062124 - New York & New Jersey Edition

California lawmakers preserve aid to older, disabled immigrants

CALIFORNIA lawmakers on Thursday, June 14 passed a 2024-25 budget that rejected Gov. Gavin Newsom’s proposal to cut in-home supportive services for lowincome older, blind, and disabled immigrants lacking legal residency. However, the Democratic governor has not said whether he’ll use his line-item veto authority to help close the state’s $45 billion deficit.

The legislature, controlled by Democrats, passed a $211 billion general fund spending plan for the fiscal year starting July 1 by drawing more from the state’s rainy-day fund and reducing corporate tax deductions to prevent cuts to health and social services.

MANILA — Sen. Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian presented on Tuesday, June 18 what he considered possible proof of the real identity of Alice Guo, the mayor of Bamban, Tarlac province, who is at the center of a firestorm over the illegal Philippine offshore gaming operator (Pogo) in her town.

Gatchalian said he had obtained a document from the Board of Investments and the Bureau of Immigration that would support suspicions that Guo was not a Filipino national, contrary to her claim.

He said a copy of a special investors resident visa (SIRV) showed that a certain Guo Hua Ping, a Chinese citizen, arrived in the country on Jan. 12, 2003.

The document, which the senator shared with Senate reporters, had a picture of a young woman who he said looked exactly like the controversial Bamban mayor.

US, other nations condemn China’s ‘aggressive actions’ in West PH Sea

by IAN LAQUI Philstar.com

MANILA — The U.S. and other nations have condemned the actions of Chinese maritime forces in the West Philippine Sea during a routine resupply mission by the Philippine

Coast Guard (PCG) to the BRP Sierra Madre.

On Monday, June 17, the National Security Council said that China’s coast guard and maritime militia engaged in “dangerous maneuvers” which included “ramming and towing.”

It also said that China's actions put at risk

New York City celebrates 126th Philippine Independence Day with community ag-raising at Bowling Green

by MOMAR G. VISAYA AJPress

NEW York City officials and commissioners led by Deputy Mayor Maria TorresSpringer commemorated the 126th anniversary of Philippine Independence with a flag-raising ceremony held at Bowling Green Park

on Monday, June 17. This event, marked by a spirit of pride and unity, was attended by a significant number of the Filipino-American community, local officials, and distinguished guests.

In his opening remarks, Consul General Senen Mangalile highlighted the

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the lives of the personnel and damage the PCG's boats.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines, MaryKay Carlson, stated that Washington "condemns" China's "aggressive and dangerous

cut o

MANILA — At least eight Philippine Navy sailors were injured after Chinese vessels on Monday, June 17 sought to drive away their vessels on a rotation and resupply mission to Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal in the West Philippine Sea.

The troops, including one whose finger got cut off, were wounded during a confrontation with Chinese forces that rammed and towed their rigid hull inflatable boats as they tried to reach grounded warship BRP Sierra Madre,

Peso seen among

Asia’s worst performers ING

expects volatility on BSP dovish talk

MANILA — The Philippine peso is projected to become one of Asia’s worst-performing currencies as the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) continues to send out dovish signals to the market, Dutch financial giant ING Bank said.

But despite the bearish sentiment

on the local currency, ING Bank said in a report sent to journalists that the peso’s support would likely hold at 58 per dollar, although it may weaken to as low as 58.60, which would be a few centavos away from the record-low 59 it hit in 2022.

“The PHP will likely lag regional peers as BSP keeps up the dovish talk with a rate cut by August now by IAN NICOLAS P. CIGARAL Inquirer.net

 PAGE 2

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

Members of BIBAK NY perform an Igorot ethnic dance, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines at the 126th Philippine Independence Day flag raising ceremony at Bowling Green on Monday, June 17.

Photo by Nikka Arenal

by FRANCES MANGOSING, NESTOR CORRALES Inquirer.net

Peso seen among Asia’s...

a possibility,” said Nicholas Mapa, senior economist at ING Bank in Manila.

The peso may come under pressure if local yields become less attractive to capital inflows while interest rates are still high elsewhere, especially in the United States which is considered a safe haven by investors.

The local unit had been trading at 19-month lows for most of June and had fallen by more than 5 percent so far this year. On Tuesday, the peso closed at 58.62 against the greenback, stronger than its previous finish of 58.65.

Hawkish U.S. Fed, dovish BSP

While most market

watchers blamed the peso’s volatility on hawkish signals from the U.S. Federal Reserve—which is expected to delay rate cuts amid stubbornly high inflation stateside—some observers said the currency weakness could also be due to dovish remarks from some BSP officials recently.

Government data showed inflation quickened to 3.9 percent in May from 3.8 percent in the previous month on the back of higher utility costs.

While the latest reading almost breached the central bank’s 2- to 4-percent target range, last month’s price gains were not as bad as many analysts had expected and still fell within the

BSP’s forecast range of 3.7 to 4.5 percent. This, after food inflation slipped to 5.8 percent in May from 6 percent previously, limiting the rise in the headline rate.

For that reason, Governor Eli Remolona Jr. had said the BSP might cut its policy rate—currently at a 17-year high of 6.5 percent—ahead of the Fed, which he said could possibly ease in July.

Overall, ING said Asian currencies have taken a back seat to events in the United States and Europe.

“Softer U.S. interest rates might offer some room for a reversal in this year’s USD/ Asia rally, but conditions are far from ripe for a substantial Asian FX recovery,” the bank said. g

California lawmakers preserve aid...

“Our legislative budget plan achieves those goals with targeted, carefully calibrated investments in safety-net programs that protect our most vulnerable,” said Assembly member Jesse Gabriel, chair of the Assembly’s budget committee, following voting in Sacramento.

Newsom and lawmakers are expected to continue talks.

“What was approved today represents a two-house agreement between the Senate and the Assembly – not an agreement with the governor,” said state Department of Finance spokesperson H.D. Palmer. “We’ve made good progress, but there’s still more work to do.”

Newsom had proposed eliminating the new in-home benefit for qualified immigrants to save nearly $95 million in the next fiscal year, with no plans to bring it back. Lawmakers not only rejected Newsom’s cut to the inhome services program; they also refused the governor’s proposal to slash $300 million a year from public health agencies. However, they accepted delaying food assistance to low-income older immigrants without legal residency.

The In-Home Supportive Services program helps low-income older, blind, and disabled individuals receive care in their homes, which helps keep them out of more costly nursing and residential facilities. The program works by paying $16 to $21 an hour to caregivers, many of them family members.

Advocates applauded lawmakers for rejecting the cut. They had urged the governor to adopt the legislature’s budget, arguing the state could end up paying more in the long run as Medi-Cal recipients tap nursing services. The state has estimated the annual per-person cost of nursing homes is $124,189, compared with the roughly $28,000 average cost for people without legal residency in the in-home services program.

“These individuals would need to essentially go into costly hospital or nursing care,” said Ronald Coleman Baeza, managing

US, other nations condemn China’s...

PAGE 1

maneuvers," which resulted in bodily injuries, damaged Philippine vessels and obstructed lawful maritime activities.

The U.S. State Department also called China’s actions "escalatory" and emphasized that the 72-year-old mutual defense treaty between the U.S. and the Philippines includes "armed attacks" on its Coast Guard "anywhere in the South China Sea."

In a separate statement, France, Japan, Germany, Finland, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands denounced China’s actions and called for the recognition of the ruling of the 2016 arbitral tribunal of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

The Netherlands said that China’s “irresponsible maneuvers” “endanger the safety of ships and crews” and question “the freedom of sea routes guaranteed under international law.”

“Netherlands considers it of utmost importance that the 2016 arbitral award is fully respected and implemented,” Netherlands ambassador to the Philippines Marielle Geraedts said in a post on X.

The European Union also expressed its concern over the "ramming" and "towing" incident.

“The EU opposes coercion and intimidation in the South China Sea, or anywhere. We support international law and peaceful dispute resolution,” EU Ambassador to the Philippines Luc Veron also said in a post on X.

This was not the first time Chinese maritime assets have been involved in an incident with the PCG’s RORE mission to bring supplies to the BRP Sierra Madre anchored in Ayungin Shoal.

Previous incidents involved the spraying of water cannons which resulted in PCG personnel being injured. g

Gatchalian: Investor resident visa...

policy director at the California Pan-Ethnic Health Network. “It’s not only cruel for undocumented immigrants, but it doesn’t make sense as a fiscal decision either.”

The governor has said he’s trying to maintain fiscal discipline while preserving Medi-Cal benefits for immigrants. California was the first state to expand Medicaid eligibility to all qualified immigrants regardless of legal status, phasing it in over several years: children in 2016, adults ages 19-26 in 2020, people 50 and older in 2022, and all remaining adults this year.

“It’s a core of I think who we are as a state, and we should be as a nation,” Newsom said in May.

As part of the Medi-Cal expansion, the state authorized nearly 3,000 older, blind, and disabled immigrants without legal residency to access paramedical services and daily care, including meal preparation, bathing, feeding, and transportation to medical appointments.

Advocates estimate 17,000 immigrants qualify.

“Fixing California’s deficit means making tough choices, so the Assembly came to these negotiations focused on preserving programs that matter most to Californians,” said Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, a Central Coast Democrat, in an earlier statement.

