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JULY 8-14, 2022 Volume 15 - No.35 • 16 Pages

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USA

DATELINE Older adults still at high risk for COVID-19 FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

“YOU might be done with COVID, but COVID is not done with you.”

So said Denny Chan, directing attorney with Justice in Aging, at a press briefing cohosted by the California Department of Aging on June 29 to address the high risks older adults still face from COVID-19 and what steps will protect them.

Joining Chan were Department of Aging Director Susan DeMarois, Dr. Susan Tartof, an infectious disease epidemiologist with Kaiser Permanente Southern California, and Roberto Velasquez, President and CEO of the Southern Caregiver Resource Center.

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

Fil-Ams sound off on Marcos’ return to power

by DONNABELLE

GATDULA-AREVALO AJPress

WHILE newly sworn-in Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has full backing from his supporters here in the U.S.,

some Filipino Americans have expressed doubt in his ability to fulfill his promises of reshaping the country’s future in the next six years.

Upon his inauguration last June 30, Marcos, who is fondly called BBM by his supporters,

became the first majority president since the establishment of the Fifth Republic in 1986. He also became the second president from Ilocos Norte, after his father, Ferdinand Marcos, and the third child of a former

 PAGE 2

Biden invites Bongbong Marcos to Washington

 PAGE 7

by NESTOR

A. CORRALES Inquirer.net

Adelio Angelito Cruz (right), a career diplomat, takes his oath of office as chief of presidential protocol in Malacañang for President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., who took office last June 30.

Malacañang photo

COURTESY CALL. President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. talks with Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi during a courtesy call at the Palace Music Room, Tuesday, July 5, as other Filipino and Chinese officials look on.

Malacañang photo by

MANILA — U.S. President Joe Biden has invited President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to Washington, the first foreign head of state to formally extend such a gesture to the country’s newly installed leader.

According to Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez, U.S. Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff handed Marcos a personal invitation letter from the American president.

 PAGE 4

Former LA Consul Decimated Senate July 4 also marks PH-US Friendship Day General Adelio Cruz minority faces ‘tremendous challenge’ in 19th Congress named chief of presidential protocol

by RITCHEL

MENDIOLA AJPress

by ANGELICA

Y. YANG

Philstar.com

ADELIO Angelito Cruz, a career diplomat whose previous role includes Philippine Consul General in Los Angeles, has a new post as the protocol chief in the Marcos administration.

Cruz, who served as the former Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary after his assignment in LA, was recently sworn in

 PAGE 4

MANILA — Sen. Juan Miguel Zubiri — elected to a fresh term and the likely next Senate president — on Wednesday, July 6, released a list of senators and the committees they will likely chair at a Senate dominated by a supermajority.

According to the list, they will face a minority bloc that will be lucky to have four members. As things stand, only Sens. Risa Hontiveros and Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III — a former Senate president and head of

 PAGE 4

JULY 4 marks the PhilippineAmerican Friendship Day, celebrated by the Philippines alongside the United States’ Independence Day. For context, the Philippines used to observe “Araw ng Kasarinlan” or “Araw ng Kalayaan” on July 4, after the country gained sovereignty from the United States through the Treaty of Manila in 1946.

This prompted Filipinos to celebrate the country’s independence on that date, which continued annually for

15 years until Philippine President Diosdado Macapagal officially changed the date back to June 12.

The creation of the PhilippineAmerican Day dates back to 1955, when President Ramon Magsaysay, by virtue of Proclamation No. 212, established the observance of “Philippine American Day.” The following year, the celebration became an annual event.

It was renamed Philippine-American Friendship Day sometime during the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos.

 PAGE 4

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Fil-Ams sound off on Marcos’ return to...

PAGE 1 president to hold the post after Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and Benigno Aquino III. Tancredo Guray Jr., BBM 2.0 (USA) president for California, said the group is excited about what Marcos will do to the Philippines as a whole. BBM 2.0 was an electoral platform created by businessman Jonathan “Atan” Bocaling to help support and facilitate the election campaign of Marcos all over the world.

“We are very happy at this point in time. Now, I just want tell the entire Filipino people that they have made the right choice for electing BBM as the country’s top executive/president,” Guray, a loyal follower of Marcos’ political career, said.

Guray said he believes that the overwhelming support that BBM got from the Filipino voters only indicates how hopeful the Filipinos are for the new administration’s capability.

“As you can see it’s an overwhelming vote (from the people) for BBM. It’s Vox Populi, Vox Dei (the voice of the people is the voice of God), now the people have already spoken,” said Guray, who is a commissioner in Carson, California.

According to Guray, he is looking forward to the unfolding of all the BBM’s programs for the Philippines and all the millions of Filipinos all over the world.

“He promised to the Filipino people that he would be continuing the programs of (former President Rodrigo) Duterte. I am hopeful that he would do the best thing that he can. I know that remains to be seen. I do not want to speculate what will happen to his leadership but I know he would be great in everything he will do,” the avid supporter said.

“I would vouch for the honesty of BBM. I have been a supporter for a long time. For me, the Marcos family is very honest. My expectation for them is to make the Philippines a great nation,” he added.

In an interview with the Asian Journal, BBM’s namesake Ferdinand “Ferdie” Marcos, 46, from New Jersey, said this is the time that he had been waiting for.

“This is the moment. This is the time and we are hoping for the best,” he said.

Ferdie’s parents named him after former President Ferdinand Marcos as they reportedly witnessed the strongman’s actions in the Philippines that made the country competitive in the region.

He said during a recent independence parade in New Jersey, there are many Filipinos who have shown their optimism for the new leadership of BBM. Born in Isabela in the Cagayan Valley region, Ferdie said their family has been a testament to what the Marcoses have done to their province. “BBM has carried out a lot of projects that made our province prosperous like the Magat Dam that irrigates all our fields and the solar project in Ilocos which lowers power rates in the province,” he said.

The construction of the Magat Dam started in 1975 and was completed in 1982. It is one of the largest dams in the Philippines.

Ferdie, who works at the USPS and

has been living in the United States for 26 years, said he does not expect anything spectacular in the first two years of BBM as this is normally for the country’s recovery period. “Then in his 3rd, 4th, 5th to 6th year, we expect all of the good projects coming into life like the upgrade and modernization of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP),” he said.

Former President Rodrigo Duterte signed Executive Order (EO) 64 recommending the revival of the mothballed BNPP. President “Bongbong” Marcos, during his campaign period, had said he was also keen on studying the possibility of pushing for the more than $3 billion rehabilitation and/or modernization of the nuclear plant. The BNPP was the only nuclear power plant in the region during the 1980s as the Philippines was one of the first Southeast Asian countries to embark on a nuclear energy program.

The project, however, was mothballed due to corruption allegations and safety concerns.

“This BNPP will not only help lower power rates, it is also considered renewable. “It’s good to see that the Philippines is going green in terms of power generation,” Ferdie said.

According to the avid supporter from East Coast, BBM, with the support of Vice President Sara Duterte, will definitely bring forth more worthwhile program and projects in the future.

“All that BBM has done to Ilocos could be replicated to the entire country. He has a clear vision of what he wants to be done to bring the Philippines to the world’s list of great nations. There is a strong chance that all of these visions and missions would be achieved since BBM has strong back up from his vice president,” he said. “I am looking forward to the BBM-Duterte tandem.

These two great leaders will definitely bring something really great for the Philippines. I am so excited to see all these good things unfolding each year of their leadership,” Ferdie added.

Uniteam overall coordinator for USA/ Canada Chona Verona Lopez Galvez, in a separate interview, echoed Marcos’ accomplishments.

“He (BBM) will be great with everything. The world will be watching him bring the Philippines’ greatness back,” Galvez said.

Luzviminda Marcos, one of the BBM campaign leaders in California and a close relative, said BBM is truly a “Godsent” leader.

“There is an overflowing love and support for Ferdinand Marcos Jr. because he is a true validation that the Marcos family has been ‘God-sent’ for the Philippines to become great again and show it to the world,” she said.

“With his proven track record, I believe the Philippine economy will rise up again and people will have better lives. Aangat ang buong bansang Pilipinas,” she said.

According to Mrs. Marcos, they expect BBM to lay out plans for Filipinos who work overseas and those who live abroad who would want to retire in the Philippines.

‘False victory’ Malaya Movement USA, on the other hand, has remained firm in its stance in rejecting the legitimacy of Marcos Jr.’s presidency.

In a statement, Malaya Movement national vice chair Tabitha Ponciano said “through decades-long manipulation, meddling, and corruption, Marcos Jr. has taken the highest office in the Philippines: this false victory must be exposed! The urgency to build the resistance against this incoming regime grows stronger each day.”

Ponciano said Marcos Jr.’s inauguration at the National Museum is indicative of what Filipinos can reportedly expect from this incoming regime: unwavering support for the military and police and empty gestures for frontline workers, overseas Filipino workers, labor leaders, farmers, and many more.

“His speeches intentionally offer shallow statements meant to convince people of change yet no concrete steps are outlined. Marcos Jr. is also hellbent on painting a fairytale picture of his father’s deadly and violent years in office. Malaya Movement USA denounces his address that was riddled with lies, deception, and unending claims of unity without substance,” she said.

She noted that Marcos Jr. said “we do not look back but ahead,” urging kababayans to forget the country’s past.

But the US-based militant group leader said this should not be the case and urged Filipino-Americans to remain vigilant.

She said there is also a need for the Fil-Am community to strongly bind together for a common good and keep an eagle eye on Marcos’ leadership.

“Instead, we call on the Filipino people to look to our history of resistance and learn from it. Join us as we build the anti-dictatorship movement, inspired by the one that blossomed under Marcos Sr. during the era of Martial Law among overseas Filipinos,” she said.

