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MAY 29 - JUNE 4, 2020 Volume 13 - No. 30 • 16 Pages 133-30 32nd Ave., Flushing, NY 11354 • 2500 Plaza S. Harborside Financial Center, Jersey City, NJ 07311 • Tel. (212) 655-5426 • Fax: (818) 502-0858

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Duterte: No vaccine, no school opening DATELINE USA FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

DFA: No new fatalities among overseas Filipinos infected with COVID-19

THE Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday, May 26, announced that there were no new fatalities related to COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, recorded among Filipinos abroad.

The death toll remained at 328.

“Today, the DFA confirms no new fatalities due to COVID-19 reported by our foreign service posts among Filipinos abroad,” the agency said.

However, it reported that 18 additional Filipinos abroad contracted the virus, bringing the total number of COVID-19 cases among overseas Filipinos to 2,635.

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Duterte calls for more OFWs to be returned home

by RITCHEL

MENDIOLA AJPress

MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte said late on Monday, May 25, that he would not allow students to go back to school until a vaccine for COVID-19 was available, drawing objections from educators and lawmakers who insisted modifications to the learning system could be introduced to prevent a longer disruption of education forced by the new coronavirus pandemic.

Children are due to return to school toward

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The Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) said colleges and universities that could fully conduct online teaching could reopen anytime, but institutions limited to classroom instruction could not resume classes earlier than Sept. 1.

‘Risk too great’ But in a televised speech late on Monday, the President said the risk was too great, even

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2020 Census Analysis: Asian New Yorkers are being undercounted based on latest self–response rate Lower Participation puts Political Representation, Funding for Education, Health, and Essential Services at risk

by MOMAR

G. VISAYA

AJPress

ASIAN-MAJORITY census tracts in New York City had an average response rate of 44.7% compared with a citywide self-response rate of 46.3%, according to an analysis released by the Asian American Federation (AAF) at a virtual

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PHILIPPINE President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered government agencies to bring some 24,000 repatriated overseas Filipino workers back to their home provinces by the end of the week.

According to Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque, Duterte gave the order to officials from the Department of Labor and Employment, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, and Department of Health after OFWs were reported to have been stuck in Metro Manila’s modified enhanced community quarantine for a month due to delayed COVID-19 test results.

“Hindi katanggap-tanggap sa ating Presidente na matapos maglingkod sa ating bayan ang mga OFWs na napahiwalay sa kanilang mga pamilya, nalungkot at nahirapang mag-

the end of August after classes for more than 25 million primary and secondary students were shut down in March as the contagion reached the Philippines.

Earlier this month, the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases approved the proposal of the Department of Education (DepEd) to move the opening of classes for basic education to Aug. 24, with the school year ending on April 30, 2021.

LRTA and NCRPO personnel conduct simulation exercises to prepare for the “new normal” protocols in LRT-2 on Wednesday, May 27. Only 160 passengers, or 10% of its 1,600-rider capacity, would be allowed to board each train of the Light Rail Transit-2 (LRT-2) once its resumes operation, the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) said Wednesday. Based on the LRTA guidelines, the Passenger Distribution Control Protocol would be implemented in order to prevent mass gathering inside trains. LRTA manages LRT-2.

Photo from NCRPO PIO

PH COVID-19 cases breach 15,000 P628-B needed for PH ‘economic stimulus strategy’ – Sotto mark as deaths exceed 900

by DARRYL JOHN

ESGUERRA

Inqurier.net

MANILA — The number of confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients in the Philippines has reached 15,049, as the Department of Health (DOH) reported 380 new cases as of 4 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27.

This is the second consecutive day that the country logged over 300 new coronavirus infections after averaging 220 cases in the past weeks.

The DOH also reported 18 new fatalities, bringing the nationwide death toll to 904.

Meanwhile, 94 more patients have recovered from the respiratory disease, bringing the total recoveries to 3,506.

There are currently 10,639 active coronavirus cases in the country, the agency noted.

It was only last Sunday, May 24 that total COVID-19 cases nationwide breached the 14,000 mark.

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by CHRISTIA

MARIE Inquirer.net

Senate President Vicente Sotto III Inquirer.net photo

RAMOS

MANILA — Senate President Vicente Sotto III said an estimated P628 billion would be needed to fund his proposed economic stimulus strategy which includes, among others, mass COVID19 testing, wage subsidies for workers, and assistance to several sectors affected by

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From the Front Page

Duterte: No vaccine, no school opening...

PAGE 1 if it held students back academically.

“Unless I am sure that they are really safe, it’s useless to be talking about opening of classes,” Mr. Duterte said.

“For me, vaccine first. If the vaccine is already there, then it’s OK,” he added. “If no one graduates, then so be it.”

Though researchers have launched an unprecedented global effort to quickly develop a vaccine for COVID-19, the severe respiratory disease caused by the new coronavirus, it is not clear when a viable candidate will be proven and distributed on a large scale.

Public school normally runs from June to April in the Philippines, but authorities pushed back the start of the new school year as coronavirus cases rose and a strict lockdown brought most of the nation to a halt.

In order to ease classroom crowding, the DepEd had announced a mix of distancelearning measures, including online classes, would be used

President Rodrigo Duterte

for the coming school year.

But millions of students from impoverished families do not have access to computers at home, which would be key for the viability of online classes.

Adapting to the situation Nobody faulted Mr. Duterte for putting students’ safety before opening school as stated by law, but Vice President Leni Robredo and several senators urged the government to take steps to ensure that children’s education continued despite

Malacañang photo by Karl Norman Alonzo

the coronavirus crisis.

In a statement issued by her spokesperson Barry Gutierrez, Robredo called for “[i]nclusive and effective systems of athome schooling.”

Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto said education officials should find the right balance to allow children to continue learning while keeping them safe.

“Even though the President has expressed his views on the issue, this should not

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BIKE LANE. Bicycle riders ply through the outermost portion of the Edsa Cubao southbound lane in Quezon City on Tuesday, May 26. The national government has urged local government units (LGUs) to establish bike lanes in their respective localities due to limited public transportation under community quarantine guidelines.

PNA photo by Joey O. Razon

Jersey City begins implementing re-opening plans to help local businesses bounce back

JERSEY City Mayor Steven M. Fulop announced Friday, May 22 that the city will be taking aggressive steps to help local small businesses prepare to re-open their doors once Governor Phil Murphy lifts restrictions.

The plan includes testing for all employees of local businesses, providing each local business a re-opening package that will include PPE and sanitizer once the business is tested, and a process for restaurants to easily expand outdoor seating to offset loss of indoor seating.

“After two months of these businesses being closed, we want to do our part to make sure that local businesses have the ability to re-engage their customers and build trust. We think customers knowing that all the employees have recently tested negative and are equipped with PPEs will allow this to

happen. For restaurants specifically, we want to offset any reduction that the Governor may implement with indoor restriction by allowing restaurants to have more seating outdoor,” Mayor Fulop said.

Over the last few weeks, leadership within the Departments of Public Safety, Health and Human Services, and Housing & Economic Development have been doing large focus group Zoom meetings with local business owners to solicit feedback and better understand the resources they will need.

In addition to testing and PPE, the city has set an easy to use application for any business looking to expand outdoor seating for their business.

“This pandemic has challenged everyone in many ways, and business owners have also had the additional burden of trying to

Duterte calls for more...

PAGE 1 bayad eh ngayon lalo pang mahihirapan habang naghihintay ng kanilang results (It’s unacceptable to the president that our OFWs, after serving the country by being separated from their families, left alone and struggled to pay, are suffering more while waiting for their test results),” he said.

In a separate interview with DZMM, Roque stressed: “Sabi niya [Duterte] enough is enough — one week — otherwise, marami pong mananagot (He said enough is enough

— they have one week — otherwise, many will be held accountable).”

The spokesman added that Duterte is allowing all officials in these government agencies to use government funds and all modes of transportation to bring home the OFWs to their respective hometowns.

“Sabi po ng Presidente kung hindi sapat ang mga pribadong bus, eroplano, at barko, pwede pong gamiting ang mga eroplano at barko ng hukbong sandatahan (The president said if private buses, airplanes,

survive the pandemic in their business capacity as well,” said Annisia Cialone, Director of HEDC. “The future of local business will not immediately return to the way it was, so we’re working to help them recover and get to that point.”

The city will provide owners and employees both COVID-19 and Antibody Testing, in addition to a safety kit which will include face coverings, gloves, and sanitizers based on the number of employees at each business.

