elections in the past three decades – we are hopeful that this overwhelming mandate could be translated into something positive for the country and would unite majority of Filipinos. We are told many of the other political colors have started to turn red shortly after the elections.

There is no doubt that the challenges that the incoming administration of presumptive president Bongbong Marcos faces will be tremendous, requiring remarkable attention and focus on critical issues such as postpandemic recovery and health care, unemployment, energy, infrastructure, agriculture, education as well as climate change. Of course, a priority will be economic recovery, and from what I am hearing, there is a good economic team being put together by the presumptive president, although so far no

anyone, not even to the law of the land.

The Marcoses have refused to apologize or even acknowledge the abuses against human rights during Martial law.

They, with Duterte’s approval, buried Marcos, Sr. the plunderer and human rights criminal, among our heroes, shaming our honorable past.

They are being held in contempt by a U.S. court for “contumacious conduct causing direct harm to a class of human rights victims, amounting to 353 million dollars.”

Held in contempt by the court, they would be put behind bars, if they step on U.S. soil.

They have built the largest machinery of historical revisionism, fake history, and fake news to glorify the martial law regime as the golden age of the Philippines.

They used this same machinery to perpetuate fake news about VP Leni, to assassinate her character, rendering her as a victim of the largest disinformation never seen in this country.

You criticized Ateneo de Manila University for failing to stand for the weak and downtrodden.

That is the last thing to say of the University, even if their students may have been intolerant of the position taken by the CDE classes, who were the easy prey of the Marcos’ machinery of lies.

But have you condemned the plunder of the Marcoses of the money that was meant for the alleviation of poverty in our country?

Have you considered that it is they who have no heart for the weak and downtrodden, who look upon them only as votes to buy to keep them in power?

And have you thought that it is you, and people like you, who support the Marcoses, who are in collusion with them, who keep our people, poor and downtrodden?

You write and I quote, “your partisan stance has encouraged young impressionable minds to blindly take your ‘cause’ against the ‘enemy’.”

History has many instances that the youth are the easiest to be molded into a terrifying mob. And it is apparent what you… along with other Catholic institutions… are building. This road will not lead to heaven.

Truth is not partisan, but it is not neutral. Neutrality in the face of truth is collusion with lies and falsehood.

The Catholic Church has taken a stance against the Marcos atrocities, for it is a stance for truth and justice; it is a stance for the poor and downtrodden, who are victims of their abuses. Had it played neutral, it could have stood against the very heart of the gospel.

The truth is under attack, now more than ever, and it is Ateneo’s obligation and that of all institutions of learning, to protect the truth. If truth is not protected, and we live on lies and falsehoods, we will not only be on the road that leads to heaven, we will create hell on earth.

I praise our young for fighting for the truth, for putting themselves on the line for what they believe; for the moral outrage they have shown against lies and injustices.

They are the warriors of truth at the frontline of the battle – brave, unyielding, indomitable. I salute them. But I exhort them once again to speak truth in love – “Veritas in Caritate.”

VP Leni has shown us what it means to fight in the spirit of radical love. In her speech in the thanksgiving rally, she said that she is launching the Angat Buhay, the largest volunteer network in the country this July.

She said that “tutulungan natin ang lahat. Wala tayong pipiliin na

kulay.”

When people accuse the pink movement of self-righteousness, of the “holier-than-thou,” of the disconnect with the least in society, the best argument to that accusation is VP Leni and her embodiment of radical love for the poorest of the poor.

The image of VP Leni climbing mountains, crossing rivers, riding bancas and motorcycles, to reach our people at the laylayan, the least among us, and the opposite of the Marcoses among the elite in society, the oligarchs in their palatial homes and mansions, and at Amanpulo.

I exhort our students, to be inspired by VP Leni, and to become more and more like her, as bridges of love, solidarity, and compassion.

But radical love must be rooted in truth and justice. Love that is not rooted in truth is false sentimentalism.

Love that is not founded on justice is collusion with injustice.

I read a quote which spoke powerfully to me. “I fight against you, because I am fighting for you, and for us.”

Is this self-righteousness or holier-than-thou? It is, if it is not based on genuine truth and justice. ***

one specific has been named.

Needless to say, as expected after elections, so much jockeying for positions is taking place.

“The economic managers are going to be critical for the next several years because of the pandemic and economic crisis, so that is something that we are carefully putting together,” Bongbong Marcos said.

The members of President Duterte’s economic team led

by Finance Secretary Sonny Dominguez have been doing an admirable job, navigating so many challenges that have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the current situation in Ukraine. Despite that, we are seeing green shoots in the economy, with the country’s GDP growing at 8.3 percent in the first quarter of this year – faster than the 6.5 percent average forecast by analysts earlier.

According to Secretary Dominguez, talks are already starting regarding transition, and they have begun the briefing for the new economic team who I’m sure would be very responsive to the needs of these challenging and changing times.

Immediately after the congratulatory call from U.S.

President Biden to presumptive president BBM, Chinese President Xi Jinping’s message followed shortly, both leaders expressing optimism about strengthened relations between the Philippines and their respective countries.

I’m told congratulatory messages from foreign leaders have started to pour in.

Understandably, there is still a lot of bitterness coming from some segments of society about the results but hopefully, they will have a different mindset once they see that the new administration is bent on doing good for the country. For the hardliners, however, nothing will convince them either way – an attitude that will eventually kill them because as my doctor said, “bitterness will only destroy you in the end.”

When I moved abroad to the U.S. after 1986, I was happy to help then-vice president Doy Laurel – a family friend – coordinate his official visit to Washington, DC where I arranged meetings for him at the U.S. Congress. In fact, that is when I first met then-senator Joe Biden.

Through the years, I joined business delegations of president

Ramos; president Estrada where I also helped coordinate his official working visit to Washington, DC; and then I also helped president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in more ways than one. I refused to indulge in bitterness and self-pity.

The Philippines is my country as much as it is theirs.

When Noynoy Aquino became president, I supported him and was part of his business delegation during his official visits to China, Japan and New Zealand. We exchanged text messages, and I very much appreciated it when he would call me back. PNoy also attended many of our PeopleAsia magazine events. In my book, he was a regular guy.

Bitterness should have no place if we really want to help the Philippines and its people, no matter who the president may be.

While I know there is a little more sensitivity to the current situation, at the end of the day – bayan pa rin natin ito! (Philstar.com) ***

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

*** 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

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.

