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NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
Volume 21 - No. 23 • 14 Pages
T HE F ILIPINO A MERICAN C OMMUNITY N EWSPAPER
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JUNE 10-16, 2022
Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, SAN DIEGO, LAS VEGAS, NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY
CA Attorney General Rob Bonta USA SoCal Fil-Am goes advances to Nov. general election to White House DATELINE
FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA
to advocate for mental health
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
by AJPRESS
CALIFORNIA Attorney General Rob Bonta is advancing to the general election in November after being the top vote-getter in the state’s primary on Tuesday, June 7. Bonta, who was appointed to the top post in 2021,
was the only Democrat in the primary race and received 57% of the vote (1,819,199) as of June 8, according to the Associated Press. "Thank you, California! Humbled by this strong vote of confidence and the resounding message delivered by voters,” Bonta wrote in a Facebook post on Tuesday. "Tonight, we celebrate — and tomorrow, we
“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,” said 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 next year,” he added. Several Filipino businesses, restaurants, churches, community organizations, 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
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Alameda County becomes first Bay Area county to mandate indoor masks anew
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Historic Filipinotown coffee table book announced
get back to work to fight back against the right wing attacks on our values and fundamental rights. Onward to November." The top two vote-getters advance to the November election under California law, no matter their party affiliation.
SPRUCING UP RIZAL. Days before the Independence Day celebration, workers clean and spruce up the Rizal Monument in Manila City on Wednesday, June 8. Independence Day in the Philippines is held every June 12 and commemorates the Philippines’ declaration of independence from Spanish colonial rule. PNA photo by Joey O. Razon
TO limit the impact of increasing COVID-19 cases on hospitalizations, Alameda County health officials announced an indoor mask mandate in most public settings, which took into effect last June 3. This order does not apply to the City of Berkeley, which is an independent Local Health Jurisdiction. The Alameda County Health Officer said it will monitor COVID cases and hospitalizations to determine when this order can be lifted safely. Alameda County will not require masking in K-12 school settings through the end of the 2021-22 school year, but masking is still strongly recommended. Masks will be required in all other children and youth settings, including childcare, summer school, and youth programs, as practicable. Daily reported COVID-19 cases have exceeded the peak of last summer’s Delta wave and are now approaching levels seen during the winter 2020-21 wave, at comparable lab-reported testing levels. Reported
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Support next administration, Pres. Duterte urges Filipinos 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 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. 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, President-elect Bongbong Marcos during a campaign rally.
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Marcos party: P272-M Duterte, Robredo invited spent in campaign
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to Sara’s inauguration by CATHERINE
S. VALENTE ManilaTimes.net
Outgoing Vice President Leni Robredo and President Rodrigo Duterte
Philstar.com file photo
PNA file photo
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 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.
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by ELIZABETH
MARCELO Philstar.com
MANILA — The Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) has declared expenditures totaling P272 million for the campaign of its standard bearer, presidentelect Ferdinand Marcos Jr. “The PFP spent P272 million by way of expenses in the last 2022 presidential campaign, which is well below the maximum expenditure of P337 million allowed by law for a national political party,” the party’s general counsel George Briones said in a press
statement on Monday, June 6. PFP made the announcement after filing its Statement of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCE) with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) ahead of the June 8 deadline. Marcos is the national chairman of the PFP. The 400-page SOCE was prepared and signed by party national treasurer Antonio Lagdameo, recently named special assistant to the incoming president. “The PFP SOCE is the final Comelec requirement from the party pursuant to the Election
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JUNE 10-16, 2022 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
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From the Front Page
CA Attorney General Rob... PAGE 1 Nathan Hochman, former federal prosecutor and former assistant U.S. attorney general who is the Republican Party’s endorsed candidate, came in second with 17.5% of the votes counted. Conservative Republican Eric Early was third, with 15%, while Sacramento County District Attorney Anne Marie Schubert, running without party affiliation, had 8% of the vote. “As attorney general, I wake up every day and go to work to protect public safety and defend Californians’ rights,” Bonta said in a statement. “No Department of Justice in the country is doing more to stand up to right-wing attacks against our constitutional and legal rights — from defending abortion protections and the right to privacy to strengthening our gun safety laws,” Bonta added. Bonta, who is the first Filipino American to hold the top lawyer post in California, was previously
Attorney General Rob Bonta celebrates being the top vote-getter in the California primary election on Tuesday, June 7 alongside his wife, Assemblymember Mia Bonta. Photo from Rob Bonta Facebook page
a state assemblymember, representing the East Bay areas of Oakland, Alameda, and San Leandro. Bonta, who was born in Quezon City, Philippines, moved to the U.S. at a young age and spent his early years living in a trailer in La Paz, in the Tehachapi Mountains outside Bakersfield, California.