“We have been building a reserve of PPE for our employees, but after listening to local businesses say they are having challenges obtaining PPE we feel that using our supply to help local businesses is a good use of our current supply so that these businesses can open quickly,” said Public Safety Director James Shea. n and ships are not enough, they could use the military’s airplanes and ships),” Roque said.

Duterte, in his public address late Monday night, said OFWs have the “constitutional right” to return home.

“You know, I’m ordering you [local government units] to accept them, open the gates of your territories and allow the people — and allow the Filipinos to travel wherever they want,” he said.

“Do not impede it. Do not obstruct the movement of people because you run the risk of getting sued criminally,” he added. n

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NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • MAY 29 - JUNE 4, 2020

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Duterte: No vaccine, no school opening...

PAGE 2 stop education [officials] from fine-tuning the ways [that] will allow our young to learn amid the pandemic without making them sick,” Recto said in a statement.

“Let us see to it that even if schools are locked down, education is not placed in quarantine,” he added.

Recto said the country could turn to distance learning, instruction by radio or television, home schooling, online classes and other alternative learning systems. He even suggested “radically reduced class sizes” in parts of the country without coronavirus cases.

“I have high confidence in the ability of the teachers of this land to adapt to [the situation], more so if they are empowered with the right tools to make a learner-centered adjustment,” Recto said.

Postpone school opening Sen. Risa Hontiveros said the DepEd should postpone the Aug. 24 school opening while the country looked for alternative ways for children to resume learning.

Sen. Sonny Angara said he, too, believed August was too soon to allow school to return. He said the date could be pushed back a few weeks or months, but this would require amending the law.

The law states that the school year should start on

the first Monday of June but not later than the last day of August.

But a pending measure in Senate would authorize the President to adjust the academic calendar during calamities and disasters. The bill is undergoing preliminary deliberations.

Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon said the government’s decision should be based on the welfare and safety of students.

He expressed concern over the option of online learning because many students, especially those from impoverished families, had no access to computers at home. He noted that internet rates in the Philippines are among the highest in Asia but also among the slowest in the region.

“I do not see how virtual classes being proposed by the DepEd can be effectively implemented across all sectors. The poor will be at a disadvantage here,” Drilon said.

Groups representing both public and private educators rejected Mr. Duterte’s stand.

Improve the system Joseph Noel Estrada, managing director of the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations (Cocopea), said an indefinite suspension of education would drain government resources and ultimately impede its

efforts to suppress the new coronavirus.

“The parents of 27 million [elementary and high school] students will need to stay at home to care for their children instead of returning to work,” Estrada said. “This means many of them will earn less or even lose their jobs, which will force them to rely on government aid,” he added.

It’s not just students who would be affected, Estrada said. An indefinite suspension of school could lead to mass transfer of teachers and faculty to other sectors that have resumed operations with the loosening of coronavirus restrictions, he said.

The Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT), the largest union of public school teachers, said Mr. Duterte’s statement implied that the government “plans to passively wait for a vaccine instead of exhausting measures to [deal with] the health and socioeconomic crisis.”

The ACT urged the government to use this opportunity to make the country’s education system more resilient by building safer schools, deal with the shortages in teachers and classrooms, and resolve gaps in learning. (With reports from Julie M. Aurelio, Leila B. Salaverria, Jhesset O. Enano, and Matthew Reysio-Cruz/Inquirer.net and AFP) n

DFA: No new fatalities among overseas...

PAGE 1 Meanwhile, 16 Filipinos, most of whom are from Asia and the Pacific and Europe, recovered from COVID-19.

This raises the total number of recoveries to 905.

“Just as significant, the daily rate of confirmed cases decreased with only 18 new confirmed COVID-19 cases while the daily rate of recoveries increased with 16 new recoveries, mostly from Asia and the Pacific and Europe,” the DFA said.

Overall by region, Europe

— which comprises 16 countries with PH Foreign Service coverage — has recorded 795 Filipino cases, including 457 undergoing treatment, 248 recoveries and 90 deaths.

The Middle East and Africa, covering 12 countries, has reported 735 cases; of which, 539 are undergoing treatment, 86 deaths and 110 recoveries.

The Asia Pacific region, which spans across 12 countries, has 473 cases, with 136 under treatment, 335 recoveries, and two deaths.

The Americas — covering six countries like the United States — have 632 reported cases, with 270 undergoing treatment, 212 recoveries, and 150 deaths.

“The DFA, through its embassies and consulates, remains committed to continuously monitoring the status of our nationals abroad and providing assistance whenever possible, to ensure their welfare as we continue to battle against COVID-19,” it said. (Ritchel Mendiola/AJPress) n

PH COVID-19 cases breach 15,000...

PAGE 1 This means that in just a span of three days, the DOH has recorded a total of 1,014 new confirmed cases.

On Tuesday, the DOH reported 350 new cases—the highest single-day tally of new infections since April 6’s 414 new cases.

This is also the first time in nearly three weeks that new

cases for a day exceeded 300. On May 7, there were 339 new cases.

According to Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire, the sudden uptick is due to the inclusion of returning Filipino migrant workers’ positive test results.

However, she noted that it is not the sole reason behind

the surge as there are still cases being reported from different parts of the country.

Meanwhile, Malacañang said the increase in new cases is somehow expected after the government moved to gradually reopen the economy and allowed select sectors to continue operations. n

BACK TO WORK. A worker does welding work at a construction site in Tambo, Parañaque City on Monday, May 25. The government has earlier issued safety and health protocols for the resumption of construction work in Metro Manila under the modified enhanced community quarantine.

PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan

2020 Census Analysis: Asian New Yorkers...

PAGE 1 community forum this week.

The Filipino community’s response rate is at 43.4%, lagging behind the Korean, Pakistani and Chinese communities, as well as the citywide self-response rate.

AAF’s analysis of the largest Asian ethnic groups showed significant differences in participation.

Census tracts with 20% of more Chinese residents had self-response rates slightly below that of the citywide average. Census tracts with concentrations of 20% or more of Korean or Pakistani residents had higher average self-response rates than the citywide average.

Census tracts with 20% or more Filipino, Bangladeshi, or Indian residents were much lower than the citywide average. The analysis also shows that the Filipino community had some of the highest week after week growth in self-response rates while the Bangladeshi and Indian/IndoCaribbean communities had some of the lowest changes.

Because of the global pandemic, Census 2020 has adjusted its schedule accordingly, and extended the selfresponse period from July 31 to October 31.

US Census Bureau reports released last year indicated that Asian Americans were the

least likely to participate in the Census as a result of several factors including the failed attempt to add the citizenship question, concerns about privacy, and lower English proficiency rates, and the current participation rates seem to bear out the predictions.

This is the first census where people can respond online or through phone, aside from the traditional snail mail.

The COVID pandemic that has disproportionately affected some neighborhoods with large Asian populations has further complicated outreach and participation efforts.

At the community forum called Self-Response Rates in Asian Neighborhoods, Howard Shih, AAF’s Director of Research and Policy said that they noticed CUNY Center for Urban Research showed that Asians in the largest US cities were lagging in their self-response rates, so they wanted to see what was happening to the Asian communities in New York City.

“While we have been able to identify the neighborhoods where more outreach is needed, we still face the hard work of addressing the barriers to participation, including internet access, social isolation, and language access,” he said.

Nationally, communities of color are all lagging in terms

of self-response data, specially in large cities with more than one million in population.

Asians are 49.6%, followed

by Hispanics at 45.9% and Blacks at 43.3%.

Community leaders and groups who participated in the forum agreed that they would require to intensify the collaborative outreach efforts of community groups, civic religious leaders, elected officials and most importantly, residents, to increase participation in these neighborhoods.

“During this period of virtual outreach, data plays a key role in shaping citywide outreach efforts in order to get the most hard to count communities to fill out the census and secure their fair share in resources,” said Farzana Linda, Advocacy and Organizing Program Manager at Chhaya CDC “The Asian American Federation’s analysis of census response rates shows that our communities can’t afford to wait and be overlooked again, when so many resources and political representation are at stake,” said Chuck Park, Civic Participation Manager at the MinKwon Center. “Armed with the Federation’s maps and data, activists, organizers, and civic leaders will be able to take action to target outreach in the most undercounted, immigrant-dense neighborhoods of New York City.” n

P628-B needed for PH ‘economic stimulus...

PAGE 1 the coronavirus pandemic.

Sotto earlier filed Senate Bill No. 1542 which seeks the establishment of an “economic stimulus strategy for the country’s growth and development” to mitigate the impact of the health crisis.

