070623 - Las Vegas Edition

What the US Supreme Court ban on affirmative action means for colleges

the U.s supreme Court on thursday, June 29 struck down race-conscious policies in college admissions, ending decades of precedent that had allowed schools nationwide to use such programs to increase the diversity of their student bodies.

here is an explanation of the policies commonly known as affirmative action, their history and the possible consequences of the court’s decision.

What is affirmative action?

In the context of higher education, affirmative action typically refers to admissions policies aimed at increasing the number of Black, hispanic and other minority students on campus.

Colleges and universities that take race into consideration have said they do so as part of a holistic approach that reviews every aspect of an application, including grades,

Lawyers group, PH Embassy agree to keep providing legal aid to Filipinos in US

WAshINGtoN, D.C. – officers of the National filipino American Lawyers Association (NfALA) and the Philippine embassy agreed to continue providing legal services to the filipino community in the United states.

since the signing of a report of Understanding in may 2021, the embassy has tapped NfALA for resource persons for Post Arrival orientation seminars for filipino workers and legal consultants for labor-related cases.

During the recent meeting, several activities were identified to expand cooperation, such as free webinars and lectures on immigration, human trafficking, taxation, family law and estate planning.

Also discussed was the expansion of NfALA membership to areas with large concentrations of filipino Americans, partnerships with organizations of lawyers

DOT ends deal with ad firm over promo fiasco

by Dona Z. PaZZibugan Julie M. aurelio

anD Melvin gascon Inquirer.net

mANILA — Just two days after it announced that it was conducting an investigation, the Department of tourism (Dot) abruptly ended its contract with DDB Group Philippines on monday, July 3 after the advertising agency apologized for using stock footage of other countries in the video launching the country’s “Love the Philippines” tourism campaign.

In a statement, the Dot pointed to DDB’s “abject

failure” to comply with its obligations under the P49-million contract after the agency “admitted in no uncertain terms” that the materials used in the promotional video were not original.

the almost two-minute-long video featuring popular travel destinations in the country was shown at the June 27 launch of the newest tourism campaign that replaced the “It’s more fun in the Philippines” branding that had been in use since 2012.

But netizens pointed out that some clips were of tourist sites in other countries, including a fisherman in thailand, an airport runway in switzerland,

President Marcos greets mom Imelda on her 94th

by Helen Flores Philstar.com

mANILA — former first lady Imelda marcos celebrated her 94th birthday at malacañang over the weekend with her son, President marcos, in attendance.

“today we celebrate 94 incredible years! happy birthday, mom! Wishing you more years filled with joy, good health, and abundant blessings,” the President wrote on twitter on sunday, July 2 accompanied by a photo collage of his mother and the late former president ferdinand marcos sr.

marcos and first Lady Liza Araneta marcos attended an “asalto” or birthday surprise for his mother at malacañang’s Kalayaan hall on saturday, July 1. Among those present at the birthday party were Imelda’s children Irene marcosAraneta and Aimee marcos Bernedo and her grandchildren, based on a photo shared by Liza marcos on facebook. happy 94th birthday, mama meldy,” Liza marcos wrote on her facebook account. the president’s older sister, sen. Imee marcos, was missing in the family photo.

No need to bring WPS issue before UN – Chinese official

by bErnadEttE E. taMayo ManilaTimes.net

BeIJING — A senior official from China’s ministry of foreign Affairs said there is “no need” to elevate the West Philippine sea (WPs) issue before the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

“All [diplomatic] channels are open,” the official said. the Chinese ranking official maintained that any issue between China and the Philippines can be resolved through peaceful means.

sponsor a resolution before the UNGA that will call on China to stop its harassment of filipino vessels in the WPs hontiveros joined the recent call of retired Justice Antonio Carpio to stop China’s aggressive actions within the WPs sen. francis tolentino earlier voiced support for Carpio’s suggestion to bring the WPs issue before the UNGA to further internationalize the issue.

rice terraces in Indonesia, and sand dunes in the United Arab emirates.

In deciding to terminate the contract for the new tourism campaign, the Dot cited its right “to change, suspend, or discontinue temporarily or permanently the contract at any time should [it] deem the agency incapable of [carrying out] the project.”

It stressed that no payments had been made to DDB, adding that it would “review standards of performance or lack thereof” should the agency u PAGE 2

Issues hounding DOT’s ‘Love the Philippines’ tourism video earn global attention

by Jeline Malasig Philstar.com

IssUes about the widely-talked-about video of the Department of tourism used to launch the country’s new tourism campaign have earned global attention from different foreign news outlets.

the new tourism campaign of the Philippines made headlines after it was reported that the campaign video featured stock footage clips of locations from other countries such as thailand, Indonesia and the United Arab emirates.

the clips were lifted from storyblocks, a subscriptionbased stock footage website where users can access royalty-free clips, images and audio for creative projects.

the Dot launched the new tourism slogan “Love the Philippines,” accompanied by a campaign video last June 27. tourism secretary Christina frasco previously disclosed that the Dot spent P49 million for the entire study of the tourism campaign rebranding. this includes the creation of a logo and other components of this branding campaign.

demanding

sen. Ana theresia “risa” hontiveros has called on the Department of foreign Affairs to

the UNGA is the highest policymaking body of the UN. so, they can censure [a member], impose some penalty, or not allow a member to sit

“The Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education are thankful to our president for his support to our programs for all our citizens and the Filipino youth,” Vice President SaraDuterte said in a Facewbook message. Philstar.com file photo

Vice President Sara Duterte congratulates President Marcos for ‘successful’ first year in office

by ElizabEth MarcElo Philstar.com

mANILA — Vice President sara

Duterte congratulated President marcos on her facebook account on sunday, July 2 for a supposedly “successful” first year in office, specifically lauding his determination to fulfill campaign promises.

“everybody can see the hard work and perseverance of our

beloved president to continue the positive changes started by the previous administration and introduce new programs and projects that would improve the lives of our fellowmen,” the daughter of former President rodrigo Duterte said. she said she is “happy” to be part of an administration that is committed to strengthen the country, particularly its economy.

No need to bring WPS issue before...

in the UNGA temporarily or permanently,” tolentino said. the senator said that China had been ignoring the 2016 ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in favor of

the Philippines. the PCA, based in the hague, Netherlands, had nullified China’s nine-dash line in the south China sea which encroached on the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone in the

WPs “If it will be discussed, debated upon in the UN the better it is for the Philippines’ position, especially if the UN decides in our favor,” tolentino said. n

President Marcos greets mom...

In an interview on saturday, July 1, the senator said her mother would have a “private” celebration for her 94th birthday. she said there might be an asalto or a birthday surprise for Imelda at malacañang on saturday night. this was the second consecutive year the former first lady held a birthday party at the Palace.

malacañang is the official residence of the president of the Philippines. Navotas rep. toby tiangco and veteran singer Dulce also shared photos of the event in their respective social media pages. In a video posted on facebook, Dulce was seen serenading the former first lady and her guests with a Celeste Legaspi song, “Gaano Ko ikaw Kamahal.”

In may, senator marcos said the former first lady underwent an angioplasty. rumors about the death of the marcos matriarch circulated in march but were quickly debunked by the senator and the former first lady’s niece eliza romualdezValtos. Imelda is out on bail after being convicted by the sandiganbayan of seven counts of graft. n

DOT ends deal with ad firm...

submit a claim.

the Dot did not comment, however, on whether it would retain the “Love the Philippines” campaign created by the ad agency. Asked for comment on the ter-

mination of the contract, DDB said it had “no statement” on the issue. Bad omen

Lawmakers from both the senate and house of representatives were quick to weigh in on the controversy with sen. Nancy Binay calling it a “bad omen” for the revamped tourism campaign.

Binay, chair of the senate committee on tourism, said the Dot, headed by secretary Christina Garcia frasco, should ensure that heads would roll since people’s money was being used for such projects. But at the same time, she also took the department to task for its “lapses.”

the Dot cannot afford to be negligent about campaigns like this which are worth millions [of pesos]. [It] should also be more discerning and critical [of] pegs, concepts, storyboards, and drafts that ad agencies present to them,” she said.

Binay lamented how the initial salvo of the Dot’s new campaign suffered a “major setback,” saying the controversy might drive away visitors, instead of attracting them.

she suggested that the Dot consider retaining the “It’s more fun in the Philippines” slogan, saying, “Perhaps it will still be better to bring back the ‘fun’ because of the problem faced by ‘Love.’”

senate minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III, on the other hand, touched on the irony of using foreign footage to promote the Philippines.

“[It’s] very disappointing due to the very unprofessional work using stock video footage. ‘Love the Philippines’ is the idea, yet we were proudly showing Indonesian, thai, swiss, and emirati tourist attractions,” he said.

At the same time, he jested that the video could also affirm the government’s thrust to be a “friend to all nations,” adding that it may be “our expression of our friendliness to all nations. We promote them also in our promotional videos about the Philippines.”

‘Scammed’ for sen. Grace Poe, chair of the senate Committee on Public services, the government and the public were “scammed” by the Dot advertisement.

“It’s frustrating to know that even the government can fall victim to blunders in a marketing campaign that supposedly aims to promote the Philippines’ unique character, natural beauty, and cultural attractions,” she said.

house Deputy minority Leader france Castro expressed a similar sentiment, saying the video and slogan were a form of budol” or swindle, as she called on the Dot to rectify the matter by conducting an investigation and filing appropriate charges.

“We cannot allow this kind of ‘budol’ or swindling of our people. the Dot should be also probed because it is wasting the people’s money and it is a shame to the international community,” Castro said in a statement. for Albay rep. Joey salceda, the house ways and means panel chair, the video and “Love the Philippines” logo—which excluded mayon Volcano in his home province of Albay — was a “symptom of trabahong tamad” or shoddy work. salceda earlier criticized the Dot for what he perceived as a snub.

“the first video was supposedly a ‘mood video,’ according to the contractor. for something as critical as an entire country’s image, you don’t ‘set the mood’ with plagiarism,” he said.

Apparently referring to independent opposition lawmaker and fellow Albay rep. edcel Lagman’s remark that his complaint was just “political sound bite,” salceda stressed that legitimate concerns of legislative representatives should not be brushed aside.

“one lesson here is not to dismiss legitimate concerns as ‘political sound bites’ but to listen, consult and discuss. the country’s branding is reflective of our identity and aspirations as a people. What’s wrong with wanting to be represented well in that?” he said.

Track record

Incorporated in 1992, DDB Group Philippines is a full-service marketing communications group with advertising, digital, media, Pr, content, and data analytics agencies.