Lawmakers did agree to Newsom’s proposal to delay around $165 a month in food assistance to low-income immigrants without legal residency ages 55 and older. Lawmakers had approved the benefit two years ago, but the governor proposed delaying it by two fiscal years to 2027. (Vanessa G. Sánchez/KFF Health News)

This article was produced by KFF Health News, which publishes California Healthline, an editorially independent service of the California Health Care Foundation.

KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFF—an independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism.

“Is Guo Hua Ping the real Alice Guo?” Gatchalian asked.

“Alice Guo might be Guo Hua Ping, who entered the Philippines on January 12, 2003, when she was 13 years old. Her real birth date is August 31, 1990,” he said in a Viber message.

According to the senator, the application for the SIRV was filed by Guo’s family.

“Guo Hua Ping’s registered mother under the SIRV is Lin Wenyi,” he added.

Gatchalian had earlier suspected that Lin, a Chinese national whose name appeared as an incorporator of several companies owned by Guo’s family, could be her biological mother.

The senator was also able to secure a photocopy of Guo’s Chinese passport.

It showed that the passport holder was a female student born in Fujian, China, on Aug 31, 1990.

The passport, which was issued on April 3, 1999, in Fujian, had a photo of a much younger Guo.

“This [would] bolster the quo warranto case against her,” Gatchalian said, referring to the legal action that the Office of the Solicitor General might pursue against Guo to void her election as mayor.

Denial

Guo had previously rejected all allegations that she could be a Chinese “asset” trained to infiltrate and influence the Philippine government.

But she admitted during a Senate hearing that her

attached to the SIRV.

father, Jian Zhong Guo, a Chinese national who later used Angelito as his Filipino name, was a native of Fujian.

The mayor’s often contradictory answers to simple questions about her childhood and personal background, which she had embellished with details typical of soap operas on TV, had fueled speculations about her real identity.

Guo had repeatedly claimed to be the love child of her father and his former housekeeper, a certain Amelia Leal, who supposedly abandoned her soon after she was born in 1986.

However, Sen. Risa Hontiveros, who has been leading the Senate inquiry

into the criminal activities linked to Pogos, noted that her birth certificate showed that Guo’s parents were actually married and that she had two other siblings.

An official of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) later told the senators that Guo had a third sibling whose birth was also registered late, like her.

The PSA also said that there was a “high” possibility that Leal’s identity was fictitious as there were no records of her existence.

The agency also noted that there was no marriage record for Guo’s supposed parents. (By Marlon Ramos/Inquirer. net) g

LOOKS FAMILIAR? Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian produced these documents which he said may support claims that Bamban Mayor Alice Guo was also Guo Hua Ping, a Chinese citizen. At left is a passport presented by Guo’s supposed parents when they applied for a special investor’s resident visa (SIRV). Guo’s ID picture is

Philippines ex-vaccine czar doubts alleged US-led ‘anti-vax’ campaign

By Jose Rodel Clapano Philstar.com

MANILA — Allies of the Philippine government at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic supported any vaccine available at the time, according to presidential peace adviser Carlito Galvez Jr.

ABS-CBN quoted Galvez as saying that reports alleging a U.S.-backed propaganda that tried to discredit China’s Sinovac vaccine are not true.

“I believe it is not true,” he reportedly asserted in a statement.

Galvez was the National Task Force against COVID-19 chief implementer and vaccine czar during the peak of the pandemic.

A Reuters report, which saw print over the weekend, alleged that the U.S. military allegedly launched a clandestine program to discredit China’s Sinovac during the pandemic.

Galvez explained that countries supporting the Philippines during the pandemic said the best vaccine during the pandemic is the vaccine that is immediately available.

“I am not aware of anything like this since all countries, through their embassies, are trying to help us to acquire available vaccines in the market,” he said.

“As far as I can remember, most of our friends and allies even said that ‘the best vaccine is the vaccine (on) our shoulders,’ meaning, whatever vaccine we had and (was) available, we have to take it immediately,” he added.

China-made Sinovac was one of the early vaccines made available to the country at the height of the pandemic.

Public distrust

8 PH Navy men injured; one had...

1

according to a source who spoke on condition of anonymity due to lack of authority to speak on the matter.

Chinese troops also seized firearms of the Navy when they boarded one of the inflatable boats, the source said. This marked the first time that China boarded a Philippine boat and conducted a search.

The troops were not able to complete the resupply mission, the source said.

In a statement, Armed Forces of the Philippines public affairs chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad confirmed that one Navy sailor sustained a “severe injury” after an “intentional high-speed ramming” by the China Coast Guard (CCG) during the resupply mission.

Trinidad did not provide any further details, but said the injured was safely evacuated and received medical treatment.

‘Trespassing’

The developments at Ayungin followed after China’s new coast guard rules took effect over the weekend. Under the said rules, the CCG can detain for up to 60 days foreigners found “trespassing” Beijing-claimed waters.

Gan said the Philippines had violated its commitments by dispatching a supply ship and two inflatable boats into waters near Ayungin and attempting to deliver supplies to the Sierra Madre.

The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea on Monday called out China’s “illegal, aggressive, and reckless actions by the Chinese maritime forces.”

The task force said “People’s Liberation Army-Navy (PLA-N), China Coast Guard (CCG) and Chinese Maritime Militia (CMM) vessels engaged in dangerous maneuvers, including ramming and towing.”

These actions put “the lives at risk of our personnel and damaged our boats, in blatant violation of international law, particularly the United Nations Charter, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the 2016 Arbitral Award,” the task force said.

Washington should now hold “serious discussions” on the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT).

Under the 1951 treaty, which U.S. President Joe Biden had described as “iron-clad,” the Philippines and the United States are committed to come to each other’s defense following an armed attack on either country.

“There needs to be serious MDT discussions now between the U.S. and the Philippines,” Powell told the Inquirer on Tuesday. “First, China is clearly now blockading a Philippine military outpost, which already crosses the line into ‘act of war’ territory.”

“Boarding and towing naval vessels and confiscating weapons indicates that Beijing seems convinced it can act with impunity,” said the expert, who is director of the SeaLight project of Stanford University’s Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation. The project tracks operations at Ayungin and other parts of the South China Sea through satellite imagery.

State-run newspaper China Daily, quoting CCG spokesperson Gan Yu, also reported on Tuesday that the CCG “boarded, inspected and drove away Philippine vessels that illegally intruded” Ren’ai Reef—Beijing’s name for Ayungin Shoal.

U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson had also noted in her statement on Monday that China’s “aggressive, dangerous maneuvers near Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal [had] caused bodily injury, damaged Philippine vessels, and hindered lawful maritime operations to supply food, water, and essential supplies to Philippine personnel within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.”

Meanwhile a coalition of activists opposed to Chinese incursions in the West Philippine Sea called for the expulsion of Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian.

“We demand an immediate and strong response from our government, including the expulsion of the Chinese envoy to the Philippines and China’s surrender of its personnel responsible u PAGE 4 u PAGE 4

‘Serious discussions’ In response to Monday’s incident at Ayungin, American maritime security expert Ray Powell said Manila and

New York City celebrates 126th Philippine...

significance of Philippine Independence Day, reflecting on the historical struggles and triumphs that led to the nation's freedom. He spoke about the resilience and vibrant contributions of Filipinos in the United States, particularly in New York, underscoring their impact on the local community and broader American society.

“The celebration of our independence is not only a reflection of our history but also a testament to the indomitable spirit of Filipinos around the world,” stated Consul General Mangalile. “Today, as we raise our flag, we honor the sacrifices of our ancestors and reaffirm our commitment to uphold the values of freedom and democracy.”

Deputy Mayor Torres-Springer, who represented Mayor Eric Adams during the ceremony, expressed her pride and happiness as a Filipino in celebrating “the very rich history of the Philippines, the extraordinary contributions of Filipino-Americans, and the amazing community of Pinoys–the third largest Asian-American community in the city,” which she acknowledged as “power for all of us, power for immigrants, and power for the great diversity in the city.”

Torres-Springer also expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the ceremony as she emphasized the significance of the event in celebrating the rich history and extraordinary contributions of the Filipino community in New York City.

“I come from a long line of proud Filipinos, strivers, doers, survivors in their own right, and my father Manny, who is from Pampanga, used to tell me that every bloodline runs in the Filipino,” Torres-Springer added.

Torres-Springer also highlighted the diverse backgrounds that make up the city and acknowledged the importance of ensuring representation and shared power for all communities.

Cultural Performances and Community Participation

The event was enriched by various cultural performances that showcased traditional Filipino music and dance. These performances were not just entertainment but a reaffirmation of the community's pride in their cultural heritage. The rhythmic beats

of traditional instruments and the graceful movements of folk dancers captivated the audience, drawing applause and cheers.

Local Filipino-American organizations actively participated in the ceremony, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere with their colorful attire and enthusiastic presence.

Mr. Romel C. Cañete, Vice Chairman of Newmark New York, Ms. Jocelyn Bernal, Budget Manager of the New York University College of Dentistry, and Dr. Kevin Nadal, Distinguished Professor of the City University of New York, represented the Filipino community in this year’s flag raising. The three exemplify the journey of Filipinos who have distinguished themselves in New York City through hard work, perseverance, and dedication. Their achievements underscore the resilient spirit of the Filipino, one that thrives and excels even in foreign lands.

Special citations from Mayor Eric Adams were presented to Mr. Cañete and Dr. Nadal for their outstanding service and dedication to the Filipino community of New York City.