“Yung (The) estimate dun

sa (in the) bill..dun sa (for) mass testing, wage subsidies tapos yung maaaring mga (and then the possible) loans for MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises), loan guarantees, assistance to tourism or transportation industry, assistance to manufacturers, important

exporters and even service sectors and then yung (for the) agriculture fisheries sector…for 2020 ang expected natin dito, kakailangan natin ng mga (we would need) P548 billion for the entire year,” Sotto told reporters in an online interview.

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NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • MAY 29 - JUNE 4, 2020

OPINION

FEATURES

Remember Marawi MUSLIMS celebrated Eid’l Fitr, marking the end of the monthlong Ramadan fast, from Saturday night until Sunday, May 24. The event coincided with the third anniversary of the start of the five-month siege of Marawi, which was launched by extremist Maute militants.

In September 2017, the military confirmed that Abdullah Maute had been killed in an airstrike in August. His brother Omar was shot dead together with Abu Sayyaf commander Isnilon Hapilon in the battle to liberate Marawi on Oct. 16. While the three leaders were neutralized, the siege that involved airstrikes and heavy artillery shelling as well as close-quarters combat flattened nearly the entire city.

When the smoke finally cleared and the damage to the city assessed, there was general agreement that rebuilding would be a tough undertaking. Even with low expectations, however, those displaced by the conflict have expressed disappointment over the pace of rehabilitation of Marawi.

5

Last March, less than two weeks before the government imposed a Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine due to the coronavirus pandemic, Malacañang received complaints about the slow reconstruction effort. This prompted President Duterte to designate new housing chief Eduardo del Rosario as pointman for Task Force Bangon Marawi.

Del Rosario’s mission is not merely to provide decent housing for approximately 40,000 families displaced by the siege, but also to coordinate efforts to ensure the viability of the reconstructed areas. There are no more people housed in evacuation centers, but projects meant to help residents get back on their feet were delayed “by circuitous approval process in the bureaucracy,” according to a Malacañang statement.

That was before the pandemic. Now that much of the activities across the country have been paralyzed by the coronavirus crisis, what will happen to the Marawi reconstruction effort?

Editorial

Christian leaders call out Trump for putting politics over public health:We don’t need to open churches to practice our faith. We will wait.

The Fil-Am Perspective GEL SANTOS-RELOS WITHOUT the constitutional authority to do so, President Donald Trump on Friday, May 22 “ordered” state leaders to allow churches and places of worship to open immediately,

starting last Sunday.

This came after asking the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to hold off the publication of guidelines that will help them safely re-open.

White House officials told the Washington Post that Trump did not want to displease the evangelical ministers who have been supporting him, and so the CDC was made to modify the guidelines without consultation with church leaders

on the real health and safety concerns.

“If they don’t do it, I will override the governors,” Trump threatened.

After Trump’s bizarre announcement, church leaders have been sharing their perspectives on the issue as the world continues to fight the war against COVID-19, which, has infected more than 5.495 million people and killed 346,232 and counting, as of press time PAGE 8

Philstar.com photo

Extremism thrives in a crisis. If the reconstruction moves at snail’s pace, the biggest concern is that the militants inspired by the

terrorist Islamic State will be able to rebuild their ranks faster than devastated Marawi.

(Philstar.com)

Standing up for the AAPI community amid America’s leadership crisis Commentary

SEN. KAMALA HARRIS & ASSEMBLYMEMBER ROB BONTA WE are in a crisis — one that requires unifying leadership. But that’s not what we are getting from the president of the United States. The staggering death toll and human suffering haven’t changed

Donald Trump’s lack of empathy and tendency to strike out at those who speak truth.

Rather than show moral leadership and take real action to help people, Trump has resorted to race baiting and spreading misinformation.

This has helped perpetuate hate against the Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) community.

After it became clear that President Trump ignored early warning signs and failed to prepare for this pandemic, he blamed other countries, groups of people, and entities

like the World Health Organization. The racializing of the coronavirus as the “Chinese virus” and “Wuhan virus” by the president and by some members of Congress has recklessly put members of the AAPI community at risk.

The number of hate-fueled incidents – ranging from verbal harassment to physical assault – against the AAPI community remains dangerous. These incidents include cases like people being spit on, having bottles thrown at them, and being physically PAGE 8

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Dateline PhiliPPines

‘Negligent in the extreme’: HRW says Philippines fails to assist children affected by ‘drug war’

by Gaea

Katreena Philstar.com

CabiCo

MANILA — The Philippine government failed to assist the children whose parents or guardians have been killed in the administration’s brutal war on drugs, making their impoverished situations worse, the Human Rights Watch said.

In a report released Wednesday, the human rights organization detailed how the children orphaned in the drug war—which began in mid-2016—have suffered psychological distress, experienced bullying and stigmatization, and face economic hardship.

“The killing of drug suspects affects the families left behind not just in terms of death but also what happens afterwards: families driven deeply into poverty, some children forced to live in streets, children being forced to work and stop schooling, bullying in schools and their communities because of the stigma of drug use of family members,” Carlos Conde, HRW Philippines researcher, said.

One of the children interviewed said she became distressed and bullied in school after police shot her father in

her presence in 2016, while another has been living on the streets and working to support his family after he was orphaned.

The HRW said that while the government sometimes pays for the burial expenses of family members killed in operations, it has no specific programs addressing the needs of children whose families have been destroyed by the drug war.

HRW said an unidentified former senior official of the Department of Social Welfare and Development told the rights watchdog in an interview that the impacts of the anti-drug campaign on children had not been raised in any Cabinet meeting as of May 2019.

“This is negligent in the extreme,” Phil Robertson, HRW Asia deputy director, said.

“Killings get the attention of the top people but repairing the damage and having accountability, these are the things not spoken of in Malacañang Palace,” he added.

‘Step up’ Aside from calling on the government to put an end to the ferocious war on drugs and investigate the killings, HRW also urged agencies, particularly the DSWD, to

reach out to families who have lost loved ones in the brutal campaign.

“They need to step up and try to reach out to these children,” Conde said.

HRW said the DSWD must provide material assistance and targeted financial support programs to the parents and guardians of orphaned children and protect them from economic exploitation. It also called the department to ensure that its conditional cash transfer reach the families of the victims.

The rights watchdog likewise urged the Department Education to ensure that children adversely affected by the anti-drug campaign enjoy their right to free primary educations. Schools must also enforce anti-bullying and antidiscrimination policies.

It also recommended that the Department of Health assist the DSWD in providing mental and psycho-social health services to children of families affected by the antidrug campaign.

“This drug war has created a generation of Filipino children who have been scarred probably forever by the violence… It’s difficult as it is to live in an extremely poor community and being PAGE 10

Palace may lift deployment ban on health workers once COVID-19 crisis ends by aJPress

MALACAñANG said this week that the deployment ban on healthcare workers abroad may be lifted once the threat of the coronavirus ends in countries where they would be employed.

“Kapag humupa na siguro ‘yung banta ng Covid-19 sa mga lugar na nais nilang puntahan (Once the threat posed

by COVID-19 is addressed in countries where they would be employed),” said presidential spokesperson Harry Roque on Tuesday, May 26, when asked what would make President

Rodrigo Duterte lift the deployment ban.

The deployment ban was issued by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration so frontliners could instead help the country in fighting the pandemic.

It was later revised to allow nurses and other healthcare workers with existing contracts to return to their jobs abroad.

Roque also said that the deployment ban only covers healthcare workers with new contracts.

“Yung mga perfected contracts po dapat napaalis. Ang sakop lang nung ban ay yung mga bagong mga kontrata na

ipinasok matapos po mag-issue ng ban ang POEA (Those who have perfected contracts are allowed to leave. The ban only covers those who have new contracts after the POEA issued the ban),” he said.

Earlier, Duterte said he would consult Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra on the legality of stopping healthcare workers from leaving the country amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Department of Justice, for its part, said it would consider the health care workers’ right to travel and find jobs abroad, as well as the health situation in the country. n

DISTANCING IN PUV. This public utility vehicle (PUV) traveling along the Emilio Aguinaldo Highway in Imus, Cavite has adapted to the government’s physical distancing requirement. Buses, jeepneys, and other modes of transportation are required to halve their passengers so that physical distancing could be maintained to prevent the spread of COVID-19 among passengers.

PNA photo by Jess M. Escaros Jr.

Duterte names presidential adviser RJ Jacinto as DICT Usec

by Darryl John

esGuerra

Inquirer.net

MAN IL A — Pr esid ent Duterte has appointed Presidential Adviser on Information Communications Technology Ramon “RJ” Jacinto as Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Undersecretary, replacing Eliseo Rio Jr. who earlier resigned.