Malaya Movement USA members and other progressive forces across the country, she said, protested and carried the resounding call to continue the fight for democracy and freedom in our homeland.

“People power is not a thing of the past but a growing resistance from the Philippines to the United States and beyond! Reject Marcos! Reject Duterte!,” she said.

During the May 9 presidential election, Marcos had a landslide victory with over 31.6 million votes or 58.77% of all votes.

Following the election, several Filipino groups in the U.S. and Canada banded together to release a manifesto rejecting Marcos’ win and expressing “extreme disappointment” after U.S. President Joe Biden congratulated the incoming Filipino president.

“No matter the result of the independent investigation, as Filipinos and peace-loving global citizens, we still hold the Marcos family including Marcos Jr. accountable for the $10

u PAGE 7

The skyline of Makati Business District in Makati City – The Philippines is projected to have the highest economic growth rate in the ASEAN Plus Three countries in 2022 and 2023, according to Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno on Wednesday, July 6, 2022.

Inquirer photo by

Diokno: PH to gain highest economic growth rate in ASEAN+3 in 2022, 2023 by

Neil ArwiN MercAdo Inquirer.net

MANILA — The Philippines is projected to record the highest economic growth rate in 2022 and 2023 among ASEAN Plus Three countries, according to Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno on Wednesday, July 6.

He said they have already submitted the DOF’s Medium-term Fiscal Consolidation Framework, which outlines targets during the term of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. from 2023-2028.

“We expect the economy to grow by 6.5 to 7.5 [percent] this year. In fact, this is going to be the highest – the consensus is this will be the highest growth rate among all ASEAN Plus Three countries this year and next year,” Diokno said.

“The Philippines is expected to have the highest growth rate for the next two years,” Diokno said.

The ASEAN Plus Three includes member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations as well as the countries of Japan, South Korea, and China.

Diokno also said that the growth rate forecast for the Philippines was pegged at 6.5 to 8 percent from 2023 to 2028.

He likewise reported that the new administration is targeting to reduce the country’s poverty rate to nine percent by 2028, the conclusion of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s term.

“I remember right, it started at around 25 percent during [former President Rodrigo] Duterte’s first year in office but we’re almost down to around 18 to 17 percent then the pandemic hit us,” Diokno said.

“So there’s a slight backsliding, but our target under this framework is that the poverty rate will be down to nine percent by 2028,” he added. g

MORNING LINE. Public transport commuters line up to get a ride on Commonwealth Avenue in Philcoa, Quezon City on Tuesday, July 5. The minimum fare in public utility jeepneys has been increased to P11 throughout the country starting last July 1.

PNA photo by Joey O. Razon

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From the Front Page

Biden invites Bongbong... Decimated Senate minority faces...

PAGE 1 Emhoff, the husband of U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, led a seven-member delegation from Washington that attended the June 30 inauguration of Marcos. The two officials later had a meeting on Thursday afternoon, June 30 in Malacañang.

Quoting Biden’s letter to Marcos, Romualdez said: “I hope you can come to Washington once our teams find an appropriate time.”

“President Marcos responded by saying he hopes to do so as soon as our schedules permit them,” Romualdez told the Inquirer on Saturday, July 2.

Contempt judgment Since Marcos enjoys diplomatic immunity as a head of state, Romualdez said, he could visit Washington without being arrested despite a standing contempt order that for years had prevented him from entering the United States.

In 2012, a U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit handed down a contempt judgment against the estate of the late President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., his mother Imelda, and their son Ferdinand Jr. for violating an injunction that barred them from dissipating assets of the estate.

The contempt order came after the Marcoses entered into a settlement with the Ramos administration in 1992 and agreed to share their wealth with the government. It was considered a violation of the 1991 decision of the U.S. District Court of Hawaii prohibiting the Marcos family from touching their U.S. assets because these were the source of potential payment of damages to the human rights victims of martial law.

Immunity In May, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman told reporters in Manila that Mr. Marcos would be “welcome” to the United States, again citing his diplomatic immunity.

Weeks before his inauguration, Marcos’ media staff said he was considering going to New York to attend the United Nations General Assembly in September. g

Former LA Consul...

PAGE 1 as the chief of presidential protocol. He will be in charge of the visits of foreign dignitaries to Malacañang.

He will also assist President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and his delegation during official visits overseas.

Cruz’s appointment followed the choice of Enrique Manalo, the country’s permanent representative to the United Nations, to head the Department of Foreign Affairs.

For nearly three decades, Cruz has held various diplomatic and consular posts in the Philippine Foreign

Service. Prior to serving as the Assistant Secretary of the Office of Civilian Security at the Department of Foreign Affairs during the final year of the Duterte administration, the veteran diplomat was Consul General in Los Angeles from 2016 to 2021.

His assignments include Charge d’Affaires in Tripoli, Libya (from 2014-2016); Consul General in Xiamen, China (2011-2013); first Secretary and Consul at the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi (2007-2011) and Vice Consul then Consul at the Philippine Consulate General in Chicago. (AJPress)

STREET FOOD. People buy street food, such as ‘kwek-kwek’ (fried quail eggs) fish balls and kikiam, at a stall along Emilio Aguinaldo Highway, Barangay Sampaloc 1, City of Dasmarinas in Cavite on Tuesday, July 5. Street food stalls have been a regular fixture on busy roads in Metro Manila even in Cavite.

PNA photo by Gil Calinga

PAGE 1 the former administration PDP-Laban party — have indicated they will be in the minority.

According to the Senate rules, the minority floor leader is expected to speak for the bloc, constructively criticize the majority’s programs and policies, and pay close attention to all proposed laws.

But the numbers of the Senate minority, and the political opposition in general, were greatly reduced during the term of former President Rodrigo Duterte, who had continuously attacked them, according to University of Santo Tomas Department of Political Science Chair Dennis Coronacion.

Sen. Leila De Lima, a vocal Duterte critic, found herself booted out as chair of the committee on justice and human rights in 2016 and has been in detention for drug cases since 2017. Other members of the minority earned Duterte’s ire and his uncensored comments for criticizing government policies.

Coronacion said the minority plays an important role but is not likely to influence legislation in the 19th Congress.

“Given that their numbers have been decimated because of the popularity of former President Duterte, who vilified them continuously during his term, I don’t expect them to make any major impact in the 19th Congress,” he told Philstar.com.

Despite that, members of the opposition should not be discouraged from doing their jobs since there is a constant need to protect public interest, Coronacion added.

‘Fiscalizers’ Although it is not found in the English dictionary, the term ‘fiscalizer’ generally refers to lawmakers who do not just agree with the agenda with congressional or executive leadership and tend to scrutinize things more closely, University of the Philippines political scientist Jean Franco said.

As fiscalizers, the minority must pay more attention to details in proposed laws and validate the information there, according to Hontiveros. With the prevalence of disinformation, it is all the more important to check each and every argument presented in the crafting of laws, she said.

The 12 newly-elected senators raise each other’s hands after the proclamation of winners of the 2022 polls at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City on May 18, 2022. Philstar.com photo by Geremy Pintolo

“People must understand that the minority doesn’t just give opposing views for no reason. Our criticism is meant to produce meaningful and actionable insights that can be used in amending the bills being debated on the floor of Congress,” she said.

“We’re not here to prevent laws from being passed, we’re here to make sure that every measure that gets signed into law brings long-term benefits to the people.”

Despite committee assignments seemingly already locked in, political arrangements can still change, Coronacion said. “Disgruntled members of the Marcos-Duterte alliance might join the opposition and may shape the dynamics in the Senate.”

If the minority cannot get more members at the Senate, Franco said, “they really need to be partners with civil society and other social movements because that’s the only way to go... because the people outside your chamber can amplify your voice.”

‘Challenging time’ The minority may face a more difficult time in being a check on the supermajority, according to De La Salle University political science professor Julio Teehankee, which could risk the Senate being a rubber stamp for the Palace.

“The incoming minority faces a

tremendous challenge of checking the supermajority supporting the first majority president under the Fifth Republic,” Teehankee told Philstar. com. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was elected into office by more than 31 million Filipinos and lawmakers have historically sided with winners.

He added that the situation is just like how it was in the post-EDSA Senate in 1987 where only Juan Ponce Enrile and Joseph Estrada served in the minority.

Despite the foreseen setbacks, Hontiveros — the lone senatorial bet from the opposition who won a seat — is optimistic that there can still be an effective minority bloc, even if they don’t have the numbers.

“It doesn’t matter how many of us are in the minority bloc. As long as we stay true to our mandate as fiscalizers and perform our checks and balance function, the minority will thrive,” Hontiveros told Philstar.com.

She said that even if she and Pimentel are the only members of the bloc so far, “their convictions are enough to function as a minority bloc.”

In previous interviews, she and Pimentel noted that the strength and effectiveness of the minority bloc is also measured by the seriousness of its members in fiscalizing constructively, including improving measures pushed by the majority. g

July 4 also marks PH-US Friendship...

PAGE 1 The Philippines and the U.S. have one of the oldest military alliances in the Asia Pacific region. And to this day, the two countries enjoy close ties that continue to improve through defense and security, trade and commerce, and culture and education.

The Philippines also benefits from the various projects and programs of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which seek to accelerate broad-based

inclusive economic growth, giving emphasis to several areas such as education, family healthcare, and sustainable environmental management.

Not too long ago, U.S. President Joe Biden joined Filipinos in celebrating the Philippines’ 123rd Independence Day, mentioning the enduring friendship between the two countries.