Its forerunner was the Advertising marketing Associates founded in 1958 by Antonio de Joya, known as the “Dean of Philippine Advertising.”

DDB had bagged other government projects before, including several with the Dot

At the 19th Philippine Quill Awards in 2022, it won several awards under the competition’s communication management division for the following campaigns: the “resbakuna” campaign of the Department of health, the “our sea, our story” campaign for the Dot’s Philippine International Dive expo 2021, and the Dot’s “Balikan ang Pilipinas” campaign. n

ROAD

Angel Sumagaysay, head of the Davao City Public Safety and

President Marcos is shown with the members of his family in this photo posted on Facebook by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos to mark the 94th birthday of the family’s matriarch, Imelda, at Malacañang on Saturday, July 1. Sen. Imee Marcos is conspicuously missing in the picture. They were joined by Irene Marcos Araneta, her spouse Greggy Araneta, Aimee Marcos Bernedo as well as the president’s sons Joseph Simon and William Vincent. Philstar.com photo

‘LOVING THE PHL’. Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco ends her speech during the 2022 Philippine Tourism Satellite Accounts and Tourism Statistics Dissemination Forum at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City on Wednesday, July 5 with the message “Love the Philippines.” Frasco received an outpouring of support from various stakeholders and tourism regional directors attending the forum.

photo by Yancy Lim

“Love the Philippines” replaced former tourism slogans such as experience Philippines,” “It’s more fun in the Philippines,” Pilipinas, Tara Na,” “Pilipinas Kay Ganda,” and “WoW Philippines.”

over the weekend, however, some social media users learned that the Dot in its campaign video featured clips from other countries like thailand’s fishing lake, Indonesia’s rice terraces, and sand dunes in Dubai, among others. the Dot then said it was “currently conducting an exhaustive investigation to determine the veracity of, and to gather the full faculty of facts” concerning its new campaign video.

the tourism department said it had repeatedly sought confirmation from its contracted agency, DDB Philippines, on the originality and ownership of the materials used in campaign videos during various meetings and consultations.

“In ALL these occasions, DDB repeatedly assured the Dot that the originality and ownership of all materials are in order,” the Dot said in a statement.

“While no public funds have been paid for the audio-video presentation in question as this particular component of the launch was released on the account of DDB, the Dot holds responsibility for promoting the country to the

highest standard,” it added.

the advertising agency also released its own statement, saying that while it was an industry practice to use stock footage or non-original clips in mood videos, using foreign clips was “an unfortunate oversight” on its part.

A mood video is primarily used to elicit a specific emotion from the audience, like excitement or calmness.

“Proper screening and approval processes should have been strictly followed. the use of foreign stock footage in a campaign promoting the Philippines is highly inappropriate, and contradictory to the Department of tourism’s objectives,” DDB Philippines added.

It also said that the audio-visual presentation was produced “at its own expense” and that “no public funds were released.”

the controversial campaign video has already been taken down on social media and other platforms.

Nevertheless, the incident has captured global attention, with a reddit user sharing a screengrab of a post compiling some reports of foreign news outlets and other websites about the criticisms and its aftermath.

Among those that reported the probe into the tourism campaign were BBC News, Kuwait Times and the independent BBC’s headline reads: “Apology after Philippines tourism video uses foreign footage”.

Kuwait Times also featured a social media post that reported on the incident. The independent likewise wrote about the flak with the headline:

“Philippines tourism video used pictures of ‘rice terraces in Indonesia and dunes in Brazil’” other news outlets picked up the report via newswire Agence france-Presse. these were Pakistan paper The international News middle east paper The National, singapore paper The Straits Times, Australia broadcaster ABC, hong Kong broadcaster rthK, and swiss french-language paper Le Matin, among others.

filipinos found the incident “embarrassing.”

“Kahihiyan,” a reddit user commented about the compilation of foreign reports.

“Another kahihiyan of the Philippines,” another redditor reacted. the launch of a new tourism campaign is in line with President ferdinand marcos Jr.‘s pronouncement during his first state of the Nation Address, when he mentioned his vision to enhance the filipino brand of tourism especially as the world recovers from the CoVID-19 pandemic.

It is also part of the government’s initiative to make the Philippines a “tourism powerhouse” in southeast Asia, in accordance with the National tourism Development Plan for 2023 to 2028. n

Lawyers group, PH Embassy agree to...

in the Philippines, and consular assistance to filipino Americans.

NfALA is an organization

composed of young filipino American legal professionals who are “advocating for justice, civil rights, and equal

opportunity for the filipino American community”, according to its website www.nfala.com. (inquirer.net)

As low-nicotine cigarettes hit the market, anti-smoking groups press for wider standard

by Don Thompson KFF Health News

the idea seems simple enough. Preserve all the rituals of smoking: Light up a cigarette, inhale the smoke, including the nasty stuff that can kill you, and exhale. But remove most of the nicotine, the chemical that makes tobacco so darn hard to quit, to help smokers smoke less.

the food and Drug Administration has been contemplating that strategy for at least six years as one way to make it easier for smokers to cut back, if not quit

entirely. Less than two years ago, it authorized 22nd Century Group, a publicly traded plant biotech company based in Buffalo, New York, to advertise its proprietary low-nicotine cigarettes as modified-risk tobacco products. Now, the first authorized cigarettes with 95% less nicotine than traditional smokes are coming to California, florida, and texas in early July, after a year of test-marketing in Illinois and Colorado. It’s part of an aggressive rollout by 22nd Century that, by year’s end, could bring its products to 18 states — markets that together account for more than half of U.s. cigarette

sales. But anti-smoking groups oppose greenlighting 22nd Century’s products. Instead, they urge federal regulators to expand on their original plan of setting a low-nicotine standard for all combustible cigarettes to make them minimally or nonaddictive. they expect the fDA to take the next step in that industrywide regulatory process as early as this fall.

“Unless and until there is a categorywide requirement that nicotine goes down to low, nonaddictive levels, this is not going to make a difference,” said

What the US Supreme Court ban on...

PAGE 1

test scores and extracurricular activities.

the goal of race-conscious admissions policies is to increase student diversity in order to enhance the educational experience for all students. schools also employ recruitment programs and scholarship opportunities intended to boost diversity, but the supreme Court litigation was focused on admissions.

Which schools consider race?

While many schools do not disclose details about their admissions processes, taking race into account is more common among selective schools that turn down most of their applicants.

In a 2019 survey by the National Association for College Admission Counseling, about a quarter of schools said race had a “considerable” or “moderate” influence on admissions, while more than half reported that race played no role whatsoever.

Nine states have banned the use of race in admissions policies at public colleges and universities: Arizona, California, florida, Idaho, michigan, Nebraska, New hampshire, oklahoma and Washington.

What is the current litigation about?

the supreme Court decided two cases brought by students for fair Admissions, a group headed by edward Blum, a conservative legal strategist who has spent

years fighting affirmative action.

one case contended that harvard’s admissions policy unlawfully discriminates against Asian American applicants. the other asserted that the University of North Carolina unlawfully discriminates against white and Asian American applicants. the schools rejected those claims, saying race is determinative in only a small number of cases and that barring the practice would result in a significant drop in the number of minority students on campus.

How has the supreme court ruled in the past?

Before thursday, the court had largely upheld race-conscious admissions for decades, though not without limits.

A divided supreme Court took up the issue in the landmark 1978 case, regents of the University of California v. Bakke, after schools began using affirmative action in response to the Civil rights era to correct the effects of racial segregation. the swing vote, Justice Lewis Powell, ruled that schools could not use affirmative action to rectify past racial discrimination and struck down the university’s practice of setting aside a certain number of spots for minorities.

Nevertheless, Powell found that increasing campus diversity was a “compelling interest” because students of all races – not just minorities – would receive a better education if exposed to

different viewpoints. Powell ruled that schools could weigh race in admissions as long as it remained only one factor among many. In 2003, the court struck down the University of michigan’s use of a system that awarded “points” to minority applicants as going too far, but affirmed Bakke’s central finding that schools could use race as one of several admission factors. the court in 2016 again upheld race-conscious admissions in a challenge backed by Blum to University of texas policies. But the court has moved sharply to the right since then, with six conservative justices now and only three liberals. What will colleges do in response?

the decision on thursday will force elite colleges and universities to revamp their policies and search for new ways to ensure diversity in their student populations. many schools have said other measures would not be as effective, resulting in fewer minority students on campuses. In briefs filed with the supreme Court, the University of California and the University of michigan –top public college systems from states that have outlawed raceconscious admissions – said they have spent hundreds of millions of dollars on alternative programs intended to improve diversity, but that those efforts have fallen far short of goals. (inquirer.net)

As low-nicotine cigarettes hit the market...

erika sward, a spokesperson for the American Lung Association. major tobacco companies Altria, r.J. reynolds, and ItG Brands did not respond to requests for comment.

Cigarette smoking is estimated to cause more than 480,000 deaths a year in the U.s., including from secondhand smoke, and contributes to tobacco use being the leading preventable cause of death nationally. In 2018, then-fDA Commissioner scott Gottlieb wrote that setting a maximum nicotine level “could result in more than 8 million fewer tobacco-caused deaths through the end of the century – an undeniable public health benefit.”

the fDA reasoned that people would collectively smoke fewer cigarettes and have less exposure to the deadly toxins that are still present in low-nicotine cigarettes.

Vice President Sara Duterte congratulates...

Duterte cited the marcos administration’s “aggressive” economic policies and its prioritization of job creation and poverty alleviation. she also lauded the marcos administration for its strong support to the sectors of agriculture, fishery and labor and for various infrastructure projects.

Duterte, the concurrent education secretary, likewise commended the marcos administration’s efforts to improve the quality of education as well as health services and strengthen foreign relations with various countries. the office of the Vice President and the Department of education are thankful to our President for his support to our programs for all our citizens and the filipino youth,” Duterte said. marcos and Duterte, running mates during the may 9, 2022 elections, both marked their first year in office on friday, June 30. Duterte, meanwhile, urged the filipino people to support the marcos administration, in order for it to fulfill its goals for the country.

“I hope that we can strengthen our unity and use it as a weapon to overcome all the future challenges that we will be facing as one country,” Duterte said. on the other hand, rep. Gabriel Bordado Jr. – a close ally of marcos’ political rival

Leni robredo and stalwart of the opposition Liberal Party – also lauded marcos for the “country’s economic growth which economic managers recently projected would be the highest in southeast Asia for 2023 at 6.0 percent.”

In a press statement, the senior Bicolano legislator, now on his third and last term, said he hopes the “economic growth could be sustained to provide filipinos respite from the impact of the pandemic.”

