061022 - New York & New Jersey Edition

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JUNE 10-16, 2022 Volume 15 - No.31 • 16 Pages

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Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, LAS VEGAS, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO

Support next administration, Pres. Duterte urges Filipinos

USA

FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

Los Angeles County could reinstate mandate indoor masking anew AS summer approaches, Los Angeles County could return to mandatory indoor masking if COVID-19 trends continue to increase.

LA County Public Health Director Barbara Ferrer on Thursday, June 2 said that the county would be considered in the federal government’s “high” virus activity category if COVID-related hospitalizations rise above 10 per 100,000 residents, or if the percentage of staffed hospital beds occupied by COVID-positive patients tops

by KRISTINA

MARALIT ManilaTimes.net

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte urged all Filipinos to support his successor and “come to terms with the reality” that a new administration will be ushered in.

“We want the next administration successful,” the President Rodrigo Duterte PNA photo Chief Executive said in his “Talk to the People” on

Monday, June 6.

“We must all be united in confronting the issues ahead of us. We have no room for politicking or actions that are divisive to the country. Nagsalita na ang tao (the people have spoken),” he added, apparently referring to the election of Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.

 PAGE 2

US top official to visit Manila, meet with Marcos Jr.

 PAGE 7

by PATRICIA LOURDES Philstar.com

Outgoing Vice President Leni Robredo and President Rodrigo Duterte PNA file photo

CELEBRATING THE DECLARATION OF PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE. New York Senator and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (center) joined the Filipino community in celebrating the 124th anniversary of Philippine Independence Day. With Senator Schumer in photo above are (from left) Consul General Elmer G. Cato, PIDCI President Nora Galleros, Dr. Emilio Quines and Raul Estrellado.

Photo by Troi Santos

VIRAY

MANILA — United States Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman will meet with President-elect Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during her visit to Manila.

Sherman, the U.S. State Department’s number two, will travel to South Korea, the Philippines, Vietnam and Laos from June 5 to 14.

“In Manila, Deputy Secretary Sherman will meet with President-elect Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and senior members of the incoming and outgoing administrations to discuss new ways to deepen the bilateral U.S.-Philippines

Duterte, Robredo invited to Sara’s Historic Filipinotown coffee Filipinos in Northeast celebrate inauguration OUTGOING President Rodrigo Duterte and Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo were invited to attend the inauguration of Vice President-elect Sara Duterte-Carpio in Davao City, her spokesman said on Saturday, June 4.

Duterte-Carpio, the president’s daughter, will be sworn into office by Supreme Court Justice Ramon Paul Hernando on June 19.

“President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, Vice President Leni Robredo, all past presidents and vice presidents, and President-elect [Ferdinand] Bongbong Marcos were invited to the inauguration of Vice President-elect

 PAGE 4

table book announced

by MOMAR

G. VISAYA

AJPress

“THIS July, we are celebrating the 20th anniversary of the designation of Historic Filipinotown as a distinct historic district of the City of Los Angeles, and we think the best way to celebrate this milestone is by honoring this neighborhood’s rich history and heritage,”

 PAGE 2

124th PH Independence Day

announced Roger L. Oriel, CEO and publisher of Asian Journal.

“As such, we are proud to announce that we are working on a Historic Filipinotown coffee table book set for release in June/July next year,” he added.

Several Filipino businesses, restaurants, churches, community organizations,

 PAGE 4

by MOMAR

G. VISAYA

AJPress

AFTER a two-year hiatus brought by the global pandemic, in-person parades in New York City are back.

The Philippine Independence Day Parade and Festival is an annual gathering of Filipinos in the northeast scheduled every first Sunday of June. This year, the community is commemorating the

124th anniversary of the declaration of independence. It is touted as the largest PH independence Day celebration outside the Philippines.

On Sunday, June 5, the parade organized by the Philippine Independence Day Council, Inc. (PIDCI) returned as thousands of Filipinos trooped to Madison Avenue to witness the parade that had around 120 floats and community

 PAGE 4

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US top official to visit Manila... SoCal Fil-Am goes to White House

PAGE 1 Alliance,” the U.S. Department of State said.

Sherman is also expected to participate in a business roundtable and an event in celebration of World Oceans Day during her stop in Manila.

The U.S. State Department said Sherman’s visit to the region “reflects the United States’ continued commitment to the IndoPacific.”

Sherman’s visit to the region also follows the U.S.ASEAN Summit, as well as U.S. President Joe Biden’s visit to South Korea and Japan.

Biden earlier expressed hope to expand the Philippines-U.S. bilateral relations following a call

to advocate for mental health

US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman attends a news conference in Brussels, on April 22, 2022.

Photo by Johanna Geron/AFP

with Marcos.

The White House said Biden was looking forward to working with the new Philippine administration “on a wide range of issues,

including the fight against COVID-19, addressing the climate crisis, promoting broad-based economic growth, and respect for human rights.” g

Support next administration, Pres. Duterte...

PAGE 1 For the country to keep moving forward, Duterte said that it is crucial for Marcos Jr. to have “the cooperation and help of everybody.”

“That’s democracy. That is how we operate. And ‘pag nagsalita na ‘yung taong-

bayan kung sino ‘yung mga lider na gusto nila, sunod tayo (And once the people have chosen the leaders they want, we follow),” the President said.

“We rally behind the elected leaders of our country. Ganoon talaga ang pamamaraan sa ating pang-

gobyerno (That is the way of our government),” he added.

Malacañang earlier confirmed that Duterte and Marcos Jr. will meet ahead of the latter’s June 30 inauguration although no date and venue of the faceto-face meeting have been announced. g

LOS ANGELES — For Filipina American Justine Bautista, it’s her life’s work to advocate for the de-stigmatization of mental health, especially among Asian communities.

And she knows it won’t be an easy task.

The 24-year-old Bautista, a Ph.D. student and researcher at the University of California (UC) Irvine, is one of the youngest Filipinas to have been given the privilege to join the recent initiative of the U.S. government to address issues on mental health.

Bautista recently attended the Mental Health Youth Action Forum (MHYAF) hosted

by U.S. President Joe Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden at the White House in observance of the Mental Health Awareness Month held every May of each year since 1949.

A scholar and magna cum laude graduate at Chapman University, Bautista was among the 30 youth participants in the MHYAF who were able to present and showcase their ideas and advocacies on how to collectively support efforts in addressing mental health issues and problems.

Aside from Bautista, the event was also attended by actress and singer Selena Gomez, Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, White House Domestic Policy Council Director Susan Rice, and another Filipina, Carla Ibarra, a Transgender Advisory Council advocate.

During the first-ever MHYAF, convened

by MTV Entertainment Group along with 18 leading mental health non-profit organizations, Bautista, who is currently doing intensive research on digital mental health in Asian communities, had the rare opportunity to discuss with Biden and the First Lady about her proposed projects and programs.

“I personally had a conversation with the First Lady Dr. Jill Biden. I talked to her about being a woman and how important it is for women of color to see other women of color in positions of power. I talked to her personally about being vulnerable and the importance of talking about your mental health journey in an effort to de-stigmatize mental health,” Bautista said.

She said the presidential couple was

Bautista, 24, participated in the Mental Health Youth Action Forum at the White House, which was convened by MTV Entertainment Group along with 18 leading mental health non-profit organizations.

Photo courtesy of Justine Bautista

Justine Bautista, a Ph.D. student and researcher from Southern California, chats with First Lady Dr. Jill Biden during a recent Mental Health Youth Action Forum at the White House. Photo courtesy of Justine Bautista

very amenable and receptive during their discussions on mental health issues.

“He (President Biden) talked a lot about how important it is for the Biden-Harris administration to put mental health at the forefront of their priorities. He’s just very genuine and very receptive to all of our ideas,” Bautista, who is also a research associate at the Raising Compassionate Leaders (RCL).

RCL is a non-profit organization that gives families the resources and tools to help their children develop a personal identity, embrace human differences, think critically, and act against injustice towards themselves and others.

During the forum, Bautista was part of a presentation, in the form of a podcast show, that would highlight the voices of young people and the mental health space. “It would allow young people to come on to the show, tell their stories. We would also have a mental health expert that would provide some contacts and provide some evidence space resources,” she said.

