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JULY 1-7, 2022 Volume 15 - No.34 • 16 Pages

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Steven Raga wins primary election DATELINE USA for New York state assembly New proposal may grant most Californians FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

by MOMAR

with stipend amid rising gas prices

G. VISAYA

AJPress

Relief checks will start from $350, depending on marital status and dependents

STEVEN Raga is one step away from the New York State Assembly.

As the New York State primary elections concluded on Tuesday night, June 28, it became apparent that Raga won his campaign

for Assembly District 30 and will become the official Democratic candidate.

He is now on the November ballot against his Republican opponent. If elected, Raga would make history and become the first Filipino American to be elected to serve in the state assembly. There are 150 seats in the New York State Assembly that serve two-year terms

without term limits.

“We’re going to the general election this November, we’ve won the primary. This is the first time that we will have AAPI representation in this district, the first time that a Filipino American will represent,” Raga said, speaking before supporters and volunteers as they

 PAGE 2

Bongbong Marcos qualified to be elected to office – SC

ANYBODY who has had to commute by car over the last five months knows that the skyrocketing price of gas has been a major hindrance, especially in places like California where driving is essential.

To help alleviate the financial burden of rising gas prices and inflation, Governor Gavin Newsom and state legislators have agreed to grant as much as $1,050 to millions

by KRIXIA

 PAGE 2

SUBINGSUBING, MARLON RAMOS Inquirer.net

MANILA — The “gods of Padre Faura” have cleared the way for Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s inauguration as the 17th president of the Philippines.

Voting 13-0 with two abstentions, the Supreme Court threw out the legal challenges to Marcos Jr.’s presidential candidacy, delivering a blow to the victims of rights violations during the regime of his father, the late deposed dictator Ferdinand Marcos.

The high court issued the decision during its weekly en banc session on Tuesday,

ALL SET. Workers prepare the National Museum for the June 30 presidential inauguration of Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) assured the peaceful and orderly conduct of president-elect Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s inauguration, saying all hands are on deck for the logistical and security preparations.

 PAGE 4

Fil-Am-led nonprofit seeks Despite difficulties under Duterte, Robredo says no regrets to reduce gun violence, P L -B Locsin: I smashed New turn firearms into art D G -A York banks’ attempts to corner remittances Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. in his office at this photo uploaded by the Department of Foreign Affairs on Facebook on July 2, 2020.

Photo from Interaksyon / Department of Foreign Affairs, Republic of the Philippines

by

by

MANILA — Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. has thwarted an attempt by New York banks to corner Filipino remittances on grounds that these could be a source of terrorist financing.

In a speech during the International Day

 PAGE 2

ONNABELLE ATDULA AJPress

WITH hundreds of deaths by guns in America every single day, California-based nonprofit the Robby Poblete Foundation (RPF) is seeing the need to continuously expand its reach to other states, especially where gun-

REVALO

related violence is prevalent.

In 2017, RPF was created

by Filipina American Pati Navalta in honor of her son 23-year-old Robby Poblete who was killed by gun violence in Vallejo, California

 PAGE 4

IA EE RAGO Philstar.com

MANILA — Despite the difficulties she went through due to her political differences with President Duterte, Vice President Leni Robredo on Tuesday, June 28 said she has no regrets.

During the final episode of her weekly radio program “BISErbisyong Leni” on dzXL, Robredo said the hardships and not being allies of the

 PAGE 7

Vice President Leni Robredo Philstar.com photo

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Locsin: I smashed New York Steven Raga wins primary election for... banks’ attempts to corner...

PAGE 1 of Family Remittances on Tuesday, June 28, Locsin said smashing the banks’ attempt was the first thing he did as Philippine ambassador to the United Nations prior to his appointment as secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

“In fact, it is big banking that is a major source of terrorist financing, second only to drugs, human and arms trafficking. The New York bankers were lying again and I told them so,” Locsin said.

He said it is a repeat of the same scam the banks tried to foist during the administration of the late president Corazon Aquino in Switzerland, but they kicked the scheme.

“If there is going to be any regulation or control, it has to be Filipino and totally transparent,” Locsin said.

“Enhancing the Filipino regulatory framework for the digital transformation of financial services and networks have made them more efficient and reliable, remittances are no longer lost. They have given migrant workers and their families more options to send and receive remittances at very competitive rates,” he added.

The International Day of Family Remittances is a tribute to migrant workers, whose income is vital to the economic lifeline of their families and a major source of foreign currency.

During the outbreak of the pandemic, Locsin said remittances became more essential as these shielded families,

communities and countries from the crippling economy as a result of health crisis and the economic shocks that followed.

In 2021, the World Bank reported a total of $605 billion in remittances, an increase of 17 percent from the total remittances recorded in the 2020.

Of the amount, the Philippines contributed $34.9 billion, making the country the fourth largest destination for remittances in 2021.

Locsin thanked Israel and Germany for “taking the treatment of migrant workers to a new high.”

In another development, Locsin and Australian Foreign Minister Penelope Wong reaffirmed the ties between two countries.

During a video call, Wong said that Australia’s ties with the Philippines are vital in dealing with problems in the Southeast Asian region, especially in upholding international law.

The DFA said in a statement that Wong expressed appreciation to the contributions and personal commitment of Locsin in strengthening Philippine-Australia relations.

Locsin highlighted the strengths of the bilateral relations between the two countries.

He said the Philippines looks forward to working on the draft joint declaration for elevating relations to a strategic partnership this year.

The Philippines and Australia marked 75 years of diplomatic ties in 2021. (By Pia Lee Brago/Philstar.com)

PAGE 1 waited for the election results.

A former chief of staff of Assemblymember Brian Barnwell of District 30 who announced last April that he won’t be running for reelection, Raga was thrust into the position when he was selected by a committee to determine who would replace Barnwell on the ballot.

“I am proud of the campaign that Steven and his team ran in about three short months, and we are witnessing a historic event happening now in New York, in Queens,” said Rep. Grace Meng, who thanked Raga’s campaign volunteers for their “hard work, and hitting the pavement every single day.”

Raga amassed a slew of endorsements from elected officials and community and civic leaders such as Congresswoman Meng, Congressman Gregory Meeks, State Sen. John Liu and Assemblymembers Ron Kim and Catalina Cruz.

Assembly District 30 has undergone significant change due to redistricting.

It currently covers the neighborhoods of Woodside, Maspeth, Elmhurst, along with parts of Jackson Heights. The district is one of the most diverse in the state and is majority AAPI (Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders).

Meng described Raga as the perfect candidate for the position, having served as the chief of staff for four years, has run nonprofit organizations, and worked tirelessly in the district during the pandemic.

Raga was optimistic that his team’s hard work was going to pay off. At a fundraising

Steven Raga, who won the primary election for the New York State Assembly District 30 seat on Tuesday, June 28, speaks before his supporters and volunteers in Queens.

dinner held at the residence of community leader Loida Nicolas Lewis last week, he said he was looking forward to proudly wearing a Barong Tagalog on the floors of the New York State Assembly if he gets elected.

“I guarantee that with this support, with this level of excitement and enthusiasm and all of the volunteers coming every day, and crowds and events like this,” he said. “In less than seven days, we will make history.”

On Tuesday night, Raga’s words came true and he made history, garnering more than 70 percent of the vote cast. g

New proposal may grant most...

PAGE 1 of Californians.

As part of a $300 billion budget deal that was announced on Sunday, June 26, the three-tiered program is estimated to benefit 17.4 million taxpayers in the state with lower- and middle-income households benefitting the most.

Individuals who make less than $75,000 a year and couples who jointly make less than $150,000 a year would get $350 per taxpayer. An extra $350 would be granted for each dependent.

Individuals who make less than $125,000 a year and couples who jointly make less than $250,000 a year would

get $250 each, plus any dependents.

The money will be distributed as soon as the governor and state leaders reach an agreement over the 2022-2023 state budget, which is expected to happen before the start of the new fiscal year on July 1.

“California’s budget addresses the state’s most pressing needs, and prioritizes getting dollars back into the pockets of millions of Californians who are grappling with global inflation and rising prices of everything from gas to groceries,” Newsom, California Senate President Pro Temp Toni Atkins, and Assembly Speaker

Anthony Rendon said in a joint statement.

Currently, the average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline in California is $6.44, much higher than the national average of $4.93 per gallon.