At the same time, Bordado urged the chief executive to “focus on improving the agriculture sector” after marcos himself admitted that he failed in pursuing reforms as the secretary of agriculture, in a concurrent capacity.

“our economy will remain unstable for as long as food security is not achieved. We can only stabilize commodity prices if problems in the agricultural sector are properly addressed,” he said. the opposition legislator nevertheless suggested there is a “need to consolidate the very fragmented agricultural sector and put in more programs to help farmers adapt to modern technology in improving yield.”

meanwhile, Cavite rep. elpidio Barzaga Jr., a stalwart of the National Unity Party and veteran administration legislator, heaped praises on marcos for doing an

“impressive job in his first year in office, providing the country with a steady and reliable leadership in the face of difficult challenges.”

“the president buckled down to work and took the bull by the horns, so to speak,” he said in a statement sent to house reporters.

Barzaga said the chief executive was also able to restore decency in public office, pointing out that he “has always comported himself with dignity, exuding confidence.”

the Cavite congressman said the president has also helped the country regain respect in the international community, especially since he, being a marcos, is a household name.

he said the chief executive promoted the country as an investment destination in his foreign trips, where he also forged closer diplomatic and economic ties with other nations, especially the U.s marcos had not presented to the media a detailed platform during the campaign period and opted to skip several presidential debates. he instead reiterated the importance of uniting the country, including the people in government regardless of their political affiliation.

marcos also promised to lower the price of rice to P20 per kilo as well as address poverty and hunger. (With reports from Delon Porcalla)

22nd Century says it used a patent-protected process to control nicotine biosynthesis in the tobacco plant, enabling it to create a pack of cigarettes with about as much nicotine as one marlboro. It says generally that it uses “modern plant breeding technologies, including genetic engineering, gene-editing, and molecular breeding.”

Keeping 5% of the nicotine is enough to prevent smokers from seeking more to satisfy their craving, said John miller, president of 22nd Century’s smoking division. there’s just enough in there that your brain thinks it’s getting it, but it’s not,” miller said. “that was really one of the reasons we got to these levels of nicotine, is because you don’t have that additional smoking.”

miller said the low-nicotine cigarettes can help some smokers cut back or quit, perhaps in conjunction with a nicotine patch or gum, when they’ve tried and failed with other stop-smoking programs.

Campaign for tobacco-free Kids President matthew L. myers supports the development of an industrywide low-nicotine standard, saying the concept would work only if consumers no longer had the alternative of a higher-nicotine cigarette.

“the concern with a product that’s still addictive, but delivers low levels of nicotine, in fact is that consumers will smoke more, because the evidence shows that somebody who’s addicted will

smoke enough to satisfy their craving,” myers said.

Both the fDA and antismoking groups cited studies that found lower levels of nicotine don’t prompt smokers to smoke more to reach the same nicotine levels. But those studies assumed smokers wouldn’t have a highnicotine alternative, anti-smoking groups and researchers said.

Allowing low-nicotine cigarettes while conventional cigarettes remain available may be a public health detriment if they discourage smokers from quitting entirely or encourage others to start smoking because they think there’s a safe way to experiment with cigarettes, the Campaign for tobacco-free Kids and several health associations wrote in a letter urging the fDA to reverse its 22nd Century decision.

22nd Century’s cigarettes are still dangerous, and consumers must substantially cut back or quit smoking to get health advantages. But anti-smoking groups fear many smokers won’t understand that.

“If people are looking at this as a magic bullet and are still continuing their tobacco use, they are not doing anything to change their risk,” said sward, of the lung association.

Anti-smoking groups particularly object to allowing 22nd Century to market menthol cigarettes even as the fDA is considering outlawing such cigarettes nationwide.

fDA spokesperson Abby Capobianco confirmed that 22nd Century has the only fDAauthorized low-nicotine cigarette but did not respond to requests for comment on the fDA’s plans for regulating nicotine in cigarettes.

California already outlaws menthol flavoring, and miller said the company won’t challenge

that state’s ban and won’t sell its menthol cigarettes in California.

But miller hopes the company will eventually win an exemption from any federal ban, in part, he said, because more than half of menthol smokers are likely to switch to conventional cigarettes. that’s not what the fDA wants to happen,” miller said. they need an offramp for these menthol smokers and ours is obviously the natural.”

the company is expanding into California, florida, and texas because of the nation-leading size of their smoking populations. It previously announced plans to also begin selling its very lownicotine, or VLN, cigarettes this year in Arizona, New mexico, and Utah, and it may move into 10 more states.

the company is prioritizing seven states that offer tax incentives for products the fDA has said reduce tobacco risk, believing its cigarettes will have a price advantage over others in Colorado, Connecticut, Kentucky, michigan, North Carolina, New mexico, and Utah. miller said the company may lobby California lawmakers to add similar incentives as part of the state’s extensive efforts to discourage smoking, which still addicts 10% of its residents.

miller declined to disclose the company’s market share from the two test states but said sales were above expectations.

“If we can get this to the level of, like, a nonalcoholic beer — you know, 3% to 5% of the category — it’s a game changer,” miller said. “We know that there’s a latent demand in the market for this product.”

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

QUALITY FURNITURES. (From left) Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Catelino bin Anthony, Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines, Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee and Miss Charm Philippines 2024 Krishnah Gravidez view one of the exhibitor booths showing furniture made of rattan, wood and solihiya at the Philippine Furniture Furnishings Market at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City on Wednesday, July 5. The PFFM is a three-day international trade and business-to-business event showcasing top-quality furniture and home decor. PNA photo by Avito Dalan

Pexels.com photo by cottonbro studio:

Dateline PhiliPPines

Marcos gains in foreign policy lauded

by Kristina Maralit ManilaTimes.net

PresIDeNt ferdinand marcos

Jr. has made meaningful gains in terms of directing the government's foreign policy, carrying out important government programs and ensuring media freedom, a political analyst observed.

University of santo tomas political science professor froilan Calilung made the assessment as the President capped his first year in office.

"I can say that one of the president's strongest suits, politically speaking, was the fact that he was able to come up with a very definite, very clear and specific direction when it comes to his foreign policy," Calilung, who is also the director of the Local Government Development Institute, said in a briefing over the weekend.

"Politically speaking, this is one thing that I think will really put further, you know, the president in a very good position because as we can see, the movement of our foreign policy was different under then-President [rodrigo] Duterte," he said.

Under marcos' watch, the Philippines is pivoting toward the United states, attesting to his decisiveness to pave his own path when it comes to foreign relations, Calilung said.

In terms of passing key legislative measures, Calilung pointed out the need for the president to be more assertive in pushing his agenda given that his allies make up the supermajority in Congress.

But he added: "What's lacking in legislation, as I see it, is being filled up with programs. there are individual programs that are actually being put in place such as

the Kadiwa rolling stores and eGov Ph so, I think they are somewhat being sustained." Calilung also lauded the administration's unceasing efforts to uphold the rule of law amid some challenges.

this is particularly crucial, he stressed, since it will help entice foreign investors to the country which would not happen if there is a perceived breakdown in the peace and order situation, he said. Calilung, likewise, underscored marcos' ability to build good relations with the press.

"I think this is something that the president is also very keen on attaining — not to mention also, politically, he also charted a good path in terms of the relationship between the president and the media," he said. "Unlike in the past administration where we felt the animosity, right now the media is a lot freer," he added. n

OVP bypassed procurement laws in rush to build satellite offices – COA

mANILA — the office of the Vice President did not fully comply with the country's procurement laws when it purchased new equipment for its satellite offices in 2022, the Commission on Audit has found.

In its 2022 audit report on the oVP, state auditors flagged the oVP’s procurement of P668,197worth of equipment, which was paid through reimbursement of officials' personal cash. the oVP resorted to making purchases through reimbursement due to its decision to immediately open its satellite offices even if it did not yet have enough equipment to operate, CoA noted.

“As per inquiry, the immediate establishment of (satellite offices) were made due to management’s intention to immediately expand services offered by oVP to various provinces. however, controls to ensure that government resources were utilized as intended and prevented from loss should also be considered,” the report stated.

Although state auditors noted that the oVP purchased items with the lowest price in the market, its failure to comply with republic Act 9184 and its implementing guidelines “defeats the purpose

of the Procurement Law, which is to standardize and to improve transparency in the procurement process.”

In response to state auditors' comments, the oVP said that its purchases were done through reimbursement because of the immediate need to have the satellite offices ready with equipment.

“Due to the time constraints imposed by rA No. 9184, the Procurement Unit was unable to process requests at the time of opening of the (satellite offices) on July 1, 2022,” the oVP said in the audit report.

“It was agreed during the discussion meeting with the

June 8, 2023

Clar k County Fire Department

FIRE PREVENTION BUREAU

4701 W. Russell Road • Las Vegas, NV 89118 John Steinbeck, Fire Chief Kelly Blackmon, Sr. Deputy Fire Chief/Fire Marshal Danny Horvat, Assistant Fire Chief • Wayne Dailey, Assistant Fire Chief

PATALASTAS SA PUBLIKO

Mga Mungkahi’ng Pagbabago sa Kodigo ng Lalawigan ng Clark

Tungkol sa: Titulo 13, Kabanata 13.04

Mangyaring bigya’ng pansin na ang isang panuntunan ay iminumungkahi ng Lupon ng mga Komisyonero ng Lalawigan sa Lalawigan ng Clark upang susugan ang Titulo 13, Kabanata 13.04 ng Kodigo ng Lalawigan ng Clark at ang mga kailangan ng pamahaya’ng pang-wisik sa sunog sa pamamagitan ng pag-alis sa 5,000 kwadrado’ng talampakan sa bungad; pag-alis ng kinakailangan upang mapataas ang NFPA 13R sistema ng pang-wisik sa sunog; susugan ang molde upang ipakita ang mga kinakailangan para sa hindi pangkaraniwa’ng sistema ng pang-wisik sa sunog sa pamahayan; idagdag ang kinakailangang ikabit sa kisame’ng mahigit 24 talampakan; susugan ang plano ng daho’ng dagdag ng sibil na pagpapaunlad upang madagdagan ang pinaka-mahaba’ng haba ng kalye sa 600 talampakan; at pagbibigay sa iba pang mga bagay na maayos na nauugnay dito tulad ng sumusunod:

13.04.090 - Susugan ang kinakailangan para sa pagtataas ng pang-wisik sa sunog

13.04.115 - Tanggalin ang kinakailangan na ang lawak ng tirahan ay lagpas sa 5,000 kwadrado talampakan