At the same time, Bautista was also able to present a tool that she helped develop. “I presented a digital mental health self-care kit that would allow for people to hear about the resources from that show and compile their own kit to use in a crisis. They can use it for mental health crises. They can use it when they just need to relax. They can use that kit how ever they want to and use those digital mental health resources,” she expounded.

Bautista believes that putting more emphasis on mental health issues is extremely significant nowadays.

“I think that mental health issues and disorders have always been there. But I think that we are kinda in a really unique period now where young people feel empowered enough to be able to share their stories,” she said.

“We also have things like the internet which both help and hinder mental health so we could use it as a platform to be able to talk about mental health. It’s important to think about diverse community needs and how different communities approach mental health,” she added.

Despite the advent of social media where people can actively share their stories and

u PAGE 7

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From the Front Page

Historic Filipinotown coffee table...

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer with PIDCI President Nora Galleros.

Filipinos in Northeast...

PAGE 1 organizations participating.

Consul General Elmer G. Cato, speaking after the mass to jumpstart the festivities talked about the new dawn in the Philippines and called on the Filipino community to come together “regardless of our diverging political views” since the sovereign will of the Filipino people has spoken.

He believes that “the spirit of bayanihan will ultimately triumph over bitterness and resentment,” reminding the community that “there’s more that unites us than divides us.”

“Unity is essential to this new beginning,” Consul General Cato said as he talked about the need to support the newlyelected leaders who will sustain the gains of the outgoing administration.

“The future is indeed bright for our country,” Cato continued.

“The Philippine economy has been projected to grow by as much as 9 percent this year compared to 5.7 percent in 2021.”

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer was in attendance at the program outside the Philippine Consulate General before the parade. He was joined by Deputy Mayor Maria TorresSpringer, various community leaders, and PIDCI’s officials led by its president Nora Galleros.

“Earlier this year, we were not even sure that the City of New York will be issuing permits for large events. So we planned but did not get mobilized until late February 2022 that the parade and celebration could really happen,” Galleros told the Asian Journal.

Galleros and her team are grateful that they were able to successfully stage the parade and festival. She looks forward to a bigger and stronger parade next year and they have gathered all the feedback in a debriefing the day after the parade.

“At the debriefing, I collected all comments from all committees on what we should do differently for next year, especially since it is the 125th. In other words, we have begun planning already for 2023,” she remarked.

Parade and Street Festival More than 100 contingents of marchers, floats, bands, open convertibles, sponsors, and invited special guests and celebrities participated in the parade on Madison Avenue.

Prizes were awarded to the outstanding group of marchers and floats.

For the marchers category, Barangay Gingoognons in the United States of America (GIUSA) won the grand prize, followed

by Island Gems Philippine Cultural Group and The Philippine Community Services for Aging/LasIslasFilipinas.org.

Cebuanos Engaged in Building Unity (CEBU, Inc.) won the grand prize in the floats category. Tanglaw Filipino-American Organization, Inc. was the first runner-up, and Filipino Social Club of New York, Inc. was awarded second runner-up.

There were regional groups, alumni, and professional organizations across Northeast USA that attended the parade.

Supporters of President-elect Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. and Vice President-elect Sara Duterte marched under Bagong Pilipinas PAGE 7

PAGE 1 social services, and health clinics call HiFi their home adding color to the city’s rich multi-cultural heritage.

The City of Los Angeles is one of the most diverse in the entire nation and it takes pride in having the highest concentration of persons of Asian Pacific Islander ancestry. It also has the unique status and distinction to have six established historic Asian Pacific Islander neighborhoods in Chinatown, Little Tokyo, Historic Filipinotown, Koreatown, Little Bangladesh, and Thai Town.

The Filipino community in Los Angeles already had a flourishing Little Manila as early as the 1920s where it thrived for over two decades in a section of downtown now known as Little Tokyo.

They moved locations a couple of times before establishing their presence along the Temple-Beverly corridor in the 1950s.

Almost ten years after the designation, Historic Filipinotown was officially recognized as a Preserve America community after years of advocacy by the Pilipino American Network and Advocacy (PANA) and other community advocates.

Former First Lady and Honorary Chair of the Preserve America Initiative, Michelle Obama herself announced this honor for Historic Filipinotown. The honor and designation came with strong federal support and incentives for the continued preservation of cultural and natural heritage resources.

The coffee table book is going to look at the community’s documented history

The Historic Filipinotown Eastern Gateway, known as “Talang Gabay: Our Guiding Star,” was officially installed on Friday, April 1. Designed by Filipino artist Eliseo Art Silva with Celestino Geronimo, Jr, it features design elements, such as the parol; the Gumamela flower also known as hibiscus, which pays tribute to frontline workers; and the Sarimanok – all symbols with deep roots in Filipino culture.

Photo courtesy of the Office of Councilmember Mitch O’Farrell

from the past 100 years to the present.

Oriel said that the editorial team for the coffee table book includes Momar G. Visaya, executive editor of Asian Journal and Prof. Enrique dela Cruz, who was a co-author of Forbidden Book: The Philippine American War in Political Cartoons, a collection of political cartoons from 1898-1907, the period of the Philippine-American War. “My vision is about who are the Filipino-Americans today as the book takes off from the Filipinotown gateway

marker,” said Enrique dela Cruz, professor emeritus of Asian American Studies at CSUN. “It should consist of small photo stories about the diversity of this group, professionally, their contributions to society, and their geographic concentrations.”

“Come for the celebration of Historic Filipinotown past and present and stay for the stories of this vibrant community through the lens of its long-term residents and visitors who have decided to stay,” Oriel said. g

Duterte, Robredo invited to Sara’s...

PAGE 1 Sara Duterte,” Liloan Mayor Christina Frasco, spokesman for Duterte-Carpio, said in a text message.

Malacañang has yet to confirm if the president will attend the event.

Duterte, whose six-year term will end on June 30, skipped the proclamation rite of his daughter at the House of Representatives on May 25.

In an event brief sent to the media on Saturday, Frasco said that DuterteCarpio’s inauguration at San Pedro Square will start at 4:30 p.m., but gates will be open to the public at 2 p.m. for a Thanksgiving Mass and pre-program entertainment.

Guests are reminded to occupy the following areas: San Pedro St. corner CM Recto (in front of SP Building), Bolton St. corner Rizal St. (starting at Jollibee Bolton), San Pedro St. corner Anda St. and Bolton St. corner Magallanes St. There will be security

screening at all entry points.

San Pedro Square, at the intersection of San Pedro and Bolton streets in downtown Davao City, will be closed to vehicular traffic starting June 18.

Motorists were advised to take alternative routes and to “expect heavy traffic” during the June 19 weekend.

“On June 18 to 19, several streets in the downtown area near the vicinity of City Hall and neighboring areas will be closed to vehicles.

The driving public is advised to take other routes for these two days. Heavy traffic should be expected during the weekend,” said Frasco, who is among the candidates for the secretary of tourism post.

The ceremony will begin with the singing of the Philippine National Anthem by the University of Mindanao Alumni Chorale, followed by an ecumenical prayer and a song number.

Duterte-Carpio is expected to wear for the occasion a

Filipiniana-themed attire

by Davao designer Silverio Anglacer.

The official ceremony will end with a photo opportunity with Archbishop Romulo Valles and all the bishops, priests and nuns in attendance.

“The option of a photo opportunity for the general public with Vice President Sara Duterte will be available at Quezon Park fronting City Hall beginning at 6:00 p.m.,” the Duterte-Carpio camp said in an advisory.

The outgoing Davao City mayor chose June 19 for her inauguration so she could attend Marcos’ on June 30.

Duterte-Carpio’s June 19 proclamation will be 11 days earlier than her official ascension to the post of vice president, which is at noon of June 30, the date mandated by the 1987 Constitution.

While uncommon, the Commission on Elections said there was no problem with the move.

Meanwhile, Marcos has chosen to “abide by tradition” and will have Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo administer his oath of office at the end of the month, his spokesman Victor Rodriguez said.

Marcos’ camp had said they have found the National Museum in Manila, which was used to be the old Senate building, to be a “suitable venue” for the ceremony.

“We will not do anything out of the ordinary, we shall abide by the tradition and let the incumbent Chief Justice, the Honorable Alex Gesmundo, administer the oath to Presidentelect Bongbong Marcos.