Prior to his election to the state Assembly in 2012, Bonta was San Francisco’s deputy city attorney for nearly a decade, and served as director of the Alameda Health Care District and then part of Alameda’s City Council as vice mayor. The state’s general election will be held on November 8. g
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 Filipinianathemed 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 President-elect 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. g
Duterte, Robredo invited to Sara’s...
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In an event brief sent to the media on Saturday, Frasco said that Duterte-Carpio’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 preprogram 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
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SoCal Fil-Am goes to White House to... PAGE 1
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 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 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 u PAGE 4
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
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Dateline USa
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Alameda County becomes first Bay Area... Historic Filipinotown coffee table book... PAGE 1
cases are an underestimate of the total due to home testing and unidentified infections. Hospitalizations are also rising after remaining stable during the early weeks of this wave. Daily new admissions of patients with COVID-19 rapidly increased in recent days and now exceed last summer’s peak. We expect to reach CDC’s “High” COVID-19 Community Level soon, given current trends. “Rising COVID cases in Alameda County are now leading to more people being hospitalized and today’s action reflects the seriousness of the moment,” said Alameda County Health Officer Dr. Nicholas Moss. “We cannot ignore the data, and we can’t predict when this wave may end. Putting our masks back on gives us the best opportunity to limit the impact of a prolonged wave on our communities.” While COVID-19 vaccination, boosters, prior infection and available medications provide protection against severe illness, the virus that causes COVID is
circulating at very high levels in Alameda County. Even with strong protections, such high numbers of infections put more people at risk and in the hospital. Masking provides an added layer of protection against infection from a virus that spreads through the air. Wearing a highquality mask protects both the wearer and those around them, and having more people masked will help slow the spread of COVID-19. Children under age 2 should not mask. “We thank Alameda County residents, employers, and businesses for continuing to rise to the challenge in response to this pandemic,” said Colleen Chawla, Director of the Alameda County Health Care Services Agency (AC HCSA). “Unfortunately, COVID has not gone away and once again, we must take measures to protect ourselves, friends and community members, and employees and patrons from this very infectious virus.” Throughout the pandemic, Black/African American, Hispan-
ic/Latino/a/x, and Pacific Islander residents have been disproportionally impacted by COVID-19. These same communities have historically experienced health disparities and the pandemic revealed and exacerbated those issues. Alameda County is committed to mitigating COVID-19 disparities where possible. “We are seeing the same pattern of disproportionate impact on hard hit communities play out again with rising cases,” said Kimi Watkins-Tartt, Director of AC HCSA’s Public Health Department. “Many Black and Brown residents are frontline workers who can’t work from home and are in workplaces where they frequently interact with the public. A masking order will limit the spread of COVID in these vulnerable communities.” In addition to masking, residents are reminded to continue taking other steps to limit spreading COVID-19: stay home if sick or positive; test if symptomatic or exposed; and keep gatherings small and outdoors or increase ventilation if gathering indoors. g
SoCal Fil-Am goes to White House to...