The program also included speeches by several dignitaries, such as Commissioner Manuel Castro of the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs, Commissioner Edward Mermelstein of the Mayor’s Office of International Affairs, New York State Assemblymember Steven Raga, Senior Advisor Angela Tolosa of the Administration for Children’s Services, and Bowling Green

Philippines ex-vaccine...

PAGE 3

In a related development, Iloilo 1st District Rep. Janette Garin on Monday, June 17 cautioned against any effort to demonize a vaccine, saying it would lead to public distrust in immunization programs.

Garin, a former health secretary, noted that public health should be insulated from military operations because in the end, the victims would be the people and the public health programs.

“Accountability should be in place,” she said in a television interview as she underscored the need for the media to be discerning in getting people to interview about public health. She added that if a certain vaccine is “demonized,” it will “create public distrust in all vaccines and all vaccination programs.”

Garin made the statement following reports that the U.S. military had launched a clandestine program to discredit China’s Sinovac vaccine against COVID-19.

Meanwhile, House of Representatives Deputy Minority Leader and ACT Teachers party-list Rep. France Castro strongly condemned the U.S. government, particularly the Pentagon, for running a secret anti-vaccination campaign.

Association Chairman Arthur Piccolo.

Present during the ceremony were members of the Philippine-American Chamber of Commerce (PACC), which stands as a beacon of the economic achievements of Filipinos in New York. With its presence spanning over a century, the PACC fosters business growth, creates job opportunities, and serves as a vital link between the Philippines and the United States, promoting mutual prosperity.

The ceremony featured a series of cultural performances, including Igorot ethnic dances by BIBAK NY, a song performance of “Bayan Ko” by Ms. Krizia Daya, and the singing of the Philippine and U.S. national anthems by six singers from the Leadership Initiative for Modern Bukidnon Artists and the Youth (LIMBAY), which is composed of the Bukidnon State University Chorale Alumni.

This year marks the second time a flag-raising ceremony was held in commemoration of Philippine Independence Day and the third time the Philippine flag has been raised at Bowling Green, the oldest park in New York City.

The celebration at Bowling Green Park served as a reminder of the importance of remembering and honoring the sacrifices made for freedom. It also highlighted the ongoing journey of the Filipino-American community in preserving their heritage while contributing meaningfully to their adopted homeland. g

Castro said this is “deeply concerning” as it would “cast doubt on the safety and efficacy of Chinese vaccines,” which were the primary vaccines used by the Philippines to combat COVID-19.

“The impact of this operation on public health cannot be overstated. Public health experts have rightly criticized this campaign for endangering lives and undermining trust in vaccines, including those manufactured in the United States,” she added.

The lawmaker emphasized that this campaign would contribute to “vaccine hesitancy in the Philippines, a country where vaccine coverage was already limited, leading to unnecessary loss of lives.” g

8 PH Navy men...

3

for causing serious harm to our front-liners and damage to our vessels,” Rafaela David, coconvener of the “Atin Ito” (This Is Ours) coalition, said in a statement on Tuesday.

She called the incident “a vile and barbaric act of intimidation in our own exclusive economic zone.”

“The Chinese coast guard has descended to the depths of thuggery, acting as goons and a scourge of the West Philippine Sea,” said David, who is also president of Akbayan party.

In April last year, Akbayan called for Huang’s expulsion after he expressed concern over U.S. access to military bases in northern Luzon and advised the Philippines to “unequivocally oppose” Taiwan’s independence bid “if you care genuinely about the 150,000 [Filipino workers there].”

In December, then Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri urged President Marcos to expel Huang after China fired water cannons that month at Filipino fishermen near Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal. g

New York City Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer AJPress photos by Momar G. Visaya

Mr. Romel C. Cañete (right), Dr. Kevin Nadal (center), and Ms. Jocelyn Bernal (left) deliver their remarks on behalf of the Filipino community in New York City. Photos by Nikka Arenal

Consul General Senen Mangalile

PRIDE. Rainbow colors illuminate the Quezon City Hall under clear skies on Monday night, June 17. The colors are associated with Pride Month, celebrated every June for the lesbian, gay, bisexual

FEATURES OPINION

The high ground

THE last thing opponents of former President Rodrigo Duterte should want is to have accusations hurled back at them about gross human rights violations. This, however, is happening now as the administration comes down hard on Apollo Quiboloy, pastor of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ.

The Department of Justice has declared Quiboloy a “fugitive” as he evades arrest for various offenses including the non-bailable qualified human trafficking. In compelling anyone to face the law, however, authorities should not look like lawbreakers themselves. This is what Quiboloy’s camp is saying after police swooped down last week on four Quiboloy properties in Davao to serve arrest warrants for the pastor, a staunch supporter of Duterte. Video footage showed police breaking down the fence of the KOJC’s “Glory Mountain.”

Editorial

The raid is on top of the House of Representatives voting overwhelmingly last March to revoke the franchise of Sonshine Media Network International, which is operated by Quiboloy’s Swara Sug Media Corp.

Quiboloy’s lawyer stressed that an arrest warrant does not allow a search of the premises, except if there is reasonable ground to suspect that the fugitive is in the address specified on the warrant, in which case an “incidental search” may be allowed. The lawyer said there could have been no “reasonable” certainty of Quiboloy’s presence in the property that was broken into because the police tried to serve the warrant almost simultaneously at four different sites.

IN a recent meeting I had with Facebook executives, they said they are continually developing new tools and technologies to increase account security as well as

Duterte, who has agreed to serve as administrator of KOJC assets, lambasted the raids. “Will this overkill be the trademark of this administration when dealing with individuals who are merely accused of committing a crime and have not been proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt? Will they exhibit the same lack of self-restraint they have shown toward critics of this administration when dealing with their supporters?”

Those who suffered from Duterte’s brutal crackdown on illegal drugs will scoff at his comments. Still, the actions of the current administration and its allies against Quiboloy are raising genuine concern about the state of free speech and the constitutionally guaranteed right to be secure in one’s domicile.

It is also unfortunate that after deploying elite police Special Action Force commandos and several other police teams to serve an arrest warrant, the police still came up emptyhanded. Government critics are not the only ones who see a failure of intelligence in that operation.

At least the Philippine National Police

leadership reacted quickly and sacked the police regional director for the Davao Region plus the PNP operations chief and more than a dozen other officers over the botched operation. The raid must serve to inculcate within PNP ranks the idea that in law enforcement, it is best to maintain the moral and legal high ground. (Philstar.com)

Days of trolls and hackers are numbered

identify and shut down fake Facebook accounts that scam people and, more critically, those that are used for misinformation/ disinformation and covert influence operations.

In November last year, Meta – the parent company of Facebook – announced that it has shut down over 4,800 fake social media

accounts that originated from China but whose profiles appear to be Americans (complete with fake photos) creating and sharing political content aimed at sowing political discord and furthering ideological divide. While misinformation/ disinformation activities are geared at spreading

fake news or misleading information, influence operations (IO) take things a step further because they are aimed at manipulating public opinion/perception and ultimately, influencing political outcomes. IO may also use trolls, hackers and cyberthugs to attack personalities through black propaganda by spreading

lies and engaging in smear campaigns.

In the Philippines, “cyberthugs” are increasingly becoming rampant, with black propaganda and demolition jobs now considered to be big business, making it relatively easy to hire IO and social media rent-a-groups. Oftentimes, the source

of the black propaganda/ smear campaign is a newly created Facebook account (likely to be dubious or fake) making a malicious post or content that assails the integrity and credibility of public figures or institutions.

Aside from the use of fake social media accounts

Dateline PhiliPPines

Abalos warns local execs on POGO liability

by Mark ErnEsT VillEza Philstar.com

MANILA — Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos warned local government executives on their liability in the proliferation of Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGO) and other illegal activities in their respective areas.

The liability of local government officials “does not only involve POGO but all illegal businesses,” Abalos said over dzBB when asked if elected officials will be held accountable over illegal POGO operations.

He noted that he led a raid on an illegal POGO in Angeles City, Pampanga two years ago. “I personally led the raid in Angeles City, involving Lucky 99, that’s why I was surprised that it was allowed to operate in Porac when I already raided this company.”

Abalos said local government units could ask for police assistance to check on suspicious activities of a business establishment in their jurisdiction, adding that Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. Chairman Alejandro Tengco earlier said only 43 POGOs have licenses to operate in the country.

“From 200 to 400 (licensed POGOs)… based on my conversation with chairman (Tengco), only 43 are legal and he said every week, these are being regularly checked. So you could just imagine those who were not given permits, these are still in the Philippines and it is possible that they are involved in illegal activities, so all the LGUs and the PNP should be aware and immediately act on this,” he added.

Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian took the same stance, saying governors, mayors and other local officials should be held accountable for failing to monitor illegal POGO activities in their respective areas.

He commended the Pampanga provincial government for investigating the POGO hubs in Porac town and Angeles City.

Pampanga Vice Gov. Lilia Pineda vowed to finish the investigation into the POGO in Porac, saying these operators had no respect for the government.

“It (Lucky South 99) has no building permit, no electrical permit, nothing at all, zero. It has no environmental compliance certificate. They entered the town, disregarding everything. They have no respect for the

government,” Pineda said over Teleradyo Serbisyo.

Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission spokesman Winston Casio revealed in an interview over ANC that at least four POGO hubs, including the one in Porac, raided by PAOCC have licenses but were also seen to be doing illegal activities.

