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JUNE 10-16, 2022 Serving San Diego Since 1987 • 12 Pages

T h e F i l i p i n o –A m e r i c A n c o m m u n i T y n e w s pA p e r

Also published in LOS ANGELES • ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE • NORTHERN CALIFORNIA • NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY • LAS VEGAS

DATELINE USA FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

Alameda County becomes first Bay Area county to mandate indoor masks anew 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.

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CA Attorney General Rob Bonta advances to Nov. general election

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 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.

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.

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Support next administration, President Duterte urges Filipinos

by KriStina

Maralit ManilaTimes.net

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Historic Filipinotown coffee table book announced

“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,” 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, social services, and health clinics call HiFi their home adding color to the city’s rich multicultural 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,

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ENHANCING TIES. President-elect Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Thursday, June 9 met with United States Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman. Marcos and Sherman “discussed the importance of deepening the alliance and friendship between the Philippines and the United States, as well as partnering together in order to strengthen the economy between the two countries.”

Photo by Executive Secretary-designate Vic Rodriguez

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

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

will meet with President-elect Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and senior members of the incoming and outgoing administrations to MANILA — United States Deputy discuss new ways to deepen the bilateral Alliance,” the U.S. Secretary of State Wendy Sherman will meet U.S.-Philippines with President-elect Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Department of State said.

Sherman is also expected to participate during her visit to Manila.

Sherman, the U.S. State Department’s in a business roundtable and an event in number two, will travel to South Korea, the celebration of World Oceans Day during her Philippines, Vietnam and Laos from June 5 stop in Manila.

The U.S. State Department said Sherman’s to 14.

“In Manila, Deputy Secretary Sherman u PAGE 2

by PatriCia lourDeS Philstar.com

viray

Outgoing Vice President Leni Robredo and President Rodrigo Duterte

PNA file photo

Duterte, Robredo invited SoCal Fil-Am goes to White House Marcos party: P272-M to Sara’s inauguration spent in campaign to advocate for mental health C S. v by

by Donnabelle

GatDula AJPress

arevalo

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.

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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, president-elect 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 Justine Bautista, a Ph.D. student and researcher from on Elections (Comelec) ahead of the June 8 Southern California, chats with First Lady Dr. Jill Biden deadline.

Marcos is the national chairman of the during a recent Mental Health Youth Action Forum at u PAGE 3 the White House. Photo courtesy of Justine Bautista

atherine alente ManilaTimes.net

OUTGOING President Rodrigo Duterte and Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo were invited to attend the inauguration of Vice President-elect Sara DuterteCarpio 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.

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.

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JUNE 10-16, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588

From The FronT Page

CA Attorney General Rob Bonta advances to Nov. general...

PAGE 1 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 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. n

Duterte, Robredo invited to Sara’s...

Remy Martin

Photo courtesy of Los Angeles Lakers

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 Filipino-American Ron Harper Jr. and 7’3” Kai Sotto as prospects with links to the country in the upcoming draft.

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. n

PAGE 1 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

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. n

Support next administration...

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

Photo by Johanna Geron/AFP

US top official to...

RICE VARIETIES. A store attendant arranges one of the sacks of rice at their shop on Pangasinan Street, Barangay Sto. Cristo, Quezon City on Thursday, June 9. According to store owners, they only offer limited varieties of rice that are easy to sell, such as Dinorado, Princess Jasmin, Coco Pandan, and Hacienda.

PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler

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

PAGE 1 visit to the region “reflects the United States’ continued commitment to the Indo-Pacific.”

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 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.” n

PAGE 1 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. n President Rodrigo Duterte

PNA photo

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SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL • JUNE 10-16, 2022

Mayor Gloria signs ordinance to restrict sale of flavored tobacco

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SAAFE act will prohibit sale of specified flavored tobacco products in the city

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

Historic Filipinotown coffee table book...

PAGE 1 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 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.

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 FilipinoAmericans 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. (By Momar G. Visaya/ AJPress) n

LINEMEN. One of the Manila Electric Company linemen inspects the power meters on a concrete post along Kaliraya Street in Quezon City on Thursday, June 9. Last May, electricity rates increased by P0.19/kilowatt hour.

PNA photo by Jess M. Escaros Jr.

SAN DIEGO – Joining three states and 335 local governments including Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Jose, Mayor Todd Gloria signed on Thursday, June 2 an ordinance by City Councilmember Marni von Wilpert to regulate the sale of flavored tobacco in the City of San Diego.

“Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable disease and death in the United States – and we know big tobacco markets these products to young people and other vulnerable communities,” said Mayor Todd Gloria. “I’m

proud to sign Councilmember von Wilpert’s SAAFE Act. Her work and collaboration with Councilmember Dr. Jennifer Campbell will allow us to join 335 other local jurisdictions to regulate the sale of these products, protect our children and stem the tide of addiction.”

The ordinance, known as the Stop Adolescent Addiction to Flavored E-Cigarettes (SAAFE) Act, makes it unlawful for retailers within the City of San Diego to sell or distribute specified flavored tobacco products effective January 1, 2023. This includes any tobacco

product that emits a taste or smell other than that of tobacco – i.e., fruit, mint, candy, vanilla, dessert, alcoholic beverage, spice and menthol.

The ordinance does not apply to the sale of shisha (as typically used in hookahs), premium cigars or loose-leaf tobacco.

A statewide measure to ban the sale of specified flavored tobacco products in California will go before the voters this November. Should the measure be unsuccessful, the city’s ordinance will still go into effect on January 1, 2023.

(City of San Diego Release) n

Marcos party: P272-M spent in...

PAGE 1 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 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) presidentelect. 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 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

President-elect Bongbong Marcos during a campaign rally.

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.

Philstar.com file photo

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.” n

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JUNE 10-16, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588

SoCal Fil-Am goes to White House to...

PAGE 1 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 nonprofit 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

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

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 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 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 longterm 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. n

ANTI-DENGUE DEVICE. Village official of the Committee on Health Marlene Sedenio shows a small black container and wooden tiles or “ovitrap” device during their distribution to residents in Barangay Immaculate Conception, Cubao, Quezon City Wednesday, June 8.