“The Philippines and the United States share so much history and our people are

forever connected through our deep bonds and shared sacrifices of valor, of family and of friendship,” he said in a message from the White House on June 12.

Likewise, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the close relationship between Manila and Washington.

“Our long and deeply interwoven history stands as a strong foundation for our enduring alliance, and our close relationship is rooted in our shared interests and rich

people-to-people ties,” he said in a separate statement.

“Together, as friends, allies and partners, our two countries will strive to ensure a more peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region,” Blinken added.

Aside from the PhilippineAmerican Friendship Day, the Philippines and the U.S. will also celebrate the 75th anniversary of PhilippinesU.S. diplomatic relations and the 70th anniversary of the Philippines-U.S. alliance this year. g

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OPINION

FEATURES

Changing strategy

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THE International Criminal Court wants to resume its probe into the war on drugs that was a priority of Rodrigo Duterte during his six years as president. At the end of his term, Duterte acknowledged that he had underestimated the extent of the problem, which has persisted despite the deaths of over 6,000 suspects in police anti-narcotics operations.

Within days after he stepped down, police apprehended several drug trafficking suspects across the country.

The latest and biggest drug bust so far was staged last Sunday morning, July 3 by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency backed by the police in Quezon City, which led to the arrest of a Chinese national and the confiscation of at least 40 kilos of shabu valued at P272 million.

While his brutal methods and apparent failure to hold law enforcers to account for abuses in the conduct of the campaign have been cited by the ICC, Duterte was not way off the mark in pointing out the extent of the problem in the country. Long before he assumed power, the Philippines was already notorious as an international transshipment point for prohibited drugs.

Duterte, a former mayor and congressman,

said even police generals and local government executives, from barangay officials to provincial governors, were involved in illegal drug deals.

He defended the high number of suspected small-scale pushers who were targeted, saying they were threats to public safety in their neighborhoods.

Continuing the campaign against illegal drugs was Duterte’s specific appeal to his successor. On Monday, July 4, the new secretary of the interior and local government, whose department has supervision over the Philippine National Police, vowed to continue the campaign, but within the bounds of the Constitution. What this means exactly remains to be seen. PNP officials have previously pointed out that armed and bloody encounters cannot always be avoided in battling drug traffickers.

Editorial

Philstar.com photo

The illegal drug scourge has been around for decades, and confronting the problem is a continuing mission of law enforcement. The previous administration went for shock and

awe in dealing with the problem, but the high human toll failed to eradicate the menace. A new dispensation must try a different strategy.

(Philstar.com)

History being written, not rewritten

Babe’s Eye View BABE ROMUALDEZ THE presidency has always been a matter of destiny. I believe it, many people believe it, and so do many others who wanted the job but never made it.

After 36 years, witnessing destiny unfold with Ferdinand Marcos Jr. taking his oath of office as

the 17th President of the Republic of the Philippines was simply overwhelming, to say the least. And for those who were around long enough to see the presidency of Ferdinand Marcos Sr., it was rather emotional, witnessing the inauguration of his son, all teary eyed as they listened to the new President deliver his inaugural address.

It took President Bongbong Marcos several days to get

his speech together, and he delivered it so well that even those who did not support or vote for him were pleasantly surprised by the ring of sincerity that resonated with them, as the new President urged Filipinos to look to the future and take the road that would bring our county to a place that is “better than the one we lost in the pandemic,” and recover the gains that had been made but lost, including the

opportunities that have been missed.

Reiterating the unity that was at the core of his message during the campaign, the President said, “In this fresh chapter of our history, I extend my hand to all Filipinos. Come, let us put our shoulders to the wheel and give that wheel a faster turn to repair and to rebuild and to address challenges in new ways to provide what all Filipinos need to be all

that we can. We are here to repair a house divided, to make it whole and to stand strong again,” he exhorted, reminding everyone that “we are Filipinos: one nation, one republic, indivisible.”

He has always believed that the people must be united in order for us to overcome the many problems that our country faces, and he sees the same thing happening not only in the Philippines but in many other countries

all over the world. When we are united as a people, we will be able to surmount any problem that may come our way.

The President also spoke of a “comprehensive, allinclusive plan for economic transformation” and building back better, learning from the experiences we have had – both good and bad, with “no looking back in anger or nostalgia.” Many PAGE 10

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Solon wants Ninoy Aquino PH, US eye ‘scaled up’ war games; Int’l Airport renamed to lawmakers want treaties junked Ferdinand E. Marcos Int’l Airport

by Gabriel

Pabico Inquirer.net

lalu

MANILA — A lawmaker has filed a bill proposing to rename the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to Ferdinand E Marcos International Airport.

Negros Oriental 3rd District Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr., who filed the bill on June 30 — but released it to the media on Tuesday, July 5 said, “[i]t is more appropriate to rename it to the person who has contributed to the idea and execution of the said noble project.”

“This project was done during the time of the presidency of Ferdinand Marcos Sr.,” Teves said

in House Bill No. 610’s explanatory note.

“It is more appropriate to bear the name that has contributed and legacy (sic) in our country to make the Philippines a center of international and domestic air travel, who has instituted and built or conceptualized the project in making pride (sic) of our country,” he added.

The current name of the country’s main gateway – Ninoy Aquino International Airport – was in honor of former senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino, who was killed at the tarmac of the then-Manila International Airport on August 21, 1983.

This set off a chain of events that eventually led to the

ouster of Ferdinand Marcos Sr., whose regime was marred with extravagance, plunder, corruption, and rights violations, in February 1986 via a bloodless revolt.

Former senator Aquino was a known opposition leader during the Marcos Sr. regime.

The Aquinos and Marcoses have been political rivals, with each family producing senators and presidents.

Former senator Aquino’s wife, Corazon Aquino, became the country’s 11th President (after Marcos Sr.) of the country and while their son, Benigno S. Aquino III, became the country’s 15th President.

Former President Marcos PAGE 7

PHILIPPINE and American Army officials met last month in Hawaii to draw up plans for a “scaled up” edition next year of “Salaknib,” the annual military exercise aimed at boosting the defense readiness of both sides.

Party list representatives, however, on Monday, July 4 filed three resolutions seeking to abrogate two of the country’s treaties with the United States, as well as an investigation into the local deployment of American military drones.

Col. Xerxes Trinidad, Philippine Army spokesperson, said in a statement that from June 27 to 30, representatives from their side and the US Army Pacific reviewed the exercise timeline, strategic objectives, area of operations and updated mission statement.

Around 2,200 Filipino and American soldiers trained together in March for this year’s “Salaknib,” which included the HighMobility Artillery Rocket System (Himar) live fire, team to company level live fire exercise, engineering projects, artillery and fire support missions, and over 20 subject matter expert exchanges.

Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., Philippine Army chief, earlier said that the joint exercise was a testament to the “longstanding bilateral relations” between both military forces that would contribute to the “pursuit of a common goal of maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific.”

But even as the country marked Philippine-American Friendship Day on Monday, July 4, three party list lawmakers jointly filed resolutions calling for the abrogation of two of the country’s treaties with the United States.

Unbridled US operations Gabriela Rep. Arlene Brosas, ACT Teachers Rep. France Castro and Kabataan Rep. Raoul Danniel Manuel also pushed for an investigation into the deployment in the country of American military drones.

House Resolutions Nos. 18 and 20 sought to abrogate the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) and Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (Edca) which, according to the lawmakers, had led to “unbridled U.S. military operations and abuses in the country.”

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Older adults still at high risk for...

PAGE 1 “From the outset of the pandemic and still to this day,” DeMarois said, “older adults have been hardest hit — 70% of all Covid deaths in California are people 65 and older.”

“So we need your help in communicating the value of vaccines and boosters and testing-to-treatment for this population.”

Tartof shared research relevant to people of all age groups, such as new evidence that the biggest benefit of being vaccinated is not preventing infection but preventing severe outcomes from infections.

Vaccines wane in effectiveness – need boosters Booster shots, she said, are proving more effective than the original vaccination doses.

But even the heightened level of immunity provided by a booster wanes over time, she said, and researchers now recommend additional boosters.

“Really, six months after a vaccination, you’re down to like, the protection you’d have from one or maybe none. That’s what drives the booster recommendation — They’re not providing the same protection that they did when you first got them.”

This waning is more acute in “immunocompromised” people, Tartof explained, which includes people, often seniors, facing an array of challenges such as leukemia, lymphoma, HIV, AIDS, stem cell or organ transplantation.

“It’s really important to protect yourself by staying up to date and to try to keep track of what current recommendations are.”

“It’s confusing,” she admitted. But, she said, “another thing I do is study long Covid. Those very debilitating symptoms are actually pretty much impossible to treat,” she warned.

“Every time I feel hesitant, I just think that I’m more willing to take risks with the vaccine, which are actually very minimal compared to the risks of long-term.”

Of those California seniors lost to Covid, 45% were Latino, more than twice their 22% of the population aged 65 to 79.

African Americans, 5.5% of that age group, experienced an 8% death rate, Chan said.

Statewide, more than 80% of older adults have been vaccinated, 70% have had one booster, almost 30% have had two. But these statewide figures do not reflect regional differences, Chan cautioned.

“We can’t have a one-size-fits-all approach to getting people vaccinated. This is longterm work for the safety of all the older adults in our state.”

The rate of positive tests for Covid in California stands at 13.2%, probably an undercount, Chan said, but still 1.5 percentage points higher than the week before. And with 3,100 people currently hospitalized, he said, we’re back to the level we were in March, when Omicron spiked.

There’s plenty of vaccines

But there’s good news too. Unlike the early days of vaccine availability, he said, “We have plenty of vaccine,” so the days of rationing are over.

