Delays deepen at Newark Airport as summer travel season nears
NEWARK — Newark Liberty International Airport continues to face major operational disruptions as the summer travel season approaches, with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirming ongoing delays linked to air traffic control limitations, radar system failures, and runway construction.
On Monday, May 19, the FAA confirmed a brief communication failure within the Philadelphia Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) area. The glitch—lasting approximately two seconds—interrupted radio communications between controllers and aircraft.
While safety was not compromised, it marked the latest in a series of technical issues that have plagued Newark since April 28, when a larger radar system failure temporarily halted operations.
FAA limits traffic to manage safety
To address growing safety and efficiency concerns, the FAA has imposed a cap of 28 arrivals per hour at Newark. This rate reduction is in place daily through June 15, with additional limitations on Saturdays until the end of 2025, to accommodate construction and system maintenance. Delays have increased steadily. FAA
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An 'interesting mix': What the new Senate lineup means for the Philippines
by JoHn PAtriCk mAgno rAnArA Philstar.com
WHEN the Senate convenes for the 20th Congress in July, political analysts foresee a shift in power dynamics driven by the results of the May 12 elections.
“It’s not the usual pro-Duterte senators vs.
pro-admin senators,” Dennis Coronacion, chair of the University of Santo Tomas’ Political Science Department, told PhilSTAR L!fe Coronacion said the composition of the new Senate is proving to be an “interesting mix” with the recent wins of Bong Go, Bam Aquino, Bato Dela Rosa, Erwin Tulfo, Kiko Pangilinan, Rodante Marcoleta, Ping Lacson, Tito Sotto, Pia
PNA photo by Avito Dalan
Cayetano, Camille Villar, Lito Lapid, and Imee Marcos.
Aries Arugay, chair of the University of the Philippines Diliman’s Political Science Department, also told L!fe he expects a lot of changes in the composition of the Senate from the get-go.
Marcos at midterm: 'I want to be respected, but maybe fear is better'
MANILA — “I want to be respected but maybe fear is better.”
This is what President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had to say at the midway point of his presidency. In a new podcast launched following a surprise loss from many of his senatorial slates in the 2025 midterm polls, Marcos expressed frustration: both at the results of the elections and at the rules governing his presidency.
For Marcos, the polls taught him a lesson: that people were tired of politics. They wanted to see the government at work.
“Disappointed ang tao sa serbisyo ng gobyerno. Hindi nila nararamdaman at masyadong mabagal ang galaw,” Marcos said.
(The people are disappointed in the
MANILA — With some groups blaming the defeat of administration candidates on the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte and the arrest of her father, former president Rodrigo Duterte, President Marcos said yesterday he is open to reconciliation with his political foes.
In a podcast posted on his YouTube channel, broadcaster Anthony Taberna asked Marcos
whether he is open to restoring his relationship with the Dutertes.
The president replied, “Oo. Ako, ayaw ko ng gulo. Gusto ko makasundo sa lahat ng tao. Mas maganda (Yes. I don’t want trouble. I want to get along with everyone. That’s better).”
“Marami na akong kaaway at hindi ko kailangan ng kaaway. Kailangan ko kaibigan (I already have many enemies and I don’t need enemies. I need friends),” Marcos said.
The president said the country’s
Top 6 party-lists: Who won multiple seats and who they represent
for being co-opted by political dynasties and business interests.
Following the 2025 midterm polls, questions over the credibility of some winning groups have resurfaced.
Here’s a look at the top six party-lists that secured more than one seat, the sectors they claim to represent and the backgrounds of their
The ring shows an image of St. Peter and has meaning from the New Testament. u PAGE 3 u PAGE 2 u PAGE 3
MANILA — The Commission on Elections has proclaimed the party-lists that will occupy 63 seats allotted under the party-list system in the 20th Congress. Intended to give marginalized and underrepresented sectors a voice in legislation, the system has long faced criticism
May 18.
Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, LAS VEGAS, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
FINAL PUSH. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (center) raises the hands of the Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas senatorial candidates during their final campaign rally in Mandaluyong City on Friday, May 9, 2025. Benhur Abalos, Abby Binay and Erwin Tulfo; incumbent Senators Ramon Revilla Jr., Pia Cayetano, Lito Lapid and Francis Tolentino; and former senators Panfilo Lacson, Manny Pacquiao and Vicente Sotto III attended, while Camille Villar did not show up.
MANILA — Luis Antonio G. Cardinal Tagle placed the symbolic Fisherman’s Ring on Pope Leo XIV’s finger during the Mass of Inauguration at the Vatican on Sunday,
by Helen Flores, Alexis romero Philstar.com
by luisA CAbAto Inquirer.net
by Dominique niCole Flores Philstar.com
by JeAn mAngAluz Philstar.com
An 'interesting mix': What the new...
PAGE 1
“Some of them might think it's better to remain with the majority so that they can keep their committee chairmanships,” Arugay said, “but if they're going to really act as an opposition to the Marcos administration, some of them might affiliate themselves more with the minority.”
Nothing could test this new power dynamic more than the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte where the senators will serve as judges. Duterte is facing a series of grave allegations, including conspiracy to assassinate Marcos, largescale corruption, abuse of public funds, and involvement in extrajudicial killings.
The opposition could make discussions more challenging, according to Coronacion, though they could be interesting with more proDuterte allies in the senatorial mix like Go, Marcoleta, Dela Rosa, Imee, and Villar.
“Will the vice president get the eight or nine votes
that she needs in order to get acquitted? ‘Yan ang malaking tanong doon,” Coronacion said.
However, Arugay noted that even if pro-Duterte supporters already have prior positions, “there might be public pressure for them to appreciate the evidence that will be presented—especially if the evidence is very glaring, especially if the prosecution was able to successfully make a case, and if the defense panel is unable to mount a credible defense.”
Marcos-Duterte rift
Coronacion pointed out that the ongoing rift between Marcos and Duterte, which was brought about by a series of public attacks, may compromise deliberations among politicians.
“The perception is that proposed measures are going to benefit the administration. That's going to serve as a background in any Senate deliberations. Lalo na ngayon, tatlong taon na lang, 2028 elections na, so they're going to be suspicious of each
other's move,” he said.
While Arugay noted how the varying alliances of the incoming officials may entail more pushback on some of the policies of the administration, possibly resulting in more hearings and Senate investigatory initiatives, he’s optimistic that the newly elected leaders are going to cooperate in terms of the noncontroversial bills.
Analysts predict, for instance, that the national budget and government spending would be highly scrutinized and deliberated on.
Marcos signed the 2025 national budget worth P6.326 trillion in December. It was lower than the P6.352 trillion initially submitted to Congress as the chief executive directly vetoed over P194 billion worth of line items that are “inconsistent with the administration's priority programs.”
“‘Yung economic agenda ni Marcos Jr., a lot of these are still unfulfilled. The agenda
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Top 6 party-lists: Who won multiple seats...
nominees.
Three seats
Akbayan – 2.779 million votes
Unlike other groups, Akbayan positions itself as a progressive, social democratic party-list seeking to represent various marginalized sectors — including laborers, women, youth, LGBTQ+ community and indigenous peoples.
Its legislative agenda includes ending contractualization, exploring a universal basic income, expanding literacy campaign programs and school health services, boosting vocational education and paid internships, and advocating for gender-affirming healthcare.
by human rights lawyer Chel Diokno, incumbent Rep. Perci Cendaña and Moro leader Dadah Ismula.
While Diokno hails from a family with a history of public service, he is not considered part of a political dynasty, as there is no succession or simultaneous holding of elected positions within his family.
Duterte Youth – 2.338 million votes
The right-wing party-list adopts the surname of former President Rodrigo Duterte, which stands for “Duty to Energize the Republic Through the Enlightenment of the Youth.”
Founded in 2016 to support his presidency, it claims to represent the youth.
been proclaimed due to its pending cases, which the Comelec said they have until June 30 to resolve.
Among the measures it has recently filed are proposals to reinstate the death penalty and to rename the Ninoy Aquino International Airport to Manila International Airport.
Several House Bills for which it is listed as principal author, however, stem not from original filings but from substitute bills that consolidate similar measures filed by other lawmakers.
Duterte Youth, however, has a track record of red-tagging young people, accusing them of being members of subversive groups.
The party-list faces a disqualification complaint for engaging in such acts, which the poll body now considers as an election offense.
Akbayan has filed bills promoting a human rightsand public health-based drug policy, a right-to-care card for healthcare proxies, the repeal of the Philippine Mining Act of 1995, the Safe Spaces Act and monthly stipends for students in state universities and colleges.
Securing three seats, the party-list will be represented
Despite placing second, Duterte Youth has not
Marcos at midterm: 'I want to be
PAGE 1
government. They do not feel the movem ent because it is too slow.)
The president acknowledged focusing on long-term projects, which may have limited emphasis on more immediate concerns like food prices and healthcare access.
But Marcos’ frustrations didn’t stop at the elections.
He joked with friends who are corporate titans that when they want something done, it gets done right away. In his case, he said, even a simple directive runs into red tape.