The “ovitrap” provided an artificial breeding site for dengue-carrying mosquitoes whose eggs could be easily collected and studied.

PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler

Alameda County becomes...

PAGE 1 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 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 high-quality 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, Hispanic/ 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. n

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SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL • JUNE 10-16, 2022

Dateline PhiliPPines

5

PH registers lower quality of gov’t, democracy after nearly a decade — governance index

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

NFL’s Washington Commanders head 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,” 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) n

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, state-society 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 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 Angeles-based 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

Experts, advocates urge action on ‘unseen crisis of unintended pregnancy’ MANILA — Experts and advocates from governments and civil societies sounded the alarm on what they said was an “unseen crisis” on a global scale with nearly half of all pregnancies— about 121 million—unintended.

This was disclosed in the 2022 State of World Population Report by the United Nations Population Fund which defined “unintended pregnancy” as one “that occurs to a woman who was not planning to have any

[more] children, or that was mistimed, in that it occurred earlier than desired.”

“An unintended pregnancy may be simply overlooked as a personal crisis. What we would like to emphasize is that the issue entails staggering national, and even global, costs,” pointed out Population and Development Undersecretary Juan Antonio Perez III, executive director of the Commission on Population and Development.

“The aftereffects cannot be captured in numbers—including the opportunity costs of millions of women and girls who delay or discontinue their education or workforce participation due to unplanned pregnancies,” he also said in the group’s press release sent to media Thursday morning.

Analyzing new data, the UNFPA found that some 257 million women who want to avoid pregnancy globally are not using safe and modern methods

of contraception. New data also showed that about half of all adolescent mothers are childmothers.

Pregnancy crisis in the Philippines The Philippines also joins Bangladesh, Benin, Chad, and Indonesia, with “more than a fifth of first births to girls under the age of 18” coming from premarital conception that often precedes the marriage of girls.

Closer to home, the report

found staggering statistics on the Philippines, including: • 36 in every 1,000 Filipino girls aged 15 to 19 already gave birth between 2004 and 2020 • 6% of women experienced intimate partner violence in the past 12 months perto 2017 data • 71 in every 1,000 women aged 15 to 49 went through an unintended pregnancy between 2015 and 2019.

• The Philippines ranks 56th

u PAGE 8

and improve government effectiveness.”

(Angelica Y. Yang/Philstar.com) n

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of San Diego (City) is seeking to receive Electronic Bids for the below named Public Works project.

The solicitation, including plans and specifications, may be obtained from the City’s website at: https://www.sandiego.gov/ cip/bidopps Contractors intending to submit a Bid must be prequalified.

Please refer to the solicitation for instructions.

Project Name: MLK Recreation Center Moisture Intrusion Project Number: K-22-1945Estimated Value: DBB-3-A $916,000.00 Bid Open Date: 07/21/2022, at 2:00 P.M. License Requirement: A It is the policy of the City of San Diego to encourage equal opportunity in its Construction and Consultant contracts. Bids or proposals from local firms, small, minority-owned, disabled, veteran-owned, and womenowned businesses are strongly encouraged. Contractors are encouraged to subcontract with and/or participate in joint ventures with these firms.

The City is committed to equal opportunity and will not discriminate with regard to race, religion, color, ancestry, age, gender, disability, medical condition or place of birth; and will not do business with any firm that discriminates on any basis.

Bids shall be received no later than the date and time noted above at: City of San Diego’s Electronic Biding Site PlanetBids at: h t t p s : / / w w w. p l a n e t b i d s . com/portal/portal. cfm?CompanyID=17950 Claudia C. Abarca, Director Purchasing & Contracting Department June 09, 2022 6/10/22 CNS-3594414# ASIAN JOURNAL

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OpiniOn

Only one Earth

Features Philstar.com photo

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

Point of View

Joel Pablo Salud THE image was that of a man – a war correspondent-turnedsenator – face down on the tarmac. Murdered.

Next to him lay the lifeless body of the supposed assassin, killed almost instantly by Aviation Security Command like they knew beforehand the assassination would happen.

It was the early afternoon of Aug. 21, 1983. For what it is worth in hindsight, some commentators swore that the senator had, in a manner of speaking, “plotted” his own murder to spark an uprising.

It was the only rationale for his return, knowing his life was in grave danger.

If true, although I doubt it, that Sen. Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. dove wide-eyed into his own death in order to end the martial law regime, the plan didn’t go well. It took another three years before a largely apathetic public gathered the courage to stage a

Are Filipinos still worth dying for?

popular “uprising” that eventually toppled the former dictator.

Three years before he was killed, at the convocation of the Asia Society in New York City, Aquino said in a speech: “I have asked myself many times: Is the Filipino worth suffering, or even dying, for?

Is he not a coward who would readily yield to any colonizer, be he foreign or homegrown? Is a Filipino more comfortable under an authoritarian leader because he does not want to be burdened with the freedom of choice?”

The questions Ninoy Aquino wrestled with back in the 1980s are the same questions we are wrestling with today. Hardly anything has changed. It is, however, clear that many today couldn’t care less. Today, ang mahalin ang Pilipinas is a case for schadenfreude, or a joke that has lost its punchline somewhere between hope and a cheap gag show.

The word “still” doesn’t even belong in the query because it raises a more complicated question: are Filipinos worth dying for in the first place? Maybe Ninoy was wrong in assuming

that we were worth the bother – as the recent elections have shown.

Many assume that the value of a heroic act should be equal, at least to some degree, to the quality of a people to whom it is offered.

With the word “still” added to the original query, it becomes now a reinvestigation of that principle, a problem Aquino never saw coming.

Dying for a person or a cause much larger than ourselves has always been the litmus test of one’s convictions. But what about one’s empathy? The Good Book lays down the parameters of heroic courage: “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). As for enemies and idiots, the Bible was largely silent save for that rather uncanny directive of turning the other cheek.

The present generation would rather ask: “Are you worth living for?”