He said the POGO hub in Porac lost its license in October 2023, but continued illegal operations, including torture, which led to a raid on June 4.

Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz also revealed in an interview over Storycon on OneNews PH that PAOCC is investigating the presence of a former executive assistant to Harry Roque, spokesman for the past Duterte administration.

Cruz said the former assistant resided in the POGO complex in Porac while studying in nearby Clark. He noted that this is unusual since a POGO complex typically accommodates only employees and not students.

Of the 43 remaining licensed POGOs in the country, the largest is the former Island Cove Resort in Cavite, Casio said as he revealed that they are also monitoring the operations of this hub.

He confirmed that PAOCC monitors both legal and illegal POGOs, although the agency has not physically entered Island Cove.

Casio acknowledged the challenge posed by the continued operation of more than 300 illegal scam farms across the country, stating that it is “a very big problem that demands a whole government and eventually a whole-ofnation approach.” g

Boxers Petecio, Paalam

to carry PH flag in Paris

by nElson BElTran Philstar.com

the 2024 Paris Olympics. “We based it on the performances of our athletes in the Tokyo Games. They (Paalam and Petecio) were the best performers among our returning Olympic bets,” said Philippine

US, PH marines hold joint live-fire exercise

by Francisco Tuyay ManilaTimes.net

MARINES from the Philippines and the United States on Saturday, June 15 held a joint live-fire exercise to showcase their interoperability during conflict situations.

The exercise, Marine Aviation Support Activity (MASA) 24, started on June 3 at the headquarters of the 4th Philippine Marine Brigade in Burgos, Ilocos Norte.

The troops fired howitzers at a floating target several meters from the coastline.

Brig. Gen. Vicente Blanco, commander of the 4th Marine Brigade, oversaw the command and control center during the exercise.

Philippine Marine Corps Public Affairs Office Director Capt. Marites Alamil said MASA is held annually and focuses on mutual defense, strengthening relationships and rehearsing emerging

aviation concepts.

Both forces also conducted Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) at the grounds of the Philippine Marine headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

The TCCC covers three phases: care under fire, tactical field care and casualty

evacuation procedures. Participants simulated providing care under fire, assessing injuries and patient status, applying tourniquets for massive bleeding, and evacuating patients to secure locations.

MASA 24 will end on June 21. g

president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino on their choices on who will carry the country’s colors during the Paris Games opening ceremonies on July 26. Paalam and Petecio delivered two of the four

The 4th Marine ‘’MAKUSUG’’ Brigade (4MBDE) conducted the Unilateral Littoral Live Fire Exercise (LLFEX) as part of the Marine Aviation Support Activities 24 (MASA 24) at Headquarters 4MBDE, Camp Cape Bojeador, Burgos, Ilocos Norte.

Photo courtesy of Philippine Navy

Olympic Committee

MANILA — Boxers Carlo Paalam and Nesthy Petecio, both silver medal winners in the last Olympics, have been named as flag-bearers for the Philippine contingent to

Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos Philstar.com file photo

House probe sought on issuance of special resident visas

MANILA – A House leader on Tuesday, June 18 filed a resolution seeking a congressional inquiry into the issuance of special resident visas and the delayed registration of births as possible avenues enabling the influx of Chinese nationals in the Philippines.

In filing House Resolution 1771, Deputy Majority Leader and ACT-CIS Partylist Rep. Erwin Tulfo said the processes for granting the Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) and Special Investor’s Resident Visa (SIRV), in addition to the late registration of births, should be assessed as these could serve as channels for foreign nationals to enter the Philippines, stay indefinitely, and even maintain employment.

He said around 30,000 Chinese nationals were allowed to permanently reside in the country despite not meeting the age requirement for the retiree visas.

“Based on the Immigration Bureau records given to us, of the 78,000 foreigners issued retiree visas, 30,000 are Chinese. What is puzzling here is that they are yet to reach retirement age but they are on retiree visa. They are just aged 35 to 50,”

Tulfo said in an interview.

He said possible circumvention of the laws through these existing policies undermines the Philippine authorities and aids in the perpetration of illegal activities in the country committed by foreign nationals.

"It is imperative to assess the impact of the SRRVs, SIRVs, and delayed registration of births which may have contributed to the influx of Chinese nationals to ensure that such policies align with our national interests and security," he added.

Tulfo further said the influx of Chinese nationals has raised concerns regarding the socio-economic impact,

including but not limited to labor market dynamics, national security, and public order.

Several crimes were linked to the Chinese influx, including human trafficking, scamming, kidnapping, illegal detention, prostitution, and other fraudulent practices, he added.

"Recent raids of POGO (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators) establishments also resulted in traces of criminal activity and the discovery of offices, dorms, villas, and lifestyle facilities within such hubs, indicating prolonged presence and actual living situations within supposed business establishments," he said.

Tulfo also highlighted the case of suspended Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo, pointing out the potential risks for abuse in the process of delayed registration of births.

He said these could have

Boxers Petecio, Paalam...

medals won by the Philippines in what’s easily its best showing in the quadrennial games during the Tokyo edition in 2021.

Weightlifting gold-medal winner Hidilyn Diaz missed a shot at a fifth Olympic appearance while boxing bronze medalist Eumir Marcial will be among the “comebackers” in Paris along with Paalam, Petecio, pole-vaulter EJ Obiena, gymnast Caloy Yulo, weightlifter Elreen Ando, golfer Bianca Pagdanganan and possibly judoka Kiyomi Watanabe and sprinter Kristina Knott.

Tolentino announced the appointment of the flag-bearers during the final briefing among members of the Philippine team at the Milky Way Restaurant in Makati on

Monday, June 17.

The bulk of the delegation will be departing Saturday, June 22 for training camp in Metz, France, three weeks before the start of the Paris Games.

On Friday, Jaune 21, President Marcos will join the athletes, coaches and officials in a send-off ceremony in Ayuntamiento de Manila, Intramuros.

Paalam and Petecio will be joining a number of boxers who have been given the honor of being the Philippine Olympic flag bearers. The list includes Manfredo Alipala in 1964, Arlo Chavez in 1992, Reynaldo Galido in 1996 and Marcial in 2021. In 2008, pro boxing icon Manny Pacquiao was a special choice to carry the flag in the Beijing Games. g

PAGE 10

Nesthy Petecio and Carlo Paalam (below) will serve as flag bearers in the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics. The Philippine Olympic Committee cited their performances in the previous Tokyo Games, where they both won silver medals. Philstar.com photos

'Violence violates marriage, not divorce'

by Red Mendoza ManilaTimes.net

AMID acrimonious debates, Albay First District Rep. Edcel Lagman has emphasized that domestic violence, infidelity, abuse, abandonment, and deceit –and not divorce – are acts that violate the sanctity of marriage.

Lagman issued the statement after 30 faithbased organizations issued a position paper urging President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to "preserve the character of marriage" and strengthen, instead, laws that would address the "inefficient and expensive" annulment process and spousal abuse.

The lawmaker said that marriage is a "social union or a legal contract between

a husband and wife to love, honor, support, and care for each other."

"This union or contract is violated and broken when the love, honor, support and care are replaced with hatred, disrespect, desertion, and mistreatment – not by divorce," said Lagman, the principal author of House Bill 9349, which has been transmitted to the Senate.

He also assuaged critics that divorce will not destroy marriages as it "does not put asunder a marriage as the union has long perished."

"Divorce is not the monster plaguing a marriage. It is marital unfaithfulness, abandonment, constant fighting, and brutality, among others, which are the devils that destroy marriages. Constant

bickering and backbiting, lack of respect, brutality, maltreatment, unremitting lies – these destroy a family, not divorce," Lagman said.

He said that for many Filipinos, marriage is the happiest day of their lives and the beginning of their dream to build a family with the love of their lives, but for some, the dream disintegrates into a nightmare which they would be unable to wake up from.

"No one enters a marriage thinking that it will not last. The alternative of ending the marriage via divorce is the last thing on a couple's minds," Lagman said.

He said that for many Filipinos, marriage is the happiest day of their lives and the beginning of their dream to build a family with the love of their

lives, but for some, the dream disintegrates into a nightmare which they would be unable to wake up from.

"Even as the Constitution provides for the precepts on marriage, it allows Congress to enact an absolute divorce law in recognition of the State's duty to allow unfortunate spouses, particularly abused wives, to regain their freedom, self-respect, agency, and happiness," Lagman said.

He also said that the divorce law will not recognize no-fault, quickie, drive-through, email, and notarial divorces, with limited and reasonable grounds under the bill and a petition would undergo a judicial process to prevent abuse and collusion of parties. g

Days of trolls and hackers are numbered...

(with ridiculous sounding names and locked or blank profiles) another way to spot a demolition job is when there is a “coordinated inauthentic behavior” (CIB) from Facebook and other social media platforms like X that post the same content with copy pasted, repetitive, scripted and verbatim comments attacking the target at specific time intervals, in contrast with real social media accounts whose users show diverse opinions and a variety of comments. Obviously, technological advancements have also greatly enabled the capability of cybercriminals to perpetuate scams, steal data, hack company and government websites and other nefarious activities with relative anonymity. Artificial intelligence (AI) in particular is becoming a weapon of choice for cybercriminals because of its great capacity to increase the speed, efficiency and sophistication of attacks, and could even tailor fit the kind of assault for a specific target.