*** Email: babeseyeview@gmail.com

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.

ADVERTISING AND ADVERTORIAL POLICIES ROGER LAGMAY ORIEL Publisher & Chairman of the Board

CORA MACABAGDAL-ORIEL President

CHRISTINA M. ORIEL Editor-in-Chief

MOMAR G. VISAYA Executive Editor

US HEADQUARTERS: 1210 S. Brand Blvd Glendale, CA 91204 Tels: (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797 Fax: (818) 502-0858 • (213) 481-0854 e-mail: info@asianjournalinc.com http://www.asianjournal.com With offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York/New Jersey Las Vegas, San Diego, Philippines

IVY MANALANG Vice President - Marketing Los Angeles Asian Journal

DING CARREON Videographer

ANDY TECSON Photographer

Asian Journal Publications, Inc. (“AJPI”) reserves the right to refuse to publish, in its sole and absolute discretion, any advertising and advertorial material submitted for publication by client. (“Client’s Material”) Submission of an advertisement or advertorial to an AJPI sales representative does not constitute a commitment by AJPI to publish a Client’s Material. AJPI has the option to correctly classify any Client’s Material and to delete objectionable words or phrases.

Client represents and warrants that a Client’s Material does not and will not contain any language or material which is libelous, slanderous or defamatory or invades any rights of privacy or publicity; does not and will not violate or infringe upon, or give rise to any adverse claim with respect to any common law or other right whatsoever (including, without limitation, any copyright, trademark, service mark or contract right) of any person or entity, or violate any other applicable law; and is not the subject of any litigation or claim that might give rise to any litigation.

Publication of a Client’s Material does not constitute an agreement to continue publication.

Client agrees and covenants to indemnify AJPI and its officers against any and all loss, liability, damage, expenses, cost, charges, claims, actions, causes of action, recoveries, judgments, penalties, including outside attorneys’ fees (individually and collectively “Claims”) which AJPI may suffer by reason of (1) Client’s breach of any of the representations, warranties and agreements herein or (2) any Claims by any third party relating in any way to Client’s Material.

AJPI will not be liable for failure to publish any Client’s Material as requested or for more than one incorrect insertion of a Client’s Material. In the event of an error, or omission in printing or publication of a Client’s Material, AJPI shall be limited to an adjustment for the space occupied by the error, with maximum liability being cancellation of the cost of the first incorrect advertisement or republication of the correct advertisement.

Under no circumstances shall Asian Publications, Inc. be liable for consequential damages of any kind.

ASIAN JOURNAL PUBLICATIONS, INC. publishes the Los Angeles Asian Journal, published twice a week; the Orange County and Inland Empire Asian Journal, Northern California Asian Journal, Las Vegas Asian Journal and the New York / New Jersey Asian Journal which are published once a week and distributed to Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange Counties, Northern California, Las Vegas and New York and New Jersey respectively.

Articles published in this paper do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Letters to the Editor are welcome.

Letters must contain complete name and return address. The materials, however, are subject to editing and revisions.

Contributions and advertising deadlines are every Mondays and Thursdays. For advertising rates and other informations, please call the L.A. office at (213) 250-9797 or send us an email at info@asianjournalinc.com

Dateline PhiliPPines

(818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797 • http://www.asianjournal.com

SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL • MAY 18-20, 2022 7

Senate to prioritize admin agenda that will benefit Filipinos MANILA – Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri said he would lead the formation of a majority bloc in the 24-member Senate to help pursue the legislative agenda of presumptive President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. Zubiri said on Tuesday, May 17 that they are looking forward to working productively with the new administration for the good of the people even as other senators vowed to stay independent amid an impending "supermajority" in the 19th Congress.

“By tradition, we in the working majority will decide and elect the officers and leadership in due time. This will be done in a democratic manner, based on qualifications and values that

will uphold the traditions of the Senate as an institution," Zubiri said in a statement.

Senator Sonny Angara said they belong to different political parties with different principles, ideologies, and advocacies.

"I think the 18th Congress provides a good model for the upcoming 19th Congress in terms of work ethic, leadership, productivity.

Debates were long and robust but much legislation was passed to help our countrymen during a very tough time in our history. The Senate helped the President and his administration help our countrymen in their time of need with expanded and unprecedented aid programs," Angara said in a statement.

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go said he will always respect the decision of the majority and will continue to work "silently" for the interest of the Filipinos.

"Pwede po sigurong tabihan ko si (I can stay close to) [Senator] Lito Lapid," he said in jest in an interview.

Go said there is nothing wrong with speaking up if something is wrong or supporting the government if it is doing the right thing.

"Ang makikinabang po dito ang mga Pilipino. ‘Yung mga mahihirap, ma-i-ahon lang po natin. Magtulungan lang po tayo (The one who should always benefit are the Filipinos. The poor ones, let's help them. Let's just help each other)," he said. (PNA)

VAX FOR THE YOUNG. Pediatric vaccinees line up during the rollout of vaccination for children aged 5 to 11 years old at the South Garden Homes Covered Court, Barangay Salitran 3, Dasmarinas City, Cavite on Tuesday, May 17. Health personnel also vaccinated adults in the barangay because there were still residents who have yet to get inoculated against Covid-19.

PNA photo by Gil Calinga

Padilla still in awe after leading Senate race Arroyo endorses Romualdez as Speaker of 19th Congress

by Shennah

RomanilloS ManilaTimes.net

ACTOR Robin Padilla has emerged on the top spot of the senatorial race, and while no proclamations have been made as of this writing, it seems he'll be staying there until every vote is counted. Rather than be in a triumphant mood, however, the action star—who was the very first candidate feature of The Manila Times "Lights Camera, Boto! The Chatshow Edition"— the senator-elect is still in disbelief mode.

"Wala po akong inaasahan kahit ano. Unanguna, wala po akong kahit ano. Wala po akong makinarya, wala po akong kahit ano... pera. Wala.

Hindi ko po inaasahan ito. Ang akin lamang po ay paninindigan. Ang akin lamang po ay nananalig po ako sa Panginoong Diyos at tulung-tulong lang po ng mga naniniwala sa akin. Tulong ng katipunan, tulong ng mga rebolusyonaryo. Yun lang po, wala akong inaasahan sapagkat para sa akin ang ganitong klaseng labanan ay usapin po ito ng makinarya at pera," Padilla said in an interview with GMA's Jessica Soho Monday, May 16.