And in a country where the lives of good men and women are pushed ever closer to the edge each day, it’s almost as if we are being conditioned to look at death, sacrificial or what-haveyou, as another cheap shot at

escape. Heroic death somehow loses its real value as we all strain to stay alive.

This reminds me of Johnny Depp’s movie, The Libertine, where his character, the second Earl of Rochester John Wilmot, said, “All men would be cowards if they only have the courage.”

So, are Filipinos worth dying for in the first place? This begs another question: What measures do we use to gauge a people’s worth, and who or what dictates these measures? How do we compute a nation’s value, or appraise its merits in order for us to know if they are deserving of heroic sacrifice or not? Using our own lives as a moral gauge may not be a good idea.

Is there any chance we are looking at it from the wrong angle? Should value be placed in the object of empathy for heroic sacrifice to have merit? Isn’t it true that compassion is better served unconditional? Isn’t sacrifice made all the richer when offered in the name of one who didn’t deserve it?

Those we call heroes hardly placed any conditions to the sacrifices they were all too willing

to offer in the service of a people.

José Rizal himself admitted to the Filipinos’ indolence, a character flaw he believed was more imposed than natural. That was why he also said, “Filipinos have not always been what they are.”

Rizal believed that the Filipinos’ faults were merely bloated accusations that do not hold water.

Rizal’s own death on the morning of Dec. 30, 1896 was proof that Filipinos were worth dying for, notwithstanding the flaws.

In fact, the 27-year-old murdered activist Lean Alejandro’s words, “The struggle for freedom is the next best thing to actually being free,” ignored the idea that the public must be worth something to be deserving of any heroic sacrifice. To struggle to be free, next to being essentially free, was enough.

But heroes are a cut above the rest, you argue, and aptly so.

That’s why they do what they do best – give up their lives for the deserving and the undeserving.

In contrast, the everyday enslaved Filipino who labors to stay alive in a system designed to ignore his

rights, if not immediately kill him, may not be all that enthusiastic to sacrifice his life for a bunch of cowards and fools.

Indeed, heroes are a hard act to follow.

But we’re not all called to be a José Rizal, or Gabriela Silang, or Lean Alejandro. To think of ourselves as messiahs would be nothing short of delusional. But in dark times such as these, courage must count for something. And if in these dark days our lives were to be demanded of us – to keep loved ones safe, to protect human dignity, to bless our freedom with a sprinkling of life-giving liquid – the decision about who to offer our lives for will have to come from us and us alone.

We don’t need to save a damned world to walk where even angels fear to tread. Our humble individual struggle to seize our own right to speak out against the lies, outside of rescuing a whole nation, is worth it all. (philstarlife) *** 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.

*** Joel Salud is the author of several books of fiction and political nonfiction.

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

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 ourselves to working for the good in our consciousness and in of our mother country and of all our hearts. May the spirit of our our people. heroes dwell within us and in our Two most important chapters children, now and forever more. in Philippine history Mabuhay ang ating Kalayaan!

Among many chapters of Mabuhay tayong lahat!

Philippine history that were *** written in blood, two special The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints chapters stand out in reminding all expressed by the author do not necessarily of us of the countless Filipino lives reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of lost in their fight for freedom. The the Asian Journal, its management, editorial first is the Philippine Revolution board and staff. which culminated in the 1898 *** Declaration of Independence, on Gus Mercado is a well-known civic and the altar of brave men and women business leader from Dallas, Texas. He founded who lost their lives in the conflict. the Filipino Leaders Coalition of North Texas The other indelible chapter in which organizes and sponsors the annual our history that memorialized joint celebration of Philippine Independence the bravery of the Filipino Day in the region. He is a recipient of the people is World War II where the Presidential BANAAG award for outstanding Philippine nation lost a million business leadership and exemplary stewardship lives, including civilians and of Filipinos in the United States. He is married more than 200,000 Filipino and to Philippine Consul in Dallas, the Hon. Ethel American soldiers fought side R. Mercado.

The views expressed by our Op-Ed contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the predilection of the editorial board and staff of Asian Journal.

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‘Asia’s first’ exorcism center to rise in Philippines

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 fundraising.”

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

“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.n

Cayetano willing to join Senate majority bloc, but only if he heads blue ribbon panel

by Zacarian

Sarao

Inquirer.net

MANILA — Senator-elect Alan Peter Cayetano on Thursday, June 9 expressed willingness to join the incoming Senate majority bloc but only if he will be assigned chair of the Senate blue ribbon committee.

Cayetano said this after baring that Majority Leader Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri – who is set to be the Senate president of the 19th Congress – said he wants to work together with him in the majority bloc.

“Ang sabi ko naman, alam mo kailangan niyo ng fiscalizer, so kung ibibigay niyo ‘yung Blue Ribbon Committee then baka may dahilan ako mag-majority because I will be able to do

my job,” said Cayetano in an interview during the groundbreaking of the science terminal and exhibit center in Taguig City.

(As I said, you know you need a fiscalizer, so if you give me the Blue Ribbon Committee then maybe I have a reason to be in the majority because I will be able to do my job.)

“Pero kung bibigyan ninyo ko ng committee na napakaganda pero walang magfifiscalize o kokonti ‘yung mag fifiscalize, o watak watak ‘yung magfifiscalize sa administrasyon na ito ay mahirap ‘yun,” he added.

(But if you’ll give me a committee that is very good but there is no fiscalization or few fiscalizers in this administration, that will be difficult.)

He then stressed the importance of a fiscalizer,

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SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL • JUNE 10-16, 2022

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Experts, advocates urge action on ‘unseen... Cayetano...

PAGE 5 among 150 countries for the number of unintended pregnancies at 71 per 1,000 women annually • 51% of all pregnancies are unintended which is almost the same as the global average “This is a crisis that remains unaddressed, even as many institutions – even the government – have repeatedly sounded the alarm,” noted Philippine Legislators’ Committee on Population and Development Executive Director Romeo Dongeto.

He was referring to Executive Order No. 141 issued by outgoing President Rodrigo Duterte, which called on government instrumentalities to address the root causes of adolescent pregnancy.