PAGE 2 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 destigmatizing 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
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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 TempleBeverly 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
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
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 from the
past 100 years to the present. “Come for the celebration of Historic Filipinotown past and present and stay for the stories of this vibrant community through the lens of its longterm residents and visitors who have decided to stay,” Oriel said. (Momar Visaya/AJPress)
Marcos party: P272-M spent in... PAGE 1
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 nonprofit organizations. Photo courtesy of Justine Bautista
Code and other Comelec resolutions, after the peaceful May 9, 2022 national and local elections with an 82 percent voting attendance, which gave us a president who won and was elected by the majority of our people or by 31 million Filipinos,” Briones said. Marcos’ press secretarydesignate Trixie Cruz-Angeles said she has no information yet on when the president-elect will file his own SOCE. “We have no information yet on (the SOCE filing of) president-elect. After all, we still have two days to go before the deadline. So, it’s still early,” Angeles said. Under the Omnibus Election Code, a political party was
them with other people. I hope to de-stigmatize 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 PAGE 1 Rep. Katie Porter (D-Calif.) to discuss her plans of holding some sort of town hall meetings to we follow)," the President said. "We rally behind the elected disseminate mental health-related information and resources available to the community. (By leaders of our country. Ganoon talaga ang pamamaraan sa Donnabelle Gatdula Arevalo/AJPress)
allowed to spend up to P5 per voter or a total of P337 million based on around 67.5 million registered voters for the May 9, 2022 elections, while a presidential or vice president candidate was allowed to spend up to P10 per voter or a total of P675 million based on the number registered voters. The Comelec earlier reminded candidates in the recent elections to file their SOCEs on time as only 15 had filed theirs as of Friday afternoon, June 3. Acting Comelec spokesman Rex Laudiangco said only outgoing Sen. Panfilo Lacson among the presidential bets had filed SOCE as of Friday, and none among the vice presidential candidates. Among senatorial candidates,
only former national police chief Guillermo Eleazar and former senator Antonio Trillanes have submitted their SOCEs. Party-list groups Abono, Senior Citizens, Bisaya Gyud, Ang Kabuhayan, Ako Bisaya, Kabalikat ng Mamamayan, Abante, Anakpawis, Ang Bumbero, Bayan Muna and A Teacher have already submitted their respective SOCEs. Apart from PFP, Unido has submitted SOCE among the political parties. In a statement, the Comelec Finance Office said that advertisement contracts must be submitted within five days after signing while the rest of the reports, “the earlier the better but should not be beyond 30 days after the elections.” g
Support next administration, Pres. Duterte... 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
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‘Asia’s first’ exorcism center to rise in PH by XAVE
GREGORIO Philstar.com
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, 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
Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula leads the groundbreaking of the Saint Michael Center for Spiritual Liberation and Exorcism last May 17 in Makati City. Photo courtesy of Archdiocese of Manila Office of Exorcism
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.
Palace blames 12% increase in number of hungry families to oil price hike by DANIZA
FERNANDEZ Inquirer.net
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.)
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OPINION
FEATURES
Only one Earth
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THE World Health Organization keeps warning that the once-in-a-century 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
Philstar.com photo
Time to look at the glass half full
Street Talk GREG B. MACABENTA YOU could rant and rave endlessly over the return to power of the Marcos family and refuse to accept their victory questionable in many aspects as it was. Or you could assume a philosophical attitude and view the recent presidential election as a glass half full instead of half empty. It was, in fact, a relatively peaceful exercise - as “clean” as any Philippine election that money can buy - with exasperatingly predictable results (some have likened it to looking on helplessly as your daughter runs off with a married man). Of course, you could take the attitude of Gen. Douglas MacArthur and declare: “There is no substitute for victory!” But he also vowed, “I shall return!” - and he did return. Just as the family of Ferdinand Marcos did…over 36 years. Me? I’m taking a pragmatic attitude. While I would not
subscribe to the alleged advice of the late Senator and Foreign Affairs Secretary Raul Manglapus (“If rape is inevitable, lie back and enjoy it!”), I think it helps to ease your disappointment by looking at the good side of the Phoenix-like reemergence of the Marcoses. More specifically, the return to power of Imelda Romualdez Marcos. No, I am not flip-plopping and trying to fish for favors. As an opinion writer, I have been consistent in my views. In my book, Confusions of a Communications Man,” (page 318, The positive side of politicians), I wrote: “While I may be harsh in my criticism of politicians and public officials in my columns, I readily acknowledge and even praise their positive qualities… “So much dirt has been hurled at former First Lady Imelda Romualdez-Marcos that people overlook the fact that she had great vision when she and President Marcos were in power. She was also a tireless worker and was hands-on and paid attention to the minute details.