In a statement, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said Jacinto was appointed on Friday, May 22.

“We are confident that Usec. Jacinto will serve DICT with dedication and integrity and will contribute to achieving the Department’s mandate under the current administration,” Roque said.

Jacinto, a musician, campaigned for Duterte and performed in the then Davao City mayor’s rallies during the 2016 presidential elections.

He was named Presidential adviser in July 2016.

Rio offered his resignation on January 31, citing conflict-

ing views with other officials in the agency.

Among the points of contention raised were the millions of pesos in confidential funds lodged with the agency’s budget.

Rio is a retired general who also served as DICT’s acting chief. He was reassigned as undersecretary in July 2019 after former senator Gringo Honasan was appointed as DICT chief.

Last week, Roque announced that Duterte has accepted Rio’s resignation. n

P628-B needed for PH ‘economic stimulus...

PAGE 4 To sustain the economic stimulus strategy, Sotto said the government would need around P80 billion for 2021.

Asked if the P80 billion would be considered as a part of the national budget for next year, the Senate President said the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) is already studying the possibility of accommodating the said amount.

“As we speak pinapagusapan na ng Department of Budget and Management kung pano ia-accomadate pero depende nga dito sa papasa natin kung maipapsa kagad natin ito. But I’m sure they will try to accommodate it already,” Sotto said.

(As we speak, the Department of Budget and Management is studying how to accommodate this but it still depends on whether we are

able to pass this immediately.

But I’m sure they will try to accommodate it already).

According to the senator, foreign loans or unspent budgets from the previous years could be possible sources to fund the proposed economic stimulus strategy.

Among the salient features of Sotto’s bill include: – the mandatory immediate mass testing for COVID-19; – wage subsidies to nonessential businesses, freelancers, self-employed and repatriated overseas Filipino workers (OFWs); – expansion of the Tertiary Education subsidy provided under Republic Act 10931 to include students whose families currently facing financial difficulties due to the various community quarantines; and – waiving of registration and other related fees and the grant of special trad-

ing accommodations for a limited time to micro, small and medium enterprises plus start-ups (MSMEs+) The measure would also direct the Land Bank of the Philippines and the Development Bank of the Philippines to establish a Special Interest-Free Loan Fund and provide interest-free loans to non-essential businesses and MSMEs+.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) and its sub-agencies would likewise be required to assist critically impacted DOT-accredited tourism enterprises.

“Our situation could get worse if our government [does not] act swiftly,” Sotto said in an earlier statement., adding that the country’s economic base “could collapse if urgent measures are not set in place the soonest time possible.” n

May 29 - JUNE 4, 2020 • NEW yORK aND NEW JERSEy aSIaN JOURNaL

Christian leaders call out Trump for putting...

PAGE 5 on Tuesday, May 26.

Let me share with you some of these perspectives and may they help you in your discernment on what to do as true Christians.

“Bishops from the Washington State Catholic Conference: “We will wait.” ”We want to let you know the public celebration of Mass was suspended, not out of fear, but out of our deepest respect for human life and health,” reads a Friday statement signed by several bishops in a “unified response.”

“While we share the desire to bring people back to Mass as quickly as possible, we will wait to schedule our public worship when it is safe and we are prepared to do so,” the statement read.

The bishops’ statement added that the state conference follows guidance from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Thomistic Institute, along with public health experts, and that is working to develop a plan with Washington Gov. Jay Inslee (D) for a safe reopening.

“Parishes must create an environment that is not only safe, but is liturgically reverent,” the bishops said, adding that there is no current date established for Mass gatherings resuming in the state.” (As reported

by The Hill) “Mr. President, we don’t need to open churches to practice our faith...”

“Who says that religious organizations haven’t already been providing ‘essential’ services without this presidential ‘blessing?’ I am a Roman Catholic priest in the Passionist Community serving, at the moment, in New York. During this pandemic I have buried the dead at cemeteries — with limited family members present.

I have prayed with people via FaceTime and Zoom. I even heard a confession in a supermarket parking lot.

“Priests with whom I live have blessed the sick and dying in hospitals and nursing homes. We have also celebrated virtual Masses and prayer services for countless of the faithful.

“The churches in my area have been open for indi-

vidual prayer, Benediction services and Stations of the Cross, and social distancing is strongly encouraged.

Priests have even paraded in processions in neighborhoods with the Blessed Sacrament in order to bring elements of the church service out to the faithful. Similarly, rabbis and imams whom I know have been doing the equivalent with their respective religious congregations. That is all ‘religious service.’

“What most of us have not done is put ourselves and our parishioners in danger by gathering in large groups for Mass or other religious services ‘as usual.’ That would have been — and would continue to be, in this time of contagion — irresponsible and sinful. It would also violate the right to life of many. Yes, responsible action with regard to religious organizations during this pandemic is a right-to-life issue. This is a right that needs to apply to those who live after birth, too.” - Fr. Edward Beck, interviewed on CNN “Dear Trump, your call

http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426 to allow all churches to reopen was dangerous. Sincerely, two evangelicals.”

“Before any church opens its doors, leaders must spend time setting up policies and guidelines that protect those who will be in attendance using the best science and guidance available.

“As leaders who have navigated pastors through natural disasters in the past, we provided a checklist for reopening churches. For instance, we recommend churches reach out to their insurance company to make sure they aren’t putting their congregation financially at risk. Churches also need to be able to secure proper sanitation supplies that would help prevent the possible spread of the coronavirus.

“Leaders need to recruit and train volunteers to guide the reopening process, such as helping with social distance measures.

Leaders especially need to communicate to attendees about possible policy or procedural changes, such as how Communion might look different.

PAGE 10

Standing up for the...

PAGE 5 assaulted in the subway and other public places. The racist fearmongering has also hurt AAPI-owned small businesses. It was reported that Asian American businesses saw up to an 80% drop in business before isolation orders came into full effect. Not only has this scapegoating caused members of the AAPI community to fear for their safety, but also their livelihoods. Sadly, we’ve seen this kind of prejudice before. Two decades after the Chinese Exclusion Act, the federal government blamed Chinese Americans for an outbreak of the bubonic plague in San Francisco. We must work to make sure history doesn’t continue repeating itself.

The increase in instances of profiling, intolerance, intimidation, and hate is disturbing and inexcusable. Any witness to these acts has the responsibility to speak up, report, and condemn them. And the Commander in Chief must show real leadership that unifies our country instead of sowing hate, especially during a national crisis.

Given the lack of leadership in the White House, the two

of us have worked hard to address these issues head on by demanding an end to discrimination against the AAPI community; calling for the administration to address bias; and requesting funding to combat discrimination.

During this Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, we must recognize that there is more that unites us than divides us. It’s natural to be fearful or anxious in these uncertain times, but we cannot allow that fear to erode our unity. While there have been despicable acts of hatred, there are countless examples of communities supporting one another. People helping their elderly neighbors with groceries, impromptu balcony concerts for frontline workers, and wellness check-ins over video calls have become essential to our resilience. Stories like these serve as hopeful reminders that we are all better off when we reject hatred, look out for others, and embrace our shared humanity. * * * Kamala Harris is a U.S. Senator representing California. Rob Bonta is a State Assemblymember representing Oakland, Alameda, and San Leandro.

(212) 655-5426 • http://www.asianjournal.com

NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • MAY 29 - JUNE 4, 2020

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May 29 - JUNE 4, 2020 • NEW yORK aND NEW JERSEy aSIaN JOURNaL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426

Christian leaders call out Trump for putting...

PHYSICAL DISTANCING, PLEASE. A “buko” (young coconut) vendor prepares juice for a customer in his stall, which is covered with plastic dividers, along Quirino Highway in Barangay Sauyo, Quezon City on Monday, May 25. Various stalls have put up plastic dividers and signages reminding customers to observe safe physical distancing in compliance with health protocols set by the government.

PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler

Online child sex exploitation spikes by 264% in lockdown

by EvElyn

Macairan Philstar.com

MANILA — During this state of public health emergency, the Department of Justice-Office of Cybercrime (DOJ-OOC) reported that there has been a 264.63 percent increase in the number of reported online sexual exploitation of children (OSEC) in the country.

DOJ Undersecretary Markk Perete, who is in charge of the OOC, said from March 1 to May 24, when the country was placed under a state of public health emergency because of the coronavirus disease 2019, the department observed an increase of 264.63 percent, or more than 202,605 reported incidents of OSEC compared to the same period last year.