Newsom, who is running for re-election in November, previously proposed sending money to registered vehicle owners while lawmakers argued it should be directed to those who file taxes.

Republicans in the state have argued for temporarily suspending the statewide gas tax, but the Democraticled state legislature argues it would not be a significant enough benefit to drivers. (By Klarize Medenilla/AJPress)

FEEDING PROGRAM. Police officers help in the distribution of food to residents of Baseco Compound in Manila City during the Serbisyo Caravan of the National Capital Region Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict in the area on Tuesday, June 28. Around 500 residents benefitted from the relief distribution and feeding program of the national government.

PNA photo

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From the Front Page

Fil-Am-led nonprofit seeks to reduce...

FIGHT FAR FROM OVER. Lawyer Howard Calleja (second from left), former lawmaker Satur Ocampo (second from right), and martial law survivors file a petition for certiorari to appeal the decision of the Commission on Elections en banc dismissing the disqualification petition against Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in this May 18, 2022, photo.

File photo by Richard A. Reyes / Philippine

Bongbong Marcos...

PAGE 1 June 28, or two days before Marcos Jr. is sworn in. Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo has accepted the invitation to administer the president-elect’s oath of office in a ceremony at the National Museum.

The justices upheld the resolution of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) dismissing two petitions separately filed by martial law survivors and rights activists seeking Marcos Jr.’s disqualification on the basis of his tax evasion conviction in 1995.

Reacting to the tribunal’s vote, playwright-activist Bonifacio Ilagan said resistance to what he called the erosion of law in the country would continue.

Ilagan, who heads the Campaign Against the Return of the Marcoses and Martial Law, one of the petitioners, said he and his colleagues were not “surprised that the high court has opted to swim with the tide of acquiescence to a Marcos rehabilitation, notwithstanding all the historical distortions and false narratives that made the dictator’s son delude the people.”

Still, Ilagan said, it was “difficult to comprehend that the tribunal decided on merit that Marcos Jr. did not disobey the law by wilfully not paying taxes, did not commit moral turpitude, and could go scot-free, being now above the law.”

House Assistant Minority Leader and ACT Teachers Rep. France Castro told the Inquirer that despite the “not surprising” decision, “we still hope that the Supreme Court would uphold its independence and initiative, especially on issues and cases involving human rights, welfare of consumers, and our country’s sovereignty.”

In a statement released by its Public Information Office (PIO), the Supreme Court said “the exercise of its power to decide the present controversy led [it] to no other conclusion but that respondent Marcos Jr. is qualified to run for and be elected to public office.”

“Likewise, his COC (certificate of candidacy), being valid and in accord with the pertinent law, was rightfully upheld by the Comelec,” it said.

The high court did not provide a copy of the decision written by Associate Justice Rodil Zalameda.

The PIO said it would post a full copy of the decision on the tribunal’s official website upon receipt of the document from the Office of the Clerk of Court En Banc.

It said Associate Justices Antonio Kho and Henri Jean Paul Inting, both appointees of President Rodrigo Duterte, did not take part in the deliberations.

Kho served as elections commissioner prior to his appointment to the high court. Inting is the brother of Comelec Commissioner Socorro Inting, who voted to junk the disqualification petition against Marcos Jr. George Briones, general counsel of the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas, Marcos Jr.’s party, praised Justice Zalameda for the “learned decision that gained the unanimous vote” of the high court.

PAGE 7

PAGE 1 on September 21, 2014.

Robby was learning to weld at a biotech company at the time of his death.

Navalta, in an interview with the Asian Journal, said for the past years since the inception of the RPF, they have been actively pursuing initiatives based on their three programs: Gun Buyback; The Art of Peace; and Vocational Skills. She said the COVID-19 pandemic had somewhat put their activities on the sideline but they are slowly trying to pick up the pace.

The RPF founder and executive director said they have recently partnered with local government officials of Richmond, Virginia to hold the city’s first-ever gun buyback initiative.

“Just recently, we have received a call from the mayor’s office in Richmond, Virginia which we were surprised because they said they want to hold their very first gun buyback in the city’s history and they really liked the fact that we work with law enforcement agencies and turn the guns into art,” Navalta said.

Aside from Richmond, Virginia, RPF’s programs have been adopted and implemented in Vallejo, Oakland, Solano, Alameda, Contra Costa and San Francisco counties in California, as well as in Augusta, Georgia.

Through these numerous gun buybacks, the foundation has succeeded in getting nearly 2,000 firearms out of circulation — many of which were assault weapons.

“In this gun buyback program, we have been partnering with different law enforcement agencies. We have gun buyback so people

The Robby Poblete Foundation’s Art of Peace program uses materials from guns collected from the gun buyback program, along with confiscated firearms from throughout the state by law enforcement agencies, to transform weapons of destruction into instruments of hope through art.

Pati Navalta, a longtime journalist, began The Robby Poblete Foundation in 2017, which pushes for a gun buyback program and turns the metal into art. The foundation was created following the death of her son Robby, who was killed by gun violence in the Bay Area.

Photos

who no longer want will have a safe place to surrender their weapon and in exchange, we give them gift cards. What’s different about what we do is that after we get the gun, we have them dismantled, and then we put them in the hands of artists to turn them into sculptures (under the Art of Peace program),” she said, explaining how their programs work.

She said so far, about 30 pieces of art have been made from the firearms that they have accumulated through

Pati Navalta (middle) with her children Robby and Julie.

their gun buyback program and commissioned over 50 artists from different cities.

“Each of those exhibits (for Art of Peace) had been so powerful. People crying, parents who have lost their children and have died from gun violence coming. People who are even against what we stand for, coming and protested but were being drawn in by art that was created by it. I think that’s the difference between just talking about gun violence which becomes very political as opposed to creating art, to talk about it because if you just talk about gun violence, it is very political. But if you enter the conversation through art, it becomes very human. People are moved by what they see. People are touched and when you open the heart, then it starts to open the mind a little bit more,” she said.

The goal of the Art of Peace project, Navalta said, is “not only to forever transform these weapons into pieces of art but also to touch people so we could have an open and safe conversation about

the impact of gun violence.”

Navalta, a former journalist, said they are eyeing to partner with other cities like Los Angeles and Chicago to implement the RPF programs.

According to Navalta, the RPF is keeping at least one art piece from each city where the exhibit is being held.

They also auction off some of the art pieces to make their programs sustainable. In San Francisco, the Warriors Community Foundation of the Golden State Warriors bought one of the art pieces as they have been very vocal in supporting antigun violence efforts. It was unveiled with the Warriors this past June.

“At the end of the exhibit, what we do is to auction each of the pieces and whatever money we make from that gun buyback goes to the next gun buyback. So this is a program that is meant to keep going. Whatever we get in terms of art goes straight back to the next gun buyback which produces the material for the next Art of Peace so it keeps going,” she said.

In the next couple of years, Navalta said they are considering holding a national exhibit to showcase all of the art pieces they have collected.

For the vocational program, on the other hand, Navalta said the RPF has given away more than $40,000 in vocational scholarships to members of the reentry and formerly unhoused populations and has seen a 100% success rate in job placement.

“There is this father and son who entered our vocational program, who are both homeless. We put them to an apprentice job and they now both have their own apartment and have goodpaying jobs” she recalled, noting that there are about 30 to 40 who have been placed in jobs under RPF’s vocational program.

“My son, at the time he was killed, was learning to weld so what we thought we would do was to create career pathways for people who are most vulnerable, like people who are just getting out of prison or exoffenders, people who are homeless, people who are recovering drug addict. We help them find careers in the PAGE 7

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OPINION

FEATURES

Stressed out

5

Philstar.com

JOB-related stress is common worldwide, and many countries have reported elevated stress levels among workers during the COVID pandemic. There is additional cause for worry in the Philippines, however, as an international survey showed that in Southeast Asia, Filipinos are the most stressed at work.

The 2022 State of the Global Workplace Report prepared by analytics firm Gallup showed stress among workers worldwide hitting another record high last year compared to the start of the pandemic in 2021. While worry, sadness and anger among workers declined last year from their all-time high in 2020, the global levels remained higher than before the pandemic.

Stress among Filipino workers is down by three points, but the 50 percent in the 2022 survey is higher than the global average, and the highest within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. Thailand followed the Philippines with 41 percent of workers reporting stress. The figure was 38 percent in Cambodia, 37 percent in Myanmar, 35 in Vietnam, 34 in Singapore, 32 in Laos, 27 in Malaysia and 20 percent in Indonesia.