“The Cultural Center of the Philippines, the Philippine International Convention Center, the Folk Arts Theater and the Philippine Heart Center are proof of her vision. So was the now- gone Nayong Pilipino. “Her critics spitefully refer to them as examples of her 'edifice complex' (a non sequitur pun of Oedipus Complex) and they like to bring up the tragic collapse of the Film Center to underscore her supposed heartlessness. But I recall, shortly after President Cory Aquino assumed office, how the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra was starved of funding and how the culturally inclined said they missed the Ma’am. “I am personally aware of this because the Philippine Philharmonic Society had to be organized to raise funds for the symphony orchestra. I was on the board of trustees with Ed Angara as chairman (before he became a senator).” Indeed, as a survivor and practitioner of the unforgiving demands and disciplines of advertising and showbusiness, I could not help admiring Imelda’s work ethic. Of course,
ranged against these positive qualities were the negatives of legendary extravagance, profligacy and acquisitiveness. The problem of Imelda Marcos was that she regarded the national treasury as her personal piggy bank from which she would routinely withdraw huge sums for her personal use. Furthermore, the scuttlebutt, even among her staff, was that she and President Marcos were in the mining business (“This is mine, that is mine and whatever is yours should also be mine!”). It should come as no surprise to anyone, including Bongbong Marcos, that his initials and nom de guerre - BBM - also means Babalik Ma’am or Meldy. The reality is that those who voted Marcos Junior for President also unwittingly voted Imelda into a parallel presidency. When the elder Marcos was in power, Imelda carved out a parallel government for herself in the Ministry of Human Settlements. Her Undersecretary Jolly Benitez, who was briefly a PR client of Advertising & Marketing Associates during my tenure as
CEO, was never shy about being a kind of Rasputin to Imelda. Benitez would cheerfully relate feeding her with bright ideas and then persuading her that they were actually based on her original concepts. The bright ideas would translate into fully staffed offices run by technocrats mounting such diverse programs as the Pag-Ibig Fund (low-cost housing) Green Revolution (agriculture and rural development), the University of Life (education and sports), the Love Bus (public transportation), the Philippine Heart Center and the rehabilitation of the Philippine General Hospital (health), the PICC (convention and tourism promotion), the Cultural Center complex and the ill-fated Film Center which was rushed for Imelda’s International Film Festival. In addition, Benitez showcased the construction of a 77.7 square meter pre-fab home in 7.7 hours and the production of a TV sitcom, “77 Pag-Ibig Lane.” It doesn’t require clairvoyance to deduce whose boots were
being licked with these activities. Marcos Senior considered 7 as his lucky number. Imelda also wielded much power as Governor of Metro Manila. And one must admit that her battalion of street sweepers kept the metropolis clean. I distinctly remember being in Bangkok in the 70s and feeling good about the comparative cleanliness of Manila. Whatever one might think of these programs and projects and whose bank accounts were generously stocked, they were significant and revealed a vision. That’s the good news about the return to power of the Marcoses The proverbial glass half full. But what about the bad news? What about the glass half empty? Well, all I can say is fasten your seat belts and pray that this will only be a 6-year ride. *** 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.
*** gregmacabenta@hotmail.com
The history and blessings of Philippine Independence: The renaissance of the Filipino
Commentary
GUS MERCADO JUNE 12, 1898 marked 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 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-year 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 side-by-side with the Americans in defending the Philippine 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 a 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 United States. He is married to Philippine Consul in Dallas, the Hon. Ethel R. Mercado.