The actor took the opportunity to thank his supporters who voted for him, "Ako po ay nagpapasalamat sa lahat po ng mga nagtiwala sa atin. Sa lahat po ng lumabas, bumoto para po sa akin, at naging matagumpay po ang eleksyon na ito."

Padilla likewise admitted that with his lead in the election comes with a sense of responsibility, "Ang pakiramdam ko po ay masaya, siyempre po, pero mas higit po yung responsibilidad na nakaakibat po sa atin sapagkat alam ko naman po, batid ko naman po na itong tagumpay na ito, hindi po ito patungkol kay Robin Padilla kundi tagumpay po ito ng reporma."

Padilla is pushing for federalism once elected.

He said that he wants to give the provinces the freedom to rule in accordance with their culture, tradition and environment.

by Daphne

Galvez Inquirer.net

Robin Padilla

Inquirer.net file photo

Partial and unofficial results as of 3:47 p.m. on May 10, representing 97.87 percent of the nationwide election returns, the former action star tallied more than 26 million votes.

Coming in second spot is Antique Rep. and House of Representatives' Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda with 23.8 million votes, while broadcaster Raffy Tulfo place third with around 23 million votes.

Padilla's wife — Mariel Rodriguez Padilla whom the actor thanked for her unending support — also expressed her gratitude for her husband's supporters.

"My Senator [green heart emoji] is #1 [crying emoji]. We are beyond grateful!!! Pilipinas, maraming maraming salamat," Rodriguez wrote on her Instagram @marieltpadilla.

Other celebrities close to Rodriguez — namely, Toni Gonzaga, Charlene Gonzalez and Pops Fernandez, among others — also congratulated her and Padilla. g

MANILA — Former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has endorsed Majority Leader and Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez to be the Speaker of the incoming 19th Congress.

In a statement on Saturday, May 14, Arroyo, who also served as Speaker of the House in the 17th Congress, said she and Romualdez have worked together “for decades” “to serve the Filipino people.”

“Majority Leader Martin Romualdez and I have been working together for decades in a joint effort to do our best to serve the Filipino people. Since 2010, our partnership involved our service as fellow members of the

Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez Inquirer.net file photo

House of Representatives,” she said.

The former president, who ran unopposed and was reelected as representative of the 2nd District of Pampanga in the 2022 elections, urged Lakas-CMD members to also support Romualdez.

“I will be returning to the House on June 30, 2022. I would therefore like to advise the members of the Lakas-CMD that I am throwing my support for Majority Leader Martin Romualdez to be elected as House Speaker in the next Congress. I urge all members of our party to do the same,” she said.

Arroyo had endorsed the candidacy of presumptive president Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his running mate, presumptive vice president Sara DuterteCarpio. She is the chairman emeritus of the LAKAS-CMD party where Romualdez is the president.

Duterte-Carpio ran for the vice presidency under the banner of LAKAS-CMD. Romualdez, a cousin of Marcos Jr. and the campaign manager of Duterte-Carpio, ran unopposed and was reelected as representative of the 1st District of Leyte in the 2022 polls.

It will be his fifth term as representative of his district.

The National Unity Party earlier endorsed Romualdez to be the next Speaker. g

LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (LACMTA) REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL LACMTA will receive proposals for PS89364 - On-Call Business Intelligence System Resource via email at bids@ metro.net.

This project is a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) SetAside contract. To participate in this RFP, proposers must be SBE certified with LACMTA prior to proposal due date. For information on the Set-Aside Program, visit: https://business. metro.net/VendorPortal/faces/ home1/certifications.

All proposals must be received on or before 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time on Wednesday, June 15, 2022 at the email address listed above, sent to the attention of Victor Zepeda. Proposals received later than the above date and time will be rejected.

For a copy of the Proposal/ Bid specification visit our Solicitation Page on our Vendor Portal at https://business.metro. net or for further information email Victor Zepeda at zepedav@metro.net.

5/18/22 CNS-3584895# ASIAN JOURNAL (L.A.)

8 MAY 18-20, 2022 • SoCal ASIAN JOURNAL

Dateline PhiliPPines

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797

CLEAN UP. Members of the 15th Infantry Division (ID), 1302nd Reserved Army, help in the removal of election campaign paraphernalia on high-rise poles along E. Rodriguez Sr. Avenue, Quezon City on Saturday, May 14. Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año earlier ordered the removal of all campaign materials and dispose of these wastes properly.

PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler

PH confirms local transmission of new Omicron variant

THE Philippines has confirmed the local transmission of the BA.2.12.1 sublineage of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 with three new cases detected in Iloilo City, the Department of Health said.

In a briefing on Tuesday, March 17, Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said that the local transmissions meant that there are linked cases but most

of the cases are sourced within the country and is different from community transmission, where cases are unlinked.

Based on initial studies, BA.2.12.1 is more transmissible than the Omicron variant and is now the main cause of surges in Canada and the United States.

The three cases were composed of one returning Filipino from the U.S. and two

local cases.

The returning Filipino and a local case were fully vaccinated, while the other local case is still being verified.

The country reported its first detection of the variant last Friday, May 13 with two local cases in the National Capital Region and 11 cases from a cruise ship in Palawan.

(ManilaTimes.net)

around P144 billion in principal payment for the next 20 years, and around P181 billion in interest payments.

“That will, of course, vary per year, and some years will need lower debt than others. But if you want to stretch out the payment schedule, that’s the kind of fiscal space you need to cover the COVID-19 debts without incurring budget cuts,” Salceda said.

He warned that budget cuts are not a good option if the government wants to sustain growth.

“Of course, borrowing more to cover past borrowings is a downward spiral to fiscal hell. So, you really need to expand fiscal space,” he said.

Salceda said presumptive president Ferdinand Marcos Jr. could tap his supermajority in Congress to “enact smart, efficient tax and economic policies to address this debt overhang.”

‘Plenty of political capital’ “It’s the biggest election victory since 1961, so I think there is plenty of political capital for difficult but necessary reforms,” he said.

Salceda added that the sooner the incoming administration starts a fiscal expansion program, “the better it will be for investor confidence, our credit ratings, our debt overhang and our future growth prospects.”

“You need money for the most important campaign promises: cheaper rice, more efficient government services and improved agriculture. So, I would suggest quick and effective fiscal measures being undertaken in the first 100 days,” he said.