“Even our economic managers had dubbed adolescent pregnancy as a ‘national social emergency.’ Yet the latest SWOP report reveals that the Philippines has yet to fully untangle the several complex layers of this issue that exacerbate the situation,” Dongeto stressed.

“Currently, the Philippines has several laws and regulations that guarantee access to sexual and reproductive health care, information, and education, primarily Republic Act No. 10354 or the

Reproductive Health Law. However, much needs to be understood and faced head on by policymakers, civic leaders, and the whole of society to ensure that we reach a future where every pregnancy is wanted.”

‘Complex issue needs multi-pronged solutions’ Dr. Leila Saiji Joudane, Country Representative of UNFPA in the Philippines, noted that the crisis of unintended pregnancy is a crisis with many facets, as it is a personal, health, human rights, humanitarian, and development issue.

She added that women in countries with more equality, empowerment, and financial resources are better able to address an unintended pregnancy or avoid it in the first place.

“Many unintended pregnancies happen despite a woman’s best efforts. It happens usually as a result of unequal social and economic conditions that women face that lead to unintended pregnancies,” Joudane said.

“There is systemic discrimination against women and girls. This is an unseen crisis unfolding right before our eyes, and a global failure to uphold basic human rights for women and girls.”

LEGAL SERVICES FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9009509

LEGAL SERVICES

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-901810

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9012361

New Valley Landscaping Services located at 2551 1/2 Sumac Dr., San Diego, CA 92105.

Registrant: Ninrod Gudiel Ceron Sanchez, 2551 1/2 Sumac Dr., San Diego, CA 92105.

This business is conducted

by Individual.

REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE. Signature: Ninrod Gudiel Ceron Sanchez.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 04/22/2022.

AJ 954 05/20, 05/27, 06/03, and 06/10/2022. AJSD#954

Koi Sushi located at 1430 E. Plaza Blvd., Ste E7B, National City, CA 91950.

Registrant: JZ Food Inc, 1430 E. Plaza Blvd., Ste E7B, National City, CA 91950.

This business is conducted

by Corporation.

REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE. Signature Jian Zheng.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 05/23/2022.

AJ 958 05/27, 06/03, 06/10, and 06/17/2022.

Jonna Bon Bon located at 2426 F St., San Diego, CA 92102.

Registrant: Kenneth Taylor, 2426 F St., San Diego, CA 92102.

This business is conducted by Individual.

REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE. Signature: Kenneth Taylor.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 05/27/2022.

AJ 963 06/03, 06/10, 06/17, and 06/24/2022.

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JAMMING’S MOBILE GRILL located at 31405 QUARTER HORSE WAY, MENIFEE, CA 92584.

Registrant: a. Ann Marie Anntonette Barnett, 31405 QUARTER HORSE WAY, MENIFEE, CA 92584. b. Tajae Annieke Nelson, 31405 QUARTER HORSE WAY, MENIFEE, CA 92584.

This business is conducted

by Co-Partners.

REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE. Signature: Ann Marie Anntonette Barnett.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 05/04/2022.

AJ 955 05/20, 05/27, 06/03, and 06/10/2022. AJSD#955

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9011422

GoCryo located at 7807 Convoy Court #103, San Diego, CA 92111.

Registrant: Nextgen Cryo Inc., 7807 Convoy Court #103, San Diego, CA 92111.

This business is conducted

by Corporation.

REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 11/16/2018.

Signature: Mark Amparo.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 05/17/2022.

AJ 956 05/27, 06/03, 06/10, 06/17/2022.

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PHO KHA located at 2424 Hoover Ave., Suite K, National City, CA 91950.

Registrant: PHO KHA INC, 8718 Longwood St., San Diego, CA 92126.

This business is conducted

by Corporation.

REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 05/17/2022.

Signature: Hai Phuong Tran.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 05/17/2022.

AJ 957 05/27, 06/03, 06/10, 06/17/2022.

AJSD#957

Perez noted that in the coming months, a “heightened, multi-pronged campaign” to address unintended pregnancy will be launched.

It will focus on: • Reducing gender inequality and empowering women and girls; • Guaranteeing access to the broadest range of contraceptives and quality sexual and reproductive health care everywhere, including in humanitarian settings; • Educating young people about sexuality and reproduction; and • Increasing access to education and employment opportunities for women and girls to empower them to make informed choices “We, all – from governments to individuals – need to raise up the value of women and girls. That is why we call on policymakers and civic leaders to join hands in leading this endeavor,” Joudane said.

“Together, let us exert all efforts to successfully bring us closer to the shared vision for humanity – a world in which every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person’s potential is fulfilled.” (Philstar.com) n

AJSD#958

a. Street Life San Diego CC 1904 located at 22 E. Olympia Court, Chula Vista, CA 91911. b. Street Life San Diego Car Club located at 22 E. Olympia Court, Chula Vista, CA 91911.

Registrant:Alberto Paniagua, 22 E. Olympia Court, Chula Vista, CA 91911.

This business is conducted

by Individual.

REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 05/06/2022.

Signature: Alberto Paniagua.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 05/06/2022.

AJ 959 05/27, 06/03, 06/10, and 06/17/2022.

AJSD 959

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9012189

Vangie’s Shuttle located at 7425 Alsacia St., San Diego, CA 92139.

Registrant: Evangeline A. Carino, 7425 Alsacia St., San Diego, CA 92139.

This business is conducted

by Individual.

REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE. Signature Evangeline A. Carino.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 05/26/2022.

AJ 961 06/03, 06/10, 06/17, and 06/24/2022. AJSD#961

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9011377

a. Cotija Mexican Food located at 7695 Broadway, Lemon Grove, CA 91945. b. Cotija Taco Shop No 6 located at 7695 Broadway, Lemon Grove, CA 91945.

Registrant: Gonzalo F Gonzalez, 4618 Barrington Ct., Bonita, CA 91902.

This business is conducted

by Individual.

REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 03/17/1978.

Signature: Gonzalo F Gonzalez.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 05/16/2022.