Everything is being coursed through the Inaugural Committee and I think the letter will be out soon, going to the direction of the Chief Justice,” Rodriguez said in a text message. (by Catherine S. Valente/ ManilaTimes.net)

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OPINION

FEATURES

Only one Earth

5

Philstar.com

THE World Health Organization keeps warning that the once-in-acentury pandemic is far from over, with the COVID virus continually mutating and more contagious strains emerging. But infections have drastically slowed down, thanks to widespread vaccination as well as continued adherence to basic health safety protocols such as masking.

Long after the COVID virus ceases to be a serious threat to public health, the planet will continue to be threatened by environmental degradation. Experts have said the Philippines is one of the countries most vulnerable to the ruinous impacts of climate change. Filipinos need greater awareness of the need to protect the environment, and to remember that there is only one Earth – the theme of this year’s World Environment Day. While public awareness of environmental protection has grown over the past decades and there has been significant progress in promoting an eco-friendly way of life, daunting challenges persist. The United Nations warns that the Earth faces a triple planetary emergency: climate is heating up faster than people and nature can adapt; an estimated one million species may become

extinct due to habitat loss and other pressures; and air, land and water continue to be poisoned by pollution.

The call is for people to live sustainably in harmony with nature. Each person has a role to play.

Transformation is needed in the way we live, travel and have fun. Sustainable living must be designed into homes, workplaces, cities, places of leisure and worship.

Those with the power to set policy and rewrite the rules clearly have a major role to play in the transformation to sustainable living.

These include governments, businesses, financial institutions and organizations.

The UN emphasizes the need for concerted international action. On World Environment Day, its message is that people must shift from harming the Earth to healing it. (Philstar. com)

Editorial

The Renaissance of the Filipino GUS MERCADO JUNE 12, 1898 marks a most important milestone in the history of the Philippines as the day the Republic was born. Every year since then, Filipinos all over the world take time to commemorate this significant event in their history -- the culmination of nearly four centuries of

The history and blessings of Philippine independence struggle for nationhood.

The Philippines, written in poetry as “the cradle of noble heroes”, has a colorful and glorious history -- of wars won and lost, of struggles for independence against colonizers, of bravery and sacrifice. Since the 16th century, the Philippines had been a part of the Spanish Empire until June 12, 1898 when its more than 300-years reign in the Philippines came to an end. After a bloody war,

the first Philippine President Emilio Aguinaldo proclaimed the nation’s independence in Kawit, Cavite. This was followed by 50 years of American occupation when the Philippines became a U.S. colony, the only true colony that the U.S. has ever had. Then came the Japanese invasion where Filipino soldiers fought sideby-side with the Americans in defending the Philippine PAGE 10

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Dateline PhiliPPines

PH registers lower quality of gov’t, democracy after nearly a decade — governance index MANILA — The country registered a lower quality of government and democracy in 2019, compared to its scores nearly a decade before, according to the latest Berggruen Governance Index (BGI).

BGI’s latest report, released days ago, showed that the Philippines’ state capacity or quality of government fell by around 13% to a score of 39.8 in 2019, compared to its level in 2010.

State capacity refers to the “ability of the government to achieve its primary goals, including generating revenues, organizing collective actions and fulfilling its

commitments,” BGI said.

In giving a score to the Philippines’ quality of government, the index considered factors such as tax administration, statesociety relations, and absence of public sector theft, among others.

According to the BGI, the country also scored lower in terms of its quality of democracy in 2019 at 60.6, slipping by around 14%, compared to its level in 2010.

The quality of democracy or democratic accountability refers to the “ability of locals to check the government’s power and demand the state to justify its actions through electoral, institutional and

societal means.” Some factors in determining the country’s quality of democracy include judicial oversight, suffrage, media freedom and freedom of expresion, among others.

The BGI did not give any detailed explanations on what exactly caused the decline in both the country’s quality of government and democratic accountability over the past decade.

The country fared better, however, in terms of providing public goods for its citizens, after scoring 65.5 in 2019, higher by about 14% versus its figure in 2010.

Public goods cover both goods which citizens do PAGE 7

Fil-Am NBA aspirant Remy Martin works out with Los Angeles Lakers

by Luisa

MoraLes Philstar.com

ADD Remy Martin to the list of possible draftees with Filipino heritage after he did a pre-draft workout with the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday, June 6.

In a Twitter post, the Lakers showed Martin, who is fresh from a U.S. NCAA Championship run with Kansas, working out with the team.

It can be recalled that Martin declared a couple of times for the NBA draft during his collegiate career before ultimately finishing his five years.

He first played for the Arizona State Sun Devils for four years before transferring to Kansas for his final year of eligibility.

During the NCAA Tournament with Kansas, Martin won Midwest Regional MVP en route to the championship.

The 23-year-old joins the likes of FilipinoAmerican Ron Harper Jr. and 7’3” Kai Sotto as prospects with links to the country in the upcoming draft.

Remy Martin

Photo courtesy of Los Angeles Lakers

Martin, like Sotto, has been under the radar in draft projections but recently boosted his stock following his championship conquest with the Jayhawks.

He previously expressed his desire to represent the Philippines in international competitions. g

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NFL’s Washington Commanders head SoCal Fil-Am goes to... coach swears by ‘Filipino family values’ RON Rivera “Riverboat Ron,” football head coach for the Washington Commanders of the National Football League, learned the values of hard work and family from his ancestor.

His grandfather on his mother’s side, Margarito Palma, was born in the Philippines before emigrating to the Salinas Valley in California, where he became an itinerant agricultural worker who followed jobs from one farming

season to another.

Rivera said he learned a lot from watching how Palma how he paid a lot of attention to his family, despite the hard work he had to do for a living.

While Palma enjoyed sports mainly for entertainment, he was an ardent supporter of his grandchildren’s athletic pursuits. “It was really a lot of fun knowing he was in the stands, because you tried a little harder,”

Coach Ron “Riverboat Ron” Rivera’s maternal grandfather, Margarito Palma, was born in the Philippines before emigrating to the Salinas Valley in California.

Inquirer.net photo

Rivera told Commanders.com. “You wanted to have that success because he was there, and it was always cool.”

Palma died before he could see Rivera play college football for the University of California. Rivera believes Palma would have been proud of what he accomplished, including being selected as an All-American football player.

Rivera’s appreciation of family values is also bolstered by his wife’s family.

Stephanie Rivera is also a Filipino American who grew up in California near Mare Island Naval Shipyard, in Vallejo. Both her grandparents served in the military, Her paternal grandfather served in World War II for more than 30 years and finished his career as a chief petty officer, while her great grandfather served in World War I. There are only a few football players with Filipino descent, including Washington offensive lineman Keith Ismael. So, Rivera has given stress to representation in the course of his career.

Rivera believes the Filipino community would be proud that he can represent them. “I just think people should know a little bit about me in terms of my heritage,” Rivera said.

(Inquirer.net)

Los Angeles County could reinstate mandate...

PAGE 1 10%.

Ferrer added that it would be “likely… towards the end of June.”

“Actual hospital admissions could increase at a faster rate, or if case numbers stabilize or decrease in the next two weeks, the rate of increase in hospitalizations could be a lot lower,” she said during Thursday’s briefing. “As we look to the near future, it reminds us that we ourselves also have the ability to influence where these numbers go.

We all have the power to take steps to reduce the amount of viral spread, which ultimately reduces the number of people that are in the hospital with a positive COVID-19 infection.”

If the category occurs, it would prompt the county to return to an indoor mask mandate, which was lifted on three months ago on March 3.

Currently, the county is listed in the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention “medium” virus-activity category, based on the cumulative seven-day rate of new cases.

Alameda County in Northern

California is the first county in the state to bring back its indoor mask mandate, which took effect on Friday, June 3.

Public Health reminded residents that masks are required inside health care settings, on public transit and at indoor transit hubs, long term care settings, shelters and cooling centers, and correctional facilities. Employees and customers must wear a mask at any workplaces or venues with required masking. Masking is also required by the LA County Health Officer Order for anyone who is still within 10 days of a COVID diagnosis or exposure when around others.

“With the high transmission of the BA.2.12.1, masking provides a strong defense against viral transmission.

