070723 - New York New Jersey Edition

DATELINE USA

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

Frasco says DOT will retain ‘Love the Philippines’ slogan

by ZacaRian SaRao Inquirer.net

MANILA — Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco on Wednesday, July 5 said that the country will continue to use the controversial

tourism slogan “Love the Philippines,” despite backlash from the public.

But the secretary did not go into details regarding the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) further plans in its tourism drive, she did, however, repeatedly mention ”Love the

Philippines” in her speech during the 2022 Philippine Tourism Satellite Accounts and Tourism Statistics Dissemination Forum.

“I think that is evident,” Frasco told reporters in an ambush interview when asked

MANILA — Chinese coast guard ships maneuvered dangerously close to two Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) ships supporting a Philippine Navy resupply mission in Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal in the West Philippine Sea last week, the latest of Beijing’s coercive actions in the hotly contested waterway.

“The Philippine Coast Guard is concerned about the behavior of the Chinese coast

by Ronnel W. Domingo Inquirer.net

MANILA — Inflation in the Philippines eased for the fifth consecutive month in June to 5.4 percent, the lowest in 13 months, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority.

This brought the average inflation rate in the first semester of the year to 7.2 percent.

The readout for June is better than the expectation of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), whose guess was 5.7 percent, and close to the low end of the BSP’s forecast range of 5.3 percent to 6.1 percent.

National Statistician Dennis Mapa said the downward pull on headline inflation was mainly from slower increases in prices

by Kathleen De Villa Inquirer.net

MANILA — Former Sen. Richard Gordon, who was also a tourism secretary, has pressed the Department of Tourism (DOT) to “recalibrate” the Philippines’ brand image following uproar over its use of stock footage from other countries in a promotional video intended to drum up interest for local travel spots.

In a statement on Monday, July 3 Gordon, who popularized the “Wow Philippines” campaign of the early 2000s, said the

Philippine Consulate General introduces e-payment for consular services

by momaR g. ViSaya AJPress

BEGINNING August 1, 2023, the Philippine Consulate General in New York will introduce an E-payment system, offering applicants the convenience of paying consular fees in advance online or on-site using credit or debit cards.

Consul General Senen Mangalile made this announcement as he addressed the local Fil-Am media

during the Consul General’s Media Hour on Monday, July 3. The system aims to provide more options for payment in addition to accepting cash and postal money orders. Consul General Mangalile highlighted that the online payment portal would particularly benefit applicants for civil registration services, as well as those seeking remote notarization for passport and visa applications.

GEARING UP. The House of Representatives logo is repainted inside the Batasan Complex in Quezon City on Monday, July 3. Congress is in the thick of preparations for the second State of the Nation Address of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on July 24, a Monday. PNA photo by Joan Bondoc

Chinese vessels again accused of ‘dangerous maneuvers’

‘Recalibrate’ or DDB fiasco will‘hurt’ PH brand, Gordon tells DOT

PH inflation further eased to 5.4% in June

TOO CLOSE FOR COMFORT. A China Coast Guard ship gets “dangerously close”— as the Philippine Coast Guard puts it— to a much smaller PCG vessel in the waters near Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal in the West Philippine Sea, in this photo taken on June 30. PCG photo

‘Recalibrate’ or DDB fiasco...

government “must rise and correct the mistake right away,” noting that tourism was “far too important” a sector to be jeopardized by the blunder.

The DOT, headed by Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, announced Monday, July 3 it was terminating its P49-million contract with the advertising agency DDB Group Philippines, which conceptualized the new “Love the Philippines” logo and slogan and later accepted blame for the improper use of clips of foreign tourist destinations.

But Gordon said DDB was too big a company to “overlook a mistake that big.”

“It is their duty to review and have everything checked or the mistake will bite you. More importantly, it will rabidly hurt the Philippines,” he said.

Gordon stressed the urgency of mitigating the “gargantuan” damage of the blunder to the country’s international image.

“We need to stop and focus,” he said.

The Philippine Red Cross chair made the remark on the same day the DOT announced it was scrapping its deal with DDB.

The ad agency on Sunday, July 2 said it was taking full responsibility for the lapse and would fully cooperate with the DOT in its investigation.

DDB sought to appease critics by saying the promotional material was “intended to be a mood video” and produced on its own initiative “to help pitch the slogan,” which replaced the previous administration’s “It’s more fun in the Philippines.”

Deciding it was best to part ways with DDB for the campaign, DOT cited its right to “proceed with termination proceedings against its contract with DDB.”

It would also “review standards of performance or lack thereof” as well as exercise its right to “forfeit performance security” if it deems necessary.

‘No payment’ doubted

The tourism department also pointed out that no payments had been made to the ad agency.

Gordon, however, cast

Frasco says DOT will retain ‘Love the...

if the DOT will maintain the said slogan.

It can be recalled that the DOT was embroiled in controversy during its release of the brand new “Love the Philippines” slogan after it received flak from the public who pointed out that it contained clips from Thailand, Indonesia, and United Arab Emirates.

doubt on pronouncements made by both parties that DDB did not receive any government funds for the campaign video.

“That is a business. DDB has to pay its account executives and others,” he said.