“We also know that vaccines work,” he said, and cited state data from May showing that people without vaccines are five times more likely to get Covid, seven times more likely to be hospitalized for it and 10 times more likely to die than those vaccinated and boosted.

Vaccines are being approved for more age groups, and there’s a potential for more specific vaccines targeting variants as they emerge, Chan noted.

Also, he said, “access is easier than ever before,” with systems in place to vaccinate people at home, if necessary, that can be obtained with or without internet or cell phone access.

Free transportation or in-home delivery of vaccinations and boosters can be arranged in multiple languages by calling 1-833-4224255. On the web, go to https://myturn. ca.gov/, DeMarois said. The site covid19. ca.gov also has information and scheduling help available in dozens of languages.

Caregiver support The state has 11 caregiver resource centers (CRCs) (www.caregivercalifornia.org) (1-800510-2020, multiple languages) offering an array of free services to support those caring for people 60 and older or for adults with cognitive impairment issues.

Velasquez’s Southern Caregiver Resource Center is focused on San Diego and Imperial counties, where people 60 or older were 86% of the 5,000 Covid deaths recorded.

Of Velasquez’s care-provider clients, he said, more than 70% were spending more than 40 hours per week providing care and got no paid help. They self-reported fair to poor and worsening health, moderate to severe depression and loneliness.

“Caregivers usually don’t want help for themselves,” he said, but when Covid hit, the challenges of social distancing eventually led to increased calls for help in the form of the “respite services” CRCs can provide.

For his CRC’s 516 family caregivers, it came to a combined 192,600 hours in one year, Velasquez said.

“You have to get them to think that they’re helping their loved one, even though they’re helping themselves.”

Beware complacency “For me, the most worrisome thing is how everybody’s become a little bit more complacent. Masks are not being worn on a regular basis. People are just tired. They just want to say, ‘Covid is over, let’s just do what we do.’”

“We really want to encourage individuals and families to consider safely reentering settings where they can share meals, participate in activities and have multidisciplinary healthcare teams supporting them.” (Mark Hedin/Ethnic Media Services)

Solon wants Ninoy Aquino...

PAGE 6 Sr.’s son and namesake, Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, was inaugurated as the country’s 17th President lat June 30 at the National Museum of Fine Arts.

This is not the first time that the idea of renaming

NAIA was raised. In June 2020, former deputy speaker Paolo Duterte — son of former President Rodrigo Duterte — and other lawmakers filed a bill to change NAIA to Paliparang Pandaigdig ng Pilipinas (Philippine

International Airport).

Duterte and other lawmakers, including thenSpeaker Lord Allan Velasco, said changing the name would make the airport immediately identifiable as a Philippine-based establishment. g

7

SWEAR TO THE FLAG. Socio Economic Planning Secretary Dr. Arsenio M. Balisacan (3rd from left, 1st row) swears to the Philippine flag together with outgoing National Economic Development Authority Secretary Karl Chua (3rd from right, 1st row) and other NEDA officials during the flag raising ceremony at the NEDA Office, Escriva Drive, Ortigas Center in Pasig City on Monday, July 4. Balisacan said NEDA will do its mandate with openness, transparency, integrity, professionalism and excellence.

Fil-Ams sound off on Marcos’ return to...

PAGE 2 billion plunder, the Php 203 billion cumulative unpaid estate taxes, unpaid income taxes, and massive torture, disappearances and political imprisonment during Martial Law,” the letter read.

Inaugural speech In his 25-minute inaugural speech on June 30, Marcos presented his plans for the economy, environment, infrastructure development, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

He called on the Filipino people to reject the “politics of division” and urged the public to unite and cooperate to achieve his visions for the country.

Marcos vowed to implement a comprehensive, all-inclusive plan for the economy that would also address issues of food security.

He also committed to carry on and complete the ongoing infrastructure projects of the past administration and create

a more comprehensive infrastructure plan that will be implemented within his six-year term.

Moreso, Marcos pledged to remedy some of the shortcomings in responding to COVID-19-related problems, as he recalled being among the first to be infected by the virus.

He also promised to look into climate change issues, and educational curriculum reforms, which pertain to sciences and vocational skills, not history. g

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JULY 8-14, 2022 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

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9

Multi-billion project gains steam as heavy hitters plot new arena, entertainment mecca

By REALTOR FELY QUITEVIS-BATEMAN

IT was not that long ago that Las Vegas was still awash in brush, dirt, rocks and empty land.

Slowly and steady, bigger resort-casinos have dotted the Las Vegas landscape, gradually extending its reach

Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman (extreme right) with her great real estate team: son Primo (middle) and nephew John (extreme left) who are both ready to assist their company’s broad clientele, be it for residential, commercial or vacant land both in Pahrump (Nye County) or Clark County.

further and further south of the Strip. And so with residential properties and developments – many have been developed as a response to the demand from people

The glove factory planned for Pahrump is moving forward fast. A recent meeting between Alka Products CEO/President Andrew Hoang (middle) and Nye County Chief Planner Brett Waggoner (extreme right) was very informative; details were also discussed for the site approval. With Hoang and Waggoner in photo is Realtor

who have continually flocked to the city.

The Oak View Group is going to be behind one of the biggest planned developments in Las Vegas – a privately financed $3 billion sports and entertainment district which would sit near the intersection of Las Vegas Boulevard and Blue Diamond Road.

It recently bought 66 acres of land in that area for just under $100 million, according to the Las Vegas Sun, which is about 3 miles north of South Point.

The Southern Californiabased investment firm also had two additional hires who have had success with other projects and will be part of the group that will see its own project through, namely Marc Badain, former president of the Las Vegas Raiders (and who was connected to the building of Allegiant Stadium), and Randy Morton, a longtime executive at the Bellagio. Both started out recently on their

Realtor Fely Quitevis-Bateman (standing, middle) is shown with her young investors, Wilmer and Gerlie Comahig, who bought parcels of land in Las Vegas and Pahrump. The land in Pahrump has been approved for a 100-bed senior resort living development.

new roles.

The Oak View Group’s plan is to build what would include a hotel-casino and amphitheater, plus a world-class arena that could eventually be home to a Las Vegas basketball franchise. The arena would be NBA-ready, and will also be a possible home to major events, concerts and meetings. Although there have been no specifics or

rendering released on what the arena would like, the group has said it would be about 850,000 square feet.

An additional entertainment district is planned to sit on 25 acres.

Although nothing is assured, the group is motoring on with its plans for the arena. Recently, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver had announced that the PAGE 10

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PH, US eye ‘scaled up’ war games... ‘No decision yet on PH rejoining ICC’

PAGE 6 “We expect these treaties to be used as legal cover for bigger and more flexible deployment of U.S. military troops and assets in the Philippines, especially with the revival of the U.S. pivot to Asia,” they said.

The lawmakers cited cases of alleged abuses committed by American military servicemen against women, children and members of the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender) community in seeking the VFA’s abrogation.

As for Edca, they said it had transformed the country into a “virtual U.S. military base in the Asia-Pacific region where U.S. armed forces units have practically been given free rein in conducting operations of whatever nature in strategic points inside Philippine territory.”

According to them, Edca “violates Philippine national sovereignty, imperils the geopolitical situation in the West Philippine Sea, and endangers the livelihood of farmers, fisherfolk and indigenous peoples’ communities.”

At the same time, the party list representatives asked the House committee on national defense and security to look into the deployment and operations of U.S. military drones in the country.

Constitutional violations Brosas said the military should “report to the public the extent by which these unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are used in military operations, and if the U.S. is controlling these air assets remotely, as it would constitute flagrant violations of our Constitution.”

They noted the 2017 deployment to Mindanao of the Gray Eagle UAV—a high-tech drone which could be armed with missiles—to support government operations against terrorists in Marawi City.

The lawmakers also cited the U.S. military’s turnover of four ScanEagle drones to the Philippine Air Force last year.

“There has been no official record of the operations and missions of the deployed Gray Eagle in Mindanao or that of the recently turned over ScanEagle drones, leading to suspicions that (they) could have been endangering the lives of Filipinos,” they said.

They added that the deployment of UAVs opened the door for another country to directly or indirectly participate in local combat operations which was against the Constitution, saying that the drones might also be used “against the Filipino people.”

(Inquirer.net)

History being written, not...

PAGE 5 were especially pleased to hear him say that the task of building will continue, and that he will complete on schedule the projects that have been started.

“I am not interested in taking credit. I want to build on the success that is already happening,” he emphasized.

It is evident that Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is looking towards the future, with no intention whatsoever to rewrite history because as I have always maintained, he will be writing his story as he takes his place in history. Certainly, he is cognizant of the weight of the responsibility that has been placed upon his shoulders by the 31 million who voted him into office – “the biggest electoral mandate in the history of Philippine democracy,” as he described it.

“I fully understand the gravity of the responsibility that you have put on my shoulders. I do not take it lightly, but I am ready for the task,” President BBM declared, acknowledging that with every difficult decision he must make, he will keep foremost in his heart and mind “the debt of gratitude” he owes the Filipino people for “the honor and responsibility” that has been conferred on him.

There is absolutely no

doubt President Bongbong Marcos is highly motivated, giving me confidence in his ability to do well. And regardless of whether they are critics or supporters, deep in everyone’s heart as true Filipinos, they want this, our country, to go forward.

The special envoys present, among them Second Gentleman of the United States Doug Emhoff, were extremely impressed by the way President Bongbong Marcos expressed the vision and aspirations he has for the country and the Filipino people. When SGOTUS Emhoff made a private call on the President after the vin d’honneur, he delivered a personal letter from President Biden inviting President Marcos to visit the White House at an opportune time.