Each resident should consider not only their own personal risk, but also the risk to family members, friends, co-workers and those sharing public spaces, as they make decisions about taking precautions such as masking, gathering, getting tested, and getting vaccinated or boosted. In situations where transmission risk is higher, we

know with certainty that masking allows us to protect ourselves and those around us. Masking helps protect those in our county who are more vulnerable. We help keep everyone working. And it is a fairly simple way to do our part to help prevent overburdening the healthcare system we all depend on,” Ferrer said.

Public Health also on Friday, June 3 reported 10 additional deaths and 5,051 new positive cases. Of the 10 new deaths reported today, one person was between the ages of 30-49, four people were between the ages of 65-79, and five were among people aged 80 years or older. Of the 10 newly reported deaths, nine people had underlying health conditions. To date, the total number of deaths in LA County is 32,154.

Public Health has reported a total of 2,990,651 positive cases of COVID-19 across all areas of LA County. Today’s positivity rate is 5.0%.

There are 522 people with COVID-19 currently hospitalized. Testing results are available for more than 12,034,362 individuals, with 22% of people testing positive. (AJPress)

PH registers lower quality of gov’t...

PAGE 6 not compete over, like clean air; and those which are partially excluded such as basic medical care and education.

The BGI is a collaborative

project between UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs and the Los Angelesbased independent thinktank Berggruen Institute. It looks into the relationship between state

capacity, the provision of public goods and democratic accountability.

Over 20 years, BGI has evaluated more than 134 countries, including the Philippines.

BGI says

its data is a “powerful tool for policymakers, researchers and the public at large to analyze and improve government effectiveness.” (Angelica Y. Yang/Philstar.com)

PAGE 2 experiences, she said a so-called mental health stigma still exists in Asian communities. It was believed that stigmas are unfair, inaccurate ideas or beliefs that people use to negatively isolate and discriminate against others with certain traits or qualities.

“A lot of people in these communities don’t like to talk about mental health since they still believe that it’s a form of perception of success. If you were to say I’m depressed, people immediately think or in a lot of Asian communities, it has a lot to do with your family or your parents failed you, which isn’t the case. If you have mental health issues, there’s a very good chance that you came from a very perfectly normal family and it’s just something that you have,” she said.

Recent studies show that while 18% of the general population of the United States sought mental health services and resources, only 8.6% of Asian Americans did so. A related study found that white U.S. citizens take advantage of mental health services at three times the rate of Asian Americans.

Bautista noted that about 44% of college students including Asian Americans have reported having symptoms of depression and anxiety as of 2021. “That is really a large number and it’s continuing to increase, too,” she said.

She explained that there is a need to get rid of or at the very least, reduce the existence of this stigma through the use of technology and other conversational tools.

“It is important to find unique ways to open up these conversations about mental health with those types of communities. For

me, I think that technology could be very beneficial for a lot of Asian communities because you can seek anonymous help.

You can make phone calls or texts your therapists. It’s confidential,” she said.

“There’s plenty of apps now where you can reach mental health professionals through texts or chats.

It’s very helpful because it allows for them to not have to confront their family, and a lot of Asian people live in multi-generational households as well, where a lot of people would hear their mental health issues so they would be able to do that quietly,” she explained.

Bautista, in that forum, was also able to receive a $5,500 grant from Zoom to be used for her future mental health-related studies and advocacies.

According to Bautista, she is planning to tap the help of other non-profit groups, policymakers and the private sector to accomplish her end goal of de-stigmatizing mental health.

“I know that this is something I couldn’t necessarily do alone. But I have a lot of faith in the coming generation. I have a lot of faith in their ability to just tell their stories and ability to share them with other people. I hope to destigmatize mental health in Asian communities and continue to talk about why it is important to allow ourselves to seek out help.

That’s my long-term goal,” she said.

A few days after the forum, Bautista met with Rep. Katie Porter (D-Calif.) to discuss her plans of holding some sort of town hall meetings to disseminate mental healthrelated information and resources available to the community. (By Donnabelle Gatdula Arevalo/AJPress)

Filipinos in Northeast...

PAGE 4 (UniTeam East Coast USA) and wore white shirts while they sang and danced as the Bagong Lipunan song played on their loudspeakers.

Not to be outdone, the Never Forget contingent - led by 1Sambayan, Malaya Movement, Damayan, Bayan, and various pink caravan groups - wore black shirts and carried placards and banners that read “Free Political Prisoners,” “Uphold Free Speech” and “Turn Grief Into Courage”.

The organizers said they marched “to continue the fight for democracy in the Philippines given the rampant fraud, historical revisionism, disinformation and repression that transpired in the recently concluded national elections” and because there’s still a need to “persist in our struggle to achieve genuine democracy.” g

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JUNE 10-16, 2022 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

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Palace blames 12% increase ‘Asia’s first’ exorcism center to rise in Philippines in number of hungry families to oil price hike

by Xave

GreGorio Philstar.com

MANILA — Malacañang on Tuesday, June 7 blamed the 12.2 percent increase in the number of hunger Filipino families to the spate of oil price hikes in the first quarter of the year.

The Social Weather Stations earlier reported that some 3.1 million Filipino families experienced hunger in the first quarter of the year.

“Tumaas po ang presyo ng langis sa pandaigdigang merkado dahil sa nangyayari ngayon sa Russia at Ukraine.

Kaugnay nito, patuloy nating tinutugunan ang issue ng kagutuman,” acting presidential spokesperson Martin Andanar answered in a Palace press briefing when asked where the increase of hungry families may be attributed.

(The price of oil in the world market increased because of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. In line with this, we continue to address the issue of hunger.)

Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, a move that

affected the movement of oil products due to the embargo imposed by European and various other countries on Russian oil, which supplies about 10 percent of global requirement.

The persisting oil price hikes have a ripple effect to basic commodities and services, thus, affecting the poor, the Palace said.

However, Andanar tried to downplay the situation, saying there were more hungry Filipino families in the latter part of 2020.

“Bagaman may pagtaas sa bilang ng mga pamilyang Pilipino na nakakaranas ng gutom, mas mababa pa rin ng 12.2 percent ngayong Abril sa 16 percent nung huling bahagi ng 2020,” he said.

(While there is an increase in the number of Filipino families who experience hunger, the 12.2 percent this April is lower than the 16 percent recorded in the latter part of 2020.) (by Daniza Fernandez/Inquirer. net)

MANILA — The Archdiocese of Manila is building an exorcism center, which it called the “first of its kind in Asia, if not the world.”

The Saint Michael Center for Spiritual Liberation and Exorcism, which broke ground last May 17, will be constructed on Bernardino Street corner EDSA, Guadalupe Viejo in Makati.

The center will house the Manila archdiocese’s Commission on Extraordinary Phenomena, the Ministry of Exorcism and the Ministry on Visions and Phenomena. It will also serve as the headquarters of the Philippine Association of Catholic Exorcists.

PACE is under the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines and is affiliated with the International Association of Exorcists in Italy.

“This center will minister to those in bondage to the devil who are therefore the poorest of the poor and are usually overlooked,” said Rev. Fr. Francisco Syquia,

Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula leads the groundbreaking of the Saint Michael Center for Spiritual Liberation and Exorcism on May 17, 2022 in Makati City.

Photo from the Archdiocese of Manila Office of Exorcism

director of the Archdiocese of Manila’s exorcism office.

The exorcism office said in a Facebook post that the center is the result of “more than seven years of prayers, planning and fundraising.”

“We are grateful to you our benefactors who have until this point supported the Saint Michael Center. We hope for your continued prayers, sacrifices, skills and monetary donations. Our work of constructing the center is just beginning,” it

said.

Incidentally, Saint Michael is an archangel in Christianity, Judaism and Islam who is invoked in an exorcism prayer.

Exorcism is practiced in many religions throughout the world, but has been deeply associated with the Catholic Church largely due to pop culture that mainstreamed the religious rite believed to drive out demons that possess people.

In the modern Catholic

Church, an exorcism is rarely ever performed over concerns that demonic possession might actually be manifestations of mental illness. As such, a supposedly possessed individual must be first examined by a medical professional to rule out any mental health issues.