AJ 962 06/03, 06/10, 06/17, and 06/24/2022. AJSD#962

AJSD#963

PHUONG NGA located at 4016 54th Street, San Diego, CA 92105.

Registrant: PHUONG NGA INC, 4016 54th Street, San Diego, CA 92105.

This business is conducted by Corporation.

REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 05/17/2013.

Signature: Nga Pham.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 05/31/2022.

AJ 964 06/03, 06/10, 06/17, and 06/24/2022.

AJSD#964

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9012458

a. PHUONG NGA 2 located at 9353 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. H1, San Diego, CA 92123. b. PHUONG NGA Bakery and Cafe located at 9353 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. H1, San Diego, CA 92123.

Registrant: PHUONG NGA INC, 4016 54th Street, San Diego, CA 92105.

This business is conducted

by Corporation.

REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 10/26/2020.

Signature: Nga Pham.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 05/31/2022.

AJ 965 06/03, 06/10, 06/17, and 06/24/2022. AJSD#965

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-901210

ALLPRO COATING located at 2500 B Ave. Apt#12, National City, CA 91950.

Registrant: ALLPRO COATING, 2500 B Ave. Apt#12, National City, CA 91950.

This business is conducted by Corporation.

REGISTRANT HAS NOT BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) ABOVE. Signature: Juan Alejandro Rios Manriquez.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 05/25/2022.

AJ 966 06/03, 06/10, 06/17, and 06/24/2022.

AJSD#966

PAGE 7 equating it to the media which, according to him, exists for democracy.

Cayetano also said that he will also be happy to join the minority bloc if the position for fiscalizers won’t be offered to him.

“So I’ll be happy to be in the minority kung walang role na mabibigay ang majority wherein we will be able to expilicitly say kung kailan tama at kailan mali,” he said.

(So I’ll be happy to be in the minority if there is no role to be given for me in the majority so we will be able to explicitly say when is right and when is wrong.)

“So that’s the present status at siguro maguusa-usap ulit as we wait before the Sona (State of the Nation Address), kasi nga marami ang not in the country or busy magorganize,” he added.

(So that’s the present status and maybe we’ll talk again as we wait before the Sona, because many are not in the country or are still busy organizing.) n

LEGAL SERVICES

CASE NUMBER: 37-2022-00019612-CU-PT-CTL

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Sonia Vilmorin filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. Sonia Vilmorin to Sofia Cohen Gindi.

THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 07/11/2022 Time: 8:30 AM Dept. 61 Superior Court of California, County of San Diego 330 WEST BROADWAY DEPT. 61 San Diego, CA 92101 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county.

Asian Journal: MAY 24, 2022 NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON ABOVE DATE: SEE ATTACHMENT Michael T. Smyth Judge of the Superior Court AJ 960 05/27, 06/03, 06/10, 06/17/2022 ATTACHMENT TO ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME (JC Form #NC-120) NO HEARING WILL OCCUR ON THE DATE SPECIFIED IN THE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE. The Court will review the documents filed as of the date specified on the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-120).

If all requirements for a name change have been met as of the date specified, and no timely written objection has been received (required at least two court days before the date specified), the Petition for Change of Name (JC Form #NC-100) will be granted without a hearing. One certified copy of the Order Granting Petition will be mailed to the petitioner.

If all the requirements have not been met as of the date specified, the Court will mail the petitioner a written order with further directions.

If timely objection is filed, the Court will set a hearing date and contact the parties by mail with further directions.

A RESPONDENT OBJECTING TO THE NAME CHANGE, MUST FILE A WRITTEN OBJECTION AT LEAST TWO COURT DAYS (excluding weekends and holidays) BEFORE THE DATE SPECIFIED. Do not come to court on the specified date. The court will notify the parties by mail of a future hearing date.

Any Petition for the name change of a minor, that is signed by only one parent, must have this Attachment served along with the Petition and Order to Show Cause, on the other, non-signing parent, and proof of service must be filed with the Court.

AJSD#960

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9011763

Sprits Of St Germain located at 3251 Holiday Ct., Ste 101, La Jolla, CA 92037.

Registrant: Hyon S. Song, 3563 Voyager Circle, San Diego, CA 92130.

This business is conducted

by Individual.

REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 08/11/2015.

Signature: Hyon Sook Song.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 05/20/2022.

AJ 967 06/03, 06/10, 06/17, and 06/24/2022. AJSD#967

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9011090

a. NLE, LMFT located at 1855 First Avenue, Suite 103, San Diego, CA 92101. b. N. LE, LMFT located at 1855 First Avenue, Suite 103, San Diego, CA 92101.

Registrant: Nancy Le, 46914 Kramer Street.

This business is conducted

by Individual.

REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 01/03/2022.

Signature: Nancy Le, LMFT. Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 05/12/2022.

AJ 968 06/10, 06/17, 06/24, and 07/01/22.

AJSD#968

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9012934

San Diego Toastmasters 7 located at 4649 Hawley Blvd., San Diego, CA 92116.

Registrant: Toastmasters International, 9127 S. Jamaica Street, Suite 400, Englewood, CO 80112.

This business is conducted

by Corporation.

REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 08/18/2016.

Signature: Lynette Benitez.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 06/06/2022.

AJ 971 06/10, 06/17, 06/24, and 07/01/2022. AJSD#971

EMPLOYMENT

STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9012639

DMG Packings located at 12665 Camino Mira del Mar #212, San Diego, CA 92130.

THE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME REFERRED TO ABOVE WAS FILED IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY ON: 10/25/2021, and assigned File no. 2021-9024040 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IS BEING ABANDONED BY: Marcos Lencioni, 12665 Camino Mira del Mar #212, San Diego, CA 92130.

Signature: Marcos Lencioni.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 06/02/2022.

AJ 969 06/10, 06/17, 06/24, and 07/01/2022.

AJSD#969

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT NO. 2022-9011921

DMG Packings located at 12665 Camino Mira del Mar #212, San Diego, CA 92130.