The Gallup Work Poll was conducted from 2021 to early 2022. Reacting to the report,

organized labor said low wages and contractual work were the top causes of stress among Filipino workers. The Federation of Free Workers said the stress builds up as the six-month deadline for automatic regularization approaches.

While pandemic restrictions have been relaxed in the Philippines, workers still face the risk of catching COVID and infecting other members of the household. Workers must also contend anew with pre-pandemic causes of stress, such as long hours stuck in traffic. The continuing fuel price surge, which is keeping many public utility vehicles off the streets, has also made commuting a nightmare.

Worldwide, healthcare workers have been among the most stressed in the past two years. Decades before the pandemic, the World Health Organization was already urging governments, educators and other professionals as well as civic groups to

Editorial

implement measures to prevent mental, neurological and psychosocial disorders among HCWs. The Philippines has passed Republic Act 11036, the Mental Health Act, with the implementing rules and regulations released

in January 2019. The 2022 Global Workplace Report highlights the importance of fully implementing the law. Reducing stress in the workplace enhances productivity and is critical in post-pandemic economic recovery.

(Philstar.com)

Facts and fantasies on Marcos’ estate tax

With Due Respect ARTEMIO V. PANGANIBAN INCOMING Commissioner Lilia Guillermo of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) was put on the spot by TV journalists with hard questions on what she intended to do with the muchballyhooed tax liability of the

estate of former president Ferdinand E. Marcos that has allegedly ballooned to over P203 billion from the P23 billion originally assessed by the BIR. AT THE START, THE LADY ANSWERED PRUDENTLY that she needed to see the “correct data” first before giving a definitive commitment. When pressed further on what she would

tell President-elect Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos II (BBM), given that the Supreme Court decision on the matter had become final and executory, she replied she would respectfully ask him, “P’wede ba maging role model kayo?” (Can you be a role model?) This reply was bandied by the broadsheets on June 23 and went viral on social media.

Since then, a lot of facts and fantasies have been written and aired about the matter.

But what are the “correct data” that are known, or publicly knowable, by accessing the e-library of the Supreme Court and reading the relevant Court of Appeals (CA) decision? Here are some undisputed facts therefrom: On Sept. 29, 1989, former president Marcos died in

Honolulu, Hawaii, US. On June 27, 1990, the BIR created a “Special Tax Audit Team … to conduct investigations … of the tax liabilities … of the late president, as well as that of his family, associates and ‘cronies.’”

The investigation disclosed that the Marcoses failed to file a written notice of his death, an estate tax return (ETR),

and income tax returns (ITRs) for 1982-1986 “all in violation of the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC).”

Thus, the BIR “caused the preparation and filing” of the ETR, the ITR “of the spouses Marcos for the years 1985 to 1986,” and the ITR of BBM for 1982-1985.

On July 26, 1991, the BIR issued a deficiency estate PAGE 10

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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Dateline PhiliPPines

Leading opposition will be Sara to invite ex-VPs to discuss security, museum ‘very challenging’ – Hontiveros

by Janvic

Mateo Philstar.com

MANILA — Vice president-elect Sara Duterte will invite former vice presidents to a fellowship lunch “in the coming days” to discuss security and the planned Vice President’s Museum.

Duterte’s spokesman Reynold Munsayac said on Tuesday, June 28 there is no scheduled meeting between her and Vice President Leni Robredo before the end of the latter’s term on June 30.

“There is a plan, however, to invite all former vice presidents for a fellowship lunch in the coming days to discuss their allotted security from the VPSPG (Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group) and the planned Vice President’s

Museum,” he said.

“This will depend on the interest of the former VPs and would need a common available schedule for all,” he added.

Living former vice presidents include former presidents Joseph Estrada (1992 to 1998) and Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (1998 to 2001), as well as Teofisto Guingona Jr. (2001 to 2004), Noli de Castro (2004 to 2010) and Jejomar Binay (2010 to 2016).

Robredo earlier invited Duterte to attend the general assembly of the Office of the Vice President on Monday, June 27.

The incoming vice president, however, was in Davao City to attend the oath taking of her brother and successor as mayor, Sebastian Duterte.

Duterte was in Cebu on Tuesday to attend the oath taking of Gov. Gwen Garcia and other members of her One Cebu party.

Last week, the Armed Forces of the Philippines activated the VPSPG, which replaced the Vice Presidential Security Detachment.

Duterte lauded the activation of the group, saying “it will resolve the matter of continuity in security for all vice presidents of the Philippines.”

“This AFP initiative also highlights the importance of having an independent group that will provide all Philippine vice presidents with the necessary security and protection,” she added.

The incoming vice president also lauded the PAGE 7

MANILA — Leading the opposition “would be very challenging” amid the political climate in the country, re-elected Senator Risa Hontiveros said.

“It would be very challenging not just for any leader, but for the whole opposition,” Hontiveros told CNN Philippines’ The Source in an interview on Tuesday, June 28.

Hontiveros is the lone opposition senator elected to the upper chamber in the 2022 elections.

On Monday, June 27, she took her oath of office before Vice President Leni Robredo, who turned over the opposition leadership to the senator.

“All of us in the opposition will really have to take stock of things again [to] think about, ask, listen, [and] talk with each other, not just within the opposition, but within the larger citizenry [in regards to] what are the issues we are facing and how do we want to solve them,” she added.

The lawmaker underscored that being in the opposition is not simply “opposing” any administration, but rather presenting alternatives to address long-time issues.

“I think being [in the] opposition isn’t just

opposing anyone on administration. It’s [about] presenting alternatives to long-time issues [and] presenting alternatives to the system itself,” she explained.

Further, Hontiveros said the opposition had an accumulation of hurdles, saying “some were cleared, attempted to be cleared, and a lot are still unfinished business.”

“We have an accumulation of hurdles in the past decades and in the past few years.

Some of them we attempted to clear, some we’ve been able to clear, but there’s still a lot of unfinished business, still a lot of loose ends not tied up,” said Hontiveros.

Among these hurdles, she said, is the recognition and compensation of human rights victims, drawing accountability for corruption, territorial disputes, and emergence from economic recession caused by the pandemic.

She also stressed the need to “rebuild and build unities” among people.

“Still, the task of any government, any legislatures as part of the government, and the opposition as part of our society is truly rebuilding and building unities among our people,” Hontiveros ended. (Inquirer.net)

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USAID helps Pinoy youths gain training MANILA — The United States government has helped more than 850 Filipino out-of-school and unemployed youths gain technical-vocational training.

Through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) in partnership with Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), local government units and private sector partners, the Filipino youth were able to complete technical-vocational training.

Last month, in Valenzuela City, 96 USAID-supported youth completed training in courses including computer systems servicing, food and beverage servicing and electrical installation and maintenance through the TESDA Online Program.

Almost half of them immediately secured full-time employment with private sector partners.

During lockdowns imposed due to COVID, the USAID collaborated with TESDA to restore access to technicalvocational training in safe and inclusive ways through USAID’s Opportunity 2.0.

Partnerships with local industry including Valenzuela City’s Public Service Employment Office and the local chamber of commerce and industry provided the youth with a pathway to employment.

Together with the local government of Valenzuela, USAID helped establish the Valenzuela City Youth Development Alliance, which connects the youth to local businesses for employment and to other organizations for further education and entrepreneurship opportunities.

“The youth have endless potential and it is amazing what they can achieve with the right opportunity and support,” said USAID Philippines acting education director Yvette Malcioln.

“It is easier to connect skilled youth to local opportunities in academia, business and entrepreneurship, thanks to Valenzuela’s active Youth Development Alliance,” she said.

(By Pia Lee-Brago/Philstar.com)

Despite difficulties... Fil-Am-led nonprofit...

PAGE 1 President motivated her and her team “to look for ways and become better.”

“All the difficulties given to us, those were actually the things that made us better.

We learned to look for ways and accomplish our goals.

And to my mind, those made us perform better. Because when it’s hard, you find ways to do your work well,” Robredo said in Filipino.

Robredo was the top target and biggest victim of disinformation even after the May 9 elections, reports said.

Admitting her office suffered much since 2016, Robredo refused to say what her team went through.

“For us, the difficulties were blessings,” she said.

In December 2016, Duterte instructed Robredo to “desist” from attending Cabinet meetings, pushing her to resign as chairperson of the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council.

In October 2019, Duterte announced that he would name Robredo as co-chair of the interagency committee on anti-illegal drugs with Cabinet rank.

Robredo, an opposition leader, accepted the post, saying it would allow her to stop “unnecessarily killing.”

However, Duterte

backtracked after the vice president met with representatives of the United Nations, the Catholic Church and institutions critical of the anti-drug campaign.

Vice President’s spokesperson lawyer Barry Gutierrez said Robredo’s camp is considering taking legal action against those who spread disinformation on social media after her term of office ends on June 30.

Gutierrez said the initiative would be launched to address the proliferation of fake news and lies on social media, explaining that this kind of trend is detrimental to democracy and public discourse.

He added that groups of lawyers are studying the filing of a lawsuit against those who continue to spread disinformation on social media platforms that host fake news.

He explained that the action to be taken is not only for Robredo, but also for other victims of disinformation on social media.

In February, University of the Philippines journalism professor Yvonne Chua said during a Senate hearing that most instances of disinformation on social media platforms were directed against Robredo. g

Bongbong Marcos qualified to be...

PAGE 4 “The decision vindicates the position of the party that [candidate] Marcos was under no disqualification to run for president and therefore he did not lie in his [COC],” Briones said in a statement.

Petitioners On May 17, rights advocates and martial law victims petitioned the Supreme Court to intervene in the Comelec’s supposed error in allowing Marcos Jr. to run for president.

The petitioners, led by Fr. Christian Buenafe of the Task Force Detainees of the Philippines and Fides Lim of Kapatid-Families and Friends of Political Prisoners, argued that the guilty verdict handed down on Marcos Jr. by a Quezon City court perpetually barred him from holding public office.

Marcos Jr.’s conviction of failure to pay taxes and file income tax returns from 1982 to 1985 when he was vice governor and later governor of Ilocos Norte was upheld by the Court of Appeals in 1997.

The petitioners said his “putative election victory cannot subsequently cure his ineligibility.”

“Elections are more than just a numbers game such that an election victory cannot bypass election

7

eligibility requirements,” they said.

“The balance must always tilt in favor of upholding the rule of law.”

Another suit was filed at the high court on May 18 by another group of martial law survivors including former Bayan Muna Rep. Satur Ocampo and former Gabriela Rep. Liza Maza, saying that Vice President Leni Robredo, who lost to Marcos Jr. by nearly 16 million votes, was the rightful successor of President Duterte.

‘Shades of martial law’ According to the petitioners, Marcos Jr. was “already disqualified” even before he filed his COC. “Simply put, he should not have been allowed to run for public office to begin with,” they said, adding: “Considering that the votes cast in favor of a disqualified candidate are invalid, the winner, therefore, is the candidate who received the greatest number of valid votes.”

Reaction to the high court’s ruling was generally muted as preparations for the presidential inauguration continued in full swing.

But already, according to Renato Reyes, secretary general of the activist group Bayan, there were “shades of Marcosian martial law” in the preparations, with the Philippine

National Police “moving heaven and earth to deny the people their constitutional right to protest” on Thursday.

Reyes said Bayan would continue to resist efforts toward the full restoration of the Marcoses, who were ousted in a bloodless revolt in February 1986 after 14 years of one-man rule.

“The next few years will see an intensified struggle against the Marcoses’ historical denialism as the regime works to use official platforms to erase the crimes of the dictatorship and extinguish their criminal liability,” he warned.

Specifically, Reyes said, Bayan would continue to hold Marcos Jr. to account for the abuses and crimes of the dictatorship, “including the recovery of [the family’s] illgotten wealth, the payment of their outstanding estate taxes, and the prosecution of their pending cases.”

“The fight for nationalism and democracy will not die with another Marcos in Malacañang,” Reyes said.

“It will burn ever brighter as the people continue to resist, organize and mobilize.”

— with reports from Jeanette I. Andrade, Julie M. Aurelio, and Inquirer research g

PAGE 4 building trade. We pay for their boots, and their books and their tools and union dues to learn the trade. And we follow them all the way to job placements,” she said.

Recently, RPF also got a Reentry Through the Arts grant from the staterun California Arts Council (CAC) worth $45,000. The grant will be implemented starting September this year and to be completed within one year. CAC supports local arts infrastructure and programming statewide through grants, programs and services.

“With that grant, we can work for the reentry population on our Art of Peace project. These are exoffenders who are coming out. We are going to pair them with artists so they can create pieces of art with the dismantled gun together and if they like the work then we’re gonna put them in our vocational program so they could learn how to work with metal and then place them in jobs,” Navalta said.

With all these efforts being pushed forward, Navalta admitted there are still a lot of things that need to be done, particularly in terms of putting in place permanent long-term solutions to curb gun violence in the country.

“Unfortunately, you can drive to a lot of cities throughout the country and you can see signs for a gun buyback but at the same time, you also see signs for gun shows. So, for every gun we take off the street, there are hundreds put right back. Our work will never end. There’s no magic number that by the time, we take 10,000 guns off the street, the problem

will be solved, it won’t be solved. There is a problem in America: guns. We are just a small nonprofit doing what little we can, but it would never be enough until there is true change in legislation,” she said.

Navalta is also urging U.S. lawmakers to come up with concrete solutions that would take all these unwarranted firearms off the streets.

“It is our hope that this time, there would be some kind of resolution here. And I think, we have to be realistic...

For me, the biggest thing is banning assault weapons, changing the age limit of people who can buy guns and being more rigorous on background checks. I’m sure there will be some kind of compromises made but we can not continue going on without something,” she said.

Recently, President Joe Biden signed a gun control bill — the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act — after it was passed in both the House and Senate.

Navalta also called on the Filipino American community to take an active part in this endeavor calling for more gun reform.

“Just to let the Filipino community know that there are Filipinos within the community who are trying to commit change in terms of gun violence...This is just a very personal story to me and...a lot of times in our community, we don’t want to talk about the tragedy that happened to us but if we could find a way to transform that tragedy into something that could help people, I think we should take that opportunity and that’s what I am doing with this,” she said. g

PALAY DRYING. Farm workers place palay grains to dry along the Sta. Rosa road in Nueva Ecija before bringing them to a rice mill on Tuesday, June 28. The workers have been taking advantage of the humid weather to dry the grains.

PNA photo by Oliver Marquez

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9

Is the real estate market cooling off?

By REALTOR FELY QUITEVIS-BATEMAN

THERE are indications in the past few weeks that the real estate market seems to be experiencing a cooldown period after a long period of upward trends.

According to First American Title’s market reports for the communities of Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, Boulder City and Henderson, the market action index, or MAI,

Once again at Benihana’s in Westgate, celebrating the close of escrow of a client, Virgilio P. Longakit Jr., for his unit at Tower 1, Turnberry Place.

Photo above shows (from left) Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman, Dr. Phil Paleracio, Virgilio Longakit Jr. and Mary Jane Cutshall.

for these communities have fallen a bit from last month’s levels, although we are still at a seller’s market level.

For Las Vegas, FAT’s market report states that MAI is down 64 from the previous month’s level of 72. Median list price of homes fell down a little bit to $585,000, with the median price of new listings pegged at $495,645, also trending a bit downward.

However, that is still good as per square foot price is still about $277, which shows a tremendous historical increase through the years.

It is still considered a seller’s market in Las Vegas, as there is still not enough inventory in the market to satisfy demand, although inventory has been steadily increasing over the past few months.

The average days on market is at 59, while the median days on market is holding steady at 21.

The North Las Vegas area’s MAI has also fallen

down to 79 from a level of 89 last month. The median list price of homes is at $469,900, with new listings having a median price of $459,999. Per square foot price has held steady at $243. While average days on market is at 52, which represented a decrease, median days on market has been trending up and is at 21. The North Las Vegas area is still deemed to be a seller’s market.

The same scenario is true for Henderson, whose MAI, per the FAT market report, fell down to 60 from a level of 69 last month. Inventory has increased in the area, with the median list price of homes and the median price of new listings both going down to $663,000 and $561,915 respectively.

Per square foot price has increased to $301 for the area. Average days on market is at 56, while median days on market has held steady at 21.

Finally, in the Boulder City area, the MAI has also PAGE 10

Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman’s (2nd from left) repeat investors in Pahrump, Clark Kenneth (extreme right) and Angelica (extreme left) Games from Palm Springs, CA have fallen in love with the fast developing town in Nye County, Nevada. With Realtor Quirevis-Bateman and the Games couple is Realtor John Abarabar of Rockwell Commercial Group.

Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman (left) feels so lucky to have as her client, well-loved dentist Dr. Phil Paleracio, who is investing in Pahrump and plans to build his second medical office on Homestead Road.

10

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Is the real estate market...

CHURCH INSPECTION. Spanish Ambassador to the Philippines Jorge Moragas (2nd from left) looks at the walls of the La Loma Cemetery Chapel in Caloocan City during the inspection of the newly restored facade on Monday, June 27. The Diocese of Kalookan partnered with Escuela Taller de Filipinas Foundation Inc. to save the structure of the church, which was declared a National Cultural Treasure.

PNA photo by Joey

Facts and fantasies on...

PAGE 5 tax assessment of over P23 billion; deficiency income tax assessments against the spouses Marcos of P149,000 and P184,000 for the years 1985 and 1986 respectively; and deficiency income tax assessment against BBM of P258.70, P9,386.40, P4,388.30, and P6,376.60 for 1982-1985. Copies of these assessments were sent to their “last known addresses” in San Juan City in 1991; thereafter in 1992, at the office of BBM at the House of Representatives; and finally, a copy to the then lawyer of the estate, the late Dean Antonio Coronel, “inviting Mrs. [Imelda] Marcos to a conference … but to no avail.”

The deficiency tax assessments were not administratively protested within 30 days from their service as provided by the NIRC. On various dates in 1993, the BIR issued several notices of levy on the real estate properties of the Marcoses to satisfy the estate and income tax assessments. Copies of these notices were furnished Mrs. Marcos, BBM, and their “counsel of record … De Borja, Medialdea, Ata, Bello, Guevarra, and Serapio Law Office.”

A public auction of some levied properties “took place on July 5, 1993. There being no bidder, the lots were declared forfeited in favor of the government.”

Petitioner BBM filed suit in the CA on June 25, 1993, contesting the above BIR actions.

Failing to obtain relief in the CA, BBM, as administrator of his father’s estate, and Mrs. Marcos elevated the suit to the Supreme Court.

IN MARCOS II V. COURT OF APPEALS (June 5, 1997), the highest court dismissed the appeal holding thus: “Apart from failing to file the required [ETR] within the time required … petitioner and the other heirs never questioned the assessments served

upon them, allowing the same to lapse into finality, and prompting the BIR to collect the said taxes by levying upon the properties left

by President Marcos … [A]ssessments [of the BIR] are presumed correct and made in good faith. The taxpayer has the duty of proving otherwise … The course of action taken by petitioner reflects his disregard or even repugnance of the established institutions for governance in the scheme of a well-ordered society.”

This decision, rendered 25 years ago by the Court’s Second Division, was penned by Justice Justo P. Torres Jr. and concurred in unanimously by Justices Florenz D. Regalado (Division chair), Flerida Ruth P. Romero, Reynato S. Puno, and Vicente V. Mendoza.

Significantly, the petitioner was named “Ferdinand R. Marcos II”—not Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.—in the title of the decision and, consistently, in its textual content.

FROM THESE FACTS, THESE QUESTIONS MAY BE ASKED: How much has the BIR collected from the levy and auction sale of the Marcos properties? How much remains to be collected? How was the P23 billion computed? How did it balloon to P203 billion?

Apart from those already levied and sold at public auction, what other properties does the Marcos estate have to satisfy the original assessment and balloon? What actions, if any, will the BIR undertake to collect these? Is it open to a compromise on the balloon and on the original assessment? Let’s await BIR’s answers. (Inquirer.net) *** 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. *** Comments to chiefjusticepanganiban@hotmail.com

Sara to invite ex-VPs to...

PAGE 6 “foresight” in the activation of the VPSPG, noting that it may “be expected to solve the challenges if, in future elections, the vice president and the president face the misfortune of having strained relations.”

AFP chief of staff Gen. Andres Centino on Friday, June 24 led the activation of the VPSPG and installed Lt.

Col. Rene Giroy as its first group commander.

“The AFP saw it fitting to provide the Office of the Vice President a dedicated unit that shall ensure the safety and security of the secondhighest elected official in the country,” said Centino.

“I am confident that the newly-designated VPSPG Commander and the rest of the officers and enlisted

personnel entrusted to ensure the safety, security and welfare of the vice president and her family shall perform their responsibilities to the best of their abilities,” he added.

The AFP later clarified that VPSPG is not a new unit, adding that its predecessor was never part of or under the Presidential Security Group. g

PAGE 9 fallen a bit to 49 from last month’s level of 56, but is still in seller’s market level.

The median list price of homes in Boulder City is holding steady at $748,440, while median price of new listings actually increased to $715,000. Per square foot price is at $333.

Average days on market and median days on market has decreased to 103 and 39, respectively.

The current situation of the economy has contributed to the cooling off period, with many market analysts talking about inflation as well as the rising prices of gasoline due to world events (war on Ukraine and embargo on Russian oil, the pandemic and supply chain problems).

A housing market crash, similar to what happened in 2008, should not happen this time even if the economy is on a slowdown. The industry is better equipped to handle any downward trends in the real estate market. Due to the circumstances of the 2008 housing market meltdown, procedures have been put in place to protect consumers, including more transparency in the lending process for buyers as well as higher qualification requirements in order to get optimal rates.

However, for the real estate market in Nevada, the cooling down period is not expected to last.

Real estate prices in the state are still at lower levels when compared to some areas in the country, which is why more and more people are looking at living in Nevada due to more reasonable home and land prices.

Unemployment has also been trending downward in the state, which may mean more money or income for people to put into a home if they intend to purchase one.

A look at all the projects being planned in Las Vegas and neighboring communities shows continued interest in the area. With tracts of land being sold in record prices and large companies committed to developing their own competing projects aimed at attracting tourists, travelers, businesses and fun seekers of every age and size, construction should be

Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman helps those who need business financing, including loans for small businesses. For more information, call (702) 5384948 or send email to fely@precious-properties.com or fely.precious@

aplenty and jobs available in the coming years.

Currently, inventory of homes has been increasing for Las Vegas and other neighborhoods. That bodes well for home buyers as they will have a number of choices to look at in their search for that dream house. Although still in a seller’s market, market conditions have dampened a bit – it has given buyers a little bit of wiggle room.

While the real estate market may adjust itself and correct itself a bit after a long period of uptick, history suggests that real estate is still a sound investment. One only has to look at price comparisons from a year ago, a decade ago, or even a couple or more decades ago to see that land and home prices have risen on the average despite experiencing some periods of slump.

I have been a realtor since 1988 and have seen how Las Vegas, Pahrump and other neighboring communities have grown through the years. Many of my clients who have

invested in properties have seen their portfolio and wealth grow in time. Some have even taken advantage of market trends and have put their investments to good use via Airbnb, rentals and land banking.

There are still opportunities for those who want to secure home or property in Pahrump, Las Vegas or other Nevada communities. I can help you, my kababayans, purchase your first home, or second home, or investment property and turn your dreams into reality.

My company, Precious Properties, is a fullservice company that has successfully helped its clientele find the best deals since 1988. You can reach me at 775-513-8447, 805559-2476 and 702-5384948 for more information, or send me an email at fely@ precious-properties.com or fely.precious@gmail.com.

We have investors who buy houses in California and Nevada for cash and quick escrow in as short as 7 days. (Advertising Supplement)

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COMMUNITY JOURNAL

11

The immigration journey that took 24 years, on an all-new Citizen Pinoy this Sunday LEADING U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel presents another brand-new success story, after he provides the latest immigration developments, as featured on his YouTube channel: US Immigration TV. After the important U.S. immigration highlights, Citizen Pinoy shares an inspiring success story on how a family persevered, despite the many bumps along their immigration journey.

Allain was petitioned by his mother in 1997. Due to certain circumstances, Allain and his family entered the U.S. in 2002, but overstayed. Meanwhile, Allain’s mother, his petitioner, passed away in 2006. Uncertain about the future of his

petition, Allain and his family lived in fear because of their undocumented status.

Still, they took on several odd jobs to make a living. They persevered and kept the faith that someday they will achieve their American dream.

Finally, after 24 years, Atty. Gurfinkel was able to help Allain and his family adjust their status and acquire their green cards.

Watch this success story on a brand-new episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, July 3 at 7:00 PM PT (10:00 PM ET thru select Cable/Satellite providers). Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the app for free.

(Advertising Supplement)

HUMANITARIAN REVALIDATION OR SURVIVOR LAW – THIS SUNDAY ON CITIZEN PINOY. Allain (left) was petitioned by his mother in 1997. He came to the U.S. as a tourist with his wife, Lorraine (center), in 2002 and overstayed. His mother passed away in 2006, which, at that point, Allain thought his mother’s petition for him was gone. What would now happen to Allain and his petition? Leading U.S. Immigration Atty. Michael J. Gurfinkel (right) is the attorney-of-lasthope, who guided them through the process and presented them the option to be able to acquire their green card, despite the death of the petitioner. Watch this success story on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, July 3 at 7:00 PM PT (10:00 PM ET thru select Cable/Satellite providers). Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the app for free.

(Advertising Supplement)

12

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Health@Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS THE name of this drink has led to a lot of curiosity. Is it a tea that explodes?

Gunpowder green tea is simply a type of green tea where the leaves are rolled up into tiny balls, making them look like pellets or gunpowder. This tea comes from the Camellia sinensis plant, originally grown in China, but now also available in Sri Lanka and Taiwan. It has a light smokey taste to it and could be mixed with other teas to achieve the desired flavor.

Studies have shown that those who regularly drink tea, especially green tea, are less likely to get sick, and they have more of the cells that fight viruses. Drinking green tea can reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels, thus lowering the risk for heart disease and chronic illnesses, including Alzheimer’s and cancer. It also contains catechins and alkaloids that help manage blood sugar levels, and aid in the management of diabetes T2. The catechins in green teas also help reduce inflammation throughout the body and are good for digestive health.

A study in Japan shows green tea consumption (2-3 cups a day) maximizes natural longevity. Since gunpowder green tea has more caffeine, it boosts energy greater. It is an alternative to coffee for those who cannot tolerate the acidity of coffee. Gunpowder green tea also burns more body fat which helps in weight reduction.

This is certainly a healthy drink compared to soft drinks, which are poison, because they (cola or uncola, regular or diet, caffeinated or not) all increase the risk for Metabolic Syndrome for both adults and children.

Colorectal cancer Cancer of the colon and rectum (the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States) is expected to victimize 151,030 individuals, with 52,580 of them killed by this malignancy this year (2022), according to the U.S. National Cancer Institute.

Traditionally, the treatment for these has been a combination of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery.

But chemotherapy is toxic, radiation has a lot of side

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Gunpowder tea effects, and surgery is not a trivial one. So, researchers are exploring other avenues.

For a highly specific type of rectal cancer (locally advanced, mismatch repairdeficient rectal cancer), immunotherapy has been used with great success to help the body identify and better fight cancer cells. An immune checkpoint inhibitor called a PD-1 inhibitor prevents cancer cells from evading the immune system.

The drug is dostarlimab, given intravenously every 3 weeks for over 6 months.

TMS for bipolar Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) uses magnetic stimulation of the brain to help improve the symptoms of Bipolar Disorder, a disease associated with periods of mania (extreme high) and periods of depressed mood.

The current therapy includes a combination of medication and psychotherapy, which are helpful but not totally and permanently effective.

Hence, the search for a better modality.

TMS has shown success in treating depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and some studies revealed it could be effective for Bipolar Disease.

It appears to be a viable option in the future in the management of people with Bipolar Disorder when the U.S. FDA finally approves it also for the treatment of Bipolar Disorder.

Fauci positive On June 15, 2022, a news report revealed that Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, tested positive for COVID-19. People have been wondering why he was infected when he was fully vaccinated, complete with the second booster. They are also questioning the worth of the vaccines for COVID-19.

Don’t blame the vaccines; blame the unvaccinated, who are the carriers and spreaders of the SARS-CoV2 virus.

The vaccines are safe and effective for most variants and to a little degree for the newer ones (Omicron BA.4 and BA.5). Obviously, Dr. Fauci was infected with the new variant not covered (or only partially covered) by the boosters.

This is the reason why Moderna is coming out with a vaccine that is tailored to cover the Omicron variant and other sub-variants. Other

custom-made vaccines for COVID-19 are being tested in laboratories around the world.

Evidently, the waning vaccines, and the new and the future strains after them, would require all fully (4 shots) vaccinated individuals to get the 3rd, 4th, etc., booster shots to protect them from future variants after 4-6 months or so from the last booster. The CDC would surely monitor the situation and advise the public accordingly.

But this is the sad reality because there are still more than 100 million people in the United States who are not vaccinated, not even with one shot. There are more than 90 million in the Philippines who have not gotten their booster shot.

Moderna’s nextgeneration Omicron BA.4 and BA.5-targeting boosters will be available this coming Fall. Hopefully, Universal COVID-19 vaccines that would cover all strains and future variants would be created soon.

COVID-19 updates As of last Tuesday, June 28, 2022, at 12:42 GMT, the COVID toll reached 549,967,517, with 6,352,472 deaths worldwide; 88,910,140 cases with 1,041,027 deaths in the United States; and 3,702,319 cases (576 new infections), with 60,531 deaths in the Philippines.

It is clear that the COVID-19 pandemic is not over yet. On Monday alone, June 27, there were still more than 132,000 cases and 279 deaths in the United States. With only 67 percent of the people in the U.S. fully vaccinated, the 109 million unvaccinated will continue to act as a reservoir, a factory, for the virus to replicate and mutate in their bodies, and exponentially spread to other people. The new strains could still infect even those vaccinated, albeit the symptoms would be milder for most people, but could still be dangerous to others.

Arrogance, bravado, and carelessness could be deadly.

It is prudent to continue to be wise, cautious, and vigilant.

Almost 10.8 billion vaccines have been administered worldwide; the vaccines are safe and effective. Getting fully vaccinated (with the recommended boosters now and in the future) could save lives.

For those exposed to

Why Tuesday goes emotional while loading groceries at a cashier

By Alex

BrosAs

Inquirer.net

SINGER Tuesday Vargas reminisced the old days when she barely had enough for her groceries, which sent her shedding some tears.

Vargas recalled her bittersweet experience in her Instagram page last Saturday, June 25, while she showed a photo of herself inside her car with her purchases.

“Dati kapag namimili ako, bawat piraso ng bawang binibilang ko kung kasya ang pera ko.

Nagdadala ako ng calculator (kasi pati telepono ko noon mumurahin lang walang calculator) para makita ko kung pasok pa sa budget. Ni wala akong membership sa kahit anong shopping club,” she recalled.

(In the past, when I shopped, I counted the pieces of garlic to make sure that I have enough money for them. I brought a calculator, because my cellphone was cheap and did not have a calculator, so I can see if the items are still within my budget. I did not even have a

Tuesday Vargas Photo from Instagram/@tuesday_v

membership in any shopping club.)

Vargas admitted that she only got to taste imported grocery items when her mom sent them or when there was a relative who returned from abroad and brought pasalubong.

But she is now able to buy healthy food because of her perseverance, and from the paycheck from her essential oils business.

“Aba ang mahal pala ng mga organic, grass fed chururut. Pero mas mainam

kasi kung makaka iwas ka sa sakit in the long run, kailangan mag invest tayo sa katawan natin,” she said.

(Wow, organic and grassfed products are expensive, but those are better. Better to avoid getting sick in the long run. We need to invest in our bodies.)

“Pwedeng simple ito para sa iba. Pero kasi po kanina naiiyak ako habang nilo load sa cart ang mga bagay bagay at nagawa ko siyang bayaran galing sa pagod at sakripisyo ko nang di ako kinakabahan sa bawat beep ng kahera,” she said.

(This could be simple for others. But a while ago, I got teary while loading the groceries in the cart, and I was able to pay for them from my own hard work and sacrifice, without me having to worry at every beep of the cash register.)

Vargas feels there are many who could relate to her story, about how one’s ability to provide for one’s family can be a source of pride and joy for a mother like her. She expressed gratitude for the blessings she receives and wished the same for others. g

Bea willing to work with ex-BF Zanjoe

By Anne

PAsAjol Inquirer.net

Bea Alonzo

Photo from Instagram/@beaalonzo

COVID-19 infection, here are the recommendations: “Day 0 of isolation should be your first day of symptoms or the day your positive test was taken, whichever is earlier.

Days 1-4 are strict isolation days (in one room) unless you’re going out to receive medical care. Day 5 is the last full day of isolation if you were asymptomatic or if symptoms have been improving. Day 6 is when you can leave isolation if wearing a mask. Day 11 is when you can leave isolation without a mask.”

BEA Alonzo is open to do acting projects with her ex-boyfriend and fellow actor Zanjoe Marudo, stating that she is willing to work with her exes, except for one.

Alonzo talked about this after fellow actress Barbie Forteza asked her if she is “willing to work with an ex,” as seen in a vlog on Forteza’s YouTube channel Sunday, June 26.

“Depende kung sinong ex. Kay Zanjoe OK akong [makipag-work]. Isa lang naman ‘yung PAGE 13

*** The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff. *** The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people live a healthier lifestyle to prevent illnesses and disabilities and achieve a happier and more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable or appropriate

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

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Kean leaves Callalily after almost 20 years

By Jan

Milo severo Philstar.com

AFTER almost two decades, singer Kean Cipriano revealed that he parted ways with his band Callalily.

In a report by PUSH, Kean said he wished his former band all the best.

“Yeah, Callalilly is done,” he said.

“Callalily is done. I’m moving on, I’ve moved on, moving forward, and I wish them all the best,” he added.

Kean admitted that the band has not been okay for a few years now.

“I mean, we’re okay na parang... I think in a group, magkakasama kayo for 17 years, marami na rin

Former Callalily vocalist Kean Cipriano

nangyari and I don’t think medyo matagal na rin kaming hindi okay so, alam mo ‘yon, parang ibang chapter naman for us,” he said.

He also shut down band reunion rumors for the coming years.

“Hindi na magbabalik ‘yung dating Callalily,” he said.

The band, meanwhile, changed its name to LILY Music, as seen in its Facebook account.

Callalily rose to fame in 2005 with their hits “Stars,” “Magbalik” and “Take My Hand,” to name a few.

Kean launched his own record label O/C Records in 2018 and released his debut solo album “Childlike” in May 2021. g

Photo from Instagram/@kean

Bea willing to work...

PAGE 12 ayokong ex,” Alonzo answered, without naming who she was referring to.

(It depends on who the ex is. I am OK to work with Zanjoe. I only have one ex I would not want [to work with].)

Alonzo then opened up about her friendship with Marudo and said that they are on good terms despite their breakup.

“Kami ni [Zanjoe], hindi kami ugly breakup (Zanjoe and I did not have an ugly breakup). Until now we’re friends. It would be disrespectful to our relationship if we ended it badly,” she said.

Alonzo also pointed out that she is not afraid to relive her past experiences with her exes through acting scenes, as she can separate her personal feelings from her craft.

“If you’re after giving your audience a good performance, it would be helpful. Hindi ako takot sa gano’n (I am not afraid of that) because I know my boundaries as an actor and as a girlfriend to Dom,” she stated, referring to her boyfriend, actor Dominic Roque.

Alonzo and Marudo were in a relationship for about five years, before the latter confirmed their split in 2016. The two did not disclose the cause of their breakup.

Alonzo then reportedly started dating actor Gerald Anderson in 2016 and had a controversial breakup with him in 2019. The split was speculated to be caused by a third party, after Anderson was linked to actress Julia Barretto who worked with him in a film at the time. Alonzo also stated that the actor “ghosted” her.

Meanwhile, Anderson confirmed his relationship with Barretto in March last year. g

Young Fil-Am lawyer makes history, wins Miss Texas title

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By Gus

Mercado Contributor

ALL Filipino Americans in the State of Texas, especially in the DFW Metroplex, brimmed with pride when its very own Averie Danielle Bishop won the Miss Texas crown on Saturday, June 25. From North Texas to the Miss America stage in December this year, Averie will make history as the first Asian-American woman ever to win the Miss Texas title and represent the state in the national pageant.

Averie put herself through college, earning double degrees from the prestigious Southern Methodist University (Bachelor ‘sdegree with double major in Political Science and Human Rights), and a JD law degree with a 3.9 GPA. She is a first-generation Filipino-American, born to a Filipino immigrant mother, Marevi Sabalilang, and a fourth generation Texan, Danny Bishop. Her younger brother Teddy is in the U.S. Army.

Beneath all the successes and encomiums that have come her way, she has humanitarian blood running in her veins. She and her mom built Tulong Foundation – providing education, livelihood and scholarships to poor children in their native village in Banga, South Cotabato, Philippines.

Their foundation has supported 45 poor students, including 7 full scholars, in different colleges in their province.

With funding from SMU and some friends, she worked to build potable water systems for the community and their elementary schools.

Her impressive credentials also include serving as legal intern for the president and vice president of SMU, addressing higher education policy in Third World countries, as a Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation Fellow, and as a Texas Women’s Museum Woman of the Year awardee.

Averie was appointed by the Mayor of Dallas as council member of their new Anti-Hate and Discrimination Advisory Council. In an impromptu interview, she said serving the community is her way of paying back, “growing up in very challenging circumstances with parents who sacrificed so much for me to become the force of nature that I am today.”

The Texas beauty spent a sometimes painful childhood in Prosper where she was confronted by bullies and hateful language. “From the way I spoke, the shape of my eyes, my flat nose, my upbringing, the financial situation that I grew up in, sometimes the way my Mom spoke,” she recalled. “Some people say rude things because they just don’t understand what they don’t know. My mission as Miss Texas and as a person is to try to teach everyone in our state that a Texan can look like me

Averie and mom Marevi have worked to improve conditions in their native village of Banga, South Cotabato, Philippines through their Tulong Foundation. Photo above shows Averie at a water pump in their small village.

Photo

An excellent singer and dancer, Averie’s stirring rendition of a song from Les Miserables resulted in her winning the Most Talented award in the prelims.

Averie Danielle Bishop made history as she won the Miss Texas crown on June 25, becoming the first Asian American woman to win the title and represent the state in the Miss America pageant in Connecticut in December.

Photos courtesy of Mel Krater

Averie Bishop was appointed by the Mayor of Dallas to the city’s new Anti-Hate and Discrimination Advisory Council.

and feel equal and welcome.”

When she was Miss Dallas, before she became Miss Carrollton and went on to win as Miss Texas, many in the community saw greatness in this articulate but unassuming and downto-earth young Filipina. At the last PACC Texas Awards Night, Consul Ethel Mercado and this author honored her with the Founders’ Award as “Most Outstanding Young Leader in Texas.”

In addition to her amazing intellect and stunning beauty, she is also an excellent singer and dancer. Her stirring song from “Les Miserables” won her the Most Talented award in the preliminary round. Explaining her wardrobe, she said, “I know wearing this costume is not typical wardrobe at a pageant. But my choice was a reflection of how far I’ve come in life.

I am proud to have worn hand-medowns, thrifted clothing, and torn up shoes as a child. To me, this costume was not a costume. It is a celebration of the rags I have shed, thanks to the village and the people who have embraced me.”

Averie is looking forward to her very hectic duties as Miss Texas while preparing for the Miss America pageant in Connecticut in December. Watch out, Miss America crown. Averie is on her way to claim you!

Watch this short clip of her powerful answer to one of the judges’ questions, “Five or ten years from now, what legacy would you hope people will remember you by?, at https://www.facebook.com/ allaboutmel/videos/587018376135304. *** Gus Mercado is a well-known civic and business leader from Dallas, Texas. He founded the Filipino Leaders Coalition of North Texas which organizes and sponsors the annual joint celebration of Philippine Independence Day in the region. He is a recipient of the Presidential BANAAG award for outstanding business leadership and exemplary stewardship of Filipinos in the U.S. He is married to Philippine Consul in Dallas, Hon. Ethel R. Mercado.

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

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THE ‘NEXT BIG THING’ IS HERE PogiBoy’s Tocino Burger lands on the cover of Food & Wine A

by MOMAR

G. VISAYA / AJPress

LL hail the Tocino Burger!

Tom Cunanan and Paolo Dungca, the two chefs of PogiBoy who are behind this innovation of a classic burger are still on a high as their burger landed on the cover of Food & Wine Magazine’s July 2022 issue.

Chefs Paolo Dungca and Tom Cunanan with The Block partner Arturo Mei and Dr. Randy Lizardo enjoy the sights and sounds of Aspen at the 2022 Food & Wine Classic.

Photos courtesy of

Launched in last week’s annual Food and Wine Classic in Aspen, the Innovators Issue shines the spotlight on industry leaders “who are doing the most good to change the way we eat and highlighting people and companies who are making hospitality and packaged goods smarter, more sustainable, more inclusive, and more delicious for all.”

The chefs have just returned from Colorado and spent last weekend celebrating with friends and family in their DC headquarters at The Block.

“It feels like an out-ofbody experience to be part of the Food and Wine family now. It’s an honor to be part of this big team of chefs that are the movers and shakers of our community and then being us Filipinos, our cuisine being part of that community,” Cunanan told the Asian Journal.

“We’re not just a moment right now, we’re a movement,” he added, a nod to the song ‘My Shot’ from the musical Hamilton.

Cunanan is happy to see Filipino food rise and to see other people be proud of their continued success is just a bonus.

“I’m really proud that this is all happening so quickly for us, you know, we’ve only been open for a

Hiraya’s Chef’s Tasting Menu, which includes Chef Paolo Dungca’s inventive and inspired takes on sisig, kaldereta, bulanglang, siomai, and maja blanca.

AJPress Photos by

year and a half and already we’re getting a lot of love from the community,” he said, recalling their young,

scrappy, and hungry days.

For Chef Paolo Dungca, it was a dream come true.

“Aspen was a blast,

to be honest, that was such a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for us to be named on the cover,” he said. “We’ve never really seen Filipino food in a prestigious magazine like that.”

Food & Wine is an American magazine founded in 1978 and is known for introducing its readers to new dishes and ingredients. One of the nation’s premier culinary events, the annual Food and Wine Classic in Aspen gathers celebrity chefs, professional winemakers, and culinary experts.

Innovators The Tocino Burger is a mix of tocino and longganisa, combining the sweet elements of the tocino and the garlic, umami, and texture from the longganisa.

“It’s Filipino breakfast nostalgia,” quipped Dungca. “We wanted to bring nostalgia every time we want to pick up Filipino food because now it’s very foreign for all of us here in DC and we just wanted to bring that comfort every time we present something to the table.”

For the chefs, it was always about pushing the boundaries.

“Every time we talk about creating, we always PAGE 15

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Ken expresses support for love team partner Rita’s pregnancy

By Jan

Milo Severo

Philstar.com

KAPUSO actor Ken Chan expressed his support to love team partner Rita Daniela after the actress reveled that she’s pregnant with her first baby.

In his Twitter account, Ken assured Rita that he’s always beside her no matter what.

“To you and your baby, I’m here if you need anything, as someone you can always rely on,” Ken wrote.

“I pray to God for the utmost positivity, protection, support & love to surround you & your baby,” he added.

Ken said that he’s proud of his love team partner’s personal milestone.

“As a friend, as someone who cares, I’ll be here for you no matter what. I am so proud of you!” he said.

After Rita revealed that she’s pregnant on GMA variety show “AllOut Sunday” on Sunday, June 26, the actress took to her Instagram account to update her fans about her pregnancy.

“You came just in time.

You are God’s greatest gift to me. You give me hope to make more dreams COME true. I shall do anything and everything that’s best for you. Always,” Rita wrote.

Limited edition merch with the Food & Wine cover. ‘We’ll have more soon,’ quipped Chef Tom. Photos courtesy of Paolo Dungca

Raymond introduces ‘afam’ boyfriend

By Jan

Milo Severo Philstar.com

Rita Daniela and Ken Chan

“Nanay will always make sure that you have a heart for people and joy in the Lord. I

Photo from Instagram/@missritadaniela

can’t wait to meet you, anak.

Ngayon pa lang, mahal na mahal na kita,” she added. g

PogiBoy’s Tocino Burger lands on the...

A Food & Wine blurb describing chefs Paolo and Tom’s innovations of the classic burger using Filipino flavors and the bright purple ube buns.

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PAGE 14 want to think outside the box,” he said.

Last May, Chef Harold Villarosa visited PogiBoy and the chefs wanted to do something fun and catchy.

“I just wanted to come out strong with something new and we came with the ube bun and we thought it was fitting and we thought it would be something that nobody has done before,” he added.

To complete the showstopping burger, the cover star also has caramelized pineapple, crisp green papaya achara, and a creamy secret sauce made from a combination of mayonnaise, cornichons, banana ketchup, vinegar, black pepper, and Korean chili flakes.

What’s Next?

Both chefs are working on some side projects.

Cunanan opened Soy Pinoy in Houston and Dungca started Hiraya, also at The Block in DC. Soy Pinoy is Cunanan’s joint venture with fellow James Beard Award winner Paul Qui. The two chefs had an initial collaboration at Qui’s Miami restaurant PAO by Paul Qui for the South Beach Wine & Food Festival in 2021. Qui won Top Chef Season 9.

“We want to basically take on different markets and just introduce different kinds of styles or Filipino food,” Dungca said.

Asked about their dream for PogiBoy, the chefs gave

a uniform response.

“We don’t know yet hopefully expansion, you know, we want to take over the world,” said Dungca.

“We don’t want to change our menu too much. We want the whole road to taste our dishes,” Cunanan echoed. “We just want to keep it as simple, streamlined as possible.”

Hiraya is Dungca’s passion project that he began a few months ago.

It is open as a pop-up for dinner service at The Block every Friday and Saturday, transforming the food hall’s mezzanine area into a fine dining mecca.

“It’s pretty much a story of my interpretations of Filipino food,” he shared.

The dishes at Hiraya are not traditional Filipino food per se, since Dungca has gathered recipes from family and friends and put his take on them. He is looking forward to creating his version of classic Filipino chefs’ dishes.

Hiraya offers a chef’s tasting menu at $95 per person. At a recent dinner, we enjoyed Dungca’s inspired take on sisig (an inventive use of the kohlrabi as the vessel for the crispy pig ear), ensaymada (reinvented as an appetizer with aged smoked cheddar and black truffle cream), and kaldereta (using smoked duck, hakurei turnip, and castelvetrano olives).

The word “hiraya” is an old Filipino word that means

TV host Raymond Gutierrez introduced his boyfriend in celebration of Pride Month.

In his Instagram account on Sunday, June 26, Raymond posted photos of him with his unnamed boyfriend.

“Celebrate your love! Happy Pride, Philippines,” he captioned the post.

In his interview with Wil Dasovich earlier this month, the twin of Richard Gutierrez admitted that he’s in a relationship.

“In January, I did meet someone and we’re taking it a little bit more seriously. And yeah, we are in a relationship,” he said.

“There’s nothing to hide. What is there to hide? If the pandemic taught us one thing, it’s to live your life now,” he added.

Raymond came out as a member of the LGBTQ community in an interview in August 2021.

“I’m here to formally say that I am a proud member of the LGBTQ community. And it feels great saying that publicly because I am,” he said.

“I am out to a lot of my close friends and I’m lucky that I have that support system around me to give me the confidence to really accept who I am and to love myself because not a lot of people have that,” he added. g

Raymond Gutierrez and his boyfriend in an Instagram post on July 26, 2022.

Photo from Instagram/@mond

the fruit of one’s hopes, dreams, or aspirations. It was also used as the title of an educational TV show on ABS-CBN called Hiraya Manawari, which Dungca used to watch as a kid.

“I used to watch that show and I always felt inspired by it. Watching that show made me believe that everything is possible,” he shared. “I just think it resonated with my passion to be able to open up a place where I can cook my style of Filipino food.”

In a sense, Hiraya is the symbolic fruit of Dungca’s dreams and aspirations and he is not stopping anytime soon as he is hoping that Hiraya gets noticed as well.

“I’d be lying to you if I

didn’t want any accolades, we want the accolades,” he said.

For now, Cunanan and Dungca are relishing their Aspen experience as they prepare to work harder to continue what they’ve both started.

“I think this is us breaking into mainstream America. Hopefully, we can keep pushing in and inspire others to cook the food that we love to cook,” Cunanan said.

They are excited to see the possibilities that would open up for the Filipino foodie community brought about by one of their signature dishes landing the Food & Wine magazine’s cover. g

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