Based on the General Appropriations Act for 2023, an allocation of P1.27 billion was set aside for a “branding campaign program” itemized as a “special provision” under the DOT budget.

While Frasco said the terminated DDB deal was worth P49 million, a bid notice contract on the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System website showed that another P250 million had been budgeted for “consulting services for the integrated marketing campaign for the rebranding of the Philippine tourism brand.”

Also on Tuesday, July 4, Albay Rep. Joey Salceda, who was critical of the new tourism campaign for omitting the travel destinations in his home province, said he would not go so far as to ask for Frasco’s resignation despite the controversy.

The House ways and means panel chair said he wanted the conversation to “focus on ways forward,” given that Frasco seemed open to his recommendations.

“I asked her to fire the consultant. She did. I asked her to correct mistakes and investigate internally. She did. I asked her to be more inclusive with destinations featured. She did. When we resume session in Congress, we will seek facts. She is open. We can disagree without malice,” he said in a

statement.

He went on: “I will criticize openly, as needed. That’s my job as a legislator and a representative of my people. But after heated discussions, we must remain focused on solving problems.”

Salceda also pointed out that once the controversy cools down, the government will “still need to fix our airports, our accommodations, our accessibility.”

“So, no, I will not join calls for her to resign. Certainly not when a lot of it is premised on speculation. I focused on facts in my criticisms. I want to focus on facts, on the solutions,” he added.

Cebu backing Frasco, daughter of Cebu Gov. Gwen Garcia, also received the support of mayors and representatives from her home province.

Except for one mayor and another legislator, all mayors and lawmakers in Cebu issued a manifesto of support to Frasco.

In the manifesto, they claimed there was a “coordinated demolition job” against Frasco “to sabotage the great accomplishments of the DOT secretary.”

The manifesto, however, didn’t specify the demolition job and where it came from.

Among the 11 representatives who signed were her uncle, Pablo John Garcia of the third district, and her husband, Duke Frasco of the fifth district.

The manifesto was also signed by mayors of three independent cities, five component cities, and 44 municipalities.

—with reports from Julie M. Aurelio and Dale Israel in Cebu city n

The DOT has since terminated its contract with its partner advertising firm DDB Philippines, who, in turn, claimed that the said video DOT uploaded online was merely a “mood video” meant “to excite internal stakeholders.”

The controversy does not stop there as the agency also faced public outrage after it featured alleged sex trafficker Apollo Quiboloy on their Facebook page when the DOT thanked various tourism pages who expressed support for its new slogan.

The DOT previously assured the public that it would remain “fully

Chinese vessels again accused of...

guard vessels. It seems like they are putting in extra effort to stop us from reaching Ayungin Shoal,” PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela told the Inquirer on Tuesday, July 4.

The China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels with bow numbers 4203 and 5201 conducted “dangerous maneuvers” to block the PCG’s 44-meter vessels BRP Malapascua (MRRV4403) and BRP Malabrigo (MRRV-4402) from coming closer to the shoal, he said.

Ayungin Shoal, a submerged reef 194 kilometers off Palawan province, is within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, where the Navy maintains its presence through the decrepit BRP Sierra Madre. China, however, claims almost all of the South China Sea, including the West Philippine Sea.

The CCG 4203 “deliberately” cut off BRP Malabrigo at one point, forcing it to slow down to avoid a collision. The Chinese ship came within “less than 100 yards” of the PCG vessel while radio challenges were exchanged, Tarriela said.

2 Chinese warships

“In their attempts to hinder passage

of meat, fruits and sweets; gasoline, diesel and road transport fare, as well as electricity and home rent.

and discourage our PCG vessels from approaching Ayungin Shoal, the China Coast Guard vessels have flagrantly disregarded the Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea,” he added.

Six Chinese militia vessels were also spotted at the northeast entrance of the shoal as if to serve as a barricade to prevent the PCG ships from entering, Tarriela said. In addition, two People’s Liberation ArmyNavy (PLA-N) vessels were monitored in the vicinity of the shoal during the mission.

“The PCG is alarmed about the presence of two PLA-N vessels in Ayungin Shoal. It is particularly alarming because the Philippine Navy’s naval operation is solely intended for humanitarian purposes. Despite this, the Chinese are deploying their warships, which raises even greater concerns,” he said.

Moments later, another Chinese coast guard vessel with bow number 3103, which traveled from Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal showed up in the area and challenged the PCG ships on the radio, in an apparent attempt to act as a reinforcement, Tarriela said. (By Frances Mangosing/Inquirer.net) n

The latest readout — for June and for the semester

— is still above the BSP’s goal of shepherding inflation to 3 percent or a range of

2 percent to 4 percent, but the regulator expects the monthly print to ease into the target band by the fourth quarter this year. n

Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco

Photo from Facebook/DOT committed to developing and promoting the Philippines as a powerhouse

of natural wonders, culture and heritage, and a fount of warmth and hospitality.” n

Former Sen. Richard Gordon also once headed the Department of Tourism File photo from the Senate Public Relations and Information Bureau

Philippine Consulate General introduces e-payment for...

Mangalile emphasized that this decision was driven by the feedback received from applicants who expressed a desire for a more convenient and modern payment solution and an alternative payment option beyond cash.