Registrant: DMG Packings LLC, 12665 Camino Mira del Mar #212, San Diego, CA 92130.

This business is conducted

by Limited Liability Company.

REGISTRANT FIRST BEGUN TO TRANSACT BUSINESS UNDER THE NAME(S) AS OF 10/25/2021.

Signature: Marcos Lencioni.

Statement filed with Recorder/County Clerk of San Diego County on 05/24/2022.

AJ 970 06/10, 06/17, 06/24, and 07/01/2022.

AJSD#970

SAN DIEGO

(818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588 • http://www.asianjournal.com

SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL • JUNE 10-16, 2022

JOURNAL

9

9

J U N E 1 0, 2 0 22

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

by MoMar

G. Visaya / AJPress

T

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 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

Conrad Ricamora Photos from Instagram/@FireIslandMovie

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.

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

Andrew Ahn

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,

Raymond gets real on coming out as gay in showbiz

By Dana

Cruz Inquirer.net

RAYMOND Gutierrez got real about the struggle to live one’s “truth” in show business as he recalled his own experience in coming out as part of the LGBTQ+ community.

The TV host looked back at his coming out story when he guested for the second part of vlogger Wil Dasovich’s “Superhuman” podcast, released on Spotify last Monday, June 6.

Gutierrez, who revealed he is gay through a magazine interview last year, was asked by Dasovich about his family’s reaction to his coming out, and whether a loved one was “not super happy” about it.

“I think when I came out, it was kind of like they all knew already

Raymond Gutierrez

so it was not a shocker. I think what’s great about my family is that they really told me how much they love me…,” he recounted, adding that he had a similar experience with his friends.

“Nobody really pressured me.

Everyone knew who I was, what I was but nobody forced me out,” he told Dasovich.

Prior to doing the interview, Gutierrez admitted he doubted whether his coming out story would make an impact since “people already know.” Given this, he was surprised to find out that he inspired others to come out to their friends and families after his revelation.

“People were like ‘Because of this, I’m more inspired to address it with my family’ or ‘Because of your article, I came out to my family and friends.’ Up to this

Photo from Instagram/@mond

day, I would still get DMs about it,” he said.

Gutierrez also recalled the time when he was not yet open about his sexuality, including the “taunts” he received from “bullies” back when he was still new to show biz. He admitted that those encounters left him scared to go to dressing rooms and hallways in GMA Network.

“I would walk down the hallway in GMA and people would be like, ‘Iyan ‘yung bakla ‘di ba (He is gay, isn’t he)?’ Things like that, I could definitely hear them and they know I could hear them but they would just taunt me in that way,” he narrated.

Gutierrez considers himself “lucky” to have come out when the public is now more “accepting” of those in the LGBTQ+ community.

“When I came out, all of my brand deals stood by my side and really supported me. But 10 years ago, 15 years ago, it would not have been the case. I think now we live in a time where it’s more accepted,” he said.

Gutierrez then looked back at the past, when he believes it would have been harder to come out.

“If you were gay on TV [back then], you would automatically have to be put on a wig or like you’d have to do slapstick comedy or like things like that.

It was very difficult for people to come out because it wasn’t really

u PAGE 10

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 lead.

“It feels amazing to be doing a show that shows Asian American Photo by Mettie Ostrowski men being powerful, sexy, Bowen Yang, Conrad Ricamora, Joel Kim Booster vulnerable, three-dimensional, 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 Joel Kim Booster and Conrad Ricamora star in Fire Island, the modern rom-com adaptation Northanger Abbey. n of Pride and Prejudice. The film is currently streaming on Hulu.

10

JUNE 10-16, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

Mayor brings on non-congregate shelter beds at former motel in South Bay Palm Avenue facility opens as interim transitional shelter

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588

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

SAN DIEGO – Furthering his efforts to create a range of shelter options to meet the varied needs of San Diego’s unhoused population, Mayor Todd Gloria announced on Friday, June 3 that the city will temporarily use a former motel on Palm Avenue as a non-congregate transitional shelter for San Diegans experiencing homelessness who have access to a housing voucher or a pathway to permanent housing.

“I’ve promised San Diegans we’d leave no stone unturned as we create more opportunities for unsheltered folks to come off the streets, and the Palm Avenue interim shelter is a perfect example of that approach,” Mayor Todd Gloria said. “We’ll continue to turn unused city assets into shelter whenever possible to give unhoused people a chance to connect with the services and resources they need to end their homelessness.”

The Palm Avenue facility currently has 22 rooms available (42 total on-site) and offers a shared kitchen and communal spaces, meeting and case-management areas, outdoor areas and laundry facilities. The shelter began welcoming clients on May 17 and Is currently housing 17 seniors who have vouchers and are awaiting a match to permanent housing. One 70-year-old veteran has already exited the shelter into permanent housing.

Priority for rooms is given to those 55 or older who have access to rapid rehousing assistance, a pathway to permanent supportive housing or a housing voucher.

The Palm Avenue facility was purchased and refurbished for the San Diego Misdemeanants At-Risk Track (S.M.A.R.T.) program, a diversion program created by the City Attorney’s Office for chronic misdemeanor offenders with acute drug addiction and complex social service needs. The city’s purchase and transformation of the motel on Palm Avenue was approved by the City Council in 2017 and served families experiencing homelessness at the height of the pandemic. Since then, the city has opened family shelters elsewhere, creating the opportunity to use the facility as a non-congregate shelter for single adults.

The facility will operate as an interim shelter until the diversion program by the City Attorney’s Office and County Behavioral Health services is ready to launch, anticipated in the fall.

The interim shelter is being operated by City Net, the nonprofit homelessness services organization that Mayor Gloria’s Homelessness Strategies and Solutions Department contracted with in 2021 to begin outreach services to residents in freeway-adjacent encampments, in partnership with Caltrans. Referrals into the interim shelter are being provided by homeless service providers such as San Diego Housing Commission, PATH, Father Joe Villages and Alpha Project, as well as MODEL COACH. Tina Shih, a noted image consultant and model coach has recently re-branded her modeling academy. by the County of San Diego.