Just last month, scammers impersonated a mayor in Queensland, Australia and made it look like she was making a live call through the use of generative AI that allows scammers to impersonate a face and clone voices to create deepfake audios and videos.

The good news is – a number of U.S. high-tech companies with strong financial backing from major investors are now rapidly developing AI technology to identify security threats and vulnerabilities, investigate malicious software, go after scammers, hackers, trolls and all kinds of cyberthugs. These emerging technologies are intended not only to spot fakes but to also locate the base of operations of hackers and

5 Facebook pages selling babies remain active – NACC

MANILA – Only five out of the 23 Facebook pages being used to sell babies are still active, the National Authority for Child Care (NACC) on Tuesday, June 18 said.

NACC-Domestic Administrative Adoption Division chief Imelda Ronda said the illegal social media pages were identified through the Philippine National Police (PNP) Women and Children Protection Center.

“Only five are remaining active, three resurfaced, they have been gone before, but now they have come back and there are two new accounts,” Ronda said in a Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon interview.

cybercriminals.

Last May, OpenAI – an artificial intelligence research company based in San Francisco – announced that it identified and removed five influence operations that were using the company’s AI technology to create deceptive content shared across a variety of platforms to influence public opinion and political discourse.

Developments such as this are significant because cybercrime has become so rampant all over the world, but most especially in the Philippines where cyberattacks doubled in 2023. Considering the highly politicized atmosphere in the country today with the 2025 elections drawing nearer, the proliferation of POGOs (Philippine offshore gaming operators) suspected of being hubs for spying and hacking operations against government agencies, plus the fact that we are facing external security threats, the Philippines could be highly vulnerable to cyberattacks.

Certainly, the government is aware of these cybersecurity threats and our national security officials have already identified some of these cybercriminals and mercenaries, some of whom are Western nationals – among them an American pretending to be a U.S. intelligence officer or at least pretending to be a spy operating in the Philippines and allegedly involved in local politics. Our national security people are slowly but surely closing in on them.

During the first-ever PhilippinesU.S.-Japan trilateral summit in Washington, among the topics discussed was the need to strengthen cybersecurity cooperation, with plans to hold a cyber dialogue sometime in July to help the Philippines become more resilient in combatting cyberattacks from state-backed and

criminal organizations.

A technology and digital summit among heads of state is also being contemplated to discuss how emerging technology can be leveraged to enhance cybersecurity, considering that the new battlefront is in cyberspace where threats and risks have become a global concern because of their impact on the global economy.

I’m very pleased to see that the United States is very much at the forefront of AI technology and research, as seen in the launch of “Task Force Lima” by the U.S. Department of Defense to develop and use artificial intelligence in a trustworthy and responsible manner for many sectors that include business, health care, policy making and naturally, military defense and readiness.

According to Deputy Secretary of Defense Dr. Kathleen Hicks, who directed the organization of “Task Force Lima,” the Pentagon has been investing in AI-enabled systems for many years.

I am one of many government officials being targeted by black ops, but we all know that as public figures, this is par for the course. Nevertheless, these cyberthugs will not deter us from doing our job in deepening the relations between the Philippines and the United States, especially in the wake of continued maritime harassment and cyberattacks from a big bully nation. (Philstar.com)

* * * 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.

babeseyeview@gmail.com

The pages have been taken down with the help of the PNP and the Department of Information and Communications Technology.

The agency is strengthening monitoring efforts, Ronda said, as it is easy for persons to create new Facebook accounts which may not pertain to adoption or babies to escape being immediately identified by the authorities.

Earlier, the NACC confirmed that two babies – a two-monthold baby boy and a two-year-old girl – up for selling were intercepted in Catarman, Northern Samar on June 1.

The mother was selling them for PHP30,000 each. She is now under police custody while the children are under care of the Lingap Care Center in Catarman.

Ronda said the NACC does not have any information where children being sold online will go —whether for exploitation or adoption by couples who are unable to have children.

To better protect the rights and welfare of the Filipino children in Central Luzon and the Visayas Region, Ronda said the NACC will hold the final two stops of the 1st National Congress on Adoption and Alternative Child Care in Clark on June 19 to 20; and June 26 to 27.

The NACC has signed a memorandum of agreement with 29 local government units (LGUs) for the Philippine Foster Care prrogram.

About 216 LGUs with some 34 mayors participated in the Mindanao, Metro Manila, and South Luzon clusters.

From January to December 2023, the NACC has served some 1,618 foster children. (PNA)

8

long-term consequences, including ultimately allowing non-nationals to participate in various social, economic, and political activities, such as running for or holding public office, reserved only for Filipino citizens.

Guo, whose identity and citizenship have been placed under scrutiny, was placed under a six-month preventive suspension without pay by the Office of the Ombudsman on May 31 following the

administrative complaints of the Department of the Interior and Local Government for grave misconduct, serious dishonesty, gross neglect of duty and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service.

Authorities have raided POGO firms in Tarlac and Pampanga in the past four months over alleged “scamming activities” and other serious concerns, including national security. (PNA)

MOTHER'S LOVE. Three mothers sunbathe their babies early morning along a sidewalk in Barangay Old Capitol Site in Quezon City on March 8, 2023. The National Authority for Child Care on Tuesday (June 18, 2024) said five of Facebook pages being used to sell babies are still active and two new accounts were created. PNA photo by Ben Briones

COMMUNITY JOURNAL

Tragic event leads to a sweet and successful ending on Citizen Pinoy this Sunday

DOLORES was petitioned by her U.S. citizen mother in 2003 as a married child under the F3 classification. After 18 long years, the

National Visa Center (NVC) notified them they could now start preparing their paperwork. Unfortunately, events took

a bitter turn when Dolores’ husband had a heart attack and passed away a month later.

Dolores’ brother, Don, consulted with the Law Offices of Michael Gurfinkel where leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Gurfinkel proposed that they inform the NVC of the husband’s death, so Dolores’ petition could be converted from “married” (F3) to “single” (F1), resulting in visas being immediately available for Dolores and her children. Atty. Gurfinkel also requested expedited processing because the PAGE 12

BITTERSWEET GREEN CARD BECAUSE HUSBAND DIED, ON AN ENCORE SUCCESS STORY OF CITIZEN PINOY THIS SUNDAY! Dolores (center) was petitioned by her U.S. citizen mother in 2003 as a married child of a U.S. citizen (F3). Finally, in 2021, the National Visa Center (NVC) notified the family that they could now start preparing their paperwork, even though the priority date was not yet current. However, the husband, who had a heart condition, became excited over the prospect of immigrating to the U.S. and had a heart attack and died. It was a bitter turn of events. Ironically, because of her husband’s death, Dolores’ petition was converted from “married” (F3) to “single” (F1) and it was considered “current.” Leading Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel (extreme right) was able to have the case queued for interview and requested expedited processing because the petitioner was already elderly and sickly. The “sweet” outcome of the unfortunate turn of events was that Dolores and her children – Keno (extreme left) and Kobey (2nd from left) – were able to immigrate to the U.S. sooner. Watch this success story on an encore episode of Citizen Pinoy on Sunday, June 23 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. (Advertising Supplement)

Don Rosete (left) hired leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel (right) to help with the case of his sister, Dolores (center).

Health@Heart Olive oil wonders

PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS

IN this wonderful era of health-consciousness, olive oil, which is an essential ingredient in the Mediterranean Diet, considered the healthiest diet in the world, is on the spotlight today. Olive oil has been used since 4,000 BC. It is amazingly useful and versatile.

The most common method of making olive oil is by cold pressing, without the use of heat or chemicals. This process helps the oil to retain its nutritional value, because beneficial plant compounds are broken down by high heat. The oleic acid content of olive oil determines its grade. The highest grades, extra virgin and virgin olive oil, are always cold pressed to preserve its highest level of oleic acid.

For cooking, frying, sauteing, light virgin olive oil is recommended. Extra virgin olive oil is popularly used for dips and salad dressing. Other uses of extra virgin olive oil: dental cleaning, skin moisturizer, wound application as a “liquid bandage,” and as a health drink (a tablespoon a day).

Olive oil is preferred over canola oil, vegetable oil, sunflower oil, and others on the market. The next best is avocado oil, which is second to olive oil in the level of healthy monounsaturated fats.

Extra virgin olive oil

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) contains more than 20 varieties of polyphenols, plant-based antioxidant chemicals that reduce inflammation and protect our arteries and our heart. They fight unhealthy free radicals in our body that cause oxidative stress, to minimize the signs of aging and the risk of getting chronic diseases. Oxidation is the process that makes all of us age. The more stress we have in life, including bad habits and unhealthy behavior, the greater the oxidative process and faster we age. Living a healthy lifestyle, which includes fish (seafood) and plant-based diet and daily exercise (plus no smoking, skimping or abstinence from alcohol and illicit drugs) is the best way to reduce oxidative stress, slow down aging, and maintain a good health.

Olive oil benefits

There are at least a dozen health benefits provided by olive oil. Among them are: Olive oil is gluten-free and high in unsaturated fat, which is associated with lowered risk of heart disease, T2 diabetes, cancer, and other chronic diseases. It also contains vitamin E (12.9 percent of the Daily Value), a powerful antioxidant that boosts the immune system, and vitamin K (6.8 percent of the DV), which plays a major role in blood clotting and bone health.