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Daly City raises Philippine flag for PH Independence Day DALY CITY – Consul General Neil Ferrer led the Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco in the annual Philippine flag-raising ceremony in Daly City, California, hosted by the local government at Daly City Hall on June 6, 2022. In his remarks, Consul General Ferrer said that the Philippine Independence Day every June 12 marks the day when Filipinps “exercised for the first time their right to self-determination, liberty and freedom after centuries of colonial rule.” Consul General Ferrer expressed his gratitude to the Daly City Government “for its continued recognition of the significant contributions of the Filipino American Community in the city,” through initiatives such as the Philippine Independence Day flag-raising event every June and the Filipino American History Month celebration every October. “I also look forward to the signing of the sister city agreement between Davao City and Daly City which, I hope, will further strengthen the ties that bind our two peoples,” the Philippine Consul General said. Daly City currently has sister city ties with Quezon City in the Philippines’ National Capital Region. For his part, Filipino American Daly City Mayor Dr. Rod Daus-Magbual highlighted the significance of raising the Philippine national flag in his city, which he considers as a symbol of “pride, history and identity” for Daly City residents with Filipino ancestry. Mayor Daus-Magbual presented Consul
General Ferrer a city proclamation for Philippine Independence Day, to “celebrate, broaden awareness, and support Filipino American history and culture to appreciate and remember the contributions Filipino Americans have made to our community and to [the United States].” During the event, Mayor Daus-Magbual was also joined by other Daly City officials including FilAm Vice Mayor Raymond Buenaventura, Fil-Am Councilmember Juslyn Manalo, and Councilmember Pamela DiGiovanni. San Mateo County’s Board of Supervisors President David Canepa — who spearheaded the first Philippine flag-raising event as Daly City Mayor, alongside Filipino Community leader Perla Ibarrientos — also joined the ceremony, as well as representatives of California State Senator Scott Wiener and State Assemblymember Phil Ting. The flag-raising ceremony was followed by a Filipino luncheon, hosted at the city hall by the Pilipino Bayanihan Resource Center. Unofficial figures estimate that around 30 to 40 percent of Daly City’s total population of more than 100,000 people are of Filipino descent, the highest concentration of Filipinos and Filipino Americans in the United States. University lecturer Benito Vergara Jr. chronicled the history of the vibrant Filipino American Community in the city in his 2009 book, “Pinoy Capital: The Filipino Nation in Daly City.” (PCGSF Release)
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)
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 Philippine Consul General in San Francisco Neil Ferrer (left), Pilipino The Philippine national flag flies proudly outside Daly City, following Bayanihan Resource Center leader Perla Ibarrientos (center), and still in the U.S. and living with a ceremony to mark the 124th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Daly City Mayor Dr. Rod Daus-Magbual (right) lead the hoisting of the her. Rey’s mother petitioned him Philippine Independence in Daly City on June 6, 2022. Philippine national flag at a special ceremony at the Daly City Hall during the ‘90s, but he did Photos courtesy of San Francisco PCG on June 6, 2022.
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)
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Federico Munoz Sr., 95
Pinay-French beauty is new Miss World Philippines 2022
March 21, 1927 – May 29, 2022
celebrityworld By Ferdie Villar GWENDOLYNE Bolivar Fourniol is the new Miss World Philippines 2022! The Filipina-French beauty bested 35 other contestants to clinch the crown in the beauty pageant competition that took place on Saturday, June 4 at the Mall of Asia arena. Gwendolyne was born and raised in France to a Filipina mom (originally from Negros Occiental) and a French father. The Oxford Brookes University graduate who has a bachelor’s degree in Economics moved to the Philippines when she turned 18. Last year, Fourniol joined Miss World Philippines 2021 and finished in the Top 15. In this year’s edition, aside from the title, she bagged Best in Evening Gown, Love Your Skin Award and Miss Silka Award. Fourniol is an advocate for education reform, and is the reason why she joined the pageant for the second time. “I believe in. Miss World’s vision and as an advocate of education… Education is the greatest thing that you can give your child,” Gwendolyne was quoted as saying in a Philippine Star article. “My crown is also a platform. That is also to empower others to reach a larger audience… And I hope to unite more benefactors around the world in order for children to come back to school,” she continued. Fourniol added that she would like to “work even closer with my advocacy in making sure that my voice will be heard, not just for myself but for the whole Philippines.” Having finished in the Top 15 in 2021, Gwendolyne believed that she came back to the pageant mentally and physically stronger this year. During her journey to the 2022 Miss World Philippines crown, the Filipino-French model said that she has had to deal with mental health issues, but was glad to get support from her fellow contestants. “Since Miss World is really focusing on mental health this year, that’s something that I’ve been struggling with… I have had anxiety, panic attacks but with my (Miss World) sisters, they really helped me with that… What really matters is (I am here)