The use of the facility aligns with the city’s Community Action Plan on Homelessness, a comprehensive strategy to reduce homelessness over 10 years. The plan notes the need to add more than 500 crisisresponse options like new shelter beds, transitional housing facilities or diversion programs.

Mayor Gloria has expanded shelter capacity by more than 25 percent since April 2021, including more shelter options dedicated to serving subpopulations of people experiencing homelessness with specific care needs, like women, those with mental health and substance use issues and now seniors. In his proposed Fiscal Year 2023 budget, Mayor Gloria reaffirmed his commitment to expanding shelter capacity and homelessness services even further.

(City of San Diego Release) n

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

Photos courtesy of Tina Shih

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 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

Raymond gets real...

PAGE 9 accepted,” he pointed out.

Gutierrez also discussed the possibility of an LGBTQ+ personality coming out and eventually losing jobs.

“I think that’s why a lot of the actors that we know are still not coming out because I think today they still don’t have an easy time,” he said. “A lot of actors still haven’t done that and it’s so unfortunate because I know how that feels and I know how uncomfortable that feels when people keep speculating, people keep asking.”

Gutierrez also gave advice

to those in show biz who are struggling to speak out about being part of the LGBTQ+ community.

“I think living your truth and living your best life would be FRESH FACES. Tina Shih is set to unveil her newest talents more beneficial for you and I under the “Icon Model” brand in Asia Pacific Fashion Week.

Photo courtesy of Liquid Star Photography think your fans, people that really care, love you, and support you, would stand by you no matter what,” he said.

Gutierrez recently revealed that he is in a relationship, after meeting a special someone in Los Angeles. He did not give further details about his new beau, noting that he likes to keep their relationship private. n

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

Photos courtesy of Tina Shih

“beauty ambassador.”

Her students consistently 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, 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 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 fastgrowing company that has produced and supported numerous events from concerts, fashion shows, expos, to developing the careers of young and emerging talents.

(Advertising Supplement)

Public encouraged to learn about our marine environment through video series on World Oceans Day Educational videos are available on City of San Diego Ocean Monitoring Program’s website

SAN DIEGO – In celebration of World Oceans Day held on Wednesday, June 8, the City of San Diego is encouraging the public to learn about local coastal waters through a series of videos that describe the diverse work of its Ocean Monitoring Program in studying the effects of regional wastewater treatment processes on the marine environment.

The videos look at a variety of topics, such as an overview of the program, how staff take samples from the ocean floor, the science of identifying marine organisms, testing ocean water quality and a tour of one of the program’s monitoring vessels. The videos are available on the city’s website at sandiego.gov/ocean-monitoringvideos.

“Learning about the environment along our coastline can be fascinating, from identifying different sea creatures to analyzing the quality of the ocean water,” said Juan Guerreiro, Director of the City’s Public Utilities Department. “The video series we’re offering is like both a virtual classroom and an open house to show the

public the important work we do every day.”

A part of the city’s Public Utilities Department, the Ocean Monitoring Program monitors more than 340 square miles – from northern San Diego to northern Baja California, Mexico – from the shoreline to approximately 10 miles offshore, and to depths of more than 1,600 feet.

City marine biologists use specialized sampling gear and instruments to collect the wide array of data needed to understand the ecological health of the ocean environment to identify potential health concerns associated with the recreational use of San Diego’s coastline.

In 2008, the United Nations designated June 8 as World Oceans Day to raise global awareness of the benefits humankind derives from the ocean and the duty to use its resources sustainably.

For more information about the City’s Ocean Monitoring Program, visit sandiego.gov/ocean-monitoring.

(City of San Diego Release) n

San Diegans urged to conserve as city implements new water use restrictions

Residents and businesses are asked to limit landscape irrigation, stop washing vehicles at home SAN DIEGO – Effective Friday, June 10, the City of San Diego is implementing more stringent water restrictions for all water customers following a statewide order from Gov. Gavin Newsom. At the governor’s direction, the State Water Resources Control Board adopted an emergency water conservation regulation calling on local water agencies to take appropriate action that will conserve water throughout California.

The Level 2 actions being implemented step up those water conservation rules under the city’s Water Shortage Contingency Plan.

Level 2 water restrictions include the following actions for all City of San Diego water customers: • Areas with no irrigation system must use a hand-held hose with a shutoff nozzle, handheld container or a garden hose sprinkler system on a timer.

• Irrigation is prohibited during and within 48 hours of a rain event.

• Landscape irrigation is limited to no more than three days per week before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m. This does not apply to commercial growers or nurseries, nor to the irrigation of golf course greens and trees.

• Use of recycled or non-potable water,

when available, is required for construction purposes.

• Washing of vehicles at residences is prohibited. Washing is still permitted at commercial car washes.

“We are asking San Diegans to take these steps now, so we can help avoid a more dire situation in the near future,” said Juan Guerreiro, Director of the city’s Public Utilities Department. “Water is a precious resource and we must use our water wisely.

We hope San Diegans will take the new restrictions to heart and take advantage of the range of rebates and water saving tips offered.”

The statewide emergency regulation will remain in effect for one year. To assist residents and businesses with saving water, the city administers a variety of rebates for turf replacement, irrigation control systems, rain barrels and gutters, gray water systems and many other options. Also, the city provides many tips that can help customers use less water both inside their homes and in their yards.

These new water restrictions also apply to city facilities and properties. The city is currently working with each individual city

department to implement these conservation efforts. To date, the city has reduced its water use at municipal facilities by changing landscape to hardscapes and drought resistant plantings, and incorporating water saving devices in new and renovated buildings, like libraries and fire stations.

Most of the city’s water is purchased from the San Diego County Water Authority (CWA). Although CWA has determined that the region’s water supply is currently stable, the dire drought in Northern California and throughout the West requires all water customers to help reduce water use.

To reduce its need for imported water, the city is developing drought-proof local supplies by constructing the Pure Water Program facilities that will provide San Diego with nearly 50% of its drinking water by 2035.