“We hear you, and we have been working hard to respond to your clamor. And in a month’s time, we will be ready to offer you this cashless facility,” Consul General Mangalile said.

This move towards cashless transactions will require applicants for citizenship pre-acquisition or retention and document legalization to utilize the E-payment system.

The Consulate General has partnered with NMD Group Corporation, selected after a thorough review process by the bids and awards committee, to design and operate the E-payment system.

While a service fee will be charged by the service provider, Mangalile assured applicants that efforts were made to negotiate minimal fees comparable to those imposed by other establishments for debit or credit card transactions.

“We tried very hard to ensure that this will be a minimal fee, and the NMD group can attest to the fact that we drove a hard bargain. Although it is not a free service,

it is no different from the charge that everyone makes at other establishments whenever they use debit or credit cards or whenever they order something online,” he said.

Starting August 1, applicants who plan to pay through credit and debit cards will pay an additional $5, which includes the fee for the e-payment and the additional 3% gateway fee.

With this new system, the Consulate General aims to discourage no-shows by requiring E-payment at the time of appointment booking.

Statistics from 2020 revealed that 28% of dual citizenship applicants and a similar proportion

of document legalization applicants did not show up for their appointments. The numbers are worse for the first six months of 2023, where 1,129 applicants out of 3,501 appointments did not show up. By implementing the E-payment system, the Consulate General hopes to increase accountability and optimize service delivery.

“Following the policy of the Department of Foreign Affairs Office of Consular Affairs, when you book a passport appointment, you pay the passport fee using the online payment facility. We will do the same, and any amount paid in advance using the payment system will not be refundable,” Mangalile added.

Sidewalk

Consul General Mangalile also addressed the condition of the sidewalk in front of the Philippine Center building.

In 2016, a horizontal beam supporting the pavement broke, compromising the integrity of the sidewalk. Further assessment indicated that other steel beams supporting the sidewalk were in poor condition due to water and moisture penetration.

Although temporary measures were taken, a comprehensive rehabilitation plan is now being devised, which may involve the replacement and strengthening of concrete slabs and steel beams, as well as structural and waterproofing repairs.

“We recognize the need to address the condition of the sidewalk and are working on a comprehensive rehabilitation plan to ensure the safety and functionality of the area,” Mangalile said.

While some stopgap measures have been implemented, a comprehensive rehabilitation plan was approved by the Department of Foreign Affairs in 2020.

However, recent tests conducted to assess the presence of asbestos within the building confirmed its existence. Before proceeding with the rehabilitation, the necessary

asbestos abatement process must be undertaken.

Consul General Mangalile reassured the public that although the sidewalk is not in immediate danger of collapse, it is not in an ideal state either.

“The condition of the structure underneath that sidewalk is not ideal, although it is not in any imminent danger of collapse. It is also not perfectly stable either. So we are working on that problem,” he said. “Complications such as the finding of asbestos materials could hamper and delay the process and also raise the cost.”

The consulate is actively working with consultants and experts to address the issue promptly and safely.

Efforts have been made to communicate with the New York City government, urging them to relocate the bus stop adjacent to the sidewalk, considering its unstable condition. The consulate awaits a response and emphasizes its commitment to ensuring the safety of pedestrians and passers-by.

“We hope that through our consistent communication with them, they would understand we are, after all concerned about the safety of our occupants, applicants, and the passers-by,” Mangalile said. n

Consul General Senen Mangalile explains the e-payment system to be implemented for consular services beginning August 1. Looking on are Deputy Consul General Adrian Cruz, Norbell Domingo of NMD Group Corporation, and Vice Consul Paolo Mapula. AJPress Photo by Momar G. Visaya

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 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.

22nd Century says it used a patentprotected 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, geneediting, 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 lownicotine 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 anti-smoking 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 high-nicotine 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 FDA-authorized 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 low-nicotine, 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.

Lawyers group, PH Embassy agree to keep providing...

cooperation, such as free webinars and lectures on immigration, human trafficking, taxation, family law and estate planning.

Also discussed was the expansion of

Pagasa declares onset of El Niño

by Danessa RiveRa, Romina CabReRa Philstar.com

MANILA — A severe dry spell looms in the country with the onset of the El Niño phenomenon, the impact of which would be felt toward the end of the year, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said in an advisory on Tuesday, July 4.

“Recent PAGASA climate monitoring and analyses indicate that the unusual warming of sea surface temperatures along the equatorial Pacific that was established in March 2023 has further developed into a weak El Niño, which show signs of strengthening in the coming months,” PAGASA said.

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) on Tuesday said the El Niño weather pattern emerged in the tropical Pacific for the first time in seven years.

El Niño is linked to extreme weather conditions from tropical cyclones to heavy rainfall to severe droughts.

State weather forecasters said El Niño, characterized by the rise of sea surface temperatures in the central equatorial pacific, will be moderate to strong and will persist until the first quarter of 2024.

three to five months, by December.

In Luzon, 26 areas may experience drought conditions by January 2024, while a total of 17 provinces may experience dry spell, or below normal rainfall conditions for two to three consecutive months.