“Pagka-inutos ng CEO, nung boss, tapos na. Pagka ako nag-utos, marami pa ako kukumbinsihin,” Marcos said. (If the CEO, the boss, asks for it, it is finished immediately. If I want something done, I need to do a lot of convincing.)
He added that while checks and balances are necessary, they shouldn’t paralyze government service.
Too nice for his own good?
As Taberna put it, Marcos was seen as too nice—a perception that may have allowed corruption to thrive and slowed down government
services, as officials reportedly don’t fear him.
To this, Marcos replied that he couldn’t change his personality.
Still, he said that whenever corruption is validated, the person is removed. He admitted, however, that these removals are not publicly announced.
Over the past few years, Marcos has replaced several Cabinet secretaries. In 2022 alone, he removed lawyer Vic Rodriguez as Executive Secretary—a move that has since turned Rodriguez into one of his most vocal critics.
The president has also sacked three Presidential Communications Office secretaries. He also replaced his chief officials for the transportation, information and communications technology, and trade and industry. However, the Palace has never explicitly said that these secretaries were replaced due to suspected corruption.
A performance review is underway, and Marcos said several officials may soon be replaced.
But the question remains:
Duterte Youth has also been criticized for only attending House hearings when they involve the Duterte family, such as the deliberation on the Office of the Vice President’s proposed 2025 budget and the alleged misuse of confidential funds.
If not disqualified, the party-list is expected to be represented by Rep. Drixie Cardema, Berlin Lingwa and Ron Godfrey Bawalan. All three have military or police backgrounds, having served in the Philippine Army or
respected...
Is Marcos too nice for his own good?
His demeanor is a stark contrast to that of his predecessor, President Rodrigo Duterte. Marcos often takes the gentleman’s route—avoiding confrontation and presenting himself as someone who would take the high road no matter what.
Yet under his administration, it was Duterte—once an ally, now a vocal critic—who was sent to the International Criminal Court over his bloody war on drugs. Marcos said the move was a matter of fulfilling obligations to the international community, though his fiercest critics view it as politically motivated.
Going back further, Marcos is the son of the Ferdinand Marcos Sr., called an autocrat. The current president’s namesake ruled the Philippines during Martial Law with an iron fist, with at least 2,300 people killed or disappeared during his term. The younger Marcos has never disavowed his father’s regime, instead recalling it with fondness and describing Martial Law as necessary at the time. n
Marcos willing to reconcile with Dutertes...
stability and peace are important so the government can continue its job.
“Kaya ako, laging bukas sa ganyan (That’s why I’m always open to it),” he said, referring to a possible reconciliation with his political foes.
Marcos said he is “always open to any approach” and that even if he and his critics “don’t agree on policies,” they can always focus on work without stirring trouble.
“Let’s avoid, let’s get rid of bickering,” Marcos said.
His interview came exactly a week after the midterm polls. Only six senatorial candidates endorsed by Marcos made it to the Senate. They are former Senate president Vicente Sotto III, former senator Panfilo Lacson, former Social Welfare chief Erwin Tulfo, re-electionists Lito Lapid and Pia Cayetano and Las Piñas City Rep. Camille Villar.
The Alyansa did not drop Villar from its slate even after the latter openly sought and gained the vice president’s endorsement.
Marcos also said he may have to be tougher to get things done and to instill fear among wrongdoers and underperformers in government.
He acknowledged that the recently concluded midterm polls reflected the Filipinos’ disappointment with government services.
“That’s what we are supposed to be doing. It’s good that the election is over. Enough of politics. Let us work. Let us do what we are supposed to do,” the president told Taberna.
“People are disappointed with the service of the government... The progress of projects is too slow and they cannot feel it,” he said.
“I said we have to change it. I looked at the huge and difficult projects for the long term and their effect. We will work on that.”
Marcos said the administration’s priority projects include those in the tourism, health and transportation sectors. He noted some projects like the Metro Manila Subway do not have problems but would take time to complete.
“But we need to do it. If we do not do it, what will happen? We will be stagnant. We have to do something new. There is a good saying, if not us, who? If not now, when? We need to do it,” he added.
Marcos said he has realized that not enough attention was given to small things that would improve the daily lives of people, like the train queues and the traffic situation.
“We will now give attention to these,” he said.
Asked to react to claims that he is not accomplishing the things he wants to do because he is “too nice,”
Marcos said he could no longer change his attitude, but acknowledged that being tough has its advantages.
“What can I do? Become a bad guy? I cannot change my attitude. But you know, I really have to be tougher. There is a need to make things more efficient and faster. Perhaps that is one of our lessons from the past election.”
Pressed whether he prefers to be respected or feared, Marcos replied: “I want to be respected but maybe feared is better.”
Marcos also attributed the slow movement of government initiatives to what he described as “contradictory” laws. He said unlike in a private corporation, where something is carried out once ordered by the chief executive officer, the president has to convince a lot of people to implement something.
“Here in the government, if you have a new initiative, a new idea, you will relay it to the rank and file so it can be implemented. But the usual answer is ‘Sir, that cannot be done. We might be flagged by the COA (Commission on Audit),’ That’s true. We have a number of laws. Sometimes, they are contradictory,” he said.
Marcos reiterated that the impeachment trial of Duterte is now in the hands of the Senate.
“There is a process for that. Let us allow the process to take its course. For me, what’s on my mind is that the election is over. Back to work,” he said.
Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco earlier insisted it was the impeachment of Duterte that caused the administration Senate slate to lose votes, particularly in Mindanao. Tiangco was the campaign manager of Alyansa.
“There is a negative sentiment. If you’re running, will you take the risk? No candidate will take the risk! He will think first of his own (political) survival, especially if emotions are high,” he said
in an interview on “Big Story,” referring to allegations that the 215 House members who voted to impeach Duterte had been promised funds by the chamber’s leadership.
In Davao City last Sunday, Duterte said she is ready to stand before a Senate impeachment trial, and warned the proceedings would be a “bloodbath.”
No chance for ‘bloodbath’
After their proclamation yesterday as first nominees of Akbayan and Mamamayang Liberal partylists, Chel Diokno and Leila de Lima said they won’t give Duterte the chance to make good on her “bloodbath” threat.
“I don’t know where she’s coming from. The impeachment trial is a civilized legal process. The whole country will know the truth,” Dikno said in Filipino.
De Lima said the vice president is just courting sympathy, as she stressed that an impeachment trial is a sacred constitutional process without drama and theatrics.
“This is a serious undertaking where due process and rule of law are strictly followed,” De Lima said.
For a member of the prosecution panel of the House of Representatives, an impeachment trial is not a “bloodbath” but a forum for “truth and accountability.”
House Deputy Majority Leader Lorenz Defensor, in an interview over dzBB, said he was rectifying Duterte’s take on her coming impeachment trial, which she revealed to reporters in Davao City last Sunday.
“Perhaps it would be best if we say this impeachment trial is where the ‘winner takes it all,’ it doesn’t have to be a bloodbath. We want to be very clear in laying down the prosecution’s evidence, as well as the defense team,” Defensor, who is from Iloilo, said.
He stressed the impeachment trial is “not about spectacle or animosity,” as the prosecutors were buttressing evidence to make sure whatever decision the impeachment court makes would be acceptable to all parties.
“We want to see that VP Dutere is fully prepared so that, if in case she is acquitted, it would be easier for the people to accept the outcome, which includes the 215 House members who signed the impeachment
LOOK: Cardinal Tagle places symbolic...
PAGE 1
In Matthew 16:19, Jesus gives Peter the keys to Heaven, and in Luke 22:32, He tells Peter to strengthen his fellow believers.
Since Peter is known as the fisherman apostle, the ring is referred to as the Ring of the Fisherman, or the Piscatory Ring, symbolizing the continuous lineage from the first pope.
Francis Prevost, is the first pope from the United States of America.
Pope Leo XIV, or Robert
Cardinal Tagle was one of three Filipinos who joined the conclave to elect the new pope. n
RECYCLE. Commission on Elections Chairperson George Erwin Garcia (center) and Commissioner Ernesto Ferdinand Maceda Jr. (left) lead the inspection of discarded
Pacman
by
in LA to announce ring return
retirement.
MANILA — Manny Pacquiao, now 46 years old and who last fought professionally four years ago, is about to officially announce his boxing comeback.
The Filipino sports icon, accompanied by his family and entourage, arrived in Los Angeles yesterday for a scheduled press conference this week to announce his fight with World Boxing Council (WBC) welterweight champion Mario Barrios.
Coming off a failed bid for a Senate seat in the just-concluded midterm elections, Pacquiao has turned his attention to boxing once more, four years after announcing his
He last fought as a pro in August 2021, losing to Cuba’s Yordenis Ugas via unanimous decision. But he did not totally leave the boxing limelight, figuring in a couple of exhibition bouts – against Korean vlogger DK Yoo and Japanese kickboxer Rukiya Anpo in 2022 and 2025, respectively.
Now, Pacquiao is set to embark on his 73rd pro fight, this time against a fresher and more dangerous Barrios (29-2-1, with 18 knockouts), a MexicanAmerican who, at 30 years old and standing 5-foot9, will enjoy tremendous advantages with his youth, activity and height.