to be the voice for the voiceless,” she revealed. Gwendolyne stressed that beauty pageants are still important in these times, especially as pageantry has evolved and changed through the decades. “I think beauty pageants have a stigma that it’s all about outfits and looking pretty. But we need to look within the heart and bring (out) the purpose of a woman, what the essence of a woman is (through beauty pageants),” she said. And as a role model, she wants to inspire young girls who may want to become beauty queens someday, and declared: “I was also like that. As a young girl, I had no confidence. But here I am today, proud to represent the Philippines and as an advocate for education, I want to empower everyone to keep going, keep fighting. (And that’s) the theme of the Miss World Philippines (this year), (which) is to be an exceptionally empowered Filipina.” *** Bea Alonzo will be going back to Spain soon, and it is not because she is changing her citizenship, contrary to rumors. According to a PEP.ph report, the actress is flying back to Spain to fix the interiors of a new home she purchased, as well as to fix her Golden Visa, which is an option in Spain and Portugal allowing residency to wealthy individuals by simply buying a property or making a sizeable investment or donation. Bea let loose that her love for Spain and the circumstances surrounding the pandemic gave her the impetus to make the purchase. In a recent YouTube vlog, Bea revealed that her recent visit to Spain was not for work, but was actually due to the home purchase. “It’s very personal and since you have seen me grow on YouTube, I am not shy about sharing it with you,” she said. “And I’m quite excited actually to inspire you even more. The reason why I went to Madrid is because I bought a house in Madrid.” “I love Spain!” exclaimed the actress, echoing a reason for the city as her choice on where
Filipina-French stunner Gwendolyne Fourniol is the 2022 Miss World Philippines beauty pageant winner. Photo from Instagram/@missworldphil
Bea Alonzo bought a residence in Madrid, Spain. She is scheduled to fly to Spain to fix the interiors of the home and attend to her biometics. Photo from Instagram/@@beaalonzo
to buy a home, while adding, “Because of the pandemic, I thought to myself, ‘You only live once.’ So I have to go for it.” Bea, on a recent presscon, also shared that she plans to shoot a vlog featuring her apartment in Madrid. “When I return there, if my schedule permits, I will fix the interiors and then I will share that with you in the vlog,” she said. On rumors that she may be changing her citizenship, Bea clarified that the Golden Visa grants her residency, but not citizenship. “What it means is that you become an automatic resident if you buy a property in Spain, so I chose Madrid,” Bea explained. “Right now, I have to go back for my biometrics. But that does not equate to citizenship, it’s only residency.”
Sue’s love advice: Don’t hurry by alex
Brosas Inquirer.net
FOR actress Sue Ramirez, there is always a right time for love, and people should not be in too much of a hurry to get into a relationship. “Guys, ’wag kayong t**ng-t**ng magka-dyowa. Darating din ’yan sa tamang panahon at tamang timing. Diyos ko… Enjoy-in n’yo ’yong time na meron kayo for yourself,” she said during the online press conference for the movie “How to Love Mr. Heartless” on Tuesday, May 31. (Guys, do not be too obsessed to have a girlfriend/ boyfriend. It will come at the right time and through right timing. My God, do not be in such a hurry. Just enjoy the time you have for yourself.) Ramirez believes that instead of being too obsessed with having a partner, one should be responsible while enjoying one’s self first, before wanting to commit with anyone. She also thinks one cannot enjoy a relationship without fully knowing one’s self. When asked what love advice she could give her screen partner Diego Loyzaga, who has had his fair share of romantic challenges, Ramirez opted to be neutral. “Each has his own talaga, may kanya-kanya tayong preferences pagdating sa love. And hindi ko p’wedeng, alam mo ’yon, hindi i-acknowledge o
EMPLOYMENT
Sue Ramirez
Photo from Instagram/@sueannadoodles
i-discredit kung ano man ang ginawa n’ya para sa pagmamahal dahil lang iba ’yong way ko. So, hindi ko alam,” she said. (To each his own, really, we have our own preferences when it comes to love. And I cannot, you know, not acknowledge or discredit whatever he has done in the name of love just because my way is different. So I do not know what advice I should give him.)