State weather forecasters said the number of affected provinces may still increase as projections are based on current models.

With El Niño, fewer tropical cyclones are expected to enter the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) this year.

From a yearly average of 19-20 cyclones, only around 10-14 cyclones are expected to enter PAR next year. However, cyclones with stronger character may be experienced.

Still, normal to above normal rainfall conditions are expected to continue from this month to September in most parts of the country due to the prevailing northwest monsoon.

NFALA membership to areas with large concentrations of Filipino Americans, partnerships with organizations of lawyers 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) n

The Department of Agriculture (DA) said it has set in place measures to cushion the impact of the dry spell on water supply and on food security.

Camarines Norte and Southern Leyte are expected to experience drought conditions, or below normal rainfall conditions for

Esperanza Cuyanan, PAGASA officer-in-charge, warned that the adverse impact of El Niño may be fully felt by the next dry season in the country, especially in terms of water shortages.

Water levels in dams in the country may go down starting November until January 2024, according to forecast. She advised the public to conserve water and electricity while it is still early.

“The worst that we can

A farmer walks over cracked soil on a dried up Nueva Ecija field in this file photo. Temperatures are expected to soar across large parts of the world after the El Niño weather pattern emerged in the tropical Pacific for the first time in seven years.

Photo from Krizjohn Rosales

Features OpiniOn 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.

Editorial

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 inappropriate.”

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

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

Excluded

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

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

EDCA sites in Cagayan –at the Camilo Osias Naval Base and 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

world’s best tourism attractions. Making the country a top destination, however, requires major improvements 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)

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.

PAGE 10

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Dateline PhiliPPines

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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) n

Ex-President Duterte cleared of misconduct

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. (by Neil Jayson Servallos/ Philstar.com) n

“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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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

Ernest John Obiena Photo from Instagram/@ernestobienapv

Pagasa declares onset...

possible impact of El Niño.

Excluded...

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 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 one-country, 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 ninetenths 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 highincome 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 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)

experience is dry season next year when water saved during this rainy season runs out. We’ll have shortage next year during the dry season,” Cuyanan said in Filipino.

PAGASA clarified that its El Niño advisory is based on three-month average of sea surface temperature anomalies of above 0.5 degree Celsius.

Angat level

Water level of Angat Dam, meanwhile, has further dropped to near critical level but water concessionaires assured the public of continued water service.

Latest PAGASA monitoring showed Angat’s water level at 181.53 meters as of 8 a.m. Tuesday, July 4, 0.36 meters lower than 181.93 meters a day earlier and only 1.57 meters from the critical level of 180 meters.

Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) division manager Patrick Dizon said they would meet with PAGASA, the National Water Resources Board (NWRB) and the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) to discuss the problem.

“Under the Angat Dam protocol, when the reservoir elevation reaches 180 meters, the water allocation of irrigation will be reduced to prioritize domestic water supply,” he said.

“We are going to see PAGASA’s projection of rainfall in watershed areas, if there will be intense rain to help raise the elevation of the reservoir,” Dizon said.

The MWSS has yet to determine the amount of water allocation it will request from the NWRB.

“For now, we can’t say what level of raw water allocation we will ask because we need to manage the current water levels in the Angat reservoir,” Dizon said.

West zone concessionaire Maynilad Water Services Inc. said it has a program in place to mitigate the

“This involves the production of additional supply through alternative raw water sources, and through water loss recovery from our pipe replacement and leak repair activities,” Maynilad corporate communications head Jennifer Rufo said.

“As we work closely with MWSS to augment available supplies, we call on all water consumers to help by using water responsibility,” Rufo said.

Currently, Maynilad is still assessing the actual impact of the reduction of Angat water allocation to 50 cubic meters per second (CMS) on its service levels this month.

“Having said that, even if a 50 CMS allocation will have an impact on service levels this July, the water situation would be better now compared to how it was last April 1 to 15 when the allocation was also at 50 CMS and there were service interruptions,” Rufo said.

“This is because we now have rains over the watersheds, and our various supply augmentation projects (i.e., reactivation of deep wells, recovery of water losses and production of potable reused water) have already been generating additional supply,” the Maynilad official said.

East zone concessionaire Manila Water Company Inc. said it has been preparing its supply augmentation measures long before the official declaration of El Niño’s onset.

Part of the measures is drawing 110 million liters per day (MLD) from Laguna Lake through its Cardona Water Treatment Plant, Manila Water corporate communication affairs group director Jeric Sevilla said.

Manila Water is also tapping deep wells, which are ready to supply up to a maximum of 115 MLD.

“We have also completed Phase 1 of our Calawis Project in Antipolo which will give around 20 MLD

and scalable up to 80 MLD while Phase 2 of our East Bay Water Supply Project which can provide 50 MLD drawing water from the eastern flank of Laguna Lake. 15 MLD from our Marikina Portable Treatment Plant is also available,” Sevilla said.

“We will continue and even intensify our preparations to help ensure that our customers will continue to enjoy 24/7 water supply with pressure within regulatory limits even during El Niño,” Manila Water Corporate communications head Dittie Galang said.

Food supply

At a press briefing, DA director for Field Operations Service U-Nichols Manalo said they have prepared a whole-of-government approach in dealing with El Niño in compliance with President Marcos’ directive.