Only certain Catholic priests can perform exorcisms and these rituals are always undertaken with the permission of a bishop. g

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9

I-15 expansion aims to be done by late summer By reaLTor FeLY QUiTeviS-BaTeMaN

THINKING of ways to improve the experience of those using the Interstate 15 corridor to go to and from Las Vegas, governors from both states – Gov. Steve Sisolak of Nevad and Gov. Gavin Newsom

Dr. Phil Paleracio (middle), one of Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman’s (left) investors in both Las Vegas and Pahrump, is the best dentist in town. With them in photo is CPA Bing Longakit, Jr. who will be Realtor Quitevis-Bateman’s neighbor in June once they close escrow in one of the towers at Turnberry Place.

of California – had announced last December that the five-mile stretch between the NevadaCalifornia border and Barstow, California will be expanded to help ease traffic congestion.

Caltrans officials, according to news reports recently, have said that the contract has gone out to bid, with the goal of having the expanded section open in a couple of months.

Originally slated to be done by July 4 (Independence Day for the United States), the project looks

A commercial home office in Pahrump, approximately 2600 sqft on 20,000 sqft of land, will be available in the market soon.

like it will be completed by late summer. Although the delay is a bit concerting to some, many are praising that the project is moving forward.

Officials are hoping that the bottleneck that happens at the state line will be eased by adding a third lane during peak hours.

The $12 million project, funded by the California State Highway Account resources, will expand the five-mile segment between the Nevada border and the California Department of Food and Agriculture station to three miles. Per officials, this is where the majority of the congestion occurs.

At the moment, the interstate goes from three lanes on the Nevada side down to two lanes during the first handful of miles on the California side.

This project has been muchheralded by both officials, the trucking association and constant travelers to and from Las Vegas.

About 20% of the millions of visitors to Las Vegas come from Southern California, and at times the traffic delay, especially during the weekends or holidays is a putoff for many prospective visitors.

This would, for sure, improve

These are Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman’s (extreme left) investors, including the Comahig couple, who got approved by the Nye County Commission to build a 100-bed senior resort facility in Pahrump. With Realtor Quitevis-Bateman in photo are Gerlie Comahig, RN, Wilmer Comahig, RN, Tim Evangelista and Glenda Evangelista. The Evangelistas are also looking for some business opportunities in Pahrump or Las Vegas.

the travel experience for those using the I-15 as their main corridor for travel to and from Las Vegas for those coming from California. Aside from bringing in more business to the state, it will also ease the burden faced by major transport operations carrying goods into Nevada.

Meanwhile, the Las Vegas housing market experienced a little tumble in late spring as typical sales of single-family homes went down by 8.3% from March and 14.9% from April 2021, according to a report from the Las Vegas Review Journal.

Homebuilders’ net sales are also down by about 30% from March, the report cited, with builders’ total sales down 18 percent from the four-month stretch of January to April 2022 when compared to 2021 figures for the same period.

However, industry observers still consider Las Vegas a seller’s market overall as there is still a tight inventory of listings available.

Currently, mortgage prices continue on the upswing for many areas in the region. Southern Nevada single-family homes, for example, have a median sales PAGE 10

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JUNE 10-16, 2022 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

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‘Investing heavily in infrastructure to help tourism, economy recover’

by Ralph

Edwin VillanuEVa Philstar.com

MANILA — Incoming tourism secretary Christina Frasco has underscored the importance of investing heavily in infrastructure to help the tourism industry and the economy recover.

In an interview aired over ANC on Tuesday, June 7, Frasco emphasized that a strong foundation by way of investing heavily in infrastructure is needed, since it would improve connectivity and access to tourist sites across the country.

“That means coordinating

closely with relevant government agencies for the improvement of roads, bridges, access, seaports, airports as well as modes of public transportation,” she said.

She stressed that introducing technology and innovation is also important.

“What the pandemic has taught us (is) that you can actually continue to market your products by way of digitalization, by way of mobile applications through online platforms, notwithstanding the restrictions of physical contact,” the incoming

tourism secretary said.

“So providing our lesserknown tourist destinations with access through digitalization and introduction of online platforms that can shed light on them, I think, is also very important,” she added.

President-elect Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is likewise pushing for the improvement of the overall tourist experience, according to Frasco, who ran and won her re-election bid as Liloan, Cebu mayor. “(Such improvement will) make it convenient (for tourists) to come to the

I-15 expansion aims to...

PAGE 9 price of $475,000, which is still an improvement over 2021 prices.

Homes are still selling, but the expected downtrend in sales may be a result of some house hunters reexamining their budget and looking at homes they can afford, with mortgage costs continuing to rise.

If you are looking to purchase a new home, a vacation home or simply an investment for the future, now is the time to look at what the housing market has to offer in Las Vegas and other neighboring communities.

With Clark County expecting an influx of more than a million people by 2060, Las Vegas and its neighboring areas continue to be hot prospects for homebuyers and major businesses. And that means a lot of people looking for housing and other real estate opportunities.

I have seen the development of areas like Las Vegas and Pahrump through the decades, and I have helped many of my clients find the right piece of land or housing for their budgets and needs.

For some of my clients, they are now reaping the benefits of having invested in the market early – some are even looking for new opportunities now, as they look at the many projects that are in development in Las Vegas and other areas.

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

My company, Precious Properties, is a fullservice company that has successfully helped its clientele find the best deals since 1992. You can reach me at 775-513-8447, 805-559-

2476 and 702-538-4948 for more information. We have investors who buy houses in California and Nevada for cash and quick escrow in as short as 7 days.

(Advertising Supplement)

ONE-DAY HIRING. Nurse applicants troop to the one-day hiring activity of a private hospital at the Bonifacio Global City, Taguig on Monday, June 6. The event is part of the hospital’s celebration of Nurses’ Week, which pays tribute to the hard work and dedication of nurses, especially amid the health crisis.

PNA photo by Joey O. Razon

The history and blessings...

PAGE 5 territory. Throughout the many centuries of foreign occupation, the flame of our national spirit and yearning for independence has never died.

Through trials and tribulation, we Filipinos have preserved democracy and freedom in our country. Despite the long history of foreign subjugation, we have given our country a national identity as a proud and independent member of the family of nations.

Out of diversity, we have fostered a cohesive and unified nation-state.

We salute our many heroes, past and present, who have dedicated their lives to aspiring for the best and the noble, whatever cause or field of endeavor they had chosen to pursue.

Like our national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal, whose birthday we also mark this month, we applaud the numerous Filipinos who have made untold personal sacrifices for our country and for all of us who came after them.

From Lapulapu to Gabriela Silang, from Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, Marcella Agoncillo and Apolinario Mabini to modern day heroes like Ninoy Aquino and our doctors and nurses in the frontlines during the pandemic, Filipino role models abound.

Rizal, the novelist, doctor, scientist, linguist, patriot and ultimately, martyr, has drawn the admiration of not just Filipinos, but people of other nations who recognize his genius and love of democracy as the marks of a true hero.

Rizal’s classic novels -- Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo – dramatized the pathetic lives of Filipinos under Spanish colonial rule and the abuses perpetrated against Filipinos by their colonizers. Finally, his execution at what is now the Rizal Park, sparked the Philippine Revolution of 1896 that eventually led to independence.

What has resulted from these sacrifices for freedom and independence is nothing short of a renaissance for the Filipino people, especially those who have chosen to pursue their careers overseas. From authors to sports figures, workers to actors, doctors and nurses, to teachers and engineers, to government leaders and lay ministers, we the living heirs now enjoy the fruits of freedom and democracy that our ancestors fought and died for. We cherish the examples set by our heroes, as beacons of inspiration and constant reminder that even in the face of formidable challenges and against all odds, yes, the Filipino can. The Filipino can overcome adversity. The Filipino can emerge triumphant, prosper and distinguish himself in his adopted land.

And those of us who have been blessed with a bountiful life abroad are paying back

by keeping the Philippine economy afloat with our dollar remittances. Twelve million Filipinos living abroad send the equivalent of $31 billion to our families and relatives every year.

This heritage of nationhood, built painstakingly over time, is what makes us all Filipinos, regardless of where in the Philippines we come from, or where we are now, or what our occupation and status in life is. On this 124th year of our nationhood, therefore, we must rededicate ourselves to working for the good of our mother country and of all our people.