Salceda cited taxation on the digital economy, which grew by at least 16 percent during the pandemic.

“Tax revenues from digital sources have remained practically unchanged, based on Bureau of Internal Revenue numbers. We can do that on both the policy side and the tax administration side,” he said.

He also stressed the need to strengthen the government’s tax enforcement programs such as the Run After Tax Evaders, Revenue Integrity Protection Service and Run After the Smugglers programs. g

PH needs P326 billion yearly to pay debts

by Julie

M. Aurelio Inquirer.net

MANILA — The next administration will need at least P326 billion in new revenues each year to cover the principal and interest payments for the country’s debts incurred amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

House ways and means panel chair and Albay Rep. Joey Salceda said the government’s best option to raise this was through tax policy reform through “smart, efficient tax and economic policies to address this debt overhang.”

“Unless we can raise that kind of revenue, we will have to downscale our public spending or borrow again to pay the debt … And of course, the P326 billion figure relies on current interest rates. To keep them at this level, we need to show our creditors we are in good fiscal standing. So tax policy reform is really our best option,” Salceda said on Monday, May 16.

P181 billion for interest alone In a statement, the economist turned lawmaker said the government should brace for

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

The Asian Journal

MDWK MAGAZINE

Wednesday MAY 18, 2022

asianjournalpublications

@asianjournalcom

@asianjournal

www.asianjournal.com Los Angeles | Las Vegas | Orange County/Inland Empire | Northern California | New York/New Jersey

Fil-Am actor Shea Renne on her ‘fate’ful role in national tour of Tony Award-winning musical ‘Hadestown’ P

by AJPress

ERFORMANCES are welcoming back live audiences and the national tour of “Hadestown” is not to be missed. Stopping at the Ahmanson Theatre, the Los Angeles engagement of the Tony Award-winning musical made its West Coast debut at the end of April and will play through May 29.

Following two intertwining love stories — that of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice, and that of King Hades and his wife Persephone — “Hadestown” invites audiences on a hell-raising journey to the underworld and back.

The winner of eight 2019 Tony Awards including Best New Musical and the 2020 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album, “Hadestown” features a vibrant ensemble of actors, dancers and singers, including Filipina American Shea Renne, who plays one of the Fates.

The trio of Fates serves as the symbolic conscience of the main characters, Orpheus, Eurydice, and Hades.

In an interview with the Asian Journal, Shea Renne talks about becoming a stage performer, preparing for the national tour of “Hadestown” and advice for fellow Asian American talents.

Asian Journal (AJ): Was there a moment growing up when you knew you wanted to pursue a career in acting and singing? Any artists or shows that inspired you?

Shea Renne (SR): My interest in an acting career

(L-R) Shea Renne, Bex Odorisio and Beln Moyano in the “Hadestown” North American Tour.

started when I was cast as the lead in my 5th grade musical in elementary school. After that, I started taking voice lessons and was surrounded by others who had an appreciation for musical theatre, and that’s when I felt I belonged. Then I got more involved in high school. The summer before my sophomore year, I went to Interlochen Summer Camp for musical theatre. The summer before my senior year, I went to MPulse at the University of Michigan, which is the MT

summer camp there. Then I went to the University of Michigan for musical theatre and the rest is history.

My mom had raised me listening to Celine Dion and Barbra Streisand, so those vocal artists inspired me greatly.

And, of course, the musical “Miss Saigon” was a huge inspiration for me. Lea Salonga was my idol. When I got to perform in “Allegiance” with her and bow next to her, I felt like the luckiest girl in the

Shea Renne

Photo by T Charles Erickson

world, having my dream come true.

AJ: Tell us about your role as a ‘Fate’ in Hadestown.

How have you made this role uniquely yours?

SR: The great thing about the Fates is that we were not expected to be like the Fates originated on Broadway. Our director, Rachel Chavkin, and associate director and choreographer, Katie Rose McLaughlin, encouraged us to find our own characters and do what we needed to do to feel

powerful and feel like Gods.

My sister Fates are Belén Moyano and Bex Odorisio, and to this day, we act as a unit and constantly check in with each other. Not just on what the choreography or harmonies are, but how we’re all feeling day to day, moment to moment. We are all very different — in nationalities, size, height, personalities — and I think that helps and shows onstage.

AJ: How have your experiences in “Here Lies Love” and

“Allegiance” help you prepare for this national tour?

SR: Those shows taught me how to collaborate and that it’s okay and even encouraged to lean on your cast mates and other company members for help. It taught me to surround yourself with those who lift you up and bring you joy.

There is something truly special being in casts with predominantly Asian actors.

There is a loving and an understanding that I will Continued on Page 10

Charo reveals she nearly became an OFW entertainment Baldwin Park celebrates Santacruzan on May 21st

10

The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - May 18, 2022

LOS ANGELES – The Annual Santacruzan, a religious historical event will be celebrated with a Mass in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary on Saturday, May 21st, 2022 at 5:00 PM - St. John The Baptist Church, 3883 Baldwin

Santacruzan in Baldwin Park, CA. Agnes Puno Gonzalez with husband Jack Gonzalez

Park Boulevard, Baldwin Park, CA. It will be presided by Reverend Ismael Robles. This year’s celebration will be joyful and colorful as it presents various Biblical characters in procession. Participants come from different parishes.

The tradition was introduced by Spaniards and was carried through Filipino communities in many parts of the world. In the Philippines where Santacruzan is held, the town executive organizers select a Hermana Mayor who is responsible for a post-mass reception where people come and celebrate the completion of 9-day novena and prayers offered to the Blessed Virgin Mary. There are flowers offered as well. There are forty plus participants in the procession. In USA and many other countries, Santacruzan is celebrated depending on the reality of a parish. Most often, parishes that celebrate Santacruzan invite young men and women to be actively involved in their parish.

The Filipino Ministry of St. John The Baptist invites one and all to come and enjoy this beautiful faith tradition.

For more information, please call: Sherri Ilagan (626) 290-5232 Lou Dulos (626) 383- 6718

Fil-Am actor Shea Renne on...

From Page 9 treasure forever. That has translated in my current company, where we are mostly a cast of color. There is a level of respect and care that “Here Lies Love” and “Allegiance” prepared me for. More importantly, those shows taught me that I belong and am important. Prior to those shows, I always felt like I had to prove myself as the minority. Now I know that being Filipino is something to be celebrated.