13.04.330 - Tanggalin ang Seksyon 22.38 ng NFPA 13

13.04.340 - Tanggalin at palitan ang Seksyon 8.4 ng NFPA 13D

13.04.340 - Idagdag ang Kung Saan Kinakailangan at Pagbubukod

13.04.340 - Idagdag ang mga kinakailangan ng pang-wisik sa sunog ayon sa taas ng kisame

13.04.340 - Idagdag ang Kinakailangan ng Sistema ng Presyon at pagbubukod

13.04.350 - Tanggalin ang Seksyon 7.5 ng NFPA 13R

13.04.520 - Susugan ang haba nang wala nang papasuka’ng kalye

Ang kopya ng iminungkahi’ng panuntunan ay kalakip dito at maaari ding marepaso sa: https://www.clarkcountynv.gov/government/departments/fire_department/fire_prevention_inspections/index.php Bago ang pagpapatibay sa iminungkahi’ng panuntunan, ang Lupon ng mga Komisyonero ng Lalawigan sa Lalawigan ng Clark ay inatasan ng NRS 237.080 na gumawa ng isang pinagsama-sama’ng pagsisikap upang matukoy kung ang panukala’ng panuntunan ay magpapataw ng isang direkto at malaki’ng pasanin sa ekonomiya nang isang negosyo o direkto’ng paghihigpitan ang pagbuo, pagpapatakbo o pagpapalawak ng isang negosyo. Dahil dito, ang mga samahan sa pangangalakal, may-ari at mga opisyal ng mga negosyo na malamang na maapektuhan ng iminungkahi’ng panuntunan na ito, at ang iba pang interesado’ng mga tao ay kinakailanga’ng patalastasan at bigyan ng pagkakataon na magsumite ng mga komento, datos, o argumento sa Lalawigan tungkol sa kung ang iminungkahi’ng panuntunan ay:

a) Magpapataw ng isang direkto at malaki’ng pasanin sa ekonomiya nang isang negosyo; o

b) Direkto’ng paghihigpitan ang pagbuo, pagpapatakbo o pagpapalawak ng isang negosyo. Ang mga komento ay kailanga’ng isumite nang hindi lalampas sa 5:30 n.h.sa July 6, 2023 (ilagay ang petsa dito) tulad ng sumusunod:

Sa pamamagitan ng Pagdadala sa:

Kagawaran ng Sunog sa Lalawigan ng Clark - Kawanihan ng Pag-iwas sa Sunog

Attn: Sarah Stevens, Sekretarya Administrado

4701 W. Russell Road, Las Vegas, NV 89118

Lunes hanggang Huwebes mula 7:30 n.u hanggang 5:30 n.h.

Sa Pamamagitan ng Koreo sa:

Kagawaran ng Sunog sa Lalawigan ng Clark - Kawanihan ng Pag-iwas sa Sunog

Attn: Sarah Stevens, Sekretarya Administrado

4701 W. Russell Road, Las Vegas, NV 89118

Sa pamamagitan ng email sa: SHS@ClarkCountynv.gov

Sa paksimile sa: (702) 678-5220

Administrative and financial services office Group heads that reimbursement would be the best option to address the immediate need,” they added.

the oVP in 2022 launched satellite offices in several regions to expand the delivery of its services, particularly its medical, hospitalization and burial assistance.

these satellite offices were launched July 1, 2022 — the first day of Vice President sara Duterte’s term.

the oVP also said in the audit report that it would comply with the provisions of the Procurement Act in its future purchases. (Philstar.com)

Ang isang kopya ng iminungkahi’ng panuntunan ay makikita din para suriin sa: https://www.clarkcountynv.gov/government/departments/fire_department/fire_prevention_inspections/index.php at

Kagawaran ng Sunog sa Lalawigan ng Clark

Lobi sa Una’ng Palapag 575 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89119

Lunes hanggang Huwebes mula 7:30 n.u. hanggang 5:30 n.h.

Lalawigan ng Clark Kagawaran ng Sunog - Kawanihan ng Pag-iwas sa Sunog

Lobi ng Kustomer 4701 W. Russell Road, Las Vegas, NV 89118

Lunes hanggang Huwebes mula 7:30 n.u. hanggang 5:30 n.h.

Taos puso, JOHN STEINBECK Hepe sa Sunog

This photo shows the OVP Satellite Office located in Escario Central in Camputhaw, Cebu City. Facebook/@Inday Sara Duterte

Unlovable start

This advertising campaign is off to an unlovable start. The only positive thing about the controversy that erupted over the “rebranded” and enhanced Philippine tourism campaign is that the contract with the advertising firm is being scrapped.

With Doyle, Dane and Bernbach Philippines publicly acknowledging its mistake and apologizing for it, the Department of tourism announced on monday, July 3 that it was ending its contract with the advertising agency. the Dot also stressed that no money had been paid to DDB so far for what was supposed to be a P49-million deal. thanks to filipino blogger sass rogando sasot, portions of the “Love the Philippines” tourism campaign video created by DDB and unveiled at the launch on June 27 were verified to have been lifted from stock footage. Worse, the video files featured destinations not in the Philippines but in countries including Indonesia, thailand, the United Arab emirates and switzerland.

DDB has apologized for the “unfortunate oversight” even as it explained that the use of stock footage is standard practice in producing mood videos for advertising. surely more care is needed when an ad is promoting tourism attractions in a particular country. DDB admitted that the use of foreign stock footage for a campaign urging the world to “love the Philippines” was “highly

Sketches

the U.s. military facilities being set up in Northern Luzon, according to Philippine officials, are meant to enhance the Philippines’ defense capability, and will not be used for offensive operations against China.

Philippine officials have also stressed that manila does not intend to meddle in the issues between China and taiwan, considered a renegade province by Beijing.

the sites, to be developed by the U.s. under the enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (eDCA) between the treaty allies, were identified by the Armed forces of the Philippines “based on the requirements for strategic basing and development of the AfP (and) were not U.s.dictated,” according to our National security Council.

Defense officials have said the eDCA sites will also facilitate assistance to approximately 150,000 filipinos working in taiwan in case tension escalates between the self-ruled island and China.

some quarters have raised concern that the additional eDCA sites in Cagayan – at the Camilo osias Naval Base and

inappropriate.”

It’s not just the video that has been found to be unoriginal. Netizens have also pointed out that in 2021, “Love Cyprus” was launched to promote tourism in that island country. But it’s still unclear if the “Love the Philippines” slogan will be retained. In this embarrassing issue, DDB is not the only one with egg on its face; even the Philippines has been hit. the Dot, expressing solidarity with filipinos in “outrage and disappointment,” said originality in the tourism campaign materials was required under the contract with the DDB. With the company’s “abject failure” to meet this requirement, the Dot says it can terminate the contract. While the government sifts through the ashes of this deal, it should work on the product that it wants the world to love. It can start at the country’s premier gateway, the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, along with the ongoing flight delays and cancellations on local carriers. the country is blessed with several of the world’s best tourism attractions. making the country a top destination, however, requires major improvements

Lal-lo Airport – are magnets for attacks on the Philippines in case China makes good on its threat to retake taiwan by force.

But being a treaty ally of the U.s., wouldn’t the Philippines be a natural target anyway in case armed conflict erupts between the Americans and Chinese? mutual” is the operative word in the mutual Defense treaty, meaning both countries are committed to come to each other’s defense in case of attack. the initial reaction of China to the report about the four additional eDCA sites was to tell the Philippines to “unequivocally oppose” taiwan independence. equating the approval of the sites with support for taiwan independence was a big leap of logic, especially since the taiwanese themselves, according to officials, are not gung-ho about declaring independence from the mainland. the advice from the Chinese can also be considered interference in Philippine affairs.

In my interview last week with taiwanese foreign minister Joseph Wu at his office in taipei, he said public opinion surveys are conducted regularly by credible pollsters, asking their people about the policy they want to pursue on the issue of China. Wu said the consistent preference, according to the surveys, is to maintain the status

quo, rejecting Beijing’s condition that taipei must accept a “one country, two systems” model of unification.

“to us, we are not run by China. And the status quo is that taiwan is an autonomous state. taiwan runs by itself,” Wu told me.

“We have a president, publicly elected. We have a parliament, publicly elected as well, and we have a ministry of foreign Affairs, we have a ministry of National Defense, and we even have an independent currency note, which is the New taiwan dollar. And therefore, taiwan is not part of the ProC. this is obvious to everybody.”

If you need a visa to enter a particular place on this planet, it is generally deemed to be a country.

“We understand the subtlety and the problems associated with the Chinese claim of taiwan. And we don’t want to be a provocateur. We don’t want to offend anyone. We don’t want to cause any conflict in this region,” Wu said. “But… we want to safeguard the current status quo, which is in the best interest of all parties concerned.”

for years, the international community recognized the government led by Chiang Kaishek that relocated to taiwan in 1949 as the legitimate government of China.

It says a lot about what

in many aspects of travel. When foreigners being lured to the Philippines are asked – “what’s not to love?” – they should have a tough time giving an answer. (Philstar.com)

drives geopolitics that on oct. 25, 1971, the United Nations General Assembly withdrew its recognition of the republic of China, a.k.a. taiwan, and recognized the People’s republic of China as the only legitimate representative of China to the UN. When it comes to civil wars and other internal conflicts, it’s probably too complicated to make ideology drive acceptance by the international community. Instead, whoever emerges as the victor gets official recognition. even Afghanistan under the taliban remains a UN member. Democracy? human rights? tell that to the people of hong Kong, the model for China’s onecountry, two systems policy that it wants to impose on taiwan.

You’d think democracies, with all the preaching about universal human rights, would take a firmer stand based on ideology in this issue. Instead democracies seem happy to engage with authoritarian China (especially if their economies benefit from it) and ignore democratic taiwan.

Also, size matters, and possession is nine-tenths of the law. Between the 1.2 million Chinese who fled to taiwan in 1949 and the nearly 542 million who didn’t, plus the sheer land area of the mainland, I guess the UN didn’t think twice about kicking out taiwan and

recognizing the one-China policy. * * * to this day, taiwan cannot even get observer status in the UN or, crucially during the sArs outbreak and CoVID pandemic, in the World health organization. Who exclusion deprived taiwan of access to critical information when severe acute respiratory syndrome broke out in China’s Guangdong province in November 2002 and jumped overseas, raging through 2003. taiwan suffered the highest death toll from sArs, with 181 lives lost.

But the hard lessons the taiwanese learned from sArs are widely seen as the reason why taiwan had one of the best preventive responses when CoVID-19 leapt out of the Chinese city of Wuhan and spread sickness, death and economic devastation across the planet.

Being treated almost like an international pariah has also given the taiwanese a strong sense of national unity and drive to achieve. It is classified by the World Bank as a high-income economy, with its GDP per capita hitting U.s.$33,011 as of 2021 (it was $3,461 for the Philippines).