Pacquiao’s boxing return has received a stamp of approval from the WBC,
which even installed Pacquiao as its No. 5-ranked contender for Barrios’ belt.
Videos that circulated on social media over the weekend showed Pacquiao sweating it out on the mitts and heavy bag. With the Barrios fight penciled for July in Las Vegas, he will have over a month to get in shape.
“We can train hard for this fight. Very important fight,” Pacquiao’s childhood friend and trainer Buboy Fernandez told media members at the LAX upon their arrival.
Reports said Pacquiao will reunite with longtime head trainer Freddie Roach at the Wild Card Gym in Hollywood to train. But neither the boxer nor Roach’s camp confirmed it would be the case. n
US senator denounces ICE raid on home of Filipino teachers in Hawaii
Sen. Brian Schatz describes the raid as 'racial profiling and a shameful abuse of power'
WASHINGTON – Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) has denounced the recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raid on the home of Filipino teachers in Kahului, Maui.
“The reported interrogation and efforts to detain Filipino teachers in their home on Maui by ICE agents is outrageous,” Schatz said in a statement. “This is racial profiling and a shameful abuse of power.”
The teachers and their families were detained at the multi-family home for more than 40 minutes, one of the teachers told The Maui News.
“The whole situation was really overwhelming and traumatic for all of us, but I felt the need to speak out because I felt it could have been handled better, and I really do not want to see that happen again with teachers who are here to help our children, who are here
legally as well,” the teacher said.
ICE told Island News the federal search warrant served during the May 6 raid was related to an immigration investigation.
“For the safety of the agents and the occupants, residents of the home were briefly detained and interviewed in addition to the search,” an ICE agent said in a statement. “At the conclusion of the search, HSI special agents left the location without any arrests made.”
The Hawaii Department of Education (HIDOE) said the teachers are employed through the Department of State’s J-1 Visa Exchange Visitor Program, which allows qualified educators from other countries to work in the U.S. legally as part of a cultural and educational exchange.
Hawaii State Teachers Association President Osa
Tui Jr. described the early morning raid as “quite distressing.,” according to The Maui News.
“In this case, with educators rousted from their beds at gunpoint, there was no public apology for the harm that was done,” Tui said.
“We’re concerned that, if this was a mistake, what other mistakes are being made or will be made affecting other innocent people.”
Senator Schatz said the ICE raid was “clearly designed to instill fear” among the teachers.
“Our teachers, our visitors, and our neighbors, deserve dignity and safety, not fear of seemingly arbitrary harassment,” he said.
Schatz’s office has been in contact with HIDOE and offered assistance to the teachers impacted by the raid. (Inquirer.net)
Delays deepen at Newark Airport
PAGE 1
data shows that, during peak congestion, 21% of all arriving flights experience average delays of 38 minutes, while 44% of departures are delayed by an average of nearly 40 minutes.
These figures are expected to rise as air traffic intensifies leading into Memorial Day and the peak summer season.
Runway 4L/22R closed for $121 Million renovation
Since April 15, Newark’s most active runway— Runway 4L/22R—has been closed as part of a $121 million resurfacing and infrastructure upgrade.
According to FAA and Port Authority of New York and New Jersey statements, the project is scheduled for completion by mid-June, though weekly construction work will continue into the second half of the year.
With one of its key runways out of service, the airport’s capacity has been significantly reduced, straining both inbound and outbound schedules.
United Airlines cuts 35 flights
United Airlines, Newark’s
primary carrier, has responded by cutting 35 daily round-trip flights from its schedule. The airline publicly confirmed these reductions in May, citing FAA-imposed traffic limits and staffing constraints.
United accounts for nearly 70% of the airport’s total operations, making its adjustments critical to managing terminal and runway congestion.
The FAA, in a May 17 media release, reiterated that Newark is among the airports most affected by nationwide air traffic controller shortages.
Despite recent hiring initiatives, controller staffing at the facility remains well below national targets.
Infrastructure challenges raise national concerns
The recurring radar outages—coupled with outdated communication infrastructure and staff shortfalls—have drawn scrutiny from transportation analysts and lawmakers.
The FAA has acknowledged that portions of Newark’s radar and communications systems still rely on aging copper wiring. Plans to upgrade to
modern fiber-optic systems are underway but not yet complete.
FAA officials maintain that flight restrictions and reduced throughput are essential safety measures until construction concludes and system reliability is improved.
Traveler advisory Passengers flying through Newark in the coming weeks are strongly encouraged to:
• Check flight status regularly
• Book morning departures, which are less prone to cascading delays
• Allow extra buffer time for security, rebooking, and transfers
• Consider alternative airports such as JFK, LaGuardia, or PhiladelphiaOutlook
With runway work continuing and air traffic systems under repair, Newark’s operational capacity will likely remain limited into June.
The FAA has not ruled out extending arrival caps if delays escalate further. For now, Newark remains a critical—but fragile— gateway for East Coast travel. n
Dino mArAgAy Philstar.com
Manny Pacquiao with his wife Jinkee arriving at the Tom Bradley International Terminal in Los Angeles, California. Jhay Oh Otamias / Contributed photo
DESCENT. A rider carries his bicycle down the EDSA-Philam bus carousel in Quezon City on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. The Department of Transportation said 18 elevators in six carousel stations are in good working conditions, ensuring safe and convenient access
photo by Joan Bondoc
Features OpiniOn
A generation takes its turn: How filipino Millennials and Gen Z voters shaped the 2025 midterms
IN the 2025 midterm elections, Filipino Millennials and Gen Z voters did not just make up the numbers. They made a statement.
Born between the early 1980s and early 2000s, this generation now forms the majority of the country’s voting population. According to the Commission on Elections, Millennials (ages 29–44) and Gen Z (ages 18–28) combined to make up an estimated 63% of registered voters and 68% of the total voting-age population—a demographic force too large to ignore.
Editorial
For years, political analysts questioned whether this digitally native, socially conscious generation would translate its online activism into meaningful turnout. This year, it did—with a level of clarity and intention that signaled a shift in the nation’s political tides.
SINGKIT
RUMMAGING through my desk looking for a document, I found a New York Times article I had printed out and saved. The writer took a trip to Finland in search of happiness, Finland being number one on the World Happiness Report for the past eight years. Taking advantage of that distinction, Finland has built a tourism industry around happiness;
These voters are far from monolithic. Some supported familiar names; others turned to independents, sectoral groups, or returned opposition figures. But regardless of political affiliation, one thing united their vote: purpose. This generation—shaped by economic precarity, climate anxiety, mental health challenges, a pandemic, and nonstop information warfare—has grown wary of performative leadership. In 2025, many voted for those who acknowledged their realities, not those who dictated narratives from above. Their impact was measurable. Former senators Bam Aquino and Kiko Pangilinan, widely seen as longshots in early surveys,
Visit Finland more than doubled its visitor count in 2024, to five million from two million in 2022.
The Filipino is usually portrayed as a happy people – always smiling, children laughing even if their toys are a tin can and wooden sticks and their swimming pool a flooded street. But in the 2025 World Happiness Report, the Philippines only ranked 57 out of 147 countries, the fourth happiest in Southeast Asia, behind Singapore (ranked 34), Vietnam (46) and
Looking for happiness
Thailand (49).
We scored 6.107 out of 10, in six key factors: GDP per capital, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom, generosity and corruption. With those categories, I can see why we didn’t score a lot higher; corruption alone probably dragged us way down.
The happiest are the Nordic countries Finland, Denmark, Iceland and Sweden, despite long winter nights and bitter cold many months of the year. Good governance,
good public policies such as free education and universal health care probably contribute to some significant degree to the population’s general happiness. Add to that, as the NYT writer noted, the Finns’ closeness to nature (74 percent of the country is forest, conducive to long walks and their “happiness hackers” even recommend talking to the trees) and to the sauna (there are reportedly three million saunas for a population of 5.5 million). Their ritual of alternating
sauna and a plunge in frigid waters (the Baltic is cold even in summer) may also have something to do with their attitude.
We’re sorely lacking in forest cover, and especially in urban areas there is a lack of parks and green spaces, so going out and telling our troubles to a tree may not be so easy. The La Mesa Dam Eco-Park and the Ninoy Aquino Wildlife Park in Quezon City, the Arroceros Park in Manila and even the Greenbelt Park in Makati offer urbanites
some respite. But in terms of natural forests, a December 2024 report of the Philippine Statistics Authority put the country’s forest cover at 6.91 million hectares, or just 23.4 percent of our total land area of 29.588 million hectares. Another report showed that back in 1934, we had 17.8 million hectares of forest cover, or 57 percent of total land area. So I guess I’ll have to be content with talking to my rubber tree (ficus elastica) growing happily in a pot on my balcony.
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ManilaTimes.net photo
Doreen G. Yu
surged back into the Senate with support rooted in youth and progressive circles.
Reform-driven party-list groups advocating
San Juanico Bridge rehab necessary – Malacañang
MANILA — Amid commuters’ complaints of restrictions imposed on San Juanico Bridge, Malacañang yesterday said the bridge’s P900-million rehabilitation is necessary to prevent accidents and ensure public safety.