AJ: Any favorite moments/numbers in ‘Hadestown’? What makes ‘Hadestown’ such a special show and what can the audience takeaway from the message?

SR: One of my favorite numbers is the opening because no matter how I feel that day, “Road to Hell” brings me joy and I feel a closeness to my cast. Starting off the show with that camaraderie sets us up for success for the rest of the show. My other favorite number is “Doubt Comes In.” Not only are the harmonies spectacular, but I love the power the Fates have which leads to Orpheus making his ultimate and tragic decision.

AJ: Please share advice for aspiring actors, especially fellow Filipinos, who may be looking up to you for representation?

SR: Self-care is the greatest gift you can give yourself. If you are not at your best for you, how can you be at your best onstage (or

offstage) for others? I am constantly checking in on my body, my mind, and my spirit. I keep a small journal with me at the theatre and I jot down small thoughts, feelings, and emotions if I’m feeling particularly off balance. Knowing yourself and trusting yourself is key.

The other advice I can give is what I mentioned before — surround yourself with others who help you be your best self. Your circle of friends should help lift you up and bring you joy and positivity. In this business (and especially now during this pandemic), it can be easy to be wrapped up in the negative.

Also, be kind to everyone! Kindness goes a very long way.

Lastly, if you are of Asian descent (or like myself, Filipino), be proud! You are special and valued and you have a story to tell. We are so lucky to be in a minority group that takes care of each other and sees each other.

Tickets for “Hadestown” are currently on sale at Center Theatre Group/Ahmanson Theatre and start at $35. They are available through CenterTheatreGroup.org, Audience Services at (213) 972-4400 or in person at the Center Theatre Group Box Office (at the Ahmanson Theatre at The Music Center, 135 N. Grand Avenue in Downtown L.A. 90012).

Performances run Tuesday through Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2:00 p.m. and 8 p.m., Sunday at 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

By Alex

BrosAs Inquirer.net

NOW it can be told. TV host Charo Santos-Concio could have been an overseas Filipino worker had it not been for an unfortunate incident.

Santos made the revelation during the online press conference for “Shine On Overseas Pinoy” last Wednesday, May 11.

“After ‘Itim’ kasi my father allowed me to do only one movie. So, my first movie was ‘Itim.’ Sabi niya, (He said) ‘I’ll allow you to do only one movie.

But really, I want you to do Continued on Page 12 Charo Santos, a timeless beauty at 65.

Photo from Instagram/@tingduque

The Power of Strings: A night of music and fashion LOS ANGELES — InterEdx and Marte Productions Inc present the Power of Strings, A Night of Music and Fashion on June 4, 2022, Saturday at the Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, 8555 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048. Doors open with cocktail reception at 4:00PM. For more information, visit www.powerofstrings.info Contact (626)484-0807.

To get a discounted rate, use coupon code: aj2022 Fashion designer Nicole Santos In the coming LA show John will launch the collections of his protege, the very talented and artistic Nicole Santos from Quezon City, Philippines, whom he shared with, the passion in designing with the environment into a big consideration.

She is involved in a livelihood program for single parents providing them knowledge on arts and crafts and this becomes their source of livelihood. She is also doing a research with a collaborator from India on how she can incorporate recycled materials in her designs. Her designs are of simple silhouette but with defined patterns and a lot of attention to details.

Power of Strings is a special evening of music, fashion and collaboration of the finest artists and talented individuals who come together to mount this worthy project.

Fashion designer Nicole Santos

Chenza Puno

Chenza Puno Powerhouse singer and songwriter Chenza Puno started singing at age 4 and is the youngest daughter of iconic Filipino singer and soul music pioneer Rico J. Puno. Born in West Covina, California but raised in Manila, Philippines, the singer eventually made her way to Los Angeles. At the age of 12, she started to teach herself how to play the guitar and write music.

She shortly began to record, produce, and release her music independently while also uploading covers on her Youtube channel. Chenza is a

versatile artist who showcases her deep, sultry, and soaring vocals in folk, pop, and rock.

She can be compared to Eva Cassidy with her soulful, poignant performances and versatility.

In addition to her solo projects, Chenza previously fronted alternative rock band Room IV, with influences from pioneering vocalists including Amy Lee of Evanescence and Taylor Momsen of The Pretty Reckless to name a few. In 2020, she became the vocalist and lyricist for music duo Restless Balloons.

(Advertising Supplement)

Pahrump project to bring first major harness racing track in state

By RealtoR Fely Quitevis-Bateman A PROPOSED plan to build a megaentertainment facility on more than 400 acres of open farmland northern Pahrump will bring the first pari-mutuel harness racing track in Nevada.

According to an article in the Pahrump Valley Times, the project will include a 40,0000-square-foot resort casino centered around a 7/8-mile track, with stables for 280 racing horses, plus amenities like restaurants, shopping facilities campgrounds, a water park, batting cages, movie theater and parking for vehicles and

RVs (recreational vehicles).

It has been presented to Nye County commissioners by the Nevada Standardbred Association Inc., which was formed a few years back, counting horse trainers and caretakers and other parties as its founding members. The association’s goal is to bring harness racing to the state, and it sees Pahrump as key to its plan.

This plan is expected to bring some 200 jobs to the area – horse trainers, vets and techs, groundskeepers, ticket vendors and hospitality workers.

There is no timeline yet for the project as there are quite a number of

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-properties.com.

hurdles to go through and permits to secure, but the cost is expected to be in the millions. Funding is largely being raised, according to the article, by the Western Saddlebred Alliance Inc. If the project does go through, racing at the 7/8-mile track will run from late October to May should a conditional approval be granted by the Nevada Racing Commission. Twelve live races a day during the season can be seen via two weekly meets, and the races will be simulcast internationally from Pahrump.

The opportunity to establish such a project in the area would be a boon to the economy, the people and tourism. Aside from bringing in visitors who will watch the live harness races, the facilities would feature a training and education center that could host community events like 4-H or Future Farmers of America or other organizations. Even a festival is a possibility at the project’s site, and could be scheduled around Nevada Day long weekend.

Visitors, per people attached to the project, could also be drawn to hotels, restaurants and other area attractions.

Per the article, the project’s developers have anticipated any concerns attached to the project, including research on track surfaces to help reduce the threats of dust and erosion, looking at sound barriers to help curb noise from the track, keeping lighting limited after 10 p.m., and efficient usage and conservation of resources.