Two Most Important Chapters in Philippine History Among many chapters of Philippine history that were written in blood, two special chapters stand out in reminding all of us of the countless Filipino lives lost in their fight for freedom. The first is the Philippine Revolution which culminated in the 1898 Declaration of Independence, on the altar of brave men and women who lost their lives in the conflict.

The other indelible chapter in our history that memorialized the bravery of the Filipino people is World War II where the Philippine nation lost a million lives including civilians and more than 200,000 Filipino and American soldiers fought side by side against the invaders, and gave their full measure of devotion to keep freedom alive. Thanks to the heroism of the Filipino soldiers who vowed that “never shall invaders trample thy sacred shores”, the cause of freedom in the Philippines ultimately prevailed.

Unbeknownst to the younger generations, it was the heroism and sacrifices of these heroes that gave us free passage as immigrants into this country.

The hard-fought Philippine Independence and what it stood for, both in the revolution against Spain and in the bloody aftermath of WWII, should remain ingrained in our consciousness and in our hearts. May the spirit of our heroes dwell within us and in our children, now and forever more. Mabuhay ang ating Kalayaan! Mabuhay tayong lahat! *** 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. *** Gus Mercado is a well-known civic and business leader from Dallas, Texas. He founded the Filipino Leaders Coalition of North Texas which organizes and sponsors the annual joint celebration of Philippine Independence Day in the region. He is a recipient of the Presidential BANAAG award for outstanding business leadership and exemplary stewardship of Filipinos in the U.S. He is married to Philippine Consul in Dallas, Hon. Ethel R. Mercado.

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NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • JUNE 10-16, 2022

COMMUNITY JOURNAL

11

Atty. Gurfinkel answers more immigration questions from Kapamilya in Chicago, on part 2 of a series of Q&A on Citizen Pinoy LEADING U.S. Immigration Atty. Michael J. Gurfinkel answers more immigration questions from Kapamilya in Chicago and neighboring areas when Citizen Pinoy brings you the second installment of “Your Tanong, My Sagot.”

In this episode, viewers will hear from Flora whose sister came to the U.S. as a tourist in 2018. Flora wants to know if she can petition her sister who is still in the U.S. and living with her.

Rey’s mother petitioned him during the ‘90s, but he did not pursue the petition when it became current. Now, Rey wants to know if that petition can be revived or if his mother needs to re-petition him.

Connie’s mother-in-law petitioned her daughter as “married,” but she has been separated from her husband for some time

now. Connie would like to know what is the fastest way for her sister-in-law to get her green card.

Vina has a staffing agency for caregivers and certified nursing assistants and wants to know if she can petition her nieces and nephews to work for her company, and if they need to be certified or have prior work experience for the positions.

Atty. Gurfinkel answers these questions and more in Part 2 of “Your Tanong, My Sagot,” with Kapamilya from Chicago. Watch this brand-new episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, June 12 at 7:00 PM PT (10:00 PM ET thru select Cable/Satellite providers), right after TV Patrol Linggo. Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the free app.

(Advertising Supplement)

YOUR TANONG, MY SAGOT IN CHICAGO PART 2. Leading U.S. Immigration Atty. Michael J. Gurfinkel (2nd from right) answers immigration questions from Kapamilya in Chicago, in Part 2 of “Your Tanong, My Sagot.” Some of the questions Atty. Gurfinkel answers are – From Flora (2nd from left): My sister came to the US on a tourist visa in 2018. She is still living with me. Is it possible for me to petition her?; From Connie (3rd from left): My mother-in-law petitioned her daughter as “married,” but her daughter has been separated from her husband for quite some time now. What is the fastest way to get her a green card? Watch this second installment of “Your Tanong, My Sagot” in Chicago on a brand-new episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, June 12 at 7:00 PM PT (10:00 PM ET) through select Cable/ Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo.

(Advertising Supplement)

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JUNE 10-16, 2022 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

Health@Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS THE Washington Post reported the following shameful news: “A California doctor, Jennings Ryan Staley, MD, who prescribed hydroxychloroquine as part of a ‘covid treatment kit’ that he guaranteed would cure the disease was sentenced last week to 30 days in prison and a year-long home confinement.”

Added info from the US Department of Justice: “This physician previously pled guilty to one count of importation contrary to law, admitting he attempted to smuggle hydroxychloroquine into the U.S. by working with a Chinese supplier that would mislabel 26 pounds of hydroxychloroquine as ‘yam extract’.”

How he was caught: “After people alerted the FBI to promotional emails from Staley’s Skinny Beach Med Spa, an undercover agent posing as a customer asked about the treatment kit and was assured by Staley that hydroxychloroquine was a ‘magic bullet’ and ‘amazing cure.’ Dr. Staley added that COVID-19 ‘literally disappears in hours’ after taking the drug.” No ethical physicians would use the word “guarantee” when it comes to any treatment, even if they knew it would work well.

That was certainly a fraud, misrepresentation, deception, and malpractice goaded by financial greed and a grave breach of our sworn Hippocratic Oath.

Primum non-nocere (First, do no harm) is the principal precept of bioethics our medical profession is based upon. His deviation from the standard of medical care (hydroxychloroquine is not approved for the treatment of COVID-19) and marketing of his “guaranteed cure,” which are false and unethical, endanger unsuspecting people who might fall victims to his deceptive advertisement and forego the proper treatment for this deadly killer virus, putting their lives in jeopardy, just to enrich himself.

As a physician, I find this embarrassing and a blemish on the medical profession.

Although his license was suspended, was the 30day jail term too lenient for

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

Doctor jailed the multiple crimes he had committed?

COPD Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a common lung condition, especially among longterm cigarette smokers.

The toxic smoke burns the lung tissues, causing ballooning out of the air sacs (emphysema), rendering them inefficient in oxygen absorption and transfer (mixture) with blood, the reason why persons with COPD are short of breath most of the time. The blood is not oxygenated well enough for the body.

COPD could also be caused by other harmful agents, like toxic chemicals in the environment such as in industrial chemical plants or laboratories, or from normal hydrochloric acid, the natural gastric juice in our own stomach that aids in digestion.

In persons with gastroesophageal reflux, where the sphincter in the junction between the esophagus and the stomach is not competent (too loose), acidic gastric acid juices or acid fumes back up and are inhaled into the lungs, especially when lying down, resulting in the burning of the lung tissues.

Propping the head part of the bed helps the patient breathe a little better and also prevents gastric acid reflux by gravity.

COPD starts with bronchitis (the bronchus, or breathing pipe, becomes inflamed) and later emphysema (damaged, thinned-out air sacs of the lungs). There could be exacerbations or flareups now and then, where the patient could become seriously ill. Consultation with a Pulmonologist, preferably at the earliest stage of bronchitis, offers great benefits and comfort to these individuals through the formulation of an action plan.

Putin’s cancer Vladimir Putin, president of Russia, whose unprovoked attack on Ukraine has killed countless soldiers, and civilians, including children, an act labeled a genocide, has been reported

by Newsweek in April as undergoing “treatment for an undisclosed type of advanced cancer.”

COVID-19 update As of Tuesday, June 7, 2022, 9:00 AM (EST), COVID-19 worldwide –

536,051,913 cases, deaths – 6,321,838; U.S. – 86,637,487 cases, deaths – 1,033,830; the Philippines - 3,691,892 cases, deaths – 60,456. The pandemic is still amidst us, gradually becoming endemic.

The new BA.2 The new Omicron subvariant, BA.2, which is becoming the dominant COVID-19 virus in the United States, is more highly contagious, causes milder infection than Delta and earlier variants, and has symptoms for about two days fewer than those with Delta. With more than 100 million (33 percent) unvaccinated people in the United States, who are more prone to get infected,and harbor the virus in their bodies, more and newer strains and sub-strains of the virus are expected to develop. Masking and social distancing still help, since even those with second boosters could still get infected by the new and yet unidentified strains still under the radar.

Diabetes-COVID COVID, or Post-COVID infection, or Long-Haul COVID refers to symptoms of COVID-19 infection that persist for more than 12 weeks (unexplained by other causes), like joint pains, extreme tiredness, shortness of breath, chest pains or tightness, and “brain fog” (memory and concentration problems), according to NHS. More than 5.17 billion (with a B) doses of the COVID-19 vaccines have been administered around the world (67.4 percent of the global population) and around 67 percent of people in the United States are fully vaccinated, proving that COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. Those unvaccinated are more prone to get COVID-19 infection and also have a greater risk for Long COVID, compared to those who are vaccinated.