In total, for the same period from March 1 to May 24, 2019 there were 76,561 reports received, compared to 279,166 reports received this year.

As a breakdown, for March, there were 23,465 reported incidents last year, compared to the 132,192 reported incidents this year; for April, there were 24,147 reported incidents last year, compared to 53,882 incidents for the same month this year; and for May 1 to 24, there were 28,949 reported incidents in 2019, compared to 93,092 reported incidents this year.

According to the DOJ-OOC report, “The aforesaid increase in NCMEC-CTR (National Center for Missing and Exploited Children-CyberTi-

pline Report) is attributed to the fact that during the enhanced community quarantine, strict home quarantine is observed in all households, and internet usage surges as people stay home.”

The DOJ-OOC said these reports are evaluated and assessed and if found actionable, these would be endorsed to the law enforcement agencies such as the National Bureau of Investigation-Anti-Human Trafficking Division and the Philippine National Police-Women and Children Protection Center for further investigation and appropriate action.

However, the DOJ-OOC clarified that not all the reports received by the NCMEC-CTR are categorized as actual cases of OSEC in the country “as these are merely made available to the appropriate law enforcement agency for further review and potential investigation.”

It added that there are instances when there are viral photos/videos or identical potential OSEC materials shared by several electronic communication service providers’ users that lead to the generation of multiple NCMEC-CTRs with the same content.

There are also misleading digital images for instance of nude photos of children that were generated by their parents or relatives in good faith, where the children are not engaged in real or simulated explicit sexual activities nor lascivious exhibition of private parts of the body.

To strengthen the monitoring and campaign against OSEC, Perete said there is a need to tap internet service providers (ISP) such as Globe Telecoms and Smart Communications.

“Technological solutions need to work alongside legal and policy in order for the Philippine government to effectively and efficiently combat OSEC,” Perete said.

Last March 11, the DOJOCC met with ISP companies and reminded them of their duties to install available technology, program or software to ensure that access or transmittal of any form of child pornography would be blocked or filtered pursuant to Republic Act No. 9775 or the “Anti-Child Pornography Act of 2009.”

Unfortunately, 11 years after passage of the law, the DOJ-OOC said ISP companies continue to be remiss in their duties.

But Perete expressed confidence that the ISP companies would be more proactive and comply with the law.

“We are confident that ISPs will voluntarily comply with the law requiring them to install technology that will block or filter out materials that exploit children. They know that such a legal obligation is automatically read into their franchises and permits to operate. And they realize, more than anyone, that without such technology, this trend of victimization of children who are the most vulnerable among us will remain unabated,” the DOJ official added. n

PAGE 8 “We encourage faith leaders to look to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which has new guidance, for how best to respond. We have also regularly encouraged church leaders to look to local officials and authorities, including public health agencies, for direction.

“Unfortunately, public health guidance from the federal government has been confusing. Early draft guidelines for houses of worship that were direct and concrete ultimately were shelved after much debate in the White House and replaced with less concrete guidelines on Friday. For example, the new guidelines do not make recommendations about important questions pastors are navigating, such as whether singing is safe or logistics of how people should gather in the building.

“Friday’s announcement makes it harder for leaders to look to federal agencies as trusted resources based on how Trump already has used his executive authority. He has minimized voices who hold differing views (such as suppressing earlier CDC guidelines for faith communities), he goes against current medical knowledge by saying he would take malaria medication that scientists have warned against using to treat the virus, and he refuses to wear face masks in public.

“Trump’s pronouncement corrupts our country’s ability to respond justly to this pandemic by putting politics over public health. The purpose appeared to be aimed at reaching evangelicals and Catholics, who will be valuable voters in the coming election.

“Several faith leaders we have spoken with say people in their congregations, who already are under emotional strain, express a range of opinions about wanting to

come back to church buildings. Some will stay away until there is a vaccine, and some want to be (or have been) back the minute it’s possible.

“If we gather and cause community outbreaks, as happened in a large church in South Korea, and this week here in the United States in Georgia, Texas and Arkansas, it risks people’s lives. We must care for others in how we reopen.

“In some places in the country, starting to gather in person can be done cautiously, wisely and with joy.

Those of us who live in areas where caution remains high can continue to be creative in worship, in supporting each other, and in serving our community. If we choose to emphasize the impact on our rights over the public health impact of our gathering, we diminish our love for our neighbor.

“As the Apostle Paul once wrote, ‘I have the right to do anything,’ you say — but not everything is beneficial.

‘I have the right to do anything’ — but not everything is constructive.’

“During the states’ lockdowns, many Christians expressed frustration at seeing liquor stores remain open and categorized as “essential” while houses of worship had to close their doors.

Of course houses of worship remain crucial to the lives of many people and provide key resources to their communities. Churches are absolutely essential, but gathering in person is not yet.” -Kent Annan and Jamie Aten in the Washington Post (Kent Annan is director of Humanitarian & Disaster Leadership at Wheaton College. Jamie Aten is founder and executive director of the Humanitarian Disaster Institute at Wheaton.)

“All these preventive actions are ways of caring for the other person--that is, ways of loving.”

“Churches are indeed essential for Christians and

the desire to worship together is a holy desire. But holy though your desire may be, it’s not just about you and your desire. It’s about protecting the other person, especially if you are, like many people, asymptomatic. Wearing masks, maintaining social distance, and even not gathering in churches, protects the other person.

“There have already been confirmed cases in Texas and Minnesota where Catholic churches have opened and the priests were found to have been unknowingly infected. Coming into contact with their parishioners, and exposing them to infection, may end up causing death......especially among the most vulnerable--the elderly, who are in many denominations the majority of churchgoers.

“I’m not sure why this is so hard to understand. If you have the measles and a doctor tells you, “Don’t go to church because you might infect a woman who is pregnant,” you don’t rail at your doctor for “impinging on your freedom. What does the loving person do?

You listen to the doctor, and stay home, even though it’s a sacrifice, as a way of protecting the other person. All these preventive actions are ways of caring for the other person — that is, ways of loving.” -James Martin, SJ on Twitter (Jesuit priest, editor at large @Americamag, author of ‘Jesus: A Pilgrimage’ and ‘Building a Bridge,’ consultor to the Dicastery for Communication @VaticanNews) *** Gel Santos Relos has been in news, talk, public service and educational broadcasting since 1989 with ABS-CBN and is now serving the Filipino audience using different platforms, including digital broadcasting, and print, and is working on a new public service program for the community. You may contact her through email at gelrelos@ icloud.com, or send her a message via Facebook at Facebook.com/Gel. Santos.Relos.

‘Negligent in the extreme’: HRW says...

PAGE 7 targeted by state agents, by killers roaming on the streets at night. I can’t even begin to imagine how they must feel five, 10 years from now and how this madness will affect their lives,” Conde said.

Latest government figures put the number of alleged

drug personalities killed in the war on drugs at 5,601. But the figure is significantly lower than the estimates by human rights watchdog of as many as 27,000.

The UN Human Rights Council is expected to present a report on the human rights situation in the Philippines

pursuant to a resolution adopted last year.

The prosecutor of the International Criminal Court earlier said it is seeking to finalize its preliminary examination into the alleged extrajudicial killings linked with Duterte’s anti-drug crackdown this year. n

(212) 655-5426 • http://www.asianjournal.com

NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • MAY 29 - JUNE 4, 2020

COMMUNITY Journal

11

USCIS to start reopening around June 4, 2020 Immigration Corner Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ USCIS recently announced that it is preparing to reopen some of its offices and resume naturalization ceremonies and adjustment interviews on or after June 4, 2020. Notices will be sent out to applicants whose interviews and ceremonies were previously canceled because of COVID- 19, so watch your mail for your new appointment dates.

Adjustment Interviews As with most businesses, USCIS is adapting to COVID19, and there will be many changes in procedures. Offices will reduce the number of appointments and interviews to ensure social distancing, allow time for cleaning and reduce waiting room occupancy.

Appointment notices will contain information on safety precautions that visitors to USCIS facilities must follow, such as if a person is feeling sick, they should reschedule their appointment for when they are healthy. There is no penalty for rescheduling an appointment if the person is sick. But make sure your request to reschedule your appointment is sent (and received by USCIS) before the date of the appointment date.

Visitors may not enter the building more than 15 minutes before the appointment time, and are limited to the applicant, one representative, one family member, and one individual providing disability accommodations. The applicant should arrange to have their interpreter available by phone.

Naturalization Ceremonies USCIS will send notices to applicants to reschedule postponed naturalization ceremonies. The ceremonies may be shorter to limit exposure to those in attendance.