Last year, taiwan ranked sixth among 184 economies in the heritage foundation’s Index of economic freedom, and 15th among 190 as of December

Love to ‘Love the Philippines’

whalesharks & surfs of the Ph

2020 in the World Bank’s ease of Doing Business rankings. Among 63 economies assessed last year, taiwan placed seventh in the World Competitiveness Yearbook. Its open society is reflected in its ranking in the 2022 World Press freedom Index – 38th among 180 countries and territories, with the Philippines ranking 147th and China 175th (hong Kong plummeted from 68th to 148th).

Unfortunately for democratic, prosperous taiwan, if it suffers the same fate as hong Kong, the world will likely just look away. * * * CorreCtIoN: Due to travel rush, I inadvertently sent the unedited version of my previous column from taiwan. my apologies. this portion should have read:

the media congress tends to pick venues with press freedom issues, such as moscow in 2006 and south Africa under the controversial Jacob Zuma. In moscow, President Vladimir Putin was the keynote speaker. he made a show of being tolerant of dissent at the time, looking unfazed... (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.

PIQUeD by “pixel,” a furious Albay rep. Joey salceda is making hay on the rendition of Albay’s world famous mt. mayon in the freshly launched “Love the Philippines” tourism logo. salceda’s rants are like the furies coming out from the continuing pyroclastic emissions from one of the most active volcanoes in this part of the world.

Despite eruptions in the past, mt. mayon has been blessed by its beauty and iconic image among the world’s few perfectconed volcanoes. In fact, Albay’s mt. mayon has existing “sisterhood” partnership with mt. fuji of Japan for having the same iconic stature. It was salceda who on october 21, 2015 while he was Governor of Albay entered into this mt. mayon-mt. fuji Partnership Agreement.

No less than President ferdinand “Bongbong” marcos Jr. (PBBm) led the launching ceremonies last tuesday, June 27 during the 50th founding anniversary of the Department of

tourism (Dot). salceda’s raised hackles came about a day after seeing the newest country brand logo in very colorful and abstract arts depiction of key destination places, cultural festivities, the local popular flora and fauna, and food attractions all over the country. Now comes allegations that at least four scenes in the new country brand “are not fresh videos but stock footages.” And that supposedly, “Worse- Not shot IN the PhILIPPINes.”

In response posted in her facebook account sunday, July 2, Dot secretary Christina frasco announced she will look into the allegations going viral in social media. A lawyer by profession, sec. frasco claimed “no public funds” were paid to the questioned audio-visual presentations (AVP) shown during the country brand launch. the new country brand cost the Dot around P49 million in a contract won by DDB Philippines Inc. in a competitive public bidding. this agency designed and produced the AVP and the soon coming out three 60-second tV commercials on “Love the Philippines.”

In an open letter he posted in

his personal facebook account, salceda asked: “Dear sec. frasco – why no mayon in Dot Love the Philippines. And the whaleshark most likely in oslob, Cebu, so no Bicol? Sino po may pakana nito –No love for Albay, no love for Bicol. thank you na lang. Albay tourists will thrive without you. LoVe ALBAY! (sic).” the reference to whaleshark, or “butanding” that oslob lured away from its original habitat in sorsogon (also in Bicol region) was obviously a dig at the Dot chief who was previously the mayor of Liloan City in Cebu. salceda and frasco actually are common arch supporters of Vice President sara Duterte. frasco once served as the official spokesperson of the former Davao City mayor during the run for VP elections last year. salceda, on the other hand, supported fellow Bicolano presidential candidate ex-VP Leni robredo and pushed for the robredo-sara (ro-sa) tandem.

Quick to the rescue of his wife, Cebu Congressman Duke frasco responded in his own facebook account: “Dear Cong salceda, if you look closely, the over 50 notable mountains and volcanos of the Philippines are represented in Dot LoVe logo. As well as

Let’s CeLeBrAte, not hate! LoVe the Philippines! (sic).”

rep. frasco rebutted: “the initial video promoting the Ph gives the world a glimpse of the many reasons to Love the Philippines. Just like in any campaign, this ad campaign is not just for one day nor does it consist of just one singular video. opening salvo pa ni, Bai. Dili pa ni ang miting de avance (added with a smiling emoji). more to come! Keep calm and LoVe the Philippines”.

In facebook to facebook exchanges, salceda argued: mayon deserves better than a pixel in the logo where you need strained eyes to see it. mayon has been a National treasure. No sec. frasco, ask all your predecessors in Dot-mayon deserved better treatment. You failed Albay.”

Joining in the fray, rep. edcel Lagman, fellow Congressman from the first district of Albay, made public last friday, June 30 his support to sec. frasco. Lagman referred to the purported disenchantment of salceda was “essentially political soundbite.”

In an open letter to the Dot chief, Lagman wrote: the best argument against rep. salceda’s

parochial view on the supposed low priority accorded to the mayon Volcano is your resolve to address the lack of potable water supply to the mayon tourism Complex, including the newly renovated mayon skyline hotel (formerly mayon rest house), which was funded upon my initiative.”

salceda, who represents the second district of Albay countered: “No apologies for standing up for Albay, the people I represent.” for more accurate reference, salceda added, “the location of said mayon tourism Complex is inside the sixkilometer permanent danger zone.”

It was no sheer coincidence the filipino-British nurse may richell Cestina-Parsons, who injected the world’s first CoVID-19 vaccine, flew home last week and received a presidential citation from PBBm at malacañang last thursday, June 29. A year after receiving the prestigious George Cross award for gallantry during the pandemic, Parsons was featured in Philippine advertising blurb painted on London doubledecker buses: “We give the world our best. the Philippines.”

this was launched last

may while PBBm attended in London the coronation of King Charles III. It was seen, however, in negative light as promoting filipino professionals as labor exports. Initially, it was thought about as the new country branding of the Dot But Presidential Adviser on Creative Communications Paul soriano later claimed it was his brainchild project.

While our officials are fighting here over parochial issues of perceived slight or snub, our competitors in the region have been getting more tourists to go instead to their respective countries. As of end of June, the Dot estimated 2.67 million overseas tourists arrived in the country, 2.44 million of which were foreigners and the rest were returning overseas filipinos. Can love to “Love the Philippines” be the magic potion to grow our tourism numbers? hopefully, the post-pandemic “revenge travel” can kick up the numbers. (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.

EJ Obiena qualifies for Paris Olympics

by JunE navarro Inquirer.net

mANILA – eJ obiena just placed an early reservation for Paris. obiena became the first filipino to punch a ticket to the 2024 olympics after clearing the olympic standard of 5.82 meters at the Bauhaus Galan in stockholm, sweden. the world’s No. 3 vaulter hurdled the height on his second attempt just a day after the start of the olympic qualification season and eventually captured the silver medal behind world champion Armand Duplantis. Duplantis, the olympic champion and world-record holder, ruled the meet for the fifth straight time in front of his home fans with a 6.05 jump.

Ex-President Duterte cleared of misconduct

by neil Jayson servallos Philstar.com

mANILA — former President rodrigo Duterte has been acquitted by the supreme Court (sC) in a simple misconduct case involving the demolition of a canal project in Davao City when he was mayor in 2010. the project was initiated in 2006 by then Davao City first district representative Prospero Nograles, who filed the case before the office of the ombudsman. In a decision issued on friday, June 30, the sC affirmed the 2011 ruling of the Court of Appeals (CA), which overturned the ombudsman’s order suspending Duterte, then city

administrator Wendel Avisado, engineer Jose Gestuveo Jr. and legal officers elmer rano and melchor Quitain as well as the chief of the city’s drainage and maintenance unit, Yusop Jimlani, for six months. the sC denied the petition filed by the ombudsman and Nograles, who sought to overturn the CA’s decision. the sC said Duterte and the officials did not commit misconduct when they ordered the demolition of the project, which caused floods that “did not affect the safety of the community.”

Nograles sought the opinion of then justice secretary raul Gonzales, who said “the erection, construction, alteration, repair or

demolition of structure requires a permit from the building official of the place where the structure is located.”

In denying Nograles and the ombudsman’s appeal, the sC said that while the project was not a nuisance, it noted several provisions of the revised National Building Code’s implementing rules and regulations that “could not be complied with, since the structure was a public edifice, and the demolition was carried out with the participation of the Department of Public Works and highways.”

Duterte, who was running for vice mayor at the time, was suspended weeks before the 2010 elections. n

Filipino troops keep spirits high on ‘lonely island’

by FrancEs Mangosing Inquirer.net

mAVULIs IsLAND, Batanes — the Philippines’ front line in the north is a remote island made up of rocky cliffs that jut out of choppy waters adjacent to the Bashi Channel, the waterway that separates the country from taiwan.

A handful of sailors and marines deployed on mavulis call this tiny parcel of land a “lonely island,” on which they stand guard as the Philippines’ first responders should it get dragged into a conflict between China and the United states over taiwan, a self-ruled island claimed by Beijing.

But for now, the filipinos’ main enemy here — besides the rough terrain and harsh conditions — is the isolation.

for Petty officer first Class Jesse Belostrino, one of the troops assigned to mavulis, living in spartan conditions and under a constant threat of danger was part and parcel of what they had signed up for as soldiers.

“When we entered the service, we set aside our fears. We’re grateful for the trust to be sent here and do something for the country,” he told the inquirer Belostrino admitted struggling with loneliness at times. But “as a soldier, it’s normal to be far from one’s family. As a professional soldier, we only need to perform our duty, and we’re happy for the opportunity to be here,” he said. troops here rotate every month, but each shift could go on longer as a result of unpredictable weather. food and drinking water also pose a problem when resupply missions fall behind schedule. ships, after all, can’t come close to the rocky shores and the seas become treacherous during monsoon season. the intermittent internet

connection also makes communications to the headquarters and to their loved ones a challenge. But Belostrino said this was already being addressed by the military leadership.

Act of sovereignty

It was only in 2019 when the Philippines started occupying the country’s northernmost island— located some 140 kilometers from taiwan’s southern tip — as an act of sovereignty. A marine base and a fisherman’s shelter have been built to maintain the country’s presence here.

Belostrino said part of the troops’ job was to monitor commercial and military vessels passing through and report their movements back to headquarters. so far, they have not felt the tensions despite China’s increasing military activities around taiwan.

mavulis overlooks the Bashi Channel, a strategic waterway that is part of the Luzon strait and home to several undersea cables.

“It is a gateway between the south China sea and Pacific ocean. In a conflict scenario, both the U.s. and China need to establish sea control of the channel,” former Philippine Navy Vice Commander rommel ong told the inquirer such a choke point is crucial in case of war, he added.