A review of 7 studies showed that those with Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 who had COVID-19 infection were associated with more than 4 times higher chance of developing Long COVID, according to Jessica L. Harding, Ph.D., of Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, in her presentation at the American Diabetes Association annual meeting.

TATLONG KORO: MALAYA KA PILIPINO

Unveiling of Filipino music in history and in-person

NOW is the time to give ourselves a treat that we truly deserve. After a long hiatus from the pandemic season, we are back in finding the best live entertainment that suits our distinct musical taste. As they say, “Singing is a way to express our thoughts and feelings and has the power to alter our moods and conjure up memories.”

In addition to the festive celebration of the historic

Philippine Independence Day this month of June, the University of the Philippines Alumni Association in America, Inc. (UPAAA), and Handang Tumulong Foundation, Inc. bring us a grand showcase of Filipino talent in-person on a fulllength concert entitled, Tatlong Koro: Malaya Ka Pilipino!

This musical event will be staged at the Immaculate Conception Church in Secaucus, New

Jersey, on June 18, 2022, Saturday, at 7:30 P.M. One main attraction of this production is the feature of various genres of Filipino music in history as performed by the Filharmonix Choir, the Kayumanggi Chorale, Inc., and The Bayanihan Singers.

These three renowned Filipino choral groups are homegrown to and a source of pride in the New Jersey Filipino American community. Funds raised by this event will benefit the scholarship fund of UPAAA, and projects of other sponsoring organizations.

H&R Block Bergenfield, NJ is the event’s Corporate Sponsor.

Concert Overall Chair, Dr. Winston Umali from UPAAA appeals to the public and said that “Let’s support and enjoy this concert that conveys a message of love, peace and harmony while commemorating the birth of our Filipino freedom.”

The UPAAA Scholarship Fund helps undergrad, graduate and post-graduate students at UP for school fees.

It also provides assistance to students at UP Baguio with on-going medical expenses, temporary housing and basic electronic equipment.

For tickets, donations and other details, please contact Dr. Joy Celo at info@upaainamerica.org, Bel Molina (HTFI) 917325-3653, Cherrie Manez (FHX) 551-221-3314, Grace Badiola (TBS) 908-3135522, Marini Lengson (KCI) 201-519-4598. g

Dogs detect COVID Our most loyal pet, following specialty training, is able to sniff out COVID-19 infection, even before symptoms occur, “more accurately than rapid antigen testing.” For decades, trained dogs have been known to diagnose epileptic seizures shortly before they happen, as well as malaria, prostate cancer, and hyperglycemia (when the blood sugar level of a diabetic person goes up dangerously high), to name a few. More popularly, trained dogs can trace escaped convicts, dead bodies buried underground and hidden illegal drugs.

Dogs are indeed smart, patient, forgiving and faithful

animals, much better than some people on earth. If we were all like our pet dogs in attitude, behavior and virtues, this world would be a better place than what it is now, with no hatred, anger or killings, and, instead, be filled with love, joy and peace on earth. *** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. *** The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people live a healthier lifestyle to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve a happier and more productive life.

Any diagnosis, recommendation or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable or appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute for your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday. com, and philipSchua.com; Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com.

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NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • JUNE 10-16, 2022

Mayor Fulop announces Flo Rida to headline Jersey City’s Fourth of July Festival and concert!

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Jersey City July 4th celebration draws crowds of 150k with A-list concerts and NJ’s largest fireworks display overlooking Hudson Skyline

JERSEY CITY - Mayor Steven M. Fulop, the Jersey City Municipal Council, and the Office of Cultural Affairs join Exchange Place Alliance to announce Flo Rida as this year’s headliner for Jersey City’s Fourth of July celebration! Shaquille O’Neal aka DJ Diesel and Funk Flex will each DJ their own sets prior to Flo Rida taking the stage.

Jersey City’s Independence Day celebration has become a premier daylong event, attracting A-list talent since Mayor Fulop resurrected the event and grew it into one of the largest July 4th festivals in the region, drawing crowds of 150,000 people from all over the tristate area.

“Jersey City has transformed over our term to be one of the best renaissance stories in the country, and we strive to deliver the best product in everything we do with July 4th being another example,” said Mayor Fulop. “Jersey City residents deserve the best, and we have taken the opportunity to deliver a free day of fun for families that may not have the means to pay for these types of events.”

In recent years, Jersey City’s July fourth festivals have attracted crowds of nearly 150,000 people, with superstar talent headlining the music festival on stage, including the Village People (2016), Jersey City’s own Kool and the Gang (2017), Snoop

Dogg (2018), Pitbull (2019), and local native Akon (2018 & 2019).

“We are excited to host this annual event on our waterfront to celebrate such an important day in our nation’s history by bringing the community together for fun, food, and entertainment,” said Elizabeth Cain, Executive Director of the Exchange Place Alliance.

“Thank you to DEG Presents for helping us

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bring such talented artists to the stage for a memorable concert that will keep people on their feet dancing all night long.”

Following the world-class music performances live from the stage, fireworks will illuminate the Jersey City sky with the unparalleled backdrop of the Manhattan skyline. Jersey City’s fireworks - conducted

by Guinness World Record holder, Fireworks

by Grucci - will be launching from two barges located in the middle of the Hudson River with a large viewing area this year. Spectators can watch the fireworks show along the Hudson River Walkway, from the north field at Liberty State Park, and most overlook areas in The Heights.

Fireworks by Grucci is a sixth-generation, family-owned and operated fireworks company that has developed a prominent reputation, having performed at eight U.S. Presidential Inaugurations, Olympic Games, World’s Fairs, and earning the Guinness World Record for “largest fireworks display” ever recorded.

While there are no longer limits for outdoor gatherings, residents and visitors are invited to watch the fireworks along the waterfront while maintaining all safety protocols necessary.

For more information on the event, transportation, directions, and what to bring, please visit www.jcnj.org. Anyone attending the event is strongly encouraged to arrive by foot, bike, or public transportation, as parking will be extremely limited. Roads surrounding Montgomery Street will be closed for the duration of the event. Bike JC will also host a free bicycle valet at Exchange Place. g

SERVICES

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JUNE 10-16, 2022 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

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N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY J U N E 1 0, 2 0 22

people events arts culture entertainment

Fire Island: A raunchy rom-com all about chosen family T

by MOMAR

G. VISAYA / AJPress

HIS story began when comedian Joel Kim Booster went to Fire Island in the summer of 2016 and brought along with him a copy of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice.

“I was next to Joel when he came up with the idea.

He was reading Pride and Prejudice and we were next to each other on Fire Island for the first time and he said, you know, wouldn’t it be so funny if I wrote a screenplay that was about Pride and Prejudice and it took place on Fire Island with gay people,” SNL’s Bowen Yang told the Asian Journal.

“I was really struck then by how relevant all the themes were to me and my life and what we were experiencing living on the island,” Booster echoed.

Fire Island had its premiere at the SVA Theatre in New York last week for the NewFest Pride, a day before the film began streaming on Hulu.

“I’m feeling insane. To be honest, I’m feeling really, crazy, but really grateful,” Booster said when asked how he felt that what was once was just an idea was now a film celebrating love and friendship.

He is feeling hopeful that the film somehow provides “a brief reprieve with this bit of joy”, especially to the Asian and gay communities which are both waging battles against hate and ignorance.

“As a queer person, I think right now both of our communities need a little bit of joy. I think if we live in the negative then we won’t have the energy to fight and I think this brief reprieve is a vital part of the holistic arsenal that we all need to continue to fight

Bowen Yang, Conrad Ricamora, Joel Kim Booster

Photo by Mettie Ostrowski

Conrad Ricamora Photos from Instagram/@FireIslandMovie

Andrew Ahn

hate in this country,” Booster added.

And that is exactly what the film is about. Fire Island follows a group of gay men spending a week on the famous summer getaway.

It’s a romantic comedy that dwells on various issues beyond romance and friendship, tackling deeper issues such as racism, classism, and even sexual harassment and assault.