A tablespoon (15 ml) of cold pressed olive oil has 119 calories, 13.5 grams of total fat (saturated – 2 grams, monounsaturated – 10 grams, and polyunsaturated – 1.5 grams). Nearly 71 percent of its fat comes from unsaturated fats oleic acid, which lowers the low-density lipoprotein (LDL, the bad cholesterol) and about 11 percent from omega fatty acids. It is indeed packed with healthy fats, about 5 times more monounsaturated fats compared to grapeseed oil, which is healthy because it contains a lot of Omega 6 fatty acids. Omega 3 is the healthier of the two.

(The USDA recommends consumption of 20 to 35 percent of calories from fat, mainly unsaturated. Fats from red meats are unhealthy saturated fats, linked to increased risk for cardiovascular diseases, Alzheimer’s and even cancer.)

Cold pressed olive oil also contains 30 beneficial plant compounds, mostly potent antioxidants with good antiinflammatory health effects.

The potent antioxidant contents of olive oil fight against harmful unstable molecules called free radicals and as such, helps ward off heart disease, diabetes and cancer. It also contains oleuropein, oleocanthal, and hydroxythyrosol, which are partly responsible for the benefits of the Mediterranean Diet, including stronger bones, lesser arthritis, reduced cardiac disease, brain maladies, Alzheimer’s, and cancer.

A study of more than 84,000 women revealed that substituting foods high in monounsaturated fats like olive oil for saturated fats (as in red meats, lard, and other cooking oil) reduced heart disease by 15 percent. The Mediterranean Diet itself, which relies heavily on olive oil, has been shown to reduce

the risk of heart attack by 18 percent.

A 4.5-year research in 923 individuals who adhered to a healthy diet were found to have a 53 percent reduction in the rate of Alzheimer’s Disease.

Besides reducing the risk for T2 diabetes and improving blood sugar level, olive oil also delays the progression of arthritis, provides relief from constipation, aids in losing weight, and helps maintain healthy hair, skin, and nails. Many cosmetic products have olive oil in them. The extra virgin olive oil is also good for gastric infection from helicobacter, chapped lips, cracked heel, sunburn, removing sticky substances, as hair-conditioner, ear-wax remover, etc. Olive oil is indeed versatile.

Historical data suggest Jesus Christ most likely ate olive oil as part of his peasant Mediterranean-style diet in Nazareth, a village in Galilee, and in Judea, regions in Israel. Olive oil is very popular in Europe. The European Union (EU) is the world’s largest producer, consumer, importer and exporter of olive oil, about 53 percent of global consumption. In 2022, the EU consumed more than 1.55 million tons of olive oil, with Italy and Spain as the largest users.

So, as far as cooking is concerned, instead of using unhealthy saturated-fatloaded lard, shortening, butter, or bacon grease for cooking, use light virgin oil, and for a substitute for creamy salad dressings, try extra virgin olive oil (with or without vinegar). Olive oilbased sauces are also better than cream- or cheese-based sauces, even for dips.

Let’s lubricate, not only our joints but our health, with the wonders of olive oil.

The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people live a healthier lifestyle to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve a happier and more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable or appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute for your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health. * * *

The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian

Navigating dual ownership: Property rights for Filipino American dual citizens

SAB’s Review

Sharon ann Bathan-San PeDro

FOR Filipino Americans holding dual citizenship, the landscape of property ownership in the Philippines is rich with opportunities and benefits. Thanks to Republic Act No. 9225, also known as the Citizenship Retention and Re-acquisition Act of 2003, natural-born Filipinos who have become naturalized citizens of other countries can reclaim their Philippine citizenship. This law empowers dual citizens with the same property rights as any Filipino citizen, opening doors to owning, inheriting, and investing in real estate in the Philippines. Understanding these rights and responsibilities is crucial for maximizing the benefits of dual citizenship in the property sector.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to navigating property ownership for Filipino-American dual

citizens, ensuring you can make informed decisions and effectively manage your investments in the Philippines.

Understanding dual citizenship

Thanks to the Philippine Dual Citizenship Law (Republic Act No. 9225, also known as the Citizenship Retention and Re-acquisition Act of 2003), Filipinos who have become American citizens can reclaim their Philippine citizenship. This dual citizenship status allows you to enjoy the benefits of both nations, including the right to own property in the Philippines just like any Filipino citizen.

Republic Act No. 9225: Citizenship Retention and Re-acquisition Act of 2003 Republic Act No. 9225 allows natural-born Filipinos who have lost their Philippine citizenship through naturalization in a foreign country to reacquire their Philippine citizenship. Here are the key details and provisions of the law:

• Re-acquisition of Philippine citizenship: Natural-born Filipinos who have lost their Philippine citizenship through naturalization in another country can reacquire it by taking the same oath of allegiance.

• Rights and privileges: Dual citizens under RA 9225 enjoy full civil and political rights as Filipino citizens. This includes the right to vote in Philippine elections, own property, engage in business, and practice their profession in the Philippines.

• Oath of allegiance: The oath of allegiance is a formal declaration of loyalty to the Republic of the Philippines, which must be taken before a duly authorized Philippine official.

• Children of dual citizens: Unmarried children, whether legitimate, illegitimate, or adopted, under 18 years of age, of those who reacquire Philippine citizenship under this Act shall be deemed citizens of the Philippines.

• Benefits for reacquired

• Retention of Philippine citizenship: Natural-born Filipinos who become naturalized citizens of another country can retain their Philippine citizenship by taking an oath of allegiance to the Republic of the Philippines.

Tragic event leads to a sweet...

petitioner was elderly and sickly. If something happened to her, the petition could be at an end.

The “sweet” ending of this tragic situation was that Dolores and her children, Keno and Kobey, were able to immigrate to the U.S. sooner while the petitioner – Dolores’ mother and the boys’ grandmother – was still alive.

Watch this success story on an encore episode of Citizen Pinoy this Sunday, June 19 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo.

Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the free app. (Advertising Supplement) Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

* * *

Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate,

newspaper columnist, and chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He was a recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, presented by then Indiana Governor, US senator, and later a presidential candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry Truman, President George HW Bush, Muhammad Ali, and Astronaut Gus Grissom (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday. com, and philipSchua.com; Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com.

Atty. Gurfinkel was able to bring Dolores (center) and her children Keno (extreme left) and Kobey (2nd from left) to the U.S. sooner after the reclassification of Dolores’ petition from F3 to F1.

Heritage on a plate: The story behind Lola’s, Chef Suzanne Cupps' new NYC restaurant

Cby MOMAR G. VISAYA / AJPress

HEF Suzanne ‘Suzy’ Cupps is making waves in Manhattan’s NoMad neighborhood with the opening of her latest restaurant, Lola’s, a culinary haven where innovative design meets exceptional cuisine. Amid the challenges of a post-pandemic world, Cupps transforms a historic space into a vibrant dining destination, promising a blend of modern elegance and comforting familiarity that reflects her unique vision and resilience.

The name Lola comes from the Tagalog word for grandmother, in honor of her father’s mother Annunciasion "Noning" Rocamora Paraiso, who fled Japanese occupation in the Philippines during WWII.

"I really wanted to name my restaurant after such a strong woman. It's not really about the recipes—I don't even cook a lot of Filipino food; I'm trying to learn. It's more about my heritage and honoring my family," Cupps told the Asian Journal.

By the bar at Lola, a photo of Lola Noning's wedding to Rosendo "Roding" Dimaculangan Paraiso and a single jade bead from her adorn the wall and displayed proudly at the restaurant.

During World War II, Chef Suzy’s grandmother, Lola Noning, faced unimaginable hardships. Her husband, Roding, a doctor, was suspected of aiding the Filipino guerrilla warfare efforts. Captured, tortured, and ultimately killed, he managed to send a final message to his wife: take the children and run.

At that time, Cupps' father was about three years old, and his sister was a year older. Noning, pregnant with another child, dropped everything and fled into the mountains with her children, living in tree houses for months to escape detection. She gave birth while in hiding, demonstrating extraordinary resilience and courage. Eventually, they escaped to Manila on

a U.S. Navy ship, where they reunited with extended family.

Tragically, about a year later, Noning succumbed to tuberculosis, and Cupps' father went to live with his cousins. His earliest memory is of a U.S. soldier giving him chocolate on the Navy ship, a small but poignant kindness during such a turbulent time.

These stories passed down verbally through the family, have deeply influenced Cupps. The name of her restaurant, Lola, doesn’t just honor her

grandmother's strength, it is also about their family's legacy.

Chef Suzy’s grandparents, both well-off—her grandfather a doctor and her grandmother from a wealthy family—faced a drastic change when they had to flee during World War II. It is believed that her Lola took her jewelry and valuables with her to barter for food as they escaped.

Remarkably, a few years ago, a gold bracelet belonging to her grandmother resurfaced and found its way back

to Cupps' father. The bracelet featured three jade pendants, which her parents had separated and made into necklaces for Cupps, her brother, and her sister. Each sibling now holds a piece of their grandmother's legacy.

This connection to her grandmother inspired one of the design elements in Lola. Cupps chose jade green tiles for the kitchen as a tribute to Noning, creating a vibrant, meaningful statement that ties her family’s history to the restaurant. The name Lola and the jade accents throughout the space honor her grandmother's memory and the resilience that defines their heritage.

Family legacy

Chef Cupps' family history is deeply rooted in the Philippines, particularly in Luzon. Her father had an older sister and a baby sister, both of whom were born during World War II and have since passed away.