Instead of playing videos during naturalization ceremonies, attendees will receive a flyer

with information and links directing them to the videos on the USCIS website. Under the shortened format, all legally required portions of the ceremony will take place. The applicant may not enter the building more than 30 minutes before the start of the ceremony.

Attendance is limited to the naturalization candidate and individuals assisting disabled persons. Therefore, it appears family and friends can no longer attend the naturalization ceremonies.

Application Support Centers (Fingerprints and Photos) USCIS will automatically reschedule any necessary ASC appointments that were cancelled due to the temporary office closure. Individuals will receive a new appointment letter in the mail with specific safety requirements. Individuals who appear at a date or time other than what is listed on the ASC appointment notice may encounter significant processing delays, except for military members.

Other Procedures Other procedures USCIS will put in place are now familiar to people who have endured the “shelter in place” lockdown during this pandemic: • Hand sanitizer will be provided for visitors at entry points.

• Members of the public must wear facial coverings that cover both the mouth and nose when entering facilities.

Visitors may be directed to briefly remove their face covering to confirm identity or take their photograph. There will be markings and physical barriers in the facility; visitors should pay close attention to these signs to ensure they follow social distancing guidelines.

• Individuals are encouraged to bring their own black or blue ink pens.

People should already expect and prepare themselves for delays and long waiting times. The fact that the number of people scheduled for interviews will be reduced will of course create a longer waiting time. For example, if

an officer had previously interviewed 20 people a day, but interviews are being reduced to seven people a day, there will be longer waits and delays.

Moreover, under Pres.

Trump, with new and stricter rules and regulations, it is almost as though USCIS is looking for ways to deny cases, unless every single requirement is met at the outset. There are new public charge regulations, memos to deny cases at the outset, without serving a request for evidence (if all the evidence is not included in the initial filing), etc.

That is why it is so important that when it comes to your interview, you should consult with and have an attorney represent you at these interviews, to make sure you are eligible, go over the requirements, deal with any legal issues or changes in your circumstances that may come up, and make sure there is no miscommunication or misunderstanding at the interview, which could also result in a denial or deportation. *** Michael J. Gurfinkel has been an attorney for over 35 years and is licensed, and an active member of the State Bars of California and New York.

All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California. Each case is different and results may depend on the facts of the particular case. The information and opinions contained herein (including testimonials, “Success Stories,” endorsements and re-enactments) are of a general nature, and are not intended to apply to any particular case, and do not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter. No attorney-client relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader.

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

AFTER 15 YEARS OF SEPARATION AND CHARGES OF FRAUD, A MAN’S NAME IS CLEARED AND A FAMILY IS REUNITED! Mike (left) was charged with fraud and alien/human smuggling while trying to return to the U.S., where his wife, Aye (center), and their daughter, were living. It appeared he had lost his first passport containing a U.S. visitor visa. He got a new passport and applied for a new B visa, which was granted. The consul later claimed the first passport was used by Mike’s brother to obtain a visa to Japan. Therefore, he was being charged with fraud for lying about having lost his first passport. The embassy was also considering charging him with human smuggling in connection with his brother. He claimed he was innocent, and after his two previous attorneys gave up – one who filed for his Asylum, and the other one filed for his waiver – Mike researched about leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel (right) and his many successes with seemingly impossible cases. It was then that Mike decided to consult with and retain Atty. Gurfinkel’s services. See how a daughter’s dream of having her father in the U.S. comes true on an encore episode of CITIZEN PINOY on Sunday at 6:15 pm (PST) on TFC. (Advertising Supplement)

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May 29 - JUNE 4, 2020 • NEW yORK aND NEW JERSEy aSIaN JOURNaL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426

COVID-19: Myth buster

Health@Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS COVID-19: China’s bioweapon While there is ample evidence, even in the Chinese medical literature that the nCorona virus outbreak originated in Wuhan, Hubei Province, most likely starting from a bat (not pangolin) infecting the first patient in early November 2019 who became symptomatic and diagnosed about 10 to 14 day later, there is no evidence the virus was developed, intentionally spread, or even accidentally escaped from a Chinese bio-lab a few kilometers from Wuhan.

As I have said more than a month ago, if China had wanted to use any virus/ bugs as a bio-weapon, it could have simply infected airplanes (or persons) destined for the United States, without first causing and enduring a deadly outbreak that killed almost 5,000 (suspected to be multiple times higher) in China itself, and making obvious to the world that the infection originated in China.

But China is culpable and accountable for its gross negligence and incompetence for not containing the Wuhan outbreak, for its deceit and lack of transparency, silencing all the Chinese whistleblowers wanting to warn the world about the nCorona infection, and allowing international flights out of Wuhan and China which then resulted in the COVID-19 pandemic (with about 5.5 million cases and 350,000 killed around the globe).

Recovery confers total immunity Simply because COVID19 patients have recovered does not guarantee they will not get re-infected. It depends on the immuneintegrity of the patients; some may have developed sufficient antibodies to be immune from SARS-Cov2 virus, but others may not.

This is why recovered patients should still follow COVID-19 guidelines of wearing mask, gloves, not touching the face and social distancing when going out for essential move-

ment/travel to prevent re-infection.

Young COVID patients do not die This is a myth, and a dangerous one, a misconception that could embolden young persons to be careless and not follow the guidelines, thus contributing to the spread of COVID-19. Yes, young people, even children 9 years old, have died during this pandemic. In New York alone, there were 9 (10-17 years old) who died (0.06%), none below 9; and 601 (ages 18-44) who died (3.9%), compared to 8% for ages 70-79, and 14.8% for those 80 and older.

Alcohol/bleach rub destroys SARS-CoV2 While it is true that alcohol (75% and higher) and chlorine bleach (5 tablespoon in one gallon water) are good surface disinfectants that are effective in destroying SARS-CoV2 virus and other past coronaviruses, they are very toxic when applied to the skin, eyes, nose, mouth, any part of the body, humans or pets. If ingested, these could kill…and hot baths/ sauna, contrary to social media claims, do not prevent or cure COVID-19 Vitamins, zinc can prevent COVID-19 No, they cannot. Vitamin C and D, zinc, local anesthetic agents and steroids have been touted on social media to be effective in preventing or treating COVID-19, but they do not.

Garlic, onion, pepper, and spices in general, nuts and fruits and vegetables have all been listed in the social media as anti-COVID19. No, none of these can prevent COVID-19. A good diet with all those could boost the body’s immune system, but they cannot prevent getting COVID-19.

If added as a regimen in addition to following the guidelines, yes, that will help, but not in themselves alone.

Speech, breaths do not transmit SARA-Cov2 Wrong. The transmission of COVID-19 is by droplet.

When an infected person breathes, talks, coughs or sneezes, thousands of invisible SARS-CoV2 virus molecules (size about 120 nm) is spread shot-gun style, with trajectory up to 13 feet, depending on the air movement (fan, aircon, wind) and these mol-

ecules could be in the air for 2 or more hours before landing on furniture surfaces, countertops, and on the floor.

Shoes have been found to be contaminated with the virus, and so with clothing, and even mail and packages, if touched by a virus carrier or infected person. Leaving all these items in the garage overnight or washing them with soap and water (or using disinfectant or UVC light on them) destroy the virus. A virus survives only in a host. Mosquitoes, tick, fleas, flies, and bed bugs do not transmit the SARSCoV2 virus. We, humans, are now the spreader of this deadly virus. Hence, all of us, with no exception, must strictly follow the guidelines if we are to contain this pandemic.

Weather affects SARSCoV2 virus No, the weather temperature (superhot or winter chilly cold) and humidity do not affect COVID-19 infection, one way or the other. A close relative of SARS-CoV2 (COVID-19) virus, the SARS virus is inactivated at temperatures of 56 to 65 degrees Celsius (132.8 to 143 degrees Fahrenheit, so boiling (100 degrees Celsius or 212 Fahrenheit) will expectedly destroy the COVID-19 virus.

There are items to prevent, cure COVID-19 False. To this day, there is no drug, herb, beverage, food, substance, lotion or potion that prevents or cures COVID-19 infection.

Even vaccines being evaluated for safety and effectiveness are still being investigated and not available yet. Exposure to the warmest sunlight is not effective either, because the UVA, UVB do not destroy the SARS-Cov2 virus, and the UVC light from the sun that can disintegrate this virus is filtered (prevented) by the ozone layer above from reaching the earth at an effective dose.

Electric UVC lamps are available today for sterilizing surgical suites, ICU, hospital wards and rooms, and portable units that could be used in homes.