Director Andrew Ahn remembers getting the screenplay from Booster a year into the pandemic.

“I read it and I just loved how it celebrated queer friendship that celebrated chosen family. These were things that during the pandemic I hadn’t gotten to experience a lot. And so I saw in the script so much of what I was missing in my life, and this movie helped me find that

again,” Ahn said.

Echoing what Ahn mentioned earlier, Broadway performer Nick Adams said that the cast created a special little group for each other.

“Honestly, we formed the most special little chosen family that we all text each other almost every day since we wrapped at the end of September,” Adams said.

“And I think that’s always our special takeaway when you make lasting friendships.”

He feels proud to be a part of a crew that created a love letter to Fire Island, the community, and the traditions.

“It’s about love, friendship, about celebrating your individuality, and it’s about this amazing getaway off the coast of New York City,” Adams said. “People that have been going out there for years and years and the people that came before us and allowed us to have the opportunity to keep going out there would be very proud of this film.”

Yang on the other hand is thankful for the opportunity to work with the rest of the cast.

“This cast was incredible, there’s not a single dud in the cast. Everyone is so vital and everyone has become part of this family. And working with Margaret Cho was just the most full-circle moment that we could have had,” he shared.

Conrad Ricamora, fresh from his stint as the first Asian Seymour in the Off-Broadway musical Little Shop of Horrors is cast in this film as a romantic PAGE 15

Director Andrew Ahn on what his dream is for Fire Island: I’m excited for a movie like Fire Island to bring a group of queer Asian Americans together to let us feel strong and beautiful. And then with that strength, take it one step further and make this world a better place, to go out there and donate to mutual aid funds to go vote to protest, to support community organizations. You know, it’s through this action that we can make a real difference. And so, I hope that this film inspires people to be beautiful, be strong and take that next step.

Joel Kim Booster and Conrad Ricamora star in Fire Island, the modern rom-com adaptation of Pride and Prejudice. The film is currently streaming on Hulu.

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NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • JUNE 10-16, 2022

Top LA model coach Tina Shih unveils fresh faces in Asia Pacific Fashion Week 2022

LOS ANGELES – Tina Shih, a noted image consultant and model coach in Southern California and China, has recently re-branded her “Tina Modeling – House of Etiquette” modeling academy into “Icon Model Group.”

As such, Tina will unveil her newest talents under the “Icon Model” brand in Asia Pacific Fashion Week (APFW), the world’s newest platform that seeks to shine the spotlight on the most upcoming fashion creatives from North America, Europe and Asia.

APFW, slated 06 August 2022, promises to be a well-produced, highprofile event happening in the heart of Los Angeles, the historic Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel on Hollywood Boulevard.

Broadening her horizon in 2022 In 2022, Tina renamed her academy in order to broaden her modeling and image consulting reach and influence.

Tina, who used to be a model herself, founded “Tina Modeling – House of Etiquette” more than 17 years ago, and has lectured on modeling and etiquette to ladies and gentlemen of all ages ever since. Year after year, she produced and choreographed several fashion events

MODEL COACH. Tina Shih, a noted image consultant and model coach has recently re-branded her modeling academy.

FRESH FACES. Tina Shih is set to unveil her newest talents under the “Icon Model” brand in Asia Pacific Fashion Week.

Photo courtesy of Liquid Star Photography

Moira asks self on breakup with Jason

By Jan

Milo Severo Philstar.com

As chief director of “Icon Model Group,” Tina devotes her professional knowledge to customizing training modules to turn their dreams into reality.

Photos courtesy

and trained potential beauty queens in the Southern California region.

Through the years, Tina has been known to be a leading etiquette educator, pageant judge, and modeling coach not just in Southern California, but as well as in mainland China and Taiwan (where she was born). She has also been a frequent guest and speaker on several TV shows, radio talks, and industry conferences.

Tina is passionate about teaching the virtues of beauty and elegance, which anyone can apply in real life, not just in fashion and modeling. She goes by the dictum set of legendary fashion designer Giorgio Armani: “Elegance is not about being recognized; it’s about being remembered.”

With both flare and humility, her instruction encompasses a comprehensive curriculum in developing her students’ self-confidence. She continually emphasizes the value of body language, the importance of good postures, and honesty in our communications and social interactions as an educator, award-winning model, and “beauty ambassador.”

Her students consistently flourish and exemplify her teaching and mentorship,

Tina is passionate about teaching the virtues of beauty and elegance. Photos courtesy of Tina Shih

whether it’s as a supermodel on the runway, a courteous host at a function, an elegant guest at a dinner, a crowned Queen in a beauty contest, or a multimedia anchor.

A customized training that turns dreams into reality As chief director of “Icon Model Group,” Tina devotes her professional knowledge to evaluating her students’ strategies, and customizing training modules to turn their dreams into reality.

All her students personalized teaching in modeling, etiquette, social graces, and proper business manners in this reenergized academy that is “Icon Model Group.”

Whether a student aims to be a top model, a beauty queen, a multimedia star, or a community leader, Tina and her team work hard to assist each student reach their maximum potential in terms of confidence, beauty, and elegance. Tina’s team of instructors are enthusiastic and devoted experts with exceptional teaching abilities.

Tina collabs with a global platform, APFW Tina is slated to unveil her new and upcoming models in APFW, which showcases the diversity of Asianinspired fashions, as well as pan-Asian models walking down the runway.

APFW enjoys the support of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. Trending Beverages Inc., Napa Valley Distribution Inc., Montemaria Cellars, House of Pacquiao Wine, Individual Health Care, Lombard by the Bay, Premier Asia Pacific Real Estate & Development, and, of course, Icon Model Group.

APFW is owned and operated by One Global Management Company, Inc., an international events production and talents development agency based in Los Angeles, California.

One Global Management, which has been collaborating with Tina since 2019, is a fast-growing company that has produced and supported numerous events from concerts, fashion shows, expos, to developing the careers of young and emerging talents.

(Advertising Supplement)

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KAPAMILYA singer Moira Dela Torre turned emotional upon opening up about her breakup with husband Jason Hernandez.

In her “Magandang Buhay” guesting on Monday, June 6, Moira said she’s now grieving and healing.

“Siguro po ngayon, I’m in a season na hindi ko nakita.

Kumbaga — mahilig kasi ako mag-bullet journal, mahilig ako magplano — kumbaga, wala ‘to sa plano,” Moira said.

“Pero ang galing kasi dito ko natututunan na mabait talaga si Lord kasi dito ko nakikita na pwede palang magsabay ‘yung grieving at ‘yung healing,” she added.

Singer-songwriter Moira Dela Torre

Host Regine Velasquez asked Moira if she happened to blame herself for what happened.

“Yes, sobra,” Moira said, crying. “I guess sa lahat naman ng pinagdadaanan ko sa buhay, palaging ‘yun ‘yung initial reaction ko. I always say, ‘What did I do wrong?’

So especially now, ‘Saan ba ako nagkulang?’”

“Pero tinatanong naman nating lahat ‘yun sa sarili natin na, ‘Saan tayo nagkamali, saan tayo nagkulang?’ Hindi lang sa relationships but also sa career, sa kung ano man, but at the same time I also know na God makes all things beautiful in his time,” she added.

Jason and Moira recently announced that they broke up after three years of marriage. g

ABS-CBN photo

Fire Island: A raunchy...

PAGE 14 lead.

“It feels amazing to be doing a show that shows Asian American men being powerful, sexy, vulnerable, threedimensional, complicated, messy,” Ricamora told us at the rooftop after-party. “It feels great. I feel excited and I feel all the feelings.”

He shared that it was his first time going to Fire Island when they shot the film last year.

“I’ve fallen in love with it and I’m gonna go every year,” he quipped.

Being that this is Booster’s reimagination of Pride & Prejudice, Ricamora said he feels honored to be the first Asian Mr. Darcy.

Booster believes it is Austen’s best and most timeless work.

“It’s the most complicated and interesting and I think Elizabeth Bennett is one of the all-time great literary heroines and I wanted selfishly to play her,” he said laughing.

Bringing Austen books every time he travels back to Fire Island has become his tradition since 2016. This year, he is bringing Northanger Abbey. g

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JUNE 10-16, 2022 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

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