Chef Suzy herself has only visited the Philippines once, a little over ten years ago, a trip she found profoundly special.

Growing up in Maryland, Cupps' father, who immigrated to the U.S. and settled in Washington, D.C., met her mother through her Filipino roommate in nurse training. The family lived in Maryland until moving south when Cupps was about 11. Her mother, the family's cook, often prepared traditional Filipino

Best known as the executive chef of Untitled at the Whitney under Danny Meyer's Union Square Hospitality Group, and the short-lived 232 Bleecker, a sit-down concept from the lunch chain Dig that closed during the pandemic, Chef Suzanne Cupps has established herself as a culinary force to be reckoned with.

AJPress photos by Momar G. Visaya

Renowned for her vegetable-forward, ingredient-driven cooking style, Cupps brings nuanced flavors and impeccable seasonal sourcing to every dish she creates. Drawing inspiration from her Asian-American heritage, her South Carolina upbringing, and the guidance of mentors like chefs Anita Lo of Annisa and Michael Anthony of Gramercy Tavern, Cupps’ culinary approach is both deeply personal and widely celebrated.

Chef Suzy shared the story of how a gold bracelet belonging to her grandmother resurfaced and found its way back to Cupps' father. The bracelet featured three jade pendants, which her parents had separated and made into necklaces for Cupps, her brother, and her sister. By the bar at Lola, a photo of Annunciasion "Noning" Rocamora's wedding to Rosendo "Roding" Dimaculangan Paraiso.

From vinegar-forward vegetables, to comforting fried or slow-cooked mains, Chef Suzy's shareable plates are both elevated and playful—fresh, memorable dishes that

range of cravings and occasions. Photo by Liz Clayman

Dingdong feels ‘very proud’ of what daughter Jayda is trying to accomplish

By Jerry Donato Philstar.com

WHEN talks lead to and touch on Original Pilipino Music (OPM) and the genre Pinoy Pop, the name Dingdong Avanzado will come up and surface. He has made a name for himself as a singer of hits, original compositions and covers, as well as a songwriter.

It’s not surprising that Dingdong has been given the moniker “The Original Prince of Pinoy Pop.”

His passion for music and performing will be showcased in the concert, with the title, as you’ve guessed it right, “The Original Prince of Pinoy Pop,” on July 19 at The Theatre at Solaire.

His wife, singer Jessa Zaragoza (also known as Phenomenal Diva and Jukebox Queen of the ‘90s), and their daughter, singer-songwriter Jayda Avanzado, will join Pablo of SB19, another OPM artist Randy Santiago, singing competition winners JM dela Cerna, Khimo and Marielle Montellano, and singer-actor LA Santos as guests.

Beyond the music man persona, Dingdong is a family man, specifically a loving husband to Jessa and a doting, nurturing father to Jayda.

“I was a present father for the most part. Paniwala ko yan na kailangan kumpleto yung pagpapalaki sa bata, na present ang both parents, ‘di ba? As much as possible (that’s my belief that both parents should be present when it comes to raising a child),” said Dingdong in a virtual one-on-one with The STAR, where he was also joined by his unica hija Jayda.

“Of course, mas maganda na buo kayo, but there are times (when a parent can’t be because of reasons such as work) So, that was my belief, that’s why I made every effort that I would be there in the significant moments of my child. That’s why I have lots of good memories and recollections from the time she was born until today,” added he.

“(I’m) very proud of what she’s accomplished and what she’s trying to accomplish. Of course, malayo pa, she’s just starting with her life, with her career.”

Dingdong Avanzado has established himself as an Original Pilipino Music (OPM) singer-songwriter. Beyond this music man persona, he is a family man, specifically a loving husband to singer Jessa Zaragoza and a doting, nurturing father to singersongwriter Jayda. Philstar.com photos

The 21-year-old Jayda appreciates all that, seeing the value of having “a strong father in your life and a male presence in that sense.”

“He’s really my playmate growing up,” said she, giving one a sneak peek of her fondest childhood memories with Dad Dingdong.

“Bilang unica hija (being an only child), people always asked, like, ‘Did you ever feel lonely ‘coz you didn’t have a sibling?’ But for me, I felt very complete. I had a very active imagination as a kid, I think that really helped me flourish as a creative later on in life. I think that was like the building blocks of my creativity, and my foundation even as an artist.”

There was one time when Dingdong surprised Jayda by helping her arrange the latter’s Barbie dolls in a particular way.

“That’s how he and I used to play. We would do very specific (things) like details of my Barbie dolls… and with (them) having certain roles and characters and things like that. I think he really encouraged me to have such an active imagination and to dream big as early as that age,” said she.

So, the father and daughter even then had “a very healthy relationship,” as Dingdong put it. “Because Jayda and I converse a lot,” shared he, who bonds with her over music and food.

“Whatever he’d probably like, like 98 percent of the time, that’s the kind of food that I like. So, that’s usually our bonding activity, like trying new food together or just having a good

you’re only 10, Jayda. For all you know, you have two more years.”

When she reached the age of 12, Jayda was able to write her first song. Dingdong described it as “something remarkable” and was at first curious about the theme — love — that the tune would explore. At that time, he was serving as vice governor in Siquijor and received a call from his wife Jessa telling him about their daughter’s composition. The excited dad gave the song, with guitar as the main accompaniment, a listen at home.

Heritage on a Plate: The...

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dishes like pancit, adobo, and Cupps' favorite, leche flan. Despite her American upbringing, these Filipino staples were a constant in her childhood.

Cupps' father rarely spoke about his wartime experiences, but now in their 80s, her parents are committed to preserving their stories. Her father has meticulously handwritten accounts of his childhood and his mother, ensuring these memories are not lost to time.

Inspired by her heritage, her southern upbringing, and over 20 years of culinary experience in New York, Cupps has created a unique blend at Lola. The restaurant reflects her love for Asian ingredients and the diverse culinary influences that have shaped her career. Through Lola, Cupps brings together all parts of her life, honoring her family's legacy while showcasing her passion for innovative, ingredient-driven cuisine.

Crafting the Lola Experience

conversation over dinner, or lunch or meal,” said Jayda.

Aside from that, Dingdong and his daughter have shared an interest in and affection for animals.

“We both love dogs and animals,” said he. “If you would ask her what she wanted to be at that time, when she wasn’t in showbiz, her answer was to become a veterinarian.”

“I’ve always loved animals, and you definitely encouraged that with me,” his daughter chimed in.

Dingdong remembered bringing a four-to-five-yearold Jayda to a pet store when their family was living in the U.S. and Jessa had a show. After weighing in on the pros and cons of owning this and that animal, they finally got a goldfish, which was easy to manage.

At 10, however, Jayda expressed her interest in music by asking Dingdong, “How do you write a song, dad?”

“I was surprised why she asked me and (thinking) where she was coming from,” said he, who also saw her talent for writing stories because she’s fond of reading.

“I told her, ‘You know it will just come to you,’ and she said, ‘I don’t think I’ll ever write a song.’ ‘No, don’t say that.’ Then I asked her, ‘How old are you now?’

You’re only 10.’ I wrote my first song when I was like 18 years old. So, I told her, ‘You know it will just come to you’ kasi gusto niya si Taylor Swift. How old was Taylor Swift when she wrote her first song? She was 12 and

“Sabi ko, ‘Ikaw talaga gumawa nito… kasi yung lyrics, saan ka naghugot ng ganyan?’ (I asked if she really composed it and where did she get the idea for the song’s lyrics) and of course, you’re still young, but it was like ang ganda nang pagkakasulat (it was well-written) for a 12-year-old and wow, this girl has talent,” shared the veteran artist, who also witnessed the potential of Jayda to write more songs and become prolific.

“That’s when we knew that her career would be in music,” said Dingdong. “She has empathy and passion, so it’s a big (and important) trait for a songwriter to have, kaya yung mga kanta niya madamdamin talaga (that’s why her songs are really full of emotions).”

Jayda’s being musically inclined is in her genes, having both parents as recording and performing artists. She has inherited good qualities from them.

From Dingdong, Jayda has traits such as being determined and passionate.

“When I have an idea or a concept or something that I really stand by, pinapanindigan ko talaga yung idea na yun,” said she. “I’ve obviously learned from him to consider other people’s ideas and of course, be collaborative when it comes to music and my career… we’re both very particular, we pay attention to detail when it comes to our craft.

“I’ve been told like, with the way that I can be really talkative, definitely yung pagiging madaldal ko, hindi ko nakuha kay Mommy yun. Definitely nakuha ko yun (from him).

“I’ve said this before.

15

Walking into Lola, guests are greeted by an inviting atmosphere that seamlessly blends modern design with cozy, intimate touches. The open layout creates a sense of flow and connection, allowing diners to feel engaged with the culinary process and the vibrant energy of the kitchen.

Chef Suzy has always been known for her meticulous attention to detail, and Lola is a testament to her vision. The interior design features a harmonious blend of warm tones, elegant lighting, and contemporary artwork, creating an ambiance that is both sophisticated and welcoming. The centerpiece, a beautifully tiled pizza oven, serves as a nod to the space’s history while anchoring Lola’s modern aesthetic.

At the heart of Lola is its menu, a carefully curated selection of dishes that reflect Chef Cupps’ culinary philosophy. Known for her dedication to seasonal ingredients and innovative flavor combinations, she has crafted a menu that celebrates the best of local and global cuisine.