As I shared during my interview with CNN’s Ria Tanjuatco Trillo last Friday, July 1, that was very significant because there is a concerted effort on the part of the United States to reach out to the new administration of President Marcos and move forward to make the relationship even stronger.

President Biden was the first head of state to congratulate President Marcos. SGOTUS Emhoff is also a close personal friend of President Biden; representing him at the inaugural was a personal

gesture coming from the US president.

Regarding our relationship with the United States, President Marcos said he would like to see more trade between the two nations. We have mounted quite a number of economic forums in the past and we will be doing more of that. In my conversation with Finance Secretary Ben Diokno, we agreed to continue, if not double our efforts, in promoting the Philippines and getting more investments from the United States.

We have actually been getting a lot of inquiries on how we could move forward with regard to economic trade between the Philippines and the US under the new administration.

For my part, I am highly motivated to double the work we have been doing not only on the aspect of the economy but in other areas of mutual interest to bring the relationship to a higher level. (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. *** Email: babeseyeview@gmail. com

by Kristina

Maralit ManilaTimes.net

PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has yet to make a decision regarding calls for the Philippine government to rejoin the International Criminal Court (ICC), Press Secretary Rose Beatrix “Trixie” CruzAngeles said Monday, July 4, following calls made by some opposition members, including Sen. Ana Theresia “Risa” Hontiveros and former lawmaker Leila De Lima, for the Chief Executive to restore the country’s membership in the tribunal to prove his administration’s resolve in protecting human rights.

“Those comments, as in

any comment in the exercise of free speech, [are] duly noted. But we will wait for the formal policy as articulated by the President,” the Presidential Communications Operations Office chief said.

The Philippines officially withdrew from the Rome Statute on March 17, 2019, exactly one year after former president Rodrigo Duterte threatened a pull out due to the ICC’s initiation of a probe on alleged crimes against humanity committed by his administration.

Those abuses, according to the international tribunal, were in connection to Duterte’s unforgiving war against illegal drugs that resulted in the deaths of thousands during law enforcement operations.

Duterte rejected the ICC’s move, insisting it has no jurisdiction over the country’s internal affairs.

Marcos is also being urged to put under review his predecessor’s anti-narcotics policy.

The Manananggol Laban sa Extrajudicial Killings (Manlaban sa EJK), a group of lawyers, judges, legal practitioners and law students, wants the 64-yearold leader to further study the Duterte administration’s campaign against illegal drugs including the accountability of senior political leaders and law enforcement officials.

“We will have to articulate that later on when we have a directive from the President,” Cruz-Angeles said. g

Multi-billion project gains steam...

PAGE 9 league is not discussing any future expansion as of yet in response to persistent rumors of Seattle and Las Vegas as cities which are on its radar for expanding the league.

The most important thing for the Oak View Group is having had the opportunity to buy the land where they want to put their development in. This would help tremendously in concretizing any plans for the hotel-casino, amphitheater, arena and entertainment district.

While it has said that it will look for a partner for its hotel-casino, it will be taking care of the operations of the arena. The Oak View Group is not new to the development, management and providing event programming services to arenas as it has a client list in different locations around the U.S., including Washington, New York and Kentucky. It also owns arenas in New York and Seattle.

Along with Allegiant Stadium, this new $3 billion project, which will not be built with public funds, will certainly add to the branding conceived and marketed by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority of Las Vegas as “Sports Capital of the World” and as “The Greatest Arena on Earth.” After all, it already has football, soccer, women’s basketball, Triple A baseball and other sports teams based in the city. Las Vegas will also host the 2024 Super Bowl, and this month it will be the location of the NBA’s Summer League.

According to industry analysts, the piece of land chosen by the Oak View Group is a prime location – what with its access to freeways, proximity to the airport and existing transportation infrastructure, and its location along Las Vegas Boulevard.

The purchase price of this land, along with the other recent high-value land transactions that have taken place, shows just how much real estate has appreciated in this corridor. In a couple of years, those tracts of land would not just be rocks and dirt – they would showcase brighter, shinier additions to the landscape of Las Vegas and add more glamour to the city, which is already a gaming and entertainment capital in the world.

Badain, in the Las Vegas Sun article, pretty much summed up how their project is the next

step in Las Vegas’ evolution, by saying, “This project represents the next step in that exciting evolution. This city always bounces back, and it’s time for the newest and best arena to be in Las Vegas. If you’re an entertainment brand, you better have a foot in the door in Las Vegas because it’s an incredible city, and an incredible place to do business.”

I have been a Realtor since 1988, and have personally experienced the tremendous growth of Las Vegas and other areas in Nevada, including Pahrump, which is just 62 miles west of Las Vegas. While the area suffered in the 2008 housing debacle, along with the rest of the U.S., and was affected by the recent pandemic, it has shown signs of coming back. Construction of many projects has helped provide steady employment for many, while plans of major companies like the one of the Oak View Group, are keeping many people interested in what the city will next have to offer to tourists, visitors and residents.

Although indicators have shown lately of a slight slowdown in home purchases, that isn’t expected to last long in a market like Las Vegas.

After all, home prices in the city – and for the State of Nevada, for that matter – are still more affordable than some parts of the country. Clark County, which is where Las Vegas is located, is expected to add more than a million people by 2060, according to a forecast from the UNLV’s Center for Business and Economic Research.

If you are looking to invest your money in real estate and/or property, or you are in the market for a new home or vacation/second home, I can help. Together, we can look at the properties available in the market and find that suitable piece of land or property that you can call your own.

My company, Precious Properties, is a fullservice company that has successfully helped its clientele find the best deals since 1988. You can reach me at 775-513-8447, 805-559-2476 and 702-538-4948 for more information, or send me an email at fely@precious-properties. com or fely.precious@gmail.com. We have investors who buy houses in California and Nevada for cash and quick escrow in as short as 7 days.

(Advertising Supplement)

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COMMUNITY JOURNAL

11

Lifetime ban for admitting drug use lifted, this Sunday on Citizen Pinoy

RONALD was petitioned as Joyce’s fiancé in 2006. While the K-1 petition was approved, his visa was denied after Ronald admitted to the doctors at St. Luke’s that he tried drugs many years ago.

Because of that admission, he was banned for life.

In 2008, Joyce and Ronald got married, hoping that this would get a positive result. However, the same policy was still in place and his visa was again refused.

Fortunately, in 2011, leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel was able to convince the U.S. Embassy in Manila to reverse

their policy of a lifetime ban if the only “evidence” was the person admitting drug use to St. Luke’s doctors.

In 2015, Joyce consulted again with Atty. Gurfinkel, and he was able to clear Ronald’s name and the visa was issued. Finally, Ronald and Joyce were able to spend their first Christmas in the U.S. as a married couple.

Watch this success story on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, July 10 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET thru select Cable/Satellite providers), right after TV Patrol Linggo. Citizen Pinoy is also available on iWantTFC. Viewers may download the app for free.

(Advertising Supplement)

BANNED FOR LIFE NO MORE, THIS SUNDAY ON CITIZEN PINOY. Joyce (center) petitioned her fiancé, Ronald (left), in 2006. However, while the K-1 petition was approved in 2007, his visa was denied due to Ronald’s admitting to drug use to the doctors at St. Luke’s. He was then banned for life from entering the U.S. In 2011, leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel (right) was able to convince the U.S. Embassy in Manila to change their policy, and they agreed they would not ban people for life if the only “evidence” is the person admitting drug use to the doctors at St. Luke’s. In 2016, MJG was able to clear Ronald’s name, and Ronald’s immigrant visa was issued. Watch this success story on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” on Sunday, July 10 at 6:30 PM PT (9:30 PM ET) through select Cable/Satellite providers, right after TV Patrol Linggo.

(Advertising Supplement)

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Health@Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS THE Supreme Court of the United States ruled on Friday, June 24, 2022, to overturn Roe v. Wade, aborting the “conceived constitutional right to abortion” mothered by a progressive Supreme Court on January 22, 1973. This historic upset terminated almost half a century of what was dubbed and generally thought of as a guaranteed right under the U.S. Constitution.

After 49 years, the Supreme Court revisited the abortion issue, and it is now clear that there is nothing in the Constitution of the United States that provides the right to abortion. There is no provision in this sacred document that states, much less guarantees, the right or the freedom of choice to terminate the life of a fetus in the mother’s womb. Even the word abortion, in its current context, is not in the Constitution or Bill of Rights.

Justice Antonin Scalia, a brilliant scholar and one of the most respected members of the Supreme Court, was precisely on target when he declared more than a decade before he died on February 13, 2016, that abortion was unconstitutional because “the Constitution contains no right to abortion.”

We, The People, have been misled by the progressive left, aided by the mainstream media, to believe that abortion was a constitutional right.

The Roe v Wade landmark agenda was successfully “created out of thin air” as a right under the Fourth Amendment (the right to privacy), like marital privacy, privacy between a physician and patient, the priest and the penitent, the lawyer and client privilege. It was a bit of a stretch, but somehow “abortion rights” became law of the land in 1973, resulting in the death of more than 63 million unborn, much more than the total casualties of all wars known to man from 549 BC (Cyrus the Great) Pre-Modern War to the most recent around the world, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, combined.

The other issue being raised by a large sector of the United States is why taxes paid by those against abortion are being used to subsidize those seeking an abortion, that the subsidy

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Abortion: A right? Marian’s Top 3 homemaker tips should only be borne by those in favor of abortion, the pro-abortion segment of society calling itself prochoice.