“We prefer to avoid accidents that may happen if it is not fixed early,” Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said.
The deterioration of the bridge earlier led the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council in Eastern Visayas to place the region under blue alert, meaning over 50 percent of state agencies’ personnel must be prepared for possible response operations.
Vehicles weighing over three tons are not allowed to pass through the bridge.
Looking for happiness...
Our free education is a mess of poor planning and anomalies (vouchers for ghost students, for example) and universal health care, although mandated by law, is a bad and often fatal joke. PhilHealth is a colossal, dismal failure; a recent episode of a family member needing hospitalization had PhilHealth contributing less than five percent of hospital expenses, and nothing in terms of laboratory tests, doctors’ fees and medicines.
The ordinary Pinoy asks for so little from the government – and gets even less. So we should just take government out of the happiness equation and find it on our own, even in small ways.
The report found that sharing meals and trusting others are “strong predictors of well-being,” and on that score I think we’re on track. Dining alone is an alien concept for us; “Kain !” is more than a
gang got together for a belated birthday celebration (there is always a birthday to celebrate) and a sendoff for one relocating to Mindanao and one going off to Denmark for “apostolic” duties; it was a meal rambunctious, loud and long (almost three hours), with protestations of “I’m so full!” merely a prelude to another trip to the buffet table. Needless to say, all the cobwebs and the stresses and negativity of the past weeks were washed away by the halo-halo and affogato.
Results of the recent election brought happiness to some because their candidates pulled major upsets, while they were also happy that other candidates – although survey favorites –lost. The fact that the surveys could get it so wrong is also reason to be happy; now will those “false-sters” get off their high horses?
I got to thinking of happiness and joy and whether they were the same
circumstances around you are positive and favorable to a state of happiness. Joy, on the other hand, is like a wellspring from within, not just a feeling but a state of being, independent of and even in spite of external circumstances.
In the Bible, joy is described as a state of being rooted in faith and a relationship with God, a deep sense of peace and fulfillment (“Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be complete.” John 16:24). Joy can be had even in trials and tribulations (“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds…” James 1:2), hence the admonition to “rejoice in the Lord always” (Philippians 4:4).
So, while I hope you do find happiness, I wish you joy.(Philstar.com) * * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
MANILA — Local seaports facilitated heavier cargo volume in the first quarter, mostly accounted for by imported shipments as global trading activities continued to pick up, according to the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA).
According to the latest PPA data, cargo throughput in the first three months grew by 11 percent to 65.77 million metric tons (MT) from 59.52 million MT in the same period a year ago.
The latest figure represents about 22 percent of the 301.47-million MT projection for the year.
Bulk or about 57 percent of the total cargo volume in the first quarter comprised foreign shipments, amounting to 37.49 million MT. Broken down, imported cargo stood at about 26.77 million MT, while the remaining goods were exported.
“This notable improvement can be attributed in part to the steady performance of anchorage operations, particularly bulk cargo handling, further contributing to the rise in total cargo tonnage at Manila International Container Terminal,” PPA general manager Jay Santiago told the Inquirer.
In addition, the ports regulator said that the
National Capital RegionSouth and Palawan also handled a substantial amount of foreign shipments for the period.
Crude minerals, petroleum drive growth
“Overall, this upward trend reflects a strengthening in global trade and shipping activities,” he said.
Domestic shipments, meanwhile, reached 28.28 million in the first quarter.
About 15 million of the local cargo volume comprised outbound shipment.
PPA said the growth was driven by increased shipments of crude minerals and petroleum products at the Bataan and Aurora ports.
Along with these, the ports regulator observed a “significant rise in shipments of coal, sand and powergenerating equipment” at the Northern Luzon ports.
Overall, the majority or 29.55 million MT of the cargo volume passed
Comelec renews call for party-list law overhaul
by Mayen JayMalin Philstar.com
MANILA — With the partylist winners proclaimed, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has reiterated calls to overhaul the existing Party-list Law.
According to Comelec Chairman George Garcia, a new law is necessary to address the proper computation of seat distribution for party-lists and to determine whether party-list groups truly represent the marginalized.
through the ports in Manila and Northern Luzon.
The next busiest ports were in Visayas with 12.68 million MT and Southern Luzon with 11.58 million MT.
With cargo volume anticipated to grow, the PPA is crafting a master plan to establish 10 seaports across the country to improve connectivity and supply chain.
These terminals are located in: Davila, Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte; Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro; Taytay, Palawan; Buenavista, Guimaras; San Carlos, Negros Occidental; Dumaguete, Negros Oriental; Lazi, Siquijor; Catbalogan, Samar; and Zamboanga, Zamboanga del Sur.
In addition, it has been working on 14 big-ticket port projects, which are targeted to be completed by 2028. n
A generation takes its turn: How filipino...
education reform, clean governance, and human rights saw renewed momentum. In the local races, candidates who relied on grassroots social media engagement often outperformed better-funded dynasties. In many contests, legacy names were no longer an asset—they were a liability.
This was more than a voter turnout story. It was a political coming-of-age—a generation refusing to be sidelined and no longer waiting for influence to be handed down. Many of these young Filipinos had spent
the past decade watching older generations steer the country’s direction with little regard for those who would live with the consequences. In 2025, they took the wheel. And they did it differently. Through TikTok explainers, Reddit threads, Twitter spaces, Discord debates, livestreamed town halls, and fact-checking collectives, they bypassed traditional gatekeepers. They didn’t wait for mainstream media or political machines to validate their voices. They became the validators, the informers, and the organizers. But their influence now comes with a test. A vote
is not the culmination of political engagement—it is the beginning. To maintain momentum, young voters must continue participating, questioning, and organizing. At the same time, leaders who benefitted from this energized base must now show they were worthy of that trust—or risk losing it just as quickly.
The 2025 elections will be remembered not only for who won, but for who made them win. For the first time in modern Philippine history, the nation witnessed what happens when a generation stops waiting for its turn and takes it instead. n
“In the end, a law should be in place. There is only so much that we can do,” he said at a press conference.
In the 2028 elections, the COMELEC will no longer allow party-list groups to adopt the names of popular television shows and government assistance programs, Garcia said.
But without the necessary law, any moves to be taken by the Commission may be declared unconstitutional, the poll chief stressed.
Garcia said he will continue pushing for amendments of the PartyList Law and expressed optimism party-list groups will support a new law that truly reflects the sentiment of the underrepresented.
Proclaimed COMELEC officially proclaimed 52 out of the 54 winning party-list groups on Monday, May 20.
Garcia said three of the winning party-list groups – Akbayan, Duterte Youth and Tingog – will have three seats each, while three others – 4Ps, ACT-CIS and Ako Bicol – will have two representatives in Congress.
According to the poll chief, the increase in the number of party-list groups with more than one representation in the House of Representatives is historic.
“These are not just numbers on a table, but a testament to the growing support and efforts behind every group. These results showed that representation is not just symbolic but sincere and has a strong linkage to the communities where they come from,” Garcia said.
Akbayan, which garnered the highest number of votes (2.77 million), intends to
form a so-called “reform bloc” in the House of Representatives to champion “urgent and transformative” legislative reforms.
“We thank the Filipino people for their trust and for giving us the opportunity to continue delivering the dedicated service that Akbayan Party-list is known for. We will not let you down,” Akbayan party-list’s incoming Rep. Chel Diokno said.
“Our assignments as Akbayan representatives are clear – first, to establish public demand for justice and accountability and second, to champion reforms that are much needed to alleviate the conditions of our people,” he added.
Diokno has been named a member of the House prosecution panel in the upcoming impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.
Meanwhile, Garcia said representatives of the newly proclaimed party-list groups, organizations and political parties represent 63 seats or 20 percent of the total composition of the House of Representatives.
The distribution of seats, Garcia said was based on a formula provided by the Supreme Court.
A total of 41,950,292 votes were cast for the party-list election during the May 12 elections. Groups that obtained two percent of the total votes are guaranteed one seat. The additional seats will also be based on the same figure.
Garcia said party-list groups that failed to win a seat in the past two elections face cancellation of accreditation with the
Commission.
Party-list fraud?
According to election watchdog Kontra Daya, about six in every 10 incoming party-list representatives in the 20th Congress do not represent the marginalized and underrepresented sectors of the country.
In a statement, Kontra Daya said 38 of the 63 incoming representatives belong to groups they earlier flagged as having ties to political dynasties, big businesses or military and the police.
These include Duterte Youth and Bagong Henerasyon, whose proclamations were suspended due to pending cases filed before the COMELEC
Kontra Daya said some of the winning party-lists have pending corruption cases, dubious advocacies or limited or no information at all.
“Let us exert public pressure on the 20th Congress to push for the passage of the anti-dynasty law and the amendment to the party-list law to make the latter truly representative of the marginalized and the underrepresented,” Kontra Daya convenor Danilo Arao said.
“The rich and powerful’s hijacking of the party-list system should stop,” he added.