“The president made the instruction of a whole of government approach, science based, we’re preparing for it. We should not respond only when the problem is already here in December and January or when there is already drought in 26 provinces,” Manalo said at a briefing.

The DA is the lead agency in the food security group under the national El Niño team, composed of different government agencies.

Manalo said that they are also coordinating with local government units, irrigation associations and rice farmers in preparation for the El Niño.

He noted that some areas in Davao del Sur experiencing below average rainfall have started planting their crops earlier to adjust to changing weather conditions.

The DA official said the NIA has also started repairs and maintenance of its irrigation systems.

The DA is also part of the water and health security groups, through its attached agencies and bureaus like NIA and the Bureau of Animal Industry. n

Filipino troops keep spirits high on...

PAGE 9

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.”

FRESH FINDS. Consumers buy fresh vegetables at the Agripreneur Cooperative Kadiwa stall inside the Department of AgricultureAgribusiness Development Center in Elliptical Road, Diliman, Quezon City on Monday, July 3. Patola, sitaw, ampalaya, okra and kamote retail for PHP60 per kilo; squash, PHP25 each; red onion, PHP135; white onion, PHP120 per kilo; and upo and puso ng saging, PHP30 per piece. PNA photo by Ben Briones

COMMUNITY JOURNAL

Atty. Gurfinkel answers immigration questions from Kapamilya in Manila on Citizen Pinoy

YOUR TANONG, MY SAGOT IN MANILA, PART 1. Atty. Michael J. Gurfinkel answers immigration questions from Kapamilya in Manila on a brand-new “Your Tanong, My Sagot.” Among the questions Atty. Gurfinkel answers are – From Donna (top left): What happens to my green card if the last time I was in the U.S. was in 1995?; From Aileen (top right): My mother petitioned me in 2015. I have a 16-year-old son who has a disability. Is there a chance of expediting my petition?; From Jinky (bottom right): My sister petitioned me in 2005. Aside from the letter from the National Visa Center that I received in 2009, there have been no other updates. What is the status of my petition?; From Katherine (bottom left): I don’t want to be separated from my son when my petition from my fiancé goes through. Can my son come along with me? Tune in for the answers on Part 1 of “Your Tanong, My Sagot” in Manila, on a brand-new episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, July 9 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo. (Advertising Supplement)

12

IN this episode, leading U.S. Immigration Atty. Michael J. Gurfinkel and the Citizen Pinoy team go to Manila to answer important immigration

inquiries from Kapamilya in the homeland.

Aileen has a son with a disability, and he is now 16

Atty. Michael J. Gurfinkel is shown here with Donna Carreon (left photo) and with Katherine Ann David (right photo).

Health@Heart Fake medical info

PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS

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 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: “Preschool 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 SARSCoV2 virus. Most of the deaths occurred before the vaccines were developed. Serious side-effects were rare. Excess deaths among working-age adults in 20212022 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, illintentioned 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 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

Atty. Gurfinkel answers immigration...

PAGE 11

years old. She wants to know if there is any chance of expediting her petition which her mother filed in 2015.

Jinky’s sister petitioned her in 2005. She received a letter from the National Visa Center (NVC) in 2009. Since then, Jinky has not received any updates. What can she do to find out what is going on?

Donna got her green card in 1993 but immediately returned to the Philippines. The last time she was in the U.S. was in 1995. She wants to know what will happen to her green card.

Katherine’s petition by her fiancé is now being processed. She asks if she will be able to bring her son

with her to the U.S. Atty. Gurfinkel answers these questions in Part 1 of “Your Tanong, My Sagot” in Manila. Watch this brandnew episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, July 9 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM

ET through select Cable/ Satellite providers), right after TV Patrol Linggo. Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the free app. (Advertising Supplement)

Awra Briguela released from police custody after posting bail

By Kathleen a llemit Philstar.com

MANILA — Teen actor Awra Briguela has reportedly been released from police custody after posting bail of P6,000 on Saturday night, July 1.

GMA Integrated News reported that a release order was issued

by Executive Judge Gina Bibat-Palamos of the Makati Regional Trial Court.

The actor alleged figured in a brawl with another group of guests at a bar in Makati. Videos that have since gone viral showed Briguela being taken into custody by police outside the bar in Makati’s Poblacion district on Thursday morning.

Makati City police chief Col. Edward Cutiyog said police have filed complaints of alarm and scandal and disobedience of persons in authority against Briguela.

According to the police chief, Briguela allegedly asked a certain Mark Christian Ravana to remove his shirt and started a fight with his group outside the bar. He said the actor cursed at the police that prompted them to arrest her.

Several videos that captured the incident have since circulated social media, providing different angles and perspectives on the said incident.

In a now-deleted post, Briguela’s friend, content creator Zayla Nakajima, claimed that a man in the bar attempted to grope her and another friend. She said Briguela was just defending her. n

to mental health issues; better cardiac health; better relationship with family and friends.

* * *

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

knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health.

* * *

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

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

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

Awra

The STAR / File

Atty. Michael J. Gurfinkel is shown here with Donna Carreon (left photo) and with Katherine Ann David (right photo).