Designer vaccines New vaccines, tailored to be more effective against the new subvariants of Omicron, like BA.4 and BA.5, which are the predominant substrains today, are soon to be available by Fall or sooner, in preparation for the predicted more than a million new COVID-19 infections during winter.

Since the spike proteins on the surface of the round SARS-CoV2 viruses are the penetrating “needles” that allow the virus to enter the person’s cells to cause infection, and since the spikes differ in each variant or subvariant, the vaccines are designed to mimic each type of spike proteins to promote immunity against more variety of the virus.

This concept has led to studies that showed a mix and match vaccination is more effective and protective against different strains and sub-strains of the coronaviruses. An example of this is getting Moderna as the second booster after an initial Pfizer-BioNT booster, or Novavax (found to be more than 90 percent effective for mild, moderate or even severe COVID-019 infection).

The newer vaccines have been reformulated to also protect against the Omicron BA.4 and BA.5.

As of July 4, 2022, the 7-day average daily case was 105,754, with 389 deaths, and a fully vaccinated rate of 67 percent for the United States, In the Philippines, there were 914 cases last week and a positivity rate of 13.2 percent, nearly 90 percent of the country showing a rise in COVID-19 cases, and 57 percent of the nation with an increasing positivity rate, according to the Philippine Department of Health. Almost 71 million people (62.7 percent) in the Philippines have been fully vaccinated out of the 113.2+ million total population.

The pandemic is far from over, with Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 today and potential newer strains in the future, so we have to continue to be careful and vigilant.

Protection from the vaccines and from natural immunity following COVID-19 infection both wane after about 6 months or less, the reason boosters #1 and #2 are

recommended, and perhaps another one for this coming Fall.

Masking and social distancing protect everyone and are nothing to be embarrassed about.

Arrogance and bravado towards the virus can be deadly. Life is precious. And, unfortunately, it does not come with a spare.

Cervical Cancer Cancer of the cervix (mouth of the womb) is typically caused by the human papillomatous virus (HPV), a sexually transmitted malignancy, but it is possible for a woman to develop it even if she never had sexual intercourse.

Normally spread by skinto-skin or skin-to-mucosal contact during sex, HPV could also be transmitted by genital touching, oral sex, vaginal fluids on hands and fingers, and by sharing sex toys. HPV could also infect 11 percent of babies during vaginal delivery.

Cigarette smokers are twice likely to develop cervical cancer compared to those who do not smoke because there is an ingredient in tobacco that damages the DNA of the cervix. A weakened immune system and the long-term use of contraceptives also increase the risk. Cervical cancer also runs in the family.

Cervical cancer screening is recommended by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology for those aged 21 and over, including those who are not sexually active.

HPV Myths debunked HPV is rare. Wrong. HPV is very common. Sexually active individuals will contract the virus at some point. Most will not have obvious signs.

Multiple sexual partners is how one gets HPV. False.

One infected sexual partner is enough to get HPV. Use of condoms prevents HPV. Fake news. The use of condoms or other barriers may reduce, but not totally prevent HPV infection. The virus could be on the skin around the vagina and in the hands and fingers.

If one gets HPV, she will develop cancer. Not true.

There are more than 200 types of HPV and only a few increase the risk for cervical cancer.

After getting the HPV vaccine, the woman does not need PAP smear tests

EVEN top actress and celebrity homemaker Marian Rivera knows upgrading the home isn’t always easy.

Especially at this time when there are limited options, skyrocketing prices and limited budgets. Sprucing up any space – big or small – can certainly be a challenge.

Rivera is grateful, however, that as brand ambassador of online shopping mecca Shopee, she can well help her fellow homemakers make the most of their abodes with what little they can spend these days. Here then are the GMA Primetime Queen and queen of the Dantes’ home’s Top 3 tips on home design and practical must-haves.

Oh, but just before that, Rivera cautions, “Always set a budget.” Even with her superstar status, setting a budget for everything is always an important aspect for the 37-year-old star, especially when buying essentials for home and living. And just like most of homemakers, the A-list celebrity also looks out for the best deals on her favorite shopping app.

Asked specifically for her single best tip to new homeowners, Rivera shares, “Always look for a peg. In that manner, mas makikita mo kung ano yung kailangan mong bilhin at kung anong kulang. [Always look for a peg. In that manner, you’ll see exactly what you need to buy and what’s still missing.]”

As for her much-awaited Top 3 homemaker tips, read on and live well Tip No. 1: Get organized all around Too much clothes but not enough space? This hanging coset organizer is a lifesaver thanks to multiple pockets that are perfect for small items. Homemakers can hang this organizer inside closets, in the bathroom, or even in anymore. False. To fully protect a woman, PAP tests are still needed Vaginal penetration by the penis is needed to acquire HPV infection. Not true.

Touching the genital or oral sex is enough to cause HPV. Gardisil-9 vaccine against nine varieties of HPV is only for adults. Wrong.

This highly (more than 98 percent) effective vaccine against cervical cancer is recommended for girls and boys aged 9 and adults up to age 45. ***

Marian Rivera helps her fellow homemakers make the most of their abodes with what little they can spend.

Photo from Instagram/@

your laundry area.

Rivera also encourages the queen of the home to maximize every bit of space for storage using knickknacks like wall-mounted rotatable hooks, which easily sticks on any surface without damaging walls.

Avoid spilled and wasted toothpaste with the help an automatic toothpaste dispenser, which also doubles as toothbrush storage to keep the sink area neat and tidy.

Organize grocery items with the help of a refrigerator storage box, which has a space-saving design that makes stocking up supplies easier and more convenient.

Tip No. 2: Prioritize!

Know for her multiple roles both on and off screen, the most important for Rivera is still true to life. Being a mom considers is being a mom to her children and prioritizing everything they need.

“Mahilig ako mag-ayosayos sa bahay lalo na pag walang ginagawa. Syempre first thing na kinoconsider ko is ang safety ng mga anak ko.

“At dahil bata, maligalig at mahirap namang makatabigtabig sila o malapit sa

disgrasya, so I always make sure na kid-friendly ang mga gamit ang ayos namin sa bahay.”

Under this category, Rivera advises using go-to tumblers with protective bottle sleeved. This has a nonslip, anti-scratch, and anticollision surface to keep the tumbler protected at all times.

Make use of a multipurpose bath ladle for daily home tasks, including watering the plants, washing ingredients in the kitchen, or even for the kids’ next bath time session.

Avoid leaving around unsafe items kids can reach with the help of an under-desk organizer, which can also be used for a home office setup.

Prevent any accidents in the kitchen with a bottle opener that is essy and safe to use in opening bottles and jars with ease.

Tip No. 3: Choose convenience when shopping for your home necessities Rivera admits she is an avid shopper and doesn’t hide that Shopee is her go-to source for home essentials.

Sharing more of what she PAGE 13

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

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

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Mark admits questioning God after Francine admits ‘professional jealousy’ consecutive deaths of family members towards fellow actresses

By Anne

PAsAjol Inquirer.net

By Anne

PAsAjol

Inquirer.net

FRANCINE Diaz got real about being in the showbiz industry and disclosed that there is “professional jealousy” among fellow actresses in her generation.

Diaz spoke about this as she took on the lie detector test challenge with fellow actress Bea Alonzo, as seen in a vlog on the latter’s YouTube channel yesterday, July 2. The said challenge was done with a real polygraph machine and a professional examiner.

The topic was brought up after Diaz was asked about a recent magazine cover she had with fellow actresses Andrea Brillantes, Belle Mariano, Charlie Dizon, Alexa Ilacad and Jayda Avanzado.

“Kayo ang itinuturing na bagong henerasyon ng mga stars — mayroon bang pressure o professional jealousy sa pagitan niyo?”

Alonzo asked.

(You alongside these actresses are dubbed as the new generation of stars — is there pressure or professional jealousy among all of you?)

Diaz answered “yes” to which the examiner gestured a thumbs up, affirming that the actress was telling the truth.

“Pero ‘yung pressure ko kasi, hindi naman ‘yung pressure na, ‘Kailangan mas maganda ako sa kanya.

Dapat mas maganda ‘yung damit ko sa kanya’ — siguro competition na professional and healthy,” Diaz explained.

“Parati kong pinapasok sa isip ko na lahat naman tayo ay darating ‘yung para sa atin sa tamang oras.”

(But the pressure on my

Francine Diaz Photo from Instagram/@francinediaz

part is not like, “I should be prettier than her. My clothes should be better than hers” — maybe it is a professional and healthy competition. I always bear in my mind that everyone’s turn will come at the right time.)

Diaz also talked about her work ethic when Alonzo asked if she ever had been “plastic” towards a fellow actor.

“Kahit ayaw ko sa kanya, nire-respeto ko na lang siya bilang ka-trabaho ko and as a person kasi ‘pag pinlastic ko siya e ‘di plastic akong tao.

Ang pangit,” Diaz stated.

(Even if I do not like the person, I respect that person as a fellow actor and as a person, because if I act “plastic,” that makes me plastic too. It is not proper.)

Diaz also admitted that the showbiz industry is toxic but stressed that it still has its good side as there are genuine people in it.

Meanwhile, Diaz is set to team up for the first time with actor Seth Fedelin in the upcoming TV series “Dirty Linen.” Joining the pair in the cast are Janine Gutierrez, Zanjoe Marudo, Jennica Garcia and JC Santos, among others. g

Marian’s Top 3...

PAGE 12 usually buys, the celebrity wife and mom says, “I am very fond of kitchenware at mga ingredients ng kung anu-anong niluluto ko, lalo na minsan pag may mga ingredients na mahirap hanapin sa grocery.”

She shops online for these nowadays and guarantees hasslefree cooking time every time, beginning with a condiments organizer to help keep spices in place in an aesthetic way.