In February, Kontra Daya released a study showing that more than half of the 156 party-lists allowed to run in the midterm elections do not represent the marginalized and underrepresented sectors. (With reports with Janvic Mateo, Delon Porcalla)
INQUIRER FILE PHOTO
According to Comelec Chairman George Garcia, a new law is necessary to address the proper computation of seat distribution for party-lists and to determine whether party-list groups truly represent the marginalized. STAR / File
Top 6 party-lists: Who won multiple seats...
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law enforcement.
Tingog – 1.822 million votes
Tingog Party-list, rooted in Leyte, became the final group to win three seats in the 2025 elections — its largest representation yet. It pledges to represent Eastern Visayans by injecting a “regional perspective” into national issues.
Tingog has passed measures on government digitalization, consumer and merchant protection in online transactions, SIM registration, and the New Government Procurement Act.
It filed several bills related to education, the economy and health, including proposals for last-mile schools, a rural employment assistance program, and Magna Cartas for barangay health workers, public school teachers and commuters.
The group is led by House Speaker Martin Romualdez, whose son, Andrew Julian Romualdez, takes over as the first nominee, replacing his mother, Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez.
This succession underscores the group’s ties to a political dynasty, with multiple family members holding seats in Congress.
The House speaker himself is the cousin of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
The two other seats will be filled by Rep. Jude Acidre and businesswoman Marie Calatrava.
Two seats
4Ps – 1.469 million votes
Pagtibayin at Palaguin ang Pangkabuhayang Pilipino, or 4Ps, shares its name with the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) cash aid program, Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program.
It seeks to focus on poverty alleviation, social welfare and the empowerment of marginalized sectors, particularly 4Ps beneficiaries. The partylist has faced scrutiny over alleged ties to the government’s social welfare program, which it has since denied.
The 4Ps Party-list filed measures related to the government’s conditional cash transfer program, including a bill proposing the creation of management offices in every region, city and municipality, and a resolution urging the DSWD
to raise the amount of cash grants.
Other bills it filed seek to mandate funeral packages for indigents, expand tax exemptions for balikbayan purchases, and institutionalize medical aid for poor patients through the Department of Health’s (DOH) programs.
Now on its third term since winning two seats in 2022, 4Ps will be represented by incumbent Rep. Marcelino Libanan and Rep. Jonathan Clement Abalos II.
ACT-CIS – 1.239 million votes
Once the top-performing group in the 2019 and 2022 party-list races, ACT-CIS failed to retain its three seats and will now only have two. It will be occupied by Rep. Edvic Yap and Rep. Jocelyn Tulfo, wife of Sen. Raffy Tulfo.
ACT-CIS, short for AntiCrime and TerrorismCommunity Involvement and Support, Inc., claims to represent the oppressed and abused, with a platform focused on crime prevention and support for overseas Filipino workers.
The party-list was among the principal authors of the Maharlika Investment Fund. It also filed bills to boost senior employment, penalize road rage, mandate CCTV installation in establishments, and criminalize the creation and dissemination of disinformation.
ACT-CIS has drawn criticism for being part of a political dynasty, with its representatives having relatives in Congress and local government.
Ako Bicol – 1.073 million votes
Ako Bicol, a regional party-list based in the Bicol Region, was the last to secure two seats — a feat it has consistently achieved in past elections. Its two seats will be
Marcos willing to reconcile with Dutertes...
PAGE 3 complaint,” Defensor said.
“And for the record, it is our wish and our hope that the Supreme Court will no longer interfere and meddle in the impeachment process, because this is purely a political process,” he said.
“I am confident our Supreme Court will respect the separation of powers,” he added.
occupied by Rep. Elizaldy Co, who previously served as the appropriations committee chairperson, and Legazpi Mayor Alfredo Garbin Jr.
The party-list has been flagged for its connection with big businesses. For instance, Co was also the president of Sunwest Construction and Development Corp. While he divested from it, reports show he is still a shareholder of firms tied to it.
Co was heavily criticized for focusing on Vice President Sara Duterte’s alleged misuse of confidential funds during the 2025 budget hearings and for the blank line items found in the bicameral conference committee report.
He also backed the subsidy cuts for the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and defended the billions allocated for DSWD’s Ayuda para sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP), which is being challenged at the Supreme Court over alleged similarities to pork barrel.
Some of the bills it filed include a universal social pension for seniors, protection and benefits for media workers, a logging ban in Cagayan de Oro, waived entrance exam fees for the top 10% of high school graduates, disaster risk and management reform, and food banks in every province and city.
Proclaimed party-lists
Each party-list representative serves a three-year term, with a limit of three terms. In the 2025 midterm elections, 52 partylists were proclaimed, while two others were deferred due to pending disqualification cases.
This is the first of a twopart Philstar.com explainer on the background of winning party-lists for the 20th Congress. n
The complaint accuses her of culpable violation of the Constitution and betrayal of public trust, citing among others her alleged misuse of confidential funds of the Office of the vice president and the Department of Education, which she headed; as well as her alleged threat to have President Marcos and his family assassinated.
Defensor pointed out that the impeachment of a high-ranking official is not a judicial proceeding, but a political one, as provided for under the 1987 Constitution and entrusted solely to the legislative branch. (With reports with Delon
An 'interesting mix': What the new...
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needs to be implemented. Some of these might be overlapping naman with the interest of the senators, even if they might align themselves more with the Duterte camp,” Arugay explained.
The Philippines' economic situation remains fragile as it grapples with decadeold issues such as inflation and mounting public debt, posing serious challenges for policymakers.
Economist and educator JC Punongbayan noted how the Philippine economy is still “ailing from many problems” to this day.
“For example, the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic recession, the increasing debt, so it's incumbent upon the new batch of senators to push for well-meaning and meaningful reforms for the future,” he said.
The climb is steep, but Punongbayan is confident that the government will be able to pursue much-needed reforms to fix the economy.
“I'm quite hopeful that with many opposition figures coming in, at least we'll have better debates, better legislative deliberations in the coming months and years,” he said.
According to him, some bills that need to be in the spotlight include military and uniformed personnel pension reforms, legislation that will improve the ease of doing business in the country, and tax reforms that can move the country towards fiscal consolidation and better debt management.
For him, the incoming leaders should focus on education as it is “one of the greatest hurdles or constraints
in the Philippine economy” and exert greater scrutiny on the budget.
Punongbayan highlighted how the education sector would benefit from Aquino being in the lineup, as he had leveraged his past policies on education. Pangilinan’s focus on agriculture and food is also essential as it’s “an important sector that needs greater focus and more reforms.”
More than half of the senators in the coming set have strong economic goals: Aquino and Go focus on providing employment and livelihood; Marcos eyes equal minimum wage across all regions; Tulfo aims to amend the Rice Tariffication Law and institutionalize sustainable livelihood programs; Pangilinan wants to lower the prices of products, Sotto will scrutinize the national government budget; and Villar is set on strengthening small and medium-sized enterprises.
Punongbayan acknowledged that the Congress “exerts a lot of influence in steering many of these policy reforms,” but noted that “many of these policies need to be scrutinized as well.”
“Hopefully, the new batch of senators will exert greater independence on these economic and social issues and the reforms that are needed,” he continued.
'Moving in the right direction'
While the senatorial lineup may “not [be] perfect,” Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation chief economist Michael Ricafort noted that it's at least “moving in the right direction” as fewer names are involved in political dynasties or elected based on popularity.
“As it turned out, it's relatively peaceful and orderly. That's a good sign,” he said, highlighting how the market has reacted positively to the May 12 polls.
“The stock market is at the highest in more than four months. May kumpiyansa ‘yung investors. They see better things ahead,” he explained, adding that this could open the door for both local and foreign investors to establish businesses in the Philippines, generate employment opportunities, and potentially help address the country's ongoing budget deficit.
In the end, the chosen officials are here to lead for the next few years, whether the Filipino masses accept it or not. Whether the direction these officials will take is for better or for worse remains to be seen, but there’s no doubt about the impact they will have on the lives of everyday Filipinos.
“Politics is always like that. No one really gets what they want in politics, especially all the time. At the end, the senators are accountable to the people, so it's important for the voters to be informed of how they are performing and to push them to be more accountable for their decisions,” Arugay urged.
As for all of us, Arugay said that it's our responsibility to make sure that we are consuming true and credible information. “There's a lot of disinformation out there,” he noted. “And you must not disengage—the behavior should not be, ‘Oh, I did not vote for these senators, I just don't care.’ In fact, you should care more.” n
President Marcos answers questions from broadcast journalist Anthony Taberna during the BBM podcast, which was uploaded on his various social media accounts on May 19. STAR / File
Porcalla, Mayen Jaymalin)
Composite photo shows some of the nominees of winning party-lists in the 2025 midterm elections. Philstar.com/Anj Andaya
COMMUNITY JOURNAL
A mother’s love, a sister’s sacrifice: Citizen Pinoy shares the inspiring journey of a reunited family
THIS Sunday on “Citizen Pinoy,” witness the moving story of a mother’s persistence and a sister’s sacrifice in the face of immigration challenges. Lolita, a devoted mother, petitioned both her children, Cristy and Julian, to join her in the United States.