People’s Ball 2023 presents the Everly Set

IN 1957, teens Phil and Don Everly supercharged the vocal sound of Rock’n’Roll with “Bye Bye Love” and “Wake Up Little Susie”, unleashing the sparkling vocal harmonies that would influence The Beatles, Simon & Garfunkel, The Beach Boys, The Hollies, The Eagles, Peter Paul & Mary, and the Bee Gees.

Now, six decades later, two acclaimed singer-songwriters with a mind-bending three-decade age difference combine millennial pluck with baby-boomer sass to present The Everly Set: Sean Altman & Jack Skuller Celebrate The Everly Brothers,featuring Bye Bye Love, Wake Up Little Susie, Cathy’s Clown, All I Have To Do Is Dream, When Will I Be Loved, Crying In The Rain, Love Hurts, Bird Dog, and more hits and rarities in concert. The Everly Set is presented as a guitar and vocal duo, will also perform the hit songs of Simon and Garfunkel.

Jack Skuller signed his first recording contract at just 14 years old. His debut single “Love is a Drum” was called “arguably the best single released by anyone [that] year” by The Examiner, and The New York Post labeled Skuller “a mini Jack White.” His music career has since earned him a reputation for powerful live shows rooted in old school rock’n’roll. In his teen years, Skuller performed his original music for thousands of people across the U.S. as a Disney recording artist. He has been

featured on the Disney Channel, FOXTV’s Good Day New York, Amy Poehler’s Smart Girls, and with the GRAMMY Foundation. His music was selected for an ASPCA campaign, and is continually played on indie rock radio across the U.S. (including Sirius XM). The Songwriters Hall of Fame recognized his talent by awarding him the esteemed Buddy Holly Prize.

As NYC The Deli Magazine put it – “Buddy Holly would be proud.” ExRockapella star Sean Altman is “tuneful and sharply witty” (Los Angeles Times) and “relentlessly clever” (Chicago Tribune), with “catchy melodies, clever arrangements and lyrics that yield satiric gems” (Washington Post), combining “the tunefulness of the Beatles and the spot-on wit of Tom Lehrer” (Boston Globe)

with a “silky tenor voice that produced chills” (New York Times). Original songs from his six albums have been featured on dozens of TV and radio shows including Saturday Night Live, The Daily Show With Jon Stewart, The Colbert Report, and Schoolhouse Rock. Altman has shared concert stages with Billy Joel, Steve Miller, Whoopi Goldberg, Jon Stewart, Stephen Colbert, Jay Leno and Joey Ramone.

Watch the Everly Set perform live at the annual People’s Ball on Sunday, Aug. 13, 12pm at Marriott Newark International Airport, New Jersey. For over 13 years, the People’s Ball has been a gathering place for the Who’s Who in the Fil-Am community of New York and New Jersey. Guests will enjoy a sumptuous luncheon, thrilling live entertainment, and ballroom dancing.

Dr. Laura Garcia, the People’s Ball Chairperson for 2023, added that the gala festivities will be highlighted by the Empowerment Awards, which recognize Filipino achievers in business, industry, professional endeavors, governance, public service, culture, and the humanities.

To reserve your seats and make payments, please call 212 682-6610 or email info@fiestainamerica.com. Visit www.fiestainamerica.com.

The People’s Ball is produced by the Philippine Fiesta USA Inc, A 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit corporation. n

Jane Oineza finally reaps the rewards of her hard work

By Charmie Joy Pagulong Philstar.com

MANILA — Kapamilya

actress Jane Oineza is relishing every acting project she’s offered up to this day.

She began her showbiz career at the age of five in the ABS-CBN teleserye Sa Dulo ng Walang Hanggan in 2001. In 2008, she joined the children’s sketch comedy show, Goin’ Bulilit, which paved the way for more

showbiz projects. She has appeared in various television and movie shows since then. Just recently, it was announced that Jane will take on the lead role in the forthcoming joint series of ABS-CBN and TV5, Nag-aapoy na Damdamin, along with JC de Vera, Ria Atayde and Tony Labrusca. It is helmed by FM Reyes, who previously directed Maging Sino Ka Man,

Jane is set to take on the lead role in the forthcoming joint series of ABS-CBN and TV5, Nag-aapoy na Damdamin, along with (from left) Tony Labrusca, Ria Atayde and JC de Vera. It is helmed by FM Reyes. Philstar.com photo

By HannaH Mallorca Inquirer.net

VICE Ganda couldn’t help but express his admiration for Kapuso star Barbie Forteza, as he noted that her “vibe” is a good fit for ABS-CBN noontime show “It’s Showtime.”

Forteza was among the performers of “It’s Showtime’s” premiere episode on GMA Network’s GTV last Saturday, July 1, where she did a dance number with Kapamilya stars Kim Chiu, Belle Mariano, and Alexa Ilacad.

Following the show’s opening, the actress was given a bouquet of flowers and a warm welcome by mainstay hosts, including Vice Ganda himself and Anne Curtis.

“Thank you! Maraming salamat, ‘Showtime’ family,” she said in apparent excitement, before asking if she can greet the show’s audience, also known as “madlang people,” as seen in a Kapamilya Online Live clip via Philippine TV & Film Updates’ Twitter page.