“We wanted to create a menu that is both approachable and exciting,” says Chef Cupps. “Our focus is on highquality ingredients and thoughtful preparation. We want our guests to feel comfortable trying something new while also enjoying familiar favorites.”

Lola’s menu features a diverse array of dishes reflecting the chef’s Southern and Pan-Asian influences, from fresh pasta to inventive small plates and hearty entrees. Highlights include a sea scallop + shiitake bowl, chopped beet salad with feta cheese and sunflower seeds, and a slowroasted beef short rib with sweet onion and tamarind-date chutney. There’s also a pecan pimento cheese ball, carrot masala yogurt, fried tilefish lettuce wraps, adobo-style fried chicken, and her favorite Filipino dessert leche flan, which they serve with cara cara marmalade.

Each dish is a celebration of flavor and technique, showcasing Chef Cupps’ ability to elevate simple ingredients into extraordinary culinary experiences.

While Cupps doesn't cook much Filipino food, she sees the restaurant as a tribute to her heritage and a way to honor her family's history as she was able to incorporate some elements into the menu.

Overcoming Challenges

Opening a restaurant is never easy, and doing so in the wake of a global pandemic presents additional hurdles. Chef Cupps is no stranger to these challenges, having opened her previous restaurant in December 2019, just months before the world was turned upside down.

“It was definitely a difficult time for the industry,” she recalls. “But it also gave us a chance to rethink and adapt. We’ve learned a lot about resilience and creativity, and that has shaped how we approach Lola.”

Looking ahead, Chef Cupps is optimistic about the future of Lola and the dining industry as a whole. “We’re excited to be part of the NoMad community and to contribute to its vibrant culinary landscape,” she says. “Our goal is to create a space where people can come together, enjoy great food, and make lasting memories.”

Praised by industry peers for her mentorship, collaborative leadership style, and exceptional cooking skills, Chef Suzy continues to navigate the post-pandemic landscape. Through Lola, Chef Suzy’s resilience and innate creativity are shining through, making her new place a staple in Manhattan’s NoMad neighborhood. g

Ria Atayde confirms 1st baby with Zanjoe Marudo on Father's Day

By Kathleen a. llemit Philstar.com

ACTRESS Ria Atayde confirmed the months-long rumors of her pregnancy via a Father's Day greeting for her husband, actor Zanjoe Marudo.

Ria on Sunday, June 16 posted their photo while on an undisclosed beach. They were seen frolicking on a white-sand beach. Though they stood a few feet facing

the camera, Ria's obvious baby bump is seen.

"To the dad you already are and the dad I know you’ll be. Love you @ onlyzanjoemarudo, so excited for this new chapter with you [white heart emoji]. Happy first Father’s Day!" Ria wrote on her Instagram post.

The couple tied the knot last March after announcing their engagement the month before in February. g

Dingdong feels...

I feel like he and I love very similarly. I’m very expressive and affectionate even towards my friends like that sort of thing and I think that something that, I mean, even Mom has told me that she’s learned from you (Dingdong).”

From there, Jayda has also learned that her love language is through words of affirmation.

She said, “I feel like that’s my strength with words and articulating my thoughts and whatever I’m feeling and it also even comes down to when I communicate my feelings and speak to people and explain what I want.”

All this was music to Dingdong’s ears, hearing those words from his daughter Jayda.

“Perhaps, her mom and I make a good combination… I think it’s just a good balance because I also see traits that she got from her mom,” said he.

Teresa Loyzaga reveals son Diego's drug rehabilitation

By Jan milo Severo Philstar.com

ACTRESS Teresa Loyzaga revealed that she sent her son Diego Loyzaga to a drug rehabilitation center because of illegal drug use in 2018.

In her recent interview with Boy Abunda, Teresa said that she blames herself for Diego's addiction.

“I wasn’t always there, even if I try to be always be there. I just couldn’t. Somebody had to work. Somebody had to put food in the table. Somebody had to put a roof over their heads. Somebody had to put them to school," she said.

“And please, I am not saying these na I’m degrading other people. No. Wala akong pinupuntiryang mga wala doon. 'Yun ang sitwasyon namin so I dealt with it, the best way I could,” she added.

Teresa said that she asked permission from Diego before revealing his drug addiction.

"To be honest, my son was here and I did ask him, I’m gonna be speaking about it, with his permission.' I think what the people do not know is I put him to rehab. I put him to rehab," she said.

“There’s a part of me that died, but I wanted my son to live, so I had to put him to rehab,” she added.

The actress said that Diego now has a new life with his daughter Hailey.

“And you know what, prayers, prayers, and never-ending prayers and pasasalamat talaga. Du'n ako kumapit. Grabe! Kung wala 'yon, baka ako din, nasa loob.

And there are days, iniisip ko, kailangan ko rin yatang

pumasok para matuto rin. Haaay, ang hirap, pero look," she said.

“There’s so much to be thankful for. Every day, you learn something. Every day is a struggle. But there’s also a reason to be thankful and rejoice. To celebrate and be grateful. It’s a new life,” she added. g

Navigating dual ownership: Property...

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citizens: Dual citizens can own land and other properties in the Philippines as if they were natural-born Filipino citizens. They also regain the right to practice their profession, provided they meet the requirements set by the relevant professional regulatory bodies.

Since Father’s Day was on Sunday, June 16, how do they celebrate it?

“Sometimes, they either have a gift for me or we eat out or order, we’re very simple people,” answered Dingdong.

“We don’t have anything grand or fabulous, basta together masaya kami. I appreciate that they make Father’s Day my day. They go out of their way to make me feel special, kung ano yung gusto ko, yun ang gagawin nila o i-preprepare nila (whatever I like, they find time to prepare it) .”

As a father of a talented young artist, Dingdong feels proud of what Jayda has accomplished thus far.

“I’m hoping and praying for the best for her. But of course, lagi ko siyang hindi nakakalimutan na kamustahin at bigyan ng advice ‘pag kailangan (I always check on her and give her advice if needed).” g

• Residency requirement for public office: For dual citizens to hold public office in the Philippines, they must establish residency in the country. Specific offices may have additional requirements regarding residency and other qualifications.

Your property rights explained

As a Filipino-American dual citizen, you have the same property ownership rights as any Filipino. Here's what you can do:

• Own land: You can buy and register land in your name.

• Inherit land: You can receive property as inheritance according to Philippine laws.

• Invest in property: You can invest in real estate and engage in propertyrelated businesses.

Property ownership for foreigners

While foreigners are generally not allowed to own land in the Philippines, they are permitted to purchase condominium units. The Condominium Act of the Philippines (RA 4726) allows foreigners to own up to 40% of the total units in a condominium project. For land ownership, however, the owner must be a Filipino citizen or a dual citizen.

Keeping up with responsibilities

Owning property comes with responsibilities, such as:

• Tax compliance: Stay updated on real estate taxes and ensure timely

payments to avoid penalties.

• Property management: Maintain your property, ensure its security, and, if it's leased, manage rental income effectively.

• Legal obligations: Keep informed about zoning laws, property regulations, and any changes in legislation that could impact your ownership.

Estate planning and inheritance

Proper estate planning is essential, especially if you have significant assets in the Philippines. It's important to:

• Set up a will: Ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes.

• Understand Philippine inheritance laws: Be aware of how these laws affect your estate.

• Hire a reliable attorney: A good attorney can help you navigate legal complexities and manage your affairs.

Investment potential

If you're interested in investing, the Philippines offers promising opportunities in various sectors, such as residential, commercial, and agricultural real estate. Key tips to consider include:

• Research emerging markets: Look into areas with high growth potential.

• Assess investment types: Decide whether you want to invest in residential, commercial, or agricultural properties.

• Evaluate before purchasing: Consider factors like location, market trends, and legal aspects.

Real-life insights

Learn from other Filipino American dual citizens who have successfully navigated the property market. Their experiences can provide valuable lessons on overcoming challenges and making strategic decisions. We

encourage you to share your own experiences with us. Email us your stories, challenges, and triumphs. By sharing insights, we can build a community interested in property and land management in the Philippines. Let's engage in SAB — Sharing Across Borders — to foster a network of support and knowledge exchange.

We're here to help

Whether you're new to dual citizenship or considering investing in the Philippine real estate market, we're here to provide trustworthy advice and information to help you make informed decisions. If you have any property concerns related to buying, selling, or documentation, don't hesitate to reach out. We are here to assist you every step of the way.

The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

Sharon Ann Bathan-San Pedro, founder and CEO of SAB Realty, is a licensed real estate broker in the Philippines with 10 years of experience and a member of NAR (National Association of Realtors in America). SAB Realty is the first real estate brokerage and marketing company specializing in catering to Filipinos living overseas, helping them with their real estate needs in the Philippines. Whether you are planning to sell, lease, need property management, require extra-judicial settlement, or have land open for joint ventures, Sharon is ready to assist you. Contact her via email at sab.sanpedro@gmail.com or call PH number 0917-8237796 (Whatsapp and Viber), USA (909) 4131480 (Viber). You can also visit the SAB Realty Facebook page for more information. (Advertising Supplement)

Celebrity couple Ria Atayde and Zanjoe Marudo during their March 2024 wedding (right) and while on beach with Ria showing her baby bump(left). Photos from Instagram/@ria

Diego Loyzaga

Philstar.com photo