EMPLOYMENT
FEDERICO Z. Munoz Sr. joined his creator on Ascension Day, May 29, 2022 at sundown surrounded by his immediate family. He was 95. Federico was born on March 21, 1927 in San Carlos City, Pangasinan, Philippines. He was the second to the oldest of 7 children. He was preceded in death by his wife Juana Nita Munoz. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Education and later enlisted in the United States Navy in March 1946. He served as a Steward Mate First Class, and in his spare time as a movie operator for the crew. After his military career, he went back to the Philippines and helped his parents raise his siblings. He also worked as a Supervisor at the Bureau of Census in Pangasinan. He was married to the late Juana Nita Munoz from Santa Barbara, Pangasinan. Together, they had four children: Clarence, Federico Jr., Bernadette and Alma. Federico raised his children with hard work and dedication. He was a man of commitment and compassion. His faith, hope and love to the Lord Almighty made him a wonderful father. His knowledge and guidance were the foundation of his family. Federico made his way to California in 1978, where he settled in the Bay Area. He had a long career with Icicle Seafood in Alaska and 15 good years with the United States Postal Service, then moved on to enjoy his retirement. He is well loved by his children, grandchildren, and great
grandchildren, relatives and friends. His legacy in his earthly life will remain in their hearts forever. He will surely be missed Federico Munoz Sr. is survived by his four children and their families – Clarence/Consuelo & Family, Federico Jr/Melani & Family, Bernadette/Carmelo& family and Alma. Viewing and funeral services for Federico Munoz Sr.: • June 16, 2022, 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. with Holy Rosary & Vigil
at 6 p.m. Viewing at St. Joseph Cemetery (2540 Church Lane, San Pablo, CA 94806) • June 17, 2022, 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. with Holy Rosary & Vigil at 6 p.m. Viewing at St. Albert the Great Church (1022 Holly Street, Alameda, CA 94502) • June 18, 2022, 10 a.m. Mass at St. Albert the Great Church (1022 Holly Street, Alameda, CA 94502), followed by burial at St. Joseph Cemetery (2540 Church Lane, San Pablo, CA 94806).
Diego on love: ‘I always give too much’ by Charmie Joy
Pagulong Philstar.com
DIEGO Loyzaga is willing to give his all in the name of love. He was quick to answer when queried about how far he would go for love during the digital media conference for his latest starrer, Vivamax movie How To Love Mr. Heartless, opposite Sue Ramirez. “Lahat-lahat. You know, that’s my toxic trait. I always give too much. Hindi ako nagtitira para sa sarili ko, but I’m working on it,” he asserted. When it comes to forgiving someone, the actor is the type who can easily do it. “If nakikita ko naman na sincere yung apology nung tao, yeah. That’s another toxic trait of mine. It doesn’t really matter what you do to me. When I feel that you are truly sorry, mabilis ako magpatawad. Marupok in other words. (I am) working on that as well,” he shared. “I rarely get angry. Before, I was hot-tempered. But now, I don’t get angry easily. Kailangan sobrang lala yung nangyari para magalit ako, pero paano palambutin, for me, communication is really key,” Diego further explained. “As in, you have to be able to talk to that person the right way. And if you can’t, better na cool off muna or wag muna kayong magusap. But if you can talk to me, then kuha mo na ako kaagad.” The craziest thing that Diego did for love was “giving my all.” In his words, “I guess I came to the point na parang naisip ko, siguro why my past relationships and my work were (like that) because I wasn’t giving it my all. So, the craziest I did was binigay ko lahat. Lahat-lahat and wala akong tinira para sa sarili ko. Sometimes, it doesn’t go as planned.” Just recently, former Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) housemate Franki Russell sparked dating rumors with Diego following the former’s
Diego Loyzaga on how far he will go for love: ‘Everything. You know, that’s my toxic trait. I always give too much. Hindi ako nagtitira para sa sarili ko, but I’m working on it.’ Photo from Instagram/@diegoloyzaga
post on Instagram showing their cozy and sweet photos together. The latter quashed rumors that they are romantically linked. Diego was in a previous relationship with Barbie Imperial but they parted ways after a year of being together. On the lighter side, Diego was asked during the virtual call about his secret to maintaining his good looks. He gamely answered, “Wear (eye) glasses. It makes you look smarter (laughs). Wash your face before you go to sleep. Get enough beauty sleep, go to the gym. That’s pretty much it.” He was further asked for tips on how to make a move on a girl. He quipped, “I should make a book, huh. (The title should be) Paano Manligaw by Diego Loyzaga. You say hi, I don’t know. Iba-ibang paraan depende sa’yo, dude. A magician should never reveal his secrets, so I think I’ll keep my secrets to myself.” He told the reporter afterwards, “I see the underlying question was but (what you did) was so cool.” Nevertheless, Diego’s love advice to those who are eager to enter into a relationship is to just “chill and love yourself first.” He said, “First of all, wala kang