Anyone who sees water waste can submit a report on the city’s Get It Done app, call 619-533-5271 or email waterwaste@ sandiego.gov. More information about the Level 2 water restrictions, as well as rebates and water saving tips, is available at www. wastenowater.org.

(City of San Diego Release) n

(818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588 • http://www.asianjournal.com

SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL • JUNE 10-16, 2022

11

Another strip of land along Las Vegas Blvd sells for millions

By RealtoR

Fely Quitevis-Bateman

BIG land deals seem to be in vogue this season in Nevada.

According to a report in the Las Vegas Review-Journal, a strip of land on the southern part of the Strip has been acquired by a mystery buyer recently.

The plot of land is a 2.2acre property along Las Vegas Boulevard and Russell Road, and was reportedly bought at a price of $12.8 million. Lily Funds founder Tom McManus is the seller, per the news reports.

The land is between the Diamond Inn motel and the Little Church of the West wedding chapel, and is said to have been bought by a limited liability company called Object Dash, which is managed by Object Dash Trust according to state records.

Over the past year, there have

been several big land purchases in communities in Nevada that has created excitement and continued the great momentum for both buyers and sellers in the state.

With the return conventions and tourists to cities like Las Vegas, dubbed as the gambling and entertainment capital of the world, many are eyeing continued development in the state and looking at audience-generating projects for communities.

Aside from the recent big land purchase, there have been other big transactions which are expected to bring a wealth of projects to different communities in Nevada.

Formula One’s parent company, for one, completed a $240 million purchase of nearly 40 acres just east of the Strip.

Formula One is gearing up

for its high-speed race in 2023 which will have drivers navigate a course that provides many of the iconic landmarks in Las Vegas as backdrop and brings Formula One racing as close as ever to fans and observers. The 14-turn, 3.8 mile-race course will see drivers navigating the course at speeds of up to 212 miles per hour.

The Siegel Group, on the other hand, purchased about 10 acres near the north part of the Strip for $75 million in April, just across from Resorts World Las Vegas.

While the firm has not made any comments as to what it plans to put up on the piece of real estate dubbed as “the last great piece of land available on the north Strip,” many industry observers are speculating that long-term options for the group may include a casino-hotel, a condominium tower, retail outlets and multifamily apartments.

The Oak View Group, meanwhile, acquired 25 acres of land in an area just minutes away from Harry Reid International Airport, and plans to build a major arena, entertainment hub and casino which will cater to people who can afford it. The 20,000seat arena, reports say, will have the ability to host major music acts and can become a home to a professional sports team. And since the National Basketball Association (NBA) has indicated that Las Vegas is among the cities it is considering expansion to, the arena being built within this entertainment/sports complex will

Soon-to-be neighbors of Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman at Turnberry Place, Tower 1 are Dr. Phil Paleracio and Mr. Bing Longakit. Escrow is scheduled to close soon assuming that everything is in place. Photo above shows (from left) Realtor Quitevis-Bateman, Dr. Paleracio and Mr. Longakit.

be NBA-ready, just in case.

Aside from these huge land deals, news reports have touted other big transactions in Las Vegas including Hard Rock International’s plans to buy The Mirage’s operations for more than $1 billion along with a goal to build a guitar-shaped hotel tower on the Strip, and casino landlord Vici Properties buyout of MGM Resorts International’s real estate spinoff for $17.2 million.

In Pahrump, which is only 62 miles west of Las Vegas, a project that has gained momentum will see 400 acres of open farmland in the northern part of the town become a gaming and entertainment hub that will include a 40,000-square-

A breakfast meeting with Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman’s Pahrump investors, notably Alka Products CEO Andrew Hoang, who is close to getting approval from Nye County to build a glove factory in Pahrump. Photo above shows (from left) Jenny Truong, Kelly Tiam, Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman, Harold Tiam and Andrew Hoang.

Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman’s new investors, Clark and Angelica Games of Palm Springs, CA who are both nurses, are looking at business opportunities in Pahrump.

Photo above shows (from left) Clark Games, Angelica Games, Realtor Fely QuitevisBateman and Russ Bateman.

foot resort casino centered around a 7/8-mile track, with stables for 280 racing horses, and amenities like restaurants, shopping facilities, campgrounds, a water park, batting cages, a movie theater and parking for recreational vehicles. That project will also bring the first parimutuel harness racing track to the state.

Another big project that is on the horizon for the town is the planned development for what is dubbed as “Mountain Falls South,” which will see Adaven Management and its associated parties build more than 5,000 residential units in a planned community on approximately 1,177 acres of land southwest of the intersection of Manse Road and Hafen Ranch Road.

Requirements set forth in the development agreement for this project have been carried out over the years, with the most recent item being the construction of a roundabout on Highway 160 at Manse Road which the company is working on with the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT). The roundabout is expected to cost about $1.5 million.

Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman helps those who need business financing, including This Google Maps photo shows the property bought by a mystery owner in Las Vegas Millions of dollars are being along South Las Vegas Blvd., between the Diamond Inn Hotel and the Little Church loans for small businesses. For more information, call (702) 538-4948 or send email pumped into projects in the state, of the West. to fely@precious-properties.com or fely.precious@gmail.com.

and in big cities like Las Vegas and towns like Pahrump.

Real estate opportunities abound for those who want to take advantage of land and/ or properties available in the market. Some of my buyers both in Las Vegas and Pahrump are enjoying the benefits of having invested in the market – whether it is in terms of the continued rise in real estate prices and valuation of their properties, or by investing in properties which continue to make money for them (Airbnb or other types of rental properties).

I bring a few decades worth of experience in real estate that will help you, my kababayans, in your search for real estate – whether it is for a new home, a second/ vacation home, an investment property, or a piece of land where you want to construct your dream home.

My company, Precious Properties, is a full-service company that has served its clientele since 1992. You can reach me at 775-513-8447, 805559-2476 and 702-538-4948 for more information. We have investors who buy houses in California and Nevada for cash and quick escrow in as short as 7 days.

(Advertising Supplement)

12

JUNE 10-16, 2022 • SAN DIEGO ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (619) 474-0588