“Make cooking a fun and safe experience with these non-slip silicone oven gloves, which you can use to hold and transfer hot objects. Replace your plastic containers with sealed jar containers, which come in different sizes to store extra ingredients and food items. And always keep your cooking station spotless clean with quick-drying multipurpose kitchen towels, which you can also use on kitchenware,” she goes through her list, ending with a satisfied smile. (ManilaTimes.net)

MARK Herras opened up on how he got depressed and lost his purpose in life after his parents, grandmother and uncle passed away one after the other.

The actor-dancer spoke about this during a conversation with TV hosts Camille Prats and Kim Atienza in the morning talk show “Mars Pa More,” as seen on GMA’s YouTube channel last Thursday, June 30.

“Namatay ‘yung lola ko, then my dad, then my mom, then my tito — sunodsunod sila. 2011 si lola, 2014 is my dad, after two years my mom, then after six months my tito,” he said. “Hindi ako nakapag-mourn nang maayos kasi magmo-mourn pa lang ako sa dad ko, namatay na mom ko, then after ‘yung tito ko — parang paano ako magmomourn?”

(My grandmother died in 2011 and my dad in 2014. Two years later, my mom passed away, then my uncle did too after six months. I was not able to mourn properly because I was still mourning the death of my dad when my mom died, then my uncle — I felt like [I do not know] how will I mourn?)

Herras was then asked by Atienza if he had gone through depression after the unfortunate events. Herras revealed that he did, adding that it took quite some time before he had his “turning point.”

“Ang tagal nung turning point —

Mark Herras Photo from Instagram/@herrasmarkangeloofficial

nung dumating sa akin ‘yung pamilya ko, si Nicole (Donesa) and si Corky.

Before them, nandoon ako sa parang, ‘Bahala na,’ walang directions,” he stated, referring to his wife and son.

(The turning point took a long time — when my family came [into my life], Nicole and Corky. Before them, I was at the point where I was like, “Let everything be,” no directions.)

“Before I joined ‘StarStruck,’ sinasabi nila, ‘Bakit ka nag-showbiz?’

[I answered], ‘Just to help my family,’” he added. “Nung nawala ‘yung core na

pamilya ko, wala na. Parang nawalan ako ng direksyon sa buhay, kung ano pang dapat kong gawin.”

(Before I joined “StarStruck,” they asked me why I entered showbiz. I answered, “Just to help my family.” When I lost my core family, [I was left with] nothing. It felt like I lost my direction in life. [I did not know] what should I do [at the time].)

Herras then recalled how his mind then was clouded with questions, but stated that he now understands why he had to go through such an experience.

“Before lagi kong tinatanong na, ‘Why God? Ano po bang plano Niyo sa ‘kin?’ Nung time na ‘yun kino-kontra ko na, ‘Parang mali, hindi Niyo dapat sila kinuha sa ‘kin’ pero ngayon ito pala ‘yung purpose,” he said. “Para matuto ako sa buhay, to be a responsible father sa anak ko and to be a better partner sa wife ko.”

(Before, I always asked, “Why God? What plan do You have for me?” I was questioning Him at the time, saying, “This feels like a mistake. You should not have taken them away from me.” But now, I realized that this is His purpose — for me to learn in life, to be a responsible father to my son, and a better partner to my wife.)

Meanwhile, Herras and Donesa’s son Corky recently acquired dual citizenship after the kid successfully got a United States passport. Last April, the couple also started building their dream home which they call “Casa Corky.” g

Anthony’s daughter now cancer-free By jAn

Milo severo

Philstar.com

BROADCASTER Anthony Taberna’s daughter Zoey is now cancer-free.

In her Facebook account, Zoey posted a video of what she has gone through in battling cancer.

“As some of you know, I was diagnosed with leukemia on December 2019. Since then, I have been undergoing chemotherapy.

Everything was going on smoothly, and complications were very minimal. My hair had grown a lot and I was getting back to feeling normal, as I could do a lot more things than I could when I was weaker,” Zoey opened her lengthy statement.

“But my situation changed when December 2021 came. During this time, I would not feel well often and several parts of my body were hurt. When they brought me to the hospital, they did tests and said that I had problems with my blood sugar because it was way higher than it was supposed to be. Some

Broadcaster Anthony Taberna and daughter Zoey (left); Zoey after her head was shaved due to chemotherapy.

Photos from Instagram/@iamtunying28

doctors said it was caused by my steroid medications, and by over consumption of sugar,” she added.

Zoey said her cancer cells came back in more fatal form.

“But as they looked into it more, after getting the results of my bone marrow aspiration, we found out that my acute lymphoblastic leukemia had morphed into acute myeloid leukemia. And this meant that all of the cancer cells that was supposed to be

long gone, came back in a way more dangerous and fatal form. I had a hard time understanding why this was happening because from the start, my doctors said that this situation was very rare,” she said.

“I was supposed to repeat all my chemotherapy again in the Philippines, but of course, my parents wanted the better option, so that we could be sure that I will be fully healed.

My doctors recommended

for us to go to Singapore because medical care is really good there. So my parents did their best to find a way for us to get there, even during the pandemic. Luckily, we were given permission to go.

All of this happened in a span of just 3 weeks so I really still couldn’t process everything in my mind,” she added.

Zoey said she needed to undergo bone marrow transplant and two chemotherapy cycles.

“We left home on the 3rd week of January.

When we got there, almost immediately, the chemo started. My doctor explained to us that I would be having 2 chemo cycles and a bone marrow transplant. Because I needed a transplant, we needed a donor,” she said.

“So my parents and my sister got tested. And luckily, my sister was the perfect match, so she became my donor. Helga being my donor didn’t worry me much because the doctor said that it was just like a blood transfusion. But after a while, PAGE 15

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N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY J U LY 8 , 2 0 22

people events arts culture entertainment

AFTER ‘ARSENIC AND ADOBO’ AND ‘HOMICIDE AND HALO-HALO’

Mia Manansala set to release her third ‘cozy’ mystery ‘Blackmail and Bibingka’ B

by MOMAR

G. VISAYA / AJPress

OOK coach and author Mia Manansala burst into the literary scene last year with her smash debut Arsenic and Adobo, which would turn out to be the first installment of a quirky and fun series steeped in rich Filipino heritage and spiced with a generous helping of delicious Filipino food.

She made it a quick one-two punch in the cozy mystery subgenre with her follow-up to her successful debut called Homicide and Halo-Halo.

This fall, fans who have fallen in love with her characters led by Lila Macapagal and her friends and relatives are in for a surprise: the release of the third book in what is now also called as “Tita Rosie’s Kitchen Mystery” series.

Blackmail and Bibingka takes off where Homicide and Halo-Halo ended.

Like Arsenic and Adobo, Homicide and Halo-Halo ended in a cliffhanger and like what she did in the first two books, the author teased the readers by releasing the saga’s next installment’s new chapter.

Manansala has brought a brand-new generation of cozy readers to the table, making inroads with millennial readers because she is in touch with the voice and texture of their communities. A subgenre of crime fiction, ‘cozies’ highlight quirky amateur sleuths and their crimesolving powers in smalltown settings.

Manansala’s books embrace conventions of the culinary cozy subgenre while also pushing past them, creating diverse mysteries that everyone enjoys.

Like its predecessors, Blackmail and Bibingka is a thrilling mystery that features these all-too-relatable characters (hello, Titas!), relatable family dynamics, and delicious food (recipes for delicious Filipino dishes included in the back of the novel).

The stories happen in the small town of Shady Palms, Illinois. In a nutshell, local baker Lila Macapagal and her relatives run Tita Rosie’s Kitchen, serve delicious Flipino dishes, and solve crimes on the side as amateur sleuths.

The latest installment of Lila’s food(and murder-) filled adventures still carries Manansala’s trademark mouth-watering descriptions, laugh-out-loud one-liners, and charmingly relatable heroine.

Manansala’s style makes the series such pageturners that fans

have been known to devour the books in one sitting, like a delicious bowl of halo-halo and a plate of bibingka, In an interview with the Asian Journal, Manansala revealed that her first book wasn’t originally sold as Arsenic and Adobo. The original title was Love, Loss, and Lumpia, which her editors liked but they told her it wasn’t “mystery enough.”

“So I brainstormed a list of titles that fit the usual cozy mystery parameters but also included Filipino food and sent them the list,” she shared.

“They chose Arsenic and Adobo from the list (which I love so much and made me wonder why it took me so long to come up with it) and from that point on, I followed the convention of an alliterative crime word plus Filipino food. It’s so much fun!”

Manansala’s books aka Tita Rosie’s Kitchen Mystery series are centered around Filipino food, family, and murder. Her protagonist, Lila Macapagal is thrust into the middle of a murder (like the first book) or solving a murder at a small-town beauty pageant that she’s judging in the second installment of the series.

“Filipinos tend to love beauty pageants, so I thought it’d be interesting to set a crime at one,” she said of Homicide and HaloHalo.

“Homicide and Halo-Halo was the first book I’ve had to write under contract, so before I could even begin I had to turn in a full synopsis (the entire story of the book including the ending) to my editors,” Manansala recalled.

This is something she has to do for all her contracted books, so she always does an outline, builds her synopsis from that, and then uses those documents to guide her while she drafts the story. When she gets stuck, she turns to the synopsis and

Mia Manansala Photo by Jamilla Yip Photography

outline saying that she does not have the time to wait for inspiration to strike.

She also talked about the “Second Book Syndrome” where authors and writers feel that writing their second book is so much more difficult than their first because, with the first book, they could take as much time as they wanted to make it “right.”