Analysts say taiwan is a potential flashpoint in U.s.-China relations, with Washington as the island’s most important backer.

But concerns are mounting that Beijing may soon invade taipei and that manila would get caught in the crossfire or get involved as a party of a U.s.-led alliance.

Defending Batanes

In April, filipino troops trained with their American counterparts in defending the Batanes archipelago (where mavulis belongs) from potential aggressors.

Its proximity to taiwan and prevailing regional tensions make mavulis top of mind for the Philippine military leadership.

on June 26, the inquirer joined a visit by the Armed forces of the Philippines’ Northern Luzon Command (AfP Nolcom) to check on the conditions of the deployed troops.

the AfP prioritizes them and sees to it that they have everything. [We will provide them] everything in order for them to stay here and give their best,” said Nolcom deputy commander Commodore Karl Decapia.

“We are here to secure this part of the nation from all kinds of threats from the outside,” he added. “We have prepared a contingency plan for this. the AfP is ready.” n

Pal haugen Lillefosse of Norway placed third in 5.72m before three unsuccessful attempts at 5.82 during the stockholm leg of the prestigious 2023 Wanda Diamond League. obiena pushed it up to 5.95, but was unable to conquer the elevation after duplicating the feat he accomplished prior to the 2021 tokyo olympics.

Back then, obiena also became the first filipino qualifier to the olympics before the tokyo summer Games was postponed for a year due to the pandemic. n Ernest John Obiena Photo from Instagram/@@ernestobienapv

GOING BANANAS. Marisol Ationg, 49, sells saba bananas from San Mariano, Isabela at her stall in Commonwealth Market, Quezon City on Wednesday, July 5. The price of saba bananas ranges from PHP25 to PHP35 per kg., depending on the quality and size. PNA photo by Ben Briones

FRONT SEAT. Marines posted at remote Mavulis island some 140 kilometers from Taiwan say they are “happy for the opportunity to be here.” Inquirer.net photo

VEGAS&STYLE

by KrisTofer purnell Philstar.com

mANILA — Actress Dolly de Leon is treasuring her recent inclusion in the Academy of motion Picture Arts and sciences as a primary success for filipino artists.

the triangle of sadness" star was invited to join the Actors branch of the Academy last June, making her an eligible voter at the oscars beginning the 2024 ceremony.

Atasha Muhlach joins showbiz, shares parents Aga and Charlene’s biggest advice

by nathaliE toMada Philstar.com

“We have the next big star of showbiz.”

that’s how Viva big boss Vic del rosario described Atasha muhlach, one-half of the twins of celebrity couple Aga muhlach and Charlene Gonzalez, as she officially entered showbiz by signing up with Viva Artists Agency (VAA).

“It’s very heartwarming,” a beaming Atasha said in reaction to Boss Vic’s comment during a presscon on monday, July 3.

she said she’s very grateful that the Viva bosses saw a potential in her.

this is something that I’ve always wanted to do ever since I was 10 years old when I did (the musical play) sound of music. that’s when I realized that I really do love to perform. I love to sing,” she told The STAr when asked what made her decide to follow in her parents’ footsteps.

“But at first, it clashed with my school. I needed to focus on my studies first. It was a promise to my parents and to myself,” she added.

Now that the 21-year-old is completely done with schooling — she took up a Business course in the UK — she has finally pursued what she has always dreamt of doing.

“I just really want to work,” she said.

According to Atasha, a self-described “daddy’s girl,” her father has been nothing

but “supportive throughout this whole process,” adding that her parents are no stage parents. (In fact, they were not present at the launch.)

Although she admitted that her parents, particularly the former matinee idol, weren’t initially that keen at first.

“I would guess he (Aga) wasn’t as open because I was still in school. that was always a priority. Whenever I’m focused on something, I always try my best to make sure that I gave my all, like with school or my studies. so, for years, it was always school first. Now that it’s done, (he said) oK, you’re ready. Go, spread your wings and fly.”

Asked by The STAr about her parents’ words of advice for her as she now ventures into the entertainment business, she said, “Best advice of my parents would be always be yourself, always be kind, always be respectful. In any opportunity you get, like this, give your best and (again) just be yourself.”

her decision also has the support of her twin brother and “bestfriend” Andres, but she wouldn’t say if he’s also interested in entering showbiz. she will leave it up to him to express that. “We’ll see,” she said. there might be pressure being a muhlach but she’d rather view it as an inspiration to do well more than anything. speaking about the disadvantages and advantages of belonging to a showbiz clan, she said, the good side about it is that I

get advice from them. they’ve been in the industry for years. their advice means a lot to me.

“In terms of disadvantage, I wouldn’t say it is, I use it more of an inspiration because I really do admire them, their seriousness about work and their craft. If anything, it inspires me to, at least, do better.”

Atasha is excited to take on different projects — from singing to hosting to acting. “I don’t want to close my doors to anything,” she said. “I would like to try everything.”

she wants to remake her mom’s film Dyesebel if given the chance, sharing an anecdote that as a kid she really thought her mom was a mermaid.

But her first-ever project would be a single (“it’s a happy song,” she teased), which she will start working on before she leaves for the UK to attend her graduation.

In fact, she auditioned for Viva via a song performance, revealed Vincent del rosario, Viva Communications, Inc. president and Ceo

“

Siempre kinikilig yung buong Viva about it, but we never made kulit because Atasha’s priority was school,” said Vincent when they first learned that she was interested in signing up with Viva.

our dream for Atasha is to be a multimedia artist,” the Viva executive further said. “We will work at her pace. We will provide the best in the business for her.”

‘Bedridden’ Kris Aquino reunites with Josh, Bimby

by dEni aFinidad-bErnardo Philstar.com

mANILA — Kris Aquino’s sons Josh and Bimby returned to the Philippines just about a month ago after accompanying the actress and tV host in the United states for years for her autoimmune diseases treatments.

But just on sunday, July 2, the multimedia personality revealed on social media that her sons are back with her in Los Angeles to continue giving her support for her treatments.

According to her, after sending off her sons as they returned home, she has been missing them so much and had been feeling weaker without them, which is why she asked if they could return to the U.s. with her.

my pictures were ready to share- memorable moments of Kuya Josh & Bimb w/ their Tito Noy timed for his 2nd death anniversary, but each time I tried to edit, I kept crying- because I can never forget how much he hated when the 3 of us weren’t together,” she said.

she recalled that last June 24, she told youngest son Bimby about her lower back and joint pains and that she had difficulty walking.

“It was on June 24 LA time, making it sunday, June 25 in the Philippines Philippines is 15 hours ahead of LA) when I told Bimb the deep bone pain I felt in my joints & lower back was getting worse, walking was becoming harder because of my swollen right knee, and I needed him to please come back earlier.”

meanwhile, like in her defunct ABs-CBN game show “Game Ka Na Ba,” she asked eldest son Josh if he was “sure ka na ba” to

Kris Aquino welcoming her sons back to LA with her. Kris Aquino

rejoin her in the U.s., to which her son replied like a contestant in the show, “sure na.” since naka facetime, I asked Kuya kung gusto nyang sumama to visit mama in LA? Nagulat ako when he said ‘yes, mamasama ako with Bimby sa LA.’ I told Kuya to think about it. Nag facetime kami the next morning and I asked- what’s your decision, kuya? he said: mama, I’ll visit you in LA. I asked him sUre KA NA BA? Siguro tumatak na kay kuya, ang sagot nya: sUre NA.”

Although Kris initially sent her kids back home to give them a break from her treatments so they can again experience a “normal” life, she admitted that fighting her illness for them is hard without them.

“I wanted for Bimb to experience normal teenage life & kuya’s happy place is Alto, our family compound in tarlac… pero mahirap mag chemotherapy medication as part of my immunosuppressant therapy without the support system of family.”

At the press conference for the 2023 Cinemalaya Philippine Independent f ilm f estival (Cinemalaya), Dolly was asked about the significance of a filipino actor as a member of the Academy.

"It feels like finally we have a voice, kasi 'yun ang mundo na matagal na nating tina-try i-penetrate. I feel like maririnig na tayo ngayon," Dolly told select members of the press including Philstar.com. "Iilang artista lang nakapasok doon so mahalaga talaga."

the actress also gave updates about two of her upcoming projects, namely, "A Very Good Girl" with Kathryn Bernardo and "Nine Perfect s trangers" with Nicole Kidman. Dolly said the shoot for "A Very Good Girl" was 70% done and had only two weeks left. she praised Kathryn whose talent she even compared to that of National

Artist Nora Aunor.

she is supposed to fly out on August 29 to begin the shoot for "Nine Perfect s trangers," but its production may be affected because of the ongoing writers' strike in the United states.

"We are in solidarity with the writers there. hindi kami titigil until they get what they need and want," Dolly stressed.

In the second season of "Nine Perfect strangers," Dolly portrays an ex-nun who goes to a retreat house to find God again after turning her back on the Lord.

"Nangyayari ba ang sampalan sa Amerika? Parang hindi ata...

We have a lot of scenes together kasi of interactions with her patients," Dolly said of her

possible screentime with Nicole, who plays a psychiatrist. "Pero wala naman atang sampalan."

Dolly appears in two competing full-length films at this year's Cinemalaya. t hese are Carl Joseph Papa's "Iti mapupukaw (the missing)," the festival's first animated feature entry, with Carlo Aquino and Dustin Celestino's "Ang Duyan ng magiting" with Paolo o hara and Agot Isidro. Cinemalaya 2023 will take place at its new home, the Philippine International Convention Center, and three participating malls from August 4 to 13. It will be staged in a new venue while its former home, the Cultural Center of Philippines' main building, undergoes renovations.

is where I grew’: Korina Sanchez back as Kapamilya

by Jan milo severo Philstar.com

m ANILA — Award-winning journalist Korina s anchezroxas is back as a Kapamilya after inking a co-production deal with ABs-CBN for her news magazine and lifestyle show rated Korina.”

“I always knew na I was going to be back. I was never not a Kapamilya anyway. You can take the girl away from the birthplace, but you can't take the birthplace away from the girl. In this case, you can't take away the AB s -CBN in Korina because this is where I grew,” she said during the contract signing on Wednesday, July 5.

Korina also shared the reason why her show “rated Korina” stood the test of time.

t he thing about ' r ated Korina,' its longevity, is based on the fact that hindi kailanman tayo'y mawawalan ng kwentong totoo mula sa mga tunay na tao and I've always maintained, which was my very first campaign promoting the show

in ABs-CBN, that these are the big stories and small lives,” she explained.