Vice Ganda then said, “We love Barbie, ‘yung nanay daw niya laging nanonood ng ‘Showtime,’ to which Forteza responded: “Opo, si Mommy Amy po!”

Vice Ganda and Curtis then greeted the Kapuso star’s mother before the former said, “Parang matagal nang gustong sabihin ni Barbie ‘yan. Ngayon lang niya ‘yan naisigaw,” referring to her “Madlang People” greeting.

Shortly after the show’s premiere, the “Partners in Crime” star said on Twitter that her “vibe” is a good fit for the noontime show.

“Bagay si Barbie sa Showtime. I love her vibe!” his tweet read.

The actor-comedian’s tweet then caught the attention of netizens, with some hoping that the Kapuso network would allow Forteza to be part of the show.

One @txtlayp said, “Petition to make Barbie Forteza as regular host on It’s Showtime !!”

Another @kakaiBachii said, “MEME APPROVED ANG BINIBINING KLAY DASURV.”

Twitter user @bravo6live stressed, “ABS, GMA, listen to

Sarah Geronimo,

Matteo

Guidicelli open production company for Filipino talents during the pandemic

By HannaH Mallorca Inquirer.net

SARAH Geronimo and Matteo Guidicelli’s production company, G Productions, started as a joke during the pandemic. But it turned out to be an idea worth pursuing, especially when it comes to bringing the couple’s projects to life.

“G Productions was a project (that) started during the pandemic. At that time, we were shooting videos at home kasi ‘di pa tayo pwedeng lumabas. Sabi namin, ‘Love, gawa nga tayong sariling production company, G Productions.’ Tapos tawanan lang, and then we took it seriously,” Guidicelli said at a brand event, where his wife was also present.

(G Productions was a project that started during the pandemic. At that time, we were shooting videos at home because we weren’t allowed to go outside. We said, “Love, let’s create our own production company, G Productions. We initially laughed it off, and then we took it seriously.)

The actor-TV host then shared that the production company has been coproducing Geronimo’s projects with her label Viva Artists Agency for two years, which includes her music videos and upcoming concert with musician Bamboo on July 7.

Wearing a proud smile as an apparent stage husband, Guidicelli also pointed out that the singeractress is the “president” of their production company, and who has a say about the direction of their entertainment pursuits.

“This is hers, [Sarah] is the president of G Productions.

She has creative control in doing what she wants. Extra lang ako, I’m just here to support my wife,” he said.

The Popstar Royalty, who seemingly blushed at her husband’s words, said she hoped they would have the chance to be involved in producing music and honing the talent and potential of Filipino musicians.

“May mga nakikita kaming potential sa mga artists. [Pero] we feel like kulang ng push. Magaling ang artist na ‘to pero hindi napu-push masyado. Hindi nama-maximize ‘yung talent or capabilities as an artist,” she said. “Even me, [personally], when I hear certain music that’s offered to me, pero iniisip ko na may certain artist na parang mas bagay [for it]. So, I told my husband, ‘Love, it would be nice that in the future, we can also get involved in production, whatever project man ‘yun.”

(We see potential in these artists. However, we feel that they lack the necessary push. This artist is talented, but they’re not being pushed enough. Their talent or

capabilities as an artist are not being maximized… Even personally, when I hear certain music that’s offered to me, I think that there are certain artists who would be more suitable for it. So, I told my husband, ‘Love, it would be nice if in the future, we can also get involved in production, whatever project it may be.’)

Guidicelli also revealed that they will put up a new studio called G Studio “at the end of July,” with headquarters to be built somewhere in Alabang, Muntinlupa City.

“I want to make her feel that she can do what she wants to do, with G Productions and Viva. I’m just here to support her. The legs are down here, but it’s all her soul and creativity,” he said.

“My wife has a businesswoman heart eh, it’s inside her. I just like to support her. Sarah is about collaboration and lifting Filipino artists. If we hear her new songs — spokesperson na ko eh — these came from Filipino artists, new Filipino artists,” he further explained.

A giggling Geronimo was shaking her head in response, saying, “I’m more on the creative side lang po eh kasi lumaki akong gan’un. Pero naniniwala po talaga kami na kailangan pagyamanin ang ating sining.”

(I’m more on the creative side of things because I grew up that way. But we truly believe that we have to enrich our local culture.)

Geronimo and Guidicelli, who tied the knot in February 2020, also admitted that they’re still learning the ropes of being a married couple. “We got married in February 2020, and a week after, lockdown because of COVID-19 happened. We stayed in a condominium for six months, kasama ‘yung aso namin, and it was actually a challenge,” the latter said.

Despite this, the actor said he and Geronimo had a “great time” going through “adulthood” and learning more about each other, although he admitted that he’s the one who’s more likely to track their expenses.

“We loved it and had a great time. But when [the lockdown] started, we thought, ‘This is the first day na adulting na kami. Let’s start this off properly and nicely.’ So I started by opening an excel sheet, and from that day forward, all of our expenses are there… We try to think long term,” he said.