Water rights come with the land, and a state-of-the-art reclamation process will be designed to help efficiency and conservation efforts. A manure-processing facility in the site will also help deter flies and pests, and will make the project more sustainable, according to developers.

According to article, Nye County

community

The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - May 18, 2022

Nye County commissioners recently listened to initial plans laid out by project developers who will bring pari-mutuel racing and a mega-entertainment facility to Pahrump. Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman (extreme right) poses with Nye County commissioners in photo above, including Commissioners Bruce Jabbour and Donna Cox.

commissioners have reacted favorably to the initial plans laid out to them by the project’s developers.

This certainly is a welcome development for Pahrumpians, as this is a major opportunity for the area given that there is a dearth of horse racing tracks in the western part of the United States. Plus, for a gambling capital like the state of Nevada, it has no major presence in horse racing, although horse racing can be seen across screens from inside the major casinos in the state. A track in Pahrump could certainly add a feather to its cap, elevate the state’s horse industry, and place horse-racing – the parimutuel kind – within people’s fingertips and see it happen before their eyes, considering that Pahrump is only 62 miles west of Las Vegas.

That Pahrump is being considered

Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman occasionally drives through the northern and southern areas of Pahrump to see the progress going on in the town.

11

Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman (center) with Nye County Commissioner Leo Blundo (left), who has endorsed the mega-entertainment facility that includes the harness racing track, and Lia Roberts (right), who is her GOP mentor.

for this project over other areas in the state is indeed a testament to how the town has grown from its humble beginnings.

With Spring Mountain Motorsports Ranch also located in Pahrump, that would mean two major racetracks in the town and more business for the area.

Of course, there are many things to get done before the project comes to fruition, and that will include input from the community. That the developers are focused on sustainability, conservation and efficient use of resources bodes well for them. Indeed, the state has made a name for itself in these areas – and major projects in the state need to address these concerns well enough in order to gain passage for their developments.

News of this project creates more excitement for Pahrump. And as more developments get planned for the area, it will add more stature for the town and keep it on top of everyone’s mind.

Now is the time to look for opportunities in Pahrump and neighboring areas – while prices are more affordable and before the market skyrockets. I can help you, my kababayans, look for the best real estate and properties in Pahrump and beyond, whether as an investment, as a retirement place, or simply your new home.

My company, Precious Properties, is a full-service company that has been serving its clientele since 1992. You can reach me at 775-513-8447, 805559-2476 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)

12

community Auschwitz

The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - May 18, 2022

Immigrant Living: 101 and BeMonette AdevA MAglAyA

(CONTINUED from the previous week…)

It is said that 1.3 million were in Auschwitz, of which over a million Jews either died of starvation, exhaustion, or shot directly for any arbitrary infraction.

Most were herded like sheep and silenced by the gas chambers. There were 13 other death camps and starvation camps in other parts of Europe but Auschwitz was Nazi Germany’s massive, industrial model for the final solution, devised by Adolf Eichman, of exterminating the Jews in Europe.

In all, 6 million Jews died in the holocaust, estimated to be about a third of the Jewish population at that time. To give one an understanding of that number, the city of Los Angeles has a population of 4 million people.

Sleeping arrangements were 4 to 5 decks high, about 5 or 6 people cramped on a deck.

The weakest prisoners would be sleeping in the lowest bunk.

Prisoners were starved to death especially in the winter. Most were so hungry, they ate grass in the spring and snow in the winter.

The weak prisoners, men, women and children, marked for disposal were fooled into thinking they were taking showers not knowing that they were headed for the gas chambers.

The bodies were incinerated in 5 massive crematories. It was a mark of pride for the German crematory company, Topf and Sons, to dispose of the remains of the dead—a maximum capacity of cremating close to 5,000 human remains per day. A few remaining survivors of the camp remember being given the task of shoveling the ashes for final disposition. Ashes were often mixed with Auschwitz soil around the crematories. Some of the ashes were scattered in a nearby river. The verdant trees

Conclusion of 3 Parts

Edmund Burke once wrote,

“Those who don’t know history are doomed to repeat it.” now lining the riverbanks seem to be silent, living witnesses.

Lt. Col. Rudolf Hess was the ruthless camp commandant.

Hess lived in luxury in a bungalow with his spouse and five children right there at the camp. Just before the Russians liberated the camp, Hess tried to obliterate evidence but Auschwitz was a crime too massive to hide. Like a cornered rat, he tried to escape but he was captured and in 1946, was meted out swift justice. He was hanged right there near his bungalow at Auschwitz. A marker tells the story.

The story of Auschwitz was documented in black and white film by a young Russian photographer, Alexander Vorontsov, who came with the Russian Army which liberated the camp. It is through the filter of his eyes and his lenses that we have the images of the horror that was Auschwitz, a crime against humanity that beggars belief.

If your circumstances permit you and would like to gain an understanding and appreciation of our own life on earth as it relates to those within your immediate orbit, carve out time to see Auschwitz. You will come out of the experience quiet and somber. It is like going through a silent, day-long spiritual retreat that will stay with you forever.

Auschwitz gives you a deeper understanding of the human story, our story, as it unfolds even now. We see increasing incidents of a turn towards socialism by leftists, which is communism lite and a marked rise of anti-Semitism fueled by radical Islamic terrorism. The level of hatred is on the rise.

Most importantly, for ALL freedom-loving people everywhere, the push towards globalism for a one-world order,

with the elite, unelected few calling the shots over hapless, ordinary working people on how we are to live our lives on planet earth at every level, must be met by a stern, effective, concerted pushback.

How about HELL NO!” Auschwitz is a stark reminder of why this should never happen again. As the few survivors, now in their eighties and nineties are dying and fading away, Auschwitz must serve as an eternal red flag that this horror of a story can and will have sequels in the future if we do not address this threat head on and reject it.

Finally, if your heart is in he right place, Auschwitz will tug at your heartstrings. There still won’t be any answers to the question WHY. Suffice it to say, that evil exists and can take root and fester in the human heart if you let it.

In the darkness, the slightest flicker of light makes your heart glad. In the horror of Auschwitz, you will begin to appreciate your own God-given life. If you live in the light of freedom right now and would like to preserve it for the succeeding generations, treasure it, defend it and—if you have to—fight for it.