Warning: UVC light is dangerous to the eyes and skin. The areas being sterilized should have no people, pets, or plants.

Far-UVC lights that would

In his post showing a photo of him with Catriona Gray, Sam Milby described this year as his most special birthday yet.

Photo from Instagram/@samuelmilby

Sam and Catriona are dating ACTOR and singer Sam Milby revealed on Saturday, May 23 he and Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray are dating. Posting a romantic photo with the beauty queen on his Instagram account, he wrote, “Worth every second of the wait.

Most special birthday yet.”

The Filipino American celebrated his 36th birthday the day before, May 22, via a livestream event where friends surprised him with greetings online. Dubbed “Lunch with the Stars: Sam Milby Birthday Special,” the program was mounted by his talent management group, Cornerstone Enter-

tainment, of which Gray is also part.

Co-artists John Prats and comedian Pooh hosted the birthday special and teased a visibly excited Milby when Gray’s video greeting came up.

The beauty queen simply said, “Hey, Sam! Happy, happy birthday. I hope that you have an amazing year ahead. More birthdays.

More happiness. You are loved by so, so many,” but Milby’s reaction was a giveaway.

“I’m kilig sa message, super kilig sa message. Hindi ko in-expect talaga na magmessage. Thank you. Yes, you are very special. Very special,” he effused. [“I’m thrilled by her message.

I didn’t expect she’d give one.”]

Milby and Gray first sparked dating rumors in late 2019 when some photos of them together circulated on social media. Gray denied them, however, in an interview on “Tonight with Boy Abunda” in January this year. She said they were spending a lot of time together only because they went to the same church and had the same management company.

“Friend naman siya,” Gray said then.

Milby’s post, however—though not an outright confirmation they are officially a couple—shows their friendship is indeed blossoming.

be harmless to people, pets and plants are being developed at Columbia University by Dr. David Brenner.

The units for home use would be like the electric mosquito/fly zapper lanterns available today.

COVID-19: All negative results While this pandemic has wreaked havoc upon the world, with severe human and economic tragedies and miseries, there are also positive side-effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Among them are: with more than 90% of cars in the garage, accidents and injuries fell by more than 50% (62% in Washington); with 20-30% less (emission) pollution, it has

saved more than 4,000 children under age 5 and 73,000 adults over 70 from pulmonary problems; assault and robbery significantly down; hospitals, restaurants, casinos, other public places are cleaner with much less bacteria and viruses; people around the world are more healthconscious and have cleaner hands than ever before; infidelity is at an all-time low, a lot of happy wives even without going shopping, which makes for a lot of happy husbands; healthcare workers are wiser and more prepared for future outbreaks; nations around the globe will be watching China with magnifying lenses; even the HIV and

STDs diagnoses appear to be lower, obviously as casual sex has been restrained for fear of COVID19.

On the lighter side: The past few weeks, I get a kick out of wearing a cap, dark glasses, mask, and gloves, going to the bank teller “demanding” money. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, a Health Public Advocate, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. Websites: philipSchua.com and FUN8888. com; Email: scalpelpen@gmail. com.

By Ricky Lo Philstar.com

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Charlene, Aga proud of twins for Heart opens up about having Burning finishing high school amid pandemic Tongue Syndrome due to anxiety

By Jan

Milo Severo Philstar.com

HEART Evangelista revealed that she has Burning Tongue Syndrome due to anxiety.

In a recent interview with Jessica Soho for the news anchor’s “Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho” GMA show, Heart revealed that she is a bit anxious during the ongoing community quarantine and her anxiety manifests on her body.

“In the beginning siyempre I think it’s quite normal for you to be a bit antsy and anxious. I mean, I suffer a lot from anxiety. But you know I’ve been painting a lot and I’ve been keeping myself busy,” the actress explained.

“Yes, I’m very expressive with my painting. I still dress up. I still put accessories on.

Mainly as an artist, I like to wear colors. I like to see colors, and it really helps my mood,” she added.

The veteran broadcaster then asked Heart: “Si Heart Evangelista nag-a-anxiety

FOR RENT

Heart Evangelista Photo from Instagram-@iamhearte

attacks. Anong pinoproblema ni Heart?”

“Dati, ‘yon din ‘yung tinatanong ko sa mga ibang nakikita ko. Bakit sila may pinagdadaanan na ganito?

Nasa kanila na lahat. Private jet, they have buildings, pero meron silang sadness,” Heart answered.

“When I lost my babies, I had a slight depression.

This November, nag-mani-

fest kasi siya sa katawan ko.

Naging numb ‘yung mga paa ko, pati ‘yung kamay ko na pag-paint. It’s called the Burning Tongue Syndrome.

Basically, people just live with this condition na parang nasusunog ‘yung bibig mo. Tapos minsan, kumakalat siya sa gums, and it’s very painful,” she shared.

Heart said her doctors revealed that her medical condition is due to extreme anxiety.

“And I went to seven doctors. Sabi nila, ‘yung cause ng sa akin can be extreme anxiety and it manifests on your body kasi sa sobrang stress,” she said.

“Without me knowing ‘yung pressure din ng social media, ‘yung pressure ng tao na kailangan lagi kang maganda, kailangan lagi kang nauuna. Although hindi naman ako super gano’n, siguro subconsciously minsan ‘pag may mga nasasabi tungkol sa’yo, akala mo hindi ka naaapektuhan but then, it affects you and nagpa-pile up siya.”

SERVICES

By Cha lino Inquirer.net

ACTOR Charlene Gonzales and Aga Muhlach expressed how proud they are of their twins Atasha and Andres for finishing high school despite the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 crisis.

While schools are suspended and mass gatherings such as graduation rites are prohibited, the Muhlach family attended the twins’ virtual graduation rites at home, as seen on Gonzales’ Instagram Stories on Friday, May 22.

Atasha and Andres were both enrolled in Brent International School Manila.

The proud mom also penned a special message for her twins via her Instagram account on the same day.

Gonzales accompanied her separate posts with photos of Atasha and Andres.

Gonzales said that the twins’ years of hard work have finally paid off. She added that graduation or not, she and Aga celebrate their children every day for being

Atasha and Andres Muhlach

Photos from Instagram/@atashamuhlach_, @aagupy

“kind-hearted” and “Godfearing” individuals.

“Although, you may have not physically walked across the stage for the graduation ceremony due to the global pandemic, it does not take away the many years of [sacrifice, perseverance,] defeats, victories [and] life lessons you’ve learned [and] continue to learn during your school life [and] life in general,” she said.

The former beauty queen also addressed the graduating batch of 2020 as she said: “[You] belong to a special graduation batch that will be forever remembered for their courage, resilience and strength[.] Congratulations to you all and continue to in-

SERVICES

spire and be inspired.”

Similarly, actors and reallife couple Judy Ann Santos and Ryan Agoncillo celebrated their youngest daughter Luna’s moving up ceremony in the confines of their home.

Meanwhile, the Department of Education (DepEd) plans to start the next school year by August 24. DepEd clarified that this does not necessarily mean students have to physically report at school as online classes are also taken into consideration.

A lawmaker, however, opposed the department’s plan, saying that classes should not resume until the threat of COVID-19 is over or until the vaccine is available.

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people events arts culture entertainment

CLASS OF 2020: Fil-Am students across the country share what it’s like to graduate during a pandemic by

G

AJPRESS

RADUATION season is upon us but it’s not what students had anticipated. For graduates of the Class of 2020, this step in their academic journey is unprecedented as the pandemic forced them to shift their last semester online and leave campus abruptly without proper closure and spending the final weeks counting down with their peers.

Walking across the commencement stage is symbolic of the years of hard work they put in to obtain their degrees. It’s also a moment of pride to be witnessed by and shared with their family and friends. However, instead of the senior week traditions, caps and gowns, and large-scale ceremonies, students across the country are marking their milestones during this extraordinary time at home or will have to wait longer for a physical celebration at a later date.

From virtual commencements to car parades, the Asian Journal interviewed Filipino and Filipino American students about how they spent their big day and what’s next for them.

Roderick Perez, 22 | Fordham University Hometown: East Brunswick, NJ Degree: B.S. in Marketing “I think Fordham handled our graduation well. Instead of outright canceling the ceremony, our achievements were celebrated virtually through a livestream while our in-person graduation was postponed.