The “Tala” singer was seen nodding her head in agreement, almost as if she’s Guidicelli’s stage wife as well.

“He’s very supportive and helpful sa aming pagaasawa (in our marriage), especially when it comes to handling our finances,” she said. n

(From left) Matteo Guidicelli, Sarah Geronimo. Photo from Instagram/@matteog

(From left) Vice Ganda, Barbie Forteza. Photos from Instagram/@praybeytbenjamin, Instagram/@barbaraforteza

Vice Ganda says Barbie Forteza’s ‘vibe’ is a good fit for ‘It’s Showtime’

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-yearold 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.

Jane Oineza finally reaps...

PAGE 13

Magpahanggang Wakas and Ang Sa Iyo Ay Akin.

“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.”n

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

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.

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, 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.

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. (By Hannah Malorca/ Inquirer.net) n

Vice Ganda says Barbie Forteza’s ‘vibe’ is a good...

the madlang pipooool.”

Another @alejoowx said, “I really love watching artists from two ‘rival’ stations do interact.”

The premiere of “It’s Showtime”

on GTV was a star-studded affair as it featured appearances from Kapuso stars including Forteza, Sanya Lopez, Rayver Cruz, Gabbi Garcia, Christian Bautista, Mark Bautista, Richard Yap, Rodjun Cruz, and Pokwang.

The ABS-CBN flagship show was previously under TV5’s noontime slot until the end of their contract last June 30. Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon’s new show “EAT” took over its slot, as of this writing. n

“I’ve been patiently waiting and I’m really overwhelmed with all the positive response that I’m getting,” she responded when asked for a reaction on fans getting excited that finally, after being in the showbiz industry for quite some time, she will now headline a teleserye in Nag-aapoy na Damdamin.

“And I always say this, I’ve been planting my seeds and being patient lang and waiting for it to grow. And if this is my time (to shine) then I know that I’ve put in my hard work as well,” she furthered during the press event of Cattleya Killer.

She previously portrayed one of the major characters in the afternoon teleserye Nasaan Ka Nang Kailangan Kita in 2015 as Corrine.

Asked on how she would handle opportunities in her decades-long career, she remarked, “The same as my usual naman na with every project that I get, regardless of the role, I just try to do my best to give them what they are asking from me and to give (the role) justice and to give my 202 percent in everything. And it doesn’t change whatever my role is.”

That’s why when she was offered to play detective agent Tina Galvez in the crime-thriller Cattleya Killer, she readily accepted the part. The six-episode series was co-produced by ABS-CBN International Production and Nathan Studios. It is also the first series of the former with Amazon’s international streaming platform Prime Video.

Directed by Dan Villegas (Exes Baggage, English Only, Please) and written by Dodo Dayao (Midnight in a Perfect World, If You Leave), Cattleya Killer became the most-watched series among Filipino subscribers when it premiered last month .

It was based on the classic ‘90s Filipino thriller-film, Sa Aking Mga Kamay (In My Own Hands), starring Aga Muhlach.

Cattleya Killer stars Arjo Atayde, Jake Cuenca, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Ria Atayde, Ricky Davao, Nonie Buencamino and Christopher de Leon.

When Jane first learned that she would be joining the cast, she got “super excited” and said yes immediately.

“So there’s no reason to say no to it because first of all, this is one of my dream roles. One of my dream roles really is to do action (and) to do something cool like this. So from there, I grabbed that opportunity and I was game to do it right away,” she explained.

Jane went out of her comfort zone while filming the series and that’s what she considered as the fun part of doing it.

She told The STAR, “I enjoyed (filming it) because I also believe that… I don’t like din na putting people in a box. I don’t like it na, ‘Ito ka, ito lang yung pwede mong gawin. Because you are a woman, because you are this (you set a limit to what you can do).’”

“I was able to prove that just do what you like. Don’t let others define what you can and cannot do,” she added.

She believed that Cattleya Killer is “world-class” because “it’s something new.” “We don’t usually release psycho-thriller series but this one, it has a different tempo (and) approach. And I’m proud to say that (Cattleya Killer) is on a par with other available series from other countries,” she said.

She also maintained that the Filipino audience is “ready for new and daring concepts.” “Na-open tayo sa ganun when streaming platforms became more available for our audience and yeah, I think we’re ready,” she said.

Meanwhile, Jane and boyfriend RK Bagatsing will essay more daring roles in their upcoming film, Swing, an “adult love story about a couple who’s trying to save their marriage through unconventional means — that is engaging in swinging or swapping sexual partners.”

According to Jane, she and RK are able to balance out their personal and professional lives, individually and as a couple.

“I guess we’re both professionals also so when it comes to work mode, work mode din. He has his own thing going on and I have my own thing going on,” she shared.

“We don’t forget to keep each other updated (and) to make time (for each other) when we can. Kung maisingit yan sa schedule or if we have (some spare) time na pwedeng isingit na magkita then we would. I’m just happy that it’s all balanced out, our work and a happy life.”

Is RK “the one” for Jane? The actress said that she will just leave it to the “universe to decide.”

“We put in the work, and then we wait for it and then well, yeah because we will get there naman,” she asserted. n

Maja Salvador

Photo from Instagram/@maja

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