If you believe that Jesus Christ who came in the flesh to conquer death over two thousand years ago, is the center of your being because his message is one of love and kindness for all humanity, you will be deeply convinced yet again, that even in the darkest of days, death can never extinguish the light. ***

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.

***

To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com

Reimbursement for community contribution towards a spouse’s education and student loan during marriage Barrister’s Corner Atty. Kenneth UrsUA reyes ONE of the biggest problems of millennials and Gen Z are educational cost and student loan debt. This eats up a large part of a household’s budget even among married couples. However, what happens to all the money paid towards one spouse’s education and student loans if the marriage fails and leads to divorce? Well, California Family Code Section 2641(b)(1) provides that upon divorce or legal separation, the community “shall be reimbursed” for its “contributions” to a spouse’s education or training that “substantially enhances” the spouse’s earning capacity.

Under Family Code Section 2641(a), reimbursable community “contributions” means payments made with community or quasi-community property for a spouse’s education or training or for the repayment of a loan incurred thereof, no matter where the parties resided when the payments were made.

Family Code § 2641 reimbursement is not limited to education or training received during marriage.

Rather, by its terms, application of the statute is governed solely by whether community funds were used to pay for the education or training. Thus, educational costs and loans paid with community funds

are within the ambit of § 2641 reimbursement even if the education occurred before marriage. Marriage of Weiner, supra, 105 CA4th at 239-240, 129 CR2d at 291.

In Marriage of Mullonkal & Kodiyamplakkil (2020) 51 CA5th 604, 607-608, 265 CR3d 285, 288, the court held that the community is entitled to reimbursement where the spouse paid off student loans for education she attained before marriage with funds from her salary earned during marriage.

In Mullonkal & Kodiyamplakkil, the trial court erroneously held § 2641 did not apply because, among other things, the student spouse (Wife) repaid her premarital education with her own earnings during the marriage, and the nonstudent spouse (Husband) failed to contribute to Wife’s education/loan repayments and family expenses. “[B]ut nothing in [§ 2641] contemplates denying reimbursement to the community where the student spouse pays for her own education or where the nonstudent spouse did not somehow earn an entitlement to an equal share of the community. Indeed, the statute refers to community contributions to education, and makes no reference to the source of the community contribution.” Marriage of Mullonkal & Kodiyamplakkil, supra, 51 CA5th at 615-616, 265 CR3d at 294.

At a minimum, reimbursable community expenditures include amounts paid for the student spouse’s tuition, fees, books, supplies and transportation. Fam.C. § 2641,

Law Rev. Comm’n Comment, 23 Cal. L.Rev. Comm’n Reports 1 (1993). Beyond this, however, community expenditures are a reimbursable “contribution” only if directly related to the educational experience. Ordinary living expenses that would have been incurred regardless of whether one spouse was attending school such as rent, food and clothing, health care and entertainment, are not reimbursable under § 2641. Marriage of Watt (1989) 214 CA3d 340, 354, 262 CR 783, 791-792. *** Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, APLC. This article is not a solicitation. *** Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, APLC. is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010.

Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kenneth@ kenreyeslaw.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com.

Laurenti Dyogi shares current mindset about ABS-CBN’s non-renewal of franchise

By Marane

a. Plaza

Philstar.com

TV and film director Laurenti Dyogi expressed in a recent press conference that he is not hoping anymore for the renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise.

During the press launch of ABS-CBN’s Slay digital magazine at Resort’s World Manila on May 4, Dyogi told Pep.ph his current insights about their lack of franchise for free TV. “We survived two years without the franchise and without the frequency. We will continue with what we are doing, the best what we could do to serve the public,” he said.

National Telecommunications Commission stopped the broadcast operations of the Kapamilya Network back in May 2020, after it did not approve its franchise renewal

talent management also said they are okay right now to work with what they currently have.

“Ayoko nang umasa, nanggaling na kami dun, okay na kami,” the director said. “We will continue to be a content company. We will produce stars and produce a lot of contents.”

The incident also allowed them to collaborate with different channel platforms.

“Ngayon nga, ang dami naming plataporma, nakakapagpartner kami. Kung may prangkisa pa kami, siguro hindi namin nagawa yun kasi naka-focus ang trabaho namin ABS-CBN TV production head Laurenti Dyogi sa broadcast. Ngayon, happy is named new Star Magic head ABS-CBN na kami na marami na kaming nasisilbihan. Nagkaroon ng application. partnership with GMA, may Laurenti also mentioned TV5, A2Z, and a lot more,” he that ABS-CBN has been able explained. to adjust in the past two years, “Yung KathNiel naman, first releasing content online and time mauuna pa ang Netflix. through blocktimer airtime.

Maraming posibilidad, hindi ito The head of Star Magic mangyayari before.”

Alice finally introduces eldest daughter to public By anne

Pasajol Inquirer.net

ALICE Dixson celebrated Mother’s Day by appreciating motherhood as well as introducing her “panganay” (eldest child) Sassa to the public.

The actress, who has been private when it comes to her family, showed snaps of herself with her non-showbiz partner, their baby Aura, and Sassa, via

Alice Dixson and her eldest child Sassa

her Instagram page.

“Being a mom is a gift. I’ve been very lucky in my lifetime to experience it twice,” she said. “[First] with Sassa our panganay, [nang] dumating nabuo ang munting pamilya. [Although] hindi ko siya na-introduce formally when she was a teen kasi napakaprotective ng father niya.”

(The first time is with Sassa, our eldest child who, when she

came, completed our small family. Although I was not able to introduce her formally when she was a teen because her father is overly protective.)

Dixson also spoke about her daughter’s achievement while describing her as “beautiful inside and out.”

“Pero ngayon na young lady na siya at masters [graduate] pa (But now that she is a young lady and has a master’s degree)—the world is now her oyster,” she stated. “I’m so very proud [of] the woman you are [and] becoming.”

Dixson also has a baby daughter with her partner through surrogacy. She revealed back in 2019 that after several failed attempts to conceive, she and her partner decided to resort to surrogacy.

At the age of 51, she welcomed baby Aura, announcing her Photo from Instagram/@alicedixson birth in April last year.

Charo reveals she nearly became an...

From Page 10 a regular job because you finished a four year college course. You put your education to good use,’” she recalled him saying. “Ako naman, masunuring anak.” (As for me, I was an obedient daughter.)