Cristy’s green card was processed first, and she arrived in the U.S. in 2009. But only six months later, she made the painful decision to return to the Philippines to care for her younger brother, Julian, who had been hospitalized. Without filing a re-entry permit, Cristy stayed too long abroad, and the U.S. Embassy deemed her green card abandoned.
In 2010, Julian’s immigration was finally processed, and he was able to fly to the U.S. But Cristy, despite
wanting to return with him, had her green card revoked. Her mother Lolita immediately filed a new petition for Cristy that same year. By 2021, the National Visa Center confirmed that Cristy’s case was documentarily complete, but the family waited years with no word on an interview. Meanwhile, Lolita became legally blind, and Julian’s heart condition worsened — both desperately needing Cristy’s help and presence.
After being told by another attorney that nothing could be done, the family turned to leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel. In May 2024, he took on the case and successfully requested the U.S. Embassy to expedite
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CITIZEN PINOY SHOWS HOW A SISTER’S SACRIFICE AND A MOTHER’S HOPE LED TO A JOURNEY BACK TO THE AMERICAN DREAM. This Sunday on “Citizen Pinoy,” follow the emotional story of Cristy (2nd from left), who gave up her green card in 2009 to return to the Philippines and care for her ailing brother Julian (left). Though she had just arrived in the U.S., she chose family over her American Dream. Her green card was later revoked for staying abroad too long without a re-entry permit. Cristy’s mother, Lolita (3rd from left), filed a new petition in 2010. Years passed, and by 2021, her case was ready — but no interview was scheduled. As Lolita became legally blind and Julian’s heart condition worsened, the family turned to leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel (right) for help. Cristy finally arrived in the U.S. in March 2025. Starting over after 15 years, she says she has no regrets. Her selfless decision to care for her brother remains her proudest choice. Watch this inspiring family story on an encore episode of Citizen Pinoy on Sunday, May 25 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. (Advertising Supplement)
Health@Heart Measles can kill
PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS
THE current measles outbreak has targeted North Dakota, having its first case since 2011. The count went up to 1001 on May 9, 2025, more than 3 times in all of 2024, reports the CDC. More cases are expected. The 3-month outbreak in Texas owns the vast majority of cases, with 702 confirmed. This viral infection has spread to New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Kansas. Two unvaccinated children died from measles-related disease in West Texas, the epicenter. And an adult in New Mexico, who was unvaccinated, died from the complications of measles.
Many other states are reporting cases of measles. In 2019, there were 1,261 cases of measles in 31 states.
Unvaccinated people, when exposed, are very prone to developing measles. Misinformation, confusion, complacency all account for the lowered vaccination rate and for the outbreak.
Measles is a very contagious viral illness that mostly affects unvaccinated children but adults who are unvaccinated are also potential victims. It is more serious among adults and babies. Measles, a potential killer, is easily preventable by a vaccine.
Shoes and backpain
A great news of relief to those with back pains. Two studies presented at the 2025 World Congress on Osteoarthritis in Incheon, South Korea, have this report: “A shoe-based biomechanical intervention worn for a short time each day may achieve greater improvements in low back pain and greater reductions in the risk for total knee replacement surgery than standard physical
therapy, according to two studies.”
The U.S. FDA has cleared this shoe-based intervention, “which alters the foot’s pressure points to reduce loads, minimize symptoms, and promote neuromuscular control training using adjustable, convex pods under the sole, according to the researchers.”
Those special “biomechanical” shoes will be heaven-sent to those 619 million with back pain, 40 million with hip pain, or the 654 million with knee pain, around the world, all from osteoarthritis.
Simple urine test
Early detection of prostate cancer is still a huge clinical challenge today because of lack of reliable biomarkers. This disease is highly treatable when diagnosed in its early stage.
A new study, posted in the journal Cancer Research, reports that early-stage prostatic cancer can be detected using a new simple urine test. The new set of urine-based biomarkers can accurately find both the presence and severity of prostatic cancer. “The study combined artificial intelligence and detailed genetic analysis and could potentially offer an alternative to current PSA testing,” said the report.
Cancer of the prostate is one of the most frequent cancers in men and early detection leads to high rate of surgical cure. This new simple urine test will lead to early detection which translate to saving maximum of lives, not possible before.
Plant-based diet
There is no question that what we eat affects our health and longevity to a significant extent. For a healthy diet, half of our plate should have plant-based foods, such as colorful vegetables and fruits, a quarter with whole grain (rice, quinoa, bread, preferably non-wheat, and a quarter with
protein (either plant-based or animal based). Most veggies contain polyphenols, health antioxidants, which protects body cells from damages, reduces inflammation, has neuro-protection for the brain, and lowers the risk for common chronic diseases. It is also good for our microbiome, gut-health, especially some fermented foods.
The less red meat we eat the better. Avoiding processed foods (like those in a deli like bacon, sausages, etc.) could lower our risk for cancers. And so with grilled foods (meat or veggies) with charcoal-burnt surfaces, which should be trimmed or scraped away. Red meat consumption is linked to increased risk for cardiovascular diseases (heart attack, stroke) and cancer. Plant-based diet, together with fish, is a healthy diet.
About 20-35 percent of our total calories should be fats –healthy fats from olives, extra virgin cold-processed olive oil, mild olive oil for cooking, avocados, seeds, and nuts.
Finally, diet-wise, let’s stay away from foods containing gluten and lectin, which increases the risk for gut issues and inflammation, creating havoc to our microbiome (bacterial balance in our gut), which is fundamental to our health and well-being.
We used to think oatmeal and soy products (tofu, etc.) are healthy food items for everyone. In some people, oatmeal causes blood sugar spikes, the phytic acid in oat hinders mineral absorption, and the oats has gluten in them and some could contain mold toxins.
Choose gluten-free oatmeal, soak them first for a few minutes before cooking to reduce phytic acid and buy whole, unflavored old-fashioned (not instant) oatmeal, preferably steel-cut.
Fil-Am actor Timothy Granaderos embraces Filipino roots
He joins Lovi Poe and Enchong Dee in 'The Sacrifice'
by Gavin Martinez Inquirer.net
FILIPINO American actor Timothy Granaderos is embracing his heritage in a major way as he films “The Sacrifice,” a psychological horror movie currently in production in the Philippines.
Best known for his role in “13 Reasons Why,” Granaderos is working alongside an all-star Filipino cast that includes Lovi Poe, Lav Diaz and Enchong Dee in a chilling new project directed by Prime Cruz.
Granaderos, who has been enjoying his time in the Philippines, wrote in an Instagram post, “Feeling closer to my roots” with one photo showing him writing “I love Philippines.”
The actor has also been sharing snippets of his time on set, including a humorous video with Max Collins, who teased their lingo by captioning, “When your American friends say ‘petmalu’ and ‘lodi’ like they’re ordering off a secret menu at Jollibee.”
Talking about the film, according to the article by Deadline, “The Sacrifice” centers on a group of travel
vloggers who stumble upon a secluded village steeped in folklore, ancient rituals and a sinister legend that begins to consume their reality.
Poe, who also serves as a producer through her company C’est Lovi Productions, shared a collaborative Instagram post with her castmates, writing, “Hot off the press @ deadline: Currently filming ‘THE SACRIFICE’ with this powerhouse team,” tagging Granaderos, Diaz, Dee and members of the production crew including Monty Blencowe and Louie Chapman.
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Cristy’s long-delayed visa. The request was approved, and in March 2025 — more than 15 years after she first arrived — Cristy was finally reunited with her family in America.
Now restarting her American Dream from
Granaderos chimed in with excitement, commenting, “Awwyaa, this one’s special,” accompanied by a Philippine flag emoji. Veteran comedienne Marietta Subong, known to many as Pokwang, also joins the growing ensemble, with more cast members yet to be announced.
As filming continues, “The Sacrifice” promises not just to terrify audiences, but also to serve as a celebration of Filipino talent and heritage which is a fitting homecoming for Granaderos, who is finding deeper connections both professionally and personally in the country of his roots.
A mother’s love, a sister’s sacrifice...
the beginning, Cristy has no regrets. Giving up her green card in 2009 to care for her sick brother was, in her heart, the right thing to do. Her story of compassion, perseverance, and a mother’s unwavering determination is one that will inspire and move many
on this encore episode of Citizen Pinoy on Sunday, May 25 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the free app. (Advertising Supplement)
Timothy Granaderos Photo from timothygranaderos/Instagram
The Face on the screen is smiling—From the Philippines
by aJpress
At Sansan Chicken in Manhattan’s East Village, the lunch rush begins with the glow of a screen. Customers step up to a mounted display above the register. A woman appears, wearing a headset and delivering a practiced greeting. Her voice is clear. Her manner is calm and confident. Her location? Thousands of miles away. She’s in the Philippines.
This is the new face of service at a growing number of New York City restaurants. Through a company called Happy Cashier, fast-casual establishments like Sansan Chicken, Sansan Ramen in Long Island City, and Yaso Kitchen have outsourced their front-of-house roles to remote cashiers. These virtual workers, connected via live video feed, take orders, process payments, and engage with customers in real time—despite being on the other side of the world.