“The second book is often part of your contract and on a deadline, so you not only have to write on a much tighter timeline than you may be used to, but you also have to do it while editing and promoting your first book and dealing with increased pressure to do well. It can be overwhelming in the best times, and having to deal with it after getting laid off and during a global pandemic…I’m so proud of myself for pushing through it all and producing a solid book,” she said.

As an author, Manansala believes it is extremely important to have Filipino characters like Lila Macapagal in her books.

“I follow the Toni Morrison adage of writing the books I want to read, that I wish I could find on the shelf but can’t. There are some wonderful Filipino and Filipino diaspora PAGE 15

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Annabelle says How Ruru lost his drive and gained it back in problem-stricken action starrer ‘gayuma,’‘manghuhula’

By AllAn

PolicArPio Inquirer.net

RURU Madrid has long dreamed of becoming an action star. Now, he finally gets to live out that fantasy as the lead star of GMA 7’s new primetime series, “Lolong,” where he plays a young man imbued with reptilian superpowers.

“This is my passion… the reason I pursued acting. I have always wanted to be an action star. As a kid, I used to watch these kinds of shows.

Now I was given a chance to do an action series, so I didn’t want to take this opportunity and trust for granted. Whatever I needed to do, I did it, no matter how difficult. That’s how much I love this show and my craft,” he told the Inquirer in a recent virtual conference.

In the action-fantasy series, which airs weeknights starting July 4, Ruru portrays the titular character, Lolong, who traces his roots to the persecuted tribe of Atubaw, a group of people who coexisted with crocodiles.

As a child growing up in a rural village called Tumahan, Lolong develops a strong kinship with animals—most especially with the majestic crocodile Dakila (brought to life by a fiberglass and silicone model operated by pneumatic technology and enhanced by computergenerated imagery).

Peculiarities However, powers that be decide to round up crocodiles in the town saying that the creatures are a menace to local livestock.

Lolong keeps his friendship with Dakila a secret. And as he navigates the disarray in his hometown, Lolong soon discovers peculiarities— special abilities, rather—that will help him take on greedy and exploitative forces that threaten the environment and the people.

Because shooting the show was as challenging

Ruru Madrid on the set of “Lolong”

physically as it was emotionally, Ruru had to make sure that not only his acting is on point, but also his body.

Good physique needed “Kailangang batak ang katawan ko!” Ruru quipped.

“I had lots of scenes where I was topless or had to swim.

There was one where I was on a boat in the middle of a river: I had to dive into the water, swim to the shore, do fight scenes, and then do regular scenes. That was really difficult.”

As such, Ruru did physical conditioning in the pockets of free time he had during the locked-in taping.

“I would train early in the morning before taping, and again after taping. If I don’t do that, my body will fail me. It’s very hard, but that’s exactly the kind of challenge I’m looking for. I’m 25 now and I want to explore new things. And this is the right show to challenge myself.”

Aside from the rigors that come with executing choreographed fight sequences, Ruru and his costars also had to contend with the elements like torrential downpours that made the outdoor shooting locations slippery.

And because part of the show was filmed at a time when face shields were still a health requirement, rehearsals became trickier than it should be.

GMA photo

Still, Ruru promised himself that he would do his own stunts, come hell or high water.

“Doing my own stunts is important to me… I feel a different kind of satisfaction when I see myself on television doing my stunts,” said Ruru, who pointed out that getting hurt once in a while was part and parcel of the job. “Sometimes, you will get wounds… it can’t be helped. It’s part of the process.”

In one action scene, Ruru sustained a hairline fracture on his foot. Although the injury was minor, he dreaded the inconvenience it caused.

“When it happened, it wasn’t the pain that I immediately felt. I knew it would be a hassle to everyone because it would cause a delay. So I challenged myself. I did therapy and rehab. When I resumed taping, I wasn’t at my 100 percent, but I told my directors that I will give it my all,” he said.

Two years in the making Lolong’s love interests are Elsie and Bella, who are played by Shaira Diaz and Arra San Agustin, respectively. The teleserye also stars Christopher de Leon, Jean Garcia, Bembol Roco, Rochelle Pangilinan, Paul Salas, Ian de Leon, Marco Alacaraz, DJ Durano, Maui Taylor, Malou de Guzman and Mikoy Morales.

“Walang nagpapataasan;

lahat pantay-pantay. When someone needs help, we’re there. Sir Bo was there to support (Christopher)…

When it’s my scene, they encourage you to own it.

When you do scenes with Ms Jean, Sir Bembol and Miss Malou, the veterans, you will also learn a lot,” he said.

It took GMA Public Affairs about two years to produce “Lolong,” because of pandemic- and productionrelated challenges. “I have been praying for the series since 2019. But then the pandemic happened, so it was delayed. And every time we were about to resume, a problem arose.

There was a time when the studio got flooded because of a typhoon. Another time, someone tested positive [for COVID]. There were lots of struggles like that,” he related.

Never giving up At one point, he felt that maybe the project wasn’t meant to be. “I lost my drive… Perhaps this is not the career for me, I thought,” he said. “I felt like maybe I should just go back to school. But I prayed. Many people who believed in me told me not to give up; that I can do it. They told me that I have been waiting for this for a long time. ‘Ngayon ka pa ba susuko?’ they said.”

While “Lolong” is just about to be aired, Ruru feels that it has already changed the course of his life and career. “I have learned lots of things while doing it. Sometimes, you don’t realize the importance of the things you have. But this project reignited my passion, commitment and drive to work. I became stronger because of the hardships we went through,” he said.

“I feel like we’re given these challenges so we don’t take what we have for granted,” Ruru said. “This is my 10th year in the biz, and I feel thankful and lucky to be part of this project.” g

Anthony’s daughter now cancer-free...

PAGE 13 we found out that Helga would also have to go through multiple procedures. Like often blood extractions and different injections. I started feeling guilty because I’m the reason why she has to do it,” she added.

Zoey said they needed to stay in Singapore to observe her condition after

the transplant and now she is cancerfree.

“Seeing myself get better every day made me so happy and grateful. We would encounter small complications here and there, but they’re nothing big.

Some of our family and friends also visited me, and distracted me in the times I wouldn’t feel okay,” she said.

“We also had a lot of fun there when I became stronger. And the day I’ve been waiting for came! After 167 long days, we went back home to the Philippines.

And now i am totally cancer free! I would still have checkups and maintenance drug infusions from time to time, but that is nothing compared to what I’ve been through,” she added. g

a waste of money

By KAthleen

A. llemit

Philstar.com

ANNABELLE Rama shared that no “gayuma” (love potion) or “manghuhula” (fortune teller) can ever influence love.

She actually spent P20,000 one time only for her husband Eddie Gutierrez to truly fall in love with her after 10 years.

“Huwag kayong maniwala sa gayuma, fake ‘yan! Diyan naubos ang ipon ko. Lahat ng buong probinsya inikot ko na, kung ano-anong klaseng gayuma. Hindi ko pa siya asawa noon. Patay na patay ako sa kanya. Hindi ko talaga mahuli,” she revealed during the “Sexy Babe” segment of the noontime show “It’s Showtime” on July 2.

“Kada punta sa bahay ko, ginagamit ko ‘yung gayuma.

Walang nangyari. After 10 years, saka siya na-in-love sa akin. Walang gayuma ang ginagamit ko,” the talent manager said.

She relayed how she would have a “manghuhula” go to her house from provinces as far as Bataan. She paid for

the fare to and fro and got charged twice the amount.

She also revealed how she had to wake up at the wee hours of the morning to prepare chicken and vegetables as ritual offering for the “gayuma” to work.

In addition, Eddie has to be present while it is being done.

Did her husband know about her using “gayuma” on him?

“Inamin ko sa kanya.

After 10, 15 years, nagoffer sa akin ng marriage.

Ay salamat. Hindi dahil sa gayuma.

Dahil sa pagdaadasal ko at pagsisilbi at pagmamahal ko sa kanya,” Annabelle shared.

She also revealed that her daughter, actress Ruffa Gutierrez, is also into fortune telling or manghuhula. She has already told Ruffa that it doesn’t work.

“Sabi ko, magdasal ka na lang kasi if you pray every day, every night, lahat ng swerte ibibigay sa’yo ng Panginoon,” Annabelle advised. g

Mia Manansala...

PAGE 14 writers out there, but there could always be more,” she said.

Manansala was an English language instructor at a cultural immersion language school, which closed down at the beginning of the pandemic.

She works part-time at her local library where she spends the first half of the week writing and working with her book coaching clients, the second half doing her library job. Her weekends tend to be dedicated to writing-related activities as well.

“I work best late morning to early afternoon – after 4 or 5 p.m., my brain is mush, so I try to get all my productive work out of the way as early as possible in the day,” she shared.

Born and raised in Chicago, Manansala grew up in a multigenerational household that included her maternal grandparents, her parents Nilo and Marion, her two younger brothers, and a couple of cousins.

“It always felt rather hectic and nobody had any privacy.

My father was a wonderful cook and would always make delicious feasts every Sunday, which is why all my stories focus heavily on the importance of family and food,” she said.

Manansala was quite young when she realized she wanted to write.

“I’m not sure the exact age, but I was definitely in elementary school when I discovered how much I loved reading and writing stories,” she recalled. “When I was a kid, my biggest dreams were to become an astronaut, a teacher, and a writer, so I’ve achieved two out of three!”

She is thankful and appreciative that her parents always had her back.

“They taught me the importance of family, and that it’s OK to dream big as long as you have a backup plan. They’d always been supportive of me and my creative ambitions, but they also taught me to be practical and keep my options open,” she said. g

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