Knowing that some other colleges canceled formal graduation ceremonies altogether, I’m grateful for how my university handled the situation with how meaningful in-person graduation would be for many of us…I think the feeling of graduating occurs when we walk across the stage alongside our peers and receive our diplomas. Since my time at college ended abruptly, alongside not experiencing Senior Week events or an in-person graduation, part of me still feels like I’ll return to my regular college life after the pandemic. The lack of a transition made the end of my college career feel incomplete.”

Future plans: Seek employment at a marketing agency

Jacqueline Rafael, 23 | St. John’s University Hometown: New Hyde Park, NY Degree: Doctor of Pharmacy “We will have an online virtual slideshow graduation on May 30.

But it was devastating since I was in school for six years! I wish I experienced pharmacy ‘formal’ with all my classmates. I will celebrate with a party with my family.”

Future plans: Take the three New York state board exams to become a registered pharmacist and continue to work for CVS

Julio Sabangan, 26 | Rutgers University Newark Hometown: Little Ferry, NJ Degree: B.A. in Video Production “Since I graduated at the end of the fall semester, I was fortunate enough to receive my diploma in the mail around April.

I wished they had the ‘pre-graduation’ festival in the quad. I would have attended that. I sat at home with a plate of food, a cup of coffee, and had my family surrounding the television while we waited many, many hours for my name to appear on the screen. As you can see, my name starts with an ‘S.’” Future plans: Venture into voice acting and video editing for television/films and advertising agencies

Stephanie Sison, 22 | New York University Hometown: Lancaster, Pennsylvania Degree: B.A. in Economics (Minor in Business of Entertainment, Media, and Technology) “I felt cheated to not graduate in Yankee Stadium alongside my fellow Class of 2020. I have looked forward to walking across the stage these past four years, and have dreamt of throwing my cap in the air with family, friends, and professors by my side.

Aside from commencement in Yankee Stadium, I wish I could have experienced our Senior Cruise, NYU’s Grad Alley, and our annual Strawberries and Champagne. All of these events would have given me lasting memories to end my four years on campus. Instead of riding the subway to graduation, I walked downstairs and graduated on my couch. However, I felt grateful to be surrounded by family and felt thankful for my school and its efforts. We watched both graduation videos together followed by a brunch and dinner in our home. My family decorated our home for the festivities and surprised me with a Zoom celebration with all of my family back in Manila. Though I am looking forward to an in-person commencement, I had an unforgettable graduation day with family.”

Future plans: Working in New York City for AlphaSights as an associate in their consulting segment PAGE 15

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CLASS OF 2020: Fil-Am students...

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Ferdinand Gerard Suba, Jr., 25 | Cornell Law School Hometown: New York, NY Degree: Juris Doctor (J.D.) “While an in-person convocation will take place in the future, the law school hosted a virtual convocation ceremony on May 9, in which graduates, family, and friends were able to watch the dean, the dean of students, and an alumnus offer words of celebration and encouragement. Although it was disappointing that I could not celebrate in person with my peers, family, and faculty on the original convocation date, I nonetheless felt proud of what I had accomplished in the past three years and thankful for the many lessons learned and friendships formed. I wish I had experienced many end-of-the-year traditions with my peers, namely Barristers’ Ball, the banquets of the law school journals, and the 3L class dinner in the Reading Room of the Cornell University Law Library. While quarantined, I celebrated my graduation day by video chatting with my family and friends.”

Future plans: Litigation associate in the New York office of Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP

Eleanora Velez, 22 | Seton Hall University Hometown: Summit, NJ Degree: B.S. in Diplomacy and International Relations and a B.A. in Economics (Minor in French) “Not being able to experience the big ceremony and receive my diploma on stage is upsetting and makes me feel like I lost out on an experience I longed for since starting college. I also wish I experienced the Senior Toast Ceremony where the dean of our school and our president host an intimate event just for seniors to toast and celebrate our accomplishments. While in quarantine, I celebrated my graduation with my mom, sister, and plenty of FaceTime calls with other family members and friends.”

Future plans: Pursue another internship while going back to school for a master’s degree in foreign security; goal is to become an international security advisor for the State Department or the Defense Department Tiffany Ashley De Guzman Viray, 23 | D’Youville College Hometown: Freehold, NJ Degree: Dual B.S. and M.S. in Occupational Therapy (Cum Laude) “Although graduating from my living room couch was not the ideal situation, it does not change the fact that I’ve worked the hardest I ever had these past five years to earn both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in occupational therapy. Traditionally, the Occupational Therapy Department will throw a White Coat ceremony before graduation, so it’s unfortunate that I didn’t get to experience that with my classmates and professors. To make up for this, my entire program celebrated our accomplishments through a virtual happy hour on Zoom, which was nice and special. For the most part, I think not being able to spend and celebrate my last semester of college with my friends and professors hurt the most. I met life long friends in Buffalo, NY and I had the most amazing college experience, so to be pulled away from that so abruptly was really hard to face.”

Future plans: Take the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy exam later this summer; eyeing a specialty in pediatric or traveling occupational therapy

NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • MAY 29 - JUNE 4, 2020

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Mental health issue brings Ritz’s challenging role too close to home

By MaRinel

CRuz

Inquirer.net

IT takes tons of patience and understanding, as well as strength of character, to be able to effectively take care of a person with mental health problems. This was according to actress Ritz Azul, whose mom has been suffering from an anxiety disorder for years now.

“I’ve witnessed the time it started for her and how it progressed. I was with her during the time her doctor first gave her medications, and saw how these affected her, especially when she falls asleep after taking them,” Ritz said in a recent interview with Inquirer Entertainment.

When on medication, Ritz said her mom, Angie, would sometimes wake up with a start in the middle of the night. “Only the other day, she suddenly woke up and tried looking for her glasses. There were nights when she’d say she could see butterflies fluttering about. I realized that I should also watch over her, even while she’s sleeping,” the actress said.

Ritz, however, doesn’t seem to feel too burdened with her mom’s condition.

“In the morning, we would tell her what had happened and we’d all laugh about it.

Compared to what others are experiencing, hers is just mild,” she declared. “Yes,

Ritz Azul Photo from Instagram/@ritzazul

the anxiety would be triggered by the smallest things; but we could easily avoid them because we already understand her. We know not to say words she doesn’t want to hear. We’re already conscious of our facial expressions—she doesn’t like seeing someone with a wrinkled forehead, or someone looking angry.”

When asked what advice Ritz could give to others who might be experiencing the same thing, the actress said: “There’s a possibility that those of us who are left to take care of loved ones suffering from anxiety could be feeling anxious, too.

“For example, I would worry about my mom, but won’t be able to tell anyone; and all these feelings get bottled up inside me. It’s possible that I

won’t be able to sleep well at night, too,” she explained.

“My advice is that you have to remain strong for your loved ones. If not, you won’t be able to take care of them well. You’ll just end up feeling angry with them all the time,” she added.

Ritz, 26, has a 2-year-old sister named Rizpah.

“It’s a very sensitive topic.

I need to be careful with what I say to people and how I behave in front of them. Like my mom, different patients have different triggers. I feel that merely experiencing what it’s like to take care of someone with mental health issues isn’t enough; that I have to learn more about it before advocating it. I’m not sure if I could handle a responsibility that huge at the moment,” she pointed out.

Ritz said that like her mom, Iris was experiencing anxiety attacks, too. “She sees a psychiatrist regularly.

It all started with an incident that happened to her sister.

It didn’t help that her mother is also blaming her for what had happened—add to that the stress she is experiencing at work as an architect,” Ritz explained. “A big part of the story is about her anxiety disorder. She never got OK in the film. She has always looked haggard. She also experiences hallucinations.

Through Iris, I was able to sort of experience what my mom is actually going through—mahirap pala.”

James named new face of food security in the Philippines

By Ratziel San Juan Philstar.com

ACTOR-Singer James Reid is now the official face of food security in the Philippines, using his influence to beat that local energy gap.

A household name in the country, the Filipino-Australian celebrity will represent the Department of Agriculture as “Ambassador of Food Security,” as announced during the Farmers’ and Fisherfolk’s Month Celebration which James attended earlier.

“As food security ambassador, Reid commits to inform the public on the main advocacies of the Department specifically its cam-

paign on ensuring sustained food security, food accessibility and affordability; and encourage the youth and other advocates on the important roles of farmers and fishers, their hard work, and their valuable contributions to the country,” the DA explained in a Tuesday release.

Without revealing any specific projects, the 27-yearold has gotten to work even before earning the title.

“LETS GROOOW...Can’t wait to show everyone what we’ve been working on during quarantine! #plantplantplant” he hinted in his thank you message for the DA and Agriculture Secretary William Dar.

James Reid Photo from Instagram/@james

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