Remote work, Real connection
To most diners, the interaction feels seamless. Orders are placed, cards are tapped, and brief conversations unfold naturally. Only subtle cues—a mention of tropical heat, or a time zone 12 hours ahead— reveal the distance between cashier and customer.
While some patrons are surprised to learn their server is in Manila or Cebu, many describe the experience as smooth and personable. The digital setup retains the rhythm and warmth of inperson service, even across oceans.
The workers earn between $3 and $3.75 per hour, significantly below New York’s $16 minimum wage, but a livable rate in the Philippines. For restaurant owners facing persistent labor shortages and soaring
operational costs, the model offers a lifeline—keeping staffing expenses low without compromising the human touch.
Service through the screen
Happy Cashier’s workers are not bots or AI avatars. They are live, trained professionals—many with backgrounds in hospitality or call centers—who operate during New York business hours. They’re trained to make eye contact through the camera, upsell with subtlety, and manage multi-customer flow as if they were in the room.
Customers are still prompted to tip during checkout. Although the exact split varies by establishment, tips are reportedly shared among the kitchen crew, management, and the remote cashier.
Some diners have observed that the screen-based interaction can feel more attentive than typical counter service. Despite the physical absence, the cashiers remain present in the moment— smiling, efficient, and
professional.
A shifting service landscape
Critics warn that outsourcing even entry-level hospitality roles contributes to the erosion of local job opportunities. Labor advocates question the longterm impact of replacing domestic roles with cheaper overseas labor, even when delivered by real people.
Happy Cashier, now active in dozens of New York restaurants and expanding rapidly, frames its mission as dual-purpose: helping small businesses survive and creating dignified jobs abroad. Its model is being adopted by restaurants seeking flexibility without sacrificing warmth.
Redefining face-to-face
In a city already accustomed to digital kiosks and app-based ordering, the livestreamed cashier may be the next logical step. But unlike faceless machines, these workers bring personality and presence, even through a screen.
The counter may be virtual—but the service is unmistakably human.
Kylie Verzosa back in Cannes for 3rd time wearing Mark Bumgarner
by Kristofer Purnell Philstar.com
BEAUTY queen-turnedactress Kylie Verzosa walked the Cannes Film Festival red carpet for a third consecutive year, and in glowing fashion no less.
For her Cannes return this year, Verzosa again opted for a design by Mark Bumgarner: a strapless butter yellow gown with a corseted bodice, and lowerhalf shaped like a rose.
Miss International 2016 complemented her look with jewelry from Tiffany and Co. and makeup by L'Oréal, which invited Verzosa to this year's edition of the prestigious film festival.
In an Instagram post, Bumgarner said the gown's color was inspired by
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Shingles vaccine
summer mornings, "Subtle, yet rich enough to stand out in the Riviera sun."
"The silhouette is anchored by structure and minimalist lines. At the base of the
dress is our signature style of repetition: waves of cutout organza meticulously arranged to form a flower in bloom," he added. "A balance of effortless style and sophistication for Kylie's 3rd Cannes red carpet."
Bumgarner designed the three outfits Verzosa wore for her Cannes debut in 2023, and two of her dresses last year. Verzosa walked the red carpet ahead of the premiere of Richard Linklater's "Nouvelle Vague," one of the 22 films competing for the Palme d'Or.
Earlier in the film festival, Marina Summers became the first Filipino drag queen to walk the Cannes red carpet, also wearing a Bumgarner dress.
Measles can kill...
Thirty-three percent (one out of 3) adults around the world will develop shingles, actually a re-activation of the varicella-zoster virus in them, which causes chickenpox, to which they have been exposed to before, most during their childhood. Shingles infection could lead serious, chronic, bothersome complications. Those who are 50 and over can significantly benefit from the shingles vaccine, which provides 90 percent protection. Lately, studies revealed that shingles vaccine also lower the risk for dementia and cardiovascular ailments, like heart attack and stroke, which protection could last up to eight years.
Home apnea test
Medical, engineering and technological progress are not only mind-boggling but make life more comfortable and convenient for the world. For those with sleep apnea (prolonged breath-holding,
with oxygen deficient blood, and waking us gasping for breath), they no longer have to go to the sleep laboratory in hospitals for a sleep study, where dozens of sensors are connected to you while you spend the night in that hospital.
The amazing miniaturization of sophisticated technological devices now allows people to conduct a basic sleep test in their own bed at home. Besides you, insurance companies and physicians love it too. The home sleep apnea test costs at least 20 times cheaper than the sleep study in a hospital. And definitely more convenient for everyone worldwide.
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The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
* * *
The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people to live a healthier lifestyle, to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve
a happier and more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation, or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable to or appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute for your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health.
* * *
Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, newspaper columnist, and chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He was a recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, presented by then Indiana Governor, U.S. senator, and later a presidential candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry S. Truman, President George HW Bush, Muhammad Ali, Astronaut Gus Grissom, scientists, and educators. (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday.com, and philipSchua.com; Amazon.com (“Where is My America?”); Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com.
A customer places an order with a virtual cashier via live video at restaurant in Manhattan. The screen connects diners with remote workers based in the Philippines— part of a growing trend in New York restaurants blending technology and hospitality. Photo credit Happycashier.com
Kylie Verzosa at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival Photo from Instagram/@Kylie Verzosa
roGelio ConStantino MeDina My P.E.P. (People, Events,Places)
THERE is an advantage of being in the U.S. and being with my family, relatives and friends: I am reading the Holy Bible once again and joining Bible study groups.
One thing I learn is to practice humility, to trust in the Lord for proper guidance and to ask for the right decision.
You must have faith and avoid leaning on your own understanding. Do not doubt for if you doubt it is like a wave being driven and tossed by the wind.
I am inspired by the verses I read in Proverbs 3:5-6 and James 1: 5-6.
* * * Wedding consultant Henry Roxas Ayson recently celebrated his surprise 65th birthday in Hiddenbrooke, Vallejo, California. It was attended by members of his family, relatives and friends.
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With social media scams surfacing, especially coming from famous personalities in the past, I am always very careful since I am a journalist.
There are so many alleged famous celebrities befriending me in Facebook. It started with Prince Abdul Mateen Bolkiah in 2024, then followed by American actor Jay Harrington in early February 2025 and now Elon Musk in May 2025. With alleged Elon Musk, I felt doubt for how a busy man would ever befriend me
The advantage of being in the US
in Facebook. So, I replied simply that I felt doubt that how a nobody like me in the U.S. could be given attention by famous Elon Musk. But some minutes later, after I finished sending my questions for Sticker Mule CEO Anthony Constantino, I received a video call. I was surprised to see Elon Musk. I put out my pair of eyeglasses to gaze him nearer to my cellphone’s viewer as I heard him calling my first name Rogelio and the voice was not clearer afterwards. I saw he was in an office.
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My heartfelt congratulations to the 2nd anniversary of Media House Express. A myriad blessings. It is a great honor to be always like a family member of Media House Express, home of news and entertainment.
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Thanks to the staffers of the North Bay Occupational Health for the physical examination accredited by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. It is located at 2470 Hilborn Road, Suite 100 in Fairfield, California. Dr. Yolanta Petrofsky is the contact civil surgeon.
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First Lady Melania Trump recently honored military mothers at the White House.
“Military mothers and America — together — have developed an extraordinary parallel journey. They are filled with stories of personal sacrifice, determination, loss, and healing,” said First Lady Trump.
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I really admire U.S. President Donald J. Trump helping to bring back safely
to their families the astronauts who were stranded in outer space for 9 months (thanks to Elon Musk, SpaceX and NASA), an American ballerina who was imprisoned in Russia, and an American teenager who had been held hostage.
Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost (now Pope Leo XIV) deserves to be a pope. I met him in San Agustin Church in Intramuros, Manila years ago.
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Singer Lae ManegoFranzani, Sovereign Seal of Business Triumph and Remarkable Achievers, Philippines’ Finest Business Award and Outstanding Achievers and Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Award recipient, is married to businessman Querino Franzani of Netherlands. She has been supporting her family in Davao.
“I am truly blessed to be surrounded by love in many forms. First and foremost, I am deeply in love with my family – my husband, kids,
and parents. They are my rock, my support system, and my everything. Their unwavering love and encouragement inspire me to be the best version of myself every day,” she said.
In addition to her family, she is also passionate about giving back to her community. “I believe that love and kindness can transform lives and make the world a better place. Through my music, philanthropy, and volunteer work, I strive to spread love, positivity, and empowerment to those around me. Overall, I feel grateful to be living a life filled with love, purpose, and meaning.”
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Possessing an adventurous spirit, entrepreneur David Isip immigrated to the United States at age 17 in 1976. He stumbled onto the window treatment business by accident in 1979 when his landlord mentioned she was going to be replacing the blinds in an apartment in San Francisco. Wanting to be a good tenant, David told her that he could do all the leg work of ordering, picking up, and installing the blinds if she covered the costs. After finishing the job, he thought to himself, “I could do this
for a living.” He officially created his window treatment business in 1980, and he has been providing his clients with the best customer service and fair prices ever since.