maibibigay sa relasyon kung hindi mo mahal ang sarili mo. Magiging toxic lang kayo.” Meanwhile, Diego felt challenged working with The Broken Marriage Vow actress Sue, who has been his friend for a long time. Although he was “comfortable” collaborating with Sue as his love interest in How To Love Mr. Heartless and described their dynamics as a “good experience,” he admitted to how pressured he was with her. He said, “I have to do my best talaga. Si Sue Ramirez yan eh.” “I knew it’s gonna be different na reading the script pa lang, I was like, ‘Oh my God, these pages are long lines,”’ he recalled. “And then yung pawis ko… We have to stop like every single take ng ilang beses. Kinakabahan na ako ng sobra as in. It was the first time that I felt like that again after a long time. Although I was comfortable with direk and Sue, I was pressured.” How To Love Mr. Heartless is directed by Jason Paul Laxamana, who was also behind 100 Tula Para kay Stella, Between Maybes, Just a Stranger, To Love Some Buddy and Ang Henerasyong Sumuko sa Love.
HOUSING SF#3020
Below Market Rate (BMR) Rental Apartments Available 1463 Lombard Street Apartments at 1463 Lombard Street, San Francisco, California 94103
3 Below Market Rental Units Available
Three 1-bedroom rental unit available at $1,465.00 per month Two parking spaces available to BMR renters for an additional $100 a month and will be offered to households in lottery rank order. Must be income eligible and must not own a home. Households must earn no more than the maximum income levels below: 55% 1 person-$53,350; 2 persons-$60,950;3 persons - $68,600 Applications must be received by 5PM on Friday, June 24 2022. Apply online through DAHLIA, the SF Housing Portal -DAHLIA at housing.sfgov. org. Due to COVID-19, applicants will apply online as we are not accepting paper applications. Please contact the Imagine That Consulting for building information at (916) 686-4126 or 1463LombardBMR@gmail.com. Units available through the San Francisco Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development and are subject to monitoring and other restrictions. Visit www.sfmohcd.org for program information.
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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 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 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,
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.
A commercial home office in Pahrump, approximately 2600 sqft on 20,000 sqft of land, will be available in the market soon.
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 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 put-off for many prospective visitors. This would, for sure, improve 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 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. My company, Precious
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@preciousproperties.com or fely.precious@gmail.com.
Properties, is a full-service company that has successfully helped its clientele find the best deals since 1992. You can reach me at 775-513-8447, 805559-2476 and 702-538-4948
for more information. We have investors who buy houses in California and Nevada for cash and quick escrow in as short as 7 days. (Advertising Supplement)
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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, high-profile 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 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
As chief director of “Icon Model Group,” Tina devotes her professional knowledge to customizing training modules to turn their dreams into reality. Photo courtesy of Tina Shih
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’ selfconfidence. 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.” MODEL COACH. Tina Shih, a noted image consultant and model coach has recently re-branded Her students consistently her modeling academy. Photo courtesy of Tina Shih flourish and exemplify her teaching and mentorship, 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,
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
Tina is passionate about teaching the virtues of beauty and elegance. Photo courtesy of Tina Shih
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 Asian-inspired fashions, as well as pan-Asian models walking
Singer-songwriter Moira Dela Torre
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
ABS-CBN photo
Moira asks self on breakup with Jason by Jan
Milo Severo Philstar.com
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. 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.
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