“Itim,” directed by Mike de Leon and written

by Clodualdo “Doy” del Mundo, was released in 1976. It was later voted by Gawad Urian as best film of the decade 1970-1979. It stars Santos as a young woman possessed by the spirit of her departed sister.

After doing the said film, she went to the

United States and applied at the United Nations as an executive assistant.

“I was a fresh graduate. Natanggap ako (I was accepted). But then, soon after I lost my father.

So, naiba ang takbo ng buhay ko (the course of my life changed). I chose to pursue a career in showbiz. And the rest is history,” she said.

Santos also shared how the show was conceptualized, which had its seeds during the pandemic when she thought of a possible partnership with The Filipino Channel and Sunlife, to listen to stories of OFWs and how they manage their income and other finances.

Starfleet Innotech leadership mobilizes across North America with strategic meetings in US, Canada STARFLEET Innotech, Inc. (OTC Pink: SFIO) (“SFIO” or “The Company”) capped off the first leg of its United States roadshow with a successful showing at the Planet MicroCap conference in Las Vegas, Nevada and strategic meetings with Silicon Valley partners in Palo Alto, California. Towards the end of the month, executives from the global conglomerate will be congregating in New York to cement the agreements necessary to establish a more concrete presence in the U.S. “While we already have a presence in the United States through our office, key personnel, and strategic partners, our showcase in Las Vegas formally kicks off the next phase of our growth as a conglomerate,” said Santiago Arnaiz, General Manager of Communications at SFIO. “We recognize the crucial role that North America plays as fertile grounds to stage our global expansion. There are incredibly exciting projects being launched across the SFIO ecosystem – in the Philippines, Dubai, Malaysia, and beyond – all vital parts of our growth journey. Our job here in the U.S. is to find partners interested in joining us on that journey. The reception so far has been promising.”

As a global investment holding company, SFIO is focused on innovation through disruptive collaborations across its three key industries: Food and Beverage (F&B), Real Estate, and Technology. This translates to making strategic investments in high-growth businesses and building synergies across its diverse portfolio in order to provide maximum shareholder value.

SFIO currently maintains offices across New Zealand, Australia, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates, the Philippines, and the United States. Over the next few months, the SFIO team will be mobilizing across North America, building on its momentum in Las Vegas and San Francisco towards establishing a more concrete presence in the region.

Recently, both Arnaiz and Chief Investor Officer Richard De Lima presented SFIO at the Planet MicroCap showcase to an audience of investors, fund managers, and family offices.

In Toronto, CEO Jeths Lacson mobilized a signed partnership with the company’s Canadian distributor for Gorgeous Coffee and Epiphany Manuka Honey products. Under this agreement, the company’s F&B products will be made available for purchase online through Amazon, and eventually through major retail outlets across North America.

Meanwhile, Chief Technology Officer Richard Prodigalidad met with technology partners in San Francisco and Palo Alto, including biotech wearable developer NeuroSky. Wearables developed by NeuroSky are set to be integrated into SFIO’s real estate projects under the Moraya brand of wellnessoriented, tech-enabled townships. Deployed through Project Fort, a community health dashboard service and subsidiary of SFIO, these wearables will gather the data necessary to pioneer entirely new approaches to proactive community care.

In addition to ecosystem partners, Prodigalidad secured commitments to connect the increasing demand for tech talent across Silicon Valley with highly-skilled developers and designers based in the Philippines – positioning SFIO as the central hub in a global innovation ecosystem. More details on this new initiative will be shared in the months to come.

“The work continues in connecting with investors and other growth enablers to take SFIO to the next level. We have a full lineup of meetings over the next few weeks, ranging from exploratory chats, follow-up sessions stemming from our recent participation at Planet MicroCap, and deep-dives into partnership agreements,” said Arnaiz. “It was exciting to get to sit down with our partners in Silicon Valley to kick off our cocreation efforts in technology. I’m looking forward to doing the same in New York, representing our businesses like Epiphany Cafe with potential F&B partners.”

Among these potential partners are major distributors, retail stores, manufacturers, and cafe franchises – with whom SFIO hopes to bring its F&B businesses like Epiphany Cafe and Gorgeous Coffee into the country. To support these growth efforts, the company will be engaging with a U.S.-focused IR firm to bolster its traction in this crucial market.

“Our goal at SFIO is to bridge promising businesses from emerging economies with crucial growth enablers, many of which are based in the United States,” said Arnaiz. “Over the last year or so, we’ve been hard at work championing those promising businesses. Now we’re shifting our focus to the U.S., to build the other side of that global infrastructure. While here, we’ll be looking to accomplish three things: strike strategic partnerships with institutional players, increase visibility on our global businesses, and gather the resources we need to get Starfleet soaring.”

(Advertising Supplement)

community

The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - May 18, 2022

13

Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month by getting ahead of the curve with a CA REAL ID MAY was Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, a time to reflect and acknowledge the many contributions and influences of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.

Celebrating AAPI month each year reminds us of our rich history, providing us with the perfect opportunity to travel and visit family and friends, which may have been limited due to the pandemic.

With travel restrictions lifted, there is no better way to celebrate than to give yourself the gift of travel. In just one year, a federally accepted form of identification, such as a REAL ID, will be required for all domestic travel, so get ahead of the curve by getting your REAL ID today — it’s your most important carry-on!

Whether you are booking travel plans, visits to family and friends, or simply going on vacation — make sure you have a REAL ID now so you don’t have to worry about it later, reducing the stress of travel so you can concentrate on having fun.

Getting your REAL ID is as fast and easy as 1-2-3: • Start your application online at dmv. ca.gov/realid.

• Upload your documents. You’ll need one identity document (ex: valid passport, original birth certificate) and two proofs of residency (ex: mortgage bill, employment document, home utility

Photo provided by Solksen PR

bill).

• Make an appointment online to finish the process at your local DMV office. Be sure to bring your uploaded original documents and entire confirmation page to your appointment!

By starting your application online, you’ll be in and out of the DMV quickly and ready to fly! Join the 13 million Californians who have already upgraded

to a REAL ID and make your ID do more.

A REAL ID costs the same as a regular ID, but a REAL ID will take you places and allow you to get into secure federal buildings such as federal courthouses and military bases. Don’t wait until the May 3, 2023 enforcement date — apply for your REAL ID today and beat the rush.

Apply for your CA REAL ID online by visiting dmv.ca.gov/realid.

14

The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - May 18, 2022