“We provide measurement, design, and installation services for all types of window treatments: plantation shutters (composite wood, real wood, vinyl), horizontal blinds (faux wood, real wood, aluminum), shades (Roman shades, roller shades, honeycomb shades, cellular shades, cordless shades, remote control shades), and more. We serve the entire Bay Area,” said founder David, who later passed on his business to his son Miguel who manages the Budget Windows Coverings, a low-volume provider of window treatments.
He continues: “We are a local father-and-son small business that prides itself in providing with the best possible customer service experience along with top-ofthe-line products by Hunter Douglas and Norman Window Fashions. Because we are a home-based operation,
we can make the process easy for our customers by coming to their home or office at their convenience. Additionally, our low overhead translates into greater savings for our customers who will notice the difference with us as compared to a chain or big-box store simply because we care. Our customers are our family.”
* * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
* * * rogeliocmedina@yahoo.com
Heidi Mendoza with her husband Roy First Lady Melania Trump (seated, first row, 5th from left) recently honored military mothers at the White House during Mother’s Day observation and three children Albert, Atty. Paula and Miguel.
President Trump and freed American ballerina Ksenia Karelina in the White House’s Oval Office.
Lae Manego with her husband Querino Franzani.
Lae Manego with her husband Querino Franzani.
AJ Columnist Rogelio Constantino Medina (middle) with North Bay Occupational Health staffers on Hilborn Road in Fairfield.
Entrepreneur David Isip (left) with his son Miguel Isip.
Birthday celebrant Henry Roxas Ayson (in shaded eyeglasses) with his family, relatives and friends after a Bible fellowship in April Joy Samantha Ayson’s home in Hiddenbrooke, Vallejo, California. Photos compiled by Rogelio Medina
Wedding consultant Henry Roxas Ayson (left) with AJ columnist Rogelio Constantino Medina.
Pope Leo XIV (middle) with his older brothers.
Ben&Ben headlines tribute concert for Filipino seafarers
by Jan Milo severo Philstar.com
FOLK-POP rock band
Ben&Ben will headline a tribute concert for Filipino seamen and their families in celebration of Filipino Seafarers Month in June.
"Alon: Pag-ibig, Pangarap, Pag-asa" will be staged at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, Manila, on June 28.
The upcoming show is more than a concert. It is a fundraising initiative supporting the Gregorio Oca Leadership and Development (GOLD) Foundation’s programs in leadership development, welfare, and holistic family support for seafarers — efforts aligned with OSM Thome’s safety, care, and sustainability values.
Ben&Ben’s music reflects the lives of every Filipino — their love, their aspiration, and their hope. Like the waves, the band's songs carry both the sadness and even the fortitude of the seafarer's journey, riding along the ocean's vastness and their sacrifices.
In a recent online survey, Ben&Ben songs topped among other songs due to their hugot-filled (evoking) and soul-stirring melodies.
Actor Kelvin Miranda will also join the concert. He had his breakthrough role in 2019 when he portrayed the role of Mark Santa Maria in the first Filipino Netflix Original film, “Dead Kids.” He is also a recording artist and released his single “Slow Dance,”
Dolly
which took the second spot on the iTunes PH chart on the day of its release.
Today, he stars as the prince slave as Diwan Adamus of Lireo, Alena's second son and the only son of the late Chief Memfes of Gunikar tribe. He is part of the next generation of Sang'gres in the hit telefantasya "Encantadia Chronicles: Sang'gre." Like his character in the fantasy series, he is the keeper of the Water Gem. In real life, he is an ally to seafarers.
"Tawag ng Tanghalan" season 3's second placer John Mark Saga steps on
stage to share a heartfelt tribute to his father, a Filipino seafarer whose sacrifices paved the way for the life he has today.
Also joining the concert is Calista, the four-member girl group under Merlion Entertainment. They are composed of Anne, Denise, Elle and Dain.
Gelo Ruiz directs "Alon," produced by OrangeSkies Productions with the Associated Marine Officers’ Union of the Philippines as its co-presenter and its partner beneficiary, the GOLD Foundation Inc.
de Leon, Jon Jon
Briones join Netflix's 'Avatar' series
by Kristofer Purnell Philstar.com
TWO more Filipinos are joining the cast of Netflix's live-action series adaptation of "Avatar: The Last Airbender" as members of the Fire Nation.
Award-winning actress Dolly de Leon will take on the dual role of Lo and Li, the non-firebending twin advisors of Princess Azula, portrayed by Elizabeth Yu.
Filipino American thespian Jon Jon Briones, meanwhile, will play swordmaster Piandao in the
show's third season.
Other newcomers to the series are Madison Hu, Dichen Lachman, Lily Gao, Terry Chen, and Tantoo Cardinal, who join previously announced cast additions Miya Cech, Chin Han, Hoa Xuande, Justin Chien, Amanda Zhou, Crystal Yu, Kelemete Misipeka, Lourdes Faberes, and Rekha Sharma. De Leon received global recognition for her scenestealing performance in "Triangle of Sadness." She is also known for starring in "Iti Mapukpukaw," "Verdict," "A Very Good Girl," "On the
Meghan Markle’s dad, half-brother move to PH, live in Cebu apartment
by anne PasaJol Inquirer.net
MEGHAN Markle’s estranged father, Thomas Markle Sr., and her halfbrother, Thomas Markle Jr, have reportedly moved to the Philippines and been living in an apartment in Cebu.
The 80-year-old mobilityimpaired father and his son’s relocation was first disclosed by an unidentified source to British tabloid newspaper The Mirror, which then also released photos of the two walking in Cebu.
The two are reportedly renting an apartment that has a monthly cost of £500, or over P37,000.
“There are only two types of weather in Cebu: hot and humid, and hot and humid and raining. It’s brutal even for men half his age, but it’s still sad to see him looking as though he’s struggling,” the source was quoted as saying. “Thomas and his son only recently moved into the property and they are still finding their feet in Cebu after the big move abroad, but they’re here together and are firmly supporting each other.”
Meghan, a former Hollywood actress, is now the Duchess of Sussex after marrying Prince Harry, son of Britain’s King Charles III and the late Princess Diana, and younger brother to the heir apparent, Prince William.
Prior to her wedding in 2018, Meghan became estranged from her father after he supposedly sold paparazzi photos. Their estrangement reportedly escalated into him not attending her wedding at the Windsor Castle in the United Kingdom, and the British and Hollywood media feasted on the controversy involving the
new royal. Nor was the elder Markle ever reported to have visited when the Sussexes moved to California with their two children.
A book and a documentary
Thomas Jr. has been caring for his dad, a former Hollywood lighting director, who suffered from two heart attacks and a stroke in the past years. Thomas Sr. has reportedly been struggling with his mobility and has been using a walking stick to help himself.
Thomas Jr. immediately confirmed this, even revealing that he spends some of his time in the country writing a book about the Duchess of Sussex‘s childhood.
“When my book is finished, ooh it’ll be swooped up real quick [because] it’s getting there. I’m working on it. It’s coming out,” he told The Mirror. “When the book gets read, the documentary will follow,” he added.
It can be recalled that Thomas Jr. slammed Meghan for the supposed “malarkey” stories in her series “With
Love, Meghan” released in March. In the series, the Duchess of Sussex claimed her family struggled financially and that she was a “latchkey kid.”
“I’m not a greedy person, it’s not about the money, it’s about the principle,” Thomas Jr. stated. “Of course it would be nice to have a nice little cushion from selling a book, sure.”
“Everybody wants the book. I now have dedicated time. It’s not easy moving,” he added.
Thomas Sr. had revealed last January his plans of relocating to Southeast Asia, saying he had traveled there when he was younger. He also clarified that he is not running away but is “in search of a more positive life.”
“The people are so kind and welcoming, and they are respectful to older people,” he said. “It is a place of culture and beauty. At 80 it is time to go somewhere where the people are lovely and I can enjoy a quieter, friendlier existence.”
Job: The Missing 8," and the upcoming second season of "Nine Perfect Strangers." Briones' stage credits include "Miss Saigon," "Into the Woods," "Little Shop of Horrors," "Les Miserables," "The Wiz," "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat," and recently, "Hadestown" with his daughter Isa.
The actor also starred in series, such as "Ratched," "Trese," "Class of '09," "American Horror Story: Apocalypse," and "The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime
Story." "Avatar: The Last Airbender" recently wrapped up production on its second season and immediately proceeded with shooting the third and final season.
Season 2 will see FilipinoCanadian Gordon Cormier's Aang, the titular Avatar, and his friends explore the Earth Kingdom, particularly the walled city of Ba Sing Se. Prince Zuko, played by Dallas Liu, continues his hot pursuit of the Avatar to appease his father, the Fire Lord Ozai (Daniel Dae Kim).
Ben&Ben
Photo from Instagram/@benandbenmusic
Meghan Markle
Photo from Facebook/ELLE
Composite photos of Dolly de Leon and Jon Jon Briones Dennis Trillo via Facebook, Instagram