Present at the contract signing were ABs-CBN Chairman mark

L. Lopez, AB s -CBN President and Chief executive officer Carlo

L. Katigbak, Chief o perating o fficer of Broadcast Cory V. Vidanes, o fficer-in-Charge of finance Group Vincent Paul o Piedad, and Global r esource Creative e xchange President and talent manager Girlie rodis.

Korina served as Chief Correspondent for the Integrated News and Current Affairs Division of AB s -CBN for over two decades. she was the face of some of ABs-CBN's past and present programs such as “ h oy Gising,” “Bandila,” “Balitang K,” “ r ated K” and “tV Patrol.”

As a news magazine and lifestyle show, “rated Korina” features inspiring stories of filipinos from all walks of life.

Mario Dumaual a pillar of entertainment news reporting — ABS-CBN

by Jan milo severo Philstar.com

After undergoing chemotherapy, Kris shared that she could hardly move.

“I’m allergic to all NsAIDs pain relievers, pain killers, and I have an adverse reaction to all steroids. Aamin ako w/ methotrexate + fasenra (my biological injectable, tapos na ko sa 1st cycle) ang feeling ko 3-4 days of extreme fatigue, chills, headaches, and everything has a metallic taste. Bedridden ako at halos ‘di makagalaw- sa lahat ng dumaan sa matinding chemotherapy- saludo ako sa tatag ninyo.

Nevertheless, despite being bedridden, she is now happy being bordered by her two giants on her bed.

“

Kuya & Bimb are my living reminders to not give up because they still need a healthier mama. ‘Pag mahal mo, hinding hindi ka susuko, itutuloy ang LABAN,” she declared. tonight I’ll sleep siksik in between my 2 giants. Muling nabuo kaming 3, thank you God for making me a very happy mama.”

mANILA — ABs-CBN released a statement saying they are "deeply saddened" for the passing of their veteran showbiz reporter mario Dumaual. In a statement released last night, the Kapamilya content creator described mario as a pillar of entertainment news reporting in the country.

"ABs-CBN and ABs-CBN News are deeply saddened with the passing of one of our veteran reporters, m ario Dumaual," it said.

"In the more than three decades that mario was part of the ABsCBN News team, he became a pillar of entertainment news reporting and an esteemed mentor to his colleagues.

"An excellent and passionate journalist, a loyal and dedicated friend, a devoted family man, mario leaves a lasting legacy to the industry. thank you, and farewell to our Kapamilya, mario Dumaual." mario passed away at the age of 64 years old. he suffered a heart attack last month and was hospitalized.

"We are devastated to announce the passing of mario Dumaual — Papa to his wife Cherie and children Luigi, miguel, maxine, William, and thessa; Wowo to his grandchildren sky, Alonzoe, and

tali; and Yayo to his siblings," one mario's family members posted on his facebook account.

m ario, who would have turned 65 on July 31, died at 8:01 a.m. on Wednesday, July 5 due to septic shock. he had been battling a severe fungal infection, a complication during his recovery from a heart attack. he was confined for a month at the Philippine heart Center.

"Papa was strong, he kept fighting on, overcoming the heart attack then a cardiac arrest. he would always say he wanted to go home because he missed us, his family. But the infection overwhelmed his body’s ability to recover.

"What comforts us is he knew

that we were always with him, waiting for him, and that home was wherever he felt our love. We also made it a point to let him know how loved he was by his friends in the industry and even kind strangers who have been offering prayers and help for his recovery.

"Papa was our rock, we depended much on him. But he also nurtured us to become strong and able and to be the best version of ourselves. Beyond us his family, we’d like to think he also left a legacy in entertainment journalism. he made us proud as mario Dumaual, the reporter, but ultimately more so as a devoted husband, father, and granddad. our family will share details of Papa’s wake in the coming days."

Atasha Muhlach is following in her parents’ footsteps, saying she has always been interested in showbiz since she was 10 years old. Philstar.com photo

Dolly De Leon attends the 95th Annual Academy Awards on March 12, 2023 in Hollywood, California. Philstar.com photo

Broadcaster Korina Sanchez Philstar.com photo

Dolly de Leon on becoming an Academy member, working with Kathryn Bernardo, Nicole Kidman

via Instagram, screenshots

Veteran showbiz reporter Mario Dumaual Philstar.com photo

‘This

FeatUreS

‘Ultimate biyahero’ Drew Arellano reveals dream destinations, next big adventures

by JErry donato Philstar.com

eVeN if he has been here, there and everywhere, the traveler in Drew Arellano knows there’s still a host of emerging destinations and unfolding stories to feature, as one may put it. this might come from places he is visiting for the first time or has set foot on before. his weekly GtV show, Biyahe ni Drew, carries on to present and document amazing travels, peppered with insightful and informative monologues.

Top UP alumna Leni Robredo keynotes 2023 reunion and convention of UP alumni in America

AttorNeY maria Leonor

“Leni” robredo, former vice president of the Philippines and chairperson and president of Angat Buhay, will be the keynote speaker of the 22nd Biennial Grand reunion and Convention (GrC), organized by the University of the Philippines Alumni Association in America (UPAAA).

this year’s theme of “engage, empower, excel” will also highlight other stellar speakers, a parade of jubilarians and the presentation of oblation Awards to Distinguished UP Alumni. the UPAAA GrC will take place on october 19-22, 2023, in New Brunswick, New Jersey.

Atty. robredo is a filipino lawyer and politician, who graduated from the University of the Philippines in Diliman with a degree of Bachelor of Arts in eco-

nomics in 1986. she was elected as the 14th vice president of the Philippines in 2016. she also has held different foreign, national, and local positions in the Philippines.

on July 1, 2022, Atty. robredo founded and launched Angat Buhay foundation as a nonprofit and non-governmental organization based in the Philippines. the foundation aims to continue the anti-poverty and pandemic response programs started during her term as vice president. Angat buhay is a tagalog term meaning “improve life’s condition or lift life.” the foundation is focused on four key areas: health, education, food security and disaster risk response.

UPAAA president and GrC overall chair Dr. Jun David stated that “we are so excited about this year’s event. We received

an overwhelming support from our sponsors, speakers both here in the U.s. and overseas, and the commitment of UPAAA board members.”

the Biennial GrC is organized for the purposes of networking, fellowship, knowledge exchange, and fundraising for UPAAA’s flagship initiative, the scholarship Program. this year’s event sponsors include megaworld International (Platinum) and Philippine National Bank New York (silver). media sponsors include Asian Journal, one Philippines texas, and Chicago VIA times. to register, sponsor and participate as jubilarians, please check the following link: https://www.eventbrite. com/e/up-alumni-associationin-america-grand-reunion-andconvention-2023-registration342022447347?aff=ebdssbdests earch.

“Actually, marami akong nakalimutang biyahe na gusto kong maalaala sa totoo lang (I have forgotten a lot of trips that I want to remember),” said Drew as a quick prologue to the question on his unforgettable trips in a recent virtual press conference. “We’ve been to many places, which are really beautiful. Because of the numerous places we’ve visited, your memory bank is already full, pero may pumapasok, may lumalabas din. I guess, yung naiisip ko ngayon, would be, (off the) top of my head, our initial feature of a part of Cebu, which is Kawasan falls. We did canyoneering.” the “nature gem” is located in Alegria, Cebu that allows visitors to do different activities as they explore a canyon. Drew and his team were among the first few that featured the go-to place. According to Drew, they had to do a three-to-four-hour canyoneering before reaching “the multi-tiered, super clear, blue falls” Kawasan, “a great tourist destination,” as he described it.

As a travel show host, Drew would like to do a feature on tawitawi, a place in the southernmost part of the Philippines. “I’ve never been there,” said he. “A good friend of mine went there already and I saw the videos, and it’s spectacular. We’ve never been there before.”

on a future trip with wife Iya Villania as a travel companion, Drew wants to visit the mountainous regions of europe.

“Kasi mahilig rin si misis sa adventure, eh. (for she is also into adventure). We love to do hikes,” said he, who tapes Biyahe ni Drew episodes on Wednesdays and thursdays. the remaining days of the week are spent with his wife and kids for quality time. this coming sunday, June 9, Biyahe ni Drew will air the second part of its 10th-anniversary special, with Iya as a guest cohost. the couple’s south Korean adventure, which premiered last week, will continue on. After that,

one of Drew’s next adventures will happen in Bali, Indonesia.

“Besides the international locations, we’re also, this is a surprise, because we’re gonna have surprise guests as well, which we’ve never done (for Biyahe ni Drew),” said he of what’s in the pipeline. “We did it (in the past for) Balikbayan (in its) first five years. But right now, we’re injecting special guests na rin along the way.”

the past decade has also seen Biyahe ni Drew, still a guide for travelers, as a platform for such advocacies as respecting local culture, responsible traveling, sustainable tourism and appreciating the people behind the tourism industry.

“We always try to feature a lot of segments, people, places that highlight and practice sustainability and with those, I think we are trying to be the medium, so that when we feature them, we’re supporting their cause,” said he. “When we support their cause, when we air them on tV, hopefully, a lot of viewers will learn from it. And they just don’t do travel, but they can actually do, you know, sustainable tourism.”

o n his being the ultimate biyahero, Drew said it is a blessing and an honor, “to host a travel show, any travel show and to host for this long. You know to do this show for this long and to experience so many beautiful places, eat so many good food, and meet, you know, interesting people along the way,” added he, who acknowledges the hard work of his team. “If I can do this for another 10 years, and that would be awesome.”

Angat Buhay chair and president Leni Robredo

Drew features the island paradise of Siargao in the show. Philstar.com photos

The GMA artist goes kayaking in Abra Kaparkan Falls.

SENIORS need less sleep studies show that seniors need the same amount of sleep as other adults (7-9 hours each night), although they tend to wake up earlier because they go to sleep earlier. A restful sleep is essential to health. those with impaired sleep might need a sleep study to rule in or out obstructive sleep Apnea (osA) which could effectively be managed with the use of a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) device, the gold standard of care for osA. Untreated, osA could lead to a host of illnesses, like high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, diabetes, and even cancer. hence, endangering longevity.

Kissing pets is safe

Kissing pets or allowing pets to kiss you is dangerous. Pets lick their anus and their saliva could have various bugs like salmonella, e. Coli, Clostridia and Campylobacteria which could cause intestinal diseases in humans.

People getting ill from licking (with) their pets results from oral contact with fecal residue in the pets’ mouth. obviously, allowing pets to lick your face is also unhealthy.

Shrimp-Vit C combo poisonous social media posts claiming eating shrimp and taking Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) leads to arsenic poisoning are false. this fake news, like countless others in social media, are irresponsible disinformation that could hurt people. the great potential of social media in benefiting mankind as a whole is there to be harnessed. Let’s all use this modern venue of social interaction to make our world, and our life, everyone’s life, better.

COVID-19 is a hoax

the one who posted this in social media must have been under the influence of a mind-altering condition called stupidity! other claims that exploded in social media included the following: Vaccines caused infertility; CoVID-19 was caused by 5G technology; the vaccines kill more people than they saved; masks activate the coronavirus; hydrochloroquine was effective against the virus; dangerous shortcut was taken in the development of the mrNA vaccines, and many others.

Cannabis cures cancer

Claims that cannabis cures cancer abound but scientific evidence points to the contrary. Cannabis does not cure cancer. Cannabis contains about 540

Fake medical info

chemical substances. the name

“marijuana” refers to parts of cannabis that contains tetrahydro cannabinol (thC). Cannabidiol (CBD) compound is found in marijuana. None of these compounds cure cancer. some studies even showed that thC may not be effective as a neuro-pain killer either.

Vaccines kill false. Vaccines in general, and CoVID-19 vaccines in particular, do not cause deaths, contrary to some fake news. fact-checking it, via sciCheck Digest and current available scientific data, reveals this: “Pre-school vaccines and other required vaccines have saved billions of lives over the past several decades. CoVID-19 vaccines, which have also saved billions, significantly reduced the risk of dying from sArs-CoV2 virus. most of the deaths occurred before the vaccines were developed. serious side-effects were rare. excess deaths among working-age adults in 2021-2022 were driven (caused) by CoVID-19 itself and other factors, not vaccination. faulty logic underlies claims that vaccines caused mass disability and economic harm.” some people had allergic reactions to the vaccines and successfully treated for them. But there was no evidence that the vaccines directly caused any deaths.

Metformin: A bad drug

french physician Jean sterne was the first to pursue the glucose-lowering effect of metformin for diabetes in 1957. this drug was first approved in Canada in 1972, and subsequently in the U.s. in 1995, for type 2 diabetes mellitus. there were more than 93 million prescriptions for metformin in the United states in 2020. this wonder drug has been used effectively for t2 diabetes, gestational diabetes, and polycystic ovary syndrome. there are various brand names for metformin. Besides these, metformin has been found to improve fertility among women having trouble getting pregnant, prevent complications in pregnancy, help control obesity, slow down cognitive decline, prevent age-related illnesses, and aid in slowing aging.

Definitely not a bad drug!

Ginger better than chemo only a malicious, ill-intentioned mind could spread such dangerous falsehood in any media, victimizing suffering cancer patients on chemo, confusing them to opt for ginger instead of chemo. that is criminal! other items touted as “better than chemo” are papaya leaf juice, okra, herbs, thyme, jasmine, etc. this could deprive an unsuspecting patient the possible benefits from chemo. While the freedom of speech is sacred and

Cox Back-To-School Fair dates announced for 2023

meadows Lane)

must be preserved for all, the first Amendment was not established to help promote lies and disinformation. there ought to be a law against purveyors of falsehood to hold them accountable and liable, and enforced to its fullest!

One cigarette a day is safe

A poison, no matter how minimal, is still a poison. one stick of cigarette a day will have the same harmful effects on the throat, lungs, and cardiovascular system. It might take the damage a longer time to develop but it is guaranteed to cause the injury eventually. If one is able to reduce this unhealthy (potentially deadly) habit to one stick a day, totally abstaining from smoking is evidently achievable.

Marijuana is not addictive

Against conventional wisdom, marijuana is addictive. As the tolerance to the substance becomes more intense, the amount required to feel the effect increases. there are many hooked on marijuana who find it hard to quit. the best is obviously not to start the unhealthy use of the drug for recreational purposes at all. Use of marijuana increases the risk for memory illness, stroke, heart and other diseases, anxiety, paranoia, depression. some of the health benefits of quitting marijuana are: Improvement in respiratory health; improved mental clarity and greater cognitive function; lesser vulnerability to mental health issues; better cardiac health; better relationship with family and friends.

* * *

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. He was a recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995. 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.

‘E.A.T.’ claims lead on July 1 TV ratings vs ‘It’s Showtime,’ ‘Eat Bulaga’

by anne pasaJol Inquirer.net

WIth its pilot episode on July 1, tVJ’s new noontime show “e.A.t.” reportedly claimed the highest average program rating among the local noontime shows that include “It’s showtime” and “eat Bulaga.” the tV ratings were released by tV5 network through its social media pages last sunday, July 2 , based on data from market research firm AGB Nielsen.

According to the Kapatid network, “e.A.t.” garnered 8.4% average program rating versus “eat Bulaga’s” 2.62% and “It’s showtime’s” total of 3.94%— 2.39% on GmA’s GtV channel, 1.28% on A2Z and 0.27 on Kapamilya Channel.

e.A.t.” also claimed the fifth spot on the list of top 10 tV programs with the highest ratings on

E.A.T. hosts

July 1, as per data from Nielsen Audience measurement, released by GmA Network through its Instagram page. the pilot episode of “e.A.t.” marked the return of tito sotto, Vic sotto, Joey de Leon (tVJ) and their fellow “legit Dabarkads” to national television. this came a

Cox Las Vegas is proud to announce its annual Cox Back-toschool fairs will be held over four consecutive saturdays starting saturday, July 15 and concluding on saturday, August 5. the event is sponsored by Clark County Credit Union. the Cox Back-to-school fair is the longest running, most visible school-readiness event in southern Nevada serving as a one-stop resource for parents and students to prepare for the 2023-24 school year. Cox Back-to-school Dates & Locations:

• The Boulevard, Saturday, July 15, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (3528 s maryland Pkwy.)

• The Galleria at Sunset, saturday, July 22, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (1300 W. sunset road in henderson)

• Meadows Mall, Saturday, July 29, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (4300

• Downtown Summerlin®, saturday, August 5, 9 am to 1 p.m. (2025 festival Plaza Drive) representatives from several divisions of the Clark County school District, CCsD, will be at each event along with more than 30 community agencies and organizations. Immunize Nevada will offer schoolrequired immunizations on site on July 15 at the Boulevard and July 29 at meadows mall. Click here to register for immunizations.

About Cox's Affordability Program

Cox is dedicated to ensuring digital equity for households of all incomes and economic statuses in our communities. Whether learning from home, working remotely or surfing the web, internet access is crucial for all children and adults. Cox offers several affordable internet programs to qualifying households to keep

our communities connected, in addition to digital literacy training and discounted PCs. to learn more about Cox's dedication to digital equity and explore affordable internet tiers, please visit cox.com/ digitalequity. About Cox Communications Cox Communications is committed to creating meaningful moments of human connection through technology. the largest private broadband company in America, we proudly serve seven million homes and businesses across 18 states. We're dedicated to empowering others to build a better future and celebrate diverse products, people, suppliers, communities and the characteristics that make each one unique. Cox Communications is the largest division of Cox enterprises, a family-owned business founded in 1898 by Governor James m Cox.

Vanessa Hudgens sizzles as Philippine tourism ambassador in July 2023 magazine cover

by KrisTofer purnell Philstar.com

m ANILA — Newly-minted global tourism ambassador for the Philippines and actress Vanessa hudgens is the latest cover model for tatler Philippines. the fashion magazine wanted to celebrate this July filipinos who are breaking boundaries and making their presence felt in their given fields, and it set its eyes on the filipino-American Vanessa. tatler joined Vanessa, her sister s tella, and their mother Gina as the h udgens ladies visited e l Nido, Palawan last m arch, days after she was designated her new role as a global tourism ambassador. for the cover photo, Vanessa wore a piña dress by Vania romoff and documented by celebrity photographer BJ Pascual. other outfits Vanessa wore to the el Nido shoot were a Dennis Lustico pink top, a Patty Ang sheer dress, a Boom sason swimsuit, a rajo Laurel crochet dress, and a hannah Adrias sarong.

Celebrity peers from the United states like Paris hilton, Ariana DeBose, s arah h yland, h aley reinhart, Alexandra shipp, Joe Pantoliano, melanie Lynskey, and high school musical" co-star monique Coleman all showered praises for Vanessa.

t he cover story revolved around an interview conducted by celebrated host Boy Abunda, who asked Vanessa her personal description of the Philippines.

"It's got a bit of everything. It's got a metropolitan city. It's got paradise. It's beautiful and

Vanessa Hudgens

eye-opening... It's got kindness,"

Vanessa said. "everybody is so warm and friendly. the people here are unique: I haven’t met anyone who seems to be having a bad day. t he hospitality is unmatched; it's a magical place."

Vanessa is set to take part in a f ilipino travel documentary directed by Paul soriano, who called the actress "super cool, chill, laidback and low-key."

Photo ftrom instagram/@vanessahudgens

t he actress also expressed optimism in coming back to the Philippines, whether to film a project or simply just visit again. m y time here has been incredible and special, but I need more time. the country is so big, and it has so much to offer. I'm a big nature girl, a big beach girl... there's just so much to do. I can't wait to come back," Vanessa ended.

Maja Salvador welcomes July as a blushing bride-to-be

by hannah mallorca Inquirer.net

mAJA salvador couldn’t hide her excitement for her upcoming wedding to fiancé rambo Nuñez this July, as she welcomed the month as a blissful bride-to-be.

sofia Pablo, empoy marquez, mJ Lastimosa, Jai Agpangan, and content creators Laureen Uy and Nicole Anderson expressed their excitement for the actress’ special day in the comments.

Instagram/@TVJ

month after the tV hosts’ controversial disengagement from tAPe, the production company behind “eat Bulaga.” meanwhile, “It’s showtime,” which previously held the noontime spot on tV5, also marked its launch on GmA’s GtV channel on July 1.

salvador took to her personal Instagram page on saturday, July 1, to share photos of herself wearing a white shift dress and what seemed to be a wedding veil. the actress was also seen kneeling on a white bed surrounded by white balloons and silver letter balloons spelling out the word “bride” in capital letters.

“hello JULY,” she said in the caption, while sharing an emoji of a bride.

fellow celebrities including maine mendoza, mavy Legaspi,

mendoza herself is reportedly tying the knot with her partner, actor-turned-politician Arjo Atayde, in the same month.

salvador’s camp disclosed to veteran host Boy Abunda that her wedding to Nuñez will take place in July 2023, although the couple remained mum about the details. she, however, celebrated her bachelorette party with her close friends back in April. to prepare for her wedding, the “Wildflower” star revealed at a press conference in may that she would take a break from heavy acting in teleseryes and films for the meantime. Maja Salvador

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Photo